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Metropolitan Youth Ballet of Indiana opens Zionsville studio / P13
Alumni Association plans Game Day honors / P5
Humane Society for Boone County to host “Fur Ball” / P9
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February 4, 2025
Current in Zionsville currentzionsville.com
Opposition results in continuance for Reserve at Union Woodlands in Zionsville
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
A plan to rezone 147 acres southwest of the Indianapolis Executive Airport and east of U.S. 421 to build a residential subdivision will return to the Zionsville Plan Commission next month following a lengthy meeting and public hearing Jan. 21 that ended in a continuance.
DEVELOPMENT
The Reserve at Union Woodlands is proposed by Pittman Properties. The plan calls for a mixed-use development with up to 284 single-family homes; up to 150 townhomes; commercial/retail uses along U.S. 421; and green space. The rezoning received an unfavorable recommendation from Zionsville staff. The staff memo recommended commissioners take public testimony and offer comments and suggestions on the proposal. The staff report noted that the development does not comply with the town’s comprehensive plan.
The development was proposed in July 2024 and has since been revised based on feedback from neighbors and the Hamilton County Airport Authority, which manages the airport.
Indianapolis Executive Airport Director Sam Sachs said aircraft operations average about 115 per day. He said propeller planes landing from the south turn back toward the runway in an area that would be directly over the housing development during a vulnerable part of flight.
“It includes, oftentimes, student pilots slowing down and flying very low, often less than 1,000 feet, over the proposed houses,” he said. “Our concern is really on a safety point. We just want to make sure people on the ground have a safe place to be. Putting a bunch of homes and families directly under a vulnerable part of aircraft flight in our opinion is not a safe option.”
Hamilton County Airport Authority president Bill Frye said the revisions are not appropriate because a similar petition in 2021 was rejected.
Sean White of Jet Access, the business operator at the airport, also objected to the proposal based on air traffic counts, which he said are among the highest in Indiana, second only to Indianapolis International Airport.
The public hearing was attended by
The Reserve at Union Woodlands is proposed southwest of Indianapolis Executive Airport and east of U.S. 421. (Images courtesy of Town of Zionsville)
The proposal for The Reserve at Union Woodlands includes up to 284 single-family homes.
dozens of residents, who voiced concerns over high-density growth, particularly in rural areas; traffic; potential to negatively impact infrastructure and schools; impacts on neighbors; and safety with relation to the airport.
“In the town’s comprehensive plan process, attendees across multiple input sessions identified preserving the town’s village and its rural assets as top priorities. This was such a consistent point of input that it became the first guiding principle for the comprehensive plan update,” said Christy Wright, representing the 320-member grassroots organization Save Rural Zionsville. “SRZ heard similar themes after conducting a member survey (and) 90 percent do not think PUDs are appropriate in rural Zionsville, and 96 percent identified high density subdivisions as a top threat to rural lifestyle.”
Wright said Save Rural Zionsville asked Pittman Properties to consider pulling the petition and resubmitting it when the town’s new comprehensive plan is finalized.
Pittman Properties representatives said they are willing to further adjust the plans for the development.
The issue was continued to the March 17 plan commission meeting. Commissioners said public comment at the meeting will be limited to changes made and presented at that time. The commission meets at 6:30 p.m. at Zionsville Town Hall.
Plans by Pittman Properties to create a park development directly south of the airport were abandoned in November 2024 when it was discovered that the park could overlap with the runway protection zone. A passive nature park will be considered for that area.
3
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Zionsville Alumni Association plans Game Day Honors
news@currentzionsville.com
The Zionsville Alumni Association will host the second Game Day Honors program at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 6 at Zionsville Community High School gymnasium, where the Eagles’ varsity boys basketball team will play Avon.
RECOGNITION
The Soaring Eagles Hall of Fame program honors ZCHS alumni, faculty and administration of Zionsville Community Schools who have made exceptional achievements in their field or unique contributions to the community.
The newest inductees are Paulette Miller Berger for 40 years in ZCS education and community service; Philip Bilden for a distinguished business and military career; Sharon White Delong for several years in education and community service; Tim and Jenni East for a combined 46 years in education; Brian Mason for his work as Indianapolis Colts Special Teams Coordinator; Tim Ottinger for his work as ZAA Pres-
The 2024 Soaring Eagle Hall of Fame recipients. (Photo courtesy of Zionsville Alumni Association)
ident and community servant; Lori Hypes Overdorf for exceptional service as a ZCS staff member and charter ZAA member; and Scott Robison for his time as ZCS Superintendent from 2006-2023.
Those honored posthumously were coach John Mark Cleland; educator, coach, principal and superintendent Robert N. Gossman- ZCS educator; mentor Leonard Grizzle; and educator and Boone County Superintendent of Schools Walter H. Harmon.
Learn more about ZAA at zionsvillealumni.org.
500 Festival unveils 2025 race T-shirt, medal designs
the legendary Yard of Bricks. The No. 25 on the nose of the car marks the event year.
RUNNING
With the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon and Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K about three months away, the 500 Festival has unveiled designs for participant shirts, finisher medals and hats.
The 49th annual Mini-Marathon and the 26th annual 5K are May 3 in downtown Indianapolis. Registration is open at Indymini.com/register.
The 2025 Mini-Marathon shirt showcases a fun and colorful design, with an IndyCar Series race car on the front zooming past text reading “13.1 Miles,” the distance participants will complete during the event. The back of the shirt features a tire rolling past the Indianapolis cityscape. The tire is framed by the phrase “The Greatest Spectacle in Running,” a nod to the slogan often used to describe the Mini-Marathon.
The Mini-Marathon finisher medal features an IndyCar Series race car crossing
This year’s participant hat is available to the first 18,000 registrants at the Expo, matches the Indy Mini brand and features blue colors with a checkered pattern across the bill. The front displays the classic 500 Festival logo, paired with the IU Health Mini-Marathon event name.
The 5K shirt features a wing-shaped design with “5K” in large block letters, the distance “3.1 miles” and the year “2025.”
The 5K medal features the view outside Military Park, home to the 500 Festival Post Race Party, and showcases the city skyline. At the top of the medal, a wingshaped design surrounds the official race title.
The Indy Mini weekend featuring the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon and Delta Dental 500 Festival 5K is sponsored by IU Health, Delta Dental, OneAmerica Financial and Meijer. For more, visit 500festival.com.
Witham provider honored for exceptional care
news@youarecurrent.com
The Witham Health Services Foundation recently received a generous contribution from a patient and their family through the foundation’s Grateful Patient program — a fund that accepts tax-deductible contributions to the Witham Health Services Foundation in a caregiver’s name.
HEALTH CARE
The gift, the amount of which was undisclosed, was made in honor of endocrinologist Dr. Hagop Ghareebian in gratitude for diagnosing two chronic diseases and providing lifesaving medical care.
“Our Grateful Patient program gives patients the opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to their caregivers who have enriched their lives,” Witham Health Services Foundation manager Cari Ann Guenther stated. “The Witham Health Services Foundation is deeply thankful for the generosity of this patient. We are honored to recognize Dr. Ghareebian for the outstanding care he provides to his patients.”
Ghareebian, a board-certified endocrinologist, studied at the University of Mosul
College of Medicine. He completed his residency at McLaren Health Care in Flint, Mich., and completed his fellowship at the Indiana University School of Medicine.
The Witham Health Services Foundation provides fund development, ambassadorship and education to assist Witham in
Witham Health Services endocrinologist Dr. Hagop Ghareebian was recently honored for patient care. (Photo courtesy of Witham Health Services)
meeting its strategic goals.
Witham has Boone County locations in Zionsville, Whitestown, Lebanon, Jamestown and Thorntown.
Learn more about the Grateful Patient program at witham.org/foundation/ grateful-patient-program
Greyhounds senior point guard’s career ends
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Although Carmel High School senior point guard Alex Couto’s season came to an abrupt end because of a knee injury, he knows he leaves with a lot of great memories.
The 6-foot Couto sprained an anterior cruciate ligament and medial cruciate ligament and suffered a bone bruise Jan. 18 in a loss to Bloomington South.
“It’s very frustrating to have my senior season end like this, but looking back at the accomplishments and goals I was able to reach, I am proud to have been a three-year starter at this historic Carmel program, being a captain, earning top 100 sophomore and junior years, Junior AllState, McDonald’s All-American nominee,” Couto said. “While those are some of my own personal accomplishments, the biggest accomplishment of my high school career is being a great teammate, coachable player and being a part of this great basketball community.”
Couto averaged 12.6 points, 4.0 assists and 3.7 rebounds per game in his 12 games
ALEX COUTO
Favorite athlete: Steph Curry
Favorite movie: “The Sandlot”
Favorite vacation spot: Miami
Favorite musician: Zach Bryan
as a senior. He averaged 13.6 ppg as a junior.
“Alex was our connector and took great pride in being the best for our team,”
Greyhounds coach Ryan Osborn said. “We couldn’t afford to take him off the floor because his presence positively impacted everyone out there. He makes everyone better. He has a natural ability to lead. His contagious personality, relentless work
Greyhounds senior point guard Alex Couto suffered a season-ending knee injury.
(Photo courtesy of CHS basketball)
ethic paired with his competitive spirit equip him to be a special leader.”
Couto said he is proud of his versatility as a player.
“I think it comes from being able to take positive criticism from my coaches and loving to put in a ton of relentless work,” he said. “I think I have become so versatile because of the different roles I have played and the growth that comes from that.”
Osborn said Couto should recover in time
and should be considered for the Indiana All-Star team, which plays Kentucky in the annual boys and girls doubleheaders in June.
“He deserves it and would impact that team just like he impacts ours,” Osborn said.
Couto is eager to get back to working on his game before continuing his basketball career at Huntington University.
“Honestly, in every aspect of the game I can continue to improve, (being) vocal, defending, leading, film, ball handling, weight room, etc.,” Couto said. “The key to improvement is understanding to never be content and focus on every day getting better than yesterday.”
Couto said he brings passion every time he steps on the court.
“I feel the passion has been inside me since I was little,” he said. “I just love the game. I love having fun on the court. I love my teammates. I love learning from my coaches. I hate losing more than I like winning.”
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@youarecurrent.com.
Humane Society hosts Fur Ball
news@youarecurrent.com
The Humane Society for Boone County will host the 12th annual Fur Ball Feb. 22 at the Golf Club of Indiana, 6905 S. 525 E in Whitestown. The Mardi Gras-themed event will raise funds to help HSforBC rescue and care for homeless or surrendered dogs, puppies, cats and kittens.
FUNDRAISER
“It is an incredible opportunity to meet our loyal sponsors and friends whose unwavering support makes all the difference for the animals we provide care for throughout the year,” HSforBC Executive Director Kristen Pulice stated. “Together, we’ll celebrate, connect and continue making a lasting impact for the sweet fur babies in our care.”
The casual event includes a Cajun-themed dinner buffet from Yats; a live auction, a wine and spirits pull; a Mardi Gras photo booth; and other activities.
Guest speakers at the event will share positive animal rescue stories
Doors open at 5 p.m. with dinner at 6 p.m. and the program at 7 p.m. Event spon-
sors include Dentons Bingham Greenbaum; Centier Bank; DK Pierce; Zionsville Country Kennel; Pacers Sports and Entertainment; Ridings Realty Group; McGowan Insurance Group; and Tito’s.
Tickets for the Fur Ball are $75 per person; $150 per couple; and $600 for a table of eight people, which includes dinner and dessert in the Cardinal Room.
An online silent auction with a variety of items including event tickets, gift cards, experiences, pet paraphernalia and home decor kicks off at noon Feb. 17 and continues until 10 p.m. the night of the event. Purchase event tickets and view the online auction at HSforBCFurBall.givesmart. com.
The Humane Society for Boone County is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the task of animal welfare, rescue and education in Boone County. The shelter operates through a network of generous donors, volunteers and foster families. Found/stray animals are advertised and held for a minimum of seven days. Animals that are not claimed are brought up to date with vaccinations, microchipped and made available for adoption.
call
Zionsville group named to Forbes list
RECOGNITION
Zionsville-based Mainstay Wealth Management Group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company’s incorporated broker-dealer subsidiary was recently named to Forbes’ 2025 Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams list. Mainstay Wealth Management Group consists of veteran financial advisors Mike Harlos, Tim Harris and Drew Gleaves. The team combines more than 190 years of financial services support experience helping clients identify, quantify and prioritize their financial goals into a customized investment plan that aligns with their lifestyle.
Forbes’ Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams rankings are based on the 12-month period ending March 31 of the year prior to publication and selected by SHOOK Research, LLC from a pool of nominations as indicated in the methodology. The rankings may not be representative of any one client’s experience and are not indicative of the financial advisor’s future performance.
Mainstay Wealth Management Group was No. 45 on the Forbes’ list out of 79 ranked firms in Indiana.
The 2025 Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams list spotlights approximately 5,331 top-performing wealth management teams. Learn more at forbes.com/lists/ wealth-management-teams-best-in-state.
Home permits increase in 2024
news@youarecurrent.com
The Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis recently announced a 25 percent year-over-year increase in new home construction permits for December 2024 across the nine-county Indianapolis region, and a 26 percent increase total in 2024.
GROWTH
According to BAGI, the December numbers underscore sustained high demand for new housing in central Indiana. The report highlights the strength of the region’s real estate market and signals promising opportunities for homebuilders moving into 2025 as the Hoosier state experiences continued economic expansion and population growth, powering the need for diverse and affordable housing options.
“This year’s remarkable growth in home construction permits reflects the confidence that buyers and builders alike have in central Indiana’s housing market,” BAGI President Christian Rector stated. “While limited inventory and other challenges remain, the sustained demand for housing presents an exciting opportunity to innovate and expand our capacity to deliver homes that meet the needs of our growing communities.”
New home construction permits increased 26 percent in 2024 over 2023 in the greater Indianapolis area. (File photo)
Total permits across the Indianapolis region were 10,044 in December 2024 compared to 7,959 in 2023.
Throughout 2024, Westfield led the way in permits issued in Hamilton County with 1,647 new home permits last year.
Year-end new-permit totals include 322 in Carmel/Clay; 379 in Fishers; 503 in Noblesville; 244 in Zionsville; 64 in Lawrence; and 1,829 in Indianapolis.
A complete breakdown of new home permits in greater Indianapolis can be found at BAGI.com/Permits.
Harlos Harris Gleaves
Riverview Health Foundation raises $1M in funds
news@currentnoblesville.com
Riverview Health Foundation recently announced that it provided more than $1.1 million to Riverview Health in 2024.
DONATION
In addition to net proceeds from various events, funds are an accumulation of donations and grants from individuals, families and businesses in the community, according to Jason Kaufmann, Riverview Health’s director of marketing and communications. Kaufmann said all funds gifted to Riverview Health will support programs and projects benefitting patients, families and staff at Riverview Health.
Kaufmann said specific areas that will receive funds are the Courtney Cox Cole Infusion Center; the Help for Healing fund; the Employee Assistance fund; departments serving women and children; and the Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit project.
Kaufmann said Riverview Health Foundation has raised nearly $2 million toward its $3 milllion fundraising goal for the expansion and renovation of the Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit.
The growth and development of the
Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit will increase capacity to 24 beds and provide a more welcoming, spacious environment to ensure every patient receives the care they need in a setting that promotes healing and comfort, according to Kauffman.
“For several years, the foundation has been raising funds for this important project and will continue working with generous donors to reach our goal,” Megan Wiles, vice president of the foundation, stated. “There are still many opportunities for others to contribute to this important project, and gifts of all sizes will have an impact on our patients and staff.”
Wiles said Norman and Peggy Mindrebo provided the lead gift for the renovation of the Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit.
“We have been involved in several great projects, such as the garden for the Courtney Cox Cole Infusion Center, providing a maternity suite for patients and the piano that plays in the Noblesville atrium,” Norman and Mindrebo stated in a press release. “We’re excited to participate in the funding of the Riverview Health Acute Inpatient Rehab Center, knowing what a difference it’s going to make.”
For more, contact Megan Wiles at 317776-7317 or mwiles@riverview.org.
DISPATCH
Scholarship opportunity — The Old Town Design Group, LLC of Carmel has established the Orchard Project Scholarship to provide tuition assistance to students preparing for a career in the construction industry. The Orchard Project will be awarding four $2,500 scholarships to Hamilton, Boone and Tippecanoe County high school seniors or undergraduate students enrolled in a construction related program at an accredited college, university or technical school. For additional information or to request an application please contact Casey Shinaver, Orchard Project Scholarship Committee via email, casey@ oldtowncompanies.com.
Riverview Health staff begins the renovation of the Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit. (Photo courtesy of Jason Kauffmann)
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DISPATCHES
Applications open for Statehouse Page Program — Students age 13 to 18 can spend a day at the Statehouse in Indianapolis assisting House legislators and staff and touring the governor’s office, the Indiana Supreme Court and the House and Senate chambers through the annual Page Program. Student pages receive an excused absence from school and groups can participate together. For more, visit indianahouserepublicans.com/pageprogram.
Tax prep assistance — AARP Tax-Aide is offering free tax preparation and electronic filing to low and moderate taxpayers of all ages at the Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library branch in Zionsville on Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and at the Whitestown branch on Mondays from 9:30 a.m to 1:30 p.m. through April 10. Appointments are required. Schedule an appointment at 317-873-3149.
State commission issues nitrous oxide warning — The Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission has issued notice to Indiana tobacco sellers, warning them against the illegal sale of nitrous oxide, a misdemeanor. The commission stated in a news release that 18 Indiana tobacco certificate holders have already been cited for selling nitrous oxide tanks and employees have been referred for criminal prosecution. Some sellers gave customers, including minors, instructions on how to use a nitrous oxide tank for intoxication, which can be deadly. The ATC encourages the public to submit anonymous tips or complaints about this matter to Indiana State Excise Police or local law enforcement agencies.
CPCU board announced — The Central Indiana Chartered Property Casualty Underwriters Society Chapter has announced its Board of Directors for 2025. Serving through Dec. 31 are: President Tyson Vaughn, Gregory & Appel Insurance; Vice President David Paul, Astra Insurance Group; Secretary Rebekah Moore, FCCI Insurance Group; Treasurer Michael Schliesmann, Protective Insurance; Immediate Past President Melissa Droste, Cincinnati Specialty Underwriters; and directors Aaron Dubas, Liberty Mutual Insurance; Amy Howell, Travelers Insurance; John Newlin, FCCI Insurance Group; Seth Payton, Arlington/Roe Insurance; Alicia Peetz, Pekin Insurance; Eric Richmond, Hanover Insurance; Melissa Rightley, Erie Insurance; and Craig Sanford, Church Mutual Insurance.
A PLACE TO GROW
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
A local dance company has changed its name and location — but not its dedication to the art of ballet.
Metropolitan Youth Ballet of Indiana — formerly Ballet Theatre of Carmel Academy — unveiled its new dance studio during a ribbon cutting ceremony Jan. 23. The academy moved from its Carmel location to 6210 Technology Center Dr., Suite 200 in Zionsville. With the move, the studio now has a dramatically larger 10,000-squarefoot space — approximately 8,000 more square feet than its former space — encompassing two full studios, suites for performers, a study room, office space, a conference room, storage space and a lobby for parents.
“In 2008, we started as Ballet Theater Carmel as a small component of Performance Edge Dance Theater, which was in Carmel, and then in 2018 was when we moved and started a school just for ballet,” Associate Artistic Director Frank Weiner said.
Weiner and his wife, Jane Hachiya-Weiner, taught in a small studio at 96th Street and Ditch Road, but from the start knew they would quickly outgrow the space. The COVID-19 pandemic put a wrinkle in growth plans briefly, but the pair hosted online dance courses and were able to keep most of their students involved and engaged.
“We got to the point where we had people on the waiting list, our classes were filled and our waiting room was (too small),” he said. “You could tell people were uncomfortable when there was no room for them. So, we knew we needed space.”
Rather than look for a slightly bigger space, they decided to drastically increase in size to accommodate not only daily classes, but also older home-schooled students who attend dance classes during the day, with separate rooms for teens to wind down and do homework. Much of the work was accomplished by parent-volunteers and members of the board.
“Finding this space is truly ideal,” Wiener said. “We are a nonprofit, both school and performing organization, and that is true to the word. As many people involved in the arts know, arts and dance never pays for itself. There are theater tickets and
Metropolitan Youth Ballet of Indiana opens Zionsville studio
productions. They’re wonderful, but there’s just so many expenses that go with it. So, we’re fundraising all the time. We’ve got a wonderful board and a parents’ organization that works wonderfully on that all the time.”
The studio has about 130 students, with plans to grow.
“Our projection is that we want to quickly get up to closer to 200 by next year and then well past that in the future years,”
Weiner said. “We are able to meet the need and we’re excited. We can easily handle growth for many years.”
The company performs two productions a year at the STAR Bank Performing Arts Center at Zionsville Community High School — a production of “The Nutcracker”
Faculty and board members along with parent volunteers toast to the opening of Metropolitan Youth Ballet of Indiana’s new
they put it out for each class and then at the end of class they get to add a jewel to that,” he said. “So, by the end of the year, they’re all decorated, and then they get to take that home. They love the bling. So, having that and adding more to make it fun. Ballet does take a little more focus and a little bit more time, so adding some things that can make it fun for everyone and makes a big difference.”
in December and a spring ballet. This year’s spring performance will be “Cinderella.”
Weiner said performances like “Cinderella,” a comical ballet, help teach the younger dancers that while ballet is generally thought of as a serious art form, it’s also fun.
“We like to remind people, it’s okay to laugh,” he said. “Most people think of ‘Swan Lake’ and some of those very serious ballets, but it’s great to have the story ballets. They’re fun to do with all kinds of things and of course princesses, the things the young ones love to be.”
Weiner said the company also appeals to the fun side of its younger participants with a special memento for preschool dancers.
“They all wear (a tutu) that stays here,
BEHIND THE CURTAIN
Husband and wife team Frank Weiner and Jane Hachiya-Weiner are the artistic directors at the Metropolitan Youth Ballet of Indiana.
Born in Zimbabwe, Frank Weiner began dancing at age 15 and trained at the State University of New York at Purchase and the New York School of Ballet. He danced with the Indianapolis Ballet Theatre and Dance Kaleidoscope and performed in several productions at the Indianapolis Civic Theatre before joining the faculty at the Jordan College Academy of Dance at Butler University.
A native of Japan, Jane Hachiya-Weiner began studying ballet in the 1970s and joined Indianapolis Ballet Theatre in 1985 as a dancer. She taught dance
at the Jordan College Academy of Dance at Butler University from 1998 to 2009 before becoming the artistic director of Ballet Theatre of Carmel at Performer’s Edge in Carmel. She also taught at Anderson University and Indiana University Bloomington.
In 2018, the Weiners established Ballet Theatre of Carmel as an independent entity, subsequently renaming it Ballet Theatre of Carmel Academy and now the Metropolitan Youth Ballet of Indiana.
The first classes at the new studio began in October as volunteers completed some of the details of the studio prior to the grand opening event. Learn more about the studio at my-ballet.org.
Carmel resident Reiko Ilelji’s daughter Chika has been dancing with the ballet for more than 10 years. Ileji said in addition to the new studio providing extra space and opportunities for the dancers, ballet has been a benefit for Chika, who lives with diabetes.
“She’s Type 1, so it’s really helpful for her to have that exercise,” she said. “But also, the focus is not just the exercise, it’s the arts. Ballet is more like an art form which she’s really in love with. So, when she’s dancing, she’s not really worried about her medical challenges. I think it really gives her good focus and something that she can really enjoy.”
Sophia Kennedy of Carmel performed a short piece from “Beauty and the Beast” for visitors at the grand opening event. She said she enjoys the art of ballet.
“I just really like how it’s really fun,” she said of ballet. “I like it because it’s teamwork, it’s working with other people and cooperating.”
Weiner said the name change encompasses more of who the studio serves, with dancers from attending classes from throughout central Indiana. He said the move to the new studio just made sense.
“We started feeling that Zionsville was calling us,” Frank Weiner said. “We started a wonderful relationship with the STAR Bank Performing Arts Center (on the campus of Zionsville Community High School) and we’ve been using that theater since. We’ve realized that Zionsville has a very robust arts community and loves the arts. As soon as we started performing there, we had more ticket sales than we have ever seen before.”
ON THE COVER: Anastasia, one of the dancers at Metropolitan Youth Ballet of Indiana, performs during the studio’s grand opening event Jan. 23. (Photo by
Marney Simon)
studio in Zionville. (Photo by Marney Simon)
Noblesville resident returns to acting in ‘Geezers’ at Basile Westfield Playhouse
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Jen Otterman is a longtime member of the Indianapolis acting community, but she has been behind the scenes in recent years.
“I’ve been producing, directing and building sets,” she said.
However, the Noblesville resident will act for the first time in seven years in Main Street Productions’ presentation of “Geezers” Feb. 6 to 16 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. Her husband, Chris Otterman, is in the 10-person cast about life in a retirement home.
The play is directed by Carmel resident Lori Raffel.
“Lori is a dear friend of mine, and I was going to help her with set decorations,” Jen said.
Chris read the script first and then she did.
“I thought this role is right up my alley, so maybe it’s time I dusted off my acting shoes,” she said. “I used to act all the time. I started when I was 14.”
Jen’s last acting role was in “Lost in Yonkers” in 2018 at Red Barn Summer Theatre in Frankfort.
“You don’t see as many parts for older women as older men, I don’t think,” Jen said. “It’s harder to learn lines now when you are over 70. It’s fun, but it’s also stressful.”
Jen, 72, plays Kate, a former actress.
“She’s just a feisty gal and I can relate to a lot of her issues,” Jen said.
This is the first time Jen and Chris have acted together in 10 years. Chris plays Neil, another member of the retirement community.
Chris, 71, has acted since age 7.
“I met him doing summer theater,” Jen said. “I had a crush on his older brother, but his older brother was a little too old.”
The couple have been married 52 years, or as Jen said, “since God was a boy.”
They haven’t acted together since “The Shadow Box” in 2011 at Red Barn.
“It’s fun to see her on stage not directing again because now she has to take the director’s directions,” Chris said. “I have several lines to learn, so that’s daunting.”
Chis said Neil is the smart aleck of the group, which suits his personality.
“So, I’ve got a lot of funny lines,” he said. “I’m the cantankerous old geezer who thinks he’s better than anyone else.”
Noblesville resident Adrian Blackwell plays Jack, who works at the center.
“He’s 27 and he’s never had a job before in his life,” Blackwell said. “He had been taking care of his deaf mother. Once she died, he was forced to get a job, even though he’s terrible at interacting with people or socializing.”
Raffel said the seniors end up helping Jack more than he helps them. Blackwell, 33, said he likes that the role is different than those he normally plays.
“I usually get cast as an alcoholic or drug addict or violent psychopath,” he said. “So, it was interesting to get a radi-
cally different role to play.”
Blackwell said it is good to work with Raffel again. He played an alcoholic in “That Championship Season,” which Raffel directed at Basile Westfield Playhouse in April 2024.
Raffel said she heard positive things about “Geezers” from a friend who saw it in Cincinnati.
“I wanted to submit it last year but heard it was already submitted,” she said.
Then she was asked if she wanted to direct it after the person who was supposed to direct it dropped out.
“I said, ‘It makes me really busy,’” she said. “But I really wanted to do it, so I said yes and I’m really glad I did.”
Raffel said the play has funny moments, but it’s not seniors making fun of each other.
Raffel said the playwright, Tommy Lee Johnson, from Chicago, plans to attend a performance.
For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.
‘MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS’
“Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express” runs through Feb. 9 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
‘WHODUNIT’
The Actors Theatre of Indiana’s production of “Whodunit … The Musical” runs through Feb. 16 at the Studio Theater at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistage.org.
‘PRIDE & PREJUDICE’
Civic Theatre’s production of “Pride & Prejudice” runs Feb. 7 through Feb. 22 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
The Human Jukebox is set for Feb. 7, followed by “The Magic of David Ranalli” Feb. 8 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Both performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, feinsteinshc.com.
‘GEEZERS’
Main Street Productions presents “Geezers” Feb. 6-16 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.
DISPATCH
CSO presents ‘Moonlights & Lanterns’ — The Carmel Symphony Orchestra will celebrate the traditional Chinese festivals of the Lunar New Year and the Lantern Festival with “Moonlights & Lanterns” at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 8 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The concert will feature pianist Daniel Epstein, the first American to perform the famed “Yellow River Concerto” in 1973 with the Philadelphia Orchestra, just before its historic tour of China. The “Yellow River Piano Concerto’s” origins lie in the “Yellow River Cantata,” a choral composition created in 1939 by Xian Xinghai during World War II. For more, visit thecenterpresents. org. The concert will led by principal conductor and artistic advisor Joel Smirnoff. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
The “Geezers” cast: From left, Jen Otterman (Kate), Alyssa Lay (Young Kate), Mike Sosnowski (Young Ray), Duane Leatherman (Ray), Brenna Whitaker (Gina), Debbie Underwood (Jenny), Adrian Blackwell (Jack), Chris Otterman (Neil), Dave Shaul (Young Neil). (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)
Concerts for a Cause set
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Concerts for a Cause founder Bruce Kidd estimates his nonprofit will hit the $1 million donation mark in 2026.
GIVING BACK
The program, which features four concerts per year, has donated approximately $800,000 to 32 nonprofits in its first eight years.
Center, which has a capacity of 200.
The May 3 concert features folk-rock artist Liz Longley, benefiting the nonprofit Coburn Place, a haven for women and teens who have suffered domestic abuse.
“We’ve got another great lineup and found four more really worthy nonprofits,” Kidd said. “That’s the mission -- to help the smaller, local nonprofits that are helping kids, adults and families who are facing serious stuff.”
A Carmel resident, Kidd said the issues could be medical, economic, emotional or developmental.
The season opener features Jason Adamo and Ernie Halter performing together at 6 p.m. Feb. 15 at the Fishers Art Center. The first concert will benefit Elevate Indianapolis, which supports at-risk urban teens.
The other three concerts will be presented at the Basile Theatre at the Indy Art
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
It’s no coincidence that Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre is presenting “Down on the Bayou” this month.
“Whenever we have presented ‘Down on the Bayou,’ it has been near Mardi Gras time,” said Gregory Hancock, artistic director and founder of Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre. “We make it a fun experience for the audience by giving them Mardi Gras beads and, of course, the intimate performance at The Florence provides the audience with a unique upclose and personal view of dance.”
The Aug. 23 event features veteran folk-pop duo JackoPierce and supports Abbie Hunt Bryce Home, a hospice with daily medical and emotional care for individuals who are homeless or from low-income families in central Indiana.
Fantastic Cat Band, four NYCbased solo artists who have joined forces, will perform at the Nov. 15 concert. The concert benefits Hear IN, which provides comprehensive assistance for newborns and children who are severely hearing impaired.
There will be no opening act for the Feb. 15 concert because Kidd said there are co-headliners. The final three opening acts are Marc Imboden, May 3; Bret Wiscons, Aug. 23; and Cory Williams, Nov. 15.
Kidd said the $100 ticket price, which includes dinner and open bar, hasn’t changed in five years.
For more, visit indyconcertsforacause.org.
‘Down on the Bayou’ returns DANCE
Abigail Lessaris will perform in Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre’s “Down on the Bayou.” (Photo courtesy of Lydia Moody)
The production is set for Feb. 8 to 23 at The Florence, the black box theater at GHDT, 329 Gradle Dr., Carmel. There will be six performances with shows Saturdays at 5 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m.
“New Orleans and Louisiana are rich in the variety of music due to the variety and mix of cultures, including Creole, Cajun, French, West Indies, Acadian and more, so the selection of music was so vast for us,” Hancock said. “There are some songs that people may know, such as ‘Jambalaya,’
‘When the Saints Go Marching In’ and ‘Blue Bayou.’ When we repeat a repertoire piece, the music always remains the same, but the unique qualities that new dancers bring to pieces can almost make the piece feel like a new piece.”
“Down on the Bayou” was last presented in February 2014.
“It is always an audience and dancer favorite, so we occasionally bring it back,” Hancock said.
Hancock said there are three separate pieces that are tied together in a loose way since they are all stories, dances and music of New Orleans and Louisiana.
For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.
Adamo
Blueprint for Improvement: Kitchen refresh in Fishers
Commentary by Larry Greene
Sometimes, all a space needs is a little refreshing to feel modern and on-trend. This Fishers home, built in 2004 near Hawthorn Country Club, featured a kitchen with great bones. However, the owners wanted to brighten the space and infuse it with contemporary style. Our team designed a transformation that elevated the kitchen without requiring a major renovation.
THE BLUEPRINT
• Adding a fresh coat of white paint on the perimeter cabinets brightened the room, giving it a light, clean and timeless look.
• New quartz countertops, paired with the shimmering white tile in the room’s existing backsplash, elevated the space, adding sophistication and modern appeal.
• A bold navy hue on the island, complemented by the quartz counters, contributed a pop of color. This balanced the lighter palette and created a unique focal point perfect for meal prep, entertaining and gathering.
• Matte black hardware and pendant lights provided contrast, while champagne bronze faucets and accents introduced warmth and a touch of elegance.
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.
Across
1. Thin cookie
6. “The Gift of the ___” 10. Squabble
14. Taqueria Mexicana chip dip
15. Author unknown, briefly 16. Cunning
17. Start of a punny riddle for a soda drinker
19. Spoken
20. Guilty feeling
21. The “R” of APR
22. Parched
25. Spanish gold
26. Rhymer Mark Battles, for one
28. Move furtively
30. Bro’s sib
32. Medical research org.
33. Speaker in the Indiana Senate, e.g.
35. Riddle, Part 2
39. Cut off
40. Blend
42. JFK’s predecessor
43. CTRL-___-DEL
44. Riddle, Part 3
47. Georgia neighbor
49. “Green” prefix
50. Indiana House member, briefly
52. Fabric fold
53. Blood fluids
56. Comics bark
58. Hoosier Park postings
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE TOWN OF ZIONSVILLE PLAN COMMISSION
Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Town of Zionsville Plan Commission on Tuesday, February 18, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. in the Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 West Oak Street Zionsville, Indiana 46077 to consider the following Petition: Petition # 2024-77-MP; Chan Minor Plat, filed for Allen Chan, requests PLAN COMMISSION APPROVAL for a Development Plan to allow for creating a minor plat on the current property, creating a 2 lot subdivision.
The property involved is commonly known as 430 N. 1200 E. Sheridan, IN 46069 and is legally described as:
Part of the Southeast Quarter of Section 36, Township 19 North, Range 2 East located in Union Township, Boone County, Indiana, being described as follows: Commencing at the mag nail at the Northeast comer of the Southeast Quarter of Section 36, Township 19 North, Range 2 East; thence South 00°08’33” East (assumed bearing) 30.00 feet on the East line of said Southeast Quarter to a mag nail at the point of beginning of this description; thence continuing on said East line South 00°08’33” East, 759.15 feet to a mag nail point of intersection of said East line and the centerline of the Central Indiana Railroad; thence North 72°45’28” West, 706.05 feet on said centerline to a 5/8 inch iron rod with yellow cap stamped S0083; thence North 00°05’44” West, 534.24 feet to a 5/8 inch iron rod with yellow cap stamped S0083, said iron rod being South 30.00 feet of the North line of said Southeast Quarter; thence parallel with the North line of said Southeast Quarter North 88°40’14” East, 673.50 feet to the point of beginning, containing 10.00 acres, more or less.
A copy of the Petition for Plan Commission Approval, and all plans pertaining thereto are on file and may be examined prior to the Public Hearing at Town Hall, 1100 West Oak Street, Zionsville, Indiana 46077 or at: http://www.zionsville-in.gov/231/Planninq-Economic-Development. Written comments in support of or in opposition to the Petition for Plan Commission Approval are filed with the Secretary of the Town of Zionsville Plan Commission prior to the Public Hearing will be considered. The Public Hearing is open to the public. Oral comments to the Petition for Plan Commission Approval will be heard at the Public Hearing. The Public Hearing may be continued from time to time as may be found necessary.
Further, and as allowed by the laws of the State of Indiana, members of the public will be afforded the opportunity to attend the Plan Commission Public Meetings via a form(s) of electronic communication IF indicated in the Agenda (as amended from time to time) associated with the Plan Commission Meeting.
Additionally, upon request, the Town of Zionsville will provide auxiliary aids and services in association with meetings and hearings occurring in-person. Please provide advance notification to Roger Kilmer, at rkilmer@ zionsville-in.gov or 317-873-1574, to ensure the proper accommodations are made prior to the meeting.
Dave Franz, President
Mike Dale, Secretary
59. Injure
60. Neatest
63. Indianapolis Opera highlight
64. Answer to the riddle
68. Transgressions
69. Capri or Skye
70. Indy 500 champ Sullivan
71. High-strung
72. Rogers and Clark
73. IPS School 90 eponym: ___ Pyle Down
1. Fishers-to-St. Louis dir.
2. Ooh and ___
3. Ga. neighbor
4. “Address” for Springsteen’s band
5. Leaf-gathering tool
6. Country estates
7. iPhone alternative
8. Sticky substances
9. Deduce
10. Mike Epps’ fall sign
11. Worded differently
12. Small type size
13. Tippecanoe’s running mate
18. Texter’s “I think” 22. Reprimand
PUBLIC NOTICE
23. Victory Field miscue
24. Being visible once more
27. Pay to play
29. Butler cheerleader’s prop
31. Piece of turf
34. Tear
TriCo Regional Sewer Utility Water Resource Recovery Facility, 7236 Mayflower Park Drive, Zionsville, IN 46077, which discharges runoff to the Eagle Creek via the Cemetery Creek Tributary, is submitting an NOI letter to notify the Indiana Department of Environmental Management of our intent to comply with the requirements under 237 IAC 15-6 to discharge storm water exposed to industrial activities. Questions should be directed to Scot Watkins at 317-844-9200 or in writing to the above stated address.
36. USN rank
37. Trojan War epic
38. Colts numerical info
41. Gen-___
45. State of bliss
46. At a moment’s notice
48. Toy on a track
51. Hoosier Lottery winners’ hauls
53. Developmental stage
54. Ghastly
55. Flight segment
57. Murat Shriners cap
61. “In that case...”
62. Fries, often
65. Brown County lodging
66. Singer DiFranco
67. WTHR reporter: Rich ___ Answers on Page 20
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