Boone County Magazine July 2023

For advertising information, contact:

PUBLISHER BRANDON BALTZ Brandon@townepost.com 317.514.9522

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC.

FOUNDER/CEO

TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com 317.496.3599

PRESIDENT

JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com 317.810.0011

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

ERIN TURK

CREATIVE DIRECTORS

TONI EADS VAL AUSTIN

COPY EDITORS

JON SHOULDERS

NATALIE PLATT

6

15

15

HECK OF A HOBBY

95-year-old Ernie Taylor’s Sculptures Reflect Pure Artistic Enjoyment

18 FOR CLUB AND COMMUNITY Eric Richards Named CEO of Boys & Girls Club of Boone County

20 A BOON FOR BUSINESS New Zionsville Chamber Director Brings Experience and Excitement to the Table

REAL-TIME ANALYTICS Scan the QR code to see this magazine’s real-time reach and distribution numbers.

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038

Phone/Text: 317-810-0011

‘CUE THE FLAVOR Mike Baran of Parky’s Smokehouse Dishes on Five-Plus Years of Delicious Ownership 10 TAKING THE CAKE Zionsville Bake Shop Owners Make Every Batch Count 12 CELEBRATING 150 YEARS OF HISTORY At Conner Prairie

22 THE THIN LINE SPOTLIGHT

26 ECHOES OF SUCCESS Echo Room Is Contributing to Lebanon’s Downtown Appeal

30 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT™ Bridge of Flowers

KEY CONTRIBUTORS

FOR FRANCHISE INFORMATION, VISIT franchising.townepost.com

‘Cue the Flavor

MIKE BARAN OF PARKY’S SMOKEHOUSE DISHES ON FIVE-PLUS YEARS OF DELICIOUS OWNERSHIP

Parky’s Smokehouse has been attracting visitors with the scent of smoked meats and barbecue for the last 17 years. The locally owned business keeps guests coming back for more of their American-style menu, with a focus on barbecue in a relaxed environment. Melanie and Mike Baran have owned the restaurant since 2018.

“We purchased Parky’s because we like the concept, people and the food,” Mike Baran says. “We were looking to create a microbrew and barbecue chain concept, but COVID came in and slowed down this plan.”

Baran says Parky’s offers a wide variety of homemade sauces, rubs, dressings, sides and desserts. Parky’s award-winning Barbecue Chili is a unique spin on a classic, combining homemade barbecue chili with pulled pork. The chili took home the title at the Trinity Lutheran Church Chili Cook Off in 2005 and 2010. Another unique menu item is the Colorful Corn and Black Bean Salsa. Baran says guests can purchase this by the pint and quart. The Dippers and Beer Cheese is also popular, with bite-sized,

fried potato scoops, creamy cheddar cheese, spices, and an American amber ale.

For those who aren’t fans of barbecue, Parky’s also offers signature steaks from a single-source supplier out of Greeley, Colorado. This provides consistency in quality and flavor. Additional steak enhancements include coffee crusted, cajun style, garlic butter or bourbon glazed. Baran says he knows not everyone is a meat eater, so the menu has several vegetarian options including a veggie quesadilla and Impossible burger.

Parky’s has four homemade barbecue sauces for guests to choose from to complement their meal - Spicy Chipotle, Honey Apple, Bourbon Sauce and Sweet Sauce. Baran says the honey apple is a Parky’s original concept. The Sugar Cream Pie was voted Best Sugar Cream Pie in Indy by the Indy A-List. The Comfort Bread Pudding With Praline Sauce will make guests want to share the love.

Baran says every meat is smoked in-house, including pulled pork, sliced brisket,

pulled chicken, pork butt, baby back ribs or smoked turkey breast. Baran says the time it takes to smoke the meats results in a delicious meal for the guests. One unique spin on barbecue is the Hawaiian Pulled Pork Sandwich, which includes pineapple, provolone and hardwood smoked bacon on pulled pork, finished with Parky’s Sweet Sauce.

Parky’s also offers catering, delivery and private events. The catering menu includes smoked meats, wings, salads, drinks, breads, desserts and sides, including Barbecue Baked Beans, Creamy Coleslaw, Barbecue Chips, Smokehouse Potato Salad and more.

“We do have a patio out back for guests to enjoy,” Baran says. “We also offer semiprivate dining for corporate events, rehearsal dinners and large parties. With catering, guests can either have the food delivered or pick it up.”

During the shutdown of 2020, Baran decided to scale back hours and invest in virtual kitchens. A virtual kitchen is a food delivery or pickup service, and is a separate

Writer / Renee Larr

Photographer / Krystal Dailey

food vendor operating out of an existing kitchen. Baran created The Smoked Wing House.

“We sell smoked wings with nine different rubs and sauces including Buffalo, Honey Garlic, Bourbon, Honey Apple, Spicy Chipotle, Sweet, Mango Habanero, Gary’s Sweet Rub, and Six Pepper Dry Rub,” he says. “It’s all made from our kitchen, but is another added business venture.”

While Parky’s needed to scale back on hours due to staffing issues, the restaurant is open for select holidays such as Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, providing a special menu.

Parky’s offers its most loyal fans a VIP rewards program where guests earn one point for every $1 they spend, and receive a $10 discount for every 200 points they redeem while dining in the restaurant.

Parky’s is located at 2479 North Lebanon Street in Lebanon. For more information, call 765-482-1646 or visit parkyssmokehouse.com.

Paul’s circle of support.

We never stop searching for ways to move cancer treatment forward. You'll have access to advanced therapy options for oncology — including select Phase I clinical trials. With leading-edge cancer care, your circle of support just got stronger.

Learn more at eCommunity.com/cancer

TAKING THE CAKE

ZIONSVILLE BAKE SHOP OWNERS MAKE EVERY BATCH COUNT

Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Krystal Dailey

A love of baking, catering and event planning, plus a heart for small business, are what led friends Emilie Ritchie and Rachel Vining to combine talents and open Zionsville Bake Shop. Located in the Stonegate neighborhood, the community and beyond have welcomed this brand-new business with open arms. Its scrumptious baked goods delight customers daily, but the bakery cafe also offers an event space and off-site catering.

Chamber of Commerce,” Vining says. “We decided to combine our strengths and open the business. Emilie has been catering for 15 years and her baking is second to none. We are in a neighborhood of 300 houses. This space was the best fit for us. It has atmosphere, but also a separate room with plenty of space for up to 50 people. It’s perfect for any celebration like a birthday, shower or an anniversary.”

The inviting decor of the bakery cafe is the

result of merging both women’s styles. It’s a marriage of modern design and vintage romance. Reupholstered antiques mingle with contemporary lines, and sleek black velvet plays off the ambience of black tablecloths.

Customers rave about Ritchie’s cinnamon butter Danishes, but they enjoy all the offerings in the bakery case such as cupcakes, decorated sugar cookies, and other pastries. There is plenty of seating

sandwiches on gluten-free bread, can be special-ordered. Cakes available include the usual flavors, but also unexpected ones such as Green Velvet, a nod to the Zionsville Community High School colors, and Funfetti. Everything is handmade such as the buttercream frosting and fillings like chocolate ganache, lemon and more.

Catering menus can be found on Zionsville Bake Shop’s website. Included are hors d’oeuvres such as charcuterie and mini quiches. Side-dish offerings include various salads plus crowdpleasing macaroni with cheese. There are fun entrées that feature tacos, shredded pork, Italian beef and a baked potato bar. Besides cookies, cupcakes and brownies, seasonal cobblers and banana pudding are sweet options.

For those wanting to host an event, there are several different packages with value built into them. A $500 party for up to 16 people includes a sign, balloon centerpieces, cupcakes for participants to decorate, plus a keepsake baking kit for each participant. The highest-level package is a large event for 40 people featuring charcuterie, a buffet meal, and sweets that include cake and themed sugar cookies, for $1,900. In addition, add-ons such as a champagne toast or beverage packages are available.

“Our biggest surprise is the level of demand,” Ritchie says. “We didn’t anticipate it. People want what we have. We want people to come in and have a wonderful experience.”

“It’s been a wild ride so far, in the best way possible,” Vining says. “The amount of support in the community has been fantastic so far.”

Zionsville Bake Shop is located at 7629 West Stonegate Drive in Zionsville. To special-order, call 317-768-3133 or email info@zionsvillebakeshop.com. Visit zionsvillebakeshop.com, and view them on Facebook and Instagram.

Celebrating 150 YEARS OF HISTORY

Known as one of the best living history museums in the country, Conner Prairie is demonstrative of Fishers’ history and Indiana history as a whole. The museum was built around the home of William Conner, a prominent politician and negotiator who was one of the first white men to settle in this area.

William Conner lived an interesting life and played a significant role in the development of the land that would become Fishers. Born in 1777 near Lichtenau, Ohio, William grew up familiar with Native Americans. His family lived with Moravians, Protestant missionaries, and the Delaware Indians. The Conner family followed when the Moravians and the Delaware were forced to move to Michigan. William’s father was a trader and established a trading post where they moved to Michigan. Following their father’s footsteps, William and his brother moved to Indiana in 1800-1801 to become fur traders.

Both of the Conner sons married into the Delaware and settled among the tribe. William and his wife, Mekinges, built a log cabin and a trading post on the White River. Despite making his family among the Delaware, William still assisted the U.S. government throughout the War of 1812. He worked as a spy, kept the Delaware loyal to the government, and even identified Chief Tecumseh’s body after the Battle of the Thames.

William became well-known for his negotiating skills. Having experience with both white settlers and Native Americans allowed him to find compromises between the groups. As the white settlers pushed further out West, William played a prominent role in convincing the native tribes to leave their homeland. His most significant impact came from his participation in the Treaties of St. Mary’s. This included six treaties with the distinct tribes controlling much of Indiana, all completed in the fall of 1818 in St. Mary’s, Ohio.

In an ironic turn of events, the treaties negotiated by William caused most of the Delaware tribe to be forced out of Indiana, including his wife, Mekinges, and their six children. Shortly after, he remarried with 17-year-old Elizabeth Chapman. Their home, the Conner house, was built in 1823 and quickly became a center for the community. William continued to increase his position and was a prominent landowner and businessman in Hamilton County. Along with Josiah Polk, William platted the towns of Noblesville, Alexandria and Strawtown.

From 1829 to 1837, William served in the state legislature for Indiana. He also helped to found the Indiana Historical Society and continued his work as an interpreter/ negotiator. With Elizabeth, William had 10 other children. In 1855, William passed away, and the Conner house was left to his descendants.

After being sold by his descendants in 1871, the Conner house passed through

Dairy Barns at Conner Prairie Farms, 1940

multiple hands and was largely neglected before being bought in 1934 by Mr. Eli Lilly. Lilly was the grandson of Colonel Eli Lilly, the founder of Eli Lilly and Co. Lilly was the then president of the pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly and Co. and had a passion for history.

He worked to restore the house and develop the surrounding area into Conner Prairie Farm. In addition, Lilly added a still house, a loom house and a trading post. He opened the site to the public and allowed the space

to be used for historical reenactments.

In 1964, Lilly passed Conner Prairie onto Earlham College but continued to provide financial support. The college decided to expand the museum, and in the early 1970s, museum director Myron Vourax and folklorist Henry Glassie developed a living history village. The village, Prairietown, opened in 1974 and depicted life in 1836.

In 2005, the museum gained independence from Earlham College, and the two

institutions split the endowment granted by Lilly. Since then, the museum has continued to grow. With the Conner house remaining as a central site, Conner Prairie has become one of the country’s largest and most successful living history museums.

The City of Fishers continues celebrating its Sesquicentennial, marking 150 years of incorporation, through June 2023! Visit ThisIsFishers.com/Fishers150 for blog posts, podcasts, historical information and details on Sesquicentennial programming.

Eli Lilly at Prairietown Opening, 1974

William Conner Portrait

HECK OF A HOBBY

95-YEAR-OLD ERNIE TAYLOR’S SCULPTURES REFLECT PURE ARTISTIC ENJOYMENT

Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Krystal Dailey

For several decades, people traveling between Zionsville and Westfield on State Road 32 have been treated to a visual extravaganza of metal sculptures and whimsical yard art. The man behind it all is 95-year-old Ernie Taylor. His wife, Dottie, who passed away in 2019, had an aversion to going far from home. So Taylor made the best of it by turning their 25-acre hobby farm into a roadside showplace.

“We’ve got kind of a museum here,” Taylor says. “My wife wasn’t a good traveler. Instead of looking at a big, beautiful valley, she would be a nervous wreck. So I stayed busy doing other things. I started using old farm machinery, and at first I made small things like birds out of old shovels and alligators from files. The only problem was, if I made one of something, I’d have to make a dozen to give to relatives. It was fun.”

“I would buy things not knowing what I would do with them,” he continues. “We would go to tractor shows, flea markets and auctions, bringing a lot of good stuff back.

Once, we went to one in Shelbyville and bought 200

spoons tied up in a bow. People said, ‘What are you going to do with them?’ I knew I’d think of something, and I ended up turning them into tulips.”

After retiring from being a welder, Taylor tackled bigger projects. Some of the most spectacular pieces on his property are the dinosaurs he crafted. He says it took him four or five years of driving around looking for parts before he got what he wanted to assemble them.

When asked which sculpture turned out to be surprising to him, Taylor says it’s a colorful globe. He was at an auction when he found a large metal framework and tank that had been used to take liquid fertilizer out to farm fields. After purchasing it for $10, he considered making it a big golf ball. Then it hit him that it would make a perfect globe.

Another of his favorites is a bird with legs made from shovels, a body from bicycle parts and a head from an old sickle mower machine. Through the years many people have approached Taylor about buying his creations. No money has ever passed hands.

other people to enjoy and I did give a lot away over the years,” he says. “If I had made them to sell, it would be work and not a hobby. Plus, people think that just because I make things out of old stuff, I wouldn’t charge much. They don’t realize what it costs in gas to bring the stuff in, and the time of welding parts together.”

Besides building sculptures, Taylor has delighted in having a couple of other hobbies in his life. One is playing the guitar. Although it was something he wanted to do most of his life, it did not come easy to him.

“I was 72 years old before I learned how to play,” he says. “I couldn’t get my right hand to do it. I couldn’t get the rhythm. One day I was listening to a friend play, and he handed me his guitar. He taught me ‘Old Rattler,’ a song about an old dog. It had just two chord changes. I hit that lick and the rhythm was there. I went out and bought a Fender guitar and for 20 years, up until COVID, I entertained at Signature HealthCARE at Parkwood nursing home every Friday.”

Another of Taylor’s favorite things to do is share poetry by reciting it when the

sister passed away, Gunn’s poem “Fretting” brought him comfort. The gist is that when the beauty of nature is seen, God, who made it, will take care of the person who is worrying.

Taylor was born in Pixley Knob, which is right outside of Henryville in Clark County. The youngest of six children, he grew up without running water or electricity. His parents instilled in him the value of hard work and, above all, friendship.

“I’ve slowed down quite a bit,” he says. “Things take more time and I don’t have as much energy. I have an idea for another dinosaur, but even though I still get around and do things like mow my own grass, it’s a big effort. The things I’ve made, I did for our friends and for people to enjoy. I still enjoy people and life is good.”

Taylor then mentions a sign on his hobby

farm with the following: “There’s a miracle called friendship that dwells within the heart, and you don’t know how it happens and how it gets its start, but the happiness it brings you gives you a special lift, and you realize the happiness it gives you is God’s most precious gift.”

Taylor’s 25-acre hobby farm is located at 10985 East State Road 32 in Zionsville.

FOR CLUB AND COMMUNITY

ERIC RICHARDS NAMED CEO OF BOYS & GIRLS CLUB OF BOONE COUNTY

Writer / Amy Adams

Eric Richards describes himself as a “club kid,” having grown up spending time at the Boys & Girls Club (BGC) of Johnson County in Franklin.

“Even at a young age, it was very important to me to give back,” Richards says.

He fondly recalls his elementary school’s yearly canned-food drive, when he would pull his wagon door to door throughout his neighborhood filling it with donations.

Now, with 24 years of experience in the nonprofit world, Richards has come to the Boys & Girls Club of Boone County as the new CEO. He holds a master’s degree in philanthropic studies from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University, and most recently served as president and CEO of Cancer Support Community Indiana for nine years.

“I’m bringing my executive experience and fundraising experience,” Richards says. “Plus, I live in Boone County. My kids go to school here. I really want the chance to give back and become entrenched in the community.”

With three locations in Zionsville, Whitestown and Lebanon, BGC Boone serves a diverse group of young people between the ages of 5 and 18.

“We want parents to know that there’s an affordable place to send their kids,” Richards says. “It’s structured. It’s not a free-for-all. And moms and dads who work can know their kids are going to a safe place.”

During the school year, the club offers before-school and afterschool programs. BGC Boone is also known for its sports programs, particularly basketball, which serves approximately 700 kids with

fall and winter leagues.

During summer break, BGC Boone kicks into overdrive, staying open from at least 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. This year, summer camp takes kids “Around the World in 40 Days,” including activity rotations with games, gym, art and more.

With themes like “Safari” and “Wet and Wild Waterpark,” BGC Boone also offers weeklong specialty camps. Starting July 10, “Caring Hands Camp” will combine fun with hands-on community service projects for ages 9 to 13.

Looking forward, Richards and the board will strategize on issues such as how to bridge transportation barriers for kids in Western Boone schools, how to draw in more teens, how to best fit in the current space, and how and when to expand.

“There is a lot of growth in our county,” Richards says. “Across our three units, we are serving about 3,000 young people a year. We want to get to 4,000 by 2025.”

A grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. has provided Indiana Boys & Girls Club locations with financial support to provide access and opportunities for more kids and teens. In addition, BGC Boone has a $60,000 fundraising goal for 2023 to fully fund programs and offer scholarships for those who can’t afford it.

The upcoming 2023 “Tee It Up Fore the Kids” golf outing, set for 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on August 4 at Ulen Country Club in Lebanon, will help meet that goal.

To register for the golf event, summer camp or fall programs, visit bgcboone.org. For more information about donations and sponsorships, call 317-873-6670.

A BOON FOR BUSINESS

NEW ZIONSVILLE CHAMBER DIRECTOR BRINGS EXPERIENCE AND EXCITEMENT TO THE TABLE

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

Mike Hanlon, the new executive director of the Zionsville Chamber of Commerce, has a wealth of work experience he will be able to draw upon in his new position.

“Before joining the Zionsville Chamber of Commerce, I served as the executive director of USO Indiana, a nonprofit committed to strengthening America’s military service members by keeping them connected to family, home and country throughout their service,” Hanlon says.

During his seven years with the USO Indiana organization, Hanlon managed daily operations, led fundraising efforts as development director, and established strong relationships across Indiana.

“My career has been defined by a commitment to making an enduring positive impact by working closely with board members, donors and key leaders to advance nonprofit missions,” he says. “My educational background includes a Master of Business Administration from the University of Notre Dame, and a Bachelor of Science in Communication Studies from Northwestern University. As a Certified Fund-Raising Executive, I bring a strong leadership presence and expertise in fundraising strategies and operations.”

Hanlon already has a vision for the future.

“As the newly appointed executive director of the Zionsville Chamber of Commerce, I am committed to fostering a nurturing business environment,” he says. “By

building collaborative relationships with key organizations and advocating for our members, we will continue the success of adding to economic development and growing a strong, vibrant business community.”

The Zionsville Chamber of Commerce now has nearly 500 active members in Zionsville and the surrounding communities.

“Guided by the board, we will set ambitious objectives and implement strategic plans that drive membership growth,” Hanlon says. “I will lead by example, personally engaging with chamber members and nonmembers alike, championing their interests and advocating for their needs. Through direct interactions and meaningful conversations, we will expand our footprint and ensure the chamber remains a valuable resource for all.”

Hanlon adds that the Zionsville Chamber of Commerce plays a vital role in providing a platform for business owners to help each other through collaboration, support and networking within the local business community.

“Through its various initiatives and programs, the chamber fosters an environment where businesses can connect, share resources and grow together,” he says. “For example, the chamber routinely organizes networking events and business forums that bring entrepreneurs, business owners and professionals together. These gatherings provide opportunities for individuals to exchange ideas, forge partnerships and build relationships.”

“By actively engaging with the Zionsville Chamber of Commerce, business owners in Zionsville and the surrounding Boone County communities can leverage these benefits to help each other grow, thrive and contribute to a robust local business community,” Hanlon adds.

Hanlon treasures the Zionsville community.

“Zionsville strikes the right balance between preserving its small-town, picturesque charm and embracing innovation, making it the perfect place for businesses to thrive and succeed,” he says. “In addition, the community provides easy access to major transportation routes connecting the town to other regional markets. Beyond the business advantages, Zionsville offers an outstanding quality of life with top-rated schools, safe neighborhoods, and a range of recreational and cultural amenities.”

Hanlon lives in Zionsville with his family.

“I have lived in Zionsville for nearly 15 years,” he says. “My wife and I have two wonderful children that attend Zionsville schools. We love the town’s charm that feels like a scene out of a Norman Rockwell painting.”

OWNERS:

ACACIA CARNEY

ADDRESS: 115 E MAIN STREET, LEBANON, IN, 46052

WEBSITE:

SHOPLIBERTYJAMES.COM

PHONE: 765-430-0937

RATING:

FACEBOOK 5.0

LIBERTY JAMES BOUTIQUE

Liberty James is more than just a women’s clothing boutique. It’s a place women go to find community, confidence and the perfect outfit. We believe all women deserve to look and feel their best. With weekly store hours, a website, an LJ Insider Facebook group and events we have plenty of opportunities for you to shop!

CUSTOMER REVIEW:  Liberty James is all about empowering women and making every woman feel beautiful!  Everything I’ve ever purchased has been THE Best quality with the best prices and they always have great sales. I was completely out of my comfort zone before LJ and with the help of the amazing staff I feel so much better about my self and will even put on a dress which is huge for me!

•

•

THE THIN LINE SPOTLIGHT

CAUDILL OF THE WHITESTOWN FIRE DEPARTMENT

Joshua

JOSHUA

beyond the call of duty on a regular basis.”

“It has been one of my greatest achievements thus far in my career,” he says. “It’s a tremendous honor to even be nominated, especially since it’s a nomination from my peers. I was nominated by a member of my department, stating that I am reliable and that I go above and

The Firefighter of the Year award is designated to a fire department member who exceeds the normal job description of a firefighter, according to a statement by the Whitestown Fire Department. This can be either on a consistent basis or through an individual act. The nomination is submitted by the recipient’s peers and awarded at the recommendation of the peer-based committee.

Caudill appreciates the fact that his fellow firemen think so highly of him and know they can always count on him.

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

Caudill, a firefighter for the Whitestown Fire Department, was recently named the American Legion Firefighter of the Year, and it’s an honor he treasures.

“This is an extremely humbling experience for me,” he says. “I never would’ve thought that I would be in this situation.”

Caudill’s job as a firefighter began almost 20 years ago. It’s a career he has thoroughly enjoyed.

“I first became a firefighter in 2004 as a volunteer with a few part-time firefighter positions, before being hired full time at the Whitestown Fire Department in 2015,” he says. “What I love the most about being a firefighter is that I am able to help people on their worst days ever. I have always cared for people my entire life and being a firefighter has been an extremely rewarding career.”

Caudill thinks very highly of his fellow firefighters.

“I’ve been blessed to be a part of an amazing department, as well as truly blessed that our calls have gone tremendously well, such as delivering a baby,” he says.

When Caudill isn’t working, he enjoys focusing on different endeavors that also bring him a lot of joy.

“I am married with four kids,” he says. “They are the reason I strive to be the best I can be, and to be an example to them to look up to. When I’m not working I enjoy hiking, working on our farm, and spending time with my wife and family.”

Caudill has been grateful for all of the great support he has received from his fellow firefighters, wife and family. He is inspired by them every day.

“Winning the American Legion Firefighter of the Year has been an extreme honor for me, and I would like to thank my wife, my family, and my department for giving me all of the avenues to do the best possible job and serve the citizens of Whitestown to the best of my ability,” he says.

Live Music From

Saturday August 5th 6-10 PM.

BEER, Wine & Spirits LOCAL RESTAURANTS KIDS AREA

The Janeways from 6:30pm-7:30pm, followed by Mike & Joe 8:00PM-10:00PM

Entrance gate opens at 5:00 PM to scan pre-purchased tickets or buy on-site.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

To Purchase Tickets Scan QR Code

$20 for adults 11 and older

$5 Children 10 and under

Or Get your tickets online at: www.zionsvillechamber.org

Choose the ‘Events’ tab and scroll down to Street Dance!

ECHOES OF SUCCESS

ECHO ROOM IS CONTRIBUTING TO LEBANON’S DOWNTOWN APPEAL

“I came home and told my mom I wanted to own my own business,” says Hoffman, now the owner of Echo Room in downtown Lebanon. “After high school I went to the University of Northwestern Ohio and received a degree in business administration.”

Hoffman’s degree was quickly put to use. She owned her first bar by the time she was 21, after convincing her mother.

“In 2010 we bought Cheers Pub in South Bend, where I’m from, and we quickly grew the business into the rock-and-roll venue it was always meant to be,” she says. “In 2016 my now-husband brought me to Lebanon, where I soon found myself wanting to own and run my own place again.”

By 2019 Hoffman says she was in the right place at the right time, and took over what is now known as THAT Sports Bar. Her next move was taking over ownership of Carmack’s Pub in September of 2022, and giving it an unexpected exterior renovation in January after the facade was heavily damaged after a car crashed into the bar.

“We finally finished fixing the damage caused to the building in May,” she says. “It gave us time to do a lot of redecorating and rebranding into Echo Room. I want Echo Room to be an allencompassing venue and where everyone is able to find something they want to come see.”

The first day of Danielle Hoffman’s very first job, at 16 years old, was the last time she wanted to work for someone else.

Writer / Natalie Platt Photographer / Krystal Dailey

Hoffman emphasizes that Lebanon is lacking a venue like Echo Room, and wants to bring entertainment to downtown that members of the community haven’t had before, like local and regional bands as well as comedians. Hoffman, with the support of her husband, is creating a scene that supports music and art. She admits that it has been a long and hard process taking an existing business and elevating it to its full potential, but will be worth it in the long run.

“We don’t have a venue like this here,” Hoffman says. “We are still bringing out monthly drag shows that sell out every time, and starting to book more and more live music. I want people to realize they can stay in town for entertainment, and also want to draw people from out of town to Lebanon for these shows.”

Hoffman notes that Echo Room just started serving a small but mighty bar menu that includes sandwiches served with housemade ranch and kettle chips. She plans on growing the menu as business calls for it.

“I really love seeing how the town has grown in the past few years and I’m so excited for the future of Lebanon,” Hoffman says. “When my businesses are full of people having a good time, laughing, dancing and just all around enjoying themselves, that makes me proud. I love to see when this happens and it makes me feel good knowing we are creating good memories for everyone.”

Echo Room is located at 124 South Lebanon Street in downtown Lebanon, and can be reached at 765-481-2290.

noblesvillebridgeofflowers.com

When the Logan Street Bridge renovations were completed in 2020, Noblesville residents were pleased to see the project included pedestrian sidewalks on either side. A bonus was a 150-foot gathering space that overlooked the river along the south side of the bridge. It met the need for a safe pathway from the Hamilton County Courthouse to Federal Hill Commons.

CONNECT

Today the south side of the bridge is much more than a secure sidewalk. Thanks to an idea initiated by Dick Gordon and a combined partnership between the City of Noblesville and Hamilton County, plus donations from local businesses and community members, it is now a beautiful linear park for the public to enjoy. It began when Gordon’s daughter, Sylvia, saw The Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts.

“I thought it would be a great idea for the Logan Street Bridge,” Gordon says. “I put together a presentation book showing illustrations of what it would look like. When I showed it to the mayor, he liked it but told me the bridge was owned by the county. Getting everyone’s approval was the best way to go forward. I presented to many committees such as tourism and the parks department so we could all get on the same page.”

“In the end, the plan went from basic to spectacular,” he adds. “An engineering firm

was hired and two pergolas with vines, lighting, trees and huge flowerpots with irrigation were installed. The cost was split between the city and county. We raised around $160,000 through connections within the community. A lot of the donations came from the small businesses of Noblesville.”

After the hardscape of the design was finished in August of 2022, Peg Adams and her team of four volunteers have been responsible its continued beauty. Adams was involved in landscaping for 30 years and owned Hoosier Gardener before she sold it. The plantings on the bridge change with the seasons.

“I really enjoyed the colors last fall,” Adams says. “There was kale, cabbages and mums. One bed is in the center and there was a display of straw bales, pumpkins and pansies.”

Gordon hopes to establish a small endowment for the upkeep of the Bridge of Flowers. Plans are being made for a fundraiser to be held in September. Those involved hope the project can continue to team up with initiatives such as Noblesville Main Street, Inc.

“The intent was to beautify downtown Noblesville,” Gordon says. “It’s a place for engagement or wedding photos. People can sit, rest and look over the river. It’s the most unique bridge in all the Midwest.”

Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Whitney Moore