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Mayors conclude first public safety summit
news@youarecurrent.com
Area mayors and police chiefs kicked off the Regional Mayors’ Public Safety Partnership Summit June 26 with discussions about how to efficiently work together to improve public safety.
Zionsville Mayor John Stehr said between 30 and 40 people traveled from Boone and Hamilton counties for the first meeting at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in downtown Indianapolis.
“I think we (all want) public safety to be as strong as it can be and partnership is the best way to achieve those goals,” he said.
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Opinions
Columnist views are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of this newspaper.
Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness said the meeting was a positive step forward and the first of several that will take place this year.
“I think there are maybe three more meetings between now and the end of the year,” he said. “We have different topics that we’ll be addressing in each of those, so that we can kind of chunk this out and get more in depth on each of those subjects.”
The summit was spearheaded by Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam and Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett following comments Finkam made about Indianapolis leadership needing to do more to prevent repeat criminals. The comments came after a man, who had dozens of charges in Marion County, allegedly stole a car in Carmel before crashing it.
Finkam described the meeting as a first step that will be followed by discussions with prosecutors, judges and state legislators.
“We had a productive conversation about how we can make our region safer for our residents,” Finkam stated in a press release. “Great people with a wealth of experience and responsibility were working together and generating strong ideas.”
Stehr said a topic of conversation was the disconnect between crime statistics and public perception. Crime is going down, he said, though the public doesn’t think so.
“You need to tell the story and what’s really happening,” he said.
Upcoming topics include law enforcement, the judicial system, the correctional system and the legislature. While the first meeting involved mayors and police, Fadness said future meetings can include prosecutors, judges and lawmakers.
“We just want to keep our community safe and when you have criminals with records, especially around weapons possession and violent crimes, that are roaming the streets in central Indiana, that’s a problem,” he said. “There’s no easy answer, but we have got to figure out a way.”
“I think we’re pretty well informed as mayors and police chiefs about what we’re doing to try to address crime within the confines of our abilities,” he said. “The next few meetings will be more about us learning about the other aspects of the criminal justice system, and hopefully from that educational experience, we can gain some deeper insight into what some of the options are to improve.”
Westfield Mayor Scott Willis said he looks forward to finding solutions.
“It’s definitely a problem,” he said of repeat criminals. “I don’t know if I would frame it in the sense of it’s a Marion County problem — I think it’s bigger than that, quite frankly.”
Willis said one way to tackle the problem is through better information-sharing technology, so regional and statewide law enforcement can help each other.
DISPATCHES
Guerin golfer places second in state — Guerin Catholic High School golfer Eli Wessel was the state runner-up in the IHSAA state golf finals June 17 at Prairie View Golf Club in Carmel. Wessel finished tied with Westfield’s Hudson Kutchma with a two-round 142 total. Kutchma won a two-hole playoff. Zionsville senior Max Steiner and Noblesville senior Tyler Marucci finished in a four-way tie for fifth.
Noblesville Deputy Mayor of Development Sarah Reed and Noblesville Police Department Captain Dennis Coffey attended the summit on behalf of the City of Noblesville. Reed said the summit reflects the strong partnership that keeps central Indiana moving forward.
“By coming together to understand crime trends and best practices better, share information and hear directly from our police department leadership about what is or is not working and the gaps that need to be filled, we’re strengthening the safety of every community in our region,” Reed said. “Noblesville is proud to collaborate with our neighboring cities and towns as we work toward a more coordinated, effective and proactive public safety approach for all who call central Indiana home.”
Hogsett stated the summit allows area leaders to work together to develop “creative, collaborative means to solve some of the most complex issues of our time.”
The group will meet three more times this year. The goal is to develop an action plan by the end of meetings. The next meeting is set for August and will focus on understanding gaps and barriers in the legal system.
Current editors Spencer Durham, Jessica Todd, Ann Marie Shambaugh and Leila Kheiry contributed to this report.
Comprehensive plan approved — The Zionsville Plan Commission approved a series of amendments from the Zionsville Town Council on the town’s new comprehensive plan June 15. With the vote, the comprehensive plan is complete after more than two years. The town council made some changes regarding the proposed land use map and also stripped the document of multifamily developments. The town council would rather those projects be considered case by case. The plan is meant to guide development for Zionsville in the coming years. Diversifying the town’s revenue streams is a focus of much of the plan, which aims to attract more businesses. Businesses are taxed at a higher rate than residential properties.
Stehr
Finkam
Willis Fadness
Sampson asks court for neighbor’s property
By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com
Zionsville Town Councilor Sarah Sampson is asking a judge to give her the property she bought from a neighbor earlier this year that is at the center of a land dispute with former NBA player Josh McRoberts.
McRoberts, meanwhile, accused Sampson and her husband Jon of using the media to make themselves look better in a case that alleges the Zionsville couple pressured his grandmother, Carolyn Pennington, to sign over her property to them days before her death.
and her daughter Jennifer McRoberts (Josh McRoberts’ mother) that show a strained relationship. The McRobertses accused Sarah Sampson of not allowing them to see Pennington before her death.
Taft, the law firm representing the Sampsons, declined to comment. Josh McRoberts’ attorney, Curtis Shirley, did not return a request to comment.
Boone County Superior Court I judge Matthew Kincaid ruled June 19 that a June 2025 revocable trust signed by Pennington making McRoberts the trustee of her estate overrules a series of documents Pennington signed that deeded her property at 6810 S. Ford Rd. to the Sampsons April 30. Pennington, 85, died May 6.
McRoberts is a former Carmel High School and Duke University basketball standout who played 11 seasons in the NBA, including three with the Indiana Pacers.
Kincaid ruled the documents signed by Pennington before she died are not valid because she was not sound of mind, the Sampsons took advantage of her and it was done under duress.
“They abused the relationship to her detriment and caused damage, such that all documents purportedly signed by Carolyn in April and May of 2026 are presumed to be the product of undue influence and constructive fraud,” Kincaid wrote.
The Sampsons have pushed back against the claims, offering alleged text messages between Pennington
Documents filed by the Sampsons claim Jennifer McRoberts pressured Pennington to stop speaking with Zionsville law firm Einterz & Einterz about selling her property and threatened to get rid of her dogs, which she looked after while Pennington was in an assisted living facility.
The Sampsons have asked the court to consider the text message evidence, as well as an eyewitness affidavit regarding the McRoberts’ treatment of Pennington and a voicemail Jennifer McRoberts left for her grandmother among other documents.
The Sampsons requested Pennington’s phone be forensically examined June 18 and again June 24. Josh McRoberts argues the preliminary injunction grants him all of Pennington’s property, including her phone. Further, he argues the phone was never brought up during previous hearings when it could have been considered.
“Instead, they filed two motions about forensic imaging as publicity stunts to fuel media attention in an attempt to garner favor, and as a (veiled) attempt to influence the Trial Court in ruling on the pending motion for a preliminary injunction with unverified facts never offered at the hearing,” a court filing states.
Josh McRoberts has asked the court to dismiss the Sampsons’ requests regarding the phone and injunction revision.
Clinton County Circuit Court judge Bradley Mohler is presiding over the case. He was appointed June 23 after the Sampsons requested a special judge for the case.
A hearing is scheduled for 2:15 p.m. July 16 in Boone County Circuit Court.
Portrait of Wishes Gala – The Indiana Wish Portrait of Wishes Gala
Sampson
Zionsville Plan Commission wants developers to submit ready projects
By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com
The Zionsville Plan Commission wants developers to be more proactive and submit complete projects after two proposals were pushed to July because of a lack of information at its June 15 meeting.
The first was for Walnut Run Estates, a 14-acre custom home subdivision at 5356 U.S. 421. The project was continued from May to allow the petitioner time to collect information requested by the plan commission. The project was continued twice beforehand.
Planning staff requested a continuance because the petitioner, JB Partners LLC, did not submit needed information before the deadline. Plan commission members expressed frustration that staff had to reach out as well as the petitioner not being present at the meeting.
“My concern is we’re not getting progress with this particular one,” Commission President Brad Johnson said.
Commission rules guarantee one contin-
uance with a maximum of six.
The second project concerns a proposed church on Oak Street. The plan commission requested a traffic impact study and drainage and landscaping plans for the project, none of which have been completed.
Louis Samuels, who represented the petitioner, the Callaway Group, said he has contracts in place for those studies to be conducted but there is a several week lead time.
“Unfortunately, because of the amount of development around here, surveyors and engineers are saying we can’t look at this project for six weeks … for eight weeks,” he said. “We’re waiting on professionals to give us evidence that you’ll be happy with.”
He also said it will take another six to eight weeks to prepare the studies and planned to ask for a continuance in July for August.
The church faces an uphill battle for approval because of its location, 7660 W. Oak St. Neighbors in the Stonegate neighborhood oppose the project, citing traffic
concerns. A similar proposal was denied earlier this year.
Commission members mulled denying the continuance as well as the project. When a project is denied, a petitioner can’t propose the project for six months.
“I think a denial of continuance is going to save you time,” Commission Member Josh Fedor said.
The board was split on denying the continuace. Instead they asked Samuels to return in July with proof that the studies are scheduled.
“These projects need to be ready when they’re submitted,” Commission Member Nick Plopper said. “Otherwise, we waste our time every month talking about these things. I encourage developers and petitioners to be ready when you submit. It’s frustrating.”
Delays have been a common theme this year. The plan commission met for more than seven hours over two days in April to vote on a series of proposed developments, many of which had been delayed for months.
DISPATCHES
Our Place accepting bookbag donations — Bookbag donations for the Boys & Girls Club of Boone County can be dropped off at Our Place Coffee, 65 S. First St. Bookbags, which will be filled with school supplies, will go to the Indy Hygiene Club. The Boys & Girls Club has a goal of 500 bookbags. Items can be purchased at tinyurl. com/5epwe2z4.
Zionsville Parks Board — The parks board meets at 7 p.m. July 8 at Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 W. Oak St.
Zionsville school board — The School Board of Trustees for Zionsville Community Schools meets at 6 p.m. July 13 in the Educational Services Center Boardroom, 900 Mulberry St.
Equine center offers autism therapy training
By Kaitlin Fallowfield news@youarecurrent.com
Parents who were once oceans apart came together June 25-26 at Cornerstone Equestrian Services facility to bring a new form of therapy they say changed their lives: the Horse Boy Method.
Laila Rahmatian, a Purdue University graduate and former NASA engineer, said she struggled to find adequate services for her 2-year-old son, Donatello, after he was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in 2024. Former Carmel residents, the family moved to Germany for her husband’s work and discovered the Horse Boy Method, an equestrian based therapy strategy. Using her data-tracking skills, Rahmatian noticed an immediate difference in her child.
“In October, he kissed me for the first time at 4 years old, right after he turned 4, and then the biggest breakthrough was Session 57 in April,” Rahmatian said. “After 18 months of trying to get him to poop in the potty, he did it not once but four times in a row.”
Instructors in Boone County learned the same strategy, created by Rupert Isaacson, during the two-day clinic.
Isaacson’s son, Rowan, was nonverbal until he met his neighbor’s horse, Betsy. Isaacson, a lifelong horse enthusiast, said he noticed an immediate calm in his son. That began a quest for healing that took them to a shaman in Mongolia and eventually to Zionsville to direct the clinic, which came about thanks to Rahmatian’s tenacity.
Although Rahmatian lives in Germany with her family, they plan on returning to Indiana soon. As her son’s fiercest advocate, she wanted to ensure the therapy that changed his life is available here, too.
Cornerstone owners Emma Meeks and her husband Matt said hosting the clinic felt like “a God thing.”
“When she reached out, it was at a time when I had just been saying that I wanted to do more of this exact thing with our horses,” she said.
The two-day clinic hosted at the Cornerstone Equestrian facility opened with the Horse Boy Method’s first success story: Rowan. While once
THE GRE AT A ME RIC AN CD SPECIAL
Limited time only
nonverbal, the now 26-year-old was comfortable speaking to the crowd of instructors about the internationally recognized method of equestrian therapy.
Isaacson said the keys to the Horse Boy Method involve letting the child lead in all aspects.
“What do they get into? What are they like, because they’re not going to tell you, right?” Isaacson said. “Then you have to follow them emotionally, which is noticing when they melt down, when they’re happy. Then the third part of following the child is to follow them intellectually, which sounds like a bit of a challenge for somebody nonverbal, but really it’s about noticing their obsessions.”
Isaacson said pairing those three core values with movement can help bring children living with autism out of fightor-flight mode and into a calm space to start building skills.
Part of the training includes the movement method for families to continue when they’re away from the equine companions.
Cornerstone Equestrian Services founder Emma Meeks, right, rides on horseback during a two-day clinic June 25-26 to learn the Horse Boy therapy method created by Rupert Isaacson. (Photo by Brooke Hendricks)
Library announces upcoming events
news@youarecurrent.com
Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library is hosting a series of education programs and family activities this summer and fall to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States.
On July 11, there will be a screening of “Hamilton” from 2 to 4:30 p.m. at the Zionsville branch. The acclaimed musical tells the story of America’s founding through music and storytelling.
A pair of American Girl programs at the Zionsville branch will bring different periods of American history to life for young learners. On July 13, participants will meet Molly, a character growing up in the United States during World War II, through a discussion of “Meet Molly: An American Girl” and hands-on activities inspired by her story. The event is from 3 to 4 p.m.
Participants will meet Claudie from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Aug. 26 and learn about life in Harlem during the 1920s while taking part in activities based on
the American Girl character. Together, the programs offer a fun and engaging way to explore American history through the eyes of children.
The series concludes Sept. 19 with “Protecting the Future of History and Democracy in a Divided America,” presented by historian and podcast host Ben Baumann. In recent years, American history has become a political lightning rod, with competing narratives and misinformation often shaping public discourse. Baumann will discuss ways individuals can recognize and resist the misuse of history while fostering more informed conversations about the nation’s past. A time has not been posted for the presentation.
All programs are free and open to the public. For more, visit hmmpl.org.
DISPATCHES
Zionsville Town Council — The town council meets at 7:30 a.m. July 20 at Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 W. Oak St.
Zionsville Safety Board — The safety board meets at 8 a.m. July 20 at Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 W. Oak St. The safety board oversees operations of the Zionsville Fire Department and the appeals process for residents seeking relief from the Fire Protection Ordinance.
Zionsville Plan Commission — The planning commission meets at 6:30 p.m. July 20 at Zionsville Town Hall, 1100 W. Oak St.
Jamestown women earns philanthropy award — The Community Foundation of Boone County awarded Suzy Rich, of Jamestown, with the 2026 Aaron Stookey Spirit of Philanthropy Award. The annual award recognizes an individual who demonstrates extraordinary commitment to service, generosity and the betterment of Boone County. Rich has supported a number of nonprofits and youth opportunities over the years including coordinating donations between Amazon and the Humane Society of Boone County. The award comes with a $500 grant that goes to a nonprofit of the recipient’s choice. Rich chose Isaiah 117 House which supports children waiting on foster placement.
COMMUNITY
Women’s riding group
‘pedals’ community
By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com
Katie Zarich discovered a passion for cycling while attending Indiana University, but following the deaths of two close cycling friends, she found herself riding less often.
“I kind of lost people to ride with, because I wasn’t tapped into a cycling network,” said Zarich, an Indianapolis resident who lives in the Eagle Creek neighborhood. “For a while, cycling had some scariness for me, because I had lost those people in my life.”
That was until she found the IU Health Momentum Indy Divas, a women’s cycling group.
The club meets each Thursday at Bicycle Garage Indy in Carmel before riding together in groups based on ability level. Each group is named after a female singer. The Dolly group is for beginning riders. The J.Lo group is for the elite riders.
Zarich, who is the On-Highway Communications Director for Cummins, Inc., leads the Madonna 31 group. The group typically rides at a speed of 17 to 19 mph.
The group, the first in Indiana, was inspired by a similar group in Tulsa, Okla. It serves as a mentorship group while also fostering community among women. Zarich said women from all over suburban Indianapolis ride with the Divas. One woman comes up from Columbus.
“People really value it and value the sense of community and will prioritize it in their lives,” Zarich said.
Some Divas will appear in races during the 16th annual Momentum Indy, a three-day cycling event July 10-12 in the Indianapolis Bottleworks District. The event features both competitive races and inclusive rides. Being a Diva comes with a complimentary entry to Momentum Indy’s Honor Major Taylor Fondo, a bike ride honoring
Marshall “Major” Taylor, a Black competitive cyclist from Indianapolis who was known as the World’s Fastest Man. Taylor died in 1932.
Zarich said the Divas have between 200 and 300 women.
“Our numbers have continued to grow,” she said. “Any given Thursday, probably roughly 100 or more women ride their bikes together.”
Being a Diva also means one will likely see a familiar face at other riding events, like Momentum Indy.
“I know if I show up at a different organization’s ride, I’ll see my Divas,” Zarich said. “It ensures I always have someone to ride with.”
Zarich stressed the group is open to any skill or ability level.
“You will be overwhelmed with offers from people trying to plug you in,” she said. “We love new people.”
For more on the Divas and Momentum Indy, visit momentumindy.org.
Tickets on sale for street dance — The Zionsville Chamber of Commerce’s Street Dance will be 6-10 p.m. Aug. 1 on the north end of Main Street in the Village. Tickets are $20 if purchased in advance and $25 at the gate. Kids 10 and younger are $10. VIP tickets are $75 and must be purchased in advance. The annual event includes live music, beverages from local breweries, wineries and distilleries, food trucks and a kids play area. This year’s entertainment features Pigeons of Market Square and The Dundies. Tickets can be purchased at tinyurl.com/yn6ppejx.
From left, Zionsville native Meg Dimmett, Katie Zarich from Indianapolis and Kate McDougal who lives in Colorado, all ride with the IU Health Momentum Indy Divas, a women’s cycling group. (Photo courtesy of Katie Zarich)
LINCOLN
Construction is ongoing at Lincoln Park in downtown Zionsville. Town officials said the project is on schedule to be completed this fall. A statue of President Abraham Lincoln, who the park is named for, is in the works. (Photo by Spencer Durham)
�� Subaru Loves to Care® 2026 ��
By Tom Wood Subaru
On June 16th, a group of our Tom Wood Subaru team members had the privilege of visiting Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital as part of the 2026 Subaru Loves to Care® initiative in partnership with Blood Cancer United® (formerly The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society).
During our visit, we were honored to work with Laura Keefe, CCLS, Certified Child Life Specialist, and Kaitlin MacGruder-Knapp of Ascension, along with the incredible hospital staff and Mary Green from Blood Cancer United. Their compassion, dedication, and commitment to supporting children and families facing cancer inspired all of us.
Together, we delivered 80 cozy blankets that had been lovingly rolled into heart shapes, along with patient care kits filled with thoughtful items such as socks, drink bottles, markers, sleeping masks, and more. We also included handwritten Messages of Hope to remind patients and their families that they are not alone in their journey.
The Subaru Loves to Care initiative is dedicated to providing warmth, comfort, and encouragement to those facing cancer treatments. Since the partnership began, Subaru and its retailers, including Tom Wood Subaru, have helped support more than 550,000 cancer patients and their families nationwide. Subaru is proud to be the largest automotive donor to Blood Cancer United, helping pro-
vide care, resources, and hope to those who need it most.
While blankets and care kits bring comfort during treatment, this partnership also helps support programs through Blood Cancer United that connect families with valuable resources and assistance during difficult times.
We are incredibly grateful to Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital, Blood Cancer United, and everyone involved in making this year’s delivery possible. Thank you for allowing us to be a small part of bringing warmth, kindness, and hope to patients and families in our community.
❤ At Tom Wood Subaru, caring for our community is at the heart of everything we do.
Rosie’s Place, a family-owned restaurant with locations in Noblesville, Zionsville and Carmel, launched a Cookie Craving Club July 1. The club is a cookie subscription service, with deliveries to subscriber’s doorstep each month.
Owned and operated by Debbi Bourgerie and her husband Michael, Rosie’s Place is known for its fresh baked, gooey butter cookies. Maddi Whitehead, the Bourgeries’ daughter, said the cookies have been sold in-store and online for several years, and customers have asked for a subscription service.
Cookie Craving Club members can get a $22 subscription box of half a dozen or a $43 box of a dozen cookies. There also is an option to gift it to someone as a three-, six- or 12-month gift.
Boxes will include at least two staple cookies, such as original vanilla or peanut butter chocolate chip, and a selection of seasonal cookies, like blueberry lemon and key lime.
“The idea with the Cookie Craving
Club is people will get to sample some of those flavors,” Whitehead said. “Some of the flavors are available at Rosie’s Place, but some of them will be exclusive to the Cookie Craving Club.”
Whitehead said the family looks forward to giving customers something they have been asking for.
Subscriptions are available to anyone living in the U.S. Throughout July, participants can sign up for a founding member subscription to receive special pricing and perks, with the first deliveries scheduled to go out in August.
For more, visit gooeybuttercookies. com/pages/the-cookie-craving-club.
From left to right: Scott Reckley (GM), Bobby Miller, Alex College, Russ Stevens, Eric Nyberg & Alicia Frakes.
(Advertorial)
Gooey butter cookies from Rosie’s Place. (Photo courtesy of Rosie’s Place)
PARK REFRESH UNDERWAY
Vets honored with banners
By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com
Bill Evans doesn’t feel famous, but his face and name are on display for the entire town to see.
Evans, a U.S. Air Force veteran, was one of 25 veterans recognized June 27 at the James Hill Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution’s military banner dedication ceremony at the Zionsville American Legion Post 79. The event honored local veterans whose likeness is displayed on banners around the Bloor Lane and Ford Road roundabout.
“Not a celebrity at all, just a local yokel,” Evans said.
Evans served six years in the United States Air Force Reserve as an aircraft mechanic.
“Not bad for an accountant,” he said. Evans served in the Vietnam War for six months. He initially joined the U.S. Air Force Reserve to avoid the military draft to lessen his chances of being sent overseas. Draftees typically served in the Army and were sent to Vietnam.
“I thought I had a less chance of going
Retired Maj. Gen. Richard Stevens of Zionsville, back left, presented military veterans and their family members with copies of the book “Untold Stories of Unsung Heroes.” (Photo courtesy of Boni Hypes)
to Vietnam,” Evans said. “It bit me in the rear.”
Retired Maj. Gen. Richard Stevens of Zionsville presented copies of the book “Untold Stories of Unsung Heroes” to veterans. Zionsville Mayor John Stehr was the guest speaker.
“Having their names and faces displayed on banners will be a reminder to all that there are heroes among us who deserve our thanks,” Stehr stated.
After the war, Evans was an accountant for Hoosier Village and later worked in auditing and banking. He was a familiar face to many when he worked for Akard True Value Hardware.
Wally’s travel center opens
By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com
The third, and largest, Wally’s travel center in the U.S. is now open in Whitestown.
Local and state officials welcomed the gas station and convenience store with a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony June 30. The store is at 4155 Albert S. White Dr., Whitestown, near Interstate 65.
The 53,000-square-foot facility is significantly larger than the company’s next-largest one in Pontiac, Ill., according to CEO and co-founder Michael Rubenstein.
Wally’s has more than 70 gas pumps and a plethora of food options, which are all made in-house. It features a cafe and bakery, pizza and a grill serving hot dogs, sandwiches and smash burgers.
Rubenstein recommends the Wally Dog, an all-beef hot dog sliced down the middle and seared.
“It’s simple, easy and delicious,” he said.
Wally’s also sells beer, Wally’s-branded merchandise, snacks, toiletries and
lifestyle items, similar to other mega-travel centers.
The company is in its sixth year of operation. It also has stores in Illinois and Missouri. A fourth is planned for Independence, Mo.
Rubenstein founded the company with Chad Wallis, chairman of the board. Wallis said he identified the location as a possible Wally’s site four years ago after traveling to Westfield’s Grand Park Sports Campus.
“We knew immediately we wanted to be on this corridor,” he said.
Wally’s is open 24 hours, seven days a week.
DISPATCHES
HMMPL to host touch-a-truck — The Zionsville branch of the Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library will host a touch-a-truck event from 9-11 a.m. July 31, part of the library’s summer reading program. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a variety of emergency, construction and public service vehicles while meeting the professionals who operate them. The event is free and open. Registration is encouraged but not
required. For more information about touch-a-truck and other summer programs, visit the library’s events calendar at HMMPL.org.
World Food Championships tickets on sale — The world’s largest live cooking competition will take place Oct. 15-18 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center in Indianapolis. For more and to purchase tickets, visit worldfoodchampionships.com.
Wally’s travel center opened June 30 at 4155
Albert S. White Dr., Whitestown. (Photo by Spencer Durham)
HONORING PATRIOTS
Boone County recognizes 20 Revolutionary War soldiers
By Piper Bailey piper@youarecurrent.com
Twenty Revolutionary War soldiers who served in the Continental Army and are buried in Boone County were honored from Jan. 22 to June 24 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of America’s founding.
Wreath-laying ceremonies were held at 12 cemeteries where the patriots are buried and at the Boone County Courthouse, to honor four — Jacob Foreman, John McMannis, John Wheatler and John Aldridge — whose burial sites are unknown and James Hill, a second lieutenant in the 11th Virginia Regiment of the Continental Army. The final event included a community gathering for patriotic refreshments, wreath-laying ceremonies at the courthouse and a procession to honor three patriots whose original ceremony had been postponed.
Doug Weisheit, who served as the event’s proclamator and portrayed a Revolutionary War soldier, said he was inspired by similar observances he saw on social media. He originally planned to present small ceremonies on his own but later partnered with the James Hill Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution in Lebanon and four other local organizations.
“Without these American patriots, we do not have the freedoms of speech, religion, justice, the right to vote, the right to live in a democracy and the right to bear arms,” he said during the ceremony. “Our nation was founded on the ideals of freedom, justice and equality. Thank you to these men for being true American patriots.”
Besides the ceremonies, a plaque in front of the courthouse was unveiled June 24 with the 20 soldiers’ names and dates of birth and death. The original plaque, installed in 1935, listed 11 names. It was later updated to include six more, before this year’s addition completed the list of all 20 patriots.
“This new plaque stands as a lasting tribute to their courage and sacrifice, ensuring that every patriot honored in our community is properly remembered for generations to come,” Weisheit said.
DAR member Susan Gentry, who
helped coordinate the series, read the names and short biographies about the lives of the soldiers, their role in the war and why they were buried in Boone County. The biographies were compiled from research conducted in the 1960s and 1970s and DAR records.
“We are grateful for your presence as we come together to remember, honor and respect the sacrifices made by
these patriots and all who fought for the nation’s independence,” she said. “Your attendance today helps keep their legacy alive and reminds us of the enduring values of liberty, justice and self-government.”
Two descendants of patriots who were honored attended the event, including one who traveled from out of state.
Steve Lucas, a fifth-great-grandson
CEREMONY LOCATIONS
Cox Hill Cemetery – Jan. 22
• John Ferguson – 1755-1839
• George Grimes – 1755-1839
• Abraham Utter – 1765-1851
Pleasant View Cemetery – Feb. 5
• Francis Brown – Unknown
• Elias Plew – 1762-1843
Mechanicsburg Cemetery – April 14
• John Roberts – 1760-1840
• Jesse Robertson – 1758-1846
Hopewell Cemetery – April 14
• Arthur Andrews – 1753-1834
Mt. Tabor – May 6
• John Leap – 1735-1845
Wheatley Cemetery - June 4
• Joseph Wheatley –1761-1844
Mt. Runn Cemetery – June 4
• Samuel Dooley – 1766-1855
Lane Cemetery – June 4
• Henry Johns Sr. – 1757-1833
Cedar Hill Cemetery – June 24
• James Hill – 1745-1854
Courthouse - June 24
• Jacob Foreman – Unknown
• John McMannis – 1760-1842
• John Wheatler – 1761-1844
• John Aldridge – 1762-1835
Beck Cemetery – June 24
• John Kersey –1764-1852
Gipson Cemetery – June 24
• William Gipson – 1753-1835
Bethel Hill Cemetery – June 24
• William Pauley – 1762-1838
of soldier Joseph Wheatley, placed the wreath honoring James Hill. Lucas traveled from Connecticut to visit his ancestor’s grave and see how Boone County has restored the gravesite. Several of Wheatley’s descendants still reside in Boone County.
The ceremony concluded with remarks from Indiana State Comptroller Elise Nieshalla; Benjamin Fearnow, director of communications for Attorney General Todd Rokita; and Lebanon Mayor Matt Gentry. Attendees were then invited to enter the courthouse to view the Boone County bicentennial quilt and historical displays.
ON THE COVER: Doug Weisheit led attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance, proclamations and the reading of patriots names at a ceremony honoring Revolutionary War patriots June 24 at the Boone County Courthouse. (Photo by Piper Bailey)
The James Hill Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution in Lebanon, Doug Weisheit, Discover Boone County, Thorntown Heritage Museum, Boone County Commissioners and Boone County Extension Homemakers collaborated on the series of ceremonies honoring Revolutionary War soldiers buried in Boone County. (Photos by Piper Bailey)
The James Hill Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution unveiled a plaque listing all 20 soldiers’ names 91 years after the first plaque was placed.
Commentary by Larry Greene
This North Fishers primary bath was reimagined with an improved layout, timeless finishes and luxurious details for everyday comfort and relaxation.
THE BLUEPRINT
• Reconfigured the layout for improved functionality and openness.
• Added a spacious walk-in shower with decorative accent tile and frameless glass.
• Installed a freestanding soaking tub for a spa-inspired focal point.
• Updated the vanity with rich cabinetry, Cambria quartz countertops and modern fixtures.
• Finished with large-format tile, refined lighting and timeless neutral finishes throughout.
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.
North Fishers primary bath reimagined
Musical farce set for Red Barn Theatre
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Red Barn Theatre Artistic
Director
Michael Taylor is convinced audiences will embrace the season finale.
“It’s a newer show with a very contemporary feel that is based in the Renaissance times,”
Taylor said. “It’s the story of the creation of the first musical. It’s funny. It’s a great way to end the season.”
Red Barn will present “Something Rotten!” July 9-12 and July 15-19 at the Frankfort venue.
The musical will feature a cast of 23 — the largest that Taylor has had in his 10-year tenure as artistic director.
“We’ve pulled together a cast that is very talented,” said Taylor, a Hamilton Southeastern High School graduate. “I think people are going to really love seeing and watching this cast.”
The cast includes Noah Johnson as Nick Bottom and Ben Brickner as Nigel Bottom.
Nick is a frustrated playwright who is obsessed with Shakespeare, and Nigel is his younger brother.
“The younger brother falls in love with a Puritan girl, whose father is (against) them coming together,” Taylor said.
Kody Horrocks plays Portia, the Puritan girl. Samara Rose Shavrick portrays Nick’s wife, Beatrice.
“It’s a show I’ve seen (on Broadway) and really loved,” Taylor said. “When I’m looking for shows, I’m trying to find shows that have a nice variety or feel different. It’s very costume heavy. When I looked at shows, I thought this is the year to do it. We have enough local talent that can fill in the ensemble. I was able to bring in enough professional talent to fill in the leads and put together a strong cast.”
Taylor said some cast members are from area high schools.
“Some others are local but at the college level,” he said. “They are no
longer little high school kids. They’ve matured into excellent performers.”
Taylor was directing rehearsals for “Something Rotten!” while acting in “Wait Until Dark,” which was scheduled to end July 5
“Fortunately, I don’t have any lines in the musical,” Taylor said.
Matthew Reich plays William Shakespeare, an arrogant, fictionalized version of the playwright, known as The Bard.
“The music is very clever,” Taylor said.
Red Barn Associate Artistic Director Luke McLaughlin, a Frankfort resident, portrays the soothsayer Nostradamus.
“It’s a really silly, fun part that fits right into my farcical wheelhouse,” McLaughlin said. “It’s going to be a lot of fun bringing this character and this story to life.”
Taylor has seen “Something Rotten!” on Broadway. McLaughlin saw a production in Fort Wayne several years ago.
“It has been a show I’ve brought up a number of times to Michael when we are thinking about the season,”
McLaughlin said. “The dance numbers are a ton of fun, the jokes are constant, and for those who love musical theater, there are plenty of references that audiences will recognize and enjoy. Michael and I love a good farce, but it is always fun to do a show that can transcend that mold. Though ‘Something Rotten!’ has a ton of farcical elements, it’s a story with a lot of heart and worldly advice. I think the main characters’ struggles are relatable, and the lessons they learn along the way elevate this story into a truly special musical.”
McLaughlin said cast members range in age from the 50s to 14 years old.
“We have performers from all across the country — New York, Florida, California, Nebraska, Illinois, Colorado, Missouri and, of course, a nice mix of local talent that our audiences have come to love and recognize over the years,” McLaughlin said. “Personally, I think this is the strongest vocal and dancing ensemble we’ve ever had, and I’m super excited to see the finished product.”
For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.
‘CINDERELLA’
“Cinderella” runs through July 12 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
2000’s Night: BBMak, a British pop trio, is set for July 7, followed by Jed Harrelson July 11 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc. com.
‘SOMETHING ROTTEN!’
“Something Rotten!” runs July 9-12 and July 15-19 at Red Barn Theatre in Frankfort. For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.
LOBSTER PALOOZA
Indianapolis Opera’s Lobster Palooza is set for 6 p.m. July 11 at Basile Opera Center in Indianapolis. For more, visit indyopera.org.
MARSHALL CHARLOFF
Marshall Charloff & the Purple Xperience will perform at 7:30 p.m. July 10 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. For more, visit hendrickslive.org.
‘A TAYLOR EXPERIENCE’
York Automotive Concert Series presents “Are You Ready For It? A Taylor Experience” at 8 p.m. July 11 at Hendricks Live! For more, visit hendrickslive.org.
CARMEL COMEDY CLUB
Carmel Comedy Club will present a show at 7 p.m. July 11 at The Cat in Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.
Band of Horses set for Fishers show — Band of Horses will perform at 8 p.m. July 25 at Nickel Plate District Amphitheatre in Fishers. Band of Horses is co-headliner with Dinosaur Jr. For more, visit npdamp.com.
From left, Noah Johnson, Ben Brickner, Anna Cari-Taylor and Delia Cragun rehearse for “Something Rotten!” (Photo courtesy of Luke McLaughlin)
Taylor
ENTERTAINMENT
ZCHS grad set for Songbook
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Clara Keiper is eager to expand her musical repertoire.
The 2026 Zionsville Community High School graduate will participate in the Songbook Academy July 11-18 at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. She was one of 40 participants selected from across the nation.
“I’m also excited to meet and work with other vocalists from around the country who share a love for singing and performing,” she said.
recommended the program to her
“I also know several past participants from Zionsville Community High School, including Claire Kauffman, Phoebe Sidebottom and Eve Hodges, who have all had a great experience with the program,” Keiper said.
Keiper said she knows there will be several talented instructors.
“I’ll get to work with mentors and receive personalized coaching and individual feedback on the songs I sing,” she said. “I’m looking forward to developing my vocal and performance skills.”
Keiper said musical theater is probably her favorite Songbook form because it has been a significant part of her performing background.
Keiper’s vocal teacher, Tamara Totty,
IN LIONS PARK AT 7 PM
At ZCHS, she was active in marching band, show choirs, National Honor Society and school musicals.
“I’ve been fortunate to play many memorable characters,” she said.
She’s enrolled at Purdue University, where she plans to major in computer science.
“However, I also want to continue pursuing music, so I plan to audition for one of Purdue’s musical groups so I can stay involved in performing while I’m in college,” Keiper said.
Tickets for Songbook Showcase at 7 p.m. July 16 and Songbook Academy in Concert at 7 p.m. July 18 are available at thecenterpresents.org. Both shows are at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Center.
Sunday Summer Concerts
BRING YOUR LAWN CHAIR & ENJOY THE MUSIC!
& BEVERAGE ARE AVAILABLE FOR A DONATION!
Director: John Hilmer indyband.org
Keiper
COMMUNITY VOICES
Village road project is needed
Editor,
If you spend any time in the Village, you know how special it is. It’s where people meet up, shop, dine and spend time together. That’s what we try to create every day at Our Place Coffee.
But if you’ve also spent time here, you’ve probably experienced the traffic along First Street and getting through our town. It can back up quickly, especially at the busiest times of day, making it harder for people to visit, find parking and enjoy being here.
This is why I support the Main Street Momentum project. This project will make it easier for people to drive or walk to get to our wonderful Main Street and see everything Zionsville has to offer.
From what I know about the project, Main Street Momentum isn’t changing the character of Zionsville. It’s about making it work better. The goal of the project is to improve traffic flow, reduce some of those bottlenecks and
make it easier and safer for people to travel to the Village.
As a business owner, that matters. When it’s easier to get here and easier to get around, people stay longer. They visit more places. They come back.
Zionsville is a destination. We just need to make sure it functions like one.
The traffic problems are real, and the time to move forward with this project is now. I firmly believe Main Street Momentum will highlight what makes Zionsville special and keep our Village strong.
At the end of the day, this is about supporting local businesses, improving the experience for everyone who comes here and making sure Zionsville continues to be a place people want to spend time.
That’s something I think is worth getting behind.
Paul Deinlein, owner of Our Place Coffee, Zionsville
Warning from ‘mayo’ clinic
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
Over the years, my wife Mary Ellen and I have had some basic disagreements about condiments, but here’s a product that I had not anticipated would cause dissent in my marriage: mayonnaise.
Ketchup? Sure, there were always possibilities for a tiff here. You never hear a man say to his wife, “With all that ketchup on the burger, sweetheart, you can’t possibly appreciate the fine texture and flavor of the grass-fed beef.” Women, on the other hand, will say, “If you put ketchup on my chicken Kiev, I will rip your ruby-red tongue right out of your mouth.”
Mustard? Yes, I could make an argument for mustard. Over the years, I have tried to improve most of my wife’s cooking with a healthy dose of this condiment. What would her pork Milanese have been without mustard? Uneventful. What would her beef Bourguignon taste like without a glob of Dijon? I shudder to think. What about that sesame-encrusted salmon without a dollop of you-know-what? Yes, Mary Ellen and I have clashed over mustard.
But a fight over mayonnaise? Who would have predicted this? It all started one morning last week when I accidentally put the mayonnaise jar in the pantry instead of putting it back in the fridge the night before. Without hesitation, Mary Ellen tossed the jar in the garbage with this denouement, “It’s no good. We have to throw it out.” I begged to differ. Literally, begged. I just couldn’t accept the product’s ruin in just a few hours. My own mother never refrigerated mayonnaise. It went in the pantry. My brother and sister clearly remember this. That’s
why when we now reminisce about our favorite childhood sandwich, we call it the Bacon, Lettuce and Ptomaine Poisoning Sandwich (by the way, I have a master’s in English and never realized there was a silent P in that word. Thank you, spell check).
The next day, desperate for a smear on my BLT, I fished the mayonnaise out of the garbage, slathered it on my sandwich, then put the jar in the fridge. When Mary Ellen discovered what I had done, she panicked and pointed to the container: “REFRIGERATE AFTER OPENING.” Suddenly, my eye caught an 800-number on the label, a hotline for people with emergency mayonnaise questions. I assumed it was the Turkey Hotline people who were bored with nothing to do for 11 months.
“Hello, Mayo Hotline. Can I help you?”
“Yes, I have a question about food poisoning.”
“First of all, this is the mayo hotline, not the Mayo Clinic. And, yes, I know what you’re going to ask. I get husbands all day long with this question. Yes, it’s perfectly safe. But you should throw it out, anyway. A man can’t win a mayonnaise argument.”
This week’s commentary by Current Publishing essayist Terry Anker may be read at youarecurrent.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.
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
COLUMNIST ON THE WEB
PUZZLES
15. Footnote abbr.
16. Overly sentimental
17. Hater of a laboratory substance?
20. Indiana’s tallest building: Salesforce ___
21. Loses traction
22. Wonder
23. Freddie Gibbs’ music genre
25. Classic pop
27. Colts foe
30. Online commerce
33. SeaWorld attraction
37. Bard’s “before”
38. Make a Current story better
39. Kick in or kick off
40. Spicy pepper chewy candy?
44. Asian nurses
45. Wrinkly fruit
46. Clean air org.
47. Indonesian island
48. Lukewarm
50. Change for a five
51. Stuff
53. Indiana School for the Deaf subj.
55. “Harper Valley ___”
58. “The Zoo Story” playwright
61. WRTV spot seller
65. Boutique lodging in Carmel...and an anagram of 17- and 40-Across
68. What Pavlov’s dogs were conditioned to do 69. NHS prom rental
70. Singer Guthrie
71. Cher’s early partner
72. Statistical average 73. Fishers HS mid-term, e.g.
