Founded March 20 2012, at Zionsville, IN Vol. XIV, No. 13
Copyright 2023
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Dive into Delicious!
Former Hoosier governors stress need for respectful dialogue to move forward
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Three former Indiana governors — including one former U.S. vice president — sat down for a discussion about public service and leadership in front of a packed OneZone Chamber luncheon Jan. 12 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton conference center in Noblesville.
POLITICS
Gov. Mitch Daniels, governor from 2004 to 2012; Vice President Mike Pence, elected governor in 2012 and vice president in 2016; and Gov. Eric Holcomb, elected governor in 2016 and 2020, spoke with OneZone President and CEO Jack Russell to an audience of about 600.
During the discussion, Pence said he was proud of the Trump-Pence administration, even if it didn’t end the way he wanted it to.
After President Trump lost his bid for reelection in 2020, Pence defied Trump’s call to not certify the results of that election. Trump supporters on Jan. 6, 2021, then stormed the U.S. Capitol where that certification was taking place.
Pence said at the June 12 forum that it was a privilege to serve as vice president. Without referencing current events, he added that he believes that the future of democracy depends on civility, character and respect.
Daniels agreed, stating that there are many examples of people in public office who treat their jobs with dignity and respect — even when they vigorously disagree with each other — and that he didn’t think those attributes would remain permanently out of fashion.
“It’s not that long since I left elected office in such a different world (than) today,” he said. “I hope that we’ll have people who, once again, embrace the idea that — yeah, having the right answers, the right policies, that’s important. But character is, too.”
Daniels said Pence displayed “remark-
able character” during the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol and the audience applauded in agreement.
Holcomb, who was recovering from losing his voice during an Indiana Pacers game the night before, agreed that civility will come back — but only if people work to make it happen.
Russell asked his three guests to name the most important issue facing Indiana. Holcomb said there are many issues, but if forced to pick one it would be workforce readiness — making sure Hoosier students are ready for the future. He added that Hamilton County is doing a good job with that.
Pence said the top current issue was the Pacers winning the NBA Finals, eliciting another round of applause from the audience. He noted that the two teams — Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder — are a metaphor for what’s happening in the country, with a stronger focus on the heartland.
Daniels agreed that Indiana is in a good position with a growing population and more college graduates choosing to stay. He said the challenge is to maintain that momentum in the face of what he said will be tough economic times ahead.
When asked to recall moments that made them proud to be Hoosiers, Daniels noted times when he traveled the state following floods or tornadoes and was inspired by the people who showed up to help.
Pence said balanced budgets and strong
policies are important, but agreed with Daniels that the most memorable times were when state residents showed what Hoosier hospitality means.
“If you run (toward) the sound of guns, you actually get to see people in their worst settings at their best — and those are Hoosiers,” he said, adding that his hope for the future is rooted in his faith in God and in the goodness, decency and character of the American people.
Holcomb agreed with his colleagues, adding that one of his proudest moments was hosting guests at the annual Indy 500 race, which he called a crown jewel of the state.
Closing out the forum, Russell said his three guests had made important contributions that shaped the course of the state.
“But more than policies or headlines, what they share is this — a deep belief in Indiana’s potential, a willingness to make hard decisions and a legacy rooted not in politics but purpose,” he said. “They didn’t just occupy the office of governor — they used (the role) to lead and to move Indiana forward. These three men showed us true leadership. Now it’s our turn to learn from these three great leaders, because the next chapter in Indiana’s story won’t be written by one person in one office. It will be written by the people in this room.”
Russell encouraged audience members not to wait for a title or for conditions to be perfect before they become a leader, and to help create solutions to the challenges Indiana faces in the future.
Former Indiana governors Mitch Daniels, left, Mike Pence and Eric Holcomb answer questions from OneZone President Jack Russell during a June 12 forum.
(Photo courtesy of OneZone)
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Money added to ZFD overtime fund
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
The Zionsville Town Council approved a budget appropriation June 16 for the Zionsville Fire Department.
PUBLIC SAFETY
The council approved a $150,000 line-item change, adding funds from the department’s operating budget to the overtime line item to fill one position on a fire suppression apparatus for the final six months of 2025.
“(The safety board) made a unanimous recommendation to the town council to appropriate an additional $150,000 from the firefighters’ operation funds to the overtime fund to ensure that the firefighters have the overtime staffing that they need to finish out the remainder of the year, based upon projections,” said Councilor Evan Norris, who also is a member of the Zionsville Safety Board. “The ZFD won’t operate with less than three firefighters per firefighting suppression apparatus. So, this overtime will help to ensure that we (adhere) to what
pates two additional recruits will graduate from the fire academy in December.
Norris said the staffing shortage can be attributed at least in part to competition with other local departments. He said he wants the town council to consider dealing with shortages as budget talks for 2026 begin.
DISPATCHES
the standards are for firefighters per fire suppression apparatus.”
ZFD Chief James VanGorder said although firefighters are trained to industry standards, the department is short-staffed.
“The fire department has been short-staffed for several years,” he said.
“We were short 15 firefighters on shift as of last week. We did just have four graduate (from) the academy, so that lessens it slightly to 11 shortages.”
VanGorder said the department antici-
“I think it leads to a bigger question as we approach the middle of the year — what is the budget process going to look like next year for some of these critical public safety issues?” he said. “(Mayor John Stehr) and his team are working really hard on this issue, trying to alleviate some of that stress for the fire department. It does have a great physical toll and mental toll on the firefighters. So, I’d urge all of you as we approach July and August and we start into the budget process that we start taking a hard look at some of the town’s finances, especially when it comes to our public safety officials. That doesn’t just go for firefighters. That also goes for (Zionsville police) as well as (Department of Public Works). I think all of them play a critical role.”
Community Crossings funds appropriated — The Zionsville Town Council recently approved a resolution to appropriate $612,500 of Community Crossing Matching Grant funds received from the state to fund portions of the 2025 road resurfacing and repair projects. The money will be added to the town’s local road/bridge matching grant fund. Community Crossings is a matching grant earmarked for local road projects. The funds will be used for reair and resurfacing on Pleasant View Road, repair and resurfacing of 300 S. from U.S. 421 to the Hamilton County line; repair and resurfacing on Oak Ridge Drive; and reconstruction of Waterford Drive from Danbury Drive to Village Walk Drive.
Hoosier Village variety show — Residents of Hoosier Village retirement and assisted living community in Zionsville ranging in age from 80 to 100 will share their talents during a variety show performance at 2 p.m. June 28. Contact Anna Wellman with the Hoosier Village marketing department at 317-899-9508 for more information.
The Zionsville Town Council recently approved a $150,000 appropriation to pay for overtime at the Zionsville Fire Department. (File photo)
Norris VanGorder
Town councilor: Follow the rules on golf carts
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Zionsville Town Councilor Sarah Esterline
Sampson has a message for golf cart owners in Zionsville: Follow the rules.
PUBLIC SAFETY
Sampson told the town council June 16 that the behavior of people driving golf carts in town was recently pointed out to her during an informal neighborhood meeting. She said residents need a reminder of the town’s ordinance on golf carts on local roads.
on record saying the driver of a golf cart must have a driver’s license.”
Zionsville’s golf cart ordinance was passed in 2019 and amended in 2023.
Residents are required to register their golf cart with the Zionsville Police Department and pay a two-year registration fee of $50.
Sampson
“I just wanted to formally state that the people driving golf carts are supposed to have a driver’s license and be older than 16,” she said. “I’ve seen children driving on Ford Road with their parent right next to them and I think this is becoming a town concern. I just wanted to make sure I went
Golf carts must be equipped with headlights; brake lights; a rearview mirror; a horn; and a slow-moving vehicle sign.
Drivers must have a valid driver’s license and golf carts must be insured. Carts can be driven on any town street except Oak Street; Sycamore Street between First Street to Michigan Road; 116th Street; 106th Street; and 96th Street.
People who violate the ordinance are subject to ticketing by ZPD.
Learn more about the golf cart ordinance at zionsville-in.gov/533/ Golf-Cart-Registration.
Home-A-Rama showcase coming to Westfield
EVENT news@youarecurrent.com
The Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis recently announced that the 2025 Lee Supply Corp. Home-ARama will be presented in Chatham Hills in Westfield Sept. 11-14, Sept. 18-21 and Sept. 25-28.
Home-A-Rama is a showcase of some of central Indiana’s premier custom-home builders’ state-of-the-art homes in one of the region’s most sought-after communities. Announced builders include Custom Living; AR Homes; McKenzie Pierrot Homes; aaNovo; Randy Shaffer Custom Homes & Kent Shaffer Homes; Scott B. Campbell Custom Homes and Development; and Sigma Builders.
“We are thrilled to bring Home-A-Rama to Chatham Hills this year with a lineup of incredible builders who are raising the bar in design, detail and innovation,” BAGI CEO Chris Hancock stated. “This event not only showcases the best in homebuilding — it’s also a celebration of community, creativity and craftsmanship. We can’t wait to welcome guests to experience these re-
markable homes firsthand.”
Located on Westfield’s north side, Chatham Hills includes a championship golf course designed by the late Pete Dye.
“Westfield is a city on the move,” Mayor Scott Willis stated. “While we’ve had significant growth over the last decade, we’ve worked hard to ensure that Westfield remains a safe, welcoming city with nationally recognized public schools and family friendly activities.”
Home-A-Rama attendees can tour custom homes featuring the latest trends in architecture, interior design and smart home technology. The event is open to those looking for inspiration, planning a future build or exploring high-end home designs.
The 2025 show is presented by BAGI and titled by Lee Supply Corp., with support from industry-leading sponsors including McComb Pella Window & Door, 84 Lumber and Centier Bank. Showhomes range from $1.85 million to $4.59 million.
Tickets for the 2025 Lee Supply Corp. Home-A-Rama go on sale Aug. 1 at bagi. com/event/home-a-rama.
Explore stunning new homes in Indianapolis with Fischer Homes! From ranch-style and multi-level designs to spacious townhomes, our thoughtfully crafted floorplans are designed to fit your lifestyle.
Randy Shaffer Custom Homes & Kent Shaffer Homes of Zionsville are among the featured builders at the 2025 Lee Supply Corp. Home-A-Rama in Chatham Hills in Westfield. (Photo courtesy of BAGI)
Subdivision granted special exception to build on 96th Street
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
A custom-home subdivision proposed for Zionsville’s rural equestrian district has cleared the first hurdle for approval.
DEVELOPMENT
Representatives from Regal Custom Homes by Davis recently presented Saddlebrook Farms — a 14-lot subdivision on 61 acres in the rural equestrian district at the northwest corner of 96th Street and 850 E. — to the Zionsville Board of Zoning Appeals.
The previous property owner, Larry Summers, sold the acreage to two nonprofits — Trinity Horizon, a drug and alcohol treatment center, and Hope Center, a residential care provider for victims of human trafficking.
Attorney Kyle Resetarits of Dentons, representing Regal Custom Homes, said the developer is under contract to purchase the land, and proceeds will benefit activities of Trinity Horizon and Hope Center.
“(The petition) is the first step toward Regal Custom Homes fulfilling the vision it has for developing this 14-lot custom home neighborhood,” he said. “Each lot and the subdivision at large meets each of the applicable development standards, including minimum lot size of three acres; a 3-to-1 lot size ratio; (and) all of the applicable and
Bringing Community to Zionsville
Primary care and OB/GYN care now in your neighborhood.
Community Health Network is excited to announce the o cial opening of our Zionsville practice.
Located at 55 Brendon Way, this new facility increases access to exceptional healthcare by bringing it closer to you. Whether you’re looking for annual checkups, long-term treatment or full-spectrum OB and GYN care, we o er it all. And with in-person and virtual appointment access, the reliable and convenient care you deserve is right in your neighborhood.
Schedule an appointment today at eCommunity.com/Zionsville
Regal Custom Homes by Davis recently announced plans to build Saddlebrook Farms, a 14-lot subdivision on 61 acres in the rural equestrian district at the northwest corner of 96th Street and 850 E. (Google Earth image)
various setbacks.”
Neighbors in the area initially expressed concern that the subdivision might operate on well water, noting in written comments to the BZA that the area has a poor-quality aquifer for wells. However,
Resetarits said the developer made an agreement with Citizens Energy Group to provide water.
“With the subdivision being under the threshold of 15 lots, it is not required by ordinance to connect to public utilities. However, Citizens Energy Group has confirmed that it can serve the site with water with mains along Cooper Road to the north and along 96th Street to the south,” he said. “By approving this type of low-density development, in turn we believe it would protect against denser development here in the future. The petitioner anticipates that Regal Custom Homes will just be one of several accomplished home builders of prestige and experience in the custom home building field to construct homes in the subdivision, and we anticipate each lot within the subdivision will sell in excess of $500,000.”
The BZA unanimously approved a special exception to allow the subdivision in the rural equestrian district.
The proposal now goes to the Zionsville Technical Advisory Committee before it moves to the Zionsville Plan Commission for consideration.
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!
Plan to address rape kit backlog clears one hurdle
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
A bill to address the backlog of rape kits in Indiana did not make it to Gov. Mike Braun’s desk this legislative session. But the bill’s author, District 25 Rep. Becky Cash (R-Zionsville), said the effort cleared at least one hurdle in the legislative session.
LEGISLATURE
Cash introduced HB 1413 in January. The bill would have provided grant funding to law enforcement to test the 600- to 800-kit backlog. The bill passed the Indiana House unanimously but stalled in the Senate appropriations committee in March.
Cash said federal funds secured by Marion County several years ago reduced a backlog that, at the time, was approximately 5,000 kits.
“The good news is that we have gotten it down to the 600 to 800, but obviously that’s still a long time for people awaiting justice,” she said. “I was told that the reason why this is happening is because they don’t have enough equipment. They’re also processing all of the other (evidence) — forensic evidence, guns, weapons, clothing — those kinds of things from crimes.”
Cash said the backlog also can be attributed in part to a lack of staffing, because forensic science is more lucrative in the private sector.
Although the grant funding passed through the Committee on Veteran Affairs and Public Safety and the House, it did not make it to the Senate floor. But Cash said funding was able to be separated from the bill and be earmarked for ISP.
“The head of Ways and Means Committee in the House, Rep. (Jeff) Thompson, made a really smart move,” she said. “When it went
before the Ways and Means Committee in the House, he took the money out of the bill and actually put it into (a) line item for the Indiana State Police and the Indiana Crime Lab. The reason was to separate the money from the bill, in the hopes that the language of the bill would make it all the way through the Senate, and the money would already be appropriated.”
Cash said although the bill did not clear the Senate, the funding was appropriated to ISP.
“Indiana had to cut $2.6 billion out of the budget in the last week of the legislative session, but we did not touch the budget line item for the Indiana State Police,” she said. “So, the $2.5 million that was appropriated (for rape kit testing) actually made it through into the budget.”
Cash said the next step is to work with ISP, the crime lab and the House Finance Committee on the proper steps to make sure that funding — which is now part of the overall budget for ISP — is used appropriately.
“I was actually really sad for the Senate that they didn’t get to vote on the bill,” she said. “There really is a strong desire to get that backlog down so that we can actually prosecute crimes, and, of course, exonerate any people who are innocent. But I am hopeful that I’ll be able to work with the Indiana State Police and the crime lab in order to be able to use that money for what it needs to be used for in 2025.”
Cash said she’ll continue to work to get the language of the bill signed into law in 2026.
“The longer it takes for these kits to be processed, the less chance a victim is going to want to keep reliving it and just waiting and waiting,” she said. “The chance of actually getting it through the court system just dissipates over time.”
DISPATCH
Hoosier Care Connect program update — Indiana State Treasurer Daniel Elliott recently announced a continued collaboration and increased incentive for Indiana residents covered by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield’s Hoosier Care Connect program. Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield have increased their INvestABLE Indiana Value Added Benefit to $75 for all eligible Hoosier Care Connect members with an INvestABLE Indiana account. To qualify for this incentive, Hoosier Care Connect members must be eligible for an INvestABLE Indiana account and have opened the account within the past 12 months. Learn more at in.savewithable.com.
Zionsville Town Council to switch to consent agenda
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
The Zionsville Town Council is changing how it presents meeting agendas.
TOWN NEWS
Council President Jason Plunkett recently announced that the council will switch to a consent agenda in July — a procedural change that will group together some items requiring approval for a single vote, instead of voting on each individually.
Plunkett said the beginning of each meeting usually requires multiple votes for regular business, like approving minutes, memorandums and claims.
“The consent agenda could just simply be an opportunity for us to speed this up a little bit,” Plunkett said.
Zionsville Town Council Attorney Heather Harris said the switch enhances efficiency.
“What we would do is create a standing consent agenda that would include the
minutes and claims or any other sort of item that requires approval,” she said.
“Sometimes, we’ll have something that the town council president has to sign that is an agreement or a settlement or something like that, and you’re not really taking a vote on (substance). What you could do is just simply make a motion on the consent agenda, a second, and then approve it in one vote so you’d be approving multiple items instead of having a vote for each. If you have any questions, concerns or anybody you know wanted to talk about an item, you can just pull it out of the consent agenda. We think it will just keep things moving and we get straight into business uh versus some of the more administrative items.”
Councilors will be allowed to ask to have any consent agenda item pulled for a separate vote at any time. Councilors said for transparency, items will remain listed separately but voted on at one time.
Agendas are posted at zionsville-in.gov/ AgendaCenter.
FU N FO R TH E WHO L E FAMILY
June 25 | 4–8 PM
(at participating locations)
Square dancing demo and audience participation | Do-Si-Squares from 6–7 PM
Mobile Piano Performance by Matt Soverns (Don’t miss his show at Feinstein’s on June 27!)
Scavenger Hunt
Store Specials
July 2 | 4–8 PM
(at participating locations)
Musical Performance at Anthony's Plaza Chad Mills with Grover Parido
Mobile Piano Performance by Matt Soverns
Scavenger Hunt
Store Specials
ZIONSVILLE JULY EVENTS
INDEPENDENCE DAY AT EAGLE CHURCH
The Town of Whitestown and Eagle Church will host fireworks July 3 at the church, 5801 S. Main St. in Whitestown. Visitors will enjoy carnival-style food, ice cream, live music, inflatables and fireworks. Gates for the free event open at 6 p.m. A live performance from Toy Factory begins at 6:30 p.m. Fireworks begin at dark.
LIONS CLUB CELEBRATES JULY 4
The Zionsville Lion’s Club 4th of July Celebration begins at 5 p.m. July 4 at Lions Park, 11053 Sycamore St. The event includes music, bounce houses, children’s games and festival food for purchase. The parking lot opens at 4 p.m. Admission is free but parking is $5 per vehicle. Fireworks will begin at dusk
CULTURAL DISTRICT ENTERTAINMENT
The Zionsville Cultural District hosts free weekly concerts at Lions Park at 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Performers in July include Mama Said String Band July 2; Cold Leather Seats July 9; Big Buckle & His Side Hustle
July 16; Bashiri Asad July 23; and The Brothers Footman July 30. Admission is free.
WHITESTOWN SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
Whitestown Parks and Recreation will host a free summer concert series at Main Street Park on Fridays through July 25, excluding July 4. Performers include Vinyl Escape July 11; The Big 80s July 18; and Stella Luna & the Satellites July 25. Food and beverage trucks also will be available. Gates open at 6 p.m and concerts begin at 7 p.m. Learn more at whitestown.in.gov/ bands-and-vendors.
MOM PROM
The Zionsville Department of Parks & Recreation will host a 90s-themed “Mom Prom” from 7 to 9 p.m. July 25 at COhatch, 75 N. Main St. The 21-and-older event features a DJ and dancing, signature mocktail, appetizers provided by The Savory Stagecoach, a candy bar featuring 90s-themed candies, shopping, a photo booth and activities. Tickets are $40 per person. Register at zionsvillein.myrec.com.
ART IN BLOOM
Flora Fauna Juried Art Show submissions on display at SullivanMunce Cultural Center.
By Kelsey Musick news@youarecurrent.com
From delicate wildflower studies to bold wildlife portraits, the Flora Fauna Juried Art Show — part of SullivanMunce Cultural Center’s ongoing effort to highlight and support Indiana artists — spotlights Indiana’s natural world through the eyes of 34 Hoosier artists.
The Flora Fauna Juried Art Show exhibit is on display through July 19 at the SullivanMunce Cultural Center, 225 W. Hawthorne St.
“(We want to) celebrate the beauty of the natural world through artistic expression,” said Cynthia Young, executive director of SullivanMunce Cultural Center. “We issued a call for entries earlier this year and were thrilled by the enthusiastic response from artists across the state.”
Fifty Hoosier artists submitted 124 works for consideration. From those, a jury panel reviewed and scored each entry using a point system based on originality, craftsmanship, interpretation of the theme and overall presentation.
“The process was competitive, and 34 artists were ultimately selected to exhibit 52 pieces that best captured the spirit of Flora and Fauna,” Young said. “The final selection represents a wide range of media and artistic voices from throughout Indiana.”
Artist Scott Miller of Zionsville is one of the 34 artists whose artwork is part of the exhibit.
“Getting selected for any juried art show is an honor,” Miller said. “As a practicing artist, part of what I have to do is find ways to get my art out in front of other people.”
Miller has two pieces featured — “Bloomington Tree” and “Holliday Bridge 3,” both watercolors. He said he was inspired to create “Bloomington Tree” after a family hike in Bloomington. He said he noted the light reflecting off tree branches and the texture of the bark.
“Holliday Bridge 3” is based on Holliday Bridge in rural Zionsville.
“My art is focused on moments in nature that caught my attention,” Miller said. “Whatever it was about the scene, maybe
light reflecting off the water or the way a clump of trees was bending in some fun way. If it made me stop and take extra time to enjoy it, that’s the kind of scene I like to recreate in my work. That’s what I want to share with others.”
Artist Christina Hollering of Zionsville also has her artwork exhibited at SullivanMunce Cultural Center. Her cut-paper mixed-media piece, “River Life,” was in-
spired by her love for kayaking, Indiana’s scenic waterways and the diversity of wildlife that inhabits them. The artwork features native species like great blue herons, water snakes and painted turtles.
“(These are) animals I’ve had the joy of encountering on many of my kayaking adventures,” she said. “I wanted this artwork to be a reminder that our rivers are a shared resource and to celebrate the rich
biodiversity that depends on them.”
The exhibit also can be viewed at showsubmit.com/gallery/ smcc-floral-fauna-juried-art-show. All exhibited pieces are available for purchase.
ABOUT SULLIVANMUNCE CULTURAL CENTER
SullivanMunce Cultural Center serves Zionsville and Boone County by preserving and sharing local artifacts and stories. The museum operates as a collecting institution, relying on donations to operate and prioritizing the acquisition of items with direct connections to Zionsville and Boone County.
SullivanMunce Cultural Center was established in 1973 as the Patrick Henry Sullivan Museum and expanded to
incorporate the art center in 1981, encompassing the genealogy library and Munce Art Center. The center formed a history committee in 2024 to expand historical offerings and engage with residents to enrich the understanding of local heritage.
The nonprofit center features more than 8,000 items in its collection, including important cultural documents, photographs, art and artifacts. The
extensive genealogy library, a Family Search Affiliate Library with access to AncestryLibrary.com and Newspapers. com, enhances the center’s capacity as a family research facility.
SullivanMunce Cultural Center, 225 W. Hawthorne St., is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.
Learn more at sullivanmunce.org.
ON THE COVER: Zionsville artist Scott Miller is inspired to paint by nature. (Photo courtesy of Scott Miller)
‘River Lift,’ a mixed-media piece by Zionsville artist Christina Hollering, is featured in the Flora Fauna Juried Art Show at SullivanMunce Cultural Center. (Image courtesy of SullivanMunce Cultural Center)
Scott Miller of Zionsville paints in watercolors. (Photo courtesy of Scott Miller)
Blueprint for Improvement: Noblesville kitchen gets bold
Commentary by Larry Greene
This Noblesville kitchen evolved from a dark, cramped galley into a bright, pattern-rich space that celebrates both color and character.
THE BLUEPRINT
• The dramatic renovation replaced dark cabinets and plain counters with sage green cabinetry and crisp white quartz surfaces.
• Eye-catching geometric floor tiles create visual interest, while a classic subway tile backsplash adds timeless appeal.
• The arched doorway was preserved as a charming architectural feature.
• Warm wood window trim and vintageinspired lighting, including a stunning stained- glass pendant, infuse the space with personality and warmth.
• The result is a kitchen that feels both contemporary and timeless.
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.
After
look
Before
3 & 4 • DOWNTOWN CARMEL
Urban set to perform ‘High and Alive’ tour at Ruoff
By Alan Sculley editorial@youarecurrent.com
Keith Urban has always been an artist willing to take chances musically, to leave room in the recording studio for creative spontaneity that allows songs to go in unexpected directions and take on dimensions he didn’t anticipate.
Urban will perform his “High and Alive” tour at 7 p.m. June 28 at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville.
As such, Urban’s albums have generally included at least a song or two that ventured beyond his signature rock-and-popinflected country sound or incorporated production approaches that veered from the norm of mainstream country music.
But as Urban turned his attention to making his follow-up to “The Speed Of Now Part 1,” he wondered if he should rein in his tendency to go off script in the studio. So, he purposely sought to create a more structured environment with the recording sessions.
Urban followed his plan and recorded all the songs for the album, which he planned to name “615” after the area code for Nashville where the album was recorded. That’s when something happened that Urban had never experienced before. With all the songs finished and ready for sequencing, Urban didn’t like what he heard and he scrapped the album.
“I think subconsciously I was wondering if sometimes my albums feel a bit scattershot and hard to define what they are,” Urban said. “And I thought, well, maybe I need to have more focus and definition for a specific kind of sound and a certain kind of song, and so I started recording those kinds of sounds and songs and I didn’t really, it didn’t allow for as much spontaneity as I’ve done on every other record — and exploration. The result was something a little bit too linear for me.”
Urban reluctantly set aside the album, but he now realizes he had been doing the right thing all along by allowing for spontaneity in the studio. And he set about making an album that felt right.
“The very first song we wrote after
that was ‘Chuck Taylors,’” Urban said. “It’s probably not coincidental why that song is so buoyant and high energy because I felt liberated after the ‘615’ experience. I’m like, ‘OK, well, I’ve confirmed how I don’t want to make records and I’d rather do it this way.’”
Urban named his new album “High” to represent the joy he felt during the project. And the music feels worthy of the enthusiasm the 57-year-old guitarist-singer-songwriter expresses about the album.
“High,” which was released in the fall of 2024, opens on an especially upbeat note with “Straight Line,” a rootsy tune with an irresistible groove, perky acoustic instrumentation and plenty of hooks that will feel instantly familiar to Urban’s fans. The same can be said of hefty ballads like “Daytona” and “Messed Up As Me,” two songs brought over from the “615” album that feel like prototypical Urban tunes. But Urban stretches out with other songs. The aforementioned “Chuck Taylors” combines the organic tones of acoustic guitar and a peppy synthetic beat to create a fresh and catchy sound, while “Laughin’ All The
Way To The Drank” punches up the beat and goes even more high octane when it hits an instrumental segment with banjo, violin and guitar solos. Taken together, “High” is a diverse, well-rounded effort that offers both musical comfort food and adventure.
Urban was happy with his latest album. But as he started planning for his tour in support of “High,” he sensed it was time for another change. He parted ways with three members of his touring band — Grammy nominated drummer Terence F. Clark, guitarist/keyboardist Nathan Barlowe, and most notably, guitarist and band leader Jerry Flowers, who had worked side by side with Urban since 1997.
“It was really born of the fact that I wanted to be literally out of a comfort zone of familiarity,” Urban said, adding that he and Flowers will always remain close friends. “I kind of have to just keep creating new things and creating with new people creates new things. It just does. And I was wanting to do that at some point when it just was the strongest sort of voice, and this year felt like the voice was speaking the strongest. It was like get out of your comfort zone. Throw yourself into a completely unfamiliar musical environment and see what happens.”
Known as one of country’s best live performers, Urban promises fans who see his “High and Alive” shows this summer will come away happy with the experience.
“We’ve got obviously new songs to put in there from the new record,” said Urban, who has 24 No. 1 singles on his resume, “(We’re) looking back into the catalog and finding some things we haven’t done in a long time or maybe ever, finding acoustic moments to do spontaneous things each night.
“I want it to be a high-energy night, so we come out of the gate swinging with the first couple of songs. I just want everybody to release. I just want everybody to forget about their lives for a couple of hours and just have a great time and leave feeling better than they came. That’s my mission.”
For more, visit ruoffmusiccenter.net.
‘THE LITTLE MERMAID’
“The Little Mermaid” runs through July 13 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“An Evening with Matt Soverns” is set for June 27, followed by “Bubbles Up! Let’s celebrate Jimmy Buffett” June 28 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Both performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘THE COTTAGE’
Red Barn Summer Theatre presents “The Cottage” June 25-29 and July 2-6 at the Frankfort venue. For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.
‘THE RETURN OF THE KING’
“The Return of the King,” an Elvis Presley tribute show, is set for 7 p.m. June 27 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘ELTON AND ME’
“Elton and Me,” featuring songs by Elton John and singer-songwriter Salvadore Liberto, is set for 3 p.m. June 29 at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
DISPATCHES
Tenderloin Tuesdays are back — Tenderloin Tuesdays return to Hamilton County June 24 to July 29, featuring more participating restaurants than ever. Fifty local businesses will offer deals and discounts each Tuesday during the promotion, spanning a variety of establishments throughout Hamilton County’s cities and towns. For more, visit TenderloinTuesday.com.
CSO receives $20,000 grant — The Carmel Symphony Orchestra has been notified it will be receiving a $20,000 grant from the Allen Whitehall Clowes Charitable Foundation for operational costs for 2025. The funds will help the symphony fulfill its mission to provide family-friendly concerts and engage youth through education.
MUSIC
Keith Urban will perform his “High and Alive” tour at 7 p.m. June 28 at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville. (Photo courtesy of PFA Media)
THE SONGBOOK ACADEMY® IN CONCERT
SAT, JUL 19 AT 7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
FITZ AND THE TANTRUMS MAN ON THE MOON TOUR
WED, AUG 6 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
HERB ALPERT & THE TIJUANA BRASS & OTHER DELIGHTS
THU, AUG 7 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BURTON CUMMINGS OF THE GUESS WHO A FEW GOOD MOMENTS TOUR
SUN, AUG 10 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
STORIES AND SONGS WITH ROGER MCGUINN
SAT, SEP 13 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
AN EVENING WITH BRIAN MCKNIGHT
FRI, SEP 26 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
JAY LENO
SAT, SEP 27 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
RICK BRAUN & MINDI ABAIR
SAT, OCT 4 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
IL DIVO BY CANDLELIGHT
THU, OCT 9 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
MATTHEW MORRISON: RHYTHMS & REVELATIONS
FRI, OCT 17 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
AN EVENING WITH TOMMY EMMANUEL, CGP
SAT, OCT 18 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
VIENNA BOYS CHOIR
SUN, OCT 19 AT 7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
SQUIRREL NUT ZIPPERS:
JAZZ FROM THE BACK O’ TOWN
FRI, OCT 24 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BUGS BUNNY AT THE SYMPHONY
SAT, NOV 1 AT 8PM & SUN, NOV 2 AT 2PM
PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
LISA LOEB & JOAN OSBORNE
FRI, NOV 7 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
TITO PUENTE JR. AND HIS LATIN JAZZ ENSEMBLE
SAT, NOV 8 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
SAMARA JOY FRI, NOV 14 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
PEABO BRYSON
FRI, NOV 21 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH DAVID FOSTER & KATHARINE MCPHEE
TUE, DEC 2 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
JON MCLAUGHLIN & FRIENDS
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS FRI, DEC 5 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND CREOLE CHRISTMAS MON, DEC 8 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS
FRI, DEC 12 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
CHRIS ISAAK
SAT, DEC 13 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA WITH RAY CHEN FRI, JAN 30 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
WAYNE NEWTON: UP CLOSE & PERSONAL SAT, FEB 14 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
CHRIS BOTTI FRI, MAR 6 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
DIRECT FROM ROME: THE THREE ITALIAN TENORS SUN, MAR 29 AT 7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
MANDY PATINKIN IN CONCERT: BEING ALIVE THU, APR 9 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
AN EVENING WITH MICHAEL FEINSTEIN FRI, APR 17 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
JOSHUA BELL
THU, APR 23 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
AN EVENING WITH JAKE SHIMABUKURO FRI, MAY 8 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM AND MANY MORE!
‘The Cottage’ is set for Red
Barn Theatre
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Red Barn Summer Theatre Artistic
Director Michael Taylor and Associate Artistic Director Luke McLaughlin took an immediate liking to “The Cottage” after seeing it on Broadway.
PLAY
“’The Cottage’ is fresh off Broadway, and the Red Barn is fortunate to be one of the first theaters in the Midwest to have the privilege of producing this play,” McLaughlin said. “As soon as the rights became available, I mentioned that Michael (Taylor) should try to scoop it up because it would be a hot property for theaters nationwide. We both cannot wait to share this hysterical, unique theatrical experience with our audiences.”
Red Barn presents “The Cottage” June 25-29 and July 2-6 at the Frankfort venue.
McLaughlin, who will direct, said Taylor also attended a regional production in Chicago to determine if it would be feasible to present the show in a theater of Red
Barn’s size.
“‘The Cottage’ is a farce with a style entirely of its own,” McLaughlin said. “It will be a great challenge for our company this year.”
McLaughlin said the play is fast paced.
“(The play is) filled to the gills with wit and keeps the audience on their toes from the moment the dialogue begins,” he said. “It’s been a long, long time since I’ve laughed as hard as I did during my first viewing.”
Taylor, a Hamilton Southeastern High School graduate who is a Frankfort High School theater teacher, portrays Beau in the production.
“Timing is the true challenge,’ McLaughlin said. “British wit demands a cadence that requires time and practice to perfect. With only 10 days to put the show together, the company knows it will take additional time and effort to polish the dialogue for our audiences. “
The cast consists of three men and three women.
For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.
JAY LENO
BRIAN MCKNIGHT
DAVID FOSTER & KATHARINE MCPHEE SAMARA JOY JAKE SHIMABUKURO AIDA CUEVAS
Katherine Abel and Michael Taylor rehearse a scene from “The Cottage.” (Photo courtesy of Luke McLaughlin)
LIFESTYLE
1. Arctic floating mass
5. Really put one’s foot down
10. Poker declaration
15. Man’s palindromic name
16. Not as bright
17. Gives a hoot
18. Start of a sleepyhead’s pun
21. Tuna type
22. Appliance brand
23. Downtown Carmel map phrase: “You ___ here”
26. Poet Maya
29. Guitar’s kin
33. “Break a leg out there!”
35. Approves, informally
38. Watched
39. Brickyard Billiards stick
40. Indy Zoo beast
41. Chicago’s overhead rails, briefly
42. Pun, part 2
46. Clean air org.
49. $, initially
50. NBA tiebreakers
51. Solemn vow
55. Hoosier Park victory margin
57. ___ Rigo Mexican Bar & Grill (Carmel eatery)
58. Cut drastically
59. Alternative to Rover
60. Mimic
63. Sound of relief
66. Knee injury inits.
36. Like some adult films table
64. Healing plants
68. End of pun
76. Killer whales
77. Arm bones
78. Geist inlet
79. Pacers three-pointers
80. Director Welles
81. Comprehended Down
1. Droid cousin
2. Biblical verb ending
3. GPS suggestion
4. Painter of IMA’s “Three Majos and Three Majas Dancing”
5. Homeland of 4-Down
6. Mai ___
7. Elderly
8. Most of the periodic
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BY THE TOWN OF ZIONSVILLE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS
Notice is hereby given of a Public Hearing to be held by the Town of Zionsville Board of Zoning Appeals on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. in the Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 West Oak Street, Zionsville, Indiana 46077 to consider the following Petition: Petition # 2025-17-DSV, filed for Bryan Spencer, requests Board of Zoning Appeals Approval: Variance of Development Standards to provide for or permit: Development Standards Variance pursuant to Section 194.082, Table 3 to reduce the side yard setback requirement in the Rural Single-Family and Two-Family Residential (R-2) zoning district.
The property involved is commonly known as: 9957 Ford Valley Lane, Zionsville, IN 46077 and is legally described as: Fox Hollow Sec 1 Lot 87
A copy of the Petition for Board of Zoning Appeal Approval, and all plans pertaining thereto are on file and may be examined prior to the Public Hearing from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, except for Holidays, in the Planning & Building Department in the Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 West Oak Street, Zionsville, Indiana, 46077. Written comments in support of or in opposition of the Petition that are filed with the Secretary of the Town of Zionsville Board of Zoning Appeals prior to the Public Hearing will be considered. The Public Hearing is open to the public. Oral comments to this Petition will be heard at the Public Hearing. The Public Hearing may be continued from time to time as may be found necessary. Further, and as allowed by the laws of the State of Indiana, members of the public will be afforded the opportunity to attend the Board of Zoning Appeals Public Meetings via a form(s) of electronic communication IF indicated in the Agenda (as amended from time to time) associated with the Board of Zoning Appeals Meeting.
Upon request, the Town of Zionsville will provide auxiliary aids and services. Please provide advance notification to the Technology Department, assistance@zionsville-in.gov or 317-873-1577, to ensure the proper accommodations are made prior to the meeting.
Chairman: Kathi Postlethwait
Secretary: Mike Dale
Publish: Jun 24, 2025
9. WRTV teaser
10. Desktop image
11. “Deck the Halls” snippet
12. Magic, on a Pacers scoreboard
13. New papal name
14. Clay Terrace shoe store letters
19. Bogus
20. Social blunder
23. Amaze
24. Fountain County town: Rob ___
25. Female sheep
27. Zionsville Farmers’ Market squash or pumpkin
28. ___ out a living
30. Eiteljorg Museum tribe
31. ___ Aviv
32. Current staffers, briefly
34. Big name in ice cream
37. Sleep stage
39. Couch component
40. Anthem rival
43. Victory Field ump cry
44. Cheer for the
SCAN
Shamrocks
45. Costa del ___
46. Santa’s helper 47. Architect IM 48. Plus
52. Hoosier Motor Club letters
53. IND safety org.
54. LBJ’s veep
56. “Scram!”
Indiana governor (1981-89)
WILL MOW LARGE residential and commercial lawns WILL DO SPRING CLEAN UP WILL DO BOBCAT WORK
Trim/Remove trees & shrubs Building Demolitions Clean Gutters
Trash Removal & Odd Jobs
Painting inside or Outdoors Property Clean Outs FULLY INSURED
Text or Call Jay 574-398-2135 shidelerjay@gmail.com www.jayspersonalservices.com
• OUTDOOR LANDSCAPE LIGHTING FREE ESTIMATES CALL 317-491-3491 TIRED OF CLEANING YOUR GUTTERS? CALL JIM WEGHORST AT 317-450-1333 FOR A FREE ESTIMATE ON THE #1 RATED GUTTER PROTECTION SYSTEM CALL TODAY 317-450-1333
coordinate downtime w/ business units. Will work in various unanticipated locations throughout the U.S. Req. MS in Electrical Engr. or related & 1 yr exp. Send resume & refer to job title to steven@r10networks.com.
