April 25, 2023 — Zionsville

CURRENT MAY ZIONSVILLE COMMUNITY CALENDAR

BRICK STREET MARKET

Stroll through arts, crafts and food booths set up on Zionsville’s historic brick Main Street while browsing village shops and restaurants at the annual brick street market. The market is set for May 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Main Street, downtown Zionsville.

ZIONSVILLE FARMERS MARKET

The Zionsville Farmers Market runs from May 20 through Sept. 30 from 8 to 11:30 a.m. every Saturday. The market is on Zionsville’s historic Main Street and will have many returning vendors and some new ones for a total of 42 local produce and food vendors planned for the 2023 market season. Special events will include Green Day (to be announced later), Grilled Corn Day (July 29), Farm Day (Aug. 12), and pumpkin palooza (Sept. 16). For more, visit zionsvillefarmersmarket.org.

SULLIVANMUNCE CULTURAL CENTER

The SullivanMunce Cultural Center of Zionsville will be hosting an exhibition which will include the artist chosen for the 2nd annual Flora Fauna Juried art show beginning May 12 through June 30. The exhibitions can be seen at the cultural center at 225 W Hawthorne St. in Zionsville.

PARTY IN THE PARK

John Stehr has a vision for Zionsville’s future.

Public Safety

Zionsville is one of the safest places to live in Indiana. To ensure it stays that way, we must stay ahead of the rapid growth our community is experiencing.

Growth and Economic Development

Help Zionsville be more effective in claiming our share of Central Indiana’s economic activity. Support sustainable growth, while preserving the smalltown charm and character that is uniquely ‘Zionsville’.

A Vision for Zionsville’s Future

Communication & Transparency

John Stehr wants to restore communication and trust between the Mayor’s office, the town council, and our neighbors.

Learn more about John’s vision for Zionsville. www.JohnStehrForMayor.com

Follow Stehr for Mayor on social media:

Zionsville Parks will be celebrating the last day of school May 25 with a party at Mulberry Fields Park from 3 to 6 p.m. The park is located at 9645 Whitestown Rd. in Zionsville. The celebration will include games and activities with park staff, a visit from the Zionsville Nature Center, live music, and the opening of the Mulberry Fields splash pad. Food trucks will be available.

FRIENDS DINE TO DONATE

Dine at Zionsville Pizzeria, 255 South Main St. in Zionsville, between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. May 23 and present a friend’s dine to donate flyer or social media post, and Zionsville Pizzeria will donate 20 percent of your purchase to the Friends of Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library.

PARENTS PLAYGROUND DAY

May 21 is National Take your Parents to the Playground Day. Play day is the day to tap into your inner child and accompany your children to the playground. Join the Zionsville Parks and Recreation staff at Overley-Worman Park, 6040 Godello Circle, to celebrate the day.The event is from noon to 3 p.m.

Paid

The right candidate at the right time for Zionsville.

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Lions Park purchases land from local family

By Natalie Gargiulo Natalie@youarecurrent.com

Zionsville’s Lions Park and Lions Club, a nonprofit dedicated to serving the community, recently purchased a 4-acre parcel.

The land was previously owned by the Henkaline family and is on the north boundary of Lions Park. According to Boone County property records, Lions Park paid $150,000 for the parcel.

“The Zionsville Lions have operated as caretakers of this beautiful community park since its inception in 1940, and we are excited about this land expansion,” said Gene Thompson, Lions Club Park director. “Just like the recent addition of a new playground structure next to the gazebo, we are always looking for ways to serve the citizens of Zionsville at Lions Park.”

For Keven and Virginia Henkaline, who

have been married for 70 years, the decision to sell the land was not easy. They have lived on the property for more than 50 years, having reared their children alongside the park.

“This was very meaningful to us, and Gene’s kindness made the decision so much easier,” Virginia said. “Selling the land to the Lions Park will be a lasting tribute to the Henkaline family.”

The Henkalines moved to Zionsville in 1973. Virginia served on the Zionsville Town Council, and the couple volunteered as emergency medical technicians in the community.

Virginia said the couple is happy the property would be used to serve the Zionsville community.

“We are honored to have been part of this transition and to participate in bettering the town with this land,” Virginia said. “Many

more memories can be made here with other families in the future.”

Lions Park is a popular destination in town with baseball fields, playgrounds, and walking trails.

“The field has a lot of fond memories for our family,” said Nancy Vinson, one of the Henkalines’ two daughters. “Moving so close to town we got to have the field to have the farm life that we all loved.”

Adding the new land will enhance the park’s offerings, providing more space for community events, activities and recreation.

“Dad was a baseball and softball coach and coached all five of us kids at the ball diamonds in the park,” said Cindy Simpson, another of Henkaline’s daughters. “We grew up at the park, running across that land to watch the games and play.”

Plans for the property are still being determined.

The views of the columnists in Current in Zionsville are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.

Map of the Lions Club land. The yellow area is Lions Park, red is Zionsville Park Department, green is Henkaline property and purple is the Storen property. (Map courtesy of Gene Thompson.)

Plaque to mark old train depot

By Natalie Gargiulo natalie@youarecurrent.com

Plans are underway to install a historical marker along the Big-4 Rail Trail in Zionsville to commemorate a since-demolished train depot that was built 130 years ago.

COMMEMORATION

The Historical Preservation Committee of Zionsville, a nonprofit with the mission to maintain the character of the Village in the Town of Zionsville, announced its plans at the parks board meeting April 14 to have a marker made to commemorate the depot.

The committee is attempting to raise approximately $3,000 to order and install the marker.

“We thought it would add interest as people are walking along the route as to why this beautiful trail is here and learn there was a railroad going through there,” said Mark Zelonis, a member of the Historical Preservation Committee.

Zionsville has a rich history that dates back to the late-1800s. A significant part of that history is the Big-4 Rail Trail, which runs through the heart of the town.

The Rail Trail, formally known as the New York Central Railroad, was one of the reasons the town was created, as it played a vital role in Zionsville’s development and growth.

“It’s amazing to think that these big locomotives came through the middle of town,” Zelonis said. “The train came right up 1st Street to drop off and pick up passengers from the train depot.”

The train depot originally stood next to what is now Lincoln Park before being moved to 5th Street in 1923 for safety reasons.

“This was all done on logs back then,” Zelonis said. “They just picked up the depot and rolled it on these rollers up the street.”

Lincoln Park received its name several years ago as a historical site where President Abraham Lincoln made a train stop on the way to his inauguration in 1861.

The depot was an essential part of the town’s economy, as it facilitated the transportation of goods and people to and from the town. But in 1961, the depot was decommissioned and sat idle for a number of years.

“I think there was some talk back then of having it become a museum, but for reasons we don’t know, that didn’t happen,” Zelonis said.

Consequently, the train depot was demolished in the mid-1970s.

The plaque will be installed at the depot’s last location, which is now the popular hiking and biking trail, the Big-4 Rail Trail.

Mark Walters, chairman of the Zionsville Historical Preservation Committee, said doing things to enhance the appreciation of the town’s historic heritage is why the committee was formed.

“This plaque is one of several we are hoping to put around the village that celebrates our railroad heritage,” Walters said. “The whole reason Zionsville exists is because of the railroad.”

The town has offered to pour a concrete pad and install a bench near the marker.

The bronze plaque will include a QR code to learn more about Zionsville.

A future plan to replicate the train depot as a welcome center for the Town of Zionsville is being considered as well.

The funds to acquire the plaque will be raised through a GoFundMe account. For more, visit gofundme.com/f/ zionsville-historic-plaque.

The train depot in 1923 on 9th Street in Zionsville. (Photo courtesy of the Historical Preservation Committee)

The train depot at its original location near Lincoln Park in the late 1800s. (Photo courtesy of the Historical Preservation Committee)

Mixed-use development proposed in Zionsville

By Natalie Gargiulo natalie@youarecurrent.com

Old Town Companies, a Carmel-based developer, proposed a 260-acre development on Marysville Road in Zionsville at the April 17 Zionsville Plan Commission meeting.

WILD AIR

Wild Air would be a mixed-use development with retail, townhomes, single-family houses, apartments, senior living, civic use and preserved woodlands.

The plan commission voted unanimously for a continuance for the May 15 meeting to further discuss for Wild Air.

The development would be just north of Oak Street and south of County Road 550 South. It has multiple parcels on the east and west sides of Marysville Road, nestled 2.5 miles west of the historic downtown Zionsville.

The site currently has one single-family residence, multiple acres of farmed ground and wooded areas owned by the Johnson family, which has lived in the Zionsville community for several generations.

Justin Moffett, CEO of Old Town Companies, said during his presentation to the plan commission that the Johnson family wanted a “legacy development.”

Moffett said there would be a community park in Wild Air development created by preserving 30-acres of woodlands.

“Tree preservation is quite an opportunity for us to create a neighborhood that’s engaging for new residents, but we also know that’s a concern for existing residents,” Moffett said.

Wild Air would have eight different communities throughout the site.

The development’s centerpiece, Marysville

Crossing, would include 280 loft-style luxury apartments and retail businesses.

The site would also include a community clubhouse, a swimming pool, trails that would interconnect the eight different communities, senior living, cottages for ILADD’s Crossbridge Point residential community, traditional single-family homes on the east and west sides of Marysville Road and a 10-acre civic parcel.

The development would be primarily served by Marysville Road, which runs north and south through the middle of the development.

Two roundabouts have been proposed on Marysville Road, each providing access to the development on the east and west sides of Marysville Road.

Flower Market

Rendering of the Center Commons area, which would include 280 loft-style luxury apartments and retail businesses. (Rendering courtesy of Old Town Companies.)

Mt. Vernon senior proves to be a man for all seasons

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Mt. Vernon High School senior pitcher/ shortstop Eli Bridenthal’s competitiveness extends beyond the baseball diamond.

“Even in fifth-grade recess, the teachers would get mad at me for not passing the ball because I didn’t want to lose,” Bridenthal said.

“I mean, I’ll race you down the hallway just to say I beat you. Some people just don’t like me simply for the fact that I’m too competitive sometimes.”

That competitiveness drove Bridenthal to play football, basketball and baseball throughout high school.

“He is one of the most competitive players I’ve coached in my 20 years as a head coach,” Mt. Vernon baseball coach Brad King said.

As of April 18, Bridenthal, who will play baseball for Xavier University next season, was hitting .432. The 6-foot-2 right-hander had a 2-0 record with a 1.27 earned run av-

MEET ELI BRIDENTHAL

Favorite subject: Business

Favorite athlete: Patrick Mahomes

Favorite TV show: “Rick and Morty”

Favorite musician: Lil Uzi Vert

erage for the Marauders (8-2).

“Eli puts in a great deal of time to improve all of his skills,” King said. “Eli is one of the best pitchers in the state, a very solid defensive shortstop, and his athleticism makes him a threat on offense. But his greatest improvement has been as a leader. Eli has been on several successful teams at MVHS, including baseball. Younger players

PATIENT-CENTERED BRAIN AND SPINE CARE—CLOSE TO YOU.

The

“It’s even more rare to see one who is as skilled as Eli is in those sports,” King said. “He was, and is, not only a starter on each of the teams, but he plays a large role in the success these programs have. Again, this is due to being blessed with great athletic ability and traits, a tremendous work ethic, and a competitive drive to maximize his potential.”

Bridenthal said he enjoyed playing all three sports his entire life.

“I’ve never had an offseason,” he said. “I don’t like sitting around doing nothing. I love individual things about each sport. With basketball, I love the culture. Being in Indiana, there’s nothing like it. Football, you can’t beat Friday night lights. I love everything about baseball.”

Bridenthal invents games to liven up practice.

see this and realize he understands what it takes to get to the next level of success.”

King said it’s rare these days to see three-sport athletes at larger schools such as Mt. Vernon.

“We’ll be taking batting practice and I’ll be in the outfield, saying whoever catches the most balls wins,” he said. “It makes my teammates go harder.”

Bridenthal, who played some quarterback and receiver, threw for 422 yards, rushed for 394 yards and caught 41 passes for 622 yards last season.

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In his first two games, Eli Bridenthal has a 2-0 record with 20 strikeouts in 11 innings. (Photo courtesy of Stacy Muffler)

Bridenthal

Stehr outraises Burgess during pre-primary reporting period

By Natalie Gargiulo natalie@youarecurrent.com

$69,695 on the first report compared to Stehr’s reported $31,918.

ELECTION

The latest round of campaign finance reports shows that, during the pre-primary reporting period of Jan. 1 to April 7, Zionsville Republican mayoral candidate John Stehr outraised his Republican primary opponent Jane Burgess by nearly $20,000.

Stehr raised $82,875.83 during the reporting period, while Burgess raised more than $63,007.

Burgess, who did much of her fundraising prior to the latest reporting period, reported

The following includes direct contributions of $2,000 or more from corporate, political action committee and other organizations as well as individuals to the mayoral candidates during the pre-primary reporting period:

John Stehr

• $2,500– Bose McKinneyand Evans, LLP

• $2,500– Bose Public Affairs Group, LLC

• $5,000– Mibor PAC

• $2,500– ICE PAC

Jane Burgess

• $3,000 – Frost Brown Todd PAC

• $10,000 – Post Road Wearhousing, LLC

Hussey-Mayfield Public Library — Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library has 311 new books. New items include The Wisdom of the Bullfrog, The Secrets to Deliverance, The Met Flex Diet, Glucose Goddess Method, Life Worth Living, and RecipeTin Eats Dinner. The library is at 250 N. 5th St. In Zionsville. For more, visit wowbrary.org

Burgess Stehr

Vote for a Proven Leader –Jane Burgess!

Jane Burgess wants to restore fiscal responsibility for Zionsville and more!

With

• Five of the seven current Town Council members

• Boone County Sheriff, Tony Harris

• Former Mayor, Jeff Papa

• State Representative, Donna Schaibley ,

• Former Congresswoman, Susan Brooks

• Former Town Council President, Steve Mundy

• Former Deputy Mayor, Ed Mitro

• Former Boone County Council member, Gene Thompson

Paid for by Friends for Jane Burgess

Discarded medical device caused school evacuation

By Natalie Gargiulo natalie@youarecurrent.com

Boone Meadow Elementary School, at 5555 S Main St. in Whitestown, was evacuated prior to the start of the school day April 13 because of a suspicious object beeping in a trash can in the front of the school.

SCHOOLS

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Bomb Squad arrived at 8:30 a.m. and concluded that a discarded diabetic medical device created the beeping sound.

“After a long, extended time, IMPD’s bomb division came and determined through X-rays and their technicians that the device was a diabetic meter that was beeping,” Boone County Sheriff Tony Harris said. “Our deputy (Boone Meadow Elementary School’s school resource officer) that was at the school had told us that he heard multiple beeps and then a long tone.”

Harris said that was when officials evacuated the school and sent the students to a safe area away from the school.

“Then we sent our officers in to make sure no one was in the school,” Harris said.

Zionsville Community Schools Supt. Rebecca Coffman lauded the “swift actions” or first responders that included the Boone County Sheriff’s Dept., Zionsville Police Dept., Whitestown Police Dept. and Zionsville and Whitestown police departments.

“We live in an area where every day we

have prevention and response,” Coffman said. “The students that were on-site as well as the staff who were present prior to the school day were evacuated, and students who were en route to school via our buses were taken to another location (Zionsville West Middle School).” Coffman said parents were kept informed throughout the morning as the investigation was underway. Students were sent home for the day, but the school resumed the following day.

SORORITY INITIATES NEW MEMBERS

Zionsville ‘s Alpha Lambda Chapter of Psi Iota Xi, a philanthropic sorority, initiated three new members April 11. The sorority has been a part of Zionsville for more than 95 years, focusing on art, music, literature, speech and hearing. From left, new members Carly Atkins, Kasandra Miller, and Michelle Weesies. (Photo courtesy of Alpha Lambda Chapter of Psi lota Xi)

ZCS Supt. Rebecca Coffman and Boone County Sheriff Tony Harris give the “all clear” after discovering medical device. (Photo by Natalie Gargiulo)

DISPATCHES

— May 13 marks the 31st anniversary of days of giving with the national association of letter carriers Stamp Out Hunger food drive. Letter carriers in Zionsville will be collecting non-perishable food donations from customers to donate to the Zionsville Presbyterian Church food pantry. Participating in this year’s Letter Carrier Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive is simple. Just leave a nonperishable food donation in a bag by your mailbox May 13 and your letter carrier will do the rest. For more, visit nalc.org/food.

Humane Society for Boone County news renovation — The Humane Society for Boone County located at 5366 S. Indianapolis Road in Whitestown unveiled its newly renovated shelter April 22. New shelter areas include the expanded dog and cat kennel areas as well as the free roam catio space, medical clinic, meet and greet rooms and outdoor exercise yards. For more, visit hsforbc.org.

Greenways Foundation announces 2023 Indiana Greenways award winners — Greenways Foundation announced the Zionsville Parks and Recreation as one of its recipients of the 2023 Indiana Greenways awards. The foundation will host an awards luncheon April 25 at 11:30 a.m., at the Ritz Charles Conference Center in Carmel. The celebration event will feature the latest trail project news, regional trail progress, and the latest grant recipient projects. Annual awards will be presented to individuals, nonprofit organizations, communities, corporations, and projects that have exhibited outstanding excellence in advancing greenways or multi-use trail development throughout Indiana. For more, visit greenwaysfoundation.org.

Poetry on Brick Street “Out of this world walking tour” — Poetry on Brick Street will be hosting a tour for National Poetry month to look at the NASA-photos-inspired poetry unfurled from Main Street lampposts in Zionsville April 30 at 7:30 p.m. Join the poets from the Brick Street Poetry banner project and Dr. Andrew Gavrin IUPUI physics professor for a walk downtown Zionsville to view the NASA banners and hear each poet read their banner. The tour begins at the beginning of Main Street and ends at the SullivanMunce Cultural Center.

Baseball league seeks players

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The Hoosier Adult Baseball league is looking for a few good men — or at least enough to field two more teams. The 48-and-older baseball league is seeking to expand from six teams to eight, league president John Dearth said. The season begins Aug. 1 and ends Oct. 17. There are 12 games in the regular season, followed by the playoffs. All games are played at Grand Park in Westfield.

SPORTS

Dearth, a Carmel resident, said most of the players are from Hamilton County with some from Zionsville and Indianapolis.

“For me, personally, someone who has loved baseball since I can recall at age 4, playing in this league has been some of the most fun I have ever had playing baseball,” Dearth said. “We are there to compete, but our goal is to place a premium on sportsmanship, and fun. I have met some terrific people in the five years this league has been around. Grand Park is a terrific facility, and it helps to make the baseball experience that much better.”

The league was started in 2018 by Todd Eschmann and Dwight Podgurski. Dearth said Eschmann couldn’t play because of an injury. Podgurski was president and Dearth became vice president. When Podgurski moved to Colorado, Dearth became president midway during the 2020 season.

Each team has 12 to 16 players.

“The reason we put a limit on the high side is guys get to play,” Dearth said.,

The oldest league player last year was 76, but the 53-year-old Dearth said most players are in their early to mid-50s.

For more, visit hoosieradultbaseball.com or email jdearth@spectrummtg.net.

Sometimes you don’t need a new roof. Sometimes it’s what’s at the end of your roof that goes first. Bone Dry has become as well known for gutters and downspouts as we have for roofs. So if you’re staring at a waterfall and you’re not on vacation, it’s time to call Bone Dry. You’ll know it in your gutters.

WHEN IT’S TIME TO CALL BONE DRY YOU’LL KNOW IT IN YOUR GUT. AND YOUR GUTTERS.

Carmel resident Scott Metzinger, a former Butler University pitcher, pitches for the Monarchs. (Photo courtesy of John Dearth)

Construction underway

CURRENT Q&A

Construction of a new roundabout in Zionsville is underway. The roundabout will replace the traffic light at the intersection of Oak Street and CR 800 East (Kissell Road).

ROUNDABOUT

According to an announcement from the town, a full road closure of Oak Street will be in effect between June 1 and Sept. 1.

The traffic signal was installed in 2017 as a temporary measure to assist with traffic management of the intersection until a roundabout could be designed, funded and constructed, according to the Town of Zionsville. Completion of the roundabout is expected to be Nov. 29.

Detour routes were announced March 31 by the town for the closures and construction.

Detours for Oak Street will be at 875 East, 300 South, Albert S. White Drive/400 South and South Main Street/650 East.

Detours for 800 East will be 550 South, Marysville Road/850 East, and Hunt Club Road.

Getting to know Amogha Paleru

Amogha Paleru is a Carmel High School senior who recently received a perfect score on the ACT. Paleru plans to attend Stanford University to major in human biology and public policy on pre-med track.

What is your favorite subject in school?

My favorite courses have been in the PLTW Biomedical Sciences Pathway with Mr. Harper, but I love history and economics as well as these science courses.

Any tips for studying for tests and exams?

The first thing that has helped me is to stop worrying about the result and focus on making a study plan to master the material to your best ability. The results will follow. One thing that helps is making a to-do list and writing the hours it will take to do each task.

What is your dream job?

Cardiothoracic surgeon or interventional cardiologist

What is the best advice you’ve ever received?

If it’s meant to be, it will be. Everyone is on their own path.

What is your best habit?

Making sure to get to bed as early as possible and mapping my time out well to do so.

What is your dream vacation?

Iceland or Hawaii

ESKENAZI HEALTH FOUNDATION IS GRATEFUL TO

William and Moriag McCarthy Family

FOR THEIR LEAD GIFT

Eskenazi Health was recently named Indiana’s #1 hospital for community benefit and health equity by the Lown Institute. Thanks in part to community partners and philanthropy, we are helping families get beyond barriers.

eskenazihealthfoundation.org

What food do you most dislike?

Cilantro

If you could have a superpower, what would it be?

Telepathy

Do you have a hidden talent?

Baking

What is your favorite podcast?

“Science Vs” or “Anything Goes with Emma Chamberlain”

What is your favorite meal in town?

Social Cantina tacos

What is your go-to song to get pumped up?

“You Right” or “Need to Know,” Doja Cat

Rendering of detour routes during roundabout construction. (Rendering courtesy of the Town of Zionsville.)

Resident authors WWII book

By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com

May said he started writing veteran service stories in 2012 after retiring from the Navy Reserve.

BOOKS

Ronald P. May, the chaplain at Hoosier Village Retirement Community in Zionsville, has published a book that explores Indiana’s World War II landmarks.

A Carmel resident, May is an author and historian who has spent many years collecting interviews and chronicling the historical importance of Indiana during the World War II era. In his new book, “World War II Indiana Landmarks,” May writes about historical locations in the state.

May, who has a master’s degree in World War II studies, was a chaplain in the U.S. Navy Reserve for 22 years. His experience inspired him to publish four books, including his latest. His first three books are part of a three-volume series, “Our Service, Our Stories”.

“Most of the stories were of World War II veterans, but I did write some stories of those who served in Korea, Vietnam and during the Cold War,” May said.

Inspiration for “World War II Indiana Landmarks” came to May while he studied for his master’s at Arizona State University. He reached out to History Press to see if it was interested in his book proposal.

May said he has plans to add books to his first series, “Our Service, Our Stories”.

“Volume 4 will feature stories of medical personnel who served during World War II. Volume 5 will be similar to Volumes 1 and 3, an assortment of stories of service members and those who served on the home front (civilian and military,” May said.

To preorder, visit at barnesandnoble. com/w/world-war-ii-indiana-landmarks-ronald-p-may/1142693002.

May

Cover of newly released “World War II Indiana Landmarks” book. (Photo courtesy of Ronald P. May)

PRACTICE TO THE PODIUM

Training key to young gymnasts’ success

By Natalie Gargiulo Natalie@youarecurrent.com

Three young gymnasts have been working hard to become state champions in their sport.

Each won first place in their age division for the all-around category — a category of gymnastics that includes all events in which the champion of an event earns the highest total score from all events combined — at the Indiana State Championship gymnastics meet March 11 in Mishawaka as part of the Interactive Academy team.

But the road to success was not an easy one for the gymnasts, who train at Interactive Academy in Zionsville.

Zionsville residents Eli Lock and Landry Grey and Carmel resident Aaronson Mansberger each said hard work is the key to their success.

Each has their own unique strengths and abilities. Lock, 11, known by his team for his skill on the high bar and attention to technique, said becoming a champion in gymnastics takes hard work and lots of practice.

“I look up to my teammates and I see the skills they do, and I dream of doing those same skills, so I keep practicing drills so I can eventually do them,” said Lock, a fifth-grader at Zionsville West Middle School. “You have to keep practicing to learn the skills, and eventually you will.”

Mansberger, 17, a powerhouse on the pommel horse, said physical strength is crucial.

ELI LOCK

“Physical strength is important in gymnastics,” said Mansberger, a junior at Carmel High School. “Especially core strength. Even on the days we don’t practice, I am always out running or working out to continue to build my strength and endurance.”

Grey, 15, a natural on the high bar, according to his coach, said putting in the time and effort fosters success.

“Anyone can do gymnastics. You have to really go for it and do what it takes,” said Grey, a freshman at Zionsville Community High School. “When you start competing, you have to go to every practice and put in the hours. When you do that, you’ll always be getting better and improving.”

Despite their different abilities, the gymnasts share something in common — a passion for their sport.

Each day after school, the boys can be found at the Interactive Academy gym in

The Interactive Academy boys junior Olympic gymnastics team at the —-------------------. (Photo courtesy of Interactive Academy/Chad Grey)

Zionsville, fine-tuning their techniques and refining their skills.

“We practice four hours a day, five days a week,” Mansberger said.

Despite the grueling training schedule, Lock, Grey and Mansberger all say gymnastics gives them a sense of accomplishment, especially while mastering difficult moves.

“The adrenaline rush while learning new skills is my favorite part,” Grey said.

They have dedicated countless hours to training and have traveled to competitions across the U.S.

“We went to a competition this year called The Great Western in Chicago, and I won first place All-Around. The winner received a cowboy hat and a banner,” Lock said.

The team, known as Interactive Academy’s junior Olympic team, is coached by Craig Christie, who has been training the athletes since they were 5 years old.

MOST RECENT HIGHLIGHTS FOR ELI, LANDRY, AND AARONSON

• 5th grader at Zionsville West Middle School.

• Competes as a 12-year-old in Level 8

• Began gymnastics at Interactive Academy just after he turned 6 years old under Craig Christie

• 3-time 1st place All-Around at Indiana State Championships (2023-Level 8, 2022-Level 6, 2021-Level 6)

• 2-time 3rd place All-Around at Region 5 Championships (2022-Level 6, 2021-Level 6)

• 2-time Future Stars National Development Team (2022, 2021)

LANDRY GREY

• 9th grader at Zionsville Community High School

• Competes as a 15-year-old in Level 9

• Began gymnastics at Interactive Academy at age 5 under Gene Watson, Craig Christie, and Mike Morris

• 3-time 1st place All-Around at Indiana State Championships (2023-Level 9, 2021-Level 8, 2016-Level 5)

• 4-time Indiana State Championship Runner-up (2022, 2019, 2018, 2017)

• Junior National Championships Qualifier 2021, 2022 (Level 9 Age 13 4th All Around)

• Future Stars National Qualifier 2018

“Aaronson, Landry, and Eli all put in many years of focused hard work to get where they are now,” Christie said. “When given an instruction, they all do and attempt to understand what is being said, and they attempt to physically perform that instruction to the best of their ability.”

Christie has been instrumental in the boys success. A former gymnast, Christie has been coaching at the Interactive Academy for more than a decade and has a reputation for producing top-level gymnasts.

“In a nutshell, anyone who is willing to put in the quality hours needed in the gym can achieve success in this sport,” he said. “No amount of talent can replace a longterm commitment built on a solid work ethic and determination.”

“My next goal is to represent my college team when I graduate from Zionsville Community High School,” Grey said.

“I want to go to Stanford (University) and compete on their gymnastics team,” Lock said. “Maybe even go to the Olympics one day, that would be really cool.”

“When I graduate Carmel High School, I want to continue gymnastics in whatever college I decide to go to,” Mansberger said.

For more, visit interactiveacademy.org.

ON THE COVER: Three local gymnasts at the Indiana State Champion meet March 11 after winning first place in the All-Around category. From left, Eli Lock (Zionsville West Middle School), Landry Grey (Zionsville Community High School) and Aaronson Mansberger (Carmel High School). (Photo courtesy of Interactive Academy/Chad Grey.)

AARONSON MANSBERGER

• 11th grader at Carmel High School

• Competes as a 17-year-old in Level 10

• Began gymnastics at Indy School of Gymnastics under Gene Watson / Craig Christie at age 4 and followed the coaches to Interactive Academy

• 3-time USA Gymnastics Men’s Academic All-American Award

• 2022 recipient of the Gene Watson Award

• 1st-place All-Around Indiana State Championships (2023-Level 10, 2022-Level10)

• 2022 Pommel Horse Champion - Level 10 Region 5 Championships

• 2022 Pommel Horse National Champion - Level 10 Age 16 Development Nationals

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Taking stock of our lives

Commentary by Terry Anker

Stock prices go up and down based upon a panoply of factors, but a few variables are the most predictive. One, the company is earning more than others like it and there is a pipeline of opportunity that will keep the situation positive. Two, management accurately predicts how the enterprise will do quarter to quarter. When a business begins to underperform, these indicators will drive investor action. The first has a sluggish impact, often taking time for shareholders to recognize the market threat from new technologies or competition and sell off shares of companies experiencing a slow annual decline. But when the corporation misses quarterly earnings expectations, the market can respond harshly with swift authority. It seems that disappointment is more disturbing than the long, hard road to irrelevance. We might find value in imagining the investments we make in our relationships through a similar lens. Take school reunions, for example. We’ve made the investment in these people. Maybe we’ve kept up

ESSAY

and reaped something from the time spent concurrently. So, getting together seems unnecessary. Perhaps we’ve ignored them all since graduation. We’ve fully depreciated all that we once had there. Somewhere between too soon and too far, and there might be some value in reconnecting.

Depending on how we perceive our past and present, we might believe that our stock has gone up. Life, career, family, whatever the metric, has increased. Or it could be that we have begun that inevitable decline into old age and infirmity. At the launch of our productive lives, don’t we all have about the same origin point? What we do is much up to us and to circumstance. But as others see us, what do they observe? How did we hold up? Did our lives beat market expectations, or did we underdeliver on our potential?

Love Japan, hate the eel

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Friends, I have recently returned from Japan! The trip was part of a 2021 grant to study World War II that I could take only now thanks to dumb COVID-19. I was super excited for the history and culture parts but also anxious about the long flight (I don’t sleep on planes) and potential food situation (I don’t do raw fish). Obviously, your gal rose above. Here’s what happened.

the amazing opportunity I’d been given, I stuffed the complaints and caught up on all the Oscar-nominated films I’d missed except for “The Whale” because there’s no crying on airplanes.

HUMOR

The Chicago-Tokyo leg was rough, I won’t lie. For starters, my husband Doo tagged along because he suffers from severe FOMO anytime anyone goes anywhere without him, and since he’s over 6-foot tall, he took the aisle seat. This meant I was relegated to the middle for 13 excruciating hours, both directions. I couldn’t stay comfortable or use the bathroom sans two minutes of decamping. Even worse, I had to have the gross chicken as Economy Row 56 means the pasta primavera is no longer available. But, recognizing

But, recognizing the amazing opportunity I’d been given, I stuffed the complaints and caught up on all the Oscar-nominated films I’d missed except for “The Whale” because there’s no crying on airplanes.

– DANIELLE WILSON

The culinary scene proved much better. Most places offered a variety of East Asian dishes, including noodles, dumplings and fried stuff, so I never went hungry. And when we finally stumbled upon Doo’s most magical of magical eateries — a tiny, 10seat hole-in-the-wall sushi joint that served whatever the catch of the day was — I did just fine with rice and soup. Apparently, I do like Japanese food!

Although I still abhor long flights and would hard pass on eel sashimi, I’d go back to Japan in a heartbeat. Peace out.

Danielle Wilson is a contributing columnist. You may email her at info@youarecurrent.com.

Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@youarecurrent.com.

Game on — or is it?

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

I have been lecturing my adult son about playing so many video games. I don’t think he was listening, so next time I’ll wait until he takes his headset off.

HUMOR

I told him what a waste of time video games are, and how little you benefit intellectually. Plus, it involves absolutely no exercise. I was going to tell him all that, but I played golf all that day because carts were half price.

I have an addiction, as well. Not to golf, not to nicotine, not to prescription drugs, not to Uncle Ralph’s Hard Lemonade -- not even to pickleball (but I am getting close on this one).

I am addicted to Scrabble.

Not Words with Friends. I don’t like that game. It involves friends, which is exactly what I am trying to avoid when I seclude myself in the basement every night for an hour. I also don’t mean the board game that is up in your hall closet wedged between your winter galoshes and the Monopoly game. And I also don’t mean the Scrabble game that you flung in your basement crawl space because you’re missing a J and a V.

I’m addicted to the type of Scrabble that I downloaded on my computer. Oh, it’s the same concept, but in this case, you are playing Noah Webster and someone I assume is his obsessive-compulsive sister, Merriam.

Good luck.

In this game, you can control the difficulty, but with a degree in English, I’ll be

darned if I’ll compete as a novice or beginner. Instead, I check off expert, at which point the computer runs a program that has beaten all but 200 Scrabble players in America. I wonder who these people are and if their wives and children would like them to come up from the basement occasionally to shower.

I realize I’m in over my head. Just before writing this column, I was trounced by the computer. Here were some of the words that beat me: promial, zootier, hewable, zlote, schalene. Every time I make a word that’s worth more than 30 points, a nerdy little figure pops up on the screen and seduces me with adulation: GREAT JOB! EXCELLENT MOVE!

I’m a sucker for this because my 43rd wedding anniversary is coming up and I’ve only heard GREAT JOB maybe six times during our marriage. I can’t remember ever hearing EXCELLENT MOVE! And I’m counting our honeymoon.

My son has become concerned about my obsession. He promised me the other day that if I gave up Scrabble, he’d cut down on his video game playing.

“Just say the word, Dad,” he told me. “Just say the word and video games are history.”

The question is: What is the word? And how many points will I get?

POLICIES

Letters to the editor: Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 150 words. Letters must be thoroughly vetted prior to submission. Current retains the right to reject or return any letter it deems to carry unsubstantiated content. Current also retains the right to edit letters, but not their intent. Send letters to info@youarecurrent.com. Writers must include a hometown and a daytime phone number for verification. Guest columns: The policy for guest columns is the same as the aforementioned, but the allowable length is 240 words. Guest columns should address the whole of Current’s readership, not simply special-interest groups, and may not in any way contain a commercial message.

Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.

I’m addicted to the type of Scrabble that I downloaded on my computer. Oh, it’s the same concept, but in this case, you are playing Noah Webster and someone I assume is his obsessive-compulsive sister, Merriam.

– DANIELLE WILSON

CHS grad gets dream role in ‘The Sound of Music’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Renée La Schiazza figures she started watching “The Sound of Music” on VHS tape when she was about 2 years old.

MUSICAL

The 2012 Carmel High School graduate will play Maria in Civic Theatre’s production of “The Sound of Music,” which runs April 28 to May 13 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

“This is my favorite musical of all time,” she said. “It’s a dream role. It introduced me to musical theater and the arts.”

La Schiazza played a nun in the musical as a Clay Middle School sixth-grader.

This is the Carmel resident’s first production with Civic Theatre. It is her first performance since joining the Great American Songbook Foundation staff in February 2018. She is now the director of programs. She was a 2012 Songbook Academy participant and intern with the organization in 2013.

“Like anything, there are some challenges to overcome, but it’s really just a joy to be back in the process and back in the rehearsal room and to be inspired by ev-

eryone else in the cast,” she said.

Carmel resident Kirsten Gunlogson portrays Mother Abbess in her first role with Civic Theatre. She has performed in Rodgers and Hammerstein productions, such as “The King and I” and “Oklahoma.”

“Being new to Civic and being asked to do a show with them, I could not ask for a better production to be involved in,” said Gunlogson, who is an Indiana University graduate. “Most of my younger years I was performing operatic literature and concert music. I did some operettas and some musicial theater. I moved away from Indiana for a long time and moved back here in 2015.”

Gunlogson, a Butler University professor of voice, has performed some concerts and chamber music in the Indianapolis area. She also performs in a chamber trio, which does concerts throughout the U.S.

“It’s wonderful to get to know this company and to learn about the staff and administration,” Gunlogson said. “It’s a wonderful sense of community here. Of course, my favorite part is, I get to work with my daughter. That’s a huge treat for me as well.”

Her daughter Katherine LeFan, a 9-yearold West Clay Elementary third-grader,

plays Marta. This is LeFan’s favorite musical as well.

“It’s kind of what got me into theater,” LeFan said. “It’s a really awesome musical. I really like ‘Do-Re-Mi’ and ‘Climb Every Mountain.’”

Clay Middle School sixth-grader Addie Giesting, who plays Brigitta, said her favorite song is “The Lonely Goatherd” that they sing with Maria.

“My favorite part is I get to lay back on the bed and conduct that part,” the 12-year-old Giesting said.

“The Sound of Music” is one of the first musicals Giesting ever saw.

“My grandma is a big ‘Sound of Music’ fan and travels all across the country to see the show,” Giesting said. “It’s really special to have me in it. She is going to come all the way from Minnesota to see it.”

Giesting performed in Junior Civic’s production of “Frozen Jr” in 2021.

For more, civictheatre.org.

currentnightandday.com

‘AN AMERICAN IN PARIS’

“An American in Paris” runs through May 14 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

THE WALLFLOWERS

The Wallflowers will perform at 7:30 p.m. April 26 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘TRUE WEST’

Carmel Community Players’ production of “True West” will run through April 30 at Ivy Tech Hamilton County in Noblesville. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.

‘MR. CONFIDENTIAL’

Actors Theatre of Indiana’s world premiere of “Mr. Confidential” is set for April 28 through May 14 at the Studio Theater at at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistage.org.

‘THE SOUND OF MUSIC’

Civic Theatre’s production of “The Sound of Music” is set to run from April 28 through May 13 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

AMANDA MCBROOM

Amanda McBroom will perform at 7:30 p.m. April 28 and Alexandra Silber at 7:30 p.m. April 29 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘GET HAPPY’

“Get Happy: Michael Feinstein Celebrates the Judy Garland Centennial” at 8 p.m. April 29 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘Crimes of the Heart’ set for Theater at the Fort — The Belfry Theatre’s production of “Crimes of the Heart,” a comedy by Beth Henley, will run from April 28 to May 7 at Arts for Lawrence’s Theater at the Fort. The cast includes Brook Hackman and Mickey Masterson from Carmel and Sarah Eberhardt and Ka’Lena Cuevas from Fishers. Others in the cast include Becca Bartle from Westfield and Tanner Brunson from Noblesville.

LeFan

Giesting

From left, Keegan Connor as Louisa, Renée La Schiazza as Maria, Greta Schaefer as Gretl in a rehearsal scene. (Photo courtesy of Joshua Hasty Photography)

is set for tribute to Judy Garland

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

For the Center for Performing Arts Artistic Director Michael Feinstein, the annual spring concert at the Palladium in Carmel will be personal for him.

CONCERT

The concert, set for 8 p.m. April 29, will feature Feinstein’s “Get Happy: Michael Feinstein Celebrates the Judy Garland Centennial.”

Feinstein answered questions from Current about how the series of Garland performances developed.

How special was it to put together this show considering your long friendship with Garland’s daughter Liza Minnelli?

“Putting together this Garland Centennial tribute was no small feat. I felt the weight of her legend through the entire experience and longed to create something that would celebrate her in a way that she would want to be remembered and also to please her family. Liza was the person who suggested that I put together this concert as I didn’t feel I had the gravitas to properly pay tribute to Judy Garland. But she encouraged me by pointing out a number of things, one of which is that being a male that would remove some of the comparisons that would inevitably happen with a woman singing Judy Garland songs.

“Also, she pointed out that I have a very balanced perspective about her mother, and by that I mean that I understood this is a concert that should be celebratory of Judy Garland and focus on her art and the reason that she became famous and eventually a legend. It’s unseemly to focus on the tabloid aspects of anyone’s life because it’s really

beside the point. It is the extraordinary experience that people still feel when they listen to a recording by Judy Garland or see one of her films or one of her videos from her television series that still can galvanize all these years after her passing.

“I wanted to explore her history, and it turned out better than I could have possibly imagined in my wildest dreams.”

Was celebrating her 100th birthday in 2021 the first time you devoted an entire show to Garland?

“The first time I did an entire show celebrating Judy Garland was, I think, 2016, which I did with special appearances by Liza and (Garland’s daughter) Lorna (Luft) in San Francisco at Feinstein’s at the Nikko, my club in that city. Prior to that, I don’t believe I had ever sung a tribute concert to Judy Garland, even though I had conducted a symphony tribute to Judy in Pasadena with the Pasadena Pops.”

For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

May 26 at 7:30pm

May 27 at 2:00pm

Michael Feinstein will perform a tribute to Judy Garland at the Palladium. (Photo courtesy of the Center for the Performing Arts)

BALLET THEATRE OF CARMEL ACADEMY PRESENTS

NIGHT

DAY

Red Barn to present 3 comedies

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

It will be another summer of laughs with the three scheduled shows at Red Barn Summer Theatre.

“They’re very light. It’s a nice summer selection, and even though they are all comedies, they’re all very different,” Red Barn Theatre Artistic Director Michael Taylor said. “They’re different kinds of comedy. Coming to the show you will see three very different kinds of performances.”

The first show is the English comedy “See How They Run” (June 7-18); the second show is “Boeing Boeing” (June 21-July 1); and the musical will be “Curtains, A Musical Comedy Whodunit” (July 6-16). Performances run Wednesdays through Sundays at the Red Barn Theatre in Frankfort.

Taylor will direct “Boeing Boeing” and “Curtains.”

Taylor, who has been with the company for 25 years, said Red Barn performed “Boeing Boeing” several years ago.

“Since then, the script has been updated,” Taylor said. “It was revised on Broadway, so we’re doing the new Broadway revival version.”

A French farce, “Boeing Boeing” takes place in a 1960s apartment in Paris rented by a swinging American architect, Bernard. He is engaged to three women who he only keeps apart because they are all flight attendants for different airlines. When Bernard’s tight schedule is disrupted, his juggling act turns frantic — and then disastrous.

“See How They Run” tells the rollicking tale of a conservative English bishop whose sedate home is turned upside down by the outlandish actions of an American actor and actress, four men disguised as clergymen and an old maid who has touched alcohol for the first time.

“Curtains” is set in 1959 in the Colonial Theatre in Boston. On opening night, the lead actress falls dead and a fast-talking cop, who just happens to be a musical theater aficionado, is sent to investigate.

Season and single tickets can be purchased at redbarntheatre.net starting May 8.

Farrell relishes role in premiere

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Actors Theatre of Indiana co-founder Don Farrell knows there is a responsibility in portraying a real-life person.

Farrell will play the role of Bob Harrison, who created Confidential magazine, in the world premiere of “Mr. Confidential,” which starts April 28 and runs through May 14 in the Studio Theater at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

“It’s a pretty hefty role,” Farrell said. “‘I’ve got a lot of woodshedding to do to get this on to my gray matter, but the music is so much fun. The lyrics are fun, and the story is fun. To be able to roll up my sleeves and start delving into it, it’s really going to be great. I think as an actor, roles that are complex are more interesting. The human condition itself is interesting. We’re all three-dimensional beings and with a lot of history and life experience.”

Farrell said he wants to give heart to his portrayal.

“On the surface, when you read, you might think this might not be the best guy in the world,” Farrell said.

However, Farrell said Harrison built a very successful magazine and provided work for others.

“He was an amazing, interesting guy, and I’m excited to bring him to life on the Studio Theater stage,” he said. “There is a responsibility to not paint them as a two-dimensional character. You want to see all the sides of this person. It’s exciting to find stuff that might not be on the page, but in the rehearsal process you are able to explore.”

Since the reading, Farrell said the production team has written some new scenes, added songs and adapted songs,

“(The audience) are going to get all the songs they originally fell in love with, and they are going to get even more in this world premiere,” he said.

Farrell said ATI has created new works before but nothing to this magniture in its 18-year history.

For more, visit atistage.org.

MUSICAL

Taylor

Farrell

Soprano embraces new role

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Soprano Anne Fuchs is quite familiar with “The Magic Flute.”

OPERA

“I used to sing the role of Papageno in Germany in this opera, so it’s very near to my heart,” Fuchs said. “In the German opera system, you sort of perform a role for a year or two. You’ll just do it again and again and again. So, it’s one of those operas that I know inside and out and deeply, deeply love.”

The Indianapolis resident will play the role of the First Lady in Indianapolis Opera’s production of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s “The Magic Flute” May 5-7 at The Toby Theater at Newfields in Indianapolis.

This is Fuchs’ first performance on the main stage with Indianapolis Opera. She had performed in outreach concerts in the community with the company.

Fuchs, 37, lived in Germany for 2 1/2 years, leaving in 2015.

“This was my first role in Germany, and I had to do all the dialogue within the first

Fuchs

two weeks of setting foot there,” she said. “It’s kind of a crazy story. The manager of a theater asked, ‘Do you know the role of Papageno?’ I said, ‘Yes.’ She said, ‘Great, you go on in two days.’ The only problem was I didn’t know the role. I just knew it was my chance. So, I drove myself crazy over the next 48 hours just learning that role, which is kind of a hard thing to do. I don’t know if Anne in her 30s could now pull that off, but in my 20s I could. I got it together and had to also learn the German dialogue and speak it convincingly and with a good German accent.”

The First Lady is one of the three ladies in service of the evil Queen of the Night.

“This opera is just so incredible because it’s basically about this duality of good and evil,” Fuchs said. “The bad guys seem like good guys, and then the good guys seem like bad guys. It’s just confusing knowing which is which.”

Fuchs also played the role of Pamina in a production in the U.S.

“She is a delightful character as well,” Fuchs said. “She’s pure of heart.”

For more, visit indyopera.org.

Farm beefs up operations

Commentary by Mark LaFay

Indiana may be known to be a pork-producing state, but there is quite a bit of great beef to be found in the Crossroads of America. Look no farther than Howell Farms in Middletown in rural Delaware County.

FOOD

The Howell family has been farming the amber waves of grain for nearly 50 years. Their primary focus is corn, soy, wheat, barley and tomatoes, and now with a touch of beef!

Siblings Adam and Aaron Howell took up the family mantle to become the second generation in the Howell family to farm the Indiana countryside. The brothers are also the driving force behind the farm’s relatively new grass-fed beef program.

“We want to be good stewards of the family business and the land that it is based on,” Adam said. “By combining vegetable and grain production, cover cropping and then rotational livestock grazing, we can improve soil health.”

Ultimately, soil health drives the quality of the products they produce.

At present, the Howell’s have 22 head

of cattle that rotate across different pastures each day. The cattle is 100 percent grass-fed and the beef is processed under USDA inspection. Customers can shop their assortment of beef products online at Farmersprovisions.com. The website provides all the current offerings as well as plenty of information about the Howell family, the farm and the beef operation.

Customers are encouraged to shop the beef assortments by the box. Free shipping to 26 states is offered with the purchase of any assortment box. Customers can also shop by the cut and build their own box to have shipped. All current and future shipping destinations can be found on the website.

Customers can expect their product to arrive cold and safe to be put back into the freezer or thawed out to cook immediately. For more, visit farmersprovisions.com.

Mark LaFay is a butcher, certified sommelier and founder of Old Major Market, 4011 N. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis.

Did I hear that correctly?

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

A visit to Masada National Park

Commentary by Don Knebel

Today, in our continuing visit to Israel and the Palestinian Territories, we come to Masada National Park in Israel, about 45 miles south of Jericho.

TRAVEL

During his reign as king of Judea from about 36 B.C. to 4 B.C., Herod the Great was a prodigious builder. The artificial harbor at Caesarea Maritima and the Temple Mount in Jerusalem were architectural wonders. But none of Herod’s many building projects have had the lasting influence of Masada, rising 1,300 feet above the Judean Desert. At the top of this rocky plateau, Herod built an elaborate city, complete with Roman baths, an underground reservoir holding 1 million gallons of water and a three-tier summer palace overlooking the Dead Sea. The only way up to the heavily fortified complex was along a narrow “snake path.”

In A.D. 66, Jewish revolutionaries captured Masada from the Romans. They and the families that joined them held out against a Roman siege until engineers built a ramp to the top and soldiers broke down the walls with a battering ram. Both the site of the Roman encampment and the remains of the ramp can still be seen from the snake path. According to Josephus, the first-century Jewish historian, the entering Roman soldiers found all but seven of the 960 holdouts dead, killed by their own hands to avoid being taken alive.

Today, a metal plaque at Masada reads: “What of us? What is our Masada? How much of all this will we take with us, and how much of our own will we add?” For a time, members of the Israeli military walked up the snake path to be sworn in among the ruins, pledging that “Masada shall not

fall again.” Masada, now also reachable by cable car, is a powerful reminder of the indomitable Jewish spirit and the universal yearning of people to be free.

STATE OF INDIANA ) IN THE BOONE COUNTY COURT ) SS:

COUNTY OF Boone ) CAUSE NO. 06C01-2304

MI-506

IN RE THE NAME CHANGE OF: )

Robbin Lynn Devin ) Petitioner ) ORDER SETTING HEARING

Comes now Robbin Lynn Devine, pro se, having filed a Verified Petition for Change of Name, and the Court finds that the matter should be set for hearing.

It is therefore ordered that this matter shall be heard on June 14, 2023 at 8:15 a.m.

So Ordered April 12, 2023

Judicial Officer

GRAMMAR GUY

I’ve written before about mondegreens — music lyrics people mishear. Many of you mistake Elton John’s “Tiny Dancer” line as “Hold me closer, Tony Danza.” Today’s column is along those lines.

Now that you’re refreshed on mondegreens, I’m sure you’re also aware of homophones, two or more words that sound the same but have different meanings and spellings. Examples include peace/piece and whole/hole.

With these in mind, you’re all set for today’s topic, oronyms. This sounds like a term for different names of gold. In fact, oronym is a recently coined term by author Gyles Brandreth. Brandreth, who is famous for being a past European Monopoly champion and president of the Association of British Scrabble Player, is also a witty linguist. He came up with the term “oronym” in his 1980 book, “The Joy of Lex.”

Oronyms, which are also known as continunyms or sliceonyms, are phrases or sentences that sound the same but are spelled differently. The difference between oronyms and homophones is that oronyms almost always cause confusion and lead to misunderstandings. Let’s get into some examples, shall we?

When it comes to my 9-year-old son, he

has seasonal spring allergies, and he fancies himself an expert on many subjects. I could rightly say, “You’ll be amazed by the stuffy nose.” However, if I want to declare him a harbinger of facts, I could also say, “You’ll be amazed by the stuff he knows.” The two sentences are true, and they sound identical. But their meanings are different. Here are two similar-sounding sentences that have incredibly different meanings. Consider “The drunk man fell into oblivion.” Now think about “The drunk man fell into a Bolivian.”

Curtis Honeycutt is a national award-winning, syndicated humor writer. Connect with him on Twitter (@curtishoneycutt) or at curtishoneycutt.com.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

BY THE TOWN OF ZIONSVILLE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Town of Zionsville Board of Zoning Appeals on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. in the Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 West Oak Street, Zionsville, Indiana 46077 to consider the following Petition:

Petition #2023-08-DSV, filed for Craig Kantner requests Board of Zoning Appeals Approval for a: Variance of Development Standards to provide for or permit: a new pole barn that exceeds allowable square footage.

The property involved is commonly known as: 11750 E. 200 S., Zionsville, IN 46077.

Craig Kantner Petitioner

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

BY THE TOWN OF ZIONSVILLE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS

Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Town of Zionsville Board of Zoning Appeals on Wednesday, May 3rd 2023, at 6:30 p.m. in the Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 West Oak Street, Zionsville, Indiana 46077 to consider the following Petition:

Petition # 2023-11-DSV, filed for Mark and Kimberly Hollis, requests Board of Zoning Appeals Approval for a (mark all that apply):Variance of Development Standards to provide for or permit:

Petition for a Development Standards Variance to decrease the rear setback to provide for a swimming pool in the Holliday Farms Planned Unit Development.

The property involved is commonly known as: 10550 Pete Dye Ridge, Zionsville, IN 46077 and is legally described as: The Club at Holliday Farms Section 2 Lot F23

A copy of the Petition for Board of Zoning Appeal Approval, and all plans pertaining thereto are on file and may be examined prior to the Public Hearing from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, except for Holidays, in the Planning & Economic Development Department in the Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 West Oak Street, Zionsville, Indiana, 46077. Written comments in support of or in opposition of the Petition that are filed with the Secretary of the Town of Zionsville Board of Zoning Appeals prior to the Public Hearing will be considered. The Public Hearing is open to the public. Oral comments to this Petition will be heard at the Public Hearing. The Public Hearing may be continued from time to time as may be found necessary.

Further, and as allowed by the laws of the State of Indiana, members of the public will be afforded the opportunity to attend the Board of Zoning Appeals Public Meetings via a form(s) of electronic communication IF indicated in the Agenda (as amended from time to time) associated with the Board of Zoning Appeals Meeting.

Upon request, the Town of Zionsville will provide auxiliary aids and services. Please provide advance notification to the Technology Department, assistance@zionsville-in.gov or 317-873-1577, to ensure the proper accommodations are made prior to the meeting.

Chairman: Steve Mundy

Secretary:Mike Dale

Ruins of Masada in Israel. (Photos by Don Knebel)

Don Knebel is a local resident. For the full column visit donknebel.com. You may contact him at editorial@ youarecurrent.com.

Model of Herrod’s Summer Palace in Masada National Park.

47. Board member

49. Tunes

51. Kinda

52. South American nation

55. Steinway products

59. Bypass

60. Madison Avenue park with a Lars Jonker sculpture

63. Tom Wood car type

64. Scent

65. Amber Indian Restaurant bread

66. Pacers’ three-pointers

67. Crafty website

68. Utters Down

1. Neutral shade

2. “Now hear ___!”

3. Church area

4. Mackey and Market Square, e.g.

5. Telephone pole sign words

6. Half of bi-

7. Eye part

8. Gestation sites

9.

28. Comic Carvey

30. Show the way, in a way 31. Low-budget prefix 32. Stair part 35. Bento Cafe cuisine 38. Indy park with “Ruins” 40. “Yes, captain!” 42. Timbuktu’s land 43. Hang on a clothesline

Acquiesce

10. Indy park known for its Conservatory and Sunken Gardens

11. Curved molding 12. Aft

13. Upper limbs 18. Withdraw from a Hamilton County Court case

. Some Colts linemen

. Old-time messengers

. Glendale Body Shop jobs

. Numbskull 27. Constitutional capital of 52-Across

6 Common Adjectives

4 States That Begin With “I”

3 Indiana Mikes

2 Women Astronauts

5 TV Networks

1 John Mellencamp’s “Small Town” Town

Stewart's

ugly tree roots, stumps in and around chain link or wood fences. We also remove tree stumps that are protruding up onto sidewalks and around sidewalks. We grind them and/or remove. Please Call & Text at 816-778-4690.

VACATION PROPERTY RENTAL

Hondo’s Hideaway on beautiful, serene Bald Head Island, N.C., is a new-tomarket, exquisitely decorated 3 BR/2.5 BA in prime location. Close to beach, shopping, market and dining. Owner’s suite on first floor with ensuite bath, tile shower, dual sinks and two closets. Second floor has two bedrooms with Jack-and-Jill bath, each with private sink and tile tub/shower. Two four-passenger golf carts, bicycles and kayak. Spacious screened porch. Additional queen air bed will accommodate two additional guests. Temporary club memberships to both Shoals Club and BHI Lifestyle Club. Kitchen is fully equipped with top-of-line large and small appliances as well as every culinary necessity you would need to prepare the most elaborate meal.

Additional details and photos: https://www.bhiturtletimevacations. com/vacation-rentals/rental/6988/

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A SHOP TO CALL HOME?

Integrity Automotive is looking for a full time automotive technician. In business for 28 years in downtown Carmel with a solid, happy customer base and a positive, goodnatured work environment.

The best candidate is a motivated, well-organized technician with at least three years hands on experience in automotive diagnosis, problem-solving and repair. Able to interpret and apply diagnostic/repair information from computerized databases and other sources. Also able communicate clearly and effectively with your supervisor, your fellow employees and, as needed, with customers. A complete job description is available with a request to frontdesk@integrityautomotive.net.

We offer competitive pay with a Monday through Friday work week and (after 90 days) up to four sick/personal days per year and paid holidays.

To schedule an interview, send your resume with contact information to: frontdesk@integrityautomotive.net

40 S Rangeline Rd Carmel Indiana 46032 www.IntegrityAutomotive.net

MATH TEACHER

A math teacher at Midwest Academy will be responsible for teaching all aspects of mathematics, including fundamental and introductory algebra skills, to Middle School and High School students in a progressive environment designed for children with learning differences.

This position is full time and compensation is commensurate with experience. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a child-centered mentality are essential to this position.

To apply please send your resume to careers@mymwa.org

HELP WANTED

Looking for an entry level employee to join our help desk.

Primary duties include inbound tech support calls and emails utilizing a project management, ticket tracking software. This is a part-time position, depending on experience and demand (15+ hours), in a flexible work environment.

Available shifts are mid-day 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.; 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. and evenings 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Please send resumes to info@theankerconsultinggroup.com

PUZZLE ANSWERS SPONSORED BY SHEPHERD INSURANCE

Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE: Adjectives: BAD, FIRST, GOOD, LAST, LONG, SHORT; Networks: ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, PBS; States: IDAHO, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA; Mikes: EPPS, PENCE, WOODSON; Astronauts: JEMISON, RIDE; Town: SEYMOUR