During a recent government meeting, the Zionsville community celebrated two significant events: the swearing-in of a new firefighter and the presentation of the Tree of the Year Award.

Firefighter Luke Miller was officially sworn in, marking a proud moment for his family as he becomes a third-generation firefighter. Mayor Stair and Chief Van Gorder led the ceremony, highlighting Luke's dedication and the challenges he faced during his training. Luke completed his firefighter training at two different academies, gaining essential certifications in firefighting and emergency medical services. The mayor administered the oath of office, and Luke received a special memento to remind him of his responsibilities and legacy in the fire service.

In addition to the swearing-in, the meeting featured the Tree of the Year Award presentation. Michael Owens from the Zionsville tree board announced that a beautiful sycamore tree from Colony Woods, submitted by Emily Schilling, won the award. The tree symbolizes the community's agricultural past and its vibrant present. Emily shared a touching story about a photograph of the tree taken when the area was still a cow pasture, emphasizing the connection between the town's history and its current charm. As part of the award, a framed picture of the tree will be displayed in Town Hall for a year, and Emily received a gift card from a local business.

These events reflect the strong community spirit in Zionsville, showcasing both the dedication of its public servants and the appreciation for its natural heritage.