September 9, 2025 — Current in Carmel

Tuesday, September 9, 2025

LENDING A HAND

Local volunteers help Indiana Diaper Bank provide to those in need / P23

Fatal CPD high-speed pursuit under scrutiny / P3

Allied Solutions Center makes case to maintain funding / P8

Senior event planned for October / P9

Medicare-focused business relocates to Carmel / P25

Puccini’s Pizza Pasta Puccini’s

136th & Meridian or West Clay at 131st & Towne Rd

CPD high-speed pursuit under scrutiny

By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com

A June 14 high-speed pursuit initiated by the Carmel Police Department led to an accident in Indianapolis that resulted in the eventual death of Kevin McKelvey, an Indianapolis man whose car was struck by Alexander Mitchell, the suspect being pursued by CPD.

POLICE

McKelvey’s death – which occurred 15 days after the accident – has raised media scrutiny and some social media criticism over whether the high-speed pursuit was justified.

When contacted by Current, CPD declined to provide details on the case. A statement sent to Current by a CPD spokesperson said: “Due to ongoing civil litigation, we cannot entertain any discussion regarding this case.”.

Indianapolis-based attorney Jon Noyes, who represents the McKelvey estate, told Current that a civil suit had not been filed as of Sept. 3.

Indiana law requires that a tort claim notice be submitted to a governmental entity and a waiting period to elapse before a suit may be filed. Noyes declined to comment whether a tort claim notice would be filed.

CPD’s 18-page pursuit policy was removed from public view on its website last month but has since been restored.

CPD’s pursuit policy states that neighborhood, time of day, traffic congestion, imminent danger to the public, the officer’s familiarity with surroundings and population density, the offense or suspected offense committed, the performance capability of the pursuit vehicle, road conditions, speed and capability of the suspect’s vehicle, weather conditions, “utmost due regard for the safety of all persons including citizens, suspect(s) and officers,” officers in the area to assist and if there’s reasonable suspicion or probable cause all have to be evaluated throughout a pursuit.

“Our goal during a pursuit is to apprehend the suspect as quickly as possible while trying to maintain safe roadways for our citizens. A pursuit should not begin, nor should it be continued, when the need for immediate apprehension is very low and the totality of risk to public safety is very high,” the policy states.

On June 14, CPD observed a Kia Sportage traveling at a high rate of speed traveling south on U.S. 31 in Carmel.

According to the probable cause affidavit filed by CPD officer Austin Meinhardt, the Kia, driven by Mitchell, accelerated at 96th and Meridian, fleeing south into Indianapolis. Meinhardt, who had his emergency lights and siren on, pursued the Kia.

Meinhardt’s report stated that the Kia’s speed “approached approximately 100 miles per hour.” CPD’s report did not mention

Project Civility National Summit – The inaugural Project Civility National Summit will take place Sept. 26-27 at the Carmel Clay Public Library. The two-day event will unite civic leaders and national voices to share and demonstrate the teachings of civility through collaborative workshops, interactive discussions, and immersive experiences. The goal is to explore how principled disagreement can be a catalyst for community growth, innovation, and common good. Keynote speakers include:

• Alexandra Hudson, bestselling author of The Soul of Civili-

weather conditions, but the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department accident report stated it was raining.

At 64th Street, the Kia lost control and collided head-on with a blue Honda driven by McKelvey in the northbound lane of Meridian Street. Riding with McKelvey was his then-11-year-old son. McKelvey’s son survived the accident. His condition is unknown.

IMPD said McKelvey suffered a head injury “and could not recall where he was or what happened” at the accident scene.

According to a story reported by the Indiana Capital Chronicle, 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 was the cause of McKelvey’s death.

Mitchell was arrested at the scene. CPD’s report said a handgun was found in the passenger door compartment of the Kia.

Mitchell is being held in the Hamilton County Jail on a $75,000 bond. He is charged with two felony counts of resisting law enforcement and one felony count of criminal recklessness. He also was charged with two misdemeanor counts of reckless driving, one charge of unlawful carrying of a handgun and one charge of driving while suspended.

Mitchell has a final pretrial hearing scheduled for Nov. 20. A jury trial is scheduled for Dec. 3 in Hamilton County.

ty and founder of Civic Renaissance

• John Wood Jr., national ambassador for Braver Angels, a leading bipartisan movement

• Ken Sande, conflict resolution expert and author of The Peacemaker.

Project Civility is a nonprofit organization designed to strengthen communities through empathy, respect, and productive dialogue Those interested in supporting the event can register at bit.ly/42c7TrW.

About us

Founded October 24, 2006, at Carmel, IN Vol. XIX, No. 46

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Current Publishing, LLC

All Rights Reserved.

525 North End Dr. Ste. 175 Carmel, IN 46032

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McKelvey Mitchell

Finkam addresses bill’s impact on city revenue, expenses

By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com

During an Aug. 28 virtual presentation broadcast to the public on the city’s website and Facebook page, Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam acknowledged the challenge ahead for the city budget because of the effect of Senate Bill 1 on the city revenue, expenses and budget.

SB 1

“We’ve got to put our hats on and try to find deeper cuts and other ways to increase revenue to offset this gap,” Finkam said.

Senate Bill 1 was signed into law by Gov. Mike Braun in April. The local government finance bill will lower property taxes through tax credits and by limiting how much communities can raise through property taxes.

In 2028, SB 1 will allow cities with more than 3,500 residents to implement a maximum local income tax at a rate not to exceed 1.2 percent. Municipalities and taxpayer-supported entities anticipate decreased expected revenues.

In terms of anticipated loss in property tax revenue, Finkam presented numbers that compared the expected pre-SB 1 property tax revenues versus property tax revenues with SB 1 as law.

In 2026, Finkam projected that property tax revenue in Carmel will drop by $3.8 million versus expected pre-SB 1 revenue. By 2030, the city estimates that the drop jumps to $38.1 million less in property tax revenue versus expected pre-SB 1 revenue.

Finkam also presented expected total revenue projections. In 2026, there is a projected $11.6 million drop in total revenue versus expected pre-SB 1 revenue. In 2027,

A City of Carmel graphic shows which of its funds will be affected by Senate Bill 1. (Screen Capture)

said.

Finkam said she doesn’t want to decrease funding for public safety. She also noted investment in city projects and maintenance of existing infrastructure will still be needed.

“So, we have to build in new dollars to put these programs in place which means we have greater pressure on reducing existing expenditures,” Finkam said.

Finkam said her goal is to contend with budgetary pressures.

the gap widens to $20 million. By 2028, the gap flattens when the city could implement the local income tax, but the gap is not eliminated. By 2030, the gap in revenue is still projected to be $15 million versus anticipated pre-SB 1 revenue.

Finkam said there are assumptions in the numbers that were presented. The state legislature could change SB 1, but it is unknown if legislative action would result in more or less property tax revenue.

Projections presented by the city assume that Carmel could levy the maximum income tax in 2028.

“We may not have to do that,” Finkam

“The next step for us, first and foremost, is to pass a budget that’s truly balanced and that acknowledges our resource constrained environment, yet advances our priorities – public safety, infrastructure, arts and our vibrant beautiful city. Because we know those are (Carmel) differentiators and they create a high quality of life,” Finkam said.

To dull the effect of SB 1, Finkam also said the city needs to advocate for resources growing cities need; to seek innovative ways to improve performance and streamline existing operations; and to pursue high-quality development to build the tax base to help fund city services.

Finkam

Impact of Senate Bill 1 on funding will be considerable for CCS

By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com

Carmel Clay Schools Superintendent

Thomas Oestreich said the district faces fiscal challenges because of the passage of Senate Bill 1.

Oestreich took part in a 2026 revenue impact virtual presentation broadcast to the public on the city’s website and Facebook page Aug. 28 to inform the public of the effect of SB 1 on CCS.

Oestreich said that CCS gets 53 percent of its funding from the state, 45 percent from local funding and 2 percent from federal funding.

Oestreich said state tax revenue is placed in five funds: education, operations, operating referendum, school safety and debt service. He said they cannot be co-mingled to offset a shortfall in one or the other by state law.

The school safety fund is in effect through 2027, and the operating referendum fund operates through 2031. Both are

subject to voter approval.

Oestreich said the funds impacted by SB 1 are the operations fund — which is what is drawn from to pay nonteaching staff, pay utilities and other expenses — and the debt services fund.

Oestreich said before the bill, CCS typically received a 4 percent annual increase in revenue for the operations fund. Now, Oestreich anticipates no increase.

“As utilities costs rise, as we want to provide a respectable salary increase and benefit increase for our employees, it’s going to be more and more challenging for

school districts to do that,” Oestreich said. Oestreich also noted the pressure on the debt service fund.

“The debt service repays debt incurred from bonds and supports maintenance, technology and facility needs,” he said. “So, in order for us to have the funds that we’ve typically had, we may need to look at a possible tax rate increase when it comes to (SB 1).”

Oestreich said the homestead credit alone from SB 1 will result in a $2.96 million loss per year for CCS, in addition to losses incurred from property tax caps.

“(The bill) will reduce programs and services to our students at a time where we’re experiencing teacher shortage and (CCS) is growing,” Oestreich said.

Oestreich presented several options CCS might pursue to counter the effect. He said expenses could be lowered by reducing services to students. Oestreich suggested taxes could be increased to generate the same amount of money for the operating and debt service funds. Referendum rates also would need to increase to generate the same amount of money.

Oestreich said the district could increase its debt by financing buses and other maintenance costs — something the district doesn’t currently have to do as Oestreich said CCS presently manages its debt by paying cash.

Oestreich said CCS plans to demonstrate financial transparency, demonstrate fiscal responsibility and seek referendum support to counter the loss of revenue.

Oestreich said redistricting is part of the CCS strategic plan. It could be used to maximize staff and facilities based on budgetary constraints.

Oestreich

A Carmel Clay Schools graphic shows which of its funds will be affected by Senate Bill 1. (Screen Capture)

Swanay paints challenging road ahead for CCPL due to SB 1

By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com

Carmel Clay Public Library Director Bob Swanay took part in a virtual presentation broadcast on the city’s website and Facebook page Aug. 28 that sought to inform the public on the effect of Senate Bill 1 on CCPL.

Signed into law in April by Gov. Mike Braun, SB 1 will allow cities with more than 3,500 residents to implement a maximum local income tax at a rate not to exceed 1.2 percent. Municipalities and taxpayer-supported entities anticipate decreased expected revenues.

“If this law had been in place 10 years ago, I don’t think we would have a renovated, expanded Main Library and I don’t think we would have had a Joyce Winner West Branch,” Swanay said. “It would have stopped us in our tracks. It would have been too uncertain, and we would have been concerned we didn’t have the operating funds to do all of that.”

Swanay said for 2025, CCPL has estimated revenues of $11.5 million and a $10 million working budget. Of that, 56 percent of the budget are for salaries and benefits and 20 percent for collections.

Swanay said local income taxes provide 45 percent of CCPL’s revenue. SB 1 will change that.

“That will be gone by 2028,” he said. “What happens instead is that libraries in Hamilton County will have to go to Hamilton County government and request that a (tax) rate be set for libraries. That’s obviously just a less stable situation than what we’ve been operating in.”

Swanay said it’s possible that county

A Carmel Clay Public Library graphic shows the impact of property tax revenue as a result of Senate Bill 1. (Screen Capture)

governments could decide not to set a tax rate for libraries at all. If that were to happen, he said CCPL would lose 45 percent of its operating budget.

Swanay said he expects that the Hamilton County Council will support libraries, citing recent funding support for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library for the next three years.

“But we don’t know the fiscal issues the county will be facing years down the road,” Swanay said. “There’s a lot of variables that make it impossible to predict. I don’t even know that we should try to predict what decisions future councils years away are going to make. That’s where our planning

problems come in. It really freezes us.”

The City of Carmel has the option to implement a local income tax in 2028, but Swanay has said he doesn’t believe it would affect CCPL.

“My understanding is that the city’s potential adoption of a LIT rate (in 2028) would have no impact and not affect the library,” Swanay told Current Aug. 29.

Swanay said property taxes provide 43 percent of CCPL’s revenues. He said the library’s 2025 tax rate is 5.94 cents per $100 of net assessed value from property taxes. He added that the average taxpayer will pay $135 of their property taxes toward the library this year.

Swanay said the bill’s impact on revenue raised through property taxes for CCPL is unknown. He estimated that the library will lose $330,000 in 2026.

In 2027, Swanay expects revenue reductions due to new deductions in a homeowner’s net assessed value.

Swanay said a way to help libraries is to let lawmakers know how much libraries are valued. He said CCPL itself can be supported through the CCPL Foundation and encourages residents to get library cards.

Swanay

Dog euthanized after CPD shooting

news@currentincarmel.com

A police call to a possible stabbing early Aug. 31 resulted in a dog being shot by the Carmel Police Department.

POLICE

CPD reported on its Facebook page that it responded to a possible stabbing in the 500 block of E. 111th St. at 4:33 a.m. When officers arrived, they heard someone inside a detached garage calling for help.

Officers were confronted by an aggressive dog as they tried to get to the person inside the garage. As they tried to execute their duty, officers shot the dog, according to CPD.

“The dog was shot by officers, so they could safely access the person calling for help,” the CPD stated in its Facebook post.

CPD reported that the Carmel Fire Department transported the dog to an emergency veterinary clinic, but the dog had to be euthanized.

“Officers never want to harm an animal,

and these moments remain in their minds long after the call ends. Their first responsibility in this situation was to reach the person who appeared to be in danger and ensure medical care could be provided,” CPD stated on its Facebook page.

CPD stated to Current that the dog belonged to the person who suffered the puncture wound.

“Our thoughts are with all those affected by the loss of the dog. Through it all, the Carmel Police Department remains committed to protecting and serving our community with care and dedication,” CPD stated.

CPD told Current there were no arrests made because of “insufficient evidence to pursue criminal charges against the parties involved.” Per CPD policy, the officers involved were not named.

The person inside the garage — who was not identified by CPD — had a puncture wound but declined to be transported to the hospital for treatment.

Allied Solutions Center makes case to maintain city funding

By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com

During the Aug. 18 Carmel City Council meeting, Jeff McDermott, president and CEO of the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, gave a presentation on the venue’s importance to the city.

BUDGET

The topic of the presentation was the impact Senate Bill 1 might have on the city budget and the Allied Solutions Center, which was built for $180 million in 2011 and has been a city-supported institution ever since.

based at the Center.

“(Finkam) said, ‘I think everything is in play this year,” McDermott said. “So, I asked her if we could have a seat at the table to make sure the administration and council knew how our funding works.”

Finkam was agreeable and McDermott met with each city councilor individually before the public presentation Aug. 18 before the city council.

Senate Bill 1 was signed into law by Gov. Mike Braun in April. The local government finance bill will lower property taxes through tax credits and by limiting how much communities can raise through property taxes.

The Center gets approximately 21 percent of its $10 million annual budget from the city via management fees, McDermott said.

In a Sept. 3 interview with Current, McDermott said when he asked Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam last spring whether the Center would receive its annual management fee of $2.25 million — an amount that hasn’t changed since 2017 — McDermott said Finkam could not give that assurance for the 2026 budget cycle.

“The strange thing about our management agreement is, it calls for us to manage the place and be paid for that, but it doesn’t set what the management fee is,” McDermott said.

McDermott also asked Finkam about the arts grant awards, which go to the Center’s six resident companies and the Great American Songbook Foundation, which is

“We wanted to advocate for ourselves (at the council), but we also strongly believe we have an important story to tell. We’ve had a significant cultural impact (on Carmel), but we’ve also had a significant economic impact,” McDermott said.

During the council meeting, McDermott cited a 2023 Americans for the Arts study that showed the Center generated $42.7 million of economic activity and $4.9 million in local and state tax revenue.

McDermott also said at the council meeting that naming rights agreements with Allied Solutions and Payne & Mencias have helped. He said the percentage of contributed revenue — the percentage of revenue generated from donors, corporate contributors and grants — has risen from 25-26 percent before naming rights to 31-32 percent after.

McDermott said it’s difficult to ascertain how cuts would be felt at the Center, adding that he’s committed to not reducing staff if the management fee is cut.

“It’s a strange contract to have no specific fee associated with it other than whatever gets budgeted for that year,” he said. “It’s like throwing darts at a dartboard, but there’s no numbers on the dartboard. We don’t even know which numbers we’re shooting at.”

DISPATCHES

9/11

Fitness Event — The 9/11 Fitness Event will take place at the Carmel VFW Post 10003 at 12863 Old Meridian St, in Carmel Sept. 11. The event will begin at 11 a.m. and is scheduled to finish at 3 p.m. Participants will bike, run, row or participate in an activity in which they’re able for 9 minutes, 11 seconds. Prizes will be given to those who can go the fastest and the furthest. A $25 donation is requested. After the event, barbeque will be served from 3 to 6 p.m. The

barbeque plate costs $5 for participants and $10 for nonparticipants. Proceeds go to support first responders.

CHS Class of 1985 reunion — The Carmel High School Class of 1985 reunion will take place Sept. 19-20. From 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., the reunion will take place at The Broken Barrel at 1156 Keystone Way. For more information, email carriannegarrison@yahoo. com.

McDermott

Resources is theme for senior engagement day at CCPL

By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com

The nonprofit Central Indiana Council On Aging recently released survey results that show 74 percent of Hamilton County seniors don’t know what resources are available to them in the community.

EVENT

As a result, Carol Applegate, Carmel’s Mayor’s Advisory Commission On Senior Living co-chair, instantly knew what the theme of the commission’ third Community Engagement Day for Seniors would be — access to resources for seniors.

Community Engagement Day for Seniors is set for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 10 at the Carmel Clay Library Main Branch. The event is free.

Applegate said the commission’s Community Engagement Day will be sponsored by CarDon Senior Living, which has made a three-year commitment to the event.

Applegate said it’s important for seniors to know who to consult in times of need.

“I feel like knowledge is power and so if we can educate our seniors so that they know where to go when they need help it will empower them to take control of their own life and to make decisions for themselves while they still can,” Applegate said.

Applegate said the event will have several speakers. A representative from the Carmel Fire Department will speak about fall prevention.

“We know that when our seniors fall, it’s the beginning of the downfall of their health. A lot of times they have severe health issues after they fall,” Applegate said.

A representative from the Carmel Police Department will speak about senior vulnerability to scams.

“Our seniors fall prey to that very easily and quickly and lose a lot of money and have emotional trauma when that happens to them,” Applegate said.

Applegate said other speakers include Dr. Malaz Boustani, who also is a member of the Mayor’s Advisory Commission On Senior Living, who will speak about a program he started for caregivers to be paid by Medicare. Carmel Clay Public Library Chairman Bob Swanay will speak about library offerings for seniors. Shepherd’s Center of Hamilton County will speak about their guardianship and counseling services.

LOVE HOW YOU LOOK.

There will also be a vendor’s room where additional participants will have tables and where they can answer questions from seniors.

Rich Taylor, who is the fellow co-chair of the Mayor’s Advisory Commission on Senior Living and also a city councilor at-large, noted the importance of the event.

“It’s a great opportunity for our seniors in our community to learn about all of these resources that are already available,” Taylor said. “As the commission grows, we’ll have more PR and marketing avail able, and the city is going to focus on mar keting these services and opportunities to seniors going forward.”

A free lunch, provided by Jimmy John’s, will be served, along with coffee from Just Love Coffee Café. Carmel law firm Hess, Hess & Donnelson contributed to the May or’s Advisory Commission On Senior Living to help defray some of the costs of hosting the event.

To RSVP for the event, visit SeniorLiv ing@carmel.in.gov. Those interested in a sponsorship can contact Taylor at rtaylor@ carmel.in.gov.

Carol Applegate, co-chair of Carmel’s Mayor’s Advisory Commission On Senior Living, during its Aug. 28 meeting at Carmel City Hall. (Screen capture)

Runners raise money for ACS

By Samantha Kupiainen news@youarecurrent.com

Last year, 45-year-old Carmel resident Scott Kennedy joined the Carmel Runners Club and traveled to Dublin, Ireland, to run his first marathon. Kennedy had battled injuries dating back to high school but said that after months of training, he was able to complete the marathon.

“When your body is tired and you are physically exhausted, you begin to think about the ‘why?’” Kennedy said. “The why was for all of those I’ve known over the years battling, defeating or who succumbed to cancer.”

One year later, Kennedy’s decision to run that marathon inspired him to establish the American Cancer Society Benefit Dinner that will take place Sept. 11.

The dinner will take place at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 11 at Prime 47 Carmel. Individual tickets are $150, and include a five-course meal. From each ticket, $25 will be donated to the American Cancer Society.

Kennedy and a group of friends are also

EVENT CITY NEWS

running the marathon in Dublin in October. According to Kennedy, the link between the dinner and the marathon is related to the American Cancer Society Determination Program that he became involved with.

“Participants raise money for the charity for a specific marathon like Dublin and the marathon organizers guarantee an entry into the marathon,” Kennedy stated in an email to Current.

Anyone interested in attending the benefit dinner can RSVP via email at Elizabeth@ prime47carmel.com.

Home Place, U.S. 31 plans vetted

By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com

The Carmel Plan Commission resumed discussion of the U.S. 31 and Home Place subarea plan drafts during its Sept. 2 committee meeting.

Page-by-page discussion of both subarea plans began Aug. 5, but discussion was not completed.

During the Sept. 2 meeting, Plan Commission members were unable to complete discussion of the Home Place subarea plan but completed discussion of the U.S. 31 subarea plan.

Subarea plans, which serve as guides for development or redevelopment in a specific area, are intended to be eventually amended into the city’s comprehensive plan, which Carmel adopted in 2022.

The longest discussion on the U.S. 31 subarea plan was about the plan map and a wooded area on land owned by IU Health North between Spring Mill Road and Illinois Street north of 116th Street.

Concern was raised about the potential loss of trees in that parcel due to several trails that are proposed to intersect in that

parcel.

“Over the years, we’ve constantly heard from the neighbors how important that wooded area is to them,” Plan Commission President Christine Zoccola said.

Discussion of the Home Place subarea plan was partly devoted to language that dealt with funding.

During a portion of the subarea plan devoted to investing in long-term viability of Home Place in the subarea plan, the plan mentioned the opportunity for forgivable loans to fund that viability.

“From where is this money coming and how is it funded? As we look forward with (Senate Bill 1) and what it’s doing to our budget, we have to take that into consideration,” said plan commission member Shannon Minnaar, who is also a city council member.

Minnaar said she has not had funding discussion with the majority of the city council.

Continued discussion of the Home Place subarea plan and revisions to the U.S. 31 subarea will be take place at the next Plan Commission committee meeting at 6 p.m. Sept. 30 at City Hall. The next regular Plan Commission meeting is at 6 p.m. Sept. 16.

From left, Carmel Runners Club members, runners Neal Whited, Kevin Heber, Christy Heber, Sunny Chang, and Scott Kennedy are hosting a charity dinner. (Photo courtesy of Scott Kennedy)

Festival attracts 1,100 runners to Carmel

news@currentincarmel.com

The 15th annual Indiana Women’s Running Festival took place in Carmel Aug. 30. Three different races were run on courses throughout Carmel — a half marathon, 10K and the Get A MOVE on Cancer 5K as participants competed for $4,600 in purse money. It is the only women’s half marathon in the United States that pays a top 20 cash purse.

RUNNING

MOMS AT SEA TRAVEL

Carmel provides update on road projects

Organizers said 1,100 runners from 31 states finished the races that began and ended at Civic Square. Organizers noted that 20 “elite runners” also took part.

Lucy Dobbs of Indianapolis won the half marathon with a time of 1 hour, 16 minutes, 26 seconds. She won by 32 seconds ahead of Andrea Kuhn of Pataskala, Ohio. Dobbs finished in third in 2024.

Anna Farelo of Fishers finished fifth. Etta Eckerstrom was the highest-finishing Carmel resident as she placed 13th.

Abby Warth of Indianapolis defended her 2024 10K championship in a winning time of 38:25. She beat her 2024 winning time by 24 seconds. Warth beat runner-up Sam Mabry of Champaign, Ill., by 1 minute, 19 seconds. Carmel’s Cassidy Menard finished third with a time of 40:14.

Aliyah Yorek of Fishers won the Get A MOVE on Cancer 5K with a time of 18:03.49. She edged Sterling Howard, also of Fishers, by less than two seconds. Margo Baltera was the highest-finishing Carmel resident as she placed 12th.

For full results, visit womensrunningfestival.com.

DISPATCH

Clay Township Military Museum to celebrate U.S. Air Force birthday — The Clay Township Military Museum will celebrate the 78th birthday of the U.S. Air Force from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 18 at the museum on 10801 N. College Ave. in Carmel. There will be an Air Force birthday cake cutting ceremony, historical displays, a veteran meet and greet, an Air Force trivia contest and special military ceremonies unique to the Air Force. To volunteer, contact Jon Baldwin at jonebaldwin@gmail.com or 317-435-7194.

news@currentincarmel.com

The City of Carmel recently provided an update on several road projects that are underway.

PROJECT: TOWNE ROAD CROSSWALK CONSTRUCTION

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Status: Installation of raised pedestrian crosswalks with rapid-flashing LED beacons on Towne Road continues. The intersection at 136th Street will remain closed throughout September.

What’s next: The project will continue as the 141st Street intersection with Towne Road will close after the completion of the 136th Street project.

PROJECT: CLAY CENTER BRIDGE

Status: Construction has begun on the bridge just north of the Claridge Way intersection on Clay Center Road. The city said the bridge will be closed until November, barring weather-related or unforeseen delays.

What’s next: During the fall semester, access to Clay Center Elementary will be maintained from the south via 116th Street.

PROJECT: 96TH STREET PATH CONSTRUCTION

Status: Path construction continues on 96th Street as it is expected to be closed to thru-traffic from College Avenue to Westfield Boulevard. The detour takes motorists into Marion County via 91st Street.

What’s next: Completion is expected early this month. The City of Carmel told Current it anticipates completion of the entire multiuse path project by year’s end, with possible east-west movement on 96th Street reengaged by October depending on weather and utilities.

PROJECT: LEVEL UP 31 PROJECT.

Status: The project includes a modification to the I-465 and U.S. 31 interchange to add capacity and increase efficiency and safety by eliminating traffic weaving and merging.

What’s next: This is an INDOT project that the city of Carmel reported as being delayed in its most recent newsletter from Aug. 29. However, INDOT told Current the project is not delayed and is expected to begin in late September. INDOT said it would share more specific information when it becomes available.

Flora begins new home phase

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Onyx+East’s Flora community has reached its next phase on the west side of Carmel.

HOUSING

“One of the things that’s great about Flora is we have a lot of different types of housing available from town homes to large luxury roof town homes to single-family home products,” Onyx+East CEO Kelli Lawrence said.

The community opened with town homes last year. The latest expansion includes three- to five-bedroom single-family homes with spacious open-concept layouts, modern finishes, standard basement foundations, three-car garage options, wooded homesites and smart home and warranty features. Single-family homes will start in the $700,000s and range from 2,175 to more than 3,000 square feet.

The community is at Illinois Street and Spring Mill Road.

“The town homes and the single-family homes are sought after by lots of different types of customers,” Lawrence said. “The

A rendering of Flora’s single-family homes. (Rendering ourtesy of Onyx+East)

single-family homes offer a really unique setting in that we offer a lower maintenance environment at Flora, generally. The single-family homes will have some walkout basement lots as well as two-story homes without a basement option that look out on Williams Creek. There is a lot of immense natural beauty and there’s a bit of topography in rolling hills and obviously tree canopy.”

Ten single-family home lots are now available for sale with the first two buyers receiving a free finished basement.

Lawrence said Onyx+East’s is midway through the $61 million Flora community. For more, visit onyxandeast.com.

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Noblesville senior golfer seeks to finish prep career on top

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Noblesville High School senior Josie Kelley determined early on that her athletic future was on a golf course, not on a basketball court.

“I grew up playing basketball, and it’s by far my favorite game to watch,” Kelley said. “But I’ve played golf since I could walk. My entire family golfs. My dad (Andy Kelley) played at Purdue and my mom and brother both play. I stopped playing basketball going into my freshman year of high school. I only played for fun, and I knew I wanted to continue golfing and focus more on that than basketball.”

Kelley has been part of the Millers’ steady improvement in the IHSAA girls golf state finals. Noblesville placed eighth in the state in 2022, fourth in 2023 and second last year. The state finals are set for Oct. 3-4 at Prairie View Golf Club in Carmel.

“I think as a team we are capable of a

MEET JOSIE KELLEY

Favorite Musician: Morgan Wallen

Favorite TV show: “The Office”

Favorite vacation destination:

Hilton Head Island, S.C.

Favorite sports team: Purdue University basketball

lot this season and I’d love to take that top spot to finish my senior year strong,” Kelley said. “Our girls work incredibly hard, and I have no doubts that when the state finals come around, we will be right in the mix.”

After placing 36th individually in the state finals as a freshman, Kelley tied for 10th as a sophomore and was sixth last year.

“I have made consistent improvement on

Noblesville High School senior Josie Kelley finished sixth in the girls golf state finals last year. (Photo courtesy of Josie Kelley)

my game the last four years. Each year, I have improved my stroke average by two or three shots,” Kelley said. “This past year, specifically, I’ve really worked on my short game. With golf, there is always more room for improvement on the different parts of my game.”

Noblesville coach Justin Werkley said Kelley has been a valuable contributor.

“Josie is not only a great player, but also a great leader and teammate,” he said. “She sets a great example for others with her focus, positive attitude and tremendous work ethic. Watching her game develop and improve over these past few years has

been awesome and impressive. I think Josie really loves her teammates and loves being a Miller.”

Kelley said she always tries to lead by example.

“On our team, I like to make everyone feel included. Regardless of where they are on the team, we’re all a big family,” she said. “I love to help out and be there for all my teammates, and I hope that it shows how much I love being a Miller.”

Kelley will be a Colonel next season, having committed to play golf for the NCAA Division I Eastern Kentucky University Colonels.

“When I started the recruiting process, my main focus was finding a program that had what I wanted to study,” she said. “EKU has a really great school for broadcast and digital media, which is what I want to pursue. I’d someday love to work for the PGA Tour or a major sports team providing digital content, reporting and video production. I loved the coaching staff and the girls on the team at EKU.”

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

WELCOMES

Dr. Erik Gerlach to Indiana Spine Group

Erik Gerlach, MD, is a fellowship trained Spine Surgeon who specializes in the comprehensive care of adult and adolescent spine surgery. He has interests in minimally invasive spine surgery and complex revision surgery. Dr. Gerlach prioritizes non-operative management whenever appropriate and takes a patient-specific approach to surgical care, ensuring each intervention is thoughtfully designed for maximum effectiveness and recovery. He has trained at nationally recognized institutions and brings that experience—and a commitment to clear communication and shared decision-making—to the patients he serves in central Indiana.

• Experienced, Compassionate, Fellowship-Trained

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• Minimally Invasive, Degenerative Conditions, and Complex Revision Spine Surgery

ERIK GERLACH, MD FELLOWSHIP-TRAINED SPINE SURGEON

Kelley

First responders train in Westfield

PREPAREDNESS news@youarecurrent.com

Regal Village Park Theater in Westfield was the scene Aug. 27 of a full-scale emergency exercise, led by the Hamilton County Local Emergency Planning Committee.

The two-hour drill simulated a hazardous materials incident to test the response capabilities in coordination with police and fire departments from Westfield, Fishers and Carmel; the Noblesville Fire Department; the Zionsville Fire Department; and the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office. Hamilton County Dispatch, Hamilton County’s Emergency Management Agency, IU Health, Riverview Health and the Hamilton County Health Department also participated in the drill.

The exercise scenario involved a chlorine truck colliding with a car, resulting in a hazardous material spill. Public safety responders and supporting agencies treated the exercise like a real-world incident. Controllers evaluated the operation and provided feedback.

Full-scale exercises are conducted every

Indoor

Indoor

PETS

Melissa R. Oliver, CRC Vice President

Manager

Carmel blogger pens book, ‘For The Love Of Dog’

By Lauren Weidinger news@youarecurrent.com

In her forthcoming debut book, “For the Love of Dog”, Carmel resident Maggie Marton delves into the relationships between people and their dogs. Combining science, storytelling and personal anecdotes, the nonfiction “For The Love of Dog” — published by Regalo Press — explores dogs as “our evolutionary best friends,” according to the author.

The book features stories about Marton’s furry best friends — Emmett, Lucas, and Cooper — and examines canine cognition research and the research behind what creates bonds with pets — specifically, dogs — so special.

“I took the story elements of living with dogs, having a pet, and living with pets, and I wove it together with the research about why we have this really fantastic connection with our dogs,” Marton said.

Marton has partnered with Regalo Press, which aims to unite philanthropy with book publishing, by making a donation to a charity of each of its published authors’ choice. Marton chose IndyHumane, an Indianapolis nonprofit devoted to animal welfare, to be the beneficiary of her book.

Marton began writing the book in 2020 at the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic. She shared that the journey to completing the book was challenging while raising two small children at home and grieving the deaths of some pet dogs.

“This is definitely my biggest piece of pride,” Marton said.

Marton has master’s in writing from John Hopkins University and has been blogging since 2009. Her blog, “Oh My Dog!,” has been

“One of my biggest (topics) is that we humans are deeply obligated to the animals around us,” she said. “We have bred dogs, and to a lesser extent, our cats, so specifically that they have now become entirely dependent on humans. I think a lot of people expect dogs to be furry little people instead of striving to learn and understand how dogs actually think, behave and what their needs are. (They) are so different in a lot of ways than what humanity expects from them.

“I think the biggest takeaway from writing and researching this book is I really truly believe dogs make us better people.”

Marton has two deaf rescue dogs, Penny and Stola. Penny, who is partially sighted, is featured on the cover.

“For the Love of Dog” will be released Sept. 16 and can be preordered at tinyurl. com/4k9vrt3s.

Marton will have a book signing Sept. 18 at Crate Escapes in Westfield.

“For the Love of Dog” is Carmel writer Maggie Marton’s first book. (Photos provided by Maggie Martin, via Photography by Austyn).

featured in The New York Times, Animal Wellness Magazine and Dog Fancy.

Modern Scandinavian

This Classic Contemporary home from Custom Living is designed with hospitality in mind. Walk-in wine cellar, curated golf course views, and expansive outdoor entertaining areas make it ideal for gatherings and relaxation alike. The heart of the home is a spacious kitchen that flows into a warm and welcoming living area, while the primary suite offers a serene escape. Designed with architectural intention and built to perform, this home blends timeless design with modern functionality— showcasing what’s possible when elegance and livability coexist.

Transitional

Custom Living 317-626-7393 customlivingusa.com

This exquisite AR Homes design balances bold creativity with timeless sophistication. At 6,828 square feet, the home presents a stunning Transitional aesthetic—melding classic architecture with clean, modern lines. A bright, open main level flows effortlessly from great room to kitchen, dining area, and bar, offering elegant spaces for both entertaining and everyday living.

AR Homes

Scott Bates Builders, Inc. 317-523-4408

arhomes.com

English Tudor

Designed to capture the charm of classic English Tudor architecture, this McKenzie Pierrot home is full of warmth, soul, and curated elegance.

From the pool house and outdoor retreat to the fully equipped home gym, every element was thoughtfully designed for both lifestyle and legacy.

The kitchen features beautiful craftsmanship and customized functionality, while the interior finishes throughout the home are layered with texture, tone, and timeless appeal.

McKenzie Pierrot Homes 415-971-4291

mckenziepierrothomes.com

1509 CHATHAM RIDGE COURT

7,970

Agrarian Countryside

aaNovo’s Agrarian-style home centers around a serene private interior courtyard, blurring the lines between the indoors and out. Thoughtfully designed and built details like a wellness suite with a cold plunge and sauna, outdoor plunge pool, luxury lighting, and home automation bring everyday comfort to new heights. Expansive windows welcome natural light and peaceful landscape views while carefully chosen materials and intentional design create a refined, inviting retreat that feels effortlessly liveable.

aaNovo aanovo.co info@aanovo.co

Modern Scandinavian

This stunning nearly 8,000 square foot home draws inspiration from Modern Scandinavian architecture, blending warm wood tones and clean lines with light-filled interiors. One of the home’s standout features is the Shou Sugi Ban siding—a traditional Japanese technique of preserving wood by charring it, offering both visual drama and long-term durability. Additional highlights include a spa-like primary suite, full bar and lounge area, floating staircase, and a backyard retreat with pool. This home was crafted to impress and inspire, while maintaining functionality for everyday living.

Transitional Contemporary

Randy Shaffer Custom Homes

317-702-3467 | randyshafferhomes.com

Kent Shaffer Homes 317-409-4750 | kentshafferhomes.com

Discover an exquisite 4,700-square-foot Transitional Contemporary home, crafted by Scott Campbell Custom Homes for the 2025 Lee Supply Corp Home-A-Rama. The heart of the home is its expansive open-concept space, uniting the kitchen, dining, and great room under soaring peaked ceilings. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame stunning golf course views, while a smart pergola extends outdoor living year-round.

Scott Campbell Custom Homes

765-208-1853

scottcampbellcustomhomes.com

1445 CHATHAM RIDGE COURT

7,250 SQUARE FEET

FULL, 1 HALF BATHS

1429 CHATHAM RIDGE COURT

1349 CHATHAM RIDGE COURT

4,700

Modern French Eclectic

This thoughtfully designed Modern French Eclectic residence was created to entertain, inspire, and embrace the beauty of its surroundings. From the moment you arrive, you’re welcomed by striking architectural elevations and a broad, elevated stone front porch — complete with charming gas lanterns and a a breathtaking two-story library encased in a wall of windows, crowned by an elevated reading nook.

September 12th | 10am-2pm

September 18th | 4pm-6pm

September 25th | All Day

THURSDAY - SUNDAY SEPT. 11–14 SEPT. 18 – 21 SEPT. 25 – 28

CHEERS TO FALL FUN!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11

ASA BALES PARK | 205 W. HOOVER ST. 11 A.M. - 2 P.M.

PRESENTED BY COMMUNITY FIRST BANK

READY TO G E T IN VO LV E D

?

W heth er yo u’re gre eting att end ees, assisting with rides, o r making ne w f ri ends, you r involve me nt makes a me a ni ng ful i mpact . Volu ntee r with us to help cr e at e a stronge r, mo re welcomi ng co mmu ni t y.

There's a volunteer oppor tunit y for ever yone!

Visit westfieldin .gov/v olunteer or scan the QR code to find out how you can get star ted.

Westfield’s DORA is in full swing during our downtown events. Come grab a refreshing drink (beer, wine, or a cocktail) and sip while you stroll! Look for DORA signs and check out our participating businesses. Must be 21+ to drink. Learn more at westfieldin.gov/DORA

DIRECTIONS & PARKING

20820 Lindley Farm Rd Westfield, IN 46074

ʹ Getting to the 2025 Lee Supply Corp Home-ARama

ʹ Driving North on US 31, take exit 136

ʹ At the light, turn left to go West on IN-38

ʹ Go under the underpass and straight through the stoplight

ʹ Turn left on Lindley Farm Rd, followed by a right onto Thornborough Dr.

ʹ Parking is available on either side of the road

ʹ Walk northeast toward Lindley Farm Road, passing the VIP parking and the BAGI Ticketing Trailer will be towards the right.

TOUR STOPS

ticket TICKETS

Noon — 8 p.m. (Ticket booth will close at 6:30pm each day)

Onsite Tours: $20-30 (Depending on time of day attending)

Virtual Experience: $10

Purchase online only at bagi.com/home-a-rama

CHATHAM HILLS PROVIDES BRINGS EXCEPTIONAL

DESIGN,

By Marney Simon

THOUGHTFUL NEIGHBORHOOD PLANNING

When the 2025 Lee Supply Corp. HomeA-Rama visits Chatham Hills this month, it will be the third time that the Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis brings the series to Westfield’s upscale northside neighborhood anchored by golf course architect Pete Dye’s final course.

Home-A-Rama is open Sept. 11–14, 18–21, and 25–28. This year’s featured builders are Sigma Builders; Scott B. Campbell Custom Homes and Development; Randy Shaffer Custom Homes & Kent Shaffer Homes; AANovo; McKenzie Pierrot Homes; AR Homes; and Custom Living.

Homes range from $2 million to $5.4 million. The homes spotlight the latest in architectural design, craftsmanship and luxurious finishes, and include outdoor living spaces, bold interior details and high-end technology integrations.

Chris Hancock, who became CEO of BAGI in March, said returning to Chatham Hills was an easy call.

“Chatham Hills has been a phenomenal partner and backdrop for Home-A-Rama over the years,” he said. “It’s a community that truly showcases the best of what our members can do — exceptional design, thoughtful neighborhood planning and homes that inspire. With the ongoing excitement and interest from both our builders and the public, returning to Chatham Hills for a third time felt like the right opportunity to once again highlight some of the area’s most beautiful custom homes.”

Hancock said first-time visitors to Chatham Hills can expect rolling landscapes, a championship golf course and an overall atmosphere that combines elegance with warmth.

“First-time visitors are in for a treat. Chatham Hills is a one-of-a-kind community that blends luxury with lifestyle,” he said. “It’s more than just touring houses — it’s seeing how architecture, amenities and community living come together in one special place.”

Although Home-A-Rama has visited Chatham Hills twice before, Hancock said the experience is always something new.

“Each Home-A-Rama has its own personality, and this year at Chatham Hills is no exception,” he said. “We have seven custom homes, built by eight of central Indiana’s most talented builders, each offering their own unique design style and innovation. Visitors will also notice new approaches to touring, from more interactive technology to streamlined ticketing, which makes

the experience even more engaging and accessible compared to prior years.”

Hancock said the 2025 Home-A-Rama will be the last at Chatham Hills because the development is nearing completion. He said being the last showcase at Chatham Hills makes 2025 especially significant.

“Guests won’t just see amazing new homes, they’ll be part of the closing chapter in the story of one of Hamilton County’s most iconic neighborhoods,” he said.

BAGI is already planning next year’s event in Zionsville.

“We’re excited to announce that the 2026 Home-A-Rama will be hosted in Zionsville at Wild Air, a brand-new community by Old Town Companies,” Hancock said. “It’s a completely different setting with its own character, and we can’t wait to introduce it as the next chapter of Home-A-Rama.”

Hancock said the annual event should not be missed.

“Home-A-Rama is more than a home show — it’s an experience,” he said. “Whether you’re dreaming about building your own home, gathering design ideas, or simply appreciating the incredible craftsmanship of our builders, there’s something for everyone. And with this being the final Chatham Hills tour, it’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. We encourage everyone to come out, be inspired, and celebrate the creativity and talent of Indiana’s homebuilding industry.”

Tickets for self-guided tours can be purchased at bagi.com/home-a-rama/2025/ tickets.

CHRIS HANCOCK

#1 1509 CHATHAM RIDGE COURT

ABOUT THE HOME

Classic Contemporary

This Classic Contemporary home from Custom Living is designed with hospitality in mind. Walk-in wine cellar, curated golf course views, and expansive outdoor entertaining areas make it ideal for gatherings and relaxation alike. The heart of the home is a spacious kitchen that flows into a warm and welcoming living area, while the primary suite offers a serene escape. Designed with architectural intention and built to perform, this home blends timeless design with modern functionality—showcasing what’s possible when elegance and livability coexist.

Custom Living 5335 Winthrop Ave, Suite A, Indianapolis, IN 46220 317-626-7393 | customlivingusa.com hello@customlivingusa.com

5 FULL, 1 HALF BATHROOMS

FAST FACTS 6,850 SQUARE FEET 5 BEDROOMS

1477 CHATHAM RIDGE COURT

ABOUT THE HOME

Transitional

This exquisite AR Homes design balances bold creativity with timeless sophistication. At 6,828 square feet, the home presents a stunning Transitional aesthetic—melding classic architecture with clean, modern lines. A bright, open main level flows effortlessly from great room to kitchen, dining area, and bar, offering elegant spaces for both entertaining and everyday living.

AR Homes / Scott Bates Builders, Inc. 317-523-4408 | arhomes.com DAN HAYES Building Company President dhayes@arhomes.com

FAST FACTS

#3 1461 CHATHAM RIDGE COURT

7

ABOUT THE HOME

English Tudor

Designed to capture the charm of classic English Tudor architecture, this McKenzie Pierrot home is full of warmth, soul, and curated elegance. From the pool house and outdoor retreat to the fully equipped home gym, every element was thoughtfully designed for both lifestyle and legacy. The kitchen features beautiful craftsmanship and customized functionality, while the interior finishes throughout the home are layered with texture, tone, and timeless appeal. With a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living, this home reflects the art of balance—luxury without pretense.

McKenzie Pierrot Homes 415-971-4291 | mckenziepierrothomes.com

JODI PIERROT Designer jodi@jodipierrotdesign.com

FULL, 2 HALF BATHROOMS

FAST FACTS 7,611 SQUARE FEET 6 BEDROOMS

1445 CHATHAM RIDGE COURT

ABOUT THE HOME

Agrarian Countryside

aaNovo’s Agrarian-style home centers around a serene private interior courtyard, blurring the lines between the indoors and out. Thoughtfully designed and built details like a wellness suite with a cold plunge and sauna, outdoor plunge pool, luxury lighting, and home automation bring everyday comfort to new heights. Expansive windows welcome natural light and peaceful landscape views while carefully chosen materials and intentional design create a refined, inviting retreat that feels effortlessly liveable.

aaNovo aanovo.co info@aanovo.co

FULL, 1 HALF BATHROOMS

FAST FACTS 7,250 SQUARE FEET 6 BEDROOMS

#5 1429 CHATHAM RIDGE COURT

ABOUT THE HOME

Modern Scandinavian

This stunning nearly 8,000 square foot home draws inspiration from Modern Scandinavian architecture, blending warm wood tones and clean lines with light- filled interiors. One of the home’s standout features is the Shou Sugi Ban siding—a traditional Japanese technique of preserving wood by charring it, offering both visual drama and long-term durability. Additional highlights include a spa-like primary suite, full bar and lounge area, floating staircase, and a backyard retreat with pool. This home was crafted to impress and inspire, while maintaining functionality for everyday living.

Randy Shaffer Custom Homes

317-702-3467 | randyshafferhomes.com

RANDY SHAFFER randy@randyshafferhomes.com

Kent Shaffer Homes 317-409-4750 | kentshafferhomes.com

KRISTEN SHAFFER-HALE kristen@kentshafferhomes.com

6 FULL, 1 HALF BATHROOMS

FAST FACTS 7,970 SQUARE FEET

6 BEDROOMS

#6 1349 CHATHAM RIDGE COURT

ABOUT THE HOME

Transitional Contemporary

Discover an exquisite 4,700-square-foot Transitional Contemporary home, crafted by Scott Campbell Custom Homes for the 2025 Lee Supply Corp Home-A-Rama. This single-level, empty-nester residence, designed by Saavy Décor’s Linda Mordoh, embodies the concept of “aging in place,” seamlessly blending youthful vibrancy with lifelong functionality. The heart of the home is its expansive open-concept space, uniting the kitchen, dining, and great room under soaring peaked ceilings. Floor-toceiling windows frame stunning golf course views, while a smart pergola extends outdoor living year-round. Downstairs, a luxurious man cave awaits, complete with a golf simulator, a multi-TV wall for game days, a bar, a wine area, and two bedrooms.

FAST FACTS

SQUARE FEET

BEDROOMS

1397 CHATHAM RIDGE COURT

ABOUT THE HOME

Modern French Eclectic

Step into a home where classic tradition meets modern sophistication. This thoughtfully designed Modern French Eclectic residence was created to entertain, inspire, and embrace the beauty of its surroundings.

From the moment you arrive, you’re welcomed by striking architectural elevations and a broad, elevated stone front porch — complete with charming gas lanterns and a breathtaking two-story library encased in a wall of windows, crowned by an elevated reading nook. The extended courtyard, meticulously landscaped, offers an inviting yet private approach to the home.

Sigma Builders LLC 317-203-3070 | sigmabuildersllc.com

LISA MASUOKA Sales and Marketing lisa.masuoka@sigmabuildersllc.com

5 FULL, 1 HALF BATHROOMS

FAST FACTS 8,338 SQUARE FEET 5 BEDROOMS

Owners Ray Rice & Derek Crandall

WHERE NATURE MEETS LUXURY LIVING

Nestled in the rolling hills of Westfield, Chatham Hills offers an unmatched blend of scenic beauty, upscale amenities, and timeless architecture.

This private, golf-course community features:

ʹ Custom estate homes

ʹ A Pete Dye championship golf course

ʹ Fitness center, indoor & outdoor pools

ʹ Private trails and woodlands

ʹ Family-focused amenities and a clubhouse

Residents of Chatham Hills enjoy modern conveniences with a peaceful, nature-connected lifestyle—just minutes from shopping, dining, and entertainment in Westfield and beyond.

CONSTRUCTION LOANS

Building a home? Streamline the financing process with First Merchants Bank.

• Construction-to-Permanent loan

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• Interest-only payments during the construction phase

• Single, one-time closing

Photo

Stronger Partners, Brighter Futures cohort announced

news@currentnoblesville.com

Stronger Partners, Brighter Futures — a nine-month initiative led by the Central Indiana Community Foundation, Hamilton County Community Foundation and the Indianapolis Foundation — recently announced its 2025 cohort.

NONPROFITS

The initiative, facilitated by Cape Fletcher Associates, a philanthropic consulting firm, supports nonprofits in strengthening planned giving strategies and is open to organizations with endowments or similar funds held at CICF Collaborative entities.

“As community foundations, it is important that we equip our community partners with the best tools to help them succeed in their missions,” CEO of CICF Jennifer Bartenbach stated. “Planned giving provides a route for both (nonprofits) and donors to make larger and more sustainable contributions to their communities.”

Danielle Stiles-Polk, president of HCCF, said Stronger Partners, Brighter Futures helps ensure Hamilton County nonprofits have the resources and knowledge to thrive for generations.

“When organizations can build sustainable funding through planned giving, they’re able to stay focused on what matters most — supporting our neighbors and strengthening the fabric of our community,” Stiles-Polk stated.

“Charitable giving from individual donors to nonprofits has long been one of the most sustainable forms of financial support,” stated Michael Pettry, principal with Cage Fletcher Associates. “Developing a strategy for planned giving is one way a nonprofit can redouble their commitment to sustainability, while also providing donors another option to make a significant contribution — one they may not have considered.”

The 2025 cohort includes:

• Bosma Visionary Opportunities Foundation in Indianapolis

• Camptown in Indianapolis

• FACE Animal Clinic in Indianapolis

• Indianapolis Cultural Trail Inc. in Indianapolis

• Mitch Daniels Leadership Foundation in Carmel

• Prevail Inc. in Noblesville

• The Cabaret in Indianapolis

For more, visit cicf.org.

DISPATCHES

ICPYAS hosts Treasure Our Kids Trivia Night — The Indiana Center for Prevention of Youth Abuse & Suicide (ICPYAS) will host its Treasure Our Kids Trivia Night starting at 6 p.m. Sept. 18 at BASH in Carmel. The evening will feature trivia hosted by Hambone Trivia, along with dinner, drinks and raffle prizes. Proceeds benefit ICPYAS programs aimed at preventing child sexual abuse and youth suicide across Indiana. In 2024, ICPYAS provided prevention education to more than 90,000 youth and adults through programs such as Childhelp, NetSmartz, Signs of Suicide, QPR, and Stewards of Children. It is $75 for an individual ticket, $140 for a couple and $425 for a group of six. All tickets include dinner, drinks, and trivia. Registration is available at treasuretrivia.wedoauctions. com. Sponsorships for the event are available. For more, contact Melissa Peregrin at melissa@indianaprevention.org.

Turkle & Associates Girls Night Out Indy – Carmel-based Turkle & Associates Plastic Surgery and Phases Skin Care & Laser Center is hosting the 23rd annual Girls’ Night Out Indy from noon to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18 at Ritz Charles in Carmel. Girls’ Night Out Indy will feature opportunities to speak with Turkle & Associates double-board certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Jan Turkle and Dr. Brandon C. Specht, about breast augmentation, tummy tucks, liposuction, facelifts, rhinoplasty and other cosmetic surgery procedures. The event is free but registration is required. The link to register is tinyurl.com/5n7h4y83.

Altrusa International hosts Fall Style Show – Altrusa International will host its 38th Annual Fall Style Show and Luncheon from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sept. 14 at Ritz Charles at 12156 N. Meridian St. in Carmel. Proceeds from the event will benefit Lakeside Elementary School, Salvation Army Ruth Lilly Women’s and Children’s Center, Coburn Place and Coburn Academy, Indy Book Project, St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry, and Teachers’ Treasures. Funds will also support scholarships for nontraditional students at IU Indianapolis and Ivy Tech. Featured will be fall fashions from The Secret Ingredient. Doors open at 11 a.m., giving attendees time to browse Altrusa’s auction and raffle, featuring prizes and holiday items donated by local businesses. The Secret Ingredient will also host an onsite boutique. Tickets are $60 per person or $440 for a table of eight. For more, email altrusaindy@gmail.com.

LENDING A HAND

Local volunteers help Indiana Diaper Bank provide to those in need

By Samantha Kupiainen news@youarecurrent.com

Purchasing diapers can be an enormous challenge for parents who have financial obstacles that prevent them from being able to afford the essential item for their baby.

That’s where the Indiana Diaper Bank comes in.

A nonprofit at 5303 W. 86th St. in Indianapolis, the organization provides diapers to various community partners and organizations for distribution to families in need of clean diapers that wouldn’t be able to afford them otherwise.

“What a diaper bank is, we have the diapers, and we distribute to other nonprofit partners,” said Ashley Burns, president and CEO of Indiana Diaper Bank. “We have 72 nonprofit partners that come and pick up diapers from us monthly. We distribute diapers, wipes, and pull-ups.”

Kay Gaither, a Carmel resident for more than a decade, is one of several local volunteers from Carmel and Westfield who volunteer at the Indiana Diaper Bank on the third Wednesday of each month.

Gaither was inspired to volunteer after acquiring firsthand knowledge of the need.

“My husband and I did not start our married life at the income level we have achieved,” Gaither said. “I remember when our budget was challenged by a visit to the pediatrician for yet another ear infection in our babies. I volunteer at the Diaper Bank to help out families who are working hard and just getting by. I also give the Diaper Bank a monthly donation to help their work continue. It really does take a village to raise each generation.”

The need for diapers is significant.

According to the National Diaper Bank Network, “one in two families with young children struggle to afford clean diapers for their baby.”

Website BabyCenter estimates that diapers can cost anywhere from $70-$100 per month, per child. And most federal nutrition assistance programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or the USDA’s Women, Infants and Children program, do not directly provide diapers via their services.

When it comes to child care, First Five Years Fund, a nonprofit organization that advocates for children, estimates that 64 percent of children under the age of 5 in Indiana “have all available parents in the workforce.”

Most child care facilities require parents or guardians to provide diapers for their children. The National Diaper Bank Network estimates that nationally, “25 percent of parents with diaper need reported that they have missed an average of five days of work or school in the past month due to not having enough diapers to drop children off at child care.”

As of last month, the Indiana Diaper Bank had distributed 7.1 million diapers this year. Each month, the orga-

nization distributed anywhere from 800,000 to 1.2 million diapers.

“It’s a lifeline for a basic need,” Burns said. “One in two families are in diaper need in Indiana, so we’re able to provide resources so families can work and provide hygienic ways to clean their babies. Obviously, we want babies to be sitting in clean diapers because a clean diaper means a happy and healthy baby.”

The Indiana Diaper Bank receives diapers through a variety of channels, including the retail store Target, donations, grants and individual donors.

“Target allows people to return a half of a box of diapers that their child grows out of,” Gaither said. “We found out that they were paying drivers to take those things to a central location and they were incinerated because they weren’t whole boxes. So, we said that we would take them.”

Diapers are sorted and packaged to be ready for distribution thanks to several local community organizations and clubs. Roughly 90 percent of the Indiana Diaper Bank’s operations are staffed by volunteers who help bundle diapers, inventory diapers and get them ready for distribution to local community partners.

Community partners include Babies Basic Needs, A Hope Center Indy, St. Lukes United Methodist Church and Northside Food Pantry, among others.

Families that need diapers can find the community partner distributing diapers closest to them.

“What we always tell people is, if they’re in need of diapers, they can go to our website and click ‘Get Diapers,’” Burns said. “There’s an interactive map to see where the

ABOUT INDIANA DIAPER BANK

The Indiana Diaper Bank was founded in October 2017 to address a growing need in Indiana.

Part of what led to its founding is the link between dirty diapers, maternal depression, infant health concerns, and children’s access to early learning.

Indiana Diaper Bank CEO and President Ashley Burns first became involved with the organization after having young children herself and seeing how her interests and goals aligned with the Indiana Diaper Bank’s vision.

The Bank’s biggest need right now is volunteers, who make up 90% of its operations. There are currently 54 organizations on its wait list for diapers. Prospective volunteers can get involved by visiting indianadiaperbank.org.

Source: Indiana Diaper Bank

community partners that we currently have are in relation to where they’re living. Our goal is to have diapers in the neighborhoods in which people live.”

For more information, visit indianadiaperbank.org.

ON THE COVER: Ashley Burns, president and CEO of the Indiana Diaper Bank, with a stack of diaper boxes at its headquarters building.

Local volunteers process diapers at the Indiana Diaper Bank. (Submitted by Ashley Burns)

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

Indiana Spine Group expands with new Westfield office

By Samantha Kupiainen news@youarecurrent.com

Indiana Spine Group recently expanded to Westfield with the opening of its new office Aug.

NOW OPEN

22. The new location’s fellowship-trained spine surgeon, Dr. Peter Swiatek, has been treating patients at the Indiana Spine Group’s Carmel location for the last year. Besides the Westfield office, Indiana Spine Group has several locations across Indiana, including Crawfordsville, Danville and Bloomington.

disc herniations; degenerative cervical, thoracic and lumbar disease; and spinal deformity. He prefers a nonoperative management approach when possible.

The group differs from other practices because it aims to be a comprehensive spine practice where patients with spinal disorders and/or abnormalities can be treated at one convenient office.

“Right now, our main headquarters is in Carmel, so Westfield’s of big interest to me and the rest of the group because of population growth, industry growth, and the medical care growth,” Swiatek said. “All these people are going to need someone to look after them, so I hope to be one of those people.”

Swiatek specializes in diseases and disorders of the spine, and commonly treats

“As a spine surgeon, I see people with any issue related to their neck, their mid-back, their low back, or even their sacrum or pelvis region,” Swiatek said. “A lot of times these are patients who have a pain in their neck that’s shooting down their arm, or a pain in their low back that’s shooting down their leg. Or, in some cases, patients have difficulty using their hands or their arms, they have weakness in one arm or the other, weakness in one leg or the other, and all of that can be coming from your back.”

Swiatek earned his undergraduate degree in neurobiology, global health and health policy from Harvard University and his medical degree from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. He completed his residency at Northwestern Memorial Hospital/ McGaw Medical Center’s Department of Orthopedic Surgery in Chicago.

Indiana Spine Group’s Westfield office is at 17300 Westfield Blvd, Suite 110. Appointment requests can be made online at indianaspinegroup.com/swiatek.

Exterior of the new Indiana Spine Group Westfield location. (Photo courtesy of Indiana Spine Group)

Swiatek

Dr. Jeremy Ciano OD Bi-Focal Contacts

Dr. Katherine Schuetz OD Astigmatism Contacts Dr. Hannah Wilson OD Daily Disposable Contacts

Carmel couple opens new office for Medicare-focused business

By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com

Andrew Flittner founded Independent Senior Insurance, a business dedicated exclusively to Medicare plan guidance, in 2010 in Indianapolis. As the business grew, he said it outgrew its original Broad Ripple location.

INSURANCE

When Andrew and his wife Stephanie, who run the business together, started to look for a new location, they wanted to stay close to their Carmel home.

The Flittners moved Independent Senior Insurance to a new location at 3309 E. 146th St. last month. They spent $1.2 million on the renovation of the Carmel location, which celebrated its grand opening Aug. 22.

Andrew Flittner said Independent Senior Insurance is the only independent Medicare broker in Carmel.

“Carmel offers everything you could want for a small business,” he said. “A new location near where you live makes it home.”

Andrew Flittner said Independent Se-

nior Insurance is the largest independent Medicare broker in Indiana. He said the business goal for customers is to find the “correct answer for their situation” as it relates to Medicare.

Flittner noted that clients have choices of companies, coverages and added that the timing of when to go on Medicare also is important. He said Independent Senior Insurance helps clients navigate that decision.

Andrew Flittner said Independent Senior

Co-owner Andrew Flittner cuts the ribbon to open the new Carmel location of Independent Senior Insurance at 3309 E. 146th St. in Carmel. Helping to cut the ribbon is son Michael, 9, and daughter Margot, 6. Stephanie Flittner, co-owner and Andrew’s wife, is on the right. (Photo provided by Independent Senior Insurance)

Insurance will strive to make sure a client’s medical providers and prescriptions are covered under Medicare. The firm also deals with the Social Security Administration to process paperwork required to go into Medicare at no cost to clients.

Andrew Flittner got his career start at Anthem after he graduated from Indiana University and went into Medicare sales. He left Anthem to start Independent Senior Insurance in 2010.

“We worked in the front of a small Broad

Ripple bungalow-style office and eventually took over that whole office. In the last two or three years, we grew to the point where we out-grew that office,” he said.

The Medicare broker business has changed with the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 and the One Big Beautiful Bill that passed this year. Flittner said the cycle of change with the Medicare program has grown in recent years and it has led to many questions from Independent Senior Insurance clients.

“Our goal for our clients is to keep them apprised of not the noise, but the things that are actually impactful to them,” Flittner said.

Flittner noted that Medicare open enrollment begins Oct. 15 so it’s a good time for clients to take advantage of Independent Senior Insurance and the services it offers.

“The timing of this opening couldn’t be better. Now people will have a local person — not a telemarketer, not a call center somewhere — but a local person that they can come and get these important questions,” Flittner said.

Fro more, call 317-717-1085 or email team@isimedicare.com.

Claire’s at Clay Terrace to close

By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com

National retail chain Claire’s has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, and its Carmel store will be among 291 Claire’s and affiliated Icing-branded stores that will close nationwide.

RETAIL

Current confirmed with local store management that the Claire’s at 14550 Clay Terrace Blvd. will likely close by the end of the month, according to store management.

Claire’s, based in Hoffman Estates, Ill., filed last month for bankruptcy, its second filing in seven years. The first was in March 2018.

In the most recent filing, Claire’s reported it was “highly profitable” after its 2018 bankruptcy, but that the chain faced challenges on multiple fronts.

“Claire’s was not immune from the continued trend away from brick and mortar and more recent macroeconomic challenges, including higher interest rates, labor costs and, most recently, tariffs. While Claire’s took many steps over the last few years to address these and other challenges, it was not enough to overcome the obstacles,” Claire’s CEO Chris Cramer stated in the bankruptcy filing.

The chain is not closing all of its stores. Claire’s at Hamilton Town Center in Noblesville and Castleton Square Mall in Indianapolis remain open.

Claire’s has long been a staple of shopping malls. According to its website, it sells jewelry and fashion accessories for teens and tweens and offers services such as ear piercing.

Kisiel named to BAGI leadership — The Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis recently announced the appointment of John Kisiel as the new director of government affairs. Kisiel will work closely with local officials, BAGI members and industry stakeholders to promote policies that support responsible growth, housing affordability and a healthy business climate for builders and developers throughout Central Indiana. Learn more at bagi.com.

Downtown home gets whole-house remodel

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

When Worthington Design’s team first walked through the home on Kenwood Avenue near downtown Indianapolis, it was clear it needed a lot of work.

RENOVATION

Project Manager Andy Boone said the vacant home had been broken into and damaged by apparent squatters. The owner, who grew up in the home, now lives in Detroit but wanted to keep the property in the family. Although tearing it down and rebuilding would have been easier — and ultimately less expensive — Boone said the area’s zoning wouldn’t allow that option.

“If you tore it down, you had to redo it as commercial,” he said. “The only way to keep it a residential home was to actually ‘remodel’ it. So, while we didn’t tear it to the ground, basically the only thing that stayed was the roof structure, and we just kind of reframed it and redid the foundation while the house was standing in place.”

Boone said he was impressed that the design team was able to walk into the approximately 100-year-old home and see its potential. He credited their work and the

carpenter on the project for its transforma tion, which took about six months.

The renovation included replacing a narrow staircase with a sculptural spiral staircase to help maximize floor space, along with new lighting, flooring, utility and mechanical systems. In addition to a full renovation of the existing structure, the team built a 30-by-40-foot addition at the back.

Boone said the home will be used as a short-term rental.

“The property is now a showcase for what’s possible just south of downtown,” a news release from Worthington stated. “With proximity to White River State Park, the Convention Center and key commuter routes, the block is quietly becoming a destination for renovators, families and real estate investors looking for the next wave. The 46225 (ZIP code) area — especially the Old Southside near Kenwood Avenue — has seen pockets of investment and revitalization, but it’s still not fully turned over like nearby Bates–Hendricks or Fountain Square.”

Worthington Design & Remodeling serves Indianapolis, Carmel, Fishers, Westfield, Noblesville, Zionsville and surrounding communities. For more, visit worthingtonindy.com.

Lopez honored by Indiana Chamber of Commerce — State Rep. Danny Lopez (R-Carmel) was recently named Champion Freshman Legislator by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce for his support of pro-economy, pro-jobs legislation during the 2025 legislative session. Lopez was recognized for his work on Senate Enrolled Act 516, which established the Indiana Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, as well as his contributions to the budget and tax reform efforts as a member of the House Ways & Means Committee. Lopez also earned a score of 100 percent in the Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s 41st annual Legislator Scorecard. Lawmaker scores were based on their support for legislation affecting six focus areas: child care, economic development, education, energy, health care, public finance/taxation, and road funding.

INDIANAPOLIS,

September 20, 2025

October 18, 2025 November 29, 2025

December 20, 2025

A before photo of the Kenwood Avenue home. (Photos courtesy of Worthington Design) An after photo of the Kenwood Avenue home.

Carmel Community Players presents ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Andrea Odle has wanted to direct “To Kill a Mockingbird” for a long time.

“I love literature, and this is one of the most iconic books that has (been) turned into a play, in my opinion, straight from the words of Harper Lee right onto the stage,” Odle said.

The Noblesville resident presented the idea of directing the classic to Carmel Community Players.

“I saw the Aaron Sorkin version in Indianapolis a few years ago and wanted to bring it to life,” Odle said.

The CCPs’ production of “To Kill a Mockingbird” runs Sept. 12-21 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. With ticket sales strong, CCP officials decided to add an evening performance Sept. 20 to go with the previously scheduled matinee.

Odle, who is directing at CCP for the first time, said the production is the original play and not Sorkin’s version.

The plot centers on small-town Alabama attorney Atticus Finch’s defense of a Black man accused of raping a white woman. It was made into a memorable movie in 1962.

Odle’s daughter, Rylee Odle, plays Jean Louise “Scout” Finch, Atticus Finch’s 7-year-old daughter.

“It’s been fun to get in the mind of a

7-year-old and how they would move and the innocence they have to look at the world and see it in a different way has been exciting,” Rylee said.

Although “To Kill a Mockingbird” was written in 1960, Rylee said the issue of racism still resonates today.

“Specifically, right now it’s a big issue we’re having,” she said. “I think the show has come out at a perfect time for us to talk about it. I think one of the best ways to talk about messages and things that are going on right now is through art. I’m so glad to get to do it.”

Rylee, a 20-year-old Noblesville High School graduate, said one thing different about playing a 7-year-old is the way she stands.

“Because you are turned into yourself and don’t know you can take up space in the world yet,” she said. “Another part would be as an adult, you learn a little more about thinking before you speak, but not as a little kid.”

She said has worked to portray that she is speaking without thinking about what she is saying.

Her mother has directed her before at the Belfry Theatre in Noblesville.

“She’s awesome,” Rylee said. “I love her at home, just like I do here. We go home and talk shop. I did a bunch of theater in high school and then out of high school with everyone in the community that I love so much.”

Andrea Odle said the subject matter is heavy for child actors, so she chose to cast three performers in their 20s to play the kids. She said Broadway used older performers to play children in the play as well.

“They’ve been doing their homework to come up with the characteristics of a child,” Andrea said.

Indianapolis resident Kent Phillips returns to acting in the role of Atticus Finch.

“This is one of the dream roles to play,” he said. “This is the first time in 15 years that I’ve done a play. I previously lived in Los Angeles and pursued work as an actor. I was doing some commercials and television stuff.”

His wife, Anna, is from Franklin, so the couple moved to Indianapolis in 2014. Phillips, who owns illumine Coffee Co. with his wife, said his last acting role was a bit role in “Two Broke Girls” in 2011.

Phillips, 42, said the role is challenging because of the amount of dialogue.

“Beyond that, it’s just an emotionally taxing role to play,” he said. “It’s with you when you leave a rehearsal or a performance. It’s as timely now as ever. Unfortunately, it’s been relevant in every generation.”

Phillips said he had the urge to use his creative outlet again. He also has a 12-year-old daughter who recently performed in a musical.

For more, visit carmelplayers.org.

‘HEARTBREAK HOTEL’

“Heartbreak Hotel” runs through Oct. 12 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

“Under the Harvest Moon with Paul Hughes” is set for Sept. 12, followed by The Magic of David Ranalli Sept. 13 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Both performances are set for 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘BEEHIVE’

Actors Theatre of Indiana’s production of “Beehive,” featuring music from the 1960s, runs through Sept. 21 at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistage.org.

‘TO

KILL A MOCKINGBIRD’

Carmel Community Players presents “To Kill a Mockingbird” from Sept. 12 to 21 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.

THE WALLOW HOLLOWS

The Wallow Hollows will perform at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11 in the Local Mix Music Series at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center in Carmel. Tickets are $10 in person or register for a free livestream at thecenterpresents.org.

ROGER MCGUINN

Roger McGuinn’s concert is set for 8 p.m. Sept. 13 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

DISPATCH

Fish heads blues and rock showcase — Guitarist-vocalist Samantha Fish will lead a three-act blues and rock showcase in December at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Bluesman Cedric Burnside and indie rocker Jon Spencer are joining Fish for the third annual Shake ’Em on Down Tour stop at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 10, at the Payne & Mencias Palladium. Tickets starting at $36 are available online at thecenterpresents.org, by phone at 317843-3800, and in person at the Payne & Mencias Palladium’s Fifth Third Bank Box Office, 1 Carter Green.

The Carmel Community Players cast of “To Kill a Mockingbird.” (Photo courtesy of Erin Keller)

Saturday, September 27

John Alvarado

Peyton Womock

Island Mixtape

Eliott Ferguson Blues

Ace High Band

Metropolitan Youth Ballet of Indiana

Sunday, September 28

John Alvarado

Laughing Jack

Joven / Goodman Jazz

The MAD Band

Party goes on for Coral Reefer Band

The Center Celebration 2025 presented by Ice Miller with headline performance by

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Before he died Sept. 1, 2023, Jimmy Buffett told his friend and bandmate Mac McAnally to keep the party going.

CONCERT

McAnally and the rest of the Coral Reefer Band members are doing just that, touring with the Doobie Brothers this summer. The groups will perform at 7 p.m. Sept. 13 at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville.

“Nobody is going to try to replace Jimmy. It would be a futile effort, anyway,” McAnally said. “But we feel like he’s hanging around with us and we leave his microphone open in the middle of the stage. We usually have at least one of his guitars on stage somewhere. I think he’s getting a kick out of watching his music continue to live on.”

McAnally has been with the Coral Reefer Band for more than 30 years.

“Jimmy handpicked everybody that’s in the band, so we are a family that he created,” McAnnally said. “The fan base is a family that he created, and I consider every one of these chances to play as a family reunion.”

You can still join us in continuing to bring these programs to the community. Visit TheCenterPresents.org/Donate to make a tax-deductible donation to Allied Solutions Center and its mission.

Marx is SOLD OUT! We’re so grateful to the many generous people and companies who will join us to support Allied Solutions Center’s wide range of arts and educational programming, from big-name concerts to classes and lectures to free events for schools to our Prism Project arts camp for youth with disabilities – and the list goes on. Proceeds benefit Allied Solutions Center’s arts and educational programming SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS, INCLUDING:

McAnally said the Doobie Brothers have been a perfect fit for the Coral Reefer Band’s first major tour without Buffett.

“I’ve been a fan of the Doobie Brothers even before I was a musician,” McAnally said. “The whole time I was in cover bands as a teenager, we were trying to play Doobie Brothers hits.”

McAnally said fans are enjoying the shows even though the bands have different fan bases.

“I joke about the Hawaiian shirts standing up and the black T-shirts sitting down when we play,” McAnally said. “But everybody there at the show are fans of good music, and the Hawaiian shirts are all enjoying the Doobies’ music and singing along. And by the end of our set, the Doobie fans are up and singing ‘Brown Eyed Girl’ and ‘Margaritaville’ with us.”

McAnally plays guitar and is one of the lead vocalists.

Richard

McAnally

Beef & Boards schedule set

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s 2026 season will have the usual mix of something old and something new — and in one case, something really old.

THEATER

The 53rd Beef & Boards season opens Jan. 6 with “The Mousetrap,” which hasn’t been performed at the Indianapolis venue since 1978.

The schedule includes two long-running musicals in “CATS” and “Singin’ in the Rain.”

“The nostalgia of a simpler, happier time, with great singing, great dancing and great characters, make for a great evening,” Beef & Boards owner Doug Stark said. “Then ‘CATS,’ you either love it or you hate it, much like its namesake. If you love cats, and love poetry and love Andrew Lloyd Webber’s music, you’ll love ‘CATS.’ If not, we have seven other fantastic shows in our season.”

Three shows are making their Beef & Boards debut: “Pretty Woman,” “The Play That Goes Wrong” and Irving Berlin’s “Holiday Inn.”

BEEF & BOARDS 2026 SCHEDULE

Jan. 6 to Feb. 15: “The Mousetrap”

Feb. 19 to April 4: “Pretty Woman”

April 9 to May 23: “Singin’ in the Rain”

May 28 to July 12: “Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “Cinderella”

July 16 to Aug. 23: “The Play That Goes Wrong”

Aug. 27 to Oct. 4: “Ring of Fire.”

Oct. 8 to Nov. 22: “CATS”

Nov. 27 to Dec. 31: Irving Berlin’s “Holiday Inn.”

“We try our best to provide something for everyone’s taste in entertainment, whether it’s mystery, music, comedy, drama, or dancing, with a good mix of the old favorites and a taste of the new Broadway show,” Stark said. “Even the old favorites were brand new at one point.”

Stark said “Singin’ in the Rain “is still one of Beef & Boards’ most-requested shows. It was last staged there in 2018.

“The Mousetrap,” a murder mystery by Agatha Christie, is the longest-running play in history and opens the season Jan. 6.

CSO features 2 guest conductors

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The Carmel Symphony Orchestra is opening the 2025-26 season in October without an executive director or a music director Executive Director Anne Marie Chastain’s contract was not renewed after her term ended in June. CSO used guest conductors during the 2024-25 season after David Commanday served less than a year in the role.

MUSIC

and guest artists. Mashner has been in her position since 2021. She joined full time as a harpist in 2020.

“When we planned this season, we really wanted to focus on highlighting the musicians of our orchestra and help the community get to know the musicians who have loyally served them all these years,” Mashner said.

“We’re using two guest conductors this season as our organization searches for a music director,” CSO Personnel Manager Melanie Mashner said.

Kelly Corcoran will conduct three concerts, and Kelly Kuo will direct two concert dates. Corcoran, based in Nashville, Tenn., is the artistic director of Intersection, a contemporary music ensemble. Kuo is the music director of Reno Chamber Orchestra. Mashner said her responsibility is to hire all the musicians for the orchestra and is involved in day-to-day operations. She runs rehearsals and works with conductors

The five concerts will be performed at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. Corcoran conducts the season-opening Oct. 11 concert, “Drama! Beethoven & Brahms.”

Corcoran returns to conduct two more concerts in 2026 — “Love Letters from Paris: Music from the Heart” Feb. 21 and “Symphonic Odyssey” April 18. The Feb. 21 concert features a harp solo by Mashner and a flute solo by Tamara Thweatt.

Kuo will conduct “Holiday Pops with the CSO: Spirit of the Season” Dec. 14 with performances at 2 and 7 p.m. Kuo returns to conduct “Nordic Nights” March 21. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

Mashner

‘Captain of my soul’

Commentary by Terry Anker

“You are a rude, thoughtless little pig.” “You don’t have the brains or the decency as a human being.” And “I don’t give a damn that you’re 12 years old or 11 years old or that you’re a child.” Actor Alec Baldwin said all this several years ago a voicemail left for his daughter. Incidentally, Mr. Baldwin, she was 11 at the time, in sixth grade. He and his equally famous spouse were divorcing, and the young girl had become an inconvenience for the wealthy celebrity. After much public pressure, he asserted that he was sorry, but added, “I have been driven to the edge by parental alienation for many years now. You have to go through this to understand. (Although I hope you never do).” It seems that child abuse is justifiable to Baldwin.

ESSAY

Equally well-known in his own lifetime was English poet and writer William Ernest Henley (1849–1903). His life story is nearly unbelievable in its challenges, starting with the removal of his leg at the knee and the subsequent two-year

stay in the hospital from age 12 to 14. The time, he later said, gave him the opportunity to think, to better understand the toll of emotional and physical suffering. Eventually, he would go on to become mentor to Robert Louis Stephenson (“Treasure Island” — Henley happily served as inspiration for peg-legged Capt. Long John Silver), Rudyard Kipling (“The Jungle Book”), J.M. Barrie (“Peter Pan”) and poet W.B. Yeats (“The Tower”).

Rather than blaming inadequate health care, negative views about the disabled, or simple bad luck, Henley famously closed his magnum opus, “Invictus,” with, “I am the master of my fate; I am the captain of my soul.” Perhaps there were no divorce customs, angry spouses, or innocent 11-year-old girls to fault. If our soul is polluted, can we rightly blame others for the filth?

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

READER’S VIEW

Leave animals out of circus

Editor,

Although the Murat Shrine is an admirable philanthropic organization, the Murat Shrine Circus is an event that my family just cannot support.

The Murat Shrine will reportedly feature “exotic” animals in its circus this year — its first circus in over a decade — from Sept. 26-28. The Murat Shrine should know better. In 2009, over a dozen children were injured when an elephant being used for rides at the Murat Shrine Circus was startled. Traveling wild animal acts endanger public safety,

SCAN HERE

TO HAVE CURRENT DELIVERED TO YOUR PHONE

and their return to Indianapolis should concern us all.

It’s time to put an end to the cruel practice of trucking wild animals around the country and training them with pain and fear to do ridiculous tricks for a few minutes of entertainment. Decades ago, so little was known about wild animals that we couldn’t understand the intense suffering that life in a circus inflicted on them. Now that we know better, we — and the Shriners — can and should do better.

Jessica Irvine, Carmel

Sheer truth about yoga pants

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

My wife’s yoga class is an hour long, but she’s usually gone about 2 1/2 half hours. That’s because the class is way across the street. You’re not supposed to talk during the session, so a lot of neighborhood gossip builds up during the silent period.

HUMOR

The ladies have their own mats, but most have resisted going into full yoga dress mode. That’s a good thing. Here’s why.

A Canadian clothing company that manufactures yoga garb once had a quality-control problem that alienated its fan base. Especially the part of the base that has a big fanny. Its hottest item was a pair of stretch yoga pants that sold for $100. This is the perfect garment for men and women seeking to transcend their material attachments. And the pants look really cool with a pair of $1,200 Louis Vuitton running shoes.

The company’s website had a disclaimer that read: “In some cases, you may experience extreme sheerness.” In other words, you can see through the pants. When your garment selection lists potential side effects, you may need to reconsider your wardrobe choices.

One consumer expert suggested that before you purchase the pants, you should try them on and bend over to see if there is a “see-through” issue. Of course, you are hardly in the best position to gather accurate information that way. You might say to your BFF, “I have a really, really big favor to ask of you.”

One yoga enthusiast, presently employed as an engineer, said she doesn’t mind that her butt shows, but she dislikes the fabric because of the excessive static cling. This is what happens when you ask an electrical engineer a question about tight translucent pants instead of asking a structural engineer.

“When your garment selection lists potential side effects, you may need to reconsider your wardrobe choices.”

– DICK WOLFSIE

A sales representative addressed the problem of defective inventory already in the stores: “The company will be pulling our pants down from the shelves.” When you utter a sentence that includes the phrase, “pulling our pants down,” you’re just asking for some tabloid journalist to take your quote out of context.

One clothing manufacturing analyst said that the company needs to deal with the problem and get some closure. Apparently, he forgot that with elastic-waist pants, closure is seldom an issue. Then he went on to say, “It is clear that they really have a good product.” He could have added, “They also have a product that is really clear.”

Another company official noted: “Investors have been plowing money into the stock, so we still have room to grow,” which is not only commentary on future potential but a nod to the biggest advantage of pants made of spandex. And finally, the chief financial officer added that analysts are taking a “wait-and-see attitude.” Men parked in front of the fitness center are adopting a similar approach.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES

Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft Word document or in the body of an email. Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising nature. Letters should be exclusive to Current Publishing. Unsigned letters and letters deemed to be of a libelous nature will not be published. Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent.com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.

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

LIFESTYLE

Across

1. Information desk sign

6. Halloween cry

9. Ticket

14. Rub clean

15. Blunder

16. Egg-shaped

17. Bearded collie, for one

19. Adam, Jerry and Mae

20. Indy Fuel score

21. Answer angrily

22. Mouse, to an owl

25. Like the Everglades

28. EMTs’ destinations

29. Positive response

30. Bullfighter

32. Extinguishes (with “out”)

36. Roman meeting place

37. Current revenue source

39. Forest Park outings

43. Wheat variety often used to make pasta

45. Hands-on-hips position

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE CARMEL BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS HEARING OFFICER

Docket No. PZ-2025-000172 V

Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals Hearing Officer meeting on the 29th day of September, 2025 at 5:00p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1 Civic Sq., 2nd Flr., Carmel, IN 46032, will hold a Public Hearing upon a Development Standards Variance application to:

We are requesting to replace an old pool utility shed with a newer and nicer one that would also provide additional storage and a covered dining area by the pool. We would be replacing a 96 square foot structure with a 330 square foot structure. The combined square footage of ground floor area of the garages and/or accessory structures shall not exceed 75% of the ground floor area of the principle building, 106% is requested

With the property being known as: 11941 Westwood Drive, Carmel, IN 46033

The application is identified as Docket No. PZ-2025-00172 V

The real estate affected by said application is described as follows: parcel number(s)) Parcel # 17-10-34-03-02-014.000

The petition may be examined on the City’s website, through Public Documents - Laserfiche.

All interested persons desiring to present their views on the above application, either in writing or verbally, will be given an opportunity to be heard at the above-mentioned time and place.

Caleb Peters

PETITIONERS

46. Graffiti writer, e.g.

48. “For ___ a jolly good fellow”

49. Sellout inits.

51. Medieval

53. 30-Across foe

54. Where to get a Baconator

56. “Nonsense!”

58. Writer Asimov

59. Arcadia ranch and winery

64. Must, informally

65. UIndy URL ender

66. Exxon rival

67. Sugary

68. Make a wager at Hoo-

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE CARMEL BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS HEARING OFFICER

Docket No. PZ-2025-00174

Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals Hearing Officer meeting on the 29th day of September, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1 Civic Sq., 2nd Flr., Carmel, IN 46032, will hold a Public Hearing upon a Development Standards Variance application to:

Seeking approval for a 39.91% lot coverage when only 35% is allowed.

With the property being known as: 667 Ironwood Drive, Carmel, IN 46033

The application is identified as Docket No. PZ-2025-00174.

The real estate affected by said application is described as follows: Lot 60 Cool Creek North Section Ten

The petition may be examined on the City’s website, through Public Documents - Laserfiche.

All interested persons desiring to present their views on the above application, either in writing or verbally, will be given an opportunity to be heard at the above-mentioned time and place.

Church Church Hittle + Antrim by Andrew Wert

PETITIONER

sier Park

69. Starbucks size Down

1. Beast of burden

2. Univ. or acad.

3. Campground letters

4. Angela Buchman summer forecast, maybe

5. “Cogito, ___ sum”

6. Pandemonium

7. Spanish gold

8. Assn.

9. Eider, e.g.

10. Eye part

11. Friendly ghost

12. Rose essence

13. Westfield HS exams

18. Thanksgiving veggie 21. Islamic law

22. Town with a tilting tower

23. McNally’s partner

Public Notice

24. Outback birds

26. UK WWII fliers

The City of Carmel, in accordance with National Flood Insurance Program regulation 65.7(b) (1), hereby gives notice of the City’s intent to revise the flood hazard information along Carmel Creek. Specifically, the flood hazard information will be revised along Carmel Creek from a point approximately 600 feet downstream of Westfield Boulevard to approximately 1,100 feet upstream of Mitchell Road. As a result of the revision, the floodway will narrow and widen, the 1-percent annual-chance water-surface elevations shall generally decrease, stay the same or be established, and the 1-percent-annual-chance floodplain will generally narrow within the area of revision or be established. Maps and detailed analysis of the revision can be reviewed at the Christopher B Burke Engineering, LLC at 111 Monument Circle, Suite 3500, Indianapolis, IN 46204. Interested persons may call Matt Mead, PE at 317-266-8000 for additional information from 9 to 5, Monday through Friday or email at mmead@cbbel-in.com.

27. Terminate

31. ___ Severin Hotel

33. Pale

34. Cuddly feline

35. Ongoing TV show

38. “Star Trek” officer

40. Texting qualifier

41. Trucker with a transmitter

42. Meh 44. Rx

46. Give to Goodwill 47. Tell on 49. Big gulps 50. Plant again 52. Online chuckle 53. Cooking herb 55. Dinner and a movie, perhaps

Balkan native 59. Spider’s trap

60. Praiseful poem

61. O’er there

62. Perform at The Tarkington

63. Kawachinagano Japanese Garden pond fish Answers on Page 35

PUZZLE ANSWERS

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