July 23, 2024 — Zionsville by Current Publishing

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Founded March 20 2012, at Zionsville, IN Vol. XIII, No. 17

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

West Clay at 131st & Towne Rd

Dive into Delicious

Zionsville launches planning website

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

The Town of Zionsville has kicked off the process to create an updated comprehensive plan.

TOWN NEWS

Adam Peeper, a community planner and project manager with HWC Engineering, addressed a special joint meeting of the Zionsville Town Council and Plan Commission July 15.

The town engaged HWC Engineering in March to create the plan. The town’s current comprehensive plan was developed in 2003 prior to the inclusion of Perry and Union townships within the town’s borders.

A comprehensive plan is a nonbinding strategic plan that municipalities use to guide decisions on growth and planning, including business, residential, recreational, zoning and safety issues.

Peeper said HWC began the data collection and analysis process, developed branding, held two steering committee meetings and launched a website — uniquelyzionsville.com — before hosting what he called a “vision workshop” with the council and Plan Commission.

“We’re moving into our big community outreach and engagement push,” Peeper said. “We’ll be using (the website) to conduct online engagement with the community survey and interactive mapping tool, and then moving into in-person events.”

Officials said their main takeaway is the importance of public participation to reach a consensus of where the town will be in the next few decades.

School assistance for children of veterans – Operation Back to School — also known as the Military Family Relief Fund Back to School Program — provides financial assistance to Hoosier veteran families experiencing financial difficulties. Offered by the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs, the program provides $500 of assistance per qualified dependent for back-

“We need to look at it as a goal, as a plan, but not set in stone, because I think that’s probably not the best way to look at the future,” Mayor John Stehr said. “We’re going to do everything we can to spread the word to make sure everybody has access to the public portions of this. There’s a lot to balance here and a lot coming in the next few months.”

Officials also noted the importance of the plan for shaping Zionsville’s growth.

“It’s hard for any of the folks who are making decisions for our community to not have a better roadmap of what we would like to see. We’re making decisions oftentimes without context and you’re kind of evaluating proposals one at a time,” Town Council Vice President Brad Burk said. “It is

DISPATCHES

to-school supplies and other school-related expenses. Applications are accepted through Aug. 30. Learn more at in.gov/dva.

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.

a guide, it’s now how it has to be, but I hope it will be very firm.”

After the community engagement effort, HWC will meet with the steering committee to develop initial recommendations for the comprehensive plan, as well as an economic plan and a transportation plan. A series of open houses will be held prior to the creation of a draft document.

The process is expected to take 18 months to complete. Public workshops are tentatively scheduled for Aug. 6 at Indianapolis Executive Airport and Aug. 15 at the Perry Township Fire Station.

The Uniquely Zionsville website will update residents on the comprehensive plan process. A public survey on the site is expected to go live later this month.

The event will be followed by an all-class reunion in the Cardinal Room at the Golf Club of Indiana. 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. For more, zionsvillealumni.org.

Zionsville is in the process of creating a new comprehensive plan. (Photo by Marney Simon)

Changes expected for graduaton requirements

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

An Indiana State Board of Education proposal to overhaul high school graduation requirements is moving forward, although some state BOE members joined other Hoosier educators who are expressing concerns.

EDUCATION

The proposed changes will not be finalized until late fall or early winter.

Under the proposal, starting with 2029 graduates there would be two diploma options — the GPS and GPS Plus — rather than the current general, Core 40, academic honors and technical honors options. Proposed new requirements call for students to focus on core classes during their first two years of high school, with the second two years offering a combination of coursework and experiences, such as internships and other work-based learning.

During a BOE meeting last month, Ron Sandlin from the Indiana Department of Education gave a presentation about the proposal. He said there is broad support

for reimagining the high school experience and how the state prepares students for the future.

“Employers are telling us that those skills that are needed are best learned in many instances outside of the school system,” he said. “You’ll see in our solution that we really, really prioritize work-based learning.”

Sandlin said schools can provide a solid foundation during the first two years of high school, allowing flexibility for students to get that work-based learning in their second two years. He noted that there have been “robust” conversations with educators since the proposal was introduced in late March.

Many educators criticized removal of the academic honors diploma, in particular. There have been some revisions in response, Sandlin said, such as the addition of three diploma seals to signify that a student has met the requirements for college, military service or employment in a trade. The proposal will continue to be revised based on input throughout the summer into fall.

Educators said they want flexibility for

students, but there needs to be some kind of framework of courses.

“We have to have a defined roadmap … of courses, so we all can get comfortable with this,” Hamilton Southeastern Schools Superintendent Patrick Mapes said. “I wanted a work-based diploma. I wanted that kid who wasn’t going to go to college to be able to go get some experiences their junior and senior year. But right now, I can’t see that (in the proposed diploma requirements).”

Educators also expressed concerns over the elimination of the state academic honors diploma.

The first draft of the diploma rule is currently in the first of two statutorily-required public comment periods. Parents, community members and other stakeholders are invited to provide feedback through July 30.

A second, refined draft of the diploma rule will be shared later this summer, which will begin a second round of public comment. The final draft is anticipated to be adopted in late 2024.

To comment, visit tinyurl.com/3vr544d7 or in.gov/doe under the ‘news’ tab.

For Jephrey, a backache could have ended in heartache.

Zionsville budget on track

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

Zionsville entered the third quarter of 2024 on track to stay within this year’s budget.

TOWN NEWS

Director of Finance and Records Cindy Poore presented the Zionsville Town Council with the second quarter financial report July 15.

As of June 30, the town had spent $21.5 million of $56.3 million budgeted for 2024 — about 38 percent of its budgeted expenditures. Poore said that while 38 percent of the budget spent might seem low for the halfway point of the year, spending ebbs and flows throughout the year.

“It’s all timing of when things take place,” Poore said. “Our spend was more in the first quarter than the second quarter, and that is, for instance, the police department ordered all of their new cars and we paid for that in the first quarter. So, the second quarter our expenses weren’t as high.”

Poore said overall, the town is expected to spend less than budgeted this year, but councilors should expect larger encumbrances in various departments in the next two quarters. For example, the fire department has made financial commitments for a new firetruck, which is a long-term turnaround.

“We’re pretty much on target as far as expenses go for departments,” she said.

On the revenue side, Poore said the town’s miscellaneous revenue received as of June 30 is already at 94 percent of the budget. Those dollars include Zionsville’s Supplemental Local Income Tax Distribution from the state of Indiana, which means the town will surpass its revenue budget for 2024.

Second quarter revenues totaled $15.8 million. Year-to-date revenues are $23.7 million.

Miscellaneous revenues include all money received minus property tax distributions. Poore added that the town received its first property tax distribution of 2024 in June.

Zionsville Street Dance returns

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Zionsville Street Dance returns to the heart of the Village from 6 to 10 p.m. Aug. 3 for an evening of music, food and an electric atmosphere.

PARTY!

The entertainment lineup for 2024 includes Zionsville’s The Janeways on the main stage at 6:30 p.m. The all-female band formed in 2020 and plays hits of the ‘80s and ‘90s.

This year’s headliner is The Dundies.

“The Zionsville Chamber of Commerce is proud to organize events like the Zionsville Street Dance, which showcase why our town is such a special place to live, work and visit,” stated Mike Hanlon, executive director of the Zionsville Chamber of Commerce. “These events connect neighbors, support local businesses and highlight our community spirit. We are passionate about bringing people together to celebrate our vibrant town and create lasting memories. We look forward to a night of music, fun, and community spirit, and we deeply appreciate the support of our sponsors and local businesses in making this event possible.”

The Zionsville Street Dance features several local food and beverage vendors, including Greek’s Pizzeria; My Sugar Pie; The Scoop; Chick-fil-A; Schooley’s Hot & Brats; Polish Cottage; Eatzo Concessions; The Licorice Guy; North High Brewing; Moontown Brewing Company; Klooz Brewz Brewery; Heagy Vineyard; Hopwood Cellars Winery; Bier Brewery; The Rejoicing Vine; and Hunt Club Distillery.

Gates open at 5 p.m. Tickets are available at the gate or by visiting zionsvillechamber.org under the ‘street dance’ tab.

The Janeways, an all-female band based in Zionsville, will play at this year’s Zionsville Street Dance Aug. 3. (Photo courtesy of Zionsville Chamber of Commerce)

Hage is new Deputy Mayor

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

Justin Hage is the new deputy mayor of Zionsville. Hage was appointed to the vacancy July 16 by Mayor John Stehr, following the June 20 resignation of former Deputy Mayor Kate Swanson.

TOWN NEWS

Hage most recently served the town as a member of the Zionsville Pathways Committee, to which he was appointed in 2018 and served as chair in 2022 and 2023.

in the coming weeks.

“Justin will be an excellent partner as we continue to move Zionsville forward,” Stehr stated. “I’ve been clear, my vision for Zionsville is to protect the unique charm of our town while working to position us to be more competitive across Central Indiana. As we progress with key projects, such as the South Village, Justin’s background and experience will be invaluable.”

Per the Town of Zionsville’s code of ordinances, the deputy mayor’s duties include assisting with policies, budgets and directives. The deputy mayor is responsible for the administrative functions of the town and assists with the coordination and direction of all town operations, except the Zionsville Parks Department.

The deputy mayor also acts as department head in the mayor’s absence.

Stehr said the Zionsville Town Council is in budget preparations, and Hage’s full compensation package will be determined

Hage graduated from the College of William and Mary in 2006 and served at the Office of U.S. Trade Representative and on the staff of the Committee on Ways and Means in the U.S. House of Representatives before moving to Indiana in 2011.

He earned his law degree in 2016 from the Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law and was admitted to the bar in 2017.

Hage and his wife Christina and son Henry moved to Zionsville in 2018. His resume includes work as a regulatory counsel at CenterPoint Energy and Director of Government Relations at Findhelp, a technology company in Austin, Texas.

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COMMUNITY

DISPATCHES

Book presentation – Boone County Republican Women will host an open meeting at 5:30 p.m. Aug. 21 featuring author Scott Walter discussing an overview of his book, ‘Arabella: The Dark Money Network of Leftist Billionaires Secretly Transforming America.’ The evening will begin with a book signing at 5:30 p.m., followed by a meet and greet from 6:30 to 7 p.m. and Walter speaking about the book at 7 p.m. The free event takes place at the Golf Club of Indiana, 6905 S County Road 525 E in Whitestown.

IndyCar two-seater experience –Thrill-seeking philanthropists will have the chance to fly around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway at 180 mph while fundraising for fellow Hoosiers. ‘Speed for Community Need’ takes place Oct. 9 at the speedway benefiting United Way of Central Indiana. Interested parties must commit to raising $1,500. United Way has teamed up with the Indy Racing Experience for the fundraiser. Participants 18 and older who meet the height and weight requirements will ride behind a professional IndyCar driver for two speed laps around the track. Learn more at uwci.org/ speed-for-community-need.

Quilt exhibition – Talking in Circles, a quilt exhibition by the Charm Club, runs through Aug. 29 at SullivanMunce Cultural Center, 225 W. Hawthorne St. in Zionsville. The Talking in Circles exhibition will have quilts in two theme categories from The Charm Club — talking, which features quilts that use words or letters somewhere on the quilt; and circles, which features quilts that use anything that seems round or circular. SullivanMunce Cultural Center is open to the public 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Learn more at sullivanmunce.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 Billy and the Tall Boys July 24; and Vinyl Escape July 31. 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.

DISPATCHES

‘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.

Scholarships available – High school students who want to pursue work-based learning and credentials can now apply for a Career Scholarship Account. Hoosier students in 10th, 11th and 12th grades at a state accredited public or private school can receive up to a $5,000 state-funded scholarship to pursue apprenticeships, applied learning experiences, work-based learning and credentials attainment. Students can apply for a Career Scholarship Account until Oct. 1. Learn more at in.gov/ tos/csa.

Bicycles for Veterans – 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. Bicycles are refurbished before being distributed to those in need. Drop off is noon to 4 p.m. Aug. 17, 18, 24 and 25 at 1870 W. Oak St.

Suicide prevention training – 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 indianaprevention. org.

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Zionsville eyes credit rating

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

Zionsville Mayor John Stehr is confident that the town is well on its way to restoring its credit rating.

FINANCES

Stehr told the Zionsville Town Council July 15 that he attended a meeting at the Indiana Statehouse recently with members of the State Board of Accounts to discuss Zionsville’s status and efforts to reclaim the AA+ credit rating that the town lost in 2022. An audit by the state in 2022 of the 2021 calendar year found several areas of noncompliance with state law, including:

data were not uploaded to the Indiana Gateway for Government Units as required for 14 of 17 bank accounts between April and December 2021.

“It was a very positive meeting. We all recognize we still have some work to do to clean up our books,” Stehr said. “Part of that will be mandatory audits for 2022 and 2023. Our performance in 2022 will show some irregularities. Early 2023 will be the same, but the SBOA will work with us to get that process completed in a timely manner.”

• A lack of proper internal controls that led to bank reconcilements not being completed on time or accurately.

• $205,585 in disbursements were made from the Town Hall Improvement fund for a town hall renovation project without council approval.

• Overdrawn cash balances in three funds.

• Monthly bank statements and other

Stehr said the irregularities are because of poorly performing software, which the town implemented in 2021 and blamed for those audit issues. He said the town switched to a new financial software vendor in 2023.

“With our new internal controls in place and strong fundamentals and the (new software), we expect everything to be in order for 2024 when that audit takes place next spring,” Stehr said. “That should get us on our way to hopefully reclaiming that credit rating, which I think we all know that we deserve in Zionsville.”

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FOLLOW THE BRICK ROAD

South Village planned unit development moves to council for approval

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

Zionsville’s South Village planned unit development is one step away from approval.

After months of delays, town representatives presented the PUD to the Zionsville Plan Commission July 15, when the document was approved by majority vote in front of an overflow crowd of more than 100 residents.

The plan creates a PUD to govern 110 acres between the brick Main Street and Old 106th Street. The final plan removed Creekside from the PUD, which includes standards for building heights, standards for setbacks, architectural standards and sets aside land for preservation. The proposal aims to add dining, retail and commercial options to the Village, increase assessed property values and add people to the district.

“There is significant interest by landowners to develop their property. We want to assert as much control as we can on how it develops,” Mayor John Stehr said. “By putting this town-led PUD in place, we can direct the development to achieve the best results for the town. What happens in South Village will protect the crown jewel of Zionsville — that is the brick street business district — as well as the surrounding area.”

Stehr said the PUD represents sensible growth to promote appropriate and stable development. What the PUD does not include is actual development.

“We don’t have a project with a variety of commitments and pretty pictures to point to say, ‘Hey, it will be like this,’” said Jeff Jacob, attorney and partner with Hackman Hulett, who is working with the town on the PUD. “The goal of the town is to get out in front of it. What we’re trying to do is to present a set of unified development standards to lay over this area. We’re trying to step in front of potential projects with the town’s vision and development standards.”

Jacob said once established, the PUD standards would serve as a guide for developers within the PUD, rather than having developers set their own standards and criteria.

The project has been the subject of mixed reviews by residents, with those in opposition particularly vocal ever since the mayor announced the PUD plan in March. A petition on change.org asking the town to halt the PUD process gained more than 400 signatures, arguing that the PUD puts the town “on a fast track to become a crowded, over-populated area and change the character of Zionsville forever.”

During a two-hour public comment period July 15, more than 20 residents spoke, with those in opposition citing the potential of overdevelopment and high-density residential options that could hurt the character of Zionsville. Other concerns raised included increased traffic, flooding and safety for pedestrians.

Anna Schappaugh told the commission she was excited at the prospect of developing the South Village for retail,

restaurant, community space and single-family homes, but had serious concerns over potential overdevelopment and losing the town’s character. Schappaugh also said the PUD was not thoroughly vetted prior to coming to the commission.

“You’ve had two business days to review this,” Schappaugh said. “In no business or family setting would anybody make a decision of that magnitude with that little of time.”

Schappaugh also questioned what she called “vague language” with regard to the number of apartment units allowed in the PUD, tree preservation, high-density housing, building heights and who or which committee or com-

mission is responsible for granting variances. Those in opposition were not the only ones to address the commission.

“This proposed expansion … with its focus on affordable and young adult housing options, represents an incredible opportunity for people like me who wish to continue living in the town that we love. We need to not just focus on the homeowners who are already here, but the future generation as well,” said Violet Worth, a resident of downtown for the past 13 years. “The South Village project isn’t just about new buildings — it’s about ensuring the next generation, like me, has a chance to stay and contribute to the vibrant future of Zionsville.”

Others in favor of the PUD said South Village has the potential to serve as an anchor to bring people to the town, add to the tax base, support schools, provide community space and provide parking options for downtown.

Jacob said the PUD process did not include specific projects, but rather sets parameters for potential future projects, meaning that questions such as the number of apartment units that will be built cannot be answered.

“This is not a development that the town is promoting,” Jacob said. “We’re trying to lay standards over an area that is currently developable.”

Jacob added that under current standards, portions of the property are already able to be developed with industrial buildings as high as 100 feet. The PUD, he said, reduces maximum heights and creates a unified standard for the entire area.

Following discussions, Commissioner Kendrick Davis asked to table the proposal for another month for further consideration. But other commissioners disagreed, stating that there are no additional changes to be presented.

The commission voted to move the PUD to the full town council with a favorable recommendation by a 5-1 vote, with Davis the lone no vote. Commissioner Cindy Madrick was absent.

View the July 15 plan commission meeting at youtube. com/user/TownOfZionsville.

ON

THE

Marney Simon)

DEVELOPMENT

The South Village PUD is different from a typical PUD because it is town-led. That means the town is aiming to outline the standards for the PUD area prior to development, versus a developer creating those standards and criteria as part of a project.

A change made to the 110-acre proposal prior to a vote of approval from the plan commission was the prohibition of multiresidential housing on the property

at 106th and Main streets, commonly known as the Dow property.

The PUD sets land use, building height and allowable use standards.

View the full document at tinyurl.com/2rmfspkm or zionsville-in.gov under the government/agendas and minutes tab by clicking on ‘plan commission.’

COVER: More than 100 people filed into Zionsville Town Hall during the plan commission meeting July 15. (Photo by

SOUTH VILLAGE PLANNED USE

The South Village PUD covers 110 acres between Main Street and Old 106th. (Images courtesy of Town of Zionsville)

Zionsville resident Anna Schappaugh, right, speaks during public comment at the July 15 plan commission meeting. (Photo by Marney Simon)

currentnightandday.com

Average White Band’s farewell tour lands during Carmel Jazz Fest

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Average White Band co-founder Alan Gorrie said it is time to get off the road. The band launched a final tour this spring but will continue to make music.

“It’s the touring that is the hard part,” Gorrie said. “Being on stage is wonderful and still exciting. Since COVID, touring has become really difficult. It’s extremely expensive and hard to manage. We all felt it was time to give it our best show. I use an analogy of a boxer — you don’t want to go out when you are on the slippery slope down. You want to hang up your gloves when you are still at the top of your game. You don’t wait until you get knocked down on the canvas. With our age and experience, you know that’s what coming if you don’t call it quits.”

The Scottish funk and rhythm-andblues band will perform at 8 p.m. Aug. 10 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Average White Band is the Aug. 10 headliner in the Aug. 9-10 Carmel Jazz Festival.

“It’s wise to let people see you one more time at the top of your game,” the 78-year-old Gorrie said. “Expectations are high for this band. We’ve been hugely respected by musicians, the musical community and audiences alike over the years, so you don’t want to diminish that respect by dwindling out.”

Average White Band was founded in 1972. Gorrie and Onnie McIntyre are the original members still performing. Gorrie shares lead vocals with Brent Carter. Gorrie also plays guitar and bass. McIntyre plays guitar along with vocals.

“Onnie and I have been on the road for more than 58 years,” Gorrie said. “We were in a couple bands before the Average White Band. We’ve been constant travelers since the mid-60s. We’ve put in our time.”

Average White Band has had to replace members through the years but remained intact. The group disbanded in 1983 and restarted in 1989 with Gorrie and McIntyre.

“Another analogy is that a great sports team can only stay great by bringing in new blood,” Gorrie said. “As people retire, or in our case a couple of people have passed away, you have to keep regenerating and rejuvenating. We’re very fortunate because of the respect (we have) in the musical industry. It’s never been hard for us to get the best talent who are a little younger than Onnie and I but have grown up playing AWB music and have fitted right in there as if they’ve been there all the time. In fact, one of our horn players has been with us for 28 years.”

Gorrie said there are six to 10 staples the band always plays, such as “Cut the Cake” and “Pick Up the Pieces.”

“We vary the rest depending on where we are playing,” Gorrie said. “We’re not pure jazz, but we’re on the jazzy tip of rhythm and blues. We do play a lot of jazz festivals.”

Average White Band had its farewell

tour of the United Kingdom in April and May, then began playing in the U.S. this summer. Gorrie said playing in the U.K. for the last time on tour was emotional.

“There were a lot of tears in the audience the very last night just outside of Manchester, England,” Gorrie said. “It was an emotional time for us and them. After 52 years of AWB, people have come to expect we might just go on forever. When people are all in the same venue and they realize this is the last time we’ll be playing in the United Kingdom, it’s a pretty heavy burden. We got through it with aplomb. It’s bittersweet when you know it’s the final run.”

Average White Band performed in May 2023 at the Madame Walker Theatre in Indianapolis.

“We haven’t played Indianapolis enough over the years,” Gorrie said. “We used to do a festival at the Indiana Convention Center in the 1990s and early 2000s. This is our first time outside (of Marion County).”

For tickets, visit thecenterpresents. org. For more information, visit carmeljazzfest.org.

‘LEGALLY BLONDE: THE MUSICAL’

Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “Legally Blonde: The Musical” runs through Aug. 25 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

‘THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE’

Main Street Productions presents “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” through July 28 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.

‘CATS’

Civic Theatre’s Young Artists Program’s production of “Cats” is set for July 25-28 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

“Deception: An Evening of Magic & Lies” is set for July 25; Ryan and Lauren Ahlwardt’s Human Jukebox is July 26; and Eric Baker & Friends presents Southern Calfornia in the ‘70s is July 27 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

SYMPHONY ON THE PRAIRIE

She’s Got Soul with Capathia Jenkins will perform July 26 and singer-songwriter Cody Fry is set for July 27 at Symphony on the Prairie at Conner Prairie in Fishers. Both performances start at 8 p.m. For more, visit indianapolissymphony.org.

RENEGADES AND JUKE BOX HEROES

Styx and Foreigner, along with opening act John Waite, will perform at 6:45 p.m. July 26 at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville. For more, visit livenation.com.

DISPATCH

Bandleader Meeks set for Live at the Center show — Bassist and bandleader Brandon Meeks will kick off the 2024-25 Live at the Center series at 7:30 p.m. July 30 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

From left, Average White Band Cliff Lyons, Rob Aries, Onnie McIntyre, Brent Carter, Alan Gorrie, Rocky Bryant and Fred “Freddy V” Vigdor. (Photo courtesy of AWB)

Film recounts boxer’s story

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Sugar Ray Seales was the toast of the U.S. boxing world after winning the Olympic gold medal in the light-welterweight division in the 1972 Summer Games.

DOCUMENTARY

Seales was seriously injured when he got a thumb to his eye during a 1980 fight with Jamie Thomas and suffered a detached retina. He eventually had to retire because of his loss of vision.

Zionsville resident Michael Husain directs “The Sugarman,” a 14-minute black-andwhite film about Seales regaining his eyesight, thanks to Dr. John Abrams, a Westfield resident whose main Abrams EyeCare Center is in Carmel.

The film will be featured in the Indiana Spotlight 2 at 7 p.m. July 23 at Theatre 3 at Living Room Theatres in Indianapolis.

An ophthalmologist, Abrams performed the surgery on Seals.

“The greatest save I’ve ever had on a surgery is Sugar Ray Seals, hands down,” Abrams said in the film. “It was a very com-

plex surgery. He was basically legally blind.”

Husain said Seals coached Golden Gloves teams in Indianapolis for several years.

“He was a pretty respected coach, but he was losing the ability to do that as well,” Husain said. “He had eight failed surgeries to get the eyesight back.”

Husain said Seales had developed a massive cataract.

“Abrams said a normal cataract surgery is seven to eight minutes and Sugar Ray, to get his cataract off, took 3 1/2 hours,” Husain said.

Husain learned about it when talking with Abrams.

For more, visit indyshorts.org.

Sugar Ray Seales with his gold medal in “The Sugarman.” (Photo courtesy of Michael Husain)

NIGHT & DAY

Film focuses on endometriosis

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Hannah Lindgren is convinced it’s important to share her medical story.

DOCUMENTARY

Lindgren, 33, was diagnosed with endometriosis — a disease that can cause extreme pain in the pelvis — in 2017. She suffered several years before her diagnosis.

“Once I got diagnosed, I had a big learning curve on understanding how to deal with the disease. There is not a ton of research,” Lindgren said. “There are not a lot of specialists. There are people that claim to understand but don’t. It’s really taken those seven years since then to learn about the disease and find the right care. It’s always been important for me to be open about my journey and connect with other people about the disease.”

“The Invisible Crown” is a 20-minute documentary that focuses on Lindgren’s journey. It premieres at 12:30 p.m. July 28 at Newfields in Indianapolis as part of the Indy Shorts International Film Festival.

“We do hear from my mom (Brenda Myers) because she has been a huge support system to me,” said Lindgren, a Lawrence North High School graduate.

enced in my life (is rewarding).”

During the surgery, she got a second diagnosis of adenomyosis, a condition that causes endometrial tissue in the lining of the uterus to grow into the muscular wall of the uterus. The only treatment is a full hysterectomy.

For more, visit tickets.indyshorts.org.

’THE ICE CREAM MAN’

Following the Nazi invasion of the Netherlands during World War II, popular Jewish ice cream parlor owner Ernst Cahn was targeted by Klaus Barbie, the infamous “Butcher of Lyon.” The story is based on Cahn’s choice between resistance and death.

Myers is a Fishers resident. Lindgren lives in Indianapolis. Amelia Kramer, a Westfield High School graduate who lives in Indianapolis, is the director and editor. They are co-workers at Chop Shop Post, a post-production house in Indianapolis.

“I was honored she trusted me to tell her story,” Kramer said. “From there, we worked together with our team and created our story.”

This is Kramer’s first time directing a documentary.

“I’ve edited a lot of them and I’ve been working in the film industry for six years,” she said. “This film is about empowering yourself and giving validation to your feelings.”

Lindgren said although she has been open about her condition, it was a different feeling to have co-workers attend her major surgery in August 2023.

“It was therapeutic in the way Amelia approached it,” Lindgren said. “The film is about mental health, too. To be able to share that aspect of it as well and the work I’ve been able to do to overcome some of the medical trauma I’ve experi-

“The Ice Cream Man,” a 35-minute film, will debut July 25 at Indy Shorts. The historical story was filmed in Columbus, Michigan City and Amsterdam.

“(The film’s goal is) to highlight the incredibly outsized effect that one person can have on their community if they are brave enough to stand up and do the right thing,” said Geist-area resident Amy Pauszek, who serves as co-producer.

“Ernst Cahn’s actions ultimately led to over 300,000 Dutch citizens going on strike and shutting down Amsterdam, and the German war machine, for three days. It was the single-largest anti-Nazi protest in history, all because of one man.”

The cast includes actresses Jill Burnett, Patricia Kuhn and Mary Kate Temple from Carmel. Jennifer Haire, Carmel, is the line producer. Westfield residents Arlene and Tom Grande are the executive producers.

A July 25 screening in the 530-seat Tobias Theater at Newfields sold out. An encore screening set for July 27 sold out in one day.

“As a producer, I was determined to sell out every show and we probably could sell out more,” Pauszek said. “This is a powerful and important film.

For more, visit theicecreamman.movie.

Brenda Myers comforts her daughter, Hannah Lindgren, before her August 2023 surgery. (Photo courtesy of Hannah Lindgren)

Lindgren

Time ripe for summer salads

Commentary by Mark LaFay

Summer in central Indiana is the perfect time to enjoy fresh local produce, and there’s no better way to do that than by whipping up some delicious summer salads.

FOOD

With July here, the farmers markets are bursting with seasonal produce waiting to land on your plate. Also here is the summer heat and humidity and if you don’t like sweating when you eat, lighter options should be on the menu.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 AT 5PM THE

First Merchants Bank Red Carpet Arrival and Cocktail Reception Elegant dinner in partnership with Aaron Wealth Advisors Show-stopping dessert sponsored by Payne & Mencias Group Live auction supporting arts programming for the community Celebrate, dance and revel at the Gala After-Parties

HEADLINE PERFORMANCE BY Grammy-winning master trumpeter and composer

Now, I will say, I’m usually not one to default to salad for dinner, but the time of year makes a compelling argument. Let’s get building!

Start with a base of crisp greens from the local farmers market. Look for tender lettuce, peppery arugula or a mix of hearty kale and spinach. These greens provide the perfect foundation for layering flavors and textures.

Nothing says Indiana summer like sweet corn, and My Dad’s Sweet Corn is as good as it gets. Grill it until slightly charred, then cut the kernels off the cob to add a burst of sweetness and crunch to your salad.

CHRIS BOTTI

Tomatoes are at their peak right now and you’ll find a rainbow of heirloom varieties at the market. Slice them thick and juicy. They have a rich, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh greens. Add some crisp cucumbers for a refreshing bite.

For a touch of creaminess, crumble in feta cheese from Sirocco Ridge Creamery. Its feta is tangy and rich, adding a delightful contrast to the sweet and savory elements of your salad.

Find more information and our table reservation guide at

No salad is complete without a bit of protein and bacon from Old Major is a game-changer. Cook it until crispy, then crumble it over your salad for a smoky, savory kick that ties everything together. For the dressing, keep it simple. Consider using some local ingredients like Artisano’s Oils and Spices for balsamic and olive oil, and Eagle Creek Apiary for honey.

Mark LaFay is a butcher, certified sommelier and founder of Old

CURRENT CRAVINGS SAVOR

Savor, 211 W. Main St. in Carmel, features Mediterranean- and Italian-inspired fare prepared over a wood fire in an open kitchen. Menu items range from handmade pasta, fresh seafood and luscious desserts (Savor owner and chef Henri Najem tried nearly 50 different combinations of ingredients to perfect the Gooey Butter Cake). Hours are 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4 to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 4 to 9 p.m. Sunday. Learn more and make a reservation at SavorCarmel.com.

MOST PHOTOGRAPHED:

22 OZ BONE-IN RIBEYE

MOST UNIQUE MENU ITEM:

courtesy of Henri Najem)

MOST POPULAR MENU ITEM: Romano Crusted Chicken

CHEF’S FAVORITE DISH: Alaskan Halibut with Spinach Risotto

RECOMMENDED DRINK:

Spa Day Cucumber Martini BEST WAY TO END THE MEAL: Gooey Butter Cake

What are your Current Cravings? Let us know. Email news@youarecurrent.com.

FREE EVENT CONCERTS AT THE CARMEL GAZEBO

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:

Concerts at the Carmel Gazebo at 1 Civic Square is a series to provide a venue for families to enjoy arts and culture in the community. Concerts are free and accessible to everyone. Stella Luna & the Satellites will perform from 7 to 9 p.m. July 24.

OTHER FREE AREA EVENTS

SUMMER CELEBRATION

— Options Westfield will host its fourth annual Summer Celebration 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. July 25 at 17721 Gunther Blvd. The Summer Celebration is open to the public and free of charge and will include a mechanical bull, inflatables, a video game trailer, corn hole and more.

Cioppino. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

Witham volunteer organization fundraiser – The Witham Volunteer Organization hosts the Athletic Annex fundraiser from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 31 at the main entrance of Witham Health Services, 2605 North Lebanon St. in Lebanon. Athletic Annex will offer professional shoe fittings and thermal arch scans, and customers will receive 10 percent off purchases. Additionally, 10 percent of all sales will be donated to the Witham Volunteer Organization. Proceeds benefit the Witham Volunteer Organization

DISPATCHES

Scholarship Program and various fund the need initiatives for Witham Health Services. Learn more about the event and volunteer opportunities by contacting Amy Mitchell, director of volunteers, at 765-4858175 or by email at amitchell@witham.org.

Gold Seal of Approval – The Laboratories of Witham Memorial Hospital recently earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for Laboratory Accreditation by demonstrating continuous compliance

with its performance standards. The Laboratories of Witham Memorial Hospital underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite review in January 2024. During the visit, the Joint Commission reviewer evaluated compliance with Laboratory standards spanning several areas including laboratory and point-of-care testing. The Joint Commission’s standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. For more, visit jointcommission.org.

School vaccinations – Children entering kindergarten, 6th and 12th grades are required to receive age-specific immunizations prior to the start of the school year. The Boone County Health Department, 116 W. Washington St. in Lebanon, will host a vaccination clinic from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. July 31. Walk-ins are welcome and no appointment is needed. A list of required vaccinations can be found at in.gov/health/ immunization under the ‘children and teen immunizations’ tab.

VIEWS

Survivor’s guide to staying alive

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

Survival magazines are periodicals intended for people who are dedicated to stayin’ alive — not the 1977 Bee Gees hit, but those committed to surviving an inevitable catastrophic event. What will it be? An earthquake? A volcano? A tsunami? The next election?

HUMOR

These people are sure that in the near future, they are going to have to hunker down with their immediate family, probably underground. So, for somewhere between five days and 25 years, they hope to avoid just about everything that can happen in a Tom Cruise movie.

The magazines are full of cheery articles, as evidenced by cover headlines like Surviving the World’s Worst Typhoon; How to Choose a Survival Firearm; Arrange Backup Ammunition; Post-Disaster Tools; and my favorite, The Day the Cell Phones Died, which for me was yesterday.

One writer advocates a brand of survival food, going so far as to say that it is “better than any survival food I’ve eaten.” This is the kind of testimony that is hard to discount, not unlike the words of Charles Manson, who once observed that San Quentin had the best Salisbury steak of any prison he’d ever been to. You can’t buy PR like that. “The product literally flies off the shelves,” the unidentified author writes. You can expect that line to show up on a lot of English teachers’ lesson plans on exactly how not to use the word

“literally.”

In one paragraph, the author notes that “many people with good intentions are making critical food mistakes when stockpiling food.” I see this a lot when I am at Golden Corral for dinner. Do people ever learn?

The writer’s biggest concern appears to be that some of the MREs (Meals Readyto-Eat) available in stores may only have a shelf life of five years, which is less than the lifespan of a jar of honey, but about four years, 11 months, three weeks, six days and 22 hours longer than a tub of potato salad at a picnic.

If you order a survival kit, which includes these meals, you get 5,550 heirloom survival seeds. Who counted these out? Whoever did is not going to have any problem occupying himself underground for two decades.

Also thrown in with the deal are four hardcover books. They don’t tell you what the books are about, but with so much time to kill, I’m not sure anyone will care — as long as they are not library books. Oh, by the way, you also get a really cool 11-in-1 survival knife. After all, when you are about to go underground for the rest of your life, you deserve a lovely parting gift.

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

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, August 7, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. in the Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 West Oak Street, Zionsville, Indiana 46077 to consider the following Petition: Petition # 2024-33-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 Sections 1.20 (M.1) and (M.2) to exceed the maximum size for signs 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

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

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, August 7, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. in the Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 West Oak Street, Zionsville, Indiana 46077 to consider the following Petition: Petition # 2024-32-DSV, filed for Kouns Ag., Inc., requests Board of Zoning Appeals Approval for a: Variance of Development Standards to provide for or permit: Development Standards Variance pursuant to Section 194.082 to exceed the 3:1 depth-to-width ratio in the General Agricultural (AG) zoning district.

The property involved is commonly known as: 10155 East 200 South, Zionsville, IN 46077 and is legally described as:

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.

Chairman: Kathi Postlethwait

Secretary: Mike Dale

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, August 7, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. in the Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 West Oak Street, Zionsville, Indiana 46077 to consider the following Petition: Petition # 2024-31-SE, filed for Kouns Ag., Inc., requests Board of Zoning Appeals Approval for a (mark all that apply): Special Exception to provide for or permit:Special Exception pursuant to Section 194.082 to provide for a 3 lot minor residential subdivision in the General Agriculture (AG) zoning district.

The property involved is commonly known as: 10155 East 200 South, Zionsville, IN 46077 and is legally described as:

Chairman: Kathi Postlethwait

Secretary: Mike Dale

Blueprint for Improvement: Sleek and stylish Indianapolis kitchen

Commentary by Larry Greene

Built in 1977, this Mystic Bay condo was prime for a modern upgrade, starting with the kitchen. Our team transformed the space into a sleek, contemporary haven that radiates a fresh vibe and perfectly reflects the homeowner’s style.

THE BLUEPRINT

• New flat-panel cabinets, gleaming chrome hardware and a tonal palette establish a modern and sophisticated aesthetic.

• Removing the bulkhead allowed us to extend the cabinetry to the ceiling, creating a bold, streamlined look with enhanced functionality and storage.

• Reworking the layout enhanced the flow between the kitchen and dining room, allowing for the addition of a larger island and wine fridge.

• Double doors leading to the new deck flood the space with natural light and showcase stunning lake views.

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.