April 16, 2024 — Zionsville

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Megan Hammerle 5K wants to attract participants from Zionsville

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

When runners cross the finish line at Lebanon High School May 11 during the 10th annual Megan Hammerle Memorial 5K, it will be another bittersweet day for the Hammerle family.

EVENT

A 2014 graduate of Lebanon High School, Megan Hammerle was home for winter break after her first semester at DePauw University when she developed a headache that wouldn’t go away. After more than six weeks of hospitalization, She died Feb. 13, 2015, of histoplasma meningitis. She was 18 years old.

Megan’s mother Amy Hammerle said while her family’s grief felt unimaginable, Megan’s peers pulled together to do something for their lost friend.

“She still had a lot of friends who were in high school, and they knew that she liked to run, and they wanted to do something,” Hammerle said. “What they did was they decided to hold a 5K in Megan’s honor.”

In its inaugural year, the 5K raised more than $10,000, which went toward a scholarship in Megan’s name. In 2021, organizers joined with the Boone County Mentoring Partnership to allow funds raised from the 5K to benefit local youth.

Megan’s friends found several pieces of paper that Megan had drawn on and printed one of her doodles on the race t-shirts that first year, a tradition that continues every year. For the 10th annual event, the original doodle, one that Hammerle calls “Zen-tangled Dreams,” will appear on the shirts again.

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“She loved art, doodled all the time. Any paper of hers had a doodle on it, she loved to draw,” Hammerle said, adding that Megan was also a runner, a musician, a voracious reader and a youth leader. “She had a heart for service. She also was very active in our church youth group and would go on summer mission trips with our youth group team from Trinity Lutheran Church.”

The funds raised this year will help Boone County Mentoring Partnership with their mission to pair Boone County youth with adults who understand their needs. Executive Director Matt Wilson said that while mentoring is the core of Boone County Mentoring Partnership, there are

also youth assistance and intervention programs which connect kids and families with resources in the community.

Race organizers are hoping this year’s event draws more runners from Boone County and beyond and inspires those runners from Zionsville and Whitestown to consider volunteering as a mentor with Boone County Mentoring Partnership.

“It’s three-fold: To remember and honor Megan; to come out and participate in the 5K and support our mission; and give it a shot to become a mentor,” Wilson said. “It’s four hours a month, about an hour a week.”

The organization serves about 100 youth annually, but Wilson said within Boone County there is a need for about 1,000 young people for this type of mentoring program each year.

The Hammerle family hopes that participants are inspired by Megan’s legacy, one where her friends described her as an introvert, but genuine.

“Their words were authentic, kind, weird (Above)

in the best way,” Hammerle said. “I think that was the coolest thing about Megan, she wasn’t afraid to be different… She was a very humble, kind girl. She would like the running aspect, but I think she’s kind of up there laughing, ‘I can’t believe this is still going on 10 years later.’”

Wilson said that in addition to benefiting a worthwhile cause, the 5K also serves as a great recovery run for those who are participating in the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon May 4.

This year’s event will also include entertainment, food and bounce houses. Dogs are also welcome to participate in the run.

“We want to just honor and celebrate Megan’s life and have some fun doing it,” Wilson said.

The 10th annual Megan Hammerle Memorial 5K takes place at 9 a.m. May 11 at Lebanon High School. Register for the race by clicking the Megan Hammerle 5K link at boonecountymentoring.org.

Megan Hammerle ran cross country during her time at Lebanon High School. (Photos courtesy of Amy Hammerle)

(Below) One of Megan Hammerle’s drawings is featured on this year’s 5K shirts.

Arrest made in Zionsville homicide

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

Police arrested a suspect last week in connection with a woman’s death that has been ruled a homicide by the Zionsville Police Department.

Zionsville police arrested Graham Bixler, 30, of Zionsville April 9. He faces preliminary charges of murder and abuse of a corpse and is being held without bond at the Boone County Jail, according to police.

ZPD Chief Micheal Spears said an autopsy performed April 8 by the Boone County Coroner’s Office determined that the woman was a homicide vicitim.

The death of a woman discovered in the 5300 block of Old 106th Street in Zionsville has been ruled a homicide, according to the Zionsville Police Department.

The unidentified woman’s body was discovered following a well check call to authorities around 11:30 a.m. April 8. Upon arrival, ZPD officers knocked on the door of the residence but received no answer, prompting them to check the property. The body was found on the property south of the home

Law enforcement officials immediately secured the home and the adjacent property and began an investigation.

A friend of the family, who asked not to be identified, told Current in Zionsville that police were called to perform a previous well check the day prior to the discovery of the body, but there was no response when they knocked on the door at the property. That friend also said that the woman, who has not yet been officially identified, was last heard from about a week prior to the discovery.

“Detectives are working diligently,” Spears stated. “The investigation continues as evidence is processed and interviews are conducted.”

Spears noted that based on the progress of the investigation, ZPD believes there is no threat to the public at this time nor are there any additional suspects at large.

Bixler

The Town of Zionsville will conduct an economic impact study to determine the impact of the proposed South Village development.

(Image courtesy of the Town of Zionsville)

Analysis will detail economic impact of South Village

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

Now that the $250 million South Village planned unit development has been unveiled, town leaders will put pen to paper to see how the project will impact all of Zionsville.

TOWN NEWS

In March, members of the Redevelopment Commission went over plans for an economic impact study and a parking study for the town.

RDC Director Corrie Sharp said an economic impact analysis would assist the town as the South Village project moves forward.

“We would like to be able to communicate the economic impact from not only property taxes like a (tax increment financing) report would do, but also income tax, food and beverage tax, what is the impact on jobs and new residents and new students, so that we can communicate with schools, police, fire on all of these projects comprehensively,” Sharp said. “We now have an approved budget that will allow us to bring expert consultants on board so we can adequately prepare for the South Village.”

Sharp also said the town wants to conduct a parking study. The last study for the downtown area was completed in 2014.

“We are contemplating this new development, we need to have an updated understanding of the existing parking demands, the perceived parking problems, and also as future development comes on, how much additional public parking do we

need,” Sharp said.

However, members of the commission asked if there was a way to reduce costs by combining various studies and asked how different parking is today versus 2014.

“We have read through and studied the existing parking, and what it is telling us is that there is enough parking, but are we willing to accept that?” Sharp said. “We’re looking for validation that it’s true, and we’re also looking to vet it against the real demand for parking versus the experience of coming into the village and feeling like you know where you’re going to park and you’re going to have a great experience.”

Still, members questioned if the additional studies were necessary, or if they could be included as part of the PUD.

“If we have a new overall plan for the Town of Zionsville, I don’t know how the development of South Village wouldn’t fit into that plan,” commissioner Kent Esra said. “I think it would have to and I don’t know that we know that yet. I just think that there are a lot of questions and I think that we’re traveling too fast for the process, that’s my personal opinion.”

The commission voted to move ahead with the economic impact study, which will be conducted by Jenovas at a cost of $35,000. Those funds will come from the town’s economic development area funds for professional services. The commission voted to table the parking study, which is expected to cost around $48,000, while awaiting further information. That study will go before the finance committee, which will look deeper at budgets and proposals.

New management for Zionsville Golf Course

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

The town-owned Zionsville Golf Course has new management for 2024.

TOWN NEWS

The course, which opened for the season March 15, is now managed by Zionsville National, a private organization.

“The new operator plans to offer increased options in concessions and the pro shop as well as upgrading damaged drainage areas that need attention as well as facilities in collaboration with the Parks Board, which can provide matching dollars from the current golf course fund,” Mayor John Stehr told members of the Town Council in March. “The transition to the new management team will be pretty seamless.”

In February, the town sought requests for proposals for an organization to lead a public-private partnership to manage the municipal golf course. Until now, manage-

Zionsville Golf Course has nine holes and a putting green. (Photo by Marney Simon)

ment and maintenance of the course was provided by the Zionsville Department of Parks and Recreation. Town officials said the move was to provide more efficient management of the course.

Stehr said currencies and passes will be honored in full, and there are no changes to course fees for 2024. Increases tied to the Consumer Price Index will be instituted in odd-numbered years starting in 2025.

The nine-hole course was built in 1961 and operated privately until the town purchased it in 2007.

Learn more about the golf course at zionsville-in.gov/298/Zionsville-Golf-Course.

“Having grown up in

was

service in the hopes of doing my part

make the quality of life better for my fellow citizens and generations to follow.”

• Continue critical County Highway improvements, including securing sustainable legislative funding.

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

Zionsville Mayor John Stehr said the town is working to make sure its finances are in order.

Last month, Stehr told members of the town council that his office has taken a deep dive into Zionsville’s American Rescue Plan funds.

“The previous council gave us a roadmap into how that money was to be spent across all of our departments. All funds must be committed from the ARPA account by the end of 2024 and then out the door by the end of 2026,” Stehr said. “So, we started with $6.4 million, and so far around $2 million has been spent and another $400,000 is committed. That means we have a remaining balance of just over $4 million.”

Provided by the American Rescue Plan

Act of 2021, ARPA funds are federally available revenue replacement dollars for government services that saw reductions due to the pandemic. Eligible expenses include assistance to small businesses, households, and hard-hit industries, and economic recovery; pay for essential workers; and investments in infrastructure.

Stehr said his staff will monitor Zionsville’s ARPA account to make sure the money is being used as it was allocated and ensure deadlines are met.

“We are ahead of that, and hopefully by the last quarter, we will have complete clarity on what has been spent, what is committed and what still needs to be spent,” Stehr said.

In the first quarter this year, the town committed about $400,000 of ARPA funds to pay for the updated comprehensive plan.

Stehr

COMMUNITY

DISPATCHES

Greenfest vendors wanted – The Town of Zionsville will host Greenfest from 9 a.m. until noon April 27 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.

Senior Salute — The Boone County Senior Salute will honor 2024 Boone County high school graduates who have chosen to serve their country from 6 to 8 p.m. May 13 at the American Legion Post 79 in Zionsville. Any Boone County Indiana high school senior graduating this year and enlisting in the military, joining a ROTC program or attending a service academy who is interested in being honored can contact bcseniorsalute@gmail.com. Tickets are available now for $25 at the Zionsville Legion, Zionsville Eyecare or online at 2024seniorsalute. eventbrite.com.

Book Drive – KG’s Kids, Inc. and Bank of America are teaming up to host a book drive throughout the month of April to benefit Indianapolis Public Schools and Warren Township Schools. The goal is to collect at least 3,000 new or gently used books, primarily for elementary and middle schoolaged children. Books can be dropped off through April 30 at BOA branches at 10800 N. Michigan Rd. in Zionsville; 11530 Illinois St. in Carmel; 9770 E. 116th St. in Fishers; and 8551 River Rd. in Indianapolis. KG’s Kids, Inc. is a nonprofit organization started by Indianapolis Colts tight end Kylen Granson with a mission to create opportunities for all students to be successful in school. Learn more at kgskids.com.

Scholarships available – The Indiana Chapter of the Association of the United States Army is offering scholarships of up to $2,000 each to students who are members or children of an AUSA member pursuing an undergraduate degree. Applicants must be high school seniors, college freshmen, sophomores, or juniors and must attend a regionally or nationally accredited institution. Documentation must be received by the Indiana Chapter AUSA no later than 11:59 p.m. April 30. For inquiries or to request an application, contact indianachapterausa@gmail.com.

The installation takes as little as a day.

The joy it brings lasts a lifetime.

Watching the eclipse

Commentary by Ward Degler

At first, the light got eerie. There’s no other word to describe what happened during the April 8 eclipse of the sun.

PLAIN TALK

My wife and I took a couple chairs into the front yard along with our plastic eclipse glasses and sat down to watch the moon blot out the sun. The moon advanced upward from the bottom of the sun, creating a scimitar shape that grew larger as it progressed over the sun’s surface.

The light grew paler and paler with each passing minute. Then, suddenly, almost unexpectedly, the moon blotted out the entire surface of the sun. That’s when things got weird. It was suddenly night, and the corona around the sun or, actually the moon, was startling. It literally took our breath away.

I remembered seeing a total eclipse in the summer of 1944 when day turned into night for a few minutes. It was eerie then, too. I remember watching the eclipse progress through a pinhole in a small cereal box. My uncle, whom we were living

with at the time, showed me how to make the hole and how to watch the eclipse through it.

There have been eclipses since then, of course, but they only blotted out part of the sun. There have also been eclipses of the moon but they happen at night when it’s already dark — so, not as much excitement there.

The most memorable total eclipse of the sun happened the day Christ was crucified. There are several accounts of that event in Scripture, and it has been depicted in several films about the life, death and resurrection of Jesus. I am grateful for the eclipse as a reminder of that astounding event.

I believe the next total eclipse is some 20 years away. May we be as startled then as we were April 8.

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.

From left, Zionsville Community High School students Ivey Lancaster, Jacob Schoenbaum, Nash Wagner and Sarah Kouns recently spent time with Emma Koster’s kindergarten class at Trailside Elementary. The ZCHS students are enrolled in Mica Wilson and Laura Harmon’s speech courses, and they visited ZCS elementary schools in March to share picture books. The speech students worked on their presentation skills while students in kindergarten through second grade at the elementary schools were able to learn about various literacy skills through the small group story sharing. (Photo courtesy of Zionsville Community Schools)

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ZIONSVILLE HOCKEY CLUB VISITS STATEHOUSE

Members of this year’s Zionsville Hockey Club visited the Indiana Statehouse recently with District 25 State Rep. Becky Cash of Zionsville. The club, a team of central Indiana high school students, won the Class 4A state championship in the Indiana State High School Hockey Association title game March 2 in South Bend. Zionsville defeated Evansville 1-0 with a late goal in the championship final. The Zionsville Hockey Club is a varsity hockey team that competes in the Hoosier League of the Indiana State High School Hockey Association. Players are from Zionsville Community High School, North Central High School, Ben Davis High School, Herron High School, Cardinal Ritter High School, Lebanon High School, Pike High School and Western Boone High School. For more about the Zionsville Hockey Club, visit zionsvillehockeyclub.teampages.com. (Photo courtesy of the office of Becky Cash)

Carmel High School shortstop off to fast start

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Carmel High School junior shortstop JD Stein’s team goal for the baseball season is a lofty one.

He wants to win the IHSAA Class 4A state title, which would be the first in program history.

“To do that, we have to get out of our sectional, which is pretty hard,” Stein said. “Our goal is show to everybody who we are in sectional and then make a little run and get there.”

Stein is off to a strong start in pursuit of his personal goals.

“I like to be a tough out, keep (my) batting average above .450 and hit a couple bombs,” Stein said. “I’m not going to try to do anything (special), just stick to my game.

In the first six games, Stein hit .500 with three doubles and two triples. CHS coach Ty Neal said Stein, who bats leadoff, is a disciplined hitter. He had seven walks and zero strikeouts in those five games.

“He’s a very talented player,” Neal said. “He’s a young man that works really hard on his craft. He’s a great teammate and

MEET JD STEIN

Favorite athlete: New York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe

Favorite subject: Biology

Favorite musician: Drake

Favorite TV viewing: MLB Network

very coachable. His strength is going to increase each year. He’s a very good runner. He plays the game aggressively.”

The 5-foot-9, 175-pound Stein primarily played third base last season but played shortstop as a freshman.

“He is showing that he continues to play shortstop at levels above this (high school),” he said.

Stein said he changed his approach this

“ Putting it o is not an option.”

season to hit more line drives.  Stein also played shortstop for the Indiana Bulls travel team.

“I like to play short the most. I get more range and can show off my arm a little more,” he said.

Stein originally committed to the University of Louisville but has reopened his recruitment. He said he is still considering Louisville.

“I’ll probably pick a place in two or three months,” Stein said. “I’m kind of seeing what comes to me first and then take it from there.”

Stein’s father, Mike Stein, a 1986 CHS graduate, played baseball at Northwestern University.

“His dad does a lot to help JD. He’s hitting him ground balls and throwing batting practice to him,” Neal said. “It’s a great baseball family.”

Like many women, Rainey’s health routine was disrupted by the pandemic. Before she knew it, three years had passed without an annual mammogram. After getting back on track with this key screening, she was able to catch and treat her breast cancer early. And thanks to a simple mammogram and her care team at Community Health Network, Rainey is now cancer-free.

It’s simple, it’s convenient and it can save your life. Schedule your annual mammogram today at eCommunity.com/mammogram

Carmel High School junior shortstop JD Stein has hit .500 in his first six games. (Photo courtesy of JD Stein)

HELLO, DOLLY

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

Zionsville’s newest hire is town therapy dog

Everyone has heard of the town crier. But in Zionsville, there’s a town barker.

In March, Mayor John Stehr officially introduced Zionsville’s first town dog, Dahlia, a 5-month-old Australian Labradoodle, who goes by the nickname Dolly.

Dolly was donated by a long-time resident to the Town of Zionsville, along with Canine Good Citizen training by the American Kennel Club, at a value of about $20,000. But Dolly’s actual worth is measured in more than dollars, according to town officials.

“I’ve seen other municipalities do this, where they have therapy dogs for their employees and for people to come in. Her job is to lower everyone’s blood temperature and make everybody just calm and happy, and she does a very good job at that,” Stehr said. “We joke about calling her the chief morale officer, but that’s really what she does. She’s spent time in schools and hospitals and a significant amount of time with trainers.”

Dolly is much more than a town mascot or community ambassador. Handler Megan Ray, recreation coordinator for the Zionsville Parks & Recreation Department, said Dolly fills a need for support and assistance at Town Hall and in the community.

“She also goes around to offices (at Town Hall) and people can take her into meetings,” Ray said. “She’ll be going into the police and fire stations very soon and she’ll be getting her ‘big girl’ next step-up certification as a therapy dog. So, hopefully she can assist, especially with kids. She’s very good with kids, she did a lot of her training at Eskenazi Health visiting some kids there.”

Dolly lives with Ray, her husband and two children and their senior dog full time.

The ultimate goal is for Dolly to be a true asset for Zionsville, where she will serve as a therapy dog for six to eight years once her certification from the American Kennel Club is complete.

“Hopefully, just getting her very involved in the community, not only for the mascot appeal, if you will, but also to really make a difference. She’s such a good girl,” Ray said. “It’s such a camaraderie, the attitudes of everyone the second they see her. It’s just such a lightness. I think it’s bringing not only the employees of Town Hall together, but I think eventually the entire community once she does more and more outreach.”

Planned outreach includes Parks & Rec events such as the Fall Festival parade and park and play events.

“We would love to do some sort of children’s reading group with her,” Ray said. “We’ve already been talking to the library about that because there’s a story walk at Elm Street Green, and then just expanding on that.”

Ray said when Dolly achieves her therapy dog certifica-

tion, she’ll be available to police and fire departments to assist with children in the event of accidents or incidents, or if a resident in town simply needs a calming presence.

“That’s to come, because right now she’s still a puppy and we have that training to continue with, but she’s doing a really good job at being the chief morale officer, which is a very special thing that I’ve not seen before,” Ray said.

As for her actual duties, Stehr said dogs like Dolly assist with the emotional well-being of employees and residents of Zionsville.

“She creates a calming presence,” Stehr said. “People find that if there is a calming presence like that, where you just pet her, talk to her, it lowers your stress level too, because she is so present and loving with everybody that she meets. I think it just creates a really nice atmosphere.”

Dolly has her own calendar, just like any other employee. So far, she’s made appearances at the State of the Town meeting March 27, with employees of public works and at the April 8 eclipse event at Mulberry Fields. Updates on Dolly’s adventures and updates are posted to the town’s social media accounts, facebook.com/Zions-

villeIN and instagram.com/zionsvillein.

ON THE COVER: Dolly is a 5-month-old Australian Labradoodle who was donated to the Town of Zionsville to serve as a therapy dog. (Photo by Marney Simon)

DOLLY THE TOWN DOG FACTS

NAME: Dahlia, after Zionsville’s nickname “The Dahlia City”

NICKNAME: Dolly

BREED: Australian Labradoodle

TITLE: Chief morale officer

FUR: Hypoallergenic and non-shedding

MARKINGS: Tuxedo coat

AGE: Five Months

CARETAKER: Megan Ray

NEXT APPEARANCE: Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library Whitestown Branch grand opening at 2 p.m. April 20, 6310 Albert S. White Dr., Whitestown

Dolly, an Australian Labradoodle, works alongside Zionsville Mayor John Stehr. (Photo by Marney Simon)

Dolly is short for Dahlia. Dolly’s name comes from Zionsville’s nickname, The Dahlia City. (Photo courtesy of Town of Zionsville)

Sharp as a razor

Commentary by Terry Anker

Even before the disposable variety, there was Ockham’s razor. Granted, they are very different kinds of devices. The former removes unwanted body hair, and the other is an intellectual device in philosophy that pares off the doubtful to focus one’s attention on the more likely. In the 14th century, William Ockham is attributed with formalizing some earlier thinking into his notion that in the absence of evidence to the contrary, whatever is most likely the cause can be assumed to be it. While the outraged conspiracy theorists among us may advance innumerable alternatives, Ockham would have suggested that we stay with the simplest probable causation.

ESSAY

The term “razor” to define the thinking came in the 19th century from Irish academic William Rowan Hamilton. Now, the expression is used in a variety of mostly scientific, philosophical or economics concepts. It is all very highbrow. But in 1980, comedic writer Robert J. Hanlon compiled a joke book centered on the notion of Mur-

phy’s Law (namely, that if anything can go wrong, it will).

In a clever riff on Murphy, Hanlon took the notion that “we’d better be prepared because it is tough out there” to a new level, asserting, “Never attribute to malice that which is adequately explained by stupidity.” Like Ockham’s, Hanlon’s razor attempts to walk we humans back from our all-too-eager willingness to imagine conspiracy where a more simple but less dramatic cause is probably the root. Evolution has brought us to be curious, unrelenting and suspicious. Caution has kept us alive. Still, the principle can go too far. We imagine all manners and sort of slight, insult and intrigue. Most people act through ignorance, incompetence or disinterest — not malice. Knowing it could improve our relationships and calm our anxieties, a sharp razor reduces the burn.

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

Life on the move

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Update: After selling our house much faster than we anticipated and then temporarily living with my in-laws, my husband Doo and I are now settling into our eldest’s new home, a cute little bungalow in the disputed territory of either Meridian Kessler or South Broad Ripple, depending on your reading of the boundary line. He still has another two months on his current apartment lease and we wanted our own space, so win-win for the Wilson clan.

HUMOR

The cool thing is that we’re only a mile from where Doo and I lived when we first became parents. I’m not sure if this is irony or some circle of life nonsense, but I do know we have majorly downsized. When I said “cute” above, I actually meant “tiny.” Like, TINE-EY.

It also means we’ve had to fill and unfill two storage units and a garage bay in the span of three weeks. My arms look amazing and my lower back aches nonstop. Doo’s body is in full-scale rebellion despite daily Aleve-IPA dosing. He nearly stroked out trying to get a king mattress up the narrowest set of stairs I’ve ever

“My arms look amazing and my lower back aches nonstop. Doo’s body is in full-scale rebellion despite daily Aleve-IPA dosing.”

– DANIELLE WILSON

seen. I have to both duck and turn slightly sideways to avoid getting stuck or hitting my head, and I’m not that big of a person. For our broad-shouldered, 6-foot-3 son, the journey to the second floor is both comical and perilous. The threat of accidental decapitation is real! Doo and I are both so tired at night that dinners consist of Jif peanut butter straight from the jar and a few stale pretzels.

Anyhoo, the housing saga continues. Where will we be in June? Stay tuned! Peace out.

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

Cold truth about lost coat

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

Nippy temps will soon be over. This past cold season, I faced the winter chill without any substantial outerwear whenever possible. It’s not that I’m particularly hardy; I’m simply looking at things realistically. I’m tired of losing my coat. I lost three during the COVID-19 pandemic and we never left the house.

I’m going to explain my problem, but you must read this carefully, or you’ll be lost -- like my coat usually is.

I never liked wearing winter coats, especially in the car. I don’t want to be all bundled up and feel like the Pillsbury Doughboy at the wheel. I get too warm when the car heats up, but I can’t undo my buttons or unzip because of the seat belts. Then when I exit the car, I’m soon in a warm place, like a movie theater or Lucas Oil Stadium, and have to immediately take off my heavy jacket and stuff it under my seat, which is a great way to add mustard stains and sticky pieces of popcorn to my apparel.

Since I seldom wear a coat, I am accustomed to leaving places without one. And so, when I occasionally do take along a jacket, I often leave it behind because I’m not used to wearing it in the first place. Are you following me? If you are following me, please tap me on the shoulder and remind me that I just left my coat at Beef & Boards.

It’s even crazier for my wife, Mary Ellen, to get bundled up in the winter because she asks me to warm up the car before we leave the house. Then she asks me to drop her off in front of the restaurant. Then she asks me to pick her up at the door when we leave. We drive home in a heated car and get out inside our heated garage. Why

“I never liked wearing winter coats, especially in the car. I don’t want to be all bundled up and feel like the Pillsbury Doughboy at the wheel. I get too warm when the car heats up, but I can’t undo my buttons or unzip because of the seat belts.”

– DICK WOLFSIE

does she even need a coat?

For many years, this was a typical phone conversation on any given morning after Mary Ellen and I went out and I made the mistake of bringing a coat.

“Hello, this is Dick Wolfsie. I was at your movie theater last night and may have left my brown winter coat there. Could you please check your lost and found?”

“Let me see. We have a pair of glasses, an iPhone and a credit card.”

“Yes, all that is mine. Not only did I forget that stuff, I forgot that I forgot it. But about the coat?”

“Here’s a brown coat. How could you leave it, sir? Once you got outside, didn’t the bitter cold remind you of your coat?”

“I can’t explain this. Read my column. Look, I’ll get the coat tomorrow when it’s not raining.”

“Don’t you have an umbrella? “

“I left it at Starbucks.”

Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE: Herbs: BASIL, DILL, MINT, OREGANO, PARSLEY, SAGE; Terms: DIG, NET, SERVE, SET, SPIKE; Cities: BEDFORD, COLUMBUS, JASPER, SEYMOUR; Poetry: FREE VERSE, HAIKU, ODE; Colors: CARDINAL, WHITE; Attorney General: TODD ROKITA

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

Fishers actress embraces role in Civic Theatre’s ‘Anastasia’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Jill O’Malia is acting her age, or in fact, a little older.

MUSICAL

“I’ve been fortunate over the years to be cast as someone much younger than I was,” O’Malia said. “So, this is nice I don’t have to worry about the wrinkles. I’m a grandma.”

O’Malia, who was crowned Miss Indiana in 1969, portrays Dowager Empress Maria Fyodorovna in Civic Theatre’s production of “Anastasia” April 26 to May 11 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Empress Maria is supposed to be around 80 years old and is Anastasia’s grandmother.

“It was thought through history she was the only surviving Romanov,” O’Malia said of Empress Maria.

Tsar Nicholas II and his family were executed in 1918 following the Russian Revolution of 1917.

“She was a very kind and pleasant person until the time her family was murdered, and then she became very stubborn and outspoken and her heart was broken,” said O”Malia, a Fishers resident. “So, the solo I sing is at a point where she is so broken, it’s kind of sad.”

This is the first time O’Malia has performed in a Civic Theatre show since “Into the Woods” in 2013.

“It’s great to be back. It’s a wonderful organization,” said O’Malia, who regularly acts for several community theater organizations.

O’Malia said she gets to sing a part of “Once Upon a December” with Young Anastasia at the end of the show. Young Anastasia is played by Westfield High School senior Keegan Connor.

Isabella Agresta plays Anya, or Anastasia. Agresta, a 2022 Franklin Central High

School graduate, said she would have been happy with any role but wanted to play the title role.

“I’ve done a few community theater roles where I’ve played the lead, but this is probably one of my favorites,” Agresta said. “It’s grown to be one of my favorite musicals. I always liked the music, and that’s what led me to audition.”

Agresta said “In my Dreams” is one of her favorite songs to perform.

“I also really love ‘In a Crowd of Thousands,’” Agresta said. “I think it’s a really important one in the show. It’s a big moment when she finally realizes she is Anastasia.”

Agresta said it’s an emotional role.

“I’m a really emotional person and I cry really easily,” Agresta said. “I’m afraid I might shed some tears during the show.”

This is Agresta’s second show with Civic Theatre. She performed in “Elf” in 2023. Indianapolis resident Troy Bridges plays Dimitry in his Civic Theatre debut.

From left, Troy Bridges, Isabella Agresta and Steve Kruze appear in Civic Theatre’s production of “Anastasia.”

(Photo by Joshua Hasty Photography)

“I didn’t know much about the musical beforehand, but it’s become a favorite of mine,” Bridges said. “I think I’ve acclimated pretty well to the role.”

Bridges said he researched the musical quite a bit after getting the role.

“I’ve been enjoying getting to know (Dmitry) a little bit,” he said.

Renée La Schiazza, a 2012 Carmel High School graduate and Carmel resident, plays Tatiana Romanov and various roles in the ensemble.

“I always liked the movie, but I think what intrigued me about auditioning is none of us has had the chance to do the show because it’s the regional premiere,” La Schiazza said. “The score is beautiful and there are a lot of wonderful dance numbers. It was really a great opportunity to be part of a new cast and do a show with just a lot of dynamic musical numbers.”

La Schiazza, the director of programs for the Great American Songbook Foundation, performed in Civic Theatre’s “The Sound of Music” In 2023.

Fishers resident Anne Beck is the director and choreographer. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

‘THE KING AND I’

Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “The King and I” runs through May 19 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

“Deceptions: An Evening of Magic & Lies” is set for April 17, followed by Summer Nights: The Music of “Grease” April 18 and Storm Large April 19-20 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All performances start at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘SYLVIA’

“Sylvia,” a play by A.R. Gurney, runs through April 23 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.

WORLD VOICE DAY

World Voice Day is set for 6:30 p.m. April 16 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Singers of all ages are encouraged to sign up for the free performance. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

SAMMY MILLER AND THE CONGREGATION

Sammy Miller and The Congregation’s concert is set for 8 p.m. April 19 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘RUMOURS: A FLEETWOOD MAC TRIBUTE’

“Rumours: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute” concert is set for 8 p.m. April 20 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

DISPATCH

Bennett to serve as Carmel Jazz Festival headliner — Jazz vocalist Antonia Bennett, the late Tony Bennett’s daughter, has been invited to headline the Carmel Jazz Festival Aug. 9 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. However, due to this opportunity, the Carmel Symphony Orchestra is postponing its April 21 concert, which featured Bennett. Those tickets will be honored at the Aug. 9 concert or a refund can be requested by calling 317-8449717. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

La Schiazza O’Malia

Heartland’s Cinemania starts strong

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Heartland International Film Festival’s Cinemania is a box office hit.

FUNDRAISER

The 650 tickets for the April 19 fundraiser at the Crane Bay Event Center in Indianapolis sold out quickly. The inaugural theme for the signature fundraiser is “A Tribute to The Beatles in Film”

“It really shows the support behind our events,” said Jessica Chapman, director of marketing and communications for Heartland Film. “Every year, this event is going to have a different theme. Cinemania is a one-night celebration of iconic films.”

This year’s event will include an appearance by BritBeat, a Beatles tribute band.

Chapman said there was room for more than 650 people, but officials wanted to make sure there was space for visitors to enjoy interactive experiences.

“One of the themes is ‘Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds,’ and we’re going to have an aerialist pouring champagne,” Chapman said. “All the different areas are

based on classic Beatles songs.”

Other themed areas include “Strawberry Fields Forever,” featuring strawberry margaritas, and “Yellow Submarine.”

“BritBeat will take us through the different years of The Beatles with costume changes,” Chapman said.

There also will be performances by DJ Lockstar, jazz singer Rebecca Rafla, soul singer Bashiri Asad and the DysFUNKtion Brass Band.

Chapman said BritBeat will be on the main stage and the other performers will be in the Jimmy Stewart VIP Lounge.  For more, visit heartlandfilm.org.

Adana kebab great for grilling

Commentary by Mark LaFay

April is a bustling month for us at the shop as we finalize preparations for the summer farmers market season. We’re assembling and training our team, gathering and repairing gear, scheduling, planning and building up inventory for the grilling season. I’m a grill enthusiast who doesn’t need anything fancy — a Weber kettle grill with hardwood charcoal suits me perfectly.

FOOD

This week, we’re introducing a Turkish lamb sausage named after Adana, a town in Turkey. Having spent time in Turkey, I can attest to the fantastic nature of Turkish cuisine, with döner sandwiches and Adana kebab ranking high among my favorite dishes.

Adana kebab consists of spicy minced lamb sausage skewered and grilled over charcoal, traditionally seasoned with cumin seeds, Urfa pepper flakes and sumac. Cumin adds an earthy flavor. Urfa pepper contributes a mild spiciness, and sumac provides a slight bitterness, combining to create a memorable taste. For those interested in trying Adana kebab, you can

sample ours or make your own. Here’s a recipe to consider:

• Approximately 1.2 pounds ground lamb

• Kosher salt (approx. 10 grams)

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 tablespoon ground sumac

• 1 tablespoon ground Urfa pepper flakes

• 2 tablespoons ice-cold water

Mix all ingredients by hand for 3-5 minutes, chill overnight, then form around skewers to make them flat and thin. Grill over charcoal for optimal browning and crisping. Serve on grilled pita or a crispy fluffy baguette. Top with thinly sliced red onion, fresh ripe tomato, parsley and a drizzle of olive oil. Optionally, add yogurt, fresh dill and a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing twist, or elevate it with some fine hummus.

Here’s to the grilling season!

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

BritBeat will perform at Heartland International Film Festival’s Cinemania. (Photo courtesy of BrttBeat)

Fishers resident participates in Disability Film Challenge

By Ken Severson editorial@youarecurrent.com

Movie making isn’t only for Hollywood filmmakers.

COMEDY

A team of deaf filmmakers from Indianapolis is participating in the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge for the second consecutive year.

baum, Aaron Margolis-Greenbaum, Cullen Shade, Rydrea Walker, Justin Perez and Carlina Fucarino.

Their film, “Sugar Buddy,” is a buddy comedy.

One of the producers, Fishers resident Allison Friedman, was a finalist last year in the category of Best Public Awareness Campaign. She and her team are hoping for a repeat as a finalist.

“Our film challenge begins (soon), then we will have to wait until the films upload to all social media outlets,” Friedman said. “We will begin the awareness campaign, which runs from April 13-21, so we will need support to spread our disability film to get more attention in Indiana.”

Besides Friedman, the other members on the movie team are Sarah Margolis-Green-

The team wrote the script and filmed and edited the movie in five days.

Should “Sugar Buddy” win, the team will receive $2,000 grants as category winners and will have a chance to access a $15,000 seed fund/film finishing grant provided by the Adobe Foundation. Other prizes, like a Dell Technologies computer and one-year membership to Internet Movie Database Pro, further incentivize participation. In addition, organizations such as the Heartland International Film Festival, HollyShorts Film Festival and NewFilmmakers could take notice and elevate the film and possibly provide invaluable opportunities for networking and collaboration within the industry. For more, visit disabilityfilmchallenge. com.

Sky inspires Fishers artist

Commentary by Randy Sorrell

Feeling a little stale and need a shot of inspiration? We all have periods of low energy or lack of enthusiasm, don’t we? The challenge is how we push through them. If you’re a “creative” or entrepreneur, this anti-staleness strategy can have a major impact on your livelihood.

ART

Martin Fitzgerald, a Fishers resident and acrylic artist, gets inspiration from the sky, where all true colors reside! I dig that! His father was an artist, which is where Fitzgerald received his inspiration and training.

One of his inspiring techniques is to pair his paintings with a song that is best enjoyed while viewing. Check out Fitzgerald’s Facebook page for his art/music pairings.

Marilyn Wilson, an inspiring 80-yearyoung Zionsville resident has several strategies to “get her creative on” that most of us will appreciate. And they are really mechanisms to avoid boredom, which she has a low tolerance for.

She loves her iPhone photography while out walking when unusual things catch her eye. Recently, a grove of flowering dog-

wood trees in Crown Hill Cemetery in Indianapolis were subjects. She will employ them in greeting cards with a personal poem or note to uplift someone.

So, how do you get your creative on?

Send me an email and tell me your story.

Let’s help unclog the stale energy in someone who may appreciate it.

Randy Sorrell, a Carmel artist, can be reached at 317-6792565, rsorrellart@gmail.com or rsorrellart.com.

Martin Fitzgerald’s painting is named for Jimmy Buffett’s “A Pirate Looks at 40.” (Photo courtesy of Martin Fitzgerald)

Friedman

Blueprint for Improvement: Revamped Carmel kitchen

Commentary by Larry Greene

Constructed in 1992 in Carmel’s Orchard Estates neighborhood, this home featured a well-designed and functional kitchen layout that was ready for a modern-style refresh. The homeowners were looking for a light and contemporary style while also increasing storage.

THE BLUEPRINT

• New maple cabinets extend to the ceiling, increasing storage space and extending the perceived ceiling height.

• A modern green shade on the lower cabinets add a sophisticated color pop that perfectly accents the wood tones throughout the open-concept space.

• The curved lines of the statement range hood provide a striking contrast to the clean lines on the cabinetry and backsplash, while the light wood tone adds a touch of natural warmth and nuance.

• The glossy artisan tile backsplash in tonal neutral adds texture to the overall aesthetic, while the hardware’s rich gold tones add a touch of classic style.

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.

Before After

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE TOWN OF ZIONSVILLE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Town of Zionsville Board of Zoning Appeals on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. in the Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 West Oak Street, Zionsville, Indiana 46077 to consider the following Petition: Petition # 2024-12-DSV, filed for RFPDI, LLC, requests Board of Zoning Appeals Approval for a: Variance of Development Standards to provide for or permit:Development Standards Variance pursuant to Section 1.20 E.2 of the Creekside Corporate Park PUD to reduce the front yard setback along Creek Way in the Creekside Corporate Park PUD.

The property involved is commonly known as: 10814 and 10850 Creek Way, Zionsville, IN 46077 and is legally described as: Lots 10 and 11 in Creekside Corporate Park, Re-Plat of Lots 10 and 11, as per plat thereof, recorded June 9, 2023 as Instrument 2023004868, in the Office of the Recorder of Boone County, Indiana.

A copy of the Petition for Board of Zoning Appeal Approval, and all plans pertaining thereto are on file and may be examined prior to the Public Hearing from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, except for Holidays, in the Planning & Building Department in the Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 West Oak Street, Zionsville, Indiana, 46077. Written comments in support of or in opposition of the Petition that are filed with the Secretary of the Town of Zionsville Board of Zoning Appeals prior to the Public Hearing will be considered. The Public Hearing is open to the public. Oral comments to this Petition will be heard at the Public Hearing. The Public Hearing may be continued from time to time as may be found necessary.

Further, and as allowed by the laws of the State of Indiana, members of the public will be afforded the opportunity to attend the Board of Zoning Appeals Public Meetings via a form(s) of electronic communication IF indicated in the Agenda (as amended from time to time) associated with the Board of Zoning Appeals Meeting.

Upon request, the Town of Zionsville will provide auxiliary aids and services. Please provide advance notification to the Technology Department, assistance@zionsville-in.gov or 317-873-1577, to ensure the proper accommodations are made prior to the meeting.

Chairman: Kathi Postlethwait

Secretary: Mike Dale

SCAN HERE

TO HAVE CURRENT DELIVERED TO YOUR PHONE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE TOWN OF ZIONSVILLE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Town of Zionsville Board of Zoning Appeals on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. in the Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 West Oak Street, Zionsville, Indiana 46077 to consider the following Petition: Petition # 2024-11-DSV, filed for Charles C. Ney, requests Board of Zoning Appeals Approval for a (mark all that apply): Variance of Development Standards to provide for or permit: Development Standards Variance pursuant to Section 194.082 Table 3 for a lot to exceed the 3:1 depth-to-width ratio in the Rural Single-Family Residential (R-1) zoning district.

The property involved is commonly known as: 9375 E State Road 32, Zionsville, IN 46077 and is legally described as: Part of the East Half of the Northwest Quarter of Section 3, Township 18 North, Range 2 East, Second Principal Meridian, Union Township, Boone County, Indiana, described as follows: Commencing at a point on the north line of said section North 89 degrees 28 minutes 09 seconds East (assumed bearing) 330.00 feet from the northwest corner of said half-quarter section; thence South 01 degrees 09 minutes 59 seconds East, 49.21 feet, to the POINT OF BEGINNING; thence the following (2) courses along the southern right-of-way of SR 32 as follows; thence South 52 degrees 07 minutes 34 seconds East, 36.56 feet; thence North 88 degrees 28 minutes 09 seconds East, 91.40 feet; thence South 01 degrees 09 minutes 59 seconds East, 426.16 feet; thence North 89 degrees 14 minutes 36 seconds East, 120.00 feet; thence South 01 degrees 09 minutes 59 seconds East, 294.41 feet; thence South 89 degrees 14 minutes 36 seconds West, 240.00 feet; thence North 01 degrees 09 minutes 59 seconds West, 741.91 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING. Containing 2.801 Acres more or less.

A copy of the Petition for Board of Zoning Appeal Approval, and all plans pertaining thereto are on file and may be examined prior to the Public Hearing from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, except for Holidays, in the Planning & Building Department in the Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 West Oak Street, Zionsville, Indiana, 46077. Written comments in support of or in opposition of the Petition that are filed with the Secretary of the Town of Zionsville Board of Zoning Appeals prior to the Public Hearing will be considered. The Public Hearing is open to the public. Oral comments to this Petition will be heard at the Public Hearing. The Public Hearing may be continued from time to time as may be found necessary.

Further, and as allowed by the laws of the State of Indiana, members of the public will be afforded the opportunity to attend the Board of Zoning Appeals Public Meetings via a form(s) of electronic communication IF indicated in the Agenda (as amended from time to time) associated with the Board of Zoning Appeals Meeting.

Upon request, the Town of Zionsville will provide auxiliary aids and services. Please provide advance notification to the Technology Department, assistance@zionsville-in.gov or 317-873-1577, to ensure the proper accommodations are made prior to the meeting.

Chairman:Kathi Postlethwait Secretary: Mike Dale

C: (317) 918-9744

Schuyler.Nehrig@infarmbureau.com

LAWN CARE & LANDSCAPING

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ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A SHOP TO CALL HOME?

Parents of Ball State Students

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

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

Safe Off-Campus Housing

All utilities & internet included. For More info: P-888.433.5582

www.TRLProperty.com

LOVE DOGS?

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.