April 7, 2026 — Current in Zionsville

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Man arrested on child sex abuse charges

By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com

A Zionsville man is facing charges of rape, child exploitation and possession of child sexual abuse material, after he allegedly sexually abused a child.

John Roberts, 41, is alleged to have abused a girl over the course of the last four years.

The girl described to authorities multiple instances of physical coercion and sexualized games between her and Roberts. She believed he might have recorded her doing so and alleged Roberts would touch and “tickle” her in bed.

mate of the girl told their school counselor they needed to talk to them about someone else. The counselor contacted law enforcement after she spoke withthe victim.

The victim was interviewed March 23 at Sylvia’s Child Advocacy Center in Lebanon. She said within the last week, Roberts coerced her into sexual acts while blindfolded.

The girl believed Roberts may have recorded her doing other acts as well. What the girl described to authorities is consistent with grooming, where an adult builds trust with a child in order to abuse, manipulate or take advantage of them.

The allegations come after a class-

 Zionsville Parks Board — The parks board meets at 7 p.m. April 8 at Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 W. Oak St. The parks board oversees maintenance and development of parks and recreation in Zionsville.

 Chamber to host Civics Bee — The Zionsville Chamber of Commerce will host a regional competition of the National Civics Bee on April 11 at Zionsville Middle School. The competition will feature 20 middle schoolers from the region who will demonstrate their civics knowledge, share ideas for addressing real-world challenges and compete for cash prizes. The National Civics Bee is meant to inspire young Americans to engage in civics, demonstrate their understanding of government and how to positively impact their communities. The Zionsville Chamber is hosting the regional competition in

During an interview with the police, Roberts denied any sexual conduct with the girl but admitted to having an inappropriate video of her on his phone. He claimed to have deleted it, possibly after learning of the investigation, according to court filings.

He was arrested March 23 on 16 charges.

A search of Roberts’ cellphone found images of a girl without a shirt. Based on statements given by the girl, one of the images is believed to have been taken in her room.

DISPATCHES

partnership with local schools and civic leaders as part of its broader commitment to education, civic literacy and workforce development. The event is from 9-11 a.m.

 Volunteers sought for Brick Street — The Zionsville Chamber of Commerce is looking for volunteers for its annual Brick Street Market vendor fair. Volunteer opportunities are available on May 4 and May 5, the day of the event. Sign up at tinyurl.com/6jrr59uy.

 Brush and limb pick up — The Zionsville Department of Public Works will provide curbside brush and limb collection for residents in the Urban Service District during the weeks of April 6 and April 13. All items should be placed on the curb by 7:30 a.m. on the Monday of one’s designated week. Limbs should be 6 inches in diameter or smaller, and the total amount

There also were multiple images of the girl getting in and out of the shower. The consistent angle of the photos led police to believe Roberts used a surveillance camera to take them.

Roberts did not answer questions related to what was on his phone with police, according to a probable cause affidavit, but did say the first sexual contact between him and the girl took place within the last year.

Roberts has been charged with:

• Two counts of rape

• Three counts of child exploitation

• Three counts of possession of child sex abuse material

• Voyeurism

• Four counts of child seduction

• Sexual battery

• Neglect of a dependent

• Obstruction of justice

Roberts was being held in the Boone County Jail as of April 1 on $100,000 bond. A bail hearing review is set for April 6. A jury trial is set for June 10.

should not exceed a pickup truck’s worth. Grass clippings, leaves, decorative grass, vines, stumps, etc. will not be picked up.

 Zionsville school board — The School Board of Trustees for Zionsville Community Schools meets at 6 p.m. April 13 in the Educational Services Center Boardroom, 900 Mulberry St.

 Gardenfest set for April 18 — The Boone County Master Gardeners 38th annual Gardenfest will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Farm Bureau, Inc. Community Building at the Boone County 4-H Fairgrounds. There will be more than two-dozen garden vendors, a used tools and garden item sale, free soil testing and expert speakers. Topics include monarch butterflies and rocks in landscaping. For more information, visit mastergardenersboonecounty.org.

Founded March 20 2012, at Zionsville, IN Vol. XV, No. 3 Copyright 2025 Current Publishing, LLC

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Boone County tourism on the rise

By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com

Boone County is the fourth-fastest growing county for tourism spending in the state as visitors spent $80.7 million in 2024.

That statistic was presented at the third annual State of Tourism March 24 by Discover Boone County. The presentation covered tourism statistics regarding 2024 and 2025.

“We knew we were growing, but the most interesting part was 2024 wasn’t our strongest year; 2025 was,” said Allyson Gutwein, CEO of the county tourism department.

Tourism grew by more than 15 percent in 2024, making it Boone County’s 13th-largest industry. More than 700 jobs in the county are supported by tourism, and that number is expected to increase.

“We’re going to have be thinking about where our next employees are coming from,” Gutwein said.

Boone County has the 13th-most jobs supported by tourism in the state, according to officials.

Hotel occupancy was 73 percent

during a 12-month period. Gutwein said there are not enough hotels available in the county. The county has 12 hotels with four more planned.

Discover Boone County had travel guides, “The Big Boone Book,” placed in hotels to get county destinations and events in front of more people. Gutwein said they had to be restocked because of popularity.

“We noticed there was a void of information in our hotels,” she said.

The tourism department’s website received a refresh in 2025. Events are easier to upload on the site.

There were 1.2 million overnight trips

Doug Weisheit, coordinator for the Indiana State Festivals Association, speaks March 24 during Discover Boone County’s State of Tourism March 24. Weisheit talked about upcoming wreath laying ceremonies that will honor Revolutionary War veterans from Boone County.

(Photo by Spencer Durham)

to Boone County between February 2025 and January 2026.

Gutwein said tourists want more slow tourism, which is something Boone County can offer. Slow tourism are trips that aren’t as regimented. There’s less planning, no itinerary and are meant to help people unplug from daily life, Gutwein explained.

Boone County and its agritourism attractions, like Dull’s Tree Farm, which hosted the State of Tourism, is an example of slow a tourist destination, she said.

“We have that in Middle America,” Gutwein said.

DISPATCHES

 School open house set — The Indianapolis German Language School has scheduled a free open house for its Saturday morning program, set for 10:30 a.m. to noon April 25 at 4330 N. Michigan Rd., for families to meet instructors, families and coordinators. The event includes crafts, German book sale and classroom visits. For more, visit ighs.org.

 Eagle Elementary to host summer camp — Camp Invention, a nationally recognized summer program, will take place June 15-18 at Eagle Elementary School. The program through the National Inventors Hall of Fame and United States Patent and Trademark Office encourages children in grades kindergarten through sixth to be curious and use creativity to solve problems. Through hands-on activities, Camp Invention promotes STEM learning; builds confidence, leadership, perseverance and resourcefulness; and encourages entrepreneurship — all in a fun and engaging environment. Local teachers administer the program.

Zionsville’s newest aesthetic destination is here.

Your beauty is uniquely yours. At Cosmetic and Surgical Arts by Witham, we create treatment plans designed to celebrate your features and honor your vision. Dr. Chris Lowery and Dr. Emily Lo bring expert cosmetic surgery and aesthetic care to Zionsville — offering surgical treatments like body contouring, liposuction, tummy tucks and breast augmentation as well as non-surgical treatments such as BOTOX® Cosmetic, fillers, laser treatments and more. Every procedure is personalized to you and backed by the healthcare excellence of Witham Health Services. This is beauty. Personalized.

To schedule an appointment or a no-cost consultation, call (317) 873-1200 or visit Witham.org/CSA.

SAFETY MEETS STYLE

Health dept. on measles watch

By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com

Indiana has not recorded a measles case this year, despite being surrounded by states that have.

That’s something local health officials will be watching closely as people return from spring break travels.

“We are actively monitoring cases in our surrounding states and are preparing for when or if measles does circulate to Indiana,” Mendi Twitty, administrator for the Boone County Health Department, stated in an email.

As of March 27, there have been 1,575 measles cases in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions, including 16 outbreaks of three or more related cases.

The measles virus can cause fever, runny nose, cough, white spots inside the mouth and blotchy skin. Although most people recover, it can be deadly among children and the immuno-compromised. The virus is highly contagious. About 73 percent of nationwide cases are for people 19 and younger.

“Measles does cause concern for those traveling over spring break,” Twitty said. “We urge travelers to check their MMR vaccination status.”

Twitty said the measles, mumps, rubella, or MMR, vaccine is 97 percent effective. It is typically given to children in two doses. One dose is about 93 percent effective.

“The biggest risk factor is being unvaccinated,” Twitty said.

To check one’s vaccination status, call the Boone County Health Department at 765-482-3942 or their doctor’s office.

Indiana’s MMR vaccination rate among kindergarteners, 91 percent as of 2024, trails the national average and the 95 percent threshold needed to prevent outbreaks, according to information from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Measles is a virus that spreads through the air from coughs, sneezes and talking. Twitty recommends wearing an N95 or KN95 mask when in large crowds, especially airports.

To receive a vaccine or booster, check with a local pharmacy or contact one’s doctor’s office.

COMMUNITY

2 vie for commissioner

Compiled by Spencer Durham

spencer@youarecurrent.com

District 1 Boone County Commissioner Tim Beyer is running for reelection in the May 5 Republican primary against challenger Jason Plunkett, president of the Zionsville Town Council.

The candidates answered the following questions from Current:

WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE?

Beyer: A key reason I’m seeking reelection is I’ve already identified and implemented changes that have saved millions of tax dollars, and I’m confident that with continued reform, we can save millions more.

WHAT DO YOU MOST WANT VOTERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

Beyer: I will continue to work tirelessly for them, as I have demonstrated throughout my first term, even when it requires standing alone, because I am committed to ensuring government functions as it must function, rather than as it has functioned in the past.

Plunkett: Serving on the Zionsville Town Council has been an honor. I care deeply about this community and will bring the same passion and dedication to the role of county commissioner, continuing to give back and serve the place I’m proud to call home.

HOW WILL YOU ENSURE BOONE COUNTY’S INFRASTRUCTURE IS PROTECTED AND FUNDED AMIDST THE LEAP PROJECT?

Plunkett: As a lifelong Boone County resident and Western Boone graduate, I’m running for office to guide responsible growth in Zionsville and Boone County. I care deeply about our community and aim to balance development with preserving local character and protecting resources for future generations.

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE CAMPAIGN ISSUES?

Beyer: Continue saving tax dollars by identifying wasteful spending and promoting competitive bidding. Leverage my engineering experience to collaborate with municipalities’ needs. In 2025, I led an initiative to support Zionsville with critical road and drainage infrastructure in Inglenook of Zionsville. Support an ordinance prohibiting data centers in unincorporated Boone County.

Plunkett: Communication: Committed to clear, consistent communication and meaningful engagement so residents can stay informed, ask questions and be heard. Smart growth: Support thoughtful, well-planned development that strengthens the community while preserving its character. Public safety: Prioritize family safety by supporting first responders and maintaining safe, reliable infrastructure and transportation systems.

Beyer: I am already working with the state legislature on legislation for the next session for the efficient use of tax dollars. Additionally, with the upcoming removal of Exit 141 on I-65, I have advocated for preserving a state bridge for potential reuse by the county to save millions of dollars.

Plunkett: Strong, consistent communication with residents, neighboring communities and the state is key to managing growth. By prioritizing transparency and collaboration, we can secure funding, protect resources and plan responsibly — building trust while ensuring Boone County’s infrastructure needs are met.

HOW WILL YOU MANAGE THE COUNTY’S RAPID TRANSITION FROM AN AGRICULTURAL COMMUNITY TO AN INDUSTRIAL AND SUBURBAN HUB?

Beyer: First, I believe it’s important to acknowledge that the comprehensive plan anticipates most of the county’s unincorporated areas remaining agricultural for the foreseeable future — a vision that I support. Additionally, I will advocate for creating a process where people decide on controversial development projects through a special election.

Plunkett: This question assumes we have to give up what defines us — and I don’t believe that’s the case. Productive farmland should be protected — and balanced with economic development. I have worked hard to maintain Boone County’s character and heritage, including opposing a large solar project in Zionsville.

3 Republicans vying for District 29 Senate seat

Compiled by Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com

Mike Delph, V. Roni Ford and John Ruckelshaus are in a three-way race for the Republican nomination for the District 29 Indiana Senate seat in the May 5 primary election.

The candidates answered the following questions from Current:

WHY ARE YOU RUNNING?

Delph: I want to serve the residents in my community and restore conservative leadership to the Indiana State Senate and Indiana General Assembly. Special interest groups have become way too influential. They are even running a couple candidates for this office in both primaries.

Ford: I am running because hardworking families deserve to be heard. Too many feel left behind. I want to focus on practical solutions that support small businesses, create jobs and

help families manage rising costs. I am committed to making a real difference in everyday lives.

Ruckelshaus: Hoosier families are struggling with higher costs for food, utilities and health care, while our legislature is distracted by outside politics. I’m running to fight for common-sense solutions that help families keep more of their hard-earned money.

WHAT DO YOU MOST WANT VOTERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

Delph: I am the conservative candidate in this race. There is no other conservative running. I teach leadership at the United States Army Command and General Staff College. I am a licensed attorney focused on corporate business law. I served on active duty based out of Fort Buchanan, Puerto Rico.

Ford: I will represent everyone in this district. I will listen, stay accessible and make thoughtful decisions. I may not have every answer, but I will always put people first and

work hard to do what is right for our community.

Ruckelshaus: I’m a (former Indiana Gov.) Mitch Daniels-style leader who believes in common-sense, limited government. I’ll work with all stakeholders to find practical, creative solutions and deliver real results for Hoosiers.

HOW WILL YOU NAVIGATE BUDGET CHALLENGES DUE TO SEA 1?

Delph: Local governments should be a partner in any fiscal reforms. They fund local police and fire. They fund our public school system which is constitutionally protected. I won’t ignore local government concerns. Homeowners also must be in the loop. Property tax payers must be engaged and can’t be ignored.

Ford: This law provides needed property tax relief, especially for homeowners and seniors. We must also make sure schools and local services remain strong. I will focus on balancing tax

relief with protecting the resources our communities depend on.

Ruckelshaus: The 2025 property tax reform was a good first step, but it hasn’t reached the finish line. We need longterm relief for homeowners while protecting local governments and schools from unintended consequences. I’d support responsible changes that preserve both affordability and fiscal stability.

HOW WILL YOU ADDRESS THE PROPOSED LEAP WATER PIPELINE AND ITS POTENTIAL IMPACT?

Delph: I do not support LEAP wastewater being dumped into Eagle Creek. Here is a public statement I made on X that got 31,000 views. x.com/ MikeDelph/status/2032118720001196440

Ford: Economic growth is important, but it must be done responsibly. Projects like LEAP should protect water resources, treat ratepayers fairly and include community input. Growth should not come at the expense of our environment or our neighborhoods.

Ruckelshaus: I grew up on the Eagle Creek Reservoir, so I take water issues personally. We need a thorough, transparent and accountable approach that protects local resources, involves all stakeholders and keeps promises made to the community.

HOW WILL YOU WORK TO SERVE ALL CONSTITUENTS?

Delph: I did just that from 2005-2018. I held more town meetings than anyone else in the Indiana General Assembly. Everyone will have an opportunity to make their case with me. It is my duty to listen to everyone. That will never change as long as I am in public service. Ford: My responsibility as a state senator is to serve everyone in the district. That means listening to people, respecting different perspectives and focusing on the issues that matter most to families. I believe in common-sense leadership that brings people together and focuses on practical solutions for our communities.

Ruckelshaus: My former state senate district was one of the most competitive and diverse in Indiana, and I learned how to listen to every side while staying true to my principles. I’ll make sure every voice is heard and work to earn trust through civility, consistency and results.

For answers to additional questions, visit youarecurrent.com

COMMUNITY

Local surgeon part of medical first in state

By Sara Palmer news@currentzionsville.com

Indiana’s only robotic-assisted shoulder replacement surgery is being performed by a Zionsville doctor.

Dr. Jacob Triplet with IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie is part of the first medical team to offer such a procedure and introduce the technology needed to do so, according to IU Health.

gy is especially beneficial for patients with complex shoulder conditions and may lead to smoother recovery, improved comfort and stronger long-term function.

The system allows surgeons to plan each procedure in advance using detailed 3D imaging and provides real-time guidance during surgery, according to an IU Health news release. For patients undergoing shoulder replacement surgery, the technology is designed to improve implant alignment and consistency compared with traditional shoulder replacement methods.

An orthopedic surgeon, Triplet said in a video the robotic system allows surgeons to plan procedures more carefully and perform them with greater control. He noted the technology helps personalize treatment while leaving key decisions in the surgeon’s hands.

Before surgery, the system uses CT scans to help create a customized surgical plan. During the operation, it provides real-time data that supports accuracy and consistency from patient to patient.

IU Health officials said the combination of advanced imaging, real-time guidance and specialized expertise makes the procedure unique in Indiana. The health system said the technolo-

Jeff Hanson, service line administrator of orthopedics, rehabilitation and neurosciences, stated the advancement reflects the organization’s commitment to innovation and patient-centered care. He said the technology gives surgical teams an added level of precision and supports efforts to improve the overall patient experience.

Hospital officials said the launch represents a milestone in orthopedic care and reflects a broader shift toward more personalized, technology-driven surgical treatment.

Although many orthopedic services are available throughout the IU Health system, the robotic-assisted shoulder procedure is currently performed only at Ball Memorial Hospital, because it requires specialized equipment and training.

IU Health officials said patients from central and northern Indiana who may benefit from the procedure are referred to the Muncie facility through their existing care teams. Referrals are coordinated to ensure patients receive appropriate evaluation and treatment at the specialized location.

Hospital leaders said the new offering represents a step forward in how shoulder replacements are planned and performed and could influence how similar procedures are delivered in the future.

SullivanMunce to host watercolor exhibit

news@youarecurrent.com

SullivanMunce Cultural Center will host an exhibit of watercolor paintings depicting scenes from nature during the month of April.

Scott Miller’s “In and Around the Creek: Watercolors” will open with an artist reception from 5 to 8 p.m. April 10. The exhibit will be open to the public through April 25 during regular gallery hours. The reception is free and open to the public, too. Miller’s collection “captures quiet,

Scott Miller is an award-winning watercolor artist whose work has been featured in exhibitions across the nation.

(Photo courtesy of SullivanMunce)

reflective moments in nature, inviting viewers to pause and experience the beauty of the natural world,” according to a news release.

work has been featured in juried exhibitions across the United States, including recent shows in Indiana, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Ohio. His artistic influences range from fellow Hoosier artist and friend Brian Gordy to renowned painters such as John Singer Sargent, George Inness, and Albert Bierstadt.

Water, reflections and scenes from nature are central themes in Miller’s work.

All artwork will be available to purchase.

(Advertorial)

TRAVELING WITH AMBASSADAIR

By Bob Kraft

When Barbara Gentry and I started dating in 2014, she regularly entertained me with stories of her travels around the world.  She traveled extensively after her divorce in the 1990’s, often with the original Ambassadair and the new Ambassadair after its merger with Grueninger Travel. My travels up to that time had been limited to family visits and driving vacations with my late wife as well as occasional business trips.

Barb encouraged me to renew my long-expired passport and began sharing travel information with me. Finally, in early 2019 she convinced me to join her at Ambassadair’s presentation about their upcoming cruise from Greece to Turkey through the Greek Isles. I was fascinated by both the itinerary and the opportunity to travel on a four-masted sailboat, and we signed up.

This was the first of ten trips that Barb and I have taken with Ambassadair. Each has been unique, but each has been carefully choreographed and supplemented with knowledgeable local guides. We have travelled in commercial airliners and a single engine prop plane that landed on an airstrip carved out of the center of San Pedro, Belize; on sailboats and tour boats and river cruise ships; on cog railroads; on ski-lifts and cable suspended gondolas; and on a number of motor coaches (which Ambassadair never calls busses).

With Ambassadair we have visited world renowned sites such as the Vatican, the Acropolis, La Scala Opera House, and the Black Forest as well as lesser-known locations identified by the Ambassadair staff. We Hoosier flatlanders have been awed by

the majesty of the Rockies in Glacier National Park, the Alps in Switzerland, Italy and Croatia, and the fiords of Scandinavia. We have enjoyed local cuisine and sampled local beverages including an afternoon at Munich’s Oktoberfest.

Recently, we attended a couple of pre-trip presentations by Ambassadair. We were not among strangers. Many of those in the audience had been with us on one or more of our previous trips. That so many former travelers returned to Ambassadair’s presentation indicates that they share our view that reinforces the value of traveling with an experienced tour guide and following a pre-established itinerary.

Barb and I have already committed to traveling on two more Ambassadair trips.  It is exciting that a locally based tour company offers such a variety of travel experiences and that the trips are totally escorted starting in Indianapolis.

Ambassadair offers leisure group travel to destinations all around the world. For more information visit ambassadair.com or call 317-581-1122.

Miller is an art teacher, small business owner, novice gardener and award-winning watercolor artist whose

Gallery hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays.

Main Street group plans promotion campaign

news@youarecurrent.com

Main Street Zionsville is set to launch a new promotional campaign highlighting Village businesses.

The “Charming on Purpose” initiative will feature stories of downtown businesses, entrepreneurs and experiences to encourage people to visit Zionsville. Main Street Zionsville launched in 2025 with the goal of promoting downtown by connecting business owners with one another, keeping them informed of changes and advocating for the downtown experience as a whole.

“Zionsville’s charm is an intentional choice made every day by the small business owners who invest their passion and their livelihood into this community,” stated Erica Carpenter, president of Main Street Zionsville. “Charming on Purpose” brings those stories to life.”

More than 170 businesses comprise Zionsville’s Main Street district.

Main Street Zionsville received grant funding from Discover Boone County for its Charming on Purpose campaign, which will cover marketing, storytelling and visitor engagement efforts. This investment complements ongoing public and private improvements to buildings, infrastructure and the overall Main Street experience.

The organization teased in its announcement upcoming events that will allow residents and visitors to experience the charming nature firsthand. Event details and additional stories will be shared at mainstreetzionsville. org and on Facebook and Instagram @ MainStreetZionsville.

COMMUNITY

Car washes on U.S. 421 move forward

By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com

Automatic car washes could be allowed along U.S. 421 if the Zionsville Town Council approves an amendment to town code.

The Zionsville Plan Commission gave a favorable recommendation last month to amend the Urban and Rural Michigan Overlay district to allow for automatic car washes.

Current language prohibits all types of car washes in the area. The request to alter permitted uses in the zoning district was initiated by the town council.

The plan commission fine tuned the council’s request, adding definitions for both automatic and self-serve car washes as well as noise limitations.

Automatic car washes within 1,000 feet of a residential property would only be allowed to operate from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Self-serve car washes would still not be allowed.

There appears to be interest from Crew Carwash about opening a location

along U.S. 421. A representative from the company gave a brief presentation at the commission’s February meeting.

Plan commission member Craig Melton, who also is on the town council, said he is concerned the changes could benefit one particular company.

“I’m just a little anxious to see that so teed up for one specific style,” he said. “I just get a little concerned about eliminating certain options.”

Commission President Brad Johnson was receptive to Melton’s concerns but said the amendment would allow for more than just one company, noting the Prime Car Wash on U.S. 421 in Carmel, for example, would fit the parameters proposed for the Zionsville portion of the highway.

The plan commission meets twice this month — April 20 and 21 — because of a long list of agenda items. Both meetings start at 6:30 p.m. at Town Hall.

The next town council meeting is at 7:30 a.m. April 20 at Town Hall.

Arrest nets man on nationwide warrants

news@youarecurrent.com

A man was arrested March 21 near Irishman’s Run after reports of a suspicious person in the neighborhood.

Fabian Eliseo Llancavil Nahuel, 38, was charged with false identity and resisting law enforcement. He also had two nationwide warrants for grand theft and organized criminal activity.

state 865.

Officers, using a drone, along with Whitestown Police Department, were able to apprehend Llancavil Nahuel after a foot pursuit and tasing him.

Zionsville Police Department responded to Irishman’s Run after a report of a suspicious vehicle and a man running through backyards.

ZPD said in a news release the man was believed to be moving toward Inter-

Llancavil Nahuel had a window punch and rubber gloves on him when he was arrested. The items are commonly used during burglaries, according to ZPD.

Boone County Sheriff’s Office deputies swept the neighborhood for possible other suspects and to see if any homes had been targeted. ZPD Capt. Marius Klyyken said no homes were reported broken into.

Llancavil Nahuel was being held in the Boone County Jail on an ICE detainer as of April 1.

 Zionsville native plant sale — Zionsville Parks and Recreation’s native plant sale continues through April 17. There are 18 species and two kits available this year. Orders will be picked up April 25 at Heritage Trail Park. To order, visit tinyurl. com/5n6474ts.

CUTTING-EDGE CATTLE

Science meets beef at Willy’s Wagyu

By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com

A trip to Willy’s Wagyu is likely to come with a lesson on marbling grades, beef and how science can produce the exact amount of desired fat content in a steak.

Willy’s Wagyu, 9015 E. 200 S., Zionsville, is a cattle ranch specializing in locally raised wagyu beef. Owner Tim Wilson began his foray into cattle farming last spring.

“I’m a 62-year-old grandpa with a passion project,” he said.

Wagyu is a collective term for four breeds of Japanese beef cattle. The meat is known for its marbling, which are the white streaks of fat found within red meat. Marbling adds flavor and tenderness, according to the American Wagyu Association.

Willy’s Wagyu raises both full-blood wagyu and American wagyu reserve, which is produced by crossing Japanese wagyu with American Angus. The fullblood wagyu herd is registered with the American Wagyu Association, a membership organization consisting of farmers, chefs and restaurant owners that promote wagyu.

Wagyu cattle are genetically bred to produce the desired amount of marbling. Cuts of meat are rated on the Beef Marbling Scale with a numerical value. The higher the score, the more tender the cut.

The reserve line of cuts at Willy’s Wagyu grade at a 9 or higher, with 12 being the highest score.

Wilson displays a poster in his store of the BMS scale. He’s happy to explain it to customers.

Wilson worked with Purdue University on 300 embryos for his herd. Using genetic engineering, he raises cattle to have a desired fat content, ensuring good marbling. He said the genetics can be traced back to Japan. The breeding program facilitates consistent marbling.

Wilson partnered with Purdue on a proprietary feed blend that also contributes to quality of the meat.

“There’s a lot of cool, cutting-edge stuff going on with the animal,” he said.

Wilson said the high-fat content is a typical criticism of wagyu beef, but he likens it to the fats found in olive oil and salmon.

“When you’re thinking about healthy fats, that’s what we’re talking about,” he said.

Wagyu beef contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, like omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for heart, brain and joint health, according

Willy’s Wagyu, in partnership with the Zionsville Chamber of Commerce, will host a cooking competition May 2 at Brick Street Market..

Five teams will compete to prepare meat provided and grown by Willy’s Wagyu. Cuts include New York strip, picanha and brisket point. Each team will prepare their own side dish as well. A panel of community members will serve as judges, including Matt Taylor, voice of the Indianapolis Colts, and Zionsville City Council member Evan Norris, who

to Cleveland Clinic.

Cattle are harvested at 22 months, with a weight target of 1,375 pounds. Metrics are based on marbling preferences.

Willy’s Wagyu products include ground beef, brisket, tri-tips, sirloins, ribeyes, tallow, filets and chuck roasts. Wilson said the value cuts are popular.

“We’ve got the whole cow,” he said.

The ranch also offers educational

determine the top teams.

“We’re trying to build camaraderie in the community … over family-centered meals,” said Tim Wilson, owner of Willy’s Wagyu. “We’re trying to find Zionsville’s best pit master.”

The smoke-off will take place throughout the morning and afternoon with a grand champion named at 3:30 p.m.

Willy’s Wagyu will have its products for sale during Brick Street. Sliders will be available.

opportunities. Wilson wants to expand those to include having kids on-site for calving. He’s also considering delivery service.

Willy’s Wagyu is still in the build-out phase as Wilson plans to build a home on the property and reclaim much of the property for pasture. Cattle graze in the area nestled in the back part of the property.

The storefront is being renovated to include bathrooms and food preparation space. The additions will allow Wilson to offer samples and sell eggs and honey from local farmers.

“Our goal is to be a source of local products,” he said.

Willy’s Wagyu is open from noon to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Customers can also order online at willyswagyu.com/.

ON THE COVER: Willy’s Wagyu raises genetically engineered cattle for wagyu beef. Using genetics and certain types of feed helps ensure consistent marbling — fat — throughout the meat. (Photo

of

Aaron and Maddie Butler bought Greek’s Pizzeria Zionsville last year in November.

(Photo by Spencer Durham)

New Greek’s owners enjoying the experience

By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com

A pizza restaurant wasn’t on the list of possible business ventures when Aaron and Maddie Butler were looking to move to the Indianapolis area, but they are making the most of the unexpected opportunity.

The married couple purchased the Greek’s Pizzeria in downtown Zionsville in November 2025 from longtime owner Mike Cole. The Butlers are from Illinois and met in college. They were in the real estate and home renovation industry before moving to Indiana.

They moved to the Indianapolis area with business ownership in mind. Their broker pitched the idea of buying Greek’s.

“It wasn’t on our radar,” Maddie said. But the more the two considered, the more it seemed like a good move. Aaron said the pizzeria felt like a safe bet and staple business in town. The Greek’s in Zionsville and the one in Franklin tend

to be two of the top-performing franchises, according to Aaron.

“It has a reputation, from what we’ve noticed, for consistency,” he said.

Cole was the original owner of Greek’s, opening the business in 2011. He briefly sold it before buying it back.

“He cared so much about it,” Aaron said. “It was really important it went to someone he trusted.”

For the Butlers, the goal is to keep the restaurant as is.

“We don’t want to change anything,” Maddie said.

The two are considering using the restaurant’s van more this summer and getting more involved in the community. The van would allow Greek’s to set up at secondary locations and sell by the slice, which is not offered in store.

The two said they’re enjoying the experience, especially when they must step in and help staff.

“It’s been fun flexing those skills in a new way,” Maddie said.

Greek’s opens daily at 11 a.m.

DISPATCH

 Lebanon business now Russo Outdoor Power — Howard and Karen Hosfield, owners of Howard’s Lawn & Garden in Lebanon, have sold their business to Russo Outdoor Power Plus, as the two begin retirement. The Hosfield family purchased the business in 1981, then

called Slagle Sales and Services. Customers can still expect the same services but with expanded parts availability, service capabilities and access to additional equipment brands, according to a news release. The store is at 115 W. South St., Lebanon.

Mandolinist Thile set for solo show

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Chris Thile has toured through the years with his bands Nickel Creek and Punch Brothers. However, his latest venture is solo.

“It’s been so fun,” Thile said. “Playing solo is an interesting way to connect with your audience because without other people on stage. If you are doing your job, it can be a really intimate feeling. You are not looking left and right at the people on stage. You are looking out at the audience for all the communion you are going to get. I’ve really enjoyed it and soaked up every minute of it.”

Thile will perform at 8 p.m. April 10 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. It will be his first solo visit to the Allied Solutions Center, but he did perform there with the Punch Brothers in 2012.

The tour is in support of his album “Bach’s Sonatas and Partitas, Vol. 2.” Although the music was designed for the violin, Thile plays it on mandolin.

“The show is pretty rangy,” Thile said. “Certainly, I’ll play a fair amount of Bach over the course of the night, but I also dip into my back catalog in a way that seems related to Bach and can be recontextualized by it. When we listen to Bach, we put our serious ears on. It’s almost like we go into a costume as music lovers. I don’t know if that is always beneficial. Sometimes, you can just kick your feet back and listen to Bach in your comfy clothes.”

Thile said it’s also sometimes beneficial to listen to folk songs with serious ears.

“The basis of the show is you are trying to create a cohesive musical narrative with ostensibly wildly disparate elements,” Thile said.

Thile has toured Europe and the U.S. in support of the album, which was released in November 2025.

“We’re in the homestretch of it now,” Thile said of the Bach tour.

“We’ll be transitioning into Punch Brothers. There is a new record in the works. We’re starting to bring the Bach festivities in for a landing. That’s another reason to soak it up. It’s been my favorite solo experience by far, so far.”

During the Palladium show, Thile said he might perform songs by Nickel Creek and Punch Brothers.

“It can be interesting for me to tackle those alone and see how the music reacts to that,” he said.

Thile enjoys sharing stories with the audience.

“I love talking and I love storytelling,” he said. “I feel it’s a natural extension of my musicianship to rap with people about it.”

Thile hosted a public radio show from 2016 to 2020. He originally replaced Garrison Keillor as host of “A Prairie Home Companion.” Thile had been a guest host during Keillor’s ten-

ure. Thile’s show was later renamed “Live From Here.”

For the past two years, he has collaborated with the Punch Brothers on “The Energy Curfew Music Hour,” which is a collaboration with Audible.

“It’s 100 percent acoustic,” he said. “It’s more focused on collaboration than ‘Live From Here’ was, but it’s equally obsessed with variety.”

Thile’s wife, actress Claire Coffee, is the director and co-writer.

“She is an incredible artist in her own right,” he said.

Thile said the different projects keep him fresh.

“I think a well-lived musical life contains multitudes, at least for me,” he said. “I have a lot of energy. I get done with a thing and I don’t want a break. It makes me want to do something else.”

For more, visit thecenterpresents. org.

‘SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN’

“Singin’ in the Rain” runs April 9 to May 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Feinstein’s cabaret presents “Velvet Voices: A Crooner Celebration” April 9, followed by Casey Abrams and Hunter April 10-11 at Feinstein’s in Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

SOUL ASYLUM

Soul Asylum will perform an acoustic set April 8 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. Corey Glover is the opening performer at 7:15 p.m. For more, visit hendrickslive.org.

CARRIE NEWCOMER

Carrie Newcomer performs at 8 p.m. April 10 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. For more, visit hendrickslive.org.

‘SUITE DREAMS’

Indiana Wind Symphony presents “Suite Dreams” at 4 p.m. April 12 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

 Rhett to perform at LIV Golf at Chatham Hills — LIV Golf announced country music star Thomas Rhett will perform at LIV Golf Indianapolis Aug. 21, taking the stage immediately following the conclusion of Round 2 of the League’s Individual Championship event. The after-play concert begins at 5:30 p.m. at The Club at Chatham Hills in Westfield. Fans in attendance for the second round can enjoy Rhett’s performance as part of their entry alongside world-class golf and immersive fan entertainment as concert access is included with all Friday ticket and hospitality offerings

IWS features students

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The Indiana Wind Symphony has a tradition of performing a side-by-side concert with high school musicians during summertime at the Carmel Gazebo.

IWS Music Director Jay Gephart wanted to make the experience even better.

“I wanted to make this really a special event for the high schoolers,” he said. “I wanted them to have the opportunity to play on the Palladium stage. We’ll introduce them individually. Each one will receive a certificate for being a side-byside participant.”

in the second half of the concert.

“The title of the concert comes from a composer named Steven Bryant, and the piece was actually commissioned by the Jasper High School band,” Gephart said. “It’s one of a series of compositions that Bryant took concert band themes and actually created a piece using some of that thematic material.

The concert opens with “The Ringmaster’s March” from the suite “The Soul Has Many Motions,” written by John Mackey.  Crown Point High School student Caliel Mosley, the IWS Concerto Competition winner, will perform during the second piece.

Eighteen high school musicians will perform two pieces with the IWS during its “Suite Dreams” concert at 4 p.m. April 12 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

The high school students will play “The Dam Busters” by Eric Coates and “First Suite in E-Flat for Military Band”

Participating students include two from Carmel High School — Simon Nelson, alto saxophone and Connor Sudduth, trumpet — and two from Lawrence North, Sam Katowitz, baritone saxophone and Guillermo Ceja, horn.

Other participants include trumpet players Bryant Buckles, Zionsville Community; and Abe Greenfield, Lawrence Central

Actor ready for ‘Rain’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Evan Michael Vaughan has envisioned himself on the Beef & Boards stage since he was a child.

“Beef & Boards has been on my radar since I first saw ‘Annie Get Your Gun’ as a child with my family,” Vaughan said. “I even auditioned for ‘The Sound of Music’ as a child and it was my first professional audition. I got a call back and that alone made me feel so special. I’m really excited to be performing in my hometown.”

Vaughan enjoys his role as a swing member.

“I have been a swing in other productions before and I love how organized it makes me become,” he said. “As silly as it sounds, I love getting to take all my notes and organize my charts in ways that work for my brain and allow me to remember so many different roles.”

Vaughan has performed on Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Romeo & Juliet

The 2020 Lawrence Central High School graduate will perform as a swing cast member in “Singin’ in the Rain” April 9 through May 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis.

“I have not been in a production of ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ before, but I am so excited to bring this iconic show to the stage,” Vaughan said. “I grew up watching the musical with my grandparents and often would put on my own performances of it for my family when I was young.”

“On Regent, I performed as a singer-dancer in their production cast,” he said. “We had four production shows and they all differed — pop music, country music, rock music, Broadway hits. Throughout the contract, I visited 35 countries and four continents. Some of my favorites were Barcelona, Santorini, Brazil and Antarctica. I am currently still based in the Geist area and am so happy to be back home for a few months after my cruise contract, although later this year I plan to make the move to New York City and continue performing.”

For more, visit beefandboards.com.

ENERGY INDIANA, LLC

DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC (“Duke Energy Indiana”) hereby provides notice that, on or around May 1, 2026, Duke Energy Indiana will submit tariff language for approval under the Commission’s thirty-day administrative filing procedures and guidelines for a low income customer assistance program pursuant to Ind. Code ch. 8-147 to provide financial assistance to eligible residential customers for the payment of monthly electric utility bills. This submission is expected to be approved approximately thirty days after filing, unless an objection is made. Any objections may be made by contacting the Secretary of the Commission, or the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor at the following addresses or phone numbers:

Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission 101 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 East Indianapolis, IN 46204-3407 317-232-2703

Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor - PNC Center 115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South Indianapolis, IN 46204 317-232-2494.

Duke Energy Indiana, LLC By: Stan Pinegar, President

LEGAL NOTICE OF DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC’S FILING OF REVISIONS TO TARIFF NO. 6 – RESIDENTIAL ELECTRIC SERVICE AND TARIFF NO. 20 – YOUR FIXEDBILL

DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC (“Duke Energy Indiana”) hereby provides notice that on or around May 1, 2026, Duke Energy Indiana will submit revisions to its Tariff No. 6, Residential Electric Service, and Tariff No. 20, Your FixedBill, for approval under the Commission’s thirty-day administrative filing procedures and guidelines. This filing is in accordance with Ind. Code § 8-1-2-4.7, which requires, pursuant to Ind. Code § 8-1-2-4.7(e)(1), that beginning with the first monthly billing cycle that begins after June 30, 2026, electric utilities apply a levelized billing plan to all active customer accounts that are eligible for, and have applied for, assistance from a home energy assistance program administered under Ind. Code ch. 4-4-33, and to which a levelized billing plan does not already apply. In addition, pursuant to Ind. Code § 8-1-2-4.7(e)(3), electric utilities must, not later than July 1, 2026, amend or design their levelized billing plans to comply with the reconciliation mechanism described in Ind. Code § 8-1-2-4.7(a)(3).

Any objections may be made by contacting the Secretary of the Commission, or the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor at the following addresses or phone numbers:

Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission

101 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 East, Indianapolis, IN 46204-3407 317-232-2703

Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor - PNC Center 115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South, Indianapolis, IN 46204 317-232-2494.

Fell for a fast-walking woman

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

My wife Mary Ellen walks faster than I do. If I hadn’t broken into a full gallop down the aisle the day we got married, she’d have beaten me to the justice of the peace by a nose. I’ve mentioned this before in this column, but things have gotten much worse and far more embarrassing

When we take a walk around the block, Mary Ellen has to turn around every three or four minutes and walk back around me so that she doesn’t get too far ahead.  As embarrassing as this is, I demand that she do it because a 79-year-old man should not be yelling to his wife, “Wait up!,” an expression that I thought I had stopped using in junior high school.

get themselves in trouble. When I saw those lovely limbs, my mind turned to romance, but I should have realized that she’d be walking faster than me for the next 50 years. I knew I was going to marry a woman who was smarter. But faster? That was never the plan.

“ I knew I was going to marry a woman who was smarter. But faster? That was never the plan.”

– DICK WOLFSIE

In fact, during high school and college, I never dated girls who were fast (my mother approved of that).

Sometimes, just to feel loved and wanted, I would hide behind a tree to see if my wife would look for me. Out on a hiking trail, this is OK, but in a residential neighborhood, men behind trees are frowned upon. When you are telling your story to a police officer and he keeps using the word “lurking,” you have a great deal of explaining to do.

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What makes this more humiliating is that I have always been a good athlete. I played center field on my high school baseball team and even ran track.  My wife is not an athlete. When she tries to run, she doesn’t bend her legs at the knees and she ends up looking like a soldier doing a goose step on too much coffee.

No, she can’t run. But, boy, can she walk.

And I can’t figure out why she walks faster. Let’s see … her legs are longer than mine. And she moves them back and forth faster than I do. OK, I just figured it out.

The great irony in this is that one of the reasons I was attracted to my wife almost 48 years ago was her long, slender legs. This is exactly how men

Now, when we walk around our new neighborhood, she feels like I slow her down, and the sight of her circling me every few minutes has the neighbors talking. Instead, when my wife and I want to walk, we go in different directions around our neighborhood circle. No matter how leisurely I walk, we pass each other at exactly the same time.

I know that was an incredibly stupid thing to say. But don’t try to explain it to me. You know how slow I am.

Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES

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.

16. Speech hesitations

17. Strong strings

18. Home teams’ opponents

20. Victory Field doubleheader pair

22. Spooky

23. Notable 1980 cable

TV debut

25. Indianapolis Motor Speedway owner

29. Salty spots on margar-

ita glasses

30. Lift with effort

32. Aid for a submarine captain

34. Arm bone

35. Prefix for “dynamic” or “nautical”

36. Molten rock

38. Swiss peak

39. Marathon alternative

44. Indiana’s richest person: ___ Cook

46. Fabricated

47. Permission or penalty

51. Nixon’s first veep

52. Cautious

53. Colts QB-to-receiver six-pointer

55. Teller of groan-worthy jokes

56. Change

58. Puccini opera

60. Copycat

64. Stove part

67. “Mayday!”

68. Butler frat letter

69. Actress Seyfried or Plummer

70. Notable 1988 cable

TV debut

71. Simple

72. Knock down a peg DOWN

1. Evansville’s summer hrs.

2. DVR button

3. Straightening

4. Okonori seafood item

5. Free from liability

6. Watch over

7. Pacer foe from Texas, briefly

8. Kimono sash

9. WFYI net.

10. Southernmost Great Lake

11. Phoenix suburb larger than the Illinois city it shares its name with

12. Okonori seafood item

13. Beasts of burden

19. Purdue semester

21. ___-cone

23. Pal

24. French Quarter city, familiarly

26. Okonori seafood item

27. Hang on to

28. Fishers Farmers Market corn unit

31. “Casablanca” pianist

33. ___ de plume

37. Notre Dame’s sports org.

38. Parched

40. Texter’s “Wow!”

41. Neckerchief

42. Notion

43. Vulgar

45. One with “Esq.” on the door

47. Okonori seafood item

48. Many a tenant at The Stutz

49. Russian denial

50. ___ King Cole

51. Take as a given

52. Pants measure

54. Just awful

57. Bring down the house

59. Okonori seafood item

61. Darjeeling export

62. NBA tiebreakers

63. Car czar Skillman

65. Current staffers, briefly

66. “Norma ___” ANSWERS ON PAGE 19

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