Founded Jan. 25, 2011, at Fishers, IN Vol. XV, No. 7
Copyright 2023
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Rental registry, 10 percent cap moving forward
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
A rental registry program and 10 percent cap on the number of rental homes is moving forward following a Feb. 24 review by the Fishers City Council. The proposed ordinance passed in first reading and will come back to the council, likely this month, for final approval.
GOVERNMENT
Chief of Staff Jordin Alexander presented the ordinance to the council. She said the rental registry portion of the new regulation would require all single-family rentals, including townhomes, to be registered with the city and have rental permits attached to the home. Those permits would not expire until the home is sold.
Failure to register by the deadline would result in a $250 fine. Operating a home rental unit without a permit would result in a $1,000 fine for the first violation and $5,000 to $7,500 for subsequent violations.
Alexander said the ordinance includes some exemptions to the cap, such as homeowners who are renting to family members, homeowners who are military members and have been deployed elsewhere and homes that can’t be sold quickly because of death or divorce, etc.
“We tried to keep these exceptions pretty inclusive of situations we thought that could arise,” she said. “If anything is outside of these exemptions, there is an appeal process.”
people addressed it during public comment. One asked whether HOAs could have more restrictive limits on rental properties and was told that HOA covenants could be more restrictive but couldn’t be less.
Jocelyn Vare, a former councilor and current chair of the Hamilton County Democratic Party, asked the city to host a town hall meeting about the proposal. She said the proposed cap affects property rights and could have big implications for homeowners, and an in-person town hall with opportunities for public comment would be appropriate.
Council President Pete Peterson said they would consider it.
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“The other piece of this is the rental permit cap and this ordinance would essentially implement a permit cap of 10 percent at the subdivision level,” she said. “So, any units above that 10 percent that are applying for a permit would be denied.”
As the city implements the new rule, she said rentals that are in existence before Dec. 31 — the registration deadline — would be grandfathered in. That means the cap would not apply to existing rental properties. After Dec. 31, if someone buys a home with the intention of renting it out, the property would have to be in an area that hasn’t met that 10 percent threshold.
The ordinance is likely to come back to the Fishers City Council during its March 17 meeting. If approved at that time, Alexander said notices would start going out in April and the city would conduct outreach sessions with homeowner associations and the community in general.
Councilor Bill Stuart asked for clarification about the legality of the ordinance, which would be the first of its kind in Indiana.
Chris Greisl, an attorney for the city, said state statutes don’t prohibit such a measure, so the city is using its home-rule authority to establish the new regulation.
Although there was no public hearing for the first reading of the ordinance, two
In other matters, the council honored the We the People team from Fishers Junior High, who won the state championship and will participate virtually in the national competition; witnessed the swearing-in of 13 new Fishers Police Department officers; heard from IU Health representatives who recognized Fishers Fire Department personnel for recent life-saving measures; and honored Fishers Public Works employee Ron Sawyer for 25 years of service.
The next Fishers City Council meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. March 17 in the Fishers Municipal Center Theater, 1 Municipal Dr. It also will be streamed live on the city’s YouTube channel, youtube.com/@ CityofFishers.
AC Hotels to open hotel in Fishers District
news@currentinfishers.com
Thompson Thrift, developer of Fishers District, recently announced that AC Hotels by Marriott has committed to its first Indiana location at The Union, one of five developments within the expanding Fishers District off 116th Street.
DEVELOPMENT
The hotel will be owned and operated by local hotelier Dora Hospitality, which manages multiple hotels in Fishers, Carmel and Indianapolis.
The new 135-room hotel will include about 15,500 square feet of retail space, meeting space, fitness equipment and European-inspired beverage and food offerings, according to the announcement.
“We are thrilled to introduce Indiana’s first AC by Marriott hotel to the vibrant and growing Fishers District,” stated Vincent Dora, president of Dora Hospitality. “As a
third-generation Indiana hotelier with deep roots in this community, we understand what makes Fishers such an exceptional destination.”
In addition to the AC Hotel, The Union mixed-use development will include 57,000 square feet of retail, restaurant and entertainment space, 251 luxury apartments and 70,000 square feet of office space.
Thompson Thrift has signed leases with many restaurants for that development, such as Piedra, Niku Sushi, Kitchen Social, Everbowl and Racha Thai. About 30 percent of the retail space remains available for lease.
“The fundamentals of this area continue to be compelling for a wide variety of uses,” stated Ryan Menard, vice president of development for Thompson Thrift. “Fishers District has become a destination of choice for consumers, tenants and travelers, and we are excited to be working with many new-to-market concepts at The Union.”
The Union is expected to break ground in the first quarter of 2025.
Once completed, the $750 million Fishers District development will span 123 acres and will offer an array of multifamily, townhome, hotel, office, dining, shopping and entertainment options, all connected by walking paths.
AC Hotels by Marriott will be built at The Union in Fishers District off 116th Street. (Rendering courtesy of Thompson Thrift)
Bill would increase funds for prosecutors
news@currentinfishers.com
The Indiana House of Representatives approved legislation Feb. 19 sponsored by State Rep. Chris Jeter (R-Fishers) that would provide additional funding for deputy prosecutors.
POLITICS
House Bill 1006 has moved to the State Senate for further consideration.
According to Jeter’s office, House Bill 1006 would help retain prosecuting attorneys and support competitive wages by creating a Public Prosecution Fund to help counties afford prosecution and public defender services.
“House Bill 1006 would make a once-in-a-generation investment toward the state’s criminal justice system,” Jeter stated. “The bill would support law and order by reimbursing qualified and participating counties up to 50 percent of the salary and benefits packages of deputy prosecutors to ensure Indiana’s courts and criminal justice system protect public safety and all Hoosiers.”
According to the Indiana Supreme Court, nearly all 92 Hoosier counties have fewer lawyers per capita than the national average.
House Bill 1006 also would create a prosecutor review board to examine prosecutors who refuse to prosecute criminal laws.
The proposal also would create the Special Prosecutor Unit to increase the number of qualified special prosecutors available to assist in cases involving conflicts of interest or requiring additional legal resources.
For more, visit iga.in.gov.
DISPATCH
NPD Summer Concert tickets — The Nickel Plate District Amphitheater, in partnership with MOKB Presents, has announced its first two ticketed concerts of 2025. Sam Barber will perform June 7 and Chase Rice will perform June 14. Public ticket sales for both concerts opened Feb. 14. For more, visit npdamp.com/188/Calendar-Tickets.
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Jeter
A life saver.
Colonoscopies don’t just detect cancer – they can prevent it.
Longtime public works director honored for commitment
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Eric Bryce Pethtel, 60, the longtime City of Fishers public works director, died Feb. 16 from lung cancer.
IN MEMORIAM
In a social media post honoring Pethtel, Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness said he was saddened to share the news.
“His commitment to our community over the past 34 years has been unshakeable and he continued to serve with steadfast dedication and dignity during his battle with cancer,” Fadness stated. “He was truly the unsung hero of our city, even continuing to plow snow during his cancer diagnosis to keep our roads safe and clear.”
generosity, including helpful advice to a homeowner planning renovations to their house, his commitment to Mudsock Youth Athletics and his support for Public Works Department staff.
According to his obituary on the Flanner Buchanan website, Pethtel was born Jan. 6, 1965, in Robinson, Ill. He graduated from Robinson High School in 1983 and then attended ITT Technical Institute in Indianapolis, where he earned an associates degree in electrical engineering.
Pethtel started his career in public works with the City of Indianapolis in 1987. He worked for City of Fishers from 1991 until his retirement this year and served on various nonprofit boards.
During his Feb. 5 State of the City address, Fadness said he had recently talked with Pethtel.
“One of his main concerns, I think this is true for anyone, is that he was afraid people would forget all the work that he did over the last 34 years,” Fadness said. “To put things in perspective, when Eric started, his first day was a groundbreaking for Holland Park — that’s how long Eric’s been serving in this community. Well, I heard loud and clear those concerns about being forgotten. So, Eric, today I wanted to let you know that we’re going to rename the Fishers Public Works complex, the Eric B. Pethtel Public Works Complex.”
Comments on the city’s social media post include memories of Pethtel’s
He met his wife, Lisa, in 2000 and they married on March 24, 2001, at Northview Christian Church in Carmel.
The obituary stated that one of his greatest joys was family time with the kids and becoming “Poppy” to his five grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife Lisa Pethtel; sons Payton Pethtel, Kyle Pethtel (Hailey), Cameron Collins, Tyler Pethtel (Lauren) and Trent Pethtel (Megan); daughter Lauren Anderson (Wesley); grandchildren Owen Anderson, Kolton Pethtel, Bryson Pethtel, Titus Pethtel and Margot Pethtel; mother Janis Bond; and sisters Michele Rhodarmer and Susan Pritchard.
The family requests memorial donations to GO2 for Lung Cancer, go2.org.
DISPATCHES
Fishers students earn Orr Fellowship — Four recent and upcoming college graduates from Fishers have been named to Orr Fellowship’s 2025 cohort. They are among 74 college seniors who were matched with Indiana-based partner companies to embark on a two-year fellowship upon graduation. Orr Fellowship is an early career development program that recruits, assesses and matches university graduates with Indiana businesses. The four Fishers students are Isabel Chalfant, Purdue University; Jack Kenny, Indiana University Bloomington; Olivia Lux, Indiana University Bloomington; and Kayla Malmquist, Taylor University.
Nickel Row groundbreaking set — Construction of 35 new townhomes will kick off March 5 with a groundbreaking ceremony for Indianapolis-based Onyx+East’s first community in Fishers, called Nickel Row. The new community, next to Holy Family Episcopal Church on Fishers Pointe Boulevard, will feature three-story townhomes designed for contemporary, low-maintenance living, according to an announcement from the developer. The development sits on about three acres close to downtown Fishers and adjacent to the Nickel Plate Trail.
Pethtel
PVF All-Star Match a hit
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Purdue University women’s volleyball coach Dave Shondell didn’t know exactly what to expect as one of the first Pro Volleyball Federation All-Star Match coaches.
VOLLEYBALL
“Give credit to a lot of people for putting on a first-class show,” Shondell said. “The Indianapolis franchise is amazing for what they are doing for the sport of volleyball.”
Shondell coached one All-Star team and Georgia Tech Coach Michelle Collier coached the other.
Team Shondell won by a total points score of 58-47 over Team Collier before a sellout crowd of 6,943 Feb. 22 at the Fishers Event Center. The two-hour event was broadcast on national television by CBS.
“For them to go out and play with the intensity and focus and the cohesion, it was just fun to be a part of,” Shondell said. “It was just a thrill.”
Setter Sydney Hilley, who played for Team Collier, was one of three Indy Ignite players in the game. She led all players with 14 assists
“It was an honor to be a part of this event and I think it was really well done,” Hilley said. “I think it was really cool to see my home franchise show out and have a sellout crowd for us.”
Dave Shondell with the All-Stars from the Pro Volleyball Federation All-Star Match. (Photo courtesy of Indy Ignite)
this can be for our players,” Collier said. “It was a fun opportunity for us to be around some great players. It was very organized. They were showing these players how much they mean to the league and putting them in a great scenario to have a great experience.”
Shondell’s brother, John, is an assistant coach for Indy Ignite and a former Purdue assistant coach. Another brother, Steve, is the former Ball State University women’s volleyball coach and Muncie Burris High School girls volleyball coach. His late father, Don Shondell, was the legendary coach of the Ball State men’s volleyball team.
Ignite opposite hitter Azhani Tealer had 10 kills for Team Shondell. Brooke Nuneviller, from the Omaha Supernovas, led the winning team with 11 kills.
Collier said she loves what the second-year league is doing to grow opportunities for athletes to play after college.
“I think we go back to our gym with a lot more experience and knowledge of what
“My father was one of the pioneers of the sport in this country,” said Dave Shondell, who has coached Purdue since 2003. “He passed away (four) years ago, but he saw it coming. He knew things were going to happen like this. To have this kind of league is just going to continue the evolution of the sport and that’s why it’s important. But certainly, personally, this is a big moment.”
In another boost to the Indiana volleyball scene, the IHSAA is adding boys volleyball as a sanctioned sport this spring.
Hilley
COMMUNITY Groups merge to form Fishers Youth Initiative
Youth Mentoring Initiative and Fishers Youth Assistance Program announced that they have partnered to form Fishers Youth Initiative, a new nonprofit focused on providing opportunities for Hamilton Southeastern School District students.
NONPROFIT
By merging, YMI and FYAP want to magnify their impact by serving more children and families through a comprehensive network of programs and services designed to help youth navigate life’s challenges, according to the announcement.
“Our shared mission has always been to support young people in our community,” stated Matt Schlueter, co-chair of the new FYI board. “After closely partnering on various initiatives in recent years, we saw an opportunity to partner more formally through this new nonprofit organization.”
YMI has provided student mentoring programs for several years, while FYAP has focused on early intervention referral services that connect youth and their families to resources.
“We are grateful for the support of the many volunteers, donors and key community partners who believe in the missions of both of our predecessor organizations,” FYI board co-chair Anderson Schoenrock stated. “We look forward to building on our past successes with an eye toward supporting Fishers youth for years to come.”
FYI will continue delivering the same programs its predecessors have provided. This includes YMI’s mentoring program, Snack Attack and the Summer Meals Program. Additionally, FYI will continue to work in collaboration with Early Intervention Advocates appointed by Hamilton County as part of the Youth Assistance Program.
A new brand and website will launch soon. In the interim, both organizations’ websites — ymionline.org and fishersyap. org — will continue to direct people to programs and referral links.
A public launch reception for Fishers Youth Initiative is set for 8 a.m. March 17 at the Fishers Municipal Center Theater. To register, visit bit.ly/4hFHnwR.
Fishers grad seeks spot on German squad
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Indiana University Indianapolis freshman basketball player Keenan Garner will likely get some international experience this summer.
BASKETBALL
The 2024 Fishers High School graduate, who helped lead the Tigers to the IHSAA Class 4A state championship last year, played for German club FC Kaiserslautern in the 2022 FIBA U16 European Championships. He said he hopes to play for the FIBA U19 World Cup in Switzerland or the FIBA U20 Eurobasket in Greece.
Garner lived for five years on a U.S. Army Base in Germany, where his father was stationed.
“I got to play on the German team and semi-pro team there,” he said. “I played on a high school team that played against other Army bases. I got to play against a variety of competition. It helped me to come play over here in high school.”
Garner said he’s in contact with a national team coach in Germany.
“Wherever he wants me to play this summer, I’ll play,” he said.
The 6-foot-6 Garner was born in Germany and his mother is German, so he has dual citizenship. His family moved to Baltimore when he was 6 months old and then later moved back to Germany. He moved to
Fishers prior to his junior season.
Now, he is adapting to the college game.
“With getting more game experience, I’m becoming more comfortable with my time on the court,” Garner said. “I’m really finding my role on the team. That’s the biggest area I’ve grown.”
Prior to the final two regular-season games remaining, Garner averaged 4.9 points and 4.6 rebounds per game. He had started 12 of 29 games for the Jaguars. He said he has been playing all spots on the floor.
“I’m really wherever he needs me at different times of the game,” Garner said of first-year coach Paul Corsaro.
Garner said the Jaguars (9-20) have improved their chemistry with each game.
“We are starting to get to know each other as people and that is starting to show on the court,” he said.
Garner said he wants to continue to work on his skills heading into his sophomore season.
“Ballhandling, shooting, making the right reads and just improving my game as a whole,” he said.
Garner, who also had offers from Wright State, Bradley University and Eastern Illinois University, said he believed he would have a good opportunity to play with the Jaguars.
“I thought I would get the opportunity to play my first year and stay local to the area,” he said.
Indiana University Indianapolis freshman Keenan Garner prepares to shoot a free throw. (Photo courtesy of IU Indy Athletics)
Carmel High School wrestler pins runner-up medal at state finals
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Carmel High School wrestling coach
Ed Pendoski compared senior Michael Major’s season to a snowball gaining momentum rolling downhill.
Major was getting back in shape after he injured his right shoulder in December 2023. He dislocated his shoulder and had labrum surgery.
“He was getting back in and starting to grind again. There were a bunch of speed bumps as he was going through the season,” Pendoski said. “He got it together. In December, he hit his stride and just had fun through the season. Michael did an amazing job of trusting progress, meaning there are days we have to go hard and days that are short, (so) we have to go even harder.”
Major finished with a 43-5 record, losing to Merrillville’s unbeaten Adrian Pellot in a 9-6 decision in the 165-pound championship match Feb. 22 at the IHSAA state finals at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Major edged Bloomington South’s Evan Roudebush 2-0 in the semifinals.
MICHAEL MAJOR
Favorite athlete: Jordan Burroughs
Favorite artist: Drake
Favorite class: Accounting
Favorite TV show: “Regular Show”
“The conversation with Michael after the championship match defined who he is,” Pendoski said. “I asked him how he feels. He said, ‘I’m happy. I wrestled hard. I didn’t win but I’m happy how the whole experience went.’ Carmel is such a competitive place. To watch a kid say that after he just lost in the finals, what a great example of wisdom. I might have learned from him after this and I’m the one (who’s)
supposed to be giving examples.”
Carmel High School senior wrestler Michael Major celebrates after his semifinal win in the 165-pound weight class.
(Photo courtesy of CHS wrestling)
Major said the season was an awesome experience.
“There were a lot of ups and a little down (results),” he said. “When I looked at my goals for this season, it was how I do it rather than a goal of, ‘I had to win this match.’ I looked at it like that and trusted the process through all the wrestling practices with my teammates and coaches. The culture in the Carmel wrestling room got me prepared for both days (of the finals). Win or lose, I just wanted to leave it all
out there and have fun. After the match, I thought of that. I did have a lot of fun and I felt like I left all I could out there.”
Major said it was hard not practicing after the injury as a junior.
“I worked on other stuff,” he said. “I was able to weightlift with other areas of my body. I just trusted things would work out. I was able to drill at 80 percent during the summer, and by the end of the summer, I was 100 percent.”
Major’s older brother, Robert, was second in the state finals at 160 pounds as a senior in 2021 and wrestles at Indiana University.
Major, who is still deciding where he wants to wrestle next season, lost in the first round at 132 pounds in the 2022 state finals. He placed fifth at 138 pounds in the state finals in 2023. He was wrestling at 150 pounds when he got injured last season. He finished his high school career with an 83-13 record.
“I felt really good and healthy at 165,” he said. “It wasn’t too little or too much.”
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@ youarecurrent.com.
Wildcats wrestler places 2nd
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Lawrence North High School junior Michael White has come a long way in a hurry. He had never wrestled before his freshman year.
SPORTS
“His freshman year he was below .500. I think (his record was) 15-17,” Wildcats coach Jacob Aven said. “Then he got sixth at state as a sophomore. He put in a lot of work over the summer, traveled all over the country, 15-plus states and was able to be runner-up as a junior.”
White won three matches before losing to Brownsbug’s Gunner Henry 15-6 in a major decision in the 190-pound class championship match at the IHSAA state finals Feb. 22 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. He defeated Maconaquah’s Ethan Farrell in an 8-5 decision in the semifinals.
White, who finished with a 47-3 record, said the key to reaching the final was “keeping a high pace and wrestling through positions and never giving up in my matches.”
White said he is eager to put in the work to win a state title next year.
Lawrence North junior Michael White finished state runner-up in the 190-pound IHSAA championship wrestling match. (Photo courtesy of Pure Impact Studios)
“I became a much more complete wrestler that can wrestle through positions and (my) confidence has improved as well,” White said of his biggest improvement.
Aven said White has an offer to continue his career at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and has drawn college interest from other schools, including Purdue University.
“He is willing to do whatever it takes to get to practices,” Aven said. “Walks to practices sometimes to make sure he’s there getting better.”
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DISPATCHES
Inpatient behavioral health hospitals planned — Community Health Network and Lifepoint Behavioral Health announced they have formed a joint venture to build and operate two new inpatient behavioral health hospitals in central Indiana, with specific locations to be determined. Construction on the two 120-bed hospitals is anticipated to begin in early 2026. For more, visit eCommunity.com.
Suicide prevention training offered — The Fishers Health Department is hosting “Talk Saves Lives,” a free suicide prevention training by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Participants will learn to recognize risk signs, support others and promote mental wellbeing in the community. The training is set for 5 to 6:30 p.m. March 26 at the Delaware Township Government Center. For more, visit health.fishersin.gov and scroll down to “upcoming events.”
Spring Break Camps offered — Fishers Parks is offering 2025 Spring Break Camps for April 7 through 11. For more, visit playfishers.com/683/Spring-Break-Camp.
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. Two previous scholarship winners now work for the Fishers Police Departmen. Cameron Theobald is a Fishers police officer and Jenna Burrow is a criminal forensics investigator. For more and to apply, visit FishersPoliceCorps.org. Applications are due by March 31.
Sailing camps open — Eagle Creek Sailing Club has scheduled four camps in June for ages 8 through 18 with certified instructors. Sailboats provided. For more, visit ecsail.org.
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.
LEFT BEHIND
Flanagan-Kincaid House deteriorates while city speeds forward
By Sara Palmer news@currentinfishers.com
Along the bustling I-69 corridor in Fishers sits the Flanagan-Kincaid House, a silent witness to the rapid changes reshaping the city around it. Its windows, shattered by rocks thrown from passing cars, offer a glimpse into the deterioration of a structure weathering the forces of time.
Built in 1861, the Italianate-style house has witnessed the transformation of Fishers from a small farming community to one of Indiana’s fastest growing suburban centers, representing a tangible connection to a time that no longer exists. As the city expands, the house faces an uncertain future — caught between the demands of progress and the weight of its own past.
Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness acknowledged the challenges the house presents.
“The city doesn’t really have any plans for it, and honestly, if a private entity were to come tomorrow and say, ‘We’d like to take the building over,’ that would be great,” he said.
In 2014, plans to relocate the house began with development at its original site — what’s now called Fishers District. Recognizing the home’s historical significance, preservation advocates, community members and local organizations rallied to save it. Hamilton County Tourism took a leading role, working alongside Nickel Plate Arts and other groups to secure funding and a new location.
Thompson Thrift, the developer of the property, contributed $20,000 toward the relocation, while Hamilton County Tourism launched a fundraising campaign, offering to match donations up to $45,000. In August of that year, the house was carefully moved to a temporary location on land donated by Navient, thus preventing its immediate destruction. The relocation was seen as a first step in a broader vision to repurpose the house as a community and cultural landmark.
In 2018, a plan for the house seemed within reach as preservation efforts gained traction. Hamilton County Tourism devel-
oped a plan to relocate it to a roundabout near an IKEA store, integrating it into the community as a cultural and historical asset. However, the plan stalled when the landowner for the proposed site decided to move its headquarters elsewhere and utility lines beneath the site complicated relocation efforts.
The house now sits on a valuable plot of land next to I-69, right in the path of Fish-
historic Flanagan-Kin-
ers’ rapid expansion. The house could be seen as standing in the way of progress. But to some, it represents an opportunity — a chance to meaningfully blend history with development.
Robert Bowling of the Fishers Historical Society acknowledged that tension.
”I don’t know if the city is as big on history as some of us are,” he said. “There’s been pushback when it comes to preserv-
STATE PRESERVATION GROUP WILLING TO HELP
Indiana Landmarks, a state preservation organization, would likely be involved in any major effort to save the Flanagan-Kincaid House. Although the group is not engaged in active preservation efforts for the building, the organization has heard interest from the public.
“When articles come out, people flood us with questions, asking what we’re going to do,” said Alex Brooks, community preservation specialist with Indiana Landmarks. “The public clearly cares about this house and I think that’s worth investigating — why this home in particular resonates with so many people.”
Although Indiana Landmarks has assisted with similar projects across the state, Brooks acknowledges the challenges.
“The biggest challenge in preserving a historic building like this isn’t just the structure itself — it’s the funding, the materials and the skilled labor needed to restore it properly,” Brooks said. “You don’t want to modernize it to the point where it loses its historic feel — but that level of preservation comes with a cost.”
Still, the organization is open to the possibility of helping if a viable plan emerges.
ing history. I get it — it’s about progress, sure, and I understand that, but you can’t get rid of all your history.”
Fadness echoed the challenge.
“Honestly, it really doesn’t fit the environment. It’s not like it can stay there and be part of that development,” he said. “Everything around it is modern and new. And even now, if you were to put it in that roundabout in front of the Fishers Event Center — it doesn’t fit architecturally. Eventually, all the buildings around it will be very modern and then you’re going to have this older building sitting right next to them. So, there really isn’t a plan right now.”
Opinions on what should be done with the house vary. Some believe it should be fully restored and repurposed as a historical museum, cultural center or event space. Others suggest relocating it to a different site, such as a park or historical district, where it could be preserved without hindering development.
“It would be wonderful if someone had the time and expertise to pull off saving the house, because it’s deteriorating and it’s only a matter of time, I suppose, before the roof and the walls begin to come in on it,” said Robert Kincaid, grandson of Loma and Hazel Kincaid, who bought the house in 1937. “My grandfather purchased it and, at that point, it had already been standing for quite some time. The Flanagans were the last ones before us and I still have the deed from when it was transferred on Dec. 2, 1934, at 4 p.m.”
Moving the structure presents financial and logistical challenges, though, leading some to wonder if demolition would be more practical. Time could make that decision on the community’s behalf — if no action is taken, the house may soon be too far gone to save.
For now, the Kincaid House remains abandoned, left to quietly deteriorate while the world speeds by on the highway.
ON THE COVER: The 1861 Flanagan-Kincaid House is deteriorating as no clear plans to restore or preserve it have emerged.
(Photo by Sara Palmer)
The
caid House off I-69 in Fishers. It was moved there in 2014 to make room for development. (Photo by Sara Palmer)
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Kilwins Fishers officially open Bubbakoos opens first Indianapolis restaurant
ICE CREAM
Despite below-freezing temperatures and plenty of snow on the ground, a group of hardy Midwestern icecream fans packed the Kilwins Fishers ice cream shop off 116th Street for the grand opening celebration of the new business.
Owner Adam Kallick said they opened in late November in The Station at Fishers District, but put off on the ribbon-cutting ceremony until February in hopes of better weather.
“That didn’t happen, but that’s OK,” he laughed, adding that running the store has been fun. “Our team is awesome. We’ve got a great store manager, great team leaders and we’ve got about 18 parttime high school kids, which — they’ve been awesome.”
Kallick said the journey started when he visited a Kilwins in Fort Wayne and knew Fishers needed one. He did a little research, he said, and, “here we are, two years later.”
Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness and
members of the Fishers City Council were present for the ribbon-cutting, organized by OneZone Chamber of Commerce. Fadness said it was one of the best-attended ribbon-cutting ceremonies he’d seen in a while.
“You’ve got to feed the masses, and I appreciate that you’re doing it,” he said. “It just speaks to the vibrancy and the dynamic components of this development and everything that’s going on.”
For more, visit the store’s Facebook, facebook.com/kilwinsfishers, or Instagram instagram.com/kilwinsfishers.
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Diners on the north side of Indianapolis have another new restaurant option after the Feb. 11 opening of Bubbakoos Burritos, which offers a made-to-order, Mexican-fusion menu.
FOOD
Director of Marketing Ben Grannick said the new store in the Clearwater Crossing shopping center, 3826 E. 82nd. St., is the first Indianapolis site for the franchise, which was founded in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, by Paul Altero and Bill Hart.
“We really are a create-your-own, Mexican-style, quick-service restaurant,” Grannick said. “We have a suggested menu board of our Killer Creations, which are fan favorites, as well as new menu innovations. So, if customers aren’t too familiar with what they can get, we have a list of recommended entrees and burritos and quesadillas, but customers can come in and order whatever they want. Everything
is made to order.”
Bubbakoos puts more than Mexican-style ingredients into its burritos. Grannick said they offer Asian-inspired burritos, as well, such as a hibachi steak and shrimp burrito and a General Tso’s crispy chicken burrito, and American classics like a Philly cheesesteak burrito. They also have “Chiwawas,” which are fried cheesy rice balls filled with toppings of the customer’s choice.
For more, visit bubbakoos.com.
Lawrence is the perfect place to live, work, and play! From the historic charm of Fort Ben to the scenic beauty of Indian Lake, Lawrence offers something for everyone. With affordable housing, top-rated schools, and a warm, welcoming community, Lawrence is where history and opportunity come together.
A crowd of ice cream and chocolate fans gathered Feb. 21 at Kilwins off 116th Street in Fishers for the store’s ribbon-cutting ceremony. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
Bubbakoos Burritos is open in the Clearwater Crossing shopping center. (Photo courtesy of Bubbakoos)
A call for honesty in politics County is bipartisan
Editor,
As a pediatrician in Fishers, I have dedicated my life to caring for children — our future. In medicine, honesty is non-negotiable. Shouldn’t the same standard apply to those entrusted with leading our communities and nations?
Politics today is rife with deception. Leaders make false promises to gain votes, manipulate facts to push agendas and distort reality to maintain power. But history teaches us that dishonesty leads to instability, division and, ultimately, societal decline.
The Holy Prophet of Islam (peace be upon him) was known as Al-Sadiq (the Truthful) and Al-Amin (the Trustworthy), setting the highest standard of integrity. He taught that truthfulness leads to righteousness, while falsehood leads to ruin. Similarly, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (peace be upon him), the founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, warned that lies erode trust and destroy nations. The current head of the Ahmadiyya Community has urged world leaders to embrace honesty, emphasizing that without truth, there can be no peace.
Imagine if today’s leaders embraced the same philosophy of truthfulness that we expect in medicine. Trust would be restored, policies would be transparent and progress would be genuine.
If politicians truly wish to serve humanity, they must uphold truth. As a physician, I know that honesty saves lives. In politics, it could save nations.
Dr. Naseer Syed, Fishers
Editor,
Not long ago, Hamilton County was a GOP stronghold with uncontested general election races. Today, we are achieving political balance — a quality of good government that serves people well. Although Democrats haven’t yet achieved all the hoped-for Hamilton County election victories, there are many facts that prove our county is undeniably bipartisan.
MSNBC highlighted Hamilton County as one of the top 10 counties in the nation that shifted most to Democrats. The New York Times reported that we are one of only 319 counties in the country that did not increase Trump support. Notably, the Democratic presidential candidate won both Carmel and Fishers for the very first time in 2024.
This momentum is not simply the result of our growing population. This consistent shift is the result of hard work from local Democratic volunteers and stronger Democratic candidates.
For the first time in 20 years, Indiana’s Democratic gubernatorial candidate won Hamilton County cities. Democratic incumbent State Rep. Victoria Garcia-Wilburn decisively won reelection.
The Hamilton County Democratic Party launched its largest countywide Get Out The Vote campaign ever in 2024. This campaign was activated by over 235 volunteers across the county to reach 44,000 Hamilton County Democratic voters.
For more about the Hamilton County Democratic Party, visit hamcodemsin.org.
Jocelyn Vare, Fishers, is the chairperson of the Hamilton County Democratic Party
CHS junior set for five-song release party
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Carmel High School junior Tege Holt’s mission came into focus when he started working with Blair Clark’s Artist Development Co.
“We found what my brand was and where we went from that,” Holt said. “We’ve come a long way from where I was last year playing a bunch of smaller (solo) shows. Now this year, we’re booking all band gigs.”
Holt and his band will debut five original songs on a new EP at 7 p.m. March 20 at an official release party at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The first single, “Play the Part,” will drop March 21.
“Tege has played as a solo artist and written great songs, and we were really looking to take him to the next level,” said Clark, who opened his new Artist Development Studio in Carmel last fall.
Clark has a connection with musicians from John Mellencamp’s band. They played five songs at The Vogue in July 2024 with three cover songs and two original songs by Holt.
“The band members were impressed with his maturity, his playing ability, his vocals and songwriting,” Clark said.
Clark said Holt then started writing more songs ahead of the recording session in Nashville, Tenn.
“He’s got a phenomenal gift of being able to write songs and tell stories,” Clark said.
Clark and Holt worked with producer Michael Whitaker on the project. They recorded in October 2024 at The Speakeasy Recording Studio and Velvet Cinema Studio with engineer Elliott Didur. Joining Holt were Chris Condon, lead guitar; Dan Needham, drums; James Gregory, bass; Carl Miner, acoustic guitar; and Whittaker, piano, B3 organ.
“Chris Conlon has played with Jason Aldean and Billy Ray Cyrus,” Holt said. “Carl Miner played with Luke Combs.”
Clark said it’s the second time he’s managed a country artist. Besides cre-
ative and musical ability, Clark said Holt has a lot of knowledge about technology and marketing.
“These days you have to be as much a marketer as a musician,” Clark said.
An example of that is his “Play the Part” single.
“The first song is about me moving from the country to the city and just a fun song about that,” Holt said. “It mentions jam that I used to make with my grandma. We have jam that is commercially made. If people wear my merch to the show, they will get a free jam.”
Holt has three songs out on steaming sites. He released “Irish Found” in March 2024, which led to an appearance on a South Bend TV station.
“I would guess at this time next year he will be playing in other states and
maybe other countries,” Clark said. “He’s got that kind of power and got that kind of energy.”
Holt, who turns 18 in May, plans to graduate early in December.
“I plan to go full force into music and see how far we go with it from there. The sky’s the limit,” he said.
Clark said Holt has a passion for music and writing songs.
“I wrote my first song when I was 5. It probably wasn’t a great song,” he said. “The first song I released was when I was in sixth grade and that call was ‘Reason to Believe.’”
Holt said the song is no longer on streaming sites but he has made a country version of it.
For more, visit tegeholt.com. For tickets, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘JERSEY BOYS’
“Jersey Boys” runs through April 13 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
‘PRIDE AND PREJUDICE’
Carmel Community Players’ production of “Pride and Prejudice” runs through March 9 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Johnny Folsom 4: A Tribute to Johnny Cash” is set for 7:30 p.m. March 6, followed by “Angel of Music: A Salute to the Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber” at 7:30 p.m. March 7-8, and a “Touch of Grass: A Bluegrass Bunch” at 1 p.m. March 9 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
THE STEPCREW
The StepCrew, featuring dance forms, is set for 8 p.m. March 7 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts at Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
STEELY DAN TRIBUTE
“Brooklyn Charmers: A Steely Dan Tribute” is set for 8 p.m. March 7 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts at Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘MIXED
REP’
Central Indiana Dance Ensemble will present “Mixed Rep” at 4 p.m. March 9 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts at Carmel. For more, visit cidedanceorg.
DISPATCH
Japanese musical troupe to perform in Carmel — Benten-ya, the renowned chindon troupe from Nagoya, Japan, will perform at 7 p.m. March 6 at the Studio Theater at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The program is presented by the Japan-America Society of Indiana, with support from the Japan Foundation and the Indiana Japan Chamber. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
MUSIC
From left, Blair Clark and Tege Holt in Clark’s Artist Development Studio in Carmel. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)
SPRING SESSION
This spring, we are offering themed 6-week sessions for students grades 1-8. Each session will focus on developing creative skills while using songs and other materials related to the theme.
FINS & TALES Grades 1-3 | Tuesdays
MONSTERS
& OGRES & WIZARDS, OH MY! Grades 4-5 | Thursdays
VILLAINS Grades 6-8 | Saturdays
‘Curious Incident’ set
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Ozzy Heath seemed a natural for the role of Christopher in Civic Theatre’s production of “The Curious Incident of The Dog in the Night-Time.”
PLAY
After all, Heath had already portrayed Christopher in Lebanon High School’s production in 2023. The Civic Theatre presentation runs March 14 to March 29 at the Studio Theater at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
“(The high school show) was the first time I ever got to play a big part, so I kind of want to do that show again,” Heath said. Heath plays a math genius who might be on the autism spectrum, although it is not stated.
“I don’t think I could change (the portrayal) a lot even if I wanted to,” Heath said. “There are some aspects of the character that I formed two years ago that will carry over.”
take itself like 100 percent serious all the time. That’s my favorite part about it. There are jokes sprinkled throughout that I think are very funny.”
The story begins with Christopher seeking to find who killed his neighbor’s dog.
Director Jay Hemphill said the plot is about many things.
Heath said he didn’t want to play a caricature of someone on the spectrum.
“You definitely want to remain sensitive and knowledgeable about the subject,” Heath said. “I love how the play doesn’t
“It’s a coming-of-age story,” he said. “it’s an adventure. It’s a murder mystery. It’s a dramedy, but what it comes (down) to, it’s a story about just being different and how society deals or does not deal with that.”
The play contains profanity, animal cruelty and adult themes. For more, visit civictheatre.org.
Country artist plans debut
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Hank Ruff is eager to introduce his music to a new audience.
CONCERT
Hank Ruff and the Hellbenders will perform at 7:30 p.m. March 11 in the Live at the Center series at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. It’s Ruff’s first appearance at the Center.
song EP released in 2022.
Ruff will bring his six-piece band to The Tarkington.
“It’s country music with a saxophone,” Ruff said.
“What is cool about this show is it is going to be all original music and all songs we don’t need licensing from anyone else to play,” he said. “It’s not too often we do a show where we are not doing any cover tunes. Even at a show where we do mostly original songs, we throw in a couple of my favorite songs.”
A Bloomington native, Ruff, 25, attended Indiana University and now splits time living in Bloomington and Nashville, Tenn. Ruff has released several songs on streaming sites. “Hellbender” is a four-
Ruff said his band has performed at Nickel Plate Amphitheater in Fishers and Hi-Fi Indy several times. The group played approximately 70 shows last year.
“We’ve done a few theater shows, but not regularly,” Ruff said. “It’s always fun to change it up and it’s much more fun to play in a listening-type venue than a rowdy bar or a club type of scene.”
Many of Ruff’s songs were co-written with his father, Andrew Ruff, who has his own band, the Dew Daddies.
“More than half of the songs my dad and I wrote together,” Ruff said. His band plays more old-school, honky-tonk country than I do.
Tickets are $10. Those interested in the free livestream can register at thecenterpresents.org.
From left, cast members Jean Childers Arnold, Ozzy Heath and Eric Reiberg. (Photo courtesy of Joshua Hasty)
Ruff
Blueprint for Improvement: Elevated Indianapolis kitchen makeover
Commentary by Larry Greene
The owners of this 1994 builder-grade kitchen in northside Indianapolis’ Bolander Woods neighborhood loved its natural brightness but dreamed of a more polished, contemporary look. With updates like a custom hood, expanded island and clever storage solutions, we brought their vision to life, blending modern glamor with everyday practicality.
THE BLUEPRINT
• A striking custom-designed range hood takes center stage, combining elegance and functionality to anchor the space.
• The backsplash adds character and flair, seamlessly tying in gold accents with the range hood and fixtures.
• The new sink includes smart inserts — such as a cutting board, bins, strainer and dish rack — that slide into designated slots, making meal prep and cleanup effortless.
• Custom cabinet features, like a built-in mixer lift, spice drawers and a cutlery organizer, enhance storage and efficiency.
• By reshaping the island, we added seating and expanded countertop space, creating a more practical and inviting layout for cooking and hosting.
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.
Discover the ideal solution for homeowners in and around Hamilton and Boone Counties seeking assistance with their projects. This comprehensive guide will publish on March 25 and it connects you with the perfect company to bring your visions to life. Reach all 131,191 households in Carmel, Fishers, Geist, Noblesville, North Indy, Westfield, and Zionsville through U.S. Mail at a single, affordable price. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to showcase your offerings to a wide audience and help homeowners bring their projects to fruition. For advertisings opportunities by email ads@youarecurrent.com or call 317.489.4444
Space reservations due: Ad content due: Advertorial content due: March 14 March 17 March 17
Across
1. Indianapolis Motor Speedway track shape
5. Butler frat letter
10. WFYI documentary series
13. Unimportant legislation in the Indiana Senate?
15. Before, in verse 16. Canada Dry offerings
17. Lubricate
18. Col. Lilly
19. Showed disdain
21. Mellencamp guitar attachment
24. Thumbs-up
26. Tour of duty
27. Lowly worker
29. WTTV military drama
32. Has a burger at The Friendly Tavern
33. Skirt fold
35. Stomach woe
37. Nickname for Herb Simon, maybe?
40. Replies to an invitation, briefly
41. “You betcha!”
44. 6-Down group
47. Ollie’s sidekick
49. Animal shelter
50. “___ of a Salesman”
52. Nevertheless 54. IU profs’ aides
55. Lebanon’s locale
58. Sounds of hesitation
60. Ill. neighbor
61. Excessive
66. ___ Fridays
67. Hamilton County Auditor...and an anagram of 13- and 37-Across
68. Zionsville-to-Louisville dir.
69. Used a broom
70. Treaty Down
1. Texter’s “Wow!”
2. Seven on a grandfather clock
3. Fashion Mall store: ___ Taylor
4. Seating level
5. Pacers coach, 2007-10
6. “Mamma ___!”
7. Right-angle shapes
8. Word after Meadows, Fox and Oakmont on a Noblesville map
9. Beasts of burden
10. Eighth largest city in Illinois and Arizona
11. “Murder on the ___ Express”
12. African grasslands
14. Depend (on)
20. Everlasting
21. iPhone download
22. Pacers Hall of Famer Daniels
23. James Whitcomb Riley lines
25. Work on a bust at Herron School of Art
28. Record an audiobook
30. “That’s for sure!”
31. ___-fi
34. Atlanta-based cable channel
36. Long, long time
38. Riverview Health hookups, briefly
39. RBI or ERA at Victory Field
42. Cloak-and-dagger org.
43. Lots of mins.
44. Lets in 45. They may be human or extraterrestrial
46. Villain, informally
48. “You ___ worry”
51. Whiskers
53. Fishers Barber Shop offering
56. Chris Wright winter forecast
57. Words before and after “or not” in a Shakespeare play
59. Quick cut
ESTIMATES
Locally Owned/operated over 43 Years
www.jayspersonalservices.com
DONATION DRIVE: SOCCER
FIRST FINANCIAL BANK CARMEL
FEBRUARY 10 THRU MARCH 10
Soccer is the bridge to community. Your donation of new or gently used soccer balls, gloves, hats, and scarves could help families at Exodus Refugee stay active, warm, and connected.
FIRST FIINANCIAL BANK Carmel Branch Only. 751 City Center Dr Carmel, IN 46032 317-581-5120 M-F 9:00-5:00
Immediate opening for full time dental laboratory technician. Experience preferred, but not required. Candidates must have artistic ability, moderate computer skills, excellent work ethic and eager to learn. Position offers full benefit package Please forward inquiries and resume: khunterlab@gmail.com
of prjcts to dvlp & lnch elctrcl pwr assstd steerng gears (EPAS). Req’s Bachelor’s in Mechanical or Mechatronics Eng or clsly rel fld & 2 yrs exp in an automtve env. Up to 30% U.S. &/or int’l travel req’d. Position may telecommute from home office location w/in reasonable commuting distance of Fishers, IN up to 2 days per wk. Mail resume to J. Linn, thyssenkrupp Presta North America, LLC, 1597 East Industrial Drive, Terre Haute, IN 47802 or email resume to john.linn@thyssenkrupp-automotive.com
