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Noblesville Elks named parade grand marshal
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
In celebration of its 125th anniversary, Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen recently announced that Noblesville Elks Lodge 576 will be the collective grand marshal of the 2025 Noblesville Fourth of July Parade presented by Gaylor Electric.
AWARD
Jensen said the honor celebrates the Elks’ commitment, generosity and impactful community leadership as one of the city’s most established organizations.
“The city looks forward to the Noblesville Elks Lodge serving as the Fourth of July Parade grand marshal to celebrate the contributions they have made to our community,” Jensen stated. “The Elks embody the true spirit of American patriotism, and serving as grand marshal provides the community an opportunity to celebrate more than a century of service and generosity.”
Founded in 1900, the Noblesville Elks have invested more than $5 million into local programs supporting individuals with special needs, student scholarships, youth
athletics, veterans and civic causes.
Noblesville Elks Lodge 576 Secretary Geoffrey Robinson said members embrace the opportunity to raise awareness about the service the organization provides to the community.
“We are honored and feel very privileged to be recognized by the mayor and the City of Noblesville by being chosen as the grand marshal for this year’s Fourth of July Parade,” Robinson said. “We try to provide for the community in a lot of different ways, and many people don’t know what we do.
We support quite a few organizations, and the Noblesville Boys & Girls Club is our big one. We also raise money for cancer research, donate to Prevail and we’ve done work with Meals on Wheels. While we have a lot of different projects, our main goal is to assist our veterans and our youth the best we can.”
The Fourth of July Parade begins at 4 p.m. in downtown Noblesville and will be followed by a day of festivities at Forest Park.
For more, visit youarecurrent.
NPD officer named SRO of the Year
news@currentnoblesville.com
The Noblesville Police Department recently announced that Sgt. Jason Shonkwiler has been named the 2025 Indiana School Resource Officers Association School Resource Officer of the Year. Shonkwiler also was named the Noblesville Schools School Resource Officer of the Year in December 2024.
LAW ENFORCEMENT
NPD Lt. Bruce Barnes said the award recognizes officers who exceed the typical responsibilities of a school resource officer, enhancing their school and community through their roles as counselors, teachers and law enforcement officers.
Barnes said Shonkwiler also received the Exceptional Service Award, which is presented to individuals who consistently demonstrate outstanding service to the school community, surpassing the expectations of a typical school resource officer or school staff member.
NPD Deputy Chief Jason Thompson said Shonkwiller’s most remarkable quality is his genuine care for students.
“He has earned this award through his unwavering commitment to the school and its students, whether through daily interactions, managing complex situations or providing expert coaching,” Thompson stated. “Many become police officers to make a difference, and Jason accomplishes that every day.”
Barnes said Shonkwiler has been instrumental in fostering strong relationships
with students and faculty at Noblesville High School, including contributing to a safe and secure learning environment, engaging in school safety drills, delivering informative presentations on various topics and consistently offering support and guidance to students facing difficulties.
For more about Shonkwiler, visit youarecurrent.com/?p=251620.
About us
Founded Sept. 15, 2009, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XVI, No. 34 Copyright 2025 Current Publishing, LLC All Rights Reserved.
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From left, Jason Thompson, Alaina Shonkwiler, Jason Shonkwiler, Andrew Reiss and Mike Steffen at the annual Indiana School Resource Officers Association conference. (Photo courtesy of Bruce Barnes)
Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen, far left, with members of the Noblesville Elks Lodge 576 at the June 24 Noblesville Common Council meeting. (Photo courtesy of Lexie Rock)
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Rebuilt Bell Ford Bridge opens over Fall Creek at Geist Park
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
The completed restoration of the historic Bell Ford Bridge, a project that’s been in the works for seven years, was celebrated June 19 with a grand-opening ceremony at its new location over Fall Creek at Geist Park in Fishers.
RESTORATION
The 325-foot bridge originally was built about 150 years ago in the southern Indiana community of Seymour in Jackson County. It was deemed unsafe about 50 years ago and later fell into the White River. The pieces were fished out of the water and put into storage.
Chris Stice, Hamilton County Parks and Recreation director, told the crowd gathered for the celebration that the restored bridge includes about 90 percent of the original iron castings and 40 percent of the original wooden truss components. It also is the only known combination post-truss bridge remaining in the world.
“This project not only preserves a rare piece of Indiana engineering history but also enhances the connectivity and recreational opportunity for residents,” he said.
The Hamilton County-led project was spearheaded by County Commissioner Mark Heirbrandt. He said the whole thing started with a plan to build a pedestrian bridge on the other side of Florida Road, but neighborhoods that would be affected didn’t want it there. He told City of Fishers officials that the bridge should be on the Geist Park side of the road and said they responded by appointing him to a committee that would look into the project.
Heirbrandt was introduced to Jim Bark-
er, who has written books about covered bridges, and Barker suggested the committee try to get the Bell Ford Bridge, owned by Jackson County. After a few meetings and conversations, officials from the two counties came to an agreement. Then, Heirbrandt said, Hamilton County officials realized they needed a way to fund the project.
“We scrambled to get our (Indianapolis Metropolitan Planning Organization) grant out, and we got it out — and it was tough,” he said. “We were fighting to get it out on time, but it was one of the highest-scoring projects that was listed and we got the funding — got almost $3 million for this thing.”
The county matched the rest of the approximately $7.5 million project.
Drew Markel, a Jackson County commissioner, also spoke during the ceremony. He said people in his county had mixed emotions about giving away the bridge, but Hamilton County had the resources to actually restore it.
“This was a monumental job,” Markel said. “So, I do want to say thank you to everyone here, because your passion is what put the bridge here.”
Heirbrandt said the bridge turned out better than he imagined and the opening celebration was a satisfying moment.
“Seeing it come to life — it brings a lot of different emotions,” he said. “You want to restore this history, but you want people, not only in our community, but throughout the state (to appreciate it) — we’re going to have people from all over the country coming just to see this and it brings a level of satisfaction to know that I was a small piece of that.”
Officials cut the ribbon to open the rebuilt historic Bell Ford Bridge that spans Fall Creek at Geist Park. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
Locals help ‘meat’ the need’
By Brittney Dial news@currentnoblesvilles.com
The Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its Meating the Need program — a partnership with local 4-H youth to provide fresh meat for food pantries throughout Hamilton County.
PHILANTHROPY
“4-H was in it from the beginning,” said Anita Hagen, the program coordinator who helped found Meating the Need.
When the program began in 2016, six 4-H students participated. Through community donations, the food bank purchased cattle from those students to distribute to local pantries. The 4-H’ers then used the funds to purchase additional livestock or put toward college.
In the past decade, 53 4-H students have participated and more than 37,500 pounds of meat has been distributed to local pantries through Meating the Need.
“When Meating the Need first arose, it was such a fantastic opportunity to provide fresh, local meat to the pantries in Hamilton County” said Deborah Foley, who, with her husband Tim, supports the program. “There seems to be a false impression that Hamilton County doesn’t have a large number of families who need a helping hand. But the truth is, there is a growing need. A majority of the families are hard working and just need a little assistance. This program goes
a long way to provide the boost they need.”
The program also allows 4-H’ers to learn about food insecurity.
“They see the awareness within their local community,” Hagen said. “Hunger isn’t this thing that is foreign…it really is in our own community and everyone can do something to help address that.”
Abby Holloway, an incoming senior at Noblesville High School, is in her ninth year with 4-H and has been a part of Meating the Need for seven years.
“I participate in the Meating the Need program because it’s a positive way to use my animal after I’ve shown him at the county fair,” Holloway said. “Being a part of this program is meaningful to me because it’s a way to give back to my community.”
This year, the food bank plans to purchase 19 4-H animals for $40,000, which just covers the cost of raising the livestock. For more about Meating the Need, visit hchfoodbank.org.
HAMILTON COUNTY STUDENTS EARN SCHOLARSHIPS
Abby Holloway is among the Hamilton County 4-H students participating in this year’s Meating the Need program. (Photo courtesy of Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank)
Six Hamilton County 2025 high school graduates were recently presented with $3,000 each as recipients of the Barney Hobbs Memorial Horticulture Scholarship from the Hamilton County Master Gardeners Association. The Master Gardener Program, sponsored by the Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service, is a volunteer training program that educates the community about gardening and horticultural topics. Barney Hobbs was a founding member of HCMGA. Recipients are, from left, Johnathan Popiela, Sheridan High School; Alexandra Ely, Fishers High School; Breanna Hudson, Hamilton Southeastern High School; Reagan Decraene, Westfield High School; Connor Reiff, Options of Noblesville; and Noah Brooks, Fishers High School. Learn more at hcmga. org. (Photo courtesy of Hamilton County Master Gardeners Association)
NHS golfers place third in state
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Noblesville High School boys golf coach Gary Deakyne knew no one was stopping Westfield this year.
SPORTS
However, Deakyne said he was happy with the Millers’ third-place finish in the IHSAA state finals June 17-18 at Prairie View Golf Club in Carmel. The Millers totaled 600 strokes, two more than second-place Homestead. Westfield won by a record margin of 30 strokes.
“We dug a hole for ourselves in the first round, but we dug ourselves out of it (in the final round) and it was great getting on the podium,” Deakyne said. “We kind of felt like we’ve had a top-five team all year long. We were fifth (after the first round) and it was our goal to get back on the podium.”
The top four teams make the podium. The Millers had 305 strokes in the opening round and 295 in the second.
“We almost had a shot to get Homestead,” Deakyne said. “You got to give it up to Westfield, though. That’s been the best golf team all year.”
Noblesville had one stroke less than
fourth-place Zionsville, the defending state champion.
“We played well. When guys were down, other guys picked them up,” Deakyne said. “That’s the great thing about this squad. It was a full team effort.”
Millers senior Drew Werkley finished in a tie for 12th with a 146 total (72-74). Senior teammate Jackson Umthum was tied for 24th with 150 (78-72).
The two returning golfers among the team’s top five are juniors Tyler Marucci (79-73 for 152 total) and Dustin Turpin (76-79 for 155).
Senior Lance Decker, who had a 80-76 for a 156 total for the state finals, was named to the Indiana High School Golf Association all-state team on the basis of points earned through the season.
The Noblesville High School boys golf team placed third in the IHSAA state finals. (Photo courtesy of Gary Deakyne)
against cell
Enhancing comprehens ive canc er care
Community MD Anderson’s Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy Institute
The future of cancer care lies in delivering truly comprehensive treatment for patients – a commitment embodied by Community Health Network MD Anderson Cancer Center’s Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy Institute (SCTCTI). Built on a foundation of clinical excellence and an experienced team led by medical director, Dr. Sherif Farag, the program offers both allogeneic and autologous blood stem cell transplants and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, providing eligible patients with cancer, hematologic diseases and autoimmune disorders access to potentially curative treatments.
Autologous blood stem cell transplants use a patient’s own stem cells to replace those destroyed by high-dose chemotherapy used to treat their cancer. This treatment is typically recommended for select patients with cancers still sensitive to chemotherapy at lower doses. Allogeneic blood stem cell transplants replace a patient’s stem and immune cells with healthy
cells from a donor, providing an immunological response that can target selected or chemotherapyresistant cancers.
SCTCTI also offers CAR T-cell therapy, a personalized treatment that engineers a patient’s own immune cells to more effectively target cancer. CAR T therapy inserts a new gene into T-cells collected from
Advanced cell therapies can improve the body’s own response against cancer. Building on decades of research, we’re offering potentially curative treatments for patients with autoimmune conditions and blood disorders. Learn more about our breakthrough work in stem cell transplants and cellular therapy at eCommunity.com/stemcell
the blood — improving their ability to target cancer cells. The modified cells (called CAR T-cells) are then infused into a patient after chemotherapy to begin fighting cancer. An approved treatment for specific blood cancers, CAR T therapy represents an innovative approach for improved outcomes and potentially a cure.
Most importantly, SCTCTI is built on a foundation of offering the best therapies with safety and vigilant monitoring. The team uses evidencebased, multidisciplinary practice to offer patients the best available treatment options and real-time data tracking for prevention and early recognition of complications such as graft-versus-host disease, infections, etc. Through a multidisciplinary approach, the program provides comprehensive services to support patients before, during and after their treatment.
This is just the beginning of Community MD Anderson’s effort to enhance the continuum of cancer care, with more advanced therapies set to follow in the near future.
Dr. Sherif Farag serves as the medical director of the Community Health Network MD Anderson Cancer Center Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy program. He specializes in the treatment of blood cancers, stem cell transplantation and cellular therapies.
Work begins on Hamilton County nature theme park
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Site work began this month for a nature-based adventure park at 216th Street and Dunbar Road in Sheridan, west of U.S. 31 and just north of the Westfield border.
DEVELOPMENT
The Sheridan Town Council approved a planned unit development ordinance in May for SkyLake Adventure Park — a recreation facility developed by Monarch Ventures LLC, a division of Carmel-based Circle Property Group.
Lee Coulter, vice president of operations at Circle Property Group, said the idea formed when Phil Sack, the organization’s president, spent time at Grand Park in Westfield with his children.
“He talked to a lot of visitors over the years and repeatedly heard people say, ‘What is there to do around here? What is there to do around here for parents?’ And this began to build an idea in his head,” Coulter said. “Westfield reached out to us and (the city) was very interested in learning more about our project. (But) we had a hard time acquiring land in Westfield. We went through four different parcels and were unable to find any that were acquirable that really fit the bill. And we zoomed out and said, OK, we don’t have to be right next to Grand Park, but within a reasonable distance. And we began looking across the whole of Hamilton County.”
Coulter said the park will be built on 75 of the parcel’s 126 acres. The development comes as the Town of Sheridan works on its own long-term comprehensive plan.
“We’re excited to be an anchor in that part of Sheridan, really setting the tone for how development will occur there,” Coulter said. “The town has been well aware for a very long time that the U.S. 31 corridor is going to be developed. That really is exciting — there’s uniform support from the county to really bring the kind of development that our project is — it’s harmonious with that development zone.”
Site work will include removal of some trees to make way for entertainment areas, a swim pond, detention ponds and a sled hill. Coulter said the sled hill will be 65 feet tall and 600 feet long. More than 1,000 parking spaces will be built, including a paved area and crushed stone and grass
overflow areas.
The nature-based theme park will include a 6-acre natural lake and a 40,000-square foot central pavilion.
Adventure activities include a 40-foot modular slide-and-jump structure; a 300foot floating obstacle course; paddle board rentals; a 6,000-square-foot zero-depth splash pad; a 60-foot-high, 500-foot-long all-season tubing hill; a three-story ropes course; and mini-golf.
The park is expected to open in summer 2026.
“We will have our grand opening in early June (2026),” Coulter said. “It’s really a rapid development to get this all built in that time.”
Although site work is underway, details on access to the park are still being worked out.
A $21 million rehabilitation and widening project of Dunbar Road from Ind. 38 to 226th Street was announced in 2023, but work is not anticipated to begin until at least 2027.
The Hamilton County Commissioners and the Hamilton County Council discussed the road during a joint work session June 9. Although Dunbar Road is a priority for the county for development of the Hamilton County Regional Utilities District, it was not included with initial funding. According to the county, Monarch Ventures LLC proposed assuming responsibility for acquiring the right-of-way, paying for the construction, choosing a contractor and hiring the design firm for inspection. The county would pay for the design. The commissioners approved a measure to start the design process.
Coulter said access to 216th Street from U.S. 31 is expected to be capped. Learn more at skylakeindiana.com.
SkyLake Adventure Park will be built at 216th Street between Dunbar Road and U.S. 31. (Google Earth image)
Community building now open
news@currentnoblesville.com
The Justus Companies, an industry leader in 55-and-better communities, recently announced the opening of the Promenade Trails Community Building, an addition to its 55-and-better lifestyle community at 17780 Navigator Trail in Noblesville.
RESIDENTIAL
The first residents moved into the building, which features 151 one- and two-bedroom apartment homes, June 19.
Angela Miller, executive vice president and COO of The Justus Companies, said the community building is open to apartment and cottage residents and serves as the heart of the community’s wellness, social and recreational lifestyle.
The building features a landscaped courtyard with a resort-style pool, grilling stations, perennial gardens, a pergola and an outdoor TV. Inside, a pub features floor-to-ceiling windows and an adjacent lounge. There also is a Life Enrichment Center overlooking the courtyard, which provides space for engagement through classes, crafts and community activities.
Miller said a key feature of the new building is the Vista Club Room, an event space that residents can reserve for family celebrations and gatherings. The room features a kitchen, an island for food service and a built-in screen for presentations. The room also opens onto a covered veranda that overlooks the courtyard.
“This building represents the next chapter in a community that has been thoughtfully designed for how people want to live today,” stated Walt Justus, president and CEO of The Justus Companies.
For more, visit promenade-trails.com.
Coach inducted into Hall of Fame
By David Jacobs david@youarecurrent.com
Kevin Horrigan has spent more than 40 years teaching, coaching and serving as an athletic director at several Indianapolis-area high schools, including Bishop Chatard, Brebeuf Jesuit, Lawrence Central and Greenfield-Central. He is an assistant coach at Guerin Catholic.
ACHIEVEMENT
The longstanding fixture at Indianapolis-area track meets is a member of the Indiana Track and Field and Cross Country Hall of Fame. He was inducted June 21.
“It’s very humbling,” the 72-year-old Lawrence resident said. “I don’t know that I’m necessarily worthy of it. When I look at people in the Hall of Fame, there are some great athletes, coaches, Olympians and contributors to the sport. I’m honored to be affiliated with them.”
It was not until his college days at Bellarmine University when the 1970 Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School graduate was student-teaching in Louisville at St. Xavier High School that coaching became an ambition.
Horrigan still enjoys coaching and works primarily with Guerin Catholic’s high jumpers, long jumpers and pole vaulters.
“I’m still coaching, loving it and having a good time,” Horrigan said. “When I was doing my student teaching, I certainly would not have imagined that I would have coached state champions and All-Americans and have a 50-year career with coaching and officiating. It’s an extreme honor to be getting inducted.”
Kevin Horrigan is one of 13 2025 Indiana Track and Field and Cross Country Hall of Fame inductees. (Photo Courtesy of Indiana Track and Field and Cross Country Hall of Fame)
The front lobby of the recently opened Promenade Trails Community Building at 17780 Navigator Trail in Noblesville. (Photo courtesy of Angela Miller)
HCPR plans for new county park
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Development plans are underway for Bur Oak Bend park at 19024 Riverwood Ave. in Noblesville. Hamilton County Parks and Recreation Resource Development Specialist Erica Foreman said Riverwood Canoe Landing, a river access site at 20814 Riverwood Ave., will relocate to the park.
RECREATION
HCPR is seeking state and federal grants to subsidize costs.
“Our mission is to preserve as much land as possible for recreational use in Hamilton County,” Foreman said. “This particular park offers unique access to the White River, which is an incredible recreational asset for our community. The property spans approximately 130 acres, and the current vision is to develop it as a nature park featuring river access, scenic overlooks and a network of trails.”
HCPR officials are developing a master plan for the property.
“After a chemical dump in the White River in 2000, the Central Indiana Land Trust, Inc. acquired the land for this property,”
By Les Morris news@currentinfishers.com
Taste of Indy takes center stage on the holiday weekend, returning for its 14th edition at White River State Park in downtown Indianapolis. The culinary celebration is July 5 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
EVENT
The event is billed as Indiana’s largest food festival and there will be a wide variety of food tents and food trucks
The day will also feature a mix of local music highlighted by jazz legend Rob Dixon at 4:45 p.m. Cathy Morris takes the main stage at 6:15 p.m., and D-Roq + Bulletproof Soul performs the finale at 7:45 p.m.
General admission tickets are $20 each and are available at tasteofindy.org. Kids 10 and younger are admitted free. Food tickets are $1 per ticket and can be redeemed for food, beverages and alcohol.
“Come out and come hungry,” said organizer Jonathan Warren, who created the event in 2012. “We have people who come out for lunch and usually stay for dinner. Food is a great motivator.”
Master plan concept for Bur Oak Bend.
(Map courtesy of Erica Foreman and Butler Fairman & Seufert)
Foreman said. “In 2021, they transferred the land to Hamilton County Parks and Recreation.”
Foreman said the goal is to complete the master plan by the end of the year, after which the focus will be on creating a design and building timeline.
The parks department is seeking input from Hamilton County residents by asking them to participate in a survey. Feedback will help HCPR officials shape the features, amenities and programming at Bur Oak Bend. Take the survey at tinyurl.com/ msuwkbed.
Taste of Indy Returns July 5
Warren is excited about some new food vendors that showcase Taste of Indy’s wide variety and cultural fluidity. Pinoy Garden Cafe, a Filipino restaurant in Bloomington, will make its Taste of Indy debut. In the festival’s food tent, attendees will be able to taste dishes from Bawarchi Biryanis Indian Cuisine Indianapolis and Bibibop Asian Grill.
Warren’s career has revolved around food safety consulting, both in his Army career and in civilian life. He founded Indy Food Safety Consulting in 2002 and his relationships with restaurants led him to start Taste of Indy.
“They kept asking if there was anything we could do to help marketing wise,” he said.
In addition to the sumptuous food and musical entertainment, Taste of Indy will also feature many family-friendly amusement activities from Jump N Play Party Rentals, including an axe throw, an obstacle course, yard pong, corn hole and a game that challenges participants to stay on their feet while dodging rotating boom arms called Toxic Meltdown.
For more, visit tasteofindy.org.
BACK TO SCHOOL is nearly here, and a healthy start to the school year begins with a primary care visit. From routine check-ups to addressing specific concerns, Riverview Health is here to support your child's well-being.
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Convicted child molester faces charges in Hamilton County
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Anthony Hauger, 26, of Plainfield is facing child molestation charges in Hamilton County after being convicted earlier this month in Hendricks County on similar charges.
CRIME
Hauger was booked in the Hamilton County Jail June 17 on a $100,000 bond. Noblesville Police Department Lt. Bruce Barnes said the Hendricks County case has been adjudicated, and Hauger will now stand trial in Hamilton County.
had been arrested in Hendricks County and that her daughter could potentially be a victim.
According to a probable cause affidavit filed Jan. 21 by the Noblesville Police Department, a woman reported to Plainfield police July 1, 2024 that her 5-year-old daughter may have been molested by Hauger at her sister’s Noblesville home between November and December 2023. The victim’s mother said her sister-in-law, who is Hauger’s roommate, told her Hauger
A forensic interview was conducted at Susie’s Place Child Advocacy Center with the juvenile victim July 3, 2024. The victim reported that Hauger had “touched her private area” with his fingers during a gathering where the adults were in the lower level and the children were playing upstairs. The NPD confirmed with the Noblesville homeowners that Hauger was present at the gathering.
According to the probable cause affidavit, the victim told her brother, a juvenile, and an adult male about the incident, but was “brushed off.”
According to court records, Hauger pled guilty to two counts of felony child molesting/fondling or touching with a child under 14 in Hendricks County June 2. He was sentenced to six years in the Indiana Department of Corrections. His trial is Sept. 8.
Scholarships — The Riverview Health Foundation has awarded seven high school seniors from Hamilton County the Dr. And Mrs. Malcom Bray Medical Scholarship and Hamilton County Medical Society Scholarship. Established in 1993, the Dr. and Mrs. Bray Medical Scholarship is presented annually to graduating seniors from each public high school in Hamilton County who plan to pursue a career in the medical field. Each recipient receives a one-time $1,000 scholarship.
In partnership with the Riverview Health Foundation, each student received an additional $500 from the Hamilton County Medical Society Scholarship. Scholarship recipients include Lainey Adkins, Fishers High School; Bassel Ashour, Noblesville High School; Alex Augustine, Hamilton Southeastern High School; Madeline Linville, Westfield High School; Madelyn Putman, Carmel High School; Elizabeth Smith, Hamilton Heights High School; and Makaley Terry, Sheridan High School.
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DISPATCHES
State of the Campus — Ivy Tech Community College Hamilton County will host its inaugural State of the Campus event from 9 to 11 a.m. Oct. 3 at The Bridgewater Club in Westfield. The event will feature Chancellor Rachel Kartz and other campus leaders as they share accomplishments, growth milestones and the vision for the future of Ivy Tech’s Hamilton County campus. Attendees also will hear from Ivy Tech students about the impact the college has had on their educational and career journeys. The morning will feature a breakfast buffet and opportunities for engagement and networking. Tickets are $30 through Aug. 29 and $45 after. All event proceeds will benefit Ivy Tech Hamilton County students through the Ivy Tech Foundation. For more, visit link. ivytech.edu/IVY2025.
HSEngaged applications open — Hamilton Southeastern Schools is accepting applications for the 2025-26 cohort of its HSEngaged program. Launched in 2021, the nine-month experience offers parents, residents and community leaders a behindthe-scenes look at the inner workings of the school district, which serves more than 21,000 students across 22 schools. Participants attend monthly meetings from August through April, visiting different schools and learning about business operations, academic programming, student services and school safety. Applications are open through 5 p.m. July 7. Space is limited. All applicants will be notified of their status by July 31. For more or to apply, visit hseschools.org/hsengaged.
Tippner earns Gatorade Indiana Girls Soccer Player of the Year — Meredith Tippner, a 2025 Noblesville High School graduate, has been named the 2024-25 Gatorade Indiana Girls Soccer Player of the Year. It’s the second consecutive year she has earned the honor. Gatorade Player of the Year honors the nation’s best high school athletes for their success on the field, in the classroom and in the community. The award distinguishes Tippner as Indiana’s best high school girls soccer player. Tippner, who has maintained a 4.34 weighted GPA in the classroom, will play basketball at the University of Miami (Fla.). The 5-foot-10 senior forward led the Millers to a 19-0-2 record and a third consecutive Class 3A state championship this past season. Tippner scored 24 goals and passed for 16 assists with 12 of those tallies representing game-winners.
Senior community accommodates
‘missing middle’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For senior communities such as Ritchey Reserve, Sade Hearns views it as increasingly essential to keep costs down.
55-AND-OLDER
“As the 55-plus population booms, there’s a huge demand for affordable senior housing that doesn’t feel like a downgrade,” said Sade Hearns, director of property management for Ritchey Reserve in Fishers. “Seniors want comfort, connection and amenities without sacrificing affordability. This isn’t a luxury; it’s an expectation.”
Ritchey Reserve is at 7889 E 106th St. in the Nickel Plate District in Fishers. The community is near the Nickel Plate Trail, amphitheater, shopping, health care and the Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve.
Amenities include a clubhouse with a coffee bar, concierge service, package delivery, controlled access, elevators, a guest suite and community events.
Ritchey Reserve dog owners have a perk.
“Dog park and Dog spa is definitely a rare amenity,” Hearns said. “The pet spas have a wash station equipped with easyto-use tubs — perfect for a post-walk rinse.”
Ritchey Reserve resident Gloria Miller appreciates the amenity.
“It’s a great place to let your dog run off-leash and relax with you on the bench,” Miller said.
Ritchey Reserve, which is owned by Real America LLC, has one- and two-bedroom units available.
For more, visit homeatritcheyreserve. com.
Ritchey Reserve offers some unique amenities such as a dog park and dog spa. (Photo courtesy of Ritchey Rerserve)
BREWING UP A BARBEQUE
Annual Noblesville BrewBQ fundraiser set for Aug. 9
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
An annual event that pairs local beer and barbecue returns to Noblesville next month.
The Noblesville Rotary Club, a community-focused service organization that brings together local leaders to engage in service projects and fellowship within Noblesville and Cicero, will play host to its ninth annual Noblesville BrewBQ from 4 to 9 p.m. Aug. 9 at Federal Hill Commons, 175 Logan St.
The event not only serves as a way for the community to enjoy live music, barbecue and beer, but also is a fundraiser. The majority of proceeds support scholarships for local students attending the Ivy Tech Hamilton County campus in Noblesville.
“Ivy Tech Hamilton County cherishes our partnership with the Noblesville Rotary Club,” Ivy Tech Hamilton County Chancellor Rachel Kartz said. “The annual BrewBQ is a great event that brings the community together around great food and great times while also supporting (the) rotary’s efforts of providing scholarships to local students. We are thankful for this long-standing relationship with the Noblesville Rotary Club and look forward to many more years to come.”
A small portion of proceeds support the Noblesville High School Robotics Club.
At the event, the Noblesville Rotary Club conducts a barbecue-tasting contest, offering attendees the chance to sample an array of recipes from participants across Noblesville and surrounding areas.
Noblesville Rotary Club Treasurer Carrie Dixon said the club created the event as its primary fundraiser to support students at Ivy Tech Hamilton County.
“The event has evolved and grown year after year,” Dixon said. “When we first started it, Federal Hill Commons wasn’t even built yet, so the BrewBQ was at Forest Park initially, and it was just a small little barbecue.”
Dixon said in its first few years, the event only raised a few thousand dollars. Now, it raises nearly $30,000 for the Ivy Tech scholarship fund.
“It started with only three or four groups grilling up some barbecue, and since then, it’s grown to around 16 grill teams competing,” Dixon said. “It’s one of the largest amateur barbecue competitions in the state of Indiana now, and it’s grown to include live music with bands and drink vendors. We’ve added a lot more fun features to the event. It’s at a bigger location, and the funds have just gone up year over year.”
Dixon said barbecue contestants will be judged by a panel using a blind judging method, with a winner for ribs and a winner for chicken being selected. There also will be an overall People’s Choice winner voted on by attendees.
“The panel of judges typically includes city council members, public safety officials and Rachel Kartz, but to get attendees involved, we added the People’s Choice award,”
Dixon said.
Live music will be performed throughout the evening by local bands, including Strawbury Jam and That’s What She Said. Beer will be available for purchase from local vendors, including Bier Brewery, Northbrook Brewing and Primeval Brewing. Spencer Farm Winery will sell wine, and nonalcoholic beverages also will be available for purchase.
“We love partnering with our community and giving back whenever we can,” Bier Brewery owner Ryan Conner said. “The BrewBQ is one of those special events that brings joy to everyone involved.”
A new feature will be the addition of door prizes provided by local vendors and businesses, including Clutch and Kindle, Smith Jewelers, Car Wash King, Debbie’s Daughters, Indiana Peony Festival, Rivet Coffee and Providence Home and Garden, among others.
“We wanted to feature more local vendors that maybe
couldn’t put in the monetary, sponsorship money, but still wanted to get involved,” Dixon said. “The door prizes are a way to reach out and network with local businesses and vendors. That way, they can get involved by providing a basket or some swag to give away as door prizes. People can now walk away with some extra goodies from the event, but it also brings in more local vendors and brings awareness to small businesses in Noblesville.”
Advance tickets are $65 and designated driver tickets are available for $50. Tickets are $75 at the gate the day of the event. Tickets include unlimited barbecue, sides, beer, wine and live music. The designated driver ticket is good for water and soda. Tickets can be purchased at event. ontaptickets.com/events/noblesville-brewbq-2025.
For more about the event, visit noblesvillerotaryclub. org/brewbq.
ON THE COVER: Several participants from Noblesville and surrounding areas will offer different types of barbecued meat. (Photo courtesy of Carrie Dixon)
IF YOU GO
WHEN: The event will be held rain or shine from 4 to 9 p.m. Aug. 9 at Federal Hill Commons, 175 Logan St. ID REQUIREMENTS: Attendees must be 21 or older with a valid ID to attend the event.
REFUND POLICY: Since the event is a fundraiser, tickets are non-refundable.
WHAT TO BRING: Bring a valid photo ID and your ticket if purchased in advance. Attendees also can bring lawn chairs to the event, but no coolers, pets or outside food or beverages are permitted.
The annual Noblesville BrewBQ will be at Federal Hill Commons at 175 Logan St. Aug. 9. (Photos courtesy of Carrie Dixon)
Attendees sample barbecue at a previous Noblesville BrewBQ.
Building Legacy: Pete Gray Reflects on 30 Years of Executive Homes
By Kirsten Clark
For three decades, Executive Homes has been quietly shaping the landscape of Central Indiana—one carefully crafted luxury home at a time. As the founder and President of Executive Homes, Pete Gray has earned a reputation for his meticulous attention to detail, commitment to quality, and an unshakable focus on what matters most: his clients.
“In the beginning, I really wanted to build homes that felt like they belonged to the people living in them,” Gray reflects. “It was never about being flashy. It was about being faithful to the process—and to the people who trusted me with one of the biggest decisions of their lives.”
Gray founded Executive Homes in 1995 with a clear purpose: to build high-end, high-quality homes with integrity. Over the years, that purpose has guided him through countless builds across Westfield, Carmel, Zionsville, and the surrounding communities—each one a testament to thoughtful design, intentional craftsmanship, and a deeply personalized client journey.
“I’ve always believed that our job isn’t just to build homes,” Gray says. “It’s to build relationships. That starts with listening—really listening—to what people want their life to look like, and then figuring out how to make that happen through the home we build.”
Walk through an Executive Home, and the difference is palpable. From custom woodwork and luxury finishes to open-concept layouts and family-first floorplans, every element is designed with purpose. No detail is too small, no client request too big. It’s this commitment to excellence that has earned Executive Homes a loyal following—including many repeat clients who return for second, third or even fourth homes as their lives evolve.
That distinctive quality resonates deeply with homeowners. Over the years, Gray has heard countless people say that the moment they step into a home, they can tell it was built by Executive Homes.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to hear that repeatedly,” Gray says. “It means we’re creating something recognizable—not just a house, but a feeling of quality and care that stays with people.”
But for Gray, success has never been about quantity.
“We’re not a volume builder,” he says. “That’s by design. We take on a select number of projects each
year because that’s what allows us to stay hands-on, stay involved, and make sure we’re delivering the kind of quality and service people come to us for.”
The very first home he built still stands out in his memory.
“I can picture it clearly,” he says, smiling. “That build taught me that doing things the right way—taking your time, being precise, communicating well—it always pays off. And that mindset has stayed with me ever since.”
Advertorial
Over the past 30 years, Gray has witnessed significant changes in the homebuilding industry. Design trends have come and gone. Technologies have advanced. Customer expectations have evolved. But his core values haven’t wavered.
“The tools have changed, sure. But the foundation of good business hasn’t,” he explains. “People want to work with someone they can trust—someone who’s going to show up, follow through, and make sure the end result reflects their vision, not just ours.”
That collaborative spirit has become a cornerstone of Executive Homes’ approach. Clients are guided through every step of the design-build process—from lot selection and architectural planning to interior finishes and final walkthroughs—with a level of attention and care that is rare in today’s market.
Perhaps the most meaningful evolution in Gray’s journey has been the involvement of his son, Patrick, who has joined the business and has learned the ropes from the ground up.
“Watching him come into this with his own passion and ideas has been very fulfilling,” Gray says. “It’s not just about continuing the business—it’s about continuing the values, the reputation, the way we treat people. That matters to me more than anything.”
Family, in fact, is at the heart of everything Gray does—both at home and at work.
“When you build a home for someone, you become part of their story,” he says. “You’re giving them a place to grow as a family, celebrate milestones, weather hard times. That’s sacred ground, and I don’t take it lightly.”
Looking ahead, Gray remains as motivated as ever.
“There’s still so much I want to do,” he says. “New designs to explore, new ways to improve how we serve our clients. I love the creative challenge of it all.”
When asked what advice he’d offer to someone just entering the field, Gray’s answer is simple but sincere: “Stay focused. Be humble. Learn from the people around you. And always—always—care more about doing the job right than doing it fast.”
Thirty years in, that quiet, steadfast commitment continues to define Executive Homes—and the man behind it. Pete Gray hasn’t just built some of the most beautiful homes in Central Indiana. He’s built a legacy of trust, character, and craftsmanship that will carry on well into the next generation.
Jeff and Julie, satisfied clients of Executive Homes.
Pete and Patrick Gray.
A completed Executive Homes custom home.
2:15-3:45
Sunny Day Cafe now open
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
A restaurant serving Mexican and American dishes is now open at 3230 Harrell Pkwy. at Hamilton Town Center in Noblesville.
RESTAURANT
Sunny Day Cafe, which opened last month, serves omelets, skillets, sandwiches and salads, along with mimosas and margaritas.
The new Sunny Day Cafe is the second in Indiana. The first opened in Carmel at 1430 W. Carmel Dr. in 2023.
Initially, owner Yazmin Bernal said she wanted to serve Mexican breakfast items. But the menu has evolved to combine Mexican and American options.
“I wanted to work in the restaurant business, and I started working at La Hacienda off Allisonville Road in Fishers 15 to 20 years ago,” Bernal said. “I then decided I wanted to open my own place. My brotherin-law was working in breakfast restaurants, and he was the one who helped build the menu and create the dishes. It is a family-owned business, and although it
started small, it’s continued to grow.”
Bernal said she is excited about the Hamilton Town Center location.
“The opportunity just came out of nowhere,” Bernal said. “It just happened that this American dream location was up for retail. My husband inquired, and we had a response from the mall the same day.
Everything moved very smoothly after our first conversation with the realtor, so we moved forward because we didn’t want to miss out on this location.”
Bernal said the demand for Mexican fare has been high.
“We thought that the American dishes would gain more popularity, but everybody is going for the Mexican dishes like chilaquiles, huevos rancheros and breakfast tacos,” Bernal said.
Bernal said opening additional restaurants in the future is a strong possibility.
“We don’t know how soon this could be, but we want to open up another restaurant in a new location,” Bernal said. “We are trying to do a new concept that is different from the typical Mexican restaurants that are everywhere in Indiana.”
For more, visit sunnydaycafes.com.
Gal’s Guide Library to relocate
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
CLOSING
Gal’s Guide Library, a Noblesville nonprofit that provides multimedia resources and education about women’s history, is relocating to Moorhead, Minn.
The library, the first independent women’s history lending library in America when it opened in 2020, had its last day inside Noblesville Creates at 107 S. 8th St. June 28.
Gal’s Guide Library Executive Director and Founder Leah “Riwo” Leach said she started the library to preserve women’s stories.
“The fortunate thing was, when Noblesville Creates opened 12 years ago, I was a filmmaker, and I was working with Noblesville Creates Executive Director Ailthir McGill,” Leach said. “Ailithir looked at her waiting list for an open space at Noblesville Creates, and the next person on the list was me. It just felt serendipitous and like that is exactly where we were supposed to be.”
What started as a library with 1,500 books written by or about women grew
to a collection of 6,000 books. Leach said the library will reopen in Minnesota in the spring or summer of 2026.
“We don’t have a physical location yet because I want to move over there and get to know the town and find out where we can be the most helpful,” Leach said.
The reason for relocating is because Leach is moving to Moorhead with her son, who is enrolled at Minnesota State University of Moorhead.
“I was born in Minnesota, and so as we were kind of looking at schools, the land of the lakes started calling me back,” Leach said.
Leach hopes the Noblesville community will celebrate the history and traditions that the library introduced.
“We planted lots of seeds in the community,” Leach said. “We created a wonderful space where it’s fun to learn about history. It’s women’s history, but it’s everybody’s history, and it’s a place where nobody was judged. So, I hope some of those seeds grow. Noblesville is this quirky, wonderful town where it’s supportive to be
and I want that to continue.”
For more, visit galsguide.org/2025/03/19/ gals-guide-relocating-to-minnesota.
Carmel High School siblings land together on Broadway
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Christopher Ramirez was considering different career path when fate intervened en route to his Broadway debut.
Ramirez is performing in “Real Women Have Curves,” a musical that opened in late April. To make it even sweeter, his sister, Monica Tulia Ramirez, is in the cast. Christopher graduated from Carmel High School in 2009, and Monica is a 2012 CHS graduate.
The stage pairing almost didn’t happen.
“I was interested in exploring other channels of the arts, such as arts administration,” Christopher said. “I was working as executive assistant to the general manager at the Metropolitan Opera. It’s kind of a crazy story. I was going to take a step back from being an actor. I thought I needed to enter this career path because it could be opening some exciting channels of income and future endeavors. It was a bittersweet email to send.”
He sent a long email to his manager and agent, and 30 seconds later his agent called. He asked if his agent had already read the email.
Instead, his agent said he hadn’t and then his manager joined on the phone
“They were calling to tell me I had the role and was going to Broadway with the show,” Christopher said. “It’s one of the classic tales of you are about to leave and get the Broadway call.”
The Ramirez siblings are in the ensemble.
“We cover other roles as typically the ensemble does in Broadway shows, so that’s been really fun,” Monica said.
The siblings also rehearse together twice a week.
“Thank God, we love each other,” Monica said.
Monica, who made her Broadway
debut in “Suffs” in 2024, moved to New York after graduating from Ball State University.
Christopher said for his sister to be in back-to-back Broadway shows is a massive accomplishment.
Christopher, a graduate of the Boston Conservatory of Music, moved to New York in 2014. Monica lived with him for 3 1/2 years when she first moved to New York.
“We also worked at a restaurant together at one point during that time,” Monica said. “So, we’re pretty locked-in best friends.”
This is the first time they have worked on a show together.
“We get to see each other work in a room, which has been really refreshing,” she said.
Christopher performed in “Real Women Have Curves” at the American Repertory
Theater in Cambridge, Mass,. in late 2023 and early 2024.
“I saw it in January 2024, and it was so incredible,” Monica said. “Christopher found out in the fall of 2024 he was going to go with it to Broadway.”
When Monica found out “Suffs” was going to close in January 2025, she decided to audition for “Real Women Have Curves.”
“Christopher helped and coached me through it, but it was an extensive process,” she said. “I went through five different auditions, including tapes. They combed through everybody to find the perfect people for this, and the fact we’re family members doing a show about families is really nice.”
They also did a short interview together on “The Kelly Clarkson Show.”
In previewing the show, Christopher and Monica were in a cast piece on the Tony Awards show June 8 on CBS. In addition, they were on “Good Morning America” on ABC, and Christopher appeared on “TODAY” on NBC.
“Real Woman Have Curves,” about a first-generation Mexican American woman who wants to go to college instead of staying with her family, has special meaning because the siblings’ father emigrated to the U.S. from Colombia and their mother is from Illinois.
“We acknowledged the privileges we have that we get to chase our dreams and get to be actors because of the sacrifices our parents made, especially my dad because he had an artistic side,” Christopher said.
But it wasn’t financially feasible for his father, Michael Ramirez, to be an artist while providing for his family.
Christopher, who earned his master’s degree through the University of San Diego’s Old Globe Theater, has acted regionally in California, Houston and Boston, among other places. Monica has worked on several workshop shows while attempting to make a path to Broadway.
‘THE LITTLE MERMAID’
“The Little Mermaid” runs through July 13 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
‘THE COTTAGE’
Red Barn Summer Theatre presents “The Cottage” July 2-6, except July 4, at the Frankfort venue. For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.
ROCK THE RUINS
The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra performs at 6:30 p.m. July 9 at the Rock the Ruins series at Holliday Park in Indianapolis. For more, visit rocktheruins.com.
DISPATCHES
Vocalist to hold album release at Feinstein’s — Two-time No. 1 Billboard vocalist Deborah Silver will take the stage for a special album release event celebrating “Basie Rocks!” at 7:30 p.m. July 24 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Silver, renowned for her dynamic jazz interpretations across genres, recorded with The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra. Along with her signature glamour and powerhouse vocals, Silver delivers a swinging twist to rock classics by The Beatles, Elton John, Peter Frampton, Steve Miller, the Eagles and more as she performs songs from “Basie Rocks!” Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for dinner and drinks. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
Molly Hatchet set for Palladium concert — Southern rockers Molly Hatchet will perform at 7 p.m. July 25 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The band will be joined by guests Timothy Scott and Toolbox Union. Since the early ‘70s, Molly Hatchet has injected a heavy dose of boogie into Southern rock. The band was originally formed by guitarist Dave Hlubek in Jacksonville in 1971. The band enjoyed commercial success during the late 1970s and early to mid-1980s. For tickets, visit thecenterpresents.org.
Carmel High School graduates Monica and Christopher Ramirez are performing in “Real Women Have Curves.” (Photo courtesy of Monica Ramirez)
Wood Brothers to Rock the Ruins
By Bill Forman editorial@youarecurrent.com
CONCERT
For a dozen-plus years, brothers Chris and Oliver Wood had pursued separate musical paths — Chris in the acclaimed jazz-rooted group, Medeski Martin and Wood and Oliver in King Johnson, which released six albums of blues-infused country, R&B and funk. Finally, in the early 2000s, their paths converged when King Johnson opened a show for Medeski Martin and Wood.
The first time the siblings played together in the same room changed everything for the brothers.
“It was just this weird feeling, like I was looking in a kind of mirror when I was playing with him,” Chris Wood said. “I just saw the way he approached the instrument, like the musical choices, his style. There was something sort of almost creepily familiar.”
Soon the siblings had turned their attention to starting the Wood Brothers, and over the course of nine albums and more than two decades, that musical familiarity
has continued to grow. The Wood Brothers will co-headline with St; Paul & The Broken Bones at 6 p.m. July 10 in the Rock the Ruins series at Holliday Park in Indianapolis.
As a trio with drummer-keyboardist-vocalist Jano Rix, they’ve earned a Grammy nomination for Best Americana Album, reached No. 1 on Billboard magazine’s Top Heatseekers chart, and built a loyal fanbase by touring.
The Wood Brothers’ upcoming album “Puff of Smoke” is scheduled to be released Aug. 1.
For more, visit rocktheruins.com
The Wood Brothers are, from left, Chris Wood, Jano Rix and Oliver Wood. They will perform July 10 in Rock the Ruins series at Holliday Park. (Photo courtesy of Laura Partain)
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5. “Yeah, right!”
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16. Quickly
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27. Existing
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30. Photos, for short
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36. Civil rights org.
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42. Sporadic offering from the Golden Arches
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47. To-do list item
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68. “Copacabana” showgirl
69. Make changes
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71. List-ending abbr.
72. Feather in one’s cap
73. Food stamp letters
74. Tirade Down
1. Catchall abbr.
2. Westfield HS choir voice
3. In ___ of (replacing)
4. Boy’s name/Indiana city
5. Ran in neutral
6. Hamilton County Fair barn sound
7. Zionsville street that goes past Pine, Cedar and Walnut
8. Oolong and pekoe
9. Woodland deity
10. Our ancestors, hypothetically
11. Defense acronym
12. Hosiery shade
13. Stern of a ship
21. Retort angrily
23. Right on an Indiana map 25. Choose
26. Boy’s name/Indiana city
28. Soak in the tub
29. Desert haven
31. Woulda, ___, shoulda
33. Victory Field miscue
34. Spin
35. One of Hamlet’s choices
36. Fresh Indian Grill bread
38. Hosted a roast
43. Boy’s name/Indiana city
46. Yard tool
49. Bicycle built for two
53. Colts 10, Titans 7, e.g.
55. Home country of 25 winners of the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon men’s races
56. It’s sold in bars?
57. Word on a door
58. “___, Brute?”
59. Pasta sauce brand
61. Teeny bit
62. Panache
63. Pretzel topping
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The SWEETEST SANDWICH of the Summer.
This summer, we’re celebrating Tenderloin Tuesday’s Sweet Sixteen! Over 50 Hamilton County restaurants will offer special deals and savory spins on Indiana’s favorite sandwich on Tuesdays from June 24th to July 29th . Claim your passport at TenderloinTuesday.com to redeem deals at your favorite tenderloin spots. Let’s celebrate 16 sweet years of Tuesday tenderness!
Red Light Capsule
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