TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
Tuesday, August 13, 2024
MARCHING ON
Zionsville teen completes Eagle Scout project that benefits ZCHS band / P15
Artists participate in Zionsville Paint Out / P2
Zionsville native pens book on yoga and spirituality / P5
Scholarships available to Boone County high school students / P6
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Founded March 20 2012, at Zionsville, IN Vol. XIII, No. 20
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30 South Range Line Road Carmel, IN 46032
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West Clay at 131st & Towne Rd
Indiana artists take to the streets in Zionsville
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Painters from across Indiana spent time in the streets in the Village Aug. 3 for the 22nd annual Zionsville Paint Out.
CULTURE
The Zionsville Paint Out is a competition open to youth, teen and adult artists who create an original painting on canvas or other medium between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. outdoors. This year’s event had 57 participants.
Rachel Dowd, an artist from Spencerville, participated in her first paint out this year. She said Zionsville provides an abundance of inspiration for artists.
“I love how quaint it is,” Dowd said. “There are so many fences and flowers and gables and subjects to share.”
Dowd said events like the paint out also provide artists with a lot of camaraderie as they share their love of creating in a fun — and slightly competitive — environment. Monetary awards are given to the top three professional artists, with the first-place winner’s name added to the Cynthia Van Tassel Yeo Plein Air Award plaque, on display at the SullivanMunce Cultural Center.
Awards are also given to the top three amateur painters in youth (ages 7 to 11), teen (ages 12 to 17) and adult categories.
This year’s winners are:
YOUTH
FIRST — Romona Allen, 9, Zionsville
SECOND — McKinley Shafer, 10, Zionsville
THIRD — Izzy Yeo, 9, Zionsville
HONORABLE MENTION — Scarlet Robertson, 8, Fishers
TEEN
FIRST — Dana Jean Mansell, 15, Zionsville
SECOND — Maya Shafer, 15, Zionsville
THIRD — Vivian Yeo, 13, Zionsville
HONORABLE MENTION — Afton Stayte, 15, Zionsville
ADULT AMATEUR
FIRST — Josiah West, Westfield
SECOND — Reba Toloday, Zionsville
THIRD — Elsa Eckart, Zionsville
HONORABLE MENTION — Al Breeze, Carmel
HONORABLE MENTION — Marie Shafer, Zionsville
ADULT PROFESSIONAL
FIRST — Donna Shortt, Indianapolis
SECOND — Mary Ann Davis, Indianapolis
THIRD — Scott Miller, Zionsville
HONORABLE MENTION — Phillip Lynam, Avon
HONORABLE MENTION — Rachel Dowd, Spencerville
Participating artists represented Avon; Bargersville; Brownsburg; Carmel; Dillsboro; Fishers; Greenfield; Greentown; Indianapolis; Sheridan; Spencerville; Westfield; West Lafayette; and Zionsville.
The Zionsville Paint Out is sponsored by SullivanMunce Cultural Center and Indiana Plein Air Painters Association.
The SullivanMunce Cultural Center, 225 West Hawthorne St., has an art center, a collecting history museum, a genealogy library and also serves as the Town of Zionsville’s Welcome Center. Learn more at sullivanmunce.org.
Mansell
Allen
West
Shortt
Rachel Dowd traveled from Spencerville to participate in the Zionsville Paint Out. (Photo by Marney Simon)
Christine Patten of Indianapolis paints a home on Hawthorne Street.
Pamela Newell of Fishers has participated in the Zionsville Paint Out several times in the past 10 years.
Fountain Square artist Kyle Ragsdale paints a scene from 3rd Street in Zionsville.
DISPATCHES
Community grants available – Boone County Solid Waste Management District is accepting applications for $5,000 in grant funds to help facilitate the reduction and proper handling of waste. The grant funds support programs that purchase amenities made from recycled materials, such as disposal containers and water bottle refill stations. Eligible groups for the grants include nonprofit organizations, schools, libraries, civic organizations, businesses and clubs operating within Boone County. The application deadline is Sept. 30. Learn more at boonecountysolidwaste.com/grants.
New troopers graduate – Indiana State Police announced 21 newly appointed troopers have graduated from the 85th Indiana State Police Academy. Six were assigned to the Indiana State Police Indianapolis Post and will begin the next phase of training — a three-month field training period riding with veteran troopers — to put into practical application the training received at the academy. Upon successful completion of field training, each new trooper will be assigned a state police patrol vehicle and will begin solo patrol. The Indianapolis District includes Marion, Hamilton, Hancock, Shelby, Johnson, Hendricks and Boone Counties.
Fellowship opportunity for college graduates – Orr Fellowship, an early career development program in Indiana, is accepting applications for its 2025 cohort of Orr Fellows. Qualified candidates for the two-year program must be anticipating graduation in August 2024, December 2024 or May 2025 and have a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher; a strong interest in leadership or business; demonstrated leadership and/or impactful work, life and volunteer experiences; and authorization to work in the United States. Orr Fellowship recruits, assesses and matches university graduates with high-agency roles in growing Indiana businesses, providing graduates with professional development resources and a support network to accelerate their careers. Orr Fellowship is funded in part by a Lilly Endowment grant to invest in capacity-increasing activities. The organization has a network of 624 alumni and 120 fellows, partnering with 41 companies in Indiana. Selected finalists will interview and be matched with partner companies on Nov. 22. Apply at orrfellowship.org/apply.
DISPATCHES
Youth Power and Hope Awards – Boone REMC, in partnership with other Indiana electric cooperatives, is accepting applications for the Youth Power and Hope Awards. The program honors Indiana students in fifth through eighth grades who are leaders in their communities and exhibit a spirit of volunteerism. Applicants must live at a residence served by an electric cooperative. Up to five qualified candidates will be selected to receive $500. The deadline for entries is Friday, Oct. 4. Apply at bremc.com/youth.
Coolest things made in Indiana – Businesses and budding entrepreneurs have an opportunity to show off their wares at the Indiana Chamber’s fourth annual ‘Coolest Thing Made IN Indiana’ competition. Companies entered in the tournament face off in a single-elimination bracket format. Products entered must be made in the Hoosier state. Businesses are limited to one submitted product. Online fan voting determines the winner of each matchup. The tournament tips off in late October and concludes in November. Entry is free. Applications are accepted through Oct. 18 at indianachamber.com/coolest.
Crew for Kids raises $200K – Indiana-based Crew Carwash recently partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters for its 15th annual Crew for Kids fundraiser. Crew committed to donating 50 percent of the proceeds from all Ultimate Washes sold July 27 at all 48 Crew Carwash locations throughout Indiana and Minnesota to Big Brothers Big Sisters, along with cash and credit donations. Crew for Kids raised $201,786 in total for Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies.
Peer support for child service workers –The Indiana Department of Child Services, in partnership with the National Center for Peer Support and Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care, has launched an innovative peer support service to help its staff manage the daily challenges of child welfare work. The Worker2Worker Indiana program is designed to provide wellness support to staff. The program offers peer support, on-call mental health clinicians, provider referrals and wellness- and resilience-building events for all DCS workers. Reach the hotline at 833-327-0730. Learn more about W2W Indiana at youtube.com/ watch?v=YllYLLDxy34.
Zionsville native pens book on yoga and spirituality
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Sally Bassett knows how to stay centered.
A Zionsville resident, Bassett began her professional career at age 20 with ATA Airlines in Indianapolis as a flight attendant, then working her way up over the course of 30 years to become CEO of the former airline’s Ambassadair Travel Club.
WELL-BEING
With the club, she led tour groups to more than 120 countries. But she knew there was more she wanted to do.
“After Sept. 11 (2001), during that crazy time period, I decided to do yoga training just for fun and just to balance me out,” she said. “I opened my own studio.”
Bassett opened a yoga studio in Eagle Creek Park. She earned her doctorate in tourism from Purdue University in 2005. That same year, she created the Peace Through Yoga Foundation, a nonprofit with the mission to make an impact through international yoga, adventure and service retreats focusing on empowering
girls and women in the destinations they visit and serve.
“My favorite part at the end of my airline career was setting up trips where (participants) did yoga, adventure and service,” Bassett said. “So, for example, we’d go to Costa Rica and do zip lining and river rafting, but we’d also do yoga in the rainforest and then we’d help the local people. We actually built a school in Costa Rica.”
Bassett leads four to six trips each year with the foundation. Her experience inspired her to write a book, ‘Spiritual Transformational Yoga,’ published by Christian Faith Publishing.
“I love yoga and I love what it does for you,” Bassett said. “People come to the mat for physical reasons, to tone or for flexibility. But if they stick with it, they find out it’s so much more. It’s calming, it’s peaceful.”
Bassett said the book includes everything she knows and wants to share about yoga, from the physical benefits to, as the title suggests, spiritual transformation from the centuries-old practice.
“The eight limbs of yoga — like a tree —
only one of them is about the physical,” she said. “The others are ethics, socially
and personally, and then you get on the mat and you do the physical postures. Then you get into the breath work and then it’s about going within and connecting to a higher source.”
Bassett said yoga can provide a path for inner peace, a concept she shares in her book. Her book breaks down yoga poses and postures, but also explores meditation, spirituality, balance and healing.
“In the end, yoga is for everyone,” she said. “It enhances your faith, whatever that is for you. (Yoga) is not a religion — it supports your religion. It gets you to a place to be closer to God. People who come to my classes have an intention, whether it’s joy or spiritual IQ.”
Bassett teaches at Blooming Life Yoga and Pilates in Zionsville.
“I love this community,” she said. “I’m really living my best life. I love taking small groups and changing lives.”
‘Spiritual Transformational Yoga’ is available in paperback at Black Dog Books and on Amazon.
Learn more about the Peace Through Yoga Foundation at peacethroughyoga. org.
Author and yoga instructor Sally Bassett recently had a book signing event at Black Dog Books in Zionsville. (Photo courtesy of Sally Bassett)
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PatrioticItems
Brotherhood Designs utilizes their Retired Fire Hose Waste Reduction Program to create Patriotic art as well as to supply zoos and animal sanctuaries with material they upcycle for rehabilitation and enhancement of their habitat.
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Scholarships available to Boone County students
EDUCATION
High school students in Zionsville and Whitestown are eligible to apply for the 2025 Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship through the Community Foundation of Boone County.
The Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program provides 147 scholarships statewide for otherwise unreimbursed full tuition, required fees, and a special allocation of up to $900 per year for items such as books and/or equipment for four years of undergraduate study on a full-time basis at any eligible Indiana public or private nonprofit college or university.
The program is administered statewide by Independent Colleges of Indiana and locally through the Community Foundation of Boone County.
Applicants must be Boone County residents who are within the upper 20 percent of their high school’s graduating class after six semesters; submit a complete online application; graduate from an accredited Indiana high school by June 30, 2025; and intend to pursue a full-time baccalaureate course of study at an eligible college or university in Indiana.
Applications will be evaluated on several criteria, including community involvement; volunteerism; commitment to Indiana; work experience; academic performance; school activities; short answer essays; and two nonschool affiliated letters of recommendation.
Lilly Endowment created the scholarship program in 1997, and to date has provided more than 5,300 Hoosier students with tuition grants totaling more than $490 mil-
lion. The Community Foundation of Boone County has administered the program locally since its inception.
“CFBC is thrilled to once again offer the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship in 2025,” stated Julie Reagan, CEO of the Community Foundation of Boone County. “This initiative represents our commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders and is designed to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional promise and dedication. We believe in the transformative power of education and are proud to invest both in the bright futures of these outstanding individuals and the future of our community.”
Eight applicants will be nominated by the Community Foundation of Boone County for final consideration. Scholarship recipients will be notified in mid-December before winter break.
Apply at grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=cfboonescholarship by 2 p.m. Sept. 6.
Kiddie Academy of Holliday Farms - Zionsville 3650 Marketplace Drive, Zionsville, IN 46077 463-252-9252 kiddieacademy.com/academies/holliday-farms-zionsville/
John Gunderman of Zionsville High School was one of two 2024 Boone County recipients of the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship. (Photo courtesy of Community Foundation of Boone County)
Zionsville Lions provide diabetic screenings
EVENT news@youarecurrent.com
Zionsville residents had a chance to learn about diabetes treatment and prevention at Zionsville Lions Park July 21.
The Diabetes Awareness and Family Fun Day combined entertainment and education, drawing a crowd of several hundred participants for engaging activities and important health screenings. Family friendly activities including bounce houses, arts and crafts and yard games served as the backdrop for the program’s mission to raise awareness about diabetes.
During the event, the Lions provided diabetes screenings for 92 individuals, including risk assessments, glucose testing and A1C screenings — a measure of average blood glucose over an 8- to 12-week period. According to the Lions, the proactive
approach led to the identification of a few participants with elevated blood sugar levels, who were previously unaware of their potential condition.
“We provided these individuals with guidance on next steps, encouraging them to follow up with their health care providers for further evaluation and support,” Lions officials stated in a news release. “The success of the event was not only in the numbers but in the impact made. We were able to deliver vital health information in a friendly, accessible environment, ensuring that many left with a better understanding of their health and the importance of regular diabetes screening. The fun activities created a relaxed atmosphere, making it easier for attendees to engage with our health professionals and take advantage of the screening services offered.”
Learn more about the Zionsville Lions Club at zionsvillelions.com.
Toxic waste in our households
Commentary by Jennifer Lawrence
We read the labels of the food we purchased for our families. But do we read the labels of everything we bring into our homes?
ENVIRONMENT
Labels can tell a lot, including the handling and proper disposal of materials. It may surprise you in the rooms of your house where household hazardous waste can be found — cleaners under our kitchen sink; Aunt Betty’s mercury thermometer we inherited and keep in the back of the bathroom linen closet; recyclable batteries in the television remote in the family room; the CFL bulbs used throughout the house; pool chemicals on the patio; and the plethora of vehicle fluids, lawn chemicals and oil-based stains kept in the garage. These are just a few examples.
The district encourages everyone to only purchase what you need and use what you buy. But there are times when we have excess, and we need to have an avenue to properly dispose of toxic waste.
The district hosts two toxic-drop collection events each year. An event will be held Sept. 14 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Zionsville Police Department, 1075 Parkway Drive in Zionsville. In the meantime, always keep toxic materials in their original containers, do not combine or mix and keep in a cool, dry place.
The Boone County Solid Waste Management District is responsible for implementing programs and educating residents to reduce, recycle or properly dispose of their residential waste.
Summer concert series – The Zionsville Cultural District 2024 summer concert series takes place in Lincoln Park, 41 S. 2nd St.; 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.
Indy GreekFest returns Aug. 23-24 at Carmel cathedral
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Indy GreekFest’s Lenie Tsakonas views the 51-year-old festival as displaying the spirit of Greek culture to the community.
EVENT
“This time-honored festival has been a cherished tradition, showcasing the rich heritage, music, dance and cuisine of Greece,” said Tsakonas, director of marketing and sponsorships. “It’s a cel-
ebration of history and community, where generations have come together to enjoy and preserve Greek traditions. It has stood the test of time, creating lasting memories for all.”
The 51st Indy GreekFest is set for Aug. 23-24 at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 3500 W. 106th St., Carmel. The hours for the free festival are 4 to 10 p.m. Aug. 23 and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Aug. 24. There is a $5 parking fee, cash preferred, for all vehicles. There will be a kids zone with perfor-
mances by Steve’s Puppets. The Hellenic Dance Troupe and George Karras & The Band are among the musical performances.
Tsakonas said the Karras group features the bouzouki in their performances, adding an authentic touch that transports listeners to the heart of Greece.
“The bouzouki is a traditional Greek stringed instrument that holds a special place in Greek music and culture,” Tsakonas said. “Known for its distinctive, melodious sound, the bouzouki’s music
and Infants
is both soulful and vibrant, often evoking deep emotions and a sense of nostalgia.”
Tsakonas said the Indy GreekFest Food Drive is a vital part of the festival. Attendees are encouraged to bring three nonperishable food items to benefit the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral St. Basil’s Food Pantry.
Tsakonas said organizers have opened pastry pre-orders for GreekFest 2024 this year. To preorder, visit indygreekfest.org/ collections/pastries.
Being cared for together benefits both moms and babies. That’s why you’ll find women’s and pediatric care on one campus connected to Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital and Ascension St. Vincent Indianapolis, featuring:
• Indiana’s highest level of care, including NICU and cutting-edge pregnancy care
• 109 private NICU rooms within 268,000 sq. ft. of new space
• Level I Trauma Center
• All 8 floors dedicated to women and infants care
• Central Indiana’s first hospital where moms and babies stay in the same room
Cruise Indy expands to 3 sites
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
In its fifth year, Cruise Indy is undergoing an expansion.
CAR SHOW
For the first time, the car showcase will be at three sites, Cruise Indy President Dr. Kevin Macadaeg said.
Cruise Indy is set for three Carmel sites Aug. 17. Along with its original home parking lot base, Indiana Spine Group where Macadaeg practices at 13225 N. Meridian St., the other parking lot sites will be Meridian Mark 1 & II, 11611 N. Meridian St. and America Legion, 852 W. Main St.
There will be face painting for the children, music and food trucks at all three sites.
The event benefits Folds of Honor, which supports soldiers and first responders who are disabled or killed in the line of duty by awarding the spouse and children scholarships.
There will be a military flyover at 11 a.m. to begin the Folds of Honor program at the Indiana Spine Group.
New this year is the addition of Motorcycle Clubs and a Cruise Indy Passport, where people visiting all three sites can register and earn a Cruise Indy T-shirt.
“One of my goals is to have people on the road where they are traveling between the three sites. I want them in motion,” said Macadaeg, a north Indianapolis resident. “That’s one of the unique notions behind the whole idea. If anyone thinks their car is cool, then we want it there. Not just on the side of the road watching the cars go by but we want people participating with their own cars. It’s not a parade, it’s a poker run. You’ll see a bunch of cars up and down the road. If they want to register and show their cars at one of the three sites, they can do that as well.”
The Spine Group will feature the Crossroads Corvettes Car Club and runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Public Safety Day is set for the Meridian Mark I & II parking lot with those hours from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. with the same hours at the American Legion. The School of Rock band will perform at Indiana Spine Group and Tyler Poe and the Volunteer Railroad Band at American Legion. A
Several other car clubs, including Mustangs, Thunderbirds and classic cars, among others, will participate.
Macadaeg, originally from Detroit, got the idea from Woodward Dream Cruise, held on Woodward Avenue in the Detroit suburbs.
“It was started as a way to raise money for a soccer field 30 years ago and turned into the biggest event in the world with 1.2 million people last year at this thing,” Macadaeg said. “It would always bug me that (Indiana) auto history is much cooler than what has happened in Detroit throughout the years. There are more car manufacturers here than anywhere. We have the Indy 500 and the history of the automobile is all here. The first car invented in the United States was in Kokomo and I could just go on and on about all the firsts that happened in Indiana.”
For more information, visit cruiseindy. com.
band or DJ will be at the Meridian Mark lot.
Macadaeg
Corvettes at a previous Cruise Indy. (Photo courtesy of Kevin Macadaeg)
Veteran calls for change to property tax law
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
A Westfield veteran has started a grassroots campaign to lobby elected leaders at the state level to increase the property tax deduction for veterans in Indiana.
SERVICE
Mike Madigan served in the U.S. Marine Corps in Vietnam. An Illinois native who lived in Wisconsin before moving to Indiana in 2020, Madigan said when he moved to Westfield, he was surprised to find the property tax exemption in the Hoosier State is far different from what was available in Wisconsin.
“I was 100 percent disability, and at 100 percent disability in Wisconsin, you don’t have to pay any property taxes,” Madigan said. “So, when we moved here, we were told there was a disability benefit. But I got (my property tax bill) and I said, ‘Wait a minute, where is this discount?’ So I researched it. They instituted it back in 1975 when a house was worth $39,6000. And they haven’t really touched it since.”
According to the Indiana statute on tax-
ation, veterans with a disability of at least 10 percent that is service-related and who served during World War II, Korea, Vietnam and the Gulf Wars may receive a property tax deduction of up $24,960 from the assessed value of taxable, tangible property.
Veterans with total disability or who are 62 or older with a partial disability who served at least 90 days are eligible for a deduction of up to $14,000.
Although the value limit of assessed property was increased from $200,000 to $240,000 in 2024, Madigan said that does not represent true home values, especially in areas north of Indianapolis.
According to a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs state-by-state analysis compiled in 2021, 7 percent of Hoosiers are veterans, totaling 396,542 residents — ranking Indiana No. 16 in the nation for veteran population. Madigan said those veterans contribute to local and state economies. He said changing the property tax credit will entice more veterans to purchase homes in Indiana.
“We have a lot working for us, but we have to be able to attract these people,” he said. “We’re not doing very well on vet-
“We’re not doing very well on veterans’ benefits. The VA hospital is great down here, I have no qualms with that. But veterans can fall into these cracks and it’s very cumbersome to try and figure out.”
– MIKE MADIGAN
erans’ benefits. The VA hospital is great down here, I have no qualms with that. But veterans can fall into these cracks and it’s very cumbersome to try and figure out. I’m challenging myself and everybody else (to support this).”
Madigan is in the process of presenting his petition for support to local veterans groups and municipalities, with the intention to bring it to lawmakers in 2025. The petition calls for increasing the property tax abatement to 100 percent for disabled veterans and 25 percent for all veterans, and raising the assessed value cap.
Those 18 and older interested in signing the petition can contact Madigan at santa. mike.52@hotmail.com.
DISPATCHES
Family bingo night – The Knights of Columbus at St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church will host family bingo at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 17 at the church, 1870 W. Oak St. in Zionsville. The theme for the evening is patriotic. Come dressed in your red, white and blue and bring your friends, family and neighbors for an evening of fun and community spirit! All proceeds will support the K of C activities benefiting U.S. Armed Forces veterans and active service personnel. Hot dogs, cheeseburgers, pizza and apple pie will be served.
Book signing event – Nicholas Meyer, award-winning author, screenwriter and director, will be at Black Dog Books, 115 S. Main St. in Zionsville, at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 13 to sign copies of his latest book, ‘Sherlock Holmes And The Telegram From Hell.’ Meyer is known for his best selling novel ‘The Seven Percent Solution’ and for directing two ‘Star Trek’ franchise movies. The event is presented by Black Dog Books and the Indiana Sherlock Holmes Society. Call 317-733-1747 to preorder a copy.
The streets of Zionsville were packed Aug. 3 as the Zionsville Street Dance returned to the Village. Local all-female band The Janeways opened up the music for the evening, followed by a performance by The Dundies. The annual event is organized by the Zionsville Chamber of Commerce to showcase the town as a special place to live, work and visit and to connect neighbors and support local businesses and highlight Zionsville’s community spirit. The family-friendly event draws up to 6,000 visitors each year and includes a concert, food and beverage trucks and a kid’s area. Learn more about chamber events at zionsvillechamber.org. (Photo courtesy of Zionsville Chamber of Commerce)
MARCHING ON
Zionsville teen completes Eagle Scout project that benefits ZCHS’ band
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
When the marching band at Zionsville Community High School prepares for performances on the football field this fall, getting their gear will be a little bit easier, thanks to one member’s Eagle Scout project.
Gavin Skok, 16, earned the rank of Eagle Scout this summer with his project to install a concrete pad under the bleachers.
Skok, a junior who plays trombone in the band, is a member of Boy Scout Troop 804 in Zionsville, chartered by the Boys & Girls Club of Boone County. He decided to go for the rank of Eagle Scout this year with a project to benefit his bandmates.
“The project was brought to me by (Zionsville marching band sponsor Tom Landrum). One day he said, ‘You know what would be really great? If we had concrete in the storage area,” Skok said. “I told him I could make that happen. So, starting in November (2023) until a few weeks ago, we’ve been hard at work planning, organizing and executing this entire project.”
The project — a 17-foot-by-53-foot concrete slab — improved the quality of the marching band’s storage area underneath the bleachers on the football field. The concrete was poured July 15. In the months prior, Skok had to learn what pouring concrete actually involved.
“I knew next to nothing about concrete,” he said. “I knew a couple of things, but I did not know a whole lot. So, from November to April, I spent time researching, learning all that I could about the whole process and worked on estimates and quotes to get the project done for as little as possible.”
Although Skok couldn’t pour the concrete himself, he still did a lot of the labor.
“The storage of the marching band props has been underneath the bleachers, and they’ve been on gravel and old plywood,” Skok’s mother, Marni Skok, said. “So, he had to clear out all the marching band props to begin with. It was years and years of props in there. So, he sat down with the director to see what would be kept and what would be trashed. That was Step 1, and Step 2 was to clear out all the gravel and rocks and plywood down to the dirt.”
Marni Skok — an administrative assistant in the school district — assisted with hiring a contractor.
“I knew they were doing work here at the high school this summer with concrete, so I called the contractor, and I asked if we could piggyback off of them already being here,” she said.
Marni Skok turned those conversations over to her son to finish the negotiations.
“I really just asked them whether they would be interested in doing this project and if so, how much they would be willing to do it for and also explained all the
ments become more difficult with the rigors and responsibilities of getting older.
“With high school, jobs, possibly getting your permit or license and just transitioning to being an adult, Scouting falls into the background,” he said. “But when I first joined Boy Scouts, I was really encouraged to work really hard. Before high school you have a lot more time versus high school. And it’s those kids who work hard who think of a project and are able to execute it in the time they have to attain the rank of Eagle Scout.”
Skok said he plans to attend college after high school and eventually enter a music-related field.
details of the project,” Gavin Skok said. “After seeing estimates … I heard from the contractor that he was able to get the whole thing done for about $6,000.”
Skok participated in fundraising activities to raise that money, collecting about $4,000 by soliciting members of the community, with the marching band boosters donating the remaining portion.
Skok said he knows reaching the rank of Eagle Scout isn’t something all Scouts can achieve, as time commit-
“I see (music) as a limitless career opportunity that I want to pursue in life,” he said.
His project will benefit the band at ZCHS for years to come.
“His project is deserving of some recognition,” Landrum said. “It’s pretty awesome.”
ACHIEVING RANK OF EAGLE SCOUT
There are six ranks within the Boy Scouts of America that are earned sequentially: Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life and Eagle.
Gavin Skok said he knew he wanted to be an Eagle Scout when he earned the rank of First Class Scout.
“Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting, said all Scouts should at least get to First Class so that they are prepared with skills they will need to succeed in life,” Skok said. “When I got to First Class, I had merit badges under my belt, I was pretty active in my troop. So, I figured, why not just go all the way?”
Skok said reaching the milestone required a lot of hard work and dedication.
“Eagle Scout is a heck of a lot harder (than lower ranks),” Skok said. “You have to plan, coordinate and or-
ganize a project and there is a lot of other stuff that you have to do. Paperwork, leadership, things like that.”
Eagle Scouts also have to earn a minimum of 21 merit badges and be active as a Life Scout in leadership with their troop in addition to their final project.
Since the rank of Eagle Scout was first established in 1912, more than 2 million Scouts have earned the honor.
A two-year study completed by Baylor University in 2014 showed Eagle Scouts are more likely than those who have never been in Scouting to have higher levels of planning and preparation skills; be in a leadership position at their place of employment or local community; volunteer for religious and nonreligious organizations; and work with others to improve their neighborhoods.
Learn more about BSA at scouting.org.
ON THE COVER: Gavin Skok works on his Eagle Scout project at ZCHS. (Photo courtesy of Marni Skok)
Gavin Skok got to participate in the pouring of the concrete at the pad under the bleachers at the high school. (Photos courtesy of Marni Skok)
Gavin Skok earned the rank of Eagle Scout with a project at Zionsville Community High School to create storage space for the marching band.
Carmel Community Players set to present rare horror show
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Persistence paid off for Lori Raffel.
Raffel has been wanting to direct “The Woman in Black” since she first proposed the play to Carmel Community Players five years ago.
“The rights have been tied up by a Chicago theater for the past three years and after checking every morning for the past year I discovered it was available and I proposed it again,” she said. “We are the first theater in central Indiana to undertake this production.”
The CCP production is set for Aug. 16 to 25 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel
Raffel said the play centers on a lawyer, Kipps, who is obsessed with a curse that he believes has been cast over him and his family by the specter of a woman in black. He engages a skeptical young actor to help him tell his terrifying story and exorcise the fear that grips his soul. Only two actors are on stage with lines during the entire play.
“It’s not an easy project to take on for me as the director, and certainly for the actors who do most of the heavy lifting with lines and blocking and special effects,” Raffel said. “I have concentrated on the telling of the story because I think that is what theater is about, but there are scary and surprising elements throughout the show. The Woman in Black appears on stage during the show, but she does not speak. Surprisingly, I had six women audition for the part of the Woman in Black.”
The Carmel resident said the play is set in a Victorian theater in London in the early 20th century.
“The stage is set to show that a show recently closed on the stage, so there are set pieces and furniture sprinkled around the stage left over from the last production,” Raffel said. “The characters use these items to create their story, so the intimacy of The Cat stage is perfect for the show.”
Noblesville resident Earl Campbell plays Kipps. He said he was familiar with the storyline as he read the book “The Woman in Black” by Susan Hill around Halloween several years ago.
Campbell said he enjoys the opportunity to play multiple characters within the course of the story. He said he plays characters from Kipps’ memories as he relays the story to The Actor.
The challenge, Campbell said, is the number of lines he and fellow actor Todd Isaac have on stage.
“That’s a lot of lines for only two actors in a 90-minute show, and it’s not just the lines, but it’s the accent and the dense storytelling and descriptions,” Campbell said. “It’s just not how the majority of people speak on a day-to-day basis, not in Indiana. So, it’s been a lot of line repetition — drilling the lines and imprinting them.”
Campbell said he must perform a different variation of English depending on which character he is playing in the show.
Isaac, a Zionsville resident whose character is titled The Actor, said he was only slightly familiar with the play before auditions, reading the script once right before.
The biggest challenge, Issac said, was presenting horror on the stage.
“It’s not an easy thing to do and I was excited to give this a whirl,” he said. “(I’ve) always been a big fan of horror, whether on stage or screen. It’s always been more difficult on stage.”
Isaac said the type of English spoken in the play isn’t easy to memorize.
“Doesn’t roll off the tongue like other shows,” he said.
This is Isaac’s first appearance with CCP.
“I only moved to the Indianapolis area a few years ago,” he said. “I don’t have a go-to theater company. It always depends on the show.”
Megan Janning, from Brownsburg, appears in the title role. Carmel resident Margot Everitt is the producer.
For more, visit carmelplayers.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.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
Barracuda: America’s Heart Tribute is set for Aug. 16, followed by Bubbles Up! Let’s Celebrate Jimmy Buffett Aug. 17 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances start at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com
SYMPHONY ON THE PRAIRIE
Hollywood Nights: A Bob Seger Experience concert is set for Aug. 16, followed by Let’s Sing Taylor: A Live Band Experience Aug. 17 at Symphony on the Prairie at Conner Prairie in Fishers. Both performances start at 8 p.m. For more, visit indianapolissymphony. org. SYMPHONY ON THE PRAIRIE THE STRUTS
The Struts will appear with opening act Barns Courtney at 7 p.m. Aug. 16 at Rock the Ruins at Holliday Park in Indianapolis. For more, visit rock the ruins. For more, visit rocktheruins.com.
DISPATCHES
Emmylou Harris to perform at Palladium — Recently added to the 2024-25 Center Presents schedule is legendary singer-songwriter Emmylou Harris, who has released more than 25 albums. She will perform at 7:30 p.m. April 3, 2025, at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Harris is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and a recipient of the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and 14 Grammy Awards. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
Country rock group Alabama set for Fishers Event Center — Multi-platinum selling country rock group Alabama has announced its “Roll on 2 North America” tour will include a stop Dec. 9 at the new Fishers Event Center. The concert will feature special guest Lee Greenwood. Tickets are now on sale at FishersEventCenter.com.
Todd Isaac, left, and Earl Campbell rehearse for “The Woman in Black.” (Photo courtesy of Samantha Kelly)
Face 2 Face at Conner Prairie
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Billy Joel understands one day his touring career will be over.
CONCERT
So, Mike Santoro said when he met Joel, the 75-year-old piano man offered support for Santoro’s tribute act.
“The way he said it, we are keeping his music alive because he won’t be doing it forever,” Santoro said. “When he’s off the road and fans see one of our shows and they’re buying a record or downloading music, they’re not buying from us, they’re buying from him.”
The Face 2 Face tribute act, with Santoro as Joel and Ronnie Smith as Elton John, will perform at 8 p.m. Aug. 24 at Symphony on the Prairie at Conner Prairie in Fishers.
Santoro and Ronnie Smith formed Face 2 Face in 2010. Santoro also performs as Billy Joel in a solo act called The Stranger.
“We come out together with the band and play four songs,” Santoro said. “Then Elton would exit and I would do a set for 40 minutes. Then he would do a set for 40 minutes, followed by a short intermission.
Mike Santoro performs as Billy Joel in a Face 2 Face tribute show. (Photo courtesy of Mike Santoro)
Then we come back to do an hour and 15 minutes Face 2 Face. That’s what we’re doing (at Conner Prairie).”
Santoro, 55, said they have played Symphony on the Prairie several times. The concert stays true to the live music performance of both performers.
Santoro has seen Billy Joel and Elton John perform live, but never saw the duo together when they toured at Face to Face. Their last tour together was in 2009-10.
“We patterned the show on how they did it,” Santoro said. “It worked for them and we hoped it would work for us and it has.”
For more, visit indianapolissymphony.org and face2facetribute.com.
CURRENT CRAVINGS CAFFÉ BUONDI
Caffé Buondi, 11529 Spring Mill Rd. in Carmel, offers a variety of European-inspired breakfast, brunch and lunch options, including frittatas, smoothies, salads, crepes and more. Guests can also enjoy an espresso bar and other drinks featuring Lavazza coffee. Hours are 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Learn more at caffebuondi.com.
Ickx (Buckwheat galette folded with Nueske ham, Swiss cheese and a sunny-side up egg). (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)
MOST POPULAR MENU ITEM: Signature frittatas RECOMMENDED DRINK: Pistacchio Cappuccino and Fragola Fresca cocktail.
CHEF’S FAVORITE: Rafa (spinach pasta layered with hard-boiled eggs, bacon, provolone and bechamel. Topped with gorgonzola cream).
Opening 9:55a National Anthem - Carmel High School's Choral Dept. 11:00a - 1:00p The Hippie Dream 1:30p - 3:15p Tim Brickley and the Bleeding Hearts 3:40p - 4:40p Tim Wright 5:00p - 7:00p On the Record 7:30p - 10:30p BLUEWATER KINGS BAND 10:55a National Anthem - Carmel High School's Choral Dept. 11:00a - 12:30p Kenny Phelps Trio 1:00p - 3:30p Touch of Grass 3:45p - 5:00p Phone Club 9.28.24
Costumes star in Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre event
editorial@youarecurrent.com
Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre will present “Fashion at The Florence: GHDT Costumes Past and Present on the Runway” at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 14 at The Florence, 329 Gradle Dr., Carmel.
FUNDRAISER
The fundraiser supports production expenses for the company’s new season, which begins with “Autumn Nights” Oct. 25-26 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
GHDT is known for its costumes that range from simple elegance to fantastic fashion, and often with a global flair. GHDT Executive Artistic Director Gregory Hancock makes or curates all the costumes for the company’s productions.
“People often have great interest in the costumes of GHDT and are fascinated with the stories behind the costumes” Hancock stated. “I have selected costumes from the vast and eclectic collection that represent a small portion of the scope of costuming in GHDT productions.”
According to organizers, the event will be a unique opportunity to hear Hancock talk about the inspiration behind many of his creations and see them presented as fashion on the runway, instead of the concert stage.
It will be the first event held in The Florence following the final installation of additional theatrical lighting and a new sound system installed in July.
“This black box setting is a perfect fit for a fashion show,” Hancock stated. “Audiences will have up-close viewing so they can see intricate details and the brilliant colors of the costumes, enhanced with theatrical
lighting and an energetic track of music. Our models will include the GHDT dancers and special guests. As a fundraising event, we hope the audience will not only have a unique experience, but also consider contributing to our New Season Giving Campaign. Donations from individuals help GHDT grow and thrive as a professional arts organization in central Indiana.”
The event is for ages 21 and older with cocktail or semi-formal attire requested. There will be a silent auction and light refreshments offered. Seating is limited. Tickets are $100.
For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.
FREE EVENT LATE NIGHT ON MAIN
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:
Carmel Porchfest presents Late Night on Main with Midnight Red Eye Band. The street party, 1 E. Main St., Carmel, begins at 7 p.m. while the music starts at 9 p.m. Learn more at carmelporchfest.org.
OTHER FREE AREA EVENTS
COOL CAREERS — Learn what it takes to become a film or television producer from experienced film and television manager/producer Jennifer A. Haire. The hourlong event is presented by Hamilton East Public Library-Fishers and is at 6 p.m. Aug. 15. Free registration is required at hepl.libnet. info/event/10933027
Gregory Hancock and GHDT company members. (Photo courtesy of GHDT)
Holliday Park offers a challenge
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
If your goal is to combine a stroll through nature with leg day, then Holliday Park, 6363 Spring Mill Rd. in Indianapolis, is the place for you.
Located on 94 acres of greenspace along the White River, the park’s eight trails total 3.5 miles and wind through wooded ravines with varying elevation changes, from trail inclines to several stone and wood staircases. The staircase on Trail 4 totals 125 steps of varying heights and surfaces and is not recommended for anyone who is not steady on their feet. It is one of several stairways in the park.
The trail along the river combines natural surfaces with boardwalks, with access in several sections to the banks of the White River. Although the trail can be moderately difficult, there are also several overlooks and benches to make the journey worth it.
Although the trails are marked, getting your bearings might be hard on your first visit, so taking a photo of the map available at each trailhead is recommended. Not interested in a difficult hike? Hol-
liday Park still has something for you. Besides a playground, pavilion, garden, outdoor learning lab and nature center, Holliday Park is home to The Ruins — an art project dedicated in 1973 and revitalized in 2016. The Ruins includes three sculptures from the facade of the St. Paul Building, a skyscraper in New York City built in 1898 and dismantled in 1959. The City of Indianapolis won a bid to move the sculptures to the park.
Learn more at hollidaypark.org.
Holliday Park is located at 6363 Spring Mill Rd. in Indianapolis. (Photo by Marney Simon)
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
HUMOR
What has happened to the art of sitting? People nowadays don’t just sit. They have to be involved in some activity like emailing, blogging, tweeting, reading or watching TV. When I was a kid, people in my neighborhood sat on their front porches. Since this was New York, they were mostly protecting their valuables or waiting for the police to arrive. They were sitting, nonetheless. In some of those old English manors, there were sitting rooms. But if you ever saw a movie or read a book about life in those days, you’d know that people also did a lot of yakking to each other while they were sitting. My wife was addicted to “Downton Abbey.” A lot of talking in that show … OK, and maybe a few liaisons thrown in.
We need to applaud the historical significance of this leisurely activity. For it is in this repose that the truly lazy people of the world have made their impact. Do you think it was hardworking folks who
Sitting this one out Addressing diploma changes
Commentary by Becky Cash
There has been much conversation, rightfully so, regarding the first draft of the new diploma pathways initiated by the Indiana Department of Education. Over the last few years, it has become evident Indiana’s students are looking for alternatives to get the skills they will need after high school as almost 50 percent are not going on to higher education.
EDUCATION
During the 2024 legislative session, the General Assembly passed bipartisan legislation to allow IDOE to create at least one graduation pathway for students who want to pursue work-based learning in high school. While some Indiana students have these opportunities, many do not. Students across Indiana are asking for more relevant opportunities.
Earlier this year, IDOE released its first draft of recommendations. Many educators, community members, business professionals, the military and higher education gave input regarding these pathways. As the state representative in House District 25, I have had regular conversations with the IDOE and asked them to do
came up with the idea for the backhoe, the chainsaw and the snow blower? Heavens no. It was the sluggish and the indolent looking for a way to get their work done quickly, so they could just sit for the rest of the day.
Cracker Barrel has tried to bring back sitting as an art form. The restaurants have this nifty front porch lined with sturdy rocking chairs. This is sit waiting to happen.
Sometimes to relax, I just sit in my driveway in an old beach chair. When my neighbor Josh sees me, he always grabs a stool from his garage and plants himself next to me. Then he wants to chat endlessly about politics or religion, but lately I’ve mustered up the nerve to tell Josh I’d rather be alone.
Some people just don’t sit well with me.
a town hall in our district. Last month, in a bipartisan effort, State Sen. J.D. Ford of Indianapolis and I co-hosted a town hall where nearly 100 parents and community members gave their input to the IDOE and asked questions.
Now, we await the second draft of diploma recommendations from the IDOE. I recently had a follow-up conversation with the department, and I remain very hopeful the second draft of the proposal will both meet the intent of creating more opportunities for students, while also ensuring that all college-bound students have the classes they need to attend the colleges and universities of their choice. I will continue to meet with constituents, communicate with local educators and work across the aisle to ensure that all students in Indiana have the best educational opportunities. If you have additional questions, please contact my office at 317-232-9600.
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist
LIFESTYLE
1. The “M” in TMI 5. MashCraft brewing needs
10. Rating for many HBO shows
14. On the briny 15. Amazed 16. Hurries
17. Site of the Dan Quayle Vice Presidential Museum
19. Picnic pests
20. Kuaba Gallery display
21. Food plan 22. Alley howler
24. Mr. Clean rival 26. Floral neckwear 28. Peace symbol
Mont. neighbor
Country singer Kenny
Part of NBA (Abbr.) 38. A University of Minneso-
athlete
“Science Guy” Bill
42. “It’s ___ Late”
43. Site of the RV Museum and Hall of Fame
44. Historic period
45. IU conference foe
46. Cause
47. ___-friendly
48. Difficult
50. Siesta
52. Simple shelter
53. “Hold on a ___!”
56. Replies to an invitation, briefly
60. Aesop’s stories
63. UIndy grad
65. Regret
66. Sandwich cookie
67. Site of the Insane Asylum Museum
70. KFC offering 71. Bumbling
72. Type of dancer
73. Lord’s wife
74. Sculptor’s subject
75. Prayer ending Down
1. Taj ___
2. Loan shark’s practice
3. Pennies
4. Boater or bowler
5. Skirt length
6. Christmas tree topper
7. Roasted in the Village order
8. Blue billiards ball
9. Dispatched
10. London’s river
11. Site of the Indiana Military Museum
12. Facebook’s parent company
13. Aide (Abbr.)
18. One way to stand by 23. Out in the open
25. Possess
27. Phased-out Apple messaging tool
30. Stares at the Colts
cheerleaders
32. White River wader
33. “Jane ___”
34. 12 months
35. Oodles
36. Meh
37. Site of the Studebaker Museum
39. Approves
40. PU prof’s degree
43. Make happy
47. FedEx alternative
49. Leppert Mortuaries oration
51. “A Farewell to ___”
54. Gung-ho
55. Applauds
57. Indy 500 sound
58. Rid of impurities
59. ___ Hall University
60. Feathered friends
61. Indianapolis Opera highlight
62. Narrow opening
64. Golden Rule word
68. Lennon’s love
69. Sports org. hidden in
“championship game” Answers on Page 23
SR. SOFTWARE ENGINEER
BorgWarner PDS (USA), Inc. seeks a Sr. Software Engineer based out of our office at 2151 E Lincoln Road, Kokomo, Indiana 46902. Note, this is a hybrid position whereby the employee will work both from home and from the aforementioned office address; from our technical center, 13975 BorgWarner Drive, Noblesville, Indiana 46060; and from home. Hence, the employee must live within a reasonable commuting distance of the aforementioned office address. Note, this position does not require travel. Design and implement embedded software solutions for automotive controllers, among other duties. Email resume to ccregar@borgwarner.com and reference job number R2024-1124.
PUZZLE ANSWERS
Glaziers / Glass Installers –Gatsby Glass of NW Indianapolis is now hiring! Join now to support our rapidly growing business – apply by email at GG135@gatsbybyglass.com
entertainment, recreation, and plus outdoor adventures on the interconnected trail network.
Clubhouse Map
WILD AIR AMENITIES
• Pickleball Courts
• Golf Simulators
• 3,000 Sq. Ft. of Fitness
• Zero-Entry Pool with Spray Jets
• Miles of Walking Trails
• Dog Park
• Coffee Shop
Coffee Shop
Archer Park Map
Lots Starting At: $145K Home & Lots Starting At: $655K MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR AUGUST 21ST!
Saddleridge Estates
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Lots Starting At: $217K
Home & Lot Starting At: $1.1M
Meet the Wild Air builders onsite during the pre-lottery walk on August 17th from 2-4 pm.
Find three favorite homesites for the lottery
Register for the lottery on August 21st