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Town proposes $83M budget for 2027 Page 3

Tuesday, September 22, 2026 youarecurrent.com

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School board approves 2027-28 transportation changes Page 6

Brownsburg firefighters recall bringing home piece of the World Trade Center

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Authors Showcase returns to Danville Page 9

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Town proposes $83.4M budget for 2027 By Alicia Stivers alicia@youarecurrent.com Brownsburg Town Manager Deb Cook introduced an $83.4 million proposed 2027 town and fire territory budget Sept. 10, following months of meetings with department heads and extensive reductions to initial spending requests. The proposed budCook get totals $83,402,315, according to Cook’s presentation. The town’s overall budget would increase about 2.1 percent from 2026, while the general fund would increase about 1 percent. Cook said the process began in early April and included multiple rounds of reviews and reductions. Initial departmental requests totaled nearly $89.5 million. More than $7 million was cut during one round of reviews, followed by additional reductions totaling nearly $6 million. “We met with department heads, we had budget meetings, and revised the budget,” Cook told the council. “Many months of work went into this first reading.” The budget includes more than $9 million in capital projects, with continued spending on roads, facilities, parks and infrastructure. Major projects include road improvements, resurfacing, work related to the North Green corridor and environmental studies and design for the Interstate 74 interchange. The town also plans to issue about $19 million in bonds for design and construction of a new street department facility and a police training and storage facility. Cook emphasized that the proposed police facility is intended to provide training and storage for vehicles and equipment currently scattered among various town facilities, rather than serve as a new police station. The proposed budget calls for three additional full-time positions: a fleet

mechanic, a community relations position and a water department line locator. At the same time, six part-time seasonal positions would be eliminated. Brownsburg has grown about 17 percent since 2020 and now has more than 34,000 residents, Cook said. Despite that growth, the town has fewer civil employees than it did in 2018. The proposed budget would add a fleet mechanic, community relations position and water department line locator while eliminating six part-time seasonal positions. “We’ve added people, we’ve added streets, we’ve added a lot of coverage for our folks, and yet we still have maintained our numbers with staff by getting good people, great people in the best positions, and doing more with less,” Cook said. The budget includes a proposed 3 percent employee pay increase. Cook noted that local government wages increased 3.6 percent during the 12-month period ending in June, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The proposed budget also reflects increased costs outside the town’s direct control. The required contribution to the police and firefighters’ retirement fund would increase from 23.3 percent to 26.5 percent, while liability insurance

costs have increased substantially. Cook said the town’s assessed valuation growth also has been affected by recent state tax changes. Cook said the town expects its property tax rate to increase by about 2.6 percent despite the relatively modest overall budget growth. She attributed the change in part to state-level tax changes that have reduced assessed valuation growth, including expanded property tax deductions and a higher exemption threshold for business personal property. At the same time, several existing debt obligations are being paid off. Cook said three bonds totaling a taxrate impact of about 0.571 will roll off, while the new street and police facility debt carries an estimated 0.516 tax-rate impact. Infrastructure remains a major focus, with the town continuing to pursue grants for road resurfacing and other projects. “We have been very aggressive about infrastructure improvements,” Cook said during the working session. The council approved the budget on first reading. A second reading is scheduled for Sept. 24, with final adoption planned for Oct. 8.

“We’ve added people, we’ve added streets... and yet we still have maintained our numbers with staff by getting good people, great people in the best positions, and doing more with less.” — DEB COOK, BROWNSBURG TOWN MANAGER

Current in Brownsburg

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CURRENT IN BROWNSBURG 09.22.26 • youarecurrent.com

BCSC, Snapp reach separation settlement school community.” Snapp, who spent more than 40 years in public education, including nearly The Brownsburg Community School 14 as BCSC superintendent, released Corp. Board of School Trustees voted his own statement following Monday Monday to settle pending litinight’s board meeting: gation with former Superinten“Today marks the end of a dent Jim Snapp, closing out a nearly three-year ordeal that legal dispute that began followhas taken a tremendous toll on ing his separation from the disme and my family,” Snapp said. trict and stretched on for nearly “I am very thankful to the comthree years. munity members, Brownsburg As part of the settlement, school staff and my church famiSnapp Snapp and his attorney, Kirk ly who supported me during this LeBlanc, will donate $100,000 to the time, and I’m glad to have reached a school corporation — covering the disresolution that allows me to find closure trict’s insurance deductible tied to the after an unnecessary separation from case — in lieu of Snapp receiving the Brownsburg Community School Corp. full $150,000 portion of the settlement “During much of my time at BCSC, owed to him. Under the arrangement, the school board and district leadership Snapp will receive the remaining shared a common vision for Browns$50,000 balance. burg students that drove historic sucThe total settlement amount was cess and made our schools the pride $900,000. of the community. Unfortunately, the The settlement follows a review by school board at the conclusion of my the Hendricks County Prosecutor’s Oftenure — Eric Hylton, Jessica Hefferfice, which closed the matter without nan, Mike Wells, Matt Freije and Katie filing charges. The case originated in Dixon — had a different vision for the January 2024, when the school board school district, causing a deteriorafiled a claim with the Indiana State tion of the relationship between the Board of Accounts alleging potential school board and myself, which led misappropriation of funds by Snapp to the board seeking to separate with during his tenure. That claim triggered me prior to the end of my contract. My investigations by both the Indiana State hope was to serve the community for Board of Accounts and the Indiana State another four years or at least fulfill the Police. two remaining years on my contract, The State Board of Accounts concludbut the board insisted on a more abrupt ed it found no evidence that Snapp had separation. acted fraudulently. Hendricks County “I have devoted my entire career of Prosecutor Loren Delp affirmed that more than 40 years to public education, finding on Sept. 6, 2024, stating that including nearly 14 years as superintenneither investigation “produced any dent of BCSC, and the well-being of our evidence of criminal conduct on the school community has always been parpart of Dr. Snapp” and that his office amount to me. On several occasions I would not pursue charges, considering sought an amicable resolution with the the matter closed. board so that students and staff would In a statement released by the district not be adversely impacted. The school Sept. 14, the school board acknowlboard made it clear that was not a posedged the toll the investigation and sibility, but my goal never changed. Snapp’s departure took on him and his Accordingly, I am partnering with family. my attorney, Kirk LeBlanc, to pay the “The Board regrets any hardship school corporation’s $100,000 insurance this investigation and separation have deductible of this settlement. Neither caused Dr. Jim Snapp and his family,” Kirk nor I want students and staff in the the statement read. “The Board recclassrooms affected by this settlement. ognizes Dr. Snapp’s contribution and This gift reflects our sincere hope to longstanding connection to BCSC. We make that possible.” welcome him as he reengages with the By Alicia Stivers alicia@youarecurrent.com

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Town shifts elections By Alicia Stivers alicia@youarecurrent.com Brownsburg voters will soon cast ballots for town offices during even-numbered general elections after the Town Council approved a change to the municipal election cycle Sept. 10. The council voted 3-1 to approve Ordinance 2026-13 on second and third readings and final adoption. Council Member Cindy Holman opposed the measure. The ordinance changes the election schedule for town council seats in Wards 2, 3 and 4, as well as the clerk-treasurer and town court judge. Ward 1 and Ward 5 council seats were not affected because they already fall on an even-numbered election schedule. Under the transition plan, the three affected council seats will still appear on the November 2027 municipal ballot, but anyone elected to those seats will serve a one-year term beginning Jan. 1, 2028. Those seats will then be elected during statewide general elections beginning in November 2028 and every four years thereafter.

The clerk-treasurer and town judge also will appear on the 2027 ballot, but those elected officials will serve threeyear terms before moving to the new schedule in 2030. Town officials said the change is expected to save money and potentially increase voter participation by combining the town’s elections with state-run general elections. According to town documents, Brownsburg’s 2023 municipal election cost $25,819.49. The 2023 primary drew 237 votes, while the general election drew 2,983 votes. By comparison, the 2022 state election had substantially higher turnout and no local election costs were billed to the town. The ordinance also notes that Danville and Clayton have approved similar changes, while Pittsboro was considering one. Council members also discussed how the transition would distribute offices between election cycles. The clerk-treasurer and town judge will be elected during presidential/midterm general elections beginning in 2030.

Parks wraps up season By Alicia Stivers alicia@youarecurrent.com Brownsburg Parks concluded a busy August with hundreds of residents attending summer programs while staff completed hundreds of maintenance and inspection tasks throughout the park system. Parks Director Amber Lane presented the department’s August report to the Brownsburg Town Council Sept. 10. The report showed 331 work orders completed during the month, including grounds maintenance, equipment maintenance, building maintenance and inspections. Crews also addressed storm damage, including repairs to the White Lick Creek boardwalk and B&O Trail, along with playground mulch replacement and debris removal. At Arbuckle Acres Park, staff continued work on tennis courts, trails, creek shoreline stabilization and the park fence project. “The team is bringing the creative ideas, and we just help them execute it,”

Lane told the council when discussing the department’s growing lineup of events. The department is preparing for fall, including tree plantings, volunteer projects and seasonal maintenance. Staff also has begun winterizing the Williams Park splash pad following the Labor Day weekend. Lane also told council members that the department is working with Brownsburg Community School Corp. on a special-use agreement that will provide year-round access to school facilities for municipal recreation programs, including designated pool, field house and gym time. “We don’t want to overcommit on anything and try to provide a program or service to the community that we can’t actually deliver on,” Lane said. The agreement was approved by the council and covers the period from Oct. 1, 2026, through Sept. 30, 2027. The town will cover direct incremental costs associated with its use of the school facilities.

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BCSC approves new bus routing plan By Alicia Stivers alicia@youarecurrent.com Brownsburg Community School Corp. buses will run on a new three-tier schedule starting in the 2027-28 school year, under a transportation overhaul the school board approved unanimously Sept. 14. The change, paired with an expansion of the district’s parent responsibility zones approved the same night, is expected to save the district about $2 million — more than half of the $3.8 million in cuts BCSC must make for 2027-28 as part of a larger, three-year, $7.9 million reduction plan driven by state legislation, including Senate Enrolled Act 1. Assistant Superintendent for Operations Shane Hacker told the board the district currently runs a modified two-tier bus system. Under three-tier routing, a single driver would typically handle one elementary, one middle and one high school route each morning and afternoon, cutting the total number of routes — and drivers — needed districtwide. Hacker said the shift would require at least 60 minutes, and in some cases up to 80 minutes, between start times at each school level to give drivers enough time to complete a route, return to the community and start the next one. He said the high school route generally cannot run first because of a scheduling partnership with Area 31 at Ben Davis High School in Indianapolis, meaning high schools would need to fall in the second or third tier at most stops. Hacker said the district expects to reduce staffing largely through attrition rather than layoffs, citing high annual turnover among bus drivers and a broader driver shortage. Fewer routes also means fewer buses in operation, along with lower fuel and maintenance costs, he said. The approval does not lock in a final routing plan, Hacker said. District staff will spend the coming months working with transportation officials, athletics, performing arts programs and other groups to determine specific start times before presenting a complete plan to the board in December. The district plans to hold informational meetings for families Oct. 27-29.

Map shows the updated parent responsibility zone for Brownsburg West Middle School. (Map courtesy of Brownsburg Schools)

Hacker described the parent responsibility zone changes as easier to reverse than the shift to three-tier routing if the state provides additional funding in the future. “The tier three would be a little more difficult, probably, to come back and undo once we get down this path,” he said. The board also approved increasing the parent responsibility zones — the distance from a school within which the district does not provide transportation — from a half-mile to a mile for elementary students and to a mile and a half for secondary students. That change is projected to save about $720,000. Combined, district officials estimate the two transportation changes will eliminate dozens of bus stops and hundreds of riders across the district’s elementary and secondary schools. The district reduced 49 positions, including 12 teaching jobs, to meet its $3 million cut target for the current school year. Hacker has said the district hopes to avoid further classroom-level cuts by focusing on transportation and operational savings for 2027-28. The board is expected to finalize specific tier-three start times and routing details by December, following the community meetings this fall.

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Repeat offender sentenced repeat sexual offender, and the court found him to be a habitual offender, resulting in enhanced penalties. The A Hendricks County man convicted court cited McLaughlin’s criminal of repeatedly molesting a 5-year-old history, his position of trust over the child has been sentenced to 184 victim, the emotional harm he 1/2 years in the Indiana Departcaused and his threat against the ment of Correction. victim’s mother as aggravating A jury found Ryan McLaughfactors. lin, 49, of Danville, guilty on all “Repeat sexual offenders who counts, including three charges prey upon children are among of Level 1 felony child molesting, the most dangerous criminals in one count of Level 4 felony child our society,” Hendricks County McLaughlin molesting, Level 6 felony providProsecutor Loren Delp said. ing obscene matter to a minor and Level “McLaughlin had already been convict6 felony sex offender registry violation. ed of a sex offense, yet he found another Prosecutors said McLaughlin sexually vulnerable child and repeatedly victimabused the child over several months, ized her. Those who commit the most showed her pornography, instructed horrific sexual crimes against children her to imitate it and warned her not to should face the most serious punishtell anyone. He also threatened to kill ment the law allows.” the child’s mother if the abuse was disDelp credited the victim and her famclosed, prosecutors said. ily for their courage, along with Senior McLaughlin was already a convictDeputy Prosecuting Attorney Christine ed sex offender when he moved into Archer, the Hendricks County Sheriff’s a home with children and falsely told Office, Detective Samuel Chandler and authorities no minors lived there, prosadvocates from Susie’s Place Child Adecutors said. vocacy Centers. The jury found McLaughlin to be a By Alicia Stivers alicia@youarecurrent.com

We want to hear from you! Please reach out to Managing Editor Alicia Kelly for story ideas and questions, or connect with Account Executive Gina Lewis to discuss advertising opportunities with Current in Brownsburg. You can contact them via email at alicia@youarecurrent.com and gina@youarecurrent.com.

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Bulldogs backup goalkeeper performs in a pinch By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com When Brownsburg High School junior backup goalkeeper Riley Gaughan’s number was called when starter Ian Anderson was injured, he was ready. “He had a penalty kick save and a shutout against (then) No. 3 Noblesville,” Bulldogs coach Sean McGrath said of the 1-0 victory. “Riley stepped up in a big way in his first ever varsity start.” Anderson has returned to the lineup but Gaughan showed he can perform when needed. “It really boosted my confidence,” Gaughan said of his first start. “I was a little nervous because Noblesville is a really good team. I was able to come out and get the job done, keep my nerves down and be able to perform when it mattered.” Gaughan said the goal for the team is to go into sectional play with confidence. “We want to make a deep run into the state tournament,” he said. “We did well last year and got into regionals. We can definitely do it again if we go in there with confidence. Our chemistry and confidence are definitely key for us.” The Bulldogs finished 19-1-1 last season. They lost to eventual state champion Carmel 2-0 in

ATHLETE

OF THE WEEK MEET RILEY GAUGHAN Favorite athlete: Fernando Mendoza Favorite TV show: “The Office” Favorite vacation spot: San Diego Favorite subject: Weightlifting Favorite hobby: Fishing Brownsburg High School junior backup goalkeeper Riley Gaughan got a shutout in his first varsity start. (Photo courtesy of Riley Gaughan)

the IHSAA Class 3A regional championship. Gaughan, who turns 16 Sept. 26, said his biggest improvements in goal have been improving his footwork and decision-making. “At the club (team level), I didn’t have to use my feet very much,” he said. “I just saved the shots. Definitely in high school, it’s a lot more about being technical and being able to help the team out and build up an attack,: Last season, he played club soccer for EA (Elite Academy) 2010 Red team. Gaughan started playing goalkeeper when he began playing travel soccer in sixth grade. “That was the first time I ever really tried it,” he said. “I’ve always played sports with handeye coordination, so for a goalkeeper, those are definitely skills you need. I also like the way you can kind of be on your own and be able to make your own decisions and support the team.” Gaughan played tennis through middle school but dropped it to play soccer in high school. He also played hockey and basketball when he was younger. He began playing soccer at age 4.. “It was back when we lived in Montreal,” he said. “We lived there for 2 1/2 years. I came to Brownsburg when I was around 7.” To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@youarecurrent.com.

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Authors Showcase returns to Danville square Sept. 26 news@youarecurrent.com The Hendricks County Authors Showcase will return to downtown Danville for its third year Sept. 26. The free event, presented by The Authors’ Patch, will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 117 S. Washington St. It will bring together more than 50 authors from Hendricks County and beyond for a day of storytelling, conversation and literary discovery. The showcase welcomes both returning visitors and first-time attendees. Guests can meet local authors, browse books across multiple genres, and talk 1-on-1 with the writers behind them. Books will be available for purchase and signing, with authors on hand to share the inspiration behind their work. Beyond books, vendors will offer literary-themed gifts, reader-inspired items and craft-themed book merchandise. Food trucks also will be on-site, giving visitors a chance to grab a bite

Brownsburg author Susan Cutler Early discusses her book with an event attendee during last year’s Authors Showcase in downtown Danville. (Photo by Alicia Stivers)

while browsing. Family-friendly activities will run throughout the day, including the Author Scavenger Hunt, which gives participants chances to win prizes. The showcase will take place alongside the downtown Danville Farmers Market, allowing visitors to shop for fresh produce and local goods before exploring booths filled with books, art and handmade items. For more, call 317-306-9844.

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Ex-corrections lieutenant pleads guilty to fraud news@youarecurrent.com A former Indiana Department of Correction lieutenant has pleaded guilty to fraud after allegedly approving false time records that resulted in more than $3,000 in state overpayments. Jacob Kauth, a former correctional lieutenant at the Plainfield Correctional Facility, reached a plea agreement Aug. 31 with Hendricks County Prosecutor Loren Delp. Kauth was charged in May 2025 with Level 6 felonies for official misconduct, fraud and conspiracy to commit theft following an investigation by the Indiana Office of Inspector General. According to the allegations, Kauth approved or submitted false time records for a subordinate employee with whom he was romantically involved and who lived with him. The falsified records accounted for more than 98 hours and resulted in $3,163.90 in gross

overpayments by the state. The alleged scheme was discovered during a DOC audit. Investigators found the employee had not entered the facility on multiple dates and had failed to submit required time slips. Kauth was terminated from the DOC on June 18, 2024. Under the plea agreement, Kauth pleaded guilty to fraud, which was entered as an alternative misdemeanor. He was sentenced to one year of probation and must repay $3,163.90 in restitution to the state, complete 80 hours of community service and attend a theft class. “Falsifying time records is a gross violation of that public trust,” Indiana Inspector General Jared Prentice said. “Our office will continue working with agency partners and prosecutors to hold individuals accountable when criminal activity and misconduct occur.”

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 500 Festival Princess Program opens applications for 2027 — The 500 Festival is accepting applications for the 2027 Princess Program through Jan. 10 at 500Festival.com/Princess. Presented by The National Bank of Indianapolis, the program recognizes college-age women statewide for leadership, service and academic excellence, offering mentorship and a $1,500 scholarship. Top applicants will interview Jan. 23 in Indianapolis, with 66 advancing to a second round before 33 are selected as 2027 Princesses. Selected Princesses will serve as ambassadors from February through May, taking part in community outreach and 500 Festival events statewide.  Riley ranked among nation’s best children’s hospitals — Riley Children’s Health has been named among the nation’s leading children’s hospitals by U.S. News & World Report for the 19th consecutive year, according to the 20262027 Best Children’s Hospitals rankings. Riley is the No. 1 ranked children’s hospital in Indiana and fourth in the Midwest, and is one of only 18 hospitals nationally ranked across all 11 pediatric specialties, including top 10 rankings in urology and pulmonology and lung surgery. The rank-

ings, based on clinical data and specialist surveys, evaluated 114 children’s hospitals nationwide. For more, visit USNews. com.  Brownsburg marks 25th anniversary of 9/11 with proclamation — Brownsburg Town Council President Ben Lacey issued a proclamation Sept. 10 declaring Sept. 11, 2026, a Day of Remembrance, marking the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. The proclamation honors the nearly 3,000 lives lost, the courage of first responders and citizens who aided rescue efforts and the sacrifices of U.S. service members in the years since. The proclamation calls on residents to reaffirm commitments to unity, service, resilience and freedom.  BBBS plans ‘The Main Event’ — “The Main Event,” an immersive evening benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana is set for Oct. 3 at the JW Marriott in Indianapolis. The annual gala celebrates the impact of mentorship while raising funds to support youth in Hamilton, Johnson and Marion Counties. The event will feature dinner, dancing and entertainment. For more, visit bebigforkids.org/event/the-main-event.

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Registration is open for the 500 Festival Miler Series. (Photo courtesy of 500 Festival)

500 Festival Miler Series registration opens news@youarecurrent.com Registration is open for the 500 Festival Miler Series, a three-race series open to runners, walkers and wheelers of all experience levels who want to build mileage and confidence ahead of spring races — including the annual 500 Festival Mini-Marathon. The Miler Series kicks off with a 3-mile race Feb. 13, 2027, followed by a 6-mile route March 6 and the final 10-miler event April 10, according to a 500 Festival announcement. Each race takes place at Fowling Warehouse Indianapolis. All events are timed and official results will be posted after each race. “The Miler Series is more than just a training program,” stated Dave Neff, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “It’s an opportunity to build confidence, create healthy habits and connect with your community.” Participants can sign up for individ-

ual races or the full series. The early bird price for the full Miler Series is $75 and includes entry into all three events, along with a long-sleeved participant shirt and series finisher medal, awarded upon completion of the series. Prices increase Oct. 14. Participants who can’t attend a race in person can switch to a virtual option and still earn their gear. The 2027 race schedule and prices are: • 3-Miler, 9 a.m. Feb. 13, $30 • 6-Miler, 9 a.m. March 6, $35 • 10-Miler, 8 a.m. April 10, $40 Participants who want to “go the extra mile” can sign up for the Mini Maniac Challenge, which includes the Miler Series plus the Mini-Marathon; or the Greatest Spectacle Challenge, which includes the Miler Series, 5K and Mini-Marathon for a total of 35.2 miles. Registration for all events is available at IndyMini.com/Register. For more, visit IndyMini.com/Milers.

BROWNSBURG EVENT CALENDAR TOWN COUNCIL MEETINGS Town Hall Council Room, 7 p.m. Sept. 24, Oct. 8, Oct. 22 PRETTY FAST RUN CLUB – WOMEN’S RUNNING CLUB

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park, 5-7:30 p.m. Oct. 6 FALL MARKET

Arbuckle Acres Park, Tuesdays, 7-8 p.m. Sept. 22 & Sept. 29

Town Hall Green, 10 a.m. -2 p.m. Oct. 10

POLLINATOR BIOBLITZ ADVENTURE

MORNING BIRD HIKE

Virgil Park, 10:30 a.m. Sept. 26 TRAILS OF HONOR – VETERANS WALKING GROUP Williams Park, 9 a.m. Sept. 28 SENIOR MATINEE MOVIES Eaton Hall, 1 p.m. Sept. 30

B&O Trail Green Street Trailhead, 9 a.m. Oct. 17 MOVIES IN THE PARK Arbuckle Acres Park, 6:30 p.m. Oct. 30 BROWNSBURG TRICK OR TREAT 5 - 9 p.m. Oct. 31

OCTOBER 6, 2026 Make a meaningful impact while reaching 119,332 local households. Publishing on October 6, Current’s Breast Cancer Awareness Focus initiative is more than just a special section; it’s a critical resource for our community. This report will provide valuable insights into prevention, early detection and the life-saving importance of screenings. Current also will spotlight local healthcare providers, support organizations and the powerful stories of survivors. Your business can play a vital role in this important conversation. By advertising, you not only will reach a wide audience via U.S. Mail, but you also will demonstrate your company’s commitment to a cause that impacts families throughout Carmel, Fishers/Geist, Noblesville, Westfield, Brownsburg and Zionsville. This is a powerful opportunity to align your brand with a message of hope, health and community support.

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Brownsburg firefighters recall bringing home piece of the World Trade Center

call,” Ross said. “That is courage. That is service. That is sacrifice.” Alcorn and Police Chief Joe Grimes laid a wreath following Ross’s remarks. The Honor Guard then performed the bell ceremony — a tradition, explained during the service, that dates to 1865, when the New York City Fire Department transmitted repeated bell strikes to announce the death of President Abraham Lincoln. The same signal has since been used nationwide to mark a firefighter’s death in the line of duty. The ceremony closed with “Taps” and a benediction from Danda. Earlier in the day, the fire territory joined the Wa-Pe-Ke-Way Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution and the Brownsburg High School History Club for a 4:30 p.m. reading of the names of those killed in the 2001 attacks.

By Alicia Stivers alicia@youarecurrent.com Twenty-five years after the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks, a 1,500-pound piece of steel from the World Trade Center still stands at Arbuckle Commons, angled toward New York City — a physical link between Brownsburg and a day that reshaped the nation. The Town of Brownsburg, Brownsburg Fire Territory and Brownsburg Police Department gathered Sept. 11 for the community’s annual remembrance ceremony, marking the 25th anniversary of the attacks with a reading of the names, a bell ceremony and remarks from local fire officials. The evening ceremony opened with the presentation of colors by the Brownsburg Fire Territory Honor Guard and the national anthem, performed by Tristan Moe. The Rev. Sean Danda of St. Malachy Catholic Church gave the opening prayer. Brownsburg Fire Chief Larry Alcorn told attendees he still remembers exactly where he was that morning. “Twenty-five years have passed, but for many of us the memories remain vivid,” Alcorn said, recalling the moment he first learned of the attacks. “We all remember where we were, what we were doing and what we saw on the news.” Alcorn said the ceremony was intended to focus less on tragedy and more on what followed it. “This evening is not about remembering tragedy,” he said. “It’s about remembering the days and weeks after, when Americans came together and neighbors helped neighbors.” He thanked the department’s Honor Guard and the broader community for its continued support of the fire territory, adding, “We never take that responsibility for granted.” The ceremony’s keynote address was given by Battalion Chief Donnie Ross, who recounted in detail the fire territory’s yearslong effort to bring a piece of the World Trade Center to Brownsburg — a project that began in 2009, when firefighters learned of the opportuni-

Emergency responders with the Brownsburg Fire Territory recite the names of those killed in the 2001 terrorist attacks during a Sept. 11 ceremony at Arbuckle Commons. (Photo by Alicia Stivers)

ty to obtain a steel artifact for a local memorial. “This was not simply just making a phone call and going and picking it up,” Ross said. “There was an application process. We had to explain who we were, why we wanted this steel, what it represented and how it was going to be preserved and displayed.” After the request was approved, Ross and three other Brownsburg firefighters — Jim Miller, Ryan Miller and Alex Brand — traveled to New York’s Port Authority on April 7, 2010, to retrieve the steel. “Nothing could have prepared us for what we saw,” Ross said, describing pieces of steel, damaged emergency vehicles and other artifacts recovered from the site. He said the objects were never intended for display behind glass. “They were physical reminders of the destruction, the lives lost and the courage shown,” he said. The firefighters wrapped their piece of steel in an American flag and drove it back to Brownsburg without fanfare. “There was no official procession.

There were no television cameras following us,” Ross said. “We understood we were carrying something greater than a piece of metal. We were carrying a piece of American history. We were carrying a symbol of unimaginable loss. We were carrying a reminder of extraordinary courage.” Plans for an early memorial site fell through because of logistical issues, and the steel was stored at fire territory headquarters for years before organizers found a permanent home for it at Arbuckle Commons in 2019. “The steel is bent, scarred and forever changed by what happened on September 11th,” Ross said. “In that way, it represents our nation.” Ross connected the memorial’s purpose to a generation of residents with no personal memory of the attacks. “This steel provides a physical connection to the day,” he said. “It reminds them that September 11th was not just simply a chapter in history.” He closed by tying the memorial back to the department’s daily work. “We honor them when we serve. We honor them every time we answer the

ON THE COVER: The Brownsburg Fire Territory displays an American Flag downtown to honor those killed in the 2001 terrorist attacks. (Photo by Alicia Stivers)

THE BROWNSBURG 9/11 MEMORIAL AT A GLANCE LOCATION: Arbuckle Commons, 7249 Arbuckle Commons, Brownsburg CENTERPIECE: A 1,500-pound steel beam recovered from the World Trade Center ORIENTATION: Positioned as it stood within the World Trade Center, pointing toward New York City 2009: Brownsburg firefighters learn of the opportunity to obtain a World Trade Center artifact APRIL 7, 2010: Firefighters Jim Miller, Donnie Ross, Ryan Miller and Alex Brand retrieve the steel from New York’s Port Authority 2019: The 9/11 Memorial is installed at Arbuckle Commons FUNDING: Supported entirely by charitable donations from residents and businesses

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What was Indy’s song of the summer? By Alex McCarthy alex@youarecurrent.com When DJ Jim Cerone looks out over a crowded dance floor, he sees dozens of people with distinct musical tastes. Each person has a separate list of favorite songs on Spotify, or different tunes they know from their catered TikTok feed. “Then you put 200 of those people in a room together at a wedding reception and they don’t want to listen to someone else’s favorite,” Cerone said. “They just want to listen to theirs.” Gone are the days when everyone listened to the same radio station and knew the same handful of songs. We’re having fewer shared cultural experiences thanks to streaming services and social media algorithms, whether it’s television, movies, news sources or the oft-romanticized song of the summer. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, more people are outside listening to music blare from bars, restaurants and open windows on passing cars. Whether it was “Every Breath You Take” by the Police in 1983, TLC’s “Waterfalls” in 1995 or Carly Rae Jepsen’s “Call Me Maybe” in 2012, there is usually one song that stands above the rest in terms of popularity. Today, it’s much more difficult to identify one song that most people grew to love this summer. Based on which chart and which medium you consult, whether it’s Spotify or YouTube or Top 40 radio, you might get a different song atop the list. By and large, though, Indianapolis listeners — like much of the country — had Ella Langley’s “Choosin’ Texas” on repeat. Langley’s catchy country tune was this summer’s top song in Indianapolis based on Spotify and YouTube, according to Spotify Charts and YouTube Charts. Top 40 Indianapolis station WZPL played Olivia Dean’s “So Easy (To Fall in Love)” more than any song from the beginning of June to the end of last month – with “Choosin’ Texas” coming in third.

‘CLUE’ Hendricks Civic Theatre presents “Clue” Sept. 24-27 at Hendricks Live! at Plainfield. For more, visit hendrickslive or hendrickscivic.com. ‘RING OF FIRE’ “Ring of Fire” runs through Oct. 4 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com. LOU GRAMM

Ella Langley’s “Chasin’ Texas” was the most streamed song on Spotify this summer in Indianapolis. (Graphic by Alex McCarthy)

Spotify’s Local Pulse weekly list tracks songs that are uniquely popular in a city compared with other regions. This summer, “12 Steps” by Dexter and the Moonrocks, featuring Treaty Oak Revival, appeared on the list 12 out of 16 weeks. Westfield-based DJ Ty Mendenhall said he thinks “Choosin’ Texas” is popular in part because it has a classic, straightforward sound. “It’s got a really simple arrangement,” Mendenhall said. “It kind of reminds me of something from the late ‘80s, early ‘90s with the way it sounds. But for whatever reason, it really took off with everybody.” Not only is that classic sound popular, but older songs tend to still make up the majority of both Mendenhall and Cerone’s setlists. The music that everyone can agree on, both DJs said, is music that came before the age of fractured listening. “I could pull up a playlist from 2007, 2010 and there’ll be some of the same songs I played last night,” Mendenhall said. Songs such as The Killers’ 2004 rock song “Mr. Brightside” remain popular,

both on dance floors and on streaming services. Of the 16 weeks from Memorial Day to Labor Day, “Mr. Brightside” was in the Spotify top 10 in Indianapolis 15 times. Cerone acknowledged that most of his jobs are working weddings, so sadder songs like “Choosin’ Texas” aren’t generally on the playlist. He said people often request Dean’s songs and pop singer Zara Larsson’s “Midnight Sun.” Larsson’s music in particular seems to have risen to prominence thanks to its usage on TikTok and Instagram, he said. Listeners who request popular TikTok songs don’t want to listen to the whole tune, Cerone said. They want to listen to the part of the song they like from TikTok and then move on, which is leading to DJs shortening the songs they play, Cerone said. While “Choosin’ Texas” ruled many of the charts, it’s getting harder to definitively identify a beloved song that will transport everyone back to summer 2026 whenever they hear it. And if you’re trying to please a large group with a playlist, good luck. “It’s harder than ever to DJ,” Cerone said.

Lou Gramm, the original voice of Foreigner, will perform at 8 p.m. Sept. 26 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org. ‘HOME, I’M DARLING’ Carmel Community Players’ production of “Home, I’m Darling” runs Sept. 25 to Oct. 4 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.

DISPATCHES  Farrell’s cabaret series continues — Actor-vocalist Don Farrell, a co-founder of Actors Theatre of Indiana will continue with the “Blé After Dark” monthly cabaret series at Blé French Bistro in Noblesville. He will make his third appearance Sept. 25 in “Autumn Leaves,” followed by “Midnight in Paris” Oct. 30 and “Home for the Holiday” Nov. 21. For more, visit https:// bit.ly/4xwckLd  Carmel on Canvas issue awards — The City of Carmel announced Indianapolis resident Melanie Wissel was the grand prize/best of show in the professional division of last month’s annual Carmel on Canvas Plein Air Paint Out. Wissel earned $3,000. In the Non-professional Paint Out division, Sepideh Motevasel of Carmel won $500 for first place.

ENTERTAINMENT

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09.22.26 • youarecurrent.com

(Left) Scott Post is the director of Hendricks Civic Theatre’s production of “Clue,” set to run at Hendricks Live! (Right) Kat Krebs plays Mrs. White in the production. (Photo courtesy of Hendricks Civic)

Hendricks Civic Theatre to present classic whodunit By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Scott Post has wanted to direct “Clue” for a long time. “I applied to direct this in 2020,” he said. “It’s absolutely one of my favorite movies of all time. When they had a play version of it, I was like, ‘I absolutely need to do this.’” Hendricks Civic Theatre will present five performances of “Clue” Sept. 24-27 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield The whodunit comedy play is based on the board game and the 1985 movie about finding the murderer in Boddy Manor. Post, a Danville resident, is directing his ninth show in 12 years for Hendricks Civic. His wife, Linde, is, as is often the case, his producer. He also has acted in nine Hendricks Civic shows. “We’re tackling a rather large set for this show,” Post said. “We’ve got a lot of activity, a lot of ins and outs and going through doors. Everybody goes off stage and then two come back on. It’s almost like you have to choreograph a play.” Post said he has previously worked with about two-thirds of the cast.

“I like mixing it up,” he said. “I’m a big advocate of not giving the lead to the same person every time.” Brownsburg resident Kat Krebs plays Mrs. White. “I love the movie ‘Clue’ and have seen the stage version,” Krebs said. “The creative way they bring a huge manner to life on a small stage is so fun and inventive. And the campy nature of the script and the characters appeals to me. It’s been my No. 1 show I’ve wanted to be in it for a long time. I’m so excited to be a part of this production.” Krebs said an initial challenge was finding Mrs. White’s voice. “Mrs. White has this absolute deadpan delivery that was difficult to get to, but once I found her voice, I find myself using it in daily life now, too,” Krebs said. “Her matter-of-fact way is almost a goal now. The biggest challenge in this production is keeping my face straight while my fellow castmates are delivering hilarious lines, and moving around stage with madcap abandon. I defy anyone in the audience to not laugh while watching. It’s impossible.” For tickets, visit hendrickslive.org/ events/clue/.

ENTERTAINMENT

CURRENT IN BROWNSBURG 09.22.26 • youarecurrent.com

‘Jagged Little Pill’ aims to challenge, entertain

Heavy topics on stage remind viewers that they’re not alone By Alex McCarthy alex@youarecurrent.com

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Nothing about “Jagged Little Pill,” the musical based on the 1995 Alanis Morrisette album of the same name, is a typical musical theater production. The show, which runs from Oct. 2-17 through Civic Theatre in Carmel, examines heavy topics including drug addiction and sexual assault. The show will be presented at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, and tickets are available at civictheatre.org. Abigail Okerson plays the lead role of Mary Jane Healy, a mother who seems to have it all together on the outside but is battling many issues internally. Okerson said she hopes some of the women in the audience come to the show and see a little of themselves in her character. “They are going to look down the barrel of probably something they’re actively dealing with,” Okerson said. “And (my goal is) just to let them know that it is OK, maybe not to act out in some of the ways that she does throughout the story, but you can lean on your family and loved ones, and there are others going through it.” Besides getting that cathartic and healing experience, attendees also will hear music from Morissette’s biggest album, including “Ironic,” “You Oughta Know,” “Hand in My Pocket,” “Head Over Feet” and others. Michael Lasley, Civic Theatre’s executive artistic director, said there’s been a concerted effort in recent years to bring edgier productions to the Civic Theatre. He said the annual fall show is a little more bold and unusual than what they’ve historically offered. Recent fall productions have included “The Color Purple, “Rent” and “Kinky Boots.” Brent Marty, Civic’s director of music and education, pointed out the educational value of these kinds of shows. “We do feel a responsibility to educate in a way, or just to bring stories that they may not otherwise encounter on their own,” Marty said. “You know,

From left, Deisrae Brown, Rex Wolfley, Abigail Okerson and Cole Hurt star in “Jagged Little Pill.” (Photo by Joshua Hasty)

they come to Civic and they see ‘Annie’ and they go, ‘I’m gonna go back to Civic.’ And then they come to see this and they go, ‘Whoa, I’m challenged a little bit.’ Or that’s what we hope. We want to challenge.” While the music and the story provide the backbone for that experience, the performers have taken their roles very seriously. While Okerson plays the lead, 22-year-old Bridget Dean also is taking on a heavy role. Her character, Bella, is a sexual assault survivor and grapples with that during the show. Dean hopes people can learn from her character’s journey. “I feel very fortunate to be able to bring light to that situation and to let them know that it’s OK and it’s not their fault, but also it is just as important to bring awareness to the situation,” said Dean, a Noblesville High School graduate “Your journey doesn’t have to be ‘right,’ or what you think society needs it to be.” Noblesville nonprofit Prevail, Inc., which supports survivors of domestic violence or sexual abuse and assault, has partnered with Civic to provide support to the actors in the show but to also host a talk after one of the performances for people who are interested in learning more about handling the trauma of a violent experience. Okerson, 32, said the cast has bonded through the difficult scenarios their characters face and they’re closer than a cast usually is. She’s looking forward to the shows so they can share that bond with audiences as well. “Not every show is like that,” Okerson said. “Not all shows are created equally. The pride in the show is probably my biggest takeaway thus far, and I can’t wait for others to feel it.”

ENTERTAINMENT

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Stars align at Heartland

daughter and executive producer Kelly Stewart-Harcourt; and “It’s a Wonderful Life” actress Karolyn Grimes (Zuzu The Heartland International Film Fes- Bailey). The Oct. 14 Centerpiece Screening tival’s premieres have a special thread features “Wild Horse Nine” from this year. Martin McDonagh and Search“The neat thing is that a lot of the premieres have famous light Pictures. John Malkovich, faces in (them), so it might be Sam Rockwell and Steve Busour most star-studded slate (of cemi star in the black comedy premieres),” Heartland Film Arabout CIA agents Chris and Lee. “John Malkovich travels the tistic Director Greg Sorvig said. world with symphonies and he “Some of the talent includes Sorvig introduces songs,” said Sorvig, a Heather Graham, Joel McHale, Carmel resident. “He’s actually coming Rel Howery, KJ Apa, Cole Sprouse, to (Carmel’s) Allied Solutions Center for Haley Joel Osment, Patrick Warburthe Performing Arts on March 18 with ton, Dennis Haysbert, Josh Holloway, the Vienna Academy Orchestra. I would Penelope Ann Miller and a lot of other put money on that he will be nominated people.” for an Oscar and he has a really good The festival, which runs Oct. 8 to 18, shot at winning.” will showcase 24 World/U.S. premieres The Academy Awards are set for among the 100 feature films, with 260 March 14, 2027. screenings at Indianapolis theaters. Closing Night (Oct. 18) features “The Apa stars in the Opening Night Debut” from Jesse Eisenberg and A24. show and world premiere of “JIMMY,” The musical comedy starring Julianne the true untold story of actor Jimmy Moore and Paul Giamatti. Stewart. Many of the film’s team are For the film schedule and tickets, visit expected to attend, including director HeartlandFilmFestival.org. Aaron Burns; lead actor Apa; Stewart’s By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Interactive show planned By Alex McCarthy alex@youarecurrent.com

For 41 years, the Indianapolis Children’s Choir has performed for audiences and received applause in return. At the choir’s Sept. 27 show, that dynamic is going to change. “So many times when you do go to a performance, when you do go to a concert, you just sit there and you absorb,” Executive Artistic Director Josh Pedde said. “And we don’t want them to just sit and absorb. We actually want them to participate in some sort of way.” In a new twist, attendees are going to learn from and participate with the performers on stage. Pedde will lead the audience members through some simple exercises. The show, entitled “GROWTH,” will take place at 7 p.m. Sept. 27 at the STAR Bank Performing Arts Center in Zionsville. Performers will range from elementary to high school, and will let the audience in on what they’re learning. As audience members see the performers improve from the September show until the final show of the season

The Indianapolis Children’s Choir will include audience participation at its upcoming show, “Growth.” (Photo courtesy of the Indianapolis Children’s Choir)

May 16, they will have a better understanding of how the performers have developed. The exercises for the audience will be simple, Pedde said. Attendees don’t need to start singing in the shower or doing vocal exercises to prepare. “They don’t need to do anything special to be ready,” Pedde said. “We will provide all the magic for it.” To learn more about the ICC and purchase tickets, go to icchoir.org.

ENTERTAINMENT

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CIAF’s Young at Arts expands By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

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The Carmel International Arts Festival’s Young at Arts section keeps growing. “We heavily expanded the Young at Arts section last year and are thrilled to return this year with an even larger and more engaging area for the 2026 festival,” said Andrew Murray, a Carmel High School arts teacher and Westfield resident. “Overall, we are incredibly excited to provide a wide range of activities and experiences for kids and families at the Carmel International Art Festival. I tried to blend together a mix of experiences where kids will get their hands on a wide range of different art materials and processes.” The arts festival is from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 26 and 10. a.m. to 5 p.m Sept. 27 in the Carmel Arts & Design District. Murray, who also served as the coordinator of the area last season, said the stamp-making and ceramic wheel-throwing demos are the only booths returning this year. “Carmel artist Scott Osborne and Carmel High School ceramic teachers will be on-site throwing ceramic vessels throughout both days of the festival,” Murray said. “If you want to see the incredible world of ceramics, swing by and check out the pros at work.” The other booths are a collaborative butterfly mural, stamp-making station, Shrinky Dink station, tiny artworks station and polymer clay creation station.

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“At our tiny artworks station, kids will be able to create their very own 1-by-1-inch artwork using markers, paint, pen, and more,” Murray said. “All finished artworks will be given a mat frame and kids will be able to take their work home with them.” At the polymer clay creation station, Murray said CHS students will help kids sculpt creations from a variety of templates. He said the artists can take their design home when they finish, or leave it on display for the festival. Murray said children can join CHS Art Club in being creative with Shrinky Dinks, flexible sheets that when heated in the oven shrink to small hard plates. “Kids will be able to use their imagination — and the power of the Shrinky Dink — to create earrings, pins, keychains and more,”Murray said.

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ENTERTAINMENT ACTS SET The Sept. 26 Main Stage entertainment acts are 1011:30 a.m.: Tim Brickley & The Bleeding Hearts; 12-1 p.m.: Kanaka Jams; 1:30 - 2:30 pm - HP; 3-4:30 p.m.: Touch of Grass and 5-6 p.m.: Ten Branches. Sept. 27 Main Stage: 10-11 a.m. Hippie Dream; 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Island Mixtape; 12:45-1:15 p.m.: Tim Wright; 1:453:15 p.m.: On the Record and 3:45-5 p.m.: Phone Club The West Stage acts Sept. 26 are 10-11 a.m.: John Alvarado; 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.: Indiana Ballet Conservatory; 1-2:30 p.m.: Laughing Jack – Irish Sea Shanties; 3-4 p.m.: Jeremiah Cosner and 4:30-6 p.m.: The Gene Markiewicz Band. Sept. 27 Main Stage: 10-11 a.m.: Eliott Ferguson 11:30 a.m.12:30 p.m.: Central Indiana Dance Ensemble; 1-2:15 p.m.: Kenny Phelps Jazz Trio: 2:35 - 3:35 p.m.: Cole Woodruff and 4- 5 p.m.: Sarah Hund. For more, visit carmelartsfestival.org.

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Young participants at the Young at Arts section at Carmel International Arts Festival. (Photo courtesy of CIAF)

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22. Parking ___ 24. Vogue rival 25. Romantic sort 27. Is nuts about 29. Only Hitchcock film to win Best Picture 31. Stone worker 34. Have a burger at BRU Burger Bar 35. Up to now 38. Silent assent 40. Actress Longoria or Mendes 41. “The Matrix” hero 42. Rock genre 43. Hawaiian garland 44. Baited insect collector 48. Rowing need 49. Sly and nasty 51. “Right to remain silent” name 53. Birds of peace 56. Distributes 57. Indonesian island 60. CPR pro 61. U-turn from NNW 62. Whittle away at a White River embankment 64. Prohibit 66. Quickly 70. Bold poker bet 71. Night before 72. Apple music players discontinued in 2022 73. Blockheads 74. Narc’s org. 75. Local team whose first regular season game was

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