entertainment, recreation, and plus outdoor adventures on the interconnected trail network.
WILD AIR AMENITIES
• Pickleball Courts
• Golf Simulators
• 3,000 sq. ft. of Fitness
• Zero-Entry Pool with Spray Jets
• Miles of Walking Trails
• 4-Acre Dog Park
• Coffee Shop
Clubhouse
Clubhouse
Archer Park
Pickleball
September 17, 2024
Current in Zionsville currentzionsville.com
About us
Founded March 20 2012, at Zionsville, IN Vol. XIII, No. 25
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30 South Range Line Road Carmel, IN 46032 317.489.4444
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State official breaks down Open Door Law
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
A one-person state agency is tasked with helping state and local government officials maintain transparency and that one person has been doing the job for the past 11 years.
PUBLIC ACCESS
Luke Britt was appointed as the state’s nonpartisan Public Access Counselor in 2013 by then-Gov. Mike Pence. The Lawrence resident spoke about the state’s Open Door Law during the Aug. 20 Greater Lawrence Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon.
Britt said his role has been to ensure that Hoosiers are informed about what their governments do with the public’s money.
“I draw a salary from the state; I have programming that I spend money on,” he said. “Every single dollar that I spend as a government official — that came from someone’s pocket who earned it and remitted it to the state in the form of a tax. In order that I be a good steward of that trust and of those resources, I make sure that my daily operations and what I do on a regular basis is transparent, so they know they’re getting the benefit of the bargain as far as what I do and also that I’m the right person for the job.”
Britt said that same transparency is important for all government agencies, state and local. One way he makes sure Hoosiers understand the Open Door Law is through outreach and education.
“Education is the No. 1 thing,” he said. “I love to go out and talk statewide to folks. I’ve been in (the) four corners of the state and everywhere in between. It is a joy and delight to talk to people face-to-face — that is kind of my wheelhouse. I make sure I get out about 50 times a year to various different communities and it’s a pleasure to be here in my hometown now.”
Britt also reviews and investigates complaints from citizens who believe the state’s Open Door Law has been violated by public officials. Most of the time, he said, his investigations show officials are doing what they’re supposed to do, but sometimes he issues an opinion of noncompliance.
To keep compliance problems at a minimum, Britt said he acts as a resource to not only the public but to public officials. The PAC website has resources about how officials should conduct meetings, what
counts as a meeting and what records need to be made available to the public. He also is available by phone for people with questions about public access rules.
“I think people like it that they can call up a state agency and get the agency head really quickly,” he said. “About 55 percent or so of all those requests for assistance actually come from other public officials. So, that’s satisfying as well, knowing that they’re trying to do the right thing.”
Britt said transparency can seem like a burden to government officials because it takes time and effort, but it’s important to show the public how and why decisions are made.
“We just have to go through certain steps to make sure that everything’s on the up-and-up,” he said. “I tell elected officials, ‘Use this as an opportunity to show off a little bit, to show your voters and your constituents that, yeah, you made the right choice in putting me in office, and here’s why.’”
Britt said the Open Door Law applies to public meetings of government agencies. That includes not only city councils and school boards, but plan commissions, finance committees, zoning boards and any other government-related bodies.
“What the Open Door Law says is that anytime a majority or a quorum are discussing or deliberating or taking action on public business, then that discussion has to be open to the public,” he said.
There are a few exceptions. If a government body is discussing a lawsuit, for ex-
ample, the Open Door Law allows members to meet in executive session. But that meeting still needs to be advertised so the public knows it’s happening.
A majority of a board could gather for a social event without notifying the public, he added, as long as they don’t talk about public business. Even then, though, it’s better to err on the side of caution and avoid any appearance of violating the Open Door Law.
Britt said public records also need to be easily accessible and agencies need to document pretty much everything they do. He noted that the public can access most local and state financial records through the Indiana Gateway portal, gateway.ifionline.org.
Alternatively, citizens can go to their city, town or county offices and request documents. Some documents are not public information, however, such as health records.
Britt said whenever there’s a question about whether to provide information or meet publicly, government should err on the side of transparency. He also had advice for the public.
“Go to meetings, make public records requests, know your way around some of those online resources like Gateway, make sure that I’m held accountable, make sure that the city’s held accountable,” he said. “I think that when there’s apathy on the part of the constituency, that allows government to cut corners and to run amok a little bit.”
For more, visit in.gov/pac.
Indiana Public Access Counselor Luke Britt spoke during an Aug. 20 Greater Lawrence Chamber of Commerce luncheon. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
Know something? Tell us
Commentary by Rick Morwick
When you pick up Current each week, or read the digital edition, do you ever wonder where all those stories come from that inform you about all things — big, small and everything in between — happening in your community?
NEWS GATHERING
It’s an important question with many answers.
Newspapers cultivate stories in a variety of ways, but each has a common denominator: Somehow, some way, a topic was brought to a reporter’s attention.
Often, stories are generated from traditional sources, such as press releases, news conferences, personal contacts, event coverage (think school board and city council meetings, live sports, court trials, crime scenes, etc.) and social media.
But there are other, less formal ways, including a reporter’s curiosity, good old-fashioned investigative reporting — and you.
Yes, you.
As much as Current might give the impression of being omnipresent, it is not. No media outlet is. We rely on tips from a range of sources. That’s where you come in.
Sometimes (maybe oftentimes), we need you to be our extended set of eyes and ears. If you see, hear or know about anything in your community that you think is news, let us know. Although we take great pride in covering our seven Current communities like no other media can (or perhaps cares to), we cannot report on what we do not know.
If something is happening, or has happened, in your community that you think might be newsworthy, contact us at news@youarecurrent.com, and know that what you deliver to us will be accorded every consideration.
Together, we can make hyper-local news even better.
Thank you for reading, and hopefully participating in, Current’s weekly report.
at rick@youarecurrent.com.
Rick Morwick is a veteran journalist and longtime senior copy editor for Current Publishing. You may reach him
Hometown Heroes Day at Promontory
The 2024 Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis’ Home-A-Rama is in Zionsville’s Promontory neighborhood this month.
HOME-A-RAMA
Sept. 26 is designated as Hometown Heroes Day, with a discount on admission for military veterans, active military members, first responders, health care workers and teachers.
Hometown Heroes Day represents Home-A-Rama’s way to say thank you to those who serve. The hometown heroes will have a separate check-in area and signs honoring their service to their communities and nation will be posted throughout the tour sites.
Home-A-Rama is Sept. 19-22 and Sept. 26-29, with five high-end custom homes for viewing. The homes cost between $3.8 and $5.5 million.
Home-A-Rama offers a peek into upscale living in central Indiana. The Promontory is one of Zionsville’s newest and most sought-after communities, with a sprawling 35-acre lake and 2-plus-acre estate homesites. The community offers privacy and luxury to its residents.
The self-guided tours of five homes showcase the unique aesthetic from each builder, large living spaces and latest trends in custom home design.
BAGI representatives note that the event also offers design ideas and remodeling tips.
Learn more at homearama.bagihomeshows.com.
DISPATCH
Farmers market – The Zionsville farmers market takes place in the Village from 8 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Saturdays through Sept. 28. In its 27th season, the market features 41 vendors selling produce, bread, homemade items, meat, juices, coffee, plants, floral arrangements, honey, popcorn, baked goods, dog treats and more. Events also include live entertainment. Learn more at zionsvillefarmersmarket.org.
Students learn about nature
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
A partnership between Zionsville Parks and Recreation and Zionsville Community Schools provides ZCS students a unique opportunity to get closer to nature.
ENVIRONMENT
Nature Connections began in 2022. The yearlong environmental education program is included as part of the curriculum for third-graders at Eagle, Trailside and Pleasant View elementary schools.
animals. They’re understanding ecosystems, native and invasive species, watersheds and how humans are part of these things both positively and negatively, and how they can have a positive impact with the service-learning project to wrap the whole thing up.”
Parks and recreation naturalist Rachel Felling gave an update on the program to the Zionsville Board of Parks & Recreation in August. The program is structured with four meetings per school year and classroom outreach efforts in fall and winter. In spring, students participate in a field trip and a service project.
“The whole idea of the program is that we want to help kids understand ecosystems overall,” Felling said. “They are learning about adaptations of plants and
Felling said the program is a supplement to the curriculum.
“The hope is to expand this to all elementary schools, maybe as early as 2025-26, when we can take everybody out to Carpenter Nature Preserve,” she said. “The hope would be that by spring of 2026, we can get everyone there and there will be plenty of service project work to be done there. There is a creek for the kids to do their watershed study in. We will also be organizing a volunteer naturalist program to help. It’s been very well received by the teachers and the administrators. The kids have had a ton of fun.”
The program is funded by the Zionsville Parks Foundation.
Learn more about parks and recreation activities at zionsvillein.myrec.com.
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Felling
Budget will add firefighters in Zionsville
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Zionsville’s municipal budget for 2025 will include funds for four new firefighters.
TOWN NEWS
The Zionsville Town Council held its first workshop for the 2025 budget Aug. 12. At that time, Mayor John Stehr proposed several personnel additions, including one new police officer, one parks and recreation staff member and a midyear hire for the department of public works.
On Sept. 3, Stehr updated the town council on the status of that financial planning after getting feedback on the initial proposal.
“We didn’t talk about new firefighters,” Stehr said. “I have heard loud and clear that we need new firefighters, from council members, from the public, from the fire chief and other staff members. So, by sharpening our pencils and digging down, we have found a way to bring in four new firefighters in 2025. With salary, training and benefits, the cost of that on the high end is about $520,000.”
Stehr said those funds will come from a combination of health care savings, anticipated additional fees and a billing surplus in 2025 over 2024. Money that had been earmarked for an economic development manager also will be moved to help cover the costs of the new firefighters. Stehr said the town does not intend to fill the economic development manager role in 2025.
The 2025 proposed budget totals $54
million across all accounts, including $10.5 in the general fund, $4.5 million for police protection and $8.9 million for municipal fire.
The 2025 proposed levy is $18.8 million. A public hearing for the budget is at 7:30 a.m. Sept. 16 at Zionsville Town Hall. The full budget is anticipated to come before the town council for review and approval in October. View the budget tinyurl. com/38vecfk9.
The Zionsville Town Council is expected to review and approve the 2025 budget in October. (File photo)
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
A series of public meetings regarding Zionsville’s effort to update its comprehensive plan is complete. Now, town officials are urging residents to fill out an online survey to help shape the future of the town.
TOWN NEWS
Mayor John Stehr gave an update of the comprehensive planning process to the Zionsville Town Council Sept. 3.
“Participation has been very strong, especially in the old Perry Township where there was standing room only (at the community meeting in August),” Stehr said.
“The consultants are making a final push for people to fill out the online survey, after which we will put together a report on the public participation in the process. We hope to do a round of stakeholder meetings for the middle of this month and an initial report on the data collected is due
by the end of September.”
The steering committee is expected to meet Sept. 18.
The comprehensive plan is being created by HWC Engineering, with participation from elected and appointed town officials, residents, businesses owners, civic groups and other community stakeholders. It will replace the town’s current plan, which was developed in 2003 prior to the inclusion of Perry and Union townships within Zionsville’s borders.
Once the community engagement effort is complete, HWC and the steering committee will develop initial recommendations for the comprehensive plan, 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.
Residents can complete the online survey at uniquelyzionsville.com.
Residents visit the comprehensive plan information table during Fall Fest.
(Photo by Marney Simon)
No one likes my paint color
Commentary by Jennifer Lawrence
Of the frequently asked questions the Boone County Solid Waste Management District receives, the proper disposal of paint is at the top.
ENVIRONMENT
The district always advocates reducing waste by planning, buying what you need and using what you buy.
When moving, do not leave your paint for the next homeowner. More frequently than not, they are not going to agree with your paint choices. And if they do, the paint-matching technology is advanced where they could purchase their own.
If you are left with excess paint, always try to find some reuse for it by donating it to a local theater group for backdrops or consider painting the inside of your garage.
If donation or reuse is not an option, proper disposal is the key.
Read the label to determine if you have oil-based or latex paint.
All oil-based paints and stains are considered hazardous and can be properly disposed of at a district tox drop collection. If your paint is latex, then it is water-based, nontoxic and can be disposed of in your household trash if dried out first.
To do this, remove the lid and allow the paint to air dry. For larger quantities or to speed up the process, consider mixing the paint with an absorbent material such as cat litter, sawdust or a commercial paint hardener.
Once the paint is solidified, it can be double-bagged and disposed of with household trash. Ensure that the paint is fully hardened, as liquid paint can cause a spill on the roadways or damage to the collection trucks.
The Boone County Solid Waste Management District is responsible for implementing programs and educating residents to reduce, reuse, recycle or properly dispose of their residential waste.
When you visit an Epcon community during our Fall Open House Weekend, you’ll experience luxury ranch homes designed for single-level
and
courtyards that are perfect for enjoying the
Plus, a low-maintenance Epcon lifestyle means raking, mowing and weeding are taken care of for you, leaving you more time to enjoy the things that truly matter.
Come see for yourself what it is like to live well every day. You’ve earned this.
HSE volleyball player embraces role as setter
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
When Hamilton Southeastern High School senior volleyball player Ava Hunter was younger, she wanted to be an outside hitter like her older sister, Grace.
“She said I was going to be too undersized for the people I’d be playing against,” Hunter said. “She said I had huge hands and needed to become a setter, so I switched to setting. At first, I was like, ‘This is so hard, it’s not my favorite.’ Then a year or two into it (I realized) this is the best job. It’s so fun. It’s fun to be the one that makes the decisions in the game.”
The 5-foot-11 Hunter shared the setter role with Macy Hinshaw, now a freshman player for Santa Clara University, the past two seasons for the Royals, who won the IHSAA Class 4A state championship the past two seasons. As of Sept. 10, the Royals were 10-1.
“I think the last two years sharing time with Macy has definitely helped me understand everyone has their own role and each role is important,” Hunter said. “I un-
MEET AVA HUNTER
Favorite subject: Science or math
Favorite TV show: “The Office.”
Favorite vacation spot: Florida
Favorite music performers: Rhianna and Billie Eilish
derstand everyone’s perspective.”
Hunter said although everyone wants to play more, she can encourage players on the bench that every role is important.
Royals coach Jason Young said Hunter has had to take on a leadership role this season.
“We graduated a huge group of seniors who were incredibly talented and great leaders,” Young said. “She’s stepped in
and been a leader and captain for us. It’s natural for that position. A setter is like the quarterback. She runs the show offensive-
ly for us and has done a good job leading the way.”
Young said he had two of the best setters he has ever coached in Hinshaw and Hunter.
“Ideally, you’d like to have them come by every four years, but we are glad to have had both of them,” Young said. “(Hunter) is a very upbeat, positive individual. She is a big cheerleader for others.”
Hunter recorded her 1,000th career assists in the season opener.
Hunter is optimistic the Royals can make another run at the state title.
Hunter, who plans to major in business, has committed to play for Loyola University in Chicago next season. Grace, a 2020 HSE graduate, was on the Royals’ Class 4A state runner-up team as a senior and played for Marian University.
“Grace helped me become the player I am today,” Hunter said. “We have all the pieces (to win another championship). We just need to get each piece working together.”
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, email mark@youarecurrent.com.
Ava Hunter is a senior setter for Hamilton Southeastern High School’s two-time defending Class 4A state champions. (Photo courtesy of Kirk Green/Capture Sports Media)
EXPLORING THE DORA
Zionsville to consider Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area in Village
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
The Town of Zionsville is the latest municipality in Indiana to consider the creation of a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area, or DORA. But the pursuit is receiving pushback from at least one member of the town council.
The creation of a DORA was introduced to the Zionsville Town Council Sept. 3. Parks and Recreation Superintendent Jarod Logsdon said Zionsville’s downtown Village is the focus of the designated area between Second and Elm streets, with the northern boundary at Poplar Street and the southern boundary extending the length of Main Street/Zionsville Road to the Zionsville Public House.
“This initiative seeks to promote vibrancy for residents and visitors and to provide new opportunities to enjoy shopping and dining, increase foot traffic to local businesses and promote the welcoming and walkable spirit of our downtown,” Logsdon said.
If approved, the DORA would allow permittees within the district to sell beer, cider, wine and cocktails in carry-out plastic containers specifically designated as DORA compliant via a sticker or decal. Those drinks can then be carried within the boundary of the DORA and into retail establishments that do not serve alcoholic beverages if those establishments allow it.
Logsdon said without the DORA, restaurants have barriers to participating in special events because their liquor licenses are limited to their indoor space and outdoor fenced areas. The DORA would allow those downtown merchants that sell alcohol to participate in community events in the Village.
“The DORA is meant to support and foster economic activity, enhance the vibrancy and walkability of our downtown area and promote community celebrations,” he said.
Although most of the council was amenable to the idea, Councilor Craig Melton said he had reservations, mainly about enforcement.
“I feel like it (has the potential) to go to people bringing their own drinks into events and sharing them,” Melton said. “It almost may negatively impact those shops and businesses because (visitors) are bringing their own alcohol and it becomes a little bit of the wild west. I’m a little concerned. We’re going to increase our need for policing. I feel like the policing of it is going to be a challenge.”
Per the rules of a DORA, however, carrying in alcohol is prohibited, so anyone drinking out of a container without a branded DORA designation would be in violation.
Melton asked if it would make more sense to stick to special event rules, rather than establish a DORA. But Logsdon said special events limit alcohol sales to a specifically marked area, such as a beer garden. The DORA would remove that restriction.
“This is simply a map that is drawn, and people can participate in this or not,” Council President Jason Plunkett
said. “They have the choice to do that. So, we’re not passing the buck on to anybody as it relates to liability. But it’s also worth noting that you can’t just walk down the street with a can of (beer). It has to be (in) a cup with (DORA) on there. And you cannot walk around with an unlabeled bottle, either. You can’t just say, ‘I got a bottle from here, I got a bottle from over there.’ I think this is a great idea. I think this is a long-time coming for the town.”
Logsdon said initial costs for branding, signage and the first round of compliant cups would be covered by the town’s food and beverage tax. Restaurants that participate would need to cover their own costs for additional containers.
“It provides an opportunity for someone with a drink to walk down Main Street, see a boutique they want to go
into, notice the DORA decal saying beverages welcome and have that experience in the shop,” Logsdon said. “Any merchants that wish to not participate in this (can).”
Councilor Evan Norris voiced support for the DORA.
“I don’t see issues with people standing in the street and getting wildly drunk. I think it’s going to be just completely fine,” Norris said. “I’m fully supportive of this and I think it’s a great move.”
Logsdon said the Town of Zionsville reached out to officials in Troy, Ohio — which is similar in population to Zionsville with its own historic downtown area — where a DORA was introduced in 2015.
“They gave us a little history that there was initially a fear of disorderly conduct,” Logsdon said. “They have seen no incidents. Even after events, they are not seeing that behavior. They are seeing plenty of family events that are enhanced by their downtown DORA. Most activities outside of special events (are) usually on Saturdays in fair weather and retailers have enjoyed the increased activity.”
If approved, Zionsville’s DORA would be in effect Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 8 p.m. Sunday.
DORA beverages can be purchased only at participating establishments or from authorized temporary vendors and served in designated plastic cups with the DORA logo. Patrons must be 21 and older, are limited to two DORA drinks at a time and can only consume those beverages within the DORA boundary.
Four downtown businesses — Hopwood Cellars, Rush on Main, Cobblestone and the Friendly Tavern — showed interest in participating. Logsdon said the town will reach out to other establishments for inclusion as permittees.
The council approved the first reading consideration of a DORA by a 4-1 vote, with Melton opposed to the measure.
ON THE COVER: Restaurants in Zionsville would be allowed to serve carryout drinks to be enjoyed outside of their designated buildings and outdoor spaces if a DORA is approved. (Photo by Marney Simon)
A DORA is a designated area where patrons 21 and older can purchase alcoholic beverages in a marked container from participating establishments, then carry those drinks within the district.
Approval of a DORA is a two-part process.
First, the municipality must pass an ordinance, which establishes the following: A map of the area; street boundaries; location of designated retail permittees; and temporary vendors within the refreshment area; a statement that the area is consistent with the municipality’s zoning ordinance; the number, spacing, and
type of signage designating the refreshment area; and the dates and the hours of operation, in compliance with state statutes.
Once that ordinance is passed, the city must submit an application to the Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission, including forms from permittees and vendors, a copy of the ordinance and a map of the proposed DORA. The ATC issues the final approval.
There are 24 active or pending DORAs in Indiana, including in Noblesville, Westfield and Carmel.
DESIGNATED OUTDOOR REFRESHMENT AREAS EXPLAINED
The proposed DORA boundary includes the Village south on Main Street/Zionsville Road to the Zionsville Public House. (Image courtesy of Town of Zionsville)
Second St.
Eagle Creek
Old 106th
Elm St.
Poplar St.
Center’s annual gala supports education, outreach programs
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Jeffrey McDermott has watched how the Center for the Performing Arts annual gala has evolved.
“I’m one of the rare people who have been to every single gala we’ve had here,” said McDermott, who was a board member prior to assuming his role as president/CEO for Carmel’s Center for the Performing Arts. The sold-out Center Celebration 2024 Presented by Ice Miller with headliner Chris Botti is set for Sept. 21 at the Palladium. The fundraising event supports the Center’s education and outreach programs. The first gala was in a huge tent on Carter Green in January 2011, the same year the Center opened.
“We then came in there for the show and it was star-studded,” McDermott said. “What I recall is the next day there was an ice storm and the tent was destroyed. Then for the next couple of years we switched to the summers and we had it in connection with the Songbook Academy (Hall of Fame induction), which was great but created a huge stress on our staff. It’s an all-hands-on-deck (event) and when we did it in connection with the Songbook Academy, we would have the Songbook Academy one night and the gala the next. While it was great fun, it became overwhelming as the Songbook (event) and the gala continued to grow.”
McDermott said there were a few years when the dinner was held at the Indiana Roof Ballroom on one night and the show at the Palladium the next night.
“That worked but it was a two-night event and that’s a lot for people to commit to,” McDermott said. “We felt a onenight affair was much better. We’ve hit a nice pace now.”
McDermott said each year the staff discusses ways to make it more unique and
accommodate 250 people, so it’s ideal for wedding receptions. It’s a fun opportunity for us in rentals to sell that space.”
Adams said every department is involved in staging the gala.
“It’s a real all-hands-on-deck kind of event,” she said.
Kendra Latta, vice president of development, said the gala lays a fundraising foundation to support and raise awareness for the Center’s education and outreach missions.
‘MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET’
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “Million Dollar Quartet” runs through Oct. 6 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
‘RING OF FIRE’
Actors Theatre of Indiana’s production of “Ring of Fire” runs through Sept. 29 at the Studio Theater at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistage.org.
more memorable. What has helped the event evolve is that Carmel businessman Zak Khan donated a festival floor that sits on top of the seats. McDermott said they can seat 250 people on the floor and another 150 in the various boxes at the Palladium. The first one with the festival floor was held in 2015.
“It starts with the red-carpet entrance, cocktail reception around the building, the dinner and show on the festival floor and then goes throughout the building for the after-party,” McDermott said. “That formula has worked well for the last several years.”
“We have limited seating at the gala, but it’s a big enough event with a strong enough message that we want to get it out in the community that we do more than concerts,” Latta said. “We’re a place for education and a place for gathering, and donor support makes that possible. Our education programs are growing like crazy. We offer free matinee programs for school children and for the last two years those shows have been filled to capacity by the time school starts each year.”
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Summer Nights: The Music of Grease” is set for Sept. 19, followed by Don Farrell’s “Frank Sinatra: The Tribute” Sept. 20; Adam B. Shapiro in “Hollywood or Bust: Songs of the Silver Screen” Sept. 21; and “An Evening with Michael Feinstein” Sept. 22 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All the performances start at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
DISPATCHES
Ramona Adams, the Center’s vice president of events, said it takes two to three days to install the floor and about the same amount of time to take it down. The floor is installed the first week of August and then is taken down when the gala is over.
It enables the Center to rent Palladium space for weddings, conferences and corporate events.
Adams said it probably takes about a dozen professional stagehands and production experts to install the floor.
“The floor has been a game-changer for us being able to hold larger scale events,” Adams said. “We don’t have room for much more than 100 until we install the festival floor in August. Then we can
Latta said the gala’s volunteer cochairs are Adam Arceneaux and Michael and Caroline Garvey. Arceneaux is the senior co-chair in his second year of a two-year commitment. The Garveys will become senior co-chairs for the 2025 gala.
“These volunteers go out and recruit a committee of volunteers,” Latta said. “They are people in the community that go to shows and work for companies that support us and maybe serve on our board of directors. We try to get 40 or 50 committee members and it’s their work and advocacy that sells the tables, gets the corporate sponsors, helps secure the auction items and they have a great input in making it a great evening people want to attend. We’re really indebted to them. They are an incredible group.”
Latta said the co-chairs are the cheerleaders of the group.
For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
Rising country star set for Fishers Event Center — Singer/songwriter Megan Moroney announced that her forthcoming “Am I Okay?” tour will stop April 24, 2025, at the new Fishers Event Center. Moroney, a rising country star, will headline the 25-date North American tour. Tickets are on sale at FishersEventCenter.com. Fresh off playing stadiums all summer in support of Kenny Chesney’s “Sun Goes Down 2024 Tour,” Moroney has emerged as one of country music’s most exciting live acts in recent years.
Proposals sought for New Works — Indiana-based artists and arts organizations are invited to submit proposals for New Works, a commission program in its fourth season at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. New Works promotes and sustains local artists and arts communities by supporting the creation of new works in various disciplines. The submission deadline is Sept. 20 at 11:59 p.m. For more, visit TheCenterPresents.org/NewWorks.
The Center Celebration seats about 250 people on the festival floor and another 150 in boxes. (Photo courtesy of the Center for the Performing Arts)
Adams
Latta
McDermott
CLASSIC CARS ON DISPLAY
Thousands of car enthusiasts filled the Carmel Arts & Design District streets Sept. 7 for Artomobilia. The event included the usual array of Indy 500 cars, Jaguars, Corvettes, Ferraris, Porsches and Lamborghinis, among other vehicles. (Photos by Mark Ambrogi)
FREE EVENT ‘SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK’
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:
The Noblesville Cultural Arts Commission’s 32nd annual production of “Shakespeare in the Park,” the longest-running production in central Indiana, will be at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18-21 at Federal Hill Commons in Noblesville, 175 Logan St. King Lear will be performed in the amphitheater and admission is free. For more, visit noblesvillearts. org/shakespeare-in-the-park.html.
OTHER FREE AREA EVENTS
CUISINE CONNECT CULTURE — Explore diverse arts, entertainment, traditions and food from all over the world at 225 S. Union St. for the annual Cuisine Connect Culture festival, from noon to 3 p.m. Sept. 21. For more, visit westfieldwelcome.com/ cuisine-connect-culture.
The 1969 Chevelle SS 396 featured in “This Train” movie.
The 1959 Lesovsky Roadster Indy 500 pole-winning car driven by Johnny Thompson in 1959. Thompson also drove the car in 1960.
ICC goes to the movies
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Indianapolis Children’s Choir Executive Artistic Director Joshua Pedde figures “Lights. Camera. Song” is the perfect start to the 39th concert season.
CONCERT
Pedde said the movies theme is always a fun way to engage audiences since so many people have shared memories of music from movies.
said Pedde, a Carmel resident. “So, this time around, it will open up even more opportunities for performing songs from various genres and time periods.”
The concert will include songs from “The Wizard of Oz” and Disney classics.
There will be a free public open house from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sept. 20 at the ICC Performing Arts Center at 9111 Allisonville Rd., Indianapolis. There will be movie screenings and free popcorn. The choir also will screen the “Trio of Minuet” children’s opera that the ICC debuted 20 years ago on WFYI.
The “Lights. Camera. Song.” concert is set for 6 p.m. Sept. 29 at the STAR Bank Performing Arts Center in Zionsville.
“We haven’t done a movie-themed concert for quite some time and the last time we did, it was specifically for the holiday,”
“The singers just love the repertoire for this concert. The movies are a great way to bring everyone together,” Pedde said. “There will be hits from ‘90s Disney classics like ‘Beauty and the Beast,’ ‘The Lion King’ and then older songs like ‘When You Wish Upon a Star’ and ‘Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.’”
Pedde said the concert will include songs from other movie classics like “The King and I,” “Singin’ in the Rain” and featured music by legendary movie composer John Williams. ICC alum and professional recording vocalist Erin Benedict will be the featured guest soloist.
Tickets for the concert are $16 and can be purchased online at icchoir.org/tickets. Children aged 5 and under can attend for free but require a ticket.
Pedde
Pick your path at Eagle Creek
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Fall in central Indiana is the perfect time to explore Eagle Creek Park — one of the largest city-owned parks in the nation. Perched along the Eagle Creek Reservoir between 71st and 56th streets on Indianapolis’ west side, Eagle Creek offers trails for all ages and abilities.
Eagle Creek’s five well-marked trails stretch more than 16 miles and range from easy to difficult. While the green trail offers more than 3 miles of easy-to-navigate flat surface, hikers will find a challenge on the 6.75-mile red trail loop, navigating through several ravines and staircases along the reservoir with multiple overlooks and areas to rest.
Eagle Creek’s paved roadways are also marked for 5K, 8K and 10K distances.
Additional trails can be accessed west of the reservoir off 56th Street and north at the Scott Starling Nature Sanctuary on Wilson Road.
Besides hiking, Eagle Creek Park offers fishing, an ornithology center, nature center, shelters, bird sanctuary, amphitheater,
fitness trial, marina, dog park and paid adventures, including ziplining and boat rentals.
Daily entrance fees are $7 per vehicle for nonresidents of Marion County and $6 for residents. Annual passes are $60 for nonresidents and $50 for residents. Veterans receive a 50 percent discount on annual passes.
Eagle Creek Park is open year-round from dawn to dusk. Learn more at indy. gov/activity/about-eagle-creek-park.
TAKE A HIKE!
Eagle Creek Park is one of the largest municipal parks in the country. (Photo by Marney Simon)
Running around on my wife
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
I feel compelled to take a certain number of steps daily. I did a lot of research on the optimum number for a guy my age. But the chart I was referring to asked, “Born in 1950 or before? Please consult a doctor before making a move.” I could have made it easy on myself. You know, maybe 1,000 a day – 1,500 at most. But on my smartphone, I clicked 15,000 by mistake. Now, I was stuck. I never go back on my own words. And I wouldn’t have been able to reset the app if I wanted to.
HUMOR
I don’t have time to reach my daily goal. I’m not a runner, I’m a lumberer. I wave to the people in wheelchairs, folks with canes and women pushing babes in carriages as they zoom past me.
Recently, I started running in my basement at night to get in more steps. I dash around the ping-pong table, negotiate the couch, creep along the wall where the TV sits, and then circle around the treadmill. Why aren’t I using that to exercise? The answer is simple: I’m not an exercise nut. Who goes on a treadmill at 11 at night?
The late-night dash was not helping me accomplish my goal. First, I started to get very bored with my basement routine. True, I did see a few photos and paintings I had never noticed before. I also discovered a half bath in what I thought was an extra closet.
Then, I had a great idea. I decided to begin trotting around the neighborhood at precisely midnight. You see, my walking app automatically resets to zero at midnight, so that is my first opportunity to get a jump on the next day’s steps. I won’t make my goal unless I get a head start on my 15,000. Please tell me you understand what I’m saying.
My wife Mary Ellen forbade me from doing it. I got away with this a few times by constantly checking to see that she
“Recently, I started running in my basement at night to get in more steps. I dash around the ping-pong table, negotiate the couch, creep along the wall where the TV sits, and then circle around the treadmill. Why aren’t I using that to exercise? The answer is simple: I’m not an exercise nut. Who goes on a treadmill at 11 at night?”
– DICK WOLFSIE
was fast asleep before I snuck out.
Then, after I rounded our neighborhood, I saw a woman in our driveway. It was Mary Ellen in her nightgown, but she also wore a very angry face. She had apparently awakened to find me missing and realized what I was doing. Yes, she had caught me running around on her. She rightly told me in no uncertain terms how dangerous my behavior was. I wanted to deny I had done this, but not only had I been caught red-footed, but several neighbors had video of me on their ring doorbell.
I have promised never to do this stupid thing again. First, it’s really dangerous. Second, standing in our driveway every night at 1 a.m. in her nightgown could blemish my wife’s untarnished reputation.
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
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Blueprint for Improvement: Cosmopolitan Carmel kitchen
Commentary by Larry Greene
Talk about a transformation! Our clients were determined to make a statement with their downtown Carmel kitchen and our team embraced the challenge. We took their builder-basic space and meticulously reimagined it into a sleek, sophisticated culinary haven that masterfully captures their bold vision.
THE BLUEPRINT
• A stunning gold brushstroke tile, arranged in an artistic pattern, sets the tone, making a bold and sophisticated statement.
• Dark acrylic cabinets are the perfect contrast to the light backsplash and appliances, adding just the right amount of depth and drama.
• A new peninsula, featuring a custom-designed curved corbel, artistically bridges the space between the kitchen and living room.
• A circular light fixture, ombré faucet and appliances with metallic accents add a touch of modern glamour.
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.
Sunday, October 6
12:30-4pm Indiana Farm Bureau Football Center (the Colts practice facility)
Join us for an upgraded watch party experience of the Indianapolis Colts vs. Jacksonville Jaguars away game! Enjoy tailgate food, an open bar, bounce houses for kids and more, all while supporting survivors of domestic abuse.
Learn more at morethanaphone.org.
and Play on the field while the DJ spins! See inside the Indianapolis Colts practice facility! Watch the game from 2 large screen TVs!
Hosted by and benefiting:
MVP Sponsor:
NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS!
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