Boone County Magazine August 2025

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+ Growing the Pitch

Former Olympic Executive Brings

Global Experience to Indiana’s Sports and Entertainment Scene

Let’s Go Camping

YOUR GUIDE TO THE 2025 COLTS TRAINING CAMP

+ The Big Time

The LIV Golf Championship Comes to Westfield

Living with diabetes can be a challenge. Witham has the tools to make your life easier. Meet Lita, a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. It’s her passion to help simplify the process — from diet and exercise to glucose monitoring and support resources. That’s not all. Witham o ers personalized education at two locations — plus telehealth visits! Take control of your health today.

SUMMER EVENT SEASON

Boone County’s late-summer event season delivers a lineup of experiences for everyone. Whether you’re a longtime local or first-time visitor, August and September offer a chance to explore the heart of Indiana through art, music, culture, and tradition.

The season begins with the Zionsville Street Dance on August 2nd, a beloved tradition that transforms the brick-paved Main Street into a festive stage. With live music, food vendors, and dancing, this event captures the town’s charm through an evening of celebration. The 23rd Annual Zionsville Paint Out, also on August 2nd, brings artists from all around to set up easels along the streets and trails to capture the town’s natural and architectural beauty in real time. Hosted by the SullivanMunce Cultural Center and the Indiana Plein Air Painters Association, this event offers prizes in different categories and paintings will be available for sale after the awards are complete.

Looking to experience some of the best BBQ in Boone County and support a great cause? Come visit the 18th annual Boone County Battle of the BBQ hosted by the Boone County Cancer Society on August 9th. This fun evening of live music and a delicious BBQ competition are sure to delight and all proceeds benefit the Boone County Cancer Society.

The Traditional Pow Wow, August 16th-17th at the Boone County 4-H Fairgrounds, invites visitors to experience Native American culture through speakers, drumming, singing, dance, and artisan crafts. This event is an excellent opportunity to learn about Native cultural history and current Native lifestyle.

September brings a wave of great fall-time celebrations across the county, starting with the Zionsville Fall Festival, held September 5th-7th in Lions Park. This three-day community tradition features a colorful parade, carnival rides, food trucks, a classic car show, and live performances. On Friday September 5th, the Fall Festival will once again be hosting their VIP Carnival for families with special needs to come and enjoy an evening of fun in the park as the Fall Festival gets underway.

Lebanon’s Back to the Fifties Festival, September 13th, offers its own blend of Americana, with vintage cars, rock n’ roll music, children’s fun park, art show, and lots more fun for all ages at the Boone County 4-H Fairgrounds. It’s a day of exciting 50’s fun you don’t want to miss!

The Festival of the Turning Leaves in Thorntown, held from September 27th-28th takes place as the first colors of fall begin to appear. This festival blends live music, food, artisan vendors, a lively parade, and smalltown hospitality in a way that feels both timeless and unique to Boone County.

Family-Run Eatery Brings Bold Flavor to Lebanon Inside Four Finger Distillery

SPOTLIGHT We All Value Each Other (WAVE)

CAMPING Your Guide to the 2025 Colts Training Camp

Noblesville Boom Brings G League Action to New Arena

The LIV Golf Championship Comes to Westfield

Zionsville Couple Opens SubDaze

Former Olympic Executive Brings Global Experience to Indiana’s Sports and Entertainment Scene

Discover Boone County Opens New Office in Downtown Lebanon

AUGUST 2, 6-10 PM

The Pigeons of Market Square from 6:30pm-7:30pm, followed by The Menus 8:00pm-10:00pm BEER, WINE & SPIRITS LOCAL RESTAURANTS KIDS AREA

ENTRANCE GATE OPENS AT 5:00 PM

TACO ALIBI DEBUTS

FAMILY-RUN EATERY BRINGS

BOLD FLAVOR TO LEBANON INSIDE FOUR FINGER DISTILLERY

Kristi and Matt Reynolds went out for dinner at Four Finger Distillery one night in April, and the next day were offered a business opportunity. Longtime residents of Lebanon, the family wanted to serve their community in a new and exciting venture — opening a taco restaurant inside Four Finger Distillery.

Working with Nameless Catering owner Jeremy Brown and Klooz Brewz owner Patrick Klooz, the Reynolds’ turned the restaurant space into their own, developed the atmosphere and created the menu just 30 days before opening.

“With our skill set, though, I think we each kind of went the direction that we needed. Jeremy took over the business

management pieces of things. Matt’s obviously exceptional at operations. So is Patrick,” said Kristi. “And then I tried to focus on marketing, communications, designing the menu, editing, that sort of stuff — getting crews of people in here to paint and clean and all of those things. So [we] just kind of leaned on the skills of the four of us and got it done.”

Photographer / Robert Jones

Taco Alibi is a family business within a third-generation, local, business-owning family. Matt is a born-and-raised Lebanon resident whose parents owned a sports store in the 1980s. Matt’s grandmother, Bonnie — whose history in New York City partially inspired Taco Alibi’s name — owned Pixie Playhouse Daycare Center. The Reynold’s 17-year-old son works in Taco Alibi’s kitchen. The couple have lived in Lebanon together since around 2000.

“We’ve seen [Lebanon] when it was empty, and now we’re excited to be here when things are hopping,” said Kristi.

Having known Lebanon for many years, the Reynolds family wanted to provide a fun representation of the downtown atmosphere.

“We wanted it to be indicative of the downtown milieu. We’ve got the courthouse. We’ve got the jail. We’ve got a distillery,” Kristi said.

“I’ve always got kind of a speakeasy vibe from Four Finger with their décor and their lighting and things. It’s a lot brighter than a regular speakeasy,” Matt added.

Despite the speakeasy vibes, both the distillery and the restaurant are family friendly. The Reynolds have specifically designed their space to encourage families to dine, with a TV, pool table, dartboard and board games. Swifties can hunt for the 13 hidden Taylor Swift references in the menu. The kids menu offers items like mac and cheese for children who don’t want tacos, and plates are designed so every food item is kept separate — no touching.

Sports teams are encouraged to dine at Taco Alibi, with no reservations required and enough space for large groups.

The Reynolds’ personal favorites from the menu are the Schweebie (shrimp and pineapple taco), the Elliot taco, cookie dough flautas and the chorizo tacos. Vegetarian diners will find three meatless tacos; vegan diners have one taco option; and gluten-free diners have many options with corn tortillas. All gluten allergies are taken seriously by the kitchen.

The menu will rotate in the coming months based on diner feedback.

Taco Alibi will participate in Four Finger Distillery events and offer specials of its own, such as the Pacers el Pastor taco celebrating the Pacers.

Connect with Taco Alibi on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. Find more information at tacoalibi.com. Visit Taco Alibi at 126 W. Washington St., Lebanon.

WE ALL VALUE EACH OTHER (WAVE)

In 1996, Angie Moody and some local Thorntown moms recognized the real, everyday need for families to get help with their kids. Homework, meals, and afterschool activities were areas many fulltime working parents and single mothers with full plates struggled to provide on their own. After nearly 30 years, and an initial start before the COVID-19 pandemic, We All Value Each-other (WAVE) was born and is now in its fourth year of operation.

“Love and education make an impact on lives. It’s two things that can change lives. We’re showing the kids that we care, we care about their life, we care about their families,” Moody said. “Love is a big encompassing

word, you know, but that is what we’re trying to show.”

WAVE is a free program funded by grants and donations. With a current capacity of 25 children, WAVE provides programming from school pick-up at 2:45 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays. Together, the children and volunteers walk the six blocks from Thorntown Elementary to the WAVE building. Children receive a small snack while they decompress from school, then take part in the main program, which consists of a wide range of activities. Grant funding allows the children to go on trips throughout the year, including visits to Dole’s Tree Farm, bowling, and the zoo. WAVE also takes monthly trips to the

library. After the main program, the children are fed dinner and have homework time, where they can either work independently or with a volunteer. Free time follows until pick-up.

“We put a strong emphasis on our homework time and the importance of education. Teachers know they can send homework, and we will help our kids get it done. We love to see students’ names in the Honor Roll article. They get excited, too,” Moody said.

The programming at WAVE is designed to show kids the many options available to them, help them see how capable they are, and inspire self-confidence and motivation.

From visits to solid waste management in Lebanon to learn about recycling to making their own pizza and breadsticks at Pizza King, each event aims to broaden the children’s perspective.

Moody is planning to add two more programs to serve the community. One, in collaboration with Pandora Woodruff at the Purdue Extension Office, will serve grades 10, 11, and 12, teaching life skills ranging from budgeting to laundry care to automobile maintenance.

The other program will focus on engaging seventh, eighth, and ninth-grade students in a variety of programs, including mental health, leadership, and understanding how much they are valued. Information on these programs is forthcoming.

WAVE is always in need of more volunteers. Volunteer opportunities include walking the kids from the school to the WAVE building, cooking dinner in the kitchen, chaperoning outings, tutoring homework, and more. Anyone 15 and older is welcome to volunteer.

For last-minute school supplies, contact

Moody to check what is available. All school supplies are free.

For more information about WAVE, visit Facebook @catchtheWAVE. To donate or learn more, contact Moody at (765) 3362488 or email thorntownwave@gmail.com. Donations can be made via Venmo @thorntownwave.

Let’s Go Camping

YOUR GUIDE TO THE 2025 COLTS TRAINING CAMP

Indianapolis Colts training camp in Westfield is already underway, but it feels a little different this year. Sure, the team and fans are back out in the August heat in anticipation of what will hopefully be a successful season under head coach Shane Steichen.

But there is a noticeable absence on the sidelines.

Beloved team owner Jim Irsay passed away in May at the age of 65. Irsay’s passing has left the team with a hole in its heart and a renewed sense of purpose and motivation.

“We have a lot to play for this year,” says wide receiver Alec Pierce, a fifth-year player. “We are extra motivated this year. I’ve never been in a playoff game.”

Colts fans will notice homages to Irsay immediately when they visit training camp.

The week after Irsay’s passing, team officials announced plans to honor him with a special jersey patch during the 2025-2026 season.

Those patches will also be on the practice jerseys. “The patch is a visual reminder to everyone of his presence and legacy here in Indianapolis,” says Colts Vice President of Marketing Stephanie Pemberton. “Mr. Irsay loved coming to camp.”

Irsay could often be spotted on a golf cart, chatting with fans, coaches, players, and staff, just as enthused about the start of another season as everyone else.

Pemberton says Irsay’s love for the game was second only to that of his family. “He cared deeply about the horseshoe,” she says. “We want to recognize his community impact and the thousands of lives he touched.”

Irsay’s three daughters — Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, and Kalen Jackson — are now at the helm of the team, with Irsay-Gordon serving as CEO, Foyt as executive vice president, and Jackson as chief brand officer and president of the Indianapolis Colts Foundation. All three share ownership duties.

“To say that we love our dad and miss him terribly would be an understatement,” Irsay-Gordon said. “We are so proud to continue our dad’s legacy, beginning with carrying out his foremost wish — to keep the Colts in our family.”

“We want our fans to know that we’ve spent decades in our family business learning every aspect of our organization under our dad’s leadership. It was sometimes trial by fire, and I’m forever grateful for the invaluable experience that I’ve gained. It has prepared me and my sisters for moments like today.”

All three will be at camp to help honor their father’s legacy ahead of the season.

CAMPING GUIDE

Training camp will be held through August 14 at Grand Park in Westfield. Pemberton says tickets can be reserved via the Colts’ website. The team is hosting 13 open practices, including seven primetime practices on select nights and weekends, giving fans even more chances to catch the team up close.

“We are one of the few teams in the league where training camp is open to fans for every practice,” said Pemberton. “We want fans to be part of the players’ journeys.”

Kids 17 and under can enjoy free entry to every practice, with open bleacher seating that offers great views of the action. Fans can also explore Colts City, an interactive fan zone featuring football drills, live performances by Colts Cheer and Blue, giveaways, and more. Plus, postpractice autographs are back! Select players will toss signed footballs into the crowd, creating memorable experiences for fans of all ages.

“The Colts will host a joint practice with Green Bay on Thursday, August 14, from 3 to 5 p.m. as a camp finale,” Pemberton says. “Primetime sessions start at just $5, and all ticket proceeds benefit USA Football, helping expand access to youth flag football right here in Indiana.”

The pop-up Pro Shop will also return so fans can stock up on the latest gear ahead of the 2025 regular season.

Yes, three-time NFL Mascot of the Year Blue will also be around. Pemberton says to keep your eyes peeled for flying pies. “Blue will throw a pie in your face if you ask,” she joked.

TOP TIPS

Training camp will use the same clear bag policy as

Parking is available all over the Grand Park campus and can be purchased in advance.

Misting stations will be available at camp.

Bring sunblock — training camp is during the hottest months of

For Pierce, it’s another chance for the offense to gel as a unit. “The objective is to win the division,” he says. “Whatever we have to do to win.”

HONORING THE LEGACY

Jim Irsay will be inducted into the Colts Ring of Honor as part of the celebration of his life and legacy on Sunday, September 7, during week one of the NFL regular season.

“There was no bigger advocate for the Colts, the NFL, the city of Indianapolis, and the state of Indiana than our dad,” said Carlie IrsayGordon, Colts owner and CEO. “It’s only fitting that he now joins the other amazing Colts legends in our Ring of Honor who contributed so much to our franchise and our community over the past four decades.”

The Colts kick off the 2025 season against the Miami Dolphins at Lucas Oil Stadium at 1 p.m on September 7. The first preseason game will be against the Ravens in Baltimore on Thursday, August 7.

For the complete camp schedule, tickets and more information, visit colts.com.

The LIV Golf Championship is coming to Chatham Hills Golf Club in August.

The tournament will take place August 15 – 17, with some golfers competing for the 2025 LIV Golf League Individual Champion title, and all fighting to secure contracts for next season.

Expect to see top golf players at this tournament, including Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm and Bubba Watson.

Team captain of the RangeGoats GC, Watson joined the LIV Golf League in 2022. He is excited about the league’s future and views it to attract new and younger fans to the game.

“We’re entertainers. We’re trying to win a trophy and beat everybody in that field,” Watson said. “But at the same time, we’re trying to get people to love the game of golf, see the game of golf, get off video games and go outdoors. We got something for everybody.”

Hosting an international sports event in Westfield is a rare opportunity, and Mayor Scott Willis hopes it will open doors for more. “Westfield has carved out a reputation for hosting sporting

THE BIG TIME

THE LIV GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP COMES TO WESTFIELD

events at Grand Park now for several years. But we’re now taking this international. FIFA announced Grand Park as a base camp location for the World Cup, and now LIV,” he said. The tournament is expected to draw up to 25,000 visitors and bring an estimated $21 million to $29 million in economic impact for that weekend.

Panelist Betsy Garfield of Henke Development Group, which orchestrated Chatham Hills, echoed her excitement. “When we were first presented with the opportunity, it just seemed like we couldn’t pass this up,” she said. “Professional, elite golf hasn’t been back in Indianapolis for almost a decade. This is a sports town. We rally for sports.”

LIV Golf is also working with boys and school golf teams from Westfield High School and Guerin Catholic High School, as well as representatives from the Indiana Special Olympics, inviting them to an on-course clinic with Watson.

The LIV Golf League features 54 players and 13 teams competing throughout a 14-event season for the Individual and Team Championships. The tournament begins with a shotgun start — meaning all groups tee off simultaneously from different holes.

Writer / Stephanie Duncan Photographer / Ramsey Baltz

Foltz said LIV Golf offers a supercharged fan experience that’s best enjoyed in person.

“What you’re going to notice is that everybody is in a better mood. They’re not afraid of their phone clicking at the wrong time or being at the wrong place at the wrong time. If you don’t feel like walking around and following the big-name stars, you can stay in one place and watch every single star of LIV in a fivehour span,” he said.

A superior fan experience and festive atmosphere set LIV Golf apart from traditional golf events, but fans should still expect fierce competition. “The competition is real. We’re not goofing around,” Watson said.

He added the relaxed environment and team dynamic improve the player experience. “I’ve always been scared inside the ropes, and when it gets quiet, it’s more demons in your head. It’s just you and the golf ball. With music going on, it quiets down the thoughts in your head,” Watson said. He also enjoys

cheering on his teammates. “It’s been an amazing journey. I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”

Chatham Hills is the last golf course designed by legendary architect Pete Dye, who preferred hands-on construction over detailed plans. Garfield described the effort Dye and his wife, Alice, invested in the course. “They were out here all the time, and Pete would always bring his dog, Sixty,” she said. “Both of them actually hit inaugural tee shots on 10.”

Expect special events leading up to competition weekend, including live music and interactive fan experiences.

Three-day and single-day passes are available at LIVGolf.com, with discounts for students, teachers and first responders. Learn more about Chatham Hills at chathamhills.com.

VOLUNTEER

FAIR

September 18 | 3-6 p.m.

Boone County Fairgrounds

Looking to give back, get involved, or make new connections in the community? Join us for the 2025 Volunteer Fair, where local nonprofits and community organizations will be ready to share how you can make a difference.

Whether you're interested in volunteering, joining a board, or exploring how to support local causes, this event is your gateway to getting engaged in Boone County.

The Volunteer Fair will take place alongside the Boone County Chamber of Commerce’s Job Fair+, giving you the chance to discover both service and career opportunities in one convenient location.

ONE AFTERNOON.

GROWING THE PITCH

FORMER OLYMPIC EXECUTIVE BRINGS GLOBAL EXPERIENCE TO INDIANA’S SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT SCENE

If anyone understands the world of sports, it’s Greg Stremlaw. Chief Executive Officer of Indy Sports & Entertainment and Indy Eleven, former Team USA hockey player and former president of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, Stremlaw’s entire life has been embedded in sports.

Indy Eleven takes up much of Stremlaw’s time, as well as the development of Grand Park in Westfield. As co-chief executive officer of the park and a co-founder of Grand Park Sports & Entertainment, the new business that runs Grand Park, Stremlaw and his teams are working to add even more to Grand Park. Part of the plan includes a stadium for the W League of Indy Eleven to play at. Also included in the plan is a district within Grand Park with hotels and restaurants to draw even more people to the park.

“We’re excited to work with various partners, including Sports Tech HQ and IEDC from the state, to try and be an incubator of sport technology, not just in

central Indiana, but around the country,” Stremlaw says.

The excellence of Grand Park follows a long list of Stremlaw’s achievements. With a Bachelor of Commerce from Western University, a Master of Business Administration from the University of Maine, a Master of Science in sport management from the University of Miami, and certificates from Harvard and MIT, Stremlaw has been uniquely positioned to combine his knack for business with his passion for sports.

“There’s so many synergies when it comes to sport as an industry. You still have staff to manage, you still have legal issues, you have marketing, you have communications, you have sponsorship assets and corporate partnerships that you have to work very intimately with. And that has been, I think, a big success of a lot of what I’ve done,” Stremlaw says. “I’ve had a lot of success selling international portfolios and international rights for sports and

got to know and get close with a lot of international companies and corporate partners.”

But at the core of Stremlaw is his deep passion for not only sports, but the athletes themselves. Eight Olympics under his belt and a member of a family of highperformance athletes, Stremlaw has been able to viscerally understand the highest level of sports.

“Soccer is massive, but the fact that the Olympics are all the different sports, summer and then winter, and these are these athletes’ dreams to represent their nations,” Stremlaw says. “The camaraderie, the spirit of athleticism and humankind. It rises above everything. I mean, it’s very emotional. People spend their entire lives to get to that pinnacle.”

After five years in international broadcasting and media, Stremlaw and his family came to Indiana for Indy Sports & Entertainment in 2019 and became a part of Noblesville’s

community.

“We know what we like, and after touring around, we really fell in love with Hamilton County. Just beautiful. Great place to live, great school and educational systems, great health care,” Stremlaw says. “Still within striking distance to downtown Indianapolis, but very, very peaceful, and just love the people.”

To find more information on the Indy Eleven schedule of events and tickets, visit indyeleven.com and follow them on social media. For more information on Grand Park, visit grandpark.org and follow them on social media.

“WE REALLY FELL IN LOVE WITH HAMILTON COUNTY. JUST BEAUTIFUL. GREAT PLACE TO LIVE, GREAT SCHOOL AND EDUCATIONAL SYSTEMS, GREAT HEALTH CARE. STILL WITHIN STRIKING DISTANCE TO DOWNTOWN INDIANAPOLIS, BUT VERY, VERY PEACEFUL, AND JUST LOVE THE PEOPLE.”

The Spirit of Boone, Wrapped and Ready

INTRODUCING THE BETTER IN BOONE CURATED GIFT BOX

Creativity runs deep in Boone County. From the hands of local makers to the shelves of small businesses, inspiration is everywhere. That same hometown spirit has now taken shape in something new: the Better in Boone Gift Box—a celebration of the local businesses and products that make our community special.

Developed in partnership by Boone EDC, Indiana Owned, Fire & Fern Apothecary, and Simply Jill’s, this gift box brings together a selection of locally made and sourced items that reflect the pride, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit thriving in our area.

WHY THE BETTER IN BOONE GIFT BOX MATTERS

Supporting local businesses is more than just a feel-good decision—it’s a powerful way to keep our community strong. Every

purchase supports real people, real families, and real dreams in Boone County. When you give or receive a Better in Boone Gift Box, you’re doing more than sharing a thoughtful gift—you’re helping fuel our local economy and celebrating the businesses that give Boone its unique identity.

This box isn’t about trends or mass production. It’s about choosing local. Supporting your neighbors. And showing what makes Boone truly better.

A COMMUNITY-DRIVEN COLLABORATION

The Better in Boone Gift Box is the result of a shared passion for promoting Boone County’s small business community. Boone EDC and Indiana Owned teamed up with Fire & Fern Apothecary and Simply

Jill’s—two local favorites known for their community involvement and dedication to high-quality, locally sourced goods.

Together, they assembled this collection to showcase the types of products you can only find when you shop close to home. No frills. No flashy packaging. Just real, local products from businesses that care deeply about the community they serve.

SHARE BOONE COUNTY, ONE BOX AT A TIME

Whether you’re gifting to a friend, thanking a client, or just want a taste of Boone County goodness for yourself, the Better in Boone Gift Box is a great way to connect with what’s happening in our hometown. It’s a reminder that the best gifts come with a story—and this one starts right here.

SCAN THE QR CODE TO LEARN MORE OR TO PURCHASE THE BOX

Boone EDC

BOOM BABY

NOBLESVILLE BOOM BRINGS G LEAGUE ACTION TO NEW ARENA

era of basketball with the debut of The Arena at Innovation Mile. The 3,400-seat, 120,000-square-foot facility is the first purpose-built arena for an NBA G League team and is located at 14157 CJ Way, between Interstate 69 and Olio Road.

In 2023, the city and the Indiana Pacers announced the relocation and rebranding of the Fort Wayne Mad Ants. The team sought a home closer to the Indianapolis

“Innovation Mile was looking for that anchor tenant to kickstart development here,” said Justin Jordan, general manager of Rev Entertainment. “Everything fell into place with the arena size that was missing in the market, and the Pacers’ minor league team moving to Noblesville. The desire was to tie them to the community with a name that made sense.”

seasons at Gainbridge Fieldhouse during construction, is now known as the Noblesville Boom.

The name pays homage to iconic Pacers coach and broadcaster Bobby “Slick” Leonard’s catchphrase, “Boom, Baby!” It also reflects the high-energy style of the team and the fast growth of Noblesville. Inspired by the Pacers’ 2023-24 City Edition uniforms, the Boom’s logo features

cyan and yellow as its primary colors.

With the newly branded court installed, the arena is nearly ready for the 2025–26 season. The team is expected to tip off sometime after Nov. 1. With 25 home games planned, fans will have plenty of chances to experience the new venue. The official schedule is expected in August. Fans can visit NoblesvilleBoom.com for updates and to place ticket deposits.

But basketball won’t be the only attraction.

The Arena at Innovation Mile is also positioned to become a hub for entertainment in the Noblesville and Indianapolis areas, offering a range of events beyond sports.

From concerts and comedy shows to conventions and private gatherings, the arena is designed to be versatile. “There are

so many things we could do in the building because it’s so beautiful,” said Andrea Green, director of sales for Rev Entertainment. “It’s not just a sports arena. You walk in and it feels like a boutique hotel. If you can dream it, we can do it here.”

The facility features 3,500 fixed seats for sporting events but can hold up to 4,500 people for concerts and other large-scale productions. A 1,000-space parking garage

is connected to the building for easy access.

“We’ve had conversations about hosting boxing, gymnastics, cheerleading competitions, senior proms and high-end fundraiser events,” Jordan said. “This space is great because it can go from a ballroomstyle event one night to a dirty rock concert the next.”

The arena’s design and interior were crafted to feel inviting rather than industrial. Expansive windows bring in natural light, while warm wood-paneled walls and two-story LCD screens create a premium atmosphere.

“This is very much the mayor’s and his team’s baby,” Jordan said. “They’ve seen it from the initial plans to where we are now. The finishing touches—they’re really proud of, and they should be.”

With other venues like the newly built Fishers Event Center nearby, Jordan said

The Arena at Innovation Mile aims to complement—not compete with—regional event offerings.

“The overall goal is to be a driver of economic opportunity for the county,” he said.

The arena and the Noblesville Boom hosted their first event in July: a youth basketball camp. The weeklong program focused on skill development and allowed coaches and players to engage directly with the community.

The next public event is scheduled for Aug. 23, when Pink Floyd tribute band Signs of Life will perform. The show promises a full-stage production with a detailed light show and sounds from every Pink Floyd era. The free event offers residents a first chance to experience the new arena. Tickets will be available at the box office and select local record stores.

FOR THE LOVE OF SANDWICHES

According to Kas and Donny Miller, it’s important to enjoy the small things in life — creating moments with those most special and savoring simple pleasures, whether it’s a great sandwich or a scoop of ice cream.

The Millers are two people who, at their core, simply love ice cream and sandwiches. Their goal has been to create community spaces where people can escape the chaos of

life, gather with loved ones and make lasting memories.

In 2018, the couple opened Fundae’s after years of waiting for an ice cream shop to appear near their home.

“We moved to the west side of Zionsville in 2014 and kept waiting for an ice cream shop to open. We finally decided, why not us?! We can do it!” they said.

Now, Fundae’s serves central Indiana with additional locations in Speedway and Carmel, becoming a beloved local destination for great ice cream in a welcoming environment.

Last year, when Sub16 closed, the Millers felt a void.

“We loved that sub shop! We had been going there since it opened and felt like it was a place that was needed in the community,” they said.

This inspired them to open their own sandwich shop. They wanted to preserve the essence of Sub16 while making the new shop their own. They renamed it SubDaze to reflect their personal style and brand, while keeping many of the beloved elements from Sub16.

“We wanted the main components of SubDaze to be what everyone loved about Sub16 — great food, friendly people, all served quickly,” they said.

Bringing on Sub16’s previous owners as consultants, the Millers kept the same suppliers — including the bread from New Jersey. They made several menu updates, such as crafting all dressings in-house. The

Writer / Ashley Callan Photographer / Kiera Brehm

new pepper jelly is gaining popularity and quickly becoming a fan favorite.

All sandwiches and salads are made to order using fresh ingredients. Deli meats are sliced on-site, and proteins like meatballs, chicken, pulled pork and steak are prepared fresh in-store.

Deli sandwich favorites feature classic meats such as roast beef, turkey, ham, pepperoni, salami, bacon and capicola, paired with provolone, cheddar, American, pepper jack and Swiss cheeses. Additional options include veggie, Mediterranean, tuna and chicken salad sandwiches. Toasted sandwich specialties include grilled chicken, chicken bacon ranch, buffalo chicken, chicken teriyaki, BBQ pulled pork, meatball and cheesesteak varieties.

Kid meals — ham and cheese, turkey and cheese, or toasted cheese — are served with a drink and chips for children 10 and younger.

Equally important as food quality are customers and employees. The Millers pride themselves on cultivating an environment where employees feel appreciated and empowered, and customers feel heard.

“We aren’t perfect, but we strive to make it better each day. We’re so thankful for this community and the way they support

local businesses. We live here, and we love this town. There’s something special about Zionsville, and we’re blessed to be a part of this town and community,” they said.

SubDaze is open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is in downtown Zionsville at 640 S. Main St., Unit 300.

NEW DIGS

DISCOVER BOONE COUNTY OPENS NEW OFFICE IN DOWNTOWN LEBANON

Discover Boone County unveiled its new office building in June, a completely renovated space located in the heart of downtown Lebanon that refreshed a forgotten piece of the city’s legacy. This piece of Lebanon’s rich history has become an intricate part of the revitalization of downtown, focusing on investing in the community to create a better Boone County.

“This space represents a bold new chapter for Discover Boone County and a catalyst for the continued revitalization of downtown Lebanon,” said Allyson Gutwein, CEO of Discover Boone County.

Discover Boone County works diligently in creating tourism marketing initiatives that highlight experiences and events while showcasing the true essence of Boone County. Understanding the importance of tourism to the county’s economy, this

new building will revitalize tourism and economic development, functioning as more than just an office space — it is also a center for establishing the county’s progress and future.

“This space empowers collaboration, innovation and professional development — positioning us as a go-to resource for anyone shaping tourism in the region. By investing in people and place, we’re building a stronger, more vibrant future for Boone County tourism,” Gutwein said.

Enriched with history — from serving as one of Indiana’s first Bell Telephone switching stations to housing Pioneer Printing — Discover Boone County chose the building because of its community significance and central location.

“Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, it honors our community’s

past while actively shaping its future. By breathing new life into a once-dormant space, we’re not only investing in our organization, but also demonstrating the power of placemaking in Boone County. It’s a symbol of pride, progress and the vibrant future we’re helping to build,” Gutwein said.

Discover Boone County hopes to lead by example — visualizing the potential of dilapidated buildings or forgotten spaces and transforming them with new purpose.

Preserving integrity and history was vital in the redesign and renovation process. Key characteristics of the building’s past — including its original green paint color discovered during demolition and mementos such as 1960s basketball tickets from its time as Pioneer Printing — were intentionally integrated into the new design. Storytelling elements also include original 1920s photographs used as artwork,

emphasizing the importance of honoring community history.

“The renovation was a thoughtful blend of restoration and modernization, preserving the building’s unique history while preparing it for future impact. Every design choice was intentional — celebrating the building’s legacy while creating a welcoming, functional home for Discover Boone County and our tourism partners,” Gutwein said.

The new office space will strengthen Discover Boone County’s ingenuity by fostering creativity, growing relationships and encouraging collaboration. It provides an environment to launch new initiatives, support tourism partners and host meetings, education sessions and coworking events. Being centrally located, the facility enhances the organization’s ability to provide services and expand tourism outreach.

“From lodging staff to event planners, our mission is to elevate every touchpoint of the visitor experience. We offer tools, education and strategic support to help local partners enhance their offerings, making Boone County a more competitive and attractive tourism destination,” Gutwein said.

Learn more at discoverboonecounty.com.

Sara H., patient

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