CAPTURING THE MOMENT
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Founded March 20 2012, at Zionsville, IN Vol. XV, No. 6
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Town council reviews comp plan edits
By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com
The Zionsville Town Council will meet April 29 to further review edits to the town’s proposed comprehensive plan after it spent nearly three hours April 13 discussing changes to the document.
Much of the discussion focused on the land use map that is meant to guide what developments can go where.
The council appears to agree on striking mentions of multifamily developments from the comprehensive plan. Apartments, townhomes and other multifamily developments are listed as potential uses for some land under the current draft plan.
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The intention, according to comments from multiple council members, is to determine multifamily developments on a case-by-case basis and limit how often the projects are pitched by developers.
“It’s not that we’re against multifamily 100 percent,” Council Member Sarah Esterline Sampson said. “We just don’t want it to be the first option in every area we’re trying to develop.”
Multifamily projects would still have an avenue for approval by going through the necessary steps featuring the Zionsville Plan Commission, rezoning, council approval, etc. The proposed edit would not impact property that is already zoned for apartments.
There is no consensus on what to do with South Village. The plan has the area listed as a regional activity center which is a mixed-use development of retail, office, restaurants and residential. However, some council members would rather weigh projects for South Village case by case. Discussions centered on communicating that in the comprehensive plan.
The area is viewed as advantageous for future businesses and the property taxes they could generate. One of the goals of the comprehensive plan is to bring more business tax revenue to the town.
“This is our opportunity to have an impact on what it could be in the fu-
ture,” said Council Member Joe Stein. “If we punt, then whoever comes after us is going to have a lot of say as to what it is, and we may not like that.”
The council will propose changing some land uses for three areas near 300 South and 800 East. One area, at the intersection of the two roads, is listed as mixed residential, however an edit will suggest it be conventional subdivision — single-family home neighborhoods — as well as rural and estate residential — rural homes, farms.
Two pockets of land north of 300 South that butt up against Whitestown are designated for subdivisions, but the council suggested they be rural residential.
Council Member Tim McElderry argued for the area to remain rural. McElderry represents much of the northern rural area of town.
“We have a chance to preserve a rural way of life in this town,” he said. “I’m not against development, but I am against the type of dense development
Three running in 4th Congressional GOP primary — U.S. Rep. Jim Baird is running for reelection in the 4th Congressional GOP primary. He is challenged by Craig Haggard and John Piper. None of the candidates responded to questions sent by Current about their campaigns. The primary election is May 5.
conventional subdivision could represent in the area.”
Other conversations focused on emphasizing commercial development for the area around Whitestown Parkway and Indiana 267 and the land designated for innovation, research and other hightech businesses around the Indianapolis Executive Airport.
“I do believe this is probably the greatest opportunity for Zionsville to develop AV (assessed value, property tax revenue) that’s not just your normal commercial hotel, retail stuff,” Vice President Brad Burk said of the airport-adjacent land. “This could be high bio-tech opportunities that need an airport to fly out of.”
The town council will meet at noon April 29 to continue discussions on edits to the comprehensive plan.
The public will be able to comment on the edits at the council’s May 4 and 18 meetings. A vote is expected May 18. All edits will go back to the plan commission for final approval.
Zionsville basketball standouts land new schools — Former Zionsville Community High School basketball players Maguire Mitchell and Nick Richart have committed to new schools for the 2026-27 season. Mitchell is transferring to Indiana State University after playing his freshman season at IU Indy, where he averaged 11.8 ppg. Richart will attend California Baptist after two seasons at UNC Charlotte.
The land use map suggests areas for development, including residential, commercial and parks. (Image courtesy of Town of Zionsville)
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David Weekley Homes open in Wild Air
By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com
David Weekley Homes had a grand opening April 17 for its homes in the Wild Air neighborhood.
The grand opening was for the home builder’s model home, which people can tour, and kicked off home sales. David Weekley sold five homes that initial weekend.
Wild Air is along Marysville Road, north of Oak Street. The mixed-use development is the former property of the Johnson family, a prominent Zionsville family.
The 260-acre property will have around 700 homes and townhomes. The development will include a park, civic space and a network of trails winding through 30 acres of preserved woodlands. Construction is ongoing.
Multiple builders are constructing residences in the neighborhood. David Weekley will have 114 homes between two different models, including
DISPATCHES
Zionsville Town Council — The town council meets at noon April 29 at Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 W. Oak St. The council will discuss edits to the proposed comprehensive plan. There will be a regular meeting at 7 p.m. May 4.
rear-loaded cottage homes.
Prices range from $589,000 to $1 million.
“We have something for everybody,” said Jess McKinney, division president of David Weekley Homes.
Home amenities include two- to three-car garages and unfinished basements. Golf cart garages also are an option.
St. Alphonsus Catholic Church to host film screening — St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church will host a screening of “Triumph of the Heart,” the true story of St. Maximilian Kolbe, a Franciscan priest who offered his life in exchange for another prisoner at Auschwitz during World War II April 29 at the church. The event will start with Mass at 6 p.m. followed by pizza, popcorn and drinks in Parish Hall and the movie at 7 p.m. After the movie, there will be a night prayer and discussion. Tickets are $10/each. For more information, visit ZionsvilleCatholic.com/Triumph.
Zionsville Board of Zoning Appeals — The board of zoning appeals meets at 6:30 p.m. May 6 at Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 W. Oak St.
No Gimmicks, Just Growth
David Weekley Homes had a grand opening April 17 for its model home in Wild Air. The opening also signified the beginning of home sales in the neighborhood for the home builder. (Photo by Spencer Durham)
Expanding Cancer Care in Brownsburg.
At Hendricks Regional Health, we’re committed to meeting our community’s needs today and anticipating tomorrow’s. We are proud to announce the opening of our new Hendricks Oncology and Infusion Therapy & Oncology Infusion Center at Brownsburg Hospital. These expanded services bring enhanced cancer care and IV therapies, including oncology infusions, closer to home, delivered by compassionate teams focused on your comfort and well-being. Exceptional cancer care and IV therapy – now available in Brownsburg. Learn more at Hendricks.org/Brownsburg.
3 vie for District 2 seat
Compiled by Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com
Incumbent Aaron Williams is running for reelection in the Republican primary against William Dean “W.D.” Arnold and Zionsville Town Council Member Craig Melton for the Boone County Council District 4 seat.
Williams and Melton answered the following questions from Current. Arnold did not respond to Current’s request to answer the questions.
The primary election is May 5.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE?
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE CAMPAIGN ISSUES?
Melton:Economic vitality: Fostering a collaborative environment will ensure Boone County remains safe, desirable and business-friendly. Fiscal responsibility: My goal is to advocate for a transparent system for tax collection and distribution. Modernization: I will advocate for upgraded technology to ensure proceedings are transparent and easy to follow.
Melton: Recently, our county government has been hindered by provocation and a breakdown in trust. Having served on the Zionsville council, I have a proven track record of building productive partnerships with municipal leaders. I intend to bring that same collaborative spirit to the county level.
Williams: Boone County’s growth demands experienced, proven leadership. I’m running to continue delivering real results: Neighborhood infrastructure funding, historic public safety pay increases, volunteer fire support and a relentless commitment to keeping taxes and assessments low for every District 4 resident.
Williams: Smart, responsible growth and development that protects our quality of life. Keeping taxes and assessments fair and low for every household. And continuing neighborhood infrastructure investments that make District 4 a place residents are proud to call home.
WHAT DO YOU MOST WANT VOTERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
Melton:As a contractor and business owner, my career is defined by improving systems, refining processes and revitalizing structures. I am a builder by trade — I focus on creating equity and value in everything. I will apply this builder’s mindset to protect Boone County’s rich heritage while strategically welcoming growth.
WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM YOUR OPPONENTS?
Melton: While others may prioritize state-level agendas, my primary allegiance is to the people of Boone County. I view this role as being a direct representative of our residents’ needs, ensuring that our local voices are heard and our local interests are protected first and foremost.
Williams: I have a proven county-level record and the relationships to deliver results. I’ve secured historic public safety funding, invested in neighborhood infrastructure, supported volunteer departments and fought to keep taxes low. Experience and results are not interchangeable with good intentions.
Williams: I deliver, and I listen. We secured the two largest public safety funding increases in 20 years, invested in neighborhood infrastructure and fought to keep your tax burden low. As growth accelerates, I will make sure District 4 residents have a voice in how this county develops.
HOW WILL YOU PRIORITIZE FUNDING FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT AND EMERGENCY SERVICES AS POPULATION DENSITY INCREASES?
Melton: I continue to publicly support the Boone County Justice Center expansion. We must ensure our public safety infrastructure keeps pace. I will prioritize the funding necessary to protect our families. I am prepared to make the tough, responsible decisions required to keep our county’s financial house in order.
Williams: We already started. I helped secure the two largest public safety funding increases in two decades and expanded support for all volunteer departments. I will ensure safety funding scales responsibly without shifting the burden to existing taxpayers.
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Democratic Party candidates for Indiana Senate District 29 David Greene, left, Kevin Short, middle left, Demetrice Hicks, middle right, and Kristina Moorhead receive a question from moderator Josh Lowry during the Hamilton County Democratic Party Town Hall April 17 at Clay Middle School. (Photo by Todd Golden)
Dems host forum
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
The Hamilton County Democratic Party held a forum April 17 at Clay Middle School in Carmel that featured candidates for the Indiana House of Representatives District 29 race and Indiana Senate District 21 and District 29 races.
Hamilton County Democratic Party Chairman Josh Lowry was the host. Approximately 100 people attended. Lowry asked eight questions of each candidate. Each had two minutes to answer. Most of the questions were the same for each race. The primary is May 5.
SENATE DISTRICT 29
The Democratic candidates are Indianapolis residents David Greene, Demetrice Hicks and Kevin Short and Carmel resident Kristina Moorhead. Democrat J.D. Ford, who is running for the Democratic nomination in Indiana’s Fifth Congressional District seat, is the incumbent.
Senate District 29 encompasses the west side of Carmel, Zionsville and Pike and Wayne townships in Marion County.
Moorhead said she wants to make sure the district stays with the Democratic Party.
“I entered this race because I think the seat is incredibly important for us to hold this election,” Moorhead said. “I am ready to defend this seat this year against the Republicans, so that we hold it and we can start picking up more seats across the state.”
Hicks is the Pike Township Board president.
“I am running on a platform of health, not harm,” Hicks said. “Right now, we have too many elected officials in office that are harming our commu-
nity by passing poor policies, because they are backed either by the Indiana chamber or a different special interest group.”
Short said he teaches construction management at Ivy Tech and worked with numerous social agencies in his job but did not say why he is running.
Greene is the senior pastor at Purpose Of Life Ministries in Indianapolis.
“I see things not through a political lens, only a political challenge, but it’s moral issues,” Greene said. “So, when we don’t fund public education and ask our teachers to do more with less, that’s a moral issue. When we’re willing to take 25 million gallons of water out of Eagle Creek and bring wastewater back to it (for the LEAP project), that’s a moral issue. When we’re willing to allow ICE to come into our schools or in our churches and snatch people out, that’s a moral issue. I truly believe that the budget is a moral document, and our budget is $22 billion, and I would suggest it does not represent the values of most Hoosiers.”
The candidates were asked what bill they would introduce if they could only introduce one.
“I would pass a bill that would kickstart the constitutional amendment process to allow voter-led ballot initiatives in Indiana,” Moorhead said.
“It would be the relief bill,” Hicks said. “What that would look like is it would fully fund child care in Indiana, and it would make sure we are using a percentage of our surplus every year to fund Medicaid.”
“I would eliminate the (Indiana Economic Development Corp.) or get them to be accountable,” Short said.
“My bill would be the local control and community investment act,” Greene said. “I believe we need to restore local control to our cities.”
2 vying for county council
Compiled by Spencer
Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com
John Hume and Gretchen Smith are vying for the Republican nomination for the Boone County Council District 2 seat in the May 5 primary.
Republican incumbent John Riner is not running for reelection.
Smith answered the following questions from Current. Hume did not return Current’s request to answer the questions.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE?
Smith: I am invested in my community and the changes that affect Boone County. I have knowledge of state laws and mandates gained during a past experience as county auditor and my current position working with auditors throughout the state that helps make me feel confident in this position.
WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM YOUR OPPONENT?
Smith: As stated above, I have defined experience. I prepared budgets, dealt with changes in the law, balanced budget line items, processed bond payments, TIF, employee payroll, retirement and benefits.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE CAMPAIGN ISSUES?
Smith: My top three campaign issues are maintaining a balanced budget while keeping tax rates low. Continuously reviewing the impact of new state laws and mandates and keeping open communication and working together with all levels of government when dealing with upcoming challenges.
HOW WILL YOU NAVIGATE SEA 1 BUDGET CONSTRAINTS?
Smith: We must explore alternative funding strategies for critical infrastructure, especially roads and bridges. New business development should help support these needs, and we must evaluate all options as laws and policies evolve.
For more responses, visit youarecurrent.com
Brick Street Market is May 2
news@youarecurrent.com
The 41st annual Brick Street Market returns to Main Street next month.
The vendor fair hosted by the Zionsville Chamber of Commerce will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 2 in downtown Zionsville.
Main Street will be turned into an open-air marketplace. There will be more than 140 vendors featuring handmade arts, crafts, gifts and food. Admission is free.
“Brick Street Market has become a signature spring event that highlights the creativity of Midwest artisans while drawing thousands to experience the timeless charm of Zionsville,” Chamber Executive Director Mike Hanlon stated. “Whether you’re looking for one-of-akind handmade treasures, tasty treats or simply a beautiful day out with family and friends, this year’s market promises something special for everyone.”
Willy’s Wagyu, a local wagyu beef farm, will conduct a cooking competition during Brick Street Market. The smoke-off will take place throughout the morning and afternoon with a
grand champion named at 3:30 p.m. Five teams will compete to prepare meat provided and grown by Willy’s Wagyu.
Willy’s Wagyu will have products for sale during Brick Street. Sliders will be available.
The chamber is looking for volunteers to help with the vendor fair. Volunteer opportunities are available on May 1 and 2. Sign up at tinyurl.com/6jrr59uy.
Brick Street Market is meant to serve as an economic boost for Zionsville, drawing people from across the area.
FIRE CAUSES $300K IN DAMAGE TO ZIONSVILLE HOME
Brick Street Market will feature more than 140 vendors. (Photo courtesy of the Town of Zionsville)
A fire April 14 in the 6000 block of Amherst Way caused significant damage to a Zionsville home. The Zionsville Fire Department was dispatched to the scene at 1:52 p.m. and found heavy fire in the attic upon arriving. Firefighters had the fire under control within 30 minutes.
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Witham opens new practice
news@youarecurrent.com
Witham Health Services opened its newest specialty practice earlier this month. The Cosmetic and Surgical Arts by Witham, a facility for advanced cosmetic surgery and aesthetic treatments. The new practice, at 1503 W. Oak St., offers a range of surgical and nonsurgical services, according to a news release.
Services include:
• Surgical procedures such as breast augmentation, body contouring and reconstructive options
• Nonsurgical treatments including neuromodulators, dermal fillers, chemical peels and laser
treatments
• Facial procedures including facelifts, eyelid surgery, neck lifts and facial implants
“Choosing to enhance your appearance is a decision that deserves to be celebrated,” Witham Health Services President and CEO Kelly Braverman stated. “At Cosmetic and Surgical Arts by Witham, we’re here to listen to what you want, understand what matters to you and help you select treatments that will enhance your individual beauty.” Witham is offering discounts and raffles for those who book an appointment by May 10. For more or to schedule a consultation, visit witham.org/csa or call 317-873-1200.
CHEERS TO, PRESLEY ROSS CLASS OF 2026
We are so incredibly proud of the woman you’ve become. From your first day of kindergarten to walking across the stage, it’s been a joy to watch you grow. We can’t wait to see what you achieve at Purdue! Love, Mom, Dad, and Sarah. SCAN HERE
Dads Group to attempt world record
By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com
Trailside Elementary School’s annual end-of-the-year Sunset Party and Campout might be a little busier than usual.
The elementary school’s dad group will attempt to break a Guinness World Record for most participants in a gaga ball game. Gaga ball is played inside a hexagon- or octagon-shaped ring featuring multiple players. The goal is to hit the ball at other players below their knees, knocking them out of the game.
“It’s all the craze,” said Todd Ferris, president of the Trailside Dads Club.
The record is 482 people.
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“As word is getting out there, it’s getting more feasible,” Ferris said. “We’re optimistic we’re going to get there.”
The attempt will take place at the annual campout May 2 at Trailside El-
ementary. The event begins at 6 p.m. The game will start at 6:30 p.m. A larger ring will be built to accommodate all the players.
The campout is in its fourth year. It features food trucks, games, music and a movie for Trailside students and their families. The gaga ball game is open to the wider Zionsville community.
Going for a world record is meant to make the event more special.
“We wanted to do something to set it apart,” Ferris said. “(Gaga ball) is most relatable to the elementary school, too.”
Trailside Dads Group is meant to support fathers with children at the school. The group raised money last year to install a gaga pit at Trailside.
The world record attempt is free to attend. Anyone interested in participating is requested to RSVP at tinyurl.com/ ykr879f3.
Witham staff cut the ribbon to its new practice at 1503
W. Oak St.
(Photo courtesy of Witham Health Services)
Up in smoke: Grillers look forward to cook-off
By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com
Anyone visiting Brick Street Market May 2 is likely to catch the aroma of quality meats while browsing the more than 140 vendors who will set up on Zionsville’s Main Street.
Willy’s Wagyu, a local wagyu beef farm, is partnering with the chamber for its second Brick Street Smoke Off.
The cooking competition will feature five teams that will prepare meat provided by Willy’s Wagyu. Cuts include New York strip, picanha and brisket point. Each team will prepare their own side dish as well. A panel of community members, including Matt Taylor, voice of the Indianapolis Colts, and Zionsville Town Council Member Evan Norris, will serve as judges who will determine the top teams.
“We’re trying to build camaraderie in the community … over family-centered meals,” said Tim Wilson, owner of Willy’s Wagyu. “We’re trying to find Zionsville’s best pit master.”
Returning for his second-consecutive competition is Zionsville resident Bill Parker and his team Total Smoke Show. Parker’s team won Best Brisket last year.
“We had a blast,” Parker said. “We had a lot of fun.”
Parker has been grilling for several years after his family got him a Big Green Egg, a ceramic kamado-style grill and smoker.
“I was an egghead before the Big Green Egg was cool,” he said.
Parker is joined by Leigh Omer, Matt Crow and Neil Aldredge. They’re all friends who enjoy cooking together.
The competition also has some newcomers, including VAIN Smoke Slingers, featuring Don Pearson and his son-in-law Derek Benner. They started grilling more than a decade ago. This is their first competition, and their goal is to have fun.
“We just decided to take our skills to the next level … and see how good we are,” Pearson said.
Pearson grew up in Zionsville and recently moved back to his hometown after living all around the world. He was in Tokyo for business — Pearson is an optical engineer — when he spoke with Current.
“I can smoke some stuff my family thinks is out of this world, but what the judges think, that’s a whole other story,” he said.
Pearson said participating in the smoke off is a way to get involved and support his hometown community.
Other teams include Team Tychinn: Tyran Beckett and David Reed; Holy Smokes: Tom Harmeson, Baron Brendel, Eric Bolt and Jarrod Blackwell and PL Cold BBQ Junkies: Donte Bellamy, Sheila Wade, Justin Boulch and Shawn Abbott.
The smoke-off will take place throughout the morning and afternoon with a grand champion named at 3:30 p.m.
The grand champion will receive $1,000. Individual category winners get $250.
The cooking team Total Smoke Show won Best Brisket in last year’s Brick Street Smoke Off.
(Photo courtesy of Willy’s Wagyu)
big trees now!
ZIONSVILLE MAY EVENTS
SPRING PLANT SALE
The Boone County Master Gardeners have its third annual Spring Plant Sale from 9 a.m. to noon May 2 in the Farm Bureau Community Building at the Boone County Fairgrounds. Annuals, perennials, herb and vegetable plants along with native plant seed packets will be available. Many of the plants were grown by the Master Gardeners.
INDY 500 PORCH PARTY
Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Gainbridge and Andretti Global will host a porch party from 4-6 p.m. May 5 at 10555 Group 1001 Way, Zionsville. Free Indy 500 porch kits will be given away on a first-come, first-served basis.
POETS OF THE PRESS
SullivanMunce Cultural Center will have an open reception for its Poets of the Press exhibition at 5 p.m. May 5. The exhibition will feature works from the 67th Street Printmakers, a community of 21 artists brought together by their love of printmaking. They met at the Indianapolis Art Center and are dedicated to sharing their art and the various methods of printmaking.
INTRO TO PICKLEBALL
The Town of Zionsville will have an introduction to pickleball class from 10-11:30 a.m. May 6 at Mulberry Fields Park, 9465 Whitestown Road, Zionsville. The class will cover the basics of pickleball rules, terminology, primary skills and more. Paddles and balls will be provided. Register at tinyurl.com/3x3y6h4n. Cost is $10 for residents and $15 for nonresidents.
PHOTOGRAPHY BIRD WALK
The Zionsville Parks and Recreation Department will have a photography bird walk from 9-10:30 a.m. May 9 at Starkey Nature Park, 667 Sugarbush Dr. A naturalist will guide the walk as participants look for songbirds and other migrating animals. Participants should bring their own camera or smartphone. Photography tips will be shared during the event. Register at tinyurl.com/2n48stbe. Cost is $6 for residents, $8 for nonresidents.
HOOSIER VILLAGE GARAGE SALES
Hoosier Village will have its annual Spring Sale, now called Village Market, May 1416. The sale includes quality furniture and household and decorative items but not
clothing. Times are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 14 and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 15-16. All items will be half priced on May 16. Enter Hoosier Village off of Zionsville Road or at the 96th Street gates. Follow directional signs.
FARMERS MARKET
The Zionsville Farmers Market will begin its 2026 season at 8 a.m. May 17. The farmers market is open until 11:30 a.m. every Saturday through September at 340 S. Main St.
PAWS TO READ
Curious Squirrel Bookshop will host its monthly Paws to Read from 11 a.m. to noon May 23. The event features therapy dogs kids can read to and practice their reading skills in a supportive, nonjudgemental setting. Sign-ups are not required but can be done at tinyurl.com/4akcdv9r. The bookstore is at 120 S. Main St.
CURIOUS SQUIRREL BOOK CLUB
The Curious Squirrel Bookshop will discuss “Our Beautiful Boys” by Sameer Pandya during its monthly Nutty for Novels book club from 6:30-8 p.m. May 25. The novel follows the lives of three high school football players after a violent incident with a classmate. Curious Squirrel’s book club is open to everyone. For more information visit, curioussquirrelbooks.com/ csbfictionbookclub. The bookstore is at 120 S. Main St.
PARTY AT THE PARK
The Zionsville Parks and Recreation Department will welcome the end of the school year with a park party from 3-6 p.m. May 28 at Mulberry Fields, 9465 Whitestown Road, Zionsville. There will be games, activities, a special appearance by the Zionsville Nature Center, a live DJ and touch-a-truck from the Zionsville police and fire departments and food trucks.
KIDS BIKE RODEO
There will be a bicycle safety event for children from 9-11 a.m. May 30 at Mulberry Fields, 9465 Whitestown Road, Zionsville. Riders will rotate through fun, hands-on stations to practice bike safety skills like helmet fit, stopping, turning and riding with confidence. Times are staggered, depending on age. For more information and to register, visit tinyurl. com/7mmz248c. Cost is $5 for residents, $7 for nonresidents.
COMMUNITY
CAPTURING THE MOMENT
By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com
Will House’s camera shuttered quickly as he stood along the first baseline during a recent Zionsville Community High School baseball game.
His camera was fixed on ZCHS third baseman Camden Moore, who fielded a low line drive before throwing the ball across the diamond for an out. House looked down at his camera screen.
“Oh my gosh, that’s in focus,” he said. Among the flurry of shots House captured was Moore as he reared back for an overhand throw. The image was crisp and in perfect focus.
The mostly-student-led class has become an arm of the school’s athletic marketing by photographing home sporting events, posting scores and graphics on each team’s Instagram account and hosting media days for each team.
“It’s just exploded in the last couple years,” said journalism teacher Lauren Wagner, who teaches the class.
And that’s not an exaggeration. The program started as a club. Next year, it will have more than 60 students spread across two classes.
Students Sam Black and Elliot Huibregtse-Traenkle are the executive directors of the class and focus on the technical side of the production, such as graphics and photography. Orla Schleppi is the staff manager, overseeing planning and ensuring students are filing their posts on time.
“This is what colleges and professionals do,” Huibregtse-Traenkle said.
All three heard about the program while it was still a club.
“I know I want to work in sports in the future,” Schleppi said.
The team works off a flow chart posted on a whiteboard in the classroom. Every sport has a team lead and at least one photographer.
“Our goal is to make every sport even,” Black said.
“Cross county deserves the same love football gets,” Schleppi added.
House is the baseball photographer. He joined the club after seeing posts of students taking photos on the sidelines
photos and final score graphics on the high school’s respective sports accounts on Instagram are created by students.
of football games. House said he needed a hobby. Now, he has a passion.
“I love it,” he said. “It’s literally my life right now.”
After games, House posts photos on the necessary social media accounts as well as a final score graphic. The expectation is materials are posted within an hour after the game.
The class also has a group that reaches out to local businesses for sponsorships. Businesses can have their logo appear on social media graphics.
Wagner said students learn how to use a camera and elements of graphic design with most learning happening between classmates. The student directors said they’ve enjoyed watching their classmates grow.
“It’s obviously a great resume builder but also teaching people so many new things,” Black said.
Some students enter the class with no photography or design skills, but that’s not a barrier for sports media.
“We wanted to make it more open to
people,” Schleppi said.
There are tangible skills, but there also are plenty of soft skills to be gained through sports media. It requires working together, communicating and networking.
“The amount of people and connections I’ve made is insane,” Huibregtse-Traenkle said.
And it’s opening students’ eyes to a potential career, too.
“I think it makes working in sports more tangible,” Schleppi said.
Zionsville Community High School’s sports media program lives on Instagram.
Students in the class run the ZCHS Eagles account, posting the best-of-the-best photos and graphics, along with weekly
Follow Zionsville Sports Media on Instagram for more. FOLLOW FOR MORE
schedules of sporting events. Students also post directly on the teams’ respective accounts, as well.
ON THE COVER: Zionsville Community High School student Will House takes photos during a home baseball game April 17. House is a member of the high school’s sports media program. The students take photos at ZCHS athletic events and post graphics. (Photo by Spencer Durham)
ZCHS students promote athletics through sports media program
(Above) From left, Orla Schleppi, Sam Black and Elliot Huibregtse-Traenkle are the student leaders of Zionsville Community High School’s sports media program. They organize coverage for athletic events and make sure students meet deadlines. (Photo by Spencer Durham)
Graphics,
BLUEPRINT FOR IMPROVEMENT:
Commentary by Larry Greene
This Carmel home was expanded with a light-filled sunroom addition, creating a seamless transition to the outdoors while enhancing everyday living and entertaining space.
THE BLUEPRINT
• Added sunroom to extend living space and improve indoor-outdoor connection.
• Clean-lined ceiling with recessed lighting for a seamless, cohesive look.
• Large windows maximize views and bring in abundant daylight.
• Stone fireplace creates a warm, central focal point.
• Neutral palette and layered textures for a timeless, cohesive feel.
• Direct access from the kitchen to the backyard for effortless entertaining and relaxation.
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.
Carmel home gets sunny addition
May 1 & 2 at PM May at PM
The Tobias Theater at SHOW SPONSOR
Etheridge brings ‘Rise’ tour to Palladium
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
It always invigorates Melissa Etheridge to share her music with an audience.
“Having this new album that seems to be received so well, I’m able to do these new songs, so it makes for a new show,” she said. “I was able to rethink some of the older songs, put them together differently and it makes for a new show that me and the band are really enjoying doing.”
Etheridge will perform at 7:30 p.m. May 3 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. She also performed in Carmel in 2018.
Etheridge’s album “Rise” was released in late March. It marked the first time working with Grammy-winning producer Shooter Jennings, son of the late Waylon Jennings.
“I was very, very happy to work with him,” Etheridge said. “It had been about seven or eight years since I did a full studio album on my own of new material. I really wanted to do something different, new, and I really wanted to look at the artists who were making country rock, outlaw country and Americana and all that, all those genres that I’ve always thought were just rock ‘n’ roll. But (Jennings) was just a name that kept coming up and, boy, he was so wonderful. I loved working with him.”
Etheridge, 64, said her new song “Matches” is unique.
“I’ve never allowed myself to kind of write a song with that kind of feel,” she said. “It kind of just rolls along, and it’s a memory that brings us into right now. The last verse I love because it’s now, ‘I’m rolling down the road, pulling into your town,’ and whenever I sing that, the people in the audience, they go nuts and it’s a really fun song to do.”
Etheridge co-wrote a song with Chris Stapleton called “The Other Side of Blue.”
“I first wanted to write with him
because I appreciate and respect his music, his art and him as a person,” she said. “I’ve always felt that he’s got this great presence in music right now and is such a great talent.”
Etheridge, who is based in Los Angeles, said she met Stapleton in Nashville.
“I had never met him before, and we wrote it very easily and quickly,” she said. “He was just very open, very creative. I think he’s an amazing writer. Then after we wrote it, I said, ‘Chris, I really think the world should hear the two of us sing together,’ and so we decided to do it as a duet. I’m just very pleased and very grateful.”
Etheridge said she hasn’t performed the song on the tour yet, but might sing it solo on the tour.
The song deals with navigating grief and finding hope. Etheridge’s son, Beckett, died from causes related to his opioid addiction at age 21 in 2020.
Etheridge said writing that song
Melissa Etheridge will perform May 3 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Primary Wave Music)
and “Call You” provided some comfort.
“Presenting that to an audience, I realize I’m not alone in that (grief), unfortunately,” she said. “It feels very cathartic. It’s a great thing to get off my mind.”
Etheridge has been performing about seven songs from “Rise’ on the tour that began in March
“I do five or six hit songs,” she said. “I do a couple of deeper tracks, so there’s eight of my old songs.”
Some of Etheridge’s biggest hits are “I Want to Come Over,” “Come to My Window,” “I’m the Only One” and “Like the Way I Do.”
Although she wasn’t selected, Etheridge was nominated for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for the first time in February.
“It was nice to be thought about and in the room with everyone,” she said. For more, visit thecenterpresents. org.
‘SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN’
“Singin’ in the Rain” runs through May 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards. com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Now That’s Funny: Brian Hicks” is set for April 30, followed by Tim Wright & Steel Petals at Feinstein’s in Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘BROTHERS GRIMM’
The Point Theater presents “The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon” May 1-3 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thepointtheater.org.
‘RISE’
Melissa Etheridge will perform a concert in support of her latest album “Rise” at 7:30 p.m. May 3 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘SUNSET BOULEVARD’
Actors Theatre of Indiana presents “Sunset Boulevard” through May 10 at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistage.org.
‘FIDDLER ON THE ROOF’
Civic Theatre presents “Fiddler on the Roof” through May 9 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.
ELO EXPERIENCE
The Electric Light Orchestra Experience featuring Evil Woman — The American ELO will perform at 8 p.m. May 2 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
FRiddler on the oof
Actor back in familiar opera role in ‘Figaro’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Rafael Porto is very familiar with “The Marriage of Figaro.”
“It’s one of my favorites. It’s timeless and really fun to do,” he said.
Porto will perform in the famous opera for the sixth time in Indianapolis Opera’s May 1-3 production at The Toby Theater at Newfields in Indianapolis.
tober 2025. They sing in the Lyric Opera in Chicago, one of three full-time opera choruses in the nation.
Porto performed in the same production in 2025 at Northern Lights Music Festival in Minnesota.
Porto, who grew up in Indianapolis and graduated from Ben Davis High School, portrays Don Bartolo for the fifth time. He was cast as Figaro once.
“I love the comedic elements of the role,” he said. “I think (Bartolo) is a guy who is not trying to be funny. The comedy comes from him thinking he has everything figured out and knows how to work the system, and he doesn’t realize he’s getting played like a fiddle. The fun side is he thinks he’s quite serious and brilliant.”
Porto said the comedy comes from the audience seeing the plan he and Marcellina have is falling apart.
Porto’s wife, Cara Collins, plays Marcellina. The couple were married in Oc-
“We also had the same director (A. Scott Parry) and the same Figaro (Jason Cox) and Countess (Rebecca Krynski Cox) in this production,” Porto said. “It will be very fun to do it with them again because that’s more of a rarity. It’s a really good group of people with good chemistry.”
The first time Porto appeared with Indianapolis Opera as a chorus member was at Butler University, and then his first principal role was in “Madame Butterfly” in 2011.
“It’s been a company that’s just been a part of my life for my whole artistic journey,” said Porto, who earned his bachelor’s degree at Butler and master’s degree at Indiana University.
Porto has been a freelance performaner for several years.
“It’s always nice to come back to Indiana because that was a place that gave me a lot of chances when I was starting up,” he said.
For more, visit indyopera.org.
“I love the comedic elements of the role. I think (Bartolo) is a guy who is not trying to be funny. The comedy comes from him thinking he has everything figured out and knows how to work the system, and he doesn’t realize he’s getting played like a fiddle. The fun side is he thinks he’s quite serious and brilliant.”
– RAFAEL PORTO
DISPATCHES
Comedy shows added — Two comedians, Michael Blaustein and Becky Robinson, have been announced for the 2026-27 season at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. Michael Blaustein’s “The Taste Me Tour – The Final Leg” is set for 7 p.m. Sept. 24. Robinson’s :”The Beasts in Me Tour” is set for 8 p.m. Oct. 9. Both shows will be at the Payne & Mencias Palladium. Tickets are on sale at thecenterpresents.org.
Billy Strings rescheduled — The Billy Strings concerts originally scheduled for April 24-26 at the Fishers Event Center have been rescheduled to August 6-8 Ticket holders should retain their tickets as they will be honored for the rescheduled dates.
Porto
COMMUNITY VOICES
Get out and vote
Editor,
It’s time to vote, Zionsville!
In the 2022 primary, only 14 percent of registered voters in Zionsville precincts voted. There were 25,301 Zionsville voters who didn’t bother. The midterm elections are more important than most realize.
Since members of the U.S. House of Representatives serve two-year terms, the entire house is up for election every two years! A third of the U.S. Senate seats are challenged in every election. Our system of “checks and balances” relies heavily on the representatives we elect.
In Boone County, registered voters can vote in whichever voting center they choose. We are lucky to have two in Zionsville! Vote early. Don’t wait. Go to Town Hall or the library April 30 or May 1 from 1 to 8 p.m., or on May 2 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you wait until
“In the 2022 primary, only 14 percent of registered voters in Zionsville precincts voted.”
– JANET STUTZMAN
Election Day, May 5, these locations are open 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Please get out and vote!
Janet Stutzman, Zionsville
COLUMNIST ON THE WEB
This week’s commentary by Current Publishing essayist Terry Anker may be read at youarecurrent.com.
I hate the 70s
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
Last month, I celebrated my 79th birthday. My wife Mary Ellen and son tried to find me the perfect gift. But I am a very difficult person to shop for. I know this because my mother started telling me this when I was 3 years old.
“I
To help them, I Googled “Gifts for men in their 80s.” I still have a year to go, but I wanted to give my family a good start on the next decade.
Here’s another hint: “A coffee mug decorated with the names of famous people who died on your birth date.” I’m surprised Starbucks never thought of this. It seems tasteless, but it’s nothing compared to their scones.
I Googled a list for those who said their final goodbyes on March 5.
don’t want to be a celebrant. It’s bad enough that many consider me an irritant.”
– DICK WOLFSIE
Here was the first recommendation: “The gift should convey to the celebrant that he is still loved, respected and appreciated.”
I don’t want to be a celebrant. It’s bad enough that many consider me an irritant.
Another suggestion: “Why not a collage of stamps from that person’s birth year? Can you think of a better present?” Yes. How about a gift certificate for my next colonoscopy? By the way, a postage stamp in 1947 cost 3 cents, which was expensive at the time. That’s why my father didn’t want to send out my birth announcements.
Then there also were several ideas for personalized coffee mugs: “What about an eye-catching cup with a list of all the famous people born on their birthday?” I thought that sounded like a good idea, so I did a little research about March 5 on AI. Amazing how many notables share my birth date:
• Tang Gonghong (Chinese weightlifter)
• Jef Eygel (Belgian basketball player)
• Olusegun Obasanjo (former president of Nigeria)
But how long will that priceless gift last before someone swipes it?
• Jay Silverheels (Tonto on the “Lone Ranger”)
• Patsy Cline (country singer)
• William Powell (movie star)
I’d suggest they add dictator Joseph Stalin, who also died on March 5. Anything to brighten up that mug.
Just before my birthday, Mary Ellen and I went to Cracker Barrel for dinner. I saw her eyeing one of those little books on the gift rack that features statistics from the year you were born. The stand starts with 2005 at the top, and the years work their way down the rack. By the time she reached 1947, she was on her knees. This is a marketing mistake. When you are a senior, everything you want to buy should be at eye level. If CVS stocked Depends on the lower shelf, they’d never sell a single package.
Mary Ellen ended up giving me a coffee mug: TO MY FAVORITE SEPTUAGENARIAN
I don’t like being in my 70s. It certainly doesn’t sound as much fun as being a sexagenarian.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES
Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft Word document or in the body of an email. Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising nature. Letters should be exclusive to Current Publishing. Unsigned letters and letters deemed to be of a libelous nature will not be published. Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent.com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
14. Florida city
15. Kinky coiffure
16. Start to an “udderly” ridiculous riddle
19. Typical Westfield HS student
20. Negative prefix
21. Too big for one’s britches?
23. Off-Broadway award
25. Colts’ QB stat
27. Keen
29. I-69 roadside assistance org.
30. NHS subj.
31. Jazz Kitchen instrument
32. A Kardashian
34. Unconscious condition
36. Take a timeout
37. Part 2 of the riddle
40. Mafia boss
43. Tesla’s Musk
44. Customary
48. Be too generous at a garage sale
50. Eiteljorg Museum tribe
52. Pacers’ current org.
53. James Whitcomb Riley works
54. Cigar residue
55. “The King and I” setting
56. USN rank
57. Pencil filler
59. Defeat decisively
61. Riddle’s answer
66. Grandson of Adam and Eve
67. God of Islam
68. ___ King Cole
69. Rajah’s wife
70. Personal records
71. Org.
DOWN
1. Clay Terrace shoe store letters
2. “Go Greyhounds!”
3. Three-dimensional
4. Lymph ___
5. Easily identifiable
6. ___ ‘n’ cheese
7. Become swollen
8. [Boring!]
9. Cruel person
10. ET’s craft
11. Abundant
12. Recital pieces
17. Purgatory Golf Club
peg
18. “Hogan’s Heroes” setting
22. Send a brief message
23. Zionsville street between Cedar and Pine
24. Scrooge’s cry
26. Politely
28. Apt rhyme of “courts”
30. Red or Dead
31. B-plus beater at Butler
33. Scents
35. Yoko ___
38. Cups, saucers, sugar bowl, etc.
39. Coloration
40. Geist inlet
41. One who rights old wrongs
42. ___ non grata
45. Bringing together
46. Pacers’ former org.
47. Hasty escape
49. First female Speaker of the House
51. Larynx locale
54. “Skyfall” singer
55. Tom Wood offering, briefly
58. “Moby-Dick” captain
60. ___ and aahs
62. Freight weight
63. Columbus Crew org.
64. Fishers Farmers Market corn unit
65. Some Indy 500 drivers’ sponsorship letters ANSWERS ON PAGE 23
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