Zionsville council reviews ordinances
By Natalie Gargiulo Natalie@youarecurrent.comA Vision for Zionsville’s Future
Zionsville: The Safest Small City in Indiana1
John is committed to keeping Zionsville one of the safest places to live in Indiana - and the USA! To ensure it stays that way, we must stay ahead of the rapid growth our community is experiencing. That’s why public Safety is one of the pillars of John Stehr’s Zionsville 2040 plan.
Zionsville Police Department
• Commit to a five-year plan to increase the number of patrol officers to gradually get closer to the FBI’s standards for coverage in a town our size.
Zionsville Fire Department
• Replace outdated equipment, provide ongoing training, and capture land now for strategically-placed future fire stations to serve newly-developed parts of Zionsville.
Mental Health
• Recognize its impact on our community. Support mental health for everyone, and provide specific training for our first responders to help de-escalate and manage situations that could lead to bad outcomes for them, the people in crisis, and their neighbors.
Learn more about John’s vision for Zionsville and view John’s video messages on each area of priority
www.JohnStehrForMayor.com 1. https://fox59.com/news/report-this-is-the-safest-small-city-in-indiana/#:~:text=According%20to%20a%20recent%20study,between%2050%2C000%20and%20 149%2C999%20residents
The Zionsville Town Council met March 20 at Town Hall to review amendments to the 2023 salary ordinance for the Zionsville Fire Dept’s fleet mechanic position and received an update on the trash and recycling services bid opening.
What happened: The Zionsville Fire Dept. added a new fleet mechanic position to address the workload in the town. A fleet mechanic is responsible for the timely completion of repairs and preventative maintenance on vehicles, small engines and tools.
What it means: A new fleet mechanic position will require the council to add the position to the town’s salary ordinance and set a maximum base salary.
What’s next: Council members voted 6-0 on final reading of the ordinance amendment to the Town of Zionsville’s salary ordinance and salary administration guidelines adding a fleet mechanic position within the Zionsville Fire Dept., with a base annual salary of $55,000 to $58,891.
What happened: Dept. of Public Works Director Lance Lantz spoke to the council regarding the new trash and recycling contracts and bids proposed with Waste Management. The Town of Zionsville has provided a residential recycling and trash service since 2009. The current contract with Waste Management expires March 29. A new contract was proposed after the bid opening process was completed. Three bids were received as of March 20, each with three-year terms.
What it means: Lantz said the proposed trash contract would look the same as the previous one. It is a weekly trash collection and a biweekly residential recycling collection. All residents will be provided one cart for loose recyclable items and a nearly identical cart for residential trash. Using the same carts for trash and recycling is meant to eliminate hand-picked contracts.
What’s next: Once a contract is chosen and the bids are closed, the contract will go before the town council at the April 10 meeting.
COMMUNITY
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Where the District 4 candidates stand
By Natalie Gargiulo Natalie@youarecurrent.comThree Republicans are vying for the District 4 seat on the Zionsville Town Council. Incumbent Joe Culp is not seeking reelection. Heather Lusk, Nicholas Plopper, and Sarah E. Sampson will face off in the May 2 primary.
The candidates answered several questions from Current about how they would lead the town, if elected.
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The Indiana State Board of Accounts audit has cited the Zionsville government for several hundred-thousand dollars of questionable spending in 2022. Do you believe Zionsville has too much debt? Why or why not?
Yes, Zionsville government was cited by the state board on the expenses related to the office Municipal Action Center renovation, which occurred when the funding had been denied by the town council. I hope this type of spending without authorized or prior budgetary approval will not happen again. Zionsville has about $30 million in debt but still has ample bonding capacity.
The Town of Zionsville is the 14th-fastest-growing community in Indiana, and census numbers show it’s grown to 29,340 people, adding more than 4,800 residents since 2010. What do you feel is the best way to keep up with the growth of the town?
The best way to keep up with the growth of the town is to be both proactive and reactive on our safety and infrastructure initiatives. Also, the town needs to keep up with active planning committees and retain solid relationships and open lines of communication with the Boone County Sheriff’s Dept. and the Zionsville School’s administration.
How should the town balance redevelopment with maintaining the character of surrounding, well-established areas?
I would like to investigate being able to bring an entertainment corridor to 106th Street to add on activities, looking into a public-private partnership. This would bring business and much-needed entertainment without overshadowing the charm of or taking business from the restaurants and shops that already exist.
The relationship between town council and mayor has been rocky, to say the least. How do you envision that relation-
ship moving forward with a new mayor?
I personally like both options of the next Zionsville mayor and feel optimistic about the possibility of working with the winning candidate.
HEATHER LUSK
The Indiana State Board of Accounts audit has cited the Zionsville government for several hundred-thousand dollars of questionable spending in 2022. Do you believe Zionsville has too much debt? Why or why not?
I believe Zionsville has an appropriate level of debt for our town’s size, and at this point our existing debt isn’t impacted by the SBA audit. However, the lack of internal controls uncovered by the audit is concerning and was likely the direct cause of our decrease in credit rating in 2022 which in turn increases the cost of future debt. To be certain our investment rating isn’t further negatively impacted even more, we have to commit to better checks and balances to ensure the mayor and town council comply with our laws.
The Town of Zionsville is the 14th-fastest-growing community in Indiana, and census numbers show it’s grown to 29,340 people, adding more than 4,800 residents since 2010. What do you feel is the best way to keep up with the growth of the town?
I feel town leaders need to prioritize infrastructure and schools before pursuing and approving development. One major reason families move to Zionsville is for our four-star school system, and if development is permitted that negatively impacts class size, then the town should consider if it’s the right decision.
How should the town balance redevelopment with maintaining the character of surrounding, well-established areas?
Maintaining Zionsville’s character is a priority of mine, and I’m hopeful that new zoning guidelines being presented to the town in the near future will address that. Any new development also must consider the impact on existing small business owners and ensure we enhance reasons for people to come to Zionsville.
The relationship between town council and mayor has been rocky to say the least. How do you envision that relationship moving forward with a new mayor?
By January (2024), there will be a new mayor and at least four new town council members. It will be time to heal, time for a
NICHOLAS PLOPPER
The Indiana State Board of Accounts audit has cited the Zionsville government for several hundred thousand dollars of questionable spending in 2022. Do you believe Zionsville has too much debt? Why or why not?
The town is still reeling in the mismanagement of its financial health. The current mayor’s administration has overseen the reduction of Zionsville’s S&P Global bond rating in 2022 from AA+ to AA with a negative outlook. This rating reduction occurred on the heels of a 2021 State Board of Accounts audit which cited significant issues with the management of the town’s finances. While incurring debt is a necessary function of town governance, the ability to repay that debt responsibly is also a necessary function, and the reduction of the town’s bond rating – a litmus test of that ability – is wholly unacceptable.
The Town of Zionsville is the 14th-fastest-growing community in Indiana, and census numbers show it’s grown to 29,340 people, adding more than 4,800 residents since 2010. What do you feel is the best way to keep up with the growth of the town?
As more people desire to live in our community, there should be adequate options for recreation in the form of parks, as well as entertainment options that can be created through public-private partnerships. Private enterprise will seek to be positioned within our affluent community, which will create engagement opportunities for the town, enabling it to take the wheel and shape what those opportunities look like.
How should the town balance redevelopment with maintaining the character of surrounding, well-established areas?
The more the town engages with development projects, the more it will be able to ensure that the character of the town is preserved. Proper cost and risk allocation should be examined on a project-by-project basis, while providing appropriate incentives will keep projects in line with Zionsville’s unique character.
The relationship between town council and mayor has been rocky to say the least. How do you envision that relationship moving forward with a new mayor?
It will be a fresh start for our local government, and everyone recognizes the need for improved civility and cooperation.
Zionsville Chamber director resigns
By Natalie Gargiulo Natalie@youarecurrent.comAllyson Gutwein, executive director of the Zionsville Chamber of Commerce, announced March 22 her resignation from the position.
TOWN NEWS
Gutwein accepted a new role as executive director for the Boone County Convention and Visitors Bureau. Her resignation is effective April 14.
“It’s a resignation but also a new position for the county,” Gutwein said. “I’m very excited, and I won’t be going far.”
Gutwein has served as executive director of the chamber for four years, which earned many accolades during her time there. The chamber won the Indiana Chamber of the Year award in 2022; was a U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation award winner in 2022; and also was named one of three Communications Excellence Best in Show winners by the Association of Commerce Executives.
“I loved my time with the chamber,” Gutwein said. “This will be a positive transition to a new career and my next challenge, and I have nothing but excitement for the chamber’s future as they find their new leader.”
Gutwein said she is confident that the chamber is in an excellent place for a new leader to enhance the town with innovative ideas.
The Zionsville Chamber of Commerce has experienced unprecedented growth and improvements under Gutwein’s leadership, including enhancements in member services, networking opportunities and economic development initiatives.
As she transitions into her new role with the Boone County Conventions and Visitors Bureau, Gutwein said she plans to apply her experience to her new position.
“There is lots of growth coming to Boone County,” Gutwein said. “All of the connections (such as) small businesses, restaurants made through my time at the chamber can now be utilized for the county as a whole, and those areas can be highlighted as a destination for tourism.”
The chamber’s board of directors has begun a search for a new executive director.
COMMUNITY
Resident receives honor
By Natalie Gargiulo natalie@youarecurrent.comNancy Carpenter, a local conservationist who repurposed the 216-acre Wolf Run Golf Club to help create Carpenter Nature Preserve in Zionsville, received the honor of Zionsville 2023 Woman of the Year at the March 15 Mayor’s Breakfast at Town Hall.
RECOGNITION
The breakfast celebrated women’s contributions to the Zionsville community.
In 2020, Zionsville Mayor Emily Styron contacted Nancy and Jim Carpenter, Zionsville residents who love nature, and told them about the property. The town was not able to purchase the property at the time, so the Carpenters agreed to purchase what is now Carpenter Nature Preserve for $5.5 million and sold it to the town so that Zionsville could repurpose it as a public park.
“Parks give us places to breathe and renew our spirits, places to share special times with our families,” Nancy Carpenter said at the breakfast. “They give our children places to explore and be creative, their trees clean the air, their wetlands and
streams give us clean water. They give us eye relief from all that is man-made. They allow our communities to prosper by being places people want to live and raise families, and last, but not least, they allow us to share our planet with all creatures.”
Contingent on the bonding process, the preliminary plan is for the Carpenter Nature Preserve to open in late 2025 or early 2026.
The vote to issue a Carpenter Nature Preserve bond not to exceed $5.5 million will be conducted before the Zionsville Town Council at 7 p.m. April 10. The date is subject to change. The meeting is open to the public.
need
better plan to attract appropriate businesses and secure economic opportunities that will strengthen our community and improve the quality of life for all.”
University senior displayed offensive firepower during career
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.comUniversity High School girls basketball coach Justin Blanding watched senior guard Payton Seay expand her offensive ability throughout her career.
“Payton is a physical basketball player that enforces her will on the game,” Blanding said.
“She scores in bunches but over four years really learned to use the offense to make the game easier for her. She is a scorer, so figuring out her spots on the floor has helped her game improve.”
Seay participated in the Hoosier Basketball Top 60 Senior Showcase. She wants to play in college but she is undecided about where.
Seay, a Noblesville resident, averaged 8.0 points per game as a freshman, 13.7 as a sophomore, 15.0 as a junior and 20.0 as a senior.
“I feel I made the most improvement in my scoring abilities and leadership skills,”
MEET PAYTON SEAY
Favorite athlete: Chris Paul
Favorite movie: “The Menu”
Favorite subject: Math
Seay said. “After losing six seniors (from the 2021-22 team), I felt that it was really important to pick up where they left off and continue to build.”
Each year, Seay improved her shooting. She shot 50 percent from the field as a senior for the Trailblazers (20-5), 42 percent as a junior, 41 percent as a sophomore and 38 percent as a freshman.
“Every offseason, Coach Blanding always
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pushed me to do more and more, and I was able to deliver,” she said. “I want to mention that this wouldn’t have been possible without the help of my teammates who put their trust in me and believed in me. Also, the hours spent at Shoot 360 really helped me.”
Seay enjoyed playing alongside her sister Taylor for the past two years.
“We are always pushing each other to be better,” she said. “I’m really going to miss playing with her but I’m confident that she will continue balling out without me.”
Seay also will miss playing with senior Kelsey DuBois, who is also a Noblesville resident who will play for New York University in the 2023-24 season.
“Me and Kelsey have been playing together since fourth grade,” Seay said. “We have shared so many happy memories. I couldn’t ask for a better post player and friend. She can do it all. NYU got a good one. It’s definitely going to be a little weird not playing with her next year, but it’s definitely been a journey with her.”
Seay wants to major in computer science and minor in cybersecurity.
COMMUNITY
Hoosier Village hosts candidates
By Natalie Gargiulo Natalie@youarecurrent.comSeven candidates are running for Zionsville Town Council seats and two are running for mayor in the May 2 primary elections. All nine candidates attended a March 21 forum at Hoosier Village in Zionsville. The candidates met with voters and answered questions read by moderator Megan Laferriere, wellness director at Hoosier Village.
that Zionsville’s property values remain what they are today during the recession.
ELECTION
The following statements from each candidate during the forum summarizes their reasons for seeking office.
MAYOR CANDIDATES
John Stehr
As a 30-year resident of Zionsville, Republican John Stehr said his experience as a former TV news broadcaster for 42 years will help prepare him if elected as mayor of Zionsville.
“So, here is what leadership comes down to for me,” Stehr said. “It means helping a group of people be successful through inspiration and coaching them to be their best.”
Jane Burgess
Elected three times to serve on the Zionsville Community Schools Board, Republican Jane Burgess said she is committed to getting Zionsville’s financial house back in order if elected as mayor.
“I will use these skills to address the challenges and opportunities for our unique and beautiful town,” Burgess said.
TOWN COUNCIL AT-LARGE (TWO SEATS ON THE BALLOT)
Joe Stein
Running unopposed, Republican candidate Joe Stein was the former president of the Zionsville School Board for two years. Stein said he supports growth.
“Our downtown is paramount, and we have to keep that beautiful area, but as we expand it’s important we have a balance of growth with commercial and residential development,” he said.
Evan Norris
Republican candidate Evan Norris said one of his priorities, if elected, is to ensure
“I want to make sure we have enough reserves to prepare us for things that may be coming down the road that we didn’t expect,” Norris said.
Amanda Rubeck
Amanda Rubeck, a Democrat, serves on the Redevelopment Commission for the town.
“I believe Zionsville is in a critical redevelopment and growth phase, and the town will benefit from someone like myself with municipal finance experience,” Rubeck said.
DISTRICT 3
Kendrick Davis
Political newcomer and former Zionsville Fire Department paramedic, Republican Kendrick Davis, said he is running for the District 3 seat to continue to serve the town in a different capacity. The urban zoning laws that were copied and pasted in Perry Township need to be adjusted for our rural distinctt,” Davis said.
Monisha Mitchell
Running unopposed, Democrat Monisha Mitchell said she supports “mindful” development.
“If there is going to be additional development for land zoned for special use, it will go before the town council and determine how the land is used,” Mitchell said.
Craig Melton
Incumbent Republican Craig said the town needs more experience on the council. “This is my biggest reason for continuing to run, knowing the value I can bring to the table,” Melton said.
Kyle Campbell Republican Kyle Campbell, a political newcomer, said he is running to be the “voice” for the constituents of Zionsville. “If I am elected, I will work for you” Campbell said.
Boone County cracks down on aggressive driving
By Natalie Gargiulo Natalie@youarecurrent.comtolerance for aggressive driving, driving over the speed limit or driving under the influence.
LAW ENFORCEMENT
Boone County Sheriff’s Office recently announced a new enforcement campaign to crack down on dangerous and aggressive drivers. The campaign runs through April 4.
The Boone County Traffic Safety Partnership is adding patrols in an effort to reduce crashes and traffic fatalities and to promote safe driving.
Officers will conduct high-visibility patrols, showing zero
“Every person that chooses to drive recklessly or impaired represents a serious threat to public safety,” Boone County Sheriff Anthony Harris stated. “Choices behind the wheel matter. One mistake is all it takes for someone to get injured. We’re asking all drivers to take responsibility and make smart decisions. Let’s work together to keep our roads and community safe.”
The campaign will be within the 420 square miles of Boone
County with the patrols focusing on the main areas including, I-65, I-865, I-465, I-74, U.S. 421, U.S. 52, U.S. 136, Ind. 32, Ind. 38, Ind. 39, Ind. 47, Ind. 234, and Ind. 267 and all of the county roads and city streets within municipalities of the county.
The extra enforcement is to be funded through National Highway Traffic Safety Administration grants through the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute.
According to newly released data from NHTSA, traffic fatalities continued to rise at a record pace last year. NHTSA projects that an estimated 31,720 people were killed on U.S. roadways in the first nine months of 2021, a 12 percent increase from the same period in 2020.
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“THE BEST WE’VE GOT: THE CARL ERSKINE STORY”
Screening of “The Best we’ve got: The Carl Erskine Story” will be April 12 and 13 at Zionsville United Methodist Church at 9644 Whitestown Rd. in Zionsville. This is a documentary film about an Indiana native who had a record-breaking career on a legendary baseball team on the grandest stage in sports. Erskine has lived the American dream and spent a lifetime giving to others. The April 12 screenings are 3:30 to 5 p.m. and 6:30 to 9 p.m. The April 13 screening is 6:30 to 9 p.m. For more, visit Zumc.org.
EGGNORMOUS
EGG HUNT
EGGnormous Egg Hunt is set for 9:30 a.m. April 8 at Lions Park, 115 S. Elm St. in Zionsville. This is the first event of the year in Lions Park. The morning begins with fun activities for the family and is followed by an egg hunt by age groups on different fields within the park. Over 25,000 Easter Eggs will be hidden.
2023 SPRING BRUSH AND LIMB COLLECTION
Zionsville’s Dept. of Public Works will provide curbside brush and limb collection April 10 and April 17. The service provides Zions-
CURRENT APRIL COMMUNITY CALENDAR
ville residents in the Urban Service District a means to dispose of certain pruning and yard debris. All items must be placed curbside by 7:30 a.m. on the Monday of your designated week. Crews will work to collect all properly placed material no later than the following Friday but may complete this task earlier.
ZIONSVILLE GREENFEST
In celebration of Earth Day and Arbor Day, Greenfest connects participants with the resources to become good stewards of the environment. Learn about living sustainably on April 22 from 9 a.m. to noon. in Zionsville Town Hall. For more, visit zionsville-in.gov/ specialevents
HUSSEY-MAYFIELD MEMORIAL PUBLIC LIBRARY EMBROIDERY PROJECT DAY
Learn how to use the brother embroidery machine to personalize gifts or practical items for your home. You can bring in a pillowcase or kitchen towel to test it out from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 20. For more, visit Hmmpl.org.
FULL MOON HIKE
The April full moon will be the first full moon of the spring season. It’s often referred to
as the pink moon since it marks the beginning of springtime blooms. Join a naturalist for a guided full moon hike to connect with nature and discover the night sky 6 from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. April 6 at the Overley-Woman Park in Zionsville. For more, visit Zionsville-in.gov.
BOONE COUNTY 4-H BBQ DINNER
Set for 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. April 22 at the Boone County 4-H fairgrounds. The program is hosting a barbecue dinner benefiting the 4-H fairgrounds at 1300 E. 100 S. in Lebanon.
The dinner menu includes chicken and pork chops. For more, visit boonecounty.hometownticketing.com/embed/event/14.
JUDY RICE RETROSPECTIVE
Artist Judy Rice’s clay sculptures are set to be on display at the SullivanMunce Cultural Center in Zionsville from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. April 14. Rice created her work and taught after-school art classes out of her home studio in Zionsville. The exhibition will run from April 14 through May 6.
Recollections of odd jobs
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PLAIN TALK
Like most guys my age, I had a lot of different jobs when I was a kid. One caveat here — not having a job back then was not an option. Every kid I knew had summer jobs and after schoolwork. The deal was, if we wanted something, anything, we had to earn the money to buy it.
I started earning my own money when I was 10. Mowing lawns for two to three bucks apiece. Sometimes it took an entire sweltering summer day to mow one lawn, pushing the owner’s balky mower through heavy grass. And I would come home with $3.
I joined forces with another kid washing windows for $5 a day one summer. That ended when the kid’s parents moved away, and the kid left owing me for an entire week.
When I was in junior high, I had a paper route. I got up at 5 a.m., seven days a week, and rode my bike through the hilly neighborhoods of Jefferson City, Mo., in whatever weather nature had in store.
Another summer I spent working for a sign painter, painting the backs of billboards green. I started school that fall looking like I was covered with moss.
One job, however, stands out as special. And it wasn’t really a job. It happened when my forester dad invited me to tag along with him one work day. In the middle of the day, he got a call to go fight a forest fire. On the way to the fire, he told me I could help.
At the fire site, he gave me something called a council rake – a tool that looks like a garden rake, but instead of tines, it has sharp blades designed to cut through vegetation. He showed me how to cut a path ahead of the fire, creating a firebreak.
I don’t know how many hours I worked, but it was dark when we got into the truck to head home. I was covered with soot and had one singed eyebrow from an encounter with a rogue flare-up on my firebreak. I think I went to bed without supper and fell asleep the minute my head hit the pillow.
Ward Degler lives in Zionsville with his wife. He is the author of “The Dark Ages of My Youth ... and Times More Recent.” Contact him at ward.degler@ gmail.com.
COMMUNITY
DISPATCHES
Our Place Coffee in Zionsville — Our Place Coffee at 65 S 1st St. in downtown, is supporting the town’s business with its community outreach during the Zionsville Schools spring break from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 4. Our Place will be giving small drinks to anyone who brings in a receipt from a Zionsville business. One drink per receipt. For more, ourplacecoffee.com
The Boone County Senior Salute — The BCSS will honor Boone County Indiana 2023 high school graduates who have chosen to serve their country at its third annual Senior Salute May 15, set to be held at 6 p.m. May 15 at the American Legion Post 79 in Zionsville. Any Boone County Indiana high school senior graduating 2023 and enlisting in the military, joining a ROTC program or attending a service academy who are interested to be honored can contact Weinheimer at bcseniorsalute@gmail.com. The event is open to the public. For more, visit 2023boonecountyseniorslaute/eventbrite. com.
Breakfast at the Brickyard — Tickets are on sale to the general public for the 500 Festival Breakfast at the Brickyard, set for 9 a.m. May 20, at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in the Gallagher Pavilion. Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett will host and honor more than 70 mayors from across Indiana for their work in advancing Hoosier communities. Guests will enjoy a traditional breakfast and hear from Indianapolis Motor Speedway executives and 500 Festival leaders. Purchase tickets at 500Festival.com/Breakfast.
F.C. Tucker’s Zionsville — Several F.C. Tucker Co. central Indiana sales associates from the Zionsville office located at 10 N 1st St, were honored at F.C. Tucker Company’s annual awards banquet in Indianapolis March 14. Award winners were Kristen Woodworth, Shannon Garner, The Lopez Team, MacDonald Realty Group, Diana McGlothlin, and Front Door Property Group. For more, visit talktotucker.com.
Indiana Coalition to end assault appoints new board members — Katherine Aeschliman, Zionsville resident, is sr. vice president and director at BMO Harris Bank. Aeschliman also serves as vice president of the Zionsville Community Schools Board of Trustees. Indiana Coalition announced Aeschliman as one of its new board of director members March 13.
Rate Modification Program
Special Loan Programs
Board receives updates
By Natalie Gargiulo • Natalie@youarecurrent.comThe Zionsville Community Schools Board held its monthly meeting March 13 at the Educational Services Center. Agenda items included the superintendent’s report and an update on the Zionsville Community High School construction project, including the cafeteria and northside outdoor courtyard.
Program by Federal Home Loan Bank
What happened: Matt Kinghorn, a senior demographic analyst with Indiana Business Research Center, gave a presentation about enrollment projection, including a report showing the expected growth of ZCS in the 2023-24 school year during the superintendent’s report.
What it means: The report reflects enrollment trends after the recent redistricting and the addition of Trailside Elementary School in Zionsville. Enrollment will continue to grow, with an additional 500-plus students projected in the next 10 years, with elementary students at a 17.4 percent increase, middle school students at a 21.2 percent increase, and high school students at a 25.2 percent increase.
What’s next: The report is used by the board and ZCS staff for financial planning, staffing and ordering resources. The report assists in future accommodations for growth.
What’s next:
COMMUNITY
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Students donate to local food drive
By Natalie Gargiulo natalie@youarecurrent.comStudents from Boone Prairie School in Whitestown collected items for a local food drive and learned a lesson in giving back to the community.
GIVING BACK
The students packed and donated more than 700 food items for The Caring Center, a nonprofit that provides financial counseling, clothing and food to Boone County families in need.
The school collected food Feb. 8 through March 3 and delivered it to The Caring Center March 16. The food drive is part of the school’s Faith in Action initiative, which provides support and necessities for those in need.
“Our Faith in Action program is a great way for us to show the community we care,” Boone Prairie School PTO President Hilary Latham said. “It’s a good lesson for our children to learn to not just say they believe something, but really back up their words and beliefs with meaningful, impactful actions.”
Seventh-grader Gabi Dean said she was proud that her school helps those in need.
“The food drive was very important to participate in,” Dean said. “The food drive was a schoolwide activity, and I like that all ages could donate and be a part of this good deed. It’s nice to know that Boone Prairie was part of helping so many people in our community.”
Fourth-grader Otto Reinhardt said the lesson in giving back taught him how to “make
a difference in someone’s life.”
“I know that the food we collected is going to help someone in need,” he said.
At the end of 2022, Boone Prairie students donated 200 “Blessing Bags” to those in need. Half of the bags went to homeless mothers and children at the Wheeler Mission Center for Women and Children in Indianapolis, and the remaining bags went to a recovery facility. The bags included personal care items.
“I donated food to those that are hungry because it makes me feel good to give to others,” third-grader Etta Latham said.
Boone Prairie plans to make the BPS food drive an annual event.
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PENCE SPEAKS TO ZCHS YOUNG REPUBLICANS CLUB
Former Vice President Mike Pence, front, center, was the guest speaker at the Zionsville Community High School Young Republicans Club’s March 16 meeting at Town Hall in Zionsville. Pence answered club member’s questions and spoke about current events. The Young Republicans Club at ZCHS is designed to develop a community of young adults interested in politics that share similar interests. (Photo courtesy of Maddie Patrick)
ZCHS SHOW CHOIR BRINGS HOME AWARDS
Zionsville Conmmunity High School’s show choirs competed at the Heart of America National Competition in Orlando March 18. The Choralaires and Royalaires show choirs won awards for Best Visuals, Best Vocals, Best Costumes, Best Band and Best Show Design. Show choir students celebrate after the American National Competition. (Photo courtesy of Christie Turnbull)
ZIONSVILLE LIONS CLUB WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!
Teen filmmaker builds award-winning resume
By Natalie Gargiulo Natalie@youarecurrent.comSophia Winters, a senior at Zionsville Community High School, is making a name for herself in the film world.
As the writer, director and editor of the award-winning short films
“Game Plan,” “A Day In the Life” and “Voice,” Winters aspires for a career as a filmmaker.
The 17-year-old film director has three films selected to be screened at more than 50 film festivals around the world, including the Victory International Film Festival in Evansville and the World Film Carnival in Singapore, to name a few. The films have been shown to audiences at theaters in 10 different countries on five continents.
“I have loved films and filmmaking my entire life,” Winters said. “When it comes to filmmaking, I love all of it, but my real passion is in film editing. It’s like putting together all the pieces of the puzzle.”
Winter’s interest in filmmaking began in middle school after making a short documentary film, “Operation Cowboy,” for a school assignment that placed sixth at the National History Day competition, a nonprofit education organization dedicated to improving the teaching and learning of history in Washington, D.C.
“The first thing you notice when you talk to Sophia is how creative she is in everything she does. Her direction is so clear and thoughtful, and she has a collaborative style that brings out the best in her actors and makes her vision really come alive,” said Nora Hubert, an actor from the Chicago area who worked on the films “Voice” and “Game Plan.”
Determined to make a narrative film, Winters said she spent two years researching and learning film techniques and editing software before beginning the writing process in 2020.
“If tomorrow I was asked to be in another one of her projects, I wouldn’t hesitate to say yes,” said Jarod Lukehart, an actor from Illinois who appeared in “Game Plan.”
In 2021, Winters wrote, directed and edited “Voice,” a short film that explores the danger of suppressing self-expression and
one’s own voice. The film was awarded Best High School Film at the Victory International Film Festival in July of 2022.
“The success of ‘Voice’ inspired me to continue pursuing my passion for filmmaking,” Winters said.
In 2022, Winters wrote, directed and edited two more short films, “Game Plan” and “A Day In the Life.”
“Game Plan” is a comedy that follows a group of associates who meet to finalize a high-stakes business deal that will lead to the end for one of them. The story explores the dynamics between friendship and business and challenges perceptions of power and control, particularly related to gender.
“Without spoilers, ‘Game Plan’ turns in a way that I wasn’t expecting, but at the same time was hinted at from the beginning, and if I’m being honest, it just shows how good of a writer she is,” Lukehart said.
The film received the Best Young Filmmaker award at the World Film Carnival in Singapore and Best Director at the Near Nazareth Film Festival in Israel. “Game Plan” also earned Winters a nomination for the Rising Star Female Filmmaker honor at the largest student film festival in the world, the All American High School Film Festival in
New York City.
“Game Plan” is set to be part of the Indy Shorts Festival, presented by Heartland Film in Indianapolis.
“Indy Shorts is the festival for every emerging filmmaker in the world,” Winters said. “Having my film screen as a part of that festival really will be a dream come true. The fact that the festival is local makes it even more surreal.”
“A Day In the Life” follows a woman as she navigates her increasingly complicated daily routine and is a satire about the world. The film was an official selection and Best Micro-movie finalist at the All American High School Film Festival and has screened at festivals in Ireland, Canada and India. It has been nominated for several awards.
Winters said she has three additional films in development and hopes to begin production on one of them this summer. Her new film, with a working title of “Mindless,” she said is important for several reasons.
“‘Mindless’ is based on a true story that happened right here in central Indiana, although I can’t divulge too much of the story yet, but it happened in the 1890’s,” Winters said. “It’s an incredible story, and one that many people are not familiar with, so I real-
ly want to see the story get told. I’d like to turn it into a thriller and horror story.”
Because the newest film is a period piece and based on actual events, Winters said the production requires much more detail in research, wardrobe and set design, and for that reason she wants to raise production funds externally for the first time.
“I need to reach out to members of the Zionsville and central Indiana communities to help get this film produced,” she said. “I really believe that people will want to see this get made.”
Winters said she has ambitious plans for her future in filmmaking. She has been accepted to several film schools and is still pondering which one she will attend next fall.
“I have so much to learn and am really excited to take the next step,” Winters said. “I want to help others take on the challenge of making independent films, so I volunteered to provide support to ZCHS students who are interested in filmmaking during the winter break next year.”
Winters said she wants to inspire and entertain audiences with her films.
“I want to tell stories that are authentic and meaningful,” she said. “I want to create films that make people think and feel and maybe even inspire them to make a positive change in their own lives.”
ON THE COVER: Zionsvilles High School senior Sophia Winters has written, directed and edited three short films.. (Photo courtesy of Sophia Winters)
MAKING CONNECTIONS
Sophia Winters would like to connect with other filmmakers in the Zionsville community to bring people together with the same passion.
“I would love to be able to connect with other people in the community, and I would like to have some way to grow a stronger community of filmmakers,” she said.
For more on Winters, visit sosareeproductions.com.
For more on her films, visit imdb. com Sophia Winters.
Winters can also be found on Instagram at @sosareeproductions.
When do charming senior oversights become punishable?
Commentary by Dick WolfsieI recently read that an 85-year-old man was fumbling through his drawers (which is a funny image, right there) and found a $1 parking ticket fine he had gotten almost 70 years ago and forgot to pay.
was relieved because I had heard if you are delinquent on paying tickets, they can even take away your car. Who knows what they take away if you don’t pay a jaywalking ticket?
HUMOR
Henry must have sharp financial sense. He knew that someday he’d be 85 and if he conveniently misplaced the summons, he could pay it 60 years later when a buck would be a mere pittance — and maybe he could pick up a little positive press for seniors at the same time.
I also forgot to pay a parking fine, right before we left for a vacation. It was a legitimate oversight. I had put the ticket in my back pants pocket, then went home, threw the pants in the Maytag, and that’s the last I remembered seeing it. It was washed completely from my mind.
When we returned from our trip, I received a note from the city saying my fine had doubled because of failure to pay. I
I’m a senior. Not quite as senior as Henry, but I think I’ve entered that period of life when some of my oversights would no longer be considered punishable. Some would even say they are charming.
I decided to pursue this and made the call to the Traffic Violation Bureau.
“Hello, I have a question. I’m curious whether you have heard about this Henry, the senior citizen who didn’t pay his parking ticket for almost 70 years?”
“Yes, of course. What an uplifting, touching story about the inner goodness of human beings. His honesty is so heartwarming. Who is this, anyway?”
“My name is Dick Wolfsie, and I …”
“Yes, Mr. Wolfsie, we have your records. Disgraceful, contemptible — criminal, even.”
“I don’t get it. This guy doesn’t pay his
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ticket for six decades and he’s a hero. I skip a few weeks and you double my fine? You called his story heartwarming.”
“How old are you, Mr. Wolfsie?”
“I just turned 76.”
“I’m afraid you don’t have enough time left to make your story heartwarming.”
“Look, I still don’t understand why you are punishing me after two months, and it sounds like you have his photo on your bulletin board.”
“Oh, your picture is up there, too.”
I’m thinking about heading to my hometown in a couple of months and taking back an old library book I forgot to return in 1980. Of course, if I do return it now, they’ll charge me big time and call me a thief. But if I could stay alive for 30 more years, they’d think I’m downright adorable.
Synonyms: COLOSSAL, HUGE, IMMENSE, JUMBO, MASSIVE, VAST; TV Stations: WFYI, WISH, WRTV, WTHR, WTTV; Johns: DILLINGER, MELLENCAMP, ROBERTS, WOODEN; Creatures: DRAGON, UNICORN, VAMPIRE; Attractions: CENTRAL PARK, TIMES SQUARE; Snack: POPCORN
READER’S VIEW
Town’s first mayor: Support Burgess
Editor,
I am writing to reiterate my unwavering support for Zionsville mayoral candidate Jane Burgess. I have been involved with our town for more than 20 years, and I have seen Jane working hard for our town every step of the way. When speculation first began about who might run for mayor, Jane was the first person I thought of who could be successful in that role.
Jane’s leadership experience in Zionsville runs deep. She served 12 years on the Zionsville Community Schools Board, including time served as board President, where she worked collaboratively with students, parents, staff, the police department, the town Council, the redevel-
opment commission, and many nonprofits who contributed to our schools. She has been active in volunteering and leading local community organizations and is wellversed in the challenges and opportunities our town faces. On Day 1 as mayor, she will draw on all of these relationships, as well as her critical leadership skills and experience to bring a collaborative and thoughtful approach to our town’s future.
Please join me in supporting Jane Burgess for mayor on May 2. We need an experienced and trustworthy leader in the office of mayor; our future depends on it.
Jeff Papa, former Zionsville mayor, ZionsvilleLetters to the editor: Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 150 words. Letters must be thoroughly vetted prior to submission. Current retains the right to reject or return any letter it deems to carry unsubstantiated content. Current also retains the right to edit letters, but not their intent. Send letters to info@youarecurrent.com. Writers must include a hometown and a daytime phone number for verification. Guest columns: The policy for guest columns is the same as the aforementioned, but the allowable length is 240 words. Guest columns should address the whole of Current’s readership, not simply special-interest groups, and may not in any way contain a commercial message.
Balancing accountability and retribution
Commentary by Terry AnkerCrowds chanted, “Ma, ma, where’s my pa?” Everyone knew the story. The president had displeased the electorate. Well, there must have been some voters among the hordes, and they were letting him know about it. Not quite “Let’s go, Brandon,” the president at the time is likely to have benefited from the scandal to become the only one elected to two nonconsecutive terms. The Whiskey Ring, Tea Pot Dome, Watergate, Whitewater and Iran-Contra all dominated American attention.
We might recall the incidents from firsthand memory or from being a U.S. or presidential history buff. But for many of us, we’ll have to look up their etymology. Maybe our recollections are better served by Monica, Stormy, Marilyn or Sally. Whatever the context was, they were all at the heart of political and social controversy in their respective times. Barrels of ink were dedicated to fueling the furor. Then, it all passed. The republic survived. In many cases, the politicians at the heart of the scandals rose
to greater popularity, with their stalwarts as some sort of martyred scoundrel.
The Tower of London has been filled with “lawbreakers” who formerly ruled. Anne Boleyn and Elizabeth I were jailed for crimes against the Crown. The Doges of Venice held office for life if they could hold onto it. Many believe that Russian President Vladimir Putin refuses to leave office because of the threat of his prosecution after leaving power.
Deserved or not, exile, imprisonment, brutal torture and isolation have often been the result of a life of government service for much of the world. So here at home, how do we vet our rightful indignation with our leaders without creating incentive for them to never leave peacefully — or not run at all? What’s our balance between accountability and retribution? And what is its cost?
Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@youarecurrent.com.
A bathroom dream come true
Commentary by Danielle WilsonOh, my gosh, people, it’s happening! Our long-awaited bathroom remodel is finally underway, and I. Am. Thrilled! At least when I’m not gagging in disgust. Here’s the skinny. We’ve been in our house for almost 13 years and have been planning this particular blowout since Day 1. I love our en suite bath. It’s a gorgeous space with lots of natural light, but everything is original to the 1996 build. Picture peachy-beige faux marble, cheap brass fixtures, and the pièce de résistance, wall-towall white carpet. Yes, white carpet, or at least what used to be white. It’s more of a dingy gray now, in the one room where water and steam and occasionally bodily fluids roam free. I can’t even identify all the stains anymore, not that I’d want to. Usually, I just keep the lighting down and my eyes up. The sink traps don’t really work, either. I get a nice hit of rotten egg every morning when I
go to brush my teeth, and if we don’t leave the door open, I’m generally greeted with the same stench in the evening. So fun!
HUMOR
Anyhoo, my husband Doo recently started demo-ing, confirming our worst fears that the carpet is in fact more than 25 years old. We’d both been hoping that the previous owners had replaced it shortly before we moved in. Alas, if either of us suddenly develop a mysterious illness or become zombies, my money is on some exotic mold spore in the subfloor.
The contractor promises he’ll be finished by May, and I promise to keep you posted on life without access to a nighttime toilet. Woohoo! It’s happening! Peace out.
Danielle Wilson is a contributing columnist. You may email her at info@youarecurrent.com.
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Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre seeks to inspire with ‘Illumination’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.comAlthough “Illumination” is a collection of dances created over several decades, there is a connection.
PERFORMANCES
Gregory Hancock, executive artistic director of Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre, said the common thread is faith, hope and inspiration.
GHDT will present “Illumination” at 7 p.m. April 7-8 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
“Pieces have been included from the company’s expansive repertoire, some in their full form and others as excerpts from larger full-length pieces,” Hancock said. “As a choreographer and director, it is interesting to look back into our history to see how dances have survived the test of time, and in some cases, have become even more relevant today. Although there are a variety of themes, styles and music represented in ‘Illumination,’ the idea of unwavering faith, often in the face of adversity, is paramount, along with the theme of light over darkness.”
Hancock said selecting pieces for a repertoire program was challenging.
“For this program, I started with a list of over 40 dances that were infused with faith and hope, and then continued to narrow down to select pieces that would complement each other, as well as showcase the individual talents of the GHDT company dancers,” he said. “This process eventually becomes more organic, and a natural flow to the program develops.”
Hancock said since the inception of his company, celebrating a global connection has been the focus.
“Honoring the individuality along with the sameness of the human condition through joy, sorrow, life, death, history, spirituality, and culture (is a goal),” he said. “As humans, we all have emotions, history, stories, plans and dreams that intertwine and take us on our journeys through life. The more we grow to under-
stand ourselves, the more we learn how connected we are as humans on this planet. During this time of spring and rebirth, this beautiful program of dances from GHDT’s eclectic repertoire will uplift, inspire, enlighten and illuminate audiences.”
GHDT company dancer Abigail Lessaris said “Illumination” is a beautiful show filled with inspiration in many different forms.
“The performance is filled with emotions on a wide spectrum,” Lessaris said. “There are pieces of love, grief, freedom and unwavering faith. The connection we feel when we experience artistry that evokes these emotions is so important. I am proud to be a part of a group of individuals who work hard to bring this kind of experience to our community.”
GHDT’s season continues June 9-10 at The Tarkington with “Director’s Choice.”
“(The show) again reaches back to both the distant and recent past to bring pieces to GHDT audiences that will be new to many audience members as well as the current dancers in the company,” Hancock said. “I am positive that designing the programming for this production will be a challenge. Audience members often ask
what my favorite piece is, and of course it is impossible to answer, as I have favorites at different periods, often depending on what is occurring in my life and our world at the time.”
As a bonus for the 25th anniversary season, it was recently determined GHDT will close the season with “The Music of La Casa Azul” with the Carmel Symphony Orchestra for a one-night-only performance Aug. 5 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts. It’s a concert version of Hancock’s original full-length musical with CSO Artistic Director Janna Hymes as conductor.
Vocal direction of a cast of central Indiana singers will be under the direction of Tammy Anderson. New York City director and playwright Georgina Escobar will provide the stage direction.
“The dancers of GHDT will add a visual element to the production,” Hancock said. “I am thrilled to be working with so many talented artists on this project. What a spectacular way to close a sensational season of live art in our community.”
For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.
‘AN AMERICAN IN PARIS’
“An American in Paris” is set for March 30 to May 14 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards. com.
LIVE AT THE CENTER
Tay Bronson & The Tackle Box will perform as part of the Live at the Center series at 7:30 p.m. March 29 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Tickets are $5 minimum or register for free livestream at thecenterpresents.org.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
Comedians Gwen Sunkel & Tennah McDonald will perform at 7:30 March 30 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Then Singer/Songwriter Kelsey Hickman will present her version of country rock and roll at 7:30 p.m. March 31. Leanne Marie Dobbs will perform Broadway leading men’s songs in “Why CAN’T a Woman” at 7:30 p.m. April 1. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
Spyro Gyra to headline at Carmel Jazz Fest — Long-running jazz fusion band Spyro Gyra will be the headliner at the inaugural Carmel Jazz Fest weekend with an Aug. 12 performance at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts. The concert, which was announced March 20, is set for 8 p.m. Spyro Gyra emerged during the 1970s fusion wave and never let up, releasing 35 albums and earning 13 Grammy nominations in the past five decades. Tickets starting at $25 went on sale at March 24 at the Palladium’s Fifth Third Bank Box Office, online at thecenterpresents.org and by phone at 317-843-3800. Separate passes are required for Carmel Jazz Fest, which will take place on the Center’s campus and at other venues around the city Aug. 11-12. For more and tickets to the festival, visit carmeljazzfest. org/tickets.
Snarky Puppy to perform at NDP AMP —
The Nickel Plate District Amphitheater and MOKB Presents announced Snarky Puppy will perform Sept. 8 in Fishers. Tickets for the Snarky Puppy show went on sale March 24 at npdamp.com.
Ex-pastor turns to acting full time
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.comFor Ian Black, there were two key factors in his decision to take a break from his role as a pastor to act full time.
MUSICAL Black
“One of them was simply burnout in ministry,” said Black, who made the decision in 2022. “Lots of pastors struggle with burnout, and it often gets so bad that when we leave, we never return to ministry. I didn’t want to get to that point. So part of the decision to become an actor was to take a break from ministry so I could return to it down the road. But a huge part of it was my increasing desire to perform. I’d always loved it, and always wanted to pursue performing professionally as full-time as possible but had just never made that leap. Now is the time. (I’m) not getting any younger.”
Black, who lives in Lawrence Township in Indianapolis, plays Henri Baurel, the son of wealthy French industrialists, in Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “An American in Paris,” which is set for March
30 to May 14 at the Indianapolis venue, His biggest challenge is mastering the accent.
“I only took two years of Spanish in high school, and accents do not come easily to me,” Black said. “I’m excited to tackle it and I imagine our dialect coach will get to know me very well. Hopefully by the end of the run, I will be passing as a true Frenchman.”
Black said he likes the fact Henri is so genuine.
“You get the sense he is truly kind and caring, even as he is figuring out more of who he is, who to love, what to do with his life,” Black said. “He experiences growth throughout the course of the show, demonstrated by his willingness to eventually let go of things he once clung to. And we learn about how many risks he and his family sacrificially undertook during the war. I really like his sense of humor. I also appreciate that he wants to go for his dreams, which is something that captures so much of what I’m striving to do in this chapter of life.”
Black appeared in “A Beef & Boards Christmas” as a dancer in 2016 and 2017.
Combining love of art with travel
Commentary by Randy Sorrell‘A Good Person’ is a good film
Commentary by Julieanna ChildsSynopsis: Daniel (Morgan Freeman) is brought together with Allison (Florence Pugh), a once-thriving young woman with a bright future who was involved in an unimaginable tragedy that took his daughter’s life. As grief-stricken Daniel navigates raising his teenage granddaughter and Allison seeks redemption, they discover that friendship, forgiveness, and hope can flourish in unlikely places.
A GOOD PERSON
In his first film in five years, “A Good Person” director Zach Braff unfolds a story about grief and overcoming tragedy. Braff, who also serves as one of the film’s producers, wrote the screenplay for Pugh during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown while grieving the deaths of his sister, father and two close friends. Pugh and Braff were living together at the time.
During a Q&A at the film’s London premiere, Braff said while “A Good Person” is intense, it has lighthearted moments.
“I strategically designed places for the audience to have a rest, a breath, a laugh,
because that’s actually what happens in life,” Braff said. “Some of it is heartbreaking, but I also wanted to write about it with my own style, which is to find the humor in it all. I have a very funny family, and we always find a way to laugh our way through things, even the painful things.”
Freeman and Oscar nominee Pugh give powerful performances as two people entwined by tragedy, trying to rebuild themselves around the loss they’ve suffered. The characters illustrate the choices we make between holding on and letting go.
“A Good Person” is a story for anyone who’s searched for a person’s lost echoes. Sometimes the best comfort is inviting memories of joy into our present grief and allowing them to live in the quiet corners of our day.
During the past 14 years, Julieanna Childs has worked as a film studio representative, contracting for all the major Hollywood studios. Her film reviews can be found at TheJujuReview.com. She is a Hamilton County resident.
ARTISTS
I love art … for so many reasons! It can be a source of joy and encouragement. A source of healing. Art can be a hobby, your career or a side gig. Check out this story of a wonderful friend and her journey.
She’s a product of especially great parents and Carmel schools. She’s involved in several nonprofits from Discovering Broadway and Actors Theatre of Indiana to others focused on saving lives and souls.
Jill Zaniker’s story of art and life is inspiring and instructive. She took several art classes in college, and after receiving a bummer grade, decided to “forget it” and move on.
Fast forward a few decades after focusing her energies on family, her business, retirement and a devastating and unexpected loss of her equally inspiring husband of 30 years, she decided to explore her second story.
Art classes/workshops presented by the brilliant Deb Slack, Cy Donnelly and Beth
Clary Schwier focused her talents and served as a launching point for exploring her creative side again, which resulted in a dedicated studio in her fashionable Carmel Arts & Design District home. Her new life philosophy and second story is, “You only die once and you need to choose to live everyday.” And, if you know Jill, she exudes it.
Jill is fortunate to be able to travel regularly and has an inventive habit of purchasing a piece of art from a local artist. Her latest purchase is from Venice. My wife Kim and I adopted this habit more than 30 years ago.
Hopefully, her story will prompt you to live more fully or finally pick up a brush again. Or to initiate the “buy real art” locally or in your travels.
Randy Sorrell, a Carmel artist, can be reached at 317-6792565, rsorrellart@gmail.com or rsorrellart.com.
Verbal hedging isn’t yardwork
Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt
At the dawn of every springtime, I make a list of things I want to do in my lawn and garden. While I’ll admit my outdoor to-do list is too lofty, I can’t wait to try to make all these things happen. I love working in the yard. I would never say I “kind of” like working in the yard, because my yardwork enjoyment is unequivocal. If I did want to play it safe, I’d employ a “verbal hedge,” which is a word or phrase used to lessen the impact of a statement. The “hedge” in this phrase (just like “hedge your bets”) has nothing to do with shrubbery. Back in 1500s England, the verb “hedge” meant to “equivocate or avoid commitment.” We find an example of this usage in Shakespeare’s “Merry Wives of Windsor”: I, I, I myself sometimes, leaving the fear of God on the left hand and hiding mine honour in my necessity, am fain to shuffle, to hedge and to lurch. Here are some examples of verbal hedges:
expo this weekend.” This noncommittal “maybe” expresses uncertainty about making firm plans for the speaker’s weekend plans.
GRAMMAR GUY
• “The movie was kind of good, but I was confused by Nic Cage’s character.” Saying a phrase like “kind of” makes the speaker’s opinion of the movie less forceful. Was the movie good or not? “Kind of” doesn’t commit either way.
• “As far as I know, I had no knowledge of the plans to steal the zoo’s only walrus.” You’ll see defendants in court hedge all the time. If someone uses a phrase like “as far as I know,” this absolves them from saying, “I definitely knew about the walrus theft” or “I certainly did not know about the walrus theft.”
Visiting the tombs of Jesus
Commentary by Don Knebel• “Maybe I’ll go to the lawn and garden
TRAVEL
In our continuing tour of Israel and the Palestinian Territories, we visit competing sites in Jerusalem associated with the tomb of Jesus. After Emperor Constantine declared in A.D. 313 that Christianity was legal in the Roman Empire, he sent his 80-year-old mother, Helena, to the Holy Land to find sites important to Christianity. She returned in A.D. 328 claiming she had found not only the tomb of Jesus in Jerusalem, but also a remnant of what she said was the “True Cross” on which Jesus had been crucified. The Church of the Holy Sepulcher was soon built around the tomb, with an underground Chapel of the Finding of the True Cross claimed to be where Helena had found the True Cross. For almost 1,700 years, Christians have made their way to that now cavernous church. For her piety and her discoveries, Helena was recognized as a saint.
In 1883, Protestants were thrilled when Charles Gordon, an English general, found a tomb near a Jerusalem rock formation suggesting a skull, which he thought identified the biblical Golgotha (the skull) where Jesus had been crucified. The tomb itself was in an old garden, where the Bible says it should be. And so, with great fanfare, the Garden Tomb, with its beautiful gardens and peaceful outdoor places to worship, opened to the public.
In 1986, Israeli archaeologist Gabriel Barkay, an authority on Jewish tombs, published an article concluding that the Garden
Tomb was not used at the time of Jesus. Consequently, guides at the Garden Tomb no longer claim it held the body of Jesus. But Protestant visitors still worship there, experiencing the same emotions as before. Others continue to experience comparable emotions at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. As with many other sites in the Holy Land, tradition and belief are as important as archaeology.
Across 1. Gusto 6. Melt 10. IU women’s basketball coach Moren
14. “Common Sense” writer 15. 60 minutes
16. Face-to-face Butler exam
17. On a cruise 18. Ye ___ Shoppe
41. Indiana Senate vote
42. Celestial hunter
43. “Believe” singer
44. Mixed, in a way
46. Gary-to-Zionsville dir.
48. Napa neighbor
49. Competent
51. Colts knee injury letters
54. Actress
31. Chasm
32. Take care of
33. Felled, as a dragon
34. Hotel Carmichael worker
35. Green prefix
38. See 12-Down
39. More gloomy
40. Hard water
45. Frolicked
46. Camera type, in brief 47. Choose
49. Tarkington play part 50. Sounded sheepish?
51. Fall bloom
52. Scour
53. Lusty looks
55. Olden days
56. ___ of Man
57. Composer Rorem
58. Name in the frozen desserts aisle
59. Birthday number Answers on Page 19
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Remove tree stumps, ugly tree roots, stumps in and around chain link or wood fences. We also remove tree stumps that are protruding up onto sidewalks and around sidewalks. We grind them and/or remove. Please Call & Text at 816-778-4690.
FOR SALE: FINE FURNITURE
Pair Widdicomb Dressers
Kindel Queen Anne Chair
Kindel French Arm Chair
Pair Red Chippendale Side Chairs
Cassard Romano Dining Table Brass Fireplace Irons CALL 317 716 9577
MATH TEACHER
A math teacher at Midwest Academy will be responsible for teaching all aspects of mathematics, including fundamental and introductory algebra skills, to Middle School and High School students in a progressive environment designed for children with learning differences. This position is full time and compensation is commensurate with experience. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a child-centered mentality are essential to this position. To apply please send your resume to careers@mymwa.org
NOW HIRING
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A SHOP TO CALL HOME?
Integrity Automotive is looking for a full time automotive technician. In business for 28 years in downtown Carmel with a solid, happy customer base and a positive, goodnatured work environment.
The best candidate is a motivated, well-organized technician with at least three years hands on experience in automotive diagnosis, problem-solving and repair. Able to interpret and apply diagnostic/repair information from computerized databases and other sources. Also able communicate clearly and effectively with your supervisor, your fellow employees and, as needed, with customers. A complete job description is available with a request to frontdesk@integrityautomotive.net.
We offer competitive pay with a Monday through Friday work week and (after 90 days) up to four sick/personal days per year and paid holidays.
To schedule an interview, send your resume with contact information to: frontdesk@integrityautomotive.net
40 S Rangeline Rd Carmel Indiana 46032
12555 Gray Road Carmel 46033
NOW HIRING: PAINTERS
We are in need of painters with or without experience Please Call (317) 397-9389 for info