Carmel Chamber of Commerce News Newswire

The Evan Lurie Gallery to Host "Crossing Paths" for First Carmel Art Walk of 2010

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN - September 18, 2010 - Abstract color, train yards, and movie stars will take center stage, or center-wall rather, at the Evan Lurie Gallery on September 18, 2010 when the space opens its first show of the fall entitled "Crossing Paths" featuring Adam Normandin, Daniela Wicki and Ben Freeman.

Ben Freeman returns to the Evan Lurie Gallery with a new collection of work, which, although technically in line with his delicate style of work atop antiqued paperwork, will this time include glamorous male icons of the silver screen in addition to the lovely starlets of yesteryear. Leading men such as Humphrey Bogart, Marlon Brando and Clark Gable will share the show's limelight with easily recognizable Judy Garland among other prominent women of Hollywood. Borrowing a bit from his education in architectural structure and fusing it with his education in Fine Arts from North Carolina University, Freeman's style is as unmistakable as it is engrossing. The artist paints his figures and faces on a expansive bed of archival media including old postcards, letters and photos that serve the pieces well adding not just depth of imagination but also a forgone connection left to the interpretation of the viewer.

Joining the exhibit and debuting in the gallery for his first show is Adam Normandin - an artist who finds beauty in the details of the unobserved. A graduate of Hofstra University, Normandin's work is exhibited across the United States and held in many prominent collections. With a body of recent work that focuses on the locomotive industry, Normandin's fascination with the freight train is readily observed and memorizing as it pushes the boundary of the traditional. Leaving little behind, Normandin captures his subjects without prejudice incorporating rust spots, graffiti markings and imperfections in place as he redefines the scene in a somewhat cropped characterization. Of his work he states, "I rarely choose my subjects, instead they draw me to them... Years of use and exposure to the elements imprint a sense of tireless duty onto these objects."

Also with her first appearance on the walls at 30 West Main Street will be Daniela Wicki whose work in the abstract takes on a very distinct energetic tone. With a style that has been hailed as "exciting and vibrant", Wicki finds her inspiration in the development of each piece and the work required to see the process through to completion. Once a successful lawyer in New York, this daughter of Swiss parents born in Lima, Peru has traveled a path from classic training of technique during her teenage years through to her style of abstract vision in a lifelong passion for creative expression. "For me, art is an aesthetic, ethical and ultimately spiritual force: a challenge made in the experience of finding in each and every creation a self realization, a self portrait of my own energy, a landscape of forces, life in motion rather than still-life."

The Evan Lurie Gallery is located at 30 West Main Street, Carmel, IN 46032 and doors will be open for the official event from 5:00 - 10:00 pm. The event and any lectures posted in the future are free of charge and open to the general public.

If you'd like more information about this topic, or to schedule and interview with Mr. Evan Lurie, please call Katherine Livengood at 317.844.8400 or email Katherine at Katherine@evanluriegallery.com.

Recording pairs Michael Feinstein, Carmel Symphony Orchestra

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, Ind. (September 1, 2010) — Michael Feinstein and the Carmel Symphony Orchestra joined forces over two days to record a collection of American standards. The album will be released later this year in anticipation of the Palladium concert hall’s grand opening. Proceeds from sales of the CD will benefit the Center for the Performing Arts.

“A big part of The Center’s mission is to create new works of art,” said Steven B. Libman, President and CEO of the Center for the Performing Arts. “Pairing our Artistic Director (Michael Feinstein) with one of our resident organizations (Carmel Symphony Orchestra) is exactly the type of collaboration we want to nurture and encourage. In the coming months and years we will work not only with local artists but with performers from around the world. We want to commission original symphonies, dance, theater, jazz and chamber pieces.”

Feinstein and the 95-member Carmel Symphony Orchestra, conducted by CSO Artistic Director David Bowden, PhD., recorded 20 songs on August 20 and August 21. The recording sessions were held in the auditorium at Westfield High School. The song list included “Some Enchanted Evening,” “Dream A Little Dream of Me” and “No One is Alone.” The recording session marked the second time Feinstein and the Carmel Symphony Orchestra performed together. Previously, Feinstein and the orchestra presented a live fundraising concert in October 2009.

The Carmel Symphony Orchestra and Michael Feinstein are slated to perform together at the Palladium’s grand opening gala on January 29, 2011. The gala concert will include jazz instrumentalist Chris Botti and musical icon Neil Sedaka. The festivities will be produced by Gordon Hunt, with lighting by Tom Ruzika.

Feinstein, dubbed “The Ambassador of the Great American Songbook,” was named as The Center’s first Artistic Director in 2009. The singer, songwriter and pianist is a five-time Grammy nominee. The Feinstein Foundation for the Preservation of the Great American Songbook will have its permanent home at the Palladium at the Center for Performing Arts. Feinstein also plans to host an annual international Great American Songbook Festival in Carmel.

The CSO, a resident arts organization at The Center, has earned a regional reputation for excellence in artistry and community service. The orchestra is comprised of professional and formally trained musicians who share a joy of making music, with the vast majority studying privately through college and, in many cases, beyond. More than half of the musicians have been with the orchestra for 15 years or longer, and since 2005, all new members of the CSO are accepted into the orchestra through an audition process.

The Center for the Performing Arts, which is currently under construction in The Carmel City Center, will include the 1,600-seat Palladium concert hall, the 500-seat Tarkington proscenium theater and a 200-seat studio theater. The Palladium is set for completion in January of 2011 and no other concert hall of its caliber exists in the area. The Center is being built to serve as a permanent fixture on the Central Indiana landscape and will provide an extraordinary listening experience for audiences. The concert hall will also be home to the Michael Feinstein Foundation’s Great American Songbook Collection, acting as a museum and education center by day and a concert venue by night.

2011 Budget Presented to Council

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN – Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard presented the 2011 Budget at last night’s Carmel City Council Meeting. This budget is designed to keep home owners tax payments steady or lower while providing excellent city services. The proposed 2011 general fund budget is $68,004,166. The operating budget, including the General Fund, Street Department and Engineering Department is $76,112,065, which is $1.6 million lower than in 2009. The projection is that at the end of 2011, Carmel would have $10.1 million in the ending operating balance of the General Fund.

“As our country and subsequently, our community is faced with a challenging economic forecast, it is important that we move forward as conservatively as possible while continuing to provide a high level of service to our community,” said Mayor Brainard.

The 2011 budget submitted was accompanied by a detailed updated multi-year Fiscal Plan for the City. This helps the City in the fiscal planning process by projecting future revenue, expenses, TIF revenue and bond payments. The fiscal plan allows Carmel to project out its future revenues and adjust its budget accordingly in order to avoid property tax increases. Many cities do not have a multi-year Fiscal Plan, and without it, the budgeting process can be very difficult.

The City of Carmel’s current rate is .6664. Carmel has one of the lowest property tax rates of any of the more than 100 cities in Indiana.

“It has always been our goal to provide the citizens of Carmel with the highest level of service at the lowest possible cost and I believe this budget and the proposed tax rate levy will accomplish both those goals. We have always strived to keep spending under control and it is more important now, during our country’s current economic crisis, to keep costs low,” said Mayor Brainard.

Blue & Co, LLC Recogniaed for Exemplary Workplace Practices

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Honorable Mention recipient of prestigious Alfred P. Sloan Award

Carmel, Indiana (September 8, 2010) – Blue & Co., LLC announced today that it has been named as an Honorable Mention recipient of the 2010 Alfred P. Sloan Award for Business Excellence in Workplace Flexibility in the Louisville, Kentucky market.

This prestigious award recognizes employers of all sizes and types in the state of Kentucky and across the country that are using workplace flexibility as a strategy to increase workplace effectiveness and yield positive business results.

The Alfred P. Sloan Awards for Business Excellence in Workplace Flexibility are part of the national When Work Works project, an ongoing initiative of Families and Work Institute, the Institute for a Competitive Workforce (an affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce), and the Twiga Foundation. UK Institute for Workplace Innovation (iwin) is the official When Work Works partner for the state of Kentucky.

The selection process is rigorous. First, employers’ flexibility programs and practices are measured against national norms from Families and Work Institute’s National Study of Employers. Employees are then surveyed confidentially on their access to flexible work options, the supportiveness of the culture and on nationally tested measures of workplace effectiveness.

About Blue & Co, LLC

Established in 1970 and headquartered in Carmel IN , Blue & Co. has been ranked in the Top 100 U.S. public accounting and consulting firms for more than 10 years according to both Inside Public Accounting and Accounting Today magazines. Blue is a member of the AICPA Division for CPA Firms, Employee Benefit Plan Audit Quality Center , Governmental Audit Quality Center , and Center for Audit Quality as well as the Center for Nonprofit Excellence. The firm was recently named as one of the 2010 Best Places to Work in Indiana , a designation earned for the second consecutive year. For more information, please visit www.www.blueandco.com.

Firms or individuals interested in knowing more about Blue & Co., LLC should contact Craig Browning at (859) 253-1100 or cbrowning@blueandco.com.

Carmel Receives Outstanding Achievement Livability Award from the U.S. Conference of Mayors

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Representatives from the U.S. Conference of Mayors will be attending the Carmel Chamber of Commerce meeting on Wednesday, September 8, 2010 to present the Outstanding Achievement Livability Award to Mayor Jim Brainard. The City received this honor for the process Carmel Utilities has implemented for its Class A Biosolids program that produces a useful product Carmel Green.

Carmel’s Class A Biosolids program was conceived as a way to reduce the city’s dependency on land application and land filling of its biosolids. It also enhances environmental protection, reduces costs to the city for wastewater treatment and converts a liability into an asset. Carmel implemented the BioPasteur system in October 2005 and the solar drying method in 2007. Carmel’s was the first municipal utilization of this process in the U.S.

The project reduces operating costs by eliminating chemical addition to the waste, recovering heat from the sludge, utilizing methane gas production and reducing waste disposal costs. The process turns the biosolids into an easy to handle soil-like substance. The dried Class A biosolids can safely be used as a soil conditioner, which has been named Carmel Green. It saves Carmel approximately $100,000 annually in landfill delivery charges and fees alone.

The City Livability Awards is one of the most competitive programs sponsored by the U.S. Conference of Mayors. Each year hundreds of mayors and their city governments submit applications with a wide range of programs to compete for this award, which focuses on leadership and innovation. This honor recognizes those cities that have developed “Best Practices” or successful programs improving the quality of life for their residents and businesses.

PrimeLife Enrichment Announces Fitness after 3 pm Program

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

PrimeLife Enrichment, Inc., a not-for-profit organization that provides programs and services that promote independence, optimal wellness, and socialization for individuals aged 50 and beyond,

ANNOUNCES A “FITNESS AFTER 3:00” EVENING PROGRAM – NOW OPEN TO ALL ADULTS

SPONSORED BY: St. Vincent Carmel Hospital

BEGINNING SEPTEMBER 20, 2010: Evening Enrichment Center Membership designed for working adults age 21+

“Fitness After 3:00” Membership - $30 per quarter ($10/month)

• Affordable membership, indoor pool & walking track, cardio and circuit training fitness equipment
• Includes use of walking track & fitness center
• Fitness consultation & equipment orientation included with membership!
• Classes timed to accommodate varied work schedules

Aquatic or land classes Monday - Thursday $5.00 each. No session commitment required – come when you can!

• 4:30pm
• 6:00pm

Enrichment Center Hours:
Monday-Thurs 8:00 am to 7:30 pm; Friday-8:00 am to 4:30pm

For More Information: 815-7000

Sandy Stewart, executive director – sstewart@primelifeenrichment.org
Sheri Ballard, assistant director – sballard@primelifeenrichment.org

Carmel Police Department Phone Survey

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The members of the Carmel Police Department are constantly striving to provide the highest quality of service to the community we serve. It is our belief that this can best be accomplished with input from the citizens we are sworn to protect and serve. It is important to us that the citizens of Carmel tell us of their needs, the needs of their neighborhoods, and the needs that they envision for our community.

In the near future, the Carmel Police Department will be conducting a phone survey that will give citizens the opportunity to provide us with much needed information. By taking the time to answer a few questions, Carmel residents will help guide our organization toward a goal of being sensitive to the needs of our community. Constructive criticism, words of encouragement, and/or visionary community thoughts are most welcome.

We would like to thank everyone who participates in this survey. The information we gather will help the Carmel Police Department better understand the needs and concerns of our community, and direct future goals and objectives of the department.

This is a legitimate phone survey that will be conducted by Informatics for the Carmel Police Department. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Lt. Dixon at (317) 571-2500.

City of Carmel’s Public Safety Day 2010

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN – The Carmel Fire Department, Carmel Police Department and St. Vincent Carmel Hospital, are again hosting this year’s Carmel Public Safety Day. The event will take place on Saturday, September 18th from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the St. Vincent Carmel Hospital back parking lot, located at 13500 N. Meridian Street in Carmel. This is a free event and everyone is welcome.

While the focus of the event is to better inform the public about safety issues, all the activities are planned with family fun in mind. The kids’ Big Wheel races and family water balloon toss are always entertaining and visitors young and old seem drawn to the public safety helicopters, which are fully equipped with the latest life-saving technology.

Safety Day will also feature educational booths sponsored by local businesses and organizations designed to teach children and families basic safety techniques on a wide range of topics including health and wellness. The activities planned are designed to test participants’ knowledge and allow them to ask questions about safety, health, or wellness issues. The hands-on activities help children and adults remember the lessons learned at Safety Day. Attached is a flyer with event times listed.

Safety Day also allows visitors the unique opportunity to see some live demonstrations that are otherwise unavailable to the public. These exciting demonstrations include the Carmel Police K-9 unit , SWAT Rappelling team, and the Carmel Fire Department vehicle extrication crews. Also, for this year there will be a sprinkler system demonstration by USAutomatic Sprinkler of Carmel. In addition, many departments from the City of Carmel are participating in this year’s event to share their knowledge and role in the community. There will be information about street maintenance, water quality, recycling and household hazardous waste disposal.

As in the past, the goal is for the families to leave Safety Day knowing more than they did when they arrived. Together we can teach, reinforce, and introduce safety concerns to all those in attendance. For more information about Public Safety Day, please call Keith Freer at 571-4245 or Ann Gallagher 571-2720.

St. Vincent Carmel Hospital is the main sponsor of Carmel Public Safety Day. St. Vincent Health is the state’s largest healthcare employer, with 17 health ministries serving 45 counties in central Indiana.

City of Carmel to Participate in White River Clean-Up

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN—The White River will be receiving a watershed-wide makeover on Saturday, September 11, 2010. Carmel will be participating in the sixth year of this event with volunteers from communities all along White River, from the headwaters of the in Randolph County down through Indianapolis. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., volunteers will remove trash from the White River in an effort to make a difference in our community and improve water quality.

Volunteers can register on-site the day of the event, but all groups must pre-register by emailing hcrivercleanup@yahoo.com. Lunch will be provided. Volunteers are encouraged to wear sturdy shoes, gloves, and old clothes that can get dirty and wet. Volunteers can meet at one of three locations:

Noblesville: The Moose Lodge at 950 Field Drive near SR-19 (317) 776-6353

Fishers: 116th Street Boat Launch at the White River (accessible from Wahpihani Drive) (317) 567-5056

Carmel: Renner’s Automotive at 8190 East 146th Street (317) 571-2441

In 2009, the White-River Clean-up removed more than 15 tons of trash and a total of 256 tires. It is important for the City of Carmel to participate in this opportunity to protect the White River as a natural resource and to bring awareness to storm water pollution. The community wants to encourage residents to support and participate in the City’s efforts to preserve and protect the environmental beauty and recreational value of the White River and other waterways so that they may be enjoyed by future generations.

Additionally, Mayor Jim Brainard has declared the week of September 5th-11th “Water Awareness Week”. In observance of “Water Awareness Week,” the City reminds residents to please:

Use phosphorus-free lawn fertilizers.
Clean up after your pets.
Wash your car at a full or self-service car wash (rather than in your driveway).
Direct swimming pool and spa filter backwash into the sanitary sewer.
Report any illegal dumping into storm inlets or waterways (within city limits) to the City of Carmel Engineering Department at 571-2441, or to IDEM’s 24-hour hotline at 1-888-233-7745.

For more information and tips, please go to: http://www.ci.carmel.in.us/government/deptcommunityrelations3.html.

Carmel Street Department Summer Paving Projects

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN - The City of Carmel Street Department has issued a list of paving projects for the 2010 summer construction season. Proper street maintenance is important to keep drivers safe, reduce damage to vehicles on the road and help keep property values high.
Improvements to streets around the city have already begun. Many of the primary thoroughfares will be paved at night (between the hours of 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.) in order to be less disruptive for drivers. Streets within subdivisions will be paved during regular work hours.
“It is important to be reminded of the community’s need for these projects in order to keep our infrastructure well maintained. The quality of our streets is one of the many factors that make Carmel such a wonderful place to live and work. Repairing and maintaining our streets not only reduces damage to vehicles, but also enhances property values and makes our community safer,” said Mayor Jim Brainard.
A list of paving projects is below. The list is subject to change depending upon the results of the bid process, the price of oil and other variable factors. The total amount of roadways maintained by the Street Department is more than 450 miles.
Paving projects are necessary to maintain transportation safety. The Street Department completes an inspection to prioritize the order of street projects. The street crews appreciate the cooperation and patience of residents throughout the completion of the projects.

The summer paving projects will only involve resurfacing of streets. Repairing streets with chuckhole damage is a continuous project of the Street Department. To report chuckholes, or if there are questions or concerns about the summer projects, please contact the Carmel Street Department at 733-2001.

City of Carmel

2010 PAVING PROJECTS

Primary thoroughfares that will be paved at night (between the hours of 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.) include the following:

· 116th Street from 4625 116th Street to 4101 116th Street

· Range Line Road from Main Street to City Center Drive

· Carmel Drive from Range Line Road to Keystone Parkway

· Carmel Drive form Range Line Road to Guilford Road

· Merchants Square from AAA Way to Medical Drive

· Station Drive from AAA Way to Keystone Way

· Keystone Way South from Carmel Drive to Station Drive

· Keystone Way East from AAA Way to Station Drive

· AAA Way from Carmel Drive to 116th Street

Streets within subdivisions that will be paved during regular work hours include the following:

· 110th Street from 109th Street to Westfield Boulevard

· Bentley Way from 136th Street to end

· Silver Spur from Bentley Way to end

· Continental Way from Bentley Way to 136th Street

· Avian Way from Hazel Dell Parkway to Oriole Drive at pavement break

· Copperwood Place from Arrowwood Drive to end

· Copperwood Circle West to Arrowwood Drive to end

· Copperwood Circle East to Arrowwood Drive to end

· High Drive from Ridge Road to end

· Bradford Place from 116th Street to end

· Forest Drive from 116th Street to end

· Eden Place from end to end

· Eden Glen Drive from Carmel Drive to 116th Street

· 11609-11615 Eden Glen Drive from Eden Glen Drive to end

· 11711 – 11719 Eden Glen Drive from Eden Glen Drive to end

· 11817-11812 Eden Glen Drive from Eden Glen Drive to end

· 11920-11914 Eden Glen Drive from Eden Glen Drive to end

· 12002-12010 Eden Glen Drive from Eden Glen Drive to end

· Hampton Court from Eden Glen Drive to end

· Stone Drive from 136th Street to pavement break

· Wellesley Lane from Stone Drive to end

· Jameson Lane from Stone Drive to end

· Berenger Lane from Stone Drive to 141st Street

· Buckhorn Drive from Stone Drive to 141st Street

· Coldwater Drive from Stone Drive to pavement break

· Weston Drive from Shelborne Road to West 106th Street

· Shelborne Road from 116th Street to 96th Street

· 96th Street from Springmill Road to I-456 overpass

Sycamore Road from 96th Street to end
Elm Drive including Beech Place from 96th Street to Sycamore Road
Green Tree Drive from 96th Street to Inverness Boulevard
Red Bud Lane from Green Tree Drive to end
Fairway Drive from Green Tree Drive to end
Dogwood Lane from Fairway Drive to end
Inverness Boulevard from 96th Street to Shelborne Road
Kingsmill Drive including Knight Drive from 106th Street to Kingsmill Drive
99th Street from US 421/Michigan Road west to end

· Mohawk court from 126th Street to end

· Lawrence Road from 126th Street to Cool Creek Drive

· Douglas Drive from 126th Street to Mohawk Court

· Fairbanks Drive from East Main Street to end

· Hillcrest Drive from Cool Creek Drive to High Drive

· High Court from High Drive to end

· Ridge Court from High Drive to end

If you have questions regarding these paving projects, please call the Carmel Street Department at 733-2001.

Carmel Drive Access Closed at Keystone Parkway

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN – Construction crews closed access to and from Keystone Parkway at Carmel Drive today for approximately 15 days, weather permitting. The closure is necessary in order for crews to finish construction of the roundabout and remove temporary pavement used throughout construction.
Cross traffic at Carmel Drive will remain closed and motorists are asked to follow posted detour routes for this short period. Four lanes of traffic will be maintained on Keystone Parkway under the Carmel Drive bridge during the closure period. Access to the 116th Street interchange will be maintained during the closure period at Carmel Drive. The newly constructed Merchants’ Square entrance will be closed.

Once Carmel Drive opens, the Carmel Drive and 116th Street interchanges will function as one larger interchange with Keystone Parkway. The frontage roads were put in place to connect the interchanges at 116th Street and Carmel Drive. Therefore, when traveling northbound on Keystone Parkway, motorists will need to use the 116th Street exit for access to both 116th Street and Carmel Drive. When traveling southbound on Keystone Parkway, motorists will need to use the Carmel Drive exit for access to both Carmel Drive and 116th Street. Please see the attached “Tips for safely traveling the 116th Street and Carmel Drive roundabouts” or visit www.CarmelLink.org for further information.

Motorists are asked to use extreme caution in this area for their safety and the safety of construction workers. A recently adopted 30 mph worksite speed limit ordinance is in effect and will be enforced in all construction zones along Keystone Parkway. Presently, the 40 mph speed limit will be enforced on the remaining portions of the corridor, north of Main Street and south of 116th Street. Daily short-term lane restrictions are expected as construction crews continue to work immediately adjacent to the Keystone Parkway travel lanes.

The Carmel Drive interchange is part of the final phase of a three-year project to lower the grade of Keystone Parkway under six major intersections creating new interchanges and free-flow traffic at these locations making Carmel’s five-mile stretch of Keystone a much safer and more efficient roadway. When completed, the north-south traffic on Keystone Parkway will be free-flowing with no traffic lights between 98th Street and 146th Street, and tear-drop shaped roundabout interchanges will manage the east-west traffic flow.

For more information on the project log on to www.CarmelLink.org.

Indiana Members Credit Union Distributes 525 School Uniforms to IPS School 43

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

IMCU Raises over $14,000 to purchase school uniforms for students

(Indianapolis, IN, August, 2010) Indiana Members Credit Union (IMCU), distributed school uniforms to 525 students at IPS School 43, James Whitcomb Riley, located at 150 W. 40th Street in Indianapolis on Tuesday, August 10, 2010 from 12 pm – 5 pm. IMCU raised over $14,000 through their fundraising event, “Stylin’ For Success”, which took place in February at Conseco Fieldhouse, to purchase these uniforms. IMCU employees volunteered their time on Tuesday, August 10, 2010 to disperse the uniforms to the students. In addition, students were able to register for their classes, enjoyed free ice cream and also received a pair of free shoes from Samaritan’s Feet.

“As a local community organization, we feel it’s our duty to give back. Supporting the education system is something IMCU is passionate about, especially since we were founded on the Campus of IUPUI,” said Ron Collier, CEO of IMCU. “By providing these children with school uniforms, we are able to assist them with the tools they need to be successful. We feel that’s the least we can do, and we would like to challenge other businesses to do the same.”

Indiana Members Credit Union, headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, was founded in
1956 as the Indiana University Medical Center Federal Credit Union on the campus of
IUPUI, and has since grown to 24 branches in Central Indiana, offering members a better
financial alternative and a full array of products and services. Traditionally offering better rates on loans and deposits, IMCU maintains true to its roots by “Keeping It Simple” for members. For more information, please visit IMCU online at www.imcu.org.

Clarian North Medical Center Receives National Award for Outstanding Patient Care

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Clarian North Medical Center was recently selected by outcomes firm Studer Group® to receive an Excellence in Patient Care award. The award, which represents the outstanding patient care and overall patient experience Clarian North’s staff provides, will be presented to Clarian North at the 8th annual What’s Right in Health CareSM conference held on October 18-20, 2010, in Dallas, Texas. During this acclaimed national conference, top healthcare organizations in the industry gather to share “best practices” with an audience of their peers.

The Excellence in Patient Care award is based on survey scores Clarian North received through HCAHPS, or Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems. HCAHPS is a national standardized survey tool used to measure adult inpatient perception of the quality of care they receive at a given acute care hospital. The 27-question survey was created in 2002 by the combined efforts of The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). The survey focuses on 10 major facets of patient experience: overall rating, recommendation to family and friends, communication with doctors, communication with nurses, responsiveness of hospital staff, pain management, communication about medications, discharge information, cleanliness, and quietness of atmosphere.

“Clarian North’s associates strive to provide top-quality patient care and an exceptional experience for each patient,” said Jonathan R. Goble, president and CEO of Clarian North Medical Center. “It’s very fulfilling to know that our patients recognize our desire to go above and beyond to meet their needs and would recommend us to others.”

Studer Group gives its Excellence in Patient Care awards based on very high scores in each of the HCAHPS categories. Clarian North Medical Center received its award in the “100-249 Beds” category for having the best responses (9’s and 10’s) to the HCAHPS question “Using any number from 0 to 10, where 0 is the worst hospital possible and 10 is the best hospital possible, what number would you use to rate this hospital during your stay?” To learn more about Studer Group, visit www.studergroup.com, and to read more about Clarian North’s care and services, visit www.clariannorth.com.

About Clarian North Medical Center
Clarian North is a full-service hospital committed to providing exceptional care and service. With dedicated pavilions for women, children and specialty surgery, and an attached medical office building, Clarian North brings together physician offices, inpatient beds and operating rooms. Riley Hospital for Children at Clarian North offers the peace of mind that comes with service and support from Riley Hospital for Children’s nationally recognized programs. All patient rooms are private, including neonatal and pediatric intensive care units, within the 700,000-square-foot, 170-patient bed facility. Clarian North Medical Center is part of Clarian Health, a system of hospitals and health centers throughout Indiana, which includes Methodist and Indiana University hospitals, Riley Hospital for Children, Clarian West Medical Center, Clarian Arnett Health and soon, Clarian Saxony Medical Center. Learn more at www.clariannorth.com.

Oberer's First Indiana Location Is Under Construction

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

12671 Old Meridian St in Carmel, IN The Store will open October 1

Oberer’s Flowers, Ohio’s largest florist announced today that it is expanding into neighboring Indiana and will open 4 retail stores in the Indianapolis metropolitan area. The companies first out of state retail store is located in Carmel, Indiana. Construction has begun and the 3,000 square ft store will open on October 1st.

“We’re very excited to bring our florist to Indiana,” says Rob Spikol, COO for Oberer’s Flowers. Located just north of Indianapolis in Hamilton County, Carmel is one of Indiana’s fastest growing cities. A dynamic city with award-winning schools, a thriving business environment and is very family-oriented “It’s a perfect match for our business.” Spikol says the company will give away 3,000 high value flower arrangements on its opening day to local residents.

The Carmel location is the first of four planned in the Indianapolis area, with additional stores in Indianapolis City, Fishers and in the southern metro area. “Our expansion is great news not only for the jobs we’re creating in Indiana, but the jobs we’re creating right here in Ohio,” Spikol said.

“It all began in Dayton, and we are very proud of our roots,” says Randy Oberer, president of Oberer’s Flowers. In recent years the company has expanded into Cincinnati, West Chester, Grove City and Columbus, Ohio. “We’ve managed to grow well above the industry standards because we operate much differently than a typical flower shop.” He says "We’ve always been focused on providing the best value for our customers money." “People really notice that when times are tough.”

The company grows some flowers from their greenhouses located on Troy Street much the same way Oberer’s Great Uncle Carl did back in 1922. But over the years the volume ballooned to far greater than capacity. Today Oberer’s purchases flowers from local domestic farms as well as international flower markets. Refrigerated tractor trailers can be seen unloading goods 4 days a week, and the company receives two trailers of plants from Florida each week.

“Thriving in a recession is no more a challenge than staying in business for 100 years,” says Oberer. "The way we’ve done it, is the way our company was started." He continues; "Taking care of each customer, like they’re our most important, because they are.”

Oberer’s Flowers Inc. is the 5th largest independent florist in the United States. The company has been providing customers with fresh flowers and the finest selection of plants, fruit and gourmet foods, perfect for every occasion for nearly 100 years. Historic information can be found atwww.oberers.com/history.html

Oberer’s Flowers has two subsidiary companies and five operating divisions including a Central Production Facility, Retail Stores, Greenhouse & Growing Operation, Wholesale Floral and two Import Divisions (one for fresh international product and another for international hard goods). Oberer’s Flowers has grown from a single horse and wagon to a fleet of over 70 delivery vehicles.

Oberer’s Flowers corporate headquarters; a 100,000 sq. ft facility located on a six acre complex right where it all began on Troy Street in Dayton, Ohio. The company has multiple retail stores and delivery operations spanning three states in the MidWest serving customers in Cincinnati, Columbus and Dayton in Ohio; Indianapolis, Indiana and Northern Kentucky.

Oberer’s also operates support facilities in Miami, Florida; Quito, Ecuador and has an office in Shen Yang, China located in the Heping District.

Each day Oberer’s handles more than 500 orders direct from customers for delivery within the companies delivery area. The company has grown to become one of the nations largest Wedding and Event decorators handling more than 1,000 wedding per year ranging from $100 to $50,000. Orders are generated in their retail stores, by telephone or online at www.oberers.com.

Carmel Fire Department's “Preplan Program"

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Firefighters with the Carmel Fire Department will visit every building in Carmel and Clay Township over the next couple months. The “Preplan Program” will develop a new more inclusive communications system that will be efficient with timing in regard to training and gathering data for building “preplans” in all of Carmel and Clay Township. This program gathers all the information needed for communications input and allows the firefighters to gain the personal knowledge of these buildings at the same time.

Firefighters making these visits will arrive between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday in full uniform so that they are clearly identified. Follow up visits will take place twice a year to reacquaint the firefighters with the buildings and update some important information so that all emergency responders have the most current information possible.

These visits will allow firefighters to be aware of all the buildings in their districts in order to plan for an emergency response to a specific building. With so many different styles and sizes of buildings in the city, it is important that the firefighters become familiar with the inside as well as the features on the outside of the buildings.

Important information is acquired during “preplans” that is input into CFD’s communications system. This allows them to contact building representatives during emergencies and to make the firefighters aware of special issues that could affect the manner in which they respond to an emergency.

“We encourage you to take this time to introduce yourselves to the firefighters when they visit your building and, if possible, allow a building representative the time to escort them around your building while they gather the information needed. Having these preplans in place will help the CFD to achieve the best possible response outcomes,” said Carmel Fire Chief Keith Smith.

Celebrate a country fair 1880’s style

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Conner Prairie Interactive History Park, Indiana’s only Smithsonian Affiliate, invites guests to experience an authentic1886 country fair Sept. 18 & 19. The 12th annual Country Fair will feature hayrides, tractor parades, historic baseball, authentic fair foods and lots of friendly competition.

As Indiana’s modern state fair comes to a close, guests can experience a fair as it was nearly 125 years ago in Indiana. During Country Fair at Conner Prairie, guests can explore the tent of wonders, see a medicine show, take a hayride, ride a pony, enjoy fair foods, music and entertainment.

Competitions include a pie eating contest, watermelon seed spitting competitions, tug-of-war, sack races and other historic games. Guests can also enjoy an 1886 baseball game and a tractor show.

Conner Prairie’s signature Apple Store will be selling its famous hand-dipped caramel apples and festival foods and snacks will be available for guests to enjoy while listening to the folk band Blackberry Jam on Saturday and the country music of Witch Hazel Valley People on Sunday. Guests can also sample an authentic applesauce cake in Prairietown and taste a variety of heirloom apples at the fair.

The WFMS kids pedal tractor pull contest will take place Saturday, Sept. 18, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Kids of all ages up to 70 pounds are welcome to compete in a fast-paced, action-packed pedal tractor pull. Register online at wfms.com. On Sunday, Sid the Science Kid from PBS Kids will be available to meet and greet guests from 12 – 4 p.m.

Country Fair festivities are free with Conner Prairie general admission. Admission is $13 for adults, $12 for seniors 65+, $9 for youth (ages 2 -12) and free for members and youth under two. Hours are Saturday, Sept. 18, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 19, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. To view Country Fair video, photos or for additional information, please follow this link or visit connerprairie.org.

Country Fair is made possible by Dow AgroSciences.

Conner Prairie Interactive History Park, created by Eli Lilly in 1934, is Indiana’s only Smithsonian Affiliate. Families of today engage, explore and discover what it was like to live and play in Indiana’s past. Explore four themed historic areas on 200 beautiful, wooded acres including the newest exhibit, 1859 Balloon Voyage. This exhibit educates guests about Indiana’s aviation history and culminates with a voyage 350 feet above the prairie in a tethered helium balloon. Every visit is a unique adventure that provides an authentic look into the history that shapes us today. Visit connerprairie.org or call 317.776.6006 or 800.966.1836 for admission dates, times and ticket prices. Connect with Conner Prairie on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/connerprairie, Flickr at http://www.flickr.com/people/connerprairie/, YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/user/ConnerPrairie and Twitter at http://twitter.com/connerprairie/.

Carmel Drive & Keystone Parkway Construction Update

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Beginning on or after August 31st, construction crews will close access to and from Keystone Parkway at Carmel Drive for approximately 15 days, weather permitting. The closure is necessary in order for crews to finish construction of the roundabout and remove temporary pavement used throughout construction.

Cross traffic at Carmel Drive will remain closed and motorists are asked to follow posted detour routes for this short period. Four lanes of traffic will be maintained on Keystone Parkway under the Carmel Drive bridge during the closure period. Access to the 116th Street interchange will be maintained during the 15 day closure period at Carmel Drive. The newly constructed Merchants’ Square entrance will be closed.

For more information on the project log on to www.CarmelLink.org.

The Farmers Bank Hosts FREE Jack Canfield Teleseminar

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The Farmers Bank is pleased to offer an exclusive telephone seminar featuring Jack Canfield, America’s #1 Success Coach and co-creator of the bestselling series Chicken Soup for the Soul®. During the interview we will be discussing his book The Success Principles: How to Get From Where You Are to Where You Want to Be. The Success Principles, co-authored with Janet Switzer, will teach you how to increase your confidence, tackle daily challenges, live with passion and purpose, and realize all your ambitions.

Not merely a collection of good ideas, this book spells out the 64 timeless principles used by successful men and women throughout history. And the fundamentals are the same no matter what your profession or circumstances-even if you’re a student, stay-at-home mom or currently unemployed. You are invited to join us on the call September 08, 2010, at 1:00 p.m. for one hour to discover how to:

• How to get from where you are to where you want to be.
• The biggest difference between people who are successful and those who aren’t.
• How to change the outcome of any event, simply by changing your response to it.
• How to complete past projects, heal past relationships and process old hurts, so you can embrace the future.
• How to ask for and get everything you want… from people who can give it to you.
• How to deal with fear and uncertainty.

Why are we doing this? Because we are committed to helping our community grow and prosper and want to help you and your team get what you need to prosper – regardless of the economy.

If you brought this into your business or our community on your own, it could cost thousands of dollars for you and your employees to attend. By sponsoring this, we have the great opportunity to bring this type of education to your business and our community FREE to you.

Don’t miss this opportunity, please call the Frankfort Office (765) 654-8731 or Lebanon Office (765) 482-4556 or email contactus@thefarmersbank.com to reserve your spot today!

The Farmers Bank is a $443 million asset organization chartered in 1876 with headquarters in Frankfort, IN. The Farmers Bank is locally owned and operated with 9 banking offices located in Central Indiana providing retail, business, trust & asset management, investment, mortgage, and electronic banking services. Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender.

Edward Jones Ranks Highest in Investor Satisfaction

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

According to J.D. Power and Associates 2010 Full Service Investor Satisfaction Study

For the fifth year out of the past six, financial-services firm Edward Jones ranks highest in investor satisfaction with full-service brokerage firms, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2010 Full Service Investor Satisfaction Study, announced Kelly Hindman.

The study measures overall investor satisfaction with full service investment firms based on seven factors: investment advisor, portfolio performance, account information, account offerings, commissions and fees, website and problem resolution. The J.D. Power and Associates study found that Edward Jones "performed particularly well across the two highest-weighted factors: Investment Advisor and Investment Performance."

"As stated on their website, Edward Jones advisors strive for personal attention and believe in providing one-on-one service," according to the J.D. Power study. "This is evident in their efforts to engage in proactive conversations regarding a multitude of their investors' concerns, including reviewing an existing strategic plan or developing one for a new investor, and initiating discussions regarding portfolio/asset allocation or investment needs."

Edward Jones' overall score climbed 10 points over last year, when it also was ranked highest among the 12 largest firms rated.

The 2010 Full Service Investor Satisfaction Study is based on responses from 4,460 investors who primarily invest with one of the 12 firms included in the study. The study was fielded in May 2010.

Edward Jones ranked highest in investor satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates in 2009, from 2005 through 2007, and in a tie in 2002, when the study began. Edward Jones in Canada twice ranked highest in the J.D. Power and Associates Canadian Full Service Investor Satisfaction Study.

Edward Jones provides financial services for individual investors in the United States and, through its affiliate, in Canada. Every aspect of the firm's business, from the types of investment options offered to the location of branch offices, is designed to cater to individual investors in the communities in which they live and work. The firm's 12,000-plus financial advisors work directly with nearly 7 million clients to understand their personal goals -- from college savings to retirement -- and create long-term investment solutions that emphasize a well-balanced portfolio and a buy-and-hold strategy. Edward Jones embraces the importance of building long-term, face-to-face relationships with clients, helping them to understand and make sense of the investment options available today.

Edward Jones, which ranked No. 2 on FORTUNE magazine's "100 Best Companies to Work For" in 2010, is headquartered in St. Louis. The Edward Jones web site is located at www.edwardjones.com, and its recruiting web site is www.careers.edwardjones.com. Member SIPC.

The Evan Lurie Gallery to host “Crossing Paths” for First Carmel Art Walk of 2010

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Abstract color, train yards, and movie stars will take center stage, or center-wall rather, at the Evan Lurie Gallery on September 18, 2010 when the space opens its first show of the fall entitled “Crossing Paths” featuring Adam Normandin, Daniela Wicki and Ben Freeman.

Ben Freeman returns to the Evan Lurie Gallery with a new collection of work, which, although technically in line with his delicate style of work atop antiqued paperwork, will this time include glamorous male icons of the silver screen in addition to the lovely starlets of yesteryear. Leading men such as Humphrey Bogart, Marlon Brando and Clark Gable will share the show’s limelight with easily recognizable Judy Garland among other prominent women of Hollywood. Borrowing a bit from his education in architectural structure and fusing it with his education in Fine Arts from North Carolina University, Freeman’s style is as unmistakable as it is engrossing. The artist paints his figures and faces on a expansive bed of archival media including old postcards, letters and photos that serve the pieces well adding not just depth of imagination but also a forgone connection left to the interpretation of the viewer.

Joining the exhibit and debuting in the gallery for his first show is Adam Normandin – an artist who finds beauty in the details of the unobserved. A graduate of Hofstra University, Normandin’s work is exhibited across the United States and held in many prominent collections. With a body of recent work that focuses on the locomotive industry, Normandin’s fascination with the freight train is readily observed and memorizing as it pushes the boundary of the traditional. Leaving little behind, Normandin captures his subjects without prejudice incorporating rust spots, graffiti markings and imperfections in place as he redefines the scene in a somewhat cropped characterization. Of his work he states, “I rarely choose my subjects, instead they draw me to them… Years of use and exposure to the elements imprint a sense of tireless duty onto these objects.”

Also with her first appearance on the walls at 30 West Main Street will be Daniela Wicki whose work in the abstract takes on a very distinct energetic tone. With a style that has been hailed as “exciting and vibrant”, Wicki finds her inspiration in the development of each piece and the work required to see the process through to completion. Once a successful lawyer in New York, this daughter of Swiss parents born in Lima, Peru has traveled a path from classic training of technique during her teenage years through to her style of abstract vision in a lifelong passion for creative expression. “For me, art is an aesthetic, ethical and ultimately spiritual force: a challenge made in the experience of finding in each and every creation a self realization, a self portrait of my own energy, a landscape of forces, life in motion rather than still-life.”

The Evan Lurie Gallery is located at 30 West Main Street, Carmel, IN 46032 and doors will be open for the official event from 5:00 – 10:00 pm. The event and any lectures posted in the future are free of charge and open to the general public.

Dog Expo at the MCC Waterpark

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Doggie Dayz & Pet Vaccine Clinic have been combined

Carmel, IN – August 24, 2010: Join us on Monday, September 6 from 6-8 pm at the Monon Community Center Waterpark & Central Park, as we have combined two of our largest dog events into one. We are partnering with the Low Cost Spay & Neuter Clinic to offer Vaccines for both dogs and cats. There will also be local vendors and pets available for adoption. Visit http://www.lowcostclinic.org for the full-itemized list of prices. Then, bring your pooch for a dip in the pool! This special open swim for dogs will sure be a “treat” for you and your special pet. Doggy treats will be available. Dogs must be on a leash until they have entered the water. You are strongly encouraged not to swim in the pools with the dogs.

*Fee is $6/dog and is for the Doggie Dayz portion of the event. Fee for vaccinations are dependent upon personal needs of each pet and are set by the clinic.

For more information on the Dog Expo, please call Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation at 317.848.7275.

ABOUT CARMEL CLAY PARKS & RECREATION
Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) was established in 1991 through an Interlocal Cooperation Agreement between the City of Carmel and Clay Township in Indiana. CCPR was created to serve the nature and fitness needs of the community, manage and develop existing spaces and resources, and create a sustainable future for parks and recreation programs through a financially viable and environmentally conscious parks system. CCPR manages and maintains more than 500 acres of park land and numerous recreation facilities, providing more than 5,000 annual classes and programs for all ages. Please see carmelclayparks.com for more information.

End the Summer Season at the MCC Waterpark

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN – August 24, 2010: Come help us end the summer right by participating in Splashtacular, our celebration of summer on Monday, September 6 from 11am-5pm at the Monon Community Center Waterpark. Activities and games will be spread throughout the day to encourage participation from patrons of all ages and abilities. Whether you take part in building a cardboard boat and participate in our boat race, compete in our cannon ball contest or play drip, drip, drop, we ensure that everyone will have a great time. Activities are included with general admission into the Waterpark - Youth: $5 Adult: $8.

For more information on Splashtacular, please call Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation at 317.848.7275.

H&R Block Opens Enrollment for Income Tax Course Course Teaches Fundamentals of Tax Preparation

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN - H&R Block is opening enrollment for its annual Income Tax Course. The course teaches the skills necessary for a student to become a professional tax preparer. The course is also helpful for people who want to better understand their own taxes.

H&R Block not only has expertise in tax return preparation, but also the ability to make taxes easy to understand and applicable to the needs of individual taxpayers. These are some of the common tax topics seen by professional preparers, which the series of three-hour classes covers using case studies:

·         Filing requirements and filing status
·         Reporting tips and earnings
·         Homeownership
·         Self-employment income and wages
·         Child tax credit.

"The H&R Block Income Tax Course is a great opportunity to learn new skills from an industry leader," said Susan Wiggenhorn, H&R Block course instructor. "The course will be conducted at several Hamilton County office locations, including Merchants Square at116th & Keystone, Carmel; 14165 Mundy Dr., Noblesville; and 8962 E. 96th St., Fishers. Day and evening classes are planned. The 84-hour course starts September 1 and classes generally meet two or three times a week."

For more information, visit www.hrblock.com. To enroll in H&R Block's Income Tax Course in the central Indiana area call 1-866-816-3087.

About H&R Block
H&R Block Inc. (NYSE: HRB) is one of the world's largest tax services providers, having prepared more than 550 million tax returns worldwide since 1955. In fiscal 2010, H&R Block had annual revenues of $3.9 billion and prepared more than 23 million tax returns worldwide, utilizing more than 100,000 highly trained tax professionals. The Company provides tax return preparation services in person, through H&R Block At Home online and desktop software products, and through other channels. The Company is also one of the leading providers of business services through RSM McGladrey. For more information, visit our Online Press Center.

Westfield Boulevard Road Closure

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN - Carmel Utilities is installing a 36-inch water main under Westfield Boulevard between 106th Street and the east entrance of Central Park. On or after Monday, August 23rd at noon, Westfield Boulevard will be closed to through traffic from the north side of 111th Street to the east entrance to Central Park. Only local residential traffic will be allowed in the construction area.

The construction along Westfield Boulevard will be completed in phases over the course of 60 days. The first phase is from the east entrance of Central Park to 111th Street. During the first several days of the project, the Central Park east entrance will be closed. On or after Thursday, August 26th, it will be accessible to traffic from the north.

This closure was originally scheduled to take place in February when construction began on this water main project. However, the construction plan was altered to allow Westfield Blvd to remain open while it was serving as a detour to Keystone Parkway and the Utilities Department began installing the water main through Central Park. The work in Central Park is now completed and several intersections along Keystone Parkway are now open so the Utilities Department is resuming work on Westfield Boulevard.

It is necessary to close Westfield Boulevard because the pipe is being installed underneath the roadway. Installing the pipe alongside the road would have resulted in a large number of mature trees being destroyed. By installing the water main underneath the road, many of these trees can be saved.

The City of Carmel Utilities thanks everyone for their patience as it makes this important infrastructure improvement.

The City of Carmel Utilities provides reliable and low-cost water and wastewater services to over 27,000 households in Clay Township.

NFL’s Punt, Pass & Kick

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN – August 19, 2010: The NFL’s Punt, Pass, & Kick is a national event that tests the skills and accuracy of youth football players. Join us on Saturday, September 4 from 9-11am at West Park (2700 W 116th Street). The top scorer in each age division for boys and girls advances to the Sectional Competition. Division age is determined as of December 31 2009. The boys and girls compete separately. Children must be 8 to 15 years old and SHOW A VALID BIRTH CERTIFICATE FOR AGE VERIFICATION. This event is free to the public.

For more information on the NFL’s Punt, Pass, & Kick events, please call Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation at 317.848.7275.

Purdue Professor Who Testified before Congress on Magnitude of Gulf Oil Spill Speaks at Carmel Chamber Luncheon

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

He testified before Congress, and newscasters sought him for expert analysis. Steven Wereley, Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University and an expert in microfluids, has been all over the national news talking about the BP Oil Spill and how much oil has really leaked from the depths of the ocean. In May, Professor Wereley and the Flow Rate Technical Group, a government task force, arrived at an official estimate of 35,000-60,000 barrels of oil per day – greatly in excess of the estimates provided by BP of 5,000 barrels per day. He remains at the forefront of the experts who are knowledgeable about the quantity of the spill and will speak at the Carmel Chamber’s September 8 luncheon.

Steven Wereley completed his masters and doctoral research at Northwestern University and has been Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University since 1999. His current research interests focus on fluid flows in microscopic domains, commonly known as microfluidics. Professor Wereley has co-authored several books; it was Particle Image Velocimetry: A Practical Guide, published in 2007, that led to his involvement with the oil spill debate regarding the flow rate of the oil.

What:   Carmel Chamber Monthly Luncheon
When:   Wednesday, September 8, 2010, 12-1:30 pm
Where:  Monon Community Center, 1235 Central Park Drive, Carmel

The Chamber’s monthly luncheons are $17 for Chamber members with advance payment or $20 at the door with a reservation, and $25 for non-members and those without reservations. Reservations are required by noon on Friday, September 3 and can be made by calling the Chamber at 317.846.1049 or online at carmelchamber.com. As always, anyone interested in hearing the program and not eating lunch is invited to attend free of charge.

About the Carmel Chamber of Commerce
The Carmel Chamber of Commerce is a member-driven organization committed to enhancing our members’ success, fostering economic growth and contributing to our community’s quality of life. Information is available at carmelchamber.com.

Westfield Boulevard Road Closure

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The City of Carmel Utilities thanks everyone for their patience as it makes this important infrastructure improvement.

The City of Carmel Utilities provides reliable and low-cost water and wastewater services to over 27,000 households in Clay Township.

Blue & Co., LLC Expands Professional Staff

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Blue & Co., LLC a leading, regional public accounting firm with offices strategically located in Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio is pleased to announce the addition of the following individuals to the organization in the offices indicated:

Carmel, IN
Kevin Umberger, Staff Accountant
Gavin Fox, Staff Accountant
Gwen Parker, Manager
David Winters, Senior Accountant
Leigh Hirnisey, Human Resource Generalist
Tina Davis, Accounting Assistant/Bookkeeper
William Roe, Recruitment Manager

Columbus, OH
Bradley Taylor, Staff Accountant
Ashley Jones, Staff Accountant
Steven Ritzer, Manager

Indianapolis, IN
Lindsey Ladyman, Senior Consultant
Linda Peck, Accounting Clerk
John Himes, Consultant
Jennifer Medve, Staff Accountant
Leigh Schuette, Manager
Nicholas Arens, Senior Accountant
Jarit Loughmiller, Manager

Lexington, KY
Matthew Koch, Staff Accountant

Louisville, KY – East
Allen Schuhmann, Staff Accountant
Nick Ficklin, Staff Accountant

Seymour, IN
Matthew Matern, Staff Accountant

Blue & Co., LLC was established in 1970 and provides accounting, tax and consulting services to companies throughout the Midwest primarily in the industry niches of healthcare, construction, not-for-profit, manufacturing and distribution, governmental, equine and agribusiness.

Blue & Co., LLC Announces Staff Promotions

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Blue & Co., LLC a leading, regional public accounting firm with offices strategically located in Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio is pleased to announce the promotion of the following individuals throughout the organization in the offices indicated:

Indianapolis, IN
Michael Glick, Senior Manager
Shawn Williams, Senior Manager
Michelle Thomas, Manager
Jeffry Moffatt, Manager
Peter Szostak, Senior Accountant
Andrew Johanson, Senior Accountant

Seymour, IN
Mark, Wischmeier, Manager
Natasha Miller, Senior Accountant

Carmel, IN
Michael Shultz, Manager
Damien Strohmier, Senior Accountant

Columbus, OH
Autumn Smith, Manager
Pam Lytle, Senior Benefits Specialist
Angie Justice, Senior Accounting Specialist

Louisville, KY
Scott Reed, Manager
Nicole Loparo, Senior Accountant

Lexington, KY
Jason Ladd, Manager
Wes Rowe, Manager
Matthew Koch, Senior Accountant

ATI Presents Richard Dresser's"ROUNDING THIRD"

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

A Comedy in Six Innings with Big Laughs is Heading for Clay Terrace!

What happens when you take two coaches with opposing philosophies and stick them together running their sons' team...you've got a recipe for bad baseball - and great comedy! "It's a modern day ODD COUPLE," says Don Farrell, director of the upcoming Actors Theatre of Indiana production of Richard Dresser's ROUNDING THIRD "with differing views on parenting, the true meaning of success and about male relationships as they develop in the sporting world...or perhaps as they unravel!"

Macho baseball buff Don is the experienced coach of the Little League team of which his son is the star. He is a construction worker who enjoys his beer, has a temper, and an unshakable faith that winning is everything. Don gets stuck with assistant coach Michael, who is a chipper, hard-working white collar type who sees Little League as an opportunity to develop sportsmanship, teamwork, and above all - have fun. He is also, of all things, Canadian. Michael's son is, well, uh, a nice kid, the kind you hope never gets the ball hit to him, and Michael's own sports background is limited to, well, uh, curling.

Don is so win-at-all-costs he'd make Vince Lombardi wince. Michael just wants everybody to get a trophy.

"Don" is played by Roger Ortman and "Michael" is played by Nick Carpenter - both will be making their ATI debut and both last appeared together in The Phoenix's production of a very different baseball play, TAKE ME OUT.

How the two go head to head, and how they change through the season, brings on an exploding scoreboard of laughs, whether from Don's desperate attempt to call back a runner headed for second, or Michael's equally desperate attempts to get all the equipment back into the bag.

Performances run Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 PM and Sundays at 2:00 PM. ROUNDING THIRD will have two preview performances on September 1st and 2nd. Performances will run September 3 - 26 at the Carmel Community Playhouse at Clay Terrace, 14299 Clay Terrace Blvd. Ste 140, Carmel, IN 46033. Tickets are $32 with Senior, Studen and Group rates available. As a special for Baseball Fans - all Wednesday and Thursday performances are only $20! For reservations call (317) 669-7983 or visit www.actorstheatreofindiana.org.

This show contains some adult language that Little Leaguers sometime use but shouldn't. Parental discretion is advised.

Carmel Fire Department’s Redeployment Plan

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN – The Carmel Fire Department (CFD) announced that they are adding emergency ambulance service to the west side of Carmel and also expanding their rescue and extrication service to adapt to the growing and changing population. Fire officials said they are redeploying firefighters from Station 45 at 106th and College to an additional emergency ambulance stationed at Station 42 at 106th and Shelburne. The Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulance service from Station 45 will remain at that location, only rescue personnel are being redeployed. Rescue tools and equipment are being added to Station 44 on East Main Street and the Fire Headquarters at Civic Square and at Station 42 on Carmel’s west side at 106th and Shelborne. Firefighters are also receiving additional rescue training to add to their firefighting and EMS skills.

The redeployment took place today upon completion of the training and equipment additions.

As a result, the CFD now has four (4) Advanced Life Support transport ambulances in daily service staffed by CFD Medics and EMT’s. This redeployment has allowed CFD to diversify its services without major cost increases to its operation. The Department also has a new ladder apparatus to replace an aging ladder truck, which also went into service today. The funding for this new apparatus was provided by Clay Township.

"We are constantly reassessing our public safety departments to make sure our resources are allocated to best serve the needs of our community,” said Mayor Jim Brainard.

Thousands of Pounds of Food Pouring Into AlphaGraphics Business Center

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

July Fight Against Hunger Campaign A Success!

Carmel, Indiana (Grassroots Newswire) 8/12/10 --The Second Annual AlphaGraphics Fight Against Hunger Campaign came to an end July 31. Donations are now being gathered by AlphaGraphics and Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana. Gleaners has been working on barrel pick ups while the employees of AlphaGraphics have been concentrating on the boxes. "We have at least 3,000 lbs of food in our center, said Michael Kile, owner of the Carmel AlphaGraphics located next to the BMV on Old Meridian Street. With Gleaner's collection and the checks we have received we are well on our way to meeting this year's goal."

Pick ups will be completed by tomorrow. On Tuesday, August 17 around ll:00 am Gleaners' trucks will arrive at AlphaGraphics to take the donations back to their warehouse and planning for the 2011 Fight Against Hunger Campaign will begin.Kile stated, "We are amazed by the generosity, creativity and resourcefulness of the businesses that participated this year. One company held competitions among departments and offered a variety of prizes to employees, another played food bingo and the response was amazing. Several other businesses discounted services in exchange for donations. Maybe next year we will have a competition between companies. We want each year to be bigger and better so we can help as many people in our community as possible."

About AlphaGraphics
AlphaGraphics plans, produces and manages visual communications for business at nearly 300 owner-operated, locally-based business center locations worldwide. Backed by state-of-the-art technology, the world’s highest quality standards and a global network, the company’s trained and experienced team members are committed to delivering creative solutions that allow customers to communicate more confidently and effectively.

First Financial Bank Launches Online Resource Center for Local Businesses

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The online resource provides valuable business and financial management tools

First Financial Bank is pleased to announce a new online resource that will help business owners build and grow their business. The Business Resource Center, available at www.bankatfirst.com.sbresources.com, will provide business owners with valuable tips, information and tools.

First Financial’s Business Resource Center has six main areas, including managing your business, managing your finances, protecting your business, business news, financial calculators, and tools and resources.

Business owners will find information to help them develop a business plan, understand legal issues, evaluate the right accounting methods, employee benefits, and protect their business against fraud. The site also provides technology tips, current business trends, important government forms, stock updates, and hundreds of other valuable topics and tools.

Indiana Members Credit Union Raises over $53,000 for School Supply Drive

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

IMCU PROVIDES 3,000 BACKPACKS TO STUDENTS

(Indianapolis, IN) Indiana Members Credit Union (IMCU), along with extremely generous members, raised a total of over $53,000 in their school supply campaign which will provide 3,000 backpacks and school supplies to underprivileged children. This total is a result of selling candy at their 25 branches in Central Indiana, as well as donations from an employee fundraiser, “Bowling for Backpacks”, “The BackPack Attack Golf Open”, and their annual IMCU Rummage Sale. Enough funds were raised for IMCU to donate more than 72,500 supplies, which included: backpacks, notebooks, carabiners, rulers, scissors, calculators, folders, colored pencils, crayons, markers, pens, pencils, erasers, art boxes, pencil sharpeners and glue.

IMCU employees volunteered their time to fill the backpacks at their “Stuffing Party” on Sunday, August 8th, 2010 at Primo South Banquet & Conference Center located at 2615 E. National Avenue in Indianapolis from noon – 2 pm. In addition, IMCU dispersed 2,000 of the backpacks filled with school supplies during a live distribution from 3pm – 5 pm on Sunday in partnership with BackPack Attack. Children were able to receive a free backpack during the event when accompanied by an adult. Indiana Pacers Mascot, Boomer, was also on site from 4 pm – 5 pm.

It’s reported that 80% percent of the families in the Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) need help with basic school supplies. IMCU has partnered with programs in Marion and surrounding counties to provide underprivileged children the supplies they need to start the school year.

Programs IMCU donated supplies to included:

Marion County BackPack Attack
Hendricks County BackPack Attack
Johnson County Fast Track Program
Franklin Township Fast Track Program
Westfield “Open Doors Project”
Grant County’s “Get on the Bus” Program
Carmel Clay Township Trustees
Noblesville Trustee
Muncie Mission
BackPack Attack through Salvation Army
Decatur Township
Boone County BackPack Attack

Ron Collier, CEO of Indiana Members Credit Union, comments on the success of the campaign, “We challenged our organization and the community to do more this year and I am overwhelmed with the support we’ve received from everyone. I appreciate the extreme generosity from our community for this very worthy cause. Supporting educational needs has significant meaning to all of us at the credit union, including members, employees, and the board of directors, especially since we were founded on the campus of IUPUI over 50 years ago. IMCU is dedicated to giving back to the communities we serve. By providing children with these school supplies, we are able to give them the tools they need to be successful. We continue to encourage others to help us in this effort to aid our children with their education.”

For more information on Indiana Members Credit Union’s involvement with BackPack Attack, please visit their website at: www.imcu.org.

Indiana Members Credit Union, headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, was founded in 1956 as the Indiana University Medical Center Federal Credit Union on the campus of IUPUI, and has since grown to 24 branches in Central Indiana, offering members a better financial alternative and a full array of products and services. Traditionally offering better rates on loans and deposits, IMCU maintains true to its roots by “Keeping It Simple” for members. For more information, please visit IMCU online at www.imcu.org.

Blue & Co., LLC Selected as one of Inside Public Accounting's "2010 Top 100 Accounting Firms" and Third Fastest-Growing in the Nation

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Firm Rises to 72nd Place in 20th Annual Ranking; Up from 81st Place in 2009

CARMEL, IN, (Aug. 11, 2010) – Blue & Co., LLC has been selected as one of INSIDE Public Accounting’s “2010 Top 100 Accounting Firms.” The firm is also recognized as the third fastest-growing firm in the nation, as ranked by net revenue percentage change.

The 20th annual report, sponsored by leading industry publication INSIDE Public Accounting (IPA), ranked Blue & Co., LLC in 72nd place nationwide, up from 81st place in 2009. Published annually, the IPA 100 is the accounting profession’s most accurate listing of the nation’s 100 largest accounting firms based on fiscal performance.

“Our continued growth, especially in these challenging economic times, is a testament to our committed staff members and our clients, who recognize the value of our expertise,” said Doug Hasler, Blue & Co., LLC Executive Committee Chair. “We look forward to carrying this momentum into 2011 and beyond as the firm continues to grow.”

Blue & Co., LLC is an independent accounting and advisory firm employing more than 280 people across the organization’s eight offices in Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky and is lead by their 32 directors. Blue’s public accounting expertise includes the practice areas of assurance, tax compliance and consulting, healthcare consulting, benefit plan services, business valuation and forensic accounting, litigation support, and business services and consulting. Its industry specializations include healthcare, construction, not-for-profit, manufacturing and distribution, airports, governmental entities and equine / agribusiness.

About Blue & Co, LLC
Established in 1970 and headquartered in Carmel IN, Blue & Co., LLC has been ranked in the Top 100 U.S. public accounting and consulting firms for more than 10 years according to both Inside Public Accounting and Accounting Today magazines. The firm was recently named as one of the 2010 Best Places to Work in Indiana, a designation earned for the second consecutive year. Blue is a member of the AICPA Division for CPA Firms, Employee Benefit Plan Audit Quality Center, Governmental Audit Quality Center, and Center for Audit Quality as well as the Center for Nonprofit Excellence. Additionally, the firm is a member of Moore Stephens North America, Inc. (www.msnainc.org), an affiliation of approximately 60 regional accounting firms across the U.S. and Canada—and Moore Stephens International Limited, an organization of 351 leading independent accounting and consulting firms in 98 countries. For more information, please visit www.blueandco.com.

Main Street and Keystone Parkway Ribbon Cutting

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The Carmel community celebrated the opening of the Main Street roundabout interchange at Keystone Parkway at a ribbon cutting ceremony today. The event was held to thank the area's residents, businesses, churches, and schools for their patience and support during the construction of this important project. While the ceremonial ribbon cutting was held at noon, construction crews have until the end of the day to make final adjustments to the intersection to make it ready for traffic. Therefore, the Main Street interchange will open to traffic later in the evening of Monday, August 9th.

One of the major goals of this stage of the Keystone Parkway construction process was to ensure that the Main Street interchange would be open by August 10th, the start of the Carmel Clay school year. The City worked closely with the school administration and its transportation staff and decided that closing Main Street at the end of the school year would be less disruptive for the schools than having it closed at the beginning of the school year. City staff also worked closely with the schools to coordinate the necessary route changes and communicate those to the students, parents, faculty and staff.

Main Street at Keystone Parkway closed to traffic on May 3rd and on May 10th, Keystone closed to all traffic for 45 days. The closure enabled the City to save more than $500,000 in construction costs and accelerated the construction schedule to allow the interchange to open prior to the deadline.

Walsh Construction came in as the lowest bidder for this interchange and, despite having more rain days than usual, stayed on track with the completion date. Their dedication and professionalism brought praise from the neighbors in the area who especially appreciated the everyday kindness of the workers.

"The goal of this project has been to create a safer, more efficient roadway that better connects the east and west sides of Keystone. We are already seeing a reduction in the more than 200 accidents that have typically occurred each year along Keystone. This design is also better-suited to the residential landscape adjacent to Keystone," said Mayor Jim Brainard.

In September of 2007, the State of Indiana relinquished Keystone Parkway to the City of Carmel. The City wanted to assume control of Keystone Parkway to ensure that reconstruction of the road improved the safety of the roadway, better connected the east and west sides of Keystone and was compatible with surrounding residential neighborhoods. This new design has made the road safer and easier for all traffic to cross, including pedestrians and cyclists.

The Main Street interchange is part of the final phase of a three-year project to lower the grade of Keystone Parkway under six major intersections, creating new interchanges and free-flow traffic at these locations, which makes Carmel's five-mile stretch of Keystone a much safer and more efficient roadway. When completed, the north-south traffic on Keystone Parkway will be free-flowing with no traffic lights between 98th Street and US 31 and tear-drop shaped roundabouts interchanges will manage the east-west traffic flow.

While roundabout interchanges have occasionally been used in the United States, these Keystone interchanges are the first that have utilized such a compact design. This design makes these interchanges fit well in an established community.

For more information on the project, log onto www.CarmelLink.org.

Indiana Members Credit Union Announces 2 Year Partnership with Indiana Pacers

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

(Indianapolis, IN, August, 2010) Indiana Members Credit Union (IMCU) announced Friday they will extend their partnership with the Indiana Pacers. IMCU will continue to be an Official Sponsor of the Indiana Pacers for the 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 seasons. IMCU and Pacers Sports & Entertainment solidified their partnership with a contract signing on Thursday July 22, 2010 with Ken Beckley, IMCU Board Member, and Jim Morris, Pacers Sports & Entertainment President.

“We’re very pleased to continue our partnership with Indiana Members Credit Union,” said Pacers Sports & Entertainment President Jim Morris. “They’ve been a great partner and we’re excited to further develop our relationship with yet another local company that shares our passion for this community.”

“Indiana Members Credit Union is proud to continue our partnership with the Indiana Pacers for the 2010-11 & 2011-12 seasons,” said Ron Collier, CEO of IMCU. “The Indiana Pacers and IMCU have formed a partnership over the past year, and we are looking forward to building upon that relationship. Like the Pacers, IMCU is an organization founded here in Indianapolis. IMCU is committed to supporting our community. Consequently, this partnership is a natural fit. We wish the Pacers great success in the upcoming seasons.”

Collier elaborated, “Our members have enjoyed meeting the Indiana Pacers Players in our branches. We are now able to extend this benefit, bringing the Indiana Pacers to their fans and our members, through continued personal appearances at IMCU branches.” The current agreement includes player and mascot appearances, a Pacers debit card, courtside signage, radio spots, hospitality and use of the Conseco Fieldhouse practice court for community relations initiatives. IMCU and the Indiana Pacers began their corporate partnership with the 2009-10 season.

About Indiana Members Credit Union
Indiana Members Credit Union, headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, was founded in
1956 as the Indiana University Medical Center Federal Credit Union on the campus of
IUPUI, and has since grown to 24 branches in Central Indiana, offering members a better
financial alternative and a full array of products and services. Traditionally offering better rates on loans and deposits, IMCU maintains true to its roots by “Keeping It Simple” for members. For more information, please visit IMCU online at www.imcu.org.

For more information, contact the Pacers’ Public Information Department at (317) 917-2500.

Hazel Dell Parkway Opening

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN – Hazel Dell Parkway will re-open to through traffic this evening, Monday, August 9th. The road was closed for 45 days from north of Main Street to Cherry Creek Boulevard to construct a new roundabout at Cherry Creek Boulevard and Hazel Dell Parkway. This project also includes widening Hazel Dell Parkway to four lanes from Ivy Hills Drive (just north of Main Street) to Cherry Creek Boulevard. Work remains to be done on Hazel Dell, but all will be done while maintaining traffic flow.

The construction of this roundabout is part of a larger plan which includes updating the roundabouts on Hazel Dell Parkway at 126th Street and Main Street to provide safer and more efficient travel through the roundabouts. It also includes the resurfacing of Hazel Dell Parkway from 116th to 146th Street. This project is being funded by two sources. The expansion from two lanes to four lanes and the new roundabout are paid for by City funds. The resurfacing of Hazel Dell Parkway and the updating of the existing roundabouts will be funded in part by stimulus money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which was passed by Congress in 2009.

“We have learned a great deal about designing roundabouts since the Hazel Dell roundabouts were constructed in 1998. These changes will improve the safety of these intersections, which have already helped reduce the number of accidents with injury in Carmel by 80 percent,” said Mayor Jim Brainard.

Main Street and Keystone Parkway Ribbon Cutting

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN—The Carmel community celebrated the opening of the Main Street roundabout interchange at Keystone Parkway at a ribbon cutting ceremony today. The event was held to thank the area’s residents, businesses, churches, and schools for their patience and support during the construction of this important project. While the ceremonial ribbon cutting was held at noon, construction crews have until the end of the day to make final adjustments to the intersection to make it ready for traffic. Therefore, the Main Street interchange will open to traffic later in the evening of Monday, August 9th.

“The goal of this project has been to create a safer, more efficient roadway that better connects the east and west sides of Keystone. We are already seeing a reduction in the more than 200 accidents that have typically occurred each year along Keystone. This design is also better-suited to the residential landscape adjacent to Keystone,” said Mayor Jim Brainard.

The Main Street interchange is part of the final phase of a three-year project to lower the grade of Keystone Parkway under six major intersections, creating new interchanges and free-flow traffic at these locations, which makes Carmel’s five-mile stretch of Keystone a much safer and more efficient roadway. When completed, the north-south traffic on Keystone Parkway will be free-flowing with no traffic lights between 98th Street and US 31 and tear-drop shaped roundabouts interchanges will manage the east-west traffic flow.

For more information on the project, log onto www.CarmelLink.org.

St.Vincent Tour de Carmel

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN – August 6, 2010: Join us for our most popular special event! St.Vincent Tour de Carmel is a bike ride along 10-mile and 20-mile routes through Carmel. Along the ride, stop at any of our rest stops for a variety of healthy snacks, drinks and entertainment. After the ride is complete, you can join us at the finish line for more entertainment and refreshments. Pre-registration is required in order to secure a T-shirt and goodie bag. Day of event registrations will be accepted. You can pre-register online at www.carmelclayparks.com or pick up a form at the Monon Community Center. All participants will receive a goodie bag and a T-shirt if registered on or before 8/27/2010. Check-in on event day is from 7:30-9:00am. No riders will be allowed to begin the tour after 9:00am and must complete the course no later than noon. In case of inclement weather, this event will be cancelled.

Adaptive 10-mile Ride: This ride is for individuals with special needs only. Individuals will ride as a group on the 10-mile route. Staff will be staggered within the group throughout the ride. Group will meet at the Monon Community Center in the designated tent at the start line for check-in at 8:00am. Group will begin the ride at 8:30am sharp. For more information on the adaptive ride, please contact Brooke at btaflinger@carmelclayparks.com or 317.573.5245.

Saturday, September 11
7:30am-12:00pm (Adaptive: 8:00am-12:00pm)
Fee: $6/person
Starting Location: Monon Community Center - East Parking Lot (1235 Central Park Drive East)

For more information on St.Vincent Tour de Carmel, please call 317.848.7275 or visit carmelclayparks.com.

Local Talent to Shine at CCP's Inaugural Cabaret Talent Showcase August 13 - 15

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

A variety of acts were chosen to perform three shows at the Carmel Community Playhouse at Clay Terrace

Carmel Community Players will present its first community-based talent showcase in a cabaret format for three performances from August 13 - 15 at the Carmel Community Playhouse at Clay Terrace.

CCP's Cabaret Talent Showcase will include a variety of local actors, singers and musicians performing monologues, vocal selections and instrumental pieces. Proceeds from the event will benefit Carmel Community Players and help cover operating and production costs for the 2010-11 "Make 'Em Laugh!" season.

Some of the acts selected from auditions include Indianapolis actress Ginny Spillman, Indianapolis actor Paul Nicely, jazz performer and Carmel vocal coach Heather Ramsey, sister duo Ashleigh and Sam Harms, guitarist Tommy Baldwin, American Cabaret Theatre singer/actress April Armstrong, dancer Claire Cassidy, Carmel Fest winner Courtney Krauter, brother and sister duet with Kevin and Katie Krauter, former Carmel HS Ambassador Katie Mazzini, and CCP alumni Meridith Keller, Stephanie Bizzle, Susan Smith, and others ranging from age 10 to adult.

"We are really excited about the level of talent we were able to attract from throughout the Indianapolis metro area. There is clearly a strong interest by area artists in performing in Cabarets and we are very happy to be able to provide them the opportunity," says CCP president Michael T. Long. "This is the real deal and we encourage the public to come out to Clay Terrace to support these very talented acts."

The Cabaret Talent Showcase will be presented at 8:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, August 13th and 14th, and at a 2:00 p.m. matinee on Sunday, August 15th. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for senior citizens and students with a valid student id card. Tickets can be purchased in advance by visiting CCP online at www.carmelplayers.org or by calling CCP's box office at 317-815-9387. Tickets may also be available at the door.

Frederiek Toney to Visit Northerin Indianapolis to Present Pearson Ford 50th Anniversary Plaque

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind., August 4, 2010 – Frederiek Toney, Vice President of Ford Motor Company, will present John Pearson, III, President of Pearson Ford, a 50th Anniversary Plaque on Thursday, August 5th at Pearson Ford’s campus in northern Indianapolis. The ceremony will take place at 11:00 AM EST and will be attended by several prominent community members, including Carmel Mayor, Jim Brainard.

Pearson Ford opened its doors on May 17, 1960. Throughout the years, they have been noted as a leader in the automobile industry. The company prides itself on outstanding service and quality sales. Pearson Ford’s customer satisfaction is always among the top ranked Ford Dealerships nationwide and their reputation as a good corporate citizen within the community still stands. Now, as they celebrate 50 years, Mr. Pearson is humbled by the history and eternally thankful for all the thousands of customers that have allowed him to earn their business.

“We have been a part of the Zionsville and Carmel communities for 50 years, and no business can survive that long without the support of the people and businesses in those communities,” stated Mr. Pearson. “We are very grateful for that support, and have tried to reciprocate over the years with our support of those communities. It has been a wonderful partnership that I hope will continue for many years to come.”

The event is open to the public and will be followed by a celebratory lunch, commercial fleet show and other customer appreciation activities.

About Pearson Ford
Pearson Ford, a top Indiana Ford dealer, is proud to serve the Greater Indianapolis area. They provide a full line of inventory and services, dedicated to their customers. With near 100 employees, a top-rated Full Line Service Department and a Ford Accessory and Parts Department, Pearson Ford has become a leading dealership and auto repair destination in the state. The company also includes a Performance Collision Center, Quick Lane and Auto Credit Builders. For more information regarding Pearson Ford, please call 317.733.6026 or visit www.pearsonford.net.

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 176,000 employees and about 80 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln and Mercury, production of which has been announced by the company to be ending in the fourth quarter of 2010, and, until its sale, Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.ford.com.

Conner Prairie Apple Store to open September 1

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Hand-dipped caramel apples usher in fall for guests

FISHERS, Ind. (Aug. 5, 2010) – The Apple Store at Conner Prairie, an Indianapolis fall tradition for 25 years, is opening its doors on Wed., Sept. 1, 2010 for this year’s Indiana apple season. Located at 13400 Allisonville Rd., Fishers, Ind., the store, operated by the Conner Prairie Alliance, features fresh, hand-dipped caramel apples, apple cider slushies, apple donuts, cider, Indiana popcorn and a large variety of bag-your-own local apples. Opening day will feature historic apple butter demonstrations from 1 - 4 p.m. and free samples to customers, along with 15 percent off all purchases.

Since 1985, the Apple Store has been a Conner Prairie staple, starting from its humble beginnings as an apple stand in an old pole barn. The Apple Store is now housed in a freestanding building thanks to the Alliance’s fundraising efforts. More than 70 women will volunteer at the store this year, filling more than 200 shifts. During last year’s Apple Store season, Alliance volunteers dipped more than 14,000 caramel apples and served 4,000 apple cider slushies.

In addition to all of the popular apple treats, this year the Apple Store will feature items from Local Folks Foods and Crown Point Graphics, both produced in Hamilton County, along with unique Amish goods, gourmet dog treats and special gift items. The Apple Store also offers special order gourmet caramel apples, upon request.

The Conner Prairie Alliance, a nonprofit women’s volunteer organization, which began in 1982, operates the seasonal Apple Store at Conner Prairie. This passionate group of women is recognized for donating countless hours, hard work and valued funds to Conner Prairie. Since its inception 28 years ago, the Alliance has raised more than $1 million for Conner Prairie’s educational programs and donates thousands of volunteer service hours per year. Alliance funds have supported numerous Conner Prairie projects, including Discovery Station, Animal Encounters and 1859 Balloon Voyage.

The Apple Store will be open Sept. 1 – Oct. 31, Tuesdays – Sundays, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., evenings during Headless Horseman in October and during Marsh Symphony on the Prairie performances Sept. 2 - 5. Admission to Conner Prairie is not required to visit the Apple Store. All proceeds benefit various Conner Prairie educational programs. To receive Apple Store coupons, sign up for Conner Prairie e-news alerts at connerprairie.org and find the Apple Store on Facebook.

Conner Prairie Announces 2010 Spirit of the Prairie Award Recipients

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Head of Transportation Secruity Administration, entertainment executive, rabbi/author and civic leader among honorees

Conner Prairie Interactive History Park, Indiana’s only Smithsonian affiliate, announces the 2010 Spirit of the Prairie award recipients. Honorees include newly appointed Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Administrator John S. Pistole; entertainment executive, attorney & television/film producer Max L. Siegel; rabbi, author and civic leader Sandy Eisenberg Sasso; and civic leader and community volunteer Julie A. Davis.

The 2010 Spirit of the Prairie award recipients will be recognized at the eighth annual Spirit of the Prairie cocktail reception and dinner—Celebrating America’s Trailblazers, Sept. 11, 2010, at 5:45 p.m. The awards reception is Conner Prairie’s opportunity to acknowledge those who have created a distinctly American story. The honorees exemplify the spirit of endeavor that created the rich and ever-changing tapestry of the United States.

“We are honored to present Conner Prairie’s highest award to this year’s outstanding American trailblazers,“ says Ellen M. Rosenthal, president and CEO of Conner Prairie. “Each honoree exemplifies the values of Conner Prairie through their achievements, courage, innovation and vision, and we are proud to honor their excellence.”

Julie A. Davis, civic leader & community volunteer
Davis, a civic leader and community volunteer, has worked with more than 30 nonprofit organizations and numerous Indianapolis business leaders for the past 20 years. In 2000, Davis co-founded the Presidents Roundtable, bringing together the presidents of 11 (now 20) women’s organizations to share ideas, identify issues and leverage the strengths of the various organizations representing 5,850 women volunteers. Davis is a 2008 Mayor’s Community Service Award recipient and currently serves on the boards of six nonprofits, while volunteering for nearly 15 others.

John S. Pistole, TSA administrator
Pistole, recently confirmed administrator of the TSA, is a graduate of Anderson University and Indiana University School of Law. As TSA administrator, he oversees security operations of more than 450 federalized airports throughout the U.S., the Federal Air Marshal Service and the security for highways, railroads, ports, mass transit systems and pipelines. Pistole is also a 26 year veteran of the FBI with extensive national security and counterterrorism experience. Pistole is a recipient of the Department of Justice Edward H. Levy Award and the Presidential Rank Award for Distinguished Executives.

Rabbi Sandy Eisenberg Sasso, author & civic leader
Sasso has been rabbi of Congregation Beth-El Zedeck in Indianapolis since 1977. She was the first woman ordained from the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, and the first to serve a conservative congregation together with her husband, Rabbi Dennis Sasso. She is active in the arts, civic and interfaith communities and is the author of many articles and award winning children’s books, including God’s Paintbrush. Sasso also lectures at Butler University and writes a monthly column for the Indianapolis Star.

Max L. Siegel, entertainment executive, attorney & television/film Producer
Siegel is the CEO of The 909 Group LLC, a sports, entertainment and lifestyle marketing firm representing clients such as NASCAR, Dale Earnhardt, Inc., BET Networks and the Minnesota Vikings. Siegel also leads the sports and entertainment industry team with Baker & Daniels in Indianapolis. He formerly served as president of global operations at Dale Earnhardt Inc. and recently made history as the highest-ranking African American executive in NASCAR. Siegel is a graduate of Notre Dame Law School.

Past honorees include American puzzle creator and editor Will Shortz; entertainer Sandi Patty; international opera soprano Angela Brown; and United States Senator Richard G. Lugar, among many others.

This year’s Spirit of the Prairie corporate chairs are Nancy Huber, president & CEO of the central Indiana division of Fifth Third Bank, and Jay and Nancy Ricker of Ricker Oil Company. Conner Prairie board member and civic leader Gay Dwyer is serving as this year’s event chair.

Spirit of the Prairie reservations are being accepted now and can be made online at www.connerprairie.org/spirit.aspx or by calling 317.776.6000 x292. Tickets start at $150 and tables of 10 are available. Proceeds from this event support Conner Prairie’s mission to inspire curiosity and foster learning about Indiana’s past by providing engaging, individualized and unique experiences.

About Conner Prairie
Conner Prairie Interactive History Park, created by Eli Lilly in 1934, is Indiana’s only Smithsonian Affiliate. Families of today engage, explore and discover what it was like to live and play in Indiana’s past. Explore four themed historic areas on 200 beautiful, wooded acres including the newest exhibit, 1859 Balloon Voyage. This exhibit educates guests about Indiana’s aviation history and culminates with a voyage 350 feet above the prairie in a tethered helium balloon. Every visit is a unique adventure that provides an authentic look into the history that shapes us today. Visit connerprairie.org or call 317.776.6006 or 800.966.1836 for admission dates, times and ticket prices. Connect with Conner Prairie on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/connerprairie, Flickr at http://www.flickr.com/people/connerprairie/, YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/user/ConnerPrairie and Twitter at http://twitter.com/connerprairie/.

New Council Districts in City of Carmel

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN – The Carmel City Council has approved a change in the council districts map to reflect the newly incorporated Southwest Clay area. All 8.3 square miles of Southwest Clay has been incorporated into one council district and will remain fully intact in any future changes.

The 2010 Council Districts map will go into effect today, July 27, 2010. Therefore, the newly incorporated, southwest Clay area will now become a part of District #1 with Rick Sharp as the representative as well as the two at-large councilmen, Ron Carter and Kevin Rider.

The 2012 Council Districts map will go into effect January 1, 2012. At that time, those elected in November of 2011 will take office. This 2012 map should be used as a reference to indicate the district for which you are electing your representative.

“When determining the new districts we kept areas with similar characteristics together in the same district. Also, we wanted to ensure that Carmel’s central core was also kept within one district because of its unique challenges. The new districts will also bear the name of their geographical location to make it easier for constituents to determine which representative serves their area,” said City Council President, Rick Sharp.

The Carmel City Council is comprised of seven members elected to four-year terms: two at-large and five elected from five districts. The City Council constitutes the legislative body of the city. It has power over the city budget, and passes city ordinances and resolutions.

For detailed maps, please visit the City Council pages on the City’s website at www.carmel.in.gov.

Pearson Ford to Celebrate 50th Anniversary

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Ford Motor Co. Vice President will present anniversary plaque

WHO:
John Pearson III, President of Pearson Ford
Frederiek Toney, Vice President of Customer Service for Ford Motor Company

WHAT:
Pearson Ford celebrates 50 years serving their community. Dealership president John Pearson III will be awarded a 50th anniversary plaque by Ford’s Vice President of Customer Service, Frederiek Toney. Ceremony will be include a luncheon and is open to media and the public.

WHEN:
Thursday August 5, 2010; 11:00

WHERE:
Pearson Ford; 10650 North Michigan Road; Zionsville, IN 46077

Center for the Performing Arts Announces Partnership with Renaissance Indianapolis North Hotel

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The Center for the Performing Arts announced that it has entered into a sponsorship-partnership agreement with the Renaissance Indianapolis North Hotel. Under the sponsorship agreement the Renaissance will be the preferred hotel for the Center’s guest artists and performers.

“The Renaissance is a dedicated partner in promoting the arts. We are honored to have such a quality partner,” said Steven B. Libman, executive director. “The partnership allows the Center’s guests and patrons to enjoy the hotel’s hospitality. I look forward to working with the hotel during the Center’s rapid growth period and in the years to come.”

The agreement also will offer cross-promotions between the hotel and the Center, including special concert and accommodation packages for guests staying at the hotel.

Renaissance General Manager Paul O’Connor says the agreement is a natural fit. “While the Renaissance brand is national, each local hotel strives to focus on the local culture, arts and activities working to be a part of the community. The Center for Performing Arts will be a cultural resource and destination for performers and arts aficionados alike. We’re excited to be a small part of creating the experience for these guests.”

About the Renaissance Indianapolis North Hotel
Guests at the Renaissance Indianapolis North Hotel experience the art of hospitality. The Renaissance opened in 2008 in Carmel. An upscale, sophisticated hotel, it is designed to reflect the vibrancy of the area drawing inspiration from the neighboring Carmel arts and design district. The hotel boasts a modern, energetic design and creative spaces that blend unique style with advanced technology. Conveniently located on the Meridian Street corridor, the Renaissance Indianapolis North, a Marriott hotel, offers easy access to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the new Lucas Oil Stadium, Monon Trail, Conner Prairie, Indianapolis Children's Museum, fine art galleries, world-class golf courses, attractions and major corporations. For more information or reservations call 317-816-0777.

About the Center for the Performing Arts
Under the leadership of Executive Director Steven B. Libman and Artistic Director Michael Feinstein, the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel, Indiana is poised to become an important new presenting organization. The Center will offer three unique performance venues, including the only purpose-built, state-of-the art concert hall in Indiana, the Palladium, designed by David M. Schwarz. The Center will also serve as the new home and education center of the Feinstein Foundation for the Preservation of the Great American Songbook.

Carmel Clay Library's Top 10 August Events

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The Carmel Clay Public Library has announced its "Top 10 Events" for the month of August. This library's robust program includes kids getting ready to go back to school, trucks, movies and our underwater friends.

Back to School Night
Wednesday, August 25; 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.; throughout the library
Students of all ages and their parents are invited to attend this informational and fun night at the library. Learn more about the library, meet the helpful staff, and find out how you can best utilize the library’s resources for research, homework and projects. If you don’t have a library card, this will be a perfect opportunity for you to sign up for one! For more information, call 571-4292.

Things-That-Go Rodeo
For all ages
Saturday, August 28; 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.; Carmel Elementary School Parking Lot (just south of the library patron parking lot)
The Carmel Clay Public Library invites you to get up close to a fire truck, ambulance, police car, school bus, dump truck, front end loader, garbage truck, and – new this year – bubble truck! This event is fun for all ages! No registration is required. For more information, call the Children’s Reference Desk at 844-3363.

Look Out Kindergarten, Here I Come!
For children entering Kindergarten
Thursday, August 5; 4:00-4:45 p.m. or 6:30-7:15 p.m.; Storytime Room
Calling all Kindergarten kids! If you start Kindergarten this fall, join us for this fun program all about Kindergarten. We’ll read stories, play games, and make a craft, all guaranteed to get you ready for that first fun day. Registration is required and begins Thursday, July 29 online, in person or by calling 844-3363.

Under the Sea
For young children & their caregivers
Monday, August 16; 10:00 – 10:45 a.m.; Program Room
Explore the exciting and adventurous undersea world in this fun-filled program. Free tickets are required and will be available beginning Monday, August 9, online or at the C

Retro Style Movie Night
For children in grades 1 & 2
Monday, August 23; 4:00 – 4:45 or 6:30 – 7:15 p.m.; Storytime Room
Come join us to see what movie watching was like before DVD players and VCRs! For more information, call the Children’s & Youth Services desk at 844-3363.

Research Basics
For students in grades 4-5 & their caregivers
Thursday, August 26 or Tuesday, August 31; 6:30 – 7:45 p.m.
Meet at the Children’s & Youth Services desk
Friday, August 27; 10:00 – 11:15 a.m. (Homeschool Edition)
Meet at the Children’s & Youth Services desk
This program covers researching strategies to use for print and electronic resources, including encyclopedias, magazines, books, online databases and Internet resources. One parent or adult caregiver per child is requested to attend. Registration is required, and begins on August 18 for all August sessions, online, in person, or by calling 844-3363.

Extreme Mother-Daughter Book Club
For girls in grades 6-8 with their mothers
Thursday, August 19; 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.; Program Room
This is more than just a mere book discussion group, it’s an experience! Join us for dessert and a fun hour of spirited discussion as well as a fun activity! In August, we will discuss The Thief Lord by Cornelia Funke. Registration is required at the Young Adult desk or at 814-3983.

Carmel Chamber Awards $4,000 Scholarship to Local Student

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

(Carmel, IN) Choir. Drama. Student Government. Soccer. Volunteering. Add them up and you’ve got one very busy high school student named Lauren Bowers, who was awarded the Carmel Chamber’s Nancy Blondin Scholarship at the Chamber’s July luncheon.

A recent graduate of St. Theodore Guerin Catholic High School, Lauren sang in several school choirs and acted in school musicals during her four years there. She was presented with district and state Gold Awards from the Indiana State School Music Association for solo and ensemble, and as a freshman, Lauren was part of the Golden Voice Chamber Choir that was chosen to represent Indiana at the 200th anniversary of Jamestown and perform for President George W. Bush. With her passion for music, Lauren will study to become a music therapist when she enters Hanover College this fall.

In speaking of her decision to pursue music therapy as a career, Lauren credited teacher Mark Duray as “the driving force behind my aspiration of becoming a music therapist.” She wrote in her scholarship essay, “It was Mr. Duray who supported my thought process of fusing my passions of music and people together and setting my sights on music therapy, and he has justly stood behind me every step of the way.”

During her high school years, Lauren was also a member of National Honor Society, Senior Class/Student Body Vice-President and Hoosier Girls State Delegate. She also found time to be involved in sports – as the Girls’ Varsity Soccer Team Captain; Faith in Athletics Core Leadership Group; and Indiana Soccer Coaches Association, High School All-Academic Player – and volunteering with St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church choir and Lucious Newsome’s “The Lord’s Pantry” among others.

Lauren is the daughter of Dave and Maureen Bowers of Carmel.

About the Carmel Chamber Nancy Blondin Scholarship
The Carmel Chamber began awarding the Nancy Blondin Scholarship in 2000 to honor Nancy, who was President of the Carmel Chamber from 1986 to 2000. The scholarship is available exclusively to children of employees whose companies are Carmel Chamber members and who meet the criteria of need; activities, both in and out of school; academic achievement; and a written essay about the person who most influenced the student in his/her career determination. The $4,000 scholarship is given annually and is awarded to each year’s recipient at $1,000 each year for four years.

Back to School Bash at the MCC Waterpark

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN - July 20, 2010: Summer vacation is coming to an end, but the fun and excitement is just getting started. School is back and your first assignment is to visit the Monon Community Center (MCC) Waterpark on Friday, August 6 at 5pm, and participate in our Back to School Bash. You will be able to enjoy swimming, structured aquatic games, relays, cornhole, a bounce house, live music and if you are up for it, a Flick n’ Float (Band Slam (PG)). Prizes will be awarded to those who participate in our games. Fee is general admission into the Waterpark (Youth: $5 Adult: $8).

For more information on our Back to School Bash, please call Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation at 317.848.7275.

ABOUT CARMEL CLAY PARKS & RECREATION
Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) was established in 1991 through an Interlocal Cooperation Agreement between the City of Carmel and Clay Township in Indiana. CCPR was created to serve the nature and fitness needs of the community, manage and develop existing spaces and resources, and create a sustainable future for parks and recreation programs through a financially viable and environmentally conscious parks system. CCPR manages and maintains more than 500 acres of park land and numerous recreation facilities, providing more than 5,000 annual classes and programs for all ages. Please see carmelclayparks.com for more information.

Picnic in West Park with Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN - July 20, 2010: Picnic and games are a great way to spend the day at one of our largest parks. Pack a lunch for the trip to West Park and enjoy a variety of games while meeting other families this summer. Do not forget your lunch and picnic basket. Pre-registration is required. In case of inclement weather, event will be cancelled.

Picnic in the Park will take place at West Park (2700 W 116th Street) on Tuesday, August 3, from 12:30-2pm. This event is free to the public.

For more information on Picnic in the Park, please call Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation at 317.848.7275.

Nascar Driver Tony Stewart and the Office Depot Foundation Team Up to Donate 5,000 Backpacks to Indianapolis-area Children in Need

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The Office Depot Foundation Celebrates the 10th Anniversary of its National Backpack Program in 2010

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind., July 20, 2010? Office Depot® (NYSE:ODP), a leading global provider of office products and services, and the Office Depot Foundation announced today that Tony Stewart, an Indiana native and driver of the No. 14 Office Depot/Old Spice Chevy Impala in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series™, will join the Foundation on Thursday, July 22, to donate more than 5,000 backpacks to non-profit organizations and schools in the Indianapolis area.

The backpack donations will be made during a special “Back-to-School Backpack Celebration” event beginning at 2 p.m. local time at the Office Depot store located at 12417 North Meridian Street in Carmel, Ind. In addition to Stewart, special guests scheduled to attend include Katherine Blane, representing Senator Richard G. Lugar (R-Ind.), State Senator Mike Delph (R-29), State Representative Cindy Noe (R-87), Hamilton County Commissioner Christine Altman, Carmel City Council Member Ron Carter and Christine Marson, Assistant Director, Office of Education Innovation, representing Mayor Greg Ballard.

This year, the Office Depot Foundation is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its National Backpack Program. Since the program began in 2001, Office Depot and the Office Depot Foundation have donated approximately 2.3 million backpacks to children in need.

“The Foundation is tremendously excited to offer this award-winning program for the 10th consecutive year,” said Mary Wong, president of the Office Depot Foundation, who will participate in the event. “Every year, we have seen our backpacks bring hope to children whose families might not be able to afford to buy them a new backpack. Parents and teachers alike tell us that we truly are helping children to build self-confidence, boost self-esteem and achieve greater success in the classroom – all as a result of being properly prepared for school.”

Stewart, who grew up in Columbus, Ind., and still resides there, will help host the backpack donation event as he prepares for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series™ Brickyard 400 race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway (Sunday, July 25, 1 p.m. EDT, ESPN). He is a two-time winner of the prestigious 400-mile race. Stewart is partnering with the Office Depot Foundation for the second year in a row and will help the organization donate more than 300,000 backpacks throughout the 2010 back-to-school season.

“I am very proud to partner with the Office Depot Foundation again this year and to be able to help so many kids here in the Indianapolis area,” Stewart said. “This is a big year for the Office Depot Foundation because it is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its National Backpack Program, and I can tell you from experience how rewarding it is to see the look on these kids’ faces when they get a new backpack – it’s an automatic boost of confidence for them and helps them feel ready to take on the new school year just like everybody else. Of all the things I’ll do this weekend, participating in this program is definitely the most important.”

The non-profit organizations, schools and agencies selected to participate in the July 22 backpack donation event include:

• Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard’s Office and the 12th Annual “Family Fun Filled Back-to-School Carnival Celebration” at Julian Coleman Academies
• City of Carmel
• Backpack Attack
• Children’s Bureau
• Coalition for Homelessness Intervention and Prevention
• Covering Kids and Families
• Educational CHOICE Charitable Trust
• Indianapolis Public Schools
• Indianapolis Urban League

To distribute the backpacks in 2010, the Foundation will host 25 “Back-to-School Backpack Celebrations” in cities across the U.S. and Canada – five of which will include Tony Stewart. Thousands of backpacks also are being donated by Office Depot stores in hundreds of local communities and in collaboration with Office Depot’s Business Solutions Division in select cities.

Thousands more backpacks will be given to children through the Office Depot Foundation’s partnerships with a number of national non-profit organizations – including the Tony Stewart Foundation, the National Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Association, Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA), Feed The Children, the Kids In Need Foundation, Nourish America, Zach Bonner’s Little Red Wagon Foundation and the National Foundation for Women Legislators, whose members once again will donate backpacks in all 50 states. For the third consecutive year, backpack donations will be made to children of the Navajo Nation in Arizona and the Rosebud Sioux Tribe in South Dakota.

For Office Depot store locations, please click on Office Depot: Your Local Office Supply Store to find locations near you.

For more information on the Office Depot Foundation, go to www.officedepotfoundation.org/.

About the Office Depot Foundation
The Office Depot Foundation is an independent foundation (tax exempt under IRC Sec. 501(c)(3)) that serves as the independent charitable giving arm of Office Depot, Inc. In keeping with its mission, Listen Learn Care®, the Foundation supports a variety of programs that help children succeed in school and in life; enable civil society (non-profit) organizations to become more efficient and effective; help people and businesses prepare for disasters, then recover and rebuild afterwards; strengthen local communities through grants, product donations and volunteerism; and encourage community development through entrepreneurship and economic innovation. For more information, visit www.officedepotfoundation.org.

About Office Depot
Every day, Office Depot is Taking Care of Business for millions of customers around the globe. For the local corner store as well as Fortune 500 companies, Office Depot provides products and services to its customers through 1,587 worldwide retail stores, a dedicated sales force, top-rated catalogs and a $4.2 billion e-commerce operation. Office Depot has annual sales of approximately $12.1 billion, and employs about 41,000 associates around the world. The Company provides more office products and services to more customers in more countries than any other company, and currently sells to customers directly or through affiliates in 52 countries.

Office Depot’s common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol ODP and is included in the S&P 500 Index. General press information can be found at: http://mediarelations.officedepot.com. Media looking to access digital assets and news, please visit http://socialpress.officedepot.com.

To become a fan of Office Depot on Facebook and receive exclusive content, offers and more, please visit www.facebook.com/officedepot. To follow Office Depot on Twitter, please visit www.twitter.com/officedepot.

Edward Jones Ranks Highest in Investor Satisfaction

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel Financial Services Firm Tops J.D. Power and Associates 2010 Full Service Investor Satisfaction Study

Carmel, IN July 21, 2010 -- For the fifth year out of the past six, financial-services firm Edward Jones ranks highest in investor satisfaction with full service brokerage firms, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2010 Full Service Investor Satisfaction StudySM released today, announces Kelly Hindman, an Edward Jones financial advisor in Carmel.

Edward Jones' overall score climbed 10 points over last year, when it also was ranked highest among the 14 largest firms rated.

"Being ranked highest in investor satisfaction for full-service brokerage firms by J.D. Power and Associates five times now is a great honor and quite an accomplishment," said Hindman. "It results from always having our clients’ best interests at heart as we work to help them through the tough times as well as the good times."

Edward Jones ranked highest in investor satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates in 2009, from 2005 through 2007, and in a tie in 2002, when the study began. Edward Jones in Canada twice ranked highest in the J.D. Power and Associates Canadian Full Service Investor Satisfaction Study.

The 2010 Full Service Investor Satisfaction Study is based on responses from more than 4,460 investors who primarily invest with one of the 14 firms included in the study. The study was fielded in May 2010.

For more information about Edward Jones in Carmel, please contact Kelly Hindman at 317-843-2455 or at 39 West Main Street.

About Edward Jones
Edward Jones provides financial services for individual investors in the United States and, through its affiliate, in Canada. Every aspect of the firm's business, from the types of investment options offered to the location of branch offices, is designed to cater to individual investors in the communities in which they live and work. The firm's 12,000-plus financial advisors work directly with nearly 7 million clients to understand their personal goals -- from college savings to retirement -- and create long-term investment solutions that emphasize a well-balanced portfolio and a buy-and-hold strategy. Edward Jones embraces the importance of building long-term, face-to-face relationships with clients, helping them to understand and make sense of the investment options
available today.

Edward Jones, which ranked No. 2 on FORTUNE magazine's "100 Best Companies to Work For 2010," is headquartered in St. Louis. The Edward Jones interactive Web site is located at www.edwardjones.com, and its recruiting Web site is www.careers.edwardjones.com. Member SIPC.

About J.D. Power and Associates
Headquartered in Westlake Village, Calif., J.D. Power and Associates is a global marketing information services company operating in key business sectors including market research, forecasting, performance improvement, training and customer satisfaction. The firm's quality and satisfaction measurements are based on responses from millions of consumers annually. For more information on full-service investor satisfaction, car reviews and ratings, car insurance, health insurance, cell phone ratings, and more, please visit JDPower.com. J.D. Power and Associates is a business unit of The McGraw-Hill Companies.

Concert Hall Construction Update

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN - As the scaffolding was removed from the exterior of the Palladium, it began to truly resemble a world class concert hall. The interior of the Palladium is progressing quickly as well, thanks to the more than 225 workers on site daily.

The exterior of the building is nearing completion with nearly 99 percent of the granite and limestone pieces on the exterior of the building in place. The main roof is finished and crews have begun work on the green roofing system on the north roof. The finishing touches to the exterior are being constructed, which include exterior handrails, curbs and sidewalks.

On the inside, the scaffolding has been removed in all three lobbies, revealing architectural details of these spaces. The plaster work is complete in 90 percent of all areas below the dome ceiling of the Main Auditorium. Bathrooms are complete with classic black and white ceramic tiles, countertops, sinks, toilet fixtures and faucets. Installation of the restroom toilet partitions is underway. To prevent the usual line at the ladies room the lower level restroom provides facilities for 30. This landmark structure continues to take shape as painting and the application of wood trim continues.

The installation of the stone flooring has started in the West Lobby. The color and texture of the stone add another level of artistry to this landmark structure.

Palladium Timeline
July 26th – Scaffolding begins to be removed in Auditorium

August 16th – Scaffolding removal finished in Auditorium, wood flooring installation begins in the Auditorium

Mid-October – Commissioning of equipment (lights, sound, etc. begins in Palladium

January 2011 – Palladium Grand Opening

Visit http://carmel.in.gov/carmelwebcam.html to view live video of the construction in progress. For more information about The Center for the Performing Arts, visit their website at www.thecenterfortheperformingarts.org.

CCP to Stage "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying" at Guerin Catholic High School

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Frank Loesser's and Abe Burrows' 1961 Pulitzer Prize-Winning Broadway Musical to Run July 22nd - August 1st

(July 14, 2010 - Carmel, Indiana) - Carmel Community Players will present How to
Succeed in Business Without Really Trying during a two-week run beginning July 22nd, 2010 at Guerin Catholic High School. Frank Loesser's and Abe Burrow's Broadway musical won the Pulitzer Prize in 1961 and also earned seven Tony Awards. This is the final show in CCP's 2009-10 Pulitzer Prize-winning Season.

Vince Accetturo (J. Pierrepont Finch) and Kelly Najacht (Rosemary Pilkington) appear in CCP's "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying". How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, directed by Erin Meyer with musical direction by Rich Phipps, is the hilariously funny story of J. Pierpont Finch, a New York City window washer, who takes the advice of a how-to-succeed book, and quickly ascends the corporate ladder. The songs are forceful and original. The dialogue is sharp-witted. The plot is a hoot.

Michael Long, CCP's president, wants people to be aware that this show will be performed at Guerin Catholic High School and not the Carmel Community Playhouse at Clay Terrace. "We had a wonderful time with last season's musical production, Little Women, working with the people at Guerin Catholic. When we put this season together, we knew we wanted to work with them again and left the opportunity open for 'Succeed' to be staged there. We are glad to take this show out into the community. It's a mutually beneficial partnership between CCP and Guerin Catholic High School."

The production opens Thursday, July 22, 2010 at the Guerin Catholic High School located at 15300 Gray Rd., just one quarter mile north of 146th Street. It runs through Sunday, August 1st. Performances are at 8:00 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for students/seniors. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online at www.carmelplayers.org or by calling 317.815.9387. The show is suitable for audiences of all ages.

The talented cast includes Vince Accetturo (J. Pierrepont Finch), Kelly Najacht (Rosemary Pilkington), Steve Wrighton (J. B. Biggley), Drew Paramore (Bud Frump), Deanna Sweidel (Hedy LaRue), Vickie Cornelius Phipps (Smitty), Jim Williams (Bert Bratt), Erica Freeman (Mrs. Jones),Sarah McGee (Mrs. Krumholtz), Rex Wolfley (Twimble/Wally Womper), Dennis Forkle (Gatch), Ryan McLean (Jenkins), Shannon Wise (Matthews/Book Voice), Bradley Allen Lowe (Tackaberry), Devin Smith (Peterson), Rick Chandler (Tonybee), Michael T. Long (Johnson/Security Guard), Pete Lindbloom (Ovington/TV Announcer), Lauren Carpenter (Secretary), Jessica Gregory (Secretary), Susan Mohr (Secretary), Beth Montag (Secretary), Liz Pitman (Secretary), and Mary Robin (Secretary).

For more information about Carmel Community Players call (317) 815-9387 or visit www.carmelplayers.org.

About Carmel Community Players
CCP provides live dramatic and musical presentations that expand and develop creative opportunities for the entire community. Founded in 1993, CCP responded to a growing need in this community for affordable, local, quality entertainment that would meet the needs of cultural enrichment for the entire family. CCP focuses on providing a community-based venue for both experienced and inexperienced participants in theater, both on-stage and behind the scenes. Adults and children alike extol the virtues of being on stage. Such experiences allow you to overcome fears, develop talents, work in a team environment, experience excellent literature and improve self-confidence.

About Carmel Community Playhouse
The Carmel Community Playhouse at Clay Terrace is the new home of Carmel Community Players, Carmel's oldest community theater group. The 4,500 sq. ft. playhouse features a 32' x 20' stage and can seat up to 120 guests. When productions are not being staged, the facility is available for organizations, schools, and businesses to rent for various meetings and events with proceeds benefitting Carmel Community Players, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. The Carmel Community Playhouse is located at the south end of the Clay Terrace outdoor mall at 14299 Clay Terrace Blvd., Ste. 140. For more information, visit carmelplayhouse.com.

Welcome the Continental Amateur Baseball Association (CABA) to Westfield

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

RoundTripper Baseball Academy welcomes the 2010 Continental Amateur Baseball Association's (CABA) 10u & 13u World Series to Hamilton County July 14-23, 2010.

Over 3,000 athletes, including 78 teams and spectators will travel from across the nation to Hamilton County for 8 days of highly competitive baseball.

Teams will have ample downtime to visit attractions, restaurants and explore Hamilton County's 8 Great Towns.

For more information please visit RoundTripper.com.

Photography Show at Evan Lurie Gallery

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN July 17, 2010 – The Evan Lurie Gallery will host its first ever photography show on July 17, 2010 for three local photographers with three distinctly different backgrounds and styles. Featured photographers William Rasdell and Tom Casalini will be joined by long time practicing photographer Kevin Raber who will be debuting his work for the first time in the fine art realm.

Indianapolis native William Rasdell has traveled the world, camera in hand, capturing images using the traditional photographic process along with digital technology to produce pigment ink prints on a variety of substrates including aluminum, acrylic and wood veneers. With a great deal of his work coming from the African and Cuban experience, Rasdall has developed a fresh and unique vision of color and movement. Having begun his career doing more work as a documentarian photographer capturing cultural integration in the United States, Rasdell has be able to utilize the computer to give his work what he calls “fuller creative expression.” The result is a truly moving human experience that, combined with his unique style of showcasing each photo, draws the eye and the heart into each detail.

A name known nationally for his exceptional skills in portraiture, Indiana native Tom Casalini will likely shock those most familiar with his work in the July show at the Evan Lurie Gallery. Known primarily for his breathtaking black and white portraits that capture the essence of the human spirit, Casalini takes a break from his signature studio-style with his fine art portfolio saturated in color and texture. In a series that is compelling and rich, it is clear that Casalini is able to draw on his classic education from Indiana University and The New York Institute of Photography as well as his over thirty-five years of working experience since. In this series, some of which was shot on location in Tuscany, composition combines with digital enhancement to create single illustrative narratives for each image that exist almost in a dream-state.

Finally the show will round out with Kevin Raber – a man who has been affiliated with the art of photography for over thirty years yet has not shown publically since 1990. With a hands-on history of working with and studying under photography giants such as Ansel Adams, Raber’s work certainly reflects not only the caliber of his mentors but is also demonstrative of his technical abilities. Raber graduated from the Philadelphia College of Art in the mid-seventies and although he was not a born Hoosier he moved to Indiana from New York following events in September of 2001 where he worked full-time as a fire-fighter as a way to, in his words, “work out his adrenaline issues.” Raber opened his first studio in 1975 while studying at school and has had his finger on the shutter button ever since referring to his job in the fire protection field as a hobby allowing him time to pursue his passion for film. Raber also began representing and using the Phase One medium-format technology in 1999 and has spent the last 11 years teaching the techniques of the trade as his livelihood all the while quietly holding tight to a growing portfolio of work which has never before been publically seen represented in a gallery. As Vice President of Phase One North America, Raber has had access to some of the world’s finest digital equipment available today and the opportunity to utilize it world wide. While some of his work is enhanced, much of it exists as purely as it does in nature offering brilliant blues, electric yellows and soft romantic reds, which are beyond imagination.

The Evan Lurie Gallery is located at 30 West Main Street, Carmel, IN 46032 and doors will be open for the event from 5:00 – 9:00 pm. This event is free of charge and open to the general public.

If you’d like more information about this topic, or to schedule and interview with Mr. Evan Lurie, please call Katherine Livengood at 317.844.8400 or email Katherine at Katherine@evanluriegallery.com

The Trade Connection to Join the Indiana Design Center

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

CARMEL, IN (July 12, 2010) – Pedcor Companies announced that it has executed a showroom lease with The Trade Connection. The new showroom, owned by Mark Chestnut, will be located on the second level of the Indiana Design Center next to The Trade Source, a fabric, wallcoverings and drapery hardware showroom, and the design center’s 4,200 square foot design resource library space.

The new Trade Connection showroom will feature national and specialty lines of furniture, case goods, upholstery, fine lighting, mirrors and outdoor furnishings. Top-selling national lines include Henredon, Drexel-Heritage, Marge Carson, Habersham, Lorts, Bolier, Tomlinson, and EJ Victor. To add to the diversity of products represented in his showroom and the market, Chestnut travels to furniture markets throughout the year to find specialty and boutique product lines to offer his professional design clientele.

“The Trade Connection will be an excellent resource to the design trade professionals who visit the Indiana Design Center. Mark Chestnut has over 30 years of experience in the design industry and brings an impressive list of products with him to the design center,” said Melissa Averitt, Vice President and Director of Marketing and Sales for Pedcor Companies.

Later this fall, Chestnut plans to officially announce a partnership that will solidify The Trade Connection as an exclusive state-wide dealer for Ralph Lauren Home, an iconic line of home interiors. In the meantime, Chestnut is scheduled to open his new showroom in August 2010 and said, “I am drawn to the Indiana Design Center and creativity that it attracts. The energy of the design community, artists and other showrooms in the building, is a great draw and I look forward to being a part of it.”

The Trade Connection will join The Trade Source, J. Baker/Albert Square Ltd., and the Outré showrooms already open in the building. The Indiana Design Center also houses design professionals, such as Julie O’Brien Design Group, who have relocated their businesses to the design center. Along with several other showroom tenant negotiations underway for 2010, the Indiana Design Center is currently leasing space for a 4,200 square foot design resource library, a central feature of the design center. The resource library will include product catalogs and samples and product showcase opportunities for manufacturers. For more information about opportunities in the design resource library, please contact the Indiana Design Center at 317-218-0002.

About the Indiana Design Center
The 82,000 square foot Indiana Design Center serves the statewide community of design professionals and their clients by providing a premier collection of resources including fine traditional and contemporary residential and contract furnishings including fabrics, floor coverings, kitchen and bath products, lighting, architectural productions, wallcoverings and accessories. The Indiana Design Center is located at 200 South Rangeline Road in Carmel, IN, just 30 minutes/23 miles from Downtown Indianapolis. The Design Center’s proximity to the Carmel Arts & Design District provides access to interior designers, art galleries, showrooms and antique dealers. Please visit the Indiana Design Center website at www.IndianaDesignCenter.com or blog at www.IndianaDesignBlog.com.

Indiana Design Center Current and Incoming Tenants:
Showrooms: The Trade Source; Albert Square Ltd./J. Baker Interiors; Outré; Ferguson Kitchen, Bath and Lighting Gallery; Walter Knabe Studios, The Trade Connection

Design Professionals, Artisans, & Businesses: Julie O’Brien Design Group; Angie Fischer Studio; Deborah Marr Interiors; Jay Slifer Design Group; Design Studio Vriesman; April Willy Fine Art; Constance Edwards Scopelitis; Ecotots

Marketing Firms: NEW Brand Development Studio; Silver Square Inc.

Dining/Catering: Blu Moon Café

About Pedcor Companies
Headquartered in Carmel, IN, Pedcor Companies develop, construct, manage and finance real estate projects throughout the United States, primarily in the Midwest. Pedcor is a national leader in the affordable housing industry and currently has several commercial and mixed-use projects underway in Carmel, IN. Among the many companies that comprise the Pedcor family are Pedcor Bancorp, Pedcor Investments, LLC, Pedcor Residential, LLC, and Pedcor City Center Development Company. For more information, visit www.pedcorcompanies.com.

About Carmel Arts & Design District
The Carmel Arts & Design District is the Midwest’s newest, premier setting for the arts and design industry. Already it has attracted more than 100 businesses, including art galleries, antique dealers, furniture and interior design showrooms, even a race track design company! There are restaurants, boutiques, creative service providers and an eclectic variety of specialty retail stores. And the list of merchants continues to grow. For more information, visit www.CarmelArtsAndDesignDistrict.com

Touch a Truck with Carmel Clay Parks

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN – July 9, 2010: Climb on it! Run around it! Sit in it! Honk the horn, just don’t drive it away! Join us for our annual Touch a Truck event, where kids have the opportunity to explore all sorts of amazing trucks and vehicles. Children will be able to meet the drivers, honk the horns, and explore their favorite vehicles, such as ambulances, dump trucks and mowers. An adult must accompany all children.

Touch A Truck will take place Wednesday, July 28, from 10:00am-12:00pm. Location is the Carmel High School Stadium (136th St., west of Keystone). This event is free to the public and will be held rain or shine.

For additional information on Touch A Truck, please call Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation at 317.848.7275.

ABOUT CARMEL CLAY PARKS & RECREATION
Established in 1991 through an Interlocal Cooperation Agreement between the City of Carmel and Clay Township, Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) was created to fully develop Carmel’s parks, greenways and natural areas and to physically connect a park to every city school. Today, CCPR manages and maintains more than 575 acres of parks and 4 buildings on more than 14 campuses, providing more than 5,000 annual classes and programs for all ages. Please see www.carmelclayparks.com for more information.

Fat Atom Internet Marketing Sponsors Free Marketing Discussion Series

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, Indiana, Internet marketing agency, Fat Atom, will host a FREEmarketing discussion series on July 20th, August 18th and September 15th from 7:30-9:30 a.m. at Shapiro’s Delicatessen in Carmel.

The July 20th session will feature a 20 minute presentation on the reason companies must have a social media plan to complement their overall marketing strategy. The panel will review all social media outlets including Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to name a few. After the discussion there will be a 90 minute free-flowing question/answer session on anything marketing related.

The August 18th session will feature a discussion on public relations and the correct way to promote your business and the September 15th session will showcase websites that work showcasing the before and after of a prominent company’s website remake.

The discussion is free but limited to the first 40 business owners and marketing directors who register at www.getsocialcarmel.com. For more information contact Fat Atom event coordinator Vicki Burdick at vickib@fatatom.com.

Registration URL: http://www.getsocialcarmel.com

Other URL: http://www.fatatom.com

Location: Shapiros Delicatessen ~918 S. Rangeline Rd ~ Carmel, In 46032

The Farmers Bank Recognized by Indiana Bankers Association

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Frankfort, IN - The Indiana Bankers Association (IBA) has recognized The Farmers Bank with a Five Star Member award at the IBA’s Mega Conference on May 25 in downtown Indianapolis. Five Star Members are honored annually as institutions that demonstrate exemplary commitment to the IBA in the areas of political awareness, issue advocacy, life-long learning, volunteerism and community involvement.

The Indiana Bankers Association (IBA) has been providing legislative services, communication tools, professional development opportunities, and products and services for the banking industry since 1897. The role of the IBA is to anticipate changes in the economic and banking environment in order to give its membership the opportunity to compete effectively.

The Farmers Bank is a $430 million asset organization chartered in 1876 with headquarters in Frankfort, IN. The Farmers Bank is locally owned and operated with 9 banking offices located in Central Indiana providing retail, business, trust & asset management, investment, mortgage, and electronic banking services. Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender.

Worldwide ERC® Awards CRP® Designation to Susan Van Hoosen, Century 21 Scheetz

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

(INDIANAPOLIS, IN July 2010) – Worldwide ERC®, a professional membership association comprised of individuals concerned with domestic and international employee mobility, recently announced that Susan Van Hoosen, Director Business Development for CENTURY 21 Scheetz Relocation, has earned the Certified Relocation Professional (CRP®) designation after successfully completing the CRP® exam help on May 19, 2010 in Orlando, FL.

The CRP® program was introduced in 1990 to formally recognize Worldwide ERC® members’ knowledge of the entire relocation industry, and requires knowledge of residential real estate and appraising, corporate relocation policies and issues, relocation tax and legal issues, family relocation issues and mobility strategies.

Over 4,200 Worldwide ERC® members currently hold the CRP® designation and retain their designations by maintaining membership in the association and by earning 30 recertification credit hours within each three-year period following their initial certification. The May 19th exam was administered to 243 candidates and Susan Van Hoosen was one of 201 members who were awarded the designation from this group.

“Although the economy is still working to gain momentum, it is clear that the value of the CRP® designation brings to our members is recognized. Businesses appreciate the advantages they achieve by grooming and educating employees with this designation; they understand that the CRP® raises the visibility of practitioners in our industry and opens opportunities for deeper understanding and better communication between service providers, employers and transferees”, said Sue Carey, Worldwide ERC® CRP® Certification Review Board Chairman..

CENTURY 21 SCHEETZ Company, Inc. is one of the leading real estate firms in the nation and is the 6th top producing Century 21 firm in North America. J. Michael Scheetz, President and Broker-Owner formed the Indianapolis company in 1976. The corporate relocation division was officially established in 1996 and is today a nationally award-winning full service relocation management firm and the largest relocation company in Indiana.

Center for the Performing Arts Adds General Manager to Growing Organization

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, Ind. (July 8, 2010) – Steven B. Libman, Executive Director of The Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel, officially announced today the appointment of Douglas Y. Tatum as the Center’s General Manager. Tatum, of Kansas City, Missouri, will assume his duties July 26.

“Doug is an extraordinary arts administrator with a dynamic leadership style. His entrepreneurial spirit is an amazing addition to the Center’s leadership team,” said Libman. “His dedication to the arts is proven by his many successes and triumphs. I look forward to working with him during this rapid growth period and in the years to come.”

Tatum, who earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Missouri and a certificate in professional music from Berklee College of Music, comes to the Center from the Arts Foundation of Kansas City home of the Folly Theater in Kansas City, Missouri. For the past 17 years Tatum has served as the Executive Director for the foundation and theater. During his tenure, he led a $2.1 million centennial renovation of the Folly Theater (listed on the National Register of Historic Places) while directing a corresponding $2.5 million capital campaign. As the Executive Director his responsibilities involved all aspects of administration: operations, finance, marketing, fundraising and personnel management.

“I look forward to becoming a part of the central Indiana arts community,” said Tatum. “The Center’s programming vision, state-of-the-art facilities and outreach programs are nothing short of world-class. I have been thoroughly impressed by this extraordinary cultural institution. It is an honor to join the leadership team. I’m certain the weeks and months ahead will be marked with many milestones.”

Tatum will be responsible for working with the Center’s resident companies, developing rental policies and supervising hall rentals for social events, food and beverage management, house management, ushers and security.

About The Center for the Performing Arts
The Center for the Performing Arts, which is currently under construction in The Carmel City Center, will include the 1,600-seat Palladium concert hall, the 500-seat Tarkington proscenium theater and a 200-seat studio theater. Set for completion in January 2011, no other concert hall of its caliber exists in the area. The Center is being built to serve as a permanent fixture on the Central Indiana landscape and will provide an extraordinary listening experience for audiences. The concert hall will also be home to the Michael Feinstein Foundation’s Great American Songbook Collection, acting as a museum and education center by day and a concert venue by night.

Conner Prairie to Offer Free Admission for Guests on Friday, July 9th

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Community Day sponsored by PNC Bank

FISHERS, Ind. (July 6, 2010) – Conner Prairie Interactive History Park, Indiana’s only Smithsonian Affiliate, will be open to the public free of charge on Friday, July 9, from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Conner Prairie’s Community Day is sponsored by PNC Bank and will feature its Mobile Learning Adventure (MLA).

The MLA is a traveling exhibit that provides an opportunity for parents and caregivers to learn about the importance of early childhood education while they engage in fun activities with their children. As part of PNC Grow Up Great, a 10 year, $100 million early childhood education initiative, MLA includes the “When I Grow Up” station, where kids dress up as different professionals and have their picture superimposed on the appropriate background. The MLA will be available to guests from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

“This is one of several community days we offer each year as a way to increase Conner Prairie’s value as an educational resource for the entire community,” says Ellen M. Rosenthal, president and CEO of Conner Prairie. “We also offer the Access Pass, a special membership that offers $1 admission to anyone on government assistance. Both of these programs complement an initiative we’ve had in place for many years of offering reduced price tickets to school students.”

In addition to Conner Prairie’s four themed historic areas, Lenape Camp, 1836 Prairietown, 1859 Balloon Voyage and the Conner Homestead, Fridays are Frontier Survivor Day. Guests can test their skills and compete in activities such as setting traps, tracking animals, starting fires and tomahawk throwing.

The Conner Prairie Store will be open and lunch/snacks will be available for purchase at the Café on the Common.

General admission is free to all guests. 1859 Balloon Voyage will be flying, weather permitting, for an additional fee. $5 discount coupons for the Balloon Voyage are available at participating ampm and Rickers convenience stores.

The Farmers Bank Will Open Two New Full Service Banking Offices in Hamilton County

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Frankfort, IN – The Board of Directors of The Farmers Bank today announced that it will be opening two new full service banking offices in Hamilton County. One office will open in Fishers, 7126 E. 116th St. and the other in Noblesville, 16940 Clover Rd. Both buildings are the former Donatos Pizzeria restaurants that closed earlier this year. Both of these locations are scheduled to open in the fall of 2010. They will employ eight new Farmers Bank employees and offer convenient hours of operation including weekend hours. These two branches are part of The Farmers Banks planned Hamilton County expansion. Karen I. Miller, President and Chief Executive Officer commented, “Our business customer base in these markets has grown exponentially during the past two years. This growth is due to people realizing the benefits of banking with a community bank. Customers want a bank that cares about their business as much as they do. We wanted to add these two locations to better serve our current customers and to offer an oasis for other businesses in these areas. Check out our website at thefarmersbank.com as our customers say it best.” The Farmers Bank is a $430 million asset organization chartered in 1876 with headquarters in Frankfort, IN. The Farmers Bank is locally owned and operated with 9 banking offices located in Central Indiana providing retail, business, trust & asset management, investment, mortgage, and electronic banking services. Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender.

Volunteers Needed for Rock the District on July 24

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Are you ready to rock? Then volunteer for Carmel’s Rock the District. On July 24th, more than 10,000 people will be rocking out on the streets of Carmel enjoying music, food, and shopping. Volunteers are needed throughout the day (6am to 10pm) in various areas including Setup, Stage Management, Information & Hospitality, Runners (Jack of all trades), and Cleanup. All volunteers receive a free t-shirt and snacks!!

Contact Melanie Heck of the Carmel Arts and Design District at mheck@carmel.in.gov with any questions or to sign up. Please include what area(s) you are interested in and what times of day you would like to volunteer. Check out www.carmelartsanddesign.com for full event details and volunteer descriptions!

“Moonlight and Movies” at the Gazebo in July

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, IN – Each Wednesday in July, the City of Carmel will be presenting “Moonlight and Movies” at dusk after the Gazebo Concerts. The classic movies will generally last 90 minutes to two hours in length and will be appropriate for all ages. In case of rain, the movies will be shown in the Fire Station #41 bay area of the Steven A. Couts Fire Headquarters located at Two Civic Square, immediately north of the Fountain. The schedule for “Moonlight and Movies” is below:

· July 7 - Breakfast at Tiffany’s - A highly rated romantic comedy based on the 1958 story by Truman Capote. Audrey Hepburn plays an eccentric playgirl who becomes romantically involved with a writer played by George Peppard.

· July 14 – Casablanca -- One of the most memorable of all film experiences, Casablanca has taken on the status of a true Hollywood legend. Wartime refugees gather in Morocco to obtain scarce exit visas to Lisbon. The final airport sequence is unforgettable.

· July 21 – The Pink Panther - The inveterate bungler, Inspector Jacques Clouseau (Peter Sellers) of the Paris police, is the sort of man whose wife is not only two-timing him, but is doing so with the very masterful jewel thief he’s been assigned to catch. The inimitable David Niven plays the suave and ultra-sophisticated cat burglar.

· July 28 - The Music Man - Confidence man Harold Hill arrives at staid River City intending to cheat the community with his standard scam of offering to equip and train a boy’s marching band, then skip town with the money since he has no music skill anyway. Things go awry when he falls for a librarian he tries to divert from exposing him while he inadvertently enriches the town with a love of music.”

For more information, please visit the community calendar on the city’s website at www.carmel.in.gov.

Announcing Jud Scott Consulting Arborist LLC

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

A new company with a national emphasis that has a familiar local face! After years of performing Consulting Arborist services under the umbrella of Vine & Branch we would like to announce the formation of Jud Scott Consulting Arborist LLC to provide consulting services for claims/cases/projects involving:

Hazard tree analysis
Premise liability issues
Arboricultural dispute resolution
Tree and shrub appraisal
Tree preservation planning
Herbicide interactions
Tree inventories
Tree worker safety issues
Expert witness services
Forensic expert services
Woodland analysis and management
Tree inspection programs

Vine & Branch is still available to provide Tree Care, Plant Health Care and Consulting Arborist Services to the Indianapolis area! Please feel free to contact us for more info.

Contact info:
Jud Scott Consulting Arborist LLC
4721 E. 146th Street
Carmel IN 46033
317-815-8733
Treeconsultant@aol.com
www.Judscottconsultingarborist.com

Indiana Members Credit Union Celebrates Earth Week

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

(Indianapolis, IN) Indiana Members Credit Union (IMCU) celebrated Earth Week throughout the week of April 19, 2010, and culminated the celebration with a tree planting at their headquarters, located at 5103 Madison Avenue, in Indianapolis. Ron Collier, CEO of Indiana Members Credit Union, and Mike Miller, Vice President of Branch Operations, filled in the dirt around the newly planted tree, closing the activities for the week.

All 24 IMCU branches in Central Indiana participated in Earth Week, by signing up 178 members on Statement Express throughout the month of April. This service provides monthly statements to members via email and online access as opposed to printed statements. Through the Arbor Day Foundation, IMCU planted a total of 38 trees, in honor of each member that signed up for Statement Express on Earth Day, April 22, 2010.

In addition, IMCU branches celebrated in a number of other ways including: reducing the use of energy by turning off lights in the branches, walking and carpooling to work, unplugging unused electrical items, and continuing in their recycling program, $AVE, which was initiated at IMCU by a “Green Team” in February of 2010.

Indiana Members Credit Union, headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, was founded in 1956 as the Indiana University Medical Center Federal Credit Union on the campus of IUPUI, and has since grown to 24 branches in Central Indiana, offering members a better financial alternative and a full array of products and services. Traditionally offering better rates on loans and deposits, IMCU maintains true to its roots by “Keeping It Simple” for members. For more information, please visit IMCU online at www.imcu.org.

Celebrate a historic patriotic Fourth of July at Conner Prairie

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Active military, veterans and immediate family members receive free admission to weekend activities

FISHERS, Ind. (June 23, 2010) – Conner Prairie Interactive History Park, Indiana’s only Smithsonian Affiliate, invites guests to celebrate the Fourth of July in historic fashion during Glorious Fourth, July 2 -4, 2010. As a way to honor our nation’s military, all active duty military personnel, veterans and up to five immediate family members with proper military ID will receive free admission during July Fourth celebrations.

Guests will travel back in time to 19th-century Indiana and experience how this great American holiday was honored in the 1800s when it was the most celebrated holiday of the year. During the festival, guests can participate in interactive entertainment, including barn dancing, parading with soldiers, enlisting in the militia, meeting a historic Lady Liberty, singing patriotic songs, signing your own copy of the Declaration of Independence and creating cards to send military members over-seas. Guests can also soar above it all aboard the 1859 Balloon Voyage and watch July Fourth celebrations from 350 feet in the air, for an additional fee. The balloon will also operate, weather permitting, during the Marsh Symphony on the Prairie Star Spangled Symphony performances, July 2-4.

Carmel Parks Summer Kids Koncerts

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, June 2, 2010: Bring your picnic basket, a blanket and get ready for our annual Kids Koncerts! All performances are interactive and geared towards children ages 2-5 years. In case of inclement weather, concerts will be held in the Monon Community Center Banquet Rooms.

All Kids Koncerts take place from 10:00-11:00am at the location specified below.

June 9
Performer: Stacia Demos Duo
River Heritage Park, 11813 River Rd

June 16
Performer: Kid Kazooy
West Park, 2700 W 116th Street

June 23
Performer: Max the Moose
River Heritage Park, 11813 River Rd

July 7
Performer: Sensible Shoes Trio
West Park, 2700 W 116th Street

July 14
Performer: Ruditoonz
River Heritage Park, 11813 River Rd

July 21
Performer: Island Breeze
West Park, 2700 W 116th Street

For additional information on our Kids Koncerts, please call Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation at 317.848.7275.

Family Campout with Carmel Parks

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Carmel, June 2, 2010: Load up the kids, dig out your tents and head over to West Park for our Family Campout. Campers will chow down on tasty camping classics such as beans, hotdogs and hamburgers. Then we will all enjoy family games and a movie under the stars, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (PG).

Night owls are invited to join a late night hike around the park. Participants must bring their own tent, bug spray and flashlights - we will provide the rest. Fee includes dinner, a light breakfast, a T-shirt and all activities. Fee is per family. Tent setup is between 4:30-6:00pm on Friday. Pre-registration is required. In case of inclement weather, the rain date will be June 18-19.

Family Campout will take place Friday-Saturday, June 11-12 from 4:30pm-9:00am at West Park (2700 W 116th Street). Fee is $40 per family.

For additional information on Family Campout, please call Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation at 317.848.7275.

CCP Announces Its 2010-11 Theme and Season

Thu, 27 May 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Make 'Em Laugh is a season of five comedies and one Rising Star Production, all to be staged at the Carmel Community Playhouse at Clay Terrace

(May 24, 2010 - Carmel, Indiana) - Carmel Community Players recently announced the theme and productions for its 2010-11 season at its Annual Meeting on May 19th. Make 'Em Laugh is the theme chosen by CCP's artistic director, Lori Raffel and will include five hilariously funny comedies along with a Rising Star youth production to be directed, produced, and starred in by kids 18 and under.

The season opens October 14th with Sarah Ruhl's Dead Man's Cell Phone, directed by Kari Ann Stamatoplos. This comedy begins with an incessantly ringing cell phone in a quiet café. A stranger at the next table has had enough of the ringing phone belonging to a dead man-with a lot of loose ends. So begins Dead Man's Cell Phone, a wildly imaginative new comedy by playwright Sarah Ruhl, recipient of a MacArthur "Genius" Grant and Pulitzer Prize finalist for her play The Clean House. A work about how we memorialize the dead-and how that remembering changes us -- it is the odyssey of a woman forced to confront her own assumptions about morality, redemption, and the need to connect in a technologically obsessed world.

The second production of the season will be a holiday comedy opening on December 9th. Every Xmas Story Ever Told (...and then some) by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald, and John K. Alvarez, with original music by Will Knapp will be directed by Michael T. Long. This show combines all those holiday shows we've all come to love...and hate. Instead of performing Charles Dickens' beloved holiday classic for the umpteenth time, three actors decide to perform every Christmas story ever told -- plus Christmas traditions from around the world, seasonal icons from ancient times to topical pop-culture, and every carol ever sung. This show is a madcap romp through the holiday season!

Beginning January 27, 2011, director Doug Davis will stage Phil Olson's A Nice Family Gathering. This is the story about a man who loved his wife so much, he almost told her. It's Thanksgiving Day and the first family gathering at the Lundeen household since the Patriarch died. At the gathering, Dad comes back as a ghost with a mission; to tell his wife he loved her, something he neglected to tell her while he was alive. After all, they were only married for 41 years. The problem is, she can't hear or see him. The trouble begins when Mom invites a date for dinner.

CCP's spring production will be the critically acclaimed I Hate Hamlet, written by Paul Rudnick and directed by Lori Raffel. Opening March 31, 2011, this is the story of a young and successful television actor who relocates to New York, where he rents a marvelous, gothic apartment. With his television career in limbo, the actor is offered the opportunity to play Hamlet onstage, but there's one problem: He hates Hamlet. His dilemma deepens with the entrance of John Barrymore's ghost, who arrives intoxicated and in full costume to the apartment that once was his. The contrast between the two actors, the towering, dissipated Barrymore whose Hamlet was the greatest of his time, and Andrew Rally, hot young television star, leads to a wildly funny duel over women, art, success, duty, television, and yes, the apartment.

The regular season closes with the Indiana premiere of SUDS, a fun-filled musical romp through the 1960's. Director Rich Baker will bring an amazing script from Melinda Gilb and Steve Gunderson to life beginning June 9, 2011. The show takes place in a Laundromat where Cindy, an employee, begins receiving bad news from "Mr. Postman". With her life falling apart before her eyes, a couple of Laundromat customers (actually "guardian angels") with baskets of dirty laundry, are sent down from above to help her with her dilemma. The cast breaks out with songs such as Please Mr. Postman, Walk On By, It's My Party, Are You Lonesome Tonight, These Boots Are Made for Walkin', Respect, and many more. This is good, clean, comical fun for audiences of all ages. If you loved Forever Plaid, Taffetas, and Pump Boys and Dinettes, you'll get washed away in SUDS, the musical.

Finally, CCP will present a Rising Star Production in July of 2011. This production, under the guidance of Patricia Schiro-Long, is for students 18 and under. They will help direct, produce, run sound and lights, stage manage, costume, and act. It will give them experience in all aspects of live theater and help them develop and refine skills and focus in on their strengths. This production has not yet been chosen.

For more information about these productions and auditions, visit www.carmelplayers.org.

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About Carmel Community Players
CCP provides live dramatic and musical presentations that expand and develop creative opportunities for the entire community. Founded in 1993, CCP responded to a growing need in this community for affordable, local, quality entertainment that would meet the needs of cultural enrichment for the entire family. CCP focuses on providing a community-based venue for both experienced and inexperienced participants in theater, both on-stage and behind the scenes. Adults and children alike extol the virtues of being on stage. Such experiences allow you to overcome fears, develop talents, work in a team environment, experience excellent literature and improve self-confidence.

About Carmel Community Playhouse
The Carmel Community Playhouse at Clay Terrace is the new home of Carmel Community Players, Carmel's oldest community theater group. The 4,500 sq. ft. playhouse features a 32' x 20' stage and can seat up to 120 guests. When productions are not being staged, the facility is available for organizations, schools, and businesses to rent for various meetings and events with proceeds benefitting Carmel Community Players, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. The Carmel Community Playhouse is located at the south end of the Clay Terrace outdoor mall at 14299 Clay Terrace Blvd., Ste. 140. For more information, visit carmelplayhouse.com.