February 17, 2026 — Current in Brownsburg by Current Publishing

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Founded Oct. 14, 2025, at Brownsburg, IN Vol. I, No. 19

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Opinions

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

Sacred Heart Family Medicine focuses on relationship-based care

By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com

In a health care system often defined by rushed appointments and long wait times, Sacred Heart Family Medicine is offering a different approach — one centered on time, access and relationships.

The independent practice at 642 E. Main St. in Brownsburg is led by Dr. Elizabeth Wright, a family physician who has cared for patients in Brownsburg and surrounding communities since 2013. Sacred Heart Family Medicine operates under a direct primary care model, which allows patients to pay a flat monthly membership fee in exchange for expanded access and longer visits, without billing insurance for office care.

“I believe direct primary care is one of the best ways to care for patients because it brings the focus back to the relationship between the physician and the patient,” Wright said. “I’m able to spend more time with each person — really listening, understanding their concerns and creating a care plan that fits their unique needs.”

Wright said she had considered opening her own practice for several years but knew the timing had to be right. After completing her family medicine residency at St. Francis Hospital in Beech Grove, she began practicing in Brownsburg in 2013 and later transitioned into hospital administration at Hendricks Regional Health.

Although the role allowed her to impact health care on a broader scale, Wright said she missed direct patient care.

“You don’t know how much you love it until you don’t get to do it every day anymore,” she said. “When I decided I was going to start seeing patients again, I looked at Direct Primary Care and knew this was the right fit for me.”

Through the direct primary care model, Wright offers same-day or nextday appointments, visits lasting up to an hour or more, and direct communication through secure text messaging. New patient visits are scheduled for up to 90 minutes.

“One patient told me she felt like she

was taking up too much of my time,” Wright said. “We were an hour into the visit, and I was able to tell her we still had half an hour left. Those kinds of conversations just can’t happen in another format.”

Sacred Heart Family Medicine serves patients of all ages, from newborns through older adults, with a strong emphasis on lifestyle medicine. Wright said she prioritizes discussions on nutrition, physical activity, sleep and daily habits before turning to medications when appropriate.

“I want people to look at their lifestyle choices before we jump straight to medicine,” she said. “If I can help someone make better food choices or be more active, that’s a win.”

Patients can use their insurance for labs, imaging, medications and referrals, while office visits are covered by the membership fee. For uninsured patients, Wright works with wholesale drug companies and contracted lab services to offer significantly reduced prices.

“The savings on labs alone can sometimes pay for the entire membership,” she said.

Wright said one of the biggest misconceptions she encounters is the belief that patients cannot use direct primary care if they have insurance.

“Many of my patients do have insurance. They choose this model because they want more time, better access and direct communication with their doctor,” she said.

The practice currently has one physician and no additional staff, though Wright said she plans to grow gradually.

“I’m growing slowly but surely,” she said. “That gives me the time to make sure everything is established the right way.”

The name Sacred Heart Family Medicine reflects Wright’s Catholic faith, though she emphasized that the practice is open to patients of all backgrounds. Ultimately, Wright said her goal is to restore trust and connection in healthcare.

“Medicine is really about relationships,” she said. “I can have all the knowledge in the world, but if my patients don’t trust me, it doesn’t matter. Those relationships take time — and this model gives us that time.”

Wright

Dr. Elizabeth Wright, with scissors, cuts the ribbon alongside members of the Brownsburg Chamber of Commerce during a grand opening event Jan. 29 for Sacred Heart Family Medicine at 642 E. Main St. in Brownsburg. (Photo courtesy of Lacy Clagg Photography and Brownsburg Chamber of Commerce)

Hayward honored by jersey retirement COMMUNITY

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Gordon Hayward had a memorable basketball career stretching from Brownsburg High School to Butler University to the NBA.

But at home, he’s always reminded that he is just dad. Two of his three daughters accompanied him to his Feb. 5 Brownsburg High School jersey retirement ceremony.

Hayward, who lives in North Carolina, said his daughters didn’t understand how special the high school basketball atmosphere was in Indiana before the ceremony.

“I was told I was chopped the whole way over here,” he said. “They think I’m not very cool, so maybe this reminds them I’m a little bit cool.”

Hayward, 35, said Brownsburg provided the perfect place for his development.

“It’s incredible to think of all the athletes that have come out of Brownsburg,” he said. “I’m thankful where I grew up. First and foremost, I’m thankful to God who gave me these gifts. I’m thankful to my parents, my dad for dragging me along everywhere. The jersey being retired is a testament to everyone else that helped make me the player I was.”

Brownsburg has produced three Major League Baseball players in the last 20-plus years -- pitchers Lance Lynn, Drew Storen and catcher Tucker Barnhart.

Hayward said it was special that some of his former players and coaches attended the ceremony to retire his No. 20 jersey.

“Gordon Hayward’s impact on Brownsburg goes far beyond a single shot or a single season,” BHS Athletic Director Dave Lang said. “His journey from our gym to Butler’s national stage and then to a long, successful NBA career has been a source of pride for this community for nearly two decades. With Gordon officially retired from professional basketball, this felt like the right moment to honor the full arc of his career and the legacy he built starting right here at Brownsburg High School. Retiring his No. 20 jersey is our way of recognizing not only what he accomplished on the court, but the ex-

Hayward hit the game-winning shot at the buzzer to lead the Bulldogs over Marion 40-39 in the 2008 IHSAA Class 4A state championship game.

Hayward, who also was a standout tennis player for Brownsburg, said he never thought he would have a jersey retired.

“I tell everyone that I’ve played in a lot of places around the world, and there’s been nothing like high school basketball and nothing like playing in Brownsburg with my friends and your peers and in the town that comes and supports you every night,” he said. “So, it means a lot.”

Hayward said he hopes his example will show Brownsburg youngsters that anything is possible.

“You’ve got to first start with a dream,” he said. “You’ve got to dream big and you have to work hard.”

Hayward helped lead Butler to the 2010 NCAA championship game before falling to Duke 61-59 at Lucas Oil Stadium. He narrowly missed a half-court shot that would have won the game at the buzzer. He averaged 15.5 points and 8.2 rebounds per game in the 2009-10 season, earning Horizon League Player of the Year honors.

During his NBA career with Utah, Boston, Charlotte and Oklahoma City, Hayward averaged 15.2 points, 4.4 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game.

Hayward, who retired before the 2024-25 NBA season, assists Butler as an executive basketball advisor.

If wellness works better together, Own it.

When Don realized he was developing the same chronic conditions that affected his parents, he knew he needed to take action. Instead of waiting for history to repeat itself, Don partnered with Hendricks Regional Health to build a healthier path forward. From physicians to dietitians to digital tools like MyChart, his Hendricks care team helped him take control – one day, one habit at a time. Along the way, he discovered wellness works better when you combine expert care with your commitment. See how Don is building a legacy of health at Hendricks.org/OwnIt.

Don, Indianapolis

Gordon Hayward was joined by two of his daughters at the Brownsburg High School jersey retirement. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

ample he set for generations of Bulldogs who follow him.”

HENDRICKS POWER commitment to community

SCHOLARSHIPS

HENDRICKS POWER CONTINUOUSLY LOOKS FOR WAYS TO SUPPORT OUR COMMUNITY.

That’s why we award scholarships to graduating seniors each year to assist our young members in their pursuit of higher education.

HOW TO APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP

Scan the QR code or visit hendrickspower.com/scholarships to download an application and learn more. Submit your application by March 6, 2026.

The Brownsburg Community School Corporation has partnered with the Brownsburg Police Department to reduce stop-arm violations, utilizing cameras and increased patrols through the state’s SAVE program.

Schools, police target bus stop violations

By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com

As school buses roll through some of Brownsburg’s busiest corridors each morning and afternoon, school officials and police are working together to reduce stop-arm violations that put students at risk.

Brownsburg Community School Corp. has partnered with the Brownsburg Police Department to focus on education, enforcement and strategic planning, particularly in high-traffic areas where violations are most likely to occur. The effort aligns with the statewide Stop Arm Violation Enforcement, or SAVE, program, which funds extra patrols around school bus routes and school zones.

“Incidents are concentrated in specific areas, the high traffic areas,” said Nick Meyerrose, director of transportation for the school corporation.

“We’re not seeing very many in neighborhoods, but State Road 267, State Road 136 and 56th Street continue to be issues.”

To reduce exposure in those areas, the district designs bus routes so students can load and unload curbside whenever possible, limiting the need to cross busy roads. Drivers also are trained to stay alert to surrounding traffic before opening doors.

SAVE program, officers from Brownsburg and other Hendricks County law enforcement agencies are watching bus stops and routes for drivers who illegally pass stopped school buses or speed through school zones. The program was launched in 2019 by the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute and is funded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Education is another key component. Each year, Meyerrose said students receive bus safety lessons that emphasize listening to the driver and staying alert during loading and unloading. Families are also directed to transportation safety information during registration and at the start of the school year.

“We teach them to listen to the driver, and if they hear a horn blow, they should pay attention and keep their eyes on the driver,” Meyerrose said.

Technology has added another layer of enforcement. Stop-arm cameras mounted on buses can capture videos of violations, which might lead to citations issued by school resource officers.

“With our stop arm cameras, if we can catch the violator and get a clear view of their license plate, our school resource officers will ticket the car owner,” Meyerrose said. “There’s a lot of leg work involved in pulling the video and issuing the ticket, but, ultimately, it’s worth it.”

HENDRICKSPOWER.COM/SCHOLARSHIPS | 317-718-7606

“IIn high traffic areas, most students do not have to cross the road because in most cases we can set the stops curbside,” Meyerrose said. “We also train our drivers to look out to make sure — before they even let students on or off of the bus — that the traffic has stopped.”

Those efforts are reinforced by increased police patrols. Through the

Indiana law requires motorists to stop when a school bus has its red lights flashing and stop arm extended, with limited exceptions on divided highways. School and police officials hope that consistent enforcement and public awareness will lead to safer roads — and safer stops — for Brownsburg students for the rest of the school year and beyond.

(Stock Photo)

Danville debuts social district

By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com

Downtown Danville is taking steps toward a more walkable, social atmosphere with the launch of the Danville Social District, a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area approved by town officials.

The district, created through Ordinance No. 23-2025, took effect Feb. 12 and allows adults 21 and older to purchase alcoholic beverages from participating businesses and carry them outdoors within clearly marked boundaries. Drinks must be served in official Danville Social District cups, and all state and local alcohol laws remain in effect.

Town officials said planning for the district had been underway for about a year, with timing and approvals eventually lining up alongside a popular downtown event.

“It all just kind of fell into place at the right time,” said Madison Henderson, community engagement coordinator for the town, noting the district’s soft opening coincided with Danville’s recurring Ladies Night event, held about every other month.

Henderson said the goal is to encourage visitors to move more freely among downtown shops and restaurants rather than staying in a single location.

“They can go to one business, grab a drink, and then continue to go to all the shops,” she said. “We’re hoping it will support local businesses by driving that walkability around our square.”

The district will operate daily from 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Boundaries were designed to include much of downtown, including alleys that have recently been activated with murals and events.

Public safety measures remain in place, with Danville police enforcing existing laws related to public intoxication and underage drinking. Businesses have also been educated on ID requirements and proper use of Social District cups.

Initial participating businesses include Central Normal Tap, Mokey’s, Two Guys Pies and Frank’s Place.

“Our goal is simple,” Henderson said. “We want to support local businesses, encourage connection, and make downtown Danville warm, welcoming and alive.”

Tax credit bill moves forward

news@youarecurrent.com

The Indiana Senate will consider State Rep. Becky Cash’s bill to expand the employer child care tax credit.

House Bill 1177, filed by the Zionsville Republican, was approved Feb. 2 by the Indiana House of Representatives.

Cash said the bill would expand eligibility for the state’s employer child care tax credit to include companies with up to 500 employees. Businesses would be eligible for the credit if they offer an employer-run child care facility for their employees or if they contract with a facility or provider to offer care.

The credit could be used to help pay for related costs such as operating a child care facility, employee training and higher wages for staff.

“As we look at the rising costs of child care, we need to find innovative ways to support Hoosier families,” Cash stated. “The bill expands a pre-existing tax credit so that more employers can assist their employees in finding and affording reliable child care. It’s a great example of how the state and private businesses can work together to support parents in the workplace.”

Cash said the bill would also allow local redevelopment commissions to use tax increment financing revenues to encourage the construction, expansion or operations of child care facilities.

Cash represents House District 25, which includes Zionsville, other parts of Boone County and parts of Brownsburg.

DISPATCHES

 AARP grants application open — AARP Indiana is accepting applications through March 6 from local nonprofits and governments for its 2026 AARP Community Challenge grant program. Grant amounts range from $2,500 to $25,000 and fund projects that make communities more livable. Projects will be considered if they serve the needs of people 50 and older, improve transportation, walkability and other criteria. For more information, visit aarp.org/livable-communities/ community-challenge/.

COMMUNITY

Officials raise concerns over state housing bill

By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com

Town of Brownsburg leaders are closely watching the progress of House Bill 1001, a sweeping state housing proposal they say could significantly limit local authority over zoning and development decisions.

The bill, often referred to as the “Housing Matters” bill, is part of the Indiana General Assembly’s 2026 agenda focused on housing affordability, energy and dereg ulation. It passed the Indiana House on a 76-15 vote Jan. 28 and received its first reading in the Senate on Feb. 5, where it has been referred to the Senate Judicia ry Committee.

During a special joint meeting Feb. 5, Brownsburg officials outlined concerns about how the legislation could affect the town’s long-term planning efforts and community character.

Elizabeth Williams, land use consul tant for the town’s Department of De velopment Services, said the proposal could undermine carefully developed local plans.

“We’re very concerned about what it does to the town, and these thoughtfully put out visions for what the future’s supposed to look like,” Williams said.

House Bill 1001 aims to increase housing supply and affordability by limiting local zoning authority, reducing design standards and accelerating development approvals. Among its provisions, the bill would prohibit municipalities from regulating certain exterior design elements, such as roof styles and building materials, and would restrict local requirements related to lot size, density, setbacks and parking. In some cases, residential projects would be approved without a public hearing if they meet zoning criteria.

Brownsburg Town Manager Deb Cook said those changes could remove key tools Brownsburg uses to guide development.

“It limits local zoning regulations,

voices heard as the bill advances.

“Anyone can email Senator Brett Clark,” Lacey said. “We can get the email for you to oppose this bill strong ly. This is bad for local communities. It takes the decision making out and it forces certain behaviors and trends that may be happening on a national level to a lower level, and we don’t want to see that.”

Lacey emphasized the importance of maintaining local control over develop ment decisions.

“We need to have control locally to approve or not approve building and construction,” he said.

If approved by the Senate and signed into law, House Bill 1001 would repre sent one of the most significant changes to housing regulation in Indiana in recent years, potentially reshaping how towns like Brownsburg plan for growth while balancing affordability and com munity identity.

Cook

Area 31 changes OK’d

By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com

The Brownsburg Community School Corp. school board approved a recommendation Feb. 9 to adjust transportation services for students enrolled in Area 31 vocational programs, beginning with the 2026-27 school year.

Assistant Superintendent for Operations Shane Hacker presented the proposal, which removes certain “courtesy” transportation services the district added several years ago to increase student access to the program. Required transportation between Brownsburg High School and Area 31 sites at Ben Davis High School will continue.

“While it pains us to have to come to you to ask you to potentially adjust the transportation services as we begin to look at the potential budget impact versus the number of students impacted, we really have to make some of those tough decisions,” Hacker said.

Area 31 is a cooperative vocational program used by Brownsburg and 10 other school districts.

The courtesy services include home

pickup routes to Brownsburg High School, midday transportation to offsite programs, Wednesday afternoon routes due to differing bell schedules and car service for specialized programs such as fire science, aviation and supply chain. Together, those services cost the district about $195,886 annually and serve roughly 70 students.

Hacker said anticipated budget reductions tied to recent legislative decisions prompted administrators to review the cost of those services relative to student usage.

The changes will not affect students currently enrolled in the 2025-26 school year. Hacker said enrollment numbers for next year are still being finalized, and the district plans to work individually with students who need help completing certification programs.

The board approved the recommendation unanimously, giving administrators flexibility to adjust transportation options based on enrollment and financial conditions while continuing to meet required transportation obligations.

*APY = Annual Percentage Yield. ¹Earn 3.75% APY on an 8-month CD with an interest rate of 3.68%. Offer APY as of 1/27/2026. $1,000 minimum balance required to open CD. New money only not on deposit with Centier Bank in the last 90 days. A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal. Unless redeemed within the grace period, the CD will automatically renew on the maturity date to the 6-month term at the current rate for that term at

Fundraiser features Hyryder

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Justin Phillips was driven to start Overdose Lifeline in 2014 after she lost her son, Aaron Sims, at age 20 to a heroin overdose in October 2013.

Phillips wants to raise awareness and funds for her organization with a unique event.

Hyryder, a Grateful Dead tribute band, will perform a concert to raise funds for the nonprofit Overdose Lifeline at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 21 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield.

“Hyryder has a really big following in the recovery community,” said Phillips, CEO of Overdose Lifeline. “This is showing Hendricks County this is what recovery looks like. Come celebrate recovery with us and support a good cause.”

Phillips, a Brownsburg resident, said there will be information about overdose prevention.

“Overdose Lifeline supplies resources and hope to individuals that are affected and to really reduce the stigma

associated with addiction substance use disorder and to normalize it as a chronic disease, just like any chronic disease, because that’s what it is,” Phillips said. “So, it deserves the same care and attention that we give heart disease, diabetes and those other chronic diseases. Our core focus is opioid use disorder and overdose prevention.”

Phillips partnered with thenIndiana State Sen. Jim Merritt to create a bill in 2015 called Aaron’s Law, which allows a layperson access to Narcan without a barrier to receive the drug and administer naloxone to save lives.

Phillips said proceeds will help offset operational costs from the free programming Overdose Lifeline provides for a recovery house for women in Indianapolis.

“We support the women and their children up to the age of 4 free until they can get on their feet and support themselves,” Phillips said.

For more, visit overdoselifeline.org. For tickets, visit hendrickslive.org.

Phillips

DISPATCHES

 Lucas Oil to sponsor 500 Festival Parade — The 500 Festival announced Feb . 5 that Lucas Oil is the new title partner of the 500 Festival Parade, The partnership marks a significant milestone in the Festival’s history, leveraging Lucas Oil’s commitment to serving people and communities and giving back through civic involvement, according to the announcement, Scheduled for May 23, the Lucas Oil 500 Festival Parade attracts roughly 200,000 spectators celebrating iconic Indianapolis traditions such as larger-than-life balloons, creative floats and appearances by INDYCAR drivers. Tickets go on sale in March. “There is nothing quite like May in Indy – it is one of our favorite times of the year, and the 500 Festival Parade is a big part of what makes it so special,” stated Katie Lucas, president of Lucas Oil. “This event brings the state together, celebrates the heritage of Indianapolis and kicks off one of the most meaningful weeks in American motorsports. Being part of that tradition and celebrating the 110th Running of the Indianapolis 500, is incredibly special

for our team and the racing community we proudly serve.” Through the years, Lucas Oil has supported the 500 Festival in a variety of ways, including as an associate partner of the 500 Festival Memorial Service, and as a member of the Corporate Member Program.

 David Weekley Homes marks 15 years in Indy — David Weekley Homes is marking 15 years of operations in the Indianapolis market this month, a milestone that coincides with the company’s 50th anniversary. Since expanding to the region in 2011, the Texas-based homebuilder has completed more than 1,700 homes across 40 Indianapolis-area communities. Division President Jess McKinney credited the growth to the company’s regional team and its “CARE” outreach program, which partners with local nonprofits including Riley Hospital for Children and Wheeler Mission. The company currently maintains active building projects in four Indianapolis-area communities.

A CENTURY COVERED

Hometown Insurance continues legacy of local service

By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com

In an industry increasingly driven by apps, call centers and automated claims, Hometown Insurance has built its reputation on something far less technical: being there.

Founded in 1918, the independent insurance agency has served Central Indiana for more than a century, growing alongside the communities it insures while maintaining a deeply local approach to customer service. From its original roots in Brownsburg, Hometown Insurance now also serves clients in Zionsville and Danville, offering personal and commercial insurance through a wide network of national carriers.

“It’s a cool story that we’ve been around this long,” said Dustin Ward, CEO and principal certified insurance counselor for Hometown Insurance. “If you’re still here after more than 100 years, something is being done right.”

Ward said the agency traces its history back through decades of ownership changes and locations, but the name — and the mission — has remained consistent. The Brownsburg office, now the company’s central hub, once sat on the site of a lumber yard, a reminder of how the business has evolved alongside the town itself.

Today, Hometown Insurance operates as an independent agency, meaning its agents are not tied to a single carrier. Instead, they work with approximately 15 insurance providers, including Erie Insurance, Progressive, Safeco and Travelers, allowing them to compare coverage options and advocate directly for their clients.

“That independence is huge,” Ward said. “We represent the client, not the company. If there’s a claim issue or a coverage concern, we have leverage because we’re not owned by one carrier.”

According to Ward, that flexibility often results in broader coverage options — particularly for homeowners — and allows agents to tailor policies based on

individual needs rather than fitting clients into a single, standardized product.

Hometown Insurance Marketing Director Annie Wolfinbarger said the agency’s longstanding success is rooted in relationships, not transactions.

“We still have people who want to walk into an office and talk to someone they know,” Wolfinbarger said.

“Especially when something stressful happens — an accident, storm damage, a claim — people want a real person to help them navigate it.”

That philosophy has helped fuel steady growth. Ward said the agency has experienced roughly 20 percent growth annually over the past several years, driven largely by word-of-mouth referrals, online reviews and strong community ties.

Hometown Insurance employs about 25 people across its three locations, with Brownsburg serving as the main office. Several staff members have spent decades with the agency, including employees who worked under previous ownership and chose to stay on through transitions.

“That kind of longevity doesn’t happen by accident,” Wolfinbarger said. “It speaks to the culture here. It’s collaborative, team-oriented and very much about doing the right thing.”

Among the agency’s differentiators

is a full-time claims advocate — a role Ward said is still uncommon in the insurance industry. Rather than sending clients directly to a carrier’s claims hotline, Hometown Insurance serves as the first point of contact, helping clients navigate inspections, documentation and timelines.

“When something goes wrong, emotions are high,” Ward said. “Our job is to help calm things down and make sure the client isn’t facing it alone.”

Education also plays a central role. Ward and several staff members hold Certified Insurance Counselor credentials, a designation that requires extensive coursework and ongoing training.

“We consider ourselves insurance advisors and educators first,” Ward said. “Most people don’t live and breathe insurance. That’s our responsibility.”

The agency offers coverage for homeowners, auto, life and commercial needs, including specialized programs for contractors, public entities and firefighters. Although health insurance is not its primary focus, the agency also assists clients with Medicare and select benefits services.

To strengthen local service in Central Indiana, Hometown recently merged operations with Tackitt Insurance, a well-established independent agency led by Jim Tackitt. The move aims

to preserve continuity for clients, strengthen resources and honor decades of community trust.

“Jim’s dedication to his clients and community is remarkable,” Ward said. “We’re proud to carry forward his legacy and offer clients even more support.”

Beyond insurance, Hometown Insurance maintains an active presence in the community. The agency supports local organizations such as Sheltering Wings, Mary Lee Maier Community Pantry and I-LEAD Avon, and participates in chamber events, parades and volunteer initiatives throughout Hendricks County.

As the agency looks ahead, Ward said growth remains important, but not at the expense of its core values.

“Our purpose is to provide peace of mind,” he said. “We’re proud of our heritage, and we fully expect to be here for the next generation, just like we’ve been here for the last.”

For Hometown Insurance, longevity is not just a milestone — it’s a promise. ON THE COVER: Hometown Insurance staff members work from offices in Brownsburg, Zionsville and Danville, offering personalized insurance services across Central Indiana. (Photo provided by Hometown Insurance)

Founded: 1918

Based in: Brownsburg

Serving: Central Indiana, including offices in Zionsville and Danville

What They Do: Independent insurance agency offering personal and commercial coverage

Services: Home, auto, life, business, umbrella and select Medicare services

Why Independent Matters: Agents compare coverage from multiple national carriers and advocate directly for clients

Notable Difference: Full-time claims advocate and strong focus on education and customer service

The Hometown Insurance office in Brownsburg is the independent agency’s central location, providing insurance services to clients throughout central Indiana. (Photo provided by Hometown Insurance)

Ward

Basement bar transformation BLUEPRINT

Commentary by Larry Greene

This Zionsville basement was transformed from unfinished storage into a warm, inviting entertaining space designed for gathering, hosting and everyday use.

• A custom-built bar creates a hub for entertaining, balancing clean lines with rich, darker finishes for a polished yet approachable feel.

• MSI Quartz countertops and matte black fixtures add contrast and refinement while keeping the space practical for casual hosting.

• Textured tile at the bar introduces subtle movement and visual interest, elevating the design without overwhelming the room.

• Thoughtful lighting and layered materials help define zones for dining and conversation.

• Cortec flooring ties everything together, making the lower level feel like a true extension of the home rather than a finished basement.

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

Beef & Boards to feature unlikely love story

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Adam du Plessis understands audiences have long embraced the Cinderella-type love story.

“‘Pretty Woman’ is such an iconic movie for many people and it’s such a joy and privilege to bring it to stage for them while at the same time introducing it to anyone who is not familiar with the movie,” du Plessis said. “Add in some Bryan Adams music and you’re sure to have a wonderful time.”

“Pretty Woman” runs Feb. 19 through April 4 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. This is the first time the musical, which had its world premiere in 2018, has been presented at the Indianapolis venue.

The musical is based on the 1990 movie in which Edward Lewis, a corporate mogul, and Vivian Ward, an escort, become unlikely soulmates, set in Los Angeles in the late 1980s. National tour veterans Dani Kucera plays Vivian and Charlie Fusari as Edward.

A few actors in the cast have been in the show previously.

“Revisiting a show you are so familiar with is always fun and they have the opportunity to show how far they have come and how much they have grown as performers, whether it’s stepping into lead roles or understudying roles they didn’t before,” said du Plessis, who played the Happy Man on the “Pretty Woman” national tour.

planning and troubleshooting and going 100 miles a minute. You have to be able to shut that down and focus on the project you’re in at the moment. But saying that, it does become a welcome break and allows you to come back with fresh eyes.”

Prior to “The Mousetrap,” du Plessis appeared in “Waitress” in the summer of 2025.

moved to the U.S. 10 years ago and became a citizen four years ago.

“I have no true home base here. I go wherever the work takes me,” he said. “But as most theater folks do, I always circle back to NYC in between contracts.”

While preparing for the show, du Plessis performed in “The Mousetrap,” which was scheduled to conclude Feb. 15.

“Time management is, of course, crucial as well as the ability to switch off the part of your brain that is working on the new project,” he said. “Directing a show this large is a juggling act, and your mind is constantly

“Beef & Boards has very quickly become one of my favorite places to work,” he said. “They have created something very special here, introducing new shows and material alongside the stories and theater everyone has loved for years. The people who work here are welcoming, caring and passionate about providing high-quality theater, and the audiences are so very supportive. It’s been an absolute privilege to work here.”

A native of South Africa, du Plessis

Kucera made her Beef & Boards debut as Vivienne Kensington in “Legally Blonde” in 2024. She performed as a swing and understudy for Vivian Ward in the national tour of “Pretty Woman.”

Fusari is making his Beef & Boards debut after he understudied his role as Edward and performed in the ensemble on the tour.

The score is by Adams and his longtime collaborator Jim Vallance. The book is by the late screenwriter-director Garry Marshall, who died in 2016, and J.F. Lawton. Marshall directed the 1990 movie. Current Publishing is sponsoring “Pretty Woman.”

For more, visit beefandboards.com.

SECOND HAND SOUL

York Automotive Concert Series presents Second Hand Soul Band at 8 p.m. Feb. 20 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. For more, visit hendrickslive.org.

‘PRETTY WOMAN’

“Pretty Woman” runs Feb. 19 through April 4 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Feinstein’s cabaret presents “Dueling Pianos” at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 21 at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘THE PAGEANT’

Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre presents “The Pageant” through Feb. 22 at The Florence at Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre in Carmel. For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.

‘THE

GREAT GATSBY’

Civic Theatre presents “The Great Gatsby” through Feb. 21 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘LA NUEVA GENERACIÓN’ TOUR’

Mariachi Herencia de México’s “La Nueva Generación” tour is set for 8 p.m. Feb. 20 at the Payne & Mencias at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘LOVE LETTERS FROM PARIS’ Carmel Symphony Orchestra’s “Love Letters from Paris” is set for 7 p.m. Feb. 21 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit carmelymphony.org.

Adam du Plessis, left, performed with Scot Greenwell in “The Mousetrap” at Beef & Boards.

(Photo courtesy of Beef & Boards)

du Plessis

Kucera

Fusari

Discovering Broadway to commission musical

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Discovering Broadway has commissioned its first yet-to-be named musical.

Zack Zadek will write the musical, and Discovering Broadway founder Joel Kirk, a 2012 Carmel High School graduate, will co-develop and direct it.

Besides offering writers’ retreats, concerts and master class programs, Discovering Broadway will commission one new musical each year.

“For now, Zack and I are keeping the title and plot under wraps — by design—so audiences discover this completely original story live, together, and in the room,” Kirk said. “It reflects Discovering Broadway’s commitment to a bold range of work, from celebrated adaptations like ‘A Beautiful Mind’ to top-secret new musicals that can only be experienced in-person. That surprise makes our shows exciting — you never know what you’re going to get.”

The writer’s retreat and concert premiere will take place this summer in Indianapolis. Dates will be announced and tickets will go on sale soon at discoveringbroadway.org.

In 2022, Zadek’s musical “The Turning’ was the fourth musical selected for Discovering Broadway’s incubator program. Zadek taught master classes for Discovering Broadway in 2023.

“In 2022, a single YouTube song of his, “Sick,” moved our entire board to tears and led us to program a monthlong retreat, during which he grew from one song to 12 by the concert premiere,” Kirk said.

Kirk said additional support for the program is made possible through the Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation.

Submissions can be made from Feb. 22 to March 1 for the 2027 Sabello Musical Commission, the nonprofit’s second commission. Composers, lyricists and book writers are invited to submit a one-page application to administration@discoveringbroadway.org, including artist bios, a one-paragraph plot synopsis, and three demos.

PUZZLE ANSWERS

Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE: Shoes: FLATS, HEELS, LOAFERS, OXFORDS, SANDALS, SNEAKERS; Ranks: CORPORAL, GENERAL, LIEUTENANT, PRIVATE, SERGEANT; Doppelgangers: CLONE, DEAD RINGER, DOUBLE, MIRROR; Johns: MELLENCAMP, ROBERTS, WOODEN; Cities: SOUTH BEND, SOUTHPORT; Senators: Fifty