Come celebrate our partnership with Sister City, Kawachinagano, Japan
SUNDAY, MAY 4
2025 | 1 – 4 PM
• Japanese Food Vendors
• Musical, Dance and Martial Arts Performances
• Japanese Cultural Activities
10 MAY SATURDAY 2-6 PM
MIDTOWN PLAZA
April 29, 2025
Current in Zionsville currentzionsville.com
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
The Zionsville Youth Soccer Association recently announced the rebranding of its travel program with a goal of appealing to the broader central Indiana community.
The change to Union FC Indy — the travel program for futures, pathway and junior/ senior travel teams — was implemented this spring and goes into effect for players beginning with tryouts in June. The change includes a new logo for the travel program.
The rebrand follows one year of planning and input from stakeholders, including board members, staff, coaches, parents, players, marketing and design professionals and club supporters.
ZYSA Director of Operations Dan Kapsalis said the organization hopes the change will raise the bar for competition and expand the footprint of the decades-old club.
“The soccer scene has changed over 45-plus years,” Kapsalis said. “This club is going through a little bit of a morphing. The local scene of soccer is, we’re viewed now as a community club. People are always asking us, ‘Do you have to live in Zionsville in order to play in the club?’ And the answer is no. But the perception is we’re a community club. So, our rec program is going to stay community-based as ZYSA, the green and white rec program. But we’re transitioning the travel program into Union FC Indy.”
Kapsalis said there is history to the name. “Union” was the original name of the club at its founding in 1979.
“We wanted to try to pay homage to the past and the history of the club, so we used ‘Union’ in connection with the original name,” he said. “We want to attract kids from outside of Zionsville to try to come into the club.”
Kapsalis said one issue with the travel program is an IHSAA rule that only allows seven students from one high school to play on a club team. That means kids essentially age out of the travel program when they reach high school.
“It’s a very challenging rule for clubs,” he said. “That rule has been challenging for us because we’re losing kids to other clubs because we can’t place them. So, part of the idea with Union FC Indy is to attract kids from outside of the area. Obvi-
ously, we’ve got to provide a good product, provide good service and provide good coaching. Our facilities — we’re building a new turf field; we’re in the process right now of building a $2 million lighted turf field that is going to be a huge enhancement to our facility. So, with the rebrand, with the new facility upgrade, that’s kind of the jist of where we’re going with the name change.”
The organization supports 820 travel players and 900 rec reational participants.
“We want to provide effectively a cradle-to-grave playing option,” ZYSA Sporting Director and coach Rob Klatte said, noting that the organization has options for youth players as young as 4. “If you want to play rec, you can choose the season and you can play all the way through high school. But if you would like to join a travel program, we’ve got a pathway. We have a futures program which starts at four and five years old, and then it goes
into our pathway program, which is our six and sevens, and then it turns into our academy, which is the beginning of our travel program. So effectively, at whatever level you want to play, we’ll provide options.
If you’re an adult, we’ve got adult options in the evenings. We host outside groups that come in and have different leagues on our campus. We would just like people to be aware that there’s an option in the northwestern Indianapolis area that provides all those services.”
The Club’s recreational program and fall Socctoberfest tournament will continue to operate as ZYSA.
Tryouts and evaluation for Union FC Indy begin June 3. Tryouts for pathway and academy teams — children born between 2016 and 2019 — are June 3 and 4. Evaluation for futures born in 2020 and 2021 are June 5. Tryouts for all other athletes born from 2007 to 2015 are June 9 and 10. Learn more and register at unionfcindy. org.
3
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CELEBRATE THE CONCLUSION OF THE PARADE OF HOMES WITH A BEHIND THE SCENES PREVIEW OF HOME-A-RAMA!
May 4, 2025 | 2 – 6pm 1360 Chatham Ridge Ct., Westfield, IN 46074
The 2025 Lee Supply Corp Home-A-Rama will be held at Chatham Hills in Westfield this September. Get a sneak peek at this fun event hosted by Henke Development and enjoy some tacos, margaritas and under construction masterpieces.
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Indiana’s new state tax bill, Senate Bill 1, was signed into law April 15 by Gov. Mike Braun. Beginning in 2026, the law will lower property taxes through tax credits and limiting how much communities can raise through property taxes.
think that in Zionsville, we’re doing a good job with treating taxpayer dollars the way they should be treated.”
Stehr said the town won’t compromise public safety, which takes up about 50 percent of its annual budget. He said when roads and parks are factored in, that reaches about 85 percent of the annual budget.
The bill is designed for property tax relief but will impact local municipalities by reducing what they can collect. The legislation will cap local income tax rates for counties at 2.9 percent. Municipalities can impose rates up to 1.2 percent.
Zionsville Mayor John Stehr said the town has been planning for the impact of the bill. He said an analysis of how the bill will affect Zionsville shows total revenue will fall $5.6 million between 2026 and 2028.
Stehr said Zionsville, like other municipalities, is already operating on a tight budget.
“That’s just the nature of it,” he said. “We are running in a lean fashion, and I think most municipalities are. We’re the ones who provide public safety and provide roads and parks and permitting services and inspections. We just don’t have extra people here. We’re not taking expensive training trips. There’s not any fat in (the budget). Every dollar is spent pretty well, and we have the lowest tax rate of all the municipalities in the nine-county region. I
“Every employee we have here is meaningful,” he said.
Stehr said the town will begin work on the 2026 budget in May.
One item to consider is stormwater rates. Stehr said the town is conducting a rate study and the potential to create a separate fund for a stormwater utility.
“I think the best way to do it is to have a five-year financial plan and look out over what your finances are going to be over a five-year period,” he said. “We’re not taking all the impact at once; we’re spreading it out over five years. One thing that’s going to be really important for us in 2026 is to create a stormwater utility. Right now, we cover stormwater out of our general fund. And as the town grows, there’s more of a need and that becomes more and more expensive. Most municipalities consider stormwater to be a utility because it’s a service that everybody needs and everybody uses. It’s not discretionary — everybody benefits from a good stormwater plan.”
The state tax bill also affects funding for public schools, which receive property tax revenue as part of their overall budgets.
Read Senate Bill 1 at iga.in.gov/ legislative/2025/bills/senate/1/details.
Boone County hires full-time attorney
— The Boone County Council recently approved the hire of Beth Copeland as full-time county attorney. Copeland, who previously served as chief litigation counsel for the City of Indianapolis and Corp. Counsel for the City of Kokomo, was hired as a contract employee in February by the Boone County Commissioners. The county council later voted to transfer existing funds to hire Copeland as a full-time county employee, with the transfer finalized by the commissioners April 14. County officials said providing for legal counsel in-house will save money and streamline
operations by having legal advice immediately available.
Community Health Network expands behavioral health services — Community Health Network and Lifepoint Behavioral Health announced April 15 the intended location for a behavioral health hospital in Westfield across from Community’s new health care campus, 19800 East St. The proposed 120-bed facility would be one of two planned for the greater Indianapolis area. The facility would address the region’s increasing need for behavioral health care services.
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
The Zionsville Parks Foundation recently announced the appointment of Tim Casady as the new president of its board of directors. He succeeds Nancy Carpenter, who served as the board’s first president for the past five years.
Carpenter is the founder of the Zionsville Parks Foundation. In her position, she has dedicated efforts to preserving, enhancing and growing the community’s parks and greenspaces. Since its inception, the foundation has raised funds and awareness to advance its mission — “to preserve, enhance and grow a thriving system of parks and programs for community enjoyment, education and wellness.”
Carpenter said Casady will help further grow the organization.
“Parks and greenspace are more important now than ever, and I will remain on the board and in the fight to preserve green space and work to ensure our community has places for nature to exist and for people to restore their spirits through high-quality park experiences,” Carpenter said.
Casady has served on the Zionsville Pathways Committee and the Zionsville Park Board. Following a career as an attorney with Eli Lilly & Co., he owned the small business Nebo Ridge Bicycles.
“The Foundation is an amazing group, and we’ve seen fantastic achievements over the last five years, including securing commitments of over $1 million for our parks,” Casady said. “I look forward to working with Nancy and our full 15-member board to keep the momentum going, and to identify and help fulfill our greatest park needs.”
Founded in 2020, the Zionsville Parks Foundation is a nonprofit that works to maintain the qualities that make Zionsville an appealing place to live and recreate. The foundation serves as a link between the community and the town to understand the community’s outdoor recreation needs.
The Foundation will host an art walk with Indianapolis artists Chris Blice and Jon Edwards of Blice Edwards Atelier from 5:30 to 7 p.m. May 6 at Zionsville Town Hall. Participants will hear the artists’ insights on the creative process behind their nature tunnel murals along the Big-4 Rail Trail.
Learn more about the Zionsville Parks Foundation at zparksfoundation.org.
Boone County Justice Center to be named after former sheriff — The Boone County Commissioners recently voted unanimously to name the new county justice center after Ern K. Hudson, who served as Boone County Sheriff from 1979 to 1986, and again from 1991 to 1998. Hudson also was a trooper with the Indiana State Police and later served as Undersheriff for Larimer County, Colo. Hudson died in 2017. The naming of the justice center was made on the suggestion of Boone County Sheriff Tony Harris — who was hired by Hudson — and former Sheriff Ken P. Campbell. Hudson spearheaded construction of the Boone County Jail in 1992. The $59 million dollar justice center project, started in 2022, expands on the 1992 facility and will be dedicated later this year.
Food drive to benefit Caring Center — St. Alphonsus Liguori’s Outreach Ministry is sponsoring a food drive to benefit the Caring Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 16 and 7:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 17 in the church parking lot, 1870 West Oak St. in Zionsville. Donations of non-perishable food will be accepted and distributed throughout Boone County via the Caring Center. In 2024, Caring Center distributed 124 tons of food through the Lebanon-based food pantry.
news@currentzionsville.com
Registration is open for summer camp at the Boys & Girls Club of Boone County Whitestown and Zionsville units for children ages 5 to 18.
Camp will include a variety of activities, themes and planned field trips to keep children engaged during the summer months, including group games in the gym; game room tournaments; arts and crafts; STEM projects; cooking classes; teen and preteen activities; sports; and leadership clubs.
Summer day camp takes place weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. June 9 until July 30. Camp is $125 a week for members.
The club also will host weeklong specialty camps at the Zionsville unit, including travel camp; bike camp; x-treme quest camp; water park camp; and caring hands camp. Specialty camps are $275 per week for members and $340 per week for nonmembers.
Basketball clinics also will be available throughout the summer for children ages 8 and older.
Register for camp at bgcboone.org.
Sailing camp — Registration is open for Eagle Creek Sailing Club of Indianapolis 2025 summer youth sailing camps, with openings for the following sessions: June 9-13 for ages 8-11; June 16-20 for ages 8-11; June 23-27 for ages 12-18; and June 30-July 3 for ages 12-18. Camps are $400 for members and $475 for nonmembers and sailboats are provided. Eagle Creek Sailing Club is at 8901 W. 46th St. in Indianapolis, on the western shore of Eagle Creek Reservoir. Learn more at ecsail.org/juniors/lessons.
Flag disposal — American flags that are tattered and worn should be disposed of following federal guidelines, which include burning and proper handling of the ashes. Collection bins for flags in need of retirement can be found throughout Hamilton County, Boone County, including Zionsville American Legion Post 79, 9950 E. 600 S, as well as the Boone County Veterans Affairs Office and the Boone County Courthouse in Lebanon.
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
The Zionsville Chamber of Commerce presents 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. Besides artisan crafts, unique artwork and locally crafted food, the annual event showcases the Village shops and restaurants. Admission is free. Learn more at facebook.com/ ZvilleChamber.
The Zionsville Rotary Club will host its inaugural pickleball tournament May 10 at Mulberry Fields Park, 9645 Whitestown Rd. in Zionsville. Medals will be awarded to first-, second- and third-place participants. Registration is $65 and proceeds support the Zionsville community. Previous Rotary club initiatives include support of local food banks; the Million Meal Movement; high school scholarships; and assisting local nonprofits. The club is seeking participants and volunteers for the event. Learn more and register at tinyurl.com/4aj54ybt.
Boone County Master Gardeners will host their second Spring Plant Sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 3 in the Farm Bureau Community Building at the Boone County Fairgrounds in Lebanon. Visitors can purchase annuals, perennials, herb and vegetable plants along with native plant seed packets. Many of the plants have been grown by Master Gardeners who will be available to answer gardening questions. Learn more at mastergardenersboonecounty.org.
CV Art and Frame hosts a live artist reception with a Surrealist Party May 9-10 at the studio, 110 S. Main St. in the Village. The reception will feature Cuban American painter Carlos Gamez de Francisco. The two-day event includes a “Surreal Soirée” from 4 to 8 p.m. May 9 with refreshments and a painting demonstration. A painting demonstration and the artist’s story will be featured from noon to 6 pm. May 10. Interested attendees should RSVP with the day and number of persons attending by email at Gallery@cvartandframe.com or by phone at 317-873-2976.
Open to the public at Village Park on the grounds of Hoosier Village, these two FREE shows should prove popular for well-spent spring and summer evenings.
Come listen to the music, dance and sing along - and bring coolers and lawn chairs and/or blankets. If you don’t care to pack a cooler, there will be beer and wine, as well as small snacks, available for purchase.
May 13 (5 to 7 p.m.) - Barometer Soup, a north-suburban Indy band dedicated exclusively to Jimmy Buffett’s music. Before he left us in 2023, his last request was, “Keep the party going.” Thus the band shall. Break into your inner Parrothead and join the phlock!
More info: www.barometersoup.rocks
Aug. 5 (4:30 to 6:30 p.m.) - Josh Kaufman, Indianapolis resident, vocal virtuoso, songwriter, pianist, guitarist and Season 6 winner of The Voice, delivers pop, rhythm and blues, pop rock and soul tunes that pack a punch.
More info: www.joshkaufmanmusic.com
Part-Time Data Entry Specialist
We are seeking a detail-oriented and self-motivated individual to accurately and efficiently manage data in a flexible work environment.
Part-Time Customer Care Representative
We are looking for a customer-focused and reliable individual to assist with inquiries and provide support to our clients. Strong communication skills and a friendly demeanor are essential.
Remote (work-from-home) position paying $25/hour, with biweekly payroll. It offers flexible scheduling, allowing up to 20 hours of work per week.
To Apply: Please send applications to apply@willowsbridgepc.com.
The Humane Society for Boone County will host a golf scramble to benefit the organization’s fundraising efforts May 12 at the Golf Club of Indiana, 6905 S 525 E. in Whitestown.
Money raised at the golf outing will assist HSforBC with daily activities and improvements to the shelter. Besides raising money for regular operations, the humane society has two major fundraising initiatives for 2025 — a $65,000 campaign to replace the open-space yard with a low-maintenance play structure and artificial turf; and a $55,000 campaign to raise funds for a new outreach vehicle to bring adoptable pets to events throughout the year, pick up pets in need of care and serve as a low-cost mobile vaccine clinic.
The outing will include 18 holes of golf; on-course hole contests; lunch; a post-play snack; and a silent auction.
“This event is the perfect opportunity to support a cause close to our hearts — animal welfare, rescue, education and helping our furry friends find their forever homes —
The Humane Society for Boone County will host a golf fundraiser May 12 in Whitestown.
(Photo courtesy of The Humane Society for Boone County)
all while enjoying friendly competition, fun games, delicious food and prizes,” HSforBC executive director Kristen Pulice stated.
“We hope you will polish your clubs, practice your swing and join us for a great golf tournament.”
Check-in begins at 10:30 a.m. with the shotgun start at noon. Registration for foursomes is $650 through May 5 and sponsorships are available.
Learn more and register by contacting Pulice at 877-473-6722 or hsforbc@gmail. com.
“You can’t just put it off.”
Heather, Breast Cancer Survivor
Annual mammograms are a convenient way to prioritize your health. And these screenings only take about 15 minutes. At Community Health Network, you can schedule ahead of time or visit a walk-in clinic near you. So no matter what your schedule looks like, you’re ensured reliable, accessible and exceptional care.
Schedule your screening mammogram today or find a walk-in location near you at eCommunity.com/mammogram
Automated trucks deployed between Indiana and Ohio — A pair of tractor-trailers with automated truck platooning technology recently began traveling I-70 between Columbus, Ohio, and Indianapolis delivering shipments for EASE Logistics. The deployment is a collaboration between the Ohio Department of Transportation and the Indiana Department of Transportation to advance the adoption of truck automation technologies in the logistics industry across the Midwest. The trucks are equipped with platooning technology that electronically links the vehicles and allows the driver of the lead vehicle to control the speed and direction of the second truck. Professional drivers are in the driver’s seat of both trucks throughout the deployment. The initiative is part of a multi-year $8.8 million project funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to deploy varying levels of automation into freight-hauling operations. INDOT is expected to seek a request for proposals for additional deployments of automated trucks later this year.
Commentary by Brad Owen
What legal steps can you take to protect a loved one’s well-being while respecting their wishes? In Indiana, guardianship and power of attorney are two essential tools that can help, but knowing the differences is key.
At Dillman & Owen Estate & Elder Law, we help families navigate these options with clarity and care. Whether you’re planning ahead or responding to an urgent need, our experienced attorneys will guide you toward the best solution.
What is guardianship?
Guardianship is a protective measure ordered by the court when someone can no longer make decisions for themselves because of incapacity, such as dementia, mental illness or a disability.
• Court-ordered protection: A guardian is appointed through a formal court process to make decisions on behalf of the individual (known as the “ward”).
• Comprehensive authority: The guardian may oversee personal, medical and financial decisions, ensuring the ward’s best interests are met.
• Court oversight: The court monitors the guardian’s actions to ensure compliance and protection for the ward.
• Guardianship duration: Guardianship typically remains in place until the court determines it is no longer necessary, such as if the ward regains capacity or passes away.
For example, if a loved one suffers from advanced Alzheimer’s disease and cannot manage their health care or finances, guardianship ensures someone is legally empowered to act in their best interest.
What is a power of attorney (POA)?
A power of attorney is a legal document that allows an individual (the “principal”) to name someone they trust (the “agent” or “attorney-in-fact”) to make decisions on their behalf. Unlike guardianship, this arrangement does not involve the courts unless disputes arise.
• Private agreement: A POA is created without court involvement, mak-
ing it faster and more flexible than guardianship.
• Principal’s control: The principal decides who their agent will be and what powers they will have, such as managing finances, making medical decisions, or both.
• Revocability: As long as the principal is competent, they can revoke or change the POA at any time.
• Durable vs. limited POA: A durable POA stays in effect even if the principal becomes incapacitated, while a limited POA only covers specific tasks or a set period of time.
For instance, if someone wants their adult child to handle their finances while they’re traveling abroad, they can create a limited POA for that purpose.
What are the differences between guardianship and power of attorney?
The main difference is in how they’re established and the level of control they provide. Guardianship requires a court process, where a judge appoints a guardian to make decisions for someone who is unable to do so themselves. This arrangement comes with ongoing court oversight to ensure the guardian acts in the ward’s best interests.
In contrast, power of attorney is a private agreement created by the individual (the principal) while they are still competent. The principal chooses an agent to act on their behalf and specifies the powers granted, which can range from managing finances to making medical decisions. Unlike guardianship, power of attorney can be revoked at any time by the principal, provided they are still competent. While guardianship often involves more comprehensive authority and court involvement, power of attorney offers a flexible, less intrusive option for planning ahead.
If you’re deciding between guardianship and power of attorney, don’t wait to get experienced guidance. Contact Dillman & Owen Estate & Elder Law for a consultation.
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The owners of Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy know music can provide many benefits for the mind and body.
So, the Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy in Fishers has partnered with the Fishers Art Center to offer free Music and Movement for Silver Age classes for people 55 and older.
Doug Whisman, co-owner of the Music Academy with his wife Ji-Eun Lee, said the idea was pitched to the Fishers Arts and Cultural Commission to hold the classes at the Fishers Art Center, which is on the first floor of Fishers City Hall
“It’s certainly larger than my theater,’ Whisman said. “We could have done this on our own in our theater, but we thought it made more sense to have it at the Fishers Art Center because it’s for the community.”
Classes are from 1 to 2 p.m. on Tuesdays for six weeks, starting May 6. Although it’s a free class, registration is required at fishersmusic.com. The classes will be directed by Abby Rose Veselsky, a theater director and voice instructor at the Music Academy.
“You don’t have to stand,” Whisman said. “It’s OK to be in a wheelchair. It’s partly for social activity, partly for physical movement and partly to sing and have fun.”
Lee said Veselsky’s classes will range from musical theater to pop music
“It can be ‘60s and ‘70s pop music, something really familiar,” Lee said. “It’s a very relaxed environment where they can sing together. Then we put on the dance moves a little bit. Abby is hoping it will be more structured and maybe at the end there will be a short performance all together.”
Classes are designed to help participants improve flexibility, balance and overall health.
Whisman said participants don’t have to attend every class.
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
It was not Freddie Kelvin’s idea to write “Embracing the World’s Faiths.”
It came as a suggestion from Charlie Wiles, then the executive director of the Center for Interfaith Cooperation.
“In September 2023, he unexpectedly invited me to write a series of monthly essays about the world’s faiths,” Kelvin said. “As a nonpracticing secular Jew, I did not consider myself sufficiently well-informed about any faith or religion. However, he persisted, and having seen my memoir ‘Urban Nomad,’ opined that I can write. It was flattering, and so I accepted. I had no idea what was in store for me.”
the Sanskrit word ‘Sindhu,’ which referred to the Indus River.”
Kelvin said ancient Persians had difficulty pronouncing the letter “s” and therefore called the people living beyond that river “Hindus.” So, he said the word was initially only a geographic designation and not a term denoting a religion.
The 81-year-old Carmel resident said he was surprised to learn how many of the world’s faiths evolved from a single founder.
“While most of us know that the three major monotheistic religions, Judaism, Christianity and Islam, as well as Buddhism, originated in this way, I found out that this was also true of other, less well-known faiths such as Sikhism, Jainism, and the Baha’i Faith,” Kelvin said. “Hinduism is a notable exception, and indeed, its name is a misnomer. The term ‘Hindu’ originated from
“It was also fascinating to find out that several religions originating in India, specifically Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism, all believe in reincarnation,” he said. “Parenthetically, the thought that your soul is reborn after death has far more appeal to me than the dubious alternatives of heaven or hell.”
Kelvin said each time he studied another religion, he was filled with unexpected pleasures.
“I found out that both Sikhism and the Baha’i Faith consider that all people, whatever their religion, race, or sex, are equal in the eyes of God,” Kelvin said. “These strong examples of mutual respect are very much in keeping with the core values of the interfaith tradition. Now, more than ever, we need to respect and understand each other’s belief systems if we are to live in relative harmony and survive intact. Fortunately, Carmel is a progressive and increasingly diverse community that provides hope for such an outcome.”
Kelvin worked on the book from October 2023
through October 2024.
“I was thoughtfully connected to carefully selected members of the CIC community, many of whom co-authored the essays pertinent to their faith,” he said. “Each member was provided with my initial draft, which was then amended and extended, usually following one or more phone conversations. The final draft for each faith was approved by each member of that faith.”
Although he is well aware of the rise of antisemitism and other bigotry, Kelvin said they weren’t factors in writing the book.
“As the son of parents who narrowly escaped the fateful grip of the Nazis in Austria, I have always been fully aware of the widespread nature of antisemitism,” he said. “My agreement to write these essays took place before the onset of the more than 300 percent increase in antisemitic incidents that have been recorded in the USA — according to the Anti-Defamation League — since the Hamas massacre of Israelis on Oct. 7, 2023, and the subsequent war that Israel is still waging against Hamas and Iran’s other proxies. Islamophobia is another dangerous prejudice that has currently given rise to grossly unnecessary acts of discrimination which should, in any civilized society, be roundly condemned.”
The book was published by BookBaby Bookshop and will be available on Amazon.
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Susan Hill has seen many changes in her nearly 33 years at Griffon Decorative Fabrics in Carmel.
“We’ve had our up years and down years,” Hill said. “We survived the (Great) Recession (in 2008-09). Other than the initial month of COVID (March 2020), when everyone freaked out and we had to close, we did OK because everyone was staying home and re-doing a lot of their stuff. We do a lot of reupholstering work. We have workrooms that do draperies and pillows.”
A 60-year-old Noblesville resident, Hill has been with the store since it opened in the fall of 1992.
“We were opened by two men out of North Carolina, and then four years after that, myself and Judy Stewart bought it from them,” Hill said. “They originally opened four stores around the country, but this is the only one left.”
Stewart, a Fishers resident, retired five years ago and Hill became the sole owner. Although the store is popular
with older shoppers, Hill said it has customers of all ages.
Griffon Fabrics started at 116th St. and Range Line Rd. and remained there for 20 years and then moved in 2012 to its present location at 598 W. Carmel Dr.
“We do a lot of reupholstery work, custom draperies, custom cushions, custom bedding and pillows,” Hill said.
“We have started to carry a few accessories like small side tables, artwork, lamps and tabletop items. Sometimes, I’ll pick up an antique chair and reupholster it and sell it.”
DBy Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
ebbie Cooney takes full advantage of the activities at Sycamore Reserve Senior Living in Indianapolis.
There are exercise classes six days a week and she tries to participate in as many as she can. Classes include yoga and gentle aerobics and rehab sessions three times a week.
He worked at the Chrysler Foundry and Cooney served was his caregiver when he went on disability.
Although Cooney can still drive, she takes the Sycamore’s bus on weekly supermarket trips.
Cooney also enjoys bingo, trivia games and the Friday afternoon happy hour with live entertainment.
“I’ve made some good friends here and everybody has been welcoming — the staff and the residents,” she said. “It’s been very enjoyable. They offer a lot. I don’t go to all the activities. I have to pick and choose.”
Cooney, 73, moved to the Indianapolis senior living center in November 2024 from an apartment on the east side of Indianapolis. Her husband, Clifford, died at age 70 in June 2023.
She was a preschool teacher for 38 years at Old Bethel Weekday School in Indianapolis, retiring when the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020. An Indiana University and Hobart High School graduate, she taught one year in Portage.
“I loved the children,” she said.
“I appreciated their exuberance for learning. I taught every age but mostly ages 3 and 4. I do miss it.”
Cooney has two adult children, Heather Moody and Bob Cooney. Heather had two children and Bob has three. Her youngest grandchild is 6, and the next youngest is 15.
About a year after retiring, Cooney volunteered at Old Bethel for a short time. She had to give it up because of back issues.
Commentary by Dr. David Sullivan and Dr. Kenneth Stumpf
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, reminding us to prioritize skin health, particularly in often-neglected areas like the feet and lower legs. Skin cancer is among the most common types of cancer, making early detection crucial. Regular examinations by health care professionals, especially podiatrists, are essential for skin health in these regions.
The feet and lower legs are frequently exposed to environmental factors such as sun and pollutants. Many neglect to apply sunscreen in these areas, increasing the risk of skin cancer, especially for those with a history of sunburn. There are several types of skin cancer to be aware of:
• Melanoma: The most serious type, which can appear as a new dark spot or a change in an existing mole.
• Basal cell carcinoma: Typically presents as a shiny bump and is generally found on sun-exposed skin, causing local damage if untreated.
• Squamous cell carcinoma: May appear as a firm red nodule or a flat sore and requires attention if persistent.
Podiatrists play a vital role in identifying skin conditions specific to the lower extremities.
To protect against skin cancer, individuals should consider several preventive measures:
• Conduct regular self-examinations of the feet and lower legs for any changes.
• Apply sunscreen to these areas, even in cloudy weather.
• Wear protective footwear to limit UV exposure.
• Schedule routine visits to a dermatologist as well as a podiatrist for thorough lower extremity skin checks.
Dr. David Sullivan and Dr. Kenneth Stumpf are both board-certified foot surgeons at Westfield Foot and Ankle, LLC. Contact them at appt@westfieldfoot.com or 317-896-6655.
Commentary by David Stordy
As we age, it’s natural to think about maintaining our independence while ensuring we have the support we may need. Home care is an essential part of this planning, whether you’re managing a chronic condition or preparing for the future.
Home care can range from basic help, like meal prep and bathing, to more specialized services such as nursing care, physical therapy or memory support for conditions like Alzheimer’s. Identifying potential needs early allows you to choose the right care provider, whether it’s a personal caregiver or a specialized agency.
When researching home care options, ask about the services offered, caregiver qualifications and availability. It’s important to understand how agencies handle scheduling, emergencies and backup caregivers. Look for providers who can adjust care as your needs change over time.
Another key part of planning is having conversations with family about your
preferences. Discussing home care and end-of-life decisions now ensures your loved ones can support you according to your wishes, avoiding potential conflicts later.
Home care checklist
• Agree on roles: Assign responsibilities for finances, medical decisions and home maintenance.
• Monitor your health: Track physical or cognitive changes and adjust care plans as needed.
• Discuss preferences: Have ongoing conversations with family about care and end-of-life wishes.
• Gather documents: Prepare key records, insurance policies and powers of attorney.
Planning ahead brings peace of mind, knowing your future care will align with your needs and preferences.
David Stordy is the directorowner of BrightStar Care. To learn more about home care or schedule an assessment, call BrightStar Care at 317-706-0799 or visit brightstarcare.com.
Commentary by Autumn Kolpin
As a personal trainer, one of my favorite parts of the year is when the weather starts to shift. These early spring days when the sun sticks around a little longer, there’s more energy in the air, and people start coming out of winter hibernation. You see neighbors walking, kids playing, gardens getting some love again. It’s like everything and everyone starts to wake up.
Every year around this time, I hear the same thing from clients and friends: “I just want to feel good doing the things I love this summer.”
Whether it’s running around with the grandkids, playing pickleball, going on a vacation hike or just working in the yard, feeling strong and capable makes all the difference.
What a lot of people don’t realize is that you don’t need to change everything all at once or hit the gym six days a week to feel better. It can be as simple as building a little more strength in your legs so walks feel easier or working on your balance so that you feel steadier when you’re on uneven ground. I’ve seen clients go from being nervous about getting back into movement to confidently doing the things they love again. That’s the kind of progress that excites me.
And it’s not just physical.
Getting your body moving again has a huge impact on your mental health, too. I’ve had clients come into a ses-
sion feeling tired, stressed or a little off and leave with more energy, better focus and a smile. There’s something about moving your body, especially in a supportive space, that lifts your entire mood.
Spring and summer are filled with chances to move more and have fun doing it. But to really enjoy it, to feel free and not held back by aches, stiffness or low energy, you need to give your body a little love now and continue to do so that you feel good all year round. A bit of strength training, some core work, improving mobility, it all builds a foundation that makes summer activities easier and way more enjoyable. When summer ends, you’ll be ready to tackle the cold weather ahead.
So, my advice? Start small. Start now. Take a walk, stretch a little more, try a new class or ask a trainer for guidance if you’re unsure where to begin. You don’t need to be an athlete. You just need to be ready to say “yes” to all the opportunities that come with warm, sunny days.
If I can help someone feel more confident in their body and enjoy summer to the fullest, then I’m doing what I love, too.
Here’s to moving more, feeling better and having a whole lot of fun this season!
Meridian Audiology LLC, a private Audiology practice, was founded by Dr. Alison Wyss, Au.D and Kira VonBlon, M.S. in 2021 after working together in an ENT setting for more than 13 years.
The seasoned Audiologists strive to consistently provide premier care to patients with hearing loss, tinnitus and auditory processing disorders as well as those who want to protect their hearing from damage.
In stark contrast to the medical audiology world where patients are in and out in quick succession, private practice allows Ali and Kira to spend the time their patients want and need from them for their individual hearing healthcare situation.
“We love getting to know our patients, and we feel we treat them like we we would treat our own family,” VonBlon said.
“We won’t rush you out the door to get our next patient.
We both feel one of our greatest compliments over the last 4 years is how many of our previous patients have found us at Meridian Audiology and have followed us here for their continued hearing treatment.”
The Meridian Audiology Audiologists pride themselves on keeping up with, and
offering the top-of-the-line newest technology in hearing aids, tinnitus and auditory processing disorders. While we focus on Phonak and ReSound, we can work with most all major hearing aid companies to be able to help a wide majority of patients with existing hearing aids. We know there are many places you can go to treat your hearing loss, but if hearing your absolute best, feeling comfortable and safe in your providers office and trusting your Audiologist are priorities for you, Meridian Audiology is where you belong.
M Meridian Audiology accepts most major insurances, offers convenient scheduling via phone, email or online and are independent of other medical practices or hospitals Hours are 9am-4pm Monday-Friday by appointment only We are also available to speak to your local community clubs about hearing and hearing loss.
By Dr. Camden Burns, MD, IU Health spine and orthopedic trauma surgeon
The spine has five sections of vertebrae, including the neck (cervical spine), the midback (thoracic spine), the lower back (lumbar spine), the base of the spine (sacrum) and the tailbone (coccyx). Pain generated from any of these areas can have different causes, ranging from a muscle or ligament strain to spinal tumors. As a lifelong athlete, I learned firsthand the importance of the musculoskeletal system, leading to my career in orthopedics and sports medicine. It’s my goal to help patients afflicted by these musculoskeletal types of injuries and conditions and get them back to a healthy, functional lifestyle. Proactively addressing your spine health can help prevent more serious pain and injuries in the future. There is a wide array of treatment options, from physical therapy to pain management to spine surgery.
BACK PAIN AND INJURY SIGNS THAT SHOULDN’T BE IGNORED
All back injuries should be taken seriously. Minor injuries, such as muscle strains, can be treated with over-the-counter medication, rest and relaxation. Sometimes, these minor injuries may require a short course of physical therapy as well. More significant and persistent injuries, especially herniated disc fractures, may need to be seen and evaluated by a spine specialist. Certainly, anytime you experience neurological symptoms, such as pain, numbness, tingling and weakness in the extremities, you may need to be evaluated more urgently.
Conservative options for management of spinerelated issues start with rest and relaxation, physical therapy and a combination of either over-the-counter or prescription medications. If symptoms persist, there are some interventional pain management procedures, such as injections, that may also help. In more extreme cases, surgical intervention may be warranted when there are neurological symptoms that not only involve pain in the neck and back, but also symptoms in the extremities.
Patients with new onset and minor symptoms should first be evaluated by their primary care physician. They may suggest a short course of rest, followed by physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medication. More severe symptoms are sometimes seen in the emergency room. Again, conservative treatment is usually attempted first if there are no emergent symptoms. For more chronic symptoms that fail conservative measures, patients may be evaluated by either the physical medicine and rehab or the anesthesia pain management service for further nonsurgical intervention. If those efforts fail or if the patient has significant neurological symptoms in their extremities, evaluation by a spine surgeon may be necessary.
Over the past decade, we have made efforts to expand spine care at IU Health outside of the downtown region. Certainly, we still
maintain a large presence in that area. However, we understand that patients may not have the ability or desire to travel downtown for evaluation and treatment. In those instances, we have established practices at IU Health North in Carmel and IU Health West in Avon, with plans for further expansion to other suburban facilities in the future.
I think the best way to describe the Spine program at IU Health as “complete.” It is the only academic Spine program in the state of Indiana. It is also the most comprehensive spine care program comprised of non-operative sports medicine, physical medicine and rehab, anesthesia pain management, interventional radiology, as well as neurosurgery and orthopedic surgery. We have the ability to provide treatment in all aspects to spine care throughout the Indianapolis Metropolitan and suburban region.
To learn more about IU Health’s Spine program, visit iuhealth.org/find-medical-services/ back-spine-care.
Suffer from back or neck pain? Find highly skilled treatment options from non-invasive to surgical close to home. Visit iuhealth.org/spine and schedule your appointment today.
Golf helps keep Carmel resident in the swing of things
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Webber LaGrange doesn’t have a lengthy explanation for his longevity.
“I’ve exercised most of my life,” said LaGrange, who turns 98 May 2.
Good genes help, too.
“My dad was a month short of 99 when he passed away,” he said. “I’m trying to pass him.”
LaGrange’s advice to recent retirees is, “Stay active. The guy who dies the quickest is the one who sits on the front porch.”
LaGrange, who lives in The Stratford in Carmel, stays active through exercise classes and playing golf several times a week when the weather turns warm.
LaGrange has only been to the hospital once in his life, which was for cataract surgery when he was 33. He has never had a broken bone or any other operation.
“I’m fortunate. I can see that when I look around here (at The Stratford),” he said. “I can still walk without a walker.”
Golf gives him the opportunity for some good walks.
“We play about 25 golf courses around here every summer,” said LaGrange, who has had an 88 stroke average the last two years. “I do my best to ride with someone so I can walk as much as I want. It keeps you young. I’m playing more golf now than when I was in my 60s.”
LaGrange plays golf with a travel group on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and plays in a men’s club at Wood Wind Golf Club in Westfield. He has a plaque from Wood Wind for twice shooting 81 – 16 strokes below his age — in 2024.
“When you play in a group like that, you don’t have to worry about tee times,” he said. “Someone has (set) it up and you just show up.”
LaGrange, who enjoys several aspects of golf, said he frequently plays at Wood Wind.
“I enjoy the fellowship and the 19th hole, especially,” he said. “It keeps me moving. I exercise all winter at The Stratford. It’s nice to have a different means of exercise.”
LaGrange was in his late 30s when he took up golf.
“It took too much time away from my family on the weekends, so I gave it up for a while,” he said. “When the kids got out of high school, I started playing golf again.”
LaGrange moved to The Stratford around 11 years ago. His wife, Kathryn, died nearly14 years ago. He did his homework before moving to the Carmel senior living center.
“I looked at 10 or 12 places, and this was the best bang for the buck and still is,” he said.
LaGrange recently had his driver’s license renewed.
“That allows me to play golf,” he said.
Neal Miller, The Statford lifestyle advisor for independent living, said LaGrange is a very accomplished
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individual.
“But with regard to his longevity he’s a perfect example that if you live right you can continue to do the things you want and enjoy for a very long time,” Miller said. “Most people think aging is synonymous with decline and that’s just not the case. My hope is that people will see Webber and say, ‘Hey, I can do that too.’’’
LaGrange keeps busy socializing, too. He said residents have a lot of outings and events at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
‘They have nights where they go out for dinner at different restaurants,” he said. “There is nice camaraderie. They’ve got so many activities here (that) you can’t do them all. You can pick and choose what you like.”
A 1945 Franklin Community High School graduate, LaGrange persuaded his parents to let him enlist in the U.S. Navy during World War II.
“I was at sea when my class graduated,” he said. “I was on a battleship in the South Pacific. They took me three or four months before graduation, so they didn’t waste any time getting rid of me. They were kind enough to present my diploma while I was gone.”
Webber LaGrange in front of the Indiana War Memorial plaque. (Photo courtesy of The Stratford)
LaGrange, who served 18 months in the Navy, said the ship was on its way to Japan when the Japanese surrendered.
“So, we did a U-turn and went to Hawaii,” he said. “I tried college, but I ended up doing the school of hard knocks. I farmed some and then got into banking. My uncle had a big farm in Franklin, but I was trying to work smarter, not harder.”
LaGrange was a banker for 25 years, eventually becoming a senior vice president of the Fidelity Bank of Indiana in Carmel. Then he became national treasurer for the American Legion for 20 years. He also was named to the Indiana War Memorial Commission and named executive director of the Indiana War Memorial in downtown Indianapolis. He has been honored with three Sagamore of the Wabash awards by three different Indiana governors — Robert Orr, Evan Bayh and Frank O’Bannon.
LaGrange’s daughter, Susan Loman, lives in Carmel, and his son Gene LaGrange lives in Franklin. His middle child, Alan, died of pancreatic cancer at age 56 in 2014.
LaGrange has five grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and one greatgreat granddaughter.
ON THE COVER: Webber LaGrange has three Sagamore of the Wabash awards. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)
• Restaurant-Style Gourmet Dining
• Activities & Social Calendar
• 24-Hour On-site Staff
• Housekeeping
• Transportation
• Emergency Trip / Fall Pendant
• Outdoor Heated Saltwater Pool
• Utilities (Power, Water, Trash)
• High-Speed Internet (Wi-Fi)
• HD Cable TV
• Theater Room
• Fitness Center
• Dog Park
• Putting Green
• And So Much More...
TBy Les Morris editorial@youarecurrent.com
he first Marble Brain Body Fitness “brain gym” in the U.S. was opened in Fishers by wellness entrepreneur Sharea Clark, and now she is on track with a novel concept with a new business for a growing community.
• Varicose Veins/Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Spider
Clark, 50, also owns Fitness 4 Function, a fitness company that helps seniors stay in their homes by providing in-home fitness care.
While attending a Chicago conference in February 2024 sponsored by the International Sports Sciences Association, Clark heard a presentation by Cody Sipe and Dan Ritchie, who both have doctorates and ties to Purdue University. Their talk included an idea, not fully formed, about a facility that would aid older adults with their
Continued on Page 15 cognitive functions. That idea resonated with Clark and that led to conversations with the pair
• Personalized brain-body workouts for adults aged 55+, addressing physical and cognitive abilities.
Dual-Task Approach
• Simultaneous cognitive-motor training for maximum effectiveness.
High-Tech, High-Touch
• Engaging exergaming technology with personalized support for members.
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
he Wright Brothers’ final performance was in February 2023, but Tim Wright isn’t slowing down.
The 72-year-old Wright, who performed for many years with older brother Tom, plays with a variety of groups and also is a solo performer.
Wright plays pedal steel guitar, guitar and sings a few songs for Barometer Soup, a Jimmy Buffett tribute band, which will play from 5 to 7 p.m. May 13 at Hoosier Village in Zionsville. Another free public concert at Hoosier Village is Aug. 5 with Josh Kaufman, the Season 6 winner of “The Voice.”
Wright knew a few of the late Buffett’s famous songs, but he learned more when he played a regular solo show several years ago for since-closed Bahama Breeze on the north side of Indianapolis.
“They gave out song lists they want you to play, and most of it was reggae and Jimmy Buffett songs,” he said. “I learned about 300 Buffett songs the
At age 72, Tim Wright keeps an active performing schedule. (File photo)
three years I played there when they were open.”
Barometer Soup will play June 21 at the Sunset Music Fest at Clay Terrace in Carmel.
Wright doesn’t mind if he doesn’t sing.
“I’m farming myself out as a pedal steel player,” he said. “I’d rather play pedal steel with other people than anything. I’ve sung my whole life since I was 19. I don’t mind if I don’t sing a note. It’s easier and fun to play.”
Tim Wright and the Steel Petals, which includes two female vocalists, will play at 7:30 p.m. May 2 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel.
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about opening what turned out to be the first franchise and location for the initiative.
Clark said she was uncertain about the gym’s prospects at first.
“I said yes, then no, then I don’t know, and I finally said yes, and here we are,” she said.
The gym is at11386 Olio Rd. in Fishers in a 1,600-squarefoot facility that opened April 7. The philosophical underpinning of Marble Fitness is dual tasking – attempting to ward off cognitive decline in adults 50 and older by activities that engage the body and brain at the same time.
“This is for cognition and brain health,” Clark said. “We’re focused on doing exercise on your body and brain
to decrease the risk of cognitive decline.”
All the activities at the gym are evidence based, Clark said. After a brief initial assessment to measure a baseline of cognitive ability, members schedule 30-minute group sessions at the facility. The activities are primarily designed to improve brain performance, cognitive performance, processing speed and memory but there also are multiple body benefits, including gains in strength, endurance, balance and mobility.
Membership levels are based on the number of visits per week, ranging from two to five times a week. Rates are $149 to $299 monthly, depending on the frequency of visits.
Marble Fitness’ grand opening is May 8, with a ribbon cutting at 4 p.m. and an open house to follow.
Continued from Page 5
The shop also sells Hunter Douglas blinds.
“Upholstering is the top seller now,” Hill said. “There was a time (when) we did tons of bedding and a time (when) we did a ton of draperies. Styles change, too. It’s a little more simplistic now, not as fancy.”
The store has another full-time employee and two part-time designers on staff. Griffon Fabrics is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.
For more, visit griffonfabrics.com.
I’m Kimberly Hughes, a licensed sales agent in Hamilton County, serving central Indiana. When it comes to Medicare, it’s important to consider all of your options. What works well for your neighbor may not be the best fit for you. I know the ins and outs of Medicare, and I’m ready to answer your questions and help you find a plan that fits your needs. Make the most of my knowledge and experience to:
• Take the confusion out of Medicare
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I look forward to helping you explore your Medicare options so you can enroll in a plan with confidence.
Kimberly Hughes Licensed Sales Agent 3177925227, TTY 711 berlyhughes@gmail.com www.myuhcagent.com/kimberly.hughes
A world to explore, a vibrant community to come home to. A lifestyle that embraces true independence, friendships, culinary celebrations, and the safety of community.
It’s time to enjoy retirement the way it’s meant to be.
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Westfield High School senior Will Harvey’s athletic future is on the golf course.
However, the Purdue University-bound golfer was a starting guard for the Shamrocks boys basketball team this season.
“I thought it was cool to finish off my senior year,” Harvey said. “I almost quit going into (my) junior year. Once I committed to that I knew I was going to finish that out. Basketball season was a lot of fun with a lot of my buddies.”
Harvey averaged 9.0 points and 3.6 rebounds per game. He averaged 7.9 ppg as a junior. He finished tied for 15th at the IHSAA boys golf state finals in 2024. He tied for 10th in 2023 and tied for 17th in 2022.
“Will is in that rarified air where he’s a three-year varsity letter winner for us, which is pretty difficult,” Shamrocks golf coach Josh Bryant said. “He and Jake Cesare are in the same class. He’s a special young man, where he has been able to manage two varsity sports at Westfield at a high level. He’s been all-conference (Hoosier Crossroads) in basketball as well as all-con-
Favorite athlete: Stephen Curry
Favorite subject: Math
Favorite sports team: Cincinnati
Bengals
Favorite musician: Bruno Mars
Favorite TV show: “Stranger Things”
ference, all-county and all-state for golf. We couldn’t be luckier to have him.”
Bryant said Harvey’s game has grown throughout his career.
“Early in his career, he had a big reliance on his short game,” Bryant said. “As he’s grown, he’s gotten stronger and is an incredibly powerful player now. What makes
Will Harvey has finished in the top 20 at the boys golf state finals his first three seasons.
(Photo courtesy of Rari Films)
him special (is), he’s got incredible creativity around the greens. More than anything, he’s a good teammate. He’s a good competitor. Guys who play against him love being paired with him.”
Harvey said time management was important for juggling two varsity sports.
“Just being really disciplined,” Harvey said. “You come home from basketball, and you are always tired from practice, and it’s just being able to, late at night, to hit golf balls.”
The Shamrocks finished second in the state team finals the past three seasons. The 2025 state finals are June 17-18 at Prairie View Golf Club in Carmel.
“We finally want to finish it off and win a state championship,” Harvey said. “Individually, I want to be all-state, all-conference, all-county and also want to win state individually, so I think those are big goals for me this year.”
Harvey said he always had a golf club in his hand growing up.
“My dad kind of forced me to play when I was younger, but I grew up loving it,” he said. “I love being able to go out and practice on your own. Just the grind makes it all worth more in the long run.”
The Purdue coaching staff was a big reason he chose the Boilermakers.
“They were one of the schools that were interested in me early, and they were there for the whole ride,” said Harvey, who plans to major in accounting. “Other schools recruited me later, but they saw the vision and I think that’s why I chose Purdue.”
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@youarecurrent.com.
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
The Zionsville Education Foundation recently announced its largest spring grant cycle to date, providing 19 grants totaling $75,068 to 45 Zionsville Community Schools educators within all nine district schools.
ZEF Classroom Grants and Imagine Professional Development Grants provide unique learning opportunities for both teachers and students. Classroom grants — totaling $26,884 — fund creative teacher-led projects that directly impact students. The funds will purchase books and graphic novels; orchestra equipment; equipment for technology for design and robotics; and outdoor learning supplies.
Professional development grants — totaling $48,183 — will provide growth and renewal opportunities for educators. Grants provide opportunities for national and international educational experiences, with those lessons brought back to the classroom and shared with students and staff. Educators from the district’s two middle schools and Zionsville Community High School will attend leadership and classroom-building conferences.
The grant cycle was the final one for longtime ZEF Board member and Grants Committee Chair Jane Louiso.
“(Louiso’s) passion for ZEF’s mission is evident in everything she does,” ZEF Board President Kim Lewis said. “She will pass the baton to Katy Ruhl, who will be a fantastic leader along with our other passionate, dedicated committee members.”
ZEF Spring Classroom grants include: Brooke Dobrovodsky and Laurel Pilcher, Union Elementary School
The teaching pair were awarded $4,279 to purchase books to support genres explored each quarter including poetry, adventure, historical fiction and myths. Classroom activities will encourage critical thinking, teamwork and engagement with texts.
Keegan Lammers, Megan Brenton, Maddie Edwards, Ashley Murray and Sarah Wright, ZCHS, ZWMS and ZMS
The educators will use $974 to purchase tuners for orchestra programs. Tuners help students understand an aural concept through visual information and provide multiple pathways to understanding the concept of playing in tune. The technology also will allow for curricular alignment from fifth through 12th grade.
Trisha Smart, Kristina Comer, Steve Simmons and Whit Keadle, ZWMS
The physical education teachers were awarded $4,988 for the purchase of fitness equipment, including kettlebells, medicine balls and dumbbells. The equipment is crucial to teaching lifelong fitness skills and can have a profound and lasting impact on physical, mental, and emotional well-being by building healthy habits.
Molly Seward, Trailside Elementary School
Seward was awarded $3,378 to purchase 3D printers
to enhance STEM education. Students will learn to create and design models while enhancing their creativity, problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Isaac Spillman and Samuel Chenoweth, ZCHS
A grant of $10,457 will expand on a 2022 grant that provided shop space and tools for curricular and extracurricular activities. Tools are used in the Tech Theater class, which has increased from 10 students in 2022 to 27 this year.
Stephen D. Imel, ZMS
The $500 grant will purchase pickleball equipment to enhance student experience and expand the number of students able to play during a class period.
Karen Stillions and Stephanie Compton, Pleasant View Elementary School
The pair of educators will use $747 to purchase a digital camera and printer to enable robotics students to more easily and accurately keep and complete an engineering notebook. Notebooks depicting the scientific process throughout the season are judged and evaluated during competitions.
Amber Dawson, Pleasant View Elementary School
The $278 grant will be used to purchase books and learning materials about feelings and emotions for the Universal Preschool 3-4 class. Students will learn about different types of emotions and feelings, how to recognize them and how to help regulate them.
Shannon Merrell – Trailside Elementary School
Kindergarteners will have access to outdoor supplies to help them explore, use their imagination, communicate with peers and problem-solve purchased with this $267 grant.
Lisa Geimer, ZCHS
Geimer will use $1,013 of grant funds to purchase graphic novels for English courses to assist multilingual learners, special education students and visual learners.
The recipients of the 2025 ZEF Imagine Professional Development Grants are:
Julia Cassel, Katie Sarpa, Lisa Mueller,
Chelle Smitson, Emily Sigmund and Emily Parker, Trailside Elementary School
The team of teachers will use an $8,932 grant to attend the Arts Integration and STEAM Conference in Baltimore, Md. where they will learn innovative teaching strategies.
Christopher Hindsley – Zionsville West Middle School
Grant funds of $1,890 will pay for attendance at the 2025 American Council on the Teachers of Foreign Languages Annual Convention and World Language Expo in New Orleans, La.
Laura Dyer and Avory Freund –Zionsville West Middle School
School counselors Dyer and Freund will use $6,000 to attend the American School Counselor Association annual conference in Long Beach, Calif. to explore best practices, resources, and evidence-based materials for enhancing the school counseling program.
Katie Gordon, Shawn Wooden, Ramsay West, Mitzi Macaluso, Craig Callahan, and Blair Williams – ZWMS and ZMS
An award of $10,321 will allow the educators to attend the Association for Middle Level Education National Conference in Indianapolis to enhance instructional leadership skills, engage with the latest research in middle-level education and bring back innovative strategies to support schools and students.
Meagan Brown, Will Doublestein, Rebecca Hampton, Lauryn Tooley, Andie Wentz and Emily Zucker – ZCS elementary schools
The grant of $9,040 will allow the elementary music educators to attend the American Orff-Schulwerk Association conference in Lexington, Ky., to learn skills to enhance elementary music education for all ZCS students in kindergarten through fourth grade.
Susanna Outcelt and Camryn Bader, ZCHS
The math educators were awarded $3,000 each to attend the Building Thinking Classrooms annual conference in Scottsdale, Az. to learn more about desired instructional strategies.
Candi Granlund – ZWMS
Granlund was awarded $3,000 to attend the World Adult Wind Orchestra Project in Schladming, Austria, a weeklong immersive professional development project to enhance musical skills and participate with musicians from diverse backgrounds and languages.
Sharon Davidson – Eagle Elementary School
A $3,000 grant will allow Davidson to participate in the Agualivar Spanish Immersion School, a full immersion Spanish language program and homestay in a small, rural town in Spain. The experience includes living with local teachers, personalized Spanish classes each day and cultural experiences.
ON THE COVER: Zionsville West Middle School music
news@currentzionsville.com
Drewry Simmons Vornehm, LLP in Zionsville held a ribbon cutting April 17 to celebrate the opening of its Zionsville office at 47 S. Elm St. in the Village.
The Indiana-based law firm serves clients throughout the Midwest. The firm’s primary focus is to provide legal services to the construction industry, including subcontractors, material suppliers, general contractors, construction managers, public
and private owners, design professionals, insurers and sureties.
The ribbon-cutting event was attended by attorneys and staff, members of the Zionsville Chamber of Commerce, local officials and members of the community. Visitors were given tours of the new space and introduced to the legal team.
The firm’s expansion into Zionsville reflects its dedication to being a part of the thriving local business community. Learn more at dsvlaw.com.
By Lauren Weidinger news@currentzionsville.com
Bakery-cafe Paris Baguette plans to open its first locations in Indiana within the next few years, with restaurants announced in Carmel, Zionsville, Fishers and Greenwood.
The Carmel restaurant is planned for 11600 Westfield Blvd. and is expected to open by the end of the year. Specific sites have not been confirmed for the other Indiana locations.
The French-inspired cafe offers a variety of products, such as sandwiches, coffee, sweet and savory pastries, donuts, cakes and more. The chain includes more than 200 locations throughout North America and more than 4,000 worldwide.
Wei Zhu, franchisee of the Indiana stores, cited the quality of the product and the franchise’s commitment to customer service as what drew him to the concept.
“We hope that we can provide great service and great food to everybody,” Zhu said.
Zhu already oversees Paris Baguette restaurants in South Carolina, Georgia and Florida, as well as a Cajun seafood restaurant and hibachi and sushi restaurant in Hilton Head Island, S.C.
“Paris Baguette has a large menu,” Zhu said. “We always create new items for holidays. People will never get tired of it.” Learn more at ParisBaguette.com.
Editor,
Medicaid provides hundreds of thousands of Hoosiers with access to essential health care, including prenatal care for pregnant mothers, prescriptions for low-income seniors, well-child visits for young children and cancer screenings. Health coverage is so vital for the wellbeing of people in all seasons of life, and that is especially true for people with a connection to cancer.
I have worked with Medicaid and the Marketplace in various roles for the past two decades, and I have experienced firsthand how these critical programs have provided a pathway forward to save lives and to provide early detection and treatment for cancer. The facts remain that people without coverage will delay or refrain from care which will lead to lack of early detection with screenings and more costly care for the patient and the system in the end and what we really should be worried about is outcomes.
This is a person. A mother. A sister. A father. A brother. A friend. And the outcomes for delayed treatment decrease the chanc-
“I have experienced firsthand how these critical programs have provided a pathway forward to save lives and to provide early detection and treatment for cancer.”
– HOLLY M. WALPOLE,
es for survival for that individual. Access to Medicaid increases insurance coverage rates among cancer patients and survivors, increases rates of early cancer diagnoses when the disease is more treatable and improves overall cancer survival rates. I am very worried that any cuts to Medicaid being talked about at the state or federal level could put cancer patients and survivors who rely on Medicaid at risk of losing their health coverage.
In the fight against cancer, health care is essential.
Holly M. Walpole, Zionsville
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.
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The Indianapolis Opera is taking a different approach to “West Side Story.”
Instead of the original tale of the feud between the Puerto Rican gang the Sharks and the white gang the Jets — as depicted in the 1957 Broadway play and 1961 movie — the story will not be set in New York in the 1950s.
“The (original) script is about the racial and ethnic difference,” said A. Scott Parry, who is directing the show. “The script and songs remain the same but we’re taking it into the future.
“It looks very post-modern.”
Indianapolis Opera’s production of “West Side Story” is set for 7 p.m. May 9-11 at the Bicentennial Pavilion at the Indianapolis Zoo.
“We no longer think of this as far as the ethnicity of the performer but rather the color of clothing the performer wears,” Parry said. “We’re not focusing on ethnicity but anything that makes us feel different or separate. It could be religion, politics, gender, sexuality, socio-economic conditions, neurodivergence, civility, anything in society (that) currently feels like us versus them. How that idea of difference creates a fracture in society and tension and violence. How do we bridge that idea of difference and see each other more humanistically, more as equals and in an empathetic way with each other’s positions.”
Sondheim.
Parry, a professor at New York University and Manhattan School of Music, has directed several productions for Indy Opera. He has a longtime association with two cast members.
Parry said the dance numbers show physical differences in the groups. The only other time Parry directed a full production of “West Side Story,” it was with this adaptation in October 2001 in Phoenix.
“It’s nice to come back to it after almost a quarter century,” he said.
The famous musical score is by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen
Opera General Director David Starkey for almost 30 years, usually approaches musical theater from an operatic perspective.
“I ride that middle line of doing opera and musical theater equally, and I think that’s why David appreciates that,” Parry said. “We talk all the time that there is too much stigma that this is an opera or this is a musical and they are really one (and) the same thing.”
Castro has played Maria twice in other productions and was once one of the Shark girls.
“The music and the whole score, I never get tired of it,” Castro said. “I always find new moments in the music whenever I hear it and whenever I perform it. As far as Maria, the character, I love how she is a symbol of hope, and she is willing to put aside whatever she’s learned culturally from her family to be able to learn about somebody that is different from her. I think that’s very wise for a young woman. She is growing up and coming of age and learning to look past prejudices to find love, humanity and acceptance. I think that’s very powerful in a young woman. Not every role is easy to come back to, but I love Maria as a character.”
Cristina MarÍa Castro, who plays Maria, is Parry’s former student when he was at Ohio State University and she was working on her master’s degree in 2011.
Olga Perez Flora, who plays Anita, was Parry’s former college roommate in the 1990s. Flora also was one of Parry’s students while working on her doctorate at Ohio State.
“I’ve worked with a couple other performers on other productions but don’t have as long a relationship with them,” he said.
Parry, who has known Indianapolis
Castro said Maria tried to bring people with differences together.
“Singing ’Tonight’ as a duet and then when it comes back as a quintet might be my favorite,” she said. “What I like about the score is it can be performed classically, or it can be approached more theatrically.”
Castro said her previous performances were traditional versions.
“I do believe the story can be told in many different ways and that’s why it’s timeless,” Castro said. “I love working with Scott Parry and I’m excited to work with him again. Scott and I have stayed in touch and we’ve done a couple productions since then. He’s a mentor of mine and a friend.”
For more, visit indyopera.org.
“Church Basement Ladies” runs through May 18 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards. com.
“The Carpenters Project” is set for May 1, followed by Tim Wright & Steel Petals May 2 and Eric Baker & Friends present “Echoes of Soul” May 3 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘9 TO 5’
Actors Theatre of Indiana’s production of “9 to 5” runs through May 11 at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistage.org.
Civic Theatre presents “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” through May 10 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center. For more, visit civictheatre.org.
Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives will perform at 7:30 p.m. May 1 at the Payne and Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
Grant’s ‘Christmas Together Tour’ set for Fishers Event Center — Grammy winners
Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith and CeCe Winans have announced plans to co-headline the “Christmas Together Tour.” The tour will hit nine major markets across the U.S., making a Dec. 4 stop at the Fishers Event Center. Tickets are available at FishersEventCenter.com and Ticketmaster.com. While Grant and Smith’s holiday concerts have become regular events of the season for more than 30 years, the “Christmas Together Tour” will mark the first time they’ve been joined by Winans on the holiday venture since she originally appeared on their 1998 Christmas tour.
By Sara Palmer editorial@youarecurrent.com
More than 400 young voices from across central Indiana will come together May 3 to perform “Christel DeHaan In Harmony:
A Beautiful Tomorrow,” the Indianapolis Children’s Choir season-finale concert. Joined by its affiliate choirs, the Anderson Area Children’s Choir and the Columbus Indiana Children’s Choir, singers from kindergarten through ninth grade will take the stage at 3 p.m. at the Pike Performing Arts Center.
help one another?”
Songs like “Be the Bridge” and “Rainbow Connection” reinforce messages of empathy and hope. One of the emotional highlights, according to the ICC, will be “Now is the Time,” an original composition by ICC’s composer-in-residence Lee Ann Starkey. Starkey, an ICC alumna who wears many hats for the organization, said the song was inspired by the choir’s March concert and written with the singers in mind.
Centered on themes of compassion, connection and hope, the performance invites audiences to reflect on joining voices to shape a better tomorrow, according to the ICC.
“The concert focuses on the message of tomorrow -- what kind of community do we want in tomorrow?” said ICC Artistic Director Joshua Pedde, a Carmel resident who has been with the organization for 25 years. “What kinds of things can we do for one another? How can we reach out and
“Our children are the voices of tomorrow, and there is power in their words and in what they are capable of doing,” Starkey said. “They deserve to hold a special place in our world. That’s the message they sing in the song, ‘Now is our time to shine, now is the place, now is our chance.’”
Pedde agreed.
“The way the kids sing it, the way she composed it, it’s magical,” he said. “And I think the audience is really going to enjoy it.”
For tickets and more about ICC’s programs, visit icchoir.org.
MAY 9, 10 & 11, 2025
Commentary by Larry Greene
What once was an open, unfinished back patio was reimagined into a serene and stylish screened-in porch in the heart of west Carmel. The transformation turned an underutilized outdoor space into a cozy yet refined extension of the home — perfect for entertaining and relaxing.
• By enclosing the space with full-height screened panels, the homeowners now enjoy protection from the elements while maintaining clear views of their beautiful backyard and surrounding neighborhood.
• The addition of warm-toned furnishings, cozy seating and layered greenery creates a welcoming ambiance that blends comfort with sophistication.
• Soft overhead lighting enhances usability during evening hours, while the consistent design materials tie seamlessly into the rest of the home’s exterior.
• The upgraded porch now functions as a true outdoor living room, offering three-season versatility and timeless charm.
• With the simple addition of screens, lighting and purposeful furniture placement, the space was transformed into a multifunctional retreat without the need for major construction.
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.
Anger
12. Four-time Indy 500 winner Mears
13. ___ Speedwagon
14. A mad, mad, usually mild-mannered neighborhood Mister?
17. Pacer foe from Ohio, briefly
18. ___ and aah
19. Henhouse perch
21. Tough nut to crack
23. 1/2 fl. oz.
26. “Waking ___ Devine” (1998 film)
27. French miss (Abbr.)
28. Carmel City Councilor Locke
29. Leaky tire sound
30. Women’s clothing size
32. Tree house
34. Gravity yielding mistake?
38. Barcelona boy
39. Sped around I-465
41. Some email attachments
44. ___-bitsy
46. Evil
47. Magic, on a Pacers scoreboard
48. From the beginning
49. Director DeMille
50. Cable service
52. UFO crew
54. “Norma ___”
55. Hamilton County prosecuting attorney, and an anagram of 14- and 34-Across 59. Deity
60. DVR option
61. GOP org.
62. Colts stat
63. Warning sign
64. Opposite of NNW Down
1. Divine happenings
2. “Saturday Night Fever” star
3. Chill (out)
4. First 007 film
5. Northern Indiana interstate
6. Big name in ATMs
7. Boxing ref’s decision
8. Sandwich cookie
9. White River waders
10. Tree-trunk growths
15. WIPX network
16. Org.
17. Pitch tents
20. Colts stat
22. Wears the crown
24. “Kapow!”
25. Grumpy coworker
28. Bring under control
29. Tried hard
31. ___ Fridays
33. Sellout sign
35. Musical staff symbol
36. Butler frat letters
37. Dependency
40. Editing mark
41. Soda
42. Dreadfully slow
43. Fishing gear
45. Change course suddenly
48. GPA part (Abbr.)
49. CBS forensic drama
51. Traders Point restaurant: ___ Montana Grill
53. Suffix with Jumbo or cyclo
56. Classic muscle car
57. “Ready, ___, fire!”
58. Fourth-yr. students at FHS Answers on Page 23
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Featured in BAGI’s 2024 Home-A-Rama, this home features 5 bedrooms, 5 full baths, 2 half baths, and over 8,000 total SQ FT. It includes a luxury primary suite on the main level, prep kitchen, four car garage and designated fitness room. Completed with an expansive outdoor living space, pool, basement theater, bar and wine closet, this home is perfect for entertaining.
$1,196,500
4325 Hamilton Run, Zionsville, IN 46077
Located in the Hamilton Run section of Holliday Farms, this thoughtfully designed custom home offers a designated study for work or quiet retreat, a spacious three-car garage, and a large covered outdoor living space ideal for entertaining. The main-level primary suite is complemented by an upper-level loft and a finished basement complete with a stylish bar—perfect for game nights or casual gatherings.
$1,145,000
4295 Hamilton Run, Zionsville, IN 46077
This stunning home in the Hamilton Run section of Holliday Farms combines elegance and functionality. A study just off the entry welcomes you with charm, while a three-car garage and expansive covered outdoor living space provide plenty of room to live and relax. Enjoy the ease of a main-level primary suite, plus an upstairs loft and a finished basement featuring a home theater and bar setup for the ultimate entertaining experience.
4345 Hamilton Run, Zionsville, IN 46077
Designed for comfort and convenience, this home in Holliday Farms’ Hamilton Run neighborhood offers a rare dual-suite layout on the main floor—perfect for multi-generational living or overnight guests. The open-concept plan includes a three-car garage and a covered outdoor living space, blending indoor and outdoor living in one seamless design.
