Zionsville Monthly-September 2023

20 COVER STORY

Adam Wood: Former State Champion Returns This Season as Head Coach

This month, Zionsville Monthly is honored to feature Head Coach Adam Wood on our cover … again! Wood first graced our publication’s cover in 2013. Wood, a Zionsville Community High School 2014 graduate, was a 4-year letter-winner for former head coach Steve Simmons, a 3-time all-state selection and 2013 Indiana High School Athletic Association state champion. Wood sat down with us to discuss his goals this season for the ZCHS Boy’s Golf program.

ZIONSVILLE MONTHLY

PUBLISHER / Neil Lucas neil@collectivepub.com / 317-460-0803

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / Neil Lucas neil@collectivepub.com / 317-460-0803

PUBLISHER / Lena Lucas lena@collectivepub.com / 317-501-0418

DIRECTOR OF SALES / Lena Lucas lena@collectivepub.com / 317-501-0418

HEAD WRITER / Janelle Morrison janelle@collectivepub.com / 317-250-7298

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Cover photo // Laura Arick

Serving Zionsville

This November, for the first time in town history, Democratic candidates are running for all seven seats on the Zionsville Town Council.

“Since 2016, we have seen a steady increase in the number of both Democratic voters and Democratic candidates in Zionsville,” said Kristi Jones, executive director of the Boone County Democratic Party. “It’s a trend reflecting residents’ desire to have a more bal anced and representative local government.”

Town Council elections were nonpartisan in Zionsville until 1987. In the following four decades, no candidate running as a Democrat has been elected to the Town Council. The candidates hope to change that this year, as they vie for seats on the currently all-Republican, all-male council.

“We deserve to have a town council that more accurately reflects the makeup of our growing town,” says Tiffany Stoner, who is running for Town Council District 5. “Local government functions best when people with diverse perspectives work together to find solutions.”

These Democratic candidates are bringing that message to voters. Together, by early September, they had knocked on almost 10,000 Zionsville doors.

But they’re not just talking to people. They’re already working in support of residents.

At-Large Candidate Amanda Rubeck, for instance, recently helped residents deal with a construction project near her home that had been stagnant for 2.5 years. She helped secure a “finishers permit,” which requires the work to be completed by a specific date. The yard is now being cleaned up, and construction is nearly finished.

Rubeck is no stranger to community service. She serves on the Zionsville Redevelopment Commission, Zionsville Community Development Corporation and Town of Zionsville Finance Committee, among other roles.

It’s that proactive approach to finding solutions, along with Rubeck’s extensive experience in municipal finance, that has long-time local business owner, Steve Pittman, a Republican, backing her candidacy.

“I’ve been in the habit of supporting great candidates, and I know that Amanda is the right choice for the Town Council,” said Pittman. “I’ve had the opportunity to serve with her on a board and to know her personal disposition and financial expertise.”

Tiffany Stoner, too, recently jumped into action when she learned that some residents in Holliday Farms were concerned their children couldn’t walk safely to the bus stop amid construction traffic.

She reached out to the neighborhood developer and builders, prompting them to build a temporary sidewalk within days. The kids now have a safe path to the bus.

As a small-business owner and former technology consultant, Stoner is used to solving problems. The 23-year resident is also a mother of four and married to a colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve. She serves the community by leading a Habitat for Humanity build annually and volunteering in Zionsville schools.

District 1 Candidate Tim McElderry has become an advocate on behalf of residents worried about a dangerous intersection at 875 East and 400 South.

McElderry has reached out to residents and accident victims to discuss their con-

Historic Ticket Seeks to Bring Balance to Town Council

District 5 Candidate Tiffany Stoner leads her 8th annual team of women on the 2023 Habitat for Humanity build.

District 4 Candidate Tim Casady listens as community members describe their hopes for future connectivity and recreational opportunities in town.

At Large Candidate Amanda Rubeck meets with residents to discuss their concerns.

I’ve been in the habit of supporting great candidates, and I know that Amanda is the right choice for the Town Council,” said local business owner Steve Pittman, a Republican.

cerns as well as town government to see what can be done. He would like measures to be taken to better alert drivers to the stop signs on 400 South, possibly including rumble strips or a flashing light.

“He has closely followed the process while doing a great job of communicating with the residents,” said Rock Bridge resident Anne England. “Tim’s motivation to make a positive impact on Zionsville goes beyond electoral outcomes, and his actions show that.”

The 24-year Zionsville resident is a biotechnology industry executive who volunteers locally at food banks, homeless shelters and Boys and Girls Clubs. McElderry also served for 12 years as a coach and board member of the Zionsville Youth Soccer Association.

Monisha Mitchell, who is running for Town Council District 3, recently helped residents in Royal Run with safety concerns after incidents of criminal mischief and a gun being discharged during an arrest.

She reached out to Sheriff Tony Harris and Police Chief Mike Spears to convene a community safety forum. The event was well attended and resulted in new measures to monitor traffic safety in the neighborhood, including a digital radar speed sign.

“Service is at the heart of every good leader,” said Mitchell, who serves the community professionally as a mental health therapist and as a member of the Zionsville Police Department Use of Force Board, the Pedestrian Mobility Advisory Committee and the Hussey Mayfield Library Foundation Board.

District 4 Candidate Tim Casady has a long track record of serving Zions ville by working to preserve green space in town. He served six years on the Pathways Committee and nearly eight years on the Parks Board, through which he oversaw the extension of the Rail Trail and addition of Overley-Worman park.

“l can think of no one who could better guide Zionsville into the future while pre serving what’s special about our town,” said David Brown, a former town councilor.

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES for Zionsville Town Council

Candidates

Casady, former owner of Nebo Ridge Bicycles, said that as a councilor, he would work to update the zoning code and prioritize the investment in pathways connecting Zionsville for work, school and play. He would also continue to work toward protecting natural areas, such as the Carpenter Nature Preserve.

Indiana native Jason Ramer, who is running for Town Council District 2, moved to Zionsville in 2018 after nearly 20 years serving in the military and federal government. He is currently approaching his 25th year as a member of the Indiana National Guard.

Ramer was an intelligence specialist in both Afghanistan and Iraq post 9/11 as part of the global war on terrorism. He participated in three wartime aircraft carrier deployments and spent a year on the ground in Iraq during the height of the conflict.

Ramer visited Zionsville numerous times over the years to see his sisters, nieces and nephew who live here. “I fell in love with the charm of the town and people who live here,” said Ramer, owner of a construction business in Zionsville. “I hope to put the leadership and teamwork skills I learned in the military to work on the town council to foster unity and progress in our community.”

At-Large Candidate Rick Graef is similarly hoping to give back to Zionsville, where he has lived for the past 27 years. Graef raised his two sons here while working as a professional musician in the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.

Throughout that time, Graef has served as a leader for the American Federation of Musicians, through which he represents his coworkers in employment matters. The role has taught Graef the leadership skills to bring together a wide array of constituents to work together for mutually beneficial solutions, he said.

“I know that having involved, caring and thoughtful leaders that put the needs of our residents and local businesses first is imperative,” said Graef. “I can be that leader for Zionsville.”

Tim McElderry District 1

Jason Ramer District 2

Monisha Mitchell Tim Casady

Tiffany Stoner District 5

Amanda Rubeck At Large

Graef At Large

Paid for by the Boone County Democratic Party

District 1 Candidate Tim McElderry meets with residents to discuss safety at a busy intersection.

Scan for a chance to win 2 tickets to a November show at Feinstein's!

Indulge in upscale dining and cocktails at Feinstein's, an intimate entertainment venue delivering a unique experience unlike any other in the Midwest!

Eric Baker & Friends Present: "The Piano Man: A Billy Joel Tribute"

Jazz Brunch Hosted By Blair Clark Featuring Tad Robinson

Because Of You...A Tribute To Tony Bennett | Don Farrell & Terry Woods Jazz Quartet

"Let Me Be Frank" Presented by Ben Jones and Ron Abel | Celebrating Music Of Frank Sinatra

Drag Me To Brunch | 11:00 a.m. & 2:30 p.m. Show

Freeform Concert Series: Bronte Fall W/ Eric Pedigo & David Rosales | Free Entry

The Edwards Twins Present: The Ultimate Variety Show | Celebrity Impersonators

Freeform Concert Series: Kali Masi W/ Saint Aubin

DECEPTION: An Evening of Magic & Lies | Magic Show

John Lloyd Young: Broadway’s Jersey Boy | Tony & Grammy Award Winner

Ari Axelrod: “A Place For us: A Celebration Of Jewish Broadway” | Internationally Acclaimed Show

Andie Case | 1.4M Follwers Across YouTube and Facebook, With Over 200M views.

Freeform Concert Series: Pindrop Songwriting Series With Katie Pederson | Free Entry

Heywood Banks | Comedic Musician

Jazz Brunch Hosted By Blair Clark Featuring Brenda Williams

Johnny Folsom 4 - Tribute To Johnny Cash

Carmel Symphony Orchestra Opens Its 2023-24 Season With Great Momentum

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Courtesy of CSO

As a new season commences for the Carmel Symphony Orchestra, Carmel Monthly is excited to report on the momentum that continues to build from last season under the direction of Artistic Director Janna Hymes. The energy and success of the previous season have set up this upcoming [season] to be as or even more prolific and exceptional for the entire CSO organization.

“The musical programming is really creative and very interesting,” stated CSO executive director Anne Marie Chastain. “Opening night [October 7], we have Gabriela Martinez, who’s an absolute star, and our Masterworks 2: Veteran’s Salute [November 11] is going to be really

interesting. William Grant Still’s Symphony No. 1 ‘Afro-American’ is super fun, and we’re working on some surprises that are to be announced!”

Chastain continued, “One of the concerts that’s selling really well is the ‘Symphony Goes to the Movies’ [February 10]. We’ll be playing along with Charlie Chaplin’s silent film ‘The Kid.’ It’s going to be a great concert, plus Mendelssohn’s ‘Violin Concerto in E Minor, Op. 63,’ which will be performed during that concert, is just such a beautiful piece. At the end of the [2023-24] season is Masterworks 5: Verdi Requiem — a real showstopper — that will be performed with the Anderson University Choirs [April 13]. That will be a really big concert!”

orchestras, Chastain replied, “I would say one of the things that makes CSO so unique is, of course, the hall that we perform in: the Palladium,” Chastain said. “Our sound is so lush, and when people come to hear us, it’s just such an emotional experience. This season really reflects that, and I encourage anyone who hasn’t heard the Carmel Symphony Orchestra to come out and really lean into that emotional moment that they will have! Enjoy a fantastic evening, have dinner, walk along the Monon and experience Carmel on so many levels!”

DON’T MISS A MINUTE OF THE MAGIC!

CSO’s opening night, on October 7, 2023, will feature piano virtuosa Gabriela Martinez, will showcase works by Mozart and Beethoven, and will include a commissioned work by Dr. Caroline KyungA Ahn.

Following this remarkable opening night, as part of its Family Concerts series, Classical Kid’s Live and CSO will present Gershwin’s Magic Key on October 22, 2023. Step into the streets of 1920s New York City, where a newspaper boy has a chance encounter with the famous composer George Gershwin. Families can follow their developing friendship as CSO magically weaves Gershwin’s greatest hits into his stories. This afternoon, Gershwin quickly learns that his new friend has musical talents … but can the boy find the magic key to unlock his own musical potential?

History, drama, music and fun come together in one 50-minute performance. This engaging concert is an ideal addition to any child’s developing musical experience.

Gershwin’s Magic Key has been recognized internationally for its quality, including receiving a Grammy Nomination (2021), a Mom’s Choice Award, the Creative Child Awards – CD of the Year 2021, the

National Parenting Products Award 2021, a Family Choice Award, the Smart Media – Academics Choice Award and the Tillywigs Toy Awards – Brain Child Award.

CSO WELCOMES MANAMI WHITE

CSO is thrilled to announce the appointment of distinguished violinist and educator Manami White as its new

Concertmaster. White is a seasoned violinist with an impressive array of international and national performances. White brings her extraordinary talent and passion for music to the heart of Indiana’s thriving cultural scene.

Additionally, White’s illustrious career has seen her perform with orchestras, chamber ensembles, and in captivating recital settings around the world. Notably, she serves as the Concertmaster and Associate Director of the Cincinnati Bach Festival and Cincinnati Collegium, positions that underscore her exceptional musical leadership. She is also the Concertmaster of the Kentucky Symphony Orchestra, Principal Second Violin of the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra, Principal Second Violin of the Cincinnati Bach Ensemble and an associate member of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra. Manami has taken her artistry to international stages as well, having toured with the American Sinfonietta.

An accomplished soloist, White has graced audiences with her virtuosity in performances alongside the North

Florida Symphony Orchestra, MUSE, and the Kentucky Symphony Orchestra. Her dedication to the violin and her commitment to musical excellence have been honed under the guidance of esteemed mentors, including Dorothy DeLay and Naoko Tanaka.

Today, White shares her wealth of knowledge and experience as a faculty member at Xavier University, where she serves as the Director of the Xavier University Chamber Orchestra.

In her role as CSO’s Concertmaster, White is poised to bring fresh perspectives, refined artistry and her signature passion for music to Indiana’s vibrant cultural landscape. Audiences can anticipate captivating performances and unforgettable musical experiences under her leadership.

Join us in welcoming Manami White to the CSO family as we embark on an exciting new chapter filled with exceptional music and artistic innovation.

For tickets and more information about the Carmel Symphony Orchestra, visit carmelsymphony.org.

CENTER PRESENTS:

STEWART COPELAND: POLICE

DERANGED FOR ORCHESTRA

THE PALLADIUM // THURSDAY, OCT 19, 7:30 P.M. ET

Stewart Copeland’s Police Deranged for Orchestra is a high-energy orchestral evening celebrating a career that has spanned more than four decades. Copeland is best known as the founder and drummer of the Police, as well as a seasoned and prolific composer in opera, ballet and orchestral music. This production — featuring a 28-piece orchestra, three vocalists and a rock trio with Copeland on drums — is packed with Police hits such as “Roxanne,” “Don’t Stand So Close to Me” and “Message in a Bottle.” Tickets are available for purchase at thecenterpresents.org.

Janelle Morrison: Congratulations on your 6th and 7th Grammy Awards for Divine Tides.

Stewart Copeland: The thing that I’m most proud of, more than the number of Grammys, is when — here I am in my 71st year now and I’m still winning Grammys … that’s pretty cool.

JM: Speaking of things that are pretty cool, you did work on the soundtrack for the 1983 film “Rumble Fish,” and the intro to Hostile Bridge to Benney’s, I think, is predominantly a typewriter and maybe a drum loop. My words … that was pure musical genius.

SC: It is one drum break loop! And back in those days, a loop was physically a loop … a 2-inch magnetic tape looped around the studio, joined together into an actual physical loop.

JM: Kids these days just don’t know about those things.

SC: Ha, ha, ha, ha … kids these days don’t know!

JM: Let’s talk about your latest book, “Stewart Copeland’s Police Diaries” [pre-orders available at policediariesbook.com]. I know it’s about the “hungry years,” and I’m curious why you decided to finally write about those.

SC: I kind of screwed up with my first book. I thought that I had it all there from the ex-rockstar life perspective. I thought

it was an interesting story, but what people really want is the Police, so I’m finally “crossing that t and dotting that i.”

JM: The book is based on journals that you wrote back in those years, correct?

SC: Oh yeah, I recorded how much we got paid, how many people showed up, how well we played and all other aspects of the show that I was booking. It’s all there — the contemporaneous observations — because I kept a diary that was facts and data. And then I kept the other [diary], which [includes] my secret

writings for grievance nurturing and for crackpot schemes. [Laughing] You could call it the “Muhahaha Diaries”!

JM: Was there anything, a particular moment or memory, that you thought, “Oh, that’s totally going in the book”?

SC: There were a few, but the biggest one was more of a generality, which was “How did I hold on to those two guys?” Because we were starving! First of all, Sting … we stuck together through thick and thin. Wait … that’s not true. We stuck together through thin and thinner! To get into the “punk” scene, we had to play these crap punk songs that were totally utilitarian and were fundamentally bass lines with yelling. At first, we were having a great time and we were starving, but we were carving it up at these shows. It was tough to keep hold of Sting, musically. He’s a man of great loyalty, but it was a miracle that he stuck with it until the day Andy Summers walked into the room.

We were doing a session and then walked in Andy Summers, the triple scale guitarist, the legend himself. We had been starved of actual music. Driving home, Sting was like, “Oh my God, we’ve got to get Andy in the band!” I was humoring him and was like, “Sure. Yeah, right. It’s never going to happen. Are you kidding me?” And then it did happen. It’s a longer story in the book, but little did we know

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Courtesy of the Center

that Andy had discovered us. There was this dance going back and forth, and when I ran into Andy, he pulled me into a café and said, “Look, you and that bass player … you’ve got something. But you need me, and I accept.” He [Andy] hates it when I tell that story, but it’s true. And Andy is very direct. So, long story short, I told him, “We haven’t got a record company — the record company is me pretending to be a record company. Agent … that’s me on the phone. Roadies … that would be you.”

As soon as Sting heard what Andy could do on the guitar, that’s when he started writing the songs. Andy joined the Police. A fake punk rock band with no songs — and he threw in his career to join such a thing! I asked him years later, “What were you thinking?” And he said, “I don’t know, mate … I should have stuck with Neil Sedaka!”

JM: What are you most proud of in regard to the Police?

SC: The fact that it was unique. There was no precedent for our band’s sound. And that we quit while we were ahead. We never saw the other side of the parabola.

JM: How is your creative process different when composing for orchestras?

SC: With bands, you find the right musicians, get in a room with them and cool stuff happens. But with the orchs, it’s all homework. I sit here at my home desk, and I agonize over the score. I can’t hear it. I’m just seeing it, and I have to imagine it. It’s a much more engrossing process, is much more challenging, and takes much deeper concentration. Let not the birds sing nor the phone ring because you have lots of plates in the air when organizing the score.

JM: We, the fans, are beyond excited about your upcoming concert in Carmel, Indiana, Police Deranged for Orchestra. How have your audiences been responding to it?

SC: I did think [at first] they might come after me with pitchforks, but so far, it’s been really good, and the orchs love it. I very much include the orchestra in the event, as it’s about the orchestra very heavily. For the audience, they know the songs, and they have so much more emotional impact when you give

it the majesty, the vocabulary and the power of a symphony orchestra. That takes the songs to a new level, and folks are loving it.

JM: And you’ve got three outstanding female lead vocals, correct?

SC: Yes — this was an intellectual decision, because I can’t get some guy up there singing Sting songs. He would get killed, poor bastard. So how about three soul sisters on the mic? That’s a clever idea! So, I orchestrated it, I raised the vocals, I met the ladies and we started doing it, and I was like, “Oh, Jesus Christ — this is incredible! This is the Police sung by the Supremes!” And I discovered a whole new genre that I had missed as a kid. I didn’t get into R&B. I was into Jimi Hendrix, the Doors and anger music. I don’t know why … I was a privileged kid living a pretty good life, but for some reason, Slipknot makes me happy and death metal cheers me up. God knows why! But their three voices are instruments, and they’re so powerful and moving! They are top-line front Los Angeles singers, and they’re really stepping forward.

Civic Theatre Presents:

The Prom

professional atmosphere with the level of tech and support that you can’t find in other community theaters.

My character is an aging Broadway diva who’s never been afraid of homosexuals … they’re her biggest fans! But Dee Dee is very ignorant and has awful prejudice against the folks in the small town. What I bring to the show is an extreme and humorous view to help people understand we ALL need to do a better job of understanding each other, all the way around.

Everybody has their own stuff that they’re living through.

EMMA NOLAN − KELSEY MCDANIEL

Four eccentric Broadway stars are in desperate need of a new stage. So, when they hear that trouble is brewing around a small-town prom, they know that it’s time to put a spotlight on the issue … and themselves. The town’s parents want to keep the high school dance on the straight and narrow — but when one student just wants to bring her girlfriend to prom, the entire town has a date with destiny. On a mission to transform lives, Broadway’s brassiest join forces with a courageous girl and the town’s citizens and the result is love that brings them all together. Winner of the Drama Desk Award for Best Musical, The Prom expertly captures all the humor and heart of a classic musical comedy with a message that resonates with audiences now more than ever.

(Theatrical Rights Worldwide)

The Tarkington // Oct 6 - Oct 21 Purchase

It is always a pleasure and privilege to interview the Civic Theatre’s Executive Artistic Director Michael Lasley and the casts of any Civic production. Lasley and the cast of The Prom — that includes his wife, Marni Lemons —shared some of their thoughts on performing this specific musical and on working with Civic.

“I’ve been here for almost 34 years,” Lasley shared. “During the bulk of that time, we sort of told the same stories over and over again. It wasn’t until 2015 that we had an opportunity to make a major change [at Civic]. I know where I am and who my audience is, and no human being on the face of the earth has ever changed their mind because someone stood in their face and screamed at them. We may not change anyone’s mind … that’s not why we’re doing this [theater]. We’re doing this to

give someone else a voice that doesn’t have one. You can’t approach what we do as validating or invalidating anybody’s point of view, whether it’s somebody in the audience or a character on the stage. They [the characters] were written that way for a reason by somebody, and the honest performer is a person who is willing to put their depth of soul into what they’re doing on stage.”

DEE DEE ALLEN − MARNI LEMONS

This is my 40th anniver sary year, and I’ve done about 40 shows with Civic. Civic allows someone like me who is an amateur performer, but I don’t like the “A” word — amateur — because of what it connotes. I consider myself a professional [actor], but I choose to do it and not be paid. Civic allows me to perform in a 100 percent

This is actually my first show with Civic. I’m excited to be playing Emma. She is so courageous to be “out” in a town that is so conservative, and frankly, no one likes her or agrees with her lifestyle. I think it’s especially important because the story takes place in Indiana. With all the laws that are being passed — the anti-gay and anti-trans bills— it’s so important for this story to be told now. I think people need to listen, understand and start to grow. I hope that people who don’t agree with what we’re doing come to the show and maybe start to change the way they think. And maybe feel a little more accepting of people. It’s been fun stepping into a different role and finding parts of the character that are

that she deserves, which he didn’t have as a teenager when he went to prom. I hope that people walk away [after the

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Joshua Hasty Photography

show] feeling that they’re not alone, because they aren’t. I hope they can walk away with a feeling of acceptance. I have brought some of my personal emotions and experiences from my younger days into this character. Barry is an emotional rollercoaster, so it’s very challenging, as an actor, to be able to portray that, but I’m certainly giving it my best shot!

ALYSSA GREENE − KAYLEE JOHNSON-BRADLEY

I’m happy to be here. This is my first [Civic] show. Alyssa is this character who has this front up of being perfect. I can relate to that a lot, just going through life and trying to be perfect at everything: the arts, student council and all of that stuff. I think Emma helps her with that a lot, but I also think Alyssa is terrified of becoming Emma because Emma is an outcast and is seen as a failure. So, the question for Alyssa is: Is she willing to lose the person she loves to remain “perfect”? That’s been really interesting

to tackle. I hope that by the end of the show, people can come out feeling like they can be themselves and be perfectly imperfect.

NICK − ANDREW KING

This is my first [Civic] show, and I am very excited that I get to be a part of this show and am getting to work with the adults who have done theater a lot and are really good. Me getting to just be here is so fun because I get to learn and watch and do, and it’s just incredible.

This show is hilarious, and there are so many hilarious parts, but then [the show] is real. The stuff we’re laughing at, the jokes, is so funny, but then I’m like, “People are actually out there thinking like this.” I think it’s very important that we get to put this show on in such a way that it’s not just right in [the audience’s] faces but we can also mix that lighthearted feel — like the jokes and stuff — while also incorporating the real-world problems in it.

CAST LIST

Emma Nolan − Kelsey McDaniel

Alyssa Greene − Kaylee Johnson-Bradley

Dee Dee Allen − Marni Lemons

Barry Glickman − Chad Leitschuh

Angie Dickinson − Mikayla Koharchik

Trent Oliver − Evan Wallace

Mr. Hawkins − Rex Wolfley

Mrs. Greene − Marlana Haig

Sheldon Sapperstein − David Maxwell

ENSEMBLE

Kaylee − Izzy Casciani

Shelby − Jada Radford

Kevin − Austin Stodghill

Nick − Andrew King

Alicia Barnes

David Brock

Kaydence Forsyth

Lauren Frank

Karen Hurt

Elissa Maudlin

Alex Smith

Matthew Sumpter

AJ Thoma

Josh Vander Missen

Ellen Vander Missen

Cole Weesner

BOOK & LYRICS BY CHAD BEGUELIN

MUSIC BY MATTHEW SKLAR

BOOK BY BOB MARTIN

BASED ON AN ORIGINAL CONCEPT BY JACK VIERTEL

Bob Harris for Town Council

From the quaint brick street to our schools, to our public safety — Bob Harris knows why families choose Zionsville

“The Harris family has been engaged in #AVisionForZionsville for generations, and now Bob Harris is running to represent District 1 on our Town Council. Like his brother (Boone County Sheriff) Tony, Bob is a family man who wants to see our town thrive for all of our children. I think he can bring a valuable point of view to the Council, and I hope voters in his (mostly) rural district will give him a chance to bring his deep background to the conversation.”

-- John Stehr for Mayor

BORN AND RAISED IN ZIONSVILLE

Bob Harris is the GOP nominee for Zionsville Town Council, District 1. Born and raised in Zionsville, Bob has spent his entire adult life working to make Zionsville better for current and future families.

Bob and his wife, Tammy, raised their two children, Sarah (20) and Max (19), on the family’s Northwest Zionsville farm. He attended Union Elementary and Zionsville Middle School and is a graduate of Franklin College. Bob and his family are members of New Hope Christian Church. Bob continues to invest in his community through his involvement with several youth and community organizations, including Union Elementary.

SERVING ZIONSVILLE AS AN INDUSTRY EXPERT

Throughout his career, Bob has been a part of bringing over 50 new businesses to Zionsville — including Bub’s Burgers, Moving Water Outfitters, Rosie’s, Sub 16, Teays River Investments, Frances+Parke, Verde Mexican Restaurant, Aspasia Coffee, Culver’s, and the various businesses opening soon at Appaloosa Crossing.

The Harris family has owned property in downtown Zionsville and throughout the area for over 70 years. Bob has served as Property Manager for the Harris Family Limited Partnership and Kite Harris Property Group.

“I think that I have a distinct skill set to help areas in Zionsville that have been challenging,” Bob stated. “Such as the south end of the village. I believe

that we’re going to have to get creative as a town and work together with folks who want to improve that corner. There’s a lot of things that can be done there, we just need the right person in office to make it happen, and projects like this are what I do.”

Bob added, “Another area of focus is Creekside Corporate Park, and we’ve got to get creative and fix the [development-related] reasons why we keep losing prospective companies to other communities. It’s going to take people who know what they’re doing and are

engaged in this profession to make Creekside a success.”

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE OF ZIONSVILLE

Bob is ready to get started as District 1’s next town councilor.

“The first thing that we need to start working on, beginning January 2, is a new comprehensive plan. The town’s existing comprehensive plan is over 20 years old. And we need to discuss different and new zoning classifications in rural areas. If I’m elected to the town council, I will meet with rural Zionsville folks once every quarter to make sure their voices and concerns are heard. I live on the outskirts of Union Township. I am rural Zionsville. I am their neighbor. It’s going to take neighbors working with neighbors to figure the issues out. I humbly ask for your support and votes on Election Day — Nov 7.”

Read more about Bob’s vision for Zionsville at HarrisForZionsville.com and follow his campaign on Facebook and Instagram.

BOB’S PRIORITIES

Preserving Zionsville’s Charm: Bob will honor our rural heritage and maintain the town’s original charm while supporting our schools.

Responsible Growth: Zionsville needs sustainable growth that enhances our tax base and attracts businesses while prioritizing amenities such as trails, a community center, and an expanded grocery store that caters to residents’ needs.

Best-In-Class Public Safety: Having served 14 years on the Boone County Sheriff Merit Board, Bob understands the importance of prioritizing training and funding for our police and first responders to ensure best-in-class public safety.

ADAM WOOD

Former State Champion Returns This Season as Head Coach

This month, Zionsville Monthly is honored to feature Head Coach Adam Wood on our cover … again! Wood first graced our publication’s cover in 2013. Wood, a Zionsville Community High School 2014 graduate, was a 4-year letter-winner for former head coach Steve Simmons, a 3-time all-state selection and 2013 Indiana High School Athletic Association state champion. Wood sat down with us to discuss his goals this season for the ZCHS Boy’s Golf program.

A STELLAR STUDENT/COLLEGIATE ATHLETIC CAREER

Wood set school records as a junior for stroke average (70.8) and birdies (60), posted a 65 (−5) to match a school record at the Highland Invitational, posted a five-under 67 at the Golf Club of Indiana in sectional play, posted a 72.0 stroke average with 55 birdies as a sophomore, was an individual runner-up at the 2011 state championship, closed his freshman campaign with a 72.8 stroke average and 52 birdies and

helped the team to a fourth-place finish in the 2010 state tournament.

Wood holds the lowest scoring average in program history. He earned an athletic scholarship to attend and compete at Duke University. Wood led Duke with a 72.7 stroke average his freshman year, the second-best stroke average by a freshman in program history. While a Blue Devil, he was an Academic All-American, a Co-Captain and an All-ACC [Atlantic Coast Conference] player. Wood competed in 115 rounds while at Duke. This past spring, Wood was an assistant for the

Zionsville golf team, and he looks forward to helping continue the competitive tradition of Zionsville golf.

Wood shared his thoughts on how the ZCHS boy’s golf program prepared him for playing at the collegiate level.

“In terms of competitive golf at the collegiate level, especially in a Power Five conference, there is definitely a step up, but I felt that I was prepared,” Wood said. “I don’t think the game changes, but the level of competition around you does. There’s a lot of competitive players at the level. I did well my first

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Laura Arick and staff

two years [at Duke], and I think that Zionsville prepared me very well. I give great credit to [former head coach] Steve Simmons. The schedule that we played and still play prepared me well.”

Wood continued, “The [schedule] template that he laid out, we pretty much play 16-18 events, and they are the best events. They are 18-hole invitational events that take place on Saturdays, so that’s a lot of weekends playing out at a lot of country clubs and premier courses in the local area and around the state of Indiana. Looking back, I needed that spring competition and that development, and again, I give great credit to Coach Simmons for building out a schedule like that, which gives the players the best chance to develop and prepare.”

SETTING UP GOALS THAT INCLUDE THE PGA TOUR

Wood went pro in 2019, but Wood’s pro golfing goals were disrupted in 2020 and redirected in the immediate years following until now.

“I did want to play professionally [while in college] — that’s the hallmark of many players that play in Power Five conferences, particularly in the ACC,” Wood stated. “You have visions of being a starting player for all the events while representing your team, and you probably have playing professional golf on your horizon. I was no exception to that. I did play professionally for a few years and plan on having a professional schedule at the conclusion of our [ZCHS] team season next spring. I would like to see myself playing a full-time schedule on the PGA Tour. I’m just not there yet, and I have to earn that, but I would like to get my chance.”

While Wood continues to train and work towards his pro golf goals, he and his wife, Dr. Lindsey Wood, have come back to Zionsville, their hometown, and are happy to be back with their families who are longtime residents of the town. Wood is also thrilled to have worked with his former coach, Steve Simmons, as an assistant coach with the ZCSH Boy’s Golf program before stepping up as head coach when Simmons accepted

the head coach position at Marion University this past July.

“I enjoy coaching and being in Zionsville,” Wood expressed. “I have a pretty unique skill set to provide a good experience for the [ZCHS golf] guys. We have a competitive golf heritage that goes all the way back to Coach Dave Sollman when they won the state championship two times. His son, Michael, was a teammate of mine, and his dad was our coach. So, we have a long tradition of competitive play, and I would like to continue that. We have a great list of players who have gone on to play collegiate-level golf, and I would like to continue that tradition and would like for that option to continue to exist for the players who want to pursue it.”

COMMUNITY SUPPORT IS KEY

Wood spoke about the importance of community and family support both as a former ZCHS player and now as head coach of the program that developed him as a player.

“I have to give credit to Coach Sollman and Coach Simmons as well as the middle school coaches for the great schedules and support that they provide our players,” Wood sincerely stated. “I can’t overstate the importance of the support provided by the athletic department and the support of the parents. Certainly, the coaches play a part in it, but being able to take your players and compete against the very best teams with great frequency — every weekend — makes a very tangible difference throughout the season and in what the overall experience is like for the players.”

Wood concluded, “Having community support helps build confidence and belief as a player. We have the Golf Club of Indiana where we have practiced and played, and having access and the ability to play is important. Not every club or course would go for having 25 players [JV and Varsity] showing up at their course every day. The Golf Club of Indiana and Jeff Rubenstein [Director of Golf at Golf Club of Indiana] have permitted us to do that for a long time, and that’s just the kind of support we need. And having the fans out there for some of the big season matches feeds the confidence and positive energy that you can get as a player and helps you to really enjoy your experience. It’s important for both the [ZCHS] Boys and Girls teams. We have [historically] enjoyed that [support], and we hope that we continue to enjoy that.”

When asked about his own family’s ongoing support of his career path, Wood emphasized, “It would be a significant understatement to say my parents have been very supportive. They basically have been with me through everything — from playing in high school and college to playing professionally. And now, being a coach as well on top of that, they have been very supportive.”

I would like to see myself playing a fulltime schedule on the PGA Tour. I’m just not there yet, and I have to earn that, but I would like to get my chance.

A young Wood on our cover from May 2013 issue

Monisha Mitchell for Town Council

A DEDICATED AND ENGAGED MEMBER OF THE COMMUNITY

Monisha is a dedicated Zionsville resident and small business owner who brings a wealth of experience to her community.

With a background in non-profit management, she’s an adept leader with a history of securing grants and creating award-winning healthcare initiatives. Monisha held a senior leadership role in the private sector and worked for Fortune 500 Companies as well.

Monisha’s strong ties to Zionsville extend to her eight years of residence with her son Braxton, her close proximity to her adult children, Camryn and Tim, and her place of worship at Traders Point

cance of service. Prior to the pandemic Monisha served at Wheeler Mission but 2020 changed that, she said “It seemed important to serve close to home.” She organized a bake sale for local first responders during the pandemic to raise money for the Adult Congenital Heart Association. She served as co-chair of the charity committee of the Zionsville Mom’s Group, a local nonprofit that supports local children, mothers, and families by creating opportunities to serve, play, and grow together. In 2023, she threw a benefit concert for the American Heart Association featuring the local band the Janeways.

Monisha holds a diverse educational background, including a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, a graduate certificate in Public Management, and a master’s degree in social work. With 18 years of experience as a mental health therapist, specializing in trauma and mood disorders, she also serves as a diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant.

In her community involvement, Monisha sits on various boards and committees in Zionsville, such as the Zionsville Police Department Use of Force Board, the Pedestrian Mobility Advisory Committee, and the Hussey Mayfield Library Foundation Board. She’s also a passionate advocate for healthcare equity and

heart health, having fundraised for the Adult Congenital Heart Association in 2021 and earned a nomination as a Woman of Impact by the American Heart Association in 2023 as part of their Go Red for Women national campaign.

FRESH AND ATTENTIVE LEADERSHIP

Monisha knows how to listen. Every day in her professional career, Monisha’s primary responsibility as a Therapist is to respectfully and non-judgmentally make space for other’s thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Monisha will listen to experts and consultants, and she will listen to the hard-working town employees; she will listen to fellow Town Councilpersons, and most importantly, she will listen to constituents.

One role of the Town Council is to provide oversight of the administration. Additionally, the Town Council is supposed to be accountable to constituents. Monisha’s commitment is to clear, respectful, and concise communication.

“I’m committed to maintaining accessibility and engagement with the community,” Monisha stated. “I plan to establish regular office hours to meet with constituents and ensure I’m actively listening to their concerns. I also believe it’s essential to improve transparency and engagement during town meetings. I can’t

Photographer // Jay Goldz

Graphic Design // Lauren Hernandez DeCrane

unilaterally change the rules. So, I plan to collaborate with other councilors.”

Monisha added, “I’d also like to work with the other councilors to improve the appointment process for the 16 town boards ensuring subject matter experts relevant to their areas of expertise are appointed. This will enhance the effectiveness of these boards. Additionally, I want to explore better ways to involve the community in the development process. Currently, public meetings about developments often occur too late for meaningful input. I plan to facilitate more genuine community engagement

in development decisions, particularly in the relevant districts.”

REPRESENTATION FOR ALL IN DISTRICT 3

“Every vote matters deeply to me because it’s the essence of representative government,” Monisha expressed. “I genuinely want to represent every individual, understanding that not everyone will get their way, as that’s the nature of democracy. I empathize with those who feel unheard. I feel it too. It’s crucial to recognize that extremists on either side don’t represent us.”

Monisha concluded, “I’m not asking for the people to betray their party. I encourage people to make the best choice for District 3. The incumbent has had four years to show us who he is as a town councilor. Mr. Melton has shown us, and we should believe him.”

Learn more about Monisha Mitchell’s vision and commitments to District 3 at mitchellforzionsville.com. Contact Monisha at votemmitchell@gmail.com and follow her on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Public Safety: Monisha acknowledges Zionsville’s status as Indiana’s safest city, attributed to our dedicated public safety officers. Her involvement with the Zionsville Police Department’s Use of Force Board highlights her respect for their professionalism and training. As a Town Council member, she’s committed to supporting law enforcement, firefighters, and town employees through budget votes that provide essential resources and fair compensation.

Mindful Development: Monisha advocates for sustainable economic growth that preserves Zionsville’s small-town character while generating revenue. She is committed to maintaining the charm of our village and green spaces of our rural areas and farmland while pursuing responsible economic partnerships with corporations, non-profits, and neighboring municipalities.

Community Amenities: Monisha will support funding for town amenities that align with community expectations. She recognizes the hard work of town employees working within financial constraints. She will prioritize supporting them when it comes to approving budgets and appropriations as a Town Councilor.