This year’s event allow attendees to explore over 60 homes from more than 20 builders across central Indiana. New home construction has never been a better option. With homes on the tour ranging from $250k to $4m+, there’s something for everyone.
April 22, 2025
Current in Zionsville currentzionsville.com
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Zionsville earns 24th Tree City USA designation
The Town of Zionsville is the recipient of its 24th consecutive Tree City USA designation, awarded by the Arbor Day Foundation.
FORESTRY
To receive the designation, Zionsville met the program’s four core standards — having a functioning tree board; a tree-care ordinance; an annual forestry budget of at least $2 per capita; and an Arbor Day proclamation.
The Zionsville Tree Board contributed more than 200 volunteer hours over the past year, including distributing native tree saplings and providing public education. The board also developed an updated recommended tree species list to guide residents in choosing trees for their own properties.
“The Zionsville Tree Board is excited to continue this commitment to urban forestry in our community,” Board President Greta Sanderson stated. “This designation
cies across the parks and trail system.
The Zionsville Department of Public Works assisted the town’s forestry efforts by planting more than 56 new street trees, pruning 73 trees for health and safety, treating three trees for wasp infestations and removing 21 dead or failing trees from public rights-of-way.
EVENT
recognizes how valuable trees are to our town for shade, beauty, ecological benefits and more.”
In 2024, the Zionsville Parks and Recreation Department worked with Scouts, community groups and volunteers to plant 292 canopy and understory trees throughout Elm Street Green, Creekside Nature Park, Turkey Foot Nature Park and along the Big-4 Rail Trail. The department also cleared dozens of acres of invasive spe-
“Trees are as important to Zionsville’s character and identity as our brick Main Street,” Mayor John Stehr stated. “I’m proud the Arbor Day Foundation has recognized our efforts for 24 years straight, and I hope future generations continue to honor our strong roots and growing canopies.”
The Town of Zionsville will host Greenfest at Zionsville Town Hall April 26 in celebration of Earth Day and Arbor Day.
The Tree City USA program is administered by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters. Learn more at arborday.org.
Author to speak in Zionsville
news@youarecurrent.com
Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library, the Town of Zionsville and the Zionsville Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council have partnered to present a community program for adults and teens.
The event will include a live discussion with Indianapolis author Alexandra Hudson on her book, “The Soul of Civility: Timeless Principles to Heal Society and Ourselves” from 6:30 to 8 p.m. April 30 at the HMMPL Zionsville Branch, 250 N. 5th Street.
engagement that allows individuals with differing views to civilly discuss issues and possible solutions.
“Civility is at the heart of a productive and positive community,” Mayor John Stehr stated. “Our Youth Advisory Council is hoping to open a conversation that will help lead to an even better Zionsville through increased respect and understanding of all points of view.”
Hudson is an author, speaker and the founder of Civic Renaissance, a publication and intellectual community dedicated to beauty, goodness and truth composed of 50,000 intellectually curious people around the globe. The book encourages civic
The Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council is 22 accomplished high school students from several local schools. Members planned the author event, completed fundraising and will lead the question-and-answer session during the visit.
“As a council, we’ve had the pleasure of hearing many different voices on the topic of civic engagement, especially as relevant as it is in today’s political climate,” Mayor’s
Youth Council and ZCHS junior Sadie Choi stated. “We are very excited to lead this event and hope others in our community find it as valuable as we do.”
Copies of the book are available at the HMMPL Zionsville Branch or through their streaming services.
“The Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library is thrilled to collaborate with the Town of Zionsville and the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council on this community read and discussion of The Soul of Civility,” HMMPL Executive Director Kristin Shelley stated. “Bringing people together to engage in thoughtful discussions about civility and civic engagement aligns perfectly with the library’s mission. I am especially excited to see local students facilitating these conversations, demonstrating the power of young voices in shaping our community.” Register for the author event at bit. ly/3Dj4iPF.
Recognition of recent years’ Tree City USA designation is at Zionsville Town Hall. (Photo by Marney Simon)
Hudson
DISPATCHES
Swing dance event — St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church in Zionsville will host a swing dance event for adults ages 18 to 39 from 7:45 to 11 p.m. April 25 at the parish hall, 1870 W Oak St. The event is for all levels from seasoned dancers to beginners. Tickets are $15 for individuals and $25 for couples. Music will be provided by Indy Dancing DJ’s and refreshments will include a baked potato bar, mocktails, beer and wine. Purchase tickets at zionsvillecatholic.com/swing-dance.
Spring Social event at COHatch — The Zionsville Moms Group, a nonprofit social club, will host a Spring Social to welcome prospective members and celebrate the Spring Membership Renewal season from 7 to 9 p.m. April 30 at COHatch, 75 N Main St. in Zionsville. The free event includes light refreshments and fun, spring-themed activities courtesy of Abby’s Garden Party for all members of the community and their guests 21 and older. Learn more at zionsvillemomsgroup.wildapricot.org.
YMCA free trial day — The YMCA of Greater Indianapolis will host several community events April 26 focused on health, connection and youth empowerment. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., a special open house featuring group exercise classes, Les Mills launch, open gym, open swim, wellness center tours and more will take place at all YMCA of Greater Indianapolis locations including Westfield and Fishers. Learn more at indymca.org/landing_pages/try-the-y.
Kern
Boone EDC CEO chosen — The Boone County Economic Development Corp. recently announced Andrea Kern as the organization’s new chief executive officer. Kern has a decade of experience in community and economic development, strategic leadership and program implementation. She most recently served as the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs Director of Strategic Initiatives, where she created and led the PreservINg Main Street program, a model for downtown revitalization. Kern will focus on advancing Boone EDC’s strategic vision and deepening relationships with local businesses and stakeholders. Learn more about Boone EDC at BetterInBoone.org.
Zionsville students advance in math challenge
news@currentzionsville.com
Following a 14-hour online math competition last month, a team of Zionsville Community High School students will advance to the final phase of an international tournament April 28 in New York City.
COMPETITION
ZCHS student team of Truman Greaves, Prabanjan Jayachandran and Tianle Liang are among nine finalist teams in the MathWorks Math Modeling Challenge — a unique competition of more than 3,600 U.S. high school and U.K. sixth form students whose work underwent intense scrutiny by judges in the first two rounds of assessment in March.
Using mathematical modeling, students had to create solutions to several real-world questions related to meeting demand of the power grid during summer months. The Zionsville group’s submission was selected as one of the best solutions to the escalating crises of extreme heat and power grid failures.
Team coach and mathematics teacher Dwight Moser said the challenge is an opportunity for the Zionsville team to apply mathematical modeling to real-world problems.
“The time constraint offered a unique spin, and the topic was a nice surprise since the team has previously had a research interest in climate resilience and energy systems,” Moser stated. “It was a challenging yet rewarding process that reinforced why math is such a powerful tool for tackling global issues.” Liang said the challenge is difficult, but the work is rewarding.
Zionsville Communtiy High School’s MathWorks Math
Challenge team is,
“Our team came together less than a week before M3 Challenge weekend, and I wasn’t sure what to expect,” he stated. “During the first couple of hours, we worked to figure out an approach, but as we began defining our individual roles in addressing each aspect of the problem, we were able to generate solutions quickly. The most valuable lesson we learned was how to produce our best work under pressure.”
The group will present their findings this month at the final round of the challenge in New York City.
MathWorks Math Modeling Challenge is a program of Philadelphia-based Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics and is sponsored by MathWorks. It spotlights applied mathematics as a powerful problem-solving tool and motivates students to consider further education and careers in applied math, computational and data sciences and technical computing.
Winning teams will be awarded a share of $100,000 in scholarships, with the champion team receiving $20,000.
Learn more about the challenge at m3challenge.siam.org/the-challenge.
ADVERTISING CORRECTION
Mortgage loan officer Johnny Lane of State Bank, 102 S. Main St., Zionsville, has closed more than $500 million in loans during his career. Information in an advertisement provided to Current in Zionsville was incorrect in an advertisement published in the April 15 edition.
Modeling
from left, coach Dwight Moser and students Truman Greaves, Tianle Liang and Prabanjan Jayachandran. (Photo courtesy of Gail Bergman PR)
Camp Invention coming to ZCS
news@currentzionsville.com
Camp Invention, a nationally recognized summer enrichment nonprofit program, will host local youth in grades kindergarten through sixth grade at Eagle Elementary School in Zionsville June 9 through June 12.
ENRICHMENT
Camp Invention is a program of the National Inventors Hall of Fame in partnership with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The camp challenges children to tap into their natural curiosity and use their creativity to solve problems.
Camps focus on hands-on activities to promote STEM learning; build confidence, leadership, perseverance and resourcefulness; and encourage entrepreneurship. The curriculum is inspired by National Inventors Hall of Fame Inductees. This year’s program activities include:
• In Control — Campers assemble a custom control panel with a transmitter and receiver to create a prototype of their own artificial intelligence-inspired bobblehead assistant.
• Illusion Workshop — Through handson activities and experiments, camp-
Campers participate in a recent Camp Invention program. (Photo courtesy of Camp Invention)
ers go behind the scenes of the tech tricks used in theme parks, animated films and theater and use design and electrical engineering skills to build an animation device.
• Claw Arcade — Campers construct a functional claw arcade out of cardboard.
• Penguin Launch — Participants explore and investigate penguins and the ice and snow of Antarctica.
Camp Invention serves 140,000 students every year and partners with more than 2,600 schools and districts across the nation. For more information or to register, visit invent.org/camp.
Visitors at Brick Street Market in Zionsville in 2023. (File photo)
Brick Street Market returns
news@currentzionsville.com
The Zionsville Chamber of Commerce will present the 40th annual Brick Street Market from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 3 in the Village. The event transforms Zionsville’s historic brick Main Street into a marketplace of vendors featuring handcrafted and handmade goods.
EVENT
“Brick Street Market showcases the best of Zionsville,” Mayor John Stehr stated. “We look forward to this tradition each year and to welcoming both new and returning visitors to our historic Village and brickpaved Main Street for one of central Indiana’s premier events.”
Besides artisan crafts, unique artwork and locally crafted food, the event showcases the Village shops and restaurants that make Zionsville a one-of-a-kind destination.
“The Brick Street Market is a long-standing tradition that showcases the incredible talent of artisans and makers while bringing the community together,” Zionsville Chamber of Commerce President Mark Wallis stated. “We are thrilled to celebrate its 40th year and continue offering an exceptional shopping and dining experience in our beautiful town. I hope to see everyone on Main Street.”
Admission to Brick Street Market is free. Learn more at facebook.com/ZvilleChamber.
TOWNES AT GRAND PARK VILLAGE
Westfield resident in it for the long run
By Les Morris news@currentinzionsville.com
Even now, Marlo Neustifter has no idea why she took up running.
INDY MINI
“I was the girl who skipped gym class on the day we had to run,” the 54-year-old Westfield resident said. “I wouldn’t even run if a bear was chasing me.”
But there she was, in the fall of 2013, running. Her neighbor noticed and suggested she run in the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon.
“I thought it was stupid, but it was a challenge,” she said of her friend’s suggestion. “I literally went home and registered that night.”
She crossed the finish line the following May and the neighbor and his wife — Neustifter’s close friends — were there to greet her. Thus began a streak of largely uninterrupted Mini appearances that will reach 10 this year with the 49th edition of the May 3 event. More than 20,000 participants are expected at the start line in downtown Indianapolis.
Neustifter has run other races as well. She reached a personal goal in the fall of 2024 by running the CNO Financial Indianapolis Monumental Half Marathon in under three hours. She also has one full marathon under her belt — the 2018 Detroit International Marathon.
Neustifter said it was her family health history that drove her to put on running shoes. Her father died at 59, so when she reached 40, she knew she needed to begin an exercise program. She thought running would be cheap, fun and easy.
But that wasn’t entirely the case.
“I’ve learned it’s not cheap, it is fun, but not easy,” she said. “It gets me outside and
Spring tea event — Maplelawn Farmstead, 9575 Whitestown Rd. in Zionsville, will host its annual Spring Tea during two events from 3:30 to 5 p.m. April 26 and April 27 at the homestead. The tea is $20 for adults and $12 for children 12 and younger. Contact Jan Stacy at stacylabolts@indy.rr.com or 317-873-3792 for reservations.
Neustifter of Westfield will participate in her 10th Mini-Marathon May 3. (Photo courtesy of
I like running with my friends. Honestly, I like the beers after most of the races but I’m trying to keep heart healthy.”
Being in shape also helped Neustifter with a health challenge in August 2021 when she suffered a spontaneous hemorrhagic stroke and spent nine days in the ICU. Exactly three months later, she walked the Monumental Half-Marathon.
Her family includes husband Andy, son Drew, 26 and daughter Olivia, 22. She runs her own business, Marlo’s Shoreline Creations, taking pebbles and shells from Lake Michigan and Orange Beach and crafting unique art pieces. She also teaches five classes at Boone Prairie School in Whitestown and sells specialty running shoes at Fleet Feet in Carmel.
Neustifter brings her passion for running to the store, spreading her trademark enthusiasm to reluctant runners.
“I pump them up,” she said. “I say, ‘Just get off the couch and start with a mile, start on the treadmill.’”
It’s a philosophy congruent with her favorite saying — “A 6-minute mile and a 16-minute mile are still both a mile — and you’re better than the person sitting on the couch.”
DISPATCHES
Hoosier Village flea market — Hoosier Village will host the annual Spring Flea Market sale from 9 a.m to 5 p.m. May 15 and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 1617. Items for sale include furniture, tools, crafts, office supplies, toys, household goods, vintage items and more. Cash and check are accepted, and credit card payments will be accepted for purchases of $25 or more. Visitors should enter from Zionsville Road gate house at Hoosier Village, 9935 Woodview Rd., and follow the signs.
Marlo
Marlo Neustifter)
Earth Day, every day
Commentary by Jennifer Lawrence
Earth Day, first celebrated April 22, 1970, was a landmark event in the environmental movement. Its origins can be traced back to U.S. Sen.
ENVIRONMENT
Gaylord Nelson, who was inspired by the widespread environmental damage caused by industrial pollution and the lack of public awareness about environmental issues. Nelson, with the help of other interested parties, organized the first Earth Day, bringing together millions of people to call for environmental reform. The event was held at a time when concern about environmental degradation was growing.
The 1970 Earth Day played a crucial role in raising awareness, ultimately leading to the creation of significant environmental laws, including the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act and the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency. Earth Day became a global event in 1990 and is observed annually by more than a billion people worldwide. The event serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting our planet for future generations.
To encourage people to make every day Earth Day, share the impact of daily choices — like reducing waste, conserving energy and supporting eco-friendly businesses. Lead by example, showing how small actions like using reusable bags or reducing water waste can make a difference. Foster community engagement through local clean-ups, tree planting or sustainable workshops. By highlighting the importance of individual actions and creating a sense of collective responsibility, we can inspire people to live sustainably year-round and protect the planet.
We can all celebrate locally this month by picking up a reusable book tote at any of the Boone County libraries. Attend the Town of Zionsville’s Greenfest at the end of the month. Participate in the District’s Tox Drop collection event to ensure your household hazardous waste, tires and electronics are being recycled or properly disposed of.
Jennifer Lawrence is the Executive Director of Boone County Solid Waste Management District. Learn more about recycling and other sustainable topics at boonecountysolidwaste.com.
In partnership with the CheckIt4Andretti Foundation and in honor of its founder, John Andretti, join us for Riverview Health’s Drive2Detect!
A night of exotic cars, local cuisine and great race-themed experiences, all in a unique atmosphere. Help us in our mission to increase colon cancer awareness and raise funds to provide no-cost colonoscopies and post-diagnosis support to those who cannot otherwise afford it.
Tickets are now available! Simply scan the QR code or visit drive2detect.com to reserve your place. A limited number of VIP Access tickets to meet Jarett Andretti are available only while they last!
May 17, 2025
6:00 to 11:00 P.M.
Motor District Garage Condos
Westfield, IN
Fifth annual Senior Salute to honor Boone County graduates
SERVICE news@currentzionsville.com
The Boone County Senior Salute will host the fifth annual event to honor Boone County high school graduates who have chosen to serve their country from 1 to 3 p.m. May 18 at the American Legion Post 79 in Zionsville.
The organization was started by U.S. Navy veterans Matt Weinheimer and Jim Haines and was inspired by a similar program in Weinheimer’s hometown of Sullivan.
“Our mission is to recognize the courage and commitment of high school graduates committed to serve our country,” stated Weinheimer, who also serves as board chair.
Haines said recognition of those who serve is often lacking.
“Students who become accomplished in their careers as doctors, lawyers, engineers and sports stars are celebrated, yet who have stepped up to serve our country
are not,” he said.
The event is open to the public and includes a full luncheon and special presentation by Brigadier General J. Stewart Goodwin.
“The U.S. military is in a recruiting crisis,” BCSS member Tim Ottinger stated. “The Army and Navy have not met their recruiting goals in the last two years. At the end of World War II, the American military had 12 million active-duty members. It now has 1.3 million.”
Any Boone County high school senior graduating in 2025 and enlisting in the military, joining a ROTC program or attending a service academy who are interested in being honored can contact Weinheimer at bcseniorsalute@gmail.com. The submission deadline is April 25.
Tickets are $25 and available at the Zionsville Legion, Zionsville Eyecare or online at 2025seniorsalute.eventbrite.com. Honorees, their immediate families and grandparents are welcome at no charge but RSVPs are required.
2025 SUBARU CROSSTREK $315 per/month
Stock# S23704, model SRA-03, MSRP $28,018, 36 month lease, 10,000 miles per year, $2,565 due at signing. Last 8 digits of the VIN# S8212033. No security deposit. Expires 4/30/25.
Carmel junior softball player gets boost from coach/mom
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Carmel High School softball coach Stephanie Kleiner and her daughter, Jayden Kleiner, spend countless hours together on and off the field.
Stephanie, in her second year as the Greyhounds’ coach, also coaches Jayden’s Indiana Magic Gold Green 18-and-under travel softball team.
“We work well as a team and we bounce ideas off each other, which not everyone can say,” Jayden said. “It definitely took time because parent-daughter relationships can be hard. But I think we’ve figured out a good balance between coach and parent. We have a good time together.”
Jayden, who already has committed to play for the University of Michigan, is a junior shortstop/catcher
“She started out playing pretty much anywhere on the field,” Stephanie said. “As she has grown throughout the years, she’s devoted a lot of her time and energy on the left side of (the) infield — shortstop, spent time at third base and catcher as well. She has really developed as a leader, not only playing those positions but just with her knowledge and overall game.”
Stephanie said when she coached an older travel softball team without Jayden, Jayden practiced with the older players.
“She learned a more mature game and that’s added to her success on the field and added to her mental aspect of the game, where she knows where she’s supposed to be 99 percent of the time as well as where everyone else is supposed to be,” Stephanie said.
Stephanie said attending college camps and watching college softball raised her daughter’s softball IQ.
In the first nine games for the Greyhounds this season, Jayden is hitting .586. She hit .438 with six home runs and 36 runs batted in as a sophomore. She hit .304 as a freshman.
Stephanie said Jayden spends much of her free time working with Roundtripper Sports Academy in Westfield with her strength and hitting coaches.
“Just putting the ball in play wasn’t go-
JAYDEN KLEINER
Favorite athlete: Yadier Molina
Favorite subject: Math
Favorite genre of music: Country
Favorite vacation spot: Costa Rica
Favorite sports team: St. Louis Cardinals
ing to be enough. She had to put the ball hard in play and make line drives turn into home runs,” Stephanie said.
Besides adding strength, Jayden said working in the weight room has helped her move better laterally when she is in the field.
“Every year, I want to do better than I did last year,” Jayden said. “I’m going up there thinking, ‘What can I do to get on base for my team, so they can move me over?’ Just getting on base as many times as I can is my goal this year.”
Jayden committed to Michigan in the fall of 2024. She said the Wolverines coaching staff will help her reach her potential. She also was impressed with the family culture around the program.
“I’m close to my mom, so being with a coaching staff I knew I could connect to was really important,” she said.
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@youarecurrent.com.
Jayden Kleiner is one of the top hitters for the Carmel High School softball team. (Photo courtesy of Stephanie Kleiner)
Kleiner
CONSTRUCTION MILESTONE
Randy Shaffer Custom Homes celebrates 40 years in Zionsville
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
For Randy Shaffer, building houses is an inherited profession.
“My dad was a builder, so I guess that pretty much says it all,” Shaffer said.
The owner of Randy Shaffer Custom Homes in Zionsville is celebrating his 40th anniversary in business this year.
“I followed my dad’s footsteps,” he said. “He was a builder, and in my teens, I was mostly just helping out and working on framing crews. I became a licensed electrician in my 20s and did that for 10 years or so, and that’s kind of how I got into the business — basically more or less, a second-generation builder.”
Shaffer built his first home — his personal residence — in the Village in Zionsville in the late 1980s, a classic Village-home style reflecting traditional architecture. Since then, Randy Shaffer Custom Homes has built scores of homes in and around central Indiana, with the help of a small crew, including a home designer, superintendent, office manager and social media coordinator.
Shaffer said no two custom homes are exactly the same.
“That keeps it interesting, and I like the challenge every time,” he said. “Also, getting to meet new people, new homeowners, it’s rewarding, and that’s something that really matters to me.”
Shaffer said the key to success was starting at the ground level and working his way up. He said there is no substitute for hands-on experience and onthe-job training when it comes to home construction.
“Out of the 40 years that I’ve been doing this — I was 25 when I started, so even before that — I was working on jobs with a hammer,” he said. “On-the-job training is absolutely the best that you can do. I can go on a job right now and see problems before they happen — look at the structural things and say, ‘That’s not going to work’ or ‘That’s going to work.’ There’s no way that I could ever do that without actually knowing houses and using my hands to
build a house.”
Shaffer said he was drawn to starting his own business because of a simple desire to have creative control of the process from start to finish.
“I wanted the freedom to do things my way and to build the homes I’m proud of and work directly with my clients,” he said. “Starting my own business allowed me to take control of the projects, the quality and the relationships I built along the way. No matter who you’re working for, even if you work for yourself, you still have a boss, which is the homeowner.”
Shaffer said owning a business has its own rewards and challenges. As a home builder, he said the biggest challenge is not knowing what the future might bring.
“One year you could be fully booked with more work than you know what to do with, and then the next year you might have zero,” he said. “You have to really know how to juggle that and have to
stay flexible and ready to adapt as things change. Of course, the biggest reward of being a small business for me is flexibility to grow my business on my own terms. I’ve been able to take my time focusing on what truly matters — delivering quality work and building strong connections with my clients. It’s not about growing just for the sake of growth; it’s about having the freedom to do things the right way and being able to work on my own that shapes my business.”
Shaffer said keeping up with trends helps to design what people want.
“Everybody says, ‘This is my last home’ or ‘I’m never moving,’ but nobody knows what’s going to happen,” he said. “I would say to sell the home if it needs to be sold. You want to have it fit your needs and your lifestyle, but also (have it) appeal to others down the road if you ever decide to sell. It’s all about finding the balance between personal comfort and smart investment.”
Randy Shaffer Custom Homes
will be featured as part of the 2025 Home-A-Rama. The event, presented by the Builders Associaion of Greater Indianpolis, takes place in Chatham Hills in Westfield Sept. 11-14, 18-21 and 25-28. The 2025 showcase home — an 8,000-square-foot residence featuring architecture design by Emily Handke Designs — is under construction.
A custom home built by Shaffer in 2024 was the recipient of the People’s Choice Award at Home-A-Rama 2024 at
modern design. (Photo courtesy of Randy Shaffer)
The Promotory of Zionsville.
“That was amazing. That was an amazing house,” said Shaffer, a longtime member of BAGI. “Hopefully, we can win this back-to-back.”
Besides the 2024 award, Randy Shaffer Custom Homes also received the BAGI Builder of the Year honor in 2004 for the Village of WestClay and a Home-A-Rama People’s Choice Award in 2018.
Learn more about Home-A-Rama at bagi.com/home-a-rama.
Shaffer said when choosing a custom home, the lot and size come first. But there are many other details to consider.
“One thing that’s very important is schools,” he said. “You want to be in a good school district. It’s also important to keep your budget in mind throughout the process. Custom homes should reflect your vision, but they should be financially where you want it. The goal is to build a home that fits the land, your lifestyle and your budget. And this should be part of a home — it should be sellable.”
Randy Shaffer Custom Homes serves clients throughout central Indiana, but the most recent builds have been in Zionsville, Carmel and Westfield.
Learn more at randyshafferhomes.com.
ON THE COVER: (Main Photo) Randy Shaffer’s first custom home was his own residence in the Village in Zionsville built in the late 1980s. (Right, top to bottom) 1. Randy Shaffer Custom Homes constructed this home in the mid-1990s with a charming farmhouse design. This marked the beginning of the transition to building larger homes. 2. This home was constructed in the 2000s with a classic Italianate design, a style commonly seen in the Village of WestClay.
3. Randy Shaffer Custom Homes completed this Village of WestClay home in 2018 in collaboration with architect Steve Zintel. 4. Built in 2024, this modern home was designed in collaboration with Steve Goldberg Design. (Photos courtesy of Randy Shaffer)
SHAFFER HOMES AT HOME-A-RAMA
The 2025 showcase home at the Home-ARama in Chatham Hills under construction.
The 8,000 sq. ft. residence with architecture design by Emily Handke Designs features distinctive burnt siding that complements its bold,
Shaffer
Randy Shaffer, left, and his father, Bob Shaffer, circa 1985.
Indiana-owned pet supply company stands out
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Specks Pet Supplies started in 1990 as Scott’s Pet Emporium. The name didn’t stick, though, because everyone
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
just called it “Speck’s,” after founder Tom Scott’s dog, Speck, who came to the store each day with Scott, happily greeting customers.
“He would bring Speck in with him to the pet store there, and … customers would come in and want to see the dog,” said Karen Smith, director of purchasing for the company. “Sometimes, they’d come in just to see the dog. So, from what I’ve been told, after about six months or so, he changed the name from Scott’s Pet Emporium to Speck’s Pet Emporium, and then eventually Speck’s Pet Supplies.”
That first store was in Avon and is still there today. Speck’s has changed hands and expanded over the years, and now operates seven stores in Avon, Carmel, Fishers, Geist, Southport, Brownsburg and Columbus. The company is now owned by Indianapolis-based Harlan Companies, but the original owner has maintained ties to the business through his line of Scott Pet Products.
Smith, who has worked for Speck’s since 1996, said the company’s expansion has been slow and careful.
“The goal is always to grow, and we still look for the right opportunity, the right site,” Smith said.
That local connection is part of what sets Speck’s apart in a market that offers pet owners many options.
“Our managers and our stores have a unique ability to specialize their service to the customer,” Smith said. “Yes, we carry a wide range of products and we have stores that range in size everywhere from 3,000 square feet all the way up to 10,000 square feet. But if we have a customer that comes in that wants something specific, if it’s available to us, we can get it.”
Speck’s also arranges special group orders for police K-9 units, rescue groups and shelters, and works with pet rescues to host pet adoption events at the stores.
Smith said that in addition to the more than 40 kinds of premium dog and cat food at Speck’s, different Speck’s stores offer self-service pet-washing stations, which provide wash tubs, towels, shampoo, conditioner and dryers for owners to wash their pets without messing up their own bathrooms; and the Avon store has regular dog training classes.
For more, visit speckspets.com.
∗ Higher commission payouts
∗ Work/life balance
∗ Training and prospects provided
Christa Thompson, left, and Karen Smith of Speck’s Pet Supplies with some of the Indiana-based company’s products. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
Texan set for ATI role in Dolly Parton’s ‘9 to 5’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Abigail Storm figured this role was a great fit.
Storm plays Doralee in Actors Theatre of Indiana’s presentation of “9 to 5” from April 25 to May 11. The musical, with music by Dolly Parton, is based on the 1980 movie with Parton playing Doralee.
Storm, a 2024 Ball State University graduate from Austin, Texas, was cast a year ago as Doralee, the secretary to the lecherous boss, Franklin Hart.
“I love ‘9 to 5’ and I love Dolly,” Storm said. “I’m a Texan and Doralee is a Texan. She’s a Texan cowgirl, which is kind of how I am. We have a ranch back home. I’m about to play another Dolly role in ’Steel Magnolias’ later this summer.”
Storm has seen videos of the musical but has never watched it live.
Storm said she recently read a book about Parton’s relationship with her late husband Carl, which is similar to her character’s relationship with her husband.
Texan accent.
“It comes out when I’m angry or tired,” she said.
Fishers resident Devan Mathias plays Judy, and Judy Fitzgerald portrays Violet, the other two main characters who are harassed by the boss. Cynthia Collins plays Roz, who is secretly in love with Hart.
“It’s a wonderful cast,” said Fitzger ald, ATI’s artistic director and a Carmel resident.
Fitzgerald said the story is set around 1980, the same year the movie came out.
“It’s been great to jump into the show and create that relationship with (the character) Dwayne, played by Jacob Butler,” Storm said. “It’s cute. I grew up with Dolly’s music, but I didn’t know a lot about her upbringing.”
One of the songs Storm performs is “Backwoods Barbie.”
“It’s right after all the girls are shunning her because she is in all this get-up, and she is sparkly and over-the-top with her looks. Everyone is judging her and (she) says, ‘I’ve always been misunderstood for how I look. Don’t judge me.’ She talks about how she grew up really poor and saw all these gorgeous women and she thought, ‘I want to be like that. So, if I want to dress like this, who cares.’ She has the attitude that she is who she is and no one’s opinion is going to change.”
Storm said she can apply her natural
“It just has that Dolly Parton spirit, the whole thing,” Fitzgerald said. “It’s mayhem and fun. But it has a great message, and the message is still relevant.” Fitzgerald said she loves her character.
“She’s no-nonsense,” Storm said. “She’s the one that really runs the office, much more than Hart. She works to get the promotion and a person that she trained gets it right out from under her feet.
It’s the boys club. She is the heart and brains of the office. Roz is the office snitch who kisses up to the boss. She sings the song ‘Heart to Hart.’ It’s hilarious.”
J. Stuart Mill, a northwest Indianapolis resident making his ATI debut, plays Hart.
“He’s not a very nice guy. That’s part of what attracted me to the role because I think it’s different from me in real life,” said Mill, a retired Washington Township elementary school teacher in Indianapolis.
“I have a lot of powerful women around me and I respect that. I was asked to con sider auditioning for this by the director Suzanne Fleenor. Suzanne and I go way back. After college, she directed a lot of shows I was in. I’m really looking forward to working with her again.”
Mill has one song that defines his char
acter’s lecherous nature. Although a challenge, Mill said it’s fun to play a bad guy,
“The characters I play are the dads, like Mr. Banks in ‘Mary Poppins,’ who started out hard and they get soft and learn and everyone likes them in the end,” Mill said.
“It’s good to challenge yourself.”
For more, visit atistage.org.
‘CHURCH
BASEMENT LADIES’
“Church Basement Ladies” runs through May 18 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
LIVE AT THE CENTER
PsyWrn Simone performs at 7:30 p.m. April 22 in the Live at the Center series at the Palladium at Allied Solutions Center. Tickets are $10. To register for a free livestream, visit thecenterpresents.org.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Greggie and The Jets: Elton John Tribute” is set for April 24, followed by “The Magic of David Ranalli” April 25 and “One Voice: The Music of Manilow” April 26 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All three performances are set for 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
CIVIC THEATRE
Civic Theatre presents “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” April 25 through May 10 at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.
MICKY DOLENZ
“Micky Dolenz of the Monkees: An Evening of Songs and Stories” is set for 8 p.m. April 25 at the Payne and Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘BLACK VIOLIN’
“Black Violin” is set for 8 p.m. April 26 at the Payne and Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents. org.
DISPATCH
DCA’s Mixed Rep 25 set — Dance Creations Academy’s pre-professional performing company’s Mixed Rep 25 is set for 2 p.m. April 27 at Marian University. The production by the company, 9257 Castlegate Dr., Indianapolis, showcases a blend of ballet, contemporary and jazz. For more, visit dancecreationsacademy.com/mixedrep25/.
MUSICAL
Abigail Storm in her costume and wig as Doralee in “9 to 5.” (Photo courtesy of ATI)
Fitzgerald Mill
Stuart embraces instrumentals
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Country Music Hall of Famer Marty Stuart always enjoyed listening to 1960s albums by The Ventures and Herb Alpert.
CONCERT
“I grew up loving instrumentals,” said Stuart, a country and bluegrass singer-songwriter-musician. “I think everybody in the band did. What I noticed is when we start talking about instrumental bands and covering their songs, we turn into a bunch of 15-year-olds again with our first instruments. It makes it all about fun.”
That spurred Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives’ interest in making a fully instrumental album titled “Space Junk.”
“The Superlatives have always written and played instrumentals,” Stuart said. “We’re players. I noticed one day we finally had 20 original instrumentals, and we thought the world needed a fresh instrumental album. We seem to be doing three to four songs a night from ‘Space Junk.’”
Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives will perform at 7:30 p.m. May 1 at the Payne
Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives will perform at 7:30 p.m. May 1 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Allied Solutions Center)
& Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
“The setlist varies every night,” Stuart said. “However, ‘Tempted’ is the one that always seems to be a part of each and every show. I love that song.”
Stuart and his band have been together for more than 20 years.
“It’s beyond special,” he said. “Nothing stays the same in Nashville for 20 years. “
Stuart has been performing since age 13 and has no plans to slow down.
“Whatever is up ahead waiting just around the next curve and the next unwritten song,” Stuart said of his motivation.
MAY 9, 10 & 11, 2025
Vocalist set for Center series
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
PsyWrn Simone has a unique style of blending vocals from a variety of genres.
CONCERT
“It’s a little bit of this and that,” Simone said. “I grew up listening to about everything. I pull from all the genres, certainly R&B, soul, gospel, some funk, a little bit of contemporary and hip-hop. I like it and create and put it back out there.”
Simone will perform in the Live at the Center series at 7:30 p.m. April 22 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
“The Palladium is a dream venue. The stage is beautiful, the sound is unmatched,” said Simon, whose given name is AshLee Baskin. “It’s an opportunity to expand listeners and supporters and to expose more people to my artistry. It’s a dream come true among places to perform, especially in this (Indianapolis) area.”
Simone, a Pike High School graduate who lives on the southeast side of Indianapolis, appeared in the Live at the Center series in 2021 as a guest vocalist with classical
Joshua Thompson. Simone said she has been itching to return.
“I’ve been performing pretty much my entire life, but (I’ve performed) in this fulltime professional capacity for the better part of five to seven years or so,” Simone said. “Like a lot of folks, I got my start in the church choir. I picked up playing the guitar. As I got to high school, I started participating in performing arts as a whole, incorporating theatric elements more as you do when you are in a show choir.”
Simone is the associate artistic director at Asante Art Institute.
Tickets are $10 or register for a free livestream at thecentpresents.org.
pianist
PsyWrn Simone will perform April 22 in the Live at the Center series. (Photo courtesy of Allied Solutions Center)
What’s in a contract?
Commentary by Terry Anker
English playwright William Shakespeare famously had a way with words. Many regard him to be the ultimate ever to communicate with language. Certainly, he cannot be dismissed out of hand. But as the centuries have passed, does his style, now antiquated for our times, still strike the ear with its intended note? Rest assured, the objective here is not to begin a battle between those of us romantic enough to cling to original texts and those pragmatic enough to update them for an easier read. Instead, it is sufficient to know that the Bard was a remarkable observer of human nature, often distilling complex interactions into concise phrases.
ESSAY
best, it is a thoughtful agreement between two consenting adults who, for their own personal reasons, have decided to contribute themselves, many of their freedoms and at least half of their accumulated belongings to another person — who likewise has decided to do the same. The contract is intended as perpetual and binding.
In his 1603 play “As You Like It,” the god of marriage character, Hymen, describes the matrimony thusly: “A contract of eternal bond of love, confirmed by mutual joinder of your hands, attested by the holy close of lips, strengthened by interchangement of your rings.” The observation is salient, namely that marriage is a contract. At its
Like all negotiated agreements, there is an offer (we might call it a proposal) and acceptance. Then consideration is exchanged — something of value is transferred and reciprocated by both parties. One would demand that each participant has mental capacity to enter. Mostly the arrangement must be legal with both sides intending the accord to be binding. Hymen would call it simple enough. Still, are we living up to the bargain or are we in peril of being sued for breach?
Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@youarecurrent. com.
READER’S VIEW
Where are the rules of order?
Editor,
The primary issue with government today is that the government does not know what their job is and the people — who are their bosses — do not know their reserved and guaranteed rights. In Article 1 of the Indiana Constitution (the Bill of Rights), people declared some of their God-given rights, meaning nobody, including government, can violate them, not even through enacted legislation or rulemaking.
On March 24, the Boone County Commissioners passed rules governing their meetings by a vote of 2-1. However, one rule, Rule 14, about public comment, placed limits on speaking under threat of removal. Even though this rule was passed, it violates Article 1.
The county council and the election board have enforced similar rules and in 2021, many Indiana school boards also did so. Elected officials have cut off people, walked out or suspended meetings. These rules are automatically void because they violate people’s rights and are prohibited by the terms of constitutions that bind government. In 1966 in Miranda v. Arizona,
the Supreme Court declared the law in con stitutions by stating, “Where rights secured by the Constitutions are involved, there can be no rulemaking or legislation which would abrogate them”.
In Article 1, Sections 9 and 31 of the Indi ana Constitution, the people declared their right to “free interchange of thought and opinion,” ”speak, freely, on any subject” and “consult for their common good” in peaceable assemblies. Recognizing these, instead of mandates, I proposed that we make similar requests in the interest of running an efficient meeting.
Because the constitution is the absolute rule of action and decision for all departments and officers of government, when creating legislation, rules, etc., government must first look to constitutions for grants of authority by the People. Without a constitutional provision directly authorizing the subject matter, the legislation or rule is invalid. For this reason, many existing enacted statutes and rules are automatically void, just like Rule 14 is void.
Tim Beyer, Zionsville Boone County commissioner
LIFESTYLE
Across 1. IndyCar sponsor
4. Old Russian ruler
8. “Quiet!”
11. Gillette razor
12. Indiana neighbor
13. Member of “The Godfather” cast
15. Bedtime reading
17. Sichuan Chinese Restaurant staple
18. 401(k) kin
19. White River slippery swimmers
20. Istanbul natives
21. Bylaw, briefly
22. Indiana School for
the Deaf communication, initially
23. Rent from a renter
24. Genesis garden
26. Wading bird
28. Wrath
29. Ostrich’s cousin
32. “___ about time!”
33. CIA relative
34. Annual Noblesville event in honor of Earth Day that runs Apr. 23-26
37. Free spot on WTHR
39. Slugger’s stat
40. “The Matrix” hero
41. Col. Lilly
42. Angry outburst
44. Desire
48. Eagle Church delivery
50. IU Health surgery centers
53. Prohibit
54. Indianapolis Opera voice
55. Monon Trail short run, for short
56. Bob & Tom, e.g.
57. Level
58. Magical powder
60. Musical interval
61. “___, Brute?”
62. Slurpee alternative
63. U-turn from NNW
64. One of the five Ws for a Current reporter
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE TOWN OF ZIONSVILLE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS
Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Town of Zionsville Board of Zoning Appeals on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. in the Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 West Oak Street, Zionsville, Indiana 46077 to consider the following Petition: Petition # 2025-09-DSV, filed for Elizabeth Schwede, requests Board of Zoning Appeals Approval for Variance of Development Standards to provide for or permit: Development Standards Variance pursuant to Exhibit 5, Row G of the Holiday Farms PUD to reduce the 5-foot side yard setback on lot L6.
The property involved is commonly known as: 4190 Hamilton Run, Zionsville, IN 46077 and is legally described as:
Lot Number L6 in The Club at Holliday Farms, Section 4 an Addition in Boone County, Indiana as per plat thereof recorded as Instrument Number 2021001503 found in the Office of the Recorder of Boone County, Indiana
A copy of the Petition for Board of Zoning Appeal Approval, and all plans pertaining thereto are on file and may be examined prior to the Public Hearing from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, except for Holidays, in the Planning & Building Department in the Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 West Oak Street, Zionsville, Indiana, 46077. Written comments in support of or in opposition of the Petition that are filed with the Secretary of the Town of Zionsville Board of Zoning Appeals prior to the Public Hearing will be considered. The Public Hearing is open to the public. Oral comments to this Petition will be heard at the Public Hearing. The Public Hearing may be continued from time to time as may be found necessary. Further, and as allowed by the laws of the State of Indiana, members of the public will be afforded the opportunity to attend the Board of Zoning Appeals Public Meetings via a form(s) of electronic communication IF indicated in the Agenda (as amended from time to time) associated with the Board of Zoning Appeals Meeting.
Upon request, the Town of Zionsville will provide auxiliary aids and services. Please provide advance notification to the Technology Department, assistance@zionsville-in.gov or 317-873-1577, to ensure the proper accommodations are made prior to the meeting.
Chairman: Kathi Postlethwait
Secretary: Mike Dale
65. School org. Down
1. Rubbernecked on I-69
2. Riverview Health ER priority system
3. Bridgewater Club golf score
4. Lugs
5. “Do you want me to?”
6. Is unwell
7. Fish eggs
8. Clean vigorously
9. Kind of fracture
10. Cyber criminals
11. Burning
14. Lipton rival
16. Indiana Senate assent
20. Skirmish
23. Peaceful protest
25. PBS-funding grp.
27. Roy G. ___
30. Something to reflect on
31. Opposite of rural
34. Impartiality
35. Yang’s partner
36. Like a limbo bar, late in the game
37. Annoy
38. Shirt parts
43. This evening, in ads
45. Kidnap
46. Queasiness
47. Investment option, briefly
49. ___ Carlo
51. Air again on WTTV
52. Wild blue yonder
55. Solemn vow
58. Not many
59. Quick swim
Answers on Page 23
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PUZZLE ANSWERS
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