December 9, 2025 — Current in Brownsburg

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Founded Oct. 14, 2025, at Brownsburg, IN Vol. I, No. 9

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Bulldogs complete perfect season

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Brownsburg High School football coach John Hart understands how difficult it is to repeat as state champion.

“I know you have to reinvent a team every year,” Hart said. “I know some people on social media think when you win one state championship, you are going to win another. Even though I had numerous players coming back, when you win a state championship, the dynamics of the entire team change with graduation, as will this team. People always say, ‘The second one is a lot easier.’ I think the second was twice as much work. We had a lot of breaks last year and we made some of those breaks. That was a special year. This year, we separated ourselves in most games and I think we played the best teams in the state on our way to getting there.”

The Bulldogs completed a 14-0 season by beating Hoosier Crossroads Conference rival Westfield 38-31 in the IHSAA Class 6A state title game Nov. 29 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. Brownsburg topped Westfield 22-17 in last year’s 6A state final and has won 19 consecutive games. The Bulldogs were 13-1 last season.

“We’ve only lost two games in the last three seasons,” said Hart, whose 2023 team was 9-1, losing to Ben Davis in the sectional opener. “I told the senior class to only lose two games in your entire varsity career and never lose one at home is pretty incredible.”

The Bulldogs will graduate 30 players. Hart said 15 to 20 saw considerable action.

Some of Brownsburg’s key performers were junior quarterback Oscar Frye, senior running back Aiden Jobe and receivers, junior Branden Sharpe and senior Avin Robinson.

“Our five offensive linemen were outstanding this year,” Hart said. “If you asked me who the MVP of the state championship was, as remarkable as Sharpe was, I’d say the offensive line

and our two tight ends. I would argue with anyone that I think these are two best tight ends I’ve ever coached.”

The offensive linemen are junior left tackle Nick Vecrumba, senior left guard Ricardo Ortiz, senior center Tabarakh Lawai, junior right guard Abner Turcios and senior right tackle Mezziahs McDaniel. The tight ends are sophomore Crew Brown and junior Leo McQuillan.

McDaniel has committed to Illinois State. Hart said Vecrumba has offers from several Football Bowl Subdivision teams. Robinson is headed to Central Michigan University. Hart said Jobe will likely play at the NCAA Division II or III levels

In the state final, Sharpe had four catches for 151 yards and a touchdown reception and scored on a 99-yard kickoff return. Jobe ran for 120 yards and three TDs.

Sharpe, the HCC Player of the Year, has offers from Indiana University, Purdue University and West Virginia University.

Jobe ran for 1,603 yards and 23 touchdowns. Frye completed 166 of 275 passes

for 2,505 yards with 29 touchdowns and only two interceptions. Sharpe had 59 catches, followed by Robinson with 42 receptions and Tez Virgil with 30.

Senior linebacker Alex Fisher led the team in total tackles with 87, followed by junior defensive back Chancelor Adams with 79. Adams had a team-high three interceptions.

Senior safety Drew Bostic, who had 59 tackles and two interceptions, intercepted the last pass in the 2024 state final and this year he recovered an onside kick that sealed the game in the closing minute.

Hart said strength coach Bryan Neese and speed coach Casey Popenfoose help reinvent each team starting in the offseason.

“I think they are two of the best in the business,” Hart said.

Hart said everyone talks about Texas high school football.

“I’d welcome those old boys come up here any time they want to and play the premier teams in the state of Indiana.” he said.

Christmas tree farm continues family tradition

By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com

For many Hendricks County families, holiday traditions begin not in their living rooms but in a quiet stretch of countryside just west of Danville. The Evans Whispering Pines Christmas tree farm has been a seasonal staple for more than three decades, offering fresh trees, handmade wreaths and a growing list of family-friendly events.

Owners Joe and Rita Evans planted their first trees in 1983 and officially began selling in 1989. As demand grew, they expanded the operation in 1990, increasing the property from 13 acres to 53 acres with the purchase of land across the road. Today the farm is recognized as one of the county’s largest full-service choose-and-cut destinations and is a proud member of both the Indiana Christmas Tree Growers Association and the Mid America Christmas Tree Association.

Their daughter Tiffany Jones, who grew up on the property, says the farm’s slow growth has been intentional.

“We’re OK with slow. We want to keep it that way,” she said.

Still, the operation has broadened significantly, welcoming thousands each season. About 500 to 600 trees are available in the field each year, with roughly 700 seedlings planted every spring. Pines grow best on their soil, though the farm also brings in several varieties of pre-cut fir and pine trees. This year, the Evans family again

Brownsburg Hospital Medical Building

offered a pre-opening weekend the Saturday and Sunday before Thanksgiving, featuring pre-cut Frasers, Scotch and White Pine, along with wreaths and the gift shop. The full field opened for choose-and-cut the Friday of Thanksgiving weekend. Seasonal hours continue Fridays through Sundays after Thanksgiving, with weekday afternoon hours through December.

The gift shop, in a cozy restored building on the farm, carries a large selection of ornaments and decorations, along with handmade wreaths, garlands, and specialty items that customers also can order ahead.

Events continue to expand as well. This season brought food trucks, alpacas from a local farm, and the farm’s first summer vendor market featuring more than two dozen artisans. On the first Saturday of December, the Bear Hollow chainsaw carvers, longtime partners of the Evans family, create detailed wood sculptures on-site. And of course, Santa makes annual appearances for families seeking photos and holiday cheer.

Even as snow arrived early this year, Jones said the turnout has remained strong.

“When it snows early in the season, it gets people in the mood to come out and get their tree early,” she said, noting approximately 300 trees sold the Friday before the first snowfall.

For the Evans family, the mission — according to it website — has remained the same since 1983: “It’s never too late to start a great family tradition.”

Provider Offices

Hendricks Nephrology Associates - Suite 1145 | (317) 456-9053

Antoinette Mensah, MD • Cheng Wang, FNP

Hendricks Neurology - Suite 1145 | (317) 718-4730

Joshua Neucks, MD • Xyryl Pablo, MD

Hendricks Surgical Associates - Suite 1145 | (317) 745-3740

Ben Gulbrand, MD • Kim Kerr, MD, FACS

Ron Yang, MD, FACS • Rosie Gooding, MD, FACS

Westside Gastroenterology Consultants - Suite 1145 | (317) 745-7310

Nedhi Patel, MD • Lynette Moon, PA • Anne Smrek, PA

Hendricks Orthopedics & Sports Medicine - Suite 1135 | (317) 456-9063

Todd Bertrand, MD, MBA • Robyn Fean, MD • Jacob Holtz, DO

Indiana Spine Group - Suite 1135 | (317) 275-1967

Neil Farren, MD • Justin Miller, MD • Ali Pelych, PA-C

Community Heart & Vascular - Suite 2125 | (317) 718-9040

Frank Conte, MD • Anurag Deeconda, MD • Sai Devarapalli, MD • ScottJones, MD

Sandeep Lakhan, DO • Jodie Franklin, NP • Laurel Hubbard, NP • KimJohnson, NP KellyLowe, NP • Linda Marquez, NP

First Responders - Suite 2125

Cardiology Testing - Suite 2115

Brownsburg North Family Medicine - Suite 2105 | (317) 852-3851

Jason Cooper, MD • Heather Burt, DO • Chelan Ropert, DO • Nathan Bleeke, DO KyleWhistler, DO • NicoleWhistler, DO • Nicole Hoover, DO • Prajin Srivastav, DO

Nikki Adamson, NP • Jennifer Dale, NP

Santa Claws Collection

Donate 2+ items from the list below by January 2 to receive a FREE box of 100 LED mini lights.

*HPC members only. Available while supplies last.

Items Needed:

Cats & Kittens:

• Dry Kitten Food

Iams, Science Diet, Purina One, Pro Plan

• Canned Kitten Food

Any Variety

• Dry Adult Cat Food

Purina One, Iams, Science Diet, Pro Plan

• Nutri-Cal Kitten

Supplement

Dogs & Puppies:

• Spray for Kong Toys

Spray Cheese &

Peanut Butter

• Training Treats

• Durable Chew Toys

Busy Bones, Bully Sticks, Nylabones, Kong Toys, Antlers

Everyday Items:

• Trash Bags

• Paper Towels

• Odoban Cleaner

• White Copy Paper

• Stamps

• Bath Tissue (septic safe)

• Laundry Detergent

• Sandwich Bags

Donate Now!

November 17 - January 2, M-F 7:30am-4:30pm 86 N County Road 500 E, Avon, IN

Donations will support Misty Eyes Animal Center this holiday season!

County refutes shelter euthanasia rumors COMMUNITY

By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com

The Hendricks County Commissioners issued a statement Dec. 1 addressing concerns and correcting misinformation about the county’s animal shelter and animal control department after a wave of Facebook posts and resident complaints raised alarms about shelter conditions and future policies.

According to the statement, the online “chatter” largely focused on claims that the county planned to implement a mandatory 30-day euthanasia policy in 2026. Commissioners said unequivocally that the claim is false and that the idea has “never been discussed.”

Instead, the county intends to reduce the shelter’s population to its originally designed capacity to allow long-needed repairs and renovations to move forward. The statement said the reduction would rely on adoptions first, with animal transfers and fostering also under consideration. “Never was euthanasia part of the discussion for reducing the population,” the commissioners wrote.

The statement also addressed questions about staffing levels at the shelter and within the animal control department. Commissioners said both areas “will and are receiving attention” and that changes are planned. Animal control is in the process of transitioning under the Hendricks County Sheriff’s Office, a shift expected to be completed

by the start of the new year.

At the shelter, leadership changes are underway. The county recently posted the job listing for a new animal shelter supervisor. While commissioners did not discuss personnel decisions, citing confidentiality rules, they said there was a belief that new leadership was necessary. They also acknowledged the dedication of employees affected by the transition.

As part of its efforts to assess needs at the shelter, the county hired an out-ofstate consulting firm specializing in animal facility design and engineering to review the building and its operations over the summer. The county received the firm’s report and recommendations in late October.

The commissioners said they took additional action Dec. 1 by contracting with a local project management consultant who will direct and oversee renovations and repairs identified as urgent. The move, they said, is intended to “facilitate quick action” on the improvements.

The commissioners emphasized that they will continue monitoring the shelter and animal control services as changes are implemented. They also noted that while they are committed to addressing resident concerns, it may not be possible to satisfy everyone.

“We thank you for your compassion and caring and will do our best moving forward,” the statement read.

DISPATCHES

 Senate page program applications available — The Indiana Senate is accepting applications for the 2026 Senate Page Program. Through the full-day program, students in grades six through 12 tour Indiana’s Statehouse, listen to debates from the Senate floor and help staff with age-appropriate tasks. Students also have the opportunity to meet their state senator. The program begins in January and continues throughout the legislative session. Eligible students can serve as a Senate Page one day per legislative session and receive an excused absence from school. For more or to apply, visit IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/ Page-Program.

 Go All IN Day set — United Way of Central Indiana has set a date for its sixth annual Go All IN Day, an organized day of volunteerism across the region. The event will be April 24, 2026, across United Way’s seven-county service area: Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion, Morgan and Putnam counties. As the day approaches, a variety of indoor and outdoor projects will be available for individual volunteers, groups and families to select and sign up. Interested volunteers can learn more at goallinday. com. During the last Go All IN Day in April, more than 1,250 volunteers helped about 80 nonprofits and community organizations across the region.

Street crews prep for winter as snow season begins

By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com

As winter settles in, the Brownsburg Street Department is preparing for an other monthslong stretch of plowing, salting and around-the-clock monitor ing to keep local roads safe.

Town officials say plow operations officially kick in when about two inches of snow have fallen, but the preparation begins far earlier. The department typ ically stocks more than 16,000 tons of salt each season, much of which will be spread between December and March as crews work through storms both mild and severe.

Plow drivers often start before sun rise or work overnight when heavy snow hits, and the department keeps close watch on regional forecasts to time its response. When conditions allow, crews pretreat major roads with anti-icing solutions to slow buildup. That step isn’t always possible, though. If rain precedes a snow event, any treat ment would simply wash away, leaving plow teams to rely on salting and scrap ing once temperatures drop.

The town uses a fleet of 10 plow trucks, and additional staff from Water Utilities, Parks and Development Services step in when storms require more hands. Before salt is loaded into the trucks, it’s mixed with an organic “beet juice” solution that helps the material cling to

Residents are asked to wait 24 hours after a storm ends before reporting un plowed streets. The Street Department also can help repair damage to yards or mailboxes caused by plow operations and can be reached at 317-852-1113.

DISPATCHES

 Tab Christmas service — Tabernacle Presbyterian Church will celebrate its 47th annual Christmas worship service telecast at 7 p.m. Dec. 24 on WNDY-TV and 11 a.m. Dec. 25 on WISH-TV. The one-hour broadcast will be available on all Indianapolis and surrounding county cable systems and online at wishtv.com during the telecasts. The service will include national and local singers, the Tabernacle choir and Indianapolis-area instrumentalists. Rev. Steve Smith will deliver a message, “Shady Shepherds.” The Christmas service has been televised since 1979, becoming a holiday tradition

for many Hoosiers.

 Photos with Santa — The Brownsburg Kiwanis will host Photos With Santa from 5 - 8 p.m. Dec. 12 and 13 at Brownsburg Town Hall, 61 N. Green St. Families can visit Eaton Hall for self-taken photos with Santa and see a lighted firetruck from the Brownsburg Fire Territory. The event coincides with the holiday lights display at Town Hall. Donations benefiting Riley Children’s Hospital are requested.

SSanta headed to Brownsburg for meet-and-greet

news@youarecurrent.com

M/I Homes of Indiana will welcome families this month for a series of free Santa meet-and-greet events, including a Brownsburg stop at the Auburn Ridge community on Dec. 14.

The homebuilder is inviting residents, prospective buyers and neighbors to celebrate the season with photos with Santa, hot chocolate and holiday treats. Children will have the chance to share their wish lists while families enjoy the festive atmosphere.

The events also support WISH-TV’s WISHTree initiative and Toys for Tots. Guests are encouraged to bring new, unwrapped toys to help brighten the holidays for central Indiana children.

Organizers say last year’s drive provided gifts for more than 65,000 children, and donations — particularly for babies and teenagers — are needed again this year.

The Auburn Ridge event will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 14 at 4986 Carmine Court in Brownsburg.

Other meet-and-greets will take place across Central Indiana, beginning Dec. 5 in Westfield and continuing through Dec. 20 with stops in Indianapolis, Noblesville and Shelbyville. One event, at the Bonterra community in Westfield, is pet-friendly.

All events are free, though RSVPs are requested. More information and signups are available at mihomes.com.

Brownsburg grad leads women’s retreat

By Melissa Gibson mellissa@youarecurrent.com

Danielle Bryan, an international wellness professional and Brownsburg High School graduate, will lead the Women’s Wellness Day Retreat from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 20 at Natural Valley Ranch, 6310 E. County Rd. 350 N. in Brownsburg.

The $99 retreat includes activities such as gentle yoga, breathwork and horse meditation.

Natural Valley Ranch is a working ranch offering horseback riding lessons, trail rides and a free animal encounter area..

After six years in the quarter horse racing industry, Bryan began searching for holistic ways to ease her migraines, chronic inflammation and gut issues.

Connective, both focused on women’s health and offering classes and retreats at home and abroad.

Bryan has since hosted nearly 50 retreats worldwide, and she will bring her skills in meditation, breathwork and holistic practices back to Brownsburg just before the holidays.

“For this December event, we will be doing a mindfulness experience with the horses as well as a bundled hike,” Bryan said. “A healthy lunch is always provided and I collaborate with a few of my wellness professional friends who also bring their unique gifts to the day.”

Bryan said the holiday season is an ideal time for women to pause, reset and reconnect with themselves.

Expires 4/30/25

“My own inner-outer transformation inspired me to begin sharing healing tools with women. I began offering online bootcamps and trainings in 2015 and my career took off from there,” Bryan said.

Bryan later launched Illumination Wellness and co-founded The Medicine

“We’re living in a time where so many women feel unfulfilled and walk around with a completely empty cup,” Bryan said. “My work over the last decade has been to create environments where women can unplug, dump stress, connect with other women and leave feeling just a little better.”

Registration is required at hendrickscountytrailrides.com/retreats/ womens-wellness-day-retreat.

By Hendricks Regional Health For Current in Brownsburg

Mental health and the holidays

some suggestions for supporting someone struggling with holiday stress and

The pressure to create perfect moments can be exhausting. Help your loved one set boundaries around commitments, giftgiving and social events. Sometimes, saying “no” is the healthiest choice.

Encourage realistic expectations. The pressure to create perfect moments can be exhausting. Help your loved one set boundaries around commitments, gift-giving and social events. Sometimes, saying “no” is

• Promote self-care and mindfulness. While this season is often a time of gathering with family and friends, taking time for oneself can be extremely helpful in reducing stress and anxiety. It’s OK to slow down, take a walk or journal, and not think about all the things competing for someone’s attention.

• Offer nontraditional gifts. The endof-year holiday season often focuses on gift-giving. Gifts are a fantastic way to show love, appreciation and gratitude. Most people tend to think about gifts as something that is purchased and wrapped to be opened and enjoyed, but not everyone needs a gift in the traditional sense. Sometimes, the most meaningful gifts are those we give from the heart, such as offering to spend time with someone or providing a listening ear if they want to share

Above all, be authentic and compassionate. Your presence, patience, and understanding can help someone feel seen and supported during a season that may otherwise feel isolating.

their

Former Brownsburg cop turned comedian, author

By Melissa Gibson mellissa@youarecurrent.com

Retired Brownsburg Police Department officer Pete Fleck spent nearly 20 years on the force, but when the COVID-19 pandemic brought life to a halt in 2020, he began exploring creative passions such as fiction writing and stand-up comedy.

Fleck has since published three novels: “Caged,” “Angel Templar” and “Before They Were Monsters.” He has fourth on the way.

Fleck also has ventured into stand-up comedy. He tested the waters at an open mic night at Crackers Comedy Club in Broad Ripple, where he said his first three minutes on stage were a success.

Soon after, he began accepting comedy gigs for Christmas parties, business events, wedding receptions and other occasions. Fleck said he tailors his material to the audience each time.

“I don’t like using ‘F-bombs’,” Fleck said. “I think that’s lazy. Some of my stuff has adult themes but I don’t do a lot of cussing. It’s a lot of poking fun at myself.”

A few years ago, Fleck was preparing to teach a philosophy class at the Mar-

“I don’t like using ‘F-bombs.’ I think that’s lazy. Some of my stuff has adult themes but I don’t do a lot of cussing. It’s a lot of poking fun at myself.”

– PETE FLECK

ion County Jail when, during a tour, staff asked about his comedy. He performed three short shows that same day and has continued providing comedy at the jail ever since.

“I love being able to change a person’s state of mind,” Fleck said. “One of my favorite gigs is when I do comedy at the Marion County Jail. These people are in a horrible place and for just a few minutes, you can take them out of it. If you can get them to laugh, it really lifts their spirits.”

Fleck’s novels are available on Amazon. To find upcoming events, follow his Facebook page. To book a comedy show, email petefleck922@outlook.com.

Central Indiana home permits remain stable

The Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis reported in late November that single-family building permit activity across central Indiana remained relatively stable through October, with total permits year-to-date coming in slightly below 2024 levels.

According to an announcement from BAGI, the region recorded 8,708 permits for the year through October, compared to 8,729 during the same period last year — a marginal change that indicates sustained buyer interest as monthly activity softened heading into winter.

“Central Indiana’s housing market continues to demonstrate remarkable balance,” BAGI CEO Chris Hancock stated. “Our builders are navigating economic uncertainty with discipline — carefully managing inventory, responding to local demand and positioning the market for a stable start to 2026.”

For the month of October, Hamilton County led the field in new home permits, totaling 200. Marion County followed with 170, Hendricks County had 87 and Boone County totaled 74.

According to the announcement, national indicators show a more cautious landscape. The National Association of Home Builders reported that single-family permits and housing starts weakened in recent national reports in response to continued high financing costs, slower buyer traffic and broader macroeconomic uncertainty. The national trend is expected to extend into early winter.

“Compared to the national slowdown, central Indiana’s marginal stability stands out,” Hancock stated. “Our population growth, relative low cost of living and scarcity of land have contributed to residual demand.”

For more, visit bagi.com.

“Now Stay Tuned” will remain on display through early June 2026.

IMS Museum opens ‘Now Stay Tuned’ exhibit on Indy 500 broadcasting

By Les Morris news@youarecurrent.com

The long and storied history of broadcasting the Indianapolis 500 is taking center stage at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum with the debut of “Now Stay Tuned,” a new exhibit exploring more than a century of efforts to bring auto racing’s biggest event to audiences around the world.

The exhibit, which opened Nov. 22, draws its name from the signature commercial-break sendoff used by legendary IMS Radio Network anchor Sid Collins: “Now Stay Tuned for ‘The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.’” The line, visitors learn, was written not by Collins but by a 21-year-old WIBC copywriter, Alice Green.

Broadcasting of the 500 dates to 1922, when Indianapolis radio station WOH first aired coverage of the race—11 years after the inaugural running. A major milestone followed in 1928, when the final hour of the race was transmitted nationwide in the first coast-tocoast broadcast. For decades afterward, radio listeners heard the opening and closing hours live, with updates filling in the remainder of the race.

The IMS Radio Network took shape in 1952, and the following year Collins delivered the first full live

broadcast to 135 U.S. stations. By 1955, race fans in all 48 states could tune in.

Television’s role in telling the story of the 500 is also featured prominently. ABC first televised the complete race in 1986, and rights today belong to Fox Sports. Jamie Little, a Fox reporter, was among the media members who toured the exhibit during its recent unveiling.

“I love the early history,” Little said. “To see the old fire suits in there and to see my fire suit alongside those of Paul Page and Sally Page (former lead announcer and reporter) and just the history of this race. You really feel the depth of that when you walk in and it’s just unbelievable what they did. The challenge is balancing what’s happening today with embracing and teaching people what the past was. Auto racing is what it is because of this place.”

Visitors can test their own broadcasting skills by stepping into a replica booth and recording historic race calls from selected years. Technology also plays a key role throughout the exhibit, including a display featuring Marcus Ericsson’s 2022 Indy 500–winning car, used to demonstrate modern onboard camera systems.

“Topic-wise, these exhibitions are tough because there is so much more than what we can cover,” said

Jason Vansickle, the museum’s vice president of curation and education. “The tough part is where do you limit it to. Focusing on the various voices, major personalities, the eras, helped us do that narration.”

Vansickle noted that the exhibit came together quickly, with staff beginning concentrated work only in June 2025.

Paul Page, who succeeded Collins as the “voice” of the 500 in 1977 and later spent more than a decade covering the race for ABC, said he was moved by the exhibit—especially its portrayal of early radio coverage.

Walking through the gallery, Page reflected on the advice he once carried into the broadcast booth. One display, titled “Tips From Paul Page,” highlights guidelines he followed throughout his career, including keeping an eye on mid-pack battles, crafting a creative call at the start, and carefully setting up the final 10 laps.

But one piece of guidance, Page said, rises above all others.

“The one that is most important isn’t on the board, which is preparation,” he said. “It can’t be notes. The reality is your chance of looking down is only during a commercial and then only briefly. I learned that one time when I looked down and there was a crash and when I looked back up, cars were bouncing off walls.”

The right choice for specialized care.

PAW PATROL

Redemption Ranch provides safety to abandoned dogs, priceless gifts to law enforcement

By Melissa Gibson melissa@youarecurrent.com

When Plainfield Police Department

Senior Canine Handler Rob Prichard and his K-9 partner Jocko began volunteering at local animal shelters, he noticed something in the dogs waiting behind kennel doors. Many were scheduled to be euthanized, but Prichard saw potential where others did not.

“I think the world often looks at dogs in a shelter like you can’t work with them,” Prichard said. “They don’t have the same blood line or lineage of police working dogs but I started working with them and thought, maybe everybody has these guys wrong.”

One of those dogs was Echo, a stray Belgian malinois who arrived at the shelter nearly frozen to death. Prichard began training the underweight, timid dog and saw a shift almost immediately.

“I saw that Echo was born to do this,” he said. “After training Echo with his current handler, he has gone on to serve with the Plainfield Police Department.”

Echo soon became part of one of the largest drug seizures in the department’s history, an achievement that confirmed what Prichard had begun to suspect. Shelter dogs often possess the same instinct, intelligence and work ethic as traditional police K-9s. What they lack is simply a chance.

To give more dogs that chance, Prichard launched Redemption Ranch in Plainfield in 2024. The nonprofit identifies high-potential dogs in shelters across Indiana, trains them and then donates them to law enforcement agencies at no cost.

“So far, we’ve saved 21 dogs in just over a year,” Prichard said. “Many of them were on euthanasia lists. By the end of the year, we’ll have 19 dogs on patrol in 18 different law enforcement agencies.”

Interest in the program has continued to grow as word spreads among police departments seeking affordable and effective K-9 options. This month, Prichard will host his first at-capacity training class with six dogs and six han-

dlers, drawing agencies from Illinois and Tennessee in addition to Indiana.

The trend comes at a time when the cost of a trained police dog can exceed $15,000, an insurmountable barrier for many departments facing tight budgets. Through Redemption Ranch, agencies receive a trained K-9, necessary equipment and veterinary care for free. The dogs are trained to track suspects, locate narcotics, find missing children and elderly individuals, and serve as an important presence in deescalating tense situations.

“We are way more likely to apprehend someone quicker and safer if a K-9 is present,” Prichard said. “They know this dog will bite, though they often don’t have to, and it keeps everyone safer; both the officers and the suspect.”

For Prichard, the mission goes be-

yond helping departments. He hopes the growing number of success stories prompts the public to see shelter dogs differently, especially those labeled as unadoptable or difficult.

“We just had another one of our dogs, Knox, at the Brown County Sheriff’s (Office) track down two lost children in Hoosier National Forest,” Prichard said. “These dogs are big hits and they’re performances are unmatched in the field.”

Many of the dogs rescued by Redemption Ranch have experienced poor conditions, abandonment or neglect before reaching a shelter. Prichard said that despite those challenges, the animals often show deep loyalty to the people who give them a second chance. This gratitude, he said, becomes a powerful motivator in their work.

One dog joining the upcoming train-

ing class was pulled from a shelter with only an hour left to live. Cases like that are increasingly common as shelters face overcrowding, declining adoptions and limited resources. When Prichard scouts potential K-9 candidates, he often races against the clock.

“I found this great dog while out scouting and I started going through my whole rolodex to find someone to take him,” he said. “It was coming down to the wire for him and that would have been a life that ended at the shelter. Instead, they get a second chance and look at what they’re doing with every criminal they lock up and every child they find. They’re making a difference.”

Redemption Ranch’s training program typically runs 160 hours over about three weeks. The coursework pairs each dog with a handler from the receiving department and prepares them for patrol operations, tracking, detection work and real-world scenarios. It is an intensive process, and Prichard said shelter dogs often rise quickly to the challenge because they have something to prove. The program has grown faster than he expected — and he believes it is still in its early stages.

Law enforcement agencies interested in applying for a future training cycle can do so at the Redemption Ranch website.

THE COVER: Plainfield Police

BY THE NUMBERS

• 21 dogs saved in the program’s first year

• Many were pulled from euthanasia lists

• 19 dogs expected to be on patrol by year’s end

• 18 law enforcement agencies receiving K-9 partners

• 160 hours of training in each three-week class

Commentary by Larry Greene

This Pebble Brook home in Noblesville, Indiana, underwent a dramatic basement transformation, turning a basic lower level into a polished entertainment center with a custom bar.

THE BLUEPRINT

• A new semi-custom bar, painted Sherwin-Williams Peppercorn, creates a dramatic focal point.

• Cambria quartz countertops and a round BLANCO sink combine durability with elevated style.

• Mirrored geometric tile adds sparkle and depth, while glass shelving keeps the bar open and refined.

• Updated lighting and new LVP flooring complete the transformation, turning the basement into a polished, entertainment-ready retreat.

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.

Noblesville basement becomes luxe lounge

Indianapolis Symphonic Choir’s ‘Festival of Carols’ returns to Palladium

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

For Indianapolis Symphonic Choir Artistic Director Eric Stark, this truly is the most wonderful time of the year.

The choir’s “Festival of Carols” has become an annual tradition in Carmel. The performances are set for 8 p.m. Dec. 19 and 3 p.m. Dec. 20 and 21 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. There also is a 7:30 p.m. Dec. 22 performance at Schrott Center for the Arts on the Butler University campus in Indianapolis.

“The holidays are always a great time for folks to gather together for the community, kind of the extended family,” Stark said. “We try to give people a wide variety of things to enjoy in the concert. So, they’ll hear some traditional carols. They’ll hear ‘O Come All Ye Faithful’ and ‘Away in a Manger,’ but they’ll also hear some new things, some uptempo numbers, a couple of gospel-style numbers that will be a lot of fun. We like to laugh at these concerts, also, so we’ve got some moments of audience participation and some surprises.”

carol they want and Duncan will improvise a brand-new composition on the spot.

Stark said it is special, especially later in December, to gather with friends and family.

“Sometimes our audience members are hosting family members from out of town who come in for the Christmas holiday, so they come to one of the concerts just a few days before, and there’s just a nice, warm feeling of sharing and fellowship when we can all get together like that,” he said.

There are approximately 130 ISC members.

The performances feature guest vocalist Bruno Sandes alongside the full Indianapolis Symphonic Choir and the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra. Sandes was the guest soloist last year as well.

“The audience loved hearing him sing and interacting with him,” Stark said. “He’ll be singing a mix of things, some familiar, like, ‘It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,’ the great Andy Williams tune. We’ve got a Spanish carol he’s singing, and a kind of an Andrews take on ‘Jingle Bells’ that’s really kind of fun.”

There will be an interactive “Battle of the Carols” segment led by ISC keyboard artist David Duncan, who invites audience members to vote on which

“Some are in the choir for the first time this year and some have been in there for decades, 20 or 30 years or more,” Stark said.

The spotlight choir is from Mt. Vernon High School.

“This is part of our outreach program,” Stark said. “Each year, we like to share our stage with a talented and promising group of young musicians from one of the local high schools.”

The Dec. 21 and 22 performances will include American Sign Language interpretation by Chuck Daube,

“‘Festival of Carols’ has become one of our most meaningful traditions because it reflects who we are as a city,” stated Jennifer Cooper, the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir’s executive director. “This choir is about more than mu-

The Indianapolis Symphonic Choir will perform “Festival of Carols” Dec. 19-21 in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of ISC)

sic; it’s about belonging. Each performance is a reminder that the simple act of gathering and singing together has the power to restore hope, strengthen community and remind us of the good that still binds us.”

The Indianapolis Symphonic Choir also will perform “Handel’s Messiah” at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 18 with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra at the Payne & Mencias Palladium.

“We enjoy performing with lots of the great groups in town,” Stark said.

Before the Dec. 19 and 21 shows, audiences are invited to experience a new pre-concert opportunity: “A Holiday Walk & Talk with Sampson Levingston,” through the platform Through2Eyes.

Levingston, who is known for immersive walking tours, will guide viewers through a storytelling experience that connects the “Festival of Carols” to the broader cultural landscape of Indianapolis, offering new insights and perspectives before the first note is sung.

“It’s a unique perspective behindthe-scenes as we’re getting ready to open the show on those days,” Stark said. “I think people who tune in will get a glimpse into something that regular audience members don’t normally see.”

To register for the free Walk & Talk, visit eventbrite.com/e/festival-of-carols-walk-talks-tickets-1975306553074. Tickets for “Festival of Carols” are available at indychoir.org.

‘A BEEF & BOARDS CHRISTMAS!’

“A Beef & Boards Christmas!” runs through Dec. 31 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

‘SHAKE ‘EM ON DOWN’

Samantha Fish, Cedric Burnside and Jon Spencer will perform on the “Shake ‘Em On Down” tour at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 10 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

“Now That’s Funny: Comedy Night” is set for Dec. 11, followed by Franc D’Ambrosio Dec. 13-14 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The performances are set for 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘DAVE

KOZ & FRIENDS’

“Dave Koz & Friends” is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 12 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘THE NUTCRACKER’

Central Indiana Dance Ensemble’s presentation of “The Nutcracker” is set for Dec. 12-14 at the STAR Bank Performing Arts Center in Zionsville. For more, visit cidedance.org.

CHRIS ISAAK

Chris Isaak will perform at 8 p.m. Dec. 13 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘HOLIDAY POPS WITH THE CSO’ Carmel Symphony Orchestra’s “Holiday Pops with the CSO: Spirit of the Season” concert is set for 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

ENTERTAINMENT

ICC holiday concert set

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The Indianapolis Children’s Choir will celebrate its 40th anniversary concert season with holiday performances that focus on its history.

“This year’s theme of ‘Holiday Memories’ is special because we get to pull out some of our favorite pieces from past ICC holiday concerts,” ICC Executive Artistic Director Joshua Pedde said.

“It’s fun to reintroduce the classic songs to the next generation of singers. Plus, it’s delightful for audiences to hear some fan favorites.”

There will be four performances of “Holiday Memories” concerts at Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis.

At 7 p.m. Dec. 12, “Angels Sing” will feature advanced and high school choirs. There will be two performances Dec. 13 with the 3 p.m. “Celebrate the Season” concert featuring beginning level singers and high school singers, and the 7 p.m. candlelight performance, “Angels Sing,” will feature advanced and high school choirs. The 4 p.m. Dec. 14 concert is “Sounds of the Season” with intermediate choirs, the ICC Alumni Choir and advanced choirs.

“I have some fond memories especially of ‘Somewhere in My Memory’ from ‘Home Alone,’ because it brings me back to my own vivid holiday memory of seeing the movie for the first time when I was a kid.”

– JOSHUA PEDDE

“Our singers take a lot of pride in the work they put into them, and also keeping up this important tradition for the Indianapolis community that’s been happening for so many years,” Pedde said.

Pedde said there are several pieces this year that he enjoys.

“I have some fond memories especially of ‘Somewhere in My Memory’ from ‘Home Alone,’ because it brings me back to my own vivid holiday memory of seeing the movie for the first time when I was a kid,” he said. “‘Night of Silence’ transports me to a special memory of my daughter Annabelle’s first outing after being released from the NICU as a baby. ICC singers sang the song to her, and it was incredibly special. Overall, holiday music as a whole is some of my favorite music, in general.”

For tickets, visit icchoir.org/tickets.

PUZZLE ANSWERS

Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE: Tools: CHISEL, CLAMP, DRILL, HAMMER, PLANE, SAW; Homes: BARN, BURROW, DEN, NEST, STABLE; Rhymes: CINDY, HINDI, MINDY, WINDY; People: CLOWN, COMEDIAN, JOKER; Cocktails: MARGARITA, MARTINI; Capital: MARTINSVILLE

ACROSS

1. Real Men ___: Brownsburg Education Foundation literary program (that probably won’t peruse 39- or 73-Across)

5. Choice caviar

11. Loops in via email

14. Data

15. Bill Estes Ford courtesy car 16. Board & Brush

17. Arctic floater 18. Foot’s arch 19. Hoosier Hysteria mo. 20. Part of IHSAA (Abbr.) 22. “Mayday!”

23. Toy building block 24. Foreman foe 26. That guy

28. “Stop already!”

30. Army chaplain

32. Mellencamp guitar attachment

35. Cable TV sports awards

36. Leaning Tower city 37. I-74 rig’s load

39. “Real Men ___”: Bruce Feirstein satire on masculinity

43. Strenuous 44. Helps

46. Amazed

49. Deer mom

50. Boulder Creek steak order

51. Star cluster 53. Lions, on a Colts scoreboard

55. IND posting 56. Not pretty 57. ___ and aah 60. Naomi, Wynonna or Ashley

62. In the past

63. Whirl

65. Improves in the wine cellar

68. Brownsburg HS tennis court divider

69. Word before “justice” or “license”

70. Occupy a throne

71 Current revenue

source

72. Say yes

73. “Real Men ___”: First book in a Kwana Jackson romance novel series DOWN

1. Rusted Silo Southern

BBQ bit

2. St. Louis-to-Brownsburg dir.

3. “Sorry, but it’s true”

4. Hendricks County Humane Society kennel occupants 5. Russian pancake 6. Many millennia

. Scottish girl 8. “Do ___ others as...”

. Gaggle group

. Dadaism founder

. Arose

. Rocky and steep

. Pabst Brewing brand 21. Seashell seller of rhyme

23. Subject of many postings on Nextdoor

24. Software for a smartphone

25. Put down

27. Pillage and plunder

29. Classic grape soda

31. Left at a gallop

33. “Ditto”

34. Aroused, as one’s interest

37. Government agent, briefly

38. NASA’s Grissom, whose first job was delivering The Indianapolis Star

40. “Jurassic Park” predator, for short

41. Hitman

42. Fix text

45. Oasis Salon, e.g.

46. Large lizard

47. Pestered

48. Apportions

50. Alphabet trio

52. Toys on strings

54. Kick out

58. Mine finds

59. Detest

61. Like some chocolate

63. BHS transcript fig.

64. Metal container

66. Peyton’s bro

67. Complete collection

ANSWERS ON PAGE 16

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