April 2, 2024 — Zionsville

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Founded March 20 2012, at Zionsville, IN Vol. XIII, No. 2

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Current Publishing, LLC

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Carmel, IN 46032 317.489.4444

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Opinions

The views of the columnists in Current in Zionsville are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.

Zionsville microblading artist has a ‘vision’ for fighting cancer

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

When the opportunity arose to use her talents to help others, Beth Wyeth found her second calling in life. But when her new career also became a way to raise funds to battle blood cancers, the Zionsville native knew she couldn’t say no to being a part of something bigger than herself.

FUNDRAISER

After the COVID-19 pandemic, Wyeth left her 20-year career as a dental hygienist to become a microblading artist at Arched in Zionsville. More than a creative endeavor, Wyeth sees her job as a way to help people, sometimes in life-changing ways.

“It is really creative, and I love the idea of working one-on-one with someone helping them feel better about themselves,” Wyeth said.

It was through her new career that she met clients who were being treated for blood cancers and had lost their hair.

“We see a lot of clients who have gone through or are going through chemotherapy and they are about to lose their eyebrows. So, we do a really natural look,” Wyeth said. “Having confidence every day, waking up and having your entire face there, that’s important.”

Working with those clients inspired Wyeth to get involved with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, participating in the Visionaries of the Year campaign in Indianapolis. Visionaries of the Year is a 10-week philanthropic competition for leaders in local communities across the U.S., where candidates raise funds for LLS, the highest earner awarded the local title and becoming eligible for the national title.

Wyeth said the campaign is a “friendly competition” to raise as much money as possible in 10 weeks. The big prize? bragging rights.

“They have three mission pillars,” she said of LLS. “One is research, the next is patient and family support, and the last is advocacy, getting the word out about different medical procedures as well as talking to lawmakers about making changes that can steer policies around blood cancers… It’s just amazing how much LLS does for people across the board. (Cancer) doesn’t just hit (one age

group), it hits everybody. It doesn’t matter what socioeconomic level you are; it doesn’t care. It’s out there and it’s really prevalent. So, the work that LLS is doing, the research alone, it blows my mind.”

This is Wyeth’s first fundraising effort.

“This is new to me. It is different. But we can do hard things,” she said.

The campaign, which kicked off in March, runs until May 18 and includes a team of more than a dozen people helping Wyeth with fundraising efforts, seeking sponsors and hosting events such as an event at CoHatch in Zionsville from 7 to 10 p.m. April 24, Botox and Bubbles from 4 to 7 p.m. May 9 at Arched. Other fundraising efforts include a pizza fundraiser with Marco’s Pizza on Michigan Road through May 17 as well a partnership with Salty Cowboy where 20 percent of April 9 and April 23 sales will be donated to Wyeth’s

For more information and to donate, visit pages.lls.org/voy/in/indy24/bwyeth.

ABOUT LEUKEMIA AND LYMPHOMA SOCIETY

• LLS has helped advance more than 75 percent of blood cancer treatments approved by the FDA over the last five years.

• LLS provided $142 million in financial assistance to blood cancer patients and their families in 2020.

• LLS volunteers include 30,000 people across the country who advocate for state and federal policies that improve the lives of cancer patients and survivors.

• In 2023, the nationwide revenue for the Visionary of the Year campaign raised $37 million to help find a cure for blood cancers.

Beth Wyeth, a microblading artist at Arched in Zionsville, is competing for the title of Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Visionary of the Year in Indianapolis. (Photo courtesy of Beth Wyeth/LLS) campaign.

Historical marker dedication – A ceremony to commemorate a new historical plaque where the Zionsville Train Depot once stood on the Big-4 Rail Trail will take place at 10 a.m. April 10 at the entrance to the Nancy Burton Trailhead off Starkey Road. The Town of Zionsville Parks Department and Parks Board approved the site for the historic plaque and will install it and two benches flanking either side of the marker. The public is invited to attend the event, which is sponsored by the SullivanMunce Cultural Center. For more, visit SullivanMunce.org

Greenfest vendors wanted – The Town of Zionsville will host Greenfest, April 27 from 9 a.m. until noon at Town Hall, 1100 W. Oak St. In celebration of Earth Day and Arbor Day, the event connects participants with resources to become good stewards of the environment and to learn about living sustainably while having fun. The Do It Again Art Market is an indoor art and fine craft show promoting recycling, reusing, and reclaiming of pre-consumer and post-consumer goods during Zionsville Greenfest. The town is seeking artists and crafters who source recycled, natural and reclaimed materials to create new products. Applications for vendors are being accepted through April 12 or until all spots are filled. Learn more and download an application at zionsville-in.gov/685/ Programs-Events

Free tax preparation — Indy Free Tax Prep is available to individuals and families with a household income of $66,000 or less in 2023. The program will run through mid-April in Boone, Hendricks, Marion and Morgan counties. Those seeking assistance can find a list of locations and instructions for signing up at indyfreetaxprep.com.

STEM camp in Zionsville – Camp Invention, a nationally recognized, nonprofit summer enrichment program, is coming to Zionsville Community Schools June 10 through 13. Camp Invention challenges children in grades K-6 to tap into their natural curiosity and use their creativity to solve problems. The camp promotes STEM learning, builds confidence and leadership and encourages entrepreneurship. Camp Invention serves 122,000 students every year and partners with more than 2,500 schools and districts across the nation. For more information or to register, visit invent.org/camp.

Q&A with Boone County Dist. 3 candidates

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

Republicans Barry Dircks, Scott Pell, and Jeff Wolfe are running in the May 7 primary election for Boone County Commissioners District 3 seat. There are no Democratic challengers on the primary ballot. The candidates answered the following questions from Current: Why do you want to run for this office?

ELECTION

DIRCKS: I want to preserve Boone County for future generations and not hand it over to big business interests. I also want to have a say in the county’s appointed positions. I look forward to sitting on the Drainage and IT Boards.

PELL: If entrusted with the role of your next commissioner, my foremost aim is to reintroduce principles of honesty, integrity, and transparency to this esteemed office. It is imperative that we diligently address the pressing concerns of fiscal responsibility, steering clear of unsustainable expenditures that perilously burden our collective financial future. Furthermore, fostering unity amongst our community and advocating for equitable and judicious growth strategies are paramount objectives that demand meticulous planning and execution.

WOLFE: I believe that the work we do on the commissioner board has a very positive impact on the community. We are involved in so many aspects of our local government from maintaining our roads and bridges, our county facilities, or working on a daily basis to ensure the effectiveness and efficiency of our local government.

What sets you apart from your opponents?

DIRCKS: I am not a member of the establishment of Boone County. This is my first time running for political office and I am not soliciting or accepting any donations.

PELL: What sets me apart from my opponents is my intimate familiarity with Boone County, gained through my tenure as a career member of the Boone County Sheriff’s Office. This experience has afforded me a nuanced understanding of our community’s needs and challenges in my daily interactions with residents and business owners. Additionally, I am

unyielding in my commitment to prudent decision-making, as evidenced by my willingness to exercise discretion and say no when necessary. I firmly believe that our success hinges on embracing intelligent and meticulously planned growth strategies that respect our community’s boundaries and capacities.

WOLFE: Experience sets me apart, along with my knowledge of how our local government works. I have, after many years serving as commissioner, developed a thorough understanding of how things are done as well as an extensive knowledge of our tax system and how it affects every resident.

What top three issues are your campaign focused on?

DIRCKS: 1. Rein in wasteful spending and excessive growth; 2. Make Boone County a Second Amendment sanctuary; 3. Chip seal/pave gravel roads.

PELL: 1. Strategic growth: Implementing prudent and forward-thinking plans for the future within our financial capabilities; 2. Fiscal integrity: Ensuring transparency and honesty in spending, prioritizing genuine needs over wants, and adhering to a fiscal plan without resorting to tax hikes; 3. United Communities: Fostering an environment where Boone County thrives as an affordable and ideal locale for families, without the necessity of increased taxes.

WOLFE: 1. Developing long-term plans for several aspects of local government. Planning for the future of our road system, our facilities and working on updating our County Comprehensive Plan; 2. Working with local agencies and state resources to provide for the mental health needs of our citizens. Mental Health treatment is a priority of our current Justice Center expansion project and I believe it is making a difference in our community with the potential to greatly affect, in a positive way, our recidivism rate; 3. Providing a safe and positive environment for our county employees with an effective benefit package and competitive compensation. Maintaining a strong employee base is paramount to providing the citizens of Boone County with efficient and effective services.

To read the full responses, visit youarecurrent.com

Eskenazi encourages safety ahead of eclipse ‘Alice in Wonderland’ coming to Zionsville

By Tirzah Rowland tirzah@youarecurrent.com

Eskenazi Health in Indianapolis is taking patient and staff safety seriously April 8 by not performing elective surgeries and limiting services because of the solar eclipse. The main hospital, at 720 Eskenazi Ave. will remain open for emergencies, but clinics will close.

HEALTH CARE

Stressing the impact of more people in the community and higher traffic throughout the day,

Justin Mast, emergency preparedness and response manager for Eskenazi, encourages all people to be prepared for potential challenges on the day of the eclipse.

“We want to make sure they

aren’t on the roads at peak times,” said Mast, noting that Eskenazi management is working with staff to provide spaces for waiting out the traffic and scheduling shifts to account for the potential impact of more visitors to the area.

Although Indianapolis regularly hosts major events,“the breadth of distance and scale across the state” makes this one different according to Mast.

Emergency responders in Indianapolis won’t have a pool of support from other areas and will rely on people being prepared and aware.

“Use a winter storm approach in case you get stuck,” Mast said.

Eskenazi will resume regular appointments and surgeries April 9.

DANCE

news@youarecurrent.com

“Alice in Wonderland” will come alive on stage when the Village Dance Studio performs excerpts of the classic tale this spring. The performance are at 6 p.m. May 11 and 2 p.m. May 12 at the STAR Bank Performing Arts Center at Zionsville Community High School, 1000 Mulberry St. in Zionsville.

“Join us for a magical adventure as our dancers transport you into Wonderland,” Village Dance Studio Director Traci Broman stated. “While our story is primarily performed through ballet, this captivating performance will also include jazz, tap, modern and hip-hop dance.”

The one-hour performance follows Alice through the rabbit hole as she meets all her favorite friends and finds herself in a new world. The family-friendly production features local dancers.

Zionsville Community High School seniors Izzy Casciani and Emma Phipps will dance the role of Alice. Other characters include the White Rabbit, Mock Turtle, Cheshire Cat, Queen of Hearts and the Mad Hatter.

Tickets are $8 for ages 3-12 and $10 for 13 and older, and all tickets are general admission seating. Purchase tickets at villagedancestudio.com.

Students from Village Dance Studio will also perform on the stage May 11 during their Showcase at the high school. Dancers from age 3 through 18 will be featured in performances at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. Showcase performances are free and open to the public.

Village Dance Studio has provided dance instruction in Zionsville since 1977.

KNOWS ZIONSVILLE

Hear what your neighbors are saying....

Hear what your neighbors are saying....

Hear what your neighbors are saying...

“Zoe is absolutely amazing at what she does. She combines a tremendous amount of local knowledge/skill with a sincere passion around getting to know her clients.”

“Zoe is absolutely amazing at what she does. She combines a tremendous amount of local knowledge/skill with a sincere passion around getting to know her clients.”

-Chad W.

“Zoe put our house on the market on a Tuesday and sold our house on Wednesday! Zoe is a dynamo.”

-Chad W.

-Elane J.

“Zoe put our house on the market on a Tuesday and sold our house on Wednesday! Zoe is a dynamo.”

-Elane J.

“Zoe was amazing! From the first meeting, she was clearly motivated, organized, and practical. She sold our house ahead of schedule and took care of all the details.

“Zoe was amazing! From the first meeting, she was clearly motivated, organized, and practical. She sold our house ahead of schedule and took care of all the details.

"Zoe was amazing! She got us way more for our house than we ever could have imagined."

"Zoe was amazing! She got us way more for our house than we ever could have imagined."

- Suzanne P.

I would absolutely par tner with her again!”

- Suzanne P.

Call for a consultation today!

Call for a consultation today!

- Bob S.

I would absolutely par tner with her again!”

- Bob S.

Zionsville Community High School seniors Emma Phipps, left, and Izzy Casciani pose with an Alice costume made by Village Dance Studio dance mom Lainie Stumpf. (Photo courtesy of Village Dance Studio) Mast

A big stink about bugs

Commentary by Ward Degler

Stink bugs.

•

in the United States alone.

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• Virtually Odorless

PLAIN TALK

I’ve got them, you’ve got them. Actually, everybody has stink bugs. They are on your windowsills, lampshades, and just about any other place you can think of.

When I take a cup or glass, I check the inside before filling it. Often, there will be a stink bug lurking there. Any partial glass of water offers an open invitation to these pesky bugs.

Likewise, food of any stripe.

Technically, they are Asian brown marmorated stink bugs. They slipped into our country from Asia — probably in packing materials — and showed up for the first time in 1996 in Allentown, Pa. From there, they spread to just about everywhere.

Up until now, I’ve focused on them in my own home without considering the damage they cause in the world of agriculture. I just now learned they attack fruit trees and vegetables and can greatly reduce productivity.

In my house, they mostly sit. I may hear a buzzing followed by a plop. Then I will find the stink bug sitting on a lampshade or on the wall next to a lamp. Unlike other insect pests that defy catching, stink bugs just sit there and are easily picked up and tossed outside.

Solvents with a higher level of aromatics contain more solvent odor. DF-2000 Fluid has the lowest aromatic content of any HFHC drycleaning solvent.

• Gentle on Dyes, Safer on Trims

The gentle cleaning action of DF-2000 Fluid is safer for most dyes and trims, so you can rely on it

Some people have major infestations of stink bugs. Also, some people can’t smell them. I’m one of the lucky folks who can’t smell them and don’t have a major invasion of them, either.

For those who do, there is a solution. Fill an aluminum turkey pan with warm water and dishwashing liquid. Then place a desk lamp shining on the surface of the water. Leave it overnight and expect a pan of drowned stink bugs in the morning.

It is a good idea to dispose of the dead bugs and not leave them in your home, where they can attract carpet beetles. Then you have another problem.

And I recommend checking your water glass before taking a drink.

ZCHS BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS OF AMERICA CLUB MEMBERS EARN ACCOLADES

ESKENAZI HEALTH FOUNDATION IS GRATEFUL TO Deborah Daniels & Lyle Mannweiler FOR THEIR LEAD GIFT

THEY BELIEVE: “A civilized society cannot permit a 16-mile geographical distance to dictate a 16-year life expectancy disparity. There are multiple environmental and societal factors that negatively impact the health of our neighbors; working with many like-minded partners, we can – and must –make a real difference in everyone’s opportunity to thrive.”

The Zionsville Community High School Business Professionals of America Club earned four firstplace finishes at the BPA State Leadership Conference on March 10-12 in Indianapolis. BPA members also placed in several open tests including Python coding, health research presentation, health administration procedures and computer network technology. Three members of the ZCHS virtual financial portfolio management team, Charles Sondik, Kaden Oberlander and Prab Jayachandran also qualified for nationals earlier in March. Zionsville Community High School first-place financial analyst team, from left, Nolan Osterling, Luke Murphy, Fin Essley and Jonah Everson. (Photos courtesy of Zionsville Community High School)

Members of the first-place econ research team, from left, Prab Jayachandran, Charles Sondik and Peter Yoon.

Prab Jayachandran was on the first-place banking and finance team.

Julian Gray was on the first-place JAVA coding team.

From left, Zionsville Community High School Speech Team members Ruby Steinberg, Divya Prem Sankar, Talia Armstrong and Zoe Steinberg recently competed in the Indiana State Speech and Debate Association State Finals at Hamilton Southeastern High School. Zoe Steinberg was a semifinalist in the discussion category. Sectional winner Ruby Steinberg competed in the original performance category, and Armstrong and Sankar competed together in the duo interpretation event. (Photo courtesy of Zionsville Community High School)

Noblesville High School senior forward key

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Noblesville High School boys basketball coach Scott McClelland knows how crucial senior forward Hunter Walston has been to the team’s winning ways. “He’s been a really solid player for us the last three years,” McClelland said. “He’s been consistent, not only this year but all three years. He’s got a real knack of being in the right place at the right time, both offensively and defensively.”

The 6-foot-5 Walston averaged 12.4 points per game and a team-high 5.7 rebounds. He was second on the team in assists, averaging 3 assists per game, and averaged a team-high 2 steals per game. As a junior, he averaged 8.3 points and 5.0 rebounds for the Millers, when they finished 19-7. He shot 50 percent from the field as a senior and 48 percent as a junior.

“Overall, he had a real nice career,” Mc-

MEET HUNTER WALSTON

Favorite athlete: Kevin Durant

Favorite subject: Math

Favorite movie: “Semi-Pro”

Favorite vacation spot: Cancun

Clelland said. “We’re going to miss him.”

He became a starter in the second half of his sophomore season.

“I’ve made the most improvement being a leader,” Walston said. “I tried to help guys improve as well. I improved on my blocks and steals and being able to time those up. I’ve learned to read people’s eyes and get in the passing lanes.”

The Class 4A No. 2 Millers (22-3) lost to Class 4A No. 1 Fishers 49-47 in the sectional final.

team’s success

“It’s tough to lose that early, but we set a lot of school records, had a 20-win season,” Walston said. “There is nothing to be upset about.”

Noblesville won the sectional in 2023 for the first time since 2010.

Walston said his best memories are the bus rides with his teammates, especially during the summer on trips to camps.

Walston started playing basketball when he was 2 1/2 years old. He played baseball until eighth grade.

Walston said basketball has always

brought him joy.

“I love competing,” he said. “I like having a goal and working to reach it.”

Walston plans to play in college but hasn’t decided where. So far, he has offers from NAIA schools Grace College and Bethel University, and several NCAA Division III schools. He plans to major in business.

Millers senior guard Aaron Fine, who led the team with a 17.9 ppg scoring average, will be a preferred walk-on at Purdue University.

Noblesville senior Hunter Walston was second on the team in scoring and was the leading rebounder. (Photos by Julie Montgomery)

Walston

DOGGONE GOOD

Zionsville resident earns title of International Certified Master Groomer

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

When Jody Olson’s clients come into her salon, she performs all the usual beauty treatments: shampoo, haircut, blow dry and style.

Plus, a good scratch behind the ears.

Since 2017, Olson has operated her dog grooming business, Hometown Pet Grooming, at her home on 96th Street in Zionsville.

Now, after five years of studying and testing, the Zionsville native has achieved one of the top recognitions in her field — International Certified Master Groomer.

“It’s a series of written tests and practical tests,” Olson said. “They make sure you pass all the criteria (such as) safety. Did you do the blow dry well enough so you can get the best haircut? (And) just the way you handle the dog. It took me five years from start to finish. You do different groups, a terrier group, a poodle group, sporting groups, and the last one was a mixed breed. You just have different categories, and for each one there is a book on their temperaments and what kind of groom they need, and you have to know all that.”

The recognition was awarded in January by International Professional Groomers, a worldwide organization for animal groomers that provides education and certification that increases knowledge and skills of groomers while keeping the safety of pets at the forefront of their mission. IPG has certified groomers in 35 countries, offering continuing education, business mentoring, and pet safety classes such as CPR along with grooming standards.

Olson started her journey into grooming eight years ago while working as a receptionist in an animal hospital, where she found herself increasingly interested in the work the groomer was performing.

“I thought, ‘There’s something to this, there’s a need here’,” Olson said. “So, I asked (the groomer) if I could come back and watch her one day. Then I started off just bathing the dogs and doing some prep work, then some easy haircuts and we worked our way up.”

After a year working in an apprentice role, Olson opened her own salon, which is in the basement of her Zionsville home.

“It all kind of fell into place and it’s worked out. My commute is great,” Olson said, laughing. “People seem to like that it’s quieter because I don’t have a kennel full of dogs. There’s always a temptation to grow, and I think sometimes I should be looking at a storefront, but there are only two of us and we work by appointment.”

In 2021 Olson hired her assistant, Kelsey Szebo, who she also trained.

Olson said grooming isn’t simply something she’s good at. It’s also fun.

“It’s a lot of work, and it’s very physical,” Olson said.

“But there is nothing better when dogs are so happy. There are ones that I hear barking as soon as they hit the driveway because they’re so excited to get in here, they pull their parents in to see us. How can that not be the best thing ever?”

Olson said there are some downsides to grooming — not the work itself but knowing that the clientele won’t be with her forever.

“We see a dog every four to six weeks for years, their entire lives, and we might see them start to decline,” Olson said. “Then we get the phone call that they won’t be here for their next appointment, and it feels like they are our own. We see them for so many years, it can be the hardest thing. That is the harder part, but it’s also a lot of joy just making them feel good.”

But, she added, although groomers are not on the medical side, their experience working with animals and the way they handle them means that a groomer might be

the first one to notice any problems that might need to be addressed by a veterinarian.

“I’m always looking for skin issues,” Olson said. “I can’t tell you how many bumps and lumps I have found, and I can say, ‘This wasn’t here six weeks ago, this looks odd, I’m going to take a picture of it and send it to the vet.’”

That extra care had led to treatment for issues for a few of her clients, which reinforces Olson’s knowledge that she made the right career choice.

“That is so rewarding,” she said. “I’m not a vet, but I can tell people, ‘You might want to call.’ It’s that symbiotic relationship between the vet, the groomer, the owner, and we’re all looking out for the best interest of the dog. It makes you feel like you’ve done a great thing.”

ON THE COVER: International Certified Master Groomer Jody Olson poses with Saylor, a standard poodle, after a groom in her Zionsville salon. (Photo by Marney Simon)

ABOUT HOMETOWN PET GROOMING

Jody Olson received special recognition this year when she was named an International Certified Master Groomer by International Professional Groomers. Olson owns Hometown Pet Grooming in Zionsville.

As an International Certified Master Groomer, Olson meets the highest in industry standards for pet and staff safety, health, sanitation, groomer ethics and grooming expertise.

In addition to demonstrating safe and professional handling of animals as well as basic to advanced grooming skills, Olson is specially trained in the breed standard cuts for all purebred dogs as well as how to apply these cuts to mixed breeds.

“Our passion is the safety of the pets in our care,” stated Linda Easton, President of IPG. “This certification is an earned recognition of safety knowledge, compassionate treatment and humane handling of the pets in Olson’s care.”

The education and testing involved in the ICMG meets and exceeds the standards created by the Professional Pet Groomers and Stylists Alliance, a grooming alliance of certifying agencies, educators, associations, and industry leaders.

Hometown Pet Grooming is at 6306 W. 96th St. in Zionsville. Visit Hometown Pet Grooming at facebook.com/ hometownpetgroomingzionsville.

Jody Olson’s salon is in the basement of her home at 6306 W. 96th St. in Zionsville. (Photos by Marney Simon)

Jody Olson puts the finishing touches on a haircut for Saylor, a standard poodle, in her salon in Zionsville.

Old Town expands in Zionsville

news@youarecurrent.com

Carmel-based Old Town Companies will build its new community, Wild Air, on 260 acres in Zionsville. The mixed-use development will sit on the property of the Johnsons, a prominent Zionsville family, at Marysville Road and West Oak Street. The development will offer single family homes, apartment and townhome options, a senior living facility, retail space, and community amenities.

DEVELOPMENT

Wild Air will honor the legacy of the late Elizabeth Johnson and her family’s service to the community and philanthropy through woodland preservation and a connection between site design and nature, according to a release by Old Town. The development will include a park, civic space, and a network of trails winding through 30 acres of preserved woodlands.

“Our Wild Air development embodies everything we’re passionate about at Old Town,” CEO Justin Moffett stated. “We take great joy in building not just a home, but a community, which is what we’re doing with Wild Air. This development will allow seniors to age-in-place in the area they love, provide opportunities for local

Wild Air, a 260-acre mixed use development, will be built along Marysville Road and West Oak Street in Zionsville. (Image courtesy of Old Town Companies)

businesses to flourish, and create a rich, vibrant place for families and individuals to thrive.”

Wild Air’s featured builders include Old Town Design Group, Gradison Design•Build, G&G Custom Homes, Wedgewood Building Company and David Weekley Homes.

Learn more about Wild Air at lifeatwildair.com or contact Kristen Hoyt at 317764-7018 or kristenh@thecaway.com.

Students from Zionsville Community High School discussed career and internship opportunities with representatives from Indianapolis-based The Heritage Group during a career fair held at the high school in March. ZCHS juniors and seniors attended the fair, which was presented through a partnership between ZCHS and Junior Achievement of Central Indiana, a nonprofit that helps prepare teens for success. More than 65 employers visited campus to meet with students and discuss a wide range of career opportunities, including agriculture, finance, business, hospitality, health, logistics, technology and advanced manufacturing. (Photo courtesy of Zionsville Community High School)

ZIONSVILLE COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL HOSTS CAREER FAIR

Connecting words with action

Commentary by Terry Anker

Ours will likely be recorded as a much-blessed society. Some of us will have been born in a time largely marked by peace within these United States, live full and long lives, then pass on never having endured the suffering of a nation beleaguered by war within its borders. In fact, the last formal Congressional declaration of war occurred in 1942. There have been many other military actions where valiant young Americans made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their country but none in the sheer numbers previously seen.

ESSAY

Piecing together a puzzling life

As with many other sources, war leaves deep emotional wounding that is at once painful and deeply rooted. But is there a difference between actual corporeal violence, bodies eviscerated, scarred and burned, rather than that residing in the mind of the victim? Or is it folly to even consider the matter? The so-called Greatest Generation was formed by global war and from that crucible emerged markedly different Americans. Likewise, Europeans, Japanese and others were decidedly dis-

tinct in the decades after the war’s end. Societies changed, reflecting the experiences of their leaders.

Intentions don’t make outcomes. Actions do. Was it that a generation of us learned that a war is won and lost by initiative rather than aims that helped bring about the U.S. post-war boom? We knew that getting to an objective took effort, maybe skill and good luck, too, but certainly it required more than desire. Too many political leaders, CEOs, parents and basketball coaches seem to have lost the connection between words and movement. We listen as promises are made and simultaneously disregarded. Blame is assigned and truth is spun and contorted. Adherence to a vow taken is imagined to be conditional and not perpetual. If we agree, or disagree, what are we going to do about it?

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

The reason for the season

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Friends, the Lenten season has ended, so I can now admit to having failed miserably. The weird thing is, I’m OK with it. Here’s what happened.

HUMOR

Life has been a bit of a whirlwind recently, what with work and selling our house and then quickly moving out (and then in with the in-laws! Stay tuned for that story). I completely spaced Ash Wednesday, and as I was enjoying a ham sandwich on the following Friday, realization dawned. Lent had started, I was eating forbidden meat and I had not set any intentions. The horror! Normally, I give up Coke or Netflix and commit to doing a positive act. Last year, for example, I went on a social media blackout and vowed to call my mom once a week. Yay, me!

I could have certainly jumped in late but made a conscious choice not to. For my sanity and stress levels, I decided to forgo all Lenten commitments. It was entirely about self-care and figured Jesus would support me. Did I experience some of that infamous Catholic guilt? Obviously. I’ve

“For my sanity and stress levels, I decided to forgo all Lenten commitments. It was entirely about self-care and figured Jesus would support me.”

– DANIELLE WILSON

been participating in Lent for almost half a century. That’s not something easily reconciled. But not enough to make me change my mind. Sometimes, you must trust your gut and do what’s best for you.

And to be honest, it was a lovely 40 days. I channeled feelings of gratitude and forgiveness and I believe I was actually a kinder person. Am I going to receive hate mail from a few readers? Probably. But I seriously don’t care. I may have failed at Lent this season, but I thrived at life.

Peace out.

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

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

About 16 years ago, my third edition of “Indiana Curiosities” was published, stories about all the unusual people, places and things in the Hoosier state. I decided it might be fun to check back after all these years and revisit some of the people who earned a chapter in my quirky travel guide.

HUMOR

When I first met David Cozad, his life was in pieces. About 25,000 pieces — 24, 978, to be exact. The Plainfield resident was one of the premier jigsaw mavens in the Midwest. He had recently finished the puzzle referenced above, chock full of animals, hot air balloons, the planets of the solar system and the tiniest of sea creatures.

Cozad put the puzzle together on his garage floor, a painstaking achievement, hard on the eyes and the knees. Most of Cozad’s completed puzzles are displayed in his house or garage. Several have gone to his grandkids. But his latest achievement, a panorama of Disney characters, was even bigger than the one featured in my book. It was 40,000 pieces. At about 26 feet long and 6 feet tall, it weighed more than 100 pounds in the box.

Cozad spent three years on his condo’s garage floor interlocking pieces. He sees the effort almost spiritually: “First, I find the correct church for all the pieces, then the correct pew,” he said.

That’s how he explains separating the edges and the colors. He isolates the puzzles by sections, which are then glued together so they can be mounted on a giant board.

Great puzzles have unifying ideas to keep the hobbyist interested, but Cozad admits that it isn’t until the puzzle is completed that he can stand back and appreciate all the artistic nuances of the scene. One of his favorites was a black-and-white Civil War scene with Abraham Lincoln

“Great puzzles have unifying ideas to keep the hobbyist interested, but Cozad admits that it isn’t until the puzzle is completed that he can stand back and appreciate all the artistic nuances of the scene.”

– DICK WOLFSIE

featured in the painting. A real toughie because he only had two pews of colors.

“Putting in that last piece is a great accomplishment,” Cozad said.

But his greatest fear is that as he nears the end of his task, a piece will be missing.

“That’s why I used to keep my eye on the dog,” he said.

Cozad is a big advocate of encouraging kids to take up jigsaw puzzling.

“It develops their capacity to concentrate,” he said. “An ability that many lack in today’s world of video games.”

Cozad had temporarily retired from this passion of the last 30 years. This was OK with his friends who wanted him to play more golf and cards.

“Over the years, they weren’t exactly beating down my garage door to help,” he said.

Recently, the bug bit him again. He was getting edgy to use some jigsaw lingo. He bought a large puzzle in a bag, just the pieces, but he has no idea what the final scene will be.

“I’ve never attempted anything like this before,” he told me.

But it seems only fitting he should do that.

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Carmel Symphony Orchestra takes on challenge of ‘Verdi’s Requiem’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Carmel Symphony Orchestra Music Director David Commanday is convinced audiences will experience a wide range of emotions during its upcoming concert.

MUSIC

The CSO will perform the 80-minute “Verdi’s Requiem” at 7:30 p.m. April 13 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

“It’s a life-changing experience because of the power of the piece,” Commanday said. “It’s an operatic, dramatic setting of the Latin Requiem Mass. For people who experience that in their personal religious life, that means something. The Mass is about people contemplating the aspect of the afterlife and what that means and the concept of life after that. It’s a prayer for mercy. The thing that is so special about the way Verdi set the Mass is the human and personal voice that he gives it. It doesn’t sound in any way like a ritual. It’s an expression of the human spirit confronting the reality of guilt or sin. It’s pleading to a merciful God and Jesus because it’s Catholic.”

Commanday said it’s a plea to give the deceased an eternal light.

The four soloists from Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music are dramatic soprano Cassandra Glaeser, tenor Jaemyeong Lee, lyric soprano Seonyoung Park and bass-baritone Sunghoon Han. The soloists represent different moments in the requiem.

“Then the chorus represents all of us together,” Commanday said. “It’s dramatic. There are moments of tenderness, moments of fear and moments of wrath. One of the most famous sections of it is how he sets ‘Day of Wrath,’ that day when all will be judged.”

Commanday said when the entire choir sings, it’s incredibly moving and powerful.

“There is some of the loudest music

and some of the softest music you can hear at a concert hall,” Commanday said.

Richard Sowers, who is retiring as Anderson Symphony Orchestra’s music director/conductor this spring, is coordinating the Anderson University choir for this concert.

A Chicago resident, he retired from Anderson University in 2021.

“There is a big responsibility for the chorus in the piece,” Sowers said. “It’s at times almost terrifying and at times comforting. It’s deeply spiritual. It’s some of the most glorious writing for soloists. It’s just astonishing how beautiful it is.”

Sowers estimates there will be 100 choir members from different Anderson University choirs, some university alumni members and Circle City Sound.

CSO is partnering with Carmel’s Congregation Beth-El Zedeck to relay the story of Czech conductor Rafael Schachter leading Terezin concentration camp prisoners to perform “Verdi’s Requiem” in 1943 and 1944. The performances are part of a documentary, “Defiant Requiem.”

Cantor Melissa Cohen will give opening remarks prior to the concert.

“It was a mark of resistance and courage to perform live music,” Cohen said. “I am also doing a pre-concert discussion with Maestro Commanday. There will be a small performance with me and my daughter Sadie to inspire more about the partnership together.”

Cohen said it’s an important time to remember the Holocaust.

“We’re living at a time when antisemitism is at the highest in history, which is really remarkable,” Cohen said. “It seems idealistic, but music has the ability to bridge these types of barriers and spark inspiration. Throughout history, Jewish people have faced adversity and we’re still here. We remain strong people. Music becomes that affirmation of life. Through chaos and tragedy, there is this duality of life that is fundamental to the human experience.”

Cohen said “Verdi’s Requiem” is a majestic piece of music.

“It’s powerful in many ways,” Cohen said. “The subject matter of requiem is not Jewish in any way.”

Commanday said humanity in the piece transcends considerations of religious denominations.

“It creates an awareness of our imperfections and needing forgiveness,” Commanday said. “None of us live forever and we lose dear ones, and we think about what it means to not live anymore. The music makes the message all the more universal.”

For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

‘BEAUTIFUL’

Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre presents “The King and I” April 4 to May 19 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

‘FABLES AND FOLKLORE’

Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre presents “Fables and Folklore,” featuring “Golem” and “Pinocchio” at 7 p.m. April 5-6 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.

‘THAT CHAMPIONSHIP SEASON’

Main Street Productions presents “That Championship Season” from April 4 to 14 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

“Who’s Bad: The Ultimate Michael Jackson Experience” is set for 7:30 p.m. April 5-6 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

DISPATCHES

Songbook Foundation features women artists — Items telling the stories of pioneering women artists such as Diahann Carroll and Mitzi Gaynor are among the 37 historical collections processed last year by staff at the Great American Songbook Foundation’s Songbook Library & Archives. For more, visit thesongbook.org.

CIAF registration opens — Registration is underway for the 27th annual Carmel International Arts Festival. The Sept. 28-29 festival attracts more than 100 artists from across the United States and around the world. Artists specialize in nine different mediums including glass, 2D, 3D, paint, jewelry, photography, fiber, ceramics and wood.The festival is a juried exhibition with prizes totaling $7,000. May 31 is the deadline for submitting the application. To sign up and review requirements, visit zapplication.org/event-info.php?ID=12196 Selected artists will be notified June 30, that they have been chosen. For more, visit carmelartsfestival.org.

Carmel Symphony Orchestra Music Director David Commanday will conduct “Verdi’s Requiem.” (Photo courtesy of David Commanday)

Sowers

Cohen

Time to ‘ramp’ up

Commentary by Mark LaFay

One of the early sprouting plants are ramps. Ramps are commonly known as wild leeks. But they really are more of a cross between leeks and garlic.

FOOD

RAMP PESTO RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 2 bunches of ramps, cleaned and trimmed (use both the white bulbs and green leaves)

• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/3 cup of pine nuts

• 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil, plus more if needed for consistency

• Juice of 1 lemon

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Prepare the ramps: Wash ramps thoroughly. Trim the roots and remove any tough outer layers from the bulbs. Roughly chop the ramps.

• Toast the nuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts until golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

• Blend the ingredients: In a food processor, combine the chopped ramps, toasted pine nuts, grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice.

• Add olive oil: With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the pesto reaches your desired consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides of the food processor bowl a few times.

• Season: Taste the pesto and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

• Serve: Use the ramp pesto with pasta, as a spread on sandwiches, or as a condiment for grilled meats and vegetables. Store any leftover pesto in an airtight container in the refrigerator, with a thin layer of olive oil on top to preserve freshness.

Mark LaFay is a butcher, certified sommelier and founder of Old Major Market, 4201 Millersville Rd., Suite 19, Indianapolis

Discovering Broadway show set

By Mark Ambrogi  mark@youarecurrent.com

Eric Wiegand has several reasons for wanting to perform again with Discovering Broadway.

MUSIC

The 2014 Carmel High School graduate will perform in a concert with music from “The Trouble with Dead Boyfriends” at 5 and 8 p.m. at The Toby at Newfields in Indianapolis.

Discovering Broadway, founded by 2012 CHS graduate Joel Kirk, is an incubation process for productions.

“I’ve known this musical and its writers for several years now and have always been a huge fan of it,” Wiegand said. “I’m so excited that this concert is giving it the showcase it deserves”

Fellow cast members Myha’la Herrold, Jimmy Brewer and Wiegand were in the same class at Carnegie Mellon University. Herrold, who goes simply by Myha’la professionally, is a cast member on HBO’s “Industry.”

Wiegand, who performed in “Plaza Suite”

on Broadway in 2022 with Matthew Broderick and Sarah Jessica Parker, previously performed in the “Hamlet” musical concert by Discovering Broadway.

“‘Hamlet’ was such a great experience, especially getting to work with a mix of incredible Broadway actors and extremely talented Hoosiers,” Wiegand said. “Discovering Broadway has an amazing knack for bringing together a team of performers and writers.”

Wiegand was recently in the Hulu TV show “Tiny Beautiful Things.”

Carmel resident Ephraim Owens, who was on “The Voice” last year, is performing in the concert as well.

“Any time any artist can get around other creatives that are active, it’s a great opportunity to learn and collaborate,” Owens said. “Selfishly, it’s a great opportunity for exposure for yourself and you are performing on stage (with accomplished performers).”

This Is Owens’ first appearance with Discovering Broadway.

For more, visit discoveringbroadway.org.

Owens Wiegand

Commentary by Larry Greene

Built in 2006 in the Hunt Country Preserve section of Zionsville, this primary bathroom featured lots of great space but lacked modern style. Our team reimagined the layout to create a luxurious retreat that makes every day feel like an opulent spa day.

THE BLUEPRINT

• Natural elements like oak, cedar, natural stone and crystal are expertly combined with man-made components like porcelain, glass and metals for a dynamic material mix that makes a statement.

• The new vanity creates a dramatic focal point thanks to custom oak cabinetry, quartzite counters and arched brass mirrors.

• The hardware and fixtures convey the perfect balance of classic style with modern appeal, thanks to luxe gold tones and contemporary lines.

• The sauna, clad in tongue-and-groove eucalyptus, provides the ultimate at-home spa experience.

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.

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Across

1. Volcanic buildup

6. Insect stage

11. Tuna type

14. “The Jetsons” boy

15. Stand by

16. Fishers HS color

17. Academic interlude

19. Like Abner

20. ___ d’oeuvres

21. Myrna of movies

22. Tusk material

24. Biblical pronoun

26. Casino game

28. Closest pal, initially

31. “The Boss” of rock music

36. Air again on WTHR

38. Moo ___ gai pan

39. Vogue rival

40. Yemeni port

41. Lucas Oil Stadium

43. Egyptian river

44. Two-person fight

45. Spanish gold

46. Encrypted

47. Jumping-off point

51. USN rank

52. Smooch

53. Noise from a clock

55. Hamilton Town Center events

58. Finished first in the Hoosier Crossroads Conference

59. Ultimatum ender

63. GI’s address

64. State capital that is 212 miles west of Indy

68. WTTV net.

69. Stand up

70. Foreboding

72. Lymph ___

73. Hoarse-sounding Down

1. Netting

2. Purina alternative

3. Warning for messing with 2-Down

4. Damp

5. Writer Rand

6. UK political party

7. Askew

8. “Norma ___”

9. Itinerary word

10. Low-carb diet

11. Singer Guthrie

12. Child of fortune?

13. Without effort

18. Unappetizing chow

23. Say nay, in the Indiana Senate

25. QVC rival

hour

27. Swelled heads

28. Thin nails

29. Disgusted

30. Less restricted

32. Arctic abode

33. Slur over a syllable

34. Oscar winner Burstyn

35. Requires

37. Dissimilar

41. Gear teeth

42. Spheres

46. Public health agcy.

48. Tom Wood car brand

49. Makes amends

50. Indiana Golden Gloves fight site

55. Cul-de-___

56. IMPD alerts

57. Pacers’ “L”

58. Knowledgeable squad

54. Actress Knightley

71. Draft org.

26. One nautical mile per

60. Some jeans

1 City with the 46122

61. High-five, essentially

62. Whirlpool

65. Prairie View Golf Club instructor

66. Expunge

67. HST predecessor

Answers on Page 19

The Indiana Stamp Club hosts its Spring Stamp Fair, April 6 & 7 at the Lawrence Community Center, 5301 N. Franklin Rd., Lawrence, Ind. Show hours: Sat. 10-5; Sun. 10-3. Free admission and ample free parking.

Contact: Tom Chastang (317) 913-9319

Email: tchas5@sbcglobal.net

Website: www.indianastampclub.org

LAWN CARE & LANDSCAPING

Locally owned/operated over 43 YRS

•SPRING CLEAN-UP

•MULCH

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•FERTILIZING

•TEAR OUT / REPLACE

FREE ESTIMATES

CALL 317-491-3491

Parents of Ball State Students

Safe Off-Campus Housing

All utilities & internet included.

For More info: P-888.433.5582

www.TRLProperty.com

– Removal

Deadwooding – Landscaping

Stump Grinding – Gutter Cleaning INSURED – FREE ESTIMATES

CALL STEVE 317-932-2115

WILL DO BOBCAT WORK

WILL MOW LAWNS

Trim/Remove trees & shrubs Building Demolitions Clean Gutters

Build Decks

Painting inside or Outdoors Property Clean Outs

FULLY INSURED

Text or Call Jay 574-398-2135 shidelerjay@gmail.com

www.jayspersonalservices.com

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, good-natured 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

www.IntegrityAutomotive.net

HUNT CLUB BOARDING KENNEL

SEEKS Part-Time Kennel Assistant responsible for the daily care of dogs, kennel maintenance, and other duties, as assigned. Exceptional customer service and good communication skills via in-person interaction. Team Member availability includes weekdays, weekends, and holidays. Interested candidates submit resume to: huntclubkennel@gmail.com.

Offering, At home help for elderly or infirm: Light housekeeping; personal care; cooking; laundry; errands; etc. 317-577-8889

Susan 317-432-1627 pawptrl@aol.com

Fenced Yard Boarding/Daycare for Small & Medium Dogs at My Home in Carmel!

24 Years Experience Luv the dogs

Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE: Counties: PARKE, PERRY, PIKE, PORTER, PULASKI, PUTNAM; Captains: AMERICA, HOOK, KANGAROO, MORGAN, NEMO; Parts: FRAME, HANDLE, HINGE, LOCK; Cheeses: BRIE, CHEDDAR, EDAM; Bear: HUG, WITNESS; City: DANVILLE