January 27, 2026 — Current in Zionsville

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Founded March 20 2012, at Zionsville, IN Vol. XIV, No. 45

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Opinions

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

FEBRUARY & MARCH DINE IN DEALS!

Residents weigh in on proposed downtown roundabout project

By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com

Zionsville residents appear receptive to a project that aims to alleviate traffic backups downtown though have doubts about some proposed one-way streets.

That was the sentiment shared by multiple people at a second listening session Jan. 13 about the proposed roundabout at Main and Sycamore streets. Dozens of community members attended.

Residents were able to look over conceptual plans, ask questions, talk with traffic experts and leave feedback during the two-hour session at Zionsville Town Hall.

The $10 million project would see a dogbone roundabout, also called a peanut, connect Sycamore Street to Main and First streets. The roundabout is more elongated than a typical traffic circle.

The goal is to keep traffic flowing, al beit slowly, compared to the standstills seen during peak hours.

Residents who spoke with Current said they appreciate the efforts to con trol traffic at the busy intersection.

“I like the entrance and the peanut on that end,” resident Mike Voigt said. However, Voigt, and many others, questioned the changes at the intersection of First and Oak streets.

Proposed changes include a stoplight and turning First Street into a one-way going north from Oak Street. Second Street a block over would be a one-way headed south until Oak Street.

The reconfiguration is meant to increase the amount of traffic flowing onto Oak from First and vice versa.

Multiple concerns were raised, including possible traffic backup on First Street as motorists wait on a light and the impact on Second Street. Some said it was just relocating the traffic jam from the Sycamore to Oak.

There would be several crosswalks around the roundabout and on the streets. They would be marked with different styles of flashing lights and beacons.

The city intends to use HAWK, or high-intensity activated crosswalk, lights. These crosswalks feature overhead lights that stop traffic.

Laura Elan arrived with concerns about pedestrian safety but came away relieved. She worried about pedestrians crossing the street near the roundabout and the speed of traffic. Sometimes people zip through roundabouts, she said. The entrances to the roundabout will have elevated speed bumps. Speed will be reduced significantly as well.

Residents questioned if travelers on the one-way portion of Second Street who want to turn onto Oak Street would be left waiting awhile.

“I think that’ll be a dead street,” Voigt said, adding the proposed configuration could change how he leaves town.

Voigt wasn’t the only one who suggested turning First and Second streets into opposite one-ways downtown.

The project also includes several quality of life and landscaping features including trees, sidewalks, bike paths and a dedicated entrance lane to Lions Park off Sycamore Street.

“I like that they’re putting some speed bumps there,” she said. “I feel that can slow the traffic down.”

Elan isn’t sold on a bike lane down the middle of Main Street heading into town, though. She thinks along the side of the road would be safer.

Beth Rubin-Wilson appreciated the town took feedback from its residents.

“Overwhelmingly positive,” she said when asked about the project. “The city is considering the growth needs of the community.”

Rubin-Wilson said she likes the aesthetic of the town is preserved even with the modern-day project.

The design leans heavily into brickwork and trees synonymous with downtown.

“The charm (of the town) resonates with the community,” Rubin-Wilson said.

Many residents agree.

“What attracted me is the aesthetic of the community,” Elan said. “I want the quaint downtown to be preserved.”

Mayor John Stehr said there are still a few things to figure out before shovels hit the dirt including relocation of utility lines. The project could start in late summer or early fall.

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ZCHS changing schedule Lions Club nets grant

By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com

Students at Zionsville Community High School will have longer class periods but fewer each day next year.

The student body will transition to a block schedule for the 2026-27 school year.

The purpose is to prepare students for life after graduation, which for 94 percent of Zionsville graduates, means attending a two- or four-year college, according to information provided during the Jan. 5 School Board of Trustees for Zionsville Community Schools meeting.

Instead of several shorter classes each day, students will have fewer classes for a longer period of time. They also will not have the same classes each day, similar to a college schedule.

“We’re excited for the consistency that allows students,” ZCHS Principal Karen McDaniel said. “We also know this mimics what next level learning looks like in most of their next steps.”

The calendar for next school year is split between green and silver days.

The colors denote different blocks of classes. This was one of the changes covered during ZCHS’s Academic Transition Night for incoming eighth graders and their families.

Tardies should decrease as students won’t have as many transition periods. Additionally, it will allow for students to have their 90-minute homeroom period every other day.

The time is both a study hall and a chance for students to meet with teachers and ask questions. Students currently have homeroom once a week.

Superintendent Rebecca Coffman said a block schedule goes well with new graduation requirements.

The new requirements emphasize work-based learning hours, upward of 150 hours, depending on the path a student chooses.

Longer class times should make it easier for students to check off those work-based hours, Coffman said, compared to the shorter class periods students are in now.

“How can you do that in a 47-minute class period and have anything meaningful?” she said.

news@youarecurrent.com

A recent grant will allow customers at Zionsville Lions Club events an easier way to purchase concessions and make donations.

The service club received a grant from the Indiana Lions Club Foundation that will go toward four credit

card readers.

The Lions Club said in a news release the readers will add convenience for people who attend its popular events throughout the year, including the Fourth of July Celebration, Sunday evening concert series and the Fall Festival.

Boone County names new admin director

news@youarecurrent.com

Lifelong Boone County resident Nick Parr was appointed as the county’s new director of administration.

He will support day-to-day county operations, working closely with the Boone County Commissioners. The position also includes facilitating communication among elected leaders and departments.

Parr served as the director of highways for the county the last five years.

He began his career with the highway department.

Boone County Commissioner Scott Pell said Parr’s experience makes him a good fit for the position.

“Nick Parr understands Boone County because he has lived it, worked in it, and helped build it,” Pell said in a statement. “His proven leadership, work ethic, and commitment to public service give us great confidence that he will excel in this role and continue to move the county forward.”

COMMUNITY

New PrimeLife director eager to keep life vibrant

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

From finance to higher education to startups, Sloane Thompson has enjoyed many of the roles she’s held in various industries.

However, she believes her favorite job is just getting started.

The Westfield resident became the executive director Jan. 5 of PrimeLife Enrichment, a nonprofit that operates programming for senior citizens from Hamilton County and beyond at its facility in Carmel.

Thompson learned about PrimeLife from a neighbor who raved about her membership there. When she saw it was seeking an executive director, Thompson — between jobs at the time — decided to pay a visit.

She was immediately impressed.

“There is true attention to this stage of our lives with the utmost of respect,” said Thompson, 61. “I walk around and there’s just warmth and joy and friendship. I think it’s just the coolest place in the world.”

Thompson replaces Gary Wagner, 76, who retired at the end of December. He joined PrimeLife in 2018 as its chief development officer and became executive director in 2020.

During Wagner’s tenure at the top, PrimeLife membership more than tripled, and the nonprofit increased the size of its fleet providing free or low-cost rides for seniors. In addition, PrimeLife landed “on the radar screen of local government,” Wagner said, leading to new connections and potential grant opportunities.

A top priority for Wanger — and now Thompson — is identifying a long-term sustainable funding solution, as many nonprofits are facing cuts in government grants and other sources.

Another major challenge is space, as Thompson said PrimeLife has nearly outgrown its building at 1078 3rd Ave. SW. She is working with the nonprofit’s board to determine how to address the issue, whether by opening another facility or moving to a larger location.

PrimeLife board president Marcia Claerbout said she feels the nonprofit is transitioning from one perfect fit to another in the executive director role.

“They’re both very strong leaders

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with good experience behind them,” Claerbout said. “They both have a love for the seniors, and that’s harder to find.”

Thompson said she saw how staying social and active helped her parents live fulfilling lives well into their final years. Her mom died at age 82 and her dad at 91.

“I realize just how valuable that is, and I want that for myself — and for everyone,” Thompson said. “I want all of us, no matter your age, to recognize that we can have vibrant lives our en tire life, but we have to be intentional about that.”

Thompson, a 2025 graduate of the Hamilton County Leadership Acad emy, describes herself as a collabora tive and strategic leader. She intends to spend much of her initial time at PrimeLife listening to feedback from members.

As for Wagner, in retirement he plans to spend more time with his grandchildren, volunteer, play golf and write.

“I have to practice what I’ve been preaching and stay active,” he said. “I’m not going to sit around and watch daytime television.”

Wagner will also remain involved with PrimeLife, this time as a member of the board. He said working at the nonprofit was the best job he ever had, and he’s not ready to fully cut ties.

“What I will miss the most, besides the friendships, is the fulfillment that I received from the mission of PrimeLife,” Wagner said. “It’s a unique organization, and one that I will never probably ever get out of my consciousness.”

Learn more at primelifeenrichment. org.

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Walnut Street home added to historic list

news@youarecurrent.com

A home built shortly after the Civil War is the 63rd to make SullivanMunce Cultural Center’s Century Structures list.

The Urbanski residence at 190 W. Walnut St was built circa 1867 and is a carpenter-build style home, according to a news release.

The home and lot were sold a year after construction for $700, a considerable sale price for the time, according to the release.

The home had 28 owners through the years, including carpenters, undertakers, shoemakers, farmers, railroad switchmen, dancers and Indianapolis 500 racecar designers.

The home is fully restored with decorative moldings.

The Century Structure Program honors Zionsville’s residential and commercial historic

to make the Century Structures list. (Photo courtesy of SullivanMunce)

architecture within the Village area. The program recognizes homes with a Century Structure designation — at least 100 years old.

For more, visit SullivanMunce sullivanmunce.org/researching-your-home.html.

Price named State Bank CEO

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State Bank announced earlier this month that Matt Price will be its next president and CEO.

Price, a lifelong Zionsville resident, replaces Mike Baker, who retired last month after more than a decade in the role.

“We were intentional about selecting a leader in Matt who understands the importance of investing in our people and systems to continue building shareholder value in the long term,” State Bank Board Chair Andy Wernsman stated.

Price practiced law for more than 30 years, most recently at Dentons. He advised clients on business, real estate and local government matters. He also previously served on the State Bank Board of Directors.

“As president and CEO, my focus will be on developing our people and growing the bank in a thoughtful, sustainable manner that benefits our customers, employees, shareholders, and communities in which we operate,” Price stated.

Under Baker’s leadership, State Bank grew from approximately $350 million in assets to $870 million, expanded into new markets, and invested in technology and services to better serve customers.

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DISPATCHES

 Zionsville Town Council — The town council meets at 7 p.m. Feb. 2 at Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 W. Oak St.

 Military banner applications available — Applications for 2026-27 military banners honoring local veterans are available at the Zionsville American Legion. Seven banners are available. Applications are available at American Legion Post 79, 9950 E 600 S.

 Menards hosting food drive — Local Menards home improvement stores are hosting drop boxes for food pantries through March. Donations of nonperishable food items, from boxes of cereal to cans of soup, can be placed in large collection boxes near store exit doors, with donations going to nearby food pantries.

Man charged with fraud

By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com

A Zionsville man is accused of stealing $300,000 from a friend and losing most of it on sports betting.

Kirk Crossen, 55, was arrested Jan. 16 and charged with felony counts of theft of property, investment fraud, fraud/deceit in the offer, sale or purchase of a security and for being an unregistered investment advisor, according to court documents.

ing advice, according to the probable cause.

The friend set up an account with the $300,000 and gave Crossen access to the funds. Crossen lost $25,000 in “extremely risky investments,” according to the probable cause, despite the friend’s desire for “relatively safe” investments.

The charges stem from incidents in 2024 where Crossen allegedly acted as a financial advisor for a friend, despite being suspended. He was discharged from Raymond James & Associates in 2023, according to a probable cause affidavit. It is illegal to act as a financial advisor without being registered in Indiana.

The Indiana Secretary of State Securities Division launched an investigation after receiving a tip about the Zionsville man.

Crossen was facing a complaint for unsuitable investment strategies and had pending disciplinary action when the friend approached him with invest-

The other $250,000 was wired to Crossen’s personal account over the next few months.

Text messages between the two men show apprehension from the victim as more and more of their money was lost with Crossen reassuring them and urging them to send more money.

A subpoena to Charles Schwab, the firm that held the funds, revealed most of the money sent to Crossen was not invested and what was was in the form of high-risk options. Most of the money was spent on sports gambling sites including BetMGM and ESPN Bet.

An initial hearing for Crossen was set for Jan. 23 in front of Superior Court I Judge Matthew Kincaid. He was being held in the Boone County Jail as of Jan. 20.

Hicks vies for Senate seat

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Indianapolis resident Demetrice Hicks, a Democrat, announced Jan. 14 he is running for the Indiana Senate District 29 seat held by Democrat J.D Ford.

Hicks’ announcement follows Ford’s decision to run for the 5th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“When Sen. Ford told me of his plans to run for Congress, I felt called to step up so that residents in my district didn’t experience a leadership void,” Hicks stated. “I’m very familiar with the Statehouse. I have advocated on education and foster care policy, and recently spoke out against redistricting as a local elected official.”

District 29 includes parts of Boone, Hamilton and Marion counties. Cities include Zionsville and west Carmel.

The senate race is shaping up to be competitive.

Democrat David W. Greene Sr. filed to run for District 29 as has Republican John Ruckelshaus, who served as a state senator from 2016 to 2020.

District 29 was once a Republican stronghold before Ford flipped the seat in 2018, defeating Republican incumbent Mike Delph.

Hicks previously served as a Pike Township Precinct Committeeman and was the president of the Indianapolis Indiana Democrat African American Caucus.

Hicks, 33, is the Pike Township Board president. He is the youngest elected official in Marion County to hold a township legislative seat, according to a news release. He also is the youngest Black elected official in Marion County.

He is a director of clinical operations overseeing millions of dollars in federal funding for crisis intervention services. Hicks is a court appointed special advocate for abused and neglected children. He helps represent them in court.

The primary election is May 5, and the general election is Nov. 3.

DON’T MISS THE 2026 SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE!

An informative resource for parents and caregivers, this comprehensive guide will be published on Feb. 24. It offers valuable insights, camp options, summer programs and engaging activities in and around Suburban North Indy. Delivered to 126,990 households in Brownsburg, Carmel, Fishers, Geist, Noblesville, North Indy, Westfield and Zionsville via U.S. Mail, you may seize this opportunity to reach a wide audience at an affordable price and explore the best tips and listings to make the most of your family’s summer experiences.

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ZIONSVILLE FEBRUARY EVENTS

GALENTINE’S BOUQUETS

Zionsville Parks and Recreation will host a galentine’s celebration from 6-8 p.m. Feb. 5 at COhatch, 75 N. Main St. Women can make mini bouquets while enjoying the company of others and light refreshments. The event is open to those 14 years and older. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased online at zionsvillein.myrec. com/.../program_details.aspx...

MISCHIEF AND MAGIC

Zionsville Parks and Recreation will host a family-friendly twist on the daddy-daughter dance from 6-8 p.m. Feb. 7 at 1100 W. Oak St. “Families are invited to dress in their most enchanting attire and enjoy a night filled with dancing, face-painting, themed games, character meet-andgreets and live entertainment,” according to an announcement. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at zionsvillein. myrec.com/.../program_details.aspx...

WINTER MARKET

Whitestown Parks and Recreation will host winter markets throughout the winter months at the Whitestown Municipal Complex, 6210 Veterans Dr., including one set for 9 a.m. to noon Feb. 7.

SELLING AS IS

Your Silver Journey will host a panel of experts for those interested in selling their home as is. The panel will take place from 10-11:30 a.m. Feb. 9 at the Zionsville branch of Hussey-Mayfield Public Library.

BEGINNER VEGGIE GARDENING

Zionsville Parks and Recreation will host an informational session from 6-7:30 p.m. Feb. 9 at 1100 W. Oak St. for those who want to start their own vegetable garden. Attendees will learn various garden styles and what plants to select. Register at zionsvillein.myrec.com/info/activities/ default.aspx. Cost is $5.

VALENTINE LUMINARY WALK

Zionsville Parks and Recreation will host a Valentine’s walk from 6-7:30 p.m. Feb. 13 at Creekside Nature Park. Couples, families and friends are all invited. The path will be lined with hundreds of luminaries. The event is free to attend.

POKEMON CARD SHOW

JT Bros will host a Pokemon card show from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 14 at the Zionsville American Legion.

DISPATCHES

 Zionsville Chamber survey — The Zionsville Chamber of Commerce is asking its members to complete a three-minute survey, available at tinyurl.com/bdfn4anh through Jan. 31.

 CFBC scholarships available — The Community Foundation of Boone County is accepting scholarship applications for the Class of 2026. Boone County seniors planning to pursue higher education — including four-year universities, community colleges and technical/trade programs — are encouraged to apply. For more, visit communityfoundationbc. org/search-and-apply.

 National Civics Bee — Applications are open for sixth- through eighth-grade students for the 2026 National Civics Bee. The initiative allows middle school students to compete in a nonpartisan, multiround competition on civics knowledge. The competition begins with a written essay leading to live events at the regional, state and national levels.

Finalists who advance to the National Championship in Washington, D.C., compete for cash prizes, national recognition and a $100,000 529 education savings plan contribution. The central Indiana regional competition is sponsored by the Zionsville Chamber of Commerce. The essay application portal is open through Feb. 3. Apply at tinyurl. com/3edwmbje.

 Awards nominations open — The Indiana Manufacturers Association is accepting nominations through April 30 for the 2026 Manufacturing Excellence Awards, which honor Indiana companies and individuals for outstanding work, exceptional contributions and impact on the future of manufacturing in Indiana. The awards are open to all manufacturers in Indiana. Anyone may nominate an individual/company active in Indiana’s manufacturing industry, and self-nomination is encouraged. For more, visit indianamfg.com/2026-manufacturing-excellence-awards.

COMMUNITY

REEL HEALING

By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com

Seated in a booth at the Boone County 4-H Fairgrounds, Tom Reust wrapped a small piece of carbon fiber material around a fishing rod. He then applied a heating gun to adhere the fiber to the rod, keeping the guides — a fly-fishing term for the loop-like pieces that hold the fishing line in place — down the shaft.

“I like how creative you can be with rod building,” Reust said.

Off to the side laid the handle of a rod Reust built. A gold metallic pattern ran a few inches up, just past the handle. Reust said it really shines when the sun hits it just right.

He constructed the rod and reel inside the Project Healing Waters booth during the Jan. 17 Heartland Fly Fishing Festival at the fairgrounds. Healing Waters is a national nonprofit that connects veterans through fly fishing, which serves as physical and emotional therapy.

“Had I not gotten involved with Healing Waters, I wouldn’t be here today,” Reust, a 24-year Army veteran from Indianapolis, said. “(When you’re fishing) you’re not thinking about your disability or PTSD or any of that stuff. It’s a great thing.”

The annual event, now in its ninth year, draws visitors and vendors from multiple states, including Michigan, Illinois and Tennessee.

Those who attend share a common passion — fly fishing.

“It puts you in the moment of what you’re doing,” Indianapolis resident Justin Kivett said. “It separates you from everything that’s going on.”

Kivett brought his wife and young daughter to the event. The entire family fly fishes. He pulled up a photo on his phone and showed it to Joe Smith, project lead for Healing Waters. It was a picture of his daughter with a trout — her first — that she caught in Eagle Creek.

The festival benefits the Indiana Program of Project Healing Waters FlyFishing.

Heartland Fly Fishing Festival therapeutic for veterans

“The idea is to (connect) vets to fly fishing, tie ties and get them out on the water,” said Smith, who helped found the Indiana chapter of Healing Waters.

“It’s a life-changing experience.”

Fly fishing differs significantly from its conventional counterpart. There are no lures or bobbers. Fly fishing rods are longer — 9 feet or so — and much more sensitive.

Instead of bait, fishermen use flies, which consist of materials like twine, deer hair, fur, feathers and foam wrapped around a hook. The size and appearance of a fly depends on the water, fish sought and user preference. They resemble literal flies, frogs, other insects, even birds.

Others are collector’s items. One booth featured a fly that resembled Pikachu.

A makeshift pond was set up inside the Witham Pavilion, where people could practice their casting with the help of instructors.

Jerry Selby, one of the instructors, said the art of casting is in the arms not the wrist. It’s a shift in weight between the rod and the line.

“There’s science to it, but you making it happen is the art,” he said.

The goal is to land a fly about eight inches past a fish, Selby said. Reeling the line mimics a bug traveling downstream into the fish’s line of sight.

Fly fishing is a more active way to fish versus conventional fishing. The rod is more reactive. It’s the fisherman’s job to pull the line through the surface of the water, which makes the fly imitate its intended bait.

“Sitting around waiting on a bobber

ABOUT PROJECT HEALING WATERS

Project Healing Waters was founded in 2005 for wounded military members returning home from combat in Afghanistan and Iraq. The organization uses fly fishing to foster mentorship, relationships and therapy for veterans. The program has expanded across

the country to include 7,000 veterans. There is a chapter in Indianapolis that hosts events and outings the third Saturday of the month. For more, visit projecthealingwaters.org/ or email Joe Smith at joseph.smith@projecthealingwaters.org.

is out of the question,” Smith said.

Fly fishing is a rehabilitative activity, not only for veterans but also for breast cancer survivors. Smith said fly fishing helps rebuild connective tissue.

Casting for Recovery, a national nonprofit, had a booth at the festival. The organization has fly fishing retreats for women with breast cancer.

Josh Franklin, an Air Force veteran, learned how to cast after attending the festival in 2020 and meeting Smith.

Franklin said fly fishing helps veterans find themselves, especially after years in the military.

“They tell you who you are,” Franklin said. “You absorb that for a long time.”

Franklin is a fly-fishing guide and certified casting instructor for Knee Deep Expeditions. He leads fly fishing trips to Mexico and Canada.

Multiple booths at the festival had information about guided fishing trips.

“It’s a really great way to learn the water and learn from an experienced instructor,” Smith said.

COVER:

Commentary by Larry Greene

This back porch renovation transformed a basic concrete patio into a finished outdoor living space. With added structure and thoughtful design details, the area now feels intentional, inviting and ready for everyday use.

THE BLUEPRINT

• The redesign ties the porch seamlessly to the home, creating a cohesive, intentional addition.

• A custom masonry fireplace anchors the space and extends its use beyond warmer months.

• Improved layout and flow strengthen the connection between the home and yard.

• Clean lines, neutral tones and layered stonework complement the existing exterior.

• The result is a low-maintenance outdoor retreat that turns the backyard into a destination.

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.

Carmel back porch: From bare to built-in comfort

CHS graduate embraces ‘Gatsby’ role

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Julia Ammons didn’t realize how connected she would feel to Daisy Buchanan until she started reading the script for “The Great Gatsby.”

“Daisy is someone based off of Zelda Fitzgerald,” Ammons said. “Daisy is described in the script as a classic manic depressive, which is an old term for bipolar disorder. I didn’t realize she was listed as that until I opened the script. I actually am bipolar, too.”

Ammons, a 2020 Carmel High School graduate and Carmel resident, plays Daisy in Civic Theatre’s production of “The Great Gatsby” Feb. 6-21 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The play, adapted by Simon Levy, is based on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel set in the 1920s.

“I had my eyes on Daisy from the moment I saw the show come up (on Civic’s schedule),” Ammons said.

Max McCreary plays Nick Carraway, Gatsby’s neighbor and Buchanan’s second cousin, once removed.

“Julia just shines such a light on the way that Daisy talks and how her brain works,” McCreary said. “It’s so clear what this person’s thought process is, it makes it so easy to be Julia’s scene partner.”

McCreary, a 2014 Zionsville Community High School graduate, was eager to explore Nick’s character as well and portray him as more than the story’s narrator.

“It’s a story that I’ve really loved and held to the chest for a long time,” he said. “I’m just a big fan of Fitzgerald’s writing. I love how the story is deeply human and messy.”

McCreary said he has intentionally not recently watched anyone else’s performances as Nick in the movies or on stage.

“Nick is a ride-along for so much of the show, especially in the first act,” he said. “It’s Nick just been thrown from one new social circumstance to another new social circumstance. He has to

pretty consistently reinvent himself to figure out who he is and how he relates to each different group of people.”

McCreary said he enjoys working through that journey with talented actors and director Devan Mathias.

Suraj Choudhary, a Broad Ripple resident, plays Jay Gatsby,

“I think people just remember a CliffsNotes version of what they read in high school,” he said. “He’s kind of a hopeless romantic for the American dream, more so than just for Daisy. As I get older, the book means so much more to me than it did when I read it as a teenager.”

Choudhary said while some view Gatsby as morally suspect, he doesn’t think Gatsby sees himself that way.

“I think he thinks he has to do whatever he can to be able to achieve the lifestyle that can win him the girl of his dreams and to be on the same level playing field as these people that likely have looked down on him most of his life,” Choudhary said.

Choudhary, 36, has performed in theater less than two years.

“This is my first character that isn’t very comedic,” he said.

Choudhary, a 2008 Lawrence North

Suraj Choudhary, left, and Julia Ammons appear in Civic Theatre’s “The Great Gatsby.” (Photo by Joshua Hasty Photography)

High School graduate, said he wishes he would have studied theater in high school and college.

“But people always told me the second-best time is now,” he said. “It’s something I find myself comfortable doing and I have had a lot of fun doing.”

Choudhary said Mathias helps actors explore their characters.

Mathias, a Fishers resident, is directing for the first time at Civic Theatre.

“It seems like a bit of a homecoming because this is the first place that I did any kind of acting when I moved to Indianapolis,” she said. “I love the people here. It’s like family.”

It’s the first time Mathias has been involved with a production of “The Great Gatsby.”

“It’s been kind of a journey of discovery,” she said. “I read the book in high school well enough to get decent grades on quizzes. I’ve really loved reacquainting myself with the story and how timely it is, especially regarding things like gender, class, race and how they kind of collide with the American dream.”

For more, visit civictheatre.org.

‘THE MOUSETRAP’

“The Mousetrap” runs through Feb. 15 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards. com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Vocalist and violinist Biana Pinchuk will perform Jan. 29, followed by Bashiri Asad, the Everyday Soul Singer Jan 30 and The Magic of David Ranalli Jan. 31 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘LUCKY STIFF’

Actors Theatre of Indiana presents “Lucky Stiff” Jan. 30 through Feb. 15 at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistage.org.

ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra with Ray Chen will perform at 8 p.m. Jan. 30 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘DIVAS OF SOUL’

“CeCe Teneal’s Divas of Soul” will perform at 8 p.m. Jan. 31 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘THE MONOLOGUE SHOW’

The Point Theater presents “The Monologue Show” Jan. 30 through Feb. 1 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.

SINGALONG BROADWAY

Singalong Broadway is set for 8 p.m. Jan. 29 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. For more, hendrickslive.org.

Couple star in ‘Lucky Stiff’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Logan Hill and Jacob Butler don’t have problems creating chemistry on the stage.

The couple, who have lived together in Lawrence for five years, play a couple in Actors Theatre of Indiana’s presentation of the musical farce “Lucky Stiff,” which runs Jan. 30 to Feb. 15 at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

“This is our ninth show we’ve worked on together as actors and our third show playing opposite each other,” Hill said. “As actors, we are always bouncing ideas off of one another for character work, so it’s nice when we’re both locked in on the same script. We’re one another’s biggest supporters, and experiencing the entire process together — seeing the talent and growth of the other — makes it all the more fulfilling.

Butler said he loves working with Hill.

“When you go into a show process having that foundational trust with your scene partner, you feel like you can

make acting choices, even if they are bad choices, without fear of judgment and you can experiment and grow in the scenes together,” he said.

Butler plays Harry Witherspoon, who inherits a fortune from his Uncle Anthony but must take his embalmed body to Monte Carlo to claim it. Carmel resident Sam Arce plays the corpse.

Hill plays Annabel, who tries to convince Witherspoon to donate the inheritance to the Universal Dog Home she represents For more, visit atistage.org.

15. “If all ___ fails...”

16. Carmel home construction business

19. Fishers-to-Ft. Wayne dir.

20. Sandwich letters

21. Butler cheerleader’s need

24. Romanov ruler

27. “Like a Rolling Stone” singer

31. Ratio involving ht. and

wt.

32. Academy Awards

34. Tide type

35. Part of SUV

37. Clean air org.

38. Taj Mahal city

39. Zionsville painting studio

42. Gaelic tongue

43. Small battery

44. Update cartography

46. Up to, informally

47. Salsa brand

49. Night school subj.

50. “Father of the Symphony”

52. North Carolina college

53. Pig’s digs

54. Apt. units

56. Top card

58. Keystone Avenue

home decor and gift shop

66. “You betcha!”

67. On the briny

68. Amber Indian Restaurant bread

69. Orchard fruit

70. Inter

71. Email command DOWN

1. Hoosier Hysteria mo.

2. “___ we there yet?”

3. Since 1/1

4. Publishing ID

5. Gentle touch

6. Concealed

7. Mess up

8. “Butt out,” briefly

9. Southpaw

10. Boxing legend

11. ISP option

12. Wooden pin

17. The whole shebang

18. Pioneer automaker

21. WFYI net.

22. Marketplaces

23. With devoutness

25. Transparent sheet

26. “The Crucifixion” painter

28. Peas and beans

29. Side-by-side

30. Pacers org.

33. “Norma ___”

36. GPS reading

38. Union Brewing Company brew

40. Distant

41. Bird’s perch

42. Biblical verb suffix

45. Thickness

47. Treater’s words

48. “Get lost!”

51. Laundromat fixture

55. Thick piece

57. Ages and ages

58. Recipe meas.

59. Color quality

60. Historic time

61. Baton Rouge sch.

62. “___ the ramparts...”

63. Mideast inits.

64. ___ Diego

65. Colts lineman ANSWERS ON PAGE 15

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Couple enjoys ‘artsy’ lifestyle

By Ken Severson editorial@youarecurrent.com

John and Peg Gould enjoy the arts and crafts opportunities at the Sycamore Reserve Senior Living Center in Indianapolis.

Peg is into art and John enjoys crafts. The couple moved to Sycamore Reserve last September.

“I drove by the Sycamore. I checked it out and they sold me instantly,” said John, 89. “We love it here. These are our family here.”

Peg, 83, agreed.

“The staff, residents, everyone is great and so welcoming,” she said. “There’s always some great entertainment going on here, which we like.”

John, an Oregon native, served his country twice in different capacities. He first served in the U.S. Army in 64th Armor Division. At the conclusion of that enlistment, he joined the U.S. Air Force. Following his military service, John had a long career as a painter and dry wall installer. He retired less than a year ago.

Continued on Page 4

Spiritually connect with us at 4 p.m. daily for Mass in our beautiful chapel. Our community also offers various dining venues, a state-of-the-art aquatic center, and wellness programs for endless opportunities and it’s all just steps from your front door

Winter foot care for seniors

Commentary by Dr. David Sullivan and Dr. Kenneth Stumpf

As winter approaches, it’s essential for individuals 55 and older to pay closer attention to their foot health. Cold weather can exacerbate existing foot conditions and create new challenges. Here’s how you can prioritize your podiatric care this winter season. First and foremost, moisture control is vital. Cold weather often leads to dry skin, which can cause cracks and fissures, especially for seniors whose skin may already be more delicate. To combat this, ensure you keep your feet moisturized. Use a hospital-grade foot cream that is rich and hydrating but remember to apply it carefully to avoid between-toe moisture buildup, which can lead to fungal infections.

Additionally, proper footwear is crucial during winter. Choose shoes that provide ample support and warmth without sacrificing comfort. Look for nonslip soles to prevent falls on icy surfaces and avoid shoes with high heels or inadequate arch support. If you’re struggling to find the right fit, don’t hesitate to seek advice from your podiatrist, who can recommend appropriate options tailored to your needs.

Another concern for seniors during winter is the prevalence of conditions like arthritis and neuropathy, which can be exacerbated by cold weather. It’s essential to engage in gentle foot exercises to improve circulation and flexibility.

“Look for nonslip soles to prevent falls on icy surfaces and avoid shoes with high heels or inadequate arch support.”

Even simple stretching can make a big difference in relieving discomfort. Lastly, regular checkups with a podiatrist cannot be overstated. Seasonal foot assessments can help catch any developing issues early, ensuring you remain active and healthy throughout the winter months. At our podiatry practice, we understand the unique challenges faced by our senior patients. We offer comprehensive foot care tailored specifically for those 55 and older, focusing on maintaining movement and improving quality of life.

Don’t let winter take a toll on your feet. Prioritize your foot health today -your feet will thank you!

appt@westfieldfoot.com or 317-896-6655.

Common New Year’s goals — and the values behind them

Commentary by Valerie J. Weesner

As the start of a new year has arrived, many of us feel the familiar pressure to reflect and set goals for the New Year. As a clinician, I’m often asked whether patients “should” be setting New Year’s goals. My answer is … it depends. My initial instinct was to talk about intentions instead of goals. But after sitting with it longer, I realized something important: Before intentions, before goals, we need to talk about values.

Why start with values Instead of goals?

While I specialize in working with individuals with eating disorders and frequently write about Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) recovery, this reflection is for anyone who finds themselves about to sit down to write out goals for the new year. Before you ask, “What should I change?” or “What should I work on?” I invite you to ask a deeper question, “What is worth the energy in the first place?”

Common New Year’s goals

and the values behind them

You may be familiar with these common goals: Eating healthier, exercising more or improving mental health. Often, they reflect values like health, happiness, productivity or appearance. None of these are “wrong.” But when goals aren’t clearly connected to our core values, they tend to fade quickly. What are values and how do we identify them?

Values are the principles that matter most to us. They guide how we want to live, not just what we want to accomplish. A clinically supported way to

identify values is the Personal Values Card Sort, developed by William R. Miller. This exercise involves sorting value cards by importance to help you identify what truly matters to you.

From values – intentions – goals –action steps

Imagine one of your top values is “family.” You might notice you don’t spend as much quality time together as you’d like, you’re distracted by work when you are together or your physical or emotional health limits how present you can be. The first thing to do is ask yourself, “How do I want to live out my value of “family” this year?” This question naturally leads to intentions, such as being more present during family time, creating space for meaningful connection or having the energy to engage fully. From there, goals begin to make sense, such as exercising regularly to support stamina and energy; eating more meals at home; or intentionally budgeting to afford family experiences. And then come specific action steps, such as moving your body three times per week; setting reminders to plan

family time; or prioritizing health care

Why the approach actually works

When goals are disconnected from values, they often drift away — especially by February. But when goals are rooted in values, hey feel meaningful, they align with who you are and they’re easier to return to after setbacks. Instead of chasing goals that social media tells us we should want, we create goals that support the life we actually want to live. A different way forward this new year I encourage you to pause before writing a list of resolutions. Start with values. Let values guide intentions. Let intentions shape goals. Let goals turn into doable action steps. Values come from our core, and when we think about ways to support those values, we have much more reason and ability to hang on to them and make them happen.

Continued from Page 3

“I figured it was time to stop, so I quit six months ago,” John said. “I had my own business in Hawaii and worked all over there, including Pearl Harbor and I painted high rises in Waikiki.”

John also was a potter and had a home-brew alcohol business.

Peg worked as an artist, painting landscapes, birds and wildlife. She recently suffered a stroke and is taking a break from painting while recovering.

“I did it for pleasure and worked in oil painting, and in fact, that’s how I met John,” Peg said.

Peg was an arts teacher, and she met John when he enrolled in one of her classes.

The couple had a daughter and a son after they got married. John has five sons and a daughter from a previous marriage who live across the U.S.

“We’re looking forward to the rest of our stay at Sycamore,” Peg said. “It’s just a wonderful place to live and have a great time.”

For more, visit sycamorereserve.com.

“We’re looking forward to the rest of our stay at Sycamore. It’s just a wonderful place to live and have a great time.” —

Peg Gould

Preparing for the transition into retirement

Commentary by Margaret Gooley Vice President and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Reify Wealth Advisors

Retirement is often described as a destination, but in reality, it’s a transition—one that blends financial readiness with emotional resilience. It isn’t simply the end of work, but rather it’s the beginning of a new identity, a new rhythm, and a new relationship with money. After decades of working, saving, and building a life around career and family, stepping into this next chapter can feel both exciting and unfamiliar. In our experience as financial planners, preparing for this next phase of life means looking beyond the numbers and understanding the psychological shifts that also come with this major change.

Many retirees begin in a phase referred to as the “honeymoon”. The calendar suddenly opens up, travel plans that had been postponed finally take shape, there’s free time for hobbies and long-delayed projects. This is a wonderful season, but it often comes with higher-than-expected spending. While it’s natural to want to celebrate this newfound freedom, it’s wise to plan ahead so you can enjoy life without stressing about how spending in your early years will impact later years in retirement. Cash flow planning and staying within a safe rate of withdrawal so your portfolio will last your lifetime is essential.

Work also provides more than just a paycheck. In most cases it also offers purpose, routine, connection, and a sense of contribution. When that disappears, many retirees experience a subtle but real sense of identity loss. The shift from being needed every day to having wideopen time can be disorienting. This is where emotional preparation becomes essential. Before retiring, we suggest figuring out how you will spend your days. Consider experimenting with new roles. Volunteer, mentor, take classes, or join community groups. Think of it as building a “portfolio of purpose.” Just as you diversify your investments, you should diversify the sources of meaning in your life. Retirement is not an end to purpose, but an opportunity to redefine it on your own terms.

Even the most detailed retirement plan can be thrown off by unexpected expenses. Healthcare costs rise faster than inflation. Home repairs tend to cluster at the most inconvenient times. Adult children may need financial support. And lifestyle spending, especially travel, dining, and entertainment, often exceeds what people predicted.

The key is flexibility. A good retirement plan isn’t rigid; it adapts. So, revisit your spending annually and adjust as needed to stay on track. Even in retirement, it’s important to have an emergency fund, separate from your investment accounts, which is replenished over time if ever used. Surprises don’t have to be setbacks when you plan ahead. Retirement no longer means leaving your job and sitting in an easy chair. Today’s retirees are redefining what retirement looks like. Many people discover they don’t want to stop working entirely but instead want to work differently. This may mean transitioning into parttime consulting, seasonal jobs, or passiondriven side businesses, which can offer structure, connection, and supplemental income. Others may choose phased retirement, gradually reducing hours over several years. These approaches can ease the emotional transition and reduce pressure on your savings.

At its core, retirement planning isn’t about accumulating the biggest nest egg. It’s about using your resources to live meaningfully. That requires clarity about what matters most to you. Ask yourself questions like:

• What experiences do I want to prioritize?

• How do I want to spend my time, and with whom?

• What legacy do I want to leave, financially or otherwise?

When your money supports your purpose, financial decisions become clearer and more fulfilling. Some can afford more adventure or generosity than they imagined and others find joy in simplifying. There is no “right” way to retire. It’s a unique experience that depends on the individual. Preparing both financially and emotionally ensures that you step into this chapter with confidence, clarity, and excitement for what comes next.

Anyone can dream of retirement. Reify helps make it real.

“Reify” means to make an abstract idea concrete—and that’s exactly what we do at Reify Wealth Advisors. Whether you envision a flexible semi retirement, travel-filled years, or simply the peace of knowing you’re financially prepared, Reify helps turn

that vision into reality with personalized retirement planning tailored to your unique goals and lifestyle.

CERVICAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

By Dr. Lisa Landrum, gynecologic oncologist at the IU Health Joe & Shelly Schwarz Cancer Center in Carmel

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness

Month, a time to focus on prevention, early detection and treatment of a disease that remains a serious health concern for women. While cervical cancer is largely preventable, it still claims thousands of lives each year. For all women including those aged 55 and older, understanding your risk and staying proactive about screenings is essential.

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide and one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths. In the United States, about 11,500 women are diagnosed annually, and roughly 4,000 die from the disease. The encouraging news is that most cases can be prevented through vaccination and routine screening. Education and early action are key to reducing these numbers.

WHAT IS CERVICAL CANCER?

The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Cervical cancer usually begins when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably, often triggered by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common virus transmitted through sexual contact, and persistent infection with high-risk strains can lead to cancer. While HPV is the primary cause, other factors can increase your risk. Smoking, multiple full-term pregnancies, long-term use of oral contraceptives, early sexual activity or multiple partners, a weakened immune system and certain medications used for miscarriage prevention all play a role. For women over 55, risk does not disappear. In fact, cervical cancer can occur later in life, especially if screenings have been inconsistent.

WHY ARE SCREENINGS IMPORTANT?

Routine screening remains critical—even beyond age 55. A Pap test every three years is recommended for women aged 21 to 65, and HPV testing every five years, or a combined Pap/HPV test every five years for those aged 30 to 65. If you are over 65, talk to your healthcare provider. Screening may still be necessary depending on your health history. Early cervical cancer often has no symptoms, which

is why screening is so important. Advanced disease may cause vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods or after menopause; watery, bloody discharge with an unpleasant odor; and pelvic pain or pain during intercourse. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS?

Treatment options have advanced significantly. At IU Health, patients have access to comprehensive care, including surgery to remove cancerous tissue, radiation therapy and brachytherapy, chemotherapy and immunotherapy for certain cases. Treatment plans are personalized, and continuity of care ensures that the same physician often guides you from diagnosis through recovery. This approach provides reassurance and consistency during what can be an overwhelming time.

Prevention remains one of the most powerful tools in the fight against cervical cancer. The HPV

vaccine is highly effective and, while typically recommended for younger individuals, adults up to age 45 may still benefit. In addition to vaccination, lifestyle choices matter. Avoid smoking, practice safe intercourse and maintain regular health checkups. These steps may seem simple, but they can significantly reduce your risk and improve overall health.

HOW CAN YOU TAKE ACTION?

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month is more than a calendar event. It’s a reminder to prioritize your well-being. If you haven’t had a Pap or HPV test recently, schedule one. Share this information with friends and family. Early detection saves lives, and prevention starts with awareness. Taking action today can make all the difference tomorrow. For more information or to schedule a screening, visit iuhealth.org/cervical-cancer.

Architecture designer builds pro physique

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Gary Nance, an architecture designer, deter mined several years ago that he had gained too much weight.

“I was 280 pounds and had a 54-inch waist,” he said.

Nance, 72, started working out at a gym in Fishers before moving to Carmel 10 years ago.

“After losing weight for a year, there was a gym member that was going to be in a bodybuilding contest, so a bunch of us went to support him,” said Nance, who lost more than 70 pounds.

Shortly thereafter, he was encouraged by fellow gym members to enter a bodybuilding contest the following year.

“I said, ‘You’re out of your mind,’” Nance said. “But they said, ‘No, you’d be perfect.’ I talked to my wife about it and she said, ‘Look what it’s done for you so far, let’s see what happens.’ Little did she know at the time that you start work ing out it becomes addictive because you’re transforming yourself mentally, physically and spiritually.”

Nance entered his first competition a year later, placing fourth. He finished second in competitions each of the next two years. Then, he got first place and an overall achieve ment award.

“By then, I’m hooked and ready for a big show in March 2020 and got slammed with COVID,” he said. “I was one of the first (people) to be on the ventilator in the state. At that time, being on the ventilator was the kiss of death.”

Nance was in a coma for 22 days.

“Had I been what I call myself ‘Heavy Gary,’ I wouldn’t have survived it,” he said. “I was in rehab for months and I was in a wheelchair. Most people would give up, and a year later I was back on stage.”

Continued on Page 11

“Had I been what I call myself ‘Heavy Gary,’ I wouldn’t have survived it. … Most people would give up, and a year later I was back on stage.”

— Gary Nance

Continued from Page 10

Nance got media attention for beating COVID-19 and being able to resume his amateur bodybuilding career.

Nance said he had colon trouble and developed a sharp pain in his abdomen during a show with friends in Las Vegas in 2023.

After an excruciating flight home, he went to St. Vincent Hospital in Carmel to meet his doctor.

“I got there at 9 at night and by midnight, I was in the operating room,” he said. “A clot had lodged around my colon and killed the blood supply to half of my colon. Had I waited until the morning to see my doctor, they said I would not have seen the sun come up.”

With the help of his Agents of Change trainers George and Meredith Cristo, Nance got back in shape and won his division at a bodybuilding competition in Carmel in 2024. Several days later, he won his division at a large show in New Jersey and earned his pro card.

“Once you get your pro card, you start making money,” he said. “It’s not a huge amount but it puts you on an entirely new level.”

Nance competed in his first pro event in Carmel in the summer of 2025 and won his division.

In August, he will compete in Fort Walton, Fla., followed by the International Federation of Bodybuilding Pro Masters World Championship Sept. 6 in Pittsburgh.

Nance said he has been asked why he doesn’t quit.

“That excitement and exuberance has been such a motivating factor for so many people that go to my websites,” he said.

Nance details his bodybuilding story on garynance.com, and his designs are on garynancedesign.com.

Nance said was contacted by CMG Worldwide, a licensing and legacy management company that represents him for speaking engagements and videos. He said there is interest in a Netflix documentary.

“I think that’s the purpose of me surviving these kinds of horrific illnesses and to keep going,” he said of sharing his story of perseverance.

Nance said he has tremendous support from his wife, Nancy, and family.

His daughter, Taylor Nance, a Carmel resident, helps with his design business and works with CMG Worldwide. His son, Nick Nance, and his wife and

DEVOTED TO DESIGNING

Architecture designer Gary Nance said he knew he was going to design houses since he was a little kid.

“I had drawings when I was in third or fourth grade,” he said. “I was always playing with the blocks and knew some kind of design and architecture was in my life.”

Nance, who owns Gary Nance Design in Carmel, worked for a large commercial architecture firm in Chicago for about 12 years.

“I had my heart set to come back to Indianapolis, start our family and start this design architecture business,” he said. “I’ve been lucky. About 35 percent of my business is out of state, and it’s unique projects. I only do unique homes around here. My main thrust is vacation homes.”

Nance has designed several lake homes around Wawasee and Culver and northern Michigan.

“I just finished a big winery in Upstate New York for a client, which was pretty exciting,” he said.

Nance also does some light commercial work. He has been commissioned to design a welcoming sculpture in Elanco headquarters in Indianapolis.

“I did a unique design of a table and family because they go land to table,” he said.

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Estate planning resolutions to start 2026 with confidence

Commentary by Sadiyah Ahmad

The start of a new year often inspires fresh goals and new priorities. It’s also a perfect opportunity to take a thoughtful step toward protecting your family and planning for the future. Estate planning is a meaningful way to honor your wishes, support your loved ones, and build your legacy.

A truly effective estate plan goes beyond paperwork. It’s about securing peace of mind for you and your loved ones. When you clearly state your wishes, you may reduce confusion, stress, or conflict in emotional situations. Whether you are planning for the first time or revisiting plans you already have, the new year is an ideal opportunity to review and refresh your documents to ensure they’re accurately reflecting your wishes.

As 2026 unfolds, consider the following estate planning resolutions:

• Plan for contingencies that may happen during your lifetime. Appoint a trusted financial power of attorney that can manage your financial affairs if needed. Designate a health care proxy who will honor your medical goals of care in situations where you cannot make medical decisions for yourself. Discuss your goals of care with your loved ones so they understand your wishes. Even if it may feel far away, consider what resources and support you may need if you need long-term care.

• Plan for contingencies that may happen posthumously. Review pay on death, transfer on death, and beneficiary designations on the assets you own to ensure they will be distributed according to your wishes. Create or revise a will or trust that is consistent with how you intend to distribute your prop-

“By planning for these situations now, you can move through 2026 with confidence, knowing your legacy and loved ones are protected.” — Sadiyah Ahmad

erty. If you have minor children or are a legal guardian, designate a backup guardian that will support those who rely on you for care. For pet owners, remember to designate someone to either take care of or rehome your pet.    By planning for these situations now, you can move through 2026 with confidence, knowing your legacy and loved ones are protected. The team at Dillman & Owen Estate and Elder Law is here to help you plan today to secure a clear path forward for tomorrow.

The information in this article is for general educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws and individual circumstances vary. If you need guidance about your specific situation, please contact an experienced Estate Planning attorney, such as the team at Dillman & Owen Estate & Elder Law.

Couple born to teach

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Ann and Dick Frey devoted their lives to teaching and servicing others.

The Freys, who have lived at The Stratford of Carmel for four years, previously lived in a Carmel apartment for three years. They moved to Carmel because their son, Donald, and his wife, Gina, live in Carmel with their three children. They also have a son, Charles, who lives near Pasadena, Calif.

The couple lived in Brockport, N.Y., for 37 years. Dick, 85, was a professor in the criminal justice department at State University of New York at Brockport for 25 years, retiring in 2005. He taught law and political science courses. Ann, 82, taught at a Catholic school in Rochester N.Y., and Brockport High School. She also was an adjunct professor at SUNY Brockport and retired in 2005.

Dick, who is from Evanston, Ill., earned his undergraduate degree at Cornell University, a law degree from the University of Texas in 1966 and

Jeffery P. Schoonover, MD

Ryan Pilkey, FNP-BC

passed the bar exam in Oregon but never practiced law.

After getting his law degree, he spent three years at officer candidate school in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, becoming a lieutenant in an armor division. He didn’t serve in a tank unit but taught basics at Fort Lewis in Washington.

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“I decided I didn’t want to practice law, I wanted to be a college professor,” he said. “I used the G.I. bill to go to graduate school to get a master’s degree at (the) University of Oregon.”

Continued on Page 14

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It was there he met Ann, who was going to graduate school to get her master’s in political science and international relations. They married in December 1970 and moved to Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., in 1974 for four years.

“They had me teaching criminal justice classes and I decided that was my focus,” Dick said.

Dick taught in the criminal justice department at Washington State University. Ann spent one semester as a sorority cook, which included housing, but then got a call about being an adjunct professor at Washington State.

“I would cook, I would go teach and then would

come back and cook dinner,” she said.

Ann, who grew up in Everett, Wash., attended Western Washington University. She served two years in the Peace Corps in Tanzania in East Africa before attending Oregon.

“One of the things we started doing at Oregon was working with prisoners,” she said. “I taught a couple classes at Oregon State Penitentiary.”

Dick worked in New Gate, a pre-parole program where inmates were released to a halfway house.

In retirement, Dick pursued programs for prisoners. Rochester (N.Y.) Interfaith Jail Ministry sponsored one of the programs.

“In one of the prisons nearby, we would go in once a week and work with them,” he said. “One of the

programs was a secular program that just tried to deal with the problems they were having that (inmates) might confront when they got out, so I was trying to get them to be more aware of that.”

Ann became involved with a literacy program teaching English to inmates.

At The Stratford, she teaches class once a week helping some of the housekeeping staff learn English.

The Freys were involved in their Episcopal church in Brockport. Since moving to Carmel, they are active members at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church.

Ann is involved in one of the book clubs at The Stratford. Dick plays in a nine-hole recreational golf league. They play bridge together, but Dick also plays bridge at the Bridge Center in Indianapolis. Continued from Page 13

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CHS seniors use music to entertain seniors

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Carmel High School seniors Oliv and Alex Widjaja saw how much joy music gave their grandparents.

“My grandparents live overseas (in Indonesia), and I love playing piano for them over FaceTime,” Alex said. “Oliv and I decided to start Play It Forward so we could share the joy of music with other people in our community. We started the club last summer with only five members and have expanded to over 50 members in just a few months.”

Oliv would play the guitar or piano on those FaceTime calls. She said those moments were when she spent the closest to them.

“Alex and I wanted to bring that same joy to other grandparents,” Oliv said. “Spreading joy through music became our mission, and that’s what inspired us to start Play It Forward.

The twin sisters started Play It Forward in July 2025. It is a club of student musicians who perform for seniors in the community.

“So far, we’ve visited eight different senior homes, most of which have invited us back in the coming months,” Oliv said. “We would love to visit more senior homes, too.”

Oliv said Play It Forward is independent from CHS’s performing arts programs, but some of its members are in the school’s choirs, orchestras and bands.

“Throughout the first semester of this

school year, we’ve recruited 51 members in total,” Oliv said. “We usually have around five to 10 members play at each performance, and members may play more than one song.”

Alex said members play a variety of instruments, including piano, guitar, violin and clarinet.

“Some of our performers sing while playing their instrument, while others just play their instrument by itself,” Alex said.

Oliv said members can collaborate with each other, which has produced some fun instrument combinations.

The Stratford of Carmel is among the senior centers where Play It Forward has performed.

“Play It Forward and similar groups provide a vital intergenerational bridge that enhances the well-being of our senior residents by combating social isolation and fostering a renewed sense of purpose,” The Stratford Social Director Trilce Schneirla said. “Through these intentional and relational connections, residents have the opportunity to share their lifetime of wisdom and stories with a younger generation, while students bring a vibrant, youthful energy that stimulates cognitive engagement and emotional joy. This partnership creates a social web where both generations feel truly known and supported, transforming a simple visit into a meaningful relationship-building experience that enriches the cultural fabric of our community.”

For more on the group, visit @playitforward_chs on Instragram or email playitforwardchs@gmail.com.