Tuesday, May 13, 2025
40th annual Brick Street Market draws thousands to Zionsville / P9
Comprehensive planning near completion / P2
ZCHS senior named Purdue Stamps Scholar / P3
Development plans approved for Bradley Ridge / P5
Witham Health Services honors volunteers / P6
EDUCATION news@youarecurrent.com
Zionsville Community High School senior Anne Nooning has been named a Stamps Scholar and a member of the John Martinson Honors College at Purdue University for the 2025-26 academic year.
The Stamps Scholars Program covers a student’s full cost of attendance — tuition, room and board — and connects students with a national network of dedicated peers. The award, named for benefactors E. Roe Stamps and his late wife Penny, awards multiyear scholarships to driven and talented student leaders. The program partners with colleges and universities to provide annual awards that range from $6,000 to $90,000, with additional funds for enrichment activities such as study abroad, academic conferences and leadership training.
Eligible students are automatically considered for the Stamps Scholarship upon applying to Purdue University. Recipients demonstrate academic merit, strong leadership potential and exceptional character.
Nooning plans to study political science while attending Purdue University.
Congressional interns recognized — U.S. Sen. Todd Young recently recognized Hoosier students who participated in the spring session of his internship program in Washington, D.C., and Indianapolis. The students assisted with daily activities and special projects related to legislation, communications and constituent services. Interns included Jon Zimpfer of Zionsville, a junior at Indiana University Bloomington; Sarah Dawood of Carmel, a sophomore at Indiana University Indianapolis; and Anna Schlueter of Noblesville, a junior attending Indiana University Bloomington. Internship opportunities are available year-round. Learn more at young.senate.gov
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
The Town of Zionsville issued a proclamation in April recognizing Prevent Child Abuse Awareness Month.
Indiana
Department of Child Services Director Adam Krupp and Prevent Child Abuse Boone County President Matt Wilson recently gave a presentation to the Zionsville Town Council to highlight the need to increase awareness of child abuse in Indiana and promote community efforts to prevent child maltreatment.
reported 56 children’s deaths in Indiana because of abuse and/or neglect in 2023. Krupp said in Boone County, there are 65 to 75 active cases of children in need of services.
“I would like to thank the town of Zionsville for joining many other towns, cities and states by recognizing Prevent Child Abuse Awareness Month,” Wilson said. “I appreciate your willingness to take the step in responding to not only preventing child abuse and neglect but promoting proactive and pro-social ways to do so (to) empower our young people and ensure that they have a safe and supportive community to grow in.”
The Indiana Department of Child Services
“Because we’re in Zionsville, we do not think (it) happens in our backyard,” he said. “But please don’t think when you hear about abuse and neglect in Boone County that it’s probably not Zionsville. Please don’t ever get complacent and think that, because it can happen anywhere.”
Krupp said the Indiana Department of Child Services is working to strengthen early intervention programs, expand foster care support and collaborate with local organizations for improved outcomes.
“Here in Zionsville, we have incredible resources,” he said. “We just need to rally together to support strengthening families and protecting children. Zionsville has some incredibly strong families, but prevention requires that we not get complacent.”
Learn more about child abuse prevention services in Indiana at pcain.org.
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com.
Kylie Heagy will attend her first Indianapolis 500 in style.
The 2021 Zionsville Community
High School graduate will be part of the parade around the Indianapolis Speedway before the May 25 race as a 500 Festival Princess.
“I don’t think I’ll be able to go back again after this. I think I’m going to get spoiled,” Heagy said.
had previously been a Princess.
“She had a really great experience with it, and I really enjoyed being on the homecoming court, so it seemed like a natural continuation of it,” Heagy said. “It’s surpassed my expectations.”
Heagy
Heagy is one of the 33 500 Festival Princesses, whose selection is based on communication skills, leadership and commitment to service. Applicants must attend an accredited Indiana college or university.
An IU Indianapolis senior majoring in applied data science, Heagy didn’t know much about the 500 Festival Princess Program before meeting a fellow member of the IU Indianapolis homecoming court who
Heagy’s mentor for the 500 Festival Princess Program is Cindy Morse from Salesforce.
Heagy said she has been enjoying interacting with the elementary school children on her outreaches.
“(It’s nice) to get them excited about May (racing events) and for their futures,” said Heagy, who speaks with girls about STEM fields. “I’m excited for Breakfast at the Brickyard (May 17). I’m also working on outreach with the Zionsville Middle School orchestra program.”’
Heagy played the cello in middle and high school orchestras. She also performed with the Indianapolis Youth Orchestra. In addition, she competed in cross country at ZCHS.
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
The Zionsville Plan Commission recently approved two measures related to the development of the Bradley Ridge PUD on the northwest corner of U.S. 421 and E. 200 S.
The development plans included two sections of single-family homes — a 42-acre portion that would hold 50 lots; and a 172-acre section that would have 40 lots and open space, including an orchard. The primary plat for the entire 349-acre development was approved by the Zionsville Plan Commission in November 2024.
During a public comment period April 21, residents near the development expressed concerns that the landscaping design would include trees not native to Indiana. Residents also asked for clarity on road improvements, emergency access points and if there are plans to upgrade a single-lane bridge leading into the proposed development.
Henke representatives said there is room to discuss which trees are part of the landscaping plan.
“We’ve starred the orchard area, we’ve planted 100 fruit trees (and) we have a couple hundred more coming,” Brad Henke said. “We’ll strongly work to continue planting in that orchard area.”
The Zionsville Plan Commission recently approved development plans for sections 1A and 1B of Bradley Ridge. The development plan for section 1C will come to the commission May 19. (Image courtesy of Town of Zionsville)
Members of the plan commission said the single-lane bridge falls under the purview of Boone County.
Per the development plan, building permits will not be applied for or granted until sanitary sewer infrastructure is installed. That utility installation could go by sections, but homes will not be constructed until they can be served, according to staff.
A development plan for an additional 39 acres within the Bradley Ridge PUD will be introduced to the plan commission May 19.
news@youarecurrent.com
Special Olympics Indiana recently announced four teams will take part in the 2026 USA Games, including one from Boone County.
The Boone County AllStarz basketball team will compete as part of Team Indiana in June 2026 during the USA Games in Minnesota. The games bring together 3,000 athletes, 1,500 coaches, 10,000 volunteers and 75,000 fans from all 50 states.
The Indiana delegation also includes cornhole teams from Porter, White, Delaware, Jay and Lake counties; the Madison County Mustangs flag football team; and Eli
Hightshue of Johnson County participating in men’s golf.
“Congratulations to all of the Team Indiana members, and good luck at the 2026 USA Games in Minnesota,” Team Indiana Head of Delegation Katie Hilt stated. “We look forward to competing on a national stage and showing the country all of the talented Special Olympics athletes who call Indiana home.”
Team Indiana members will attend training camps in the leadup to the 2026 Games. Rosters for bocce, bowling, women’s golf, powerlifting, soccer, swimming and track and field will be announced at a later date.
Learn more at soindiana.org.
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Football was once the favorite sport for Park Tudor School senior Luke Alberts.
“I liked football more, but it ended up I got better at lacrosse than I was a football player,” he said. “At this point, I like lacrosse better than football because I think I’m better at it, but I like watching football a lot more.”
The 5-foot-10, 160-pound Carmel resident, who played cornerback and safety for Park Tudor, is in his third year starting as a defender for the Panthers.
“I’ve made the most improvement in picking up ground balls, not just being a defender but someone who can get the ball for our offense consistently, playing defense but being someone who can get the offense into motion,” he said.
Alberts benefits from a high lacrosse IQ.
“Luke has considerable ability to understand and anticipate the game, which leads
Favorite TV show: “The Sopranos”
Favorite movie: “The Blues Brothers”
Favorite subject: U.S. history/ government
Favorite vacation spot: Los Angeles
Favorite musician: Jimmy Buffett
him to break up and even intercept a high number of attempted passes,” Park Tudor lacrosse coach Drew Bogan said. “Since joining our program, he has grown in confidence, especially in his on-ball defending. He has gained experience, improved his footwork and learned to trust his team-
Park Tudor School senior Luke Alberts is a threeyear starting defender for the school’s lacrosse team. (Photo courtesy of Alberts family)
mates in our system, all of which frees him up to put more pressure on ball carriers.”
The Panthers had a 7-5 record as of May 6.
“I feel we’re peaking at the right time, and we’ve consistently gotten better as a unit,” he said. “Hopefully, we can keep that momentum going as we move into the playoffs in May.”
Alberts, who attended Creekside Middle School in Carmel, has been playing lacrosse since grade school.
“I started playing more seriously when I was in middle school,” he said.
Alberts played football and lacrosse at Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School as a
freshman before transferring to Park Tudor. Alberts, who has a 4.2 grade point average with academic distinction, has earned Academic All-State recognition in football and lacrosse. He also was recognized by the Indiana Football Coaches’ Association as a member of its “Good Works” first team for his work with pediatric cancer fundraising. He is president and CEO of the EmilyStrong Foundation, an Indiana nonprofit that raises money and awareness for pediatric cancer research. It is named for his older sister, Emily, a cancer survivor. Alberts said he is proud of his involvement with Model United Nations.
“I was able to develop my public speaking abilities, which, going into high school, I didn’t really have,” he said. “It wasn’t my strong suit, but Model UN helped out with that and I think it will serve me well in the future.”
Alberts, who intends to explore playing club lacrosse at Duke University, plans to major in history and wants to attend law school.
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@youarecurrent.com.
Zionsville’s business roots run deep
celebrates 90 years of service
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One hundred years ago, President Calvin Coolidge famously said, “The business of America is business.” At that time, Zionsville was just 73 years old, and our business community was already thriving. The red-brick Main Street was home to a hotel, restaurants, taverns and general stores. Residents could even purchase appliances, lumber, and fabric brought in by train from across the country.
Over the years, modern businesses have moved into the historic buildings that have stood the test of time. While the charm of our town remains at its core, Zionsville has expanded to 67 square miles, making it one of the largest municipalities in the state. Yet, despite our impressive size, we continue to embrace our small-town identity. One thing that hasn’t changed is Zionsville’s reputation as a welcoming place for both neighbors and visitors. “Hoosier Hospitality” may not have been invented here, but we like to think we’ve perfected it.
What holds true on Main Street is true throughout our entire business community. From the shops and services along 106th Street and Oak Street to Appaloosa Crossing and Michigan Road, Zionsville’s businesses are at the heart of what makes our town special. Our local business owners, entrepreneurs, and employees work hard every day to create a vibrant, welcoming community, and we are grateful for all that they do.
Our town motto, “Zionsville: For All the Right Reasons,” is more than just words – we live by it. Whether you’re visiting a local boutique, dining at one of our restaurants, or stopping by a professional office or coffee shop, you’ll be met with a warm welcome. Here in Zionsville, we treat you like family because, in our community, a stranger never stays a stranger for long.
To all of our business owners, employees, and entrepreneurs – thank you. Your dedication and passion make Zionsville a truly exceptional place to live, work, and visit. We celebrate you, and we look forward to supporting you for years to come.
John Stehr Mayor of Zionsville
Dear Zionsville Business Community,
It is our honor to celebrate the remarkable businesses that make our town truly exceptional. From longstanding establishments like Kern Bros. Shoes that have served generations to innovative ventures like Intelligent Living Solutions bringing fresh energy to our community, each of you plays an essential role in shaping Zionsville’s identity, economy and quality of life.
Our local businesses are the heart and soul of our town. They sponsor youth sports teams, support school fundraisers and step up in times of need. They create jobs, welcome visitors and make Zionsville a place people are proud to call home. Whether it’s Our Place Coffee that knows your order by heart, Fivethirty Home that curates just the right gift, or Control Tech Heating & Air that goes the extra mile, your dedication does not go unnoticed.
This past year, we’ve seen incredible examples of perseverance, collaboration and growth. Many Zionsville businesses have expanded teams, renovated spaces, launched new services and given back generously to our local community. Through events like Brick Street Market, First Tuesday Networking, Street Dance and our new Young Professionals programs, we’ve seen the strength of our business community on full display.
We also recognize the challenges that come with running a business, and we’re here to stand with you. Through advocacy, promotion, networking, and education, the Zionsville Chamber is committed to supporting your success and helping your business thrive in a changing world.
To every business owner, manager, employee and entrepreneur — thank you. Thank you for choosing Zionsville. Thank you for investing your time, energy, and talent into making this community stronger. Your work matters, and your impact is lasting.
As we look ahead, we’re excited to continue partnering with you to grow, adapt, and lead. Together, we will keep Zionsville a vibrant town where business and community go hand in hand.
With sincere appreciation,
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As the only provider with an on-site, private crematory in Carmel, Zionsville, and Westfield, we ensure your loved ones never leave our trusted care. We take pride in offering our community a level of care and service that sets us far apart from other local funeral homes.
This difference allows us to provide a seamless, dignified, and respectful process while giving families peace of mind during their most challenging times. Do not be intimidated to ask questions. There are essential differences between funeral homes.
By Les Morris news@currentzionsville.com
Kern Bros. Shoes in Zionsville is in it for the long haul. The family-owned business has been at the Boone Village Shopping Center for more than 50 years. The original store began selling shoes in Frankfort a century ago.
Linda Kern, who owns the store with her husband Bill Kern, said they’ve been in business so long that they are now selling shoes to the children and grandchildren of past customers. Kern Bros. Shoes has brands for men, women and children and has expanded its selection to include dancing shoes, swimwear and Zionsville spirit wear.
“The town has always been so supportive and continues to be,” Linda Kern said. “And we have grown along with the town.”
She notes Zionsville’s “explosion” of growth in the last five years.
“The shoes we carry are part of our growth, but the population growth has been helpful to everyone,” she said.
The journey started in St. Louis in the early 1970’s when Bill worked at the corporate office of Brown Shoe Co. Brown was a giant in the shoe business at the time and had a division whose function was to identify good locations for retail
shoe stores.
One of those locations was Zionsville. Bill wasn’t enamored of corporate life, and the newlyweds were anxious to return to family in central Indiana, so the Zionsville store of Kern Bros. Shoes was born.
Linda credits the dozens of employees, both adults and high school students, for making the store successful. The store has approximately eight fulland part-time employees.
“We want to thank the town,” Linda said. “It’s been an amazing life.”
news@currentzionsville.com
The Loft By EvanTodd, 640 S. Main St., Suite 400 in downtown Zionsville, is a premier salon and spa poised to elevate the standard for luxury beauty and wellness locally.
Founded by Todd Leuck, a second-generation stylist trained at the Vidal Sassoon Academy in London, the studio offers premium scalp and hair care, advanced skincare by trained estheticians and skincare specialists and more within a beautiful environment enhanced by carefully curated fine art through an association with the prestigious Long-Sharp Gallery. The space is enriched by rotating exhibitions of fine art, including works by local and Indiana artists.
“We at The Loft By EvanTodd want each person who walks in our studio to have a truly special experience,” Leuck stated. “It’s about them leaving here feeling fantastic and excited to share their experience with others.”
Services and products include premium makeup solutions from Jane Iredale and Ultraceuticals skincare line.
For hair and scalp care, The Loft By EvanTodd incorporates Aveda’s Scalp Solutions and therapeutic scalp massages with treatments that stimulate circulation, remove buildup and create an optimal environment for hair growth. The studio exclusively uses Aveda’s
plant-powered, toxin-free products for their hair services to ensure the health and vitality of both hair and scalp.
Each salon experience includes:
• Expert consultation to better understand goals and curate the service.
• Stress-relieving aromatherapy scalp massage.
• Luxury shampoo at top-of-the-line Teknowash Chromeotherapy shampoo stations with Japanese shiatsu massage.
• Hot aroma-infused face towel then rejuvenating mini facial.
• Hot aroma-infused hand towel then hand and arm massage using Aveda’s Hand Relief.
Signature Style Sessions are private, one-on-one styling and luxury makeover experiences that offer stylistic expertise and guidance for how to look and dress for adapting to current or changing lifestyles, finding the perfect style for any season or special event or a lifestyle transformation.
“This Signature Style Session is all about creating a truly personalized look for each client,” Leuck stated. “It’s an opportunity to delve deeper into their individual style aspirations and provide a transformative journey that aligns perfectly with their unique lifestyle.”
Learn more and book appointments at theloftbyevantodd.com.
By Marney Simon marney@currentzionsville.com
Before the original plat of Zionsville was drawn in 1852, the first known business opened in Eagle Township in 1824 — Sheets Grist Mill on Little Eagle Creek. At that time, the bulk of activity was in Eagle village on Michigan Road.
When the original 65 lots were recorded by William Zion forming the Town of Zionsville in 1852 — with boundaries of present-day Sycamore, Elm and Oak streets — the first dry-goods store was opened. By the next year a post office was granted to the town, and a depot was built for the railroad that traveled through town on what is now First Street. Present-day Main Street was created in 1855.
Since then, Zionsville has been home to thousands of businesses, according to statistics and information gathered and collated by the Zionsville Historical Society and SullivanMunce Cultural Center/PH Sullivan Museum.
In 1858, Cropper’s Furniture Store opened on Main Street. The store also operated as the local undertaking establishment for several years. The town also had
From left, James W. Brendel and Marcus D. Harvey with a row corn planter in front of Metzger Lumber at the corner of Main and Pine streets in the late 1800s. The original building was later razed and became what is known today as Bender’s Square.
a sawmill, a gristmill and more than a half-dozen saloons, as well as Liebhardt’s — a widely known woolen mill famous for dyeing capabilities.
As the town grew and more land was recorded, more businesses opened. By 1884, there were five dry-goods stores; four shoe stores; nine grocers; two hardware stores; one furniture store; two livery stables;
three blacksmiths; one hotel; three barber shops; and one bakery and restaurant. The town also attracted professionals, including doctors and dentists.
Interesting business ventures over the years include a lease that was signed in 1907 between the town and Omer Stultz and Edgar Byers to operate a roller-skating rink at Zionsville Town Hall.
By the 1930s, Zionsville was considered “self-sufficient” because of its array of agriculture, mills, shops, services and position on the interurban electric rail line connecting the town to Indianapolis.
One of the town’s most famous employers was Pittman-Moore, a manufacturer of animal health products known locally as “the piggery.” Pittman-Moore operated in Zionsville from 1915 to 1954 before being acquired by the Dow Chemical Co. It became the largest employer of local labor in 1939.
More than 170 years since its founding, Zionsville businesses continue to thrive.
By Les Morris news@currentzionsville.com
An old farmhouse on the north side of the Holliday Farms development off U.S. 421 in Zionsville had always grabbed Traci Garontakos’s attention. She dreamed of having her office there. Garontakos is the managing partner of The Agency, a thriving international residential real estate firm with a local office in Zionsville. But the building wasn’t for sale.
And then one day, it was.
Brad Henke, partner at Henke Development Group, Holliday Farms’ developer, called Garontakos to tell her the farmhouse was available.
Garontakos and her husband Mike immediately purchased the building at 3650 S. U.S. 421 in March 2023. Less than a year later, the couple bought a second parcel at the same site.
Now, they have plans to redevelop the property and add commercial tenants. When finished, the development will be 27,000 square feet in three barn-inspired buildings and will house nine to 10 tenants, all with local connections.
“My vision is I wanted something true to Zionsville but that also allowed for modern day amenities,” Traci Garontakos said. “It was an opportunity to give back to the community.”
One of the hallmarks of the new development will be a courtyard in the middle of the three buildings suitable for a small communal space.
“We really designed it to have a central courtyard for community gatherings. I didn’t want it to feel like every commercial development out there,” Garontakos said. “I wanted to make it special and unique.”
Three businesses have already signed leases with tentative plans to open this year. The dental practice of Dr. Frank Miller will locate to the new space.
A new MOOV health and wellness location providing beauty, performance and recovery and longevity services has also signed a lease.
“There are so many qualities that this site possesses that had made all of us at MOOV so excited for our new location,” said Dr. Emily Luerssen, MOOV’s medical director. “I am from Zionsville as well as a member at Holliday Farms. To have MOOV so close to home and situated in such a close-knit and supportive community is more than ideal. The vision for the site is stunning.”
The third tenant, Bunny Hive, offering interactive classes and social events for adults and their children, will occupy the old farmhouse, and The Agency will move to one of the new buildings.
The Agency continues to grow with a staff of 14 agents. The luxury boutique real estate firm, which opened in 2023, has plans to open a second Indianapolis-area office this year.
Garontakos credits the success to a collaborative culture and the care and compassion for the client experience.
“Luxury is an experience, not a price point,” Garontakos said. “And everyone deserves that experience when buying or selling a home.”
The new Community Clinic at Walgreens in Zionsville offers convenient care with evening and weekend hours. Whether you need cold and flu care, treatment for minor injuries or help managing chronic conditions, our exceptional care team is there for you. Now open at 200 S. Ford Rd.
Scan the QR code to learn more and schedule your appointment.
Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 7 pm Saturday – Sunday, 8:30 am – 5 pm
Community Health Network was created 60 years ago by our neighbors — for our neighbors. Which is why Community is dedicated to increasing access to exceptional care throughout Central Indiana. And we’re especially excited to announce our arrival to Zionsville. Now, patients in Boone County and surrounding areas can get the care they need where they feel most comfortable. Because every community — especially a growing one — needs more access to the best care options.
Earlier this year, the Zionsville Community Clinic at Walgreens came to fruition. Whether you need help managing chronic conditions, treatment for minor injuries, cold and flu care, or a sports or camp physical, our expert team is there to help you and your family.
We are also proud to announce our further expansion coming this June — our first Zionsville primary care and OB/GYN o ce. Now, if you’re looking for annual checkups, long-term treatment or full-spectrum women’s wellness services, we’ll have it all. We’ll
also o er same-day and virtual appointment access, making local care reliable and convenient.
The new o ce will be located at 55 Brendon Way, Suite 100 in Zionsville, Indiana — near Oak Street.
Community Health Network can’t wait to bring new healthcare opportunities to a community near you. To learn more about our new Zionsville practice opening this June, please visit eCommunity.com/Zionsville.
As we look forward to the new practice opening its doors, we know that there are still healthcare needs in the meantime. If you or a loved one needs care now, schedule an appointment online today for Community Clinic at Walgreens – Zionsville by scanning the QR code below.
By Marney Simon marney@currentzionsville.com
Aaron-Ruben-Nelson mortuary in Zionsville offers a special touch for its customers — something its staff takes seriously as they offer assistance during one of the hardest times a person can face.
The business celebrates 90 years serving the Indianapolis-area in 2025. It provides traditional funeral services, cremation, green burial services and unveiling services.
The funeral home was started in 1935 by Meyer Aaron and Irving Ruben at 19th Street and Meridian. In 1952, Max Nelson went to work for the business. He purchased the funeral home in 1964. ARN moved to its Zionsville location on Michigan Road in 2009. Max Nelson died in 2019.
ARN President Jennifer Nelson Williams is Max Nelson’s daughter. She said the businesses’ longevity can be credited to its caring foundation.
“My dad loved the Indianapolis community so much,” she said. “As we were growing up watching him, you could just see the love he had for people and the community. He always felt that this was the greatest job. He constantly said that he just was so grateful that this is what he stumbled into. We would be out for dinner when we were
little and people would come to the table and thank him, and you could just see that connection people felt to him. And that was certainly because of his personality.”
Williams said one thing that sets ARN apart is its ability to adhere to customs and rituals of families from a wide variety of backgrounds — providing services catered to serve various religious, spiritual or multicultural needs.
“A funeral doesn’t necessarily mean burial, but it means that service. It is memorializing the person who has died,” she said. “My dad just loved learning about the different traditions and definitely passed on that joy to me. That’s emblematic of the type of business that he always wanted to have, that we just say yes. We’re all honoring people because we love the person. It’s just that the expression is slightly different between every tradition.”
Williams said statistically, people experience a death in the family every seven years. That means funerals are actually infrequent. ARN staff assist those in mourning navigate that difficult time.
“We have a really highly trained, hand-picked staff that really work very
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hard to honor each family’s individual traditions,” she said. “Because we’re family-owned and smaller, we have the ability to really go above and beyond what maybe is the norm.”
The services include an on-site crematory, which is unusual, Williams said.
“We’re the only funeral home in Carmel and Zionsville that actually has a crematory right here,” she said. “When somebody comes into our care, they stay under our supervision because somebody lives here, which is also a little bit of an old-fashioned practice, but we have an apartment here. Someone lives here and so someone is always here.”
Williams said it’s not unusual for the funeral business to be a family affair.
“It’s not something that people typically know about,” she said. “The investment to start one is extremely expensive because of the land — funeral homes are built as residential quality, not like a corporate office. So, that investment is very expensive and typically they get passed down. It’s something somebody grows up in and sees, yes, I could do that.”
Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Mortuary, 11411 N. Michigan Rd. in Zionsville, can be reached 24 hours a day at 317873-4776. Learn more at arnmortuary. com.
Saturday, August 23, 2025 •
news@currentzionsville.com
brates 25 years in 2025.
at 160 S. Main St., in 2000. Originally named Cob blestone Grill, it was rechristened Cobblestone Zionsville in 2017 after an interior renovation.
ing featuring an American farm-to-table menu of steaks, salmon, salads, unique sandwiches and appetizers; adult bar area; family-friendly din ing room; private space for events; craft brews; extensive wine and bourbon lists; brick-lined, dog-friendly outdoor patio; and live music on weekends.
Cobblestone Grill opened,” Zionsville resident Steve Russo said. “They are outstanding and in volved members of the Zionsville community, both as long-time restaurant owners and residents. From the Boone County Humane Society to the Zionsville Street Dance, they have devoted their time, experience and their restaurant location to our town.”
In 1974, newlyweds Bill and Linda Kern chose to carry on a family tradition that began in 1924 with Bill’s grandfather by opening the second location of Kern Bros. Shoes in the newly constructed Boone Village Shopping Center. Over the past 50 years, they have witnessed the evolution of footwear styles and brands, all while enjoying & embracing the opportunity to live in and raise their family in the vibrant community of Zionsville.
Thanks to the dedication of numerous outstanding employees throughout the years, Kern Bros. Shoes has remained committed to providing customers with high-quality footwear and, since the 1990s, a selection of Zionsville spiritwear. The continued support and enthusiasm of local families have been vital to the success of this independent, locally owned, small business. They are proud to be your hometown shoe store.
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Thousands of visitors made their way to Zionsville’s historic brick Main Street May 3 for the 40th Brick Street Market — a tradition that celebrates the history of the Village while giving local business owners and visitors an opportunity to purchase some of the area’s best handcrafted jewelry, original artwork, gourmet foods and unique home decor.
More than 100 vendors lined the brick Main Street, with shop owners taking advantage of the foot traffic and proximity to the market to set up sales on sidewalks.
Brick Street Market — presented by the Zionsville Chamber of Commerce — is an important part of Zionsville’s cultural and economic life, according to the chamber’s Executive Director Mike Hanlon.
“This year’s milestone market was truly something special,” he said. “The energy from vendors and attendees alike made it clear just how much this tradition means to our town.”
Andrea Gregory owns Village Mercantile at 285 S. Main St. This was the first Brick Street Market for Gregory, who purchased the business — formerly Michele’s on Main — Feb. 1. She said the market is a boon for businesses as the warm season kicks off.
“It affects our business a lot. We’ll probably do a triple-order sale in the business and the product,” she said. “It is a great time to come to Zionsville. It means that I have to order more.This week, I ordered probably three times what I normally would order and I was trying to get boxes in and get stuff out to have enough merchandise because of the market. It’s a good problem.”
Andrew Schnell owns AJ Schnell Wood Works in Zionsville. His business specializes in custom-made wood furniture, art and specialty gifts like wooden bookmarks and coasters. Schnell said Brick Street Market is where he showcases some of his smaller items while promoting his overall business.
“I’m local, and this is where I get a lot of my business for my furniture with referrals and people seeing the pieces that I have out,” he said. “That’s the big benefit
to me is that I’m here and that’s one of the first things everybody asks — where am I from? Being here definitely helps out.”
Schnell said events in the Village benefit local businesses and the Town of Zionsville as a whole. He said vendor markets are especially useful for small businesses
that don’t have a physical store.
“It brings a lot of people that don’t live here to experience the reason that lots of us live here. But also, this helps people that might not be able to have a storefront or who aren’t able to be visible to the community,” he said. “That’s what I use it for, is for people to see me. That’s
The 40th annual Brick Street Market was the first large-scale event held in the Village since Zionsville activated its Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area.
City leaders said the district has had a smooth transition.
“The Brick Street Market was our first big event with the DORA, and everything went great,” Zionsville Mayor John Strehr said. “There were no issues and it was nothing but positive, so that was a good thing. I just have a really good feeling about the summer.”
A DORA is a geographic area where alcohol can be sold to those 21 and older in labeled cups and carried outdoors
within the DORA boundary. Zionsville’s DORA encompasses the Village, with the north to south border from Poplar Street to south of 106th Street; and extending west to east from Second to Elm streets, with a carve-out between Hawthorne and Sycamore streets to include SullivanMunce Cultural Center. The district also includes Creekside Corporate Park.
Businesses that are designated permittees — those that sell alcohol and those that allow cups to be carried into their establishments — are marked with official DORA decals.
always the thing I struggle with is letting people know that I exist. So, that is one of the biggest benefits I see personally from the market here.”
Mayor John Stehr said Brick Street Market represents a change in the town. Although Brick Street Market is the first large-scale event in the Village each year, it serves as a feeder to the weekly farmers market and other local events.
“I think the Brick Street Market is a great way to kick off the summer season in Zionsville,” Stehr said. “The farmers market is going to carry us all the way through to the fall festival. I think it’s setting up just to be a fabulous summer in town. It comes at a time of year when we’re really transitioning from winter to spring, and it just reminds people that we have this great brick street, we have this great district and it’s time to get out and start enjoying it again.”
Hanlon said the market is only possible thanks to volunteers, staff, donors, town partners and vendors. This year’s title sponsor was Love Roof Co.
“Brick Street Market continues to grow not just in size, but in spirit,” Hanlon said. “We heard from vendors who were thrilled by the response, and from residents and visitors who said this year’s market felt especially meaningful. It’s a proud moment for the chamber and a great start to the warm weather season for our downtown.”
Gregory — whose business will host an official grand opening and ribbon cutting June 14 — said the market was a good way to introduce her specialty shop under new ownership to the community. She said she and other Village shop owners are looking forward to sales increasing as market season gears up.
“January, February and March are kind of really really quiet in the Village,” she said. “I knew that; I worked for (Michelle’s on Main) before I purchased the store, so I knew what to expect. But also I knew that once the season kicks off, it’s go time.”
ON THE COVER: Visitors browse the offerings of 100 vendors at the 2025 Brick Street Market. (Photo by Marney Simon)
Commentary by Larry Greene
This north Carmel basement bar underwent a striking transformation, evolving from a cluttered, traditional setup into a sleek and moody entertainment hub. The goal was to create a more refined and functional space for hosting with a bold yet timeless aesthetic.
THE BLUEPRINT
• Rich navy cabinetry replaced the dated cherry wood, introducing depth and modern elegance.
• Brushed nickel hardware and globe pendant lights bring in contemporary contrast.
• White quartz countertops and a subtle tile backsplash offer a clean, sophisticated foundation.
• Integrated wine storage, open shelving, double drawer fridge and upgraded finishes make this bar both handsome and highly functional.
• A deep navy accent wall and layered lighting design create an inviting, lounge-like atmosphere perfect for evening gatherings.
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.
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Sadie Johnson has been trying to figure out how to categorize herself, genre-wise, and she hasn’t been able to yet.
The singer-songwriter has been constantly writing songs the past several months.
“There is a lot of my jazz influence coming out,” Johnson said. “That’s what I primarily played with when I was 11 or 12. I hit the jazz hard. Always the blues roots coming in. It’s a nice mix of that with soul, sultry vocals. I want to get to a new Aretha Franklin-type vibe.”
Johnson, who sings and plays the guitar, will make her Live at the Center series debut at 7:30 p.m. May 21 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
“I am definitely looking forward to this series show and working on getting into more of these type of venues,” she said. “It’s going to be very cool.”
Johnson, who recently moved from Indianapolis to Nashville, Tenn., formed a new band in Nashville.
“We’re working on a bunch of new music,” she said. “We’re kind of figuring out what the next chapter is musically for me. It is a very funky and jamming kind of stuff. I’m excited to show the Indy and Carmel area what I’ve been working on for the last several months.”
Johnson graduated from Bloomington North High School in December 2014, a semester early, to go on a Blues Caravan/ Girls with Guitars tour in 2015 for Ruf Records.
Johnson, a Marietta (Ohio) College graduate, helped start a music therapy program at her college.
“So, I’m also a music therapist, which is really cool,” Johnson said.
Johnson moved to Indianapolis in 2022 when she served an internship at Riley Hospital for Children. Then she decided she wanted to perform more.
“I would gig a lot of solo shows for the years I was in Indy, playing originals but also a lot of covers, making them my own,” she said.
Johnson also played frequently with bands in the Indianapolis area.
“It was electric stuff, then more acoustic stuff,” she said. “Genre-wise, it’s kind of like Norah Jones meets Jimi Hendrix. It’s very strange.”
Johnson said she will perform some acoustic songs and strip them down a bit for the Live at the Center show.
“One of the incredible ways you can reach an audience is stripping it down, acoustic and vocals,” Johnson said. “But I’m also bringing up a really great drummer, a bass player and another guitarist. Just rocking it out and getting super funky and debuting a bunch of new tunes.”
Johnson has returned to the Indianapolis area for some shows but has not yet performed in Nashville.
“I’ve just been writing, writing and writing,” she said.
Johnson’s EP “Natural Distractions”
came out in 2023. She has been working on new recordings.
In 2010, Johnson began performing with her older sister, Samantha, in the Sad Sam Blues Jam band. The Sad name is short for Sadie and Sam is short for her sister’s name.
“It kind of disintegrated when we both went to college,” Johnson said. “Sam married Nick Harless, who is a fantastic Texas blues, kind of rock musician in Anderson and Indy area. Every once in a while, she plays with him, but she’s a full-time mom and helps to run his business. We get together once a year at my parents’ house and play for my mom and dad.”
Johnson is putting her music therapy skills to use in Nashville with music classes for parents, caregivers and babies.
“It’s continuing child development through music and play,” she said. “Hopefully, in the next year I’ll begin a job as a music therapist.”
Tickets are $10 for the Live at the Center show. A free livestream is available at thecenterpresents.org.
‘CHURCH BASEMENT LADIES’
“Church Basement Ladies” runs through May 18 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Thank You for the Music! An ABBA Party” is set for May 15, followed by “Murder Mystery Night: Midnight at the Masquerade” May 16 and “Dueling Pianos” May 17 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘BEAUTY AND THE BEAST’
Central Indiana Dance Ensemble presents “Beauty and the Beast” May 17-18 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit cidedance.org.
‘NOCHES CALIENTES!’
Indiana Wind Symphony presents “Noches Calientes!” at 4 p.m. May 18 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit indianawindsymphony.org.
ICC high school season-finale set — What is old becomes new again as the Indianapolis Children’s Choir performs the final concert of its 39th season. Singers from the choir’s high school division will perform a concert entitled “Dawning” at 4 p.m. May 18 at the St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Indianapolis. The choir will present movements from major works that take historical text and set the words to increasingly modernized musical styles. “The juxtaposition of genres and texts both old and new was what we really wanted to focus on when putting together this concert,” stated Joshua Pedde, ICC executive artistic director. “It was an important way for us to end the Sounds of Progress concert season as we look towards the organization’s 40th anniversary and shed light on what’s to come for us and for these amazing singers.” For more, visit icchoir.org.
5. UIndy instructor
9. Detest
13. IU sports org.
14. *Principal/base metal?
15. Gray Eagle Golf Club club
16. Mud Creek Players play parts
17. Not for
18. Bugle call
19. *Show/a gift?
21. *Unite/a farm machine?
24. “Days of ___ Lives”
25. Service charge
26. Scoundrel
27. White River angler’s aid
28. “___ be an honor”
29. Element with the shortest name
30. Former Notre Dame coach Parseghian
31. Magic, on a Pacers
scoreboard
33. Tic-tac-toe winner
34. Small valley
35. One of two words spelled the same, but pronounced differently...and a hint to the starred clues
39. Designer Chanel
42. Luau instrument, briefly
43. ___-friendly
45. Indy Film Fest mo.
46. Eiteljorg Museum tribe
47. Ryder Cup side
49. Lingerie item
52. “You ___ worry...”
54. WFYI network
55. ___ for tat
56. *Null and void/shut-in
58. *Guide/a behavior
60. Take the bait
61. Norway’s capital
63. Tennis great Arthur
64. University of Evansville
athletes
65. *Rip/an eye drop?
66. Wranglers alternatives
67. Great American Ball Park team
68. Some Colts linemen
69. Prefix for “while” Down
1. Fasten with a click
2. Build up, as interest
3. Provide special treatment for 4. Back talk
5. Mars or Mercury
6. Leased
7. Hoosier Park feedbag morsel
8. Banking initials
9. Hired assassin
10. Spirited horses
11. Newsworthy
12. Trap
20. Pay taxes online
22. Hunter constellation
23. Panache
29. In addition
32. Butler frat letter
33. Wash. neighbor
34. Letters on some Ed Martin trucks
36. ___-frutti
37. Barely make
38. Crave
39. “Pretty please?”
40. Wedding reception amenity
41. Fissure
44. Less acute
46. Hedger’s word
47. Naked
48. Clues for a bloodhound
50. Investor’s dream
51. Verify
53. So last year
57. Overdo the TLC
59. Brickyard 400 winner
Earnhardt
62. Jim Banks or Todd
Young (Abbr.) Answers on Page 15
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Trash Removal & Odd Jobs
Painting inside or Outdoors
Property Clean Outs FULLY INSURED
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C&H TREE SERVICE FIREWOOD SALE Topping – Removal
Deadwooding – Landscaping
Stump Grinding – Gutter Cleaning
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Community Garage Sale! Cherry Creek Estates May 16th-17th. 8am-2pm 14055 Wildcat Dr Carme IN 46033
DAN’S AUTOMOTIVE DETAIL IS NOW HIRING:
Outbound Sales Coordinators familiar with Hamilton County. 1. Daily Commission Pay after Customer Service* 2. Weekly Salary 3. Mileage Pay 4. Monthly Bonus Text: 317-650-8888 for meeting. EOE
Furniture, tools, craft and office supplies, toys, household, vintage and collectibles.
Payment: cash, check and credit card payment (minimum $25)
VILLAGE OF WESTCLAY (CARMEL) ANNUAL COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE Saturday, May 17 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Something for everyone! Look for the balloons! (Main St. and Towne Rd.)
Quest Diagnostics Inc. seeks Medical Laboratory Scientist (multiple) in Carmel, IN to perform test procedures of moderate/high complexity. Night Shift 8pm – 6:30am. REQ: Associate of Science degree or for. equiv. in Laboratory Science, Medical Laboratory Technology, or closely related, plus 3 yrs of high complexity testing exp. in a clinical laboratory setting. In lieu of Associate of Science degree plus 3 yrs of exp., employer will accept Bachelor of Science or for. equiv. in Laboratory Science, Medical Laboratory Technology, or closely related, plus 1 yr of high complexity testing experience in a clinical laboratory setting. CV to Latisha.M.Vargas@ questdiagnostics.com Ref. code: FE
Flexware Innovation, Inc. is seeking a full-time Software Engineer in Fishers, Indiana to Develop critical features for internal applications and user guides to enhance the overall user experience; and Use custom software solution, LIFT, to build new solutions that revolve around intralogistics initiatives. May work remotely from home within commuting distance of 12 Municipal Drive, Fishers, IN 46038. Contact Lindsay Imhoff, Technical Recruiter - Team Lead, lindsay.imhoff@flexware.com.
