Lincolnwood Park master plan moves forward Page 4
Town explores impact of SEA1 Page 5
Council hears first reading of budget Page 9
Brownsburg Parks host fall market
Volunteers participate in Hendricks Power Co-op Community Day Page 13
Welcome to
Welcome to YOUR newspaper
To our readers,
What you’re holding in your hands is Current Publishing’s debut issue of Current in Brownsburg, its seventh title. We welcome you to hyper-local journalism.
Your edition joins similar Current editions in Carmel, Fishers & Geist, Noblesville, North Indy, Westfield and Zionsville. The 10,405 households in Brownsburg, to be served by U.S. Mail each Tuesday, as is the case with all Current newspapers, will bring to 127,189 the number of households Current serves.
“This additional area of coverage was born to us as a result of requests from residents and advertisers to deliver our extremely focused news content to that area,” said Ben Weir, president and CEO of Current. “We listened and we took it to heart. We’re excited to be able to serve this new audience’s needs and expectations.”
Local coverage topics will include, among others, community news, residents, local business openings, revitalization, schools, arts and entertainment, dining, road construction and development.
“Our editorial presence will be as critical to the success of Current in Brownsburg as advertising revenue will be,” said Steve Greenberg, company co-founder and executive vice president. “Since Current was launched in 2006, the aim has been, and will continue to be, to have the key content decision maker embedded in the community. The charge is to see and be seen, to be accessible and to commit to a sense of urgency on behalf of the audience. We believe Brownsburg residents will be served well by our managing editor, Alicia Kelly, a Brownsburg resident, who more than a month ago jumpstarted town coverage at youarecurrent.com.”
Current, a privately held company, continues to have the largest print-media footprint in Indiana. Independent research shows 92 percent of the households receiving Current tend to keep it in the home for between four and seven days. An average of 2.6 residents read Current for up to 22 minutes per week. Eighty-eight percent of respondents said “yes” when asked if they have trust and confidence in Current to cover hyper-local news in a fairand-balanced manner.
For news tips and story ideas, you may reach Kelly at alicia@youarecurrent.com, and for advertising inquiries, please email ads@youarecurrent.com.
Thank you for having us in your home.
MEET THE TEAM
ALICIA KELLY Managing Editor alicia@youarecurrent.com
MELISSA GIBSON Reporter melissa@youarecurrent.com
JULIA HUCKABA Social Media Partner exploringhendrickscounty @gmail.com
RICK MORWICK Newsroom Director rick@youarecurrent.com
BEN WEIR Publisher ben@youarecurrent.com MAX BROWN Art Director max@youarecurrent.com
STEVE GREENBERG Executive Vice President steve@youarecurrent.com
JENNIFER NICHOLS Ad Traffic Manager jennifer@youarecurrent.com
KIM HAMATHER Office Manager kim@youarecurrent.com
ZACH ROSS General Manager zach@youarecurrent.com
COMMUNITY
Days are getting shorter. Temperatures are dropping.
Time for a Campfire!
Brownsburg council approves Lincolnwood Park master plan with conditions
By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com
The Brownsburg Town Council has approved the Lincolnwood Park Master Plan and authorized baseline improvements to the property, with the understanding that all future phases will undergo the standard public approval process.
The plan passed 4-1 during the council’s Aug. 28 meeting, with Council Member Glenn Adams casting the lone dissenting vote.
The approved baseline improvements include earthworks, drainage, walking and biking trails, and restriping of the existing parking area. The updates had previously been supported by the council and are included in the proposed 2026 town budget.
Amber Lane, director of Brownsburg Parks and Recreation, reiterated that only the initial infrastructure work is being pursued at this time. Any future amenities or development would require full review and public input.
Council Member Ben Lacey introduced several commitments to guide how the town handles future phases. Those include assurances that there will be no negative impact on property taxes, subject to review by the town’s municipal advisor. He also called for further financial analysis related to Senate Enrolled Act 1, the full effects of which won’t be known until 2030.
Lacey emphasized that approval of the Master Plan should not imply full execution of the entire proposal.
“Each phase must be subject to full approval, including public hearings,” he said.
Other conditions discussed include the flexibility to revise plan renderings, a requirement for public or private partnership exploration—including a Build Operate Transfer, or BOT, model—and restrictions on town maintenance of
any future venue. Ownership of improvements would revert to the town under BOT agreements unless otherwise specified.
Council Member Travis Tschaenn voiced support for the project’s potential to attract visitors. Matt Simpson described the plan as more of a “wish list,” and said trails were his top priority. Cindy Hohman noted that having a vision is necessary to avoid stalling
future development.
Adams opposed the motion, citing a preference to maintain the space as a traditional park and encouraged exploring a partnership with the YMCA instead.
The Master Plan approval moves the project into its next phase, with funding and baseline improvements considered a key component of the town’s 2026 budget priorities.
About us
Founded Oct. 14, 2025, at Brownsburg, IN Vol. I, No. 1
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Concept design rendering of Lincolnwood Park in Brownsburg. . (Photo courtesy of the Town of Brownsburg)
FALL FALL INTO FUN
Town of Brownsburg explores SEA1 impact
By Ann Marie Shambaugh and Alicia Kelly AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com alicia@youarecurrent.com
Tax hikes, layoffs and delays to major projects are on the table as counties and municipalities across Indiana work through the financial impacts of the state’s new property tax law.
Senate Enrolled Act 1 is expected to save Hoosiers up to $300 on their 2026 property tax bills and more in the future, but some are wondering if the savings are worth the pending upheaval elsewhere.
Brownsburg Town Manager Deb Cook mentioned the potential impacts of SEA1 during the first reading of the town’s 2026 budget Sept. 25.
“We’re continuing to study and try to refine the impact that SEA1 will have on our local revenues,” Cook said. “If it stays as it is, it will be devastating by 2027 for residents across the state.”
costs for families, but fewer services, higher fees, and a heavier tax load on individual homeowners and renters.”
The Elkhart County leaders state that SEA1 “does not address the rising burden from increasing assessments,” meaning that even with the new property tax deductions the total due is likely to continue rising for many homeowners. They also state that residents are likely to “see new or higher fees that erase any temporary gains.”
State Rep. Jeff Thompson (R-Lizton) said the new law cuts property taxes, provides needed relief to homeowners and creates a better, more accountable system for taxpayers.
In Hamilton County, financial constraints tied to SEA1 have led to an indefinite delay in constructing a domestic violence center and are throwing into question plans for a child care facility for children of county employees, according to Commissioner Mark Heirbrandt. The law also could lead to layoffs and impact future road construction projects, as the county is set to lose millions in projected revenues. Heirbrandt described the impact of SEA1 as a “shell game,” as savings for property owners might be lessened by other new taxes, including a wheel tax state legislators are requiring local governments to implement to receive Community Crossings road improvement matching grants.
Other new or increased taxes are under consideration in many Indiana communities. In Elkhart County, several county commissioners, councilors and mayors signed a joint statement urging state legislators to “fix” the unintended consequences of SEA1.
“This legislation was meant to create fairness,” the statement reads. “Instead, it has created uncertainty, shifting burdens in ways that threaten critical services in our communities. Unless corrected, the result will not be lower
“Many Hoosier homeowners were struggling with rising property tax bills,” Thompson said. “These changes are no different than what state leaders have had to do – look for efficiencies in how we run our government and ensure we’re being good stewards of taxpayer dollars. This law provides more than a billion dollars in relief to homeowners over the next few years, with most homeowners projected to see a lower property tax bill next year than they did this year.”
State Rep. Danny Lopez (R-Carmel) said although the new law is requiring local governments to make difficult funding decisions, savings for property owners go beyond a deduction in 2026, saving Hoosiers $1.3 billion over three years.
The law phases out the standard homestead deduction by 2030 but boosts the supplemental homestead deduction to 40 percent in 2026. The supplemental deduction increases each year until it levels out at 66.7 percent by 2030.
“Delaying that (full) implementation gives us a longer timeline to really understand the impacts that this will have at the local level and then be able to adjust where we need to adjust,” Lopez said. “People see it as $300 or 10 percent annually and say, ‘Well, that’s not a huge number,’ but the truth is that when two-thirds of your net assessed value starting in 2031 is deducted on your property tax bill, that’s a significant reform and a significant change for taxpayers.”
Cook
COMMUNITY
Brownsburg’s ‘26 budget: raises, infrastructure
By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com
The Town of Brownsburg’s proposed 2026 budget includes pay increases for all town employees, significant funding for road improvements and a focus on maintaining a stable property tax rate, according to the first reading approved at the Sept. 25 Town Council meeting.
The $83.6 million proposed budget represents an $8.7 million, or 11.6 percent, increase from the 2025 adopted budget. It spans 15 departments and 36 budgeted funds. Officials said the increase reflects continued investment in infrastructure, public safety and employee compensation amid the town’s growth.
Design funding is also included for intersection improvements at C.R. 300 and 900 North, and the early stages of a new I-74 interchange at C.R. 625 East.
The police department is seeking an additional $1.4 million over its 2025 budget, primarily to cover salary and retirement contribution increases. Employer contributions to the 1977 Fund are rising from 20.3 percent to 23.3 percent in 2026, and the town will also begin covering 3 percent of the 6 percent employee contribution.
We’re continuing to study and try to refine the impact that SEA1 will have on our local revenues”
– BROWNSBURG TOWN MANAGER DEB COOK
A 3 percent across-the-board pay increase is proposed for police officers, firefighters, paramedics and all other town employees. Additional longevity pay for eligible employees also is included, along with a 3 percent increase to employer health insurance contributions.
The budget also supports the addition of one full-time employee in the street department and the transition of a parttime utility clerk to full-time. One fulltime position in the water department is proposed to be eliminated.
Infrastructure remains a key focus, with $5.45 million allocated for street resurfacing, sidewalk repairs, crack filling, restriping and spot paving.
The parks department is seeking a $203,500 increase to address staffing costs and asset maintenance.
The proposed 2026 property tax rate is estimated at $0.9041, a 2.7 percent decrease from the 2025 rate. However, if pending excess levy appeals are approved, the rate could increase to $0.9767.
Brownsburg Town Manager Deb Cook delivered the first reading of the budget to the council, emphasizing the town is still in the process of understanding how Senate Enrolled Act 1 will impact specific projects on the docket for 2026.
“We’re continuing to study and try to refine the impact that SEA1 will have on our local revenues,” Cook said. “We won’t know the full impact of the bill on our community for several years.”
Final adoption of the budget is scheduled for the Oct. 23 town council meeting.
Winning artwork will be featured on Hendricks Power’s 2025 company holiday cards & win an arts & crafts basket valued at $200!
Hendricks Power is excited to announce a Coloring Contest for its little members!
The contest begins on October 1 and ends on November 3. Winning artwork will be featured on HPC’s 2025 company holiday cards and win an arts & crafts basket valued at $200! We can’t wait to see your child’s artwork bring holiday cheer!
Download the coloring sheet and learn more at hendrickspower.com/ coloringcontest to download the coloring sheet & learn more!
*HPC members only.
Town to unveil Field of Honor for Veterans Day
By Melissa Gibson melissa@youarecurrent.com
Field of Honor, a display of 250 American flags on the Brownsburg Town Hall Green, will be unveiled at 10 a.m. Nov. 8 during a Veterans Day ceremony and field dedication in honor of those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Town of Brownsburg Community Relations Senior Manager Shelby Abner said the town has wanted to do something special to honor veterans for a while.
“I came across similar displays in other communities and connected with the Colonial Flag Foundation, which manages these programs nationwide,” Abner said.
Town Manager Deb Cook, Brownsburg Parks and Recreation Director Amber Lane and Glenn Nulty, second vice commander of the Brownsburg American Legion Post 331, organized the Field of Honor display.
Members of the community, businesses and civic groups have purchased flags. Some dedicated their flag to a veteran loved one, and others donated the $50 to support veterans in the community. The funds will benefit the Indiana National Guard.
Abner said it will take 10 volunteers about three hours to set up the display.
“We hope the Field of Honor gives our veterans the recognition they deserve and provides residents with a place to reflect, remember and show their gratitude,”
Abner said. “It’s meant to be unifying for the community. Each dedicated flag will include a tag with the honoree’s name and any special notes.”
The public is invited to participate in the ceremony. It will include the Hendricks County Honor Guard with a presentation of the colors, followed by an invocation by American Legion Post 331 Chaplain Danny Nelson.
There will be a check presentation for the Indiana National Guard Relief Fund, remarks by U.S. Rep. Jim Baird and a keynote address by Lt. Col. Billy Ray Moore of the U.S. Marine Corps. After the ceremony, visitors will be invited to walk through the field while the United States Armed Forces Medley performs. Field of Honor will be on display Nov. 8-11.
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Field of Honor features 250 American flags and will be displayed at Brownsburg’s Town Hall Green Nov. 8-11. (Photo courtesy of the Town of Brownsburg)
Veterans workshop in Brownsburg Oct. 25
By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com
A free Veterans Benefits Overview Workshop will be held Oct. 25 at 1 p.m. at American Legion Post 331 at 636 E. Main St. in Brownsburg.
The workshop is hosted by the American Legion Col. Billie J. Holmes Memorial Post 331 in partnership with the Hendricks County Veterans Service Office. The goal is to help U.S. military veterans and their families better understand the available federal and state benefits.
“With so many National Guard and reserve troops being deployed and returning home, we feel a benefits overview workshop is in order,” said Glenn Nulty, second vice commander of Post 331.
The event is open to the public and not limited to American Legion members. Veterans, their spouses, surviving spouses and children are encouraged to attend. Light refreshments will be
served.
Hendricks County Veterans Service Officer Billy Staley emphasized the importance of outreach and education for local veterans.
“We want them to be aware of all the benefits they’re entitled to,” Staley said. “It’s not uncommon for someone to walk into my office who’s unaware of some of the benefits offered for veterans, and we want to change that.”
Topics will include eligibility for medical assistance, home loan programs and other benefits that veterans and their families may qualify for as they age or as their circumstances change.
The event will be the first benefits overview hosted by the Hendricks County Veterans Service Office. Organizers plan to continue these workshops quarterly, covering a range of topics aimed at better informing the veteran community.
For more, contact American Legion Post 331 or visit brownsburgpost331. org.
Tschaenn faces allegations
By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com
Brownsburg Town Council President Travis Tschaenn is the subject of a protective order filed by his wife amid allegations of domestic abuse.
The order was granted Aug. 5 by a Hendricks County judge, the same day the petition was submitted. Indiana law allows judges to issue ex-parte protective orders without a hearing when immediate danger is alleged. The order remains in effect until a court hearing, which is scheduled for Oct. 22.
According to court records, a petition for divorce was filed on July 29, roughly a week before the protective order request.
Court documents detail allegations of abuse occurring in public and private settings. The claims were deemed serious enough by the court to warrant temporary protection. Out of concern for the privacy and safety of those involved, Current is withholding the specifics of the allegations at this time.
Tschaenn has not been charged with a crime as of Oct. 7 and has secured legal counsel ahead of the hearing. Current reached out to Tschaenn and his attorney for comment but did not receive a response.
Councilman Glenn Adams responded to community concerns about the events.
“The allegations of domestic violence are very concerning,” Adams said. “Some residents have called on Travis to resign, but I’ve had to remind them of due process. The man is innocent until proven guilty. The facts have not come out yet. There is a hearing scheduled for next week. At that time, the information in this case will come out. If Mr. Tschaenn is indeed guilty of the allegations, then I will request that he resign his leadership position. He can be asked to resign his seat, but that is entirely up to him.”
The Oct. 22 hearing will determine whether the protective order is upheld or dismissed based on testimony and evidence presented in court.
Tschaenn
Hendricks Power employees volunteer for community day
By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com
Nearly 40 Hendricks Power Cooperative employees volunteered with local nonprofits during the company’s largest Co-op Community Day to date.
The employees spent the day at three locations: Strides to Success in Plainfield, Hendricks County Senior Services and Sheltering Wings in Danville.
At Strides to Success, a nonprofit that uses horse-assisted therapy and leadership programs, volunteers cleaned barns and a hayloft, painted and stained various structures, worked in the garden and helped decorate for the upcoming Trot n’ Treat event.
At Hendricks County Senior Services, which provides transportation, meals and programs to help older adults live independently, crews laid concrete, painted handicap-accessible areas, repaired a trash enclosure and trimmed bushes.
At Sheltering Wings, a domestic violence shelter, volunteers assembled furniture, disinfected play areas, and organized clothing, holiday decorations, and children’s toys.
“Our employees look forward to
Community Day every year,” said Emily Thomas, manager of communications for Hendricks Power. “It’s a day where we come together to give back, connect with local nonprofits, and strengthen the communities we’re proud to serve.”
Co-op Community Day is a statewide initiative in which employees from Indiana’s electric cooperatives volunteer with service organizations in their areas. It is part of a larger effort to celebrate National Co-op Month and demonstrate the commitment of cooperatives to community action. This year, 29 cooperatives participated.
The initiative is part of the cooperative’s broader mission to serve the community beyond electric service, according to the organization.
Hendricks Power Cooperative provides electricity and energy services to more than 35,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in west central Indiana. Formed in 1936, the cooperative is owned and controlled by the members they serve.
Hendricks Power is accepting ideas for next year’s event. Nonprofits in need of volunteer support are encouraged to contact Thomas at 317-718-7606 or ethomas@hendrickspower.com.
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Hendricks County Power Cooperative employees cleaned barns and haylofts for Co-op Community Day. (Photo courtesy of Hendricks Power Cooperative)
• Pendants
• Chandeliers
• Exterior Lights
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M/I Homes completes benefit home in Auburn Ridge
By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com
A new home in Brownsburg’s Auburn Ridge community is doing more than offering a fresh start to a family — it’s helping to fund lifesaving cancer research.
M/I Homes of Indiana celebrated the completion of its Pelotonia Benefit Home Sept. 17, honoring nearly 70 local vendors and partners who contributed time and materials to the build.
The home — in the growing Auburn Ridge neighborhood — is part of a national effort by M/I Homes to support Pelotonia, a nonprofit that funds cancer research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center — Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute.
“This project is a powerful symbol of community collaboration,” M/I Homes of Indiana Marketing Director Jassy Friddle said. “The Pelotonia home adds
a meaningful chapter to that story.”
The benefit home in Brownsburg is one of 16 homes being built across the country this year by M/I Homes.
Friddle said the project raised a total of $346,152 from a combination of donated materials, labor from vendors and a matching contribution from M/I Homes.
“It’s an incredible feeling to know that together through our donation we are helping bring hope and healing to others,” said Cassian Bernard, area president of M/I Homes of Indiana.
“This beautiful new home in Auburn Ridge is not just a place for a family to live, but a joint effort with our partners to support lifesaving cancer research.”
Since 2021, M/I Homes has raised more than $11 million for Pelotonia through its benefit home program.
More information about M/I Homes of Indiana and its work with Pelotonia can be found at mihomes.com.
DISPATCHES
Town Leadership Academy accepting applications The Town of Brownsburg’s Leadership Academy is accepting applications for its 8-session seminar program. Participants are selected based on their demonstrated interest in learning more and engaging in the community and their desire to grow in their leadership. The class size is limited to 30 participants. Applications will be available through Jan. 9, 2026, on the town website. Applicants will be notified by Jan. 19 of their acceptance into the program.
Movies in the Park at Arbuckle The last Movies in the Park screening of the season will be held at Arbuckle Acres Park Oct. 17 at 6:30 p.m. The event will kick off with a Halloween costume contest and Hotel Transylvania will begin at 7 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, lawnchairs, and snacks. Popcorn will be provided. Visit brownsburgparks.com for more information
M/I Homes celebrates the completion of the Pelotonoia benefit home in Brownsburg’s Auburn Ridge community. (Photo courtesy of M/I Homes)
and
Lucas Oil IRP hosts inaugural Halloween celebration
By Melissa Gibson melissa@youarecurrent.com
Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in Brownsburg is partnering with Indy Hood Rats, an Indy-based car club, to offer its first-ever Halloween Fest.
Between 5 and 9 p.m. Oct. 18, attendees can enjoy a free car show, costume contest and trunk-or-treating for the community just outside the racetrack.
“The VIP Car Show will feature some pretty exotic and expensive cars, and in the non-VIP section, people can bring their daily drivers,” said Max Orsini, social media and design manager for Lucas Oil IRP. “Local businesses will also be on hand. They, along with the car owners, can decorate their space and they are encouraged to hand out candy for our truck-or-treat event.”
Children can trunk-or-treat from 7 to 9 p.m., and awards for the best costume will be announced at 8 p.m.
Orsini said Halloween Fest is a combination of what race fans have called Championship Saturday in the past and the desire of staff at IRP who wanted to add something new for families.
“We do try to cater to all age groups, and we want to reach a younger demo-
IF YOU GO
WHAT: Free Halloween Fest with a car show, costume contest and trunk-or-treating.
WHERE: Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park
When: Oct. 18
Fest Time: 5-9 p.m.
Trunk-or-Treat: 7-9 p.m.
COST: Free
MORE: raceirp.com/halloweenfest
graphic to find that next generation of race fans,” Orsini said. “We hope our regular fans and those who may not be as familiar with the track will come out for a fun Halloween evening.”
Race fans can start their day early with a paid ticket to the NHRA North Central Division Fall Classic beginning at 8 a.m. Oct. 18, followed by the final 500 Sprint Car Tour of the season and the All-Star Pavement Midget Feature Race – a new, four-race series at 5:45 p.m.
All car registration for Halloween Fest and race ticket purchases can be found at raceirp.com/halloweenfest/.
Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park will host its first Halloween Fest Oct. 18, in partnership with Indy Hood Rats. . (Photo courtesy of Lucas Oil Raceway Park)
Parks and Recreation hosts inaugural Fall Market
By Melissa Gibson melissa@youarecurrent.com
Brownsburg Parks and Recreation is hosting its first-ever Fall Market Oct. 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Arbuckle Acres Park.
Amber Lane, director of Brownsburg Parks and Recreation, said when the farmers market ended in August, the department decided to bring a fall festival vibe to Brownsburg while supporting popular vendors that come out all summer.
“There’s still a lot more to harvest in the fall,” Lane said. “We have more than 30 vendors signed up with artisan items and fall produce.”
The event includes live entertainment. Local country band 90 Proof is scheduled to perform at noon. There will be food trucks and beer and wine vendors with fall-inspired beverages and an activity zone for children.
“We’ll have yard games for the kids, free face painting and activities for the
State of Indiana
Vendors from the Brownsburg Farmers Market will return this fall for the inaugural Fall Market. (Photo courtesy of Brownsburg Parks and Recreation)
whole family,” Lane said. “We hope to have a fun fall event for the community and extend the market season a little further.”
Admission to the Fall Market is free. Food and beverages will be available for puchase from vendors and food trucks. For more, visit brownsburgparks.
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Annual Trail and Treat event returns to Williams Park
By Melissa Gibson melissa@youarecurrent.com
Brownsburg Parks and Recreation is hosting its annual Trail and Treat event from 5 to 7 p.m. Oct. 25 at Williams Park.
Visitors can dress in costume and walk along the paved loop trail, stopping by more than 50 community organizations and businesses handing out candy and small trinkets.
Amber Lane, director for Brownsburg Parks and Recreation, said the event has grown each year since it began in 2018.
“We’ve estimated between 2,000 and 3,000 people coming out for the event,” Lane said. “It’s a great community building experience. People are able to learn about multiple organizations, and we typically have a contest to see who has set up the best display.”
This year, the Brownsburg High School National Art Honor Society will come out to “chalk the walk,” sharing their talent with Trail and Treat guests with drawings and artwork on the pavement.
“It’s spooky but safe and fun during daylight hours. The Brownsburg Police Department and the Brownsburg Fire Territory will come out and bring their vehicles for the kids to see,” Lane said. “It’s cool to see everyone getting into the holiday spirit as a community.”
Other events hosted by the parks department this fall include a Hallow-
IF YOU GO
WHAT: Trail and Treat.
WHERE: Williams Park.
WHEN: 5 to 7 p.m., Oct. 25
COST: Free to attend.
DETAILS: Visitors are encouraged to wear costumes. Event includes a display contest, Brownsburg Police and Fire vehicles, and live pavement artwork by the Brownsburg High School National Art Honor Society.
MORE INFO: brownsburgparks.com
een-themed Movies in the Park beginning at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 17 at Arbuckle Acres Park. Guests can come in costume to participate in the Halloween costume contest and watch “Hotel Transylvania” at 7 p.m.
Lane said an event that’s gaining in popularity is the annual Sense the Night Hike. Participants will meet at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 24 in Williams Park at Shelter 3 to explore the trails in the dark.
“Our park naturalist takes folks out at night and you have to be quiet because you’re listening for the sounds of the night,” Lane said. “It’s using your other senses to explore the park in a different way.”
Visit brownsburgparks.com for more information about upcoming events hosted by the parks department.
Trails and Treat gives community members the opportunity to participate in spooky and safe fun at Williams Park. (Photo courtesy of Brownsburg Parks and Recreation)
FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS
Brownsburg High School’s stadium renovations bring community together
By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com
On Friday nights in Brownsburg, the stadium lights don’t just shine on football players — they shine on a growing community that continues to gather for more than just the game.
The newly renovated football stadium and fieldhouse at Brownsburg High School are already serving a broader purpose than athletics alone. With updated facilities, expanded practice areas and a hospitality suite open to community groups and local businesses, the space was designed to create a shared experience for students and residents alike.
“The Roarke hospitality room at the new fieldhouse is remarkable,” said Carrie Hanni, CPA and partner at Kemper CPA Group LLP. “My business and Sam Lowe with Edward Jones in Brownsburg used the space together last week for the home game against Zionsville. We invited around 40 community members, including many business clients. The facility is phenomenal.”
With indoor and outdoor seating, access to golf simulators and catering prepared by Brownsburg Schools’ Nutritional Services, the space provides a unique experience.
“We chose the nacho bar and put together little spirit bags for all the guests,” Hanni said. “Coach Hart comes up for a quick briefing before the game, which really adds to feeling connected and a part of the evening. Everyone that sees the place is just so incredibly impressed. The community experience of being part of this space is what Brownsburg is all about.”
Organizations can reserve the Roarke Room during home games with a donation to the athletic department.
“It’s a great venue,” Hanni said. “We’ve already committed to a game for next year.”
Head football coach John Hart, now in his 10th season at Brownsburg, said the facility is used by more than just the football team.
“There’s a lot going on out there,” Hart said. “We benefit a lot from it in football, but there’s support and a commitment to it for all of our kids.”
Brownsburg Community School Corp. Communications Coordinator Vicki Murphy said the stadium and surrounding athletic areas are used by physical education classes, the school’s growing band program and youth sports teams.
“The band has grown exponentially, and they are able to use the second field to expand their practice time,” Murphy said. “PE classes are out in that facility every day.”
For this year’s first home game, Murphy said a small group of alumni from the 1984-85 state championship team enjoyed watching from the hospitality suite.
Hart also noted a sharp increase in participation at the middle school and youth football levels since his start.
“I think the year before I came there were somewhere around 110 kids, and now we have almost 200 kids participating in high school football,” Hart said. “We’ve got a culture of kids who want to play this sport and play for Brownsburg High School.”
Hart, who has coached for 41 years, said Brownsburg’s fan base consistently fills the stadium.
“Since the day I’ve been here, the stadium’s been almost sold out every Fri-
day,” he said. “And I’m sure it was long before that. It’s the community feel. We have an incredible student section that’s unlike any I’ve ever seen.”
Hart said many community members could watch the games online via BHSTV broadcasts but instead choose to be in the stands each week.
“They want to be a part of it,” he said. “It’s more than just a football game. It’s an event.”
Although Brownsburg’s football team won a state championship before the facility was updated, Hart sees the improvements as a sign of long-term investment in the student experience.
“It does show a commitment to a growing community that supports great experiences for our kids,” he said.
He compared the renovated stadium and fieldhouse to moving into a new home and something that takes on deeper meaning over time.
“When you build a new home and you get in it and you live in it, you make it your own,” Hart said. “I think our kids feel like this is home.”
Hart, who has previously led teams at Evansville Reitz and Warren Central to state championships, was named the NFL’s Don Shula High School Coach of the Year in 2024. He is the only Indiana
coach to win state titles at three different schools.
As student participation increases across Brownsburg’s programs, Hart said the facilities are helping the district keep pace with the community’s growth.
“We’ve grown not only in football, but in every direction,” he said.
ON THE COVER: The newly renovated C.F. Roark Stadium at Brownsburg High School includes enhanced seating, modified parking, and new concourse areas. (Photo courtesy of Context Design)
FACILITY FEATURES
• Renovated stadium and new fieldhouse
• Enhanced lighting and sound
• The Roarke Room (available for community rentals)
• Additional practice field space for band, PE, and youth programs
• On-site catering and hospitality options
• Additional seating for spectators
• Modified parking
C.F. Roark Stadium renovations include an indoor field house that features four full size basketball courts and an 8-lane, 200-meter indoor track.
(Photo by Julia Huckaba)
Commentary by Larry Greene
This basement remodel turned an unfinished space into a stylish, multifunctional retreat, blending comfort and design for everyday living and entertaining.
THE BLUEPRINT
• Converted bare concrete and exposed framing into a fully finished living area with warmth and character.
• Added a cozy lounge with plush seating and a modern fireplace for year-round comfort.
• Designed a sleek bar with seating and open shelving, perfect for entertaining.
• Installed a striking wine wall as both a functional storage solution and a bold design statement.
• Chose layered lighting, wood accents and rich textures to create an inviting, pol-
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.
Taylor draws on inspiration, memories to create concept album
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Mark Taylor drew on memories to create his first full album.
“TALES FROM THE YELLOW ROSE” by the Mark Taylor Project is a concept inspired by Taylor seeing a photo of an abandoned motel on old Route 66 in Arizona.
“Overall, the album is about the loss of sanctuary and spirituality in the modern world,” Taylor said. “I’m a storyteller, and these songs are based on people and places that I encountered while growing up and living in Colorado and southern Arizona.”
A 70-year-old Fishers resident, Taylor retired as a software engineer-IT project manager in 2017.
The 13-song album was released by Triumph Productions, a startup label owned by Nina and Ron Johnson of Carmel. The album was produced and arranged by Will Turner, who also played bass, guitar, keyboards and backing vocals on the album.
“Everybody on the album is a professional musician, and I got some of the best jazz musicians in Indy on this album,” Taylor said. “It’s not a jazz album, it’s jazzy rock. If you took Steely Dan, Dave Matthews and Santana and locked them in a room, something like this album might come out of it. The music is eclectic.”
The Mark Taylor Project band plans to perform live soon.
One musician that inspired Taylor is bassist Mark Andes. Taylor met Andes when his band Spirit played in a small club in Denver. Prior to Spirit, Andes was in an early formation of Canned Heat. Andes later became a founding member of Firefall and played with Heart for approximately10 years, beginning in 1983. Andes has played with Jackson Browne, Dan Fogelberg and Stevie Nicks.
“We lost track of each other but reconnected when Facebook came
(Below) The album cover of “TALES FROM THE
along,” Taylor said. “Mark is a legendary rock musician. He was an original member of Spirit, which was a very innovative band for its time. They were the first to combine jazz and rock and make it sound like something new. They’re a very interesting group, highly influential on me as a 14-year-old learning to play guitar. For me, it’s just a big smile on my face and shaking in disbelief every time I think I’ve made an album with Mark Andes on it.”
Known primarily as a bass player, Andes plays guitar on Taylor’s album.
“Mark has been a huge influence on me musically with his band Spirit,” he said. “Miles Davis is another huge influence on me. Just about everything I know on musical theory comes from listening to Miles Davis.”
Percussionist Frank Loyd, who has played with Taylor since 2017, joined him on the album. Taylor was in a band called TimeSlip from 2014 to 2020 that played in the Indianapolis area. TimeSlip developed from a
blended worship service band at Fishers United Methodist Church.
“We were all part-time musicians, and I was doing all the writing,” Taylor said. “We put together a little five-song EP. It was recorded in a makeshift studio, and we self-released that.”’
Taylor credited Roger Jenkins-Bass and his nightclub The Point for giving TimeSlip a chance to play many times before the band disbanded.
Taylor said he has a strong background in jazz.
“I’m not a jazz musician, but I understand the complexities of jazz, especially the harmonies and types of chords,” he said. “That band kept evolving.”
Taylor, who wrote all the songs, plays guitar and lead vocals on the album. Others playing on the album include Tim Ragliff, keyboards; Justin Brewer, drums; Rob Dixon, tenor and soprano saxophone; Stephanie Turner, background vocals; and Paul Yinger, trumpet and flugelhorn.
Happenings
‘TOOTSIE’
“Tootsie” runs Oct. 16 to Nov. 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
‘SOMETHING ROTTEN’
Civic Theatre’s production of “Something Rotten” runs through Oct. 18 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.
MATTHEW MORRISON
The “Matthew Morrison: Rhythms & Revelations” concert is set for 8 p.m. Oct. 17 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
Country singer Maggie Baugh will perform Oct. 17, followed Dueling Pianos Oct. 18 at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Both performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
’LIVING IN THE LIGHT’
Guitarist Tommy Emmanuel’s “Living in the Light” concert is at 8 p.m. Oct. 18 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘VOCE’
Voce, a vocal group from Carmel, will perform at 7 p.m. Oct. 18 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel.The performance music from movies. For tickets, visit voceindy.org.
‘STRAUSS FOREVER’
The Vienna Boys Choir will perform “Strauss Forever” at 7 p.m. Oct. 19 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
(Above) Fishers resident Mark Taylor wrote all the songs on his new album. (Photos courtesy of Frank Loyd)
YELLOW ROSE.”
Farrell plays key role in Beef & Boards’ ‘Tootsie’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Don Farrell got plenty of laughs just reading the script of “Tootsie.”
The musical is based on the 1982 movie starring Dustin Hoffman as an actor, Michael Dorsey, posing as a woman named Dorothy Michaels to get a role in the show.
“Those who love the movie are going to love the musical,” Farrell said. “There are a couple of new twists for those who know the movie. They’ll get as much of a kick out of the Broadway musical version of it.”
actor playing Michael Dorsey or Dorothy,” he said.
An Actors Theatre of Indiana co-founder, Farrell left his role at ATI in 2023 to pursue other opportunities with his own production and performing company, Crossroads Entertainment.
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre will present “Tootsie” Oct. 16 to Nov. 23 at the Indianapolis venue.
Farrell, a Westfield resident, plays Ron Carlisle, the director and choreographer of the fictitious show. Jonathan Cobrda plays the Dorsey/Michaels role in the Beef & Boards production.
“It’s a great show to be able to lose yourselves for two hours, just laughing at crazy situations and madcap scenarios,” Farrell said.
Farrell said his character is in a couple different scenes with musical numbers.
“But the heavy lifting is done by the
Farrell will be reunited with ATI co-founder Cynthia Collins in “Tootsie.”
In one scene, he sits next to Collins, who plays producer Rita Marshall, at an audition table.
“When I talked to Cindy, we said this is going to be hysterical,” Farrell said. “It’s an art imitates life because (of) the many times we’ve been doing the same thing for auditions for ATI. Now, we’ll be doing the same thing as different characters for the musical. Her character is very funny and I’m really looking forward to playing off her.”
Farrell made his Beef & Boards debut in “Fiddler on the Roof” in the early 1990s.
His most recent performance at Beef & Boards was playing the old man in “A Christmas Story” in 2024.
“It’s a wonderful group of people, production staff as well as cast, at Beef & Boards,” he said.
PUZZLE ANSWERS
OCT. 24 - NOV. 9
Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE: Synonyms: BLURRY, DIM, FAINT, LIGHT, PALE, UNCLEAR; Methods: KETTLE, MICROWAVE, POPPER, SKILLET, STOVETOP; Poker: DRAW, OMAHA, STRIP, STUD; Stations: EXXON, MOBIL, SPEEDWAY; Senators: JIM BANKS, TODD YOUNG; Logo: HORSESHOE
Brian Frost and Julianne Deely-Frost
Farrell
Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft Word document or in the body of an email. Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising nature. Letters should be exclusive to Current Publishing. Unsigned letters and letters deemed to be of a libelous nature will not be published. Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent.com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.
Champion Chevrolet
17. “___ cost you!”
18. Words of denial
19. Straighten
20. Boil in advance, say
22. Diner chef
24. Submarine detector
25. Capital of Peru
26. San Diego baseball player
29. Fashioned
34. The Colts, on scoreboards
37. Mario’s brother in video games
39. Like a mechanic’s rag
40. Loudness measure
42. “What’re you gonna do about it?”
45. Outback birds
46. Pride Month letters
48. $, in exchange rate tables
49. Soaked up
52. Unabridged
54. Dishevel, as hair
56. Female relatives
60. Apple’s CEO
64. Brownsburg’s town manager
66. Blockhead
67. Crude cartel acronym
69. Fuzzy fruit or fuzzy bird
70. The “F” in USAF
71. Move, in Realtor lingo
72. Ain’t right?
73. Pet pests
74. Doppelganger
75. Loch ___ monster Down
1. Prunes a bit
2. TNT part
3. Wrench type
4. Easy-to-swallow tablet
5. Madre’s boy
6. Frenzied
7. Halloween decoration
8. Film genre
9. Visit overnight
10. BHS math course
11. Indiana neighbor
12. Drive-thru order
13. Race of about 6.2 mi.
21. Big name in toothbrushes
23. Apt. units
25. KFC chicken piece
27. “With all ___ respect...”
28. Small stream
INDISTINCT Synonyms 4 Kinds of Poker 3 Area Gas Stations 2 Indiana US Senators 5 Popcorn-Making Methods
Indianapolis Colts Logo
30. What U sometimes means
31. In ___ of (replacing)
32. McCloud Nature Park trees
33. Changed colors
34. Mid-month date
35. Disney clownfish
36. Bra spec
38. Dust-jacket ID
41. MSN, for one
43. Non-Rx
44. Pigeon on a plate
47. Hoosier astronaut Grissom
50. Overdoes it onstage
51. Bob & Tom, e.g.
53. Help get comfy at bedtime
55. West Chase Golf Club hybrid garment
57. Din
58. Avon, Danville and Plainfield
59. Red Curb Improv Comedy bits
60. Petty quarrel
61. Fan fave
62. Mucky ground
63. ___-Cola
64. McAlister’s ___
65. PU business school subject
68. St. Malachy Parish seat
Answers on Page 18
