September 23, 2025 — Current in Noblesville

LEAVING A LEGACY

Here’s what you can expect from Riley Children’s Health emergency care in Fishers:

n A pediatric emergency unit located next to the existing IU Health Fishers emergency department.

n Spaces designed just for kids—including a children’s entrance, waiting room, eight exam rooms and four observation rooms for patients who may require a longer stay.

n Pediatric providers and nurses staffing the unit 24/7, with support of social workers, respiratory therapists, radiologists, general emergency medicine physicians and more.

Learn more at rileychildrens.org/FishersEmergency

n Child Life Specialists who address the psychosocial and emotional needs of both kids and families in an emergency setting.

Try our Campfire Pizza!

The pizza that won the Best Classic Pizza in America at the World Pizza Championship in Parma, Italy!

Family of paralyzed teen battling HOA

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

A former Westfield family is in a dispute with the homeowners association of their new neighborhood, Morse Pointe in Noblesville, about the design of an accessibility ramp for their new home.

ACCESSIBILITY

The dispute comes after the parents of Corban Phillips, 17, had designs for a ramp denied by the HOA. Although a lawsuit hasn’t been filed, attorneys for both sides are trying to reach a solution, according to April Phillips, Corban’s mom.

Corban was paralyzed after a trampoline accident last year.

“Corban needs a ramp that comes slightly out the door on a platform, makes a right turn and ends in a U-shape that brings him to a flat surface,” April said. “Along with that, our contractor said the style of ramp we designed leaves open space for a deck so Corban can get fresh air.”

When the family submitted designs to the HOA in July, April said the designs were rejected.

“We felt interrogated during our meeting with the HOA,” April said. “One thing that was said was, ‘You guys bought a home knowing that there was not a front porch on it and knowing that there was not a ramp on it. How did you intend to enjoy the front yard?’ There were many questions about aesthetics and what the other neighbors would think.”

April said the HOA denied the family’s design, saying it was too large and would affect the aesthetic of the neighborhood. The HOA proposed a new design where the ramp would go straight out the front door and end by crossing the driveway in an L shape, which the family’s contractor deemed unsafe.

“Their ramp design was so steep that if (Corban) was to go down it, he would fly down and end on a slope on the driveway, taking up half of our two-car garage,” April said. “Their solution for access to the front yard was a small square next to the driveway, not out in the middle of the yard amongst the trees and shade.”

When the family and HOA could not come to an agreement, attorneys became involved and are trying to come to a resolution.

USPS job fair — The United States Postal Service will host job fairs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept 26 at several locations in central Indiana. The USPS is filling immediate openings for rural carrier associates and/or assistant rural carriers paying up to $20.38 per hour plus some benefits. Job fairs are at USPS facilities at 8500 E. 116th St. in Fishers; 1900 Pleasant St. in Noblesville; 1475 W. Oak St. in Zionsville; and 411 Northfield Dr. in Brownsburg. Job seekers can ask questions and receive assistance, but applications must be submitted at usps.com/ careers.

“The HOA is not denying a ramp,” April said. “They’re not denying him access in and out of the home. What they are denying is the ramp that has been deemed safest for him. They’re also denying equal access to the front yard.”

In a statement to Current, the Morse Pointe HOA said its goal is to make residents in the neighborhood feel at home.

“We support accessibility for all our residents,” the statement reads. “When we met with the family, we thought we were headed to a resolution. We look forward to working with the homeowners and quickly approving a ramp design.”

The family is in temporary housing and scheduled to move into the home by Oct. 31.

“If the ramp is not ready by the time we move in, that means Corban cannot be left home alone at all,” April said. “There is an exit through the patio door that goes to the backyard and a door that goes out of the garage through the kitchen, but in the event that the kitchen was on fire, he’d be stuck. It prevents him from getting to the front yard and enjoying his property independently.”

April said her primary goal is obtaining the safest design for her son while advocating for others with disabilities.

“I think in this situation there’s a big gap in understanding what the Americans with Disabilities Act truly means, and how those laws and policies affect people,” April said. “Nobody ever thinks that they’re ever going to be denied safe and equal access.”

Quilt show — The Mudsock Quilters Guild will have its annual quilt show from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 8 at Cornerstone Lutheran Church in Fishers, 13450 E. 116th Street. More than 300 quilts will be on display, made by guild members over the course of the year. At the conclusion of the show, quilts will be donated to Community North Hospital for distribution to people who are hospitalized over the holidays. Door prizes will be awarded throughout the day. Vendors also will be available for anyone interested in doing holiday shopping. Entry is a $5 cash donation. For more, email pritchettm1959@gmail.com.

About us

Founded Sept. 15, 2009, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XVII, No. 2

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Pacers, Boom launch Math Hoops at Hinkle Creek Board reviews survey, fees

By Jessica Todd • jessica@youarecurrent.com

The Noblesville Schools Board of Trustees reviewed a pillar of the district’s strategic plan and approved consumable fees at its Sept. 16 meeting. The next Noblesville Schools Board of Trustees meeting is at 6 p.m. Oct. 28 in the Noblesville Schools Educational Services Center board room, 18025 River Rd.

What happened: Noblesville Schools Executive Director of Student Services Julie Thacker presented an update regarding the compassionate care and support pillar of the district’s strategic plan.

What it means: Thacker said the district is participating in Project AWARE, a federally funded program to enhance student mental health and well-being by improving school infrastructure, staff training and access to services. Through Project AWARE, staff surveys were conducted last year and this year to understand staff awareness and attitudes about student mental health and well-being, explore staff’s ability to identify and address student needs and learn perceptions of availability of programs and services in schools and the community.

What’s next: The district will use the survey results to determine best practices to support student and staff mental health. View survey results at tinyurl. com/mevs2b66

What happened: The board approved consumable fees for the 2025-26 school year.

What it means: The state now allows school corporations to assess and collect a fee for consumable supplies and materials that are not curricular materials. School and district leaders have reviewed all K-12 consumable supplies and materials, calculated per student costs for items and used the results to establish fees.

What’s next: Fees will vary by student depending on grade level and courses. All fees will be billed in October.

news@currentnoblesville.com

The Pacers Foundation, in partnership with the Noblesville Boom, launched the 2025-26 NBA Math Hoops season at Hinkle Creek Elementary School Sept. 11, bringing basketball-inspired learning to life for nearly 150 local students.

EDUCATION

Matt Waweru, Pacers corporate communications & media relations manager, said NBA Math Hoops is a fast-paced board game and curriculum developed by Learn Fresh, supported by the Pacers Foundation and the Eli Lilly Foundation. The program turns learning into a team sport by engaging students in math by using real NBA and WNBA player statistics to solve problems and make strategic plays.

“It’s exciting to see the launch of NBA Math Hoops align with the Noblesville Boom’s first season in the community,” stated Corey Wilson, Pacers senior vice

president of community engagement and Pacers Foundation board member.

“This program gives kids an opportunity to learn math alongside how to think critically, work together and build confidence, all through the game of basketball.”

Students can independently access NBA Math Hoops by downloading the program’s mobile app at no cost on any Android or iOS device.

HSE makes library board appointment

news@currentnoblesville.com

Hamilton Southeastern Schools Corp. Board of School Trustees President Juanita Albright appointed Fishers financial advisor Michael Zahm as the school district’s representative on the Hamilton East Public Library Board of Trustees.

EDUCATION

Zahm succeeds Andre Miksha, who has completed a three-year term on the HEPL board. According to a Sept. 10 announcement from HSE, Zahm will build on Miksha’s work as he steps into the role.

“Michael Zahm is a lifelong educator and community-minded leader whose experience aligns with HEPL’s mission to be a welcoming, literacy-focused resource for every resident,” Albright stated. “His track record in HSE classrooms and buildings, as well as his continued service in our community, make him an excellent choice to represent HSE Schools in this capacity.”

Zahm has more than three decades of education and leadership experience, according to the announcement. He earned a

bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Ball State University, a master’s degree in educational leadership and curriculum design from the University of Oregon and his principal’s license graduate courses at Butler University.

He served as an elementary school principal at Hamilton Southeastern Schools from 1998 to 2014 before becoming a financial advisor.

“I am honored to serve and to give back to the Fishers community that has given so much to me,” Zahm stated. “I look forward to supporting the library’s staff and board as we continue to strengthen literacy and learning across our community.”

Under Indiana law, the HSE board president appoints one trustee to the HEPL board; two appointments each are made by Noblesville Schools, the Hamilton County Council and the Hamilton County Commissioners. The HEPL board typically meets the fourth Thursday of each month at 6:15 p.m., alternating between the Fishers and Noblesville libraries.

Zahm’s appointment runs through August 2029.

Halloween carnivals returns

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

The Hamilton County 4-H Junior Leaders have announced the return of the annual Community Halloween Carnival. The Community Halloween Carnival will feature games, costumes, treats, haunted houses and hayrides, among other activities, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 7 at the Hamilton County 4-H Fairgrounds in Noblesville, 2003 Pleasant St.

EVENT

Admission is free. Youth ages 10 and under should be accompanied by an adult and are encouraged to come in costume.

Kathleen Bohde, 4-H youth development extension educator, said the event has been going on for more than 20 years.

“Our junior leaders run the whole event,” Bohde said. “We have chairmans over our carnival portion of the event, where we have many different carnival games. We have youth that will lead those carnival games to keep it organized. Our head chairman will continue to make sure that people have the supplies they need.”

Bodhe said the carnival had a hiatus in

Halloween

2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic, which allowed them to reorganize and relaunch the event.

The Hamilton County 4-H Junior Leaders Program is for those in grades 7 through 12 who are interested in exploring leadership skills, communication skills and engagement with peers their age. Bodhe said as participants cycle through, the carnival grows and changes.

For more, call 317-776-0854 or visit extension.purdue.edu/county/hamilton.

celebration returns

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Noblesville Parks & Recreation will present Halloween at Forest Park from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 24 at Forest Park in Noblesville, 701 Cicero Rd. Admission is free.

EVENT

Halloween at Forest Park will feature free activities such as hayrides and inflatables. Food vendors will have items available for purchase.

“We’ll have our kids zone where (Master Yoo’s World Class Tae Kwon Do) will be breaking boards,” said Parker Irwin, Noblesville Parks recreation program coordinator.

“We’re going to get the fire pits out this year, so there will be more traditional fall activities than there were last year. There’s some new skeleton displays that are going to pop up and our signage is all new this year. There will be a DJ throughout the night. We want to keep people there as long as we can to have a good time.”

This is the second year for the event.

“A long time ago, there was a Halloween event, and it kind of died off after COVID,” Irwin said. “We were looking to bring some

of our events back, and this one felt like a no-brainer.”

Community partners include the Nickel Plate Express; SERVE Noblesville; the Hamilton County Health Department; Hoosier Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation; and the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office.

Community members interested in donating candy for the event can drop it off at the Forest Park Inn, 701 Cicero Rd.

Businesses and local organizations interested in participating must register online at forms.office.com/g/daN3GfVTt5 by Sept. 30. The participation fee is $50, with the expectation that each business or local organization will provide a trick-or-treat item for at least 2,000 attendees.

The Noblesville Lions Club welcomed Ed and Sherry Sweetland, volunteers for Indy Honor Flight, at the Sept. 10 Lions club meeting. Veteran and Lions club member John Grimes, second from left, participated in Indy Honor Flight’s 45th trip to Washington, D.C., earlier this year. The purpose of IHF is to celebrate veteran service through a trip to see the memorials built in their honor. The program is 100 percent free for veterans. Attendees visit Arlington Cemetery for the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. They also visit the World War II memorial and the Vietnam wall. If time permits, they also visit the U.S. Air Force Museum and the Iwo Jima memorial, among others. For more, visit indyhonorflight.org. (Photo courtesy of Lisa Dick)

Stabbing victim files lawsuit

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

A New York Knicks fan stabbed in May while watching an NBA playoff game against the Indiana Pacers has sued his alleged attacker and the Carmel brewery where the incident took place.

COURTS

David Leach of Noblesville filed the lawsuit in July in Hamilton County. In the suit, he claims the staff at Danny Boy Beer Works continued serving alcohol to Jarrett Funke after he was known to be intoxicated, which contributed to Funke attacking him and a friend.

Beer Works had actual or constructive knowledge of but failed to sufficiently intervene, or take proper prudent and necessary steps,” the lawsuit states.

The lawsuit states that Funke harassed Leach and a friend verbally and physically as they watched the game and later attacked both men on the bar’s back patio. According to a probable cause affidavit, Funke is accused of using a pocketknife to stab Leach, who suffered a broken rib and tear in his lung.

The suit also claims that the bar’s security measures did not go far enough to protect its patrons.

“Prior to David being battered and stabbed by Funke on the back patio of (Danny Boy) Beer Works, Funke, among other things, was exhibiting abnormal, unusual, and threatening behavior to David and his friend inside (Danny Boy) Beer Works, and outwardly showed dangerous propensities that could result in harm to David, which the employees at (Danny Boy)

Leach claims he has suffered temporary and permanent injuries, extreme physical pain and suffering, mental anguish, mental and emotional suffering, medical expenses, loss of enjoyment of life, lost wages and more. He is seeking punitive damages from Funke and Danny Boy Beer Works.

Leach’s friend suffered a laceration to his leg caused by impacting the back patio stoop, according to the affidavit.

Police arrested Funke, a 24-year-old Carmel resident, the night of the incident. He has been charged with four felony counts and has a jury trial set for Nov. 17.

Attorneys involved with the case declined comment.

S&P Global reaffirms county’s AAA credit rating

S&P Global Ratings has assigned Hamilton County its highest credit rating — an ‘AAA’ long-term rating — on the county’s anticipated $12 million general obligation series 2025 bonds.

COUNTY NEWS

Hamilton County Communications Director Tammy Sander said the rating outlook is stable. S&P also reaffirmed the county’s ‘AAA’ long-term rating on its other outstanding general obligation and lease debt.

“This rating is a direct reflection of the county’s responsible financial stewardship and strategic planning,” stated Sue Maki, president of the Hamilton County Council. “By earning and maintaining an AAA rating, Hamilton County is able to finance critical projects at the lowest possible cost, saving taxpayer dollars while improving services.”

Sander said county officials plan to use

the bond proceeds to fund mental health facilities, the acquisition of a storage facility and the Sheridan Airport.

S&P analysts cited Hamilton County’s “very strong economic profile, characterized by robust economic growth,” and its “strong budgetary management practices” that “have enabled the county to maintain an extremely strong reserve position while managing its operating and capital expenditure growth.”

“This just demonstrates the strength of Hamilton County’s economy and the prudence of our financial management,” stated Steve Dillinger, president of the Hamilton County Commissioners. “It ensures we can continue to invest in projects that directly benefit our residents while preserving our long-term financial health.”

Sander said the county remains one of only a handful of counties nationwide to maintain an AAA bond rating.

Birdies & Brews returns Sept. 25

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

The Noblesville Chamber of Commerce will present its 10th annual Birdies & Brews golf outing at Purgatory Golf Club in Noblesville, 12160 E. 216th St., beginning at 9:30 a.m. Sept. 25 in partnership with the Noblesville Economic Development Department.

GOLF

A 19th-hole reception will commence at 3:30 p.m.

Bob Dubois, president and CEO of the Noblesville Chamber of Commerce, said this is the chamber’s largest fundraiser of the year. A networking event, local businesses will be on-site with information and giveaways, and local beer and wine will be available.

“The Noblesville chamber has had golf outings for decades, and 10 years ago, when we moved to Purgatory Golf Course, we were looking for a new concept,” DuBois said. “We wanted to do something that was fun and progressive along the course, so we added craft brewers and craft distillers to do tastings along the way in addition to all of the exhibitors that are on the course.”

DuBois said the chamber team considered several options for change in honor of

the event’s 10th anniversary.

“There’s a water feature out on the golf course, so, we’re going to be floating a platform, and golfers will have the chance to hit onto that for some special prizes along the way,” DuBois said. “Also this year, Noble Wine & Spirits has come on as a major sponsor because they are adding a new location on the west side of Noblesville. All the golfers will receive a nice gift courtesy of Noble Wine & Spirits.”

Sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more, visit business.noblesvillechamber.com/events/details/2025-bbxbirdies-and-brews-x-golf-outing-4869.

Picklr to host tournament

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

The National Junior Pickleball Midwest Regional will serve up play Sept. 25 through 28 at The Picklr Noblesville, 9847 Cumberland Pointe Blvd.

SPORTS

The tournament, presented by National Junior Pickleball and supported by Hamilton County Sports Authority, will offer young players four days of competitive play, skill development and community building and will showcase junior talent through a skills clinic and evaluation, singles competition, doubles competition and 4-player team competition.

The event follows round-robin pool play, a tournament format that divides participants into smaller groups, leading to playoffs and medal rounds, ensuring each player receives extensive court time. With a single registration fee, players gain entry to all events and an event t-shirt and swag bag.

The tournament is open to players ages 8 through 18 of all skill levels from across the United States and Canada.

“We’re excited for juniors from across the country to experience both The Picklr Noblesville and all that Hamilton County has to offer,” said Courtney Loughridge, CEO of National Junior Pickleball. “The combination of a premium facility and welcoming community made it the perfect home for our national tournament.”

Loughridge said National Junior Pickleball presents several tournaments throughout the year. It held the Midwest Regional in Missouri last year, but Loughridge said the goal is to return to Indiana for the tournament in 2026.

“We are hoping to go back to The Picklr and Indianapolis again next year,” Loughridge said. “Indianapolis is such a great sports city.”

The tournament is free for spectators. For more, visit nationaljuniorpickleball. com/event/njp-midwest.

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Racist stickers found in city

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Noblesville residents have expressed outrage on social media after “Keep Hamilton County White” stickers were found on light poles and speed limit signs throughout the city.

LOCAL NEWS

Noblesville business owner and resident Stephanie Ricciardi, who saw one of the stickers on a speed limit sign near the North Harbour neighborhood in Noblesville, said she was appalled.

“Seeing that message plastered on a public sign was shocking and heartbreaking,” Ricciardi said. “It was a bold display of racism meant to intimidate and exclude, and it should outrage every single person in this community. We cannot pretend this doesn’t exist or quietly scrape it away and move on, because silence is complicity. Our town is better than this, and we need to prove it by standing loudly and firmly against hate.”

She views the stickers as a “cowardly attempt to divide people.”

“Hate like this should not be normalized or brushed aside,” Ricciardi said. “It has no place in Hamilton County, or anywhere.”

Ricciardi said she scraped the sticker off the best she could.

Noblesville resident Dorothy Ferguson said her 18-year-old son and his friend saw one of the stickers on a light pole in downtown Noblesville and sent her a picture.

“My son is biracial black and his friend Mexican American,” Ferguson said. “I was really taken back and fearful for my kids and their friends. I moved my kids to Noblesville so they would be safer and have access to better resources and the community as a whole but to see that brought instant fear.”

Ferguson said it was a “smack in the face” to her son, his friend and herself.

“My children live in this community, and given the history of America and the current state of the divide in the country towards people of color, it is a very real threat we live with daily. More so for my children and their ethnic friends and families. It is very sad and disgusting. All people should feel welcome regardless of their race.”

It is not the first time similar messages have been seen in Hamilton County. County residents reported finding fliers in neighborhood streets last winter asking people to “track and monitor illegal immigrants” and “report them” to U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement.

Per city ordinance, however, it is illegal to post stickers or signs on city light posts, according to Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen.

“We consider this to be vandalism of city property, and we are removing the stickers as quickly as we can,” Jensen said. “While any stickers would violate the city ordinance, I want to be clear that Noblesville has no tolerance for this hateful message.”

Jensen reiterated that it is not legal to post stickers or signs on any city posts or poles. The stickers also have been removed.

Carmel senior quarterback finds perfect fit with new offense

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Carmel High School senior quarterback

Anthony Coellner credits a few reasons for his success this season.

“I feel like my accuracy has improved a lot,” he said.

Coellner said coach Kevin Wright’s runpass option offense is a perfect fit for his skills. Wright is in his first season back with the Greyhounds after he coached the team from 2010-14.

But being healthy has made the biggest difference, Coellner said.

“Not playing with a high ankle sprain and a broken tibia has been huge with me running the ball,” he said. “I can use my legs to escape sacks and extend plays on the ground.”

Coellner, in his third year as a starter, said he played through the ankle sprain, missing a few quarters with swelling.

“I fully snapped my tibia in the third quarter in the ninth game, so I wasn’t able to play in the playoffs,’ he said.

Prior to the Sept. 19 game against Columbus North, Coellner had completed 59 of 81

MEET ANTHONY COELLNER

Favorite athletes: Jayden Daniels and Anthony Edwards

Favorite musician: Drake

Favorite subject: English

Favorite TV show: “Quarterback” on Netflix

passes (73 percent) for 814 yards with eight touchdowns for Carmel (3-1). He also had 216 rushing yards on 33 attempts, including five TDs.

As a junior, he completed 172 of 283 passes for 1,896 yards and 17 TDs.

“He’s done a really nice job of using both his arm and legs to make plays,” Wright said. “He’s been highly accurate, completing more than 70 percent of his passes. When

you have someone that is accurate with their arm and has the ability to beat people with their legs, that’s a good combination to be able to move the chains and put points on the board.”

Wright said Coellner has done a good job of creating versatility in the attack.

“From looking at film from last year, he’s playing with a lot more confidence,” Wright said.

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Coellner said his season goals are to have a completion percentage above 70 percent, pass for 2,000 yards, rush for 500 and have more than 20 total touchdowns.

“As a team, our goal is for a (Class 6A) state championship,” he said.

Carmel, hampered by injuries, finished 3-7 last season, a rare losing season for the program. Wright replaced John Hebert, who resigned and took over as Noblesville’s head coach.

The 6-foot-2 Coellner played basketball through his sophomore year, playing on varsity a little as a freshman and his entire sophomore season.

“After that is when I went all in on football,” he said.

Coellner committed to NCAA Division 1 FBS Troy (Ala.) University, a Sun Belt Conference program, in June.

“I really loved the coaching staff, and I felt they showed me a lot of love and support through the whole process,” he said. “I feel like my game fits their offense perfectly, so that’s the main reason why.”

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

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Pottery studio set to open

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Looking Glass Pottery, which offers ceramic education and membership services in Hamilton County, will host a grand opening for its 3-D arts gallery at Noblesville Creates, 107 S. 8th St., from 6 to 9 p.m. Oct. 3. Nica Post, owner of Looking Glass Pottery, said her goal is to offer representation for 3-D artists in the community.

“For example, the Hamilton County Artists Association, although they do have quite a number of 3-D and sculptural artists, it’s not really what the bulk of their membership is made up of,” Post said. “So, there was a little bit of a void for 3-D art in town.”

Post also wants the gallery to be a place where the community can be inspired.

“In general, art can brighten somebody’s day,” Post said. “Things you can auditorily or visually engage with have the ability to move you. I think that’s true when you look at homemade pieces of art, too. A lot of 3-D artists make physical things that people interact with every day, like a bowl that you’re putting your family’s food in. I want to bring more awareness and allow people to interact with that art and buy it and give opportunities to artists who want to make it.”

Post said she is building an artist base and wants to include as many mediums as possible in the gallery.

In 2026, the gallery will have a showcase option for new and emerging artists who want to display their work without the commitment of a solo show.

For more, visit lookingglasspottery.com/ gallery.

School board extends Mapes’ contract

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Hamilton Southeastern Schools Corp.

Superintendent Patrick Mapes’ contract was renewed and extended by the HSE Board of Trustees Sept. 10, a move that keeps him in the district’s top administrator role through 2028.

EDUCATION

The board voted 5-2 to approve the contract.

Board Members Sarah Parks-Reese and Latrica Schooley voted no, explaining that they were concerned about approving an “evergreen” contract — one that automatically renews for each of the three years.

The new contract does not include a raise this year. It calls for an annual base salary of $215,000 with the option of a $20,000 raise each year of the contract period. It also calls for the district to match Mapes’ retirement plan contributions; $1,000 a month for an auto allowance; and $100 a month for a technology allowance on top of the base salary.

Mapes was hired in February 2024, when the board unanimously approved a three-year contract ending in 2027. That contract also had a base salary of $215,270, plus similar benefits.

Two people spoke about the contract during public comment, one expressing support and the other expressing concern. Ray Maddalone said HSE suffered a “leadership problem” prior to Mapes’ appointment.

“Under his … leadership, significant academic improvements were attained, including 96 percent IREAD pass rate and strong SAT, PSAT and ILEARN performances that surpass Indiana state averages,” Maddalone said. “Student discipline has improved significantly by setting standards for acceptable behavior and supporting their enforcement. Districtwide, Superintendent Mapes is a serious administrator, navigating the new financial realities of state funding and working through redistricting.”

The next HSE School Board meeting is set for 6 p.m. Sept. 24.

Community invited to Embrace Downtown open house — Updated design concepts for Phase 1 of the Embrace Downtown project in Noblesville will be unveiled during a public open house from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Sept. 29 at Noblesville City Hall, 16 S. 10th St. Attendees will have the opportunity to view updated renderings, learn additional information about the design and ask project team members questions about the project. Embrace Downtown is a multiphase project to improve infrastructure, enhance pedestrian safety and bring beautification upgrades to downtown Noblesville. The project aims to create a more welcoming, accessible and vibrant environment for residents, visitors and local businesses. Updated design concepts will be available online at EmbraceDowntownNoblesville.com after the

open house. Members of the public can use the website to request a meeting with a member of the project team, and Noblesville Community Engagement Manager Aaron Head has standing office hours from 2 to 4 p.m. every Wednesday at Noble Coffee & Tea, 933 Logan St.

Community First Bank of Indiana welcomes Thakkar — Community First Bank has announced the addition of Pooja Thakkar as a mortgage loan originator. With more than ten years of experience in banking, Thakkar brings a background in lending, credit analysis and customer service. She holds two master’s degrees in business management and finance and is a member of the 2025 class of Hamilton County Leadership Academy. Thakker also serves on several local boards, including the No-

blesville Diversity Coalition and Keep Noblesville Beautiful, and is an ambassador for the Noblesville Chamber of Commerce.

Cherish Center plans annual breakfast — The Cherish Center, a child advocacy center in Hamilton County, will host its annual breakfast from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Oct. 2 at Fishers Municipal Center. This year’s breakfast will honor Cherish’s team members and their efforts fighting child abuse, including local law enforcement agencies, Department of Child Services, Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office and other community partners. The breakfast will also feature the presentation of Cherish Center’s Impact Awards. For more, visit cherishcac. org/11th-annual-breakfast.

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Rendering of the proposed townhomes for The Parks at Crossroads. (Rendering courtesy of meeting documents)

Plans for residential community advance

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

The Noblesville Plan Commission is moving plans forward for a residential development, The Parks at Crossroads, after voting 10-0 in favor of the project.

DEVELOPMENT

The development will go before the Noblesville Common Council at a later date for final consideration.

Boomerang Development first introduced the residential community to the Noblesville Common Council May 13. The project would be approximately 124 acres north of and adjacent to Ind. 32 and south of and adjacent to 181st Street.

Jon Dobosiewicz, a land use professional with Carmel law firm Nelson & Frankenberger, presented changes to the project on behalf of Boomerang Development at the Aug. 26 council meeting after council members raised concerns in May about density and lack of greenspace.

The plan now calls for 324 homes, including 82 townhomes and 44 duplexes. Townhomes will have room for two cars on each driveway to allow for additional offstreet public parking options.

The community would feature an array of amenities, such as a central park area with more than 40 acres of open common areas; a swimming pool; sports courts; dog parks; a playground; and trails.

David Weekly and Lennar would be the builders. The Parks at Crossroads would feature five home types, including side load garage homes, front load garage homes, alley load homes with no garage on the front, duplexes and townhomes.

At the plan commission meeting, residents who live near the development site raised concerns about road conditions. Dobosiewicz said Boomerang Development is required to expand the pavement to 12foot lanes.

“In addition to that, there’s probably some drainage issues along that frontage, and we’ll resolve those by pulling everything internally in site,” Dobosiewicz said. “So, you’ll see a swale, and then another 10 or 15 feet away from the pavement edge, you’ll see an 8-foot asphalt path. We’ll come across the entire 181st Street frontage with asphalt path. We will add pavement. We’ll add a stone shoulder. We will add drainage improvements. All those things are going to make 181st Street more comfortable.”

The revised plans are scheduled to go before the architectural review board later this month.

LEAVING A LEGACY

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Noblesville Schools dedicates new Courtney Cox Cole golf center

Noblesville Schools is paying tribute to the late Courtney Cox Cole, a 1989 Noblesville High School graduate.

Marnie Cooke, Noblesville Schools executive director of marketing and communications, said Cole was a distinguished high school and college athlete and local business leader prior to her death from nonsmoking lung cancer in 2019. The district recently announced the dedication of the Courtney Cox Cole Golf Center.

The golf center is an enclosed area in the high school’s auxiliary gym and features a golf simulator and putting green for year-round student practice. Cooke said the district built the area as part of its recent athletic expansion with generous contributions from the Cole family and the Miller Backers athletic booster organization.

Cooke said Cole was a significant contributor to NHS athletics and to the Noblesville community.

“We’re thankful to the Cox family and the Miller Backers for their ongoing support of our student athletes,” Cooke said. “We’re proud to be able to honor (Cole’s) legacy.”

Cole’s sister, Monica Peck, said her family has a long history with Noblesville Schools.

“My sister and (my) children are fifth-generation graduates of Noblesville High School,” Peck said. “My family’s been around for a long, long, long time. My parents graduated from Noblesville High School. My grandparents graduated from Noblesville High School. We’re part of the Hare family of Hare Chevrolet, so it’s the Hares and the Coxes and then all of our kids.”

Peck said Cole was a highly accomplished athlete at NHS.

“She was a three-time state champion on two golf state championship teams and a basketball state championship team, as well as (being on) a basketball runner-up team,” Peck said. “She was an Indiana All Star for basketball. She was a high school All American for basketball, and then she went and played golf and basketball on scholarship at Indiana University.”

Cole played golf and basketball at Indi-

ana University and graduated in 1994 with a degree in finance and accounting.

Following her time as a high school and collegiate athlete, Cole and Peck bought

their parents out of a family-owned auto dealership in Noblesville, Hare Chevrolet. Cole assisted on the marketing side of the business. They sold the dealership in 2017.

IN MEMORIUM

The new dedication plaque hanging in the golf center lists the following about Courtney Cole Cox:

In Memory of Courtney Cox Cole

March 15, 1971 – September 22, 2019

“Every day is a gift, and it is up to us to make the most of it.”

This room is dedicated to the life and legacy of Courtney Cox Cole, a beloved daughter, sister, mother, friend, athlete and community leader. A highly accomplished student athlete, Courtney earned multiple state championships in golf and basketball during her time at Noblesville High School and later continued to excel in both sports at Indiana University.

• NHS State Championship Team in Golf (1986, 1987)

• NHS State Championship Team in Basketball (1987)

• Dial Corporation National Scholar Athlete of the Year (1989)

• NHS USA Today All-American in Basketball (1989)

• Indiana All-Star Basketball (1989)

• National Gatorade Player of the Year Basketball (1989)

• First team All-Big Ten in Golf (1991-1993)

• NCAA Individual Golf Qualifier (1992, 1993)

• High School All-American Basketball

• IU Four-Time Academic All-American

Courtney also achieved great success in her professional life, co-owning Noblesville’s Hare Chevrolet with her sister Monica Peck. The dealership flourished under the leadership of the “Sisters of Savings,” becoming the top volume General Motors dealership in Indiana. Courtney’s greatest joy and achievement was found in her role as mother to her children, Cayla and Blake. Courtney’s commitment, courage, optimism and hard work inspired all who knew her. She will always be remembered for her sunny spirit, unshakable resilience and the love she gave to her family, friends, schools and community.

Peck said the dedication of the golf center helps keep her sister’s legacy alive.

“She battled cancer for 5 1/2 years,” Peck said. “It was tragic losing her. She was 48 when she passed away and left two teenage kids. We’re just trying to honor her legacy because she loved Noblesville. We’ve done different things around the community in her honor, and this was just another way that we wanted to keep her memory alive.”

Peck said the family continues to do several things in Noblesville, at IU and around Indiana in remembrance of Cole.

“The infusion center at Riverview Health is named the Courtney Cox Cole Infusion Center,” Peck said. “The women’s basketball locker room and the golf course driving range at Indiana University are both named in her honor. There is a cancer research fund with the LUNG FORCE Indiana, which is the Indiana Chapter of the American Lung Association, that is named after her as well. So those are the things that we’ve done, both locally and on a bigger stage, in her memory.”

Noblesville Schools offers philanthropic and promotional opportunities across a variety of price points in support of athletics, academics, performing arts and more. Organizations interested in partnering with Noblesville Schools can contact Adriann Young at adriann_young@nobl.k12.in.us.

ON THE COVER: From left, Noblesville High

Eyeing healthy eating habits

Commentary by Dr. Angeline McLean

Being well fed does not necessarily correlate with being well nourished. Emerging evidence shows plant foods, by providing potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents, are key in supporting better eye health.

VISION

These anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents protect against cellular damage that results in the development of some common eye conditions like macular degeneration, glaucoma, and dry eye.

Pigments imparting fruits and vegetables with their bright colors, known as carotenoids, and vitamins A, C, E, and D, have been attributed to improved eye health and vision.

Lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids found in abundance in spinach and kale, absorb short wave-length light, protecting the retina from the damaging effects of UV radiation and blue light. Having higher amounts of these substances in the retina can reduce the risk of developing advanced macular degeneration. Additionally, their light filtering properties can enhance vision by reducing glare and improving contrast sensitivity, a benefit in dim lighting situations.

Anthocyanin, another carotenoid found in blueberries and strawberries, has potent anti-inflammatory properties and promotes blood flow to the retina.

Astaxanthin, found in algae and responsible for the pink color of salmon, has been shown to lower intra ocular pressure which can be of benefit in glaucoma.

Vitamins A, C and E are powerful antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables that promote and regulate retinal health. Vitamin C has additional importance as it plays a role in preventing the accumulation of waste products in the retina and loss of retinal cells.

Adding plant foods to your diet is a simple but effective means to improving not only your overall health, but your eye health.

LIONS CLUB SCREENS CHILDREN FOR VISION IMPAIRMENT

Noblesville, Zionsville and Carmel Lions Club members have been visiting elementary schools in Noblesville and Fishers to screen students for vision impairments. Using a hightech screening device, club members check the children for visual disturbances. Children who are found to have a vision issue are then referred to an eye doctor for further evaluation. (Photos courtesy of Lisa Dick)

Protecting water for communities

Commentary by Barry Suits

As fall begins, Hoosiers are soaking up the last weeks of warmer weather. It’s worth remembering the natural systems that make it all possible — especially the water sources.

RESOURCES

Source water refers to the rivers, lakes, reservoirs and aquifers that supply drinking water to Indiana homes and businesses. When contaminants enter the water supply, they put public health and community well-being at risk.

Unfortunately, recent events across the state have shown how vulnerable these water sources can be. This summer, Indiana’s waterways faced significant challenges, making them less suitable for recreational activities at times due to contaminants like E. coli, toxic algae and other waterborne pathogens.

While Indiana American Water works year-round to monitor, test and treat water, these kinds of incidents can impact the water sources we rely on. Fortunately, there are steps we can all take to protect and preserve these drinking water sources.

To help keep contaminants out of waterways, residents can use and dispose of harmful materials properly; dispose of pharmaceuticals by taking them to collection sites; check for leaks from heating fuel tanks and automobiles; limit the use of

fertilizers and pesticides on lawns; clean up litter, pet waste and lawn clippings; fuel boats cautiously and keep the engine well-tuned to prevent oil leaks; properly abandon and seal old wells; inspect septic systems and have it serviced regularly; and report any spills, illegal dumping or suspicious activity to local or state authorities.

Businesses also can play a role in protecting water supplies by ensuring that they follow all applicable regulations related to waste management; keep permits up to date and comply with permit requirements; follow industry best practices for proper materials management; develop and maintain pollution prevention and spill response and prevention plans; train employees in proper material handling and spill response procedures; secure storage areas against unauthorized entry; investigate the routing of floor drains; inspect vehicles regular; limit the use of fertilizers and pesticides; and report any spills or suspicious activity immediately to proper authorities.

Community-minded Hoosiers also can find opportunities to help preserve local waterways and streams by joining cleanup groups and events.

currentnightandday.com

Actor finds lots of good in Civic’s production of ‘Something Rotten’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

For Jacob Schilling, this is a role he has wanted to play for some time.

MUSICAL

The Fishers resident portrays Nigel Bottom in Civic Theatre’s production of “Something Rotten,” which runs Oct. 3 to Oct. 18 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

Schilling previously performed in the ensemble of “Something Rotten” when he was a student at Otterbein University in Ohio.

“This is actually one of my dream roles to play Nigel,” Schilling said. “I think the show is incredibly funny and it has so much heart and wit. Nigel’s entire character is kind of the heart of the show. It has the passion between his brother Nick and the love interest of Portia.”

Schilling said the brothers end up creating a silly musical.

“We both try to write something better than Shakespeare,” Schilling said.

Schilling said “Something Rotten” was one of the first shows he saw on Broadway.

“I fell in love with the music of the show, the story and always wanted to play Nigel because I relate so much with him as a writer myself and me being awkward and quirky,” he said.

Indianapolis resident Addi Koehler plays Nick’s wife, Bea Bottom.

“When this show first came out, I was listening to the recording every day in my earbuds at school and I was like, ‘Oh, my gosh, I would love to play Bee someday,’” she said. “So, I got really excited when I saw that Civic was doing the show. I’m having fun playing Bea and then playing a bunch of men. She is trying to make money for the family, so she goes out dressed as various different men to get different jobs. “

Carmel resident Michael Krauter, who made his Civic Theatre debut in “Joseph

and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” in April, plays Shakespeare.

Krauter said he saw the show on stage out of town and thought Shakespeare would be fun to play.

“It’s kind of challenging because I sort of play like a character within a character within a character at one point because he goes undercover and tries to disrupt the (Bottom brothers’) operation,” Krauter said. “It’s an interesting version of Shakespeare because it’s sort of this rock star that everyone praises. But when you actually get to know him, he’s really a fake. He doesn’t really know what he’s doing. He’s pretty lazy.”

Shakespeare learns that Nick is trying to steal his ideas through a soothsayer, so he tries to infiltrate to see what the Bottom brothers are working on.

Yorktown resident Daniel Wilke, who plays Nick, said his character is struggling with a show.

“He wants his family to be happy and taken care of while also not fading into obscurity because of the looming shadow of Shakespeare,” he said. “Through a series of, let’s call them misfortunes, he comes up with this idea for a musical that nobody actually wants to see.”

The idea is to make a musical about

eggs.

Daniel Wilke, left, and Jacob Schilling perform as brothers in “Something Rotten.” (Photo courtesy of Joshua Hasty)

“I feel if you can make eggs funny, you have to go for it,” he said.

Wilke, who has been acting for three years, listened to the “Something Rotten” soundtrack and realized it could be a lot of fun.

“Every song, every number has a point and a purpose and drives the story, which I think is fantastic,” he said.

Civic Theatre Executive Artistic Director Michael Lasley, who is directing, said unfortunately the show’s title doesn’t really reveal what the story is about. The reference is to Shakespeare’s line “Something Rotten in the state of Denmark,” which is from “Hamlet.”

“It’s chock full, from top to bottom, with all these sorts of inside theater jokes, but you don’t have to know theater to get them,” Lasley said. “They’re very much a part of pop culture. It’s just a show that is so full of heart and it’s ridiculous. It’s dumb, in a funny and incredibly entertaining way.”

Lasley said his favorite song is “God I Hate Shakespeare.”

“It’s Nick’s rant about, ‘Why does Shakespeare get to be called ‘The Bard?’” he said.

For more, visit civictheatre.org.

‘HEARTBREAK HOTEL’

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

‘THE WORLD OF HANS ZIMMER’

“The World of Hans Zimmer: A New Dimension” is set for 7:30 p.m. Sept. 23 at Fishers Event Center. For more, visit fisherseventcenter.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

“Now That’s Funny Comedy Night” is set for Sept. 25, followed by “Indy Nights with Ryan Ahlwardt & Friends” Sept. 26 and “All the Way Frank: A Sinatra Tribute,” Sept. 27 at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

BRIAN MCKNIGHT

“An Evening with Brian McKnight” is set for 8 p.m. Sept. 26 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

JAY LENO

Jay Leno will perform at 8 p.m. Sept. 27 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

DISPATCH

Heart to perform at Fishers Event Center

– Heart is bringing their “Royal Flush Tour” back to North America in 2026, stopping March 15 at Fishers Event Center. The Rock & Roll Hall of Famers will be joined by special guest Lucinda Williams. Tickets are now on sale at Ticketmaster.com. Heart recently concluded a summer run at Bethel, N.Y., that included many sold-out shows. Heart, led by sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson, has sold more than 35 million albums worldwide with a catalog that includes hits such as “Magic Man,” “Barracuda,” “Crazy on You” and “These Dreams.”

Our arts and education programs continue to thrive, engage and inspire.

To our patrons, donors, subscribers, volunteers, and community partners — thank you. Your support fuels creativity, empowers learning, and builds a stronger, more vibrant community.

We couldn’t do it without you.

Thank you for believing in the power of the arts. Thank you for believing in us.

Directors embrace cult classic

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

James H. Wiliams saw “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” for the first time when he was 13 at a midnight showing of the movie.

MUSICAL

He quickly fell in love with the cult classic.

“This has been a bucket list show of mine for quite a while,” the Fishers resident said.

Williams and Brandon Schultz are co-directing Main Street Productions’ presentation of “The Rocky Horror Show” Sept. 25 to Oct. 4 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. The Oct. 4 performance starts just before midnight.

“There is a lot of nostalgia about the show with it being the 50th anniversary of the movie,” Williams said.

A Carmel resident, Schultz said he fell in love with the rock ‘n’ roll aspects of the musical.

“We wanted to bring that sort of a concert feel, which the musical has. (What the) movie doesn’t have is that connection to the music being played live,”

Schultz said.

Horror Picture Show.” (Photo courtesy of Main Street Productions)

Indianapolis resident Logan Laflin plays Riff Raff, which is based on a parody of Dr. Frankenstein’s servant, Igor.

Laflin hasn’t performed in the show before but is quite familiar with the movie.

“I’ve watched it a million times,” Laflin said. “It’s kind of one of the roles I’ve always loved. Every time ‘Time Warp’ comes on, I always sing it. I thought that would be a fun role to play, such a fun challenge to sing and dance that (role). It’s kind of a vocal challenge. I am at the tip-top of my range (for some of it), so it’s kind of pushing me.”

For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.

Festival has international flavor

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The Carmel International Arts Festival keeps boosting its international presence with a variety of dance performances.

EVENT

The festival is from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 27 and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 28 in the Carmel Arts & Design District.

“We have more dance performances from different groups than we’ve had in the past,” said Andris Berzins, in his third year leading the international portion of the festival. “We’ve never had the Lithuanian group before, so we’re excited to have them come from Chicago.”

Among the dance groups on the east stage performing are Indian groups from the Natyalaya School of Arts and Samyoga School and Hellenic Adult Group featuring Greek music.

There also will be performers representing Chinese and Japanese music.

Berzins said performers from Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre is a new addition.

“Dance is a great kind of art because you don’t need words to communicate,” Berzins

said. “The dances speak for themselves.”

Carmel’s six Sister Cities will have booths. The cities are Cortona, Italy; Jelgava, Latvia; Kawachinagann, Japan; Rueil-Malmaison, France; Seiffen, Germany; and Visakhapatnam, India.

Berzins is president of the Jelgava-Carmel Sister City Committee.

The Beer and Wine Garden, featuring The Rejoicing Vine, Spencer Winery and Bier Brewery, will be on the north end of Range Line Road.

“The idea is to create an environment where people can go to a little bit more of a quiet area, maybe take a break, sit down and listen to some good music,” said John Greiner, who is coordinating the area. “It’s based on the wine garden principle of having decorations and plants and having a relaxing background.”

Don Farrell and Terry Woods will open the Sept. 27 schedule in the area at 11:15 a.m. The Elizabeth Lee Band plays at 1:30 p.m. and Phil Stockton performs at 4 p.m. There is wine testing in between acts. The Sept. 28 schedule opens with Tim Wright at noon and Cole Woodruff at 2:30 p.m.

For more, visit carmelartsfestival.org.

Heartland Festival lineup set

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The 34th Heartland International Film Festival offers its usual diverse range in its 2025 lineup.

FILM

Heartland officials announced Sept. 18 the lineup of more than 100 independent films, including 19 world and U.S. premieres, 27 regional premieres, 17 special presentations from major distributors and nine Indiana Spotlight films.

The festival runs from Oct. 9-19 at five Indianapolis venues: Alamo Drafthouse Cinema at The Square; Indy Art Center; Kan-Kan Cinema; Living Room Theaters; and Newfields. Many of the films will be available to stream in the U.S.

“It’s about this guy that is a very sweet American actor and he’s trying to find work in Tokyo and his agent lines him up with a group at a Japanese rental family agency. He finds himself inserted into people’s lives and figuring out how he can be both an actor and good person.”

The Centerpiece Night screening will be “Train Dreams” Oct. 15. The Netflix film is a portrait of Robert Grainier, a logger and railroad worker, played by Joel Edgerton, who leads a life of unexpected depth and beauty in the rapidly changing America of the early 20th century.

“He’s out in the wilderness and dealing with life and the beauty around them and acceleration of change on the railroad,” Opsahl said.

The Opening Night film is “Rental Family,” which stars Brendan Fraser, who was born in Indianapolis.

“Brendan Fraser has done a few roles since winning the Oscar for ‘The Whale’ (in 2023) but this is his first big starring role since,” said HIFF Film Programming Coordinator Sam Opsahl, a Fishers resident.

The Oct. 19 Closing Night film is “Nuremberg.” Rami Malek plays a World War II psychiatrist who evaluates Nazi leaders for the Nuremberg Trials and becomes obsessed with understanding evil, forming a disturbing bond with Hermann Göring, played by Russell Crowe.

For more, visit heartlandfilm.org.

10–31

Tickets on sale Sept. 9

Friendly and frightening hours available

childrensmuseum.org/haunted-house

Leno brings act to Carmel

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

At his core, Jay Leno has always viewed himself as a stand-up comedian.

COMEDY

“I was lucky enough to get a TV show, but TV shows can last 13 weeks or last 23 years,” he said.

Leno hosted “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” for 23 years.

“Sooner or later, you have to leave a TV show,” Leno said. “Standup is kind of like golf. You can do it until you’re 70 or 80 if you play it right.”

The 75-year-old Leno will make his first appearance at 8 p.m. Sept. 27 at the Payne and Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

Leno said he is doing shows every weekend.

“I think the general rule is you do it until you have your stroke,” Leno said. “I’ve been doing this for 50 years. I don’t like doing TV specials or Netflix or any of that kind of stuff. I like a live audience. It’s just fun. It’s fun to tell a joke and then try it out. That’s what keeps you young. You try to remain reasonably relevant. You work on TV and there are applause signs and people tell you it’s funny. But you don’t really know if it’s funny until you do it in front of an audience who bought a ticket. They’ll let you know whether it’s funny or not. That’s always the best judge.”

Leno drew attention earlier this summer when he said some late-night talk show hosts have become too one-sided politically in jokes about President Donald Trump.

“When Johnny (Carson) and I did the show, you made fun of both sides,” he said. “That way you kind of get the whole audience. If you are aligned with one side and all your jokes are about the other side, then you are going to lose half the audience.”

Leno said he doesn’t do as many political jokes as he did during his “Tonight Show” monologue.

“If you go to a club, there’s a chance a third of the audience is not going to agree with you politically, but they might like your jokes,” he said, “There are plenty of musical artists I like that I don’t really agree with politically, but I don’t listen to their political side. If I’m paying for a comedy show, I want comedy.”

Normally, he said he isn’t too worried about politically correct material.

“If something is really funny, it’s OK,” Leno said. “It’s when an inappropriate joke is not funny, then you’ve offended someone. If a joke is really funny — I’m not saying someone might not get offended — but most people are pretty good about it. I just get annoyed when people try to put their personal opinion in front of a joke. I knew Rodney Dangerfield for 40 years. I have no idea if he was a Democrat or Republican.”

A longtime automobile enthusiast, Leno said he does 52 shows a year of “Jay Leno’s Garage.” It started as a web series on NBC.com and then became a series on CNBC from 2015 to 2022 before moving to YouTube.

Leno writes articles on automobiles for several magazines, including a column in “Popular Mechanics.”

“To me, when people want to talk to me about cars, it’s fun because it’s what I want to talk about, anyway,” he said.

Leno said he still rides his motorcycle, too.

“I still ride, crash and fall off,” he said. “A 75-year-old guy on a 100-year-old motorcycle, what could go wrong there?”  For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

Virtues of planning ahead

Commentary by Terry Anker

“Welcome,” she remarked, “do you have a reservation?” It opens thousands of conversations every day. We need to know if you have planned ahead. We need to know if you follow the routine. “Why, yes,” he responded, “we have a reservation for two at 7 p.m.” Perfect. As if the treasures to be found beyond the reception stand were to be ours as soon as we could open the lock, the reservation is the key required. Post haste, our intrepid diners were ushered into the restaurant where a table was awaiting them. The smiling server had already provided a cool glass of water and the menus soon were presented. There is advantage in the customs of human interaction.

ESSAY

While the system works, like most things, it is imperfect. Even as we have filled the request form online and responded affirmatively to the confirmation text received that morning, occasionally, the table is not waiting. The guests before have not yet departed. The staff that clears and resets from previous diners called in sick

and delays are ongoing. There are countless reasons. “But we have a reservation,” exclaims the frustrated patron. They had done their part! The social contract seemed broken, and a harm caused.

More often, no reservation is made, for lack of knowledge, planning or intent. Standing at the counter charming, demanding, or bribing, we work with staff to discover a way in without the prerequisite.

“Can’t you just find a table for us? We’d be very appreciative.” If there is capacity, the proprietor is happy to have the patronage. If not, the would-be customer goes home hungry.

Does it work elsewhere? Can we reserve time with our kids? Can we hold a space for family to be together for the holidays? Maybe, but without a reservation, what can we expect?

17. Wabash River transports of yore

19. Santa ___, Calif.

20. Set securely

21. Subway gates

23. Possess

25. Competent

28. Ruoff Music Center concert, e.g.

29. Decomposes

31. Neither’s partner

32. Leases

33. 757 maker

36. Bike part

38. Well-known Indiana person...or a hint for the starred clues

43. Scandinavian capital

44. Alerted

46. Fluorescent bulb gas

50. Swiss peak

52. “Yikes!”

53. Sierra ___

54. Cat calls

57. Before, poetically

58. Sci-fi weaponry

60. Occupy the throne

62. At most

63. Organic foods no-nos

68. *Butler big shot

69. Old anesthetic

70. *Coxhall Gardens ringer

71. Border

72. Guitar music notation

73. Gusto Down

1. Lots of ozs.

2. Orchestra section at the IRT

3. Siam Star drink order

4. Carmel City Council President Aasen

5. Receded

6. *Type of spoon

7. Indianapolis Indians pitching stat

8. No longer working (Abbr.)

9. Leaky tire sound

10. Get there

11. Like some sweaters

12. Thumbs-up

13. Grand Junction Brewing Co. supplies

18. IU biz degree

22. Former Indiana Commissioner for Higher Education: ___ Lubbers

BATH REMODEL

23. Sphere

24. “Bow-wow!”

26. I-65 pavement hazard

27. Threesome

30. Computer modeling, for short

34. Lunchtime meeting

35. NASA’s Grissom

37. Colts ticket word

39. Pacers dunk

40. Wrath

41. Bring about 42. Backside

45. JFK predecessor

46. Hint at

47. Harvested

48. Attend without a partner

49. Common soccer score

51. *Upland Brewing serving

55. Odd

56. [Not my mistake]

59. Blueprint detail, briefly 61. The “Gee” in Bee Gees

64. Biblical verb ending

65. HBO rival

66. Col. Lilly

Studio M Architecture and Planning, LLC seeks Architectural Graduate in Carmel, IN to produce architect drawings (floor plans, elevations, details). Telecommute avail. Send CV to: rmills@studioarchitecture.net, ref. Job Code: AG-CIN.

be

proactive and able to work independently. Email “Joshperez6647@gmail.com” for more details.

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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.

*** Attention Personal Trainers ***

Join our exciting and supportive team serving older adults in a non-franchise, local fitness facility. We are looking for an experienced, part-time trainer with the possibility of moving to full-time. Clients are provided, so there is NO SELLING. BA/BS 4-year or greater degree in exercise related field required. If you have a passion for changing the lives of older adults, you will want to be part of our welcoming environment. Send resume and cover letter to info@motion4lifefitness.com

4 bedroom, 4 bath condo overlooking breathtaking views of the gulf in Navarre Beach, Florida. Our condo is fully stocked and has multiple balconies to relax upon. Each bedroom is equipped with an ensuite bathroom and internet TV. Special snowbird pricing available. Please contact beachlifenowfl@gmail.com or 850-293-4588 for more details!

PUZZLE ANSWERS

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Scores: FIELD GOAL, SAFETY, TOUCHDOWN; Holidays: LABOR DAY, PATRIOT DAY; City: VINCENNES

Current Publishing is seeking talented freelance reporters and photographers to join our team. We’re looking for passionate storytellers who can write compelling articles and capture highquality images that bring our local news to life.

FREELANCE REPORTERS

Research, interview and write engaging articles on a variety of local topics.

Requirements: Experience in journalism, a portfolio of published work, excellent writing and communication skills and a strong grasp of journalistic ethics.

FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPHERS

Capture impactful photos for news, features, portraits and events.

Requirements: Proven experience, a strong portfolio, proficiency with camera equipment and the ability to meet tight deadlines.

HOW TO APPLY: Send your resume, a brief cover letter, and a link to your portfolio or writing samples to zach@youarecurrent.com. No phone calls, please. EOE.

What sets Riley Children’s Health emergency care apart?

Riley Children’s offers a holistic approach to care for pediatric patients and their families, prioritizing both the physical and emotional well-being of each child that comes through our doors. With 24/7 access to specialized care for patients ranging from infancy to 18 years old, families can rest assured that their child will receive our highly skilled pediatric expertise—now without having to travel far from home.

Why does a dedicated emergency space make a difference?

Emergencies are a stressful situation for anyone, and creating comfortable environments just for kids helps them better cope with the new and unknown. A dedicated pediatric space, created with kids and families in mind, can significantly impact the emergency experience in a positive way.

What level of coordinated care can be expected?

Learn more at rileychildrens.org/FishersEmergency

If a child needs to follow up with a pediatric specialist after visiting a Riley Children’s emergency medicine location, they will have coordinated access to our nationally ranked specialized care. For cases in which a higher level of care is needed, our team will facilitate a seamless transfer to a Riley Children’s hospital location, such as Indiana’s longest standing Level I Pediatric Trauma Center.

n Emergency medicine services for kids, 24/7, now conveniently located in Fishers.

n Dedicated child-friendly spaces built with kids’ comfort in mind, including a children’s entrance, waiting room and twelve patient rooms.

n Staffed by pediatric providers and nurses, and supported by a team of Child Life Specialists, social workers, respiratory therapists, radiologists, general emergency medicine physicians and more.

IU Health Fishers 13000 E. 136th St. Fishers, IN 46037