December 9, 2025 — Current in Fishers & Geist

FILLING A GAP

About us

Founded Jan. 25, 2011, at Fishers, IN Vol. XV, No. 47

Copyright 2025 Current Publishing, LLC

All Rights Reserved.

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

317.489.4444

Contact the editor

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

Contact Managing Editor Leila Kheiry at leila@youarecurrent.com or call 317.489.4444. You also may submit information at youarecurrent. com. Our print deadline is eight days prior to publication. Submissions for online accepted daily.

Share your thoughts

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

Advertise your business

If you’re interested in reaching the Fishers market (30,645 households), you may obtain more information by emailing ads@youarecurrent.com (subject: Fishers advertising) or by calling 317.748.2662.

Obituaries obits@youarecurrent.com

Legal advertising legals@youarecurrent.com

Delivery questions

circulation@youarecurrent.com

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

Opinions

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

Free $25 Gift Card!

Homebuilder plans to appeal courtordered demolition of Geist duplex

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

A dispute between a builder and a Geist neighborhood association has resulted in a court order requiring the builder to demolish a multimillion-dollar waterfront townhome duplex, displacing residents of the two homes. MHM Investment Group plans to appeal the decision.

The Nov. 24 order from Hamilton County Superior Court Judge David Najjar states that Michael Mercho and his company, MHM Investment Group, violated Watersedge Owners Association declarations and architectural guidelines for new construction by not getting approval from the association’s architectural committee prior to the start of construction and by encroaching on setback provisions. MHM also continued construction on the Southshore Drive building after the association intervened in November 2023 when footings were installed and despite the ongoing civil court case.

In his order, Najjar noted that the dispute between MHM and Watersedge was not new — similar problems arose when Mercho built townhomes on a neighboring lot. The judge also discussed the legal requirement of balancing harm when issuing a decision.

“Mercho testified that it would cost MHM $1.5 million to remove the building on lot 11. As the Court has previously found, Mercho is not a credible witness. Here, however, there may be some truth to his testimony,” Najjar wrote. “The evidence established that the building … was sold on contract to two tenants for an approximate total of $2.2 million. Removal of the building would involve demolition costs but would also subject MHM for the costs of relocating the tenants, rescinding whatever contracts may have been made and perhaps other damages suffered by those tenants for the

inconvenience of relocating and missing out on lakefront property at Geist.”

However, he wrote, MHM could have avoided much of that harm by not completing construction until the case was resolved. Najjar also noted that there was a public interest component to consider.

“The duties imposed on the owners by the declaration and the rules and regulations only work if all owners are held to the same standard,” he wrote. “Finding otherwise would render the purpose of these governing documents, and planned community living in general, moot. The court also finds that if the declaration is not enforced and the building on lot 11 is not made to conform, there is no way to ensure that further violations will not occur.”

Najjar stated that Mercho — who owns another undeveloped lot in the neighborhood — already disregarded association requirements twice, and the judge “has no confidence that, should MHM construct a home on Lot 10, that it will be in conformity of the declarations. The only way to serve the public interest is to … provide for their enforcement by requiring MHM to remove the homes on lot 11.”

Najjar wrote that he was cognizant of the effect the order will have on the people now living in the homes and that

he weighed that effect when making his decision.

In an email sent by the association’s attorney, Peter Kovacs, Watersedge Owners Association President Harold Warden stated that the association was pleased with the court’s ruling.

“We believe that the decision serves to vindicate the twin goals of preserving property values and the ability of the HOA to enforce its lawfully constituted rules,” Warden stated. “We look forward to putting this unfortunate event behind us.”

In an email to Current, Mercho stated that he plans to appeal Najjar’s ruling, adding that when the lot was purchased, recorded plats approved by the City of Fishers had different setback requirements, which he followed. He stated that the HOA changed those rules without going through the process of amending the recorded plat.

“This leads to the core of our pending appeal: Does an HOA Board, acting as a quasi-governmental entity, have the power to rewrite a city-recorded plat without a public hearing?” Mercho wrote. “We believe the answer is no. If an HOA board can change the buildable area of a lot after you buy it, without following the statutory process for amending a plat, then no homeowner’s property rights are truly secure.”

Mercho stated that the first building his company constructed based on the recorded, unamended plat set a precedent for him to build the home in question based on those unamended standards.

“I want to be clear: We did not simply choose to ignore the rules,” he wrote. “We followed the rules that we believe — and that state law suggests — matter most.”

In his Nov. 24 order, Najjar also ordered MHM to pay about $70,500 in court costs and attorney fees to Watersedge.

Fishers Community Center will start accepting “silver sneakers” insurance reimbursement after the New Year. (File photo)

‘Silver sneakers’ coming to community center

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

The Fishers Community Center soon will start accepting “silver sneakers”-style insurance-based membership reimbursement from several providers, allowing seniors and other enrollees to use the center’s facilities at no extra charge.

The city’s Board of Public Works and Safety voted unanimously Nov. 25 to approve agreements with three providers — American Specialty Health Fitness, Tivity Health Services and One Pass Solutions, also known as Optum. Director of Recreation and Wellness Jake Reardon-McSoley told the board that while members enrolled in these programs would not be charged membership fees, the providers would reimburse the Fishers Community Center for those memberships, an estimated $50,000 annually.

“This is an opportunity, specifically for seniors — from their point of view, from a customer point of view — to get a free membership to the community center and access to all the health and wellness opportunities and social opportunities that we would have there,” he said. “How this works is, each of these companies really have a model or a product that integrates with a huge network of insurance carriers. And so, as a senior, if you have one of the insurance packages, you would qualify for free membership.”

Reardon-McSoley said the various programs are commonly referred to as “silver sneakers” programs because they

generally benefit enrollees aged 55 and older. However, he noted, some of those programs also are available to younger demographics through some workbased insurance packages.

He said that since the community center opened Nov. 1, staff have fielded many requests for the city to provide a “silver sneakers” option.

“It continues to be the No. 1 (request) every single day, so we’re really, really excited about this,” he said. “There will be a ramp-up period after this is fully executed, when you need to kind of set up a portal. There are trainings that have to happen with our staff, but we feel confident we can go live with this January.”

Mayor Scott Fadness, who chairs the Board of Public Works and Safety, thanked Reardon-McSoley for coordinating the agreements.

“I’m sure there are going to be a number of our residents in our community that are excited to be a part of the community center at no cost,” he said. “And it’s also a great revenue stream for us, as well.”

In other matters, the board unanimously approved the purchase of two new engines for the city-owned Boston Whaler boat used by first responders responding to water emergencies at Geist Reservoir.

“The Boston Whaler itself is in great condition (but) the motors are aging out,” Fleet Manager Tabatha Miller told the board. “It’s time to replace them — they’ve been a consistent maintenance issue the last couple years.”

The cost to replace the two engines is about $56,000.

Carmel man charged in Fishers shooting

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Maclean Murt, a 31-year-old Carmel man, has been charged with murder in the Dec. 1 shooting death of Justin Burton, 30, of Noblesville, inside Britton Tavern, 14005 Mundy Dr., off 141st Street.

Murt

The Fishers Police Department stated in a news release that officers arrived at the business after a 2:45 a.m. call reporting a shooting.

“Officers located a male, approximately 30 years old, inside the bar with injuries consistent with a single gunshot wound,” the news release stated. “Officers and medics attempted lifesaving measures but were unsuccessful. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. The suspect, Maclean Murt, a 31-year-old male, was still on scene and taken into custody.” Hamilton County Coroner Jeff Jellison identified the victim later that day after family members were notified.

According to Hamilton County Jail online records, Murt remains in custody awaiting a preliminary hearing. He faces a single felony charge of murder.

Youth allegedly brings gun to HSE basketball game

news@currentinfishers.com

A 15-year-old boy was arrested Nov. 29 and charged with having a gun on school property after he allegedly brought a firearm to a Hamilton Southeastern High School boys varsity basketball game.

In a social media post, the high school states that at the end of the game, some students got into a fight, during which the gun was seen. The school stated that no HSE students were involved in the incident.

According to the Fishers Police Department, responding officers and school staff reviewed camera footage and determined the suspect had left the building and there was no further threat at the school.

FPD reported that the juvenile was located off school property in a nearby neighborhood and an off-duty Hamilton County Sheriff’s deputy took the juvenile into custody.

According to the Fishers Police Department, the boy attempted to hide the firearm. Officers later found it on school grounds with the help of a Carmel K-9 team.

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 one day per legislative session and receive an excused absence from school. For more or to apply, visit IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Page-Program.

 OneZone Honors Award Winners – OneZone Chamber recently announced 2026 Honors Award Winners. Recipients are A.K Burns Corporation, Aspire Indiana, Carmel Clay Schools, Carmel Dads’ Club, Carmel Racquet Club, Clay Township Trustee, Delello & Sons Asphalt Paving, Gradex, H.J. Spier Company, Hamilton County Community Foundation, Holiday Inn Indianapolis/Carmel, Indiana American Water Company, Noble, Inc., St. Louis De Montfort Church and Vivaldi Capital Management.

 Free Christmas tree recycling — Fishers offers a free Christmas Tree Recycling program, where residents can drop off bare, live trees at three park locations around the city between Dec. 26 and Feb. 1. Locations are Brooks School Park, 11780 Brooks School Rd.; Cumberland Park, 10580 Cumberland Rd.; and Holland Park, 1 Park Dr.

Student charged with possessing gun at FHS City upgrading to high-tech stoplights

news@currentinfishers.com

A 17-year-old Fishers High School student was charged Dec. 1 with possessing a gun on school property after school officials received an anonymous tip that the student had a firearm in his vehicle, which was parked at the school.

According to a news release from the Fishers Police Department, school resource officers and FHS administrators searched the juvenile’s vehicle and located the firearm.

“We do not believe the juvenile intended to use the weapon to cause harm at the school,” the news release stated. “We would like to thank the person who submitted the tip and the school administrators for acting promptly on the information provided. We are grateful for our partnership with HSE Schools. Our ability to work side by

side allows us to keep our kids and our community safe.”

The 17-year-old boy was charged with Possession of a Firearm on School Property.

The incident was the third gun-related arrest in Fishers in three days. Mayor Scott Fadness stated in a social media post that he appreciates the work of the community’s law enforcement.

“Our team works tirelessly to maintain a safe environment for Fishers families,” he stated. “The last few days have demonstrated that despite our best crime prevention efforts, there are times when criminal activity will still occur. Individuals responsible for crimes in our city the past few days are being held accountable and as I have shared before, this behavior will not be tolerated in our community.”

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

The City of Fishers is buying about $400,000 worth of new stoplights for 116th Street between Cumberland and Allisonville roads, upgrading the traffic signals to cellular-based technology that provides traffic and pedestrian counts, along with the ability to coordinate with emergency response vehicles.

The purchase was approved Nov. 25 by the city’s Board of Public Works and Safety. Rich Bassett, asset manager with the city’s engineering department, told the board that the current stoplight system — with a lifespan of seven years — is more than 10 years old and is considered antiquated and obsolete.

“This is a big upgrade from what we have,” he said. “A couple of benefits on this are, one, it is cellular-based instead of fiber-based. So, as we’ve grown and had a lot of construction projects, the fiber system (has) aged and we’ve got a lot of cuts,

repairs — and that’s been difficult. So, this will help keep the connectivity that we currently don’t have. It (also) allows remote access for the controllers at the signal campus.”

Bassett said the system in place now provides adaptive timing and coordination only on major thoroughfares at 116th Street, Allisonville Road and 96th Street. The new system, once it’s installed throughout the community, will provide a coordinated system in all traffic signal locations.

He added that the new system will provide real-time traffic and pedestrian counts at each intersection, which will allow the city to more easily collect data on how busy various intersections are. And, he said, because of the cellular connection, the new system will be able to connect with police and fire departments to improve safety as emergency vehicles respond to calls.

The board unanimously approved the first phase of the overall project, which will be completed in three phases.

The right choice for specialized care.

City to study Fishers Event Center traffic

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

The City of Fishers Board of Public Works and Safety approved a contract with A&F Engineers to conduct a traffic study in the vicinity of the Fishers Event Center, including consideration of likely future development in the busy Fishers District area off I-69 and 116th Street.

During the board’s Nov. 25 meeting, Director of Engineering Hatem Mekky said the approximately $98,700 study will focus on the areas around 116th Street, USA Parkway, IKEA Way, Lantern Road, 106th Street and USA Drive.

“This is to hopefully streamline the traffic in and out of the event center,” Mekky said. “We have a year’s worth of data of different events that come in and out. So, this is to accommodate a lot of the development in the area, and also a lot of these events that are coming up in the future.”

According to an unrelated news release from the Fishers Event Center, the facility hosted 141 events since it opened in November 2024, attracting 527,313 attendees. Events have included touring shows, such as a recent John Legend concert and comedians Jeff Foxworthy and Leanne Morgan; home games for Indy Fuel hockey, Indy Ignite volleyball; and Fishers Freight indoor football; graduation ceremonies for Hamilton Southeastern and Fishers high schools; and numerous private events.

According to board meeting documents, A&F Engineers will estimate future generated traffic volumes from proposed land uses within the study area and will add existing traffic volumes to those estimates in order to determine potential total future traffic.

The company then will prepare a report for the city to consider, along with recommendations to establish efficient and safe traffic flow.

DISPATCH

 Applications open for Hamilton County scholarships — The Hamilton County Community Foundation is accepting scholarship applications for the 2025–26 academic year for local students who want to pursue education beyond high school, whether at a four-year university, a two-year program or through technical and career training. Awards range from $1,000 to full tuition and are open to high school seniors, current college students and adults returning to school. Students can apply for multiple scholarships through a single application at hamiltoncountycf.org/scholarships. The application deadline is Feb 1, 2026, with select scholarships having different timelines.

HEPL launches annual Season of Giving

news@currentinfishers.com

Hamilton East Public Library’s annual Season of Giving campaign, running through Jan. 11, 2026, encourages community members to donate items that will help fill various needs in Hamilton County.

Donation collection sites will be available at both the Noblesville Library and Fishers Library.

This year’s donation drive includes:

• Winter Warmth Drive: New socks, winter hats, and mittens/gloves (all sizes) are needed to help keep community members warm this season. Donations made at the Fishers Library will support the Delaware Township Trustee’s Office. Donations made at the Noblesville Library will support the Noblesville Township Trustee’s Office.

• Nonperishable Food Drive: In partnership with the Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank, HEPL is collecting shelf-stable, nonperishable food items for local neighbors in need.

• Period Care Product Drive: The drive supports HamCo Love, a local nonprofit working to end period poverty in Hamilton County. Community members can donate items from HamCo Love’s Target, Amazon or Walmart wish lists or contribute directly via Venmo (@ HamCoLove).

HEPL also has partnered with Hamilton Southeastern Schools’ Public Relations class through an externship program designed to give students real-world communications experience. During the fall semester, three Hamil-

ton Southeastern High School students worked with HEPL’s Marketing and Communications team to help shape the storytelling and outreach efforts behind the Season of Giving.

“Our goal was to increase donations by 5 percent (over last year) in the library’s Season of Giving campaign through blogs, social media and more,” HSE senior and externship team lead Claire Robertson stated. “We’re so thankful to our adviser, Bill DeLisle, and HEPL’s Director of Marketing and Communications Kelsey Sweet for giving us this opportunity.”

In addition to donation opportunities, the Season of Giving features programs, such as:

• Bling-a-Book for adults and teens –Dec. 13 at Fishers Library

• Season of Giving Blood Drive – Dec. 26 at Noblesville Library

• Heart Connectors – Jan. 8 at Fishers Library

For more about the Season of Giving initiative, donation guidelines or event details, visit hamiltoneastpl.org.

Purchase a select David Weekley Quick Move-in Home in the Indianapolis area between November 1 and December 18, 2025, and qualified buyers may be eligible for a starting rate as low as 3.99% when the home purchase is financed with a conventional 7/6 SOFR adjustable rate mortgage home loan from Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. Home must close by December 31, 2025.

See a David Weekley Homes Sales Consultant for details. The 7/6 SOFR adjustable rate mortgage home loan with a starting rate as low as 3.99% offer is only valid for qualifying buyers who purchase an eligible David Weekley Quick Move-in Home (selected or designated as eligible by David Weekley Homes) in the Indianapolis area between November 1, 2025, and December 18, 2025 (the Program Period ), and finance the home purchase with a conventional 7/6 SOFR adjustable rate mortgage loan from Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. Home must close by December 31, 2025. Qualifying buyers must have a minimum FICO score of 740 and make a down payment of at least 10% of the Total Purchase Price. Contact mortgage loan originator for details on financing options. Borrower must meet lender’s qualification criteria. David Weekley Homes has arranged a Forward Commitment of a limited amount of mortgage financing for qualifying buyers, who finance with a home loan from Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. Applications under the Forward Commitment will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until the limited amount of mortgage financing is depleted, or the program end date, whichever occurs first. Actual loan pricing may be adjusted based on the borrower’s credit profile and the borrower may need to pay discount points to get the rate under the commitment. This rate is not applicable for all credit profiles and not all borrowers will qualify for the rate. Offer must be presented to Sales Consultant prior to signing a Purchase Agreement and buyers who qualify for the Forward Commitment rate will not be eligible for any other Financing

COMMUNITY

SDISPATCHES

 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.

 Arts Council seeks new board members — Fishers Arts Council is seeking board members to start in 2026. Board applications are available at fishersartscouncil.org/how-to-help. The deadline to submit an application is Dec. 9.

 Holiday events — The City of Fishers Parks Department has scheduled a series of holiday events for all ages during December, including a DIY wrapping paper class Dec. 9, a holiday workshop to create handmade items Dec. 10, “Reindeer Games” Dec. 11 with bingo and karaoke, a jazz workshop Dec. 12, and “Cookies with Characters” Dec. 13 and 14 (registration required). For more, visit fishersparks.com/winter-activities-events/ jingle-bell-junction.

 Neighborhood vibrancy grant applications open — The City of Fishers is accepting applications for the 2026 Neighborhood Vibrancy Grant Program. The 80/20 matching grant program for HOAs and neighborhood groups provides up to $25,000 in matching funds, with the grant recipient paying 20 percent of a project’s cost. The city has allocated $400,000 from the 2026 budget to support the program. For more, visit FishersIN.gov/Grants. Applications close Jan. 23, 2026.

 FriendsGiving to benefit foster kids — Indiana-based nonprofit Foster Success has launched its annual FriendsGiving awareness and fundraising campaign. The campaign has a goal to raise $120,000 by the end of 2025 to support Indiana teens and young adults transitioning out of foster care. For more, visit fostersuccess.org.

COMMUNITY

DISPATCHES

 Government academy registration open — Discover how Fishers works from the inside out through the City Government Academy, a free, hands-on program where adult residents connect with city leaders, explore departments and learn how local government serves the community. The spring 2026 session runs Jan. 14 through May 14 and meets twice a month from 6 to 8 p.m. Register by Dec. 12 at FishersIN.gov/CGA.

 Merchants Capital financing Fishers project — Carmel-based financial services provider Merchants Capital recently announced more than $56 million in financing for the acquisition and rehabilitation of Cumberland Crossing, a 232unit affordable housing development in Fishers developed by Birge & Held. The resyndication of tax credits will extend Cumberland Crossing’s affordability period for an additional 30 years, with rent restrictions for half of the units at 50 percent of area median income and the other half of the units at 60 percent.

 New airport exhibit celebrates Children’s Museum — A new exhibit at the Indianapolis International Airport’s KIND Gallery, “Memories, Wonders, and Dreams: Stories from 100 Years,” offers a tribute to The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. The exhibit, located after security in Concourse A, showcases a selection of objects and photographs from the museum’s collection. The exhibit will be on display through January 2026 and is accessible and free to all ticketed passengers. For more about the KIND Gallery and the airport’s arts program, visit IND.com/PublicArt.

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

Shamrocks senior guard gets lift from basketball family

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Drew Haffner has reaped the benefits of coming from a basketball family.

His father, Scott Haffner, was an Indiana All-Star at Noblesville High School and played one season at the University of Illinois and three seasons at the University of Evansville. A second-round draft pick of the NBA’s Miami Heat, Scott Haffner played 43 games for Miami in the 1989-90 season and then seven games for the Charlotte Hornets the following season.

“My dad playing definitely has had an impact on my IQ in the game. He’s coached me from a really young age, and I have always grown up around basketball,” Drew Haffner said.

He learned from his brother, as well. A 2022 Westfield High School graduate, Cam Haffner played one season for Eastern Illinois University, two seasons at Evansville and is now at Western Kentucky University.

“My older brother had a really big impact on my game. Just competing with him every day since I was young

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

DREW HAFFNER

Favorite athlete: Jayson Tatum

Favorite vacation spot: Florida

Favorite TV show: “Breaking Bad”

Favorite movie: “Mission Impossible”

has definitely improved my mental toughness,” Drew Haffner said.

A 6-foot-4 shooting guard, Haffner averaged 12.4 points per game last season, shooting 48 percent from 3-point range and 46 percent overall. He helped the Shamrocks to an 18-4 record.

“I feel like I’ve made a really big improvement in my ball handling and being able to get downhill more efficiently,” said Haffner, who averaged 3.8 points as a sophomore.

He scored 20 points in a Nov. 25 season-opening victory against Scecina.

“Some goals I have is to win the sectional championship and make the Indiana All-Star Team,” he said.

Shamrocks coach Shane Sumpter said Haffner should have been selected as one of the Indiana Junior All-Stars.

“He’s a kid that had a terrific year and we expect him to do the same again this year,” Sumpter said. “Every year he’s been in our program, he’s improved. I thought he had a breakout year last season. I think he has a good chance to be an Indiana All-Star if he has a good year and our team has a good year. He’s probably one of the best shooters in the state and one of the best I’ve coached. He’s been a great kid to coach.”

Haffner, who has played with the Grand Park Premier club team since fourth grade, recently signed with Abilene (Texas) Christian University, an NCAA Division I program.

“The key in my decision to go to Abilene Christian was the coaches and the environment,” he said, “I love the way they coach, and it just felt like home for me ever since I visited.”

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

• Experienced, Compassionate, Board

Holiday Adventure Pass available

news@youarecurrent.com

Visit Indy and Visit Hamilton County’s Holiday Adventure Pass is a guide for residents and visitors to experience holiday attractions throughout Marion and Hamilton counties. The free pass is available through Dec. 31.

“The Holiday Adventure Pass is a fun, easy way for residents and visitors to make memories while exploring attractions across both counties,” stated Chris Gahl, executive vice president and chief marketing officer of Visit Indy.

Gahl said in the second year of the pass, the organizations have expanded the program to include locally sourced prizes that highlight small businesses.

“This initiative not only enhances the user experience but also supports our downtown and regional partners during the busy holiday season,” Gahl stated.

To earn points, users must check in via a QR code found at the following participating locations:

• Athenaeum Christkindlmarkt

• Carmel Christkindlmarkt

• Children’s Museum: WinterFaire

• Civic Theatre: “A Christmas Story The Musical”

• Conner Prairie: A Merry Prairie Holiday

• Eiteljorg Museum: Jingle Rails

• Ice Ribbon at Grand Junction Plaza

• Ice skating at Carter Green (at the Carmel Christkindlmarkt)

• Ice skating at Elevance Health Rink (at Morris Bicentennial Plaza)

• Ice skating at Holliday Park

• Ice skating at Noblesville Ice Plaza (at Federal Hill Commons)

• Indiana Historical Society: Festival of Trees

• Indiana Repertory Theatre: A Christmas Carol

• Indiana State Museum: Celebration Crossing

• Indiana State Fairgrounds: Christmas Nights of Lights

• Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra: AES Indiana Yuletide Celebration

• Indianapolis Zoo: Christmas at the Zoo

• Monument Circle: Spark Holidays on the Circle

• Newfields: Winterlights presented by Bank of America

• Nickel Plate Heritage Railroad: Reindeer Express

• The Payne & Mencias Palladium

Visiting a participating venue allows users to accumulate points, which can be redeemed for holiday-themed prizes.

Some participating venues are ticketed attractions; the Holiday Adventure Pass does not cover entry fees, so guests must purchase tickets directly for admission.

For more, visit visitindy.com/events/ holidays/holidays-adventure-pass.

Expires 4/30/25

Veterans to participate in Wreaths Across America

By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com

Westfield’s Osborne Trails Veterans Organization will host its first Wreaths Across America ceremony at 11 a.m. Dec. 13 inside the Prairie Waters Event Center at Hamilton Memorial Park, 4180 Westfield Rd.

Wreaths Across America is a national nonprofit that was founded in 1992 by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester, who owned Worcester Wreath Co., to lay donated wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery.

This will be the first time the Osborne Trails Veterans Organization will host a Wreaths Across America ceremony. Joe Revell, a member of the organization and a retired U.S. Army officer, helped organize Westfield’s participation.

“Our veterans group at Osborne Trails was looking for something to do for our community. I suggested that we ought to try Wreaths Across America,” said Revell, who attended a Wreaths

Across America in Lapel a decade ago.

Revell said Osborne Trails wanted to try to have a ceremony in 2024 but didn’t have sponsors lined up.

“We wanted to do it right. We started in earnest in May and solicited funds from corporate donors and individuals,” said Revell, who noted that the contributions helped pay for wreaths for approximately 300 veterans at Hamilton Memorial Park.

Revell said the ceremony inside the Prairie Waters Event Center will last about 45 minutes and those who want to stay and place the wreaths on graves can do so.

“It means a lot that somebody remembers you after you’re gone. Us doing it now is like paying it forward. Maybe someday somebody will put a wreath on my grave?” Revell said.

Those interested in volunteering for Wreaths Across America or sponsoring a wreath for Hamilton Memorial Park can visit wreathsacrossamerica.org/ IN0224.

Donate new, unopened items to bring

hospital

Requested Items:

Crayola pencils/markers (10–12 ct)

Uno card decks

Small puzzles (24–48 pcs)

Play-Doh tubs

Local STEM organization expanding partnerships

By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com

The world of coding and hands-on STEM education recently arrived in Brownsburg, thanks to a partnership between the Brownsburg Public Library and iCode Fishers – a step toward expanding the organization’s reach.

The organization, which specializes in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM, education, runs a weekly “tech club” that introduces local kids to advanced concepts through gamified and hands-on learning.

The tech club meets every Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Brownsburg Public Library, and the curriculum is designed to keep things fresh.

“We have such a great experience with the Brownsburg Public Library,” said Lauren Gehle, marketing manager for iCode Fishers. “The content changes weekly and they go through monthly curriculum changes, so the students are introduced to new things every week.”

The classes are typically open to children and teens, ranging from ages 6 to 14, though Gehle noted that most of the

attendees fall between the ages of 8 and 12. The programming is designed to be accessible, even for those with minimal background knowledge.

“There’s definitely been kids who have come in with little experience,” Gehle said. “As for whether they just like playing Roblox and Minecraft and things like that and the parents see it through that avenue. And then we kind of take things on to more of an educational and a broader stance.”

Nov. 29 - Jan. 4

Skating Rink and Hot Chocolate Chalet

Saturdays & Sundays • 3pm - 7pm

In fact, camps focused on popular games like Roblox and Minecraft are some of iCode’s most popular offerings.

While iCode has a main campus in Fishers, it emphasizes the importance of in-person, hands-on learning.

“We always emphasize the fact that it’s local and hands-on,” Gehle said. “The thing with us being in person is it’s all hands-on for the students to learn and be interactive.”

Classes at all iCode locations adhere to a strict instructor-to-student ratio, ensuring each child receives the attention they need. The quality of the instruction is also a point of pride for the company. Gehle said all instructors undergo extensive background checks and training, including CPR certification.

“That’s one thing that we really like to emphasize is different between us and other places, is the quality of the actual education is a lot higher than what you typically find,” Gehle said.

The organization’s proprietary curriculum is continuously evaluated and updated by a team of computer scientists, software architects and instructional designers to ensure it aligns with cur-

rent technology and industry trends. Beyond technical skills, the program also integrates vital soft skills such as collaboration, critical thinking and public speaking.

The tech club serves as an important step in iCode Fishers’ vision for the future. Gehle said the organization has been exploring the west side of Indianapolis, including Zionsville and potentially Avon.

“That’s kind of what the tech clubs are: kind of feeling out for us — to see how the market is over there,” Gehle said. “Obviously, we would love to expand to the west side of Indianapolis if we could.”

For now, there are no plans for a permanent “brick-and-mortar” facility on the west side, but the interest has been encouraging.

The main goal for iCode Fishers remains simple: expansion.

“We definitely want to just keep on expanding and getting more kids in the door,” Gehle said. “We love big class sizes or more kids coming through because there’s more energy and kids tend to enjoy it more.”

FILLING A GAP

By Rasha Aly news@currentinfishers.com

When Megan Carpentier arrived in Indiana in June of 2021, something was missing.

She loved Fishers, the Indianapolis suburb she had moved to, but she missed being a part of a Soroptimist International club.

Before arriving in Indiana, the 30-year-old marketing professional at Eli Lilly had been an active member of the Soroptimist International club in the Greater Santa Clarita Valley in northern Los Angeles County.

“I had just really enjoyed the mission of Soroptimist,” Carpentier said, adding that her values and goals aligned with the organization’s mission to help women improve their lives.

Soroptimist International is a global volunteer organization focused on providing women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment, especially women facing significant obstacles.

Carpentier said she first tried to find a club nearby. However, Indiana only had two clubs at that time – one in Anderson and the other serving the Greater Indianapolis area. Both were quite a drive away and, she said, the club members skewed older.

After a few years, Tracey Carpentier followed her daughter and moved from Los Angeles to Indiana to be closer to her family. A 62-year-old retired chief executive officer, Tracey Carpentier had grown up in Indiana, graduating from North Central High School and Indiana University.

Like her daughter, Tracey Carpentier also missed the fun events and shared sense of purpose from participating in the Santa Clarita Soroptimist Club’s activities.

That’s when they decided to start their own club in Hamilton County, bringing the excitement of organizing fundraisers and the sense of purpose achieved in assisting others.

To establish the club, the two wom-

members

en had to collect 12 members. Through their networks — including book clubs and Tracey Carpentier’s involvement at the YMCA — they persuaded 16 women to become charter members of the first Soroptimist Club in Hamilton County.

The group had its first meeting as a charter in September. They now meet at 6:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday of every month. Members hope to establish the Fishers City Pavilion, 10 Municipal Dr., across from the Hamilton East Public Library, as their permanent meeting place.

Presently, club members are working toward awarding two scholarships — the “Live Your Dream” scholarship and the Virginia M. Wagner Educational scholarship.

The “Live Your Dream” scholarship is targeted toward women who have overcome enormous obstacles

and are furthering their education through traditional and nontraditional methods, such as vocational or trade schools. Club members plan to award two of those scholarships, one for $1,000 and another for $2,000.

The Wagner award is named in honor of Dr. Virginia Wagner, an Indianapolis pediatrician, and is a Midwestern region award. Women pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree, and who live in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio or Wisconsin can apply. Criteria include effort, academic achievements, extracurricular activities and financial need. The deadline for the Wagner award is Jan. 15, 2025, and club members will award one $1,000 scholarship.

Tracey Carpentier said they want to raise awareness for women in Hamilton County who could benefit from the scholarships.

SOROPTIMIST HISTORY

Founded in 1921 in Oakland, California — during a time when social clubs banned women from joining – the first Soroptimist club was, somewhat surprisingly, organized by a man named Stuart Morrow.

While organizing a Rotary Interna-

tional club, he met Adelaide Goddard, who co-owned the Parker-Goddard Secretarial School. She expressed interest in joining a service organization, if they ever allowed women. That conversation sparked the idea for a women’s club similar to the then-all-male Rotary.

“We’re giving them tools to be successful in their personal and professional lives,” she said.

Throughout the year, members plan to organize other events, including fundraisers to finance additional scholarships and other activities.

They also will lead events as a part of the “Dream It, Be It” program, which is tailored to junior high or high school girls. It’s a career program that aims to instill confidence in girls, teaching them they can achieve their goals.

Local Soroptimist Club members hope to launch that program by the end of 2025 or early in 2026.

Megan and Tracey Carpentier said they’re actively looking for new members who want to have fun while making a difference.

“It is extremely important to give back to our communities,” Megan Carpentier said. “Joining the Soroptimist Club is a great way to meet women and do some good.”

For more, email SIhamco25@gmail. com or visit the international club website, soroptimist.org.

ON THE COVER: Members of Hamilton County’s newly formed Soroptimist Club gather for the first charter meeting in September. (Photo courtesy of Megan Carpentier)

Commentary by Larry Greene

This Pebble Brook home in Noblesville 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.

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.

Noblesville basement becomes luxe lounge

Vanquish Shower Mold!

Spot the signs

Account takeover fraud rising

Commentary by Matthew Darrah

Hamilton County businesses — from Carmel to Fishers, Noblesville and Westfield — run on speed and trust. That’s exactly why account-takeover attempts increasingly probe owners juggling payroll, payables and growth. The good news: clear warning signs and smart habits help you spot and stop fraud early.

THE RED FLAGS APPEAR QUIETLY

Unfamiliar password-reset emails. Login alerts you didn’t trigger. Messages asking you to “confirm” a one-time code you never requested. Contact information changed without your action. A transfer or bill payment you don’t recognize. Any one of these deserves immediate attention; two or more should be treated as an emergency.

HOW A BREACH BECOMES A BREAK-IN

A common vulnerability is reusing the same password for shopping, email and banking. After a retailer’s data breach, criminals test stolen credentials across bank logins. If they get in, they change the phone and email in the profile, lock the owner out and queue transfers. Often, the takeover isn’t discovered until a routine payment fails — turning minutes of preparation into hours of recovery.

WORK WITH YOUR BANK BEFORE TROUBLE STARTS

Modern defenses are layered: multifactor authentication with authenticator-app support; risk-based “step-up” checks for unusual locations, devices and behavior; and out-of-band verification before sensitive changes take effect. When systems see a high-risk combo — say, a profile change followed by a first-time external transfer — they can pause the action, send alerts and require extra confirmation.

WHAT YOU CAN CONTROL IN REAL TIME

Mobile tools — like our Online and Mobile Banking for Business — let you lock a card instantly, set transaction and login alerts, and tailor limits on certain activity. These controls help catch small anomalies before they become big losses.

HOLD A STANDARD FOR YOUR FINANCIAL RELATIONSHIPS

Expect the essentials — multifactor by default, fast alerts and extra verification for sensitive changes — plus a banker in Hamilton County who knows your operating rhythm and can act quickly when minutes matter. Look for self-serve card controls to lock a card, set limits and fine-tune alerts instantly. Establish a recovery playbook with your banker so if access is compromised, you know how accounts are secured, activity is reviewed, services are restored and resolution is confirmed.

IF SOMETHING LOOKS WRONG, ACT FAST

Change your password and security questions if you can still log in. Contact your financial partner immediately to report findings. Lock or freeze cards in the app while the investigation is underway. Tighten alerts to watch new activity closely. Then file a report at IdentityTheft.gov to generate a formal recovery plan.

BOTTOM LINE

Expect all of this — plus a personal relationship with a banker who knows your business and advocates for it. If you’re struggling to find that fit, we’re here to help. Learn more at 1stsource. com/business.

 Indiana earns 16th AAA rating — The State of Indiana recently announced it has maintained its AAA credit rating for the 16th consecutive year. AAA is the highest rating available. The rating means lower borrowing costs for projects like roads and schools, and it makes the state an attractive environment for new business investments. All three major credit agencies — S&P Global Ratings, Moody’s Investors Service and Fitch Ratings — affirmed Indiana’s AAA status. Indiana is one of 14 states to hold the top rating from all three agencies.

AED Save Station installed

The Hamilton County Parks and Recreation Department has announced the installation of an Automated External Defibrillator Save Station near the Children’s Garden at Coxhall Gardens in Carmel, 1677 Towne Rd.

The project was made possible through the Coxhall Guild, which donated the Save Station, a cabinet designed to house an AED; and the Carmel Fire Department, which donated the automated external defibrillator and a Stop the Bleed Kit, a specialized trauma kit containing items like tourniquets, gauze and trauma shears.

The station provides 24/7 access to critical emergency tools that can make a difference in cardiac or trauma situations, giving park guests and staff the ability to take immediate action while waiting for first responders to arrive.

“We are so grateful to the Coxhall Guild and Carmel Fire Department for their ongoing partnership and commitment to public safety,” stated Chris Stice, director of Hamilton County Parks and Recreation. “This installa-

tion reflects our shared dedication to creating safe, welcoming spaces for everyone who enjoys Coxhall Gardens.”

This year, HCPR has installed eight AED Save Stations throughout various parks, providing the public with 24/7 access to lifesaving equipment. In addition, all HCPR staff are trained in AED use, first aid, Narcan administration, Stop the Bleed response and suicide prevention awareness.

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

CSO holds Holiday Pops

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

For Carmel Symphony Orchestra guest conductor Kelly Kuo, holiday concerts are always special.

“I love watching kids attend performances — some of them are there for the first time,” Kuo said. “Hearing a live orchestra is such a rare experience I find for younger children these days, regardless of what music is being performed, obviously with more festive music in this particular case. It always takes me back to my childhood and hearing orchestras for the first time, and I think that’s just magical.”

diana, will narrate “The Snowman” during the matinee.

“It was originally a symphonic poem that was written to accompany a film made out of a wordless children’s picture book,” Kuo said.

The narration will substitute for the film, allowing the audience to imagine the pictures.

Kuo will guide Carmel Symphony Orchestra’s “Holiday Pops Spirit of the Season” concerts at 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

The 2 p.m. matinee is for younger audiences.

Westfield resident Don Farrell, a co-founder of Actors Theatre of In-

“We will have a child soloist singing ‘Walking on Air,’ which is originally from ‘The Snowman,’” Kuo said.

Farrell will sing a few numbers during the evening performance, including “The Christmas Song,” “White Christmas” and “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?”

There will be music from “Frozen” and selections from “The Nutcracker.” In addition, the “Chanukah Festival Overture” will be performed.

Kuo, who has been based in Cincinnati since 2006, is the music director of the Reno Chamber Orchestra and associate artistic director of American Lyric Theater in New York.

For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

ICC holiday concerts 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.”

mance, “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.

“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.

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 perfor-

This Week’s Market Magic!

The Market will be open December 10-24 (hours vary), with holiday fun the whole family can enjoy. Free to attend, free parking, no tickets required.

Werkstatt (Workshop)

Meet our German artisans while they work!

• Dec. 10-14, Seiffen School Students — See students make wooden toys in real time Kinderecke (Kids Corner)

Enjoy crafts for all ages!

• Dec. 11, Button Tree Ornaments

• Dec. 14, Paper Straw Wreaths with Hanukkah colors available Spielhaus (Play House)

Meet-and-greets and magical shows.

• Dec. 12, 12-3 p.m., Singing Mrs. Claus

• Dec. 13, 5-7 p.m., Bongo Boy Music School

• Dec. 14, 12-5:30 p.m., Santa Winter Pavilion

Experience authentic German entertainment.

• Dec. 12, 2:30-4:30 p.m., Indy Polkamotion

• Dec. 14, 12-1:30 p.m., The Mike Schneider Band

Special Events

• Dec. 10, 7:30-9 p.m., Ornament Exchange & German Sing-Along

“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.

• Dec. 14, 5-5:45 p.m., Menorah Aflame

November

22 - December 24

Anxious about the cure

Commentary by Terry Anker

In 1918, tobacco company Girard asked consumers, “Are you easily irritated? Do children get on your nerves?” Who cannot say a resounding “yes” to these questions, at least occasionally? By 1933, the Lucky Strike cigarette brand suggested that it might even improve one’s backbone, promising, “To anxiety — I bring relief, to distress — I bring courage.” Who among us couldn’t use a bravery boost now and then? By today, most of us have come to understand the dangers of smoking. As such, we can make an informed decision about the level of risk that we are willing to absorb. Hopefully, we can say the same about what dangers we assume by believing the advertising firms making millions from sales through some not-so-subtle prevarications.

Even if the promotional materials are intentionally dishonest, when the products fail to work as sold, the market will eventually correct. But if we try the merchandise and find it

effective, we’re hooked. Do cigarettes really make people feel more relaxed? Does the daily fast-food stop after work make us feel better or simply make us fat? Can Calgon baths “take us away” from it all? Many of us would attest to it. We try meditation, workouts, singing in the shower and, for some, screaming at passing motorists, all in a bid to reduce our stress. Is it possible that our effort to end our discomfort is generating more discomfort, or worse? What are we willing to do for the thing that reduces our anxiety? Some risk cancer, others obesity, and many simply suppress, knowing that the very act will shorten lifespan. Could it be that stress is a normal facet of living, that learning to let go is the very secret to a good life? Perhaps. Regardless, the cure must be better than the disease.

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

Feeling a little horse today

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

IKEA is “withdrawing” one of its most popular food offerings from supermarkets in Sweden after discovering traces of horse meat in the product. In racing terminology, horses are not “withdrawn,” they’re scratched.  But no shopper wants to hear the phrase, “Effective immediately, we are scratching our Swedish meatballs.”

These treats have always been popular, especially at weddings, and now, with a dash of equine byproduct in them, they will be a big hit at bridle showers, as well. I’m just warning you that was not the last horrible pun in this article.

People around the world (many of whom dine on squirrel and monkey) are outraged by this development.  It was bad enough when it was exposed last year that some fish sticks contained sea life other than the traditional cod. But now concern with Mrs. Paul may seem trivial, considering that Mr. Ed might now be in fast-food burgers. I find it mysterious how a horse could end up in a food processing plant. I get peanuts; any nut can slip past those security guards at the gate. But an entire horse? It’s more complicated than that. I found an explanation online: “Horse meat is butchered in Romania. Then a French meat wholesaler buys the meat, resells it to a frozen food processor under the Swedish-based Findus Co., and then they put it in their lasagna.” Wow. That horse has been around the track   Whoa! That’s a fantastic idea for a movie. It has international intrigue, mystery, deception and violent deaths. Take it away, Quentin Tarantino. How about calling it, “Trigger Unchained.” The stallion takes off running, not to

avoid the glue factory, but the stew factory.

When another food company admitted it had found traces of the same ingredient in its frozen dinners, customers were disgusted by the prospect of eating horse parts. The company was Birds Eye.

Here are some of my favorite comments online:

• Tried both beef tacos and horse tacos. Horse wins by a nose.

• My friend ate it and was hospitalized. Condition: Stable

• Ate too much. Gave me the trots.

• Had terrible night mares. By the way, why is horse meat cheaper than beef? Aren’t horses harder to catch? Pork should be cheap, too. I could see why rabbit meat would be expensive. Turtle soup should be a bargain.

On cooking websites, there are hundreds of recipes for dishes that feature horse meat. Said a noted a critic, “Most of the recipes are winners.” I would think the losers would taste almost as good. And more tender.

Here are some warning signs that horse meat might have entered the Indianapolis market. At Burger King, they’ll change the name of the Whopper to the Appaloosa. The old Palomino restaurant returns to downtown Indianapolis.

But here’s the big clue: If the server at McDonald’s asks, “Do you want flies with that?”

Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES

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

Wooden pin

Stocking material

14. “Love Letters in the Sand” singer: Pat ___

15. Butler building wall cover

16. “You Light Up My Life” singer: Debby ___ 17. Stand by 18. Moyer Fine Jewelers

sparkler

19. Name with Nixon on old bumper stickers

20. Wrong

22. Most cunning 23. Tiny crawler

24. Thailand neighbor

25. Not neg.

26. Paperback ID

27. Hamilton County Court order

28. Braying beast

31. Shock

34. “Yikes!”

36. Planet’s path

38. Right on an Indiana map

39. Frontiersman Daniel

41. Where a Carmel Sesquicentennial license plate from 1987 sold for $7

42. Star, Times and Current, collectively

44. Rude look

45. Like some excuses

46. US 31 road sealer

47. King topper

49. “Arrivederci!”

51. Help

52. Often-lost laundry item

53. School org.

56. Firmly plants

59. They make assertions

61. Taste of Westfield vendor’s stall

62. Also

63. Deserve

64. Family name with three generations of Major League Baseball all-stars

65. Snoopy or Scooby-Doo

66. I-865’s county

67. Wander

68. Snoop

69. Rent collector DOWN

1. Name with Biden on old bumper stickers

2. Kind of situation

3. Sunrise Cafe side

4. “Don’t bet ___!”

5. Flower parts

6. Compartmentalize

7. Levels

8. Noblesville HS basketball game site

9. Emblem attached to a Pacers jersey

10. Meditation mentors

11. Single

12. Singles

13. Former Speaker Gingrich

21. Skewered fare

22. Massage Envy, e.g.

26. Colts QB stats

27. IU Health services:

Obstetrics & ___

28. “Dancing Queen” group

29. “The King and I” setting

30. Eyelid affliction

31. Fisher’s Harvest Fest mo.

32. “Gone With the Wind” estate

33. Addict

35. A Stooge

37. Move, in Realtor lingo

40. The unmarried woman in “An Unmarried Woman”

43. Greeted, informally

48. PNC Bank offerings

50. With hands on hips

51. Blue Cross Blue Shield rival

52. Ice cream serving

53. “Evita” name

54. Angola university

55. Fall bloomer

56. Recedes

57. Pointless

58. Party pooper

60. Catty remark

62. Colts QB stats ANSWERS ON PAGE 23

LAWN CARE & LANDSCAPING

Locally Owned and Operated

• FALL CLEAN-UP & TRIMMING

• LEAF REMOVAL • FERTILIZING • TRIMMING • TREE WORK • MOWING/EDGING • MULCH/WEEDING

PUZZLE ANSWERS

Be Where YOU are Valued

Clarity Care Givers LLC is Indiana’s premiere personal service agency for elder care. We hire, train, support and value all that it takes for our clients and caregivers’ success.

NOW HIRING

Visit our website:https//claritycaregivers.com/contact/ and click Careers to complete an on-line application. Our culture is welcoming, friendly and above all, professional and respectful to our clients and caregivers. We value the work being done and we offer,

• Competitive wage • Work life balance • Simple IRA • And, so much more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

If you or a loved one need an extra pair of hands to meet daily care needs, Clarity Care Givers may be exactly what you are looking for. Our service provides:

• Companionship • Assist with daily care tasks • Light housekeeping • And, so much more

FREE SUPPORT

Come join us every 4th calendar Tuesday at 7050 E. 116th Street, Suite 150 in Fishers, IN from 2:00 until 4:00. Witness and participate in SUSTAIN. It’s a time of respite for those who provide care to share and to gather tips from others facing same or similar concerns.

We do one thing only and we do it better than anyone else. We provide exceptional care. Come join us. That’s why Clarity Care Givers is Trusted, Requested – Preferred.

Rare Saint is the whiskey embodiment of the steakhouse experience - lavish, indulgent, and memorable. It boasts an expert tasting panel with decades of experience finding and sourcing the best barrels of whiskey in the world. In every 100 barrels of whiskey, there is always one Rare Saint.

In its inaugural 2025 release, Rare Saint Trinity of Port earned Double Gold and a 96-point rating from the USA Spirits Ratings, along with the title of Blended Whiskey of the Year. Trinity of Port is a truly unique spirit and stands as a defining moment in Rare Saint’s pursuit of perfection.