Brownsburg officials approve $800K TIF allocation for schools
Brownsburg council approves Lincolnwood Park trail design
ROOTED CARE
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Founded Oct. 14, 2025
Brownsburg, IN
Vol. I, No. 34
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Current Publishing, LLC
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Brownsburg officials approve $800K TIF allocation for schools
By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com
The Brownsburg Town Council and Brownsburg Redevelopment Commission approved a one-time $800,000 tax increment financing, or TIF, allocation to Brownsburg Community School Corp. during a joint meeting May 14, increasing a previously proposed amount and potentially delaying a school referendum until at least 2028.
The funding agreement, approved unanimously by both bodies, raises the original proposal of $555,000 approved by the redevelopment commission in April. The money is intended to support educational and career readiness programs, including Project Lead the Way, work-based learning opportunities and Area 31 vocational programs.
The agreement includes conditions requiring BCSC not to pursue a referendum during the term of the agreement, which runs through May 31, 2027. School officials indicated the additional support, combined with contributions from Brown and Lincoln townships, could help the district avoid placing a referendum on the ballot this year.
School leaders previously requested up to 15 percent of available TIF funds — approximately $1.3 million — as permitted under Indiana law. District officials said the request was driven largely by recent state legislative changes that eliminated the district’s ability to transfer certain debt service funds into its operating budget, a tool BCSC had used for several years to help stabilize finances.
According to district officials, the loss
of that flexibility, combined with broader statewide property tax changes, created growing operational challenges and accelerated the need for additional financial support.
BCSC leaders said the district has already implemented significant cost-saving measures in response to ongoing budget pressures. Those reductions include cutting 49 positions for the upcoming school year, including administrative, support and facility staff roles, while restructuring some instructional programs and reducing operational spending.
District officials said the additional funding is intended to help preserve classroom support, retain staff and maintain educational programming while the corporation continues working with state lawmakers on possible long-term funding solutions.
During the meeting, school leaders discussed ongoing conversations with legislators regarding potential adjustments to Indiana’s school funding formula. Officials said they remain hopeful future changes could provide additional operational support for rapidly growing districts such as Brownsburg.
Public comment on the proposal reflected differing opinions from residents. Some speakers supported the agreement as a temporary measure to avoid a referendum and maintain educational quality, while others questioned the use of TIF dollars for school operational support and argued taxpayers should decide funding increases through a referendum process.
Town officials said the agreement is structured as a one-time allocation intended to provide short-term assistance while state funding issues continue to be evaluated. The agreement also specifies that no additional payments are guaranteed beyond the current arrangement.
The approval follows weeks of discussion between town officials, redevelopment leaders and school administrators regarding how to address the district’s financial concerns while minimizing additional tax impacts on residents.
School officials previously warned that without additional support, the district could face further staffing reductions and may eventually need to seek voter approval through a referendum to maintain operations.
Brownsburg Town Council and Brownsburg Redevelopment Commission
Brownsburg Community School Corp. (Photo by Alicia Kelly)
Hendricks Regional earns national recognition
By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com
Hendricks Regional Health has again earned national recognition for patient care, receiving the 2026 Outstanding Patient Experience Award from Healthgrades for the 19th consecutive year.
The recognition places the hospital system among the top 5 percent of hospitals nationwide for patient experience for the third straight year. Hendricks Regional is the only hospital in Indiana to receive the award continuously for nearly two decades and is one of 16 hospitals in the nation to achieve the distinction.
president & CEO of Hendricks Regional Health. “But what truly sets our team apart is the way they consistently go the extra mile, caring for patients and families with compassion, respect and in a way that feels personal.
Healthgrades based the award on patient survey data collected from nearly 4,000 hospitals nationwide. The surveys measured factors including staff communication, cleanliness and how well medical information was explained to patients during hospital stays.
“At Hendricks, delivering exceptional quality and safety is foundational to everything we do,” said Dr. Michelle Fenoughty,
This recognition from Healthgrades affirms the experience our patients and families value most and trust Hendricks to provide every day.”
In addition to the patient experience award, Hendricks Regional received five-star ratings in several treatment categories, including heart failure, sepsis, respiratory failure, gastrointestinal bleeding and diabetic hospitalizations.
“Better patient experiences are correlated with better health outcomes, which is why patients should always strive to seek care at a facility with a clear dedication to high-quality, patient-centered care,” said Dr. Alana Biggers, medical advisor at Healthgrades. “As an Outstanding Patient Experience Award recipient, Hendricks Regional Health sets the benchmark for patient experience nationwide.”
DISPATCHES
County residents fellowship — Maria Magallanes of Danville and Brevon Gude of Avon completed the two-year Orr Fellowship, joining nearly 700 alumni statewide. The program connects recent college graduates with Indiana businesses and organizations. Magallanes, an Indiana University graduate, worked with Indiana University, while Gude, a DePauw University graduate, worked with Stitch. Orr Fellowship celebrated 46 graduates from its 2024 class during a May 8 commencement ceremony in Indianapolis.
Williams Park splash pad open for season — The splash pad at Williams Park is open for the season. It will operate daily through the summer from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sunday and Monday, 3:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday and 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.
Summer Soundtracks concert set for May 29 — Summer Soundtracks will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. May 29 at Arbuckle Acres Park. The free community concert will feature live music, yard games, local food trucks and a beer and wine garden. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs for the outdoor performance.
Local artist wanted — The Indiana Fever is searching for a central Indiana artist to design and hand-paint a mural on the interior wall of the player parking garage at the new Indiana Fever Sports Performance Center, currently under construction. Applications are due by July 5, and an artist will be selected by July 31. The mural will be painted in early 2027, ahead of the facility’s opening. Interested applicants can attend a virtual workshop June 15 to learn more about the project. Apply online at indyarts.grantplatform.com.
Expanding Cancer Care in Brownsburg.
At Hendricks Regional Health, we’re committed to meeting our community’s needs today and anticipating tomorrow’s. We are proud to announce the opening of our new Hendricks Oncology and Infusion Therapy & Oncology Infusion Center at Brownsburg Hospital. These expanded services bring enhanced cancer care and IV therapies, including oncology infusions, closer to home, delivered by compassionate teams focused on your comfort and well-being. Exceptional cancer care and IV therapy – now available in Brownsburg. Learn more at Hendricks.org/Brownsburg.
Fenoughty
ENJOYBREAKFASTONUS !
Town council approves Lincolnwood Park trail
By David Jacobs david@youarecurrent.com
After initial approval of the Lincolnwood Park master plan in October 2025, the Brownsburg Town Council voted in favor of an estimated $2 million onemile trail design May 14. The trail will begin off of E. Main Street — in what will be the main parking lot of the park — loop around the perimeter and run adjacent to White Lick Creek.
Brownsburg Health Care Center
While
The council selected the trail design over another $1.6 million option that was slightly smaller and used existing trail infrastructure.
Another factor in the overall price was the decision to pave the trail as opposed to using stone aggregate. The paved trail will have a higher upfront cost but is expected to save the town money in the long run with less maintenance needed compared to stone aggregate.
With a typical annual budget of approximately $4.7 million, the parks department will use $163,00 in 2026 funds for designs, surveys and permits, while the construction cost will be included in the 2027 budget. A part of the cost will be covered by the park impact fee from new developments in town.
“The town is currently finalizing
budget figures for the upcoming year,” Parks Director Amber Lane stated. “We have already designated $500,000 in recreation impact fees for this project. Now that we have a clear design direction from the council, our team is actively identifying and pursuing various grant funding opportunities to supplement the budget.”
To remain on schedule for 2027 construction, the permitting process must begin by the end of May, as the Indiana Department of Natural Resources and INDOT require a six-month lead time to approve permits.
“These trails represent a foundational step in developing a significant piece of underutilized property within the town,” Lane stated. “Our goal is to eventually connect and extend the White Lick Creek Greenway, which currently runs from north of I-74 to Arbuckle Acres Park. Linking that system to Lincolnwood Park and eventually to Williams Park would be a tremendous amenity for our residents living north of the B&O Trail.”
The parks department anticipates a fall 2027 opening for the trail, contingent on securing final funding and permitting on time.
The approved trail design for Lincolnwood Park. (Graphic provided by Brownsburg Parks)
Brownsburg upgrades wastewater lift stations
news@youarecurrent.com
The Town of Brownsburg is moving forward with upgrades to five wastewater lift stations as part of an ongoing effort to modernize aging infrastructure and improve public safety.
Town officials said the projects, now under construction, are designed to improve the reliability of Brownsburg’s wastewater system while making maintenance safer and more efficient for utility crews. Lift stations move wastewater from lower elevations to higher ground when gravity flow is not possible, helping prevent sewer backups and carrying wastewater to treatment facilities. Four of the stations being replaced were built in the 1970s using dry pit technology that requires workers to enter confined underground spaces for maintenance and repairs. Officials said aging equipment and hard-to-find replacement parts have made upkeep
increasingly difficult in recent years.
The updated stations will use submersible pump systems that allow crews to remove equipment from above ground with cranes, reducing the need for workers to enter confined spaces. The new systems also include updated controls, easier-to-source replacement parts and emergency connections for generators and bypass pumping.
A fifth station inside Arbuckle Acres Park is also being replaced because of capacity and age concerns. The new station will include a larger wet well, additional storage capacity and upgraded backup systems.
Town officials expect construction to continue through the summer, with all five projects scheduled for completion in August. Leaders said the upgrades are intended to support long-term growth while improving the safety and dependability of Brownsburg’s wastewater infrastructure.
Experts in Rehabilitation
BIG GREEN BOX
Pad-mounted transformers, also known as “big green boxes,” are essential for providing electricity in neighborhoods. Line crews need clearance to work on these high-voltage units. While these boxes can make landscaping tricky, consider these five tips to beautify your yard without causing service disruptions.
1
Mulch & Decorative Rock Beds
Mulch, pea gravel, or river rocks will add texture while keeping the area clean.
Potted Plants on Rolling Stands
2
It’s a pretty touch — easy to move for maintenance access and can be updated seasonally.
Perennials That Offer Height
3
Plant flowers with shorter roots like Black-Eyed Susans, Daylilies, Hostas, and Coneflowers.
Groundcover Plants
4
Creeping Thyme or Ajuga for low-maintenance greenery.
Avoid These Plants
Bushes, trees, woody plants, and ornamental grass will need to be transplanted, which can result in extended outages.
5 hendrickspower.com | 317-745-5473
Construction continues on multiple wastewater lift station upgrades in Brownsburg as the town replaces aging infrastructure with modern equipment designed to improve safety and reliability. The projects are expected to be complete in August. (Photo courtesy of the Town of Brownsburg)
Operation Round Up awards grants to support
news@youarecurrent.com
Hendricks Power Cooperative recently awarded grants to several community organizations through its Operation Round Up program, providing support for youth programs, mental health services, agriculture initiatives and recreation projects across the area.
The member-funded charitable program distributed donations to organizations in Hendricks and surrounding counties as part of its ongoing effort to invest in local community needs. Operation Round Up allows utility members to voluntarily round up their monthly electric bills to the nearest dollar, with the additional funds directed toward community projects through the Hendricks County Community Foundation.
Among the recent grants was $1,500 for the Putnam County Beef Barn to replace aging cattle tie-outs used by 4-H participants and volunteers. Officials said the project will improve safety conditions for livestock exhibitors while supporting agricultural education opportunities for local youth.
Brooke’s Place received $1,895 to help fund one month of grief support services for Hendricks County families.
The organization provides free support groups, therapy services and educational programs for children, teens, young adults and caregivers dealing with loss. Program leaders said approximately 100 participants attend meetings held twice each month.
The program awarded $500 to Forged from Cascade FFA Alumni for student scholarships, safety equipment and agricultural education resources. In addition, North Salem Revitalization received $1,000 to assist with construction of a community pickleball court at Town Park.
“At Hendricks Power, our commitment to community is at the core of everything we do,” said Emily Thomas, Hendricks Power marketing manager. “Whether it’s providing a safe haven through Brooke’s Place, preserving our heritage at the Putnam Co. Beef Barn, cultivating future leaders with Cascade FFA, or fostering local connection at the North Salem pickleball courts, we are proud to power the people and projects that make our community strong.”
Hendricks Power officials said organizations interested in future funding opportunities may apply through the Operation Round Up program.
Hendricks Power Cooperative officials with representatives from local organizations receiving Operation Round Up grants supporting agriculture education, grief services, youth programs and recreational improvements in Hendricks County and surrounding communities. (Photos provided by Hendricks Power Cooperative)
COMMUNITY
ROOTED CARE
Brownsburg’s Modern Farm Baby offers holistic support for mothers, infants and families
By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com
In a softly lit studio in Brownsburg, calming music hums in the background while earthy green tones and shelves of wellness products create an atmosphere far removed from the bustle of everyday life. Here, expectant mothers seek relief from aching hips, newborns receive gentle bodywork for colic and feeding issues and exhausted parents find a moment to breathe.
For owner Sharin White, the mission behind Modern Farm Baby has always been about supporting families through every stage of life.
“I thought this could be for the whole family,” White said.
White’s path to opening Modern Farm Baby was anything but traditional. Before launching the business, she spent 16 years in nursing while also working as a doula and babywearing educator. Over time, she expanded her education into massage therapy and specialized bodywork focused on pregnancy, postpartum recovery and infant wellness.
“I went to massage school just to keep that learning process going,” White said. “Then I realized I could specialize in prenatal work and do more for my clients.”
Today, Modern Farm Baby offers prenatal and postpartum massage, craniosacral therapy, visceral manipulation, pediatric bodywork and fertility-focused wellness services. White said the business has existed for about 15 years, while the brick-and-mortar Brownsburg location will celebrate five years this December.
Much of White’s work centers around prenatal massage and therapeutic care for pregnant women — a need she said continues to grow on Indianapolis’ west side.
“I’m one of the few that does prenatal massage,” White said. “I get referrals from other massage therapists because they don’t specialize in it.”
Her clients often arrive carrying more than physical discomfort. Many are overwhelmed by conflicting med-
ical advice, internet misinformation and the emotional toll of pregnancy and childbirth.
“There’s a constant battle with misinformation and fearmongering,” White said. “A lot of doctors just don’t have knowledge about some of these therapies.”
White said many holistic therapies are misunderstood because they differ from traditional medical approaches. Craniosacral therapy, for example, uses extremely light touch to help regulate the nervous system.
“It’s about five grams of pressure,” she explained. “The pressure of a nickel.”
She uses the therapy not only with adults, but also with infants experiencing colic, feeding difficulties or tension issues after birth. White also works with mothers recovering from C-sections and those hoping for a vaginal birth after cesarean delivery, commonly known as a VBAC.
Her philosophy centers on education and empowerment rather than replacing traditional medical care.
“I’m not anti-medical,” White said. “This is just another layer of support.”
That support extends beyond massage tables and therapy sessions. White has built a large referral network of doulas, chiropractors, acupuncturists, lactation consultants, pelvic floor specialists
and pediatric providers throughout central Indiana.
“We talk birth stuff all the time,” she said with a laugh.
White believes community-centered support is becoming increasingly important as maternity services shrink in some parts of Indiana.
“I see a lot of maternity deserts happening,” she said. “Services are being discontinued, and women no longer have access.”
According to White, holistic and supportive care businesses are more common on Indianapolis’ north side, but less accessible in communities like Brownsburg and surrounding Hendricks County towns.
“That’s definitely changing,” she said. “The need is here.”
White also hopes to continue expanding awareness of craniosacral therapy and other somatic healing practices. She described the work as not only physically therapeutic, but emotionally restorative as well.
“There’s a lot of emotional healing that can happen too,” she said.
The business reflects White’s broader philosophy of intentional wellness. Alongside therapy services, Modern Farm Baby carries wellness products, herbal remedies, babywearing items and educational materials focused on pregnancy, postpartum recovery and
natural family care.
White also offers memberships designed to encourage busy parents — especially mothers — to prioritize self-care.
“I schedule my own self-care ahead of time because otherwise life happens,” she said. “That’s true for most moms.”
Clients can book appointments online through the business website, and White said many new customers discover her through Google searches or word-of-mouth referrals.
“Google sends me a lot of people,” she said. “Especially for prenatal massage.” For White, the most rewarding part of her work is helping families feel heard and supported during some of life’s most vulnerable moments.
As Brownsburg continues to grow, White hopes Modern Farm Baby can continue growing with it while serving as a resource for families searching for alternatives, education and compassionate care.
“I just want people to know these resources exist,” she said.
OWNER: Sharin White
LOCATION: 311 East Main St., Suite A, Brownsburg
SPECIALTIES:
• Prenatal massage
• Postpartum massage
• Craniosacral therapy
• Infant bodywork
• Visceral manipulation
• Fertility-focused wellness support
CLIENTS: Infants through adults
MISSION: Supporting mothers, babies and families through holistic and integrative care
WEBSITE: modernfarmbaby.com
MODERN FARM BABY AT A GLANCE
ON THE COVER: Sharin White, owner of Modern Farm Baby in Brownsburg, offers prenatal massage, craniosacral therapy and holistic wellness services for mothers, infants and families. (Photo courtesy of Modern Farm Baby)
Sharin White, owner of Modern Farm Baby in Brownsburg. (Photo courtesy of Modern Farm Baby)
Community Health appoints new CFO
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Community Health Network recently named Jerry Yang as its new chief financial officer, effective June 9. Yang brings extensive experience leading finance functions for large, multi-regional health systems.
Yang most recently served as senior vice president and chief financial officer of Aspirus Health, where he oversaw financial performance for a 19-hospital integrated delivery system.
homa, and LifePoint Health. His experience includes financial operations, system integration and market-level leadership across complex health systems.
Yang earned a bachelor’s degree in business management and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He succeeds Kyle Fisher, who retired in 2025. Holly Millard served as interim CFO during the transition.
Previously, Yang held senior health care finance leadership roles at MultiCare Health System in Washington, Beaumont Health in Michigan, Hillcrest HealthCare System in Tulsa, Okla-
Outside of work, Yang enjoys traveling, cycling, hiking and spending time with his wife and daughter. Although he grew up in Alabama, Yang has ties to Indianapolis and stated that he is excited to return to the area.
Yang
Commentary by Larry Greene
This Hawthorn Hills addition in Fishers transformed a dark, closed-off layout into a light-filled family room designed for connection,
THE BLUEPRINT
• Expanded the main living area with a spacious new family room addition.
• Added soaring ceilings with warm wood beams for architectural character.
• Floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace creates a bright, inviting focal point.
• Large windows and sliding doors flood the space with natural light.
• Seamlessly connected indoor living to the covered outdoor porch.
• Soft finishes and airy tones bring warmth, openness, and modern simplicity.
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.
Bright & Airy Addition in Fishers
WELLNESS & MASSAGE THERAPY
New Center Presents season set
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The 2026-27 Center Presents season will include two new series, some favorite repeat artists and first-time performers at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
A May 18 season announcement party at the Payne & Mencias Palladium revealed 71 shows for the season.
“It’s as robust as we’ve ever had at the beginning of the season,” Allied Solutions Center President/CEO Jeffrey C. McDermott said. “We’ll typically add a few shows during the season as well. We’re defining two new shows as well as part of the season.”
The two new series are the Spotlight Series and Tribute Series.
“We’ve done tribute shows in the past, and what we’ve tried to do is package them into one series,” he said. “We know there are a lot of people out there who enjoy a tribute show. We don’t go out and get any tribute artists and do these, we go out and make sure we get the top ones we can find.”
The tribute shows include Fleetwood Mac Tribute, Sept. 27; Billy Joel Oct. 8; Michael Jackson, Oct. 16; Paul McCartney, Jan. 30, 2027; The Beach Boys, March 5; and Steely Dan, April 2.
The Pop/Rock shows include first time appearances by Lou Gramm, who was Foreigner’s original lead singer, on Sept. 26 and Mavis Staples on Nov. 12. Staples is the only surviving member of The Staple Singers.
“Mavis has had a legendary career and we’re very excited to have her,” McDermott said. “She’s 86 and still performing and still putting new music out.”
Some other new performers include The War And Treaty, a new husband and wife soul duo, Oct. 28; Arrested Development, hip hop group, Feb. 5, 2027; and Marcus Miller, jazz bassist/ bandleader, Feb. 26.
Broadway legend Bernadette Peters returns Nov. 13. Among the returnees in the 2027 portion of the schedule are Mickey Dolenz with his 60 Years of the
Lou Gramm, the original voice of Foreigner, is set to debut Sept. 26 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium. (Photo courtesy of Allied Solutions Center)
Monkees Feb. 27 and Dionne Warwick March 20.
McDermott said the Spotlight Series are primarily non-music events,
“It doesn’t have to be music to be art,” he said. “The spoken word is an art form. We are bringing in comic actress and writer Amy Sedaris (Nov. 7), who is funny and brilliant. Something we’re doing is a screening of the movie ‘Hoosiers’ (Nov. 15) on its 40th anniversary of the release. We’ll have the actor who played Buddy and the actor who played Jimmy Chitwood and the writer and director to answer questions about the making of the movie.”
The Police drummer Stewart Copeland will bring his “Have I Said Too Much” show Aug. 2 to The Tarkington. The series includes cabaret and TV star Alan Cumming, from “The Traitors” Jan. 28, 2027.
McDermott said the two new series will likely draw fresh audiences.
“Our data shows when somebody comes here for the first time, there is an 80 percent chance they will return,” he said.
The artists enjoy returning as well.
“There’s a good reason for that is they like being here,” McDermott said. “Bringing (artists) back isn’t always easy because you have to get schedules to line up, but I think we’ve become a venue of preference.”
No one has appeared more than Michael Feinstein, naturally, since he is the Allied Solutions Center artistic director.
Instead of his usual concert in the spring near the end of the season, Feinstein will perform a Dec. 4 holiday concert.
“Michael is usually doing holiday shows in New York City, and this year we have asked him to do a holiday show here,” McDermott said.
Singer-songwriter Jon McLaughlin will return with his holiday show Dec. 11, followed by saxophonist Dave Koz the following day. Koz & Friends are scheduled to make a 13th appearance overall and 12th with the holiday show in Carmel.
Two comedians, Michael Blaustein (Sept. 24) and Becky Robinson (Oct. 9) will make their Carmel debuts.
“We love doing comedy here. Every time we bring a comedian here it brings in a new audience,” McDermott said.
One of the new concerts McDermott is excited about in the Classical Series is actor John Malkovich and the Vienna Academy Orchestra March 18, 2027.
“I think that is going to be a very interesting, unusual and a really entertaining performance,” McDermott said.
Violinist Itzhak Perlman will return to the Payne & Mencias Palladium April 8, 2027.
Following the Songbook Academy concert to open the season July 18, Harry Connick Jr. will perform July 20.
The Encore Series opens with Art Garfunkel July 24, followed by Gladys Knight, Aug. 8; Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers, Oct. 11: Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band, Nov. 21 and Ben Folds with the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, May 7, 2027.
For a full list of shows, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘CINDERELLA’
“Cinderella” is set for May 28 to July 12 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards. com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Now That’s Funny, Headlining Maggie Hughes DePalo” is set for May 28, followed by “All The Way Frank, A Sinatra Tribute” May 29 and “Thank You for the Music! An Abba Party” May 30 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All performances start at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
’THE ADDAMS FAMILY’
The Drama Department will present the school edition of “The Addams Family” May 29-31 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more visit thecat.biz.
‘SECRET GARDEN’
Main Street Productions will present “The Secret Garden” from May 28 to June 7 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.
New Works show set — Four Indiana performing artists and one visual artist have been selected to receive cash awards and public premiere opportunities through Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts’ annual New Works commission project, now in its fifth season. The 2026 New Works Premiere Performances will take place at 7 p.m. May 30 at The Tarkington and will be livestreamed on Allied Solutions Center’s website and social media accounts. Free tickets are available at TheCenterPresents.org and 1-317-843-3800. The event also will include the unveiling of this year’s winning visual artwork. Each winning proposal receives a $2,500 cash award and technical support in adapting the piece for the stage.
Mavis Staples is set to perform Nov. 12 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium. (Photo courtesy of Elizabeth DeLaPiedra)
THE SONGBOOK ACADEMY® IN CONCERT
7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
HARRY CONNICK, JR.
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
ART GARFUNKEL: WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD CELEBRATION CONCERTS
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BRIAN SIMPSON, JACKIEM JOYNER AND JESSY J 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
STEWART COPELAND: HAVE I SAID
TOO MUCH
7:30PM | THE TARKINGTON
GLADYS KNIGHT
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
“PSYCHIC” COMEDIAN PETER ANTONIOU
7:30PM | THE TARKINGTON
THE CENTER CELEBRATION 2026
FEATURING THE BACON BROTHERS
5PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
MICHAEL BLAUSTEIN: THE TASTE ME TOUR THE FINAL LEG
| PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
LOU GRAMM: THE ORIGINAL VOICE OF FOREIGNER
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
RUMOURS ATL: A FLEETWOOD
MAC TRIBUTE
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
DEMOLA LIVE!
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
PURE PRAIRIE LEAGUE & PABLO CRUISE
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
THE BILLY JOEL LEGACY: CELEBRATING THE PIANO MAN
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BECKY ROBINSON: THE BEASTS IN ME TOUR
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BRUCE HORNSBY & THE NOISEMAKERS: INDIGO PARK TOUR
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
THE WAR AND TREATY
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
THE SIXTIES SHOW
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
INVINCIBLE: A GLORIOUS TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL JACKSON
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
DANIEL EMMET: THIS THING CALLED LOVE
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
NILADRI KUMAAR: THE SPACE BETWEEN THE NOTES – HONORING ZAKIR HUSSAIN
7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
MICHAEL CARBONARO: WONDERBOY
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
THE SHARPE FAMILY SINGERS: THE BEST OF BROADWAY 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
HASTA LA MUERTE
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BLKBOK
7:30PM | THE TARKINGTON
YEFIM BRONFMAN, PIANO
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
RYAN AHLWARDT: CRYING IN THE CANYON RELEASE PARTY
8PM | THE TARKINGTON
THE FOUR PHANTOMS IN CONCERT
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BONEY JAMES
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
A CONVERSATION WITH AMY SEDARIS
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
SIMPLY THREE
7PM | THE TARKINGTON
MAVIS STAPLES
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
AN EVENING WITH BERNADETTE PETERS
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
HOOSIERS 40TH ANNIVERSARY
SCREENING WITH Q&A
3PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
PUNCH BROTHERS
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
KENNY WAYNE SHEPHERD BAND: LEDBETTER HEIGHTS 30TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
GRAVITY & OTHER MYTHS: TEN THOUSAND HOURS
7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY’S WILD & SWINGIN’ HOLIDAY PARTY
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
LESLIE ODOM, JR. THE CHRISTMAS TOUR 2026
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
MICHAEL FEINSTEIN IN COMING HOME: THE HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
HOLIDAYS IN HARMONY WITH GIRL NAMED TOM
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
JON MCLAUGHLIN & FRIENDS: HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS CHRISTMAS TOUR 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
ALAN CUMMING: UNCUT
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
LIVE AND LET DIE: THE MUSIC OF PAUL MCCARTNEY FEATURING TONY KISHMAN
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BIG BANG BOOM
3PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
THE MONTEVERDI CHOIR AND ORCHESTRAS PERFORM BACH’S ST MATTHEW PASSION WITH MASAAKI SUZUKI
7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
MARCUS MILLER
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
MICKEY DOLENZ: 60 YEARS OF THE MONKEES 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BALLET FOLKLÓRICO DE MÉXICO DE AMALIA HERNÁNDEZ
7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
ACADEMY OF ST MARTIN IN THE FIELDS WITH CONRAD TAO
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
THE MUSIC OF THE BEACH BOYS FEATURING PET SOUNDS LIVE 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
PAVLO AND BAND IN CONCERT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
VICTORIA CLARK: IMPROBABLE INGENUE
MUSIC DIRECTOR, TED SPERLING
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
VITALY: AN EVENING OF WONDERS
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
JOHN MALKOVICH AND THE VIENNA
ACADEMY ORCHESTRA: ROLL
OVER BEETHOVEN
7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
SPYRO GYRA WITH SPECIAL GUEST STANLEY JORDAN
8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
KRUGER BROTHERS 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
DIONNE WARWICK: OVER AND OUT A FAREWELL TOUR 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BROOKLYN CHARMERS: A TRIBUTE TO STEELY DAN 8PM
CATS’
ITZHAK PERLMAN IN RECITAL 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
AMY SEDARIS
MARCUS MILLER
BERNADETTE PETERS
ALAN CUMMING
HASTA LA MUERTE
GLADYS KNIGHT
LESLIE ODOM, JR.
2026-27 SEASON
‘Jagged Little pill’ to open Civic’s 2026-27 season
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Civic Theatre’s 2026-27 schedule will include some blasts from the past, some new shows and a surprise to be named later.
The 112th season opens with “Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill, The Musical” Oct. 2 to 17 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. All but one of the five shows will be at The Tarkington.
The musical is inspired by Morissette’s groundbreaking album and is about a modern family navigating love, identity, addiction and healing in an increasingly complicated world. The Tony Award-winning show features iconic songs including “You Oughta Know,” “Hand in My Pocket” and “Ironic.”
“The first show has become for us where we are doing the edgier, socially relevant or something like ‘Something Rotten,’ which is newer and was just a fresher piece than some of the things we do,” Civic Theatre Executive Artistic Director Michael J. Lasley said. “This is definitely relevant. It hits home for a lot of people about mental health and addiction and belonging and fitting into families and mixed feelings.”
The show is based on Morissette’s “Jagged Little Pill” album.
“There are not many albums like it that had so many hit singles,” Lasley said. “As jukebox musicals go, I think it does a better job of integrating songs into the narrative, not performing the songs the way they were written. There is a lot of choral work written into them.”
Filling the holiday spot is “Annie” from Dec. 4 to 26. Civic has been rotating “Elf,” “A Christmas Story” and
“White Christmas” in recent years. “We’re struggling to get the rights to one of the three shows we have in the rotation,” Lasley said. “We talked for a number of years about ‘Annie’ being the obvious holiday alternative. It’s a family-oriented show and it ends with a Christmas scene. It certainly fits our brand.”
The last time Civic presented “Annie” was in 2017. Brent Marty, Civic Theatre director of music and education, said it also has the benefit of having children in the musical, which helps with Civic’s younger performers.
The 2027 portion will open with what Lasley described as a fun, new comedy Feb. 5 to 20. Lasley said the title announcement will come out in mid-October because of contractual issues.
“Steel Magnolias,” a story about deep friendships between six women in Louisiana and heartbreaks, is set for March 3 to 27 at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center. Civic Theatre last performed the play in 2014. The off-Broadway play was turned into a 1989 movie, which featured Sally Field, Julia Roberts, Dolly Parton, Shirley MacLaine, Daryl Hannah and Olympia Dukakis.
The season will close with “Mean Girls” from April 30 to May 15. This is the first main stage showing by Civic, however, Civic’s Young Artists Program presented it in 2023.
“It’s a great, fun piece of theater,” Lasley said. “The musical has not been around that long, but the movie came out more than 20 years ago.”
Subscriptions will be available beginning May 27 and single tickets July 23. Tickets can be purchased at civictheatre.org or by calling or emailing the Box Office of the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts at 317-8433800 or tickets@thecenterpresents.org.
DISPATCH
IWS names Cox executive director —The Indiana Wind Symphony has named Tim Cox as its new executive director. Cox brings professional administrative experience in education, nonprofits, arts and mission-driven organizations, most recently serving the Indiana Wind Symphony as 2025-26 board president and performing in the ensemble on percussion. He serves as director of educational outreach for Music for All and as director of operations of the Indiana Arts Education Network. Cox replaces executive director Nicole Keller, who will continue to support the organization as media specialist.
Lasley
‘Cleopatra’ back at GHDT
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
“Antony and Cleopatra” will have a fresh look when it returns to the stage.
Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre first presented the piece in 2022.
“I am adding four characters that represent different Egyptian gods,” GHDT Executive Artistic Director Gregory Hancock said. “These gods appear throughout the concert in human form and interact with the characters adding to the concept that we as humans may not always be in control of our fate.”
GHDT will present “Antony and Cleopatra” at 7 p.m. June 5 and 5 p.m. June 6 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
Hancock wrote the performance to be gender fluid with company dancer Thomas Mason returning in the role of Cleopatra.
“The roles are designed so that any dancer can play them, as their character attributes and purpose for the storyline are more important than their sexual identity,” Hancock said “This allows audience members to connect with and see themself in any character, which assists in them melting into and becoming engaged in the storyline.”
Abbie Lessaris revives her role as Octavia. The role of Marc Antony is being danced by Isaac Jones, formerly of the Dayton Ballet.
Hancock said the other returning dancers are in different roles.
“This allows the dancers to stretch their wings and dig into a new character,” he said. “We also have new dancers in the company now as several dancers have retired since the original 2022 production. So, there are a lot of fresh faces. The current company dancers have been together now for a full season, and they are moving as a dynamic team bringing new heights of artistry and technique to the stage.”
Hancock and composer Cory Gabel collaborated on the piece and also have worked together on “The Casket Girls.”
“Working with Gregory is always a lot of fun, because he brings such a strong visual and emotional imagination to everything he does,” Gabel said.
Gabel said he hasn’t made any dramatic tweaks to the music.
For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.
Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre performers, from left, are Camden Kruse, Thomas Mason and Hannah Brown from the 2022 production. (Photo courtesy of Lydia Moody)
Actor returns in new role
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Danny Kingston will take a turn in a different role in “Cinderella” for Beef & Boards.
After appearing as the Steward in 2011, Kingston will play the Herald from May 28 to July 12 at Beef and Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis.
“(It’s) a really fun role,” he said. “I get to open the show with the song, ‘The Prince is Giving a Ball.’ I also get to be silly and dance with the stepsisters.”
standout moment and to dance in the sweeping waltz scenes.”
While it’s just the second time he has acted in “Cinderella,” he choreographed a production of the classic musical for Carmel Community Players in 2007.
Kingston
Kingston, a 2006 Westfield High School graduate who lives in downtown Indianapolis, was a recent college graduate for the last “Cinderella” performance.
“I enjoyed being able to further my experience in professional theater,” said Kingston, whose legal last name is Keivel. “I was much younger and still learning all I could about performing. Playing the role of the Steward back gave me the opportunity to have a small
Kingston has performed in many Beef & Boards shows through the years.
“I’ll never forget my first show back in 2009, ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,’” he said. “I had just graduated from the American Musical and Dramatics Academy (in New York City) and I was ready to start my career as a professional performer. Throughout the years I’ve had the privilege of performing in lead roles like Jack in ‘Into the Woods’ and Mordred in ‘Camelot.’’
Kingston said he has happy memories from performing in many of the Pyramid Players productions for children. Highlights include Joe in ‘Blues Clues’ and Peter in ‘Pinkilicous.’
For more, visit beefandboards.com.
VIEWS
The whole truth
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
My wife says I’m not a spiritual person. The most spiritual thing I do is occasionally shop at Whole Foods, a place for people who seek organic, pure, chemical-free food. Personally, I prefer food that has preservatives. At almost 80 years old, I can use them, and they are cheaper than a facelift.
My wife loves Whole Foods. But for a long time, I wasn’t a fan. Whenever I was in that area of town, I always stopped by just to pass the big window in the front of the store and laugh at people eating tofu pizza. After all, it’s all about the journey, isn’t it? See, I’m getting more spiritual, already.
I don’t like buying food at places where you can also buy a hammer, a microwave oven or an unassembled bed. So, I avoid shopping at Super Target, Walmart and Meijer. These are not whole-food stores; they are half-food stores.
At Whole Foods, most everything on the shelves is edible. Except for those things that are fat-free, sugar-free and gluten-free, which it seems is pretty much everything.
Last week, I was intrigued by a display touting a new organic product. I picked up the shrink-wrapped bar and tossed it into my basket. The next morning, after I showered, I told Mary Ellen I didn’t think the soap lathered well. “Of course not,” she said. “That wasn’t a bar of organic soap; it was a bar of organic cheese.” I must have smelled pretty good, because when I went out for a jog, several mice followed me around.
When we go to Kroger, Mary Ellen insists on accompanying me. I am always on a very short leash. Sometimes I want a treat. I’ll even beg for it. Once, I rolled over in aisle 3, hoping to score a bag of chips. Mary Ellen said no, but I did get a great belly rub from a very nice older woman.
Whole Foods has an interesting display of magazines One selection featured the headline: THE ROAD TO RENEWAL. That intrigued me until I realized it was just an ad to get you to sign up for another year of the subscription.
My favorite was another new age magazine with the headline: WHAT TO TAKE ON YOUR JOURNEY.
I was finally starting to feel spiritual. What would be on this list? Self-reflection, a measure of introspection, and a positive attitude?
No, it was sandals, a swimsuit, underwear and plenty of sunscreen. Congrats to Viking Cruises for a wellplaced ad!
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
Sealed proposals for Freedom Trail Park
Improvements will be received by the City of Westfield, Indiana, at the Westfield Public Works Building, 2706 E. 171st Street, Westfield, Indiana, 46074 until 2:00 p.m., local time, on Friday, July 10, 2026. Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. Any bids received later than the above time and date will be returned unopened. No conditional bids will be considered.
Project generally includes construction of a park restroom building, pickleball courts, court fencing, sidewalks, asphalt and aggregate trails, signage, electric service, planting, and other site improvements, amenities, and furnishings.
Bids shall be properly and completely executed on the Proposal Form obtainable at the office of the Owner. Each bid shall be accompanied by Form 96 Contractor's Bid for Public Works, including Non-Collusion Affidavit as prescribed by the State Board of Accounts, completely filled out, signed, and notarized as required by the statutes of the State of Indiana, Section III of Part II of Form 96 titled "Contractor's Financial Statement," and acceptable bid security. The bid security shall be a certified check made payable to the Owner or satisfactory bond by an incorporated surety company in good standing and qualified to do business in the State of Indiana in an amount equal to 5% of the bid, said deposit being for the purpose of ensuring the execution of the contract for which bid is made. Any bid not accompanied by the above required items shall be deemed to be a non-responsive bid by the Owner.
No consideration for escalation on prices can be considered; therefore, contractors are advised to not include any such escalation clauses in their proposal for this project.
The Contractors to whom work is awarded shall be required to furnish a Performance Bond and a Payment Bond, each in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the contract price, and they shall be acceptable to the City of Westfield, Indiana. No bidder may withdraw their proposal within a period of 60 days following the date set for receiving bids. The City of Westfield, Indiana reserves the right to retain the three lowest bid proposals for a period of not more than 90 days, and said proposal shall remain in full force and effect during said time. The City of Westfield, Indiana further reserves the right to waive informalities and to award the contract to the lowest and most responsible bidder or bidders, all to the advantage of the City of Westfield, Indiana, or to reject all Proposals.
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The Contract Documents and drawings will be available to all interested parties from: Repro Graphix, 437 North Illinois Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204 or at eplanroom.reprographix.com. A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held at the Westfield Department of Public Works, 2706 E. 171st Street, Westfield, IN 46074 on Wednesday, June 17th at 2:00 p.m. Please direct all questions regarding this project to Chris McConnell, City of Westfield, Department of Public Works, 2706 E. 171st Street, Westfield, IN 46074, (317) 473-2917, cmcconnell@westfield.in.gov
By: Chris McConnell, City
of Westfield
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
19. “___ alive!”
20. Indiana locale of the “Limestone Capital of the World”
21. Ball State bigwig
23. Squeeze (out)
24. O. Henry: “The Gift of the ___”
26. 007 portrayer Roger
. Unlit
29. Adam’s grandson
. Flat Fork Creek Park
coaster
. Kimono sash
. Poet’s “soon”
Current revenue
39. Indiana locale of the “Covered Bridge Capital of the World”
42. Salt & Light Wellness
44. Move, in Realtor lingo
45. Hawaiian garland 46. Difficult
48. BBs, e.g.
50. Some jeans
54. Computer key 56. Playground comeback 59. ___ Fridays
60. Hamilton County Court officer
63. Indiana locale of the “RV Capital of the World” 65. Notre Dame sports org.
66. Neighborhood shopping sites
68. Blues group, for short 69. Polar covering 70. “The Simpsons” girl
71. “Golly!”
72. Abhor
73. Right on an Indiana map Down
1. Went up and down
2. “Aha!”
3. Stock exchange worker
4. “In your dreams!”
5. Jordan tourist attraction
6. Anxious
7. Hoosier Dome sponsor
8. Brewer’s oven 9. Addict 10. Antitoxin 11. Doritos company 12. Spoken 13. Plants anew 18. ___ de plume
22. Distress signal 25. Out for days
28. Campground letters
30. Lennon’s love 31. Spirit
34. “Turn up the heat!”
35. Fishers furniture chain
37. Opposite of SSW
39. Proton or electron
40. Hoosier National Forest tree
41. Up to, briefly
42. The whole ___
43. Pizazz
47. NJ neighbor
49. Some Swiss watches
51. Latin list ender
52. Way out
53. Occupies, as a table
55. Unyielding
57. Caught some Zs
58. Approves
61. Confront
62. Guitar ridge
64. In good shape
67. Top card ANSWERS ON PAGE 13
