April 14, 2026 — Current in Carmel

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Firm exploring potential sites to develop missing middle housing in Carmel

By Ann Marie Shambaugh annmarie@youarecurrent.com

A self-described “recovered architect,” Daniel Parolek has shifted his career focus to promoting the benefits of missing middle housing, a phrase he coined in 2011.

Parolek, a founding principal of California-based consulting firm Opticos Design, visited Carmel last month to give an overview of the topic to the Mayor’s Advisory Commission on Housing and address questions from community members.

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Opinions

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

Many communities — including Carmel — offer an abundance of single-family homes and apartments, but don’t offer many in-between options, such as duplexes, courtyard apartments and townhomes — the missing middle, according to Parolek.

“Missing middle is about — at a really high level — broadening the delivery of housing choices,” Parolek said at the March 26 meeting. “This is about choice. This isn’t about forcing anybody to live a particular way. It’s choices that are needed but it’s also choices that are desired.”

These options become increasingly needed as housing costs rise and more households are occupied by only one or two people, Parolek said. They are often a good fit for first-time home buyers or those looking to downsize, two groups that often struggle to find or afford a home in Carmel.

Missing middle options are built at “house scale,” Parolek said, meaning they look like surrounding single-family homes but are internally split into multiple units. He describes it as “gentle density.”

“When we do walking tours, we often discover missing middle that we didn’t actually realize (was there) as we had studied the area,” Parolek said, adding that it can sometimes be spotted by counting mailboxes or meters.

Carmel is paying Opticos Design up to $55,000 to analyze housing within its borders and determine where and how it may want to consider adding missing middle options. Parolek plans to present findings and recommendations to city leaders in two to three months.

Although specific sites for potential development of missing middle housing

in Carmel have not yet been identified, Parolek said it often makes sense to consider it in downtown walkable areas, as a transition between high-density housing and single-family homes or on large estate lots.

Parolek recommended Carmel consider adjusting its zoning code to permit missing middle housing beyond the limited areas where it is currently allowed.

“Zoning should really be an economic development priority, not just a planning priority,” Parolek said. “It is a big part of what keeps businesses, what keeps people, what keeps families in your community.”

During the question and answer session, some attendees pushed back on expanding missing middle housing in Carmel, saying many people moved to the city because of its low housing density. Others expressed concerns about increased traffic and impact on wildlife.

Parolek said he doesn’t expect city leaders to allow missing middle housing everywhere but said there will likely be areas where it will be prioritized.

“You need to decide as a community, do you want to be the kind of place where your teachers can live in your community, where your firefighters can live in your community, people with middle incomes?” he said. “At this point, none of them can afford a single-family detached house.”

Carmel City Councilor Shannon Minaar, who chairs the commission, encouraged residents with comments or questions about local housing issues to contact their city councilors.

“No decisions are being made at this point,” she said. “We’re just gathering information.”

Learn more about Opticos Design at opticosdesign.com/ missing-middle-housing.

Judge to determine Carmel’s responsibility for legal fees

By Ann Marie Shambaugh annmarie@youarecurrent.com

The City of Carmel could be on the hook to pay legal fees for a property owner it sued in September 2025 for using a home as a short-term rental without authorization.

The suit against Zionsville-based XF Property Group was dismissed last month after the state legislature approved House Enrolled Act 1210, a massive bill that included language essentially voiding Carmel’s efforts to prohibit short-term rentals.

XF Property Group claims the suit was frivolous because Carmel’s ordinance prohibiting short-term rentals and other efforts to ban them were never valid in the first place. It is seeking to recover more than $40,000 in legal fees it spent fighting the suit.

“The city began harassing myself and other property owners nearly two years ago,” stated Jonathan Wales, owner of XF Property Group. “The threatening letters continued even after the city was informed by legislative leaders and the state attorney general’s office that their ordinance was invalid. They sued me anyhow.”

A hearing to determine whether Carmel’s suit was frivolous is scheduled for 11 a.m. July 13 in Hamilton County Superior Court 5. If the judge rules against the city, sanctions could include paying XF Property Group’s attorneys fees.

Carmel approved an ordinance regulating short-term rentals on Jan. 8, 2018. Two months later, the state legislature approved House Enrolled Act 1035, which prohibited cities from regulating short-term rentals but only grandfathered in municipalities that had rules in place before Jan. 1, 2018.

According to a brief filed by the city before the lawsuit was dismissed, Carmel’s short-term rental regula-

tions were valid because the city had regulated them prior to 2018 through its Unified Development Ordinance, adopted in 2017. The city claimed shortterm rentals were a form of bed and breakfast, a type of business regulated through the UDO.

The updated language in HEA1210 retroactively changed the definition of a bed and breakfast, thus voiding Carmel’s argument for short-term rental enforcement.

Chris Gibson, managing principal of The Corydon Group, the lead lobbying firm advocating in favor of HEA1035 in 2018, said HEA1210 clarified the legislature’s original intent.

“The language in HEA1210 from the 2026 session, which our firm also helped craft, simply restated existing law from 2018 in the context of a larger bill that contained potentially ambiguous language that could have been construed to undo the 2018 agreement,” Gibson stated. “In the context of the Carmel (short-term rental) ordinance, it is clear to me that the city never met their burden of complying with the Jan. 1, 2018, deadline.”

The City of Carmel did not provide comment for this story before publication.

Wales said he and his wife purchased a home on Concord Lane in 2025 to use as a short-term rental property to generate college savings funds for their two children. He said legal fees fighting the city’s suit have easily eclipsed returns on the investment.

“The fact that the legislature saw the legal gymnastics Carmel was performing to avoid state law and responded by restating the law doesn’t make their lawsuit any less frivolous,” Wales stated. “They’ve now sought to dismiss the matter with us footing the bill. There are several paths by which litigation can continue and we’re doing those now.”

DISPATCH

 Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony – The City of Carmel’s annual Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony is set for noon April 24 at the Tarkington Theater, 3 Carter Green. The event is free and open to the public. The ceremony will feature a keynote address by Dr. Alex Kor, a Carmel resident and the son of two Holocaust survivors, Michael and Eva Mozes Kor. Filmmaker and composer Ashton Gleckman will deliver remarks and share a trailer for his film, “We Shall Not Die Now.” Attendees are invited to a complimentary luncheon available on a first-come, first-served basis in the lobby after the ceremony.

Carmel HS gets car, auto parts

By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com

Students in Carmel High School’s automotive training program will have the opportunity to work on a 1976 Ford Mustang II, thanks to a generous donation.

The car was donated by Anthony Ascioti, who wanted it put to good use, according to Emily Bauer, director of community relations at Carmel Clay Schools. It will be used to teach vehicle repair.

The Ford Mustang was one of two donations the CHS auto program received last month. The other was more than $300,000 in auto parts.

The parts come from Brock Aldrich, whose dad owned a now-closed auto parts store. Bauer said the parts were professionally appraised at $340,000. Many will be displayed on the walls of the school’s auto repair shop and others will be used to fix vehicles. Some of the parts are already being used.

“Essentially, the district is being given the entire inventory of the store,” Associate Superintendent Roger McMichael told the CCS school board. “That’s really an unusual gift we’ve received.”

The next school board meeting is at 6 p.m. April 15 at Clay Middle School, 5150 126th St.

Indiana governor signs laws inspired by Fishers teen’s death

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

The family of Fishers teen Hailey Buzbee joined area lawmakers April 1 as Indiana Gov. Mike Braun ceremonially signed House Enrolled Act 1303 and HEA 1408, two laws approved during the recent legislative session to increase protections for youth.

HEA 1303 adds high-risk missing people to the definition of missing children and specifically adds missing children to the statewide silver alert program. It also strengthens laws surrounding child sex abuse material and sex offender registry. HEA 1408 establishes social media restrictions for adolescents.

was thankful Buzbee could be honored with the new legislation.

“Law enforcement needs as many tools in the toolbox as possible to stop child predators,” Garcia Wilburn stated. “As the Fishers community continues to grieve Hailey and reflect on the work that has been done this year to prevent future tragedies, I plan to have more conversations with constituents about additional guardrails on social media and steps we can take at the legislature to keep our children safe.”

Indiana House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers) said in an emailed statement that he was moved by the Buzbee family’s courage in speaking out to protect other young Hoosiers.

The laws were drafted in response to Buzbee’s death. The 17-year-old disappeared in early January and was found dead about a month later in Ohio. Her parents advocated strongly for more protections.

An Ohio man faces federal charges related to her disappearance.

In a statement released after the ceremony, State Rep. Victoria Garcia Wilburn (D-Fishers) said she

“(The) new law passed this year strengthens Indiana’s alert system, giving law enforcement more ability to respond quickly when a child may be in danger,” he stated. “We also enacted new safeguards on social media, requiring parental consent for minors and empowering parents with more control and visibility into their children’s online activity. We will continue working to strengthen protections for young Hoosiers and do everything we can to keep our kids safe.”

Concert to celebrate Latine culture

By Ann Marie Shambaugh annmarie@youarecurrent.com

Maaike Mora hopes the debut of her original music will stir feelings in the hearts of her audience members.

The Carmel High School junior is organizing a concert set for April 18 to celebrate Latine culture and contributions. Her composition, which will conclude the event, is largely inspired by experiences members of her family have had immigrating to the U.S.

“I want to bring back that emotional aspect so that people from outside the Latine community can put themselves in other people’s shoes,” Mora said. “We need this vital reminder that Latine populations need us to stand with them, and what better way to do that than to showcase their music in our own community?”

The concert, Somos Sonidos. Somos Unidos. (which translates to We are Sounds. We are United.), will last approximately an hour. It will begin at 7 p.m. at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 100 W. 86th St. in Indianapolis and feature a range of genres, includ-

Maaike Mora performs at a piano competition. She will debut original music at the April 18 Somos Sonidos. Somos Unidos. concert. (Photo courtesy of Maaika Mora)

ing classical and pop. In addition to Mora and other local musicians, clarinetist and composer Eric Salazar will perform.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Indianapolis-based nonprofit Exodus Refugee Immigration, which helps refugees fleeing persecution or other dangers resettle in Indiana.

Mora said she hopes the event will combat negative cultural rhetoric surrounding immigration and provide different perspectives. The concert will be “very joyful,” she said, but won’t shy away from the complexity of the topic.

“All of these pieces are supposed to signify the emotion and the really difficult journey that some migrants have here,” she said.

Mora began taking vocal, dance and piano lessons as a young child and said she enjoys how music can “bring people together.” She said she wants to continue studying performing arts after graduating from CHS.

“My main goal is to be like Lin Manuel Miranda but he can’t choreograph, so, I would also choreograph my own stuff,” Mora said. “I was also thinking about combining social activism with my music composition, since I’ve been doing that already.”

Mora helped organize a CHS student walkout in January to protest Trump administration policies, including tactics used by U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, and spoke at a March 30 town hall meeting organized by Common Cause Indiana about an ICE office opening in Carmel.

Tickets for Somos Sonidos. Somos Unidos. are $12 and may be purchased at eventbrite.com/e/somos-sonidos-somos-unidos-tickets-1985672767701.

No Gimmicks, Just Growth

DISPATCHES

 Corrections — In the April 7 edition of Current in Carmel, a story about Q’s Wine Bar misstated its address. The bar is at 2139 Glebe St., Suite 100, in Carmel. In addition, a story about barber Andrew Kurz misstated which awards he won at the Reason to Dance, Reason to Hope competition. Kurz won Grand Champion.

 Six CHS teams in STARTedUP regional — Six Carmel High School teams will participate in the 2026 STARTedUP Challenge, a statewide high school pitch competition. The event brings together young innovators and challenges them to develop real ventures, pitch to judges, and compete for life-changing opportunities. The Central Indiana Region 2 Competition, which features 12 teams, will be held 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 16 at Kurz Purdue Technology Center. The event is free and open to the public. The CHS teams are Dermi: Angie Xiu and Alex Mi; Exit Point: Freddy Brubaker and Zoya Syed; Ganz Osteo AO: Zoe Baldauf; Hydraband: Isaac Qian and Mahesh Duvvuri: Occlusense: Riya Koya and Zaina Khan; and Veristryp: Aparna Parasad and Jessica Flowers. The STARTedUP Challenge Finals, where the winner will claim the $25,000 grand prize, is June 12.

 Poetry Out Loud state champ — University High School junior Jayda Dawn was named the 2026 Indiana Poetry Out Loud champion. Dawn will advance to the national semifinals in Washington, D.C. on April 28. Nine students will advance to the finals on April 29 to compete for the title of national champion and a $20,000 grand prize. More than 130,000 students competed in the national competition. Learn more about Facebook.com/ PoetryOutLoud.

 Class of 1976 reunion — Members of the Carmel High School Class of 1976 are invited to participate in a 50th class reunion Sept. 18 and 19. Those who have not yet connected with the planning committee through Facebook may email carmelin1976.50threunion@gmail.com for details about the event, which will include time to reconnect and tour the school.

 Pet supplies drive – Menards stores are holding a pet supplies drive at all locations through May 31. Accepted items include food, treats, feeders, collars, beds, mats and more. Donations may be placed in a collection box near store exit doors.

CCHS Spring Tea event set

By Samantha Kupiainen news@youarecurrnet.com

The Carmel Clay Historical Society will host its 24th Annual Spring Tea from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 24 at The Barrington of Carmel, 1335 S. Guilford Rd. The event provides history enthusiasts with an opportunity to gather with like-minded individuals over tea and a luncheon.

“We are pleased to welcome Elizabeth Hamilton of the Carmel Clay Public Library Foundation as this year’s guest speaker,” CCHS Executive Director Suzanne Yoder said. “She will share insights into the foundation’s vital role in the community, along with personal stories that reflect the unique spirit of Carmel. Guests will also enjoy tea and a light luncheon, graciously sponsored by The Barrington of Carmel.”

Proceeds from the Spring Tea support the Carmel Clay History Museum, which preserves and shares the history of the community.

“The Spring Tea is open to all ages, from students to adults, and welcomes

attend the 2025

anyone with an interest in history, community and engaging conversation,” Yoder said.

The fundraiser began in 2002 and was called Tea in the Afternoon.

“The inaugural event was held in a Carmel resident’s home near St. Vincent hospital and featured a presentation on historic dolls by collector Lynette Gross,” Yoder said. “What began as an intimate social gathering has since grown into a beloved annual tradition, celebrating history, community and shared experiences.”

Purchase tickets at bit.ly/4c0lcRR.

Beam signing marks county construction milestone

news@youarecurrnet.com

Hamilton County officials and public safety staff gathered March 19 to celebrate a construction milestone at the new Hamilton County Public Safety Center being built in Noblesville. Staff from Hamilton County 911 and Emergency Management joined the Hamilton County Commissioners to sign a beam before watching it be lifted into place and installed on the front of the complex.

From left, Larken Uhrick, director of operations for Hamilton County Public Safety Communications, Hamilton County Commissioner Steve Dillinger, Hamilton County Commissioner Christine Altman and Chad Knecht, executive director of Hamilton County Emergency Operations. (Photos courtesy of Hamilton County)

“Seeing our team members sign that beam and then watch it go into place was a powerful reminder of the people behind this work,” stated Christine Altman, president of the Hamilton County Commissioners.

The 108,000-square-foot, three-story facility will house Hamilton County’s 911 dispatch center, Emergency Management Agency and a state-of-the-art Emergency Operations Center designed to withstand an F5 tornado. It is scheduled to be completed in 2027.

� Say Goodbye to maintenance

Say Hello to Village Cooperative

COMMUNITY

DISPATCHES

 Christkindlmarkt announces 2026 season — The Carmel Christkindlmarkt recently announced that the 2026 season will run from Nov. 21 to Dec. 24 (closed Thanksgiving Day) at Carter Green. The annual Wundernacht preview event is set for Nov. 19. The Christkindlmarkt features German-inspired holiday experiences, food and drink options, artisan vendors and live entertainment. Learn more at CarmelChristkindlmarkt.com.

 Book selected as a finalist — A book by Carmel author and intercultural consultant Toyi Rodriguez, “Global Citizen: A Cultural and Transformative Journey to Thrive Abroad,” has been named a finalist in the 28th annual Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Awards, recognizing the best books published by independent presses. “Global Citizen” explores the unspoken codes that shape how people connect, communicate and lead across cultures. Rodriguez will present her book at 6 p.m. April 30 at the Carmel Clay Public Library April 30, 425 E. Main St. The event is free and open to the public.

 Parade grand marshal named — Carmel resident Chris Denari, longtime television voice of the Indiana Pacers, will serve as grand marshal of the City of Westfield’s Fourth of July parade. The July 3 parade is part of a three-day celebration marking the United States’ 250th anniversary. Learn more at westfieldin.gov/ america250.

 Rise Up for Kids breakfast — The Indiana Center for the Prevention of Youth Abuse and Suicide will present the Rise Up for Kids Breakfast from 7:30 to 9 a.m. April 23 at Ritz Charles, 12156 N Meridian St. The event will feature a digital safety panel discussing how to keep kids safe online. The event is free but RSVP is required at indianaprevention.org/events/2026/4/23/ rise-up-for-kids-breakfast-26.

 Golf pro to speak — Local golf legend Doc O’Neal will share about leading the Carmel High School Greyhounds to a state championship and his professional career in the sport at 4:30 p.m. April 16 at the Carmel Clay History Museum, 211 1st St SW. The event is free and open to the public. Space is limited. Register at tinyurl. com/ytsjb82m.

COMMUNITY

Cutest Pet contest set

By Samantha Kupiainen news@youarecurrnet.com

Carmel Tri Kappa is hosting its inaugural Cutest Pet contest to fund scholarships and assistance to charitable programs in Hamilton County.

The organization is an Indiana-based philanthropic sorority that exists to support Carmel and Westfield residents through volunteering and financial gifts.

The Carmel Tri Kappa Cutest Pet contest is virtual and runs through April 30. Participants upload their favorite photo of their pet for $10, and the pet with the most votes wins. Each vote is $1, and the top three winners will be announced online.

The Cutest Pet contest is open to different types of pets, and multiple entries are allowed.

“Our goal is to get as many people as possible to enter their pets,” said Nanette Foster, Carmel Tri Kappa parliamentarian. It helps raise money for our community and gives someone bragging rights to say their fur baby is indeed the cutest pet. This is a new fundraiser for us, and we are hoping the community gets behind our efforts.”

The grand prize is a professional pet

portrait session with Amelia Kramer Photography. Additional prizes are various gift cards from local businesses, including Prime 47, Penn & Beech Candle Co. and Crate Escapes Dog Park & Bar.

Carmel Tri Kappa supports a variety of local organizations, including the Carmel Youth Assistance Program, Westfield Youth Assistance Program and Trinity Free Clinic.

“Everything we do stays in the Carmel and Westfield areas,” Foster said. “As a state, we contribute about $1.5 million to Indiana charities and students. We have been around since 1901. We probably spend 3,000 hours a year toward philanthropic endeavors.”

Register online and vote at gogophotocontest.com/carmeltrikappa.

Group to offer weekly walks

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

BFF Indy, a community for women in the Indianapolis area who are looking for friendships, has announced it will hold weekly walks along the White River Greenway in Noblesville beginning in April.

Noblesville resident FrancesMary Loughead, founder of BFF Indy, said walks also are held in Fishers, Carmel, downtown Indianapolis, Broad Ripple, Greenwood, Brownsburg, Bloomington and Lafayette.

“We kept seeing women in the community ask if anyone wanted to go for a walk on our Facebook page, so we turned that into something consistent,” Loughead said. “The goal was to create a standing weekly plan people could count on, where they know if they show up, there will be others there to walk with.”

She said the BFF Indy community

helped decide where walks should be held.

“We sent out a form and selected the top locations based on interest, and Noblesville was one of them,” Loughead said. “It was exciting to see how many people wanted something local here.”

The walks are from 6:30 to 7:30 every Monday from April through October. In Noblesville, participants will meet at the Forest Park trailhead.

“We do our best not to cancel because of the weather,” Loughead said.

Loughead said the main goal is to help women make friends. BFF Indy also hosts a run club that meets on the first and last Saturday of each month in Broad Ripple, and the organization also partners with local fitness businesses to offer various classes throughout the year.

The Noblesville walks will be led by Loughead, Kaylee Pattengale, Kristen Sanders and Anita Snyder. For more, visit bffindianapolis.com.

NHS senior shortstop keeps honing baseball skills

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Noblesville High School senior shortstop Aiden Reynolds is passionate about the only sport he has ever played.

“He’s a super-talented kid who works very hard at this craft,” Millers coach Justin Keever said. “He’s an excellent hitter and a smart player who sleeps and drinks baseball. He’s a fouryear starter. He’s been hitting at the top of the order for us from the word go. He’s continued to develop and got better and better every year as his body has matured. More importantly, he’s been an excellent leader for us this year. He’s invested in his teammates.”

Through the first five games, Reynolds led the team with a .375 batting average with one home run and six RBIs.

“I think my biggest improvement has been made on the defensive side,” he said. “I am much more confident with my glove and footwork.”

The Millers finished 16-11 last season. 22-7 in 2024 and 23-7 in 2023.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

MEET AIDEN REYNOLDS

Favorite athlete: Javier Baez

Favorite movie: “Interstellar”

Favorite food: Pasta with freshly grated parmesan

Favorite sports team: Chicago Cubs

Favorite holiday: Christmas

“Our goal is to win, that is the only thing that every single person agrees on,” Reynolds said. “Obviously, I expect myself to perform well, but winning outweighs everything else.”

Reynolds had a .309 average with three home runs and 19 RBIs last season. He hit .373 with 27 RBIs as a sophomore and hit .315 as a freshman.

Reynolds started playing baseball at

age 3.

“I started to really take my training seriously when I was going into my (11-under club) season, and ever since then I have continued to get better,” he said. “What makes me passionate about baseball is seeing all of the hard work I put in pay off. It’s very rewarding to see and feel that, and that’s what makes me want to work.”

Reynolds committed to continue his career at Indiana University as a freshman.

“I had talked with numerous other schools at the time, but ultimately it felt like the coaches at IU were the best fit for me, plus it is close to home,” said Reynolds, who will report June 22 to IU. “I think IU is the right fit because they believe in building a strong community within the baseball team and I think that’s exactly how my career at Noblesville has been, and because of that, I think it will be an easy transition from high school to college.”

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

SPINE CARE

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25 Years of Faith: Riverview’s longest-serving volunteer

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Noblesville resident Faith Gates has spent 25 years volunteering at Riverview Health in Noblesville.

Gates, 85, is the longest-serving volunteer at the hospital.

“Faith Gates has given so much of her time and has made such a tremendous impact to the hospital,” Riverview Health Volunteer Manager Melinda Nash said.

Gates began volunteering at Riverview Health in 2001.

“My mother had always volunteered at her local hospital,” Gates said. “That kind of gave me the idea. I’ve always been able to volunteer, and I have always wanted to.”

A former teacher, Gates said she has performed several tasks as a Riverview Health volunteer.

“Mostly, it’s about what we can do for the patients and people coming into the hospital,” Gates said. “I started out working in the surgery area greeting the patients and families as they came in to have surgery. I also have worked

Community Member Spotlight

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it’s about being a friendly face to greet them with a smile and help them find what they need.”

After her husband Keith Gates retired, she talked him into joining the volunteer team at Riverview Health as well. The two also have done volunteer work with Agape Therapeutic Riding, local food pantries and their church.

with others at the hospital, saying the team makes each shift worthwhile.

“We have a lot of volunteers, and we all look out for each other and care about each other,” Gates said. “That’s another thing that makes a difference. You make friendships.”

She said it’s fulfilling to help people.

“People know you care when you show that you’re interested in them,” Gates said. “It’s just very satisfying to know that I can do this little thing, especially when I’m as old as I am, to help other people.”

Gates encourages community members to look into the volunteer program at Riverview Health.

at the visitors entrance, the nurses station, in the cardiac waiting room and at the emergency room desk.”

She enjoys talking to patients and families.

“I like being out where I meet people and get to talk to them,” Gates said.

“Most of the time it’s very pleasant, and it’s just a quick conversation, but

“It’s really good for us to do it together,” Gates said. “We can talk about it, and the other person understands a little bit more about what we’re doing, what has happened and circumstances. We get lunch at the hospital when we work, and we eat lunch together with a whole bunch of other volunteers and have a good time getting to know each other.”

Gates said she enjoys volunteering

“Volunteering at the hospital helps them immensely,” Gates said. “The little jobs we do that take a lot of time or energy ensure the nurses and other staff don’t have to do those things. When I first started, I didn’t know many people and didn’t branch out as much. Now, since I have been here and have gotten to know a few more volunteers and staff, it’s made a difference in my life, and I hope it’s made a difference in the lives of people that I’ve met.”

Meet the Dem candidates for Clay Township board

Compiled by Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Four candidates are running for three seats on the Clay Township Board in the May 5 Democratic primary. The winners will face three Republican candidates in the Nov. 3 general election.

Democratic candidates are Matthew Phelps, a senior mechanical engineer; Gregory Daniels, a retired executive; Michael Needham, a chief content officer at a technology company; and Steven Litzelman Nisi.

The candidates answered several questions from Current about their campaigns. Nisi did not return a completed questionnaire.

WHY

ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE?

Phelps: I am running so that I can help my neighbors in a very real way. I would like to work with the people of my township and board members to perform the necessary work because I feel I have something to offer that will benefit the people of Clay Township.

Daniels: To expedite the voice of the Carmel Clay Township residents’ concerns and clarity where needed and to work closely with the growing number of Clay Township residents who need assistance in a fiscally responsible manner.

Needham: I am running for Clay Township board to deliver residents a transparent budget, to ensure that necessary oversight is performed and to promote assistance standards that are fair, lawful and accessible. I want to help people through hard times, protect local services and clearly explain use of public dollars.

WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM YOUR OPPONENTS?

Phelps: Over the past 30 years I have worked in many industries from cutting

grass to managing engineering teams. I am responsible for designing and quoting solutions for large corporations. I know the balance of needs versus costs and understand the impact of these decisions on human needs as well.

Daniels: Experience in key leadership roles in the private sector for 42 years and over 30 years of volunteer work with many community agencies along with strong corporate strategic planning experience and financial budgeting experience.

Needham: There are people who see township governments as an extra layer between residents and real assistance. However, the township government should be an essential source of assistance that residents can count on. People are my gravity, and the force that guides my decisions. I would ensure public involvement in discussions about budgets, standards, records, oversight and follow-through. My current role in financial technology and my history in journalism puts me in a unique position. I can both understand what’s happening with the budget and know how to relay that information to the public.

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE CAMPAIGN ISSUES?

Phelps: Transparency, people need to know where the money is coming from and where it is going. Involvement, meetings need to be known, accessible and issues publicly discussed. Ownership, the people who live in the township should feel like they are part of the decisions that affect them.

Daniels: Work collaboratively to help township residents maintain a good quality of life that is affordable by voicing their concerns and questions for favorable outcomes. Assisting families in need in Carmel in a respectful and fiscally responsible manner. Supporting our first respondents where needed in a fiscally responsible manner.

Needham: My top three campaign issues are access, accountability and stewardship. Some things feel permanent until they are suddenly gone. Local access to help should not be one of them. Historically, Indiana townships did much more for us than they do today. Its core work has significantly

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narrowed, and that is why we need to protect what we can still control. I promise budgeting with discipline and real public oversight. That includes salary, debt and annual report decisions explained in everyday language.

WHAT IS YOUR STANCE ON TOWNSHIP REFORM?

Phelps: The township is a valuable entity that offers its constituents services that are in touch with the citizens. If the township was absorbed by the city, the visibility of the services provided would potentially be in opposition to the other fiscal needs, and the people in need may lose.

Daniels: Instead of eliminating township government, we can work to improve overall accountability and enhance speaking up for the residents of the township. The importance of listening to residents who live in the community every day is of the utmost importance. The Clay Township government is the bridge to do so. The residents expect that and deserve to have it.

Needham: If someone wants to eliminate or reorganize Clay Township, they would have to prove that residents will get equal or better access to assistance, equal or better accountability, and no

meaningful service disruption. To date, I have not even seen anyone honestly attempt to make that case, let alone prove it.

HOW WOULD YOU JUSTIFY YOUR TOWNSHIP’S CONTINUED EXISTENCE OR CONSOLIDATION?

Phelps: The township can maintain a closer eye on the budget it has to distribute to the entities it supports. I am a big fan of keeping that control in larger groups of elected hands, accountable to those who elect them and not a single person or appointed board.

Daniels: The continued existence obviously allows the grassroots of voices to be heard and concerns addressed versus by passing that step to save money. If voices are not heard by representatives close to it, the cost would be more overall in different ways.

Needham: Clay Township serves about 100,000 residents. It carries real fiscal responsibilities and remains tied to local services that affect all of our daily lives. When you preserve the township, you preserve local capacity, local accountability and a governing body that can stay focused on Clay residents.

For full responses, visit youarecurrent.com

Early voting now open

news@youarecurrent.com

Two early voting sites in Noblesville are set to open April 7, with eight others in Hamilton County opening April 22.

The primary election is May 5. Absentee voters must submit an application before midnight April 23 at indianavoters.com. Anyone interested also can call 317-776-8476 and make a request for an application over the phone.

Voting dates, times and locations:

CARMEL

Wilfong Pavilion, 11675 Hazel Dell Parkway, Building A and Jill Perelman Pavilion, 3000 W 116th St.

Carmel Public Library, 425 E. Main St.

• April 22-23 and 29-30 from 2 to 7 p.m.

• April 24-25 and May 1-2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

FISHERS

Roy G Holland Memorial Park Building, 1 Park Dr. and Billericay Park Building, 12690 Promise Rd.

• April 22-23 and 29-30 from 2 to 7 p.m.

• April 24-25 and May 1-2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

NOBLESVILLE

Judicial Center, 1 Hamilton County Square

• April 7-10; 13-17; 20-24 and April 27May 1 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

• April 25 and May 2 from 9 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

• May 4 from 8 a.m. to noon Hamilton County Fairgrounds, 2003 Pleasant St.

• April 7-10; 13-17; 20-25; and April 27May 2 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• May 4 from 8 a.m. to noon

WESTFIELD

Westfield City Hall, 130 Penn St.; Cool Creek Nature Center, 2000-1 E. 151st St. and Westfield Washington Township Offices, 17400 Westfield Blvd.

• April 22-23 and 29-30 from 2 to 7 p.m.

• April 24-25 and May 1-2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

MOVE BETTER. FEEL BETTER. SUMMER BETTER!

Meet 5th District Democratic candidates

Compiled by Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Seven Democrats are vying to represent Indiana’s 5th Congressional District. Republican Victoria Spartz of Noblesville is the incumbent.

The candidates are Tara Nelson, a business transformation and technology director from Carmel; J.D. Ford, a Carmel resident and District 29 state senator; Steven “Avit” Avitabile, a chiropractor and small business owner from Carmel; Dylan McKenna, a Westfield resident who works in sales; Deborah Pickett, a Carmel resident and community activist; Jackson Bailey Franklin, a Muncie resident who serves in the U.S. Army; and Phil Goss, who unsuccessfully ran for the 3rd District seat in 2024 (multiple attempts by Current to contact Goss were unsuccessful).

The primary election is May 5.

WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE?

Nelson: I’m concerned about the direction of our country. The divide between the billionaires and struggling families continues to grow while civil liberties are challenged and Congress fails to respond. We need leadership that defends constitutional rights, protects communities and restores fairness and accountability.

Ford: Indiana deserves an experienced leader who will fight for Hoosiers. They deserve a leader who knows how to stand up to this administration, understands accountability and will push to make life more affordable for working Hoosiers. During my eight years as a state senator, I have shown that I understand the needs of Hoosiers and can get things done.

Avitabile: I’m running because everything costs more, and working families are getting squeezed while

the system rewards those at the top. I’m not a career politician — I’m running to make life more affordable and deliver real results.

McKenna: I am running for Congress because Victoria Spartz has forfeited her Article 1 authority to President Trump and has violated her oath to protect and defend the Constitution. She has surrendered the power the voters gave her over appropriations and waging war. She is simply not doing her job.

Pickett: I am running to fight for my constituents who have had their lives upended by the Trump administration. Our Constitution, rights, democratic institutions and government have all been attacked and degraded. I want to bring integrity, competence and experience to Congress and make our government better for my constituents.

Franklin: I believe the people of Indiana deserve representation from someone who will unapologetically fight for their rights. While working on the ambulance, I have had to take veterans home to die because they refuse to put their own families into medical bankruptcy, which is the nation’s leading cause of bankruptcy. This is a uniquely American problem, and it is time we fix it.

HOW WILL YOU ENSURE FEDERAL POLICIES SERVE DISTRICT 5?

Nelson: As a lifelong Hoosier raised in rural Lafayette and now living in Carmel, I understand the needs of both suburban and rural communities. I will listen to constituents, maintain an open-door approach and ensure federal policies reflect the priorities and voices of all District 5 residents.

Ford: Every community deserves reliable infrastructure and economic independence. Whether it’s high-speed

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COMMUNITY

Continued from Page 14

internet for rural areas or sustainable roadways for growing suburbs, federal investment can help provide resources for local leaders to drive their own economies. I’ll ensure tax dollars stay in Indiana, empowering our communities to make their own decisions.

Avitabile: By listening first and focusing on shared challenges — cost of living, health care access, and economic opportunity. Different communities, same goal: policies that make life more affordable and support local growth.

McKenna: Buyers, builders and farmers are all feeling the sting of Trump’s tariffs. The cost of materials has skyrocketed from Albany to Carmel to Kokomo. I will vote to end those tariffs, reclaim that power from the president and put it back in Congress where it belongs.

Pickett: My constituents want to live in thriving communities with well-paying jobs, great schools, well-maintained infrastructure and an environment free from pollutants. Well-designed federal policies serve all by protecting their rights, keeping them safe, giving them control over their lives, encouraging smart decisions and providing critical support where needed.

Franklin: While these areas share some priorities, they also face their own distinct challenges. Therefore our approach is rooted in practical solutions, local input and equitable investments. As a federal representative, my job is to secure and shape federal funding opportunities for my fellow Americans. We need to focus on investing in education, healthcare access and job growth for all areas. The most important thing I believe I can do for the Fifth District is listen.

HOW WILL YOU ADDRESS THE NATIONAL DEBT WHILE MAINTAINING ESSENTIAL SERVICES AND NATIONAL SECURITY?

Nelson: We’re witnessing unprecedented federal corruption. My first step on the deficit is reclaiming taxpayer money wasted by the administration, from massive discretionary outlays and

questionable deals to excessive agency spending and luxury travel. We must stop radical executive-branch spending, hold officials accountable and recover funds for taxpayers.

Ford: We must return the “power of the purse” to Congress and end unchecked spending. Rep. Victoria Spartz just voted for a war costing Americans $1 billion per day. We can protect national security while ensuring those tax dollars stay home to lower energy, health care and grocery prices for Hoosiers.

Avitabile: We need responsible budgeting — cutting waste, ending unnecessary spending and closing tax loopholes that cost billions. We can protect essential services and national security while being smarter about how we spend.

McKenna: Two simple ways. First, stop starting wars that no one wants. It is expensive and makes us more vulnerable. Second, simply collect the taxes that people owe. If we just enforced the current tax code with no changes, we would bring in about $700 billion per year.

Pickett: We start by helping Americans understand how the debt impacts them. It requires immigration reform and tax reform to include closing tax loopholes. It requires steady, competent leadership that understands businesses and communities need stability, clear regulations, good government and all kinds of labor skills to innovate and grow.

Franklin: In short we need to stop funneling all of our money to the wealthiest few on the planet, and we need to take care of the needs of the rest of us. We are also spending way too much money on the military, more than our top allies combined. And it’s not going to soldiers like me, it’s going to private military contracting companies that lobby our politicians to give them more government contracts. We need to invest back here at home and not feeding our tax money to the military industrial complex.

For more questions, visit youarecurrent.com

3 Republicans vying for District 29 Senate seat

Compiled by Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com

Mike Delph, V. Roni Ford and John Ruckelshaus are in a three-way race for the Republican nomination for the District 29 Indiana Senate seat in the May 5 primary election.

The candidates answered the following questions from Current:

WHY ARE YOU RUNNING?

make thoughtful decisions. I may not have every answer, but I will always put people first and work hard to do what is right for our community.

Ruckelshaus: I’m a (former Indiana Gov.) Mitch Daniels-style leader who believes in common-sense, limited government. I’ll work with all stakeholders to find practical, creative solutions and deliver real results for Hoosiers.

HOW WILL YOU NAVIGATE BUDGET CHALLENGES DUE TO SEA 1?

Delph: I want to serve the residents in my community and restore conservative leadership to the Indiana State Senate and Indiana General Assembly. Special interest groups have become way too influential. They are even running a couple candidates for this office in both primaries.

Ford: I am running because hardworking families deserve to be heard. Too many feel left behind. I want to focus on practical solutions that support small businesses, create jobs and help families manage rising costs. I am committed to making a real difference in everyday lives.

Ruckelshaus: Hoosier families are struggling with higher costs for food, utilities and health care, while our legislature is distracted by outside politics. I’m running to fight for common-sense solutions that help families keep more of their hard-earned money.

WHAT DO YOU MOST WANT VOTERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

Delph: I am the conservative candidate in this race. There is no other conservative running. I teach leadership at the United States Army Command and General Staff College. I am a licensed attorney focused on corporate business law. I served on active duty based out of Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico.

Ford: I will represent everyone in this district. I will listen, stay accessible and

Delph: Local governments should be a partner in any fiscal reforms. They fund local police and fire. They fund our public school system which is constitutionally protected. I won’t ignore local government concerns. Homeowners also must be in the loop. Property tax payers must be engaged and can’t be ignored.

Ford: This law provides needed property tax relief, especially for homeowners and seniors. We must also make sure schools and local services remain strong. I will focus on balancing tax relief with protecting the resources our communities depend on.

Ruckelshaus: The 2025 property tax reform was a good first step, but it hasn’t reached the finish line. We need longterm relief for homeowners while protecting local governments and schools from unintended consequences. I’d support responsible changes that preserve both affordability and fiscal stability.

HOW WILL YOU ADDRESS THE PROPOSED LEAP WATER PIPELINE AND ITS POTENTIAL IMPACT?

Delph: I do not support LEAP wastewater being dumped into Eagle Creek. Here is a public statement I made on X that got 31,000 views. x.com/ MikeDelph/status/2032118720001196440

Ford: Economic growth is important, but it must be done responsibly. Projects like LEAP should protect water resources, treat ratepayers fairly and include community input.

Ruckelshaus: I grew up on the Eagle Creek Reservoir, so I take water issues personally. We need a thorough, transparent and accountable approach that protects local resources, involves all stakeholders and keeps promises made to the community.

For answers to additional questions, visit youarecurrent.com

Meet the candidates for Superior Court 3

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Chris Evans, a magistrate judge for the Hamilton Circuit and Superior Courts, and Amy Summerfield, a Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office legal advisor, are running in the May 5 Republican primary election for judge of Hamilton County Superior Court 3.

There are no Democratic challengers.

The candidates answered the following questions from Current:

WHY ARE YOU RUNNING?

Evans: To ensure the citizens of Hamilton County have the most experienced, effective representation on the bench. Now, more than ever, we need someone with a proven track record. I am dedicated to serving the interests of our community by providing for the fair and impartial administration of justice within our courts.

ty and its courts.

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE CAMPAIGN ISSUES?

Evans: I am committed to ensuring the continued fair, impartial and respectful treatment of all litigants that appear in my courtroom, providing for the efficient administration of justice by implementing measures aimed at reducing court backlogs and to preserving the safety and stability of the larger community.

Summerfield: My priorities are protecting public safety, creating an efficient and accessible court system and establishing a mental health problem-solving court to reduce strain on our courts, hospitals and public safety partners while delivering outcomes that make our community safer.

WHAT DO YOU MOST WANT VOTERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

Summerfield: I’m running to continue serving Hamilton County with fairness and integrity. After more than 21 years in public safety and the justice system, I want to ensure cases — especially criminal cases — are handled with a focus on public safety and meaningful solutions that strengthen our community.

WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM YOUR OPPONENT?

Evans: My real-world experience and preparation for the job. In private practice, I handled all kinds of cases including civil, probate matters, domestic relations cases, criminal cases and juvenile matters. I am the only candidate who has handled all of these cases as an attorney and a judicial officer.

Summerfield: My career has been dedicated to civil service and public safety. I have practiced civil and criminal law as a deputy prosecutor and as legal counsel for the sheriff’s office. I have helped lead initiatives improving Hamilton County’s criminal justice system and bring deep knowledge of the communi-

Evans: I have been a resident of Hamilton County for most of my life. I am dedicated to extending my best efforts on a daily basis to improve the community that shaped the person I am today, and in which I reside with my wife and am raising my three children.

Summerfield: I’m a lifelong public servant dedicated to Hamilton County. Professionally, my career has focused on public safety, supporting law enforcement and strengthening our justice system. Personally, I am a mom of two teenagers and a Christian who enjoys learning new skills. I promise to work hard for Hamilton County if elected.

HOW WILL YOU EFFICIENTLY MANAGE INCREASING CASELOADS WHILE ENSURING EVERY INDIVIDUAL RECEIVES A FAIR AND THOROUGH HEARING?

Evans: As a magistrate judge, I have a proven record of efficiently adjudicating cases while ensuring every individual is fairly heard.

Summerfield: Efficiency comes from preparation, strong courtroom management and respect for everyone’s time. I will use proven case-management practices to ensure cases are heard thoroughly while keeping the court moving. For answers to additional questions, visit youarecurrent.com

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Area nonprofit to host weeklong design festival

leila@youarecurrent.com

An annual festival celebrating the Greater Indianapolis area’s design community — from commercial graphic designers to graffiti artists, and everything in between — kicks off April 20, with workshops, meet-ups and more scheduled over six days, culminating in a public market for designers to show

Indy Design Week Communications Director Alli Donovan said the event started in 2018 when a group of local designers got together and decided that Indianapolis needed its own Design Week — modeled after similar festivals in other cities. It did well initially, but attendance dwindled during the COVID-19 pandemic. A group of new leaders worked to refresh the festival,

“We have built, really, a community where it is just driving folks to celebrate and elevate the Indianapolis design community and the creative community overall,” she said. “We’re not focused on just designers. We say that if you are creative or a creative enthusiast, this festival is for you. So, we really focus on our partnerships and just highlighting all the incredible things that happen in Indianapolis.”

While the week focuses on design, various artistic endeavors are celebrated and shared, Donovan said.

“Last year, for example, we had a whole workshop day where we were opening it up to the community and a lot of students,” she said. “If you have this itch … or something new that you want to learn, come out and do our workshop day with us. That includes graffiti artists and sneaker designers and all these different pieces that you don’t see in a normal day-to-day job. If you just appreciate art and appreciate the things that are happening around you, come out, you’ll learn something new, you’ll meet a really great group of people.”

A new workshop this year focuses on native plant gardening and is set for April 22 — Earth Day — at the COhatch in Broad Ripple. It will be led by Amy Gastelum, who owns a local native plants and flower business.

Executive Director Tori Witter said

the workshop and an accompanying Lunch & Learn event also will mark the launch of Gastelum’s new book, “The Search for Self: A Gardener’s Workbook,” a collaboration with local designer Aby Cortes.

“The workbook was created as a tool to help guide Amy’s clients through the creative process of imagining and designing their gardens,” Witter said. “Launching the book during the festival felt like a natural way to highlight a local collaboration between design and horticulture — and it fit beautifully with our Earth Day programming.”

Returning to the schedule this year is the April 21 downtown walking tour, offered in partnership with Indiana Landmarks. Witter said the 2026 festival theme, Field Guide, inspired Indiana Landmarks’ Kasey Zronek when planning this year’s tour.

“She began pointing out all the historic buildings in the East Mile Square area that are central to Indianapolis’ art and design story,” Witter said, “From there, we started shaping a tour specifically for IDW that highlights those hidden-in-plain-sight design landmarks.”

Another popular event that’s returning is First Draft, which Donovan said allows designers to show the start of their creative process.

The final day, April 25, is market day, with designers showing off and selling their creations in booths and offering demonstrations for visitors and fellow designers.

This year’s market will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Factory Arts District, 1125 Brookside Ave.

For more, visit indydesignweek.com.

COMMUNITY

A LAUGHING MATTER

Carmel High School graduate finds success in comedic roles

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Indiana University senior Sara Warf loves all forms of comedy.

“I can’t pick one. It’s all so fulfilling,” the 2022 Carmel High School graduate said.

Warf started doing comedy her first week at IU, auditioning and being selected for a sketch comedy group called Boy in the Bubble Comedy. She has been in it for four years and is the group president this year.

“The Boy in the Bubble is more like a ‘SNL’-style show, and we wrote all of our sketches and perform biweekly all of our sketches,” she said.

She started working at the Comedy Attic in Bloomington after her sophomore year.

“I would go up there on open mics, and that’s how I got in the world of stand-up comedy,” she said.

Warf was one of three college students from among thousands of nationwide applicants to receive an invitation to perform two five-minute shows in late March at the Bergmont Comedy Fest in Santa Monica, Calif. She was selected after sending a video in December 2025 from a performance at IU and was selected in February.

Following her graduation in May, she will attend The Second City educational program in mid-June in Chicago.

“It’s a month-and-a-half of improvisational and sketch training that culminates in a final performance for the general public,” she said.

Warf enjoys the conversational style of stand-up comedy.

“I think the thing I like the best about stand-up is that anywhere from five minutes to 30 minutes, I get to be on stage and have this conversational nature with the audience and hopefully make their day a little better by making them laugh,” she said. “I think touching on certain topics in my comedy is a way for me to address thoughts on daily life but also share truths with people in the audience that they can resonate with.”

Her favorite comedian is Caleb Hearon, “He has emerged recently,” Warf said. “He definitely has the style of comedy I aspire to, and I think he touches on some really important topics, both with self-realization and generally understanding the world in his comedy. I know he brings a lot of comfort to people through the kind of comedy he does. I really love Aidy Bryant. She was on ’SNL’ for 10 years. She was one of the reasons I auditioned for the Second City program because I knew she had gone through it.”

Since she loves to do character work and voices, Warf said she has always been a huge fan of the late Robin Williams.

“I watched a lot of his movies and was really into ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’ when I was a kid,” she said.

Warf said CHS gave her opportunities to develop her comedic acting.

“The theater teachers were incredibly supportive of exploring these paths and delving headfirst into comedy,” she said. “Without their support, I wouldn’t have been as confident heading into college.”

CHS theater teacher Maggie Cassidy isn’t surprised by the success Warf has had so far.

“Sarah was always a wonderful performer,” Cassidy said. “I had the pleasure of working with her on several productions. Two productions of note were ‘The Old Man and the Old Moon,’ which earned first place at the state theatre competition, and ‘Our Town.’ In ‘Our Town,’ Sarah played the narrator, a significant and noncomedic role. She is incredibly versatile. She can deliver an excellent joke one moment and move an audience to tears with a powerful dramatic line the next.”

Cassidy said as a member of the repertory theater class, Warf was in a stand-up comedy unit.

“Sarah had always been a strong creative writer, but she truly excelled in this unit, crafting hilarious stories that had the entire class laughing out loud,” she

said “She is a natural leader and talented actress.” Warf participated in ComedySportz High School League for three years, starting as a sophomore. She was captain of her team as a senior. She also was president of her theater club as a senior.

“Taking on those leadership roles definitely prepared me more for the business aspect of college,” said Warf, an arts management major.

“My dream would be to go full force into comedy at the start,” she said. “I’m also in love with the arts management side of things. I love grant writing. Anything I can find that is nonprofit work in the arts I would love that.”

BLENDING MULTIPLE TALENTS

Sarah Warf’s ability to elicit laughs isn’t her only talent.

Warf was in Carmel High School’s Blue and Gold choir her sophomore year and the a cappella group Select Sound as a junior and senior.

At Indiana University, she has performed in a few musicals, including “Urinetown,” “Firebringer” and “Ordinary Day.”

“This was a great way to blend my love of comedy and singing,” she said.

Following her senior year at CHS, Warf was selected as one of 40 national finalists for Songbook Academy, an intensive one-week program at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

She said it was incredible vocal training.

“It also taught me so many skills about stage presence that has helped me greatly in my comedy shows as well,” Warf said. “Also, the wonderful people behind the scenes at the Songbook Academy encouraged me in my performance journey and helped me truly envision a future on stage.”

2026Primary Election

May 5 May 5

The communities served by Current Publishing are comprised of highly educated and, predominantly, issues-focused residents. As a candidate for election to public office, it’s arguably the best audience in the state to which you can state your campaign’s case. As has been the practice in elections past, Current is using a level playing field with respect to pricing. Any candidate wishing to advertise may do so at Current rates customarily reserved for advertising placements of between 13 and 26 times a year. You are entitled to use the rates below one time or more to connect with our audience. Thank you for your consideration, and good luck on the campaign trail.

Dance studio changes owners

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Jennifer Fall is eager to put her dance experience to use in her own studio.

She purchased Darren’s Ballroom, 16 W. Main St., from Darren Lee Cupp March 1 and renamed it Carmel Dance Atelier.

Atelier is the French word for studio.

“I took a lot of French in high school, so it seemed to be a really good name,” she said. “Dance has been a part of my life since I was 3. I started in ballet and then moved on to tap, jazz, lyrical, modern, the whole shebang. I danced at Disneyland in the parade. When we moved to Indianapolis from south Florida, I took a little break to go to college.”

at Darren’s Ballroom as a private contractor.

She is a recruiter for an applied behavioral analysis company from Baltimore for the first part of the day and then heads to the dance studio to teach after 3 p.m.

Fall is joined by instructor Tyler Bishop, who worked with Cupp. Another instructor, Adam Trogdlen, will join this month and will work with beginners and less experienced dancers.

Fall eventually plans to add classes for ballet, tap and jazz. She teaches various forms of ballroom dance, including Latin, Samba, Argentine Tango and West Coast Swing.

For his part, Cupp said he is relocating to London.

She was going to pursue a journalism degree until she walked into an Arthur Murray Dance Studio. That changed her career course.

“I had no idea what ballroom dancing was,” said Fall, who lives on the northwest side of Indianapolis. “I thought I would teach some kids for a little bit as a side job while I was going to school. I transitioned that into a full-time career for the last 20 years.”

Fall had rented instruction space

“I have gotten back into film and acting a lot in the last six or seven years,” he said. “I will be pursuing more film and television roles in London and hopefully get back into musical theater as well. I was lucky enough to be offered an exclusive contract with a talent agency in London, and being a British American allows me to work over there, so the timing seemed right.”

Fall plans to hold a grand opening later in the spring.

For more, visit carmeldanceatelier.com.

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CLIMB classes help Parkinson’s patients

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Mark Levenson has gotten a new lease on life, thanks to The CLIMB exercise classes at PrimeLife Enrichment in Carmel.

“It’s fantastic. It’s made all the difference in the world,” he said. “It’s a tremendous benefit.”

After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in November 2025, the 77-year-old Westfield resident immediately contacted the Noblesville-based Indiana Parkinson Foundation and learned about the classes.

“When the diagnosis came, it was shocking but answered a lot of questions,” he said.

human resources consulting firm.

Levinson’s love of music has never wavered. He works as a private teacher for saxophone, clarinet and flute for Meridian School of Music in Carmel.

CHEERS TO, PRESLEY ROSS CLASS OF 2026

We are so incredibly proud of the woman you’ve become. From your first day of kindergarten to walking across the stage, it’s been a joy to watch you grow. We can’t wait to see what you achieve at Purdue!

Love, Mom, Dad, and Sarah. SCAN HERE

Levenson has been attending The CLIMB exercise classes, designed for people with Parkinson’s disease, three days a week. With April being Parkinson’s Awareness Month, the Indiana Parkinson Foundation’s Choose to Move 5K Run and Walk and 1-mile Walk will be held April 25 at Witten Park in Fishers. Levenson said the Choose to Move event is important, but since he has had nine back surgeries he can’t walk that far.

Levenson said he recently appeared on a podcast for Indiana Parkinson Foundation to raise awareness about the event and the benefits of The CLIMB classes.

“The PrimeLife director of fitness, Lindsay Williams, is phenomenal,” he said. “Her caring and positive attitude really enlightened me. It took something that was a real negative going through it and turned it around to where I was able to be really positive again. I had all the symptoms you can have with depression and anxiety along with hallucinations and delusions. Because of the program it has given me the basis to feel renewed.”

Levenson briefly was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in Houston about five years ago, but he said doctors later undiagnosed it.

Two years later, it was incorrectly diagnosed by one neurologist as atypical seizures.

“For a while, my playing of the horns was altered because of the tremors in my hands, but one of the medicines has helped that,” he said. “I’m playing a lot more, so that’s a good thing.”

Levenson said he is helping PrimeLife with his background in HR.

“When I was in Florida, I did an employee handbook for a senior center,” he said. “So, I’ve redone the employee handbook for PrimeLife.”

Levenson and his wife, Kathy, moved to Westfield three years ago when his daughter and son-in-law Amy and James Losee moved with their daughter, Maddie Losee, who will graduate from Carmel High School this spring.

Ad Deadline: May 18, 2026

Date: May 26, 2026

Levenson was a high school band director for seven years in the Minneapolis area before becoming a human resources executive. He later had his own

Maddie previously was a highly competitive gymnast in Simone Biles family’s gymnastics center in Houston but had to quit at age 14 because of knee injuries. She became a top platform diver, finishing eighth in a tower dive at the USA Junior National Championships in 2022. She competed for CHS but has since given up competing because of injuries. She will attend the University of Alabama with plans to become a nurse. Levenson also has a son in Raleigh, N.C. For more, visit indianaparkinson. org/choose-to-move-race.

HEALTH

Eye health his focus

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

When Carmel High School freshman Ayan Kalra was 12 years old, he was rushed to Riley Hospital for Children after losing vision in his left eye.

After a lumbar puncture and various other invasive tests, Kalra said he was diagnosed with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody disease, or MOGAD, a rare autoimmune disease that attacks the nervous system.

“At the time as a child sitting in a hospital bed receiving a diagnosis I couldn’t even pronounce, I couldn’t understand what was going on,” Kalra said. “Even my parents, both physicians, had trouble finding clear information about what was happening to me, as the information was so scattered and complex. I realized that if my family was having trouble finding easy to understand resources and information, then what might be happening to the hundreds of thousands of other rare disease patients out there facing the same thing.”

In the past seven months, Kalra developed a website about MOGAD for others diagnosed with the disease (mogad.net). His organization, the MOGAD Initiative for Navigation and Direction, or MIND, wants to help as many people as possible.

“My platform uses 3D models that I built to transform complex medical terminology to easy to understand knowledge, bridging the gap between complexity and simplicity for families and patients,” he said.

Kalra said his work has caught the attention of national and international nonprofits that aim to fundraise for the rare disease — The MOG Project and the Siegel Rare Neuroimmune Association.

Kalra, 15, said his website has been live for more than a month.

“It took me some time to research and figure out the graphics to make everything sophisticated so that information was easy and accessible for anyone wanting to look at my website,” he said.

Kalra said fortunately the loss of vision in his eye was not permanent.

The most important meal

Commentary by Farah Myers

Mornings are hectic. You grab your coffee, fire off a few emails and rush out the door, often without a bite to eat. While skipping breakfast may feel efficient, the science continues to show that this habit comes with real long-term health costs.

For my patients who want to optimize their health and longevity, we often start with a simple but powerful conversation regarding the importance of breakfast. Research consistently shows that people who eat breakfast regularly have lower rates of the following: Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and overall cardiovascular risk. But these benefits aren’t just about what you eat, they’re also about when you eat.

Our bodies run on internal clocks or circadian rhythms that regulate metabolism, hormones and energy levels. Each morning, these systems are primed for daylight and food intake. Eating breakfast at a consistent time helps synchronize these clocks.

When breakfast is skipped, circadian misalignment occurs, leading to exaggerated blood sugar spikes after lunch, sometimes rising by 36 to 46 percent, which often shows up as that familiar mid-afternoon energy crash. Repeated over time, these spikes increase the risk of metabolic and cardiovascular disease.

If you’re not hungry in the morning, it’s usually a signal that your internal clocks are out of sync.

The good news? Change doesn’t have to be dramatic. Start small with a protein and fiber-focused breakfast to gently resynchronize your circadian rhythm. Aim to eat before 8 a.m. and pair this with a roughly 13-hour overnight fast. Small changes can shape long-term health, and breakfast is one of the simplest places to begin.

Commentary by Larry Greene

An unfinished west Carmel basement was transformed with a custom bar feature, adding function, warmth and a defined gathering space within the open layout.

• Defined bar zone within previously open, unfinished basement.

• Custom cabinetry in rich wood tones to add warmth and contrast.

• Cambria quartz countertops paired with a vertically stacked tile backsplash.

• Integrated beverage fridge and undercounter sink for functionality.

• Arched niche detail creates a focal point with architectural interest.

• Floating wood shelf with integrated lighting for display and ambiance.

Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy. com or visit worthingtonindy.com for more remodeling inspiration and advice.

Actor reprises role in Civic’s ‘Fiddler’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Tobin Strader has deep ties to “Fiddler on the Roof.”

The Fishers resident is reprising his role of Tevye in Civic Theatre’s production of “Fiddler on the Roof,” which runs April 24 to May 9 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

Strader, who previously played Tevye the last time Civic performed it in 2016, directed the musical twice at Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School in Indianapolis.

“This is just a show I feel is deeply in my DNA,” Strader said. “I played it in high school in 1987 in Charleston, Ill. I’ve just always connected with this show. My dad listened to (the music) a lot. It was a big deal in my house when I got to play Tevye in high school and for him to see me do it as an adult. The songs are beautiful and I love the story.”

Tevye is the father of five daughters. Strader said with his two sons being adults now, the role is more meaningful.

“From them being kids 10 years ago to grown adults now, the story resonates with me more,” he said. “I’m always looking for different ways to tell the story, so the audience relates to it. Now, it’s trying to convey the emotional highs and lows of watching his daughters become independent.”

Strader has known cast member Sadie Cohen for several years. He cast Cohen, now a Carmel High School junior, as one of the children eight years ago in Brebeuf Jesuit’s production of “The King and I.” Strader and Sadie were in Civic’s “The Sound of Music” in 2023. Sadie’s mother, Melissa Cohen, plays her mother Golde. It will be Melissa’s debut in a Civic Theatre main stage production. She did participate in Civic’s “Jesus Chris Superstar” concert in 2025.

“I’ve been involved with Civic for many years as a volunteer and board member, so to be able to act on the stage is really a great honor,” she said.

Her son, Evan, a Creekside Middle School eighth-grader, is in the ensemble, too.

“It’s a family affair and it’s very, very special,” Melissa said.

Melissa is a cantor for Congregation Beth-El Zedeck

“It’s probably been 20 years since I’ve been on a stage in a production,” Melissa said.

Sadie has been performing since she was 7 years old

“At first, it was just a ‘me’ thing, and then as Evan got older, he started doing it,” she said. “So, I’ve gotten to do a few shows with my brother, which has been super fun, and now my mom is included, too. It’s full circle now.”

Sadie played the role of daughter Chava in the Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre production in 2024.

“It’s one of the first musicals I think I ever saw when Civic did it 10 years ago,” she said. “It’s always been a fantastic show, and it stands out to me and my family because we are Jewish. It’s such a special, powerful story.“

Sadie said she is trying new things to portray the character a little bit differently.

“It’s special getting to have these deep and emotional scenes with my mom and Tobin, who I’ve also known

From left, Mackenzie Foulks, Gretta Hambrook, Sadie Cohen, Tobin Strader and Melissa Cohen. (Photo courtesy of Joshua Hasty Photography)

my entire life,” she said. “It’s a different situation acting with people I don’t know personally than acting with my family on stage.”

Melissa said the story is not unlike her own family’s story of coming to America.

“My great-grandmother left Ukraine about the same time,” Melissa said.

Mackenzie Foulks, a 2016 North Central High School graduate, plays Hodel.

“I knew some of the songs, but I didn’t know much about the story,” she said. “I’ve always been fascinated with that time in history in the pre-Russian Revolution.”

Foulks said the biggest challenge is working on a 1905 Yiddish accent.

“We are all working on things together, and it’s nice to be in a family unit on stage,” he said.

Civic Theatre’s Executive Artistic Director Michael Lasley is directing the show as he did in 2106. He directed three shows in the 2015-16 season.

“It’s kind of a blur and I’m glad to get a chance to do it again when my brain is more engaged in it,” he said. “I’m proud of what we did but I think this will be a great production as well. Different people bring different energy.”

For more, visit civictheatre.org.

‘SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN’

“Singin’ in the Rain” runs through May 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards. com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Feinstein’s cabaret presents “Who’s Bad, The Ultimate Michael’ April 17, followed by Dueling Pianos April 18 at Feinstein’s in Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

MELANGE SERIES

Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre presents the Melange Series April 18-19 at The Florence at Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre in Carmel. For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.

‘MEN ON BOATS’

Carmel Community Players present “Men on Boats” April 17 to 26 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.

MICHAEL FEINSTEIN

Michael Feinstein will perform with special guest Sandi Patty at 8 p.m. April 17 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘SYMPHONIC ODYSSEY’

Carmel Symphony Orchestra presents “Symphonic Odyssey” at 7 p.m. April 18 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

 Rice, Anderson concert canceled — The April 18 concert featuring Chase Rice with Clayton Anderson as an opening act at Fishers Event Center has been canceled and will not be rescheduled. No reason was given for the cancellation.

Symphonic Odyssey

Saturday, April 18 - 7 p.m.

At the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts

Join CSO and Guest Conductor Kelly Corcoran for a journey through exciting and meaningful works.

Antonin Dvořák Carnival Overture, op. 92

Cristina Spinei …throes of increasing wonder

Gustav Mahler Adagietto from Symphony No. 5

Felix Mendelssohn Symphony No. 5, op. 107 “Reformation”

CSO to present ‘joyous’ musical journey

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Carmel Symphony Orchestra’s 202526 season finale is filled with uplifting musical works.

“I think what these four pieces have in common is they are all reflecting really important deep aspects of the human experience,” said Kelly Corcoran, the guest conductor for Carmel Symphony Orchestra’s “Symphonic Odyssey” concert, set for 7 p.m. April 18 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

The program features Antonín Dvořák’s “Carnival Overture, op. 92,” Cristina Spinei’s “…throes of increasing wonder,” Gustav Mahler’s “Adagietto from Symphony No. 5” and Felix Mendelssohn’s “Symphony No. 5, op. 107, Reformation.”

Corcoran said the “Carnival Overture” is especially joyous.

“Cristina’s piece is also very celebratory and upbeat,” Corcoran said. “Mahler’s piece is reflective and emotional in a way. Mendelessohn’s piece has an undercurrent of thinking about faith and is also very celebratory. So, there’s just a kind of joyousness that permeates a lot of the repertoire on the program.”

Corcoran and Spinei are colleagues in Nashville, Tenn.

“We’ve worked on many programs and projects, so I’m very familiar with her music and repertoire,” Corcoran said. “She’s just a wonderful composer. This piece was commissioned by a ballet company, so it was composed as kind of a dance piece.”

Spinei said the piece has been performed twice by Pacific Northwest Ballet in Seattle with the debut in 2023.

She wrote it with choreographer Kiyon Ross, who was commissioned to write a piece to celebrate Pacific Northwest Ballet’s 50th anniversary.

“He wanted something joyous and full of energy, and he thought of me for this project because I love writing music that moves and is full of rhythm and vibrant,”

Spinei said. “It was a pretty close collaboration. Kiyon is very musical and he knows what he wants.”

Spinei said the piece has five movements.

“I envisioned an orchestra could pick a movement they like and play part of the piece or the whole thing because it is 22 minutes,” she said. “I had written the first four movements and Kiyon said he’d like to add an intro to it. He wanted it to sound like someone opening a present with tissue paper coming out of a bag.”

CSO plans to play the entire piece. Corcoran said she suggested the repertoire for the program.

“Mahler’s ‘Adagietto’ is just beautiful,” she said. “It’s an expansive, deeply emotional work for strings. I thought it was a nice contrast for the program because in the contrast of these joyous, exuberant and energetic works, it was nice to have something a little more contemplative as a balance for that.”

Mendelssohn’s “Reformation” has a triumphant finale based on the chorale “A Mighty Fortress is Our God,” Corcoran said.

The concert will be Corcoran’s third of the season with CSO.

“The orchestra is wonderful to work with,” she said. “(It has) great musicians. It’s nice to work with the orchestra again and again because you build a rapport with them.”

For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

of

Theatre, 329 Gradle Dr., Carmel. The performances are at 5 p.m. April 18 and 3 p.m. April 19. The series features Evelyn Rye, vocalist; Cody Miley, dancer and Christina Hollering, visual artist. The three artists create art in an organic, collaborative performance. For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.

ENTERTAINMENT

‘Men on Boats’ docks at CCP

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Director Samantha Kelly has a special connection to “Men on Boats.”

Kelly performed in the play at Albion (Mich.) College, she said.

“It was fun to have a different take on history and not have a bunch of dudes,” she said.

Carmel Community Players presents “Men on Boats” April 17 to 26 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. The play features females portraying male characters.

“It’s pretty much all comedic,” said Kelly, an Indianapolis resident and 2015 North Central High School graduate. “There’s some dramatic elements to it and we definitely touch on the fact that history was written by white men, so there are lot of things that get erased. Overall, it’s a very, very funny show. There are twists and turns, and you never know what is

going to happen next.”

Noblesville resident Barb Weaver plays Major John Wesley Powell, who led a three-month geographic expedition down the Green and Colorado rivers in 1869. Weaver said she likes the premise of playing a male role.

“I liked the fact it was based on history, a real expedition,” Weaver said. “It’s fun to read through the script and find out how much is actually new.”

Weaver said one challenge is that her character lost an arm in the Civil War.

“Right now, I’m just keeping my arm behind me,” she said.

Ozzie Buttler, a Herron High School senior from Indianapolis, plays Frank Goodman.

“For me, the biggest challenge is the (British) accent,” she said. “It’s the first show I’ve done with an accent. It’s an adjustment, but I’ve learned how to do it and I’m practicing.”

For more, visit carmelplayers.org.

Romeo & Juliet

Yakovleva

Feinstein, Patty concert set

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Michael Feinstein treasures any time he gets to share the stage with Sandi Patty.

Feinstein will be joined by special guest Patty at the 8 p.m. April 17 concert at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

“Sandi is one of the great artists of our time, or perhaps any time,” Feinstein said. “She has an iconic voice, and she is a love of a human being. I adore collaborating with her and it always feels very special when I get to see her and simply to hear her sing.”

Patty said they will probably perform a couple of songs together. She had a project called “Broadway Stories” a few years ago.

“It has some of my favorite Broadway songs on it, and we have to do some American Songbook songs because that’s what Michael is all about, keeping those songs alive,” she said. “Michael is the aficionado of Gershwin, so I sent him a list of my suggestions and he gets first dibs. But I think we’re narrowing down the (setlist), and it’s going to be a wonderful musical evening.”

Feinstein, the artistic director for Allied Solutions Center, said the pair share a love for George and Ira Gershwin tunes. Feinstein said he hadn’t planned one but might have to add one.

Patty, who shares time between a home on the south side of Indianapolis and Oklahoma City, said the Palladium has become her favorite place to per-

form, replacing her previous favorite, a performing arts center in Cincinnati.

Patty, who has won several awards for her Contemporary Christian songs, said she performs once or twice a month.

“Retiring for me now means being home more than I’m on the road,” she said.

Patty met Feinstein at a patriotic event in Washington, D.C., several years ago.

“Every once in a while, our paths will cross whether it’s intentional or unintentional,” she said. “I’m so thrilled Michael invited me to be part of this evening again. We’ve done it a couple other times. He does such a beautiful job of hosting guest artists like myself.”

Feinstein has been busy lately promoting his friend Liza Minnelli’s autobiography, “Kids, Wait Till You Hear This!” Feinstein helped Minnelli write the book.

“The response has been extraordinary with the book being No. 1 on The New York Times and USA Today and Amazon lists, really all around the world,” he said. “It’s been humbling to see how revered and loved Liza is after all these years. I’m very happy for her and grateful to be involved in the process.”

Feinstein said the book took 10 years to put together.

“The response is such that it tells me people were waiting to hear her story,” he said. “I’m grateful she had the courage to step out and tell her story in such an honest way. That’s made all the difference in the success of the book.”

For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

ENTERTAINMENT

Art Garfunkel to perform.July 24 at the Payne & Mencias Palladum in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Allied Solutions Center)

Garfunkel set for Palladium concert

editorial@youarecurrent.com

Legendary singer-actor Art Garfunkel will return to the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts with an evening of songs and stories celebrating his career.

The performance is set for 8 p.m. July 24, at the Payne & Mencias Palladum, 1 Carter Green, Carmel. Tickets starting at $55 are on sale at thecenterpresents. org, by phone at 317-843-3800, or in person at the venue’s Fifth Third Bank Box Office. The event is part of the Printing Partners Encore Series and the 20262027 Center Presents Season sponsored by Allied Solutions. The full upcoming season will be announced May 18. He previously performed at Allied Solutions Center in 2018. Celebrated as the “Voice of Generations,” Garfunkel is a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, winner of eight Grammys, including the Lifetime Achievement Award) and one of Rolling Stone magazine’s 100 Greatest Singers of All Time.

As co-founder and chief vocal arranger for the folk duo Simon & Garfunkel, he shaped popular culture with songs such as “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” “The Sound of Silence” and “Mrs. Robinson.” His solo hits have included “I Only Have Eyes for You,” “(What a) Wonderful World” and “All I Know.” Garfunkel also is a poet and actor, with films including “Carnal Knowledge,” “Catch-22 “and “Bad Timing.”

Check your internal posture

Commentary by Jeff Worrell

During the ongoing discovery and discernment of building Project Civility, I often hear about tough conversations not going well. It isn’t due to a lack of facts, but many times, a lack of connection.

We want to solve tough problems, but we often show up to the table already “braced” for a fight. Over the next three weeks, I want to share a framework I’ve developed for the first Project Civility value: Humanity. Specifically, I want to explore what I call our Internal Posture. This is the mental and emotional “stance” we take before we even open our mouths. Just as physical posture affects how we move, our internal posture, built on goodwill, humility and compassion, affects how we listen and respond.

The first pillar of a healthy internal posture is goodwill.

Goodwill is the intentional decision to assume positive intent. In our polarized climate, our instinct is often the opposite: we assume the “other side”

DOING BUSINESS AS NOTICE

Lisa Watson, a sole proprietor, at 2938 Brooks Bend Drive, Carmel, IN 46032 is doing business as Pretty Cute Things. Contact email ldw.1962@yahoo.com and web site www.prettycutethingsboutique.com.

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

Docket No. PZ-2026-00023 V, PZ-2026-00025 V Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals Hearing Officer meeting on the 27th day of April, 2026 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: Docket No. PZ-2026-00025 V: UDO Section

5.02(B)(3): The combined square footage of the Ground Floor Area of a Private Garage and/or Accessory Building shall not exceed 75% of the Ground Floor Area of the Principal Building; 104% requested.

Docket No. PZ-2026-00023 V: UDO Section 2.04: Minimum 20-ft rear yard setback required; 11-ft requested.

With the property being known as 14458 Waverly Drive, Carmel, IN 46033. The application is identified as Docket No. PZ-2026-00023 V and PZ-2026-00025 V. The real estate affected by said application is described as follows: Parcel No:16-10-22-00-02-063.000 Acreage 0.28, Section 22, Township 18, Range 4, ASHMORE TRACE, Lot 63. 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.

Neil and Nancy Estabrook PETITIONERS

is acting out of malice, ignorance or a desire to cause harm. When we start from that defensive, “hunched” internal posture, the conversation is over before it begins. We aren’t looking for solutions; we are looking for ammunition.

Practicing goodwill doesn’t mean you have to agree with the other person’s position. It doesn’t make you “soft” or naive. It simply means you acknowledge their humanity. It’s the belief that, like you, they care about their family, their community and their future. When we lead with goodwill, we lower the temperature. We move from a “me versus you” mentality to an “us versus the problem” approach.

This week, try checking your Internal Posture before your next disagreement. Doesn’t matter if it’s at a public meeting or around the dinner table. Try a simple mental mantra: “I choose to believe this person wants a good outcome.” And – ”So do I!” It changes the entire shape of the conversation. Next week, we’ll look at the second pillar: the strength of humility.

Jeff Worrell is a Carmel City Council member and a civility proponent. To contact him, you may email jeff4civility@ gmail.com.

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

Docket Nos. PZ-2026-00035 V. & PZ-2026-00036 V.

Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals Hearing Officer meeting on the 27th day of April, 2026 at 5:15 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 applications for a proposed 23’x14’ two-level deck and grilling area: UDO Section 2.04 - Maximum 35% lot cover allowed; 38% requested and UDO Section 5.02(B)(1): Minimum Side and Rear Yard Setback requirements: Easement plus three (3) feet, but not within any Easement; 11-ft encroachment into easement requested. With the property being known as: 10469 Roxley Bend, Carmel, IN 46032. The application is identified as Docket No. PZ-2026-00035 V, PZ-2026-00036 V The real estate affected by said application is described as follows: Acreage .56 Section 8, Township 17, Range 3 WINDSOR GROVE II Lot 10 Irregular Shape. Parcel No. 17-13-08-00-06-010.000

The petition can 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.

Stan Charles of Indy Grills

PETITIONERS

COMMUNITY VOICES

Ila Badger helped shape Carmel into what it is today

Editor,

I am Jim Schneider, a Carmel resident for over 50 years. I served on the Carmel Plan Commission for four years in the early 1980s with (the late) Ila Badger. More recognition needs to be given to Ila and her female cohorts who greatly shaped Carmel into the vibrant and beautiful city it is today.

Ila, Sue McMullen, Sandra Long and Jane Reiman, and others worked tirelessly to ensure that developments and commercial buildings met the highest standards to become the vision they had for our future. No “Starvin

Marvin” at 116th and Guilford Ave. No “Home of the Whopper” sign on Carmel Drive. They were so strict with the sign standards that the Fidelity Bank had only enough room on their sign to dot one “i.” They wanted to know what brick was going to be used. They wanted to know how developers would mask roof mechanical units. They wanted to see the landscape plans. Their questions were endless.

The truth was Ila’s high standards helped shape Carmel into what it is today.

Jim Schneider, Carmel

Choose leadership and integrity for District 29 seat

Editor,

As the former mayor and presidents of the Zionsville Town Council, we’ve each had the honor of leading our community through times of growth and challenge. We know what responsible leadership looks like. It’s grounded in integrity, collaboration and respect for the people we serve — not personal agendas or political theater.

That’s why we strongly support

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

Docket No. PZ-2026-00014 V Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals Hearing Officer meeting on the 27th day of April 2026 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 for a privacy fence: UDO Section 5.09(B): Maximum 42-inch fence allowed in front yard with at least 25% visibility; 8-ft privacy fence requested. With the property being known as: 1207 Orchard Park Dr. N., Carmel, IN 46280. The application is identified as Docket No. PZ-2025-00014 V. The real estate affected by said application is described as follows: Acreage .41, Section 12, Township 17, Range 3, ORCHARD PARK, Lot 71, Irregular Shape. Parcel No. 17-13-12-02-02-001.000

The petition can 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. Clayton & Allyson Milender, owners PETITIONERS

John Ruckelshaus for the Indiana State Senate. John has always been a listener and a problem-solver. His time in the legislature proved he can work across party lines, deliver results and put the needs of his constituents first. Whether it’s growing our economy, strengthening infrastructure or supporting our local schools, John shows up, builds consensus and gets things done.

By contrast, returning to Mike Delph’s brand of politics would take our district backward. His years in office were often defined by division, not progress. Loud rhetoric doesn’t solve problems — leadership does. And our communities deserve a senator who brings people together rather than driving them apart.

The choice this election could not be clearer: stability and collaboration with John Ruckelshaus, or a return to the turmoil and gridlock of the past.

We urge all voters in Zionsville and Carmel to join us in choosing integrity, pragmatism and forward-looking leadership. Vote for John Ruckelshaus for Senate District 29.

Susana Suarez and Steve Mundy, former Zionsville Town Council presidents; and Tim Haak, former Zionsville mayor and town council president

18. Sandwich fish

19. *Lake County town

21. Despot

22. Mice, to cats

23. Roman 502

24. Inits. on a toothpaste

tube

25. Nile vipers

26. Sgt., e.g.

28. Some bends

30. Have debts

31. Showing off one’s pecs

35. Cereal grain

36. Not true

39. Be unwell

40. Rolex rival

42. Civic Theatre play part

44. Allow

45. Artifact

47. Body shape

49. Currier and ___

50. Son of Seth

52. Yule quaff

53. ___ Severin Hotel

55. Part of AARP (Abbr.)

57. African nation

60. Acquired kin

63. Kuaba Gallery display

64. Links org.

65. Ambitious sort

67. Caustic stuff

68. Stun gun

70. Fannie ___

72. IU Health visitor

74. Geese formation

75. Level

77. Did the Mini-Marathon

78. Mideast ruler

80. Hubbub

81. “2001” computer

83. Steams up

87. Timbuktu’s land

88. Pacers statistical achievement...and a hint to the answers of the starred clues

91. “___ cost you!”

92. Went cycling

93. Unveiling

94. Pronoun

95. Church area

96. Brunch fare DOWN

1. Speed reducer

2. ___-friendly

3. Parched

4. Voice box

5. Kimono sash

6. “Finished!”

7. Shapiro’s, e.g.

8. Boxing great

9. Refrain syllables

10. Pupil’s reward

11. On the briny

12. Canada’s capital

13. *Putnam County town

14. Lose it

15. Rowing need

20. Compete

27. Tech giant

29. *Martin County city

30. O’er and o’er

31. Distant

32. Tall tale

33. *Monroe County town

34. JPEG relative

37. Observe

38. UFO crew

41. Chess piece

43. Biz bigwig

46. Not Rep. or Dem.

48. Unsightly

49. Quaint lodging

51. Droop

54. Sporty Mazda

55. Traitor

56. Victory Field pitching stat

58. Try to impress, in a way

59. iPhone buy

61. Writer Rand

62. Damp

64. Opposite of post66. Noble realm

69. In a spooky way

71. Sidesteps

73. Totally

76. Stanley Cup org.

78. Send forth

79. WHS subject

80. Razor brand

82. Aviation prefix

84. Clarinet’s cousin

85. Surplus

86. Tennis units

89. ___ Wee Reese

90. Bullring cry ANSWERS ON PAGE 35

WE DO INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PAINTING ESTIMATES

PUZZLE ANSWERS

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Each home begins with classic proportions and enduring materials, then evolves through meaningful customization. From tailored floor plans to carefully selected finishes, every detail is intentional. Nothing is rushed. Nothing is overdone.

The result is a home that feels established from day one. Comfortable. Refined. Uniquely yours.

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