August 22, 2023 — Zionsville

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Founded March 20 2012, at Zionsville, IN Vol. XII, No. 22

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Back to school & no time?

DISPATCHES

Bingo — The Knights of Columbus will hold a family bingo night to benefit the US Armed Forces Veterans and Active Service Personnel on Aug. 25 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, 1870 W. Oak St., Zionsville. Food will be served at 6:30 and bingo will begin at 7 p.m.

Triathlon — Zionsville Rotary Club will host the 7th annual sprint triathlon Aug. 27 beginning at 8 a.m. The race will be held at Azionaqua Swim Club, 4875 Willow Rd, Zionsville. Each participant will get a T-shirt and a finisher medal. The registration price is $69.99 and is open to ages 15 and older. To register, visit runsignup.com/Race/IN/ Zionsville/ZionsvilleSprintTriathlon.

PZAZ Tree of the Year winner announced

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Banquet — The Zionsville Fall Great Banquets will be held at Zionsville Presbyterian Church. The women's banquet is Sept. 21 — 24, and the men's banquet is Sept. 28 — Oct. 1. Both the men’s and women’s banquet are for those 18 and older. There will be food and fellowship. Registration is required and is $20 per person. To register, visit zionsvillegb.org.

LIBRARY

The second People of Zionsville for the Aesthetics of Zionsville Tree of the Year winner was announced at the Aug. 7 Zionsville Town Council meeting.

“The goal of the contest is to promote urban forestry and the preservation of trees, but we also want it to build community,” said Michal Owens, spokesperson for PZAZ.

This year’s winning tree is a grand bur oak on the Weston Family Farm at 1581 N. 1100 E.

For the contest, residents are invited to submit their favorite tree in Zionsville. According to PZAZ, Zionsville has been named a Tree City by the National Arbor Day Foundation for 22 years.

The winning tree was nominated by

Zionsville resident Roxanna Gressel, who was inspired by the history of the tree. Owens said in the 1840s, a farmer who lived on the land at the time planted the winning tree, making it older than the town.

“The Rural Electrification Administration wanted to knock down the tree, and the farmer defended the tree in any way he could or wanted to,” Owens said.

Town Councilmember Brad Burk, who serves as a member of PZAZ, thanked the entire committee for their hard work on this project.

“This is a fun project that highlights what we do,” Burk said. “Data is data, but the stories are more powerful.”

Gressel was provided with an Earth and Turf gift card, and her photo of the tree will be displayed inside Zionville Town Hall.

Swing Dance — The Young Adult Ministry at St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church will have a Swing Dance with Moses Tinio on Sept. 29 from 7 to 10:30 p.m. The event is for ages 18-39 and food and drinks will be provided. Registration is $25 for couples and $15 for individuals. Mass will be held at 6 p.m. prior to the event. To register, visit zionsvillecatholic.com/swing-dance.

Cruise Indy Car Show — The fourth annual Cruise Indy Car Show and Car Cruise will be presented from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 26 at the Indiana Spine Group parking lot, 13225 N. Meridian St. in Carmel. Participants will start at the Cars and Coffee at Meridian Mark, 11611 N. Meridian, Carmel. There will be a DJ, Folds of Honor raffle, food, face painting, Cruise Indy swag and a scavenger hunt for children. Register online at CruiseIndy.com before midnight Aug. 24. The registration fee is $20 and includes a, T-shirt and dash plaque. Day-of-registration fee $25. For more, visit CruiseIndy.com or call Sandra at 651-278-0812.

The winning tree is older than the town of Zionsville and sits at the Weston Family Farm. (Photo courtesy of the People of Zionsville for the Aesthetics of Zionsville)

Fall Festival kicks off Sept. 8

By Kiersten Riedford kiersten@youarecurrent.com

The Zionsville Lions Club will present its annual Fall Festival from Sept. 8 to Sept. 10.

The free event, at 115 S Elm St. in Zionsville, is open to the public all three days, with activities for attendees of all ages. Although admission is free, parking inside Lions Park is $8 per vehicle. Free parking will be available along Elm and Main streets. This year, Zionsville Eagle Scout Troop 358 is celebrating its 100th anniversary. On Sept. 10, the troop will host a new interactive area.

Tim Reinhart, Zionsville Lions Club Fall Festival chair, said there will be opportunities for visitors to play tug-of-war with the Eagle Scouts and learn more about the troop.

Along with the interactive areas, many local businesses and vendors will be onsite, selling items ranging from woodworking products, air duct cleaning services and artwork sold as stickers.

Products and food can be purchased with cash and credit card, but not all places will

accept credit card transactions. There will not be wristbands or tickets for food.

“We do have several ATMs in the park in case folks need to get cash,” Reinhart said. “But we will have tenderloins, hamburgers, corn dogs, elephant ears (and) popcorn, so pretty traditional festival food.”

The registration deadline for vendors to is Aug. 25. To register, visit zionsvillelions.com.

To learn more about the Zionsville Lions Club Fall Festival, visit zionsvillelions.com/ events/fall-festival-1.

Parks board approves proposals

FALL FEST TOWN NEWS

By Kiersten Riedford kiersten@youarecurrent.com

During its Aug. 9 meeting at Town Hall, the Zionsville Board of Parks & Recreation passed a series of proposals, including:

• Permitting the Zionsville boys rugby team to practice in Mulberry Fields.

• Supporting Zionsville Board of Parks & Recreation Supt. Jarod Logsdon’s plan to connect Starkey Nature Park and the Carpenter Nature Preserve in the latest zoning plans that are underway for the city.

The rugby team was approved for 35 practices in Mulberry Fields that began the week of Aug. 9 and continue throughout the rest of the fall term.

“I think it’s good that we’re bringing our teams back,” said John Stehr, president of the Zionsville Board of Parks & Recreation. “That’s nice that that’s happening.”

The board also voted to formally support Logsdon’s letter to the Zionsville Plan Commission, which says he wants to see the

land between Starkey Nature Park and the Carpenter Nature Preserve used thoughtfully and maintained. He said one way to ensure both would be to create the Eagle Creek Greenway, a pathway that would connect the two areas.

“Our park system was largely built on three things: Opportunities, donations as well as development,” Logsdon said during the meeting.

“Each of the (parks in Zionsville) have not only benefitted the residents of those developments, but also our community at-large.”

Logsdon and other board members said they would like to see Zionsville continue to be a nature-based community.

“There are very few things in the world that are black and white,” Stehr said. “I think this is one of those shades of gray that we live in here.”

Following the meeting, board members signed a resolution to support Logsdon’s letter to the Zionsville Plan Commission.

The board’s next meeting is set for 7 p.m. Sept. 13 at Zionsville Town Hall. Anyone is welcome to attend.

Traditional fair food will be available for purchase at the festival. (Photos courtesy of Zionsville Lions Club)

Award winner announced

Zionsville Youth Football League, including serving as a ZYFL recreational football coach for six years, a ZYFL all-star football coach for six years, a ZYFL board member for three years, the ZYFL board president for two years and the Zionsville Middle School all-star coach for three years.

He serves as the ZYFL middle and high school community football coordinator and is a ZYFL board consultant.

“Through his efforts and the ongoing work of the ZYFL organization, the ZYFL

program has experienced unprecedented growth in participation numbers,” said Tyson Clemmer, a board member of the ZYFL.

The award winner pays the unrestricted grant forward by selecting a nonprofit that benefits youth sports in the community to receive it. Manna chose to award the $500 grant to the Zionsville Football Club.

“The ZYFL has been working to promote football at the youth level for years,” Manna said. “We have the idea that if we keep promoting it, the people will come.”

Manna’s name will be added to the plaques honoring recipients of the award.

From left, Lionel Dubay’s son, Ty Dubay, Andrew Manna and Lionel Dubay’s daughter, Tara Hollo(Photo courtesy of the Community Foundation of Boone County)

Women to share stories

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Katie Vigil learned about “That’s What She Said” when living in Champaign-Urbana, Ill.

be wives and mothers, and sadly I would have to be satisfied with fabulous wealth. I turned out to be wrong on all counts.”

EVENT

“It’s women from all walks of life with very inspiring, uplifting stories,” she said.

So, when Vigil moved to Zionsville in 2019, she determined she wanted to bring it to the Indianapolis area.

Vigil is the regional producer of the “That’s What She Said” program, set for 7:30 p.m. Sept. 8 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The show is the first in the Indianapolis area. The program is part of The She Said Project.

Ten speakers will speak for 8 to 10 minutes. Part of the proceeds will support Kids Voice Indiana.

“The purpose is to elevate women’s voices,” Vigil said.

Besides Vigil, the speakers are Cara Dalton, Fortville; Kelli Caughman, Fortville; Myra Levine, Noblesvile; Lisa Brandenburg, Westfield; Michelle Derleth, Noblesville; Jennifer Johnson, Cicero; Brandi Bruemmer, Indianapolis: Heather Hughet, Mooresville; and Becca Goldsberry, Greenwood.

The first show was in Champaign-Urbana, Ill., in 2013. Several other cities have held shows through the years.

“I’ll be talking about some of the personal struggles that I’ve had that have led me to where I am today,” Vigil said.

Levine said she will discuss what she describes as her “ridiculous path” to motherhood.

“I feel honored to be in the program and tell a story that means so much to me,” she said. “When I was 10 years old, I accepted that only pretty, thin, blonde girls get to

Vigil

A former Westfield resident, Levine moved to Noblesville last year. In 2022, she spoke at “Listen to Your Mother,” a Mother’s Day show in Indianapolis.

Brandenburg said she was asked by Vigil if she would share her story.

“When she explained the premise behind the show, I was all in,” Brandenburg said. “Being on stage with so many amazing women was something I didn’t want to pass up. I’m hopeful that by doing so, other women feel empowered to share their stories. I also pray that those in the audience might be inspired to step out in faith and do something that scares them.”

Brandenburg tells the story of moving to Indiana during the pandemic.

“I created a community of women who became friends through events and now support one another because every woman deserves a strong support system,” she said.

Dalton said she loves the concept and mission of The She Said Project.

“I have attended multiple events in Champaign where the program originated, while living there for 10 years,” Dalton said. “I will be talking about my story of motherhood.

I have never participated in something like this, but I have spoken to groups of women in small settings about the power of faith and how one person can impact thousands.”

Derleth said she wants to share how a positive mindset can change the outcome.

“I’m on a journey to finding the new me,” she said.

For more, visit shesaidproject.com. For tickets, visit thecenterpresents.org.

Todd Musser Vice President and Portfolio Manager Investment Management

CHS senior golfer sets sights on defending team state title

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Carmel High School golfer Michaela

Headlee is looking to complete her high school career with special memories.

“My goal for my final season is to most importantly enjoy all the time I get to spend with my team, but ultimately, I want to finish the season with an individual and team title,” Headlee said. “Being able to experience the feeling of winning the state title last year has motivated me even more to want to win it again, and I will work as hard as I can to make it happen.”

Headlee finished second individually in the IHSAA state finals as a freshman. She tied for 12th in 2022 as the Greyhounds won the team state title. She tied for 21st her sophomore year.

Headlee said the two aspects of her game she is really focused on improving this season are her chipping and irons.

“Michaela is a talented player and has a

MEET MICHAELA HEADLEE

Favorite athlete: Tiger Woods

Favorite movie: “Elf”

Favorite subject: Health and Wellness

Favorite vacation spot: Florida

competitive drive that is unmatched,” CHS coach Kelly Kluesner said. “She is really fine-tuning her game, focusing on managing her shots based on course conditions, the weather and how she feels her swing is that round. Michaela never gives up. She will fight to the end of every round. My favorite part of Michaela’s game is her mental side.

“While watching her, you wouldn’t know

if she is 6 under or 6 over. She can stay even-keeled, a trait that is hard for so many adults.”

Headlee said she has always had a strong competitive drive in everything she does.

“My dad once asked me if I liked winning,

and my response to him was that ‘I don’t like winning, I just don’t like to lose,’” she said.

Kluesner said Headlee is mentoring the younger players and helping them understand the culture of the team.

“I do want to be a leader this year even more than other years,” she said. “Our team has many new faces this year and I hope to let them experience the great culture on our team before I am gone. It also helps that I have other great senior leaders to set good examples.”

Headlee said she leads by example while fellow senior Claire Swathwood, who has committed to the University of Memphis, is the more vocal leader.

Headlee will play golf for Purdue University next season. She will be joined by her close friend Samantha Brown, a Westfield High School senior. Headlee said she liked the idea of playing with Brown.

“I loved the whole campus and facilities that I’d have access to,” Headlee said.

Headlee said she was impressed with the coaches.

“I think it’s a good fit for me,” said Headlee, who started playing golf at age 3 and began playing tournaments at 6.

Michaela Headlee is seeking a strong finish to her Carmel High School golf career. (Photo courtesy of Michael Hoffbauer Photography)

Headlee

WEIGHTY MATTERS

Zionsville teen ascends to top in youth powerlifting rankings

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Talk about strong showings. Zionsville West Middle School student Austin Oakley is only 13, but he is already making an impact in the world of competitive powerlifting.

Oakley has been competing for less than a year but is ranked No. 1 in the world in his weight class among 13-year-olds in the openpowerlifting.com rankings.

Oakley’s first powerlifting competition was in March at the Indiana State Championship in South Bend, where he set state records for his age group and weight class and qualified for regionals. On May 27, at the regional competition in Wisconsin, he qualified for the USA Powerlifting Youth Nationals.

“I was happy and excited that I was given the opportunity to compete at the national level,” Oakley said. “I feel like I have earned it after all of the hard work and time I have put into powerlifting.”

On Aug. 5 at the USA Youth Powerlifting Nationals in Arizona, Oakley competed in the Men’s Raw Youth 3 division in the sub100 kg (220 pounds) weight class. He broke his five American records that he had previously set at regionals.

Oakley set national records of 429.9 pounds in the squat; 275.5 pounds in the bench press; 275.5 pounds in bench press single lift; 473.9 pounds in the deadlift; and 473.9 pounds in deadlift single lift. His combined weight total was 1179.4 pounds.

“I was impressed with the numbers the other competitors were putting up,” Oakley said. “Mostly, I was just imagining the feeling of success after hitting a lift.”

His father, Robert Oakley, said Austin is an all-around athlete. His son is involved in other sports, including football, track and field and wrestling. Austin Oakley became interested in powerlifting after he began following powerlifters on social media and realized he was lifting a lot for his age.

“Our son is in the gym every day, and sometimes twice a day,” Robert Oakley said. “I taught him what I knew about lifting from when I used to play football, but he surpassed what I could do quickly. He was the only self-taught kid at the national competition.”

Austin Oakley credits his success to hard work, dedication and support from his family, teachers, coaches, classmates, teammates and friends. He also said the atmosphere of the competition helped.

An eighth-grader, Oakley practices powerlifting at an LA Fitness in Zionsville. He would like to raise awareness for the sport and get more people involved.

“Austin wants to start a powerlifting club when he gets into high school,” Robert Oakley said. “He would love to see more community members be involved in the sport.”

Oakley will turn 14 in September and will compete in the teen category at his next state competition in South Bend in March 2024. He looks forward to competing at a higher level.

“I am excited about the opportunity to

be in a more competitive division,” Oakley said. “It will motivate me to work that much harder. I plan to continue doing this sport for a long time.”

Austin said his long-term goal is to set national and world records one day. He would like to be ranked top 10 in the world and eventually hit a total weight of 2,000 pounds for all events at a competition.

“He is just now getting started,” Robert Oakley said. “He is still young and is determined and committed to the sport and to continue breaking records.”

GET TO KNOW AUSTIN OAKLEY

• Age: 13

• Resides: Zionsville

• Grade level: Eighth

• Hobbies outside of powerlifting: Woodworking, football, wrestling

• Favorite color: Black

• Motto: Remember there is always somebody better than you

• Height: 5-foot-10

• Weight: 205 pounds

ON THE COVER: Zionsville West Middle School student Austin Oakley is ranked No. 1 in the world in his age and weight class according to openpowerlighting.com. (Photos courtesy of Barbell Productions)

Zionsville West Middle School student Austin Oakley won first place in his weight class and age group at the Aug. 5 USA Powerlifting Youth Nationals in Arizona. (Photos courtesy of Barbell Productions)

Patachou on Pine now open

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Patachou on Pine opened Aug. 9 at 95 E Pine St., in Zionsville. The new restaurant is the sixth Cafe Patachou brand established by founder Martha Hoover.

RESTAURANT

According to a press release from the restaurant, traditional Cafe Patachou dishes will be served, along with exclusive items such as the It Takes a Village namesake omelet, which is an ode to Zionsville’s Main Street Village. Espresso Martinis are also available.

“We have worked for years to distinguish ourselves based on ambiance, level of service, quality, staff opportunities and community engagement,” Hoover stated. “I decided to tick up the design, which is about every detail. It is aspirational.”

The Patachou on Pine interior design is based on Hoover’s taste, including her favorite paint color, a muted teal/blue, and an original photograph of Julia Child, Hoover’s early childhood hero and inspiration.

“I want people to walk in without assumptions of what a Patachou should be,

but what it could be,” Hoover stated.

The new restaurant is open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The restaurant seats approxiamately 40 inside and 35-40 on the outside patio.

For more on Patachou on Pine, visit cafepatachou.com/location/ patachou-on-pine/.

Patachou on Pine opened Aug. 9. (Photo courtesy of Cafe Patachou)

Discerning when to choose

Commentary by Terry Anker

Art of finding lost friends

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

swering  his cellphone.”

ESSAY

We all want to be in control of our own world. We want to be the one making the choices and setting the course. Even if we choose to be someone who refuses to make choices, we still demand that we get our way in choosing not to choose. Whew. The problem with so much choice is the inevitable accountability that goes along with it. For every decision we undertake, we necessarily have omitted countless other options. Although it is terrific to believe that we are the ones in the driver’s seat, it is usually way easier to be a passenger. Mostly, we find ourselves living a life governed, perhaps even constricted, by our previous decisions. Where we go to school and work, who we marry, if and how many children we might have all become determining factors in the various trajectory of our existence. As we grow from adolescence into adulthood, the gravity of our choices becomes more apparent, as does the frivolity. We learn to invest in the

long-term, appreciating that deferred gratification often leads to better outcomes. We learn that wartime British Prime Minister Winston Churchill was right in positing that, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.” While Churchill was confronting perilous military setbacks during World War II, the admonishment is a good reminder for all of us. Each day that we survive to make another, better choice is a good one. As we extend ourselves into relationships, the choices of our children, parents, spouses and partners all serve to complicate choices. If they defer a decision, does it necessarily fall to us? If they make a bad choice, what is our obligation to pick up the slack? For choosy choosers, what are the legitimate boundaries?

It’s very difficult to find friends nowadays. I don’t mean make friends. That’s easy. I mean, find them. Like, where the heck are they?

HUMOR

When I lived just outside of New York City and I wanted to meet a buddy at Grand Central Station, I simply said, “See you under the clock at noon.” This was where everyone met. On some days, several hundred people were crammed under the iconic timepiece looking for friends, lovers and drug dealers.

Everyone knew where the “The clock” was. If you didn’t, there was a good chance you were from another planet. It was like saying, “Now, which Empire State Building do you mean?”

Anatomy of TV series withdrawal

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Friends, it’s the end of an era. After 10 months of dedicated time and energy, I have finally finished “Grey’s Anatomy.” I know!

“Which Le Peep should I call?” she asked. “Which one did he go to?”

“Well, if I knew that I wouldn’t be here now.”

I tried his cell again.

“Hello, this is Bob.”

“It’s Dick, where are you?”

“I’m at Le Peep. Where are you?”

“I’m at Le Peep, also,” I told him.

“I don’t see you.”

“I’m at the Le Peep next to Kohl’s.”

“Which Kohl’s,” he asked. “The one next to the Walmart or the one next to Kroger?”

“Everyone knew where the ‘The clock’ was. If you didn’t, there was a good chance you were from another planet. It was like saying, “Now, which Empire State Building do you mean?”

But things are different now.

“The one next to Kroger.”

“The Kroger near the Monon or the Kroger near CVS?”

“The Kroger near CVS.”

“The CVS across from McDonald’s or the one next to Dairy Queen?”

– DICK WOLFSIE

We finally determined his location.

“Bob, I’m running late, but I’ll come to the Le Peep where you are. I’ll have to hurry so I can still make my appointment.”

“Should I order for you?”

“No. I’m bringing an omelet with me.”

HUMOR

What started last October as a fun way to engage with my younger daughter over a beloved series quickly turned into a near obsession as I got sucked into to the trials and tribulations of the young surgeons at Seattle Grace. Before I realized it, I had even surpassed her viewership (which was only through Season 13, the quitter!) and ended up solo watching the longest-running medical drama in history (although between my perimenopausal shenanigans and plethora of alternating joint issues, I could give “Grey’s” a little competition). Now, 420 episodes later, I have summited TV’s Mount Everest and am left with a sense of accomplishment, obviously, but also with a mild case of post-achievement depression and a few frostbitten toes.

I mean, seriously, what am I supposed to do now? For nearly a year, I have filled my evenings and weekends with Meredith and Miranda and Richard and watched doctors and patients grapple with diseases and

“I have summited TV’s Mount Everest and am left with a sense of accomplishment, obviously, but also with a mild case of post-achievement depression and a few frostbitten toes.”

– DANIELLE WILSON

trauma and messy relationships. I’ve borne witness to plane crashes and explosions, hospital mergers and personnel changes, medical mysteries and groundbreaking surgeries. And I’m not exaggerating when I say at this point, I could probably perform an emergency trach successfully (although for the life of me, I still don’t understand what a Whipple is). “Ten blade, Bokie!”

I’ve laughed, cried, screamed, contemplated, criticized, empathized — really been in my feelings with this show. And now I have nothing (because “Succession” reeks). Alas, it’s the end of an era. My “Grey’s” era. Peace out.

I was meeting my friend Bob for coffee the other day at one of my favorite places for breakfast, Le Peep. I told Bob to be there at 9 a.m. sharp because I had a doctor’s appointment at 10:30. It was 9:15. Where was he? He’d never been late before. When I told the waitress that I was waiting for a friend, she suggested he might have gone to a different Le Peep by mistake.

“Does that happen often?” I asked.

“Oh yes. Every day. You see, here in Indy, we now have several Le Peep.”

“I told him to meet me at the Le Peep just off 82nd Street.”

“Well, we have a few that are just off 82nd Street. How about an omelet while you wait?”

“Could you call and see if he went to a different Le Peep?” I asked. “He’s not an-

By the way, in this column I am trying to make a very serious point about the importance of accurate and precise communication. Be exact, leave no room for doubt and you will avoid any confusion. I would be happy to explain this to you in person.  Let’s meet at Starbucks tomorrow at 9 a.m. Don’t be late.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES

Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft Word document or in the body of an email. Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising nature. Letters should be exclusive to Current Publishing. Unsigned letters and letters deemed to be of a libelous nature will not be published. Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent.com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.

Danielle Wilson is a contributing columnist. You may email her at info@youarecurrent.com.

Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@youarecurrent. com.

Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.

Actors bring chemistry to ‘Grumpy Old Men’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Longtime friends Eddie Curry and Jeff Stockberger have built a strong stage chemistry through the years.

MUSICAL

The Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre regulars will appear in “Grumpy Old Men: The Musical” Aug. 24 to Oct. 1 at the Indianapolis venue. Curry plays John and Stockberger plays Max, who have been feuding for years.

“It’s scary, actually,” Curry said of the chemistry. “We communicate with a mere look and know what the other is thinking. We work off each other well, on and off stage. We read each other. We know when and when not to push, or when or when not to pull, that sort of thing. I always feel on my game when working with Jeff.”

Stockberger said there is no one he trusts more on stage than Curry.

“We weirdly share a brain when it comes to most things, but especially when we are performing together,” he said. “I always know he has my back on stage and will continue the momentum of the show when we take turns performing in scenes.”

Stockberger and Curry met in 1989 while working at Galveston Island Outdoor Musicals.

“We spent two summers in Galveston, then by the mid-1990s we were working together at Beef & Boards and have never really stopped since,” Stockberger said.

The musical is based on the 1993 movie, “Grumpy Old Men,” featuring Walter Matthau and Jack Lemmon. Stockberger said he and Curry weren’t very familiar with the show, so they went on a few road trips to see other productions.

“It helped us discover how we wanted to play these roles and the general tone we wanted to set for the show,” Stockberger said.

Stockberger said the cast includes other longtime friends, including Beef &

“Eddie, Ty Stover, Doug Stark and I have known each other for decades, but I believe this will be the first time the four of us will be singing a song together in a show,” Stockberger said. “That’s going to be a blast.”

Curry said cast chemistry is important to how the show plays to its audience.

“The cast that we have put together for this show has that chemistry in buckets,” Curry said. “This is going to be a really fun ride.”

Sarah Hund plays the neighbor, Ariel, who both men are interested in romantically.

“I love Ariel because she sees the positive side of every situation,” Hund said. “She is a free spirit who finds joy and possibility in everyone she meets, and she never hesitates to encourage others in the direction of their dreams. On top of that, she is perceptive, intuitive and well-educated. And she knows how to have a good time.”

Hund has performed in several shows with Curry and Stockberger.

“We’ve had several different working relationships, as fellow actors, stage managers and actors, directors and actors, and so on,” she said. “After working together on so many projects, we understand the rhythm and science of each other’s comedy styles. At this point, we’ve developed a shared language, shortcuts

to communicating that make our jobs infinitely easier. It’s always a pleasure to create characters and tell stories with people you like and admire so much.”

Hund said the “hardest part of being on stage with Jeff Stockburger is keeping a straight face when he’s up to his hilarious antics. But I am always up for the challenge.”

Curry said his character is one of a series of father characters he has had fun playing the last couple of seasons.

“Each one (is) more flawed than the other, yet each one finds his way to some kind of redemption, or at least redeemable act by the end,” Curry said. “John Gustafson, played by Jack Lemmon in the movie, is a great guy, loved by all, except by that one moron that lives across the street. In my case, he sits across the dressing room. The most fun thing for me is going to be sharing this show and the insults with my moron friend, Jeff Stockberger.”

The challenge for Stockberger is to take his character, Max, who could be easily unlikeable, and have people identify with him.

“Max is a good guy,” Stockberger said. “He’s just let his grudge with John add unnecessary negativity to his life. There are a lot of good opportunities for laughs and quite emotional moments with this character that will be fun to explore.”

For more, visit beefandboards.com.

SYMPHONY ON THE PRAIRIE

One Night of Queen will perform at 8 p.m. Aug. 25-26 in the Symphony on the Prairie series at Conner Prairie in Fishers. For more, visit indianapolissymphony.org.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Vocalist Adam B. Shapiro’s Made in Indiana show is set for 7:30 p.m. Aug. 26 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

“FOUR OLD BROADS’

“Four Old Broads” runs through Aug. 27 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.

TRIBUTE TO JOHNNY CASH

James Garner’s Tribute to Johnny Cash is set for 7:30 p.m. Aug. 26 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

DISPATCHES

Prog Rock at the Irving Theater — TuNer, featuring King Crimson band members Trey Gunn and Pat Mastelotto, will perform in concert at 8 p.m. Aug. 25 at the Irving Theater. ProgJect, featuring the music of Genesis, Peter Gabriel, ELP, Yes and Rush, is set for 7:30 p.m. Aug. 27. For more, visit attheirving.com.

Singer lends voice for charity — Singers

Ashley Nicole Soprano and Mary Evans are lending their voices to the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease by performing “Music to Remember” at 7 p.m. Aug. 23 at The Cat in Carmel. Doors open at 6:15 with light refreshments. Tickets are $30 each, and all the proceeds will go to the Indianapolis Walk to End Alzheimer’s, which takes place Sept. 30. For more, visit thecat.biz.

Edwards Twins to return to Feinstein’s

— The Edwards Twins, who use state-of-theart makeup to perform a variety show as legendary superstars, returns Oct. 20-21 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The Edwards Twins had a sold-out show at Feinstein’s in October 2022. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

Boards owner Doug Stark

Eddie Curry, left, and Jeff Stockberger appear in a previous production of “The Odd Couple.” (Photo courtesy of Beef & Boards)

Hund

NIGHT & DAY Fishers couple’s variety show set

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

When Ryan and Lauren Ahlwardt decided to put together a variety show, they did some homework.

ENTERTAINMENT

“We’ve been studying clips of ‘Sonny and Cher,’ the Rat Pack, Carol Burnett, etc., to create comedic and musical moments of our own that will fit the nostalgic and classic ambience of Feinstein’s,” Ryan Ahlwardt said.

Ahlwardt’s first variety show Aug. 18 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel was sold out. His second show is set for 7:30 p.m. Sept. 1.

Ahlwardt, a Fishers resident, said he approached Hotel Carmichael’s staff in early June about creating a regular night of music, storytelling and comedy at Feinstein’s.

“Since I host ‘Indy Now’ on FOX 59, I thought ‘Indy Nights’ would be a perfect name for the new show with Lauren and our friends,” he said.

Ahlwardt, a former Straight No Chaser member, and Lauren Ahlwardt are vocalists. The special guests for the two shows will be singer-songwriter Michael Luginbill of Straight No Chaser and mentalist and magician Jon Mobley. The band for the Sept. 1 show includes Randy Melson, bass; Troye Kinnett, piano; Matt Mellinger, drums; and Stephen Scharbrough, electric guitar.

“Lauren and I knew that we wanted to create something that we would want to watch when we were discussing the initial vision of the show,” Ahlwardt said. “Our friendship began over 20 years ago at IU when we sang in Straight No Chaser and Ladies First. We loved to make each other laugh then and still do now. Every comedic moment that will happen in the shows all came from Lauren. She has a theater degree from IU and was a member of the ComedySportz improv comedy troupe in Indy for several years. She’s created a wheel of celebrities and singers’ faces that audience members will spin for us to impersonate throughout the night.”

Ahlwardt said they will feature some arrangements of songs by Fleetwood Mac, James Taylor, Whitney Houston and some theme songs from 1980s and ‘90s TV shows.

Ahlwardt

DAY

Pentatonix to harmonize Ruoff

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

There is a reason why Pentatonix vocalists’ voices blend so well together.

PUZZLE ANSWERS SPONSORED BY SHEPHERD INSURANCE

“We’ve grown a lot together and we’ve seen each other through so many stages of life,” group member Matt Sallee said. “It just brings you even closer together. It brings richness to the music. It’s a really beautiful journey and we really do love each other.”

CONCERT

Sallee joined the group in 2017 after original member Avi Kaplan left. The other four original members are still part of the a cappella group founded in 2011.

Petantonix will perform at 8 p.m. Aug. 26 at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville. Lauren Alaina is joining the tour as a special guest.

Pentatonix won the third season of “The Sing-Off” on NBC in 2011. Sallee said he was inspired by both the show and the group, and his high school group attended a workshop with Pentatonix in 2012.

“It was a full-circle moment,” Sallee said

Pentatonix is set to perform Aug. 26 at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville. (Photo courtesy of Live Nation)

join the group was a blessing. I don’t take it for granted.”

Members Kirsten Maldonado, Mitch Grassi and Scott Hoying grew up together and attended the same high school in Texas. Kevin Olusola joined before “The Sing-Off.”

Sallee said they usually sing classic covers like “The Sound of Silence,” “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “Hallelujah.” There is a medley of originals the group performs from its 2021 album, “The Lucky Ones.”

“I really like singing ‘The Sound of Silence’

Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE: Presidents: BIDEN, BUSH, FORD, NIXON, OBAMA, TAFT; Genres: FANTASY, HISTORY, POETRY, REFERENCE, ROMANCE; Cities: CARMEL, COLUMBUS, CONNERSVILLE, CRAWFORDSVILLE; Websites: REDFIN, TRULIA, ZILLOW; Chefs: BOBBY FLAY, RACHAEL RAY;

Blueprint for Improvement: Kitchen transformation in Zionsville

Commentary by Larry Greene

Built in 1997, this home’s kitchen had great bones, but the curved island configuration and impractical desk obstructed the room’s natural flow, necessitating a makeover to improve form and function. A new appliance arrangement, custom cabinetry and updated finishes resulted in a wow-worthy space that is as functional as it is stylish.

THE BLUEPRINT

• The neutral palette brightens the space, while chic gold accents add warmth and elegance to create a timeless appeal.

• Statement lantern pendants provide a touch of style without dominating the visual space.

• Removing the desk and relocating the refrigerator and double ovens provide increased storage space and an improved aesthetic.

• A knife block drawer, charging drawer and hidden microwave keep essential elements out of sight but within arm’s reach.

• The new island provides ample work and gathering space without interrupting the room’s flow.

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.

8. Give false hope

14. City in Boone County (Asia)

15. City in Steuben County (Africa)

16. Dance class wear

17. Oddball

18. Recurring theme

19. Hosiery mishap

21. Boilermaker, to a Hoosier

22. Worn-down pencil

24. “Semper Fi” org. 26. NHS lab class 29. Tree house 31. “We have the meats” chain

35. Pets on perches

38. Black-and-white snack

39. Intensive care ___

40. City in Miami County (South America)

41. ___ Street Journal

42. Parks of civil rights fame

43. Run off

45. India’s first prime minister

47. Connery or Penn

48. Leak sound

49. Rose-Hulman, e.g.

51.

53.

56.

58.

62. Captured

64.

67.

68.

69.

27. White River transport

28. Cathedral HS athletes, briefly

30. Hopes that one will

32. Thin nails

33. Screams at Hinkle

Fieldhouse

34. Shoe bottoms

36. Video game innovator

37. Darfur’s locale

44. Hungry person’s query

46. Reveal

50. Move like a crab

52. Mafia bosses

53. Novel ID

54. Notorious fiddler

55. Actress Cameron

57. ___ sum

59. Photos, informally

60. Delicate fabric

61. Nephew of Cain and Abel

63. Snoring, in comics

(Abbr.)

Big Apple letters

Ill. neighbor

ISO stringed instrument

Syrup flavor

Like a perfect world

66. City in Clay County (South America)

Town in Newton County (Africa)

Gas pump part

Equipment used to print

1. Zionsville Farmers’ Market fruit

2. Nevada gambling spot

3. Some final words

4. Foreign language taught at Carmel HS

5. Bummed

6. “___ he’s a jolly...”

7. Colts linemen

8. Buddhist monks

9. Baffling problem

10. Rokita and Hill, initially 11. Tip, as a hat

12. Fishers N-S road

13. Ex-Pacers coach Bjorkgren

20. Pecan or walnut, e.g. 23. Notification sounds

25. Victory Field spectators 26. Reject

Indy Library Genres

WFMS Radio Station (99.5 FM) Format

65. Raptors, on a Pacers scoreboard Answers on Page 15

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