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March 25, 2025 Current in Fishers & Geist currentinfishers.com
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Fishers Andretti Global facility shifting focus
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
The Andretti Global headquarters under construction in Fishers since late 2022 has seen some big changes recently, with Andretti becoming part of TWG Motorsports and shifting the focus of the facility from a museum to the American headquarters for a Cadillac F1 team, including development and construction of the team’s racecars.
GOVERNMENT
Andretti Global started construction on its Fishers headquarters in 2022. The facility now will be home to TWG Motorsports and a Cadillac F1 team. (Image courtesy of Andretti Global)
That shift moved forward with a March 17 vote by the Fishers City Council, which approved changing the project description on an agreement between the city and Andretti Global, now under parent company TWG.
TWG Motorsports Chief Operating Officer Jill Gregory spoke to the council before the vote. She said the Cadillac F1 team recently received final approval to be the 11th team on the Formula One grid in 2026, and it will be the only U.S.-based team.
“What that means for all of us is that we’re going to have world-class engineers, employees, international media, fans that are interested in this area,” she said. “We have been in kind of full redesign mode, mostly on the inside, on how
that facility will be used.”
The approximately 400,000-square-foot facility at 10050 Hague Rd. is on about 90 acres. It’s next to Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Airport.
Councilor Selina Stoller said she had heard concerns about the environmental impact of the project, especially because of its proximity to Ritchey Woods. Gregory said F1 has strict standards that will be met, and TWG will work with the community to make sure it is a “good citizen.”
During public comment at the end of the March 17 meeting, Fishers resident Amy Perry reiterated concerns about the environmental impact of the TWG Motor-
sports facility.
“When you think about sustainability, to my knowledge, it means what they’re doing inside and any discharge that they give to the area,” she said. “But it doesn’t consider things like, will birds be confused by any lights that face upward, and will birds be confused by any glass that is not bird-safe glass?”
Perry also questioned whether the developer had taken required steps to protect the nearby nature preserve and wanted to know whether plans were in place to develop the rest of the property.
The next Fishers City Council meeting is set for 7 p.m. April 21 in the Fishers Municipal Center Theater, 1 Municipal Dr.
Defendant in 2023 Fishers homicide pleads guilty
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
An Anderson man has pleaded guilty to murder charges that stem from the 2023 shooting of Kaylah Ann Farmer of Noblesville at the Speedway gas station at 116th Street and Allisonville Road in Fishers.
During a March 13 hearing in Hamilton County Superior Court, Joshua Alexander Farmer pleaded guilty to two felony charges — murder and stalking. In exchange, the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office dropped four
other charges related to the June 28, 2023, shooting, according to court documents. Those dropped charges were carrying a firearm within 500 feet of a school and three counts of criminal recklessness with a deadly weapon. The shooting took place at about 5 p.m. June 28, 2023. Police responded to a report of the incident and found Kaylah Ann Farmer dead in her red Chrysler van. She had multiple gunshot wounds. Joshua Farmer was arrested the following day. Prior to the shooting, Farmer faced other charges related to domestic abuse. That separate case, filed about two weeks
before the shooting, included charges of intimidation with a deadly weapon, criminal confinement with a deadly weapon, criminal confinement with bodily injury, strangulation, domestic battery with a deadly weapon, domestic battery committed in the presence of a child under 16, and battery when the victim is less than 14 years of age.
Farmer also pleaded guilty March 13 to two of the charges from that case — criminal confinement and domestic battery with a deadly weapon.
Sentencing for both cases is set for 1:30 p.m. April 30 at the Hamilton County Courthouse.
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Founded Jan. 25, 2011, at Fishers, IN Vol. XV, No. 10
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DISPATCHES
Indy 500 Parade Tickets Now Available — Tickets for the AES 500 Festival Parade May 24 are on sale and start at $25. The downtown Indianapolis parade kicks off at noon, showcasing floats, bands, celebrities and the Indy 500 drivers. This year’s theme, “Connected Through May,” celebrates community spirit. Proceeds support youth education and health initiatives. Purchase tickets at 500festival.com/tickets. The parade will be televised live on WTHR and streamed on Peacock.
Community Crossings grants announced — Local communities will receive more than $7 million to improve roads and bridges through the state Community Crossings Matching Grant Program. Fishers received $1.5 million; Hamilton County received $1.5 million; Indianapolis received $1.5 million; and Lawrence received about $1 million. The Indiana Department of Transportation matches up to $1.5 million annually for road and bridge repairs. Counties with populations fewer than 50,000 and cities and towns with populations fewer than 10,000 receive a 75-25 match, while counties with populations greater than 50,000 and cities and towns with populations greater than 10,000 receive a 50-50 match.
American Legion elections — The Fishers American Legion Post 470 officer elections will be 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. May 12 at the post, 9091 126th St. All post members in good standing are eligible to run for open officer positions. Letters of intent are due to the post adjutant by April 21. Open positions are: Post commander, 1st vice commander, 2nd vice commander, finance officer, sergeant at arms, service officer, post chaplain and post historian.
Pit bull education month — Every March, the Humane Society for Hamilton County hosts a pit bull education month, during which adoption fees for all pit bulls and pit mixes are $25. Lily Darling, HSHC community engagement manager, said pit bull and bully breeds represent the largest number of victims of animal cruelty and neglect that arrive at HSHC. All eligible dogs will be spayed/neutered, microchipped and up to date on age-appropriate vaccinations. Adoptions include a starter bag of food and a complimentary wellness exam with a participating veterinarian. To complete an adoption application, visit hamiltonhumane.com/application.
CITY OF FISHERS CITY OF FISHERS
NATIONAL VIETNAM WAR NATIONAL VIETNAM WAR
VETERANS DAY CEREMONY VETERANS DAY CEREMONY
Join us for a free public ceremony honoring veterans and their families who served during the Vietnam War period, with an address by guest speaker Jill Fewell, Executive Director of Welcome Home Veterans and President of Gold Star Families Indiana, followed by a Vietnam Veteran’s lapel pin presentation.
HSE junior guard recognized for her all-around skills
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Hamilton Southeastern High School junior Kennedy Holman has always been a point guard, and that suits her just fine.
“I always like to be in charge, whether that’s in basketball or in school or life in general,” Holman said. “I think I have a good vision, too, and that helps a lot. I like to create for myself and everyone.”
Holman was selected to the six-player core group of the Indiana Girls Junior AllStars. They will play one game against the Kentucky Junior All-Stars June 1 at a site to be announced. The Junior All-Stars also will play one game against the Indiana All-Star senior girls June 4 at Greenfield-Central High School.
“It gives me recognition for the work I’ve put in and it’s a great opportunity to play with and against some of the best girls in Indiana,” Holman said.
HSE coach Brian Satterfield said Holman certainly deserves the honor.
“Kennedy is one of the hardest workers, which is something you love as a coach,” Satterfield said. “This is special as
KENNEDY HOLMAN
Favorite athlete: University of Kentucky guard Georgia Amoore
Favorite subject: Business
Favorite music genre: Rhythm and blues
Favorite TV show: “Stranger Things”
she stepped into a leadership role this year. She competes at a high level at both ends.”
Holman, who is called KK by friends and family, had per-game averages of 12.2 points, 5.3 rebounds and 5.8 assists. She shot 49 percent from the field.
“The two areas of her game that really grew this past year were her decision-mak-
Kennedy Holman was named an Indiana Junior AllStar. (Photo courtesy of the Holman family)
ing and her shooting ability,” Satterfield said. “She lowered her turnovers this year and ended up with a 3-to-1 assist-to-turnover ratio, which is phenomenal. The second half of the season, we saw all of the hard work she put in on her shot start to pay off. We look forward to her leading our group her senior year.”
Holman said her biggest improvement has been her offensive game.
“I’ve been able to (make) outshot shots,” she said. “Mid-range (shots) and 3s helped us in the long run and helped me as well.”
Holman said it’s been great to learn from senior teammate Maya Makalusky, who was recently named Gatorade Indiana Girls Basketball Player of the Year for the 202425 season and is an Indiana All-Star.
“She’s taught me a lot, and for the other players, too, she was a really good role model,” Holman said. “She shows the effort it takes to get to where she is, and the leadership she showed taught me as I step into the senior role that I’ll take with me.”
The Royals finished the season 271, losing to Warsaw in the semistate championship.
Holman said among the main offers she is considering are from the University of Oregon, Marquette University and the University of Louisville. She said she will likely wait to see if she picks up other offers after the first couple of tournaments with her Indiana Girls Basketball team in the Under Armour Association circuit.
Holman’s mother, Lisa (Bowyer) Holman, played at Oregon and is a Royals assistant coach.
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@youarecurrent.com.
Executive chef ready for 1933 Lounge opening in Carmel
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Jason Chesky is no stranger to Huse Culinary restaurants.
FOOD
Chesky, who has been with the company for 13 years, was the executive chef at Harry & Izzy’s on the north side of Indianapolis before being named the executive chef of 1933 Lounge, which is set to open April 1 at 175 S. Range Line Rd. in Carmel. Huse Culinary already operates a 1933 Lounge in Fishers and downtown Indianapolis and has one set to open at the Indianapolis International Airport.
restaurant will have a kitchen staff of 35 to start.
Chesky said 1933 Lounge is classic Huse Culinary, heavy on steaks.
“There are more shellfish, oysters on the half-shell, seafood towers, mussels — and we also provide sushi, which is different from our other concepts,” he said.
“I’m most excited about building a team from scratch,” Chesky said. “What is also pretty exciting is I get to see a restaurant from what it takes from the first phone call to the doors opening for the guests. Seeing all the work that goes into that has been a masterclass for me.”
The 36-year-old Fishers resident said the
In addition, 1933 Lounge offers the traditional shrimp cocktail with St. Elmo sauce.
Chesky started as a pantry cook at Harry & Izzy’s on the north side of Indianapolis. He became a supervisor after 1 1/2 years.
“A little after that I got a promotion to be sous chef at Harry & Izzy’s downtown,” he said.
Chesky moved back to Harry & Izzy’s on the north side and was eventually named executive chef.
“This is the only career I’ve known,” said Chesky, a Lawrence North High School graduate.
Learn more at 1933Lounge.com.
Chesky
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HSE board OKs admin contracts; HSE principal resigns
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Hamilton Southeastern Schools administrator contracts were approved for renewal, some through 2026 and others through 2027, following a unanimous vote March 12 by the HSE Board of Trustees.
EDUCATION
Three people spoke during public comment in reference to the contracts. Stephanie Hunt expressed concern about the district’s hiring changes at the administrator level.
“The most notable of those changes being the rapid elimination of administrators of color from HSE Schools and central office,” she said. “Last night, our community learned that the principal from HSE High School would not be renewing his contract. Tonight, I have to ask you what kind of message you are trying to send to our community and future employees of this district?”
HSE Principal Reginald Simmons’ resignation was posted to the school board’s agenda packet the evening before the meeting. Simmons was hired for that job in 2022 and has worked for the district since 2005. His resignation takes effect at the end of this school year.
Bob Rice, the district’s energy manager, also resigned, effective Feb. 28.
Teacher Tyler Zerbe, who is an officer with the Hamilton Southeastern Education Association, initially spoke about administrator contracts but pivoted to the unfair labor practice complaint the union filed against the district last year.
“Teachers want to trust central office — they want to believe that central office has their best interests at heart,” he said. “Much like the renewal of the administrator contracts, settling the ULP is a true step in building that trust. We are asking the board to implore central office to prioritize settling the ULP by making meaningful concessions and agreeing that teachers, much like administrators, deserve the respect and trust their profession demands.”
The teachers’ union filed the ULP with
the Indiana education Employment Relations Board in summer 2024 based on the alleged behavior of then-Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Brian Murphy, who was hired in March of that year, toward HSEA President Abby Taylor. Murphy resigned his position with the district in September 2024, but the ULP remains unresolved. According to a post on HSEA’s social media, the two sides have met twice for mediation, most recently in mid-February.
Teacher Janet Chandler also spoke to the board about some two-year administrator contracts that were not on the list approved that night. She said the usual practice for two-year contracts is to renew them annually to continue providing job security for the next two years. She said to do otherwise indicates the district does not intend to retain that administrator.
“I am just concerned as to what kind of message this is sending to our building administrators,” she said. “Do you want them to leave?”
Superintendent Patrick Mapes later told the board that his office had talked with administrators who were not on the renewal list but still had a year left on their contracts. He said that with recent administrative changes, such as Simmons’ resignation, they agreed to not renew those contracts while the district figures out how to fill roles.
In other matters, the board celebrated Southeastern Elementary School and Hamilton Southeastern Intermediate/Junior High students who won their divisions in the annual Indiana Academic Science Bowl.
The board also approved a guaranteed maximum price of $34 million for renovations to Fall Creek Intermediate School; and playground equipment and renovation contracts for Hoosier Road Elementary ($420,215) and Lantern Road Elementary ($1.1 million).
The next HSE Board of Trustees meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. April 2 at HSE’s central office, 13485 Cumberland Rd. Meetings also are streamed live on the board’s website, hseschools.org/board/ board-of-school-trustees.
Car & Art Show applications open — The deadline to apply for a spot in the annual Spark!Fishers Car & Art Show is May 3. For more, visit fishersartscouncil.org/post/ car-art-show-2025.
Carrying the Freight: Coach has plenty of IFL experience
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Fishers Freight coach Dixie Wooten had no worries about taking over the reins of an Indoor Football League expansion team.
FOOTBALL
“It’s great knowing that this is a new team but it’s not a new organization,” Wooten said. “I knew everything was going to be in place to be successful the first year.”
The team’s majority owner is Jim Hallett, who also owns the Indiana Hockey Club, the group that oversees and manages the Indy Fuel hockey team.
The Freight will open the 16-game season March 29 at Northern Arizona Wranglers in Prescott Valley. The home opener against the Tulsa Oilers is set for 7:05 p.m. April 4 at the Fishers Event Center.
Wooten was head coach of the Iowa Barnstormers from 2017 to 2019, winning IFL Coach of the Year in 2017 and 2018 with the Barnstormers. Iowa won the league title in 2018. He was head coach of the Tucson Sugar Skulls from 2020 to 2022; was co-head coach of the Bay Area Panthers in 2023; and was the Panthers’ offensive coordinator in 2024.
Wooten, who lives in Noblesville, played indoor football for eight seasons before becoming a coach in 2004.
The Freight began training with 38 players.
“We’ve recruited a great team, so we have a lot of hard decisions to make to get down to 28 players by March 27,” Wooten said.
Among the players on the preseason roster is former Indiana State University defensive lineman Kaleb Brewer and former Purdue University safety Chris Jefferson.
The IFL uses eight players on offense and defense. The Freight play in the seven-team Eastern division. There also are seven teams in the Western division.
Wooten said the IFL has its own streaming platform.
“We’re the only expansion team this
year, but I believe there are supposed to be three new teams coming in 2026,” he said. “We want to start out strong this year by making sure we have everything in place to be very competitive. We want to make sure we finish camp strong with no injuries and then go into that first game and get a victory at Northern Arizona. By the end of the day, the championship is still on our radar.”
Wooten said it is one of the fastest football leagues in the nation.
“It’s electric. You are going to have high-scoring games and a lot of great coaching,” he said. “It’s going to be a very great environment when it comes to fans,”
Wooten said players can make from $250 to $600 per game and have the opportunity to play at the next level. According to the IFL website, more than 300 IFL players have signed NFL or Canadian Football League contracts since the IFL’s inaugural season in 2009.
Wooten’s son, Dixie Wooten II, who played on the offensive line for the University of Houston, is the Freight’s offensive coordinator and offensive line coach.
For more, visit fishersfreightfootball. com. For more about the IFL, visit goifl.com.
Mudsock Youth Athletics plans KICK Challenge – Mudsock Youth Athletics has announced the return of the KICK Corporate Challenge, set for Sept. 19 at Billericay Park in Fishers. Registration is open for area businesses to compete in a day of kickball, camaraderie and community impact. Proceeds help fund youth program scholarships for Fishers families in need, coach training and background checks, and field maintenance, benefiting more than 11,000 young athletes in the community. To register, visit myathletics.com/kick.
Dixie Wooten will coach the Fishers Freight in the Indoor Football League. (Photo courtesy of Fishers Freight)
FISHERS APRIL EVENTS
SPRING BREAK CAMPS
The City of Fishers Parks Department is offering Spring Break camps April 7 through 11. The camps include Science Wiz with Miss Liz, set for 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day at Holland Park; and Circuits and Synths Camp, focusing on music, technology and creativity, also set for 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily at the Maker Playground. For more and to register, visit fishersparks.com/activities-events/camps/ spring-break-camp/.
HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR SHOWCASE
The Fishers Arts Council and STAR Bank present the annual High School Senior Showcase, an exhibit of work by local high school seniors. The exhibit will be on display in April at the Art Gallery at City Hall, 1 Municipal Dr,, with a reception planned for 6 to 8 p.m. April 11.
STAINED GLASS CLASSES
The City of Fishers Parks Department has scheduled several classes for those interested in learning or improving the art of stained glass. All materials and tools are provided and participants will leave with a finished piece. For more or to register, visit fishersparks.com/activities-events/ art-classes-workshops.
The classes are:
• Beginner Stained Glass is set for 6 to 9 p.m. April 7 through 12 for ages 12 and older.
• Intermediate Stained Glass is 6 to 9 p.m. April 8 and 9 for ages 16 and older. Participants must have basic stained glass experience.
• Intro to Leaded Stained Glass, a two-
day class, is 9 a.m. to noon April 10 and 11 for ages 16 and older. Participants must have basic stained glass experience.
JANUARY GOVERNMENT MEETINGS
The following Fishers government meetings are scheduled during the month of March:
• Plat Committee — 4 p.m. April 2, Fishers Municipal Center theater
• Planned Unit Development — 5 p.m. April 2, Fishers Municipal Center theater
• Plan Commission — 6 p.m. April 2, Fishers Municipal Center theater
• Fishers Armed Services Commission, 4 p.m. April 8, Nickel Plate Conference Room
• Town Hall Building Corporation — 4 p.m. April 14, Nickel Plate Conference Room
• Board of Public Works & Safety — 9 a.m. April 15 and 29, Nickel Plate Conference Room
• Finance Committee — 5 p.m. April 16, Nickel Plate Conference Room
• City Council — 7 p.m. April 21, Fishers Municipal Center theater
• Nickel Plate Review Committee — 5 p.m. April 23, Nickel Plate Conference Room
• Fishers Board of Zoning Appeals — 6 p.m. April 23, Nickel Plate Conference Room
• Fall Creek Board of Zoning Appeals — 6 p.m. April 24, Nickel Plate Conference Room
• Hamilton Southeastern Schools Board of Trustees — 6 p.m. April 2, 13485 Cumberland Rd.
DISPATCHES
Ascension St, Vincent recognized — Ascension St. Vincent was recognized by the Indiana Hospital Association for its commitment across all of its delivering hospitals to infant and maternal health at the fifth annual INspire Hospital of Distinction recognition program. Ascension St. Vincent hospitals include Anderson, Carmel, Evansville, Fishers, Kokomo, Randolph and the Women and Infants Hospital at Ascension St. Vincent.
Community Health recognized — Five Community Health Network hospitals were recognized by the Indiana Hospital Association for their commitment to infant and maternal health at the fifth
annual INspire Hospital of Distinction recognition program. Community Hospital North, Community Hospital East, Community Hospital South, Community Hospital Anderson and Community Howard Regional Health in Kokomo each earned an INspire Hospital of Distinction recognition.
Sip & Shop benefits cancer research — Simply Chic in Fishers, 7848 E. 96th St., is hosting a Sip & Shop event from 4 to 7 p.m. April 16, with a wine tasting and special discounts. Ten percent of sales will be donated to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society for cancer research. RSVP at bit. ly/3FpyUj9.
New Democratic state chair elected — Former State Senator Karen Tallian recently was elected by the State Central Committee as the next chair of the Indiana Democratic Party. Tallian served in the State Senate for District 4, and represented portions of Porter, LaPorte and Lake counties from 2005 through 2021, serving as the Democratic Caucus chair between 2016 and 2020. Other Democratic Party leaders elected for the 2025-29 term are Alex Nyirendah, vice chair; Erin Retif, secretary; and Michael Griffin, treasurer.
Children’s health webinars planned — The Hamilton County Health Department will host a series of free webinars focused on children’s health. The webinars, each starting at 6 p.m., will provide information and
resources to parents and caregivers in the community on a range of topics. Register at tinyurl.com/childrens-health-webinars. The scheduled webinars are:
• June 4: CPR instruction for children
• June 18: Internet safety class for parents
• Aug. 20: Back to school immunizations
Report potholes in Fishers — The Fishers Department of Public Works team filled 4,286 potholes across Fishers in 2024. Residents can report potholes at fishersin. gov/services-resources/city-services/fishers-connect.
Scholarships for future law enforcement — The Fishers Police Corps has announced that it is offering a $1,500 scholarship for Fishers high school students
interested in pursuing careers in law enforcement. For more and to apply, visit FishersPoliceCorps.org. Applications are due by March 31.
Assessment forms available electronically — Hamilton County property owners can submit a request to receive their Notice of Assessment of Land and Improvements/Form 11 electronically. The Assessor’s Office traditionally mails forms in April, but will make forms available by email this year. Form 11 details the assessed value of a property, which serves as the starting point for calculating annual property tax payments. Requests for electronic copies are due by end of day March 25 at hamiltoncounty. in.gov/2073/F-11-Email-Notification-Request.
TOP 10
Small
Community Hospital *
Ascension St. Vincent Fishers is honored to be named a Top 10 Small Community Hospital in the nation. With fewer patient complications, higher patient experience scores and a shorter average length of stay, we’re committed to providing high-quality, personalized care to central Indiana and beyond.
FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES
FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES
FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES
Personalized Care With A Gentle Touch
FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES
Personalized Care With A Gentle Touch
Personalized Care With A Gentle Touch
Personalized Care With A Gentle Touch
Kevin
D. Ward, D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S.
Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S.
Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S.
Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S.
Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S.
Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. 11959 Lakeside Drive | Fishers, Indiana
Kevin D. Ward,
info@fishersdentalcare.com
Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. 11959 Lakeside Drive | Fishers, Indiana 46038 317.577.1911 | Fax 317.576.8070
Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. 11959 Lakeside Drive Fishers, Indiana 46038 317.577.1911 | Fax 317.576.8070
Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com www.fishersdentalcare.com
info@fishersdentalcare.com
info@fishersdentalcare.com
Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S.
Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. Molly E. Dwenger, D.D.S.
Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. 11959 Lakeside Drive | Fishers, Indiana 46038 317.577.1911 | Fax 317.576.8070
Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com www.fishersdentalcare.com
info@fishersdentalcare.com
Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com www.fishersdentalcare.com
info@fishersdentalcare.com
Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com www.fishersdentalcare.com
Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com www.fishersdentalcare.com
info@fishersdentalcare.com
info@fishersdentalcare.com
(Advertorial)
Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com www.fishersdentalcare.com
Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. 11959 Lakeside Drive | Fishers, Indiana 46038 317.577.1911 | Fax 317.576.8070
Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com www.fishersdentalcare.com
Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S. 11959 Lakeside Drive | Fishers, Indiana 46038 317.577.1911 | Fax 317.576.8070
Subaru Loves to Help program partners with Fishers Youth Assistance Program
Here at Tom Wood Subaru, we believe in making a difference where it matters most—right here in our community. As part of the 2025 Subaru Loves to Help program, a group of our dedicated staff and their family members recently volunteered with the Fishers Youth Assistance Program to bring warmth and comfort to children in need.
The event, held at the Fishers Government Building, was an incredible opportunity to serve underprivileged families by providing brand-new socks and shoes to children. Through Subaru’s partnership with Operation Warm, all were able to purchase and distribute over 200 pairs of shoes and socks for the second consecutive year.
Operation Warm, the organization that facilitated this initiative, shared their gratitude for Subaru retailers like us who continue to give back. “This year, Operation Warm and Subaru made a HUGE impact, serving over 130,000 children living in urgent need. Operation Warm stated. “Your dedication to providing comfort, confidence, and hope in your community is inspiring, and from the bottom of our hearts, we wanted to say thank you!”
Shellee Buchanan, Program Manager at Operation Warm, highlighted the local impact of Tom Wood Subaru’s involvement: “You donated 204 pairs of shoes and socks, helping that many children through the Subaru Loves to Help program. Thank you both for all you do for the children in your community— we truly appreciate your partnership!” This event was made possible through
PETS
New emergency veterinary clinic opens in Nora
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
A new emergency veterinary clinic has opened in Indianapolis’ Nora area, providing pet owners with fast, expert medical care in an environment that’s geared toward reducing anxiety for the animals and their people.
Dr. Anne Goodwin is medical director of Veterinary Emergency Group in Nora, which opened mid-February at 1480 E. 86th St. in the Nora Corners shopping center. The space is very different from a typical veterinary clinic. The open-concept interior has exam tables in one large central space, with the lab, pharmacy and kennels along the walls.
that point. So, I was like, ‘Let me just talk to them and see what’s going on.’ And as I got into the whole interview process, I realized that the culture and the feel of it — it’s what I’ve been doing all along. I was a VEG doctor who didn’t work at a VEG.”
Goodwin said Indianapolis has big gaps in veterinary care, particularly for after-hours emergencies. The VEG clinic fills that specific gap by providing only emergency veterinary care, and Goodwin said they will see any animal that can walk through the door. In the short time that they’d been open, she said they had seen a ferret, ducks and an iguana, along with cats and dogs.
the efforts of Fishers Youth Assistance Program and their Early Intervention Advocate, Trisha Straus, who helped coordinate the outreach and ensure the children received the support they needed.
Tom Wood Subaru General Manager, Scott Reckley, reflected on the impact of this initiative: “We are very thankful to be able to help those children who were so excited to receive a new pair of shoes and socks. It’s a small gesture that provides comfort and confidence, and we are honored to be part of this effort.”
At Tom Wood Subaru, we are proud to uphold the Subaru Loves to Help pillar, working together to strengthen our community one step at a time. We look forward to continuing this tradition of kindness and support for years to come.
Goodwin said that kind of design is part of the VEG concept.
“What our founders basically figured out was that. if I went to the (emergency room) with my kid, we’d be together all the time — because my kid is scared, because the world is scary,” she said. “And then, as vets, we took (the pets) away and had this magic curtain that everything happened behind.”
The idea behind VEG clinics is to make the experience as comfortable for everyone as possible, she said, and to keep pets near their owners throughout the process. To help with that, the clinic has couches in addition to exam tables and will examine a pet wherever the pet feels the most secure — including the floor.
Goodwin said the Nora clinic is the New York-based company’s 97th location nationwide and is the first VEG clinic in Indiana.
“They actually recruited me last February (2024),” she said. “I was messaged by one of the internal recruiters. Kind of, ‘Would you want to do this?’ And it’s like, ‘I’m just going to see what it’s like’ — I didn’t even know they were coming (to Indianapolis) at
In addition to medical care, the clinic offers services that provide emotional support for patients and their people. If an animal has to spend the night at the clinic, for example, there are pull-out sofas so the owner can spend the night right next to their pet.
“There’s no visiting hours. There’s no ‘No,’” Goodwin said. “If your dog is here for five days and you want to be here for five days, we’ll make you a bed and you can stay.”
She said that can help reduce anxiety for the animal, which leads to happier and better-behaved patients.
Daniel Powell is the clinic manager and worked outside of the veterinary industry before coming to VEG. He said he was impressed with the environment created by the company’s open-concept design.
“People coming in here are usually having a really bad day, and when we have the things that are part of what we do just naturally come into play to help make that maybe not quite as bad of a day, I think that’s pretty fantastic,” he said.
For more, visit veterinaryemergencygroup.com/locations/ nora-indianapolis-in.
From left, Scott & Kim Reckley, Carys Stevens, Russ Stevens & Jennifer), Bobby Miller & (and Jen), Dave Southern and son, Madison Weybright & son.
Dr. Anne Goodwin is the medical director of Veterinary Emergency Group in Nora. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
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Fischer Homes focuses on amenities in construction
By Lauren Weidinger editorial@youarecurrent.com
Fischer Homes, a home building company in the Indianapolis area, plans to continue expanding its footprint throughout the northern Indianapolis region this year.
To request a design appointment, scan the QR code or visit us at calicoindy.com Visit our showroom on 82nd Street!
Fischer Homes has established housing developments in Brownsburg, Fishers/Geist, Greenwood, Lebanon, McCordsville, Westfield and Greenfield. The communities offer a variety of homes, including single-family homes, low-maintenance ranch homes and townhomes, attracting first-time home buyers, families looking to expand, luxury home buyers as well as families looking to downsize. In many of Fischer Homes’ communities, homeowners can enjoy amenities such as pools, pickleball courts, walking/biking trails and dog parks. Additional amenities are available at select communities, such as the Lindley Ridge community at Chatham Hills, which offers a Sport & Social membership to The Club at Chatham Hills with purchase of a home.
At the beginning of this year, Fischer Homes began development at its new community at The Reserve at Holliday Farms in Zionsville. It also will begin development on two new communities in Noblesville – Oasis at Hyde Park and Morse Village – in 2025. Oasis at Hyde Park will have direct access to Hamilton
Town Center, and Morse Village will be a master-planned community at Morse Reservoir. All three communities will begin sales by the end of 2025.
In addition, Townes at Grand Park Village in Westfield will be open for sales beginning this spring. The community offers a low-maintenance lifestyle with brand-new townhomes that are within walking distance to all of the amenities at Grand Park. Fischer Homes also unveiled a new model home in Fishers at The Cove and is constructing the Nottoway model home at its Lindley Ridge community in Chatham Hills. The Nottoway model home is part of its Grand Estates Custom Collection. Tours will be available at the Nottoway model home in May.
on Page 3
The Margot Masterpiece Collection home. (Photos courtesy of Fischer Homes)
Interior of the Margot Masterpiece Collection.
Continued from Page 2
“We offer a variety of thoughtfully designed floor plans that can be tailored to your lifestyle,” said Sean Sullivan, Fischer Homes’ Indianapolis market president. “We are proud of our high customer satisfaction rating; in fact, many of our homeowners are referred to us by their friends and family who own a Fischer Home.”
Fischer Homes also has several partnerships that offer opportunities and deals to homebuyers. This includes its partnership with Victory Mortgage, which offers special financing with three-year complimentary refinancing to Fischer Homes’ homebuyers, as well as a new partnership with Builder Backed, which connects homeowners to trusted home service providers for future home projects.
Sullivan noted the importance of finding highly sought-after locations to begin new projects, with an emphasis on making sure the areas connect to parks, trails, restaurants and shopping.
“Our communities are not just about great locations; they also create beautiful, welcoming environments where you’ll feel right at home,” Sullivan said. For more, visit fischerhomes.com.
Sullivan
Midtown Collection family room. (Photos courtesy of Fischer Homes)
The Leland Masterpiece Collection family room.
A legacy of design at Calico of Indy
For more than 50 years, Calico of Indianapolis has been a trusted destination for home design, offering custom fabrics, furniture, window treatments, and expert interior solutions. But beyond the fabrics and furnishings, the heart of Calico is its multigenerational, female-led legacy — a story of creativity, entrepreneurship and a passion for helping homeowners bring their interior visions to life.
It all started in 1969, when Barbara Hanson’s parents, new to Indianapolis and unable to find their favorite fabric store, took a leap of faith and opened
their own. Hanson, who now owns Calico of Indianapolis, grew up surrounded by textiles and design, watching her mother transform their home with seasonal slipcovers and fresh upholstery. She spent summers working in the store before heading off to college and even spent a year in France before returning home — only to realize that Calico was more than just her family’s business. It was her calling.
With a loan from her father and a vision of the future, Hanson purchased the company to take it to new heights.
Barbara Hanson, left, and her daughter Jennie Hanson-Slaff own/operate Calico of Indianapolis. (Photos courtesy of Collective Alternative)
Continued from Page 4
She recognized that as women’s lives got busier, they needed a more convenient way to shop for home design. Today, Calico is central Indiana’s go-to source for luxury textiles, custom furniture and interior design services, offering one of the largest selections of designer fabrics and trims in the region.
Now, the third generation has stepped in, as Hanson’s daughter Jennie Hanson-Slaff brings her own fresh perspective to the family business. With an eye for timeless yet modern design, she has helped expand the store’s inventory with new fabrics, patterns, and styles. And just like her mother and grandmother before her, Hanson-Slaff shares a passion for helping clients create spaces that feel like home.
From reupholstering heirloom pieces to crafting custom window treatments and bedding to deconstructing and rebuilding furniture, Calico has remained a constant for homeowners looking to invest in high-quality, beautifully designed interiors. As the business approaches its 56th year, one thing remains clear: great design never goes out of style — it simply evolves with each new generation.
Visit the Calico Indianapolis showroom today to find the ideal fabric for your next project.
For more, visit calicoindy.com.
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2025 McComb Pella Parade of Homes
editorial@youarecurrent.com
As the homebuilding industry evolves, so does how we showcase its finest craftsmanship, innovation and design. The 2025 McComb Pella Parade of Homes, hosted by the Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis (BAGI), moves away from the traditional home tour format. Set for April 25-27 and May 2-4, this highly anticipated event allows attendees to explore more than 60 homes by more than 20 builders across central Indiana.
A new era of home tours:
The Parade of Homes vs. IndyRama
BAGI’s IndyRama has long been a showcase for high-end urban living, offering a glimpse into thoughtfully designed homes in Indianapolis’s downtown neighborhoods. The new 2025 McComb Pella Parade of Homes builds on the foundation of IndyRama broadening its reach and offering a more inclusive experience that spans multiple areas of Indianapolis and the surrounding counties.
Rather than focusing solely on urban homes, this expanded event reflects the diverse needs of today’s homebuyers. From downtown city townhomes to spacious suburban residences, the Parade of Homes highlights a range of styles, locations and price points—allowing visitors to explore homes that align with their unique preferences. This evolution isn’t about moving away from urban living but rather about creating a home tour experience that better represents the area’s dynamic housing market.
With more than 60 homes from a variety of builders, this show allows homebuyers and design enthusiasts to discover inspiration, explore new communities and connect with the region’s
This home by David Weekley Homes in Chatham Village in Westfield is on the tour of the 2025 McComb Pella Parade of Homes. (Photos courtesy of Collective Alternative
Interior of the Chatham Village home pictured above.
Continued from Page 6
finest home builders in a way that fits their lifestyle.
What to expect:
An all-access tour of innovation
The 2025 McComb Pella Parade of Homes provides attendees with a free all-access pass. With the pass, attendees can tour as many of the homes as they’d like across six zones and over two exciting weekends. New home construction has never been a better option. With homes on the tour ranging from $250k to $4M+, condos to single-family, there’s something for everyone in this show.
Whether visitors are looking for bold contemporary designs, timeless traditional craftsmanship, or innovative smart-home technology, the 2025 McComb Pella Parade of Homes delivers an experience that caters to all.
A must-see experience for every home enthusiast
Mark your calendars for noon - 6 p.m. April 25-27 and May 2-4, and prepare to embark on an exciting journey through central Indiana’s most sought-after homes. Whether you’re looking to buy, build or dream, the 2025 McComb Pella Parade of Homes is an event you won’t want to miss! Get your free tickets today! For free tickets, visit Bagi.com/ parade-of-homes.
This model by Lennar Homes will be open in Fishers.
This model by Epcon Homes will be open in Fishers.
Commentary by Zach Lundin Morgage Loan Officer, NMLS# 1231720
You’ve probably heard of a HELOC, or home equity line of credit, but you may not realize the impact this powerful tool can have on the journey of homeownership.
First, many misinterpret this loan as not a mortgage, when in fact it is. It is typically a second lien, behind your first mortgage. The important thing about this loan is that it does not impact your payment with your primary mortgage. This can be a great tool to use for home renovation, debt consolidation or other creative uses that do not get rid of your low interest rate on your primary mortgage. The way it works is simple. We take 89.9 percent of the current value of your home, subtract your outstanding mortgage balance, and the remaining equity becomes available for future use. The nice thing about a HELOC is that like a credit card, if you do not have a balance,
Each HELOC can look different based on the financial profile of the homeowner, which can result in different interest rates and draw lengths available. A bonus to the HELOC is that the costs to put one in place are typically a fraction of those associated with a 30-year fixed rate mortgage. Once in place, you can draw up and pay down the balance as you see fit. A caution to many prospective borrowers is that the lack of repayment on this loan can result in a balloon payment due at the end of the term.
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Renew your landscape: A guide to spring yard care
• Overseed thin or patchy areas
• First seasonal mow and edging
As the tree buds begin to swell, hinting at the life stirring within, nature signals that winter’s hold is loosening and the cycle of renewal has begun once again. Grab a cup of coffee and walk around your yard to assess your lawn and garden care needs. As the season changes, it is essential to refresh and maintain your landscape to ensure a healthy, vibrant outdoor space. Hire a professional spring cleanup service or do-it yourself to get your property prepared to thrive beautifully during the warm, growing season. Use this checklist to spring into your project. Cut out this handy helper and hang it on your refrigerator. This list might be a nice chore chart for the kids! Our lush green lawns bring us joy and provide a place for children to play, for pets to romp and a place to picnic with your friends and family.
• Remove leaves, sticks and winter debris to improve soil and plant health
• Dethatch and aerate lawn (if necessary)
• Apply spring fertilizer and pre-emergent weed control
As the frost fades and the first signs of warmth settle in, spring garden bed cleanup begins.
• Clear dead plant material and weeds
• Edge garden beds for a neat, tidy look
• Apply pre-emergent and fresh mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
• Prune perennials and cut back ornamental grasses
Examine your trees and shrubs to evaluate winter damage and prepare trees for the growing Seasons.
• Prune dead or damaged branches to promote new growth
• Trim and shape overgrown shrubs
• Assess trees for signs of disease, pests or structural issues
• Fertilize to encourage robust foliage and root growth
How do your patio and pathways look? Are they ready for cookouts, guests and relaxing weekends?
• Power wash and sweep walkways, patios and driveways
Commentary by Stephanie Carlson
Now is the time to plan landscaping projects. (Photos courtesy of Stephanie Carlson
Continued from Page 10
• Clean out gutters and downspouts
• Repair or reposition landscape features like stones, yard art, edging and planters
• Remove any leftover snow piles or winter salt residue
Liven up your porch pots with a refreshing floral design filled with color appropriate for the location. Pay attention to sun exposure when choosing plants
• Install early spring flowers (pansies, daffodils, tulips, etc.)
• Suggest and plant new shrubs or trees as needed
• Refresh container gardens with seasonal plants
• Clean out debris and prepare your raised garden beds for vegetables
• Determine if you want to redesign your landscape or build an additional garden bed With each careful step, your landscape transforms from a dreary dormant winter scene to a vibrant inviting yard, ready to burst with color and life.
Stephanie, owner of Naturspire Landscapes — a biophilic design firm that specializes in bringing nature indoors and a full-service landscaper — is happy to help with your spring cleanup and enhancements. Visit our website at www.naturspire.com or email steph@naturspire.com.
LUXURY LIVING
Fischer Homes is proudly building in communities throughout Indianapolis including Fishers, Westfield, McCordsville, Brownsburg, Avon, and more! 14
Let Meridian Audiology Speak at Your
Next Club Meeting!
Meridian Audiology LLC, a private Audiology practice, was founded by Dr. Alison Wyss, Au.D. and Kira VonBlon, M.S. after working together in an ENT setting for more than 12 years. The seasoned Audiologists strive to consistently provide premier care to patients with hearing loss, tinnitus and auditory processing disorders as well as those who want to protect their hearing from damage.
In stark contrast to the medical audiology world where patients are in and out in quick succession, private practice allows Ali and Kira to spend whatever time their patients need from them for their individual hearing healthcare situation.
offering the top-of-the-line newest technology in hearing aids, tinnitus and auditory processing disorder.
“We want our patients to know that we are here for them, and we will not rush them out the door so we can get on to the next patient. We love to get to know our patients, and we feel we treat them like we would treat our own family,” VonBlon said.
“We’ve had many patients find and follow us to Meridian Audiology and that is a testament to our relationships with them.”
The Meridian Audiology Audiologists pride themselves on keeping up with, and
Beyond comprehensive hearing evaluations and hearing aid sales, service and maintenance, Meridian Audiology also offers the LACE AI (Listening for Communication Enhancement) program which improves comprehension of speech, tinnitus management consultations, hearing protection options and auditory processing disorder evaluation and management. We are also available to speak to your local community clubs about hearing and hearing loss. Meridian Audiology accepts most major insurances, offers convenient scheduling via phone, email, or online and are independent of other medical practices or hospitals. Hours are 9am4pm Monday-Friday by appointment only.
March
CAVA’s first Indiana restaurant opens in Fishers
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
National restaurant chain CAVA, which specializes in fast-casual Mediterranean-style food, opened its first Indiana location March 14 in Fishers, one day after hosting a “community day” event introducing the restaurant to the community with free samples from the menu.
FOOD
Midwest Regional Director Gino Carlin was on hand for the community day event at the new space, 11594 Whistle Dr., in the Fishers District development off 116th Street. He said part of the mission of the chain is to bring heart-healthy food to the community and they were excited to expand into Indiana.
“It’s been pretty exciting. It’s been fun to do,” he said. “We serve fresh, authentic, Mediterranean-inspired food — a lot of fresh ingredients. You’re not going to find a freezer in the whole restaurant.”
Carlin said the chain started in Washington, D.C., and initially expanded to the East and West Coasts and into Texas, where he’s originally from. In recent years, he said, it has branched into the Midwest.
“Last year we opened in Chicago, which was a huge success for us,” Carlin said.
“We really look for areas that we think … align with our mission — having the belief in that same heart health and humanity type of atmosphere, and that’s why we really felt Fishers was the right place to open our first location in Indiana.”
CAVA operates hundreds of restaurants nationwide and Carlin said they are opening about 50 to 60 new locations each year. Another Indiana restaurant will open in late summer near downtown Indianapolis.
The March 13 community day event offered Fishers residents an opportunity to try CAVA’s food before the official opening. Carlin said they had 600 free tickets available and those tickets went fast. In addition to a free meal, participants could choose to donate to Gleaners Food Bank, with the restaurant matching those donations up to $1,000.
Carlin said that in addition to the Gleaners donation, the restaurant had been donating free meals that were prepared during training days for new employees, providing fresh food for those in need.
An announcement from the company stated that the Fishers restaurant will employ up to 40 people.
CAVA in Fishers is open daily from 10:45 a.m. to 10 p.m.
For more, visit cava.com.
DISPATCH
Ivy Tech Day set — Ivy Tech Hamilton County will celebrate Ivy Tech Day April 8, a day of giving and community impact dedicated to supporting student success. This year, the Hamilton County campus has set a goal of raising $30,000 to fund programs, building upgrades and student resources — building on the $25,000 it raised last year. To help reach its fundraising goal, the campus is hosting several ticketed events. To purchase tickets or sponsorships, visit giveday.ivytech.edu/hamco.
VonBlon Wyss
CAVA celebrated its Fishers opening with a community day event
13, offering free samples of its Mediterranean-style food. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
John Legend to perform at Fishers Event Center
news@currentinfishers.com
American singer, songwriter and pianist John Legend, a 13-time Grammy Award winner, will bring his recently announced “Get Lifted 20th Anniversary Tour” to the Fishers Event Center Nov. 16.
CONCERT
In a March 18 social media post, Legend announced that he would be headed back on the road for the tour.
Performance for “Ordinary People,” Best R&B Album for Get Lifted and Best New Artist.
“Join me and my band for an unforgettable performance of the entire Get Lifted album — the album that introduced me to the world — plus a few favorites from my career that all of you know and love,” he stated.
According to an announcement from the Fishers Event Center, the Get Lifted album garnered eight nominations and won three Grammy Awards at the 48th Annual Grammy Awards, including Best Male R&B Vocal
“Each night, Legend will deliver a mix of deep cuts, fan favorites and fresh renditions of the album’s beloved tracks like the Grammy-winning ‘Ordinary People’ — his breakout hit that reached the Billboard Top 40 and the UK R&B Singles chart,” the announcement stated. “In addition to honoring Get Lifted, the live show will feature Legend’s other career-spanning hits, showcasing the musical depth and storytelling that have been hallmarks of his artistry for the past two decades.”
Tickets go on sale March 28, according to Legend’s social media post. Performances kick off in May in the United Kingdom with stops in Europe before the band returns to the U.S. The tour ends in December.
For more, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
Beating childhood cancer inspires fundraising campaign
By Les Morris news@youarecurrent.com
Kyle Ring was only in eighth grade at Clay Middle School in the spring of 1996 when he complained of pain in his side. His parents took him for an X-ray and discovered a cancerous tumor on his ribcage. Doctors performed surgery on the Carmel resident followed by chemotherapy. By early 1997, he was cancer-free.
Ring is now a 43-year-old attorney in the Carmel-based law firm of Doehrman Buba Ring, and he and his wife Michelle have five children ranging from 4 to 12 years old.
Although his childhood cancer is well behind him, he wants to use the experience to positively impact the community.
“I think you always feel grateful and blessed, but it’s easy to get busy with life,” he said.
Ring has volunteered to be a team leader and candidate for this year’s Visionary of the Year fundraising campaign run by The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. He joins two other Carmel residents — Randy Ollis and Alli Miller — as team leaders. These leaders recruit team members to raise dollars to help in the fight against blood cancers.
Ring’s team is busy soliciting funds. He plans to mine his network of lawyers that he knows.
“Despite the ease of jokes against us,” he said, “we’re a pretty philanthropic group.”
They are also holding a fundraising event on April 17 at Union Brewing at 202 Gradle Dr. in Carmel.
The campaign concludes in central Indiana May 9 with an event at The Crane Bay Event Center in Indianapolis.
Learn more about Ring’s campaign at pages.lls.org/voy/in/indy25/krings.
Legend Ring
‘SPECIAL’ DELIVERY
Geist-area farm finds unique way to capitalize on plentiful waste product
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
It’s challenging to make money from farming these days and for small-scale farmers, it’s often difficult to simply break even.
Megan Babuska and her fiancé Aaron Tucker operate The Good Thyme Farm, a small farm in Fortville. She grew up in the suburbs, runs a cake business in Carmel and previously worked in animal rescue.
“I have experience touching all these different animals, but not having a farm, and so it’s been a really interesting, eye-opening learning curve as we get through it,” she said, noting that while her fiancé is more of a country boy, he also never ran a farm. “We got really excited and we started getting animals. But … the finances and stuff started blowing up and then the last year has been really difficult financially. So, we started looking for other opportunities.”
For example, they give educational tours of The Good Thyme Farm for families to come and learn about sustainable farming, organic methods and animal care, she said. And then there’s the newest venture.
“We started looking for other ways to make money on the farm and — I don’t know why — but we were joking about something and we were like, it’d be really funny to send prank boxes (of poop),” she said. “And it could just be called ‘Petty (Poop).’” — but, the real name is an expletive that can’t be printed in the newspaper. What started as a joke has turned into a real business, and Babuska sent out the first few boxes of poop in early March.
The way it works is, anyone who wants to send poop to someone else can order it through the farm’s website. A customer can choose what kind of poop to send — a “mixed bag,” or a more specialized box of cat, dog, turtle, pig, cow or chicken poop. It goes into a biohazard bag before it’s boxed up, Babuska said, so nobody has to touch it.
“Then we make the boxes really cute,” she said. “We put stickers all over them and it says it’s ‘A present just for you,’ on it. Just to make it a little bit more annoying.”
Although the business knows who the
senders are, the recipients do not.
Babuska said talking to her first few clients was entertaining.
“The people who have been put in a position to want to send them are getting some kind of joy out of the situation,” she said. “It feels good to be able to give them that little piece of petty that’s safe and harmless and silly, but will definitely drive someone a little bit crazy, right? Like, never knowing who sent this.”
Babuska said they researched the legality before starting the business, including contacting an attorney for advice. As long
as it doesn’t cross the line into harassment, she said, there are no laws against sending poop to someone.
“So, as long as we don’t let people keep sending stuff to the same people, there’s no issue,” she said, adding that she is comfortable setting a limit, anyway. “I want it to be a fun, petty thing, not a horrible, mean thing.”
It’s also a way to use some of the piles of poop a farm like theirs generates. Steve the miniature cow is a major contributor to the burgeoning business and is the unofficial farm mascot. He followed Babuska
SIDE GIGS MAKE FARMING WORK
The poop-delivery side gig is one of many ventures that Good Thyme Farm operators Megan Babuska and Aaron Tucker run. They also offer dog training and dog care, small-business coaching, animal rescue and subscriptions for organic meat and produce from the farm.
Babuska said that in the future, they
hope to offer community gardening plots to the public and add fruit from their small orchard to the produce options.
“It all started because we love food and we just wanted to find the most unique flavors that we could find,” she said.
For more, visit tgtfarm.com.
around like a big dog as she showed off the heritage-breed turkeys and pigs, the beehive — which Tucker was busy repairing after the pigs broke out of their pen and pushed it over — and the large chicken coop, which is usually open to allow the birds free range, but is closed up for now to protect them from bird flu.
Babuska said she expects some people will complain about the farm’s newest side gig.
“But I do feel like this is a unique situation where bad reviews are good reviews,” she said. “And that’s fine. It’s not meant to be mean or harmful in any way… I think it’s silly and I love that it’s silly. It just brings me joy to know that we can do something so silly and that Steve’s poop is paying for his food.”
The Good Thyme Farm’s main website is tgtfarm.com. A link to the poop-delivery business is at the bottom of the home page.
ON THE COVER: Megan Babuska with a few of the many farm animals that contribute to her new business. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
A new business at a Fortville farm sends anonymous joke “gifts” of animal waste. (Photos by Leila Kheiry)
Megan Babuska feeds treats to Steve, one of the animals on her farm.
READERS’ VIEWS
A roundabout lesson
Editor.
Regarding the Feb. 18 article “Numerous crashes at 96th Street roundabout.”
Before the ground was broken on this project, these problems should have been obvious to anyone! Anyone with connected brain cells, that is.
Let’s hope that this will be considered before they get too far along on the same or similar (roundabout) planned for 116th Street and Allisonville Road.
Larry Bessert, Fishers
Support needed for food pantry
Editor,
On Feb. 28, a large crowd gathered at Fishers United Methodist Church for the funeral of Linda Williams.
Linda served as music director at the church for more than 20 years. She also started and oversaw the ministry of the Come to Me Food Pantry for many years. The pantry has served thousands of people and families in the area and has a vast network of individual and business sup porters. The pantry is mainly staffed by volunteers from the congregation.
Her efforts in this regard have blessed our community in countless ways.
The pantry continues to receive dona tions at the church, located at 9691 E. 116th St., and is open on Wednesday afternoons to serve those of our community in need of food and other items. Please consider supporting this vital ministry.
Mike Reed, Fishers
Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft Word document or in the body of an email. Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising nature. Letters should be exclusive to Current Publishing. Unsigned letters and letters deemed to be of a libelous nature will not be published. Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent.com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.
A legacy of support.
The Payne and Mencias families have long believed in the power of the arts to inspire, connect and transform individuals and communities. With their latest contribution — a transformative donation for the Palladium’s naming rights — these families ensure that art and culture will thrive in Central Indiana for years to come. TheCenterPresents.org
Pure Prairie League set for Palladium concert
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For former Pure Prairie League bassist Michael Reilly, the time to retire from constant touring had come.
But Reilly’s long association with Pure Prairie League has certainly not ended. He promotes and manages the band, which will perform at 8 p.m. April 5 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
“I got spoiled after COVID and I decided after 50-some years, that was enough,” said Reilly, who stopped touring about three years ago. “But I work harder now than I did when I was on the road. I do all the logistics for the band, all the booking and I produced the new album. I make all the setlists for the shows.”
Reilly, 75, joined the band in 1972, two years after it formed in Ohio. He stayed with PPL until 1988, when band members all took a break and then reunited in 1998.
John David Call, one of the band’s founding members who had been back with the band full time since 2010, had to retire at the end of 2024 because of an issue with his left hand.
Scott Thompson has been with the band since 2012.
“The guys in the band do a really good job with the songs,” said Reilly, who is based in Sag Harbor, a village in Long Island, N.Y. “We don’t try to change them or do anything different. We’re paying our respect to the songs. That’s what the people are paying their money to come out and hear those tunes. With this social media crap, people are calling us a tribute band. We’re not a tribute band. We are the band. We’re not a bunch of weekend warriors that go out and play someone else’s songs. We do these songs, and we have for years. People can call us whatever they want. It doesn’t bother me or bother the guys. We’ve been around for 55 years.”
Pure Prairie League has had a variety of members through the years, including Vince Gill, now with the Eagles, who was lead singer from 1978 to 1982.
The band came to prominence with “Amie” on its 1972 album “Bustin’ Out.”
Because of the song’s popularity, “Amie” was released as a single in 1975. The same album included “Falling in and Out of Love,” which is often paired with “Amie” in concert. “Two Lane Highway” is another concert fixture.
Reilly said the band has played “I’ll Fix Your Flat Tire Merle” in every concert since 1973.
Another major hit for the band was “Let Me Love You Tonight,” which was released in 1980 and became the band’s first song to reach the top 10 on the Billboard’s top 100.
“Those are the songs people are paying their hard-earned dough to hear and we are going to make sure they get their money’s worth and then some,” Reilly said.
“Amie” has appeared in several movies and TV shows.
“Back in the early ‘70s, we were doing 250 to 275 college shows every year,” Reilly said. “The college radio station played it. Every college kid that had a guitar (played it) because the chords are pretty easy.”
The band released “Back on Track” in December 2024, its first studio album in nearly 20 years. Reilly said the band will play several songs from that, including “The Beginning,” “Back on Track,” “Modern Problem,” “Picture Perfect Life,” “I”m the Lucky One” and “A Love Like Yours.”
“That gives people a chance to hear half of the new album,” Reilly said. “We do all the hit songs and some deep cuts like ‘Angel No. 9’ and ‘Woman.’ We always mix it up and we have a blast.”
Reilly, who occasionally travels with the band for shows, said he expects the Palladium show will be about 2 hours with more than 20 songs.
Although viewed by many as a country rock band, Reilly said the group has incorporated some bebop, jazz and blues songs.
“We’ve tried to stretch the parameters of big vocals and really tight musicianship,” Reilly said.
In recent years, the band has toured with Orleans, Poco, Firefall and Atlanta Rhythm Section.
“We’re doing a bunch of gigs this year with Little Feat,” Reilly said. “We only did about 30 shows last year and this year we’re going to do about 75 or 80.”
For tickets, visit thecenterpresents.org. For more on the band, visit pureprairieleague.com.
‘JERSEY BOYS’
“Jersey Boys” runs through April 13 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
CIVIC THEATRE
Civic Theatre presents “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” through March 29 at the Studio Theater at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
Malingo with Josh Gillespie and Father Kennedy will perform at 7 p.m. March 26 in a free concert at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The Magic of Dave Ranalli is set for 7:30 p.m. March 28 and “Simply the Best: A Celebration of Tina Turner” is at 7:30 p.m. March 29. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘BOOKSTORE’
The Cat presents “Bookstore” through March 30 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.
LANG LANG
Lang Lang will perform at 8 p.m. March 28 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.
DISPATCH
Songbook Academy deadline extended — Applications will be accepted through March 30 for the 16th annual Songbook Academy summer music intensive for high school students, taking place July 12-19 at the Great American Songbook Foundation’s headquarters in Carmel. The national pre-professional program enables young singers to develop their performance skills under the personalized guidance of Broadway stars and other experienced artists and music educators. Led by performer and preservationist Michael Feinstein, founder of the Songbook Foundation, the Songbook Academy provides education on the foundations of American popular music. More more, visit TheSongbook.org/SongbookAcademy or email SongbookAcademy@ TheSongbook.org.
Pure Prairie League members are, from left, Scott Thompson, John David Call, Jared Camic, Randy Harper and Jeff Zona. (Photo courtesy of PPL)
Reilly
GHDT to premiere ‘Krakow’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
A summer trip provided Gregory Hancock the inspiration for “The Lady of Krakow.”
DANCE
“When I was in Krakow, Poland, last summer, every evening I would sit on the steps of a church and listen to a street performer sing for about an hour,” said Hancock, executive artistic director of Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre. “I found it interesting how people passing by would respond. Many would simply walk past her, seemingly not even noticing her, while others would stop for a moment and take a photo or video and then move on. Some took some time to stop and notice something beautiful.”
4-5 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The program will feature the return of many GHDT classic repertoire pieces that have not been performed for several years, Hancock said.
“The Lady of Krakow” piece features vocals by Fishers resident Ashley Nicole Soprano. This is the first time Hancock and Soprano have collaborated.
Soprano said it is an incredible opportunity to work with Hancock
“I admire his ability to channel all his creativity and vision into the reality of a production,” Soprano said. “His free-thinking. Independent spirit is expressed in many art forms, including choreography, music composition and costume design.”
APRIL 4-13, 2025
Hancock said he found the idea of finding beauty in unexpected places and noticing — or not noticing — beauty was intriguing. The premiere of “The Lady of Krakow” is part of “Spring Equinox” April
Soprano sings three classical crossover songs, which she said are very challenging for many reasons. For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.
Actress spins yarns in ‘Web’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The biggest challenge for Phoebe Aldridge in “Spider’s Web” is keeping the stories her character weaves straight.
THEATER
Aldridge plays Clarissa Hailsham-Brown in Main Street Productions’ version of Agatha Christie’s “Spider’s Web,” which runs April 3 to 13 at Basile Westfield Playhouse.
character does, too,” she said.
Cicero resident Sydney Loomis said his character, Sir Rowland, is sort of a father figure to Clarissa.
Aldridge
“She is a really fun character,” Aldridge said. “She has a lot of friends and she likes to make things up and tease them. Even though she is pulling their leg, she really cares deeply about her people and that’s something that I can relate to. She kind of gets herself into a bit of a mess as she is making these things up because suddenly people don’t know what to believe, and when she finds a dead body in her living room, people don’t know what to do, whether (she is) telling them the truth or not.”
The Lawrence resident said it’s fun because she tells a lot of different stories throughout the show.
“I have trouble keeping it straight and my
“Agatha Christie shows shade on every character in the show,” said Loomis, who works at a bank in Noblesville. “You really don’t know who the murderer is until the end. You just know it’s not Oliver Costello because he’s the one that is dead.”
Westfield resident Jan Jamison is directing “Spider’s Web” for the second time, having previously directed it at Center Stage in Lebanon in 2017.
This is a whole new cast, except for Carmel resident Thom Johnson, who reprises his role of Elgin, the butler. However, Jamison has directed several of the cast members in other productions
Dr. Larry Adams, who lives in Hendricks County and has a practice in Zionsville, plays Inspector Lord.
“I’ve never seen or read it before,” Adams said. “I figured it was time for me to do a show. I usually try to do a couple of shows a year. I’ve worked with Jan before and Jan is great as a director, so I thought I’d like to be a part of this one, too.”
For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.
book & lyrics by Joel Paley, music by Marvin Laird
Soprano
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Climate control syst.
Perfectly timed
43. Cape Canaveral org.
44. Astounded
46. Approve
48. Tom Wood car sticker abbr.
49. GPS reading
50. Extend an IBJ subscription
52. Spanish squiggle
55. USN rank
56. Shoppers’ aids
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62. Decide to withdraw
63. Nasty
64. Type type
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Down
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2. Indiana state flower
3. Unrefined
4. Sound tracks
5. Edinburgh native
6. Spigot
7. Put on WRTV
8. Slightest bit of evidence
9. NYC neighborhood
10. Indiana state fossil
11. ___ acid
12. Free-for-all
13. Contest submission 21. “___, crackle, pop” 23. “Scram!”
25. Lots and lots
26. Indiana state snack
29. Composed a story for Current
30. Not dirty
31. “Eureka!”
32. Indianapolis Indians
batting fig.
33. The Village Spa sound
36. ___ Jones Expressway
37. Sixth sense, for short
38. Complain
40. Indiana state bird, familiarly
42. Luau strings
45. Dance move
47. Restaurant review website
51. Wilt
52. ISO pace
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55. Spooky
57. “Me too!”
58. Indiana state tree 59. Hamilton Town Center spot
61. Shaker contents
62. Oil of ___
65. Neither Rep. or Dem.
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