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Founded Jan. 25, 2011, at Fishers, IN Vol. XVI, No. 16
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City council eyes new e-bike regulations
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
An ordinance that defines and regulates the use of various e-bikes on trails and roads within the City of Fishers is under consideration by the Fishers City Council in response to public safety concerns.
Fishers Police Department has received complaints about unsafe use of e-bikes, motorized scooters and e-motos — similar to dirt bikes. Specifically, complaints noted juveniles blocking and riding in traffic, creating dangerous situations for drivers, riding on private property and riding recklessly.
FPD Assistant Chief Luke Gannon introduced the proposed ordinance to the council during its April 20 meeting.
“For the public’s health and safety, it is essential to establish clear guidelines for bicycles, e-motos and e-scooters, as these devices become more advanced and widely used,” he said. “Updating our ordinances ensure safer, more consistent use across trails, sidewalks and roadways.”
The proposed ordinance is similar to a measure approved by the Carmel City Council in November 2025. It defines e-bicycles that combine pedals and motors in three different classes based on their top speed, with Class 1 and 2 going up to 20 mph and Class 3 going up to 28 mph. It also regulates e-scooters, which can go up to 20 mph; e-motos, which are powered exclusively by a motor and can go faster than 20 mph, with some able to reach speeds up to 70; and electric personal assistive mobility devices, such as Segways, hoverboards and electric wheelchairs, which can go up to 20 mph.
If the ordinance is adopted, the following restrictions would be established:
• Greenway trails — No Class 3 e-bikes, e-scooters or e-motos
• Multi-use trails — No Class 3 e-bikes or e-motos that have the ability to exceed 28 mph
• Sidewalks — No Class 3 e-bikes or e-motos
• Bike lanes — No restricted devices, but riders must obey the law
• Roadways — No e-scooters or electric personal assistive mobility devices
Gannon said behavior also is addressed in the ordinance, including how riders interact with other trail, sidewalk and roadway users.
“It’s things that you would expect — shall not operate in a reckless manner, shall yield right away to pedestrians, shall pass pedestrians at a safe distance, so on and so forth,” he said. “Those are the things that the officers are really going to look at for enforcement of this ordinance.”
The ordinance specifies that a “reckless manner” includes, but is not limited to, aggressive riding, excessive speeds, speeding around pedestrians or other users, performing wheelies, speed contests, burnouts and weaving in and out of slower traffic.
Councilor Todd Zimmerman asked whether parents understand the capabilities of the devices they’re purchasing for their kids and Gannon said manufacturers make it clear.
“When you buy one, it tells you what the top-end speed is,” he said. “I couldn’t speak for purchasers to know whether they’re looking at that or not, but what I can say is that they’re not intended for city and multi-use. We feel like they are off-road vehicles.”
But, Gannon said, unless the legislature establishes that in state law, the proposed ordinance is the most the city can do to limit their use.
Mayor Scott Fadness said the city has a plan to communicate with the public about the ordinance’s regulations.
“Because … believe it or not, police men and women did not get into the job to … go chase down 7-year-olds,” he said. “Our goal here is to educate the public.”
During public comment, Ross Reinhardt — who advocates for bike users — noted that some people use e-bikes as their primary transportation.
“Some of the proposed legislation, I think, gets a little too confusing, a little too complex,” he said. “In my opinion, it’s going to be hard to enforce. For example, my parents ride a Class 3 e-bike all around Hamilton County trails. So, we’re going to be getting our officers in the position of stopping retirees on Class 3 e-bikes to do a speed test and see what their top speed is.”
Reinhardt said it would be more effective to focus on behavior than on the devices.
The draft ordinance also states that Class 3 e-bike, e-scooter and e-moto operators must be at least 15, wear helmets, carry an ID card and not go faster than the speed limit or 35 mph, whichever is lower.
Other proposed requirements state that:
• Riders must yield right-of-way to pedestrians and give an audible signal before passing from behind
• Riders younger than 16 must wear a helmet
• E-bikes and other devices can’t have more people riding than designed for by the manufacturer
• Riders can’t tow others or be towed Violators would face a citation and have their device impounded, with fines of up to $300 for each violation.
A final vote on the ordinance is expected during the council’s May 18 meeting.
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The Fishers City Council is expected to vote on an e-bike ordinance in May. (Photo courtesy of the City of Fishers)
REGISTER FOR UPCOMING VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:
Fishers AgriPark, Strengthened by IU Health
Fishers Touch-a-Truck: May 18
Spark!Fishers, Presented by Meijer: June 26-27
Geist Half Race Series: September 11-12
Fishers Park & Rain Garden Stewards
Opportunities at over 150 local nonprofits
Fishers launches youth service award program
news@currentinfishers.com
The City of Fishers has launched a Mayor’s Youth Service Awards program, designed to encourage junior high and high school students to give back to the community through volunteerism and civic engagement.
According to an announcement from the city, Fishers residents ages 13 through high school in public, private or home school programs are eligible. Volunteer hours may be accrued at qualified nonprofits and approved community partners, including local service organizations, schools and neighborhood programs.
“Serving others is one of the most impactful ways our young residents can shape their community,” Mayor Scott Fadness stated. “This program not only recognizes that commitment but also helps instill a lifelong passion for civic engagement.”
Students will be recognized at various levels based on the number of volunteer hours completed:
• Bronze (50–99 hours): Certificate of civic leadership
• Silver (100–149 hours): Certificate and lapel pin
• Gold (150–199 hours): Certificate, lapel pin and graduation cord
• Platinum (200–299 hours): Certificate, lapel pin, graduation cord and a letter of commendation from the mayor
• Diamond (300-plus hours): Certificate, lapel pin, graduation cord, letter of commendation, recognition on the city’s social media and breakfast with the mayor
Students can register by visiting FishersIN.gov/MYSA and creating an account through Volunteer Fishers.
The annual Spark!Fishers festival offers numerous opportunities for volunteers. (Photo courtesy of the City of Fishers)
COMMUNITY
Bus driver charged with drinking while driving bus
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
A Hamilton Southeastern Schools bus driver faces two misdemeanor charges for allegedly consuming alcohol while operating a bus.
Terri Shore, 61, of Noblesville was charged April 22 in Hamilton County Court with criminal recklessness and driving a bus after or while consuming alcohol. She was not charged with driving under the influence.
A probable cause affidavit filed in court by School Resource Officer Matthew Madden states that on April 1, a student on the bus saw a vodka bottle inside a grocery bag hanging from the driver’s armrest, took a photo of it and sent it to the Hamilton Southeastern High School dean, who forwarded it to HSE Schools Transportation Director Zach McKinney.
Madden wrote that McKinney and another transportation department employee quickly contacted Shore and told her to stop the bus and wait for them. She stopped at Brooks School Elementary, where McKinney met her at about 3:20 p.m., and transferred students on her bus to another bus.
“(They) then questioned Terri regarding the reported incident,” Madden wrote. “During this conversation, Terri admitted to consuming alcohol earlier in the day.”
Madden stated in the affidavit that he reviewed bus camera footage the next day, which allegedly showed Shore drinking from the vodka bottle shortly before 2 p.m. April 1, and pouring liquid from the vodka bottle into an orange juice container.
“At approximately 2 p.m., Terri was
observed brushing her teeth, which appeared to be an attempt to conceal the odor of alcohol,” Madden wrote.
“She then proceeded to pick up elementary students and continue her route. Terri picked up students at Lantern Road Elementary School and transported them as scheduled. At approximately 2:40 p.m., Terri arrived at Hamilton Southeastern High School, where she was observed discarding liquid from the orange juice bottle out of the driver’s side window. She then poured additional liquid, believed to be vodka, into the orange juice container. Terri placed the orange juice container on the dashboard to her left and continued to drink from it while operating the school bus with students on board.”
Madden wrote that tests of the bottle’s contents confirm that it contained vodka.
In response to a request for comment, an HSE Schools spokesperson stated in an email that Shore was removed from duty April 2, and is no longer employed by Hamilton Southeastern Schools.
“We do not tolerate any behavior that compromises the safety of our students,” HSE’s email stated. “All bus drivers are required to hold a commercial driver’s license, maintain a clean driving record and participate in ongoing safety training. Drivers are also subject to routine and random drug and alcohol testing as required by law and district procedures. Student safety remains the district’s highest priority.”
Shore’s attorney did not respond to a message seeking comment.
A bench trial is set for Aug. 26.
DISPATCHES
Online safety event planned — Allies, a local nonprofit that supports survivors of trafficking and sexual exploitation, is hosting a free community event in collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security and its know2protect initiative. The event will feature two sessions, one for teens and one for parents and caregivers. It is set for 6:30-8 p.m. May 12 at Ascension St. Vincent’s William K. Nasser Healthcare Education and Simulation Center, 1801 W. 86th St., Indianapolis. To register for the free event, visit https://bit.ly/4uhowhw
Election Day — The Indiana primary election is May 5. Voters can find a complete list of candidates for all offices, including state, county, township and delegate positions, on the Indiana Secretary of State website, in.gov/sos/elections/ candidate-information.
SAFETY, MEET STYLE
DISPATCHES
Spark!Fishers applications open — Fishers Parks’ annual multiday Spark!Fishers festival is the last weekend in June in downtown Fishers. Vendor applications are now open for food and beverage vendors, booth space, Car+Art Show artists and car registration and parade participation. For more, visit bit. ly/4cH714o.
Local artist wanted — The Indiana Fever is searching for a central Indiana artist to design and 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. Interested artists can apply online at indyarts.grantplatform.com.
Fall prevention program set — The Adult Children of Aging Parents Indy Metro North Chapter will host a free educational program, “Preventing Falls: Helping Older Adults Stay Safe,” from 5:30. to 7 p.m. May 12 at Church at the Crossing – The Haverstick, Door 4, 9111 Haverstick Rd. For more or to register, visit acapcommunity.org.
Grant supports online volunteer hub — United Way of Central Indiana has created a centralized online platform, volunpair.org, where nonprofits can post volunteer opportunities and community members can match their volunteer interests with what’s available. The new website is supported by a $1.3 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc.
Community First Bank program supports foundation — Through May 2, Community First Bank will donate $20 to the Hamilton County Community Foundation for every new checking account opened. Through the Lilly Endowment GIFT IX matching program, each donation will be tripled, turning every $20 gift into a $60 impact for local initiatives. For bank locations, visit CFBindiana.com/ locations.
Applications open for Car & Art Show — The deadline for participants to apply for the annual Car & Art Show, part of the June 27 Spark!Fishers festival, is May 4. Event maps and details are still being worked out, but information and applications are available online at fishersartscouncil.org/post/car-art-26-callout.
Senate candidate arrested on cocaine charges
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Senate District 31 Democratic primary candidate Andrew Dezelan was arrested in Fishers April 26 and faces charges of possession of cocaine and resisting arrest. During a court hearing the next day, it was revealed that he faces a similar drug charge in Wisconsin.
According to the probable cause affidavit filed in court, Fishers Police Department officers were dispatched to the Britton Falls neighborhood at about 8 p.m. April 26 after a report of a person going door to door, soliciting.
“Officers found Andrew Dezelan in his vehicle at the neighborhood’s clubhouse,” a FPD news release stated. “Dezelan wouldn’t give a clear answer to the responding officer why he was in the neighborhood but said he had received permission from an HOA board member.”
The PCA noted that Dezelan told the officer that he was “canvassing,” which is another term for door knocking for votes. The affidavit alleges that Dezelan was speaking quickly, making quick, nervous movements, was sweating and had contracted pupils, which can be signs of drug use.
“When the officer asked for his ID,
Dezelan put his vehicle in reverse and attempted to leave,” the news release stated, adding that he stopped when the officer directed him, but didn’t get out of the car when asked. “Dezelan resisted being put in handcuffs several times before finally complying.”
Officers allegedly found a small bag of a substance that field-tested positive for cocaine.
The PCA stated that it contained 3 grams or less.
Dezelan was arrested and spent the night at Hamilton County Jail. During an April 27 initial hearing, the prosecutor asked for $15,000 bail, citing a similar pending cocaine charge in Wisconsin, as well as two more pending charges in that state for allegedly operating while intoxicated. Dezelan’s attorney asked for $5,000 bail, noting his client’s ties to the Fishers community.
The judge set bail at $10,000, which Dezelan posted that same day.
Dezelan, a Fishers resident, is one of four Democrats running in the May 5 primary for the Senate District 31 seat now held by Republican Kyle Walker, who is not seeking reelection. Dezelan is an insurance broker and consultant.
Current reached out to Dezelan and his attorney seeking comment. At the time of publication, there had been no response.
DISPATCHES
Time Travelers History Ball set — Hamilton County Parks and Recreation will host its Time Travelers History Ball from 7 to 10 p.m. June 26 at Coxhall Gardens in Carmel. The event will celebrate America’s 250th birthday and the 50th anniversary of the Coxhall Mansion, completed in 1976. The history-themed fundraiser will support Hamilton County Parks and Recreation Department’s parks, programs and community spaces. For more, visit myhamiltoncountyparks.com.
Menards hosts annual pet supply drive — Local Menards home improvement stores are serving as drop sites for donations to area humane associations through May 31. Donations can be placed in collection boxes near store exits.
Community Center accepting ‘SilverSneakers’ — The Fishers Community Center is now accepting insurance-based memberships, such as SilverSneakers, Renew Active, Silver&Fit and Active&Fit. Insurance-based memberships provide the same access as regular memberships, but fees are processed directly through the member’s insurance. For more, visit fisherscommunitycenter.com/insurance.
Intro to Girl Scouts program offered — Get Ready with Girl Scouts is a summer program for pre-K and kindergarten girls to learn about Girl Scouts through events and activities before joining a Daisy troop in the fall. For more and to register, visit jotform.com/ form/260204030103129.
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Dezelan
Fishers teen earns national swimming recognition
Grace Gannon, a 13-year-old Fishers resident, is on track to represent Team USA at the World Aquatics Open Water Championships in Santa Fe, Argentina, this fall.
Gannon, a member of the Fishers Area Swimming Tigers, recently was named the 13-Year-Old Female Swimmer of the Year at the International Swim Coaches Association’s annual ORCA Awards April 17 and 18 in Florida.
The ORCA Awards recognize swimmers nationwide for excellence across an entire season, including performance, improvement and sportsmanship, according to a news release. Her accomplishments garnered Gannon an invitation from USA Swimming, and she is a candidate to represent Team USA at the World Aquatics Open Water Championships in Santa Fe, Argentina, pending completion of final qualification standards in the 1500 freestyle.
“Her combined achievements across pool and open water reflect one of the most versatile and comprehensive agegroup performances in the nation,” the news release stated. “During the short course season, Gannon led the nation in the 50 butterfly, 100 butterfly and 200 individual medley, while ranking in the national top 10 across multiple events including distance freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke and IM. Her success continued in long course competition, where she led the country in five events: the 1,500 freestyle, 200 breaststroke, 100 butterfly, 200 butterfly and 400 individual medley, while also earning additional top 10 national rankings.”
At the 2026 Indiana Age Group State Championships, competing in the 13–14 division, Gannon captured five individual state titles in the 1,000 freestyle, 1650 freestyle, 400 individual medley, 200 butterfly and 200 breaststroke. She also earned runner-up finishes in the 200 individual medley and 100
breaststroke, and contributed to four relay state championships, securing high point honors for the 13–14 girls age group.
She followed that with a strong showing at Speedo Sectionals, placing third in the 400 individual medley and fourth in the 200 breaststroke.
“Despite a demanding stretch of three consecutive championship meets, Gannon delivered a standout performance at the Junior National Open Water Championships in Sarasota, Florida,’ the news release stated. “Competing in a field of more than 80 swimmers in the 16-and-under division, she placed fourth overall in the 5K and was the top finisher among 14–15-year-olds — despite being just 13.”
Gannon also was the Swammy Award winner by SwimSwam as the nation’s Top 11–12 Female Swimmer, recognizing her performance while competing last season.
Grace Gannon of Fishers was named the 13-Year-Old Female Swimmer of the Year at the ORCA Awards Weekend. (Photo courtesy of Michael Gannon)
COMMUNITY
New 500 Fest CEO settles in
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
In Indianapolis, the month of May is simply special.
“It’s like our December for a lot of other states,” 500 Festival CEO and President Dave Neff said. “It’s sort of our best month of the year given all the excitement and buzz, and obviously we’re a big part of that in collaboration with Indianapolis Motor Speedway and now IMS museum.”
Neff started his roles Jan. 1, replacing Bob Bryant, who retired. Neff had spent the previous two years as the CEO of Boilermaker Alliance, Purdue University’s NIL collective.
Neff started his career in 2007 at Pacers Sports & Entertainment. He then worked for ExactTarget, which was purchased by Salesforce in 2013.
“These are the types of roles that don’t come along very often,” he said. “My predecessor was in the seat for 12 years, and believe it or not, this is our 70th year as an organization. We were started in 1957 after four civic leaders had gone down to the Kentucky Derby in 1956 and saw what they started with the Kentucky Derby Festival. So, (they) kind of brought that idea back to Indy. To be the fifth leader in a 70-year span is pretty special.”
Neff, who grew up on the northeast side of Indianapolis and graduated from Heritage Christian High School, said he understands the significance of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indy 500 to the state’s identity.
Neff studied sports administration at Ball State University
“I’ve worked in the (sports administration) space, so to combine that with my love and passion for this community (is rewarding), because we’re really a community organization,” he said. “It’s just a perfect marriage, and so I’m thrilled and grateful to be here.”
Neff said his parents took him to a few 500 Festival Parades when he was younger. He and his wife, Joelle, have taken their four young children the past few years.
“My little sister was a 500 Festival Princess in 2007, so I remember going to the race that year,” he said.
While Neff was with ExactTarget, it sponsored three Andretti drivers, starting in 2011.
“I was our global sports marketing manager,” he said. “So, I managed our partnership and how we measure our ROI from that (sponsorship money) with Andretti. I went to eight IndyCar races in 2012, and we would bring our clients and prospects. I really got kind of immersed in it from that side of being in the pits, the garages and the paddocks. From that vantage point, it’s a pretty special way to get an inside look at how IndyCar ticks.”
Neff said the biggest challenge was meeting all the stakeholders.
There is a staff of 18 and 12 full-time interns who are with the 500 Festival from January through May. There are two boards of directors. The Festival board has 33 members and the Foundation board has 20. In addition, there are corporate sponsors, other civic partners and public safety groups.
“We’ve got a lot of different groups that are supporting the way that we do,” he said. “Then beyond that, we’ve got about 2,300 volunteers.”
Neff said it helps that he has a strong, experienced team.
“We have three VPs of operations that take (leadership) of our bigger events that have each been here a decade,” he said. “What I’ve tried to do is jump in and bring some visibility to promotion, amplification of some of our key events.”
Neff said the education program reaches a third of all fourth-graders in the state.
“We’ve got about 20,000 students participating in the Kids Fit program,” he said. “We’re making sure people are aware and they can plug in with the festival.”
Neff said there are many 30- to 40year volunteers in key positions.
“Part of my goal is, ‘How do we build that leadership volunteer bench?’” he said. “We need younger generations choosing to volunteer on the start-finish line committee or part of the memorial service we do the Friday before the race. There’s lots of ways for young people, middle age and older people to get involved with us.”
Neff said this is a milestone year for two events. The 50th Mini-Marathon was scheduled for May 2. The 70th 500 Festival Parade is set for May 23, the day before the Indy 500.
Neff
Ivy Tech Hamilton County contributes $298.6 million
news@currentnoblesville.com
Ivy Tech Community College Hamilton County has reported that its impact on the region adds more than $298.6 million in income through its students, alumni and operations.
According to a news release from the college, the benefits include $192.3 million in added student income, $83 million in added business income, $18.8 million in added income from campus activities and $4.5 million in social savings related to health, the justice system and income assistance in Indiana.
The overall impact of Ivy Tech was cited in a new report on the economic value of the college, as measured during fiscal year 2024-25 by Lightcast. The report found that the statewide impact of Ivy Tech adds more than $4.8 billion in income through its students, alumni and operations of campuses throughout the state — equal to more than 63,000 jobs supported, or 1 out of every 67 jobs in the state.
“Ivy Tech is a major catalyst for economic growth — investing in Hoosiers, strengthening our region and delivering impact that lasts for generations,”
Chancellor of Ivy Tech Community College Hamilton County Rachel Kartz stated. “When you factor in both the economic and social benefits, the impact is clear. For a campus that was only three years old when this data was captured during the 2024-25 academic year, we are immensely proud of the meaningful difference we are already making in Hamilton County, and we know our impact will continue to grow for years to come.”
The Lightcast report highlighted the return on investment from the perspective of students, taxpayers and society at large. For every $1 invested in Ivy Tech Hamilton County, taxpayers get a return of $2. For every $1 students invested in Ivy Tech Hamilton County in the form of out-of-pocket expenses and time and money forgone, students will see a return of $5.10 in higher future earnings. For every dollar invested in Ivy Tech Hamilton County, the people of Indiana see a cumulative benefit of $10.30.
“We know that more education and skills lead to better and higher-paying jobs, and that is a key mission for Ivy Tech as Indiana’s workforce engine,” Ivy Tech President Marty Pollio stated.
DISPATCHES
New public transit service offered — A new public transit service that takes riders between Hamilton and Hancock counties has launched through a Central Indiana Regional Transportation Authority, Hamilton County Express and RIDE Hancock partnership. One-Call Connect helps riders navigate a public transportation funding rule that doesn’t allow transit providers to cross county lines. The new service, which offers users a flat one-way fee of $8, has a transfer point in McCordsville where riders switch between each county’s ADA-accessible transit providers. To book a trip weekdays between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m., call 317-327-7433 at least 48 hours in advance.
Top-seeded Ignite want to light up playoffs
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The Indy Ignite learned a valuable lesson last season.
The professional volleyball team didn’t clinch the fourth and final spot until two matches left in the season. Still, the Ignite upset top-seeded and defending champion Omaha before losing to No. 3 seed Orlando in the Major League Volleyball championship.
“Last year, luckily, we made the tournament, we made it to the finals, and we realized when it comes down to the finals, everything that you’ve done before doesn’t matter,” Ignite’s libero Elena Scott said. “It’s going to be a new team because they are showing up and they’re playing their best at the end of the season.”
The Ignite clinched the No. 1 seed April 26. Prior to the final two matches, they were 21-5 heading into the four-team playoffs May 7-9 in Frisco, Texas.
“We want to keep a big emphasis on it doesn’t matter what you’ve done before and not getting complacent and being able to show what you can do when times get tough,” Scott said.
Under first-year coach Lauren Bertolacci, the team plays at a faster pace and is more aggressive.
“I think the biggest thing is that she gets to know us as people off the court, so that when we are on the court we have a strong relationship where she can be straight up with us and tell us what we need to do without it hurting our feelings or getting in our heads,” Scott said. “She’s really transparent with her communication and it really helps us feel comfortable during practices and games to make errors and be aggressive. That’s the biggest thing she emphasizes is being aggressive because teams that play it safe aren’t going to finish it when they come to the last game.”
Scott became a starter in the second half of the 2025 season. She was named an MLV All-Star earlier this year.
“Lauren has made a big emphasis on being yourself and she’s allowed us to be comfortable,” Scott said. “She’s pushing us in different ways in practice that maybe we haven’t been pushed before. It really helps that she is not let-
ting us get complacent with ourselves. That’s allowing me to translate that hard work from practices to games and show our fans what we’re capable of, and we just have so much fun doing it.”
Ignite opposite hitter Azhani Tealer, in her second year with the Ignite and third in the league, made the All-Star team for the second consecutive year. She leads the team in kills.
“I’ve been jumping high and hitting the ball hard and our setters are playing well,” Tealer said. “It’s been really fun.”
The Ignite have won all four matches against No. 2 seed Dallas.
“Their outside hitters are arguably the best in the league as a pair, and they hit a lot of cross court,” Tealer said. “We have Elena Scott in the cross court, so it makes it very easy for us when she digs as many balls as she does. I think our staff comes up with a really good defensive game plan that helps us manage their players a lot, so it’s really a testament to Elena and our staff.”
Tealer said the team has a calmer energy.
“Last year at this point, we needed to win every game or else we’re not going to get in,” she said. “The No. 1 seeds didn’t win in the final in the two previous years, so we want to go in and really change that narrative.”
The team meshes well together.
“Lauren did a really good job building this team and putting together people that can play in the fast and creative offense that she wants to run,” Tealer said. “It’s good for all of us. I’ve definitely gotten better. Last year was a lot of fun and I played well. But this year there’s small things that the staff has been helping me with, so it’s definitely a good thing.”
Ignite libero Elena Scott made the MLV AllStar team. (Photo courtesy of Maddison Holubik)
Airport launches new exhibit
A new exhibit opened April 10 at the Indianapolis International Airport’s Civic Plaza, celebrating 90 Hoosier artists who have developmental disabilities.
The Indianapolis Airport Authority hosted the opening celebration with the Indiana Association of Rehabilitation Facilities, Inc. and Ability Indiana. This year’s exhibit features artists from 12 INARF member organizations, according to a news release.
“The Indy airport is the largest-exposure art gallery in the state,” Indianapolis Airport Authority Executive Director Mario Rodriguez stated. “It’s a valuable public asset and platform that showcases the breadth and wealth of artistic talent available in Indiana’s creative economy. We’re proud of that, and we want the millions who travel through the airport each year to see it.”
The Indy airport, INARF and Ability Indiana have honored Hoosier artists with disabilities for several years, and the project continues to grow with some artists returning each year with
new pieces, according to the news release. This year’s exhibit features 92 pieces in a variety of mediums.
“Creating art makes me feel relaxed and it helps keep my mind busy,” artist Elijah Keegan from the Wabash Center stated. ”I like being creative and showing my artwork to others. Not to be famous, just to show it off.”
The new exhibit is part of the Indy airport’s arts and culture program, which brings rotating and permanent collections to different areas of the terminal. Most works are created by Indiana artists or those with strong ties to the state.
Indianapolis International Airport’s newest art exhibit celebrates Hoosier artists with developmental disabilities. (Photo courtesy of Indianapolis Airport Authority)
Food contest to return
northindy@youarecurrent.com
The World Food Championships will return to Indianapolis for a third year, with competitions set for Oct. 15-18 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center.
The event will be almost exactly a year after the venue hosted the second World Food Championship, during which two Hoosier chefs won top honors in two categories.
“Indianapolis has proven to be an incredible home for the World Food Championships,” founder and CEO Mike McCloud stated. “The city, the venue and the community have embraced food sport in a way that aligns perfectly with our mission — to celebrate culinary talent, passion and competition at the highest level.”
The competition will kick off with two days of qualifying rounds leading up to a full weekend of events, according to a news release. The Saturday lineup will include ancillary competitions, such as WFC Junior, Military Challenge, Redemption Tournament and Biscuits & Jampionship. The last
day of the event features finalists in 10 core categories competing for the crown.
“We are thrilled to welcome the World Food Championships back to the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center for a third year,” Indiana Gov. Mike Braun stated. “This event has become a signature fall attraction, showcasing our state as a true culinary destination while bringing together competitors, families and food lovers from across the country and around the world.”
For more, visit worldfoodchampionships.com.
FAST to host 2nd Fishers Sprint Triathlon
The second Fishers Sprint Triathlon hosted by FAST — Fishers Area Swimming Tigers — is set for May 16, with events starting at Geist Waterfront Park, 10811 Olio Rd.
In addition to the triathlon — swimming, biking and running — the event features a duathlon, aquabike and 2- or 3-person relay as race options.
The event begins with a 400-yard swim in Geist Reservoir at 7:30 a.m., followed by an 11-mile bike course and
a 3-mile run. All three sections should be concluded before 10 a.m., according to a FAST announcement.
“During this time there will be some traffic disruptions in the area around Geist Waterfront Park, with the bike course closing at 9 a.m. and the run course closing at 9:45 a.m.,” the announcement stated. “Please try to avoid this area if possible or expect delays and use caution if you must drive or walk in the area during that time.”
For more or to register, visit fasttigers.com/fisherssprinttriathlon.
Chefs prepare dishes for judges to taste during the 2025 World Food Championship in Indianapolis. (File photo by Leila Kheiry)
Sprint Triathlon bike course is 11 miles. (Map courtesy of FAST)
MOTHER’S DAY AT THE CAVES
Skip the flowers. Give her an experience.
At Carmel Salt Caves & Spa, guests recline in zero-gravity comfort surrounded by Himalayan salt, as soft ocean sounds and gentle warmth invite the body to fully unwind.
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Prayer breakfast planned — The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office will host its 5th annual prayer breakfast May 20 at the IMMI Conference Center in Westfield, 18880 N. East St. Registration will begin at 7 a.m., with the program running from 7:15 to 9 a.m. The annual event highlights the partnership between faith-based organizations and public safety, while recognizing the impact of the Sheriff’s Office Chaplaincy Program. For individual tickets, visit bit. ly/4ucUUSw.
Al Hambach Memorial Golf Classic — Meals On Wheels of Hamilton County will host its third annual Al Hambach Memorial Golf Classic presented by First Merchants Bank June 8 at Chatham Hills Country Club in Westfield. The event includes a round of golf, breakfast, lunch, a silent auction and an awards ceremony. To register, visit mealsonwheelshc.org/ golf-outing.
One Impact campaign announced — OneZone Chamber of Commerce has kicked off a $10,000 capital campaign for its One Impact Foundation, a 501(c) (3) that focuses on scholarships, leadership programs, workforce and talent initiatives, and direct support for nonprofit organizations and small businesses. For more, visit onezonechamber.com, click on the Programs & Initiatives tab and then on the One Impact Foundation tab.
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United Way of Central Indiana awards grants — United Way of Central Indiana is awarding $199,000 in grants to five Hamilton County nonprofits to help meet residents’ basic needs and improve the education, financial stability and wellbeing of families. The grants come from United Way’s Basic Needs and Family Opportunity Funds. The Hamilton County nonprofits receiving grants are Ascent 121, Grace Care Center, Heart and Soul Clinic, Prevail, Inc. and Trinity Free Clinic.
Beekeepers club — North Central Beekeepers Club meets at 6:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Cool Creek Nature Center in Westfield, 2000 E. 151st St. Meetings are free to attend for all levels of beekeepers located north of Indianapolis. Learn more at facebook. com/groups/ncbclub.
Greyhounds softball player finds groove at the plate
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Carmel High School junior second baseman Ellie Goddard’s hitting struggles are a thing of the past.
“In the fall season, I started fixing my swing and I worked really hard in the winter and offseason to make my adjustments,” she said. “I’m really happy with how I’ve been able to perform for my team this spring.”
Through the first 17 softball games, Goddard has a .490 batting average with nine doubles and a team-high 24 RBIs for the Greyhounds (9-8). She hit .283 as a sophomore and .264 in 2024.
“I’ve kind of gained confidence in both sides of the ball,” she said. “Being committed also is a huge thing off my shoulders,” said Goddard, who committed to the University of Pennsylvania in February.
Carmel coach Stephanie Kleiner said Goddard has stopped trying to make things difficult for herself.
“We rely on her for consistency,” Kleiner said. “We don’t need something extraordinary out of her to make our
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team better.”
Goddard bats third in the lineup.
“One of the reasons she is there is to move runners,” Kleiner said. “She’s smart and she knows what to do with runners on base. She is helpful in explaining game situations to younger athletes. She’s supportive on and off the field of all her teammates.”
Goddard said a major team goal is to win a sectional game for the first time
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“I think year by year we’ve kept getting better,” she said. “We had six freshmen last year and now they are sophomores. I think we are upsetting a
lot of really good teams. I think we have a good shot at sectionals this year.”
Goddard grew up watching her sister, Sarah, play. Sarah is a 2020 CHS graduate who played softball at Duke University.
Goddard began concentrating on softball in middle school.
“I really love softball more than other sports,” she said. “Basketball was my other main sport, and honestly, I’m really short, so I wouldn’t get that far in basketball.”
The 5-foot-4 Goddard said she loves playing with her teammates.
“It’s also a love of the game, and seeing it kind of pay off in games has been really rewarding.” she said.
Academics was the foremost reason Goddard chose Penn.
“I really connected with the players and the coaches,” said Goddard, who plans to major in business. “Coach (Christie) Novatin talked a lot about building their program. The players talked highly about the school and what they were building. I wanted somewhere where I could play and have a successful career after.”
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Carmel High School second baseman Ellie Goddard has a .490 batting average this season. (Photo courtesy of Carmel HQ)
A TIME TO PLANT
Fishers AgriPark readies for new growing season
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Kale, cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower sprouts already have popped up in the fields at the Fishers AgriPark as the popular urban farm gears up for a new growing season.
On a recent, sunny late-April morning, Fishers AgriPark Manager Trevor Wildey gave a preview of some of the park’s popular amenities, like its pigs, sheep, horse and chickens, the cut-flowers garden and free you-pick produce.
He said some cold-tolerant crops could be ready for picking as early as mid-May, with other plant starts waiting in the greenhouses for more consistent warm days and nights.
“As it kind of warms up the next few weeks, we’ll transition to peppers, tomatoes — we were actually planting sweet corn this morning and more green beans,” he said, admitting it’s a calculated risk, considering the potential for late frosts that could harm young plants. “(We) always make sure we start a few extra things in case that does happen.”
In past years, spring planting coincided with the AgriPark’s annual opening. However, the park didn’t close at the end of last year’s growing season. While there weren’t crops to pick over the colder months, the park kept visitors busy with programs about composting, beekeeping and hydroponics, among other activities held in the barn and the park’s new programming building.
As Wildey and Parks Director Marissa Deckert walked the gravel path next to the programming building, a group of second-graders from Fishers Elementary School poured out, eager to burn off energy in the park’s newly remodeled farm-themed playground. The kids had just finished up lessons with teacher-in-residence Brooke Daniel.
“She’s actually a (Hamilton Southeastern Schools) employee and this is her home base,” Deckert said. ”Every second-grader gets to experience it three times, and then she goes into their classrooms twice per year. So, they get to learn about plant, animal ad-
(Below) Fishers AgriPark Manager Trevor Wildey, left, Marketing Manager Kara Hall and Parks and Recreation
Director Marissa Deckert check out tomato and flower starts in the park’s greenhouse.
aptations — right now they’re learning about weather, erosion measurement, tools on the farm, all that kind of stuff.”
The AgriPark’s classroom and programming space was new as of last summer and, in addition to space for the young and not-so-young to learn new skills, it provides something every visitor can appreciate — public restrooms, which replaced Porta Potties.
A year-round country store on one end of the new building is still in the works and will feature a coffee bar as well as locally produced items for purchase.
“It will be (for people to) grab a cof-
fee, sit outside and watch your kids play,” Deckert said. “And also provide a country store experience. The goal is freezers and fridges that we could work with local vendors to sell their products here — a lot of our farmers market vendors — and then shelf space to sell as well.”
Parks Department’s Maker Playground participants are building the bar, tables and chairs for the country store, which should open later this year. Deckert pointed out various storage sheds throughout the park, which also are made at the Maker Playground through an Ivy Tech program that
AGRIPARK WEST MOVING FORWARD
Almost exactly one year ago, the City of Fishers announced the location of its planned second AgriPark at 106th Street and Allisonville Road, near the Indianapolis Metropolitan Airport.
Parks Director Marissa Deckert said negotiations with the airport authority and the Federal Aviation Administration took a while, but they finally reached a formal, signed lease agreement in late April to develop the site — which is regulated for air-safety considerations.
“So, we are now kind of getting back
into the swing of things and planning and preparing to start on that space, which is really exciting,” she said, adding that a Phase 1 opening should be on track for 2027.
AgriPark Manager Trevor Wildey said the first phase likely will include some basic infrastructure, trails and some you-pick crops. That site is not as flat as the first AgriPark on Florida Road, so it presents different opportunities. For more, visit fishersagripark.com/ agriparkwest.
teaches students basic housebuilding skills.
“They are framing it all out, putting the roof on, and then we get to use these sheds here, throughout the AgriPark,” she said.
The sheds are one of several partnerships the park has established. Another example is a field set off by a series of wooden animal cutouts, which is dedicated to growing plants for the Indianapolis Zoo. It has cold-weather crops such as kale, chard and arugula, grown in the spring and then again in the fall.
“We have volunteers on Wednesdays ready to harvest,” Wildey said. “They kind of come out, prep them, box everything up and then we take it down there and drop it off for some of their animals to snack on.”
A local beekeeper who runs the beekeeping workshops maintains a beehive on site, as well, which is good for plant pollination and programming opportunities.
Deckert noted that all the AgriPark programs are popular — such as the annual campout, which was so well received that the park plans to host more. And with the addition of the new programming building, the barn, which formerly was used for all park programs, now is available for rent — birthday parties, family get-togethers, etc.
Wildey mentioned how much the AgriPark appreciates its volunteers.
“The first week of May, volunteer opportunities start for farm help, which is like picking, planting — kind of just helping the team out here with any farm duties,” he said. “Then we have guest services, kind of checking people in, telling people about the park, letting them know about the you-pick and all those opportunities. And then also the … zoo harvesters will be an opportunity as well, to come out and pick and harvest stuff for the Indianapolis Zoo.”
For more, visit fishersagripark.com.
ON THE COVER: Early spring plantings, such as kale and broccoli, are sprouting at the
Fishers AgriPark. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
(Above) Fishers Elementary School secondgraders end a day of learning at the AgriPark with some playtime at the its newly remodeled playground. (Photos by Leila Kheiry)
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BUSINESS GUIDE
Carmel and Fishers comprise one of the top commerce areas in all of Indiana. With no end in sight for growth and development, the cities represent the present and future of enterprise to our more than 1,300 members and tens of thousands of consumers in our midst. Business Guide will publish June 30. It will be distributed to 65,713 households in our two cities. It, again, will be a magazine-style publication and will include a complete chamber membership directory and stories on key topics that drive commerce in our cities as well as a look at the future. Directory listings are free of charge to members.
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Community Health Foundation names new CEO
northindy@youarecurrent.com
Community Health Network Foundation recently announced that Derek B. Groves has been selected as its new president and chief executive officer, succeeding longtime leader Joyce Irwin, who will retire in early July.
Groves will begin his role May 18 as part of a planned leadership transition, according to a news release. He currently serves as interim president of the University of Toledo and UT Medical Center Foundation, where he leads philanthropic strategy, governance and organizational alignment.
health care philanthropy and a strong understanding of how charitable investment can support patient care, workforce development and community health,” stated Patrick McGill, president and CEO of Community Health Network. “He is well positioned to build on the strong foundation Joyce has established.”
Irwin will remain in her role through July 3 to assist with the leadership transition.
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Groves has more than 15 years experience. He previously served as chief operating officer of the UT foundation and as the president and chief development officer of a multi-state health care foundation.
“Derek brings deep experience in
Community Health Network Foundation supports programs that help patients, such as the Oncology Patient Assistance Fund, which provides basic needs for cancer patients like food, medicine and transportation; housing and utilities assistance; and ensuring access to substance use disorder treatments.
For more, visit ecommunity.com/ community-foundation.
We are so incredibly proud of the woman you’ve become. From your first day of kindergarten to walking across the stage, it’s been a joy to watch you grow. We can’t wait to see what you achieve at Purdue! Love, Mom, Dad, and Sarah. SCAN HERE
Your journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. From building robots in the garage to leading the choir to state finals, you have always followed your own path with courage and curiosity. It feels like only yesterday we were dropping you off for your first day of school, and now we stand in awe of the visionary young leader you’ve become. As you head off to study Engineering this fall, know that your home team is behind you forever. You have the heart of a lion, the mind of an innovator, and a spirit that lights up every room. The sky isn’t the limit—it’s just the beginning. We love you more than words can say!” WE’RE SO PROUD, PRESLEY ROSS CLASS OF 2026 CHEERS TO, PRESLEY ROSS CLASS OF 2026
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Indianapolis Symphonic Choir concert inspired by Whitman’s Civil War poetry
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Walt Whitman’s Civil War poetry examined what happens when a nation turns on itself.
“A Procession Winding Around Me” is a contemporary choral work by U.S. composer Jeffrey Van that is based on Whitman’s poetry. The Indianapolis Symphonic Choir’s “Voices of the Spirit” concert will present Van’s work at 3 p.m. May 17 at Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis.
“The work is conceived with the Civil War in mind but there are some parallels to where we find ourselves in contemporary society in a country and in a world where our divisions are quite strong and quite sharp, just as they were in the Civil War,” ISC Artistic Director Eric Stark said.
Van’s work is an arrangement of four Whitman poems for choir and guitar.
“It’s extraordinarily beautiful,” Stark said. “Whitman was deeply affected by the Civil War and spent a number of years interviewing veterans from the war in the Washington, D.C., area after the end of the war. He wrote a whole collection of poetry based on those conversations and what he learned.”
and my jaw was just on the floor,” Stark said of seeing Duarte in rehearsal. “It was just spectacular.”
The concert’s second half features Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s “Requiem.” The piece was unfinished at the time of Mozart’s death, but the ISC will perform the widely respected completion by Harvard scholar Robert Levin.
“Any composer’s Requiem Mass setting is a reflection and kind of a prayer for the dead but also perhaps a hope for us who are left behind,” Stark said.
Stark said Mozart’s piece honors those who have died for their countries.
The first poem is “By the Bivouac’s Fitful Flame.”
“The soldiers’ anxiousness about what’s going to happen is depicted by both words and music,” Stark said.
The second poem, “Beat! Beat! Drums!” is about the savagery of battle.
“The third one is a very haunting reflection of ‘The Battle Past,’” Stark said. “The last one called ‘Recollection’ expresses a longing for coming together after strife.”
Daniel Duarte, a professor at Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music, is the guitarist.
“I heard him play for the first time
“But it also calls us to hope for reconciliation and that better days are ahead and that we can find a way to heal our wounds and come together in peace,” he said
Prior to the concert, there will be a “In-Choir-ing Minds” education series event at 7 p.m. May 12 at Butler University’s Lilly Hall, Room 112. Musician Audrey Johnson will lead the free interactive program, “Mine Eyes Have Seen The Glory: Songs & Stories of the American Civil War.”
Johnson’s “Of Thee I Sing” one-woman musical programs present American history using actual historical music.
“We are going to explore the presidential campaign immediately before
Audrey Johnson will present a free program on Civil War-era music May 12 at Butler University’s Lilly Hall. (Photo courtesy of Audrey Johnson)
Abraham Lincoln’s and we are going to discover ways in which that set the stage for Lincoln to successfully win the presidency in 1860,” she said. “It will help us get the idea of the social and political landscape that was the context for this time.”
Johnson said people often see music as a means to tell stories in song.
“However, I do think so often we find that the songs themselves are the stories and the songs themselves have been the direct driving forces responsible for moving history forward,” she said.
Johnson said the term “Bleeding Kansas” came from a song. Bleeding Kansas describes violent civil confrontations from 1854-59 over whether slavery should be permitted in the proposed state of Kansas .
Johnson said Lincoln used music to boost enlistment for the Union Army.
“A composer named George Root, who would become instrumental time and again as a composer writing for the Union, wrote the song ‘Battle Cry of Freedom,’” Johnson said. “The moment the song was performed it had an immense impact on rallying the hearts and minds of the Union, particularly the men that were of enlistment age.”
A small ISC ensemble will sing with Johnson on many songs.
For more, visit indychoir.org and oftheeising.com.
‘SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN’
“Singin’ in the Rain” runs through May 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards. com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Gentlemen’s Quartet” is set for May 7, followed by Will Hoge May 8-9 at Feinstein’s in Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘EVENING WITH JAKE SHIMABUKURO’
Jake Shimabukuro will perform at 8 p.m. May 8 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘SUNSET BOULEVARD’
Actors Theatre of Indiana presents “Sunset Boulevard” through May 10 at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistage.org.
‘FIDDLER ON THE ROOF’
Civic Theatre presents “Fiddler on the Roof” through May 9 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.
DISPATCHES
Castlewood Singers, VOCE concert set — The Castlewood Singers and VOCE will perform a concert at 7 p.m. May 16 at Tabernacle Presbyterian Church, 418 E. 34th St., Indianapolis. The concert features music by Giovanni Gabrieli, Claude Debussy, Margaret Bonds, Dan Forrest, Darmon Meader, Matthew Nielsen, and Pharrell Williams. Tickets are $25 and $15 for children 18 and younger. For more, visit voceindy.org.
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Carmel resident Emily Geon is exploring a new aspect of performing Geon, a high school junior taking online classes, plays Juliet in Indiana Ballet Conservatory’s production of “Romeo and Juliet,” set for 7 p.m. May 22 and 4 and 7 p.m. May 23 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel
“This ballet has so much acting, which is something I haven’t had to do much of yet,” Geon said. “I’m really enjoying it because I’m able to almost act dead while still dancing. It’s my favorite ballet, so it’s pretty cool to be able to do it.”
Geon played the Sugar Plum Fairy in IBC’s production of “The Nutcracker” in 2024 and 2025.
“I’m used to lighter roles, so it’s cool to get more into acting with more mature themes,” she said.
Westfield High School junior Clara Crane shares the role of Juliet.
Fishers High School sophomore James Agustus Leinauer plays Romeo “There is a lot to learn for the role and it’s the most choreography I’ve ever done for a show, and that is probably the most challenging part of it,” Leinauer said. “It is even more challenging to learn the choreography and have to learn to portray the role of Romeo who is in love with Juliet.”
Leinauer is in a lead role for the first time.
“So, I think that’s pretty cool,” he said.
Fishers resident Thomas Wilcutts plays Mercutio.
“I like that he’s joking and never takes anything serious,” said Wilcutts, an online sophomore. “There’s a long death scene that’s pretty challenging. It took a lot to learn the choreography of that.”
Indianapolis resident Colby White plays Lord Capulet, Juliet’s father.
“There’s a lot of acting in it, more acting than ballet,” said White, a sophomore who also takes online classes.
IBC founding Artistic Director Alyona Yakovleva said this is the first time IBC has presented “Romeo and Juliet.”
“We never did it before because it’s very complicated,” she said. “Since it’s our 15th-year anniversary and we have so much talent in the school, I just decided we could put it together.
“Playing Juliet will be challenging as it requires more acting and emotions than a lot of our previous productions,” Crane said. “It also involves a lot of partnering with different people, so I’ll have to adjust to each person and build good chemistry with each of them. Playing Juliet will be really special because I’ll get to learn new skills and grow as an actor in ways I haven’t before. It also makes it even more meaningful since this is a new production for Indiana Ballet Conservatory, so I get to
The guest artists are IBC alumni Justin Hamilton, a Carmel resident who attends Indiana University, and Ian Anderson-Conlon from Louisville Ballet. For more, visit indianaballetconservatory.org.
Leinauer Wilcutts
Geon
Ukulele virtuoso’s show set
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Jake Shimabukuro enjoys sharing his love of the ukulele and passion for performing with audiences.
“I love being on stage and connecting with people,” he said. “I see it as an honor and privilege.”
The Hawaiian ukulele virtuoso will perform at 8 p.m. May 8 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
“We have some new songs we’ve been throwing in there,” Shimabukuro said. “We do a lot of covers and I’d say it’s 50-50 covers and originals. There’s a lot of recognizable music. which hopefully people enjoy.”
One cover is The Beatles’ “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” which was written by George Harrison.
“Back in 2006, there was a video of me playing it that went viral,” he said. “That really kicked off my touring career. Another one of my favorites is Queen’s ‘Bohemian Rhapsody,’ which turns into a sing-along with the
audience.”
Ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro to play in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Jensen Communications)
His music varies from classical, jazz, rock and blues along with traditional Hawaiian music.
“I love all kinds of music,” Shimabukuro said. “I don’t really have a favorite, but definitely traditional Hawaiian music was the first style of music that I was exposed to and that I fell in love with playing the ukulele with. I love sharing the instrument with people because I think the ukulele is such a friendly instrument. It’s not intimidating and I think that’s what I love. They’re not afraid to pick it up for the first time and try to play it if they’ve never played an instrument before.”
For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
Artists collaborate in series
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
This will be quite a different experience for Angela Manlove.
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Most of my work has been rooted in local community theater, so getting to choose a personally meaningful set and collaborate with artists who are experts in their own art forms is an exciting stretch.”
The northeast Indianapolis resident will be the vocalist for the Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre’s Mélange Series, along with GHDT company dancer Olivia Payton and visual artist Debbie Slack. The performances are at 5 p.m. May 16 and 3 p.m. May 17 at The Florence at the Academy of Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre, 329 Gradle Dr. Carmel.
“I’ve been part of cabarets before, but nothing quite as unique as this,” Manlove said. “An improvisational collaboration featuring a dancer and a visual artist all unfolding in real time is new territory for me, but I have always had a deep appreciation for all forms of art, so I had to say yes when (executive artistic director) Gregory (Hancock) asked me to participate.
Manlove hasn’t had the chance to see the Mélange Series because of scheduling conflicts.
“But I have several theater friends who’ve participated and raved about what a wonderful experience it is,” she said.
Payton, in her sixth season with GHDT, was part of the Mélange Series performance in 2024 with two different artists.
“So, I am so excited to be dancing again with a new vocalist and visual artist,” she said.
“As a dancer, I feel pretty comfortable creating art on the spot and it’s a very exciting challenge for me to flex a different part of my dancer brain.”
For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.
Manlove Slack Payton
Embracing our identity
Commentary by Terry Anker
May has arrived and with it comes the usual longer and warmer days, the greening of almost everything and the delivery of a fleet of Indianapolis 500 pace cars. The storied event held annually at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, or “The Brickyard,” fields a contingent of 33 drivers and their teams from around the globe, each vying to complete 200 laps around the 2 1/2-mile track before anyone else. The event is widely regarded as one of the largest sporting events on the planet, and anyone who has made the trek to the track knows it is true.
With this running, the race marks its 115th birthday, chronologically (during the World War II years it was not held, making for 110 actual runnings). In more than a century, the event, track, teams and even the drink that drivers use to celebrate have each become hallowed traditions in their own rite. Those with the most minimal insight are likely to recognize Foyt, Unser, Castroneves
and the Marmon Wasp. Moreover, the very name carries a herald flag for central Indiana across the U.S. and around the world. It is difficult to find oneself in Istanbul, Shanghai, Moscow, Sao Palo or Kigali without encountering those who might not be able to find Indiana on a globe but are eager to acknowledge “the” race.
To many, we are defined by the event. Absent other input, they process their understanding of us with one metric — we like fast, loud cars. There are worse ways to be renowned, and likely better ones, too. But if our own reputations precede us, how are we known? What is the one thing that others see in us from afar, and is it what we’d choose if we could? We may not be the Greatest Spectacle, but are we a spectacle, nonetheless?
Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@youarecurrent.com.
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COMMUNITY VOICES
Misplaced priorities
Editor,
In his latest attempt to distract from issues within his own church, Indiana Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith has decided to take aim at a Hamilton County high school band program.
Yes, he’s targeting students. Kids. A school music program. If you ever needed a clearer example of misplaced priorities, this is it.
I spent six years in orchestra, choir and performing arts. My husband has an even deeper musical background, including collegiate singing and multiple instruments. So, when our daughter picked up the trombone, we knew she’d gain skills. What we truly marveled at was how much she’d gain as a person. Because of the incredible teachers in Hamilton Southeastern Schools, she found confidence, discipline and a community that met her exactly where she was. I’ll never forget her eighth-grade concert, when she stepped forward for a solo — something her younger self wouldn’t have dreamed of. By the time she chose her high school, marching
band wasn’t just an activity — it was a second home.
That’s what programs like this do. They build kids up. They give them purpose, belonging and pride in something bigger than themselves. And somehow, this is what a sitting lieutenant governor has chosen to tear down. It would almost be laughable if it weren’t so telling.
Because it says a lot about a leader when they look at a group of dedicated students who spend their time practicing, performing, supporting each other, and see something worth mocking instead of celebrating.
Here’s the reality — no amount of cheap shots at kids in a band program is going to elevate anyone’s leadership credentials. It just makes it painfully obvious what’s missing.
Our students deserve better than to be used as a distraction. And our community deserves leaders who know the difference between punching down and actually leading.
Alyssa Roberts, Fishers
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Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE: Brands: CRUSH, DR PEPPER, FANTA, NEHI, PEPSI, SPRITE; Pick-ups: ARTIST, GAME, LINE, STICKS, TRUCK; Items: CLAY, GLAZE, KILN, WHEEL; Bands: BON JOVI, DEF LEPPARD, QUEEN; Cities: GOSHEN, NAPPANEE; Pick: FERNANDO MENDOZA
ACROSS
1. Taqueria Rosales menu items
6. IMPD crisis team
10. Fishers Farmers Market curly cabbage
14. Steal
15. Type type
16. Tehran’s country
17. B’s Bagels choice
18. Footnote abbr.
19. Numerical prefix
20. Fancy a passive young fowl?
23. IND screening org.
25. Apt. units
26. Pine Tree State
27. Siesta
29. Unconscious state
32. Immigrant’s subj.
33. ___ Hari
34. Mean-spirited
36. Bet money on 4 o’clock or 5?
41. Inclined
42. Notre Dame ACC foe
44. The Friendly Tavern, e.g.
47. Wedding vows
48. Big name in small planes
50. Exposed
52. Costa del ___
53. Give the boot
54. Indiana Lt. Governor... and an anagram of 20and 36-Across
59. White River angler’s need
60. Civil Rights org.
61. Brings together
64. Art Deco artist
65. Eurasian range
66. Chowed down
67. Shapiro’s loaves
68. Pacers’ easy two-pointer
69. Weighty DOWN
1. Recipe amt.
2. Piercing tool
3. Panini bread
4. Mayberry boy
5. Ed Martin Nissan model
6. Blueprint data
7. “___ liberty and
justice...”
8. Trendy berry
9. Magic Hat Barber Shop powder
10. Eiteljorg Museum tribe
11. Peyton and Eli’s dad
12. Ancient Romans
13. Tooth covering 21. Mellencamp sound booster
22. Retailer famous for its Blue Light Specials
23. Film buff’s channel
24. Bygone Swedish auto
28. Table salt, to a chemist
29. Weeps
30. Like much music of the ‘90s
31. So-so
34. “Yikes!”
35. Puppy sounds
37. IU basketball hero
Smart
38. Roll of bills
39. Naughtiness
40. Sicilian volcano
43. Camel kin
44. Type of leather jacket
45. Indy Zoo’s Flights of Fancy, e.g.
46. Quote
48. Indiana State Fair critter
49. Old Testament prophet
51. Fixed prices
52. Move sneakily
55. Modem speed unit
56. Light brown
57. Family group
58. WFYI donor gift bag
62. Squirrel’s snack
63. 33-Across, for one
ANSWERS ON PAGE 24
WE DO INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PAINTING ESTIMATES
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VILLAGE MARKET (aka Flea Market) at HOOSIER VILLAGE Thursday, May 14 – 9am - 4pm Friday, May 15th – 9am - 1pm Saturday, May 16th “1/2 Price Day” 9am-1pm. Enter Zionsville Rd Gate. (9935 Wood View Pkwy) or 5300 W 96th St Gate.
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