Zionsville’s “Father of Football” is 2025 Fall Fest Grand Marshal / P12
SEVEN STUNNING HOMES.
THREE FUN WEEKENDS. ONE GREAT SHOW.
Realtor Day
September 12th | 10am-2pm
Calling all Realtors! Join us for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at each show home before the show opens at noon. Tickets will be discounted for REALTORS only.
A portion of the proceeds will be contributed to MIBOR REALTORS® Polictical Action Committee.
Ticket Cost: $10
September 18th | 4pm-6pm
This is a fan-favorite event with a twist! Join us as we tour each of the seven custom homes, enjoy some wine and hors d’oeuvres and hear directly from the interior designers of each showcase home to learn about the inspiration behind their design.
Limited Space. Reserve your spot today!
Ticket Cost: $60 (includes food and drink)
HOMETOWN HEROES
September 25th | All Day
Join us for a special celebratory event honoring our hometown heroes. To show our appreciation, veterans, first responders, military personnel, healthcare workers, and teachers can enjoy 20% off their general admission ticket price.
Ticket Cost: $16-24
THREE WEEKENDS
THURSDAY - SUNDAY
SEPT. 11–14 SEPT. 18 – 21 SEPT. 25 – 28
Take advantage of early bird pricing to save $5 on your ticket through the start of the show!* *Use Code: HAREARLY Early bird pricing ends 9/10 at 11:59 pm.
September 2, 2025
Current in Zionsville currentzionsville.com
Lincoln Park project bids rejected by parks board
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
The Zionsville Parks and Recreation Board will reconsider how to award a contract for the Lincoln Park refresh project.
RECREATION
The Zionsville Department of Parks and Recreation advertised for bids for the project in June. On Aug. 13, seven competitive bids were reviewed by the parks board. However, each of those bids was significantly higher than the engineer’s estimate.
Zionsville Parks and Recreation Superintendent Jarod Logsdon said although the department has historically had success using the engineer’s estimate as the basis for budgeting, components of the park considered “big-ticket items” — like the gazebo or fountain — may have produced unforeseen costs when it came time to bid.
The board voted to reject all the bids and instead investigate the potential of utilizing build-operate-transfer agreement — or BOT — to construct the changes at the park. A BOT agreement, provided for by Indiana law, allows a municipality to enter a public-private partnership for the development, design and construction of public facilities.
Members of the board said a BOT could potentially lower costs by allowing more control throughout the agreement and a maximum price.
It would be the first time a BOT was used in Zionsville.
“We are committed to delivering this
project to the community as promised in the five-year master plan and in our current budget year,” Logsdon said. The board is expected to decide if it will seek a BOT agreement this month, with potential to award a contract in October. The board also said BOT agreements should be considered for capital projects moving forward. Members said future projects should also include a check-in process for key milestones throughout any project.
Logsdon also addressed some concerns about park design that were brought to the board by longtime resident and park neighbor Ralph Stacy. Stacy said he hoped the parks department would consider fencing around the perimeter of the park instead of
DISPATCHES
Zionsville DPW Deputy Director appointed — Zionsville Mayor John Stehr recently announced the appointment of Brad Meriwether as deputy director of the Zionsville Department of Public Works. Meriwether has 18 years of experience in public works, most recently as DPW director in Beach Grove. The appointment fills a vacancy and was made under the current budget.
Nicoson joins Ferris Property Group — Zach Nicoson of Zionsville recently earned his real estate license after a 23-year corporate career and joined Indianapolis-based Ferris Property Group. In his new role, Nicoson will assist buyers, sellers
and real estate investors to navigate the market and build their portfolios. Contact Nicoson at zach@ferrispropertygroup.com
Love for Lincoln — The Town of Zionsville and the Zionsville Department of Parks and Recreation are selling engraved bricks as part of the “Love for Lincoln” campaign — an initiative to celebrate the legacy of Lincoln Park while raising funds for upcoming renovations. Engraved bricks are available for $150. Purchase bricks by Sept. 14 at zionsville-in.gov/779/Love-for-Lincoln.
Author visit in Zionsville — Black Dog Books in the Village will host author, screenwriter and movie producer Nicholas Meyer from 6 to 8 p.m. Sept. 12 at the bookstore, 115 S. Main St. Meyer will discuss his new book, “Sherlock Holmes
a landscape barrier.
“The design intent of the landscaping is to provide a vegetative barrier that is going to deter foot traffic and direct it toward the entrances,” Logsdon said. “The depth and the volume of those vegetative beds (would) help direct the pedestrian traffic that we want throughout the park. (Landscape) screening is a tool used in landscape design to effectively control pedestrian access. We do have bollards on the Oak Street side.”
Logsdon said the final design might include permanent planters. He said lighting will be complementary to the aesthetic of the Village, and signage with park rules also will be installed.
and the Real Thing,” which follows Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson as they enter the world of art forgery and investigate a landlady’s missing artist tenant. Meyer will speak and sign copies of his book. Light refreshments will be served. Books can be preordered by calling Black Dog Books at 317-733-1747.
Family bingo night — St. Alphonsus Liguori’s Catholic Church in Zionsville will host Family Patriotic Bingo with the Knights of Columbus in Zionsville at 6 p.m. Sept. 19. At the church, 1870 W. Oak St. Guests are encouraged to wear patriotic clothing. Hot dogs, cheeseburgers, pizza and apple pie will be available for purchase. Proceeds will support Knights of Columbus initiatives benefiting the veterans and active service members.
3
About us
Founded March 20 2012, at Zionsville, IN Vol. XIV, No. 23
Copyright 2023
Current Publishing, LLC
All Rights Reserved.
525 North End Dr. Ste. 175 Carmel, IN 46032 317.489.4444
Contact the editor
Have a news tip, calendar item or photo to share?
Contact the Managing Editor Marney Simon at marney@youarecurrent.com or call 317.489.4444. You also may submit information at currentzionsville. com. Our print deadline is eight days prior to publication. Submissions for online accepted daily.
Share your thoughts
Letters to the editor may be sent for consideration to letters@youarecurrent.com. Letters have a maximum word count of 300 words. Please include your city of residence and a contact phone number for verification. Current Publishing may refuse letters.
Advertise your business
If you’re interested in reaching the Zionsville market (12,138 households), you may obtain more information by emailing ads@ youarecurrent.com (subject: Zionsville advertising) or by calling 317.847.5022.
Obituaries obits@youarecurrent.com
Legal advertising legals@youarecurrent.com
Delivery questions
circulation@youarecurrent.com
Join our community facebook.com/currentinzionsville x.com/youarecurrent instagram.com/youarecurrent
Opinions
The views of the columnists in Current in Zionsville are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.
The Lincoln Park refresh project will update the town’s oldest municipal park. (Image courtesy of Zionsville Department of Parks and Recreation)
Meriweather
2024 Carmel on Canvas Best of Show David Voelpel
Fischer Homes to open new townhome model in Grand Park, Chatham Hills
By David Jacobs david@youarecurrent.com
Fischer Homes expanded into the Indianapolis area more than 15 years ago, and the home builder is still making footprints in surrounding communities.
HOUSING
In July, the company held a grand opening for its Grand Estate Collection at Lindley Ridge at Chatham Hills, featuring its Nottoway floor plan with approximately 6,500 square feet. Now, the builder is set to open the Townes at Grand Park to the public at 404 Elite St.
“The community itself will have a total of 65 homes,” said Sean Sullivan, market president of Fischer Homes Indianapolis. “Two different floor plans will (be) offered -- the Tustin and the Meridian. The biggest difference between the two layouts is that the meridian offers an elevator option that you can either have space prepped for a future installation or you can purchase one through us. Other than that,
A model of the Nottoway Model exterior featured in the Grand Estate Collection at Lindley Ridge. (Photo courtesy of Fischer Homes)
the plans are relatively similar (in size). They’re roughly 2,200 square feet, three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths.”
With its location at Grand Park, the Townes will have several amenities, such as a dog park, several intimate gathering areas and direct access to the Monon Trail. Homeowners in the Grand Estate Collection at Lindley Ridge have an amenity
package with The Club at Chatham Hills. “(The locations) are something we know our consumer wants,” Sullivan said. “The City of Westfield has done a great job creating destinations and really supporting price points that we feel we do a very good job of delivering on. Henke Development and Chatham Hills have a fantastic package that each of our homeowners will be able to enjoy as a social member included in their purchase. Grand Park itself is owned and operated by Westfield and is a major attraction for central Indiana. (Consumers) are looking for amenities that are outside of their community that they have direct access and connectivity to, and that’s something that Westfield has done an excellent job of providing.”
Townes at Grand Park range in price from $300,000 to $500,000-plus, while Lindley Ridge homes range from $865,000 to $1 million-plus.
For more, visit fischerhomes.com/ find-new-homes/indianapolis/indiana/ communities
Easing Back-to-School Stress: How Families Can Find Balance This Fall
As the school year begins, many families experience increased stress due to changes in routines, academic pressures, and social adjustments. Children may feel anxious about new classes, meeting expectations, or fitting in with peers. Parents often face their own worries, including concerns about their child’s academic progress, safety, and balancing work with family responsibilities. These stressors can affect sleep, mood, and overall family well-being.
Research shows that parental support and maintaining consistent routines help reduce stress for children and adolescents. High expectations and pressure from parents can increase stress, so it is important to offer encouragement and understanding rather than add to that burden.
Structured routines are crucial for family well-being, acting as a buffer against stress and building resilience, especially during transitions like the backto-school period. Regular routines like predictable mealtimes and bedtime rituals decrease the impact of
stress and promote a sense of control and stability. Families with consistent routines are more resilient and feel more capable of handling external pressures.
The recommended amount of sleep for a school-age child to help manage back-toschool stress and support overall health and well-being is 9–12 hours per 24 hours. Adequate sleep in this range is associated with improved attention, behavior, learning, memory, emotional regulation, quality of life, and both mental and physical health. For healthier sleep, maintain consistent bedtime routines, avoid screen time for at least one hour before bed, and keep screens out of the bedroom at night. Starting these habits before school helps kids adapt to new stressors and perform better academically.
Healthy eating is a key factor in ensuring every member of the family has the energy and vitality to feel their best, both physically and emotionally. Since busy schedules often lead to reliance on convenience foods, strategies like meal planning and batch cooking are key. Getting children involved in meal prep also encourages healthy habits and helps them feel more invested in what they eat.
Overscheduling is another significant contributor to stress in school-aged children, with excessive homework load and screen time being key predictors of activity-related stress. Shared decision-making between parents and children regarding extracurricular activities is recommended to reduce stress and promote autonomy. To help the family de-stress and
bond, remember to schedule in some free time and fun activities throughout the week. Making time for things like a family movie night, a bike ride, playing board games, or simply hanging out can make a big difference.
At FreedomDoc Zionsville, Dr. Jacob is uniquely equipped to help the whole family manage back-to-school stress in our direct primary care model that provides an emphasis on personalized attention, accessibility, and continuity of care. Our smaller patient panel allows us to spend more time with each patient and family. This increased availability allows Dr. Jacob to address not only individual health concerns but also family dynamics, stressors, and preventive strategies in a holistic manner. The ability to care for multiple generations within the same family further enhances the physician’s understanding of family systems and stressors, facilitating coordinated care and effective management of transitions such as the start of the school year.
Contact Information: FreedomDoc Zionsville Susan Jacob, MD 114 N Main Street Zionsville, IN 46077 (317) 936-3970
Zionsville’s 2026 budget planning underway
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
The Zionsville Town Council will consider the budget for 2026 beginning this month.
TOWN NEWS
Mayor John Stehr said department heads had their tentative budget plans turned into administration Aug. 25 for review by the town council. Stehr said councilors are tasked with keeping spending down while making sure the services that benefit residents — particularly public works and public safety — are not impacted. It’s a challenge all municipalities in Indiana are undertaking as Senate Bill 1 — the state’s new property tax law that lowers property taxes through tax credits and limits how much communities can raise through property taxes — goes into effect in 2026.
“Senate Bill 1 is affecting us, certainly,” Stehr said. “We’re going to have 6 percent less revenue to work with, which is going to be something to overcome, but I think
we’ll get there. We’re holding the line on expenses as best we can. We’re not taking on any new expenses. It’s going to be the next couple of years that are going to be hard.”
Stehr said although the town will crack down on any unnecessary spending, spending is already predominantly under control.
“I would argue that the municipal government doesn’t have any fat to trim,” he said. “All of our money goes to the police department, the fire department, roads, planning. The biggest expense — by no surprise — is salaries and benefits. So, you can’t cut that. And we don’t want to lay anybody off, particularly in public safety. It’s just kind of a hard place to reach. (I think ) that we’ll get there and I think we’re on a good track. It’s just going to be some difficult conversations getting there.”
The Zionsville Town Council is expected to hold the first of two public hearings on the 2026 budget in mid-September, with passage expected in October.
Dr. Susan Jacob
ADVENT LUTHERAN BREAKS GROUND ON SCHOOL EXPANSION
Pastor Marcus Mackay and students from Advent Lutheran School at a groundbreaking event Aug. 17. The event was held for Advent Lutheran School’s Phase 3 building expansion. The $7 million, 30,000-square-foot project will add new offices; a new auditorium/gymnasium; and a performing arts/stage area for student performances and athletic events. The school at 11250 N. Michigan Rd., on the border of Zionsville and Carmel, opened in 2022-23 and had only five students in a combined first- and second-grade classroom but grew to 30 students in 2024-25. The expansion will support students in first through sixth grade, with future plans to have a high school on-site.
(Photo courtesy of
Church)
Advent Lutheran
Access to naloxone — an opioid neutralizer prescribed under the name brand Narcan — is now available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at the Zionsville Police Department.
ZPD announced installation of a NaloxBox Aug. 21 in the station’s public breezeway, 1075 Parkway Dr. The NaloxBox is a resource that provides naloxone nasal spray at no cost. The medication rapidly reverses the effects of opioid poisoning by restoring normal breathing.
Although the spray is highly effective, results are temporary. Once administered, 911 should be contacted immediately for emergency care.
“If supplying free naloxone saves one person in Zionsville, it is worth it,” Mayor John Stehr stated. “It’s a highly effective treatment for opioid overdose and provides immediate help when it’s needed most, no matter the circumstances.”
The Zionsville NaloxBox is listed as part of the statewide network of naloxone distribution sites. Learn more at overdoselifeline.org/naloxone-indiana-distribution. Free
The ZPD breezeway was chosen to provide around-the-clock public access in a central and secure setting. The resource was funded by Inwell in partnership with Overdose Lifeline.
(Photo courtesy of Town of Zionsville)
Photos courtesy of Zionsville Lions Club / Roger Manning
bachtorock.com/zionsville
mononwealth.com
burnbootcamp.com/zionsville
callcarpenter.com
MAN AROUND TOWN
Zionsville’s “Father of Football” is 2025 Fall Fest Grand Marshal
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Orlin Coleman is well known throughout the Town of Zionsville.
An educator with Zionsville Community Schools from 1963 until his retirement in 1994, Coleman served as the district’s athletic director, golf coach and founded the football program in 1969, earning the moniker “The Father of Football” in Zionsville.
At Zionsville Community High School, he taught driver’s education and briefly coached basketball while earning his master’s degree from Indiana State University. He went on to serve as ZCHS’ athletic director from 1978 to 1994, receiving the title of Indiana Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association Athletic Director of the Year in 1994.
On Sept. 6, he’ll take the lead as grand marshal of the 72nd Annual Fall Fest Parade, part of the 2025 Zionsville Fall Festival hosted by the Zionsville Lions Club.
At 93, Coleman has seen Zionsville evolve from its small-town roots but said some things never change.
“Try to go through Zionsville at 8 o’clock in the morning, or try to go through it from about 4:30 to 6 p.m. — there’s no way to put a bypass around Zionsville, so it can be a mess,” he said, laughing. “But it’s a great little town. When I came here in ‘63, we were in the old school where the library is now. We had about 300 students in the high school and then they built a new school out on Whitestown Road, and they built it for 500 students. And we didn’t fill it, but they’ve remodeled it three times since.”
Coleman, who grew up in New Castle, attended Western New Mexico University and served in the United States Armed Forces during the Korean War. He returned to the Hoosier state with his wife Norma and their three children, Kevin, Lisa and Randy, after Norma said she wanted to come home to Indiana. He said when he arrived in Zionsville, there were only a few school sports available. He was hired as the industrial arts teacher but took on duties of football coach when the program was launched. It was immediately popular.
“The first year, we played seventh and eighth grade,” he said. “We went to
Cascade (schools in Hendricks County) and played our first game there and won that. There was an article in the paper that we had better than 500 people there watching the game for seventh and eighth grade. They didn’t have anybody hardly there watching, but they sold out the concessions.”
Coleman said although he won conference championships in 1974 and 1977, he never had the opportunity to take a team to the playoffs because of the postseason format at that time. But he considers starting the program a privilege.
9-1,” he said, adding that the changing design of how football seasons were scored in Indiana — from a point system to a cluster system to the current playoff system — made advancing toward a state title difficult 40 to 50 years ago.
Coleman was nominated to serve as this year’s Fall Fest grand marshal by his granddaughters, Lizzy and Alli Coleman. Lizzy Coleman said growing up where her grandfather was a household name made her proud.
through Zionsville High School, and then my sister went through Zionsville High School, and then I went through Zionsville High School,” she said. “I love how much people really make a home in Zionsville.
The amount of people who would say, ‘Oh, you’re a Coleman,’ it’s like they knew that name. A lot of my teachers knew my grandpa. They were either students of my grandpa or they were faculty at the time that he was working there. Growing up in Zionsville, you just saw how people really rooted their life here and they made a home here.”
Coleman remains active in Zionsville, meeting with friends most mornings for coffee and hitting the links once a week with a senior league at the Zionsville Golf Course.
“It’s a golfing community, a little ninehole (municipal) course,” he said. “I’m still playing golf at 93, but they have that every Tuesday morning.”
And, he said, he couldn’t ask for a better life than what he’s had in Zionsville.
“It’s been a good trip, it really has,” he said. “I lived a life I wanted to live, even though I didn’t make a whole lot of money at it. I’ve got three good kids and six good grandchildren. My only big wish was that my wife could live to see the great grandkids.”
Coleman has been honored in Zionsville with dozens of plaques and awards celebrating his contributions to the school system. He also was honored by having the football field at ZCHS and the first hole at Zionsville Golf Course named for him.
“I had two 10-1 seasons and played three
“One of my favorite things about having grown up in Zionsville is, my grandpa worked at the high school, my dad went
“It’s been a good ride,” he said. “I’ve been retired for 31 years now. My wife had Alzheimer’s and she passed away in 2015. There really was a time way back when that we knew everyone in this town. When I came here, I knew which boy was dating which girl, what car he drove, I knew all about them because there just wasn’t that many. By the time I retired in ‘94, we were a Class 3A school, and now we’re Class 5A. Zionsville has really grown.”
ON THE COVER: Orlin Coleman with his granddaughters, from left, Alli and Lizzy Coleman. Coleman will serve as grand marshal of the Fall Fest Parade Sept. 6. (Photo courtesy of Lizzy Coleman)
The 72nd Annual Fall Festival Parade steps off at 10 a.m. Sept. 6 at Zionsville Community High School. The parade will travel 1.2 miles down Mulberry Street to Ash Street, finishing on Main Street. The parade has approximately 70 entries, including
marching bands, local merchants and a festive-themed Lions Float. Parade watchers are encouraged to dress up as their favorite cartoon characters in line with this year’s theme, “Toon Town.”
FALL FESTIVAL PARADE
Orlin Coleman has lived in Zionsville since 1963. He has three children and six grandchildren, including Alli, left, and Lizzy. (Photo courtesy of Lizzy Coleman)
Coleman
Calendar of events
news@currentzionsville.com
CARNIVAL
• Sept. 5 — 6 to 11 p.m.
• Sept. 6 — Noon to 11 p.m.
• Sept. 7 — Noon to 6 p.m. Wristband Day — Sept. 7, $25
• Parade — 10 a.m.
KIDS CORNER BOUNCE HOUSES AND MORE
• Sept. 6 — Noon - 9 p.m.
• Sept. 7 — noon to 5 p.m. Unlimited ride wristbands — $15 per day.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 6
• Touch a Truck — 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Children can meet police officers, firefighters and sheriff’s deputies in the Public Safety Zone to experience the vehicles and equipment utilized daily by those who protect and serve the community.
• Interactive Academy Gymnastics performance — 12:30 p.m. south of the gazebo
• Zionsville Community High School Royalaires and Choralaires — 1 p.m. in the exposition tent
• Indiana Lions for Leader Dogs for the Blind — 1 p.m.
Visitors will see demonstrations on different levels of training that creates a working dog in the exposition tent.
• Zionsville West Middle School orchestra — 1:45 p.m. in the entertainment tent
• K-9 demonstration — 2 p.m., 4 p.m. The Zionsville Police Department and the Boone County Sheriff’s Office K-9 units will provide a live bite demonstration with a law enforcement officer inside a bite suit with K-9s Sky and Mia in the exposition tent
• Zionsville Middle School Orchestra — 2:15 in the entertainment tent
• ZCHS Philharmonic Orchestra — 2:45 p.m. in the entertainment tent
Continued on Page 14
SUNDAY 8:00 AM 10:30 AM 5:00 PM SATURDAY 4:30 PM
• Zionsville Fire Department — 3 p.m. in the safety zone ZFD will present “The Power to Save a Life,” a hands-only CPR presentation. Continued from Page 13
• Lions Lounge — 5 to 11 p.m. in the entertainment tent, must be 21 to enter The trivia contest takes place from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Local musicians The Impalas take the stage from 7 to 11 p.m.
Whether you choose our standard villas or the royal dog/cat boarding suite, you can be confident that your pup or kitty will be treated like our preferred guest while you’re away!
Fall Festival kicks off with 18th annual VIP Carnival
By David Jacobs david@youarecurrent.com
The Zionsville Lions Club celebrates 72 years of the Fall Festival Sept. 5-7. However, the VIP Carnival designated for special needs families will start the festivities for the 18th year from 6 to 11 p.m. Sept. 5 at Zionsville Lions Park, 11001 East Sycamore St.
“It’s an event for families with special needs, so they’re able to come to the carnival,” Lion and HAWK board member Leigh
Ann Akard said. “We take away all the obstacles that would prevent a family with special needs from being able to go to the carnival, whether it’s financial or physical.”
Although the carnival is still open to the general public, it does not include the free dinner and rides that are provided to families with special needs.
The carnival drew more than 1,500 people last year and is expected to surpass that mark this year.
“Some families will spend more time
traveling than they actually spend at the event,” Akard said. “We know that they come from all around, so we’re just happy to be able to share what we’ve got and what we’re doing. We’d love for other carnivals to do something similar, but just seeing the growth is so heartwarming.”
The carnival will have rides, games, a bounce house, a silly safari, music by Mr. Daniel Sings, balloon creations with Joe
White and offer health and legal services.
“We RSVP to make sure we have enough food and cookies, but if their loved one feels up for it and they want to come, I encourage them (to),” Akard said. “I would encourage a family not to be dissuaded if they’re last-minute able to attend and to still come.”
To RSVP or learn more, visit zionsvillelions.com/fall-festival-vip-carnival.
The VIP carnival is 6 to 11 p.m. Sept. 5. (Photo courtesy of Zionsville Lions Club)
• Dance in the park workout class — 10 a.m. at the tennis court Dance Fit Squad will host a workout class for free. Sign up at dancefitsquad.com
• Jigsaw Puzzle competition — 1:15 p.m. at the entertainment tent
• Key Club and Kiwanis Pet Show — 2:15 p.m. at the exposition tent
Miss Fall Festival has memorable experience
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For Saylor Lancaster, her tenure as Miss Fall Festival has been a life-changing experience.
Lancaster was crowned 2025 Miss Fall Festival last year and competed in the Miss Indiana competition in Zionsville in June. Her reign ends when a new Miss Fall Festival is crowned during the competition, which begins at 3 p.m. Oct. 4 at the Hoosier Village in Zionsville. Miss Tippecanoe and Miss Tippecanoe’s Teen titles winners also will be announced. Those titles became part of the Miss Fall Festival program in 2024. The three titleholders advance to Miss Indiana, part of the Miss America organization, in June 2026 in Zionsville.
“The best part of my reign as Miss Fall Festival has been the opportunity to connect more deeply with the Zionsville Lions and the entire Zionsville community,” Lancaster said. “The Lions are one of the biggest sponsors of the Miss Indiana program, so being able to serve their community, give back to their program and represent them at Miss Indiana has truly been an honor. I am very grateful for the relationships I’ve built, and I’m so excited to return to Zionsville in just a few weeks for the Fall Festival to celebrate with them again.”
Lancaster, who is from Columbus, Ind., is one of triplets. She attended Purdue University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in agribusiness with a concentration in food marketing. She is now working on getting her master’s degree in marketing.
“The Miss Indiana experience has truly been so special, and — not to be dramatic — changed my life,” Lancaster said. “The personal development and growth I’ve experienced in every aspect of my life has been profound. Being surrounded by so many intelligent, confident, ambitious and kind women has inspired me in unimaginable ways. The skills that the Miss America Opportunity has equipped me with have made a significant impact on my academics, professional life, personal relationships and my overall sense of confidence in myself.”
The relationships and support from other contestants have been special for Lancaster.
“While the impacts of this experience are extensive, the one I hold closest to my heart has to be the sisterhood that it fosters,” Lancaster said. “I always tell people that when I decided to compete in the Miss Indiana/Miss America opportunity, I instantly gained about 60 new friends. While that sounds absurd, I really do feel that way. I know I can lean on the women in this program for absolutely anything. The spirit, heart and support of the girls who choose to be a part of this sisterhood are unlike anything I’ve ever experienced.”
Beth Cline is the director for the competition. She became Miss Fall Festival director in June 2022.
“I’m passionate about getting to work with young women who want to grow, learn and give back to their community,” the Indianapolis resident said. “Seeing the skills that young women can gain by participating in these competitions brings me joy.”
Registration is closed for the Miss Fall Festival and Miss Tippecanoe titles. Miss Tippecanoe’s Teen is open to any teen who meets the age requirements. The registration deadline is Sept. 29.
The age requirements for Miss America are 18 to 28; must be 18 by the first day of the state competition; and no older than 27 at the start of state competition on June 16, 2026. Miss America’s Teen competition is for ages 14-17. Contestants must be 14 by the first day of the state competition and no older than 17 at the start of state competition.
For more, visit.facebook.com/MFFSP.
Saylor Lancaster was crowned 2025 Miss Fall Festival a year ago. (Photo courtesy of Miss Fall Festival)
Blueprint for Improvement: A fresh kitchen transformation
Commentary by Larry Greene
This kitchen refresh shows how strategic cosmetic updates, without a full renovation, can breathe new life into a dated space and elevate daily living.
THE BLUEPRINT
• Replaced dated pendant lighting with bold brass fixtures for a modern statement.
• Installed sleek MSI quartz countertops to brighten and refresh the workspace.
• Upgraded to Café appliances, blending performance with stylish design.
• Introduced patterned wallpaper to add depth, texture and character.
• Painted doors black for a sophisticated and dramatic contrast.
• Updated flooring with 12x24” porcelain tile for durability and continuity.
• Added new cabinet hardware for a subtle yet refined finish.
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.
After
Thursday, September 11, 2025 5:30 - 8:00 PM (ET) Indiana State Museum, Indianapolis, IN
currentnightandday.com
ATI presents “Beehive,” a 1960s jukebox musical
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Kira Rangel is becoming a “Beehive” regular.
“It’s a nonstop kind of ride,” Rangel said. “It’s a lot of fun. That’s why I keep doing it.”
Rangel is part of a cast of six women in the musical “Beehive,” which runs Sept. 5 to 21 at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
This will be Rangel’s third time in “Beehive,” reprising the same roles. She portrays Gina in the first act and Tina Turner and Aretha Franklin in the second act.
“I think there is something great about it being all women, just emulating what made the ‘60s great, which is the Motown girl groups, like The Shirelles, The Supremes,” Rangel said. “Just how important it was for women to have that voice, especially in the ‘60s when it was a big era for feminism and civil rights as well.”
Rangel said her favorite song performed as a group is “Where the Boys Are” by Connie Francis. Her favorite song as the main vocalist in “Proud Mary.”
“We’re emulating classic divas from the ’60s,” said Rangel, a Chicago native now based in Davenport, Iowa.
Abigail Storm, a Ball State University graduate, is the only performer who has been in an ATI production. She was in “9 to 5” in the spring, playing the role of Doralee that Dolly Parton played in the movie.
Storm plays Wanda in “Beehive.”
“I’m basically like the narrator of the story,” Storm said. “It starts out she is 13, and then by the end of the show she is 22. She grows up with these awesome rock stars and she views them as like her big sisters and her mentors. She basically takes (the audience) through all the songs of the ’60s. She tells the story and talks about each of the artists and then comes in and sings with them.”
Storm said it’s special that a lot of the artists helped drive the women’s movement along with their music.
“It was inspiring for other women to stand up and go for their dreams,” she said. “It’s nostalgic to hear all these different girl groups.”
Storm said her biggest challenge is not using her native Texas accent because she played another role this summer that Dolly Parton played in “Steel Magnolias.” Both characters had Southern accents.
Rachel Dudt, a Pittsburgh resident, plays two legendary singers.
“I play Janis Joplin, which is what drew me to the show because I think she’s really just an iconic female powerhouse in rock music,” Dudt said. “It’s a fun challenge to sing something that seems so chaotic but is also so thought-out because she was actually really intentional with the way she sang. It’s not easy to scream it out and do it show after show.”
Dudt has experience singing Joplin’s solo songs in her solo shows on cruises. Her favorite Joplin song is “Crybaby” because it displays Joplin’s ability to sing rock and blues.
“A strong runner-up is ‘Me and Bobby McGee’ because it’s just such a good song,” Dudt said.
The main solo she has in the first half of the show is by Carole King. Dudt recently played King in “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.”
“It’s nice to have a little nod to having just played her and singing it again,” Dudt said. “Having all the girls back it up, it sounds really great.”
Dudt said she spent nearly all the 2 1/2hour show on stage playing King.
“It’s nice to move from something that was really challenging and heavy emotionally to this, which just radiates joy,” Dudt said. “It’s a fun contrast. This is more like a revue song with hit song after hit song. I love that in the ’60s and ‘70s they were so separate but all popular. Now, everybody sounds the same, at least to me.”
Dudt, who previously performed in “Millon Dollar Quartet” featuring 1950s legends, said the music from the 1950s through the 1970s “feeds her soul.”
For more, visit atistage.org.
‘HEARTBREAK HOTEL’
“Heartbreak Hotel” runs Sept. 4 to Oct. 12 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
Five After Midnight, an Indianapolis-based cover band, will perform at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 5 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘BEEHIVE’
Actors Theatre of Indiana’s production of “Beehive,” featuring music from the 1960s, runs Sept. 5 to Sept. 21 at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistage.org. GRACE POTTER
Grace Potter will perform at 8 p.m. Sept. 5 at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater in Fishers. For more, visit npdamp.com.
Fashion at The Florence set — Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre previews its season with “Fashion at The Florence” at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 13 at the studio, 329 Gradle Dr., Carmel. Cocktail attire is requested for the 21-and-older fundraiser. “Fashion at The Florence” features a runway-style exhibition of costumes, music, light hors d’oeuvres and drinks. The event is paired with a silent auction, with all proceeds going to the New Season Giving Campaign. This year’s runway will feature handcrafted and curated costumes that preview the 202526 season. Known for showcasing eclectic and textured themes, inspiration for the dynamic garments comes from around the world. The event is co-hosted by Gregory Hancock, GHDT’s executive artistic director, and Christine Colquitt Thacker, executive assistant and coordinator. Tickets are $125 per person. The season opens with “The Casket Girls” Oct. 24-25 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.
“Beehive” cast members are front, from left, Abigail Storm, Rachel Dudt. Back, from left, Kira Rangel, Riley Francis, Kayla Perry and Michaela McGarel. (Photo courtesy of ATI)
FOUR80EAST
FRI, SEP 12 AT 8PM THE TARKINGTON STORIES AND SONGS WITH ROGER MCGUINN
SAT, SEP 13 AT 8PM THE
Opera opens in the park
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The Indianapolis Opera will celebrate its 51st season by holding an event each month for the first time.
MUSIC
“It’s a season of growth and classic opera presentations and continuing to bring back legendary artists,” Indianapolis Opera’s General Director David Starkey said. “We’re just building on the 50th, the afterglow is real. You keep on rising to the occasion.”
Among the other performers are soprano Cara Collins and baritone Rafael Porto, along with the Indianapolis Opera resident artists and chorus and Indianapolis Youth Orchestra.
“We’ll feature a lot of our artists of our 51st season with highlights of ‘Rigoletto’ and ‘The Marriage of Figaro,’” Starkey said. “We’ll tease the audiences with things that are in future seasons.”
FRI, SEP 26 AT 8PM
PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
JAY LENO
SAT, SEP 27 AT 8PM
PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM AN EVENING WITH BRIAN MCKNIGHT
CHOIR!
THU, OCT 2 AT 7:30PM
PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
RICK BRAUN & MINDI ABAIR
SAT, OCT 4 AT 8PM
PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
Events include performances, opera cabaret dinners and fundraisers. Following fundraisers in July and August, the 202526 season’s first performance will be the eighth annual Opera in the Park at 7 p.m. Sept. 13 at Garfield Park in Indianapolis. The free event will be hosted by soprano Angela Brown, an Indianapolis native, and Conductor Alfred Savia.
“Angela will be doing a little singing and Alfred will be conducting,” Starkey said.
“Rigoletto” will be held Nov. 14-16 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. “The Marriage of Figaro” is set for May 1-3, 2026, at The Toby at Newfields in Indianapolis.
“Amahl and the Night Visitors” will have two performances of the one-act opera Dec. 21 at the Basile Opera Center in Indianapolis.
“We’ve not done ‘Amahl’ in a theatrical presentation in many years,” Starkey said. “The opera company used to do it traditionally for many years.
For more, visit indyopera.org.
Porto Collins
Actor set for drumming role
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Alex Smith is enjoying putting his Butler University percussion performance degree to good use.
MUSICAL
The 2005 Carmel High School graduate is set to perform as Elvis Presley’s drummer, D.J. Fontana, in “Heartbreak Hotel” Sept. 4 to Oct. 12 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis
they will really enjoy ‘Heartbreak Hotel.’”
Smith said he was familiar with the “All Shook Up” musical, but not familiar with the “Heartbreak Hotel” musical until Beef & Boards announced it this season.
“Plus, there’s a tap dance number, which feels like percussion with my feet,” Smith said. “Most of the challenge comes from regaining my muscle memory for drumming again.”
Smith most recently performed in “Fiddler on the Roof” last year at Beef & Boards.
“Ever since theater started returning after the COVID-19 pandemic, every opportunity to perform has been a blessing that I do not take for granted,” said Smith, a senior software quality assurance analyst for a company based in Indianapolis “The Beef & Boards patrons are fantastic and I think
“I really enjoy Elvis songs from the late 1960s, when he had more of a big-band sound,” he said. “My favorite Elvis song is ‘Viva Las Vegas.’ The first time I heard it was in Las Vegas during a Bellagio fountain show, and I’ve enjoyed it ever since.”
Smith said the finale numbers will be the most challenging with “Trouble,” “Guitar Man” and “A Little Less Conversation.”
Smith took piano lessons at age 6 and eventually began playing percussion at 12.
“But I mostly focused on keyboard percussion, marimbas, xylophones, etc.,” he said.
At Butler, he learned to play the drum set.
“Most of my drum set experience came from playing in the band for Butler’s basketball teams,” Smith said.
For more, visit beefandboards.com.
Smith
FULL SERVICE CLEANERS
• Can be used with Sensitive Fabrics
• Removes Oil & Grease
• Aids in removing Water Soluble Soil
• Virtually Odorless
• Compatible with Fabric-Finish Additives
in common use by drycleaners. Since that time, DF-2000 Fluid has gained widespread acceptance and today is used in thousands of drycleaning plants in the United States alone.
The growth of DF-2000 Fluid has outpaced all of the alternative technologies offered for drycleaning. This is a result of many factors including health, safety and environmental benefits, excellent cleaning performance, proven equipment technology, commercial practicality, and a reduced regulatory burden.
DF-2000 Fluid provides you with the peace of mind that comes from a well-developed, broadly supported technology with a track record of proven performance.
• Proven Cleaning Performance
When used with properly designed processes, additives and equipment, DF-2000 Fluid provides cleaning performance comparable to perchloroethylene.
• Consistent, Premium Quality
DF-2000 Fluid is manufactured and packaged to high standards of consistency and purity to deliver the same high-quality performance time after time. DF-2000 Fluid remains stable through multiple distillation and reclamation cycles.
• Virtually Odorless
READERS’ VIEWS Protests are part of democracy
Editor,
I read with interest the recent letter to the editor from Zionsville resident Mike Zeller. I can understand his desire to have Zionsville represented only by positive things. However, I was one of the individuals at the corner of First and Oak streets (that) Friday with my homemade sign, protesting the Trump administration.
Mr. Zeller wrote, “Some adults just don’t understand how elections work and don’t accept the results.” Those of us protesting know all too well how elections work and we do accept the results. However, in America we are free to protest against a government whose policies we don’t agree with, or feel are doing real harm. We received many positive car honks, but also negative responses from those who gave us thumbs down signs, and one who yelled from his truck, “Go home, losers!”
I think you can explain to your 6-yearold grandchild that this is how democracy works and how Zionsville looks sometimes. Not a bad lesson, I suspect, especially if your granddaughter chooses to participate in a protest herself in the years ahead. Be well.
Cynthia J. Starks, Zionsville
LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES
Solvents with a higher level of aromatics contain more solvent odor. DF-2000 Fluid has the lowest aromatic content of any HFHC drycleaning solvent.
• Gentle on Dyes, Safer on Trims
The gentle cleaning action of DF-2000 Fluid is safer for most dyes and trims, so you can rely on it to safely clean a wider range of fancy and fragile articles with less risk of dye bleeding.
• Cost Effective
There are no usage, franchise or royalty fees required. In states where a solvent usage tax has been imposed, DF-2000 Fluid is either exempt or the usage tax per gallon is minimal. When coupled with effective processes and additives, labor and production costs are reasonable.
• Proven Equipment Technology
Equipment makers have more experience with DF-2000 Fluid than any other alternative solvent. Modern filtration, distillation, solvent recovery, water separation and safety technologies are refined and well developed to give you reliable, trouble-free operation.
• Proven Additive Technologies Detergent and fabric finish additives are essential to provide important enhancements to cleaning performance in
Current 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.
LIFESTYLE
Across
1. Local team whose last regular season game was Aug. 31...and the start of a word ladder
6. WTTV forensic franchise
9. Prying tool
14. Make amends
15. Texter’s “Wow!”
16. Nimble 17. Loses hair
18. Ravens, on a Colts scoreboard
19. Mournful sound
20. Moontown Brewing brew letters
22. Parking ___
24. Vogue rival
25. Romantic sort
27. Is nuts about
29. A Lilly
31. Stone worker
34. Have a burger at Mash House
35. Up to now
38. Silent assent
40. Actress Longoria or
INDIANAPOLIS, IN
2025 Show Dates
#470 9091 E. 126th Street, Fishers IN 46038
Mendes
41. “The Matrix” hero
42. Rock genre
43. Hawaiian garland
44. Baited insect collector
48. Geist 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
2025
September 20, 2025
October 18, 2025
November 29, 2025
December 20, 2025
Best Choice Fieldhouse 11825 Technology Drive, Fishers, IN 46038
Saturday, Oct 4, 2025 12PM - 8PM EST Sunday, Oct 5, 2025 9AM - 3PM
74. Narc’s org.
75. Local team whose first regular season game is Sept. 7...and the end of a word ladder Down
1. Beatles’ descriptor 2. Butler frat letter
Remote abbr.
Salad greens
11. Stringed instrument
12. Israeli airline
13. Surrealist Magritte
21. Nephew of Peyton and Eli
23. Common HBO rating
25. Brown County colorful fall display
26. Acquire
28. Place for a plug, bud or stud
29. Rod’s partner
30. Mom’s sister
32. Extra-inning score, perhaps
33. Some wanderers
36. “Quiet on the ___!”
37. Something to fill out
39. Cartoon explorer
44. Commotion
45. Campbell of “Scream”
46. Helps
47. Unimaginative
50. Words of confession 52. Syrian city
54. Firmly implant
55. Barrel part
57. Rosary piece
58. Singer Guthrie
59. Lounge about 63. USN rank
65. Teachers’ grp.
67. “You’ve got mail”
Evansville’s summer hrs.
Letter before tee Answers on Page 27
Trim/Remove
Property Clean Outs FULLY INSURED
Text or Call Jay 574-398-2135 shidelerjay@gmail.com www.jayspersonalservices.com
C&H TREE SERVICE FIREWOOD SALE
Topping – Removal
Deadwooding – Landscaping
Stump Grinding – Gutter Cleaning INSURED –
•
•
Aptiv seeks the following positions in Carmel, IN. Principle Software Architect (#73001) to lead & deliver systm SW archtctr. Optical Engineer (#98984) Devp Nxt Gen Actv Sfty Vsn Comps & Prdcts. Apply at www.jobpostingtoday.com and ref Job#.
Part-Time Office Admin
Busy, professional investment firm in Carmel seeking a part-time admin for 20-25 hours a week with flexible schedule. Position requires accuracy, attention to details, strong organizational skills and MS Office proficiency. Competitive pay and positive working environment. Interested candidates should submit a resume to nfgfrontoffice@gmail.com.
PUZZLE ANSWERS
THE PERFECT WINTER RETREAT
4 bedroom, 4 bath condo overlooking breathtaking views of the gulf in Navarre Beach, Florida. Our condo is fully stocked and has multiple balconies to relax upon. Each bedroom is equipped with an ensuite bathroom and internet TV. Special snowbird pricing available. Please contact beachlifenowfl@gmail.com or 850-293-4588 for more details!
Looking to get Away?
We have over 100 5-Star reviews!
*2 -bedroom, 2-bath Condo in the gorgeous Gulf Shores!
*Close to several sports complexes and just 1.5 miles from the beach.
Across the parking lot is a pool open all year around.
*We are located one block off the main drag and walking distance to Walmart, Publix and many restaurants.
*The condo is fully stocked & you can enjoy the cooler GS nights on the relaxing balcony.
*Beds are super comfy and all of the rooms have large Roku TV’s!
This is a 2nd floor unit with wide exterior stairs.
We have Fall and Winter Snowbird discounts for longer stays that you can’t pass up. To rent, you must be 25.
Please email for pricing and we will send you a link to the photos of the condo and its location. mcnallygroupllc@gmail.com
