January 23, 2024 — Zionsville by Current Publishing

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FOR THE FUN OF IT Play cafe for parents and children opens near Zionsville / P10

Town council, mayor discuss future plans / P2

Boone EDC announces board of directors / P5

Zionsville-based 120Water lands $43 million investment / P11

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Tuesday, January 23, 2024

January 23, 2024

COMMUNITY

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Town council, mayor discuss plans for future By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

What happened: Stehr discussed creating a grant writer’s contractual position.

The Zionsville Town Council met Jan. 16 to discuss several ordinances and receive updates from Mayor John Stehr. The next town council meeting is set for 7 p.m. Feb. 5 at Town Hall. What happened: An ordinance was introduced to the town council by Stehr to establish a pathways committee. What it means: Stehr said the committee would combine the pathways and pedestrian mobility committees into one five-member committee, including a town council member, two mayoral appointees and two council appointees. Attorney Heather Harris stated that as the code of ordinances is being revised, the goal is to incorporate more committees to improve public transparency.

What’s next: The town council will discuss appointments after assessing pathways and pedestrian mobility committee members.

What happened: Stehr introduced an ordinance to formally establish the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council. What it means: Composed of 19 high school students chosen by former Zionsville Community High School government teacher Mary Grabanowski, the MYAC will meet monthly at Town Hall before school and give input on relevant matters. The students will be encouraged to do a service project and present it to the town council at the end of the school year.

What it means: Using money from the Food and Beverage fund, Stehr proposed hiring a part-time grant writer to work across all town departments to research and write grant applications. He proposed a six-month trial period, when the town council and mayor’s administration could reassess if the position should continue for another six months, be expanded to a full-time position or implement a new protocol. Councilmember Craig Melton said he would like to see the position worked into the budget, and believes having a grant writer on staff would be a good idea. What happened: Stehr proposed submitting a request for a proposal to manage, operate and maintain the Zionsville Golf Course. What it means: Stehr said appropriate management of the Zionsville Golf Course has been “a bit difficult,” and he has researched how other municipality golf courses are managed. He said a private operator could help manage transactions and flood issues at the course.

What’s next: If the proposal is pursued, Harris, Stehr and Parks and Recreation Superintendent Jared Logsdon would collaborate to write the RFP. A decision will be made later regarding the draft in progress.

Construction set to begin this year on delayed pathway project By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com In early 2017, Carmel and Zionsville officials announced they were working together to complete a INFRASTRUCTURE multi-use path along 116th Street to connect the two municipalities with work to begin the following year. Seven years later, construction still has not begun. Carmel City Engineer Jeremy Kashman said the city ended up working on some other initiatives ahead of this one. “The project had some complexities in

the design we were working through which allowed other projects in the queue to take a higher priority,” he said. The delay could soon be coming to an end, however, as work is set to begin this year. The city has selected Morphey Construction to build the pathway, which will fill in gaps between Michigan Road and the Long Branch Estates neighborhood and make a connection between Shelborne and Towne roads. The path will be constructed on the north side of 116th Street. The project also includes a crosswalk between West Park and University High School. Carmel is working to finalize the purchase of the remaining right of way needed to complete

the project. Zionsville is working through right of way issues on its side of the border, too. “We are working with Witham, the only property owner within Zionsville (for this project), on the acquisition of new right of way to accommodate the pathway,” said Lance Lantz, Zionsville director of public works. “The inclusion of the portion within Zionsville is subject to successful negotiations between the town and Witham.” Kashman said he expects construction in Carmel to be substantially complete this year with final completion in 2025. The total cost is expected to be less than $2.5 million and will be substantially funded through bonds Carmel issued in 2022.

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January 23, 2024

Current in Zionsville currentzionville.com

January 23, 2024

COMMUNITY

Current in Zionsville currentzionville.com

Mayor announces new business procedures news@currentzionsville.com

Newly Opened PersonCentered, Wellness-Based Memory Care

Zionsville Police Department and Zionsville Fire Department for public services.” Mayor John Stehr recently announced Vela said the new concept eliminates the new procedures that he said are more effiMunicipal Relations Center and moves staff cient ways for the back to their designated departSERVICES public to do busiment offices. The space formerly ness with the Town housing the MAC will be used by the of Zionsville. town’s permit and planning office. According to the town’s public In the future, more services and information officer, Amanda Vela, amenities will be added to streama first-floor reception desk at line business at Town Hall, includZionsville Town Hall will serve as ing a centrally located payment kia welcome and information area osk to help process payments more Stehr for guests. The Zionsville Police efficiently. Department and Zionsville Fire Department The ZPD headquarters at 1075 Parkway headquarters will also re-open for public Dr. is now open to the public, and police-reservices, including permits, fingerprinting lated services are being conducted there. and more. Services available at the ZPD headquarters “After gathering data from people who include solicitor permits, golf cart permits, do business with the town and our town background checks and fingerprint services. staff, I believe there are more efficient ways ZFD headquarters remain inside Town Hall to handle operations in Town Hall,” Stehr and are also open to the public. stated. “That starts with a main welcome Town Hall and the ZPD headquarters are desk and department liaisons moving back open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to to their departments so we can re-open the 4 p.m.

While a cure does not yet exist, residents in our memory care private suites at Zionsville Meadows can still enjoy a high quality of life and participate in fulfilling activities and programs. The setting provides feelings of comfort and security without restricting freedom or limiting mobility.

Zionsville resident launches campaign for Indiana House seat news@currentzionsville.com

17 years as a network architect and senior program manager for Accenture, one of the Zionsville resident Tiffany Stoner recently largest global consulting firms. announced her candidacy for the Indiana “I believe in the importance of represenHouse of Representatation that truly reflects the needs POLITICS tives District 25 seat. of the community, and after knockThe primary is in May. ing on thousands of doors, I know Stoner was a Democratic candione thing for sure — Hoosiers want date for the Zionsville Town Council balance,” Stoner stated. “Let’s strive District 5 seat in 2023. to have strong, vibrant and safe “I’ve been deeply rooted in Zionscommunities with adequate infraville for 24 years as a small-busistructure and well-funded schools.” Stoner ness owner, passionate volunteer, Stoner stated Indiana has shifted mother of four and wife of a Colonel in the away from being known for sound policies Army Reserves,” Stoner stated. “I stand for to a state that makes national news for the the return of civility, sensibility and respect wrong reasons. for our legislature. I believe I’m the leader “I want Hoosiers to draw the national who can build consensus and lead progress spotlight for our valuable contributions for all Hoosiers—nothing fancy, just hard and accomplishments,” Stoner stated. “We work.” can be a state where residents want to Stoner has owned Nathaniel Edmunds stay, and businesses want to invest for the Photography since 2001. She has a master’s future.” in information and communications sciencFor more, visit tiffanystoner.com. es from Ball State University. She also spent

Join us for our Memory Care

OPEN HOUSE!

Wednesday, January 24th 2-4 p.m. Stop by to meet the team, take a tour, enjoy refreshments and prizes!

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January 23, 2024

COMMUNITY

Current in Zionsville currentzionville.com

FRIENDS CELEBRATE CLASSMATE’S LAST CHEMOTHERAPY SESSION

From left, siblings Mollie, Trey, William and Kayden Lizanich at the Boys & Girls Club in Zionsville, where a group of third-grade classmates from Union Elementary School gathered Jan. 12 to celebrate Trey, who recently completed 18 months of chemotherapy. Handmade signs were displayed congratulating Trey on ringing the bell and completing his last chemotherapy treatment for cancer.

Boone EDC announces 2024 board of directors news@currentzionsville.com The Boone County Economic Development Corp. recently announced its 2024 Board of Directors. COUNTY NEWS “Our team is excited to welcome so many well-established business executives and community leaders to our Board of Directors and are looking forward to continuing our efforts to move our strategic plan forward,” stated Molly Whitehead, executive director of the Boone EDC. According to Jennifer Rubenstein, director of marketing and communications for the Boone EDC, Shane Conner is stepping into

the role of president. Adam Owens, the president and chief executive officer of RL Turner Corp., is assisting as vice president. Corey Kutz, recognized for his commitment to Lebanon’s growth and development, now serves as secretary and treasurer. The 2024 board further includes: • Rick Isenhower, the former board president and a fourth-generation farmer rooted in Boone County • Shari Richey, a Boone County Council member • Lisa Galvin, a realtor • Kelly Braverman, president and CEO of Witham Health Services

DISPATCH Memory care — Zionsville Meadows at 675 S. Ford Rd. will hold an open house from 2 to 4 p.m. Jan. 24 for its new memory care center. The public is invited to take a tour of the newly renovated private suites, meet the team and enjoy refreshments and prizes. For more, call 317-873-5205.

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nd qualifications,

Psychology Science Welding

Something I miss seeing on Saturday mornings is guys working on their cars. That’s what Saturdays were all about years ago. There were six of us, and we would decide the previous Saturday whose car we would work on the following week. The work level depended on the car’s age and how many miles were on the odometer. And money. You need money to buy parts. My backyard was the “garage” because there was a big tree with a limb perfect for attaching a hoist, which we used to remove the engine from the car. We’d usually start at about 9 a.m. by draining the oil and water. Then, we would disconnect the control cables and remove the bolts attaching the transmission to the engine. Finally, we removed the car’s hood and attached cables to the engine and the hoist. We spent the rest of the morning stripping the engine of parts. We would take the valves to a shop in town to have them worked on. Then, we would remove the cylinders and dress the cylinder walls with a ridge reamer. New rings were next, along with crankshaft inserts. Then, as soon as the valves returned from the shop, we put the entire mechanism back together, reattached the hoist and returned the engine to the car. We all had our tools, but the most essential member of our team was Jimmy because he had a torque wrench, a tool vital to getting all the bolts tightened to the proper tension. The torque wrench was the most expensive tool back then, so nobody except Jimmy had one. Usually, at about 4 p.m., we’d have everything reassembled and start the car. One of the guys had a “good ear,” and he would set the timing by listening to the engine. By 5 p.m. most Saturdays, we would be cruising Main Street. All of that in a single day. Nowadays, a guy can’t even change the spark plugs on most cars.

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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.

January 23, 2024

COMMUNITY

Current in Zionsville currentzionville.com

DISPATCHES Seminar — Amanda Rubeck from STAR Financial Bank will host a free fraud seminar with the Zionsville Police Department at 6 p.m. Jan. 24 at Town Hall, 1100 W. Oak St. The seminar will discuss fraud awareness and is limited to the first 100 people. Register at form.jotform.com/233515920741049. Master Naturalist Program — Registration has opened up for Zionsville Parks and Recreation’s Indiana Master Naturalist program. This program offers hands-on opportunities to learn about Indiana’s natural resources including plants, water, soils, wildlife and more. Participants must be 18 or older, able to meet every other Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. Feb. 15 through May 23 and complete 24 hours of volunteering to earn an IMN certificate and pin. Register at zionsvillein.myrec.com/info/activities/program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29913. Trash update — If you are a resident receiving trash/recycling services through the town’s priority trash contract, live Christmas trees will be accepted throughout January as part of the regular weekly trash collection. Any tree 8 feet or taller must be cut into 4-foot sections. If it’s 8 feet tall, it must be cut in half. 500 Festival — On Jan. 10, the 500 Festival began its 2024 season by hosting a celebration event and kicking off registration for the 500 Festival Volunteer Program, presented by Citizens Energy Group. The event included a sneak peek of the 2024 OneAmerica Mini-Marathon participant hat, tips for first timers who are interested in participating in the mini-marathon and OneAmerica associates/runners leading a group run. Individuals interested in volunteering with the 500 Festival can sign up at 500festival.com/volunteer. Apply for Governor’s Fellowship — Gov. Eric J. Holcomb is accepting applications through Jan. 31 for the 2024–2025 Governor’s Fellowship. The fellowship is highly selective and provides a unique experience in Indiana state government by placing fellows in various state agencies on a rotating basis throughout the year. The program is open to college graduates who receive their bachelor’s degrees beginning in either summer or fall of 2023 or spring of 2024. Fellows are paid, full-time employees who participate in the day-to-day activities of state government. Learn more at in.gov/ gov/fellowship.htm.

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January 23, 2024

COMMUNITY

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SUBARU OUTBACK

Map for a single-tenant, retail building with the proposed use being a liquor store. (Map provided by Indy Holdings, LLC)

Plan Commission revisits PUD, conditionally OKs building LIMITED

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By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

The Zionsville Plan Commission met Jan. 16 at Town Hall and revisited items, including the Bradley Ridge Planned Unit Development, and introduced TOWN NEWS new projects. Henke Development has requested the rezoning of 349-plus for up to 48 months based on acres of land — nine parcels — north of C.R. approved credit for the 2024 Outback 200 and south of C.R. 100 S. The rezoning was revisited during the Oct. 16, 2023, meetSHOP ONLINE ANDExpires WE WILL DELIVER IT TO YOU! 1/31/24 ing and discussion has been on hold since. *Offer ends 6/30/22. On approved credit. Security deposit waived. Finance deal may not include vehicle trim levels shown. Fees subject to the state of residency. Specials dependent on credit. The petition involves multiple parcels *Offer ends 6/30/22. On approved credit. Security deposit waived. Finance deal may not include WAC.SHOP See dealer for details. between U.S. 421 and C.R. 950 E. Henke DeAND WE DELIVER IT TOonYOU! vehicle trimONLINE levels shown. Fees subject to the WILL state of residency. Specials dependent credit. WAC. See dealer for details. velopment wants to rezone the area for a $700 million-plus planned unit development, Bradley Ridge, to allow for a mixed-use project of primarily single-family residential housing with areas for cultural/entertainment uses and recreational uses included. Matt Price spoke on behalf of Henke Development and said the development group met with Save Rural Zionsville on Dec. 22, THE CAR YOU WANT. THE WAY YOU WANT. 2023, to provide revisions to the PUD and THE CAR YOU WANT. THE WAY YOU WANT. answers to their questions. Along with follow-up questions that are still pending with Save Rural Zionsville, the staff notes on the project raise questions TomWoodSubaru.com about the project’s sanitary sewer service. 317.805.7775 “We feel like the only way to be able to 3300 E 96th St respond more fully to that is to meet with the staff and perhaps other parties that we Indianapolis, IN 46240 do not control in order to flush that issue 3300 E 96th St out further,” Price said.

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The project has had six continuances, and plan commission member Chris Lake recommended continuing the discussion during the March 18 meeting. Once the commission hears the issues in March, the plan commission will take a vote. “At this point in time, with the number of continuances we’ve had, I think we’d like to say move it to the March meeting, and at that point either hear it or withdraw it and move on from there,” Lake said. The matter will be discussed at the March 18 plan commission meeting. The plan commission was also presented with a development plan for a 6,500-plussquare-foot retail building in the rural general business district and within the rural Michigan Road overlay. The development at 3251 S. U.S. Highway 421 in Zionsville proposes constructing a single-tenant retail building with the proposed use being a liquor store, which is a permitted use in the zoning classification. The request also included two waivers for architectural design and building materials. The plan commission approved the request for the two waivers with the condition that the roof pitch over the entry of the building matches either the nearby gas station or the main Appaloosa Crossing retail building. The development plan was also conditionally approved, subject to outstanding review items, including pole and wall pack lighting. The next plan commission meeting is set for 6:30 p.m. Feb. 20 at Town Hall.

January 23, 2024

COMMUNITY

Current in Zionsville currentzionville.com

Fishers senior basketball player improves with age By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Fishers High School basketball coach Garrett Winegar is convinced the best is yet to come for senior Keenan Garner. “He is just scratching the surface,” Winegar said. Garner, a 6-foot-6 guard/forward, doesn’t turn 18 until April. “Also, with living on a U.S. Army base in Germany for seven years prior to returning to the States last year, Keenan has not played as much basketball as many of the kids in the States have,” Winegar said. “On top of all that, he works his butt off, is a terrific kid and leader and is going to do what it takes to continue to grow.” Garner, who moved to Fishers in September 2022, was averaging more than 16 points and eight rebounds as of Jan. 18. The Tigers were 14-0 at the time. “Keenan has improved the most with his ball handling, passing and finishing and his overall game IQ and feel for the game,” Winegar said. “He has really developed into a true wing/guard who has the ability to also play in the post. Keenan has worked

MEET KEENAN GARNER

Favorite athlete: LeBron James Favorite subject: Advanced physical conditioning Favorite musician: Rod Wave Favorite movie: “Coach Carter” extremely hard to improve his game and get stronger, and because of that, he’s finishing at a higher rate. He also has worked a lot on his shot and is knocking in shots when he takes them.” Garner said everyone has to play a bigger role after Jalen Haralson transferred to La Lumiere, a prep school in LaPorte. Haralson averaged 23.4 points as a sophomore last season. “It took a lot of people buying in the

Fishers High School senior Keenan Garner leads the Tigers in scoring. (Photo courtesy of Fishers athletics)

offseason and really just believing we can win any game we go into,” Garner said. “We have really good team chemistry. We do things on and off the court. Once you have that relationship off the court, it translates to on the court. We’re unselfish and we trust each other in the big moments.”

Garner said his biggest leap from last season has been as a leader. “I’m teaching everybody everything I can to have a really good senior season,” Garner said. “I’m focusing on all parts of my game, not just scoring but rebounding and assisting. I’m trying to be a more versatile player. I’m trying to do a lot of everything, not just one thing.” Garner, who was averaging 63 percent shooting from the field, averaged 7.9 points on 55 percent shooting last season. “We have a lot of good shooters,” he said. “I feel like everyone on our team can step up and hit a shot, and that opens up driving lanes.” In Germany, Garner said his high school played against other schools from military bases. Garner began playing basketball when he was about 11 years old. He was trained and coached by Mario Coursey for approximately five years. “He helped me fall in love with the game and it grew from there,” he said. Garner has NCAA Division I offers from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and Eastern Illinois, in addition to some NAIA offers.

January 23, 2024

COVER STORY

Current in Zionsville

FOR THE FUN OF IT currentzionville.com

Play cafe for parents and children opens near Zionsville

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com There’s a new way for Zionsville families to play this winter. A grand opening was held Jan. 16 for The Busy Bee, a play cafe for parents and children. Zionsville couple Kristina and Kevin Lai created an indoor playground at 5635 W. 96th St., designed for children and adults. With “little to nothing similar” in the area, the Lai family hopes their business will bring something new and exciting to town. Kristina Lai “Our indoor playground is different from others because we’re also focused on the adults having a good experience. We’re not just 100 percent kid-focused,” Kristina said. “We want the kids to have a great time, but we also want parents to have an equally great time.” At $15 for a full day pass, the new business features an indoor play structure, playhouses and a mini road for little ones to drive on. There are couches, worktables, gourmet coffee and snacks for adults, so parents can relax while their children play. “We have a full espresso bar and treats from Zionsville Bake Shop,” Kristina said. “Our walk-in daily admission is $15, so if families want to leave, go home for a nap and return in the afternoon, they can do that. We don’t do time limits unless we’re at capacity.” The business offers monthly memberships for those with one child at $48 per month, and for families with multiple children the cost $68 per month. Play packs, which come with four passes at $50 or eight passes at $95, are also available. Birthday parties are also offered at the new indoor playground, and Kristina said reservations are filling up. “We have three party rooms, and we’re booking up pretty quickly,” Kristina said. “We’re running about 10 parties a weekend right now, and we expect that to increase because there’s not a ton of party options on this side of town.” The family is excited about the business venture.

The play structure in the cafe has zero blind spots so parents can watch their children. (Photos by Adam Sief)

From left, Lucy, Abigail and Natalie Anderson playing on the slide during opening day.

“There are great things to do in Castleton and on the west side of town (in Zionsville), but there wasn’t a whole lot indoors on the north side,” Kristina said. “We have a ton of great hiking trails and outdoor activities,

but in the winter, there’s little to do on this side of town.” The Lai family designed the space with safety in mind. Kristina said the play structure is smaller, which serves a purpose. “We designed (the play structure) so parents can see where their kid is at all times,” Kristina said. “There are no blind spots, and parents can see their child and go up there if they need to help them.” The space, designed primarily for kids 1 to 11, includes a pretend play town, where children can play make-believe with different careers. The play area has no age limit. “They can be a vet for the day, or they can deliver some mail,” Kristina said. “We also have some large Lego bricks, but they’re not Lego. They’re just large building blocks for kids to build little structures. We think they will enjoy that.” As a nurse with four young children, Kristina was ready to find a career that worked better with her children’s schedules. The idea for the indoor cafe and playground came about 10 years ago when the Lai family attended a birthday party at a similar business.

“We first had the idea at my niece’s birthday party, just looking around realizing that the kids were having a blast,” Kristina said. “However, there was nowhere for parents to sit or any good food to enjoy. That’s how we came up with the coffee bar.” Kristina’s husband Kevin said the couple’s kids love that the space is designed with them and their friends in mind. “It’s been a long journey getting from conception to launch, and our whole family is so proud to share our dream with our neighbors, friends and community,” Kevin said. Kristina said the name Busy Bee came to mind because it describes the busy nature of children and parents. “I was trying to think of a word that describes parents and kids equally, and the first one that popped into my mind was busy, but busy in different ways,” Kristina said. “Kids are just busy in general, but parents are busy, too. We want to let them both come in here and be busy or not at the same time, depending on how they’re feeling. They can bring some work to do while the kids play or just come and relax.” The business is open year-round, seven days a week, with the possibility of expansion. “We are going to wait and see how this goes,” Kristina said. “I’m doing this on my own for the most part, but I’ve heard other business owners say that and open up a second location on the other side of town. So, it’s not off the table but there are no active plans.” ON THE COVER: 3-year-old Benjamin Jones

from Carmel plays with the cafe’s lego blocks at the grand opening. (Photo by Adam Sief)

IF YOU GO ADDRESS: 5635 W 96th St. Suite 200, Indianapolis, IN 46278 HOURS OF OPERATION: The Busy Bee is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. WEBSITE: thebusybeeplaycafe.com

January 23, 2024

BUSINESS LOCAL

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Floor coating business expands By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com In 2016, Noblesville resident Aaron Reed found a side hustle that would later become an entrepreENTREPRUNEURSHIP neurial venture. It was Garage Force, a national franchise specializing in floor coating installation. Prior to 2016, Reed and his wife Patti collectively spent 30 years working in the corporate world. Aaron and Patti both worked at McDonald’s, and Patti later worked for Riverview Hospital. When Aaron discovered Garage Force of Indianapolis North, he started working for the company part time when he wasn’t working his first job. Aaron said after a couple of years, he wanted to start his own business. “I was getting tired of the corporate world,” Aaron said. “The opportunity came up to open up my own (Garage Force).” In 2018, Aaron opened Garage Force of Indianapolis South. In 2021, Garage Force of Indianapolis North was sold to Aaron because the owner wanted to pursue other career opportunities. When the Reeds owned both locations, they decided to merge them into one, Garage Force of Indianapolis. It provides services for Indianapolis and nearby areas like Fishers and Noblesville.

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Patti said the business was so successful that she was able to leave her old job to join Aaron in operating the business in 2021. Today, it’s family business. Garage Force uses polyurea coating with flooring installation. The coating is highly durable and is often used to coat and seal garage floors and, according to the Reeds, lasts longer than traditional coating, making it ideal for regularly used surfaces like garage floors and places with concrete. For more, visit indianapolis.garageforce. com.

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Edison Partners, a growth equity investment firm, recently announced a $43 million growth investment in FINANCING 120Water, a leading cloudbased water management and testing system based in Zionsville. According to the company, the money will further expand the 120Water team, technology investments and go-to-market efforts. “Over the past seven years, 120Water has built a highly scalable, cloud-based, endto-end platform unlike any others,” stated General Partner Ryan Ziegler, a member of Edison Partners’ board of directors. “(120Water) Co-founder and CEO Megan Glover is a water quality expert with a strong vision, matched with a highly effective team. We’re proud to partner with 120Water, which is helping utilities at all levels of scale tackle

these daunting federal and state requirements efficiently, affordably and with modern technology.” 120Water is the only platform offering a complete end-to-end digital water compliance solution with its data collection and aggregation solution, testing capabilities, kit provision, program management and consulting services, according to Edison Partners. “With public access to water utility lead service line inventories next year, we expect heightened awareness and increased public demand for quicker remediation in water quality,” Glover stated. “In this next expansion phase for our company, we feel well prepared with the partnership and operating expertise that Edison offers as we continue to grow and confidently support this impending demand.” For more, visit 120Water.com.

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January 23, 2024

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ATI actors get their kicks on ‘Route 66’ By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Craig Underwood had so much fun with Actors Theatre of Indiana’s presentation of “Route 66” in 2012, he was MUSICAL eager to travel down that road again. The 2000 Hamilton Southeastern High School graduate, who is based in New York City, returns to play the same character he did in 2012 in the musical about traveling the famous route in ATI’s production set for Feb. 2-18 at the Studio Theater at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. “I’m excited to do it again,” Underwood said. “I had such a great time last time. I’m a little nervous because I am 12 years older, but I think it’ll be really fun.” Underwood contacted ATI when he learned it was presenting the show again. “Because it’s four people that have to sing together, it’s very specific,” he said. “I totally understand if I’m not the right fit this time, but I’d jump at the chance to do it. I love working for ATI.” The four men play different roles in vignettes, but all go by their real first names in each vignette. The music follows the area of the U.S. and the time from the 1950s to the mid-1960s. “I love when it gets to the Beach Boystype music,” Underwood said. “I think it amps it up and all the fun harmonies, and by that time we as performers are pretty tired because we’re like an hour and 20 minutes into the one-and-a-half-hour show. I think it gets us going again. It’s like a whole breath of fresh air. It just shows kind of how the music shifted from the ‘50s to the ‘60s.” Cynthia Collins, an ATI co-founder and Carmel resident, is directing and choreographing the musical. “From start to finish, it’s this high-energy journey on Route 66,” Collins said. “The show goes from Chicago to Los Angeles, and the music follows the journey. It starts out with bebop music from the ’50s.” The musical concludes with songs such as “Dead Man’s Curve,” “The Little Old Lady From Pasadena” and “GTO.” There are audio commercials from the

‘MENOPAUSE, THE MUSICAL” Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre presents “Menopause, the Musical” through Feb. 4 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com. FEINSTEIN’S CABARET Front, from left, Brett Mutter, Kieran Danaan. Back, from left, Eric Olson and Craig Underwood, form the cast of “Route 66.” (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

Feinstein’s presents “Deception: An Evening of Magic & Lies” at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 25; “Dueling Pianos,” presented by Brittany Brumfield & Baby Grand Entertainment, at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 26; and Eric Baker & Friends Presents: “The Piano Man: A Billy Joel Tribute” at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 27 at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com. AN EVENING WITH BRANFORD MARSALIS Saxophonist Branford Marsalis will perform at 8 p.m. Jan. 26 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org. CIRQUE GOES TO THE SYMPHONY

era, and radio disc jockeys reflect the area of the nation. Eric Olson, a Fishers resident, wasn’t familiar with the show but saw a video of the previous time ATI performed “Route 66.” “It’s really fun to hear a mix of songs and you are like, ‘I’ve known that song my whole life,’” said Olson, who works for Indiana Repertory Theatre as institutional giving manager and is in his fourth production with ATI. “Songs like ‘King of the Road’ mixed in with songs you’ve never heard before, but (it’s) a great tune. It’s a lot of work in a little time. These shows have a way of being terrifying in the beginning, thinking, ‘There is no way I can ever do this,’ and then a few days in, it’s ‘Hey, I’m doing this and it feels great.’” Each performer has a few solo songs. Brandon Vos, a Camby resident, is the music director. “It’s a fun show because I think a lot of the tunes are familiar to everybody,” Vos said. “It’s the boogie-boogie surfer rock and Beach Boys-type stuff. It’s just a lot of energy and a lot of fun for us and the

audience, too. There are participation moments a couple times.” Vos said there are more than 30 songs, mostly between 2 and 4 minutes long. “I’m in charge of specific parts of the music itself but they all bring their own personalities to it,” Vos said. Vos has worked with Indianapolis resident Brett Mutter at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. Mutter previously acted in ATI’s “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” “I love tight harmonies and tight quartet singing,” Mutter said. Cast member Kieran Danaan, a New York City resident, made his ATI debut in “Mr. Confidential” in May 2023. “The four of us in this cast get to be so versatile,” Danaan said. “We get to explore different sides of ourselves. The four of us are witty, so it’s going to be a good time.” Danaan said most of the music was new to him. “The music is very relaxing but it’s also upbeat,” he said. “The music has a good message.” For more, visit atistage.org.

The Carmel Symphony Orchestra will be joined by Cirque de la Symphonie at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 27 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org. GHOST LIGHT CABARET Civic Theatre will present “Hidden Gems” as part of its Ghost Light Cabaret’s fundraiser shows at 6 and 8:30 p.m. Jan. 24 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org. ‘COCKTAILS, COMEDY & COSTUMES’ Actors Theatre of Indiana’s fundraiser, “Cocktails, Comedy & Costumes,” is set for Jan. 26 at BASH in Carmel. The cocktail party begins at 6:30, followed by a meal at 7:15 and a show at 8 p.m. For more, visit atistage.org.

DISPATCH Hyperion Players presents ‘Doubt — A Parable’ — The Hyperion Players, with the support of The Farmers Bank, will present John Patrick Shanley’s “Doubt — A Parable,” Jan. 25-28 at The Switch Theatre in Fishers. The performances are at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 25-27 and 2:30 p.m. Jan. 28. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased at hyperionplayers.com/tickets/ or at the door.

January 23, 2024

NIGHT & DAY

Current in Zionsville currentzionville.com

ICC to release new choral series By Ken Severson editorial@youarecurrent.com

anapolis Children’s Choir’s new publishing arm publishes choral music for all ages and levels by composers who submit their work. Joshua Pedde is a music man. And a pubIf accepted, Pedde said the material can lishing man, too, and he wants to make sure be shared with other music teachers. others who compose “We try to reward them for their MUSIC quality music are heard, work,” Pedde said. especially with regard And they try to encourage comto the Indianapolis Children’s Choir. posers who submit material that is The Carmel resident is the arturned down because it does not tistic director of the Indianapolis suit the choir’s needs. Children’s Choir, which boasts one “We let them know why their of the largest children’s choir prowork doesn’t fit our needs,” Pedde Pedde grams in the world. Pedde also is said. “We try to give feedback, and one of the minds behind the Indiahopefully they continue to try and napolis Children’s Choir Publishing House, submit their work with others.” which is in partnership with Beckenhorst Pedde works with Leeann Starkey, co-ediPress of Columbus, Ohio. tor of the ICC Publishing House and also the And the partnership recently announced curriculum coordinator, as well as a director a new choral series by Henry Leck, the with the choir. Hamilton County resident Indianapolis Children’s Choir founder and Patrick Fata works with both to provide conductor laureate. new music. “We are very excited to have Henry Leck “I’m also one of the editors,” Pedde said. have his series at the publishing house,” “We all go through the material sent to us.” Pedde said. “He has made such an impact Besides the new choral series, the ICC on the field of choral music for over 30 Publishing House is releasing 12 additional years. We are proud to have him join us.” songs that range in style and voice arrangeFounded nearly three years ago, the Indiment, Pedde said.

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For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Center’s Fifth Third Bank Box Office at the Palladium, call 317.843.3800 or visit atistage.org.

January 23, 2024

NIGHT & DAY

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Commentary by Mark LaFay There is something very remarkable about freezing weather and the way it makes us all state the obvious: COMFORT FOOD “Wow, it’s cold outside.” But, hey, it is cold outside, and it has me thinking about some really good comfort food. I’ve got four go-to soup-and-sandwich combos that are perfect for chilly weather. Cozy up by the fireplace or Netflix, and the combos below are sure to be great warming companions. First up, you can’t beat the classic tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwich. It’s like they were made for each other. You’ve got that rich, somewhat-sweet tomato soup that’s just begging for a dunk of crispy, melty grilled cheese. It’s simple, delicious and never gets old. Dress up your sandwich with some bacon, bacon jam or hot pepper jam. Now, how about mixing it up a bit with French onion soup and a roast beef sandwich? This is a bit fancier, but, oh, man, it’s worth it. That savory onion soup with a melted Gruyère topping is something else. Pair that with a roast beef sandwich — think

crusty bread, a bit of horseradish kick and some fresh arugula. It’s a combo that’s a bit fancy but still down-to-earth good. Chicken noodle soup and a turkey club sandwich is where it’s at if you’re looking for something on the lighter side. You’ve got your classic chicken noodle soup, warm and comforting, right next to a stacked turkey club. Crisp lettuce, tomato, bacon, a smear of mayo — it’s fresh, it’s filling, and it hits the spot without weighing you down. Last but not least for all you seafood lovers, clam chowder is a must. It’s creamy, hearty and packed with clams. Pair it with a hot and delicious tuna melt. It’s simple, but, boy, does it complement that chowder well. So, there you go, four perfect soup-andsandwich pairs for when the weather has got you wanting something warm and satisfying. Give ‘em a try, and I bet they’ll become your winter favorites, too.