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Founded Jan. 25, 2011, at Fishers, IN Vol. XV, No. 1
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The views of the columnists in Current in Fishers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.
Fishers council hears about proposed rental cap, approves annexation
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
City of Fishers administrators have been exploring the idea of a cap on the number of single-family rental homes, a rule that — if adopted — would be the first of its kind in Indiana.
GOVERNMENT
The Fishers City Council heard a presentation on the proposed cap during a Jan. 13 work session, led by Chief of Staff Jordin Alexander. She said the city started looking into the idea in response to an increase in the number of rental homes, especially those owned by corporations and/or people who live full time in other states.
“We do anticipate that number will continue to increase, particularly as we see some of these older single-family homes that are currently owner occupied, enter rental status,” she said. “That’s something we’ve seen here locally and something that we’ve seen in trends through communities throughout the country.”
Alexander said almost half of the single-family rentals in Fishers are owned by out-of-state landlords, and 25 percent are owned by “institutional investors” — defined as companies that own at least 1,000 rental properties.
“Nationally, about 3.8 percent of all single-family rentals are owned by these institutional investors,” she said. “That’s
figuring in small communities, medium, large, but it does give you an idea that we are much higher here in Fishers than what that national average is.”
The proposal would include a rental registry program that would require landlords to register every rental home within the City of Fishers. Each home would have a permit attached to it that would remain valid until the owner chooses to sell.
The proposed cap would be no more than 10 percent of homes within a subdivision. Alexander noted that there are areas in Fishers that already exceed that cap — some are close to 30 percent — and each of those homes would be able to remain a rental until the property is sold.
If someone buys a home with the intention of renting it out, it would have to be in an area that hasn’t met that 10-percent threshold.
Some homeowners associations within Fishers have rental caps that are more stringent than the proposed citywide cap — some don’t allow any rentals at all.
Mayor Scott Fadness told the council that an HOA could still have stricter rules than the city’s.
“We’re not trying to be the most restrictive,” he said. “We’re just trying to make sure that none of these neighborhoods tip the scale into where they’re going to 30 and 40 percent, or 25 percent rental. Really that was my administration’s goal. We’re not trying to lock the community
down to 2 percent rentals throughout the whole city. We’re just saying we don’t think it’s appropriate if a neighborhood was built as a single-family residential neighborhood, primarily home ownership, then all of a sudden, someone who owns their home walks out and sees 40 percent of the homes around them are now for rent.”
Alexander said city officials will bring an ordinance to the council for a first reading in the next month or two. If approved, the transition period before implementation would take about a year to allow for outreach and education.
In other matters Jan. 13, the council voted unanimously in favor of annexing about 950 parcels in an unincorporated part of Hamilton County between Fishers and the Madison and Hancock County borders. About three quarters of those parcels are in developments that have waivers attached stating that the owners can’t object to annexation into the city.
Following the council’s vote, the next step is a notice to affected homeowners and a remonstrance period, during which the property owners who can legally object have an opportunity to make their opinions known. That period begins Jan. 27 and runs for 90 days.
The next Fishers City Council meeting is 7 p.m. Feb. 24 at the Fishers Municipal Center theater, 1 Municipal Dr.
CONGESTION A CONCERN AT 96TH & ALLISONVILLE ROUNDABOUT
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Since it opened in early November 2024, the new roundabout at 96th and Allisonville Road has had more traffic than anticipated, leading to congestion and accidents, particularly during morning and afternoon rush hour traffic.
City of Fishers Director of Engineering Hatem Meki spoke to the Fishers City Council Jan. 13 about ongoing concerns at the intersection. He said a major contributor to the traffic problems is road construction elsewhere that’s funneling cars to that intersection.
“We’ve been impacted a lot by the construction around us from 465, 69, all the backups,” he said. “This intersection
currently is taking the brunt of a lot of the traffic that usually uses Keystone and 465, and Allisonville and 465 — the ramp closure on 465 does not help the
Construction on I-69 and 465 is expected to last through 2026.
Meki noted that the two main causes of fender benders within the roundabout are failure to yield and illegally changing lanes. He said the city is working with a traffic consultant to mitigate some of those problems. A few solutions include better lighting and signage, so drivers are more aware of which lane they need to be in as they approach the roundabout. He said the city also is working on configuring nearby traffic lights to better manage vehicles as they enter and exit the roundabout.
The city has plans to construct another roundabout this summer at 116th Street and Allisonville Road.
The roundabout at 96th and Allisonville has experienced more traffic than expected since it opened in November 2024. (Image courtesy of the City of Fishers)
COMMUNITY
DISPATCHES
Blood donations sought — Versiti Blood Center of Indiana has issued an emergency plea for blood donations. Winter weather and a rise in illness have significantly disrupted donations, resulting in less than a day’s supply of critical blood types. Versiti Blood Center donation sites include 726 Adams St., Suite 150 in Carmel; 11005 Allisonville Rd. in Fishers; and 3450 N. Meridian St. in Indianapolis. Schedule an appointment at Versiti.org. Walk-in donors also are welcome.
Arts Council annual meeting held — The Fishers Arts Council had its annual meeting Jan. 9 and welcomed two new board members: Erica Foreman and Molly Hammer. The board elected new officers, with Chris Hayes appointed as board president, Ross Hilleary as vice president and Douglas Dusseau as treasurer. Susan Dickey will be board secretary. Two departing board members were honored: Philip Paluso, after serving for three years; and Olivia Holt, who served a total of six years.
Garcia Wilburn recognized for law enforcement support — Police1, an online news site focusing on law enforcement trainings, resources and tools to enhance officer safety and effectiveness, recently honored Rep. Victoria Garcia Wilburn (D-Fishers) in its inaugural Got Your Six Awards program. The award recognizes individuals who have gone above and beyond to support law enforcement. Garcia Wilburn represents House District 32, which includes portions of Hamilton and Marion counties. For more, visit police1.com.
Federal positions open for applications – U.S. Sens. Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Jim Banks (R-Ind.) are soliciting applications for federal vacancies in Indiana. The senators are soliciting applications for the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana, due by Feb. 21; and U.S. Attorney and U.S. Marshal for each of the Southern District and Northern District of Indiana, due by Feb. 7. For more, visit young.senate. gov/newsroom/press-releases.
Donations accepted at Menards — Menards stores are serving as drop sites for local food pantries through the end of March. The company announced that stores also offer nonperishable food items for sale that can be donated. Menards has stores throughout the Midwest, including Carmel, Fishers and Indianapolis.
Balmoral Village plans moving forward
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
DEVELOPMENT
A plan to build a new $80 million residential neighborhood off Allisonville Road near Indianapolis Metropolitan Airport is moving forward following a Jan. 13 vote by the Fishers City Council to approve a rezone of the property.
Lennar Homes is building the new neigh borhood on the 44-acre Balmoral House and estate off Allisonville Road — between Hamilton Hills Lane and Willow View Road — with plans to offer 69 single-family detached homes and 105 townhomes for pur chase on what was formerly a private golf course and more recently an events venue. The detached homes will be a mix of one- and two-story buildings, and the townhomes will be three stories. All will have rear-loading attached garages with alley access. The detached homes will range from 2,000 to 3,000 square feet and are anticipated to cost between $500,000 and $750,000. Townhomes will range from 1,700 to just shy of 2,300 square feet and will cost between $400,000 and $500,000. The project was introduced in late 2024. The city and the developer hosted a neighborhood meeting Dec. 11 and heard from one neighboring resident who was concerned about additional parking on Hamilton Hills Lane, the density of homes in
Recycle Christmas trees — Now through Feb. 1, residents can drop off bare, live Christmas trees for free recycling. All lights, decorations and tinsel must be removed. Trees can be dropped off at Brooks School Park, 11780 Brooks School Rd.; Cumberland Park, 10580 Cumberland Rd.; and Holland Park, 1 Park Dr.
Nominations open for March Disability Awareness Month — Applications are open for the Fishers Advisory Committee on Disability’s 2025 Inclusion and Accessibility Awards. Nominations are due by end of day Jan. 24. Awards will be announced at the March Disability Awareness Month Kick Off on March 3 at the Fishers Municipal Center Theater, 1 Municipal Dr. For more and to nominate someone, visit bit.ly/4j4wlTg.
the proposed development and the effect development could have on drainage.
Corby Thompson of Boomerang Development, representing Lennar at a recent Fishers Plan Commission meeting, said Balmoral Village will include retention ponds to address drainage concerns.
Developers also are working with the city’s engineering department regarding parking configurations.
DISPATCHES
Summer camp registration opens — Registration for 2025 Fishers Parks Summer Camps opened Jan. 6 for Fishers residents. Fishers Parks offers camps for children ages 5 and older. Register at PlayFishers. com/SummerCamp. Fishers Parks has switched to a new registration software. Learn more at FishersParks.com.
Citywide trash service — All households in Fishers city limits transitioned to Republic Services for all trash and recycling collection Jan. 13. Monthly services fees will be reflected in residents’ January Fishers Utilities billing statements. No action is required for current Republic or Waste Management customers for this change. For updates and details, visit FishersIN. gov/Trash.
HSE to revamp junior high schedules
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Hamilton Southeastern Schools Board of Trustees heard a presentation Jan. 8 about a plan to update the district’s junior high school schedules to improve learning and provide consistent scheduling at all the district’s junior high facilities.
EDUCATION
for daily practice in math and English, and a 30-minute flex period for any needed remediation instruction, extra practice or enrichment activities.
Urban said implementation of the proposal is planned for the 2025-26 school year. The schedule will be reviewed during that first year and adjusted as needed.
Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Schools Jason Urban told the board that the district’s four junior highs have been operating on different schedules, which actually helped in planning the new schedule because there were different active models providing data.
He said aligning the schedules will benefit students moving forward.
“To kind of bring all junior highs together under a common schedule, one is guaranteed common experience for our students,” he said. “The other thing is, if we are under a common schedule, we can learn a lot about instruction. If we all have this common structure for instruction, and if we have a common structure for intervention and enrichment, it helps our staff grow in how we meet the needs of students.”
Urban said the new schedule is the result of a collaboration between junior high principals and teachers. The group concluded that students would benefit from longer class periods of 70 minutes, which is long enough to allow for more learning activities, but not so long to tax the attention span of a typical junior high student.
The proposed schedule also provides
In other matters Jan. 8, three HSE board members who won open seats in the November election took the oath of office for their new terms. They are new Board Member Latrica Schooley and returning members Sarah Parks-Reese and Suzanne Thomas.
The board also voted on a slate of officers for 2025. Juanita Albright will continue to serve as board president, Tiffany Pascoe is vice president and Dawn Lang is secretary. The vote to approve that slate was 4-3, with Schooley, Parks-Reese and Thomas voting no.
A previous vote to appoint Lang as president, Thomas as vice president and Parks-Reese as secretary failed 3-4, with Albright, Lang, Pascoe and Ben Orr voting no.
The board also tabled a motion to hire Barnes & Thornburg as the district’s legal representative. Several members of the public spoke during public comment, expressing concern about increased legal costs. Schooley asked for more information about those costs before voting on the motion, which will come back to the board. Barnes & Thornburg will continue to represent the district in the meantime.
The next HSE Board of Trustees meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Jan. 22 at the HSE Administration Center, 13485 Cumberland Rd.
DISPATCH
State police recruits graduate — Thirty members of the 86th Indiana State Police Recruit Academy graduated recently during a ceremony in the Indiana State Capitol Rotunda. The graduation and swearing-in ceremony followed 22 weeks of intense training, which totaled more than 1,100 hours. New recruits studied criminal and traffic law, deescalation, emergency vehicle operations, defensive tactics, firearms, impaired driving detection, scenario-based training, and a host of other academic subjects related to modern policing. Among the graduates are Samuel Miller of Fishers and Jarison Solomon Wood of Noblesville, who were both assigned to District 52 — Indianapolis. District 52 includes Marion, Hamilton, Boone, Hancock, Shelby, Johnson and Hendricks counties.
Urban
Tree ‘growing’ in Fishers children’s library
news@currentinfishers.com
The Fishers Library youth services department has announced that it is closed through approximately Jan. 27 for the installation of “The Children’s Tree” — a tree inside the department created by Indianapolis artist Kimberly McNeelan made with wood from trees that were cut down for the library’s renovation.
ART
“This tree will become both a playful and artistic focal point of the department, sparking curiosity and imagination, inviting children in to explore for years to come,” the announcement stated.
McNeelan, a furniture maker and sculptor, celebrates nature and healthy living through art. According to her artist statement, she leads a small team at her studio creating public art and furniture for various organizations, including Herron School of Art and Design and several libraries.
“I love trees, and the task of creating an indoor tree-like sculpture for use by
children was a challenge that I couldn’t pass up,” McNeelan stated. “‘The Children’s Tree’ utilizes wood from trees that were cut down for the library renovation, and in my work, I try to use ecologically respectful practices. I have developed a wacky and wavy way of building with wood that adds playfulness and a place for seating in the design of this functional sculpture. I fondly remember specific design details from libraries I went to as a child. I hope ‘The Children’s Tree’ will be fun, memorable and inspirational for the visitors to the Fishers branch of the Hamilton East Public Library.”
While the library’s youth services department is closed, a selection of children’s library materials will be available for browsing in the lobby and patrons may still place holds on materials for retrieval by library staff. Children’s programs listed on the library’s calendar of events will still take place, unless the calendar indicates otherwise.
The Fishers Library Youth Services department is closed through the week of Jan. 27 for the installation of “The Children’s Tree,” an art installation by Kimberly McNeelan. (Image courtesy of Hamilton East Public Library)
McNeelan
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Carmel artist featured in Fishers Arts Council exhibit
news@currentinfishers.com
The Fishers Arts Council’s January exhibit at the Art Gallery at City Hall, 1 Municipal Dr., features work by Carmel artist Jerry Mannell, the Best in Show winner of FAC’s September juried exhibit of Hamilton County artists.
PAINTING
One of the prizes for the annual Best in Show award is a solo exhibit, according to an announcement from the FAC. Mannell’s exhibit, “Free Associations,” can be viewed at the gallery Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through the end of the month.
Mannell became interested in art in high school, according to the announcement, and he later majored in fine arts in college. He also enjoyed literature, and his interest in books and ideas gave him insights into questions about life and human nature.
“When I began to look at art in that context, it added more meaning to what otherwise would have been just decorative,”
courtesy of the Fishers Arts Council)
he stated.
Mannell almost exclusively paints in oil on canvas.
“I start with a very small pencil sketch, concentrating on composition and contrast,” he stated. “I transfer that sketch to a canvas and possibilities emerge defining content and color. I keep ambiguity alive by suggesting meaning without actually defining it.”
Fishers exhibit showcases McCordsville artist’s work
DISPLAY
A McCordsville artist and fashion designer is showcasing her work with an exhibit at the Meyer Najem Gallery in Fishers, with a special reception planned for Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14.
Bobbi Samples’ exhibit, “Color in Silence,” features her newest abstract floral paintings in acrylic.
She stated that the featured art “explores the delicate balance between subtlety and expression, where each bloom speaks to the quiet power of individualism. In the interplay of neutral tones and bursts of color, the pieces reflect the hidden emotions that surface when we embrace our true selves. Each painting is a meditation on the ways we connect with our inner essence, offering a moment for the viewer to find their own soul’s reflection in the art.”
Samples works in large scale to bring out the subject matter’s details. She states that working large also allows her to uti-
Bobbi Samples’ exhibit, “Color in Silence,” features her newest abstract floral paintings in acrylic.
(Photo courtesy of Bobbi Samples)
lize brushes in broad strokes to create an abstract effect without losing the desired image.
Samples is mostly self-taught but began exploring art through lessons with artist Maggie Shively.
The “Color in Silence” exhibit on display at the Meyer Najem second-floor gallery, 11787 Lantern Rd., Suite 100, through March 28. A free public reception is set for 5 to 7 p.m. Feb.14.
For more, visit bobbik.com.
David Weekley Homeowners Libby & Chris Phillips, Ben & Heather Muser, and Andrew & Rebecca Barrilleaux
Artwork by Jerry Mannell is on display this month at the Fishers Arts Council’s Art Gallery at City Hall. (Photo
Mochi doughnut shop to open new Fishers store
By Samantha Kupiainen news@currentinfishers.com
Mochi Joy will bring a new flavor of sweet treats to Fishers Feb. 1 and 2 with the grand opening of its new Fishers doughnut shop at 8664 E. 96th St.
FOOD
The shop is owned and operated by married couple Tom Nguyen and Rachel Burnett. Before establishing their first store in Fishers, they sold their unique doughnuts at pop-up events in central Indiana and operated out of the VFW in Noblesville.
Mochi doughnuts are different from traditional doughnuts because they are made with tapioca starch or glutinous rice flour instead of wheat flour. Mochi doughnuts have a light and chewy texture with a crisp exterior, while regular doughnuts typically are denser, according to the shop owners.
After gaining popularity, the couple decided Mochi Joy needed a bigger storefront.
“People are just waiting for us to open,” Burnett said. “We were limited hours before, and now we’ve been closed for at least a month and a half just as we transitioned to our new space. So, there’s a lot of people waiting for us to open. They’re ready to come to our grand opening and the community has just totally supported us above and beyond what we could ever imagine.”
Mochi Joy’s menu will have daily and rotating flavors. The menu also has Hawaiian snack mix, a sweet and salty combination of cereals and chips.
“We have a lot of fun with more Hawaiian/Asian traditional flavors, as well as
creative flavors like puppy chow or Samoas,” Burnett said. “At our new place, we are going to be adding some cake — Hawaiian-inspired cakes — and Hawaiian-inspired shortbread cookies to our menu.”
Also new to the Fishers shop is a coffee bar, which will have everything from iced coffees, drip coffee, cold brew, lattes, seasonal lattes and more.
“You name it, we’ll probably have it,” Nguyen said.
The new store also will host pop-ups to support local vendors.
“The way we started was by doing popups,” Burnett said. “One thing we want to do is host pop-ups here, where local vendors can come in and sell their goods during a couple hours throughout the day and have a shared community, enjoying both Mochi Joy and a local vendor.”
Prior to opening Mochi Joy, Nguyen was a graphic designer and Burnett was a telehealth audiologist. Nguyen said he wanted to “start his own thing” and be his own boss.
For more, visit mochijoydonuts.com.
Outside of Mochi Joy’s new Fishers location on 96th Street while undergoing renovations.
A selection of new mochi doughnut flavorings will be offered at Mochi Joy’s new Fishers location. (Photos courtesy of Tom Nguyen and Rachel Burnett)
Noblesville senior balances basketball, travel softball
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Brookelyn Grayson’s collegiate future is on the softball diamond.
But for now, she is enjoying her final season on the Noblesville High School girls basketball team.
“I love the girls and atmosphere,” said Grayson, who will play softball for Duke University next season. “We’ve been really successful, and this year we were kind of the underdog. A lot of people counted us out. We have a better record than we did at this time last year. This year has been fun to be a part of.”
Grayson, a 5-foot-5 backup guard, encourages younger girls to be versatile.
“You can be really good at your main sport, but if you enjoy basketball, or even another sport, you can still develop and play that sport,” Grayson said.
Grayson doesn’t play high school softball but concentrates on travel softball. She plays for the Indiana Shockwaves’ 18-and-under team, coached by her father Tommy Grayson. Her older sister, Cameron, is a sophomore pitcher for the University of
BROOKELYN GRAYSON
Favorite athlete: Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone
Favorite TV show: “The Vampire Diaries”
Favorite musician: Rihanna
Favorite vacation spot: California
Minnesota.
During basketball season, Grayson and the Shockwaves practice Sundays at Indiana Baseball Academy.
Brookelyn Grayson primarily plays shortstop but also can play second or third base. She batted .570 for the Shockwaves last season as the team’s leadoff hitter.
“I like hitting leadoff because I’m the
Brookelyn Grayson, who signed to play softball for Duke University, plays basketball for Noblesville High School and travel softball. (Photo courtesy of Callie Grayson)
first one out there,” she said. “I think my (softball) IQ is really high, so I can see the pitcher’s spin and what she’s trying to do, whether she is trying to work one side of the plate or try to mix it up. Even if I don’t get a hit or get on, I can try to help my teammates have an advantage when they come to bat.”
She said playing travel softball is an advantage because the Shockwaves play in tournaments in the South during the spring.
“Schools in the South play high school softball in the fall instead of spring,” she
said. “We get a team of girls who don’t play high school softball and we go down to Georgia maybe once every three weeks or once a month. I’m still getting live at-bats and more reps.”
Grayson said she chose Duke because it has strong academic and athletic programs.
“I was getting a top 10 education with a top 10 softball program,” said Grayson, who plans to major in biology and pursue a career in dentistry.
She is working on sharpening her softball skills.
“Once I get to Duke, I know I am going to have to prove myself, because they are at such a high level, I’m going to have to make an impact right away if I’m going to see playing time,” she said. “My goal is to work on my game and continue to be a leader on my team. From a hitting standpoint, I want to make sure I am hitting the ball hard.”
Grayson, a first-degree black belt in Taekwondo, began playing softball when she was 5 years old.
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@ youarecurrent.com.
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SPIRITED APP
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Fishers bourbon fan develops online tool for fellow enthusiasts
Auri Rahimzadeh loves bourbon so much that the Fishers-based software engineer has created his own bourbon app and website, which he’s made available for free so he and other fans like himself can track their collections and share their experiences.
“There weren’t any apps that let you really track the tastings for your collection,” he said. “(They were) about, ‘Here, you can go online, you can read a review that someone did.’ And then there were some apps that let you track your collection, but only if your bottle was on their list. I’m like, ‘But you don’t have most of the bottles that are out there.’”
His website, liq.live, and the Liq app offer a practical and social experience for people who love bourbon, a type of whiskey, and other spirits. Members can participate in live tastings, keep a catalogue of what spirits they have bought and tasted, enter and rate spirits that they’ve tried and see how other members have ranked certain spirits.
At the downtown Fishers’ Parks Place Pub — which has about 200 bourbons on hand — Rahimzadeh said he started his spirits journey as a “vodka guy,” until he ended up teaching software engineering to former coal miners in eastern Kentucky — the heart of bourbon country.
“I got to live in a southern mansion in Paintsville, Kentucky,” he said. “And so, in this house, everyone drinks bourbon. And I could not get anyone to drink vodka, but they got me to drink bourbon. They’re like, ‘You’re gonna love this.’ And so, I started to appreciate bourbon.”
Rahimzadeh not only appreciates bourbon now, he’s become somewhat of a bourbon aficionado. He said he researched the backstories of different bourbons and how they’re made, adding that while they’re aged in many different places, many of them use a distillate — the base product — that has Hoosier connections. Midwest Grain Products operates a distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, close to the Kentucky and Ohio borders.
Bourbon distillate is made from a mix-
ture of at least 51 percent corn mixed with malted barley and other grains. Rye is common.
Fun fact: Old 55 Distillery in Newtown makes the only 100-percent sweet corn
bourbon. Rahimzadeh said it’s difficult to make and there’s a limited supply, adding that the resulting bourbon is very sweet, compared to other bourbons.
The distillate is a clear grain alcohol
EAST MEETS MIDWEST
As part of his tech job, Auri Rahimzadeh has traveled to Japan numerous times. During one trip, which also included stops in India and Thailand, he carried a few bottles of special Kentucky bourbons with him to swap for some Japanese bourbons that aren’t available in the United States.
He said Japan essentially saved the bourbon industry when it experienced a slump in the United States.
“They bought a lot of the barrels and the distillate, etc., and acquired a number of the companies, because the Japanese love bourbon,” he said. “Then when it became popular again in the U.S., there was additional consolidation. So, some of the most popular allocated bourbons you buy in the U.S. are owned by Japanese companies.”
An allocated bourbon is one that’s rare or difficult to find.
— moonshine — which is then put into charred oak barrels, which are stacked in rickhouses to allow the bourbon to age.
While the distillate is important, Rahimzadeh said the barrel is where a lot of bourbon’s flavor comes from.
“When you char wood, you get wood sugars,” he said. “So, you pour the distillate in there and now you wait — whiskey is all a waiting game — and, depending on the climate, you’re going to get ingress and egress of the distillate through the wood. So, it’s going to suck it into the wood, let it soak in, goes right through that char, and then comes back out and just keeps doing that as it gets hot and cold outside. That’s why a lot of rickhouses are outdoors. Depending on the environment, it may age more quickly, but that’s where the brown color comes from, because it’s going in and out of that char.”
The resulting flavor notes depend on the wood, the weather, the humidity, where the barrel is located in the rickhouse, etc. And all those flavor notes and more are details that can be shared on Rahimzadeh’s app.
“I wanted to build an app that did what I wanted,” he said. “A bourbon and whiskey and whatever app to make it easy to handle your tasting notes, also easy to handle your collection, but also let you expand into other spirits. So, it’s not just a bourbon app, but bourbon, whiskey, tequila, mezcal, wine, beer — and gives you kind of like some educational tools to kind of cheat your way through.”
Those tools include a “tasting wheel” with suggested flavor notes to look for, educational videos, a searchable tasting database to find bourbons with flavor notes similar to those an app user enjoys and a platform to leave their own reviews.
Rahimzadeh said he isn’t making any money off his app — it’s all about sharing the love of bourbon. And he’s been joined by about 200 other enthusiasts since the app went live in December.
For more and to sign up, visit liq.live.
A bourbon tasting includes special tasting glasses that help enhance the smell. (Photos courtesy of Auri Rahimzadeh)
ON THE COVER: Fishers resident Auri Rahimzadeh at Parks Place Pub, which has a wide selection of bourbons. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
Barrels of bourbon age in a rickhouse.
Cheap Trick founder promotes vodka brand in Carmel visit
By Ken Severson editorial@youarecurrent.com
Even when he talks on the phone, Cheap Trick founder and lead guitarist Rick Nielsen wears his trademark baseball cap and jacket.
And that’s what he’ll wear for his appearance from 1 to 4 p.m. Jan. 25 at the Niemann Harvest Market in Carmel, to promote his new spirit, ROCK’N Vodka.
Nielsen will sign bottles of ROCK’N Vodka and possibly flick guitar picks at customers, too, another trademark of the veteran rocker who used to toss used picks at concert goers in the 1970s.
This isn’t the first time Nielsen has invested in a business.
An investor in the Hard Rock Casino in his hometown of Rockford, Ill., and a longtime owner of Piece Brewery & Pizzeria in Chicago, Nielsen partnered with ROCK’N Vodka founders Andy and Isabelle Roiniotis in 2020 to help the married couple establish the brand and lift the community.
“I wanted other people to have jobs,” Nielsen said. “And good quality vodka and ROCK’N Vodka is the hottest new vodka on the market.”
ROCK’N Vodka has won several awards for quality, which Andy Roiniotis attributes to a unique distilling process incorporating sugar cane.
“There’s only a few sugar cane vodkas in the world,” Roiniotis said. “Our customers are going to get a top-shelf vodka at a reasonable price.”
Nielsen initially started out as a spokesperson but is now an equal investor.
“He’s been amazing for our brand,” Roiniotis said.
Few bands in the world have toured more than Cheap Trick.
Formed in 1973 in Rockport, Ill., Cheap Trick has toured nonstop for six decades and performed more than 5,000 shows. Throughout its history, the band has
played venues ranging from bowling alleys to rib fests to Olympic arena.
“I’ve been playing longer than Cheap Trick,” said Nielsen, 76. “I’m too dumb to quit.”
Cheap Trick, whose hits include “Surrender,” I Want You to Want me” and “Dream Police,” was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016.
On the personal front, Nielsen recently finished playing some gigs with his family band, The Nielsen Trust, with his sons Miles and Daxx.
“I still play all the time and just played three straight nights,” Nielsen said. “I like what I do, and I like when other people like it.”
And he’s still throwing out those ubiquitous guitar picks of all colors and designs.
Cheap Trick returns to the area Aug. 9 when it opens for Rod Stewart at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville.
As for the Carmel event, Nielsen will sign bottles of vodka and visitors can bring their hat and jacket.
“I’ll be there,” Nielsen said. “Just take your cap and jacket off.”
IF YOU GO
WHO: Rick Nielsen, founding member of Cheap Trick
WHAT: ROCK’N Vodka bottle signing
WHERE: Niemann Harvest Market, 2140 E. 116th St., Carmel
WHEN: 1 to 4 p.m. Jan. 25
Customers are encouraged to arrive early and there will be a cutoff point. Prizes will be awarded. Nielsen will sign bottles purchased and one other item. For more, visit rocknvodkas.com
‘MURDER
ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS’
“Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express” runs through Feb. 9 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
‘EVOLUTION
OF JONI MITCHELL’
“The Evolution of Joni Mitchell Starring Lauren Fox” is set for 8 p.m. Jan. 24 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘DESCENDANTS THE MUSICAL’
The Drama Dept. presents “Descendants The Musical” Jan. 24-26 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.
‘BREAKIN’ CLASSICAL’
Carmel Symphony Orchestra will be joined by breakdancers from FLY Dance Company at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 25 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
WYNTON MARSALIS
The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis is set for 7:30 p.m. Jan. 26 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“The Magic of David Ranalli” is set for Jan. 23 with comedian-musician Heyward Banks Jan. 24-25 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All three performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, feinsteinshc.com.
DISPATCH
CIDE’s 25th anniversary gala set — To commemorate its 25th anniversary, Central Indiana Dance Ensemble will host an anniversary gala Jan. 25 at Iron & Ember in Carmel. The event will be emceed by Carmel City Councilor Jeff Worrell and will include refreshments and a performance by the senior company. Proceeds will support the future growth of the nonprofit. For tickets, visit cidedance.org/25th-anniversary-gala.
Cheap Trick founder and lead guitarist Rick Nielsen will sign ROCK’N Vodka bottles. (Photo courtesy of ROCK’N Vodka)
Cirque du Soleil shows set
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Emily McCarthy saw her first Cirque du Soleil performance when she was 12 and immediately knew she wanted to be part of it one day.
PERFORMANCES
By age 16 in 2012, she had joined the Canadian-based entertainment company.
McCarthy is an acrobat on Cirque du Soleil’s “CRYSTAL,” which will be on the ice Jan. 2326 at the Fishers Event Center.
McCarthy started gymnastics at age 6 and moved to acrobatic gymnastics when she was 11. She competed for the Great Britain team for acrobatics from ages 13 to 16.
McCarthy has been a part of the creation of “CRYSTAL,” which started in 2017.
“I play one of the Crystal. The male Crystal is an ice skater and I do an act called hand-to-trapeze, which blends the acrobatic skills and ice skating together,” McCarthy said. “It’s a beautiful number where Crystal gets to tell a piece of the story.”
McCarthy said the story is very relatable.
“Not just for young women, but for every human being that has felt like they
Emily McCarthy is an acrobat in Cirque du Soleil’s “CRYSTAL.” (Photo courtesy of Cirque
don’t fit in or feel misunderstood. That’s the narrative of Crystal’s story,” she said.
“She doesn’t fit in at school and her family thinks she’s a bit weird. The whole show she is trying to figure out who she is and find the love for herself and find the beauty of the quirks. I do love the show for that reason. I also get to blend my acro-sport background and my arial skills.”
Besides ice dancing, pairs and solo skating, synchro and extreme skating, there are more than seven Cirque du Soleil disciplines in the show, including banquine, handto-hand, acro/tumbling, juggling, trapeze, poles, chair balancing and aerial straps. For more, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
du Soleil)
Pianist ready for Carnegie
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For pianist Clare Longendyke, this won’t be just any concert appearance.
MUSIC
The Fishers resident and flutist Lindsey Goodman will perform at 8 p.m. Jan. 24 in Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall in New York City.
“Carnegie Hall is such a recognized venue and name that every musician hopes to have their moment on the stage,” Longendyke said. “I’m excited (my moment) is aligning with a wonderful collaborative colleague in Lindsey and sharing music. It’s going to be a formative moment and I’m very much looking forward to it.”
past two years.
“This is the second project we’ve worked on together and the most extensive project we’ve been able to undertake together as far as number of performances (and) there was a CD recording,” Longendyke said.
This concert will feature selections from their 2024 Navona Records release, “In the Company of Music.”
“Navona is a very well-respected label for new recordings by living composers,” Longendyke said. “They were able to prioritize this project and then get us a spot at Carnegie.”
Longendyke said there are pieces for flute and piano and pieces for solo flute.
Longendyke said Weill Hall is known as a chamber music hall.
“So, it’s a more intimate setting,” she said. “A duo is perfect for Weill Hall.”
Longendyke was on Carnegie Hall’s Zankel Hall stage as a Boston University choir member several years ago.
Longendyke and Goodman, based in Columbus, Ohio, have collaborated for the
“I’m doing a world premiere of a solo piano piece by Los Angeles-based composer Dika Chartoff, called ‘Retrospects in Reverb,’” she said.
Longendyke, who has a master’s degree and doctorate from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, has lived in Fishers since 2022. She previously lived on the north side of Indianapolis.
For more, visit clarelongendyke.com.
AAA Hoosier Motor Club named official partner of Devour Indy
editorial@youarecurrent.com
The Indiana Restaurant and Lodging Association recently announced that AAA Hoosier Motor Club is the official partner of the Devour Indy Restaurant Week. The partnership highlights AAA’s commitment to supporting local businesses and enriching the vibrant culinary landscape of central Indiana and beyond, according to the organization.
DINING
Devour Indy Restaurant Week, the premier dining event in Indianapolis, brings together food enthusiasts to experience special menus and exclusive offerings from some of the city’s top restaurants. The event runs Jan. 20 to Feb. 2 and showcases the culinary talents of participating establishments while driving community engagement and economic growth.
“We are proud to partner with AAA Hoosier Motor Club as the official sponsor of Devour Indy,” stated Patrick Tamm, president/CEO of InRLA. “Their dedication to sup-
porting local businesses and enhancing the experiences of Hoosiers aligns perfectly with the mission of Devour Indy. Together, we’re creating an event that not only celebrates our city’s thriving hospitality scene but also strengthens our community.”
As the official partner, AAA Hoosier Motor Club will play an integral role in promoting Devour Indy, bringing its resources and extensive membership network to support participating restaurants. AAA members also will enjoy special perks, including a sneak peek of restaurant menus prior to the public launch.
“AAA Hoosier Motor Club has a longstanding tradition of advocating for local businesses and enriching the lives of our members,” stated Matt Goins, president/ CEO of AAA Hoosier Motor Club. “Partnering with Devour Indy is a natural extension of our commitment to the central Indiana community, and we are excited to help highlight the incredible culinary talent our region has to offer.”
For more, visit devourindy.com.
Longendyke
Blueprint for Improvement: Effortless elegance in Carmel
Commentary by Larry Greene
Built in 1999 in Carmel’s Laurel Lakes neighborhood, this home’s kitchen was due for a contemporary facelift. Our team envisioned a timeless transformation featuring a classic palette, thoughtful storage solutions and strategic appliance placements, resulting in a functional and effortlessly elegant space.
THE BLUEPRINT
• A classic palette featuring tones of white, taupe and gray offers a versatile backdrop that adapts beautifully to evolving trends.
• Organic warmth is introduced through wood barstools, seagrass dining chairs and iron accents.
• Functionality is significantly enhanced by relocating the range off the island, providing additional prep and entertaining space.
• The removal of an impractical desk makes way for additional cabinetry, streamlining sight lines and increasing counter and storage space.
• The design is elegantly finished with a double-basin apron front sink, crown molding and brushed nickel hardware, bringing both charm and practicality to the forefront of this kitchen transformation.
Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy.com or visit worthingtonindy.com for more remodeling inspiration and advice.
Across
1. “Who’s there?” reply
6. Fever or Colts, e.g. 10. Birth-related 11. Planets’ paths
14. *”No more delays!”
16. Circuit
17. F1 neighbor
18. Practice for the Indiana
Golden Gloves
20. Boone County Fair barn
21. Pie ___ mode
23. Sends an invitation for 25. Ludicrous
27. “Sorta” suffix
28. King Wok soup
29. Chaos
31. Robber
33. *”My Heart Will Go On” singer
35. Disreputable
37. Leniency
38. White River snakelike fish
39. Letter #26
41. Giraffes’ cousins
45. Mason’s tool
47. FedEx rival
48. IND posting
49. Employ
50. Mass Ave public art: “___ Dancing”
52. Turn upside down 53. *116th St. bagel guys
57. Sketched again
58. Make ___ of (botch) 59. Lays down the lawn
60. “Old MacDonald” refrain...and a hint to the answers of the starred clues
Down
1. Visiting, so to speak
2. Some Chevy SUVs
3. Big first for a baby
4. Fire & Flow Yoga class need
5. Col. Lilly
6. Little piggies
7. Jong and Wheeler
8. Tummy muscles
9. Belarus capital
12. Rotation on some tennis shots
13. Wrap snugly 15. ___ culpa
Hawaiian garland
House top
Study closely
22. Jeans maker Strauss
24. Running gags, e.g.
26. Attention-getting sound
27. Frozen treat
30. “My treat!”
32. Georgetown athlete
33. Dieter’s concern
34. Let fall
35. Adam’s third son
36. Spookier
40. Tickled pink
42. First female Speaker of
43. “That’s correct”
44. Tree fluid
46. Meanders
47. Half of bi-
51. Defunct Indy newspaper
52. At no cost
54. Sellout letters
55. Scot’s denial
56. Fat stat, briefly Answers on Page 19
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