August 19, 2025 — Current in Fishers & Geist

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August 19, 2025

Current in Fishers & Geist currentinfishers.com

Fishers Democratic Committee celebrates one-year anniversary

The new Fishers Democratic Committee recently celebrated its first year, after a core group of active members decided in August 2024 to reorganize the remnants of the Fishers Democratic Club into an official committee of the Hamilton County Democratic Party.

POLITICS

Since then, committee members have participated in events like the Spark!Fishers festival, letting the community know the group exists and inviting people to join. Fishers Committee Chair Deetta Steinmetz said the committee now averages 100 people or more at its monthly meetings, and she hopes to increase that participation leading up to the 2026 midterm election.

Steinmetz said Democrats in Fishers had been loosely organized as a social club for years until the COVID-19 pandemic, which unraveled most of that loose structure. However, throughout the pandemic, a small, core group of Fishers Democrats continued meeting. Steinmetz wasn’t part of that core group, but said she sought them out in 2024 when things were “looking bad” for then-President Joe Biden, before he chose to end his reelection campaign.

“I thought, ‘I need to get involved. I need to do something. I don’t want to look back years from now and think I didn’t even try to do anything,” she said. “So, I looked for the Fishers Democrats and didn’t find anything. Eventually, and not probably on my first search … I finally stumbled upon the section in the Hamilton County (Democratic Party) website that said to reach out and that’s how I found them.”

She worked with what she calls the “OG” Fishers Democrats and a few other new members to get the committee organized and, about a month later, they sent out a meeting invitation to a list of residents, with emails provided by the county party.

“We had 70 people show up, so we knew there was energy and interest,” Steinmetz said. “At that meeting, we asked for some more volunteers and then we built from there.”

The committee’s growth came from outreach efforts, like booths at the Fishers Pride festival, Fishers Farmers Market and Spark!Fishers, as well as walking in the Spark!Fishers parade.

“Creating a presence and letting other people know that we’re here and we’re active has been a big part of the first year,” she said, adding that the group’s email list has doubled in that time.

Steinmetz said there are plenty of Democrat voters in Fishers, noting that the majority of Fishers voters chose Democratic candidate Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election. She hopes to keep those voters active and to encourage others to vote who might have chosen in the past to stay home on Election Day.

“I think there’s a mindset in Hamilton County and Fishers that it’s such a red state and that it’s a red county,” she said. “We have Republicans in charge of city council, and we have a Republican mayor. People think it’s hopeless if they’re a Democrat and it’s not. They need to be made aware that it’s far from hopeless. We’re pretty much a 50-50 (split) here in Fishers and it comes down a lot to turnout, so we need to turn people out and part of doing that is to make them aware that it matters if they turn out or not.”

In addition to membership growth, Steinmetz’ other big goal is fundraising, because that’s how the committee can help get its preferred candidates elected.

“The Republican Party in Hamilton County is so established and has been here for so long that they outspend us in a huge way,” she said. “So, the big thing that we want to do this coming year is grow the committee … so that when it’s election time, we’re ready to hit the ground and have the money to send out mailers. I mean, there were days where I would get three mailers from the Republicans in one day. We want to be able to match that.”

Josh Lowry, chair of the Hamilton County Democratic Party, said the new Fishers committee joins three others in the county — Carmel, Noblesville and Westfield. He said Hamilton County’s population is so large

Members of the Fishers Democratic Committee gather during the recent Spark!Fishers festival. (Photo courtesy of Deeta Steinmetz)

that the central county party needs help from those committees to be effective.

“We can see, through the data, an engaged local party makes a difference when it comes to voter turnout and voter engagement,” he said. “And so, to have the Fishers Dems jump in full strength — it’s been great to see. It’s going to pay dividends next year.”

He said the results so far have been impressive and he expects the committee to continue growing and exceeding those results.

“I’m just excited for Fishers. I’ve seen a lot of positive development, not just for the Fishers committee, but also just the volunteers and members as a whole,” he said. “There’s a level of commitment and excitement and organization there that you don’t usually see at the city level, and so I’m super excited to see the results that they’re going to prove out next year.”

Steinmetz said she wants the committee and its work to provide a sense of hope to people who feel defeated — a feeling she sometimes shares.

“I have my days, too, but what I have come to live by, one of the things I heard somebody say is, ‘Don’t stew. Do,’” she said. “So, the way that I cope with it and the way that I would like to encourage other people to cope with the feelings of hopelessness right now is that we have hope and we can give hope to one another — so … instead of watching TV or instead of being on Facebook, I spend my time either out in the community or at my desk, furthering my goal of getting Democrats elected.”

For more, visit hamcodemsin.org/ fishersdems.

Fishers also has an established Republican Party organization — the Fishers GOP Club — which is affiliated with the Hamilton County Republican Party. For more about that organization, visit hamiltoncountygop. org.

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Levi to challenge Huston in ‘26

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Cicero resident Joel Levi recently launched his campaign for Indiana House District 37 in the 2026 election, challenging House Speaker Todd Huston (R-Fishers).

ELECTION

In his campaign announcement, Levi, a Democrat, pledged to put public education, working families and community values at the center of his platform. Levi stated that he is stepping up to challenge the status quo in what he called a “David versus Goliath” race.

ing the direction of the entire state. He stated that voters are ready for change following years of one-party rule.

“Flipping this seat would be a turning point,” he stated. “It would send a powerful message that Hoosiers are done being ignored. A Statehouse that doesn’t work for all Hoosiers is a Statehouse that doesn’t work.”

In the announcement Levi criticized Huston for legislation that reduced dedicated funding for public schools.

“Our schools are already stretched thin and our teachers are overworked and underpaid,” Levi stated. “The decisions coming out of the Statehouse are hurting our communities. It’s time for leadership that actually listens to families and puts kids first.”

Levi stated that the race is about more than just one district — it is about chang-

According to the announcement, Levi’s campaign will focus on fully funding public education and increasing transparency in government. He also stated that he is committed to keeping kids safe from gun violence and supports requiring background checks on private gun sales.

“He will fight to protect Indiana’s environment, defend Medicaid access and stand with unions to secure fair wages and dignity for working-class families,” the announcement stated.

Levi, originally from Anderson, ran unsuccessfully for the District 20 Indiana Senate seat in 2024.

House District 37 includes portions of Hamilton County.

For more, visit JoelLeviforIndiana.com.

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Levi

High TTHM levels found in Lawrence water

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The City of Lawrence announced Aug. 7 that a recent test showed that samples for total trihalomethanes exceeded the federal maximum contaminant level between April 1 and June 30.

UTILITIES

Total trihalomethanes are byproducts that form when water disinfectants such as chlorine or ozone react with other naturally occurring chemicals in the water. Some people who drink TTHM in excess of the maximum contaminant level over many years can experience problems with their liver, kidneys or central nervous system, according to the announcement. They also may have an increased risk for cancer.

According to the announcement, the city is required to monitor drinking water for specific contaminants like TTHM to meet federal health standards.

“The results that we received for total

trihalomethanes for the … monitoring period show that our system currently exceeds the standard, or maximum contaminant level,” the announcement stated. “The MCL for total trihalomethanes is 80 (micrograms per litre) and … our locational running annual average for total trihalomethanes is 88.5 (micrograms per litre).”

According to the announcement, Lawrence residents do not need to use an alternative water supply like bottled water, but if residents have specific health concerns, they should consult a doctor.

The city stated that there are various reasons for high TTHM results, including warm water temperatures that accelerate chemical reactions that form TTHMs.

According to the announcement, city officials will work with contractors to further investigate this issue. The next samples will be collected in November. For more, contact Water Treatment Director Tom Speer at 317-542-0511.

DISPATCHES

Donations for local humane associations — Menards locations in Carmel, Indianapolis and Avon will serve as drop sites for donations benefiting local humane associations through the month of September. Menards offers a variety of pet supplies that will be donated to a humane association including food, treats, feeders, collars, beds, storage containers and mats, located in the pet and wildlife department. A large collection box is placed near the exit doors. Donations are accepted through Sept. 30.

Fishers couple competes to be ‘America’s Favorite’ — Patrick and Latrica Schooley are competing in the national “America’s Favorite Couple” fundraising competition, with proceeds going to hunger relief and ocean conservation. For more, visit americasfavcouple.org/2025/the-schooley-39-s-2.

United Way grants open — United Way of Central Indiana has opened grant funding to nonprofits outside of its accredited partner network in Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion, Morgan and Putnam counties. Nonprofits have until Sept. 2

to submit letters of intent for Basic Needs Fund and Family Opportunity Fund grants. For more, contact Renate Myler, United Way’s impact funds director, at renate. myler@uwci.org.

Blood donations sought – The American Red Cross encourages people to save lives with a blood donation. In August, the Red Cross will provide free A1C screening — a test commonly used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes — for all donors. Fasting is not required for the test and donors will be able to view their results one to two weeks after a donation. For more, visit RedCrossBlood.org. Blood donation opportunities in Hamilton County include:

• Carmel – 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 30, Venture Christian Church, 14501 Hazel Dell Pkwy.

• Fishers – 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 21, Hub and Spoke, 8100 E 106th St.; 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 21, Billericay Park, 12690 Promise Rd.; 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 21, IU Health Saxony Hospital, 13100 E. 136th St.; 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 26, Sun King Brewing, 9713 District N. Drive

Fishers man allegedly assaults woman walking near her home

Nevins

A Fishers man faces a felony charge of sexual battery for allegedly groping a woman as she was walking near the Gray Eagle neighborhood the evening of Aug. 10. Daniel Nevins remained in custody at Hamilton County Jail as of 10 a.m. Aug. 12. According to online court records, he had an initial hearing Aug. 11 and bail was set at $5,000.

In a public social media post, the alleged victim stated that the incident happened when she was walking at around dusk in the neighborhood, “(I) was sexually assaulted by a man who ran up behind me and groped me,” she stated. “I contacted the police and they responded immediately. They were able to catch the man and arrested him. I am so impressed by the police response and the way they handled the whole situation.” Fishers Police Department declined to provide a police report because the incident involves allegations of sexual assault.

DISPATCHES

OneZone plans Cocktails & Constituents

— OneZone Chamber will host its first Cocktails & Constituents event set for 5 to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 9 at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, 1 Carter Green, Carmel. The event will feature Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness, Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam, Westfield Mayor Scott Willis and Zionsville Mayor John Stehr. For more, visit onezonechamber.com.

End of Watch Workout announced — The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office Community Foundation will host its third annual End of Watch Workout, to honor fallen law enforcement officers. The event is set for 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 6 at Noblesville High School’s old Beaver Stadium, 1804 N. 19th St. To register, visit runsignup.com/Race/ IN/Westfield/2024EOW.

CRIME

Multihazard plan OK’d

During its Aug. 11 meeting, Hamilton County Commissioners approved a grant agreement for Hamilton County Emergency Management to develop a multihazard mitigation plan for the county.

The commissioners also approved the Hamilton County Community Development Program’s annual one-year action plan, which allocates funds to several affordable housing initiatives.

The next commissioners meeting is at 1 p.m. Aug. 25 at the Hamilton County Government and Judicial Center in Noblesville.

What happened: The commissioners approved a grant agreement for the Federal Fiscal Year 2023 Building Resilient Infrastructure & Communities Program.

What it means: Hamilton County Emergency Management Director of Operations Ryan Tennessen said the grant will support the development of an updated multihazard mitigation plan for Hamilton County. A multihazard mitigation plan identifies potential natural and human-caused hazards, assesses the risks and outlines actions to minimize the impacts of hazards on a community. The project costs $32,432.60, with $24,304 awarded and a match of $8,138.60 from the county.

What’s next: Tennessen said funds will be used to hire a contractor to assist with pulling accurate data and meeting Federal Emergency Management Agency requirements.

What happened: The commissioners approved the Hamilton County Community Development Program’s annual one-year action plan for program activities beginning Oct. 1 and running through Sept. 30, 2026.

What it means: The action plan focuses on creating affordable housing, improving neighborhood infrastructure and facilities and providing fair housing and administration using grant allocations from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The program has $1,146,153 to allocate.

What’s next: Hamilton County Community Development Program Manager Michelle Westermeier said $541,922 will be allocated to affordable housing, $75,00 will go toward a home repair program, $300,000 will go toward municipal infrastructure and $229,231 will go toward planning, administration and capacity building.

Fishers poet debuts memoir

Before publishing her first book, “Memento Mori: A Poetic Memoir in Three Parts,” Eileen Porzuczek spent several years healing from a traumatic experience that became the basis for more than 60 poems that make up her book.

Porzuczek said a ceiling collapsed on her in 2019, causing injuries that required a long journey to recovery.

writing in 2021.

As the title suggests, the book — released Aug 8 — comprises three parts. The first goes through the experience itself; the second goes through the reckoning; and the third focuses on healing.

“From that experience, there was a lot I had to navigate physically and mentally,” she said. “The entire time I was going through everything, I kept telling myself, ‘I’m going to write about this one day.’” After spending three years healing physically and emotionally, Porzuczek started

Writing was part of the healing.

“When you’re writing about a life experience that may not have been your favorite, it is very much a healing process,” Porzuczek said. “There’s a lot of power in shared human experience.

Porzuczek’s book was published by Finishing Line Press in Georgetown, Ky. The book is available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble and directly from Finishing Line Press.

Porzuczek will have a book-signing event at Orangily in Carmel from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Sept. 4. To learn more or register, visit bit.ly/47kjl8i.

Porzuczek

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Hamilton County Council tables measure to widen Dunbar Road

The Hamilton County Council has tapped the brakes on plans to improve Dunbar Road from the Westfield border north to 236th Street.

COUNTY NEWS

The council tabled a vote on an interlocal agreement with the Town of Sheridan Aug. 6 that would finalize the $21 million plan to rehabilitate and reconstruct Dunbar Road, including lane widening, shoulders and the addition of a paved multiuse path. Funding was secured by Hamilton County in 2023 through an 80-20 match from the Federal Highway Administration and administered by INDOT.

The interlocal agreement is required because of ownership — funding for road rewidening and improvements were awarded to Hamilton County prior to the consolidation of the Town of Sheridan and Adams Township. Under the reorganization, all roads in Adams Township are owned by the Town of Sheridan. Previously, Dunbar Road was under the jurisdiction of the county.

However, the Hamilton County Commissioners opted to continue involvement because funds already were secured. The Sheridan Town Council has approved the interlocal agreement.

Some residents on Dunbar Road object to the inclusion of the pathway, which they dubbed a “path to nowhere.”

“This path would have a devastating effect on our properties, destroying homes, trees and yards,” Candice Ganzel said. “As

just one example, the path would require the removal of over 14 trees 60- to 70-feet tall from my husband’s and my property alone. Our neighbors to the north (would lose) at least 55 similar-sized trees. I would lose the value of my home — a $900,000 home value gone because the path is so close.”

Other neighbors agreed.

“We’re not in favor of the walking path because it does come very, very close to many of our properties,” said Jeff Beals. “We’ve already had to withstand the approval and the building of this water park, which is going to be extremely invasive to our neighborhood with 500,000 potential visitors every year.”

County councilors said their concerns ran deeper than just the path and whether it can be removed from the design included in the funding application. Members questioned if it is appropriate for the county to remain involved outside of a commitment to widen the road.

“(Hamilton County) is looking at this and saying we need the road there because it’s good for commerce, it helps our community and businesses so people can get through there safely,” said district 1 councilor Ken Alexander. “The path — that’s a Sheridan path at this point because they took ownership of that ground and it’s not even in our jurisdiction to manage it or monitor it. I don’t know if this is even our fight. This is a fight to get the road in.”

The issue was tabled to September to allow Hamilton County Highway Director Brad Davis to gather additional information about removing the path from the design.

A $21 million rehabilitation and widening project of Dunbar Road from Ind. 38 to 226th Street was announced in 2023.
(Image via Google Maps)

A RUNNING TRADITION

City of Fishers gets ready for annual Geist Half race series

The popular Geist Half race series returns Sept. 13, with options for runners and walkers to complete 5K, 10K or half-marathon routes.

“We’re hoping for a repeat of the last two years that have just been picture-perfect running weather in the fall,” said Jake Reardon McSoley, director of Fishers Recreation and Wellness. “Hopefully, we’ll have the exact same thing. We’re putting requests in right now.”

McSoley said registration is on pace to hit the goal of 2,500 participants, and everyone who signs up and completes the race will receive a medal, newly designed this year. Also newly designed are the race T-shirts, featuring artwork by local artist and Fishers High School graduate Laila Lewis, now a student at Ball State University.

Stephanie Perry, assistant director of community and public relations, noted that Lewis was a track athlete at FHS.

“So, that’s kind of a fun connection,” Perry said. “We had a lot of (T-shirt design) submissions, and there’s a community voting component. So, we had kind of a top group that the judges identified and then we put them out to the community on social media, and then we had an in-person voting option at City Hall, as well. Hers was overwhelmingly a community favorite.”

McSoley said two sections of the scenic race route have been earmarked to provide special, encouraging messages for runners.

“We have a mental health mile and we have a Gold Star family mile,” he said. “Our mental health mile will be a partnership with Aspire Indiana, and they’re going to have quite a few volunteers … on Mile 5 to 6 on the (13-mile) course. So, that’s right in the middle where you could use a little encouragement. And they’re going to have a lot of positive messaging and encouragement for all of our participants.”

The Gold Star mile is on the 96th Street bridge over Geist Reservoir, which runners cross twice — once at Mile 3 and again at Mile 10.

“That’s spearheaded by our Fishers Armed Services Commission,” McSoley said. “It’s really to provide a little bit of inspiration for our participants as they get into

the probably hilliest part of the race on their way back to the finish line. And also celebrate all of our active duty and veteran service men and women in a fun way.”

McSoley said the race’s finish-line experience will include medal presentations, the all-important snacks and a post-race party. All participants get a free drink ticket, which can be used for coffee from Java House, non-alcoholic beer from Athletic Brewing Co. or regular beer from MashCraft Brewing. Participants also can purchase breakfast.

When he was only 14 years old, Fishers resident Scott Goodwin was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease, a rare, hereditary condition that led to his grandmother and father’s deaths. A doctor later — somewhat jokingly — suggested he have children to ensure a kidney donor when his kidneys failed.

Goodwin did have kids and, now 54, he’s at Stage 4 kidney failure, is about to start dialysis and needs a transplant. But because his children also could develop the disease, they’re not eligible to donate a kidney. Goodwin is on the national organ transplant list, with a wait time of three to five years. He hopes to shorten that wait with a living donor and, at the same time, raise awareness of the need for kidney donors nationwide.

To that end, Goodwin and a group of supporters plan to walk the 10K route of the Geist Half race series Sept. 13, with a big celebration during the last stretch.

“I was just going to walk this Geist

Geist Half race series includes a 5K, 10K and half-marathon course, with an option to run or walk the race. (Photo courtesy of the City of Fishers)

“We’re bringing back from last year Hero Hut,” McSoley said. “They provide our breakfast, and so participants can have pancakes, egg and sausage wraps, or just egg wraps, and that’s all provided by (Indianapolis nonprofit) Hero Hut, and then all the dollars from those breakfasts go right back to veteran services.”

McSoley said the Geist Half is a special race.

“In my humble opinion — I’ve done many half marathons — I think this is the best, most scenic route in Indiana,” he said.

thing myself with a shirt that says, ‘I need a kidney,’” he said. “Now, I’ve formed this support group. We’re about 50 strong, and I’ve been talking with the City of Fishers and they’ve given me the OK — we’re allowed to draw as much attention to ourselves as we can for that last quarter of a mile across the Geist bridge.”

Goodwin said the group will sing and dance their way across the bridge to raise awareness not just for his medical

“There’s over 20 views of Geist. So, it’s really, really beautiful. It’s a huge, iconic community event. We’ll have volunteers out on the corners. A lot of people stand at the bottom of their driveways cheering on runners, as well, and then you got all the amazing, beautiful morning views of the water.”

Perry added that there will be race pacers to help the more competitive runners hit their time goals. New this year is a race coach, Jon Wade, who created training plans for beginner and intermediate runners to prepare. Those free training plans are online at fishersin.gov/ geisttrainingplans.

Those who want to be involved but don’t want to run can sign up for one of the 350 volunteer positions available. More information is available at VolunteerFishers.com. For more and to register, visit geisthalf. com.

ON THE COVER: Runners participate in the Geist Half race series, an annual tradition for the past 17 years. (Photo courtesy of the City of Fishers)

needs, but for everyone on the kidney transplant list.

“I didn’t want to walk this last quarter of a mile drawing attention just to myself, even though I really am desperate for a kidney,” he said. “There’s so many other people out there … but maybe they’re a little sicker than I am right now (and) they can’t advocate for themselves. So, I’m going to try to do what I can and advocate for myself and advocate for everybody else that’s out there.”

Goodwin said anyone can sign up to be a living donor, no matter their blood type. If someone signs up to help him through his website and they aren’t a match, they could still donate to someone else in need. If that happened, Goodwin said he would benefit, because he would move up on the kidney transplant list, shortening his wait time.

For more about becoming a living donor, visit Goodwin’s website, nkr.org/ KRS378.

The
FISHERS RESIDENT WALKING GEIST HALF TO SAVE LIVES
Scott Goodwin, left, with his wife Christina and daughter Avalin in St. Louis. (Photo courtesy of Scott Goodwin)

West Coast Sourdough now open

West Coast Sourdough, a deli with sandwich, soup and salad options, opened July 23 at 14165 Cabela Pkwy. in Noblesville.

DINING

The restaurant is a franchise that started on the West Coast. It is owned by Fishers residents Sandeep and Tejinder Toor.

“We really wanted to bring something fresh and different to the area,” Sandeep Toor said. “We are from California but we have been living in Fishers for six years. We have always wanted to bring a business to our local people and this franchise was the right opportunity.”

Sandeep Toor said the couple fell in love with the franchise’s concept of using fresh sourdough for its sandwiches.

“The bread is freshly baked,” she said. “It doesn’t include any preservatives, and it’s baked fresh daily with salt, flour and water. We thought this was a great concept because it’s healthy and easy to digest.”

Sandeep Toor said the French dip and

Reuben sandwiches have been popular so far. Customers can customize sandwiches, and sourdough bread is available for takeout.

“We have gotten a good response and a lot of positive feedback from people, because the sandwiches are unique and the quality is amazing,” Toor said. “We’re using fresh produce, and we make the sandwiches fresh to order.”

The couple has a second franchise under construction at 146th and Hazel Dell Parkway and plan to open additional franchises in the future.

For more, visit wcsourdough.com.

Inside West Coast Sourdough at 14165 Cabela Pkwy. (Photo by Jessica Todd)

Fortville restaurant offers unique, varied menu

The journey to opening Fortville restaurant Du Lit started about three years ago, when owner and Chef Preston Zwolle looked in the mirror and didn’t like what he saw.

FOOD

He said he was overweight, didn’t exercise much and had been eating a lot of fast food. He changed his habits and lost a lot of weight. He also decided to go glutenand dairy-free because of chronic stomach upset. That’s when he realized how few menu options there were for people avoiding gluten or dairy.

“My family likes going out to eat, … but at a restaurant, I didn’t have very many choices,” he said. “Every restaurant, I knew exactly what I was going to get before we even went, because there was only one thing there I could eat.”

Zwolle said he started cooking at home, experimenting and recreating what he would like to order at restaurants, but with ingredients that worked with his diet. Coming up with those recipes led to him opening Du Lit at 101 W. Broadway St. in spring 2024.

“The reason my menu is set up the way it is, (is) because of the struggle I had when I was dieting, when I was exercising, trying to go to restaurants, not having the choices that everybody else has,” he said, noting that a third of his menu is gluten free, a third is dairy free, and most items that aren’t gluten or dairy free can be adapted. “So, now we have people traveling 45 minutes or an hour to eat because … they know they could have a bunch of options at my restaurant.”

It wasn’t an easy start, though. When Zwolle first opened Du Lit, there were major construction detours that made nav igation through Fortville difficult even for local residents.

“The first six months were really rocky,” he said. “After the first six months, my bank account was empty. I had been writ ing myself checks, basically to pay rent and my mortgage and bills, and then I was one payroll away from having to close or borrow money.”

The next week, though, was a record sales week followed by three more record or near-record weeks.

“Since then, we’ve been doing great,” he said. “If you come in the evening. I rec ommend reservations because we fill up almost every night.”

Zwolle had a lot of management experience in the restaurant industry that he brought to Du Lit. He said he’s still getting used to hearing people call him “chef,” because he isn’t formally trained, but he makes his own recipes and writes his own menu, which he describes as “chaos.”

For a full menu and more information, visit eat-dulit.com.

BATHROOMS

Battery facility denied by BZA

to understand the project, property values and surrounding waterways.

Oct. 10–31

Tickets on sale Sept. 9

COUNTY NEWS

Friendly and frightening hours available

childrensmuseum.org/haunted-house

The Hamilton County Board of Zoning Appeals unanimously voted against a land use variance for 70 acres at 215th Street and Overdorf Road in Noblesville for a lithium battery storage facility during its July 23 meeting after dozens of residents spoke against it.

The facility, Kingfisher Reserve Battery Energy Storage System, was proposed by Aypa Power, which develops, owns and operates utility-scale energy storage and hybrid renewable energy projects.

Battery energy storage facilities house large-scale battery systems designed to store electrical energy for later use.

“Indiana has done a great job of bringing in residents, businesses and manufacturing,” said Brandon Gahman, senior development manager for Aypa Power. “The issue is that we need infrastructure to grow at the same rate. Battery energy storage systems are the perfect key for that.”

Some residents disagreed, citing concerns about wildlife, fires, the lack of time

“This is a massive facility, and it would introduce industrial-scale infrastructure into a peaceful farming and residential community,” said Carmen Clift, who lives on Overdorf Road. “That’s not just a small change — it’s a dramatic shift that would directly contradict the values and policies of the Hamilton County comprehensive plan.”

C.J. Taylor, director of the Hamilton County Plan Commission, said BZA members are required to answer affirmatively to five criteria as specified by Indiana Code. If they cannot respond affirmatively to all requirements, they must deny the petition.

Taylor said the petitioner has the option to appeal to the local circuit court within 30 days. If the petitioner appeals, a judge would review the BZA’s decision and either uphold the board’s decision or remand it back to the board for another hearing. The judge also may overturn the board’s decision and grant the variance.

The next BZA meeting is at 7 p.m. Aug. 27 at the Hamilton County Government and Judicial Center.

Riley opens IU Health Fishers pediatric emergency unit

news@currentinfishers.com

IU Health announced recently that it has opened Riley Children’s Health Emergency Medicine at the IU Health Fishers hospital.

HOSPITAL

Riley Children’s emergency care is a 24-hour, seven-days-a-week service at IU Health Fishers, 13000 E. 136th St. The new service includes:

• A pediatric emergency unit built for kids next to the existing emergency department

• A dedicated children’s entrance, waiting room and patient rooms

• Pediatric nurses and providers supported by a team of social workers, respiratory therapists, radiologists, general emergency medicine physicians and more

• Child Life Specialists to help ease stress and anxiety for kids and families

• Coordinated access to national specialized care

• Transfers to other Riley Children’s hospital locations if a higher level of care is needed

“Pediatric patients have unique medical needs. This unit is designed to meet those needs in a kid-friendly environment, with care delivered by experts who treat children every day,” stated Dr. Dan Slubowski, medical director of Riley Children’s Health Emergency Medicine at IU Health Fishers and North hospitals. “This dedicated space allows us to grow to meet the needs of our community in a way that means safer, faster and higher quality care for kids.”

The new Riley Children’s Emergency Medicine at IU Health Fishers is part of the ongoing Fishers Community Impact Project, aimed at enhancing health care access and services in the fast-growing Fishers area.

“This milestone reflects our commitment to bringing trusted, highly skilled pediatric care closer to home for families across Indiana,” stated David Biggerstaff, president of Riley Children’s Health. “By offering dedicated emergency medicine services at IU Health Fishers, we’re helping more children receive the care they need in their own community.”

The overall Fishers Community Impact Project is on track for completion by late October.

Officials cut the ribbon to open the new Riley Children’s Health Emergency Medicine at IU Health Fishers. (Photo courtesy of IU Health)

Former Byrds frontman McGuinn brings one-man show to Carmel

Roger McGuinn has a lifetime of music memories to share.

The former frontman of The Byrds will share those memories at 8 p.m. Sept. 13 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

“It’s a one-man show,” McGuinn said. “It’s a story about the songs. I do some of the hits where you might not expect them (in the show) and they fit into the storyline.”

The 83-year-old McGuinn plays four instruments during the show, including a five-string longneck banjo like the late folk singer Pete Seeger played.

McGuinn said the 500-seat Tarkington fits his show.

“It’s kind of cozy and everyone is happy to be there,” he said. “They are not standing up in a ballroom.”

McGuinn began performing with the Chad Mitchell Trio and then was hired by Bobby Darin as a backup guitarist and harmony singer.

Darin opened T.M. Music in New York City’s Brill Building and hired McGuinn as a songwriter.

“It gave me all the foundation for what I ended up doing,” McGuinn said. “I learned how to be a songwriter, a studio musician and the skills that I would (use) later in The Byrds. It was a good training ground.”

After working as a studio musician, McGuinn and Gene Clark formed a band in 1964 that became The Byrds. David Crosby soon joined as well.

McGuinn credited manager Jim Dixon for The Byrds’ success.

“He impressed upon us to always do really high-quality material and not just bubble-gum throwaway hits,” he said. “So, we tried to integrate a lot of meaning into our songs. He made us learn to method act.”

McGuinn said the first few years of The Byrds were the most exciting. Their biggest hit and McGuinn’s favorite “Turn!

Turn! Turn!” was released in 1965. The song was written by Seeger in 1959. Some of The Byrds’ other hits were “Eight Miles High,” “Mr. Spaceman” and “You Showed Me.”

“I saw The Byrds as a brand like Coca-Cola and I thought it was a viable brand to keep going,” said McGuinn, who was the sole consistent member. “So, that’s why I stuck with it as long as did.”

The Byrds, whose final album was released in 1973, were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1991.

Several of The Byrds’ biggest hits were covers of Bob Dylan songs, such as “Mr. Tambourine Man,” “My Back Pages” and “Chimes of Freedom.”

“(Dylan) doesn’t like to admit it, but I think we influenced him a little bit,” McGuinn said.

McGuinn and Dylan were neighbors in Malibu during the 1970s. McGuinn also toured with Dylan in the “Rolling Thunder Revue” in 1975-76. He later toured with Dylan and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers as the opening act on the “Temples in Flames” tour in Europe in 1987.

McGuinn started the Folk Den Project in November 1995. He records a different folk song each month.

‘WAITRESS’

“Waitress” runs through Aug. 31 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Roger McGuinn, co-founder of The Byrds, performs Sept. 13 at The Tarkington Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Roger McGuinn)

“It’s a labor of love,” he said. “I wanted to bring (the songs) into the public arena, so people can learn them. I always say someday, someone is going to open it up and say, ‘Wow, look what this guy did.’”

McGuinn typically performs a couple of the folk songs in his performances.

McGuinn’s early influences were Elvis Presley, Gene Vincent, Carl Perkins and the rockabilly scene in Memphis.

“I tell the story of how I got influenced by (folk singer) Bob Gibson when he came to play at my school,” he said.

That prompted McGuinn to switch from rockabilly to folk music.

McGuinn typically tours six weeks in the spring and six weeks in the fall.

“We like to space it out. I like to take a few days off between shows to rest my voice,” he said.

McGuinn has no plans to retire.

“I’ll know it when I can’t do it anymore,” he said. “I love doing it. I can’t imagine doing anything else.”

McGuinn’s wife, Camilla, is the road manager and handles all the merchandise

“We love the traveling part of it,” he said. For tickets, visit thecenterpresents.org. For more, visit mcguinn.com.

“Summer Nights: The Music of Grease” is set for 7:30 p.m. Aug. 21 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘HAPPY HOUR FOR A CAUSE’

Ballet INitiative presents “Happy Hour for a Cause” Aug. 23-24 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. Twenty percent of proceeds benefit ArtMix Indiana and KidsFirst Adoption. For more, visit balletinitiative.org

DISPATCHES

Opera cabaret set — An Opera Cabaret at Fork + Ale House is set for 6 p.m. Aug. 26 at the Carmel restaurant. The fundraiser will feature an intimate Italian opera performance by Indianapolis Opera artists. Cost is $125 per person and includes a full fourcourse meal with beer and wine. For more, visit indyopera.org.

SInger-songwriter Case to make Palladium debut — Touring to support a new album, singer-songwriter Neko Case will make her Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts debut Jan. 22 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium in January 2026. Also an accomplished producer, author and visual artist. Her authenticity, lyrical storytelling and sly wit have endeared her to a legion of critics, musicians and lifelong fans. In addition to many acclaimed and Grammy-nominated solo records, she is a founding member of the Canadian supergroup the New Pornographers and author of The New York Times bestselling memoir “The Harder I Fight the More I Love You” and the weekly Substack newsletter “Entering The Lung.” She is composing a musical theater adaptation of the Oscar-winning film “Thelma & Louise.” Case’s eighth album, “Neon Grey Midnight Green,” is set for release in September. Opening the show will be Des Demonas. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

Fishers Comedy & Magic to present ‘Laugh-Off’

David Pendleton has always been an entertainer at heart. He learned ventrilo quism at age 6 and performed in his first talent show when he was 8.

ENTERTAINMENT

After working at Kings Island as a ventriloquist through college, the Fishers resident is a full-time co medic ventriloquist. His club, Fish ers Comedy & Magic, hosts family-friendly shows throughout the year at Mission Christian Academy, 13095 Publishers Dr. in Fishers. His club will present “The Great Northern Laugh-Off” at 7 p.m. Aug. 31.

Joining him on stage will be standup comedians Daren Streblow and Leland Klassen, along with a live band.

“I typically try to have multiple comics and performers at the show,” Pendleton said. “I landed on the name Fishers Comedy

& Magic because I didn’t want it to be only a comedy venue. I wanted a venue that brings in other variety acts, and I want to be set apart from what people might think of when they think of a comedy club.”

Pendleton’s goal is to have a more consistent performance schedule moving forward, starting with a yet-to-be determined show in October.

“This is something that I would love to see more regularly here in Fishers — a family-friendly, affordable comedy show,” Pendleton said. “I have done several of these now and they’ve each gone well. I’ve been around comedy and in the comedy world for a very long time, so I have a pretty good idea of what it takes to put on a quality show. This is a funny show and I have worked hard to keep the quality up.”

Tickets for “The Great Northern LaughOff” start at $20. Doors open at 6 p.m. For more, visit fisherscomedyandmagic. com.

Annual

Event

CHARTING AMERICA’S FUTURE

An Evening of Big Trends, Bold Thinking, and Purposeful Leadership

MITCH DANIELS

Former Governor, State of IN

BRUCE MEHLMAN Partner, Mehlman Consulting

Thursday, September 11, 2025 5:30 - 8:00 PM (ET) Indiana State Museum, Indianapolis, IN

REGISTER HERE

Blueprint for Improvement: Kitchen remodel brings fresh charm

A complete kitchen renovation in Washington Township brightened the space with timeless finishes, inset cabinetry and thoughtful design details for a welcoming, functional heart of the home.

THE BLUEPRINT

• The dramatic transformation replaced dated cabinetry and muted counters with creamy inset shaker cabinets and stunning Cambria quartz surfaces.

• A professional-grade range with double ovens anchors the cooking area, complemented by a 5-in-1 speed oven and a custom hood for both style and flexibility.

• Glass-front cabinets and open shelving offer both storage and display for favorite pieces.

• Contrasting dark perimeter countertops pair with new herringbone wood flooring to add depth, warmth and visual interest throughout the space.

• The result is a bright, inviting kitchen perfect for daily living and entertaining.

Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy.com or visit

Before After

LIFESTYLE

Across

1. Sahm’s menu item

5. Lawrence Central HS athlete

9. Engaged in battle

14. Sicilian spouter

15. Teen’s woe

16. Unoriginal

17. Leon ___ (Indy clothes

pros since 1905)

19. Lounges around 20. PC key

21. Many a PU grad

22. Actress Seyfield or Peet

24. 46034

26. Greek war god

27. Washington bill

29. “lol”

30. Hospital divisions

32. Significant other

33. Museum piece

35. Gamer’s game face

37. Colts QB stat

38. Dillydally

40. 1040 org.

41. Crocheted blanket

44. Ledger entry

46. Strong and lean

47. Quick and flexible

49. Christkindlmarkt time

53. Opp. of WNW

54. Reebok rival

55. 46032

57. Young bovine at the Indiana State Fair

59. Beatles: “___ the Walrus” 60. School grp.

61. Bicycle part

62. Sherlock Holmes’ super power

65. Scent

66. Jeans choice

67. Icky stuff

68. Rachel Maddow’s network

69. Otherwise

70. Yankees’ crosstown rivals

1. Tear off

Down

2. Roma’s land

3. Stool pigeon

4. “2001” computer

5. It may give a hoot on a farm

6. Puff piece?

7. Mass Ave art: ___ Dancing

8. Consider

9. Book of maps

10. Suffix with Jumbo or cyclo

11. These may be sown by indiscreet youth

12. 46031

13. Hi-___ monitor

18. Not ‘neath

23. Arizona’s third largest city

25. Like the smell of soil

26. 46030

28. Always, in verse

31. Suffer

32. Victim for a cause

34. IND flight info

36. Seven, on a sundial

37. Saw eye to eye

39. A Hair Off Mane supply

41. Flabbergast

42. 46038

43. Church area

45. Snarky reply to “Why?”

48. Tight undergarment

50. Victory Field arbiter

51. Set free

52. Spiral-horned antelopes

54. Company with a spokesduck

56. “The Walking Dead” airer

58. Poetic measure

59. Midmonth day

61. “The Office” receptionist

63. White River snakelike fish

64. Old film channel

Answers on Page 19

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