Founded March 20 2012, at Zionsville, IN Vol. XIII, No. 14
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Zionsville resident pens book on pain, healing
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Brooke Martin was a public figure in Indianapolis when she received devastating news from her physician.
FAITH
An Emmy Award-winning news anchor and reporter for WISH-TV for 15 years, Martin said journalism was her dream job.
even been through.”
In 2018, the Zionsville resident announced on-air that she was pregnant with her second child. When a persistent bout of bronchitis brought her to her doctor’s office for treatment, she was offered a chance to check the baby’s development. It was then that her doctor discovered the baby, a girl, had a condition called anencephaly — a rare fatal condition where the baby’s skull does not develop. Martin chose to carry the pregnancy to term. She and her husband Cole shared their unborn daughter’s diagnosis with viewers.
“I was 100 percent authentic,” Martin said of making her news public. “I was so broken and vulnerable. It was the most heartbreaking and challenging thing, but it was also the most hopeful thing we’ve
Martin’s daughter, Emma Noelle, was born March 15, 2019. She lived for 21 minutes. Emma Noelle’s name comes from the name Emmanuel, a Hebrew name which means ‘God is with us.’ Navigating her way through heartbreak, grief and healing, Martin said the experience led to what she refers to as a ‘spiritual journey.’ She said while driving one day, she asked God to tell her what she should do next. In her mind’s eye, she saw a vision of a field undergoing a controlled burn.
Martin said that vision was an understanding of pain and how it grows: Pain is like fire — it can destroy everything in its path, but when controlled, it can create nutrient-rich soil.
“I knew I wanted to offer a message of hope and this was the framework,” Martin said. “On a total leap of faith, I left news. I just wanted to get this into people’s hands.”
Martin said she didn’t set out to write a book about her experience, but through conversations with others about her journey, she was connected with a literary agent who ultimately wanted to bring the
DISPATCHES
story of a controlled burn as a metaphor for pain and healing to the public. The result is her new book, ‘Controlled Burn: Rising From the Ashes to Forge an Unshakeable Faith,’ published by Dexterity Books.
Martin said while the writing process was difficult, she felt called to bring some hard truths to light to help others.
“It’s truth as opposed to comfort, but truth can lead to comfort,” Martin said. “It’s not a memoir. Primarily, it’s a guide to hope based in biblical truth.”
The book is a combination of advice and spiritual insights to help anyone navigating through difficult trials in life. Martin said her message is not limited to child loss; the book aims to help all who suffer through hardships by inspiring those who wish to walk in faith with God to shift their perspectives and recognize ways to grow and heal.
‘Controlled Burn: Rising From the Ashes to Forge an Unshakeable Faith’ is available for preorder on Amazon and at local booksellers. The paperback edition will be released Aug. 20.
Learn more about Brooke Martin’s journey at morewithbrookemartin.com.
STEM advocates to lobby during legislative session – The Indiana Technology & Innovation Association recently announced its policy committee chairpersons heading into the 2025 legislative session. Chairs will help lead the association’s policy development and identify priorities to accelerate Indiana’s tech and innovation ecosystem. Megan Glover, co-founder and CEO of 120Water in Zionsville, will serve as chair of the capital policy committee. ITIA’s policy committees advocate for policies across a range of issues, including expanding access to venture capital, strengthening talent, contributing to placemaking that embraces tech and innovation and promoting equity and diversity. ITIA membership is open to all technology and innovation-driven enterprises and partners working together to accelerate the innovation economy. Learn more at IndianaTechnology.org.
Adult Summer Camp – The Indiana State
Museum at White River State Park in downtown Indianapolis will host Adult Summer Camp from 7 to 9 p.m. July 12. Adults can leave the children at home and enjoy an exclusive opportunity to unwind with friends and experience the museum after hours, with food, themed cocktails, classic camp activities and more — all inspired by the museum’s new “Good Night Forest” exhibit. The museum’s galleries will be open for guided after-hours tours. Visitors can explore “Good Night Forest” to discover Indiana’s nocturnal animals. The adults-only program is open to visitors ages 21 and older. Tickets are $45 for nonmembers, with a 10 percent discount available for Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites members. Space is limited. Purchase tickets at IndianaMuseum.org.
Summer concert series – The Zionsville Cultural District hosts the 2024 summer concert series each Wednesday at 7 p.m. at Lions Park, 11053 Sycamore St. in Zionsville. Artists featured in July include Mama Said String Band July 10; Gene Markiewicz Jazz July 17; Billy and the Tall Boys July 24;
and Vinyl Escape July 31. There is no concert on July 3 due to the 4th of July holiday. The series moves to Lincoln Park, 41 S. 2nd St. in August with Brenda Williams Aug. 7; Melodies & Memories with Ron Wells Aug. 14; Rob Dixon Trio Aug. 21; and Zionsville’s Got Talent/Back to Rock and the Juan Douglas Trio Aug. 28. Learn more at zvillecd.org.
Summer Reading Program – Embark on an exciting adventure this summer with the Summer Reading Program at Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library. Patrons of all ages can sign up to record reading time. To complete the program and be entered into the grand prize drawing, participants must complete 15 hours of reading. Three grand prize winners will be chosen. Prizes are an eBike donated by eBoom, a kayak donated by an anonymous library patron and a Coleman Evanston screened tent donated by the Zionsville Rotary Club. The program runs through July 31 and registration is available at any time. Sign up at hmmpl.org under the Summer Reading tab.
Martin
Glover
Zionsville deputy mayor resigns
news@youarecurrent.com
Zionsville Deputy Mayor Kate Swanson has resigned her post, effective immediately. Mayor John Stehr announced Swanson’s resignation June 20.
GOVERNMENT
“Kate’s energy, intellect and passion for Zionsville have made her a tremendous partner in the first five months of my administration,” Stehr stated. “She has been instrumental in launching key initiatives like my Zionsville 2040 Vision, the South Village project and the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council.”
or in January.
Prior to her service in Stehr’s administration, Swanson was the first executive director of zWORKS, Zionsville’s coworking and entrepreneurial center. She was also the first executive director of the Mitch Daniels Leadership Foundation, a nonprofit focused on lifting the arc of progress in Indiana. Swanson served as a director of the Zionsville Chamber of Commerce from 2018 to 2023 and as that organization’s president in 2020. In 2021, she helped launch the Chamber’s Advocacy Committee, which supports Zionsville interests with policymakers.
DATES
Stehr announced Swanson as his pick for Deputy Mayor in March 2023 while campaigning for the Republican nomination.
Swanson chaired the mayor’s transition committee and took office as deputy may-
“Kate has left a meaningful impact on our community,” Stehr stated. “As she steps away to focus her attention on personal matters, I am grateful for her service and her friendship. I wish her and her family nothing but the absolute best.”
Zionsville’s South Village proposal delayed to July 15
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Consideration of the proposed South Village planned unit development was delayed once again in June, with the $250 million project scheduled to come before the Zionsville Plan Commission July 15.
DEVELOPMENT
Jeff Jacob, attorney and partner with Hackman Hulett who is working with the town on the PUD, said the plans have undergone significant changes following feedback from more than three dozen public meetings.
“We have been working diligently, continuing to gather input on the PUD, including working closely with members of the town council,” Jacob said. “We believe that we will be prepared to be in front of (the Plan Commission) with a completed document in advance of the July 15 meeting.”
Introduced by Mayor John Stehr in March, the plan aims to create a mixeduse master plan for the town’s South Village. The proposed PUD is an effort to revitalize the underdeveloped area be-
tween the historic brick street downtown and Old 106th Street. The PUD includes 500,000 square feet of commercial space, residential options, including single family homes, townhomes and senior living, road realignment to improve traffic flow while protecting the historic brick Main Street, a parking structure and 40 percent protected greenspace.
Permitted uses within the PUD include art galleries, banks, day care, catering, food stand/farmers market, restaurants, bars, event space, hotels, retail space less than 5,000 square feet and professional office space. Permitted residential uses include single-family, multifamily and row house options.
Residents opposed to the proposal have asked the town to halt the planning process until the town’s update of its comprehensive plan is complete. A petition circulated on change.org asking town officials to consider ramifications of the development has gained more than 370 signatures.
The Zionsville Plan Commission meets at 6:30 p.m. July 15 at Town Hall.
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– The 4th Degree Knights of Columbus at St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church in Zionsville will partner with St. Vincent de Paul in Indianapolis to provide bicycles to veterans and the homeless. Community members are encouraged to donate old or unwanted bicycles, regardless of condition, as well as chains and locks. All donated items will be refurbished before being distributed to those in need. Drop off is noon to 4 p.m. Aug. 17, 18, 24 and 25 at the sports field parking lot at the church, 1870
– St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church will host suicide prevention training session from 10 a.m. to noon Aug. 24 at the parish hall. The training session will be conducted by the Indiana Center for Prevention of Youth Abuse and Suicide and will include insights and practical strategies to identify warning signs of suicide as well as intervention strategies. The free event is open to all members of the community. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. Learn more at indiana-
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Whitestown summer concert series –The summer concert series takes place every Friday in June and July at Main Street Park, 4286 S. Main St. in Whitestown and includes a variety of music genres. Performances include Cornfield Mafia July 5; Toy Factory July 12; 90 Proof July 19; and Groove Smash July 26. Gates open at 6 p.m., live music begins at 7 p.m. and local food and beverage vendors are on-site. For more, visit whitestown.in.gov.
– High school students who want to pursue work-based learning and credentials can now apply for a Career Scholarship Account. Hoosier students can receive up to a $5,000 state-funded scholarship to pursue apprenticeships, applied learning experiences, work-based learning and credentials attainment. About 2,000 spots are available for the 2024-2025 school year. Students can apply for a Career Scholarship Account until Oct. 1. Accounts are available to high school students who are enrolled in a course or educational experience approved by the Indiana Department of Education. A full list of approved courses and application information can be found
Zionsville educators give back after 46 years of service
By Conrad Otto conrad@youarecurrent.com
With a combined 46 years of serving the Zionsville Community School District, Tim and Jenni East wanted to do something for the community they love.
EDUCATION
Tim East, the principal at ZCHS, and Jenni East, a math teacher at Zionsville Middle School, retired at the end of the 2023-24 school year.
The couple played host to the Easts Give Back Golf Outing at the Golf Club of Indiana June 12 in Whitestown, with assistance from the Zionsville Education Foundation, which raises funds for academic, performing arts and athletic programs within the school district.
Funds raised at the event benefit the education foundation to support school district needs. But in addition to the fundraising effort, the outing was time for the Easts to reflect on hard work, giving back to the community, celebrating many years of hard work and moving a great education system forward.
“The money is great, but it’s much deep-
er than that,” Tim East said. “It’s the people that come around and support this event and all the things for our kids that really make Zionsville what Zionsville is.”
The couple started their teaching careers in California. Since moving to Indiana more than two decades ago, they said there have been no regrets, both as parents and employees.
Jenni East said she earned trust from
the parents of her students when the COVID-19 pandemic began, which taught her the importance of serving through difficult times. That hard work paid off.
“I know we’re going to look at all these kids with so much pride and say, ‘I’ve got to have that kid in my class’,” she said. “It wouldn’t surprise me if we somehow ended up back at school doing something.”
ZCS Superintendent Rebecca Coffman
describes the couple as “servant leaders” within the school district and community.
“How fitting is this event: Truly a celebration of their years serving students and families, and supporting teachers in the community,” Coffman said. “It gives me a smile that I can feel, not only on my face, but on my soul. To see the people that have gathered here to celebrate the legacy of Tim and Jenni East, it’s really powerful.”
Tim and Jenni East say a few words about the golf outing, introducing golfers to the course. (Photos by Conrad Otto) Golf carts are lined up in advance of the event on the course.
Marian University Prep expands curriculum
By Tirzah Rowland tirzah@youarecurrent.com
Marian University Preparatory School will expand to offer K-12 curriculum, adding grades 9-12, for the 2024-25 school year.
EDUCATION
Enrollment is underway for the third year of MU Prep. The Indianapolis-based institution offers online courses available to students across the U.S. “We are very pleased to offer education
that focuses not only on the traditional subject matter skill set from science, mathematics, English, language arts, etc., but also in the individual development of the students from the spiritual side as well as developing leaders for the future,” said Joseph Heidt, executive director of MU Prep.
Developed from the goal to provide a quality, faith-based education to students beyond the traditional
school setting, MU Prep offers online instruction and in-person opportunities to support families.
Sponsored by Marian University, the school teaches values of dignity, peace and justice, reconciliation and responsible stewardship.
“We partner with a program called Stride K-12, which is a national program,” Heidt said. “The curriculum is very well developed, very well vetted and utilized.”
The independent school within the Indianapolis Archdiocese is staffed by licensed Indiana Department of Education teachers with access to Marian University facilities.
Courses are taught live, providing students interaction with teachers and peers.
“This is a setting where you can support your child by being a learning coach,” Heidt said. “But you have the opportunity for your child to learn from an expert in that subject matter — a very well-educated and well-practiced teacher.”
With online, hybrid and single-course
options, families can customize plans, and students are given opportunities to participate in school-based clubs and activities both online and in person. Online assemblies, clubs and activities are available to virtual-only students. Students enrolled in the hybrid program attend classes on the Marian University campus as opportunities arise.
“You may have a science class that’s going to utilize the labs, you may be going to museums, you may be going to fine arts performances, you may be using many of the assets that Marian University offers on its campus,” Heidt said.
The school serves students of all faiths and financial means. Tuition ranges from $400 per semester course to $7,500 for a full year of hybrid instruction. Financial aid is available, and the school accepts Indiana Choice Scholarships.
Enrollment for the 2023-24 school year was 160.
For more, visit muprep.k12.com
DISPATCHES
Pharmaceutical collections – Boone County residents can dispose of unused or expired medications at special dropboxes. Locations include Zionsville Police Department, 1075 Parkway Dr. in Zionsville and Whitestown Police Department, 6210 Veterans Dr. in Whitestown. Acceptable items include prescription medications (including controlled and non-controlled pills, liquids and patches), OTC medications, vitamins, supplements and pet medications. Prohibited items include institutional, industrial or business waste, sharps, bloody or infections waste and thermometers. Learn more at boonecountysolidwaste.com/special-collections.
Soaring Eagle inductions – The Zionsville Alumni Association is planning the seventh Soaring Eagle Hall of Fame induction ceremony July 27 at Zionsville Community High School’s STAR Bank Performing Arts Center. The event will be followed by an all-class reunion in the Cardinal Room at the Golf Club of Indiana. The July 27 event begins at the high school at 2 p.m., with the class reunion following at 6 p.m. Admission to the Soaring Eagle Induction Ceremony is open and free to the public. Advance $30 tickets for the reunion are available at 2024ZionsvilleAllClassReunion. eventbrite.com or at Zionsville Eyecare,
1120 W. Oak St. Tickets are $40 at the door. Zionsville Alumni Association members are admitted free of charge. For more, email zionsvillealumni@gmail.com or visit online at zionsvillealumni.org or facebook.com/ zionsvillealumniassociation.
Flag disposal – Boone County Solid Waste Management reminded residents that American flags that are tattered and worn should be disposed of following federal guidelines, which include burning and proper handling of the ashes. Collection bins for flags in need of retirement can be found throughout Boone County, including Zionsville American Legion Post 79, 9950 E 600 S, as well as the Boone County Veterans Affairs Office and the Boone County Courthouse in Lebanon.
100 Hours Outside – Zionsville Parks & Rec are challenging residents to log 100 hours outside this summer through Aug. 31. Submit hours and be entered into monthly drawings. Residents can log their recreation time for any outdoor activity, such as swimming, going on a walk or even catching bugs. Registration is free for Zionsville residents and $3 for nonresidents. For more information and to register, visit zionsvillein.myrec.com.
Heidt
Grad ships to Naval Academy
SERVICE news@youarecurrent.com
Zionsville Community High School Class of 2024 graduate Tommy Frazier was inducted into the Naval Academy Class of 2028 June 27, the beginning of six challenging weeks of basic midshipman training during Plebe Summer.
Frazier is one of 1,200 candidates selected for the plebe — or freshman — class at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md., out of a pool of 14,000 applicants. Each student is required to participate in Plebe Summer, during which there is no access to television, movies, the internet or music, and cellphone use is restricted to three calls during the six weeks.
ical and professional development and team-building skills. Activities include swimming, martial arts, basic rock climbing and obstacle, endurance and confidence courses designed to develop physical, mental and team-building skills. Forty hours are devoted to the instruction of infantry drills and five formal parades.
More than 4,400 men and women representing every state in the U.S. and several foreign countries make up the student body at the Naval Academy, known as the Brigade of Midshipmen.
Founded in 1845, the U.S. Naval Academy is a four-year service academy that prepares midshipmen to be professional officers in the naval service.
The rigor of Plebe Summer is designed to help plebes prepare for their first academic year at the Naval Academy. As the summer progresses, students rapidly assimilate basic skills in seamanship, navigation, damage control, sailing and handling yard patrol craft. Plebes also participate in infantry drills and learn to shoot firearms.
In addition, plebes undergo daily training sessions on moral, mental, phys-
In 2024, U.S. News and World Report rated the Naval Academy as the No. 1 public school, No. 3 national liberal arts college and No. 5 undergraduate engineering school. Upon graduation, midshipmen earn a Bachelor of Science degree in a choice of 26 different subject majors and go on to serve at least five years as commissioned officers in the U.S. Navy or U.S. Marine Corps.
For more about the Naval Academy, visit usna.edu.
DISPATCHES
Prenatal yoga – Witham Health Services is offering prenatal yoga classes from 6-7 p.m. every Thursday at Witham Wellness Center, 2505 N. Lebanon St. in Lebanon.
Prenatal yoga is a specialized yoga class that focuses on supporting a pregnant person through the trimesters, while preparing them for birth and the postpartum period. Classes are $20 per session. To register, visit witham.org/event/prenatal-yoga.
Brooke’s Place seeks volunteers –
Brooke’s Place for Grieving Young People is looking for volunteers to serve as support group facilitators for its westside, eastside and northside program nights. Volunteers provide a safe and supportive environment for young people, ages 3-29, and their caregivers, to grieve. Facilitators engage groups through conversation as well as age-appropriate therapeutic activities such as crafts and games. Facilitators serve families twice a month on either Mondays, Tuesdays or Thursdays. To learn more about becoming a facilitator or to apply,
contact chelsea@brookesplace.org or visit brookesplace.org/grief-support-volunteer.
‘Good Night Forest’ exhibit – The Indiana State Museum’s newest exhibit, “Good Night Forest,” is open through Oct. 31. The playful experience was created especially for little ones, with beautiful artwork and engaging activities designed to help children build confidence and cultivate scientific curiosity as they discover nature and learn about animals that emerge after dark. According to the museum, “Good Night Forest” will help children build confidence and cultivate scientific curiosity as they discover nature and learn about the animals that emerge in their neighborhoods and local forests after the sun goes down. “Good Night Forest” is free for members and included with museum admission, which is $20 for adults, $14 for youth ages 3-17 and $18 for seniors. The museum is located at White River State Park in downtown Indianapolis. Learn more at IndianaMuseum.org.
Frazier
Community Foundation of Boone County offers grants
news@youarecurrent.com
The Community Foundation of Boone County recently announced its first of two grant cycles for 2024, totaling nearly $100,000 for 16 nonprofit organizations that serve Boone County.
NONPROFITS
CFBC provided funds through its Programming Grants cycle, which support program needs for nonprofits with awards from $2,500 to $10,000. Recipients include Boys & Girls Club of Boone
The first — Deep Dive Capacity Building Grants — allow organizations to participate in a professional consultant-led assessment of organizational needs. Following that process, organizations can apply for grant funds based on their needs assessments. The Boys & Girls Club of Boone County and Sugar Creek Art Center in Thorntown were selected for those grant opportunities.
The second grant opportunity — Leadership Development Grants — provide organizations the opportunity to participate in personalized executive leadership
Boys & Girls Club of Boone County raises $82,000
news@youarecurrent.com
A basketball-themed fundraiser “netted” the Boys & Girls Club of Boone County more than $82,000 to benefit the club’s afterschool programs, sports leagues and educational initiatives. The event — DUNK! — was held at the Boys & Girls Club of Boone County, Whitestown Unit in June, bringing together community members, local businesses and culinary partners for entertainment and fundraising.
FUNDRAISER
DUNK! featured a series of basketball-themed games and activities, including basket pong. (Photo courtesy of Boys & Girls Club of Boone County)
Agreement approved for Wild Air in Zionsville
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Zionsville’s Redevelopment Commission and Old Town Land Development LLC have signed off on a development agreement for the proposed 260-acre Wild Air development at Marysville Road and West Oak Street.
DEVELOPMENT
Redevelopment Commission Director Corrie Sharp updated the Zionsville Town Council on the project June 3. Sharp said in addition to commitments by the builder, the agreement lays out terms of the bond as well as the development’s economic impact.
“This is really to put a hold on what our bond documents say, specifically associated with the transfer of 10 acres of land at Marysville Road and Oak Road,” Sharp said. “We wanted to have, in strong language, to make sure that land will be dedicated in a certain time frame.”
The intended use of the 10 acres, ac-
cording to RDC documents, is to create a community center that might include public meeting spaces, fee-based fitness facilities and other public uses, facilities for the Zionsville Community School Corp., public or privately operated health facilities and other civic uses the RDC determines as useful.
Wild Air will be constructed in multiple phases, each of which will include infrastructure and related improvements to support the development of a variety of residential concepts, including a multifamily development, a senior living facility and retail and office space.
Improvements include a public park; two roundabouts on Marysville Road; pedestrian crossings; subdivision infrastructure; land acquisition; sidewalks and trails; parking improvements; drainage; utilities; and erosion control.
The Wild Air development is expected to include single-family homes, townhomes and multi-family units.
Learn more at oldtowndesigngroup.com/ where-we-build/zionsville/wild-air.
To purchase tickets visit IndyOpera.org call 317-283-3531 or scan the code
Considering the telephone
Commentary by Ward Degler
We still have a landline — a telephone that plugs into the wall. A lot of people have dropped their landlines, depending entirely on their cell phones.
PLAIN TALK
My wife insisted on keeping our landline because it is the means by which most of our friends and family know how to contact us. And vice versa.
A lot has changed in the telephone world. We no longer get bulky telephone directories. We still cling to one that’s 10 years old. I think the cover has come off.
It wasn’t too long ago that people could install a phone in every room. That happened after Ma Bell disengaged herself from ownership of our phones. Before then, the phone company owned your telephone and it was rare for anyone to have more than one.
Many years ago, we had party lines, where six or seven people shared a line. And there was always one person who listened in on your conversations. Of course, if you needed to make an emer-
gency call, you would
to ask the person on the line to hang up.
Earlier, we had operators. You had to ask the operator to connect you with the person you wished to call. In small towns, you simply asked her to connect you with Sam Jones or Florence Wimple.
There are overpowering arguments in favor of the landline versus the cellphone. For one, you never have to charge it. For another, you don’t have to carry it with you. There can be a hard-wired phone in every room of the house. And third, it is not susceptible to the failures that can plague electronics. How many times has your computer stopped working recently? I imagine landlines will continue to dwindle. But, if your cellphone service fails, it’s good to know a neighbor who has one.
Flower Market
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.
have
COMMUNITY OF CARING
Light for Levi Foundation provides hope, assistance for brain injury treatment
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Lining up with the first day of summer, the second Light for Levi Foundation lemonade stand set up shop June 20 in the Village in Zionsville.
The Light for Levi Foundation was created following the near-fatal drowning of twins Levi and Lainey Chisholm, who were only 22 months old when they experienced a tragic drowning accident Nov. 28, 2020. Lainey made a full recovery, but the accident left Levi with a severe hypoxic brain injury — a brain injury that results when oxygen is unable to get to the brain.
Following the accident, Levi’s parents Meagan and Scott Chisholm turned to their faith and shared their story on social media and with the community in Zionsville. The response was astounding.
“We felt like the community just surrounded us with support and so much support that we wanted to find a way to not only give purpose to our pain but to give back to the community,” Meagan Chisholm said. “So, we created the foundation immediately and the community just supported it. It just has turned into this beautiful nonprofit and a way for us to give back to others in need. It really has given a lot of purpose to a very painful, tragic time in our life.”
The Light for Levi Foundation was officially founded in 2020.
“It started with a golf outing in 2021. It was a huge success,” Chisholm said. “Slowly, as the years are going, we’re growing it. Last summer was the first Light for Levi lemonade stand. We set up in front of Francis+Parke (clothing store on Main Street) and we want to just be present in the community. So, we felt like doing it again and making it an annual tradition. What better day than the first day of summer to kick it off. The money raised will go toward our grant program.”
This year’s event expanded to two lemonade stands, one in front of Francis+Parke, the other at COHatch. ChickFil-A in west Carmel donated lemonade and iced tea, and the Zionsville Fire Department brought fire engines for a visit with children at the stand.
The foundation works throughout the year to assist families in need. The Light for Levi Foundation awards $3,500 grants to families who have a child 21 and under with a diagnosed brain injury. Applications are submitted through the Light for Levi Foundation website and three applications each month are randomly selected to receive those funds.
“They can live anywhere in the country,” Chisholm said. The foundation also does the Beacon Bag Program — bags that are filled with treats and necessities that are donated to hospitals.
The foundation grew so quickly in its first few years that it hired a business director, Tammy Wegman, last
year. Wegman coordinates and plans events, works on sponsorships and answers questions, while Chisholm concentrates on her four children and Levi’s care.
Wegman said the foundation has grown so quickly thanks to the efforts of Levi’s parents, noting that Meagan Chisholm immersed herself with the community via her blog and social media outreach, providing a message of hope and allowing the foundation to spread far beyond
Indiana’s borders.
“The Zionsville community and the community really around the country just came together and showered them with love,” Wegman said. “Support with prayer, support with emotion and a lot of financial support, which they needed. It was a whole new way to navigate. So, feeling as they were feeling, they decided that they needed to give that same feeling back to other people. They took the love and some of the financial resources that were showered upon them and used it to build that up.”
Wegman said in addition to the grant program, the foundation donates to organizations that support similar causes when those donations make the most sense, such as for organizations with limited fundraising abilities.
The foundation participates in fundraising events throughout the year.
“Our largest fundraising event is in October — we’ll have our fourth annual golf outing (at Eagle Creek Golf Club),” Wegman said. “On Aug. 9, we’ll be one of the participating charities at the Hickory Hall Polo Club in Whitestown. Our goal is just to continue to grow that and continue to give back.”
Wegman said smaller events like the lemonade stand help to raise funds while letting Levi’s siblings and other children play a role.
“I can just see this really continuing to grow and really just being present in our community,” Chisholm said. “There’s just so much community support rallying around this foundation.”
ASSISTING THOSE WITH BRAIN INJURIES
Brain injuries take on multiple forms and can have wide-ranging results on the patient.
Levi Chisholm’s injury, severe hypoxic brain injury, is the result of the brain being starved of oxygen. Common traumatic brain injuries occur when a sudden, external, physical assault damages the brain.
Megan Chisholm said one thing all brain injuries have in common is that there is no standard.
“I think when someone has a traumatic brain injury, every person’s journey is different and there is no roadmap to it,” Chisholm said. “So, you will have your traditional medical route with neurology and appointments at the hospital. For Levi, there is seizure medicine.”
Chisholm said while there are scientific advances in treating brain injuries, those treatments are also expensive.
“There is a whole world of newer therapies that are really showing promise, but insurance doesn’t usually pay for that — they just haven’t been around long enough, I think,” Chisholm said. “But there are a lot of really amazing therapies out there that parents are utilizing to help their children, but they’re not paid for by insurance and they’re very expensive. So, that’s where we thought the grant program would really be a blessing to families and can help them on their journey with their child to help improve their quality of life.”
Chisholm added that the foundation wants to grow over time to assist more people in need.
“I think we have a good foundation right now with the grant program and the Beacon Bag program,” Chisholm said. “As we can raise more money, we’ll be able to give more grants.”
Learn more at lightforlevi.com
ON THE COVER: Megan Chisholm mans the Light for Levi Foundation lemonade stand with help from her children, Charley, 8, and Levi, 6. (Photo by Marney Simon)
Helping out at the Light for Levi Foundation lemonade stand are Levi Chisholm’s siblings Lainey, 6, and Connor, 10. (Photo by Marney Simon)
Cambri moving to Zionsville
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
When Cambri Builders started to outgrow its office space on Zionsville Road in Indianapolis, customizing a new home was a no-brainer.
BUSINESS
Cambri Builders specializes in commercial development, including health care facilities, strip center and retail renovations, design/build projects and retail tenant improvements.
Cambri Chief Operating Officer Eric McKinney and President John Vyverberg started the company in a 2,700-square-foot office space in 2017. The business is planning a move to 8,000 square feet within a newly constructed 40,000-square-foot building in Zionsville this fall. The project at 96th Street and Zionsville Road, under construction by Cambri, includes a commercial building that will house Cambri as well as multiple other tenants. The site is already 80 percent leased out.
“We grew pretty rapidly into a multistate commercial general contractor,” McKinney said. “We are building a new building because we’ve outgrown our space.”
Cambri’s commercial construction and renovations résumé includes some nota-
ble projects completed across the nation, including the 500th Ollie’s Bargain Outlet store in Iowa City, Iowa.
McKinney said the company was fortunate to land some clients outside of Indiana when they began, but hope to focus on local development as it expands.
“We’d like to develop more business in Indianapolis,” McKinney said, adding that, locally, Cambri has built or renovated sites from 10,000 square feet up to 100,000 square feet or larger.
Cambri’s notable projects include Kincaid’s Meat Market in Fishers, Helium Comedy Club in Indianapolis, Mary’s Mountain Cookies in Carmel, Chipotle, Michael’s and Five Below in Brownsburg and their new building in Zionsville.
Learn more at cambri.com.
Jackson elected to Farmers Bank Board of Directors
news@youarecurrent.com
Boone County native Matt Jackson has been elected to the Farmers Bank Board of Directors.
BANKING
“We are very fortunate to have Mr. Jackson as the newest member of our Board of Directors,” stated Chris Cook, Farmers Bank president and CEO. “His knowledge of commercial real estate is a significant added value for the bank. Also, his community involvement in Boone County aligns with our company’s community focus.”
transactions, with values exceeding $800 million.
A graduate of Western Boone High School and Indiana University, Jackson also is involved with numerous organizations in Boone and Marion counties, including Boone County Property Tax Assessment Board of Appeals, Dynamic Minds Institute Board of Directors and Boone County Economic Development Corporation.
Jackson and his wife, Kelly, have five children.
Jackson is the president and founder of Jackson Investment Group with more than 18 years of experience in commercial real estate, with a concentrated focus in the medical, industrial, office and health care fields. He has facilitated hundreds of
The Farmers Bank is a $950 million asset organization chartered in 1876 with headquarters in Frankfort. The Farmers Bank is locally owned and operated with 11 banking offices in central Indiana providing retail, business, trust and asset management, investment, mortgage and electronic banking services.
Cambri Builders is building a new office at 96th Street and Zionsville Road. (Rendering courtesy of Cambri Builders)
Jackson
It’s not that complicated
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
Several years ago, the American Dairy Association ran a contest to find a recipe for the best grilled cheese sandwich. I was very unhappy about the entire cheesy affair. I feel that when you try to make a better grilled cheese sandwich, it’s no longer really a grilled cheese. The ingredients for a grilled cheese sandwich are simple: American cheese, white bread and butter. Now, I have an issue with chicken salad? Wherever you go, you think you know what to expect when you see this on the menu: Chicken salad – $12.95.
HUMOR
Don’t fall for it. This is no paltry sham. It is a poultry swindle of gourmand proportions.
When I see the words chicken salad, I have a childhood vision: small bite-size pieces of pulled roasted chicken deliciously mixed with real mayonnaise and succulent junks of celery to make the dish crunchy. That’s it. Maybe a little salt and pepper. That’s chicken salad.
So, what is chicken salad on most menus? It’s slices of chicken lowered onto
a plate of soggy lettuce or spinach. That is not chicken salad. Allow me to say that again: THAT IS NOT CHICKEN SALAD.
I always have to explain this to a waitress who doesn’t quite get it. Mainly because the restaurant doesn’t serve it.
“May I help you, sir?”
“Yes, do you have chicken salad?”
“Of course. What kind of dressing would you like on that?”
“Miss, I don’t want chicken SALAD. I want CHICKEN salad.”
I will admit that making the perfect chicken salad requires a certain deft touch to successfully combine these simple ingredients: chicken, mayo and celery.
If you are reading this and own a restaurant, I hope you appreciate the free advice. I have always believed that staying on top of things is good.
Unless you are a slab of chicken.
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
READERS’ VIEWS
Pause South Village project
Editor,
I am writing to share with fellow Zionsville residents my concern about the Zionsville South Village project. My family and I moved to Zionsville because of the charm of the brick street, highly rated schools, prioritization of public safety and accessibility to downtown. No other suburb of Indianapolis offers what we have and our town is thriving as a result.
Development is inevitable given the appeal of our community. However, I think proceeding with the Zionsville South Village project is premature given the updating of our 2003 Comprehensive Plan, which should be completed in 12-18 months. Why not wait until we have an updated plan in place to be sure this development satisfies the goals and objectives of our town moving into the future?
Additionally, we need to be sure the infrastructure of our town can handle a development of this magnitude. What will the impact be on the schools? Roads? Sewer and water? We currently have multiple
developments that have been approved within the last two years, including Wild Air, The Courtyard at Russell Oaks, The Farm at Zionsville and The Adler, which in aggregate are developing more than 450 acres by adding 550 single-family homes and 879 multifamily (aka apartment) units to this community.
I suggest letting the dust settle on current developments in Zionsville and finalizing our comprehensive plan before moving forward with the Zionsville South Village project.
The Zionsville South Village project proposes multiuse development of 160 acres south of the Zionsville brick street. More information about the project can be found at zionsvillesouthvillage.com.
I encourage community members to reach out to Town Council representatives and Mayor John Stehr with your questions and input.
Mimi
Burch, Zionsville
Feliz cumpleaños envy
ESSAY Commentary by Terry Anker
While the staff circling around and placing an improbably large and considerably over-adorned sombrero upon our brow is probably a more recent development, the singing of festive greetings at restaurants, at least of the variety in or from the nation of Mexico, is a well-established tradition.
Composed by Alfonoso Esparza Oteo, “Las Mañanitas” was used to gently wake someone on a special day. Likely evolving from the earlier Spanish tune “Estas Son las Mañanitas” and becoming popular in the early 20th century, it represents the happiness that these times bring to all of us and to celebrate the ones achieving the milestone.
Some of us relish the moment when all eyes are upon us. Others do not. It is deep in our nature that we might take pride or find embarrassment in the very same act. The challenge is in empathizing enough with our fellow humans to read what they might prefer rather
than nudging them into what we like. Sure, there are a few of us who delight in doing the exact opposite of what those around us are likely to seek, embarrassing those we love. We tease and provoke — even making them sing for their own birthday supper. But most of us only seek to enhance the joy of those endeared to us.
From the earliest days, we come to understand the power of these choices. Our sister might be green with envy because we received the “special” birthday plate and she did not. It was not her day, yet it annoyed her that eyes were on us. Contrarily, it was her sole mission in life to draw attention to the very same plate when it was positioned in front of her. If we’re not kids anymore, do we know if we bring honor or envy it?
Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@youarecurrent. com.
Bird is the word at new museum
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Visitors looking for a respite after dropping cash at the new Terre Haute Casino Resort can visit the Larry Bird Museum in the Terre Haute Convention Center.
Capital Improvement Board Museum co-chair Terri Conley said Bird insisted on the museum admission being free. The museum’s kickoff was celebrated with Bird’s return for a public ceremony May 30.
The museum is small at 2,720 square feet but packed with Bird’s memorabilia from Springs Valley High School, Indiana State University and the Boston Celtics. There are several interactive exhibits. Visitors can shoot free throws, as well.
Bird put Terre Haute on the national basketball map by leading Indiana State to the 1979 NCAA championship game before losing to Magic Johnson-led Michigan State. Bird’s Celtics and Johnson’s Los Angeles Lakers continued the rivalry in the NBA and the two eventually became good friends. An exhibit with Johnson is featured in the museum.
Johnson signed a jersey in 1993 with the inscription “To Larry Bird, ‘The Greatest Basketball Player Ever.’ But more important, a friend forever.”
Bird concluded his career by playing on the 1992 Dream Team, which cruised to the Olympic gold medal. Ten days later, Bird announced his retirement after 13 seasons because of back problems. Bird, nicknamed “Larry Legend,” helped the Celtics capture NBA titles in 1981, ’84 and ’86. He was named to the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 1998. As a head coach, Bird led the Indiana Pacers to the NBA Finals in 2000, losing to the Los Angeles Lakers.
There also is an exhibit featuring Bird’s stint as Pacers coach and executive.
The exhibits include Bird’s legendary status as a trash talker.
Bird said he always is a bit amazed when he sees so many young people wearing his No. 33 jersey.
“I think that’s what social media is all about — thank God they didn’t have that when I was playing,” he said, adding that “Terre Haute has followed my career. You don’t make these journeys alone. Terre Haute always had my back.”
Bird said he doesn’t need any more recognition from the home of his alma mater.
“I got a little street named after me,
I got a statue out there and now a museum here,” Bird said. “Thank you, Terre Haute, but I think that’s enough for a while. You have no idea how much I respect the city and the people in it.”
The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Reservations are required.
For more, visit larrybirdmuseum.com.
‘THE WIZARD OF OZ’
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “The Wizard of Oz” runs through July 7 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
SERPENTINE FIRE
Serpentine Fire, a Earth, Wind & Fire tribute act, will join the Carmel Symphony Orchestra at 8:30 p.m. July 3 at Coxhall Gardens in Carmel. A patriotic tribute of George M. Cohan featuring Actors Theatre of Indiana performers will start at 8 p.m. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Indy Nights with Ryan Ahlwardt & Friends” is set for July 5 and “Chrome Horse, the Bob Dylan Tribute” July 6 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘THE LONE STAR LOVE POTION’
Red Barn Summer Theatre presents “The Lone Star Love Potion” through July 7 at the Frankfort venue. For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.
THIRD EYE BLIND
The Summer Gods tour featuring Third Eye Blind and special guest Yellowcard will perform 6:30 p.m. July 6 at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville. For more, visit livenation.com.
‘ANNE OF GREEN GABLES’
The Carmel Community Players’ Rising Star Production of “Anne of Green Gables” runs through July 7 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more visit carmelplayers.org.
DISPATCH
Tickets for Floyd Nation on sale — Floyd Nation, a Pink Floyd tribute band, will perform at 8 p.m. Oct. 25 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The band previously performed at the Palladium in February 2023. The Floyd Nation VIP soundcheck experience includes a preshow performance along with a full light show beginning at 4:30 p.m. plus access to early merchandise sales and a meet-and-greet by the merchandise table. VIP add-on pricing is $25. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
One of Larry Bird’s NBA All-Star jerseys and trophies are on display. (Photos by Mark Ambrogi)
An exhibit shows Bird’s love for his hometown of French Lick.
Palladium gets new sound, lighting system
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Center for the Performing Arts President/ CEO Jeff McDermott knew the Palladium needed upgrades to its sound system.
IMPROVEMENTS
“We always knew we needed a sound system specifically designed for it,” McDermott said. “We also knew our lighting and sound system was aging. Like technology — I tell people if you had a 14- or 15-year-old iPhone or Android, you would be way out of date with it.”
McDermott said there was a need to upgrade to attract more top artists, plus it was getting to the point where it was hard to find parts for speakers and lighting at the Palladium.
“It was pretty much state-of-the-art in 2009 and 2010 when ordered and installed,” he said of the Palladium, which opened in 2011. “Time changes that, so we’re very excited to get two new systems that will make a big difference to our patrons.”
McDermott said the Palladium initially was envisioned as more of a classical concert hall.
“It was certainly made for that, but didn’t exclude it from being an opera or country hall, or a hall that could be used for a wide variety of art forms,” McDermott said. “What we found was the speakers were fine for their time and they did a nice job for a lot of years. When it was time to change, it really made sense to go with something more universal. We know we had specific artists that asked what our sound system is and they had certain requirements we couldn’t meet. There have been opportunities we have not been able
A side view of the Palladium’s new PA system. (Photo courtesy of Center for the Performing Arts)
to fulfill because the sound system, the PA system, wasn’t the appropriate system. I think this will eliminate that altogether.”
One example is Ringo Starr & His AllStarr Band determined the previous sound system wasn’t suitable for their show.
“It’s one thing to have a hall that is acoustically perfect, but the PA system has to complement it,” McDermott said.
The cost for the new sound and lighting systems is approximately $1.5 million, paid from the city’s 2021 tax increment financing bond issue.
The Center’s staff, with the aid of the Carmel Redevelopment Commission, which oversees capital improvements on the campus, solicited three bids for the design and installation of the system. The winning proposal came from two Greenfield-based companies, Force.Tech and Mid-America Sound. Their design was based on an acoustic analysis conducted by Haverstick Designs, a Carmel company. The design added microphone testing throughout the room and the use of LiDAR technology to create a three-dimensional digital model of the interior surfaces.
Installation of key components took place in June.
FREE EVENT COOL CREEK CAMPFIRES
Feeling strapped for cash but still want to have some fun? Each week, Current helps you find things to do without breaking the bank. Here’s what’s on tap this week:
Cool Creek Park at 2000 E. 151st St. in Carmel will hold a free campfire on the north side of the park from 7 to 8 p.m. July 3 and on several other dates throughout the summer. Campfires will include songs, nature presentations and marshmallow roasting. Preregistration isn’t required.
OTHER FREE AREA ACTIVITIES
WALKING CLUB: Moms meet monthly to hike Noblesville Strawtown Koteewi Park trails. For more, visit hamiltoncounty.in.gov/296/Parks-and-Recreation.
MOVIE: Hamilton East Public Library presents a free screening of Trolls Band Together, 1 to 3 p.m. July 6 at its Fishers branch, 5 Municipal Dr. Register at hepl. libnet.info/event/10186437.
Indi-
Indiana Roof Ballroom
Harmony Tea Shoppe choice
Panda Express side 16. Start of an Albert Einstein quote 19. Astound
38. Quote, Part 2
40. Long shot’s opposite 41. Indigenous
43. Mine finds
44. Winner’s Circle Sports Pub screens
46. GOP foe
47. Mach 1 breaker
48. Eiteljorg Museum Western tribe
50. Derisive shouts for the visiting team at Lucas Oil Stadium
52. Silent assent
53. Winter wear
55. Quote, Part 3
62. Distort
63. Hotel Carmichael offering
64. Zionsville Pizzeria hot spot
65. Belles of the ball, briefly
66. Noblemen
67. Plant starter Down
1. In the past
2. Moving vehicle
3. Ind. neighbor
4. Final authority
5. Civil rights org.
6. Black eye, informally
7. Nincompoop
8. Suffix to Green, Plain and West on an Indiana map 9. Showy flower
Roman 1004
High card
Rx
17. Had meatloaf at Sahm’s
18. Reclined 21. Beer barrel
22. Some young cows
23. Kit with toy bricks 25. Turkey Creek barrier
STATE OF INDIANA ) IN THE BOONE CIRCUIT COURT ) SS:
COUNTY OF BOONE ) CAUSE NO. 06D01-2312-DN-001635
IN RE THE MARRIAGE OF: ) )
JENNIFER LARSON, ) Petitioner, ) and )
DAVID DREVER, ) Respondent. ) ORDER FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION
This matter came before the Court on Plaintiff’s Motion for Service by Publication. The Court, having reviewed the Motion and being duly advised in the premises, now finds that the Motion should be GRANTED.
IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED that Plaintiff is permitted to serve the Summons and Complaint in this action upon Defendant, DAVID DREVER, by publication in a newspaper of general circulation in Boone County, Indiana, pursuant to Indiana Trial Rule 4.13.
IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the publication shall be made at least once a week for three consecutive weeks, and that the first publication shall occur within 30 days from the date of this Order
SO ORDERED this 5th day of June, 2024.
Judge Matthew C. Kincaid Boone Superior One Court Name
26. Chair a meeting
27. Body of science?
28. Foxy
30. Tiny particle
31. “Step ___!” (hurry)
33. Table scraps
34. Tennis shot
36. Sea eagles
37. CIA cousin
39. URL starter
40. Celtics, on a Pacers scoreboard
42. Ambulance letters
45. One who won
48. Current reporter’s query
49. Scents
50. Bone with teeth
51. Belief system
52. Defunct Indy evening paper
54. AES electrical units
55. ‘60s psychedelic
56. ‘50s prez
57. Valentine’s Day mo.
58. Wall St. profitability
Natural surface trails, shade at Cool Creek
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
It only takes a short walk through Cool Creek Park on 151st Street to understand why it’s one of the most popular recreation destinations in Hamilton County.
Cool Creek Park’s interior natural surface trails measure 2 miles, but connections allow trail users to customize their hikes by distance and difficulty level. Portions of the trails are uneven with some grade changes and trip hazards that may make it difficult for inexperienced hikers.
Hiking along the shaded interior is a perfect way to get out of the sun and heat, but make sure to bring bug spray and check for ticks after each hike. Long pants are recommended to avoid bugs and poison ivy, which grows along the side of the trail.
Don’t know how to identify poison ivy? Remember this trick — three leaves come off a single stem, with the side leaves resembling mittens while the front leaf is symmetrical. Other plentiful plants along the trail and creek include milkweed, primrose and false sunflowers.
TAKE A HIKE!
(Photo by Marney Simon)
The 90-acre park opened in 1990 and is operated by Hamilton County. Besides trails, park amenities include athletic fields, a music pavilion, a nature center, shelters, picnic tables, a playground and restrooms. Along the creek there are multiple benches and swings.
The park is open year round from dawn until dusk. Learn more about Cool Creek Park at hamiltoncounty.in.gov under the Community/Parks & Rec tab.
Taking care of special eyes
Commentary by Dr. Katherine Schuetz
Good news: We are not all the same. Some of us, or our kids, need different approaches than the standard, whether it comes to learning, medical issues or developmental milestones. Just like all educators are not equipped to work with special needs students, not all doctors are trained how to examine and treat patients who can’t communicate or undergo testing the standard way.
VISION
We are fortunate to have specialists that are wonderful working with patients with developmental delays, are on the spectrum or have physical disabilities. Knowing that your provider is educated in appropriately approaching you or your loved one makes a world of difference. We know that asking a nonverbal person to look at the chart and read the letters is simply not effective. But showing them a video that captures their attention and then looking with a special instrument that doesn’t touch them, we
can assess whether that patient needs a glasses prescription.
For each special needs patient, we carefully explain what we’re going to do before we do it and use many other personalized methods to maximize each situation.
Kids of any developmental ability don’t know to complain about imperfect vision, because it’s what they know and live with every day. We all have some imperfection in our lives that we deal with because it’s just the way it is. But poor vision is a situation that can be corrected in most patients.
There are simple, nonthreatening, noninvasive ways to check the vision and ocular health of every patient. Just make sure you see someone who knows how to do it!
Dr. Katherine Schuetz is based at Little Eyes in Carmel. She is a graduate of the Indiana University School of Optometry. Learn more at LittleEyes.com.
Cool Creek Park has two miles of natural surface trails.
FINE BATHROOMS
The City of Carmel is proud to recognize our Olympians as well as Carmel Swim Club’s Chris Plumb, who will travel to Paris on the Olympic coaching staff.
Follow the City of Carmel’s Facebook page for information about Olympic viewing on the big screen.
