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Founded Jan. 29, 2008, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XIX, No. 1
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West Clay at 131st & Towne Rd
Ahh Spring!
Q&A: Meet the HC Sheriff candidates
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
Dustin K. Dixon and John Lowes are vying for the Republican nomination for Hamilton County sheriff in the May 5 primary election. Incumbent Dennis Quakenbush cannot run again because of term limits. No Democratic candidates have filed to run.
Dixon and Lowes answered the following questions from Current.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR SHERIFF?
Dixon: I’ve been honored to serve our community throughout my adult life. After 25 years of service at this agency, I understand its inner workings and relationships that define it. Leadership must support the staff and set the correct tone for the betterment of the agency and those it serves.
Lowes: I love our community and want to utilize my training, education and experience to keep it safe. People move to Hamilton County because it is safe, stable, well-run. My goal is to protect what people have built, enforce the laws fairly, and keep Hamilton County safe for the next generation.
WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM YOUR OPPONENT?
Dixon: I’ve worked at the agency for my entire professional career. I’ve served in nearly every job assignment and on nearly every specialty team the agency has. Additionally, I’ve been a partner in a successful security consulting and staffing business. I’m wellversed in employee relations along with budgeting expenses and income.
Lowes: I am in my 28th year of full-
time, sworn police service. I have 16 years of executive-level experience in law enforcement. In my current role as chief deputy, I supervise the agency’s six division commanders, oversee day-today operations of the sheriff’s office and jail, and manage the $34 million budget.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE CAMPAIGN ISSUES?
Dixon: Crime, including the influx of violent crime from surrounding areas and proactive response to those issues. Retention and wellness of our officers and staff.
Positioning the Sheriff’s Office for the future requires increased service within the Corrections and Court Divisions and specialized law enforcement services within our Operations Division. Lowes: Law and order, protecting Constitutional rights, lower taxes and smaller government.
WHAT DO YOU MOST WANT VOTERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
Dixon: I’m running because of my love for the community, the agency, and our staff. I’ve dedicated my professional adult life to this community — serving on various nonprofit boards, working in public safety for 25 years, and raising my family — so I’m heavily committed to our community’s success and prosperity. Lowes: My priorities are faith, family, and community. I am active in my church. I am dedicated to my family and blessed to have been married to Candice for more than 30 years. We have three successful adult children. I am so proud of my kids. I love my community and want to continue serving it.
HOW WILL YOU ADDRESS JAIL OVERCROWDING AND THE NEED FOR MENTAL HEALTH AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT IN CORRECTIONS?
Dixon: The jail is operating well within its designed capacity. The majority of incarcerated individuals suffer from some type of mental health and/or substance abuse issue. Agency leadership must
continue to support inmates, service providers and staff. I will continue offering programs that meet these needs and innovate with other approaches.
Lowes: The county jail has 525 beds and currently houses approximately 400 individuals daily. There is ongoing discussion about creating a mental health court. I support this because I believe it will provide a path for those with mental health challenges to better adjust to life after court proceedings.
HOW WILL YOU ENSURE ADEQUATE PATROL COVERAGE AND RAPID RESPONSE TIMES ACROSS THE COUNTY’S GROWING URBAN AND RURAL AREAS?
Dixon: I am fortunate to have spent a great deal of my time in our agency’s front-line services. I plan to utilize specialized law enforcement services to focus on public safety issues requiring extra attention, including traffic complaints, fugitive warrants, and an increased presence in our parks and on our waterways.
Lowes: Each public safety agency must continue to work well together for Hamilton County’s overall success. The sheriff’s office stands ready to assist any other law enforcement agency within the county. We can best partner with other agencies by participating in various task forces.
HOW SHOULD THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE WORK WITH ICE IN LOCAL IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT?
Dixon: We will always work with and support our federal law enforcement partners. My expectation for any agency we partner with is well-trained, professional, and accountable public safety.
Lowes: I already lead Hamilton County’s Immigration Commission because this issue is not theoretical. Drug trafficking, human smuggling ... and those crimes do not stop at county or state lines. Hamilton County has never been a sanctuary county, and under my leadership, it never will be.
Dixon
Lowes
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Event set for Fox Hollow serial killer case
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
A free public event on the case of suspected Fox Hollow Farms serial killer Herb Baumeister is set for April 22 at the Westfield’s Prairie Garden Event Center.
“A Conversation About the Fox Hollow Crime” will be moderated by WTHR news anchor Jennie Runevitch. Hamilton County Coroner Jeff Jellison and crime journalist Eva Pilgrim also will participate.
The program is in conjunction with He Knows Your Name ministry, founded by Linda Znachko.
“(The event) came together as a result of a conversation that I was having with Linda Znachko,” Jellison said. “We decided that it would be a good event. It would be an opportunity to kind of honor the victims and their families and yet update the community on an investigation that’s very complicated and will be long going,”
The event begins at 6:30 p.m. with a prayer vigil at the Fox Hollow memorial at Prairie Garden, located just outside
the Event Center. A panel discussion follows at 7 p.m.
“The panel will discuss where the case is today, where it’s going in the future, and there’ll be a question-and-answer session as well,” Jellison said.
Jellison said interest in the ongoing case remains high. More than 10,000 remains were discovered at Baumeister’s Fox Hollow estate on 156th Street in Westfield in 1996, shortly after the launch of a criminal investigation.
Baumeister died by suicide in 1996 after an excavation of the wooded area behind his Fox Hollow estate by the University of Indianapolis Anthropology and Archaeology Department found the remains. After the discovery, eight victims were inititally identified.
After the excavation, the case was shelved until Jellison reopened the investigation in 2022 at the request of one of the victim’s family members. Since 2022, six new victim profiles have been discovered.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Hamilton County Coroner’s Office at 317-770-4415.
UNLOCK YOUR HOME’S EQUITY
Jellison Baumeister
New Westfield Fire Department firefighters are sworn in during the April 13 Westfield City Council meeting. From left, WFD Chief Rob Gaylor, Julian Trittipo, Kaden Jones, Carson Cicenas, Sergio Garcia-Wilcher, Kyle Archer, Nathaniel Reinhart, Sarah Fryman, Katelyn Bushman and Noah Clark. (Photo by Todd Golden)
NEW WFD FIREFIGHTERS SWORN IN DURING COUNCIL MEETING
Grand Park PUD amendment approved by council
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
During its April 13 meeting, the Westfield City Council approved an amendment to the Grand Park planned unit development ordinance to allow a mixed-use development on a 6-acre parcel within Grand Park.
A baseball diamond is on the parcel. The new plan calls for 272 apartments, a city parking garage, the new Ed Carpenter Racing headquarters and a proposed IndyCar museum.
The baseball diamond will be relocated on the Grand Park campus.
The amendment passed by a 4-1 vote. Councilor Joe Duepner cast the dissenting vote.
The development is part of the Grand Park Development Master Plan that is included in the Westfield comprehensive plan.
The Grand Park PUD amendment originally came before the city council during its March 23 meeting. During the April 6 Advisory Plan Commission meeting, a workshop session was waived and the project was given unanimously approved.
WESTFIELD POLICE DEPARTMENT OFFICERS SWORN IN AT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
WEDNESDAY MAY 13 | 7 - 8:30pm
Rendering of the apartment complex planned for the Grand Park District. (Screenshot from city council agenda packet)
New Westfield Police Department officers are sworn in during the April 13 Westfield City Council meeting. From left, WPD Chief Shawn Keen, Jennifer Guerrero, William O’Laughlin, Cameron Breedlove, Nichols Colgate, Jonathan Zuniga, Grant Tansy, Kenja Jenkins, Christoper Hardy and Westfield City Council President Patrick Tamm. (Photo by Todd Golden)
DISPATCHES
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Bulk Trash Day — Bulk Trash Day will take place from 8 a.m. to noon May 9 at Westfield City Services at 2728 E. 171st St. Items that can be accepted include:
• Furniture
• Mattresses (must be wrapped)
• Bicycles
• Technology
• Tires
• Dirt and tree debris
• Lawnmowers
Hazardous materials are not accepted. Bring stormwater bill to prove residency. Visit, westfieldin.gov/bulktrashday for a full list of accepted and unaccepted items.
Westfield Parks & Rec Green Day event — The Westfield Parks & Recreation Department will host its annual Green Day event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 25 at Grand Junction Plaza. This free event combines the City’s Earth Day and Arbor Day celebrations, encouraging residents to connect with and care for Westfield’s natural spaces. Attendees can explore sustainability practices and take part in interactive activities, including free native tree saplings (white pine, tulip tree, pin oak, and silky dogwood) available while supplies last, courtesy of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, a live reptiles and amphibians show presented by Indiana Jim and the second annual duck race in Grassy Branch Creek. Westfield High School’s National Honor Society and Environmental Club will also host hands-on activities, including take-home solar car kit, plant-a-seed activity, and UV pony bead bracelets. For more, visit westfieldin.gov/greenday.
Adopt-a-Trail program — In conjunction with the April 25 Green Day event, Westfield Parks & Recreation Department will introduce its new Adopt-a-Trail program, offering residents a way to make a lasting impact on the community’s trail system. The Adopt-a-Trail Program is free and open to individuals and willing to commit to cleaning a 1-to-2mile stretch of trail at least three times per season, March through October, for a two-year term. The city will provide participants with safety vests, trash grabbers, trash bags, and other supplies for each session. To learn more, visit westfieldin.gov/greenday.
Rendering of the Schaaf CPA Group accounting office proposed for North Union Street. (Screenshot of APC agenda packet)
Office building proposed for Union Street
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
A proposal for a new office building north of downtown Westfield drew concerns from nearby residents during the April 6 Westfield Advisory Plan Commission meeting and public hearing.
Westfield-based Schaaf CPA Group wants to construct a new accounting office on vacant land at 302 N. Union St., a few blocks from its current office at 111 N. Union St. The proposed two-story building would have 9,000 square feet of space. It was originally presented to the Westfield City Council during its March 23 meeting.
The Schaaf CPA Group building would be built on vacant land between the Westfield Playhouse and Christ United Methodist Church. The proposal includes plans for a possible second building later.
The petitioner has requested that the Westfield Playhouse Planned Unit Development ordinance that governs that portion of Union Street be amended rather than have a new PUD established. Matt Skelton of the law firm Church, Church, Hittle + Antrim, representing petitioners SCG Property Group, said amending the existing PUD, “was thought to be a simpler suggestion to just amend the existing (PUD).” APC members didn’t object.
Several nearby residents voiced conern about the building.
“I am opposed to the development of this property as commercial use,” said Jim Berndt, a Union Street resident. “I believe that this is significantly chang-
VISIT US DURING THE PARADE OF HOMES
ing the characteristic of the Union Street neighborhood from a residential to a mixed-use neighborhood, and that is not what I believe is consistent with the overall plans for Union Street corridor.”
Fellow Union Street resident Valerie Hunter agreed.
“It’s a highly desirable residential street,” she said. “There is ample commercial property in downtown Westfield. Mixed use? There are lots of other options. I’m sure another family would love to build a home on that lot and keep the (street) residential and keep that line drawn and not let any more businesses move up north.”
Concerns were also raised about drainage and intrusive lighting. Skelton said the building aligns with the recently passed Westfield comprehensive plan.
APC members signaled support for the project.
“I think this area is unique, especially being within and against the downtown (comprehensive) plan area,” APC President Michael Neal said. “There’s the church and there’s the homes and there’s the potential for something else down the road, but I would say that the use is being contemplated, it’s not 9-to-5 party central in CPA work. Serious work happens here. It’s a very professional environment and shared use is exactly what we want to see in this zone.”
The project was scheduled for a May APC workshop session, but the APC unanimously agreed to waive it. The proposal will return to the city council at a future date.
We’re celebrating 50 years of Building Dreams, Enhancing Lives and 15 years in Indianapolis!
During the Parade of Homes from April 24-26 and May 1-3, 2026, tour all our participating David Weekley model homes, snap a selfie with your party in front of each one, and submit each photo to be entered into our drawing to receive a $500 Visa gift card.
Plus, when you register with a David Weekley Homes Sales Consultant during the Parade of Homes and purchase a David Weekley home by May 31, 2026, you can enjoy an additional $2,500 in incentives!
to learn more about how to participate
Pictured above: David Weekley Homeowners Dhruvi Vyas and mother, Daxa Vyas
2026Primary Election
May 5 May 5
The communities served by Current Publishing are comprised of highly educated and, predominantly, issues-focused residents. As a candidate for election to public office, it’s arguably the best audience in the state to which you can state your campaign’s case. As has been the practice in elections past, Current is using a level playing field with respect to pricing. Any candidate wishing to advertise may do so at Current rates customarily reserved for advertising placements of between 13 and 26 times a year. You are entitled to use the rates below one time or more to connect with our audience. Thank you for your consideration, and good luck on the campaign trail.
For more, contact your Ad Representative by email ads@youarecurrent.com or call 317.489.4444
COMMUNITY
DISPATCHES
HAND to Host 12th Annual Suburban Housing Conference — Nonprofit Hamilton County Area Neighborhood Development Inc. (HAND) will host its 12th annual Suburban Housing Conference from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 23 at the IMMI Conference Center at 18880 East St. in Westfield. Presented by the Hamilton County Community Foundation, the conference will bring together local elected officials, municipal staff, developers, employers, lenders, and nonprofit leaders from across Hamilton, Boone, and Tipton counties for a focused, half-day experience exploring how housing impacts communities and local decision-making. Registration is open. For more or reserve a seat, visit handincorporated. org/2026-suburban-housing-conference-april-23/
USPS job fair — USPS will host a job fair from noon to 4 p.m. April 24 at USPS District Conference Center, 8765 Guion Rd., Indianapolis. The postal service is hiring rural carrier associates and parttime city carriers. USPS personnel will be onsite at the job fair to provide detailed
information about the positions and to answer questions. Applications are accepted online only at www.usps.com/ careers.
National Drug Take Back Day – The Westfield Police Department is partnering with Ella Pharmacy to host a Drug Take Back event from 10 a.m. to noon April 25 at the Ella Pharmacy location at 211 Jersey St. Bring unused or expired medications and we’ll make sure they’re disposed of properly — no questions asked. Items not accepted include Intravenous solutions, injectables, syringes, illicit substances, batteries (including vape pens with non-removable batteries) and inhalers.
Indy Design Week set — Indy Design Week has announced the schedule for its 8th annual festival celebrating the Greater Indianapolis area’s design community. Indy Design Week 2026 is set for April 20-25, with a kickoff party, coffee meetups, lunch and learn speakers, a walking tour, an art and design market and more. For additional information and tickets, visit indydesignweek.com.
Map of the withdrawn SugarLeaf development plan. Single-family homes were planned for the northern portion of the development with townhomes proposed in the southern portion. (Screenshot from Westfield City Council agenda packet)
SugarLeaf PUD withdrawn
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
The proposed SugarLeaf planned unit development has been withdrawn from consideration.
A city spokesperson confirmed that the petitioner, David Weekley Homes withdrew the proposal that had been introduced to the Westfield City Council last year. The PUD was proposed for the 2400 block of South Street near Simon Moon Park.
A new proposal could be submitted, but a spokesperson for David Weekley Homes said the company had no additional information on SugarLeaf, which was to include 42 townhomes and 25 single-family residences adjacent to three subdivisions.
During SugarLeaf’s first reading at the Nov. 24, 2025, city council meeting, residents and city councilors criticized the PUD, with pointed concerns about the proposed four-story townhomes and retention ponds. Some residents were especially concerned about the proposed four-story townhomes. Mayor Scott Willis said the townhomes would allow for the creation of a tax increment financing district to pay for an offsite retention pond near the Midland Trace Trail.
The height of the townhomes, proposed to be four stories tall, was a particular sticking point for neighboring residents.
Councilors also had concerns about the location of retention ponds, and whether single-family homes would be more appropriate than townhomes and questioned why development couldn’t focus on expanding Simon Moon Park.
Tax agreement for portion of hospital approved
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
During its March 30 meeting, the Westfield Redevelopment Commission unanimously approved a payment in lieu of taxes, or PILOT, agreement with Community Health as part of the complex being built near the corner of 196th Street and East Street.
Westfield Executive Chief of Economic and Community Development Jenell Fairman said Community Health is building in an economic development area, but one portion of the complex, the hospital tower, is a nonprofit.
As a result, the city entered into an agreement for Community Health to pay a portion of the taxes that would have otherwise been paid to the city if that part of the hospital operation were a for-profit organization.
The hospital tower is the only portion of the complex affected. Community Health will pay full taxes on the rest of the land.
There is a 25-year schedule for tax payment in the PILOT area. Community Health will owe $118,500 twice in the first year, $138,875 twice in the second year, $159,250 twice in the third year, $179,625 twice in the fourth year and $200,000 twice in the fifth to ninth years.
Starting in the 10th year, semiannual payment increases by 5 percent over prior payment amount every five years.
Map of the area where the PILOT agreement will take effect at the complex being built by Community Health in Westfield. (Screenshot from RDC agenda packet)
Meet candidates running for new Court 9 seat
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Republicans Christopher Barrows, a Hamilton County court commissioner, Sarah Shields, a Hamilton County magistrate, and attorney Paul C. Sweeney are running for the Hamilton Superior Court 9 judge seat in the May 5 primary election. The newly established court begins Jan. 1, 2027.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING?
Barrows: I have found that being a lawyer, mediator, arbitrator, guardian ad litem and judicial officer is a calling for me. I want to use the experience I have gained to continue serving Hamilton County. The best way for me to serve is as judge of Superior 9.
Sweeney: Service. Carmel gave my family a fresh start after my parents’ divorce. After more than 35 years of volunteering, serving as a youth minister and 29 years practicing law, I’m running to become the first judge of Hamilton Superior Court 9 — giving back to the community that gave so much to me.
Shields: I’m currently a Hamilton County magistrate appointed by our elected judges. I love the work I do and wish to serve our community as a judge with my own courtroom and staff. I have well-established relationships throughout the county and am ready for the challenge of building a new court.
WHAT SETS YOU APART?
Barrows: 27 years in Hamilton County courtrooms — the last four years on the bench presiding over Hamilton County’s Child Support Court as court commissioner. That court has a high volume docket with all the administrative duties of a full court.
Sweeney: Perseverance. I’m a magna cum laude IU McKinney law graduate, Martindale Hubbell AV-Preeminent
rated attorney, Best Lawyers in America honoree (2022–present) and senior counsel at Ice Miller.
Shields: As a magistrate, I’m on the bench every day and have presided over every type of case that could be filed in Superior 9: criminal, civil and family law — initial hearings through jury trial. My training and experience make me ready to run a new court on day one.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE CAMPAIGN ISSUES?
Barrows: That Superior 9 be ready on Day 1 to serve the legal concerns of the county; be fair and efficient, and that all parties be treated with civility and respect; and be led by experience, integrity and strong community roots.
Sweeney: Innovation: Optimize caseload management; Outreach: Strengthen the court’s ties to businesses, schools and underserved communities; Prevention: Expand problem-solving courts, including establishing a much-needed mental health court.
Shields: My vision for Superior 9 is to build a court that is efficient, fiscally responsible and provides access to justice for all.
WHAT DO YOU MOST WANT VOTERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
Barrows: As a lifetime resident, I and my family love the opportunities and enrichment provided by Hamilton County. I have been able to serve as youth coach, guardian ad litem for children in court, volunteer in the community and on boards like the Westfield Youth Assistance Program and Westfield Education Foundation.
Sweeney: Character. I am a son of God, husband, father and 40-year Hoosier by choice. As a youth minister, theater volunteer and advocate for domestic violence shelters/solutions and legal desert reform, my life outside the courtroom reflects the same servant leadership I will bring to the bench.
Shields: I’m a magistrate, mom and Hamilton County native. As an appointed judicial officer, I’ve earned the trust of our elected judges. As a candidate, I’m working to earn the trust of our voters. I am honored to serve our county and ready to lead a new court.
To read an extended version of this Q&A, visit youarecurrent.com/tag/2026-election.
Barrows
Sweeney
Shields
HAND to host conference
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
The nonprofit Hamilton County Area Neighborhood Development Inc. will host its 12th annual Suburban Housing Conference from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 23 at the IMMI Conference Center at 18880 East St. in Westfield.
Presented by the Hamilton County Community Foundation, the conference will include local elected officials, municipal staff, developers, employers, lenders and nonprofit leaders from across Hamilton, Boone and Tipton counties.
HAND Marketing and Fundraising Manager Kerri Hubble said the conference will focus on solutions to housing issues.
“When it first started, (the Suburban Housing Conference) was more of a ‘This is what we’re seeing.’,” Hubble said. “(HAND was) trying to educate people that there’s a problem. We’ve been doing this long enough that everybody knows there’s a problem. So, last year, we really switched to being more of a solutions kind of conference.”
The theme is “From Plans to Places: Turning Housing Systems into Real Homes.”
The conference is split into three interactive sessions, with focuses on the housing market, land use and problem-solving.
“The benefit for the overall greater community is just a better understanding of the decisions that are being made and the way things play out,” Hubble said. “This is just a better way for people to get involved in that and have a better understanding of what those decisions and tradeoffs are made through the development process.”
Hubble also noted that the conference will focus on all housing issues, not only affordable housing.
“We love having (the conference) in Westfield to just be more of a central location, because we serve Hamilton, Boone and Tipton counties, so it’s a good central spot for the three counties,” Hubble said.
For more, visit handincorporated. org/2026-suburban-housing-conference-april-23/
DISPATCH
WHS Dance Team tryouts — Any seventh- or eighth-grade students interested in joining the Westfield High School Dance Team can join WHS dance team coaches and members April 21 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Westfield Middle School LGI Room for high-energy training. Learn technique, across-the-floor work, tricks and a game-day routine — plus get audition information. The parent information session follows from 6 to 7 p.m. For more, contact Kelsie Clayton (ClaytonK@wws.k12.in.us) or Jessica Johnson (jessie32j@gmail.com).
The 12th annual HAND Suburban Housing Conference is scheduled for April 23 at the IMMI Conference Center in Westfield. (Photo courtesy of HAND)
Shamrocks senior softball player off to fast start
By Mark Ambrogi mark@yourecurrent.com
Westfield High School senior center fielder Makayla Watson has learned to take a philosophical approach to playing softball.
“I’ve made the most improvement in my mental game over my career,” she said. “You fail way more than you succeed in this sport, and that was something I used to let affect me and my performance. But now I am able to embrace the failure, learn from it and use it to make me a better player.”
Along with a deep run in the postseason, Watson said one of her goals is being a good leader. New Shamrocks coach Maddie Moore said she has handled the role well.
“She is definitely one of our natural leaders on the team when it comes to skills and doing what’s right,” said Moore, a 2017 Noblesville High School graduate who played softball at Butler University. “She’s a really hard worker. Even before the game, she has her headphones in, and she is just locked in. She is tracking down balls in the out-
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
MEET MAKAYLA WATSON
Favorite movie: “How to Lose a Guy in 10 days”
Favorite TV show: “Stranger Things”
Favorite vacation spot: Outer Banks
Favorite subject: Math
Favorite music genre: Country
field, and she is fast. She does a really good job using her IQ to help her game situations.”
Moore said Watson helps the Shamrocks’ two freshmen.
“She has taken them under her wing and made sure she is talking with them,” Moore said.
In the first seven games, Watson has a .483 batting average and seven stolen
Westfield High School senior center fielder Makayla Watson is a fouryear starter. (Photo courtesy of Rocks Media House)
bases. She is seeking to break her own school single-season stolen base record of 24, which she shares with Avery Parker. Watson hit .444 as a junior.
“When the defense doesn’t know what’s coming, whether you are going to slap, stay in the box and hit or bunt (it’s an advantage),” Moore said.
A four-year varsity starter, Watson said her primary strengths are her work ethic, ability to read the defense at the plate, speed and softball IQ.
“Some things I am currently working on are improving my explosive power
and the placement of my slaps,” she said. Watson started playing softball at age 6. She also played soccer, volleyball, basketball and was a competitive gymnast but focused on softball by age 10.
Watson will play for North Carolina State next season.
“Key factors in choosing N.C. State were the feeling of home as soon as I stepped on campus, the surrounding area of Raleigh, and most importantly, the coaching staff and the culture they created for the program,” she said. “I will report there at the end of June, but I will continue to play a couple tournaments with my travel team for my final season.”
Watson interned at The Freak Performance, an athletic training facility, in Westfield this school year.
“While I am not majoring in a related field, it has taught me collaboration, communication skills, what it is like to run a business and attention to detail,” said Watson, who plans to major in biology and wants a career in anesthesiology. “I also train there, which has taught me a lot about how to recover my body and strengthen it for my sport.”
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Ivy Tech day set for April 2
news@currentnoblesville.com
Ivy Tech Hamilton County’s annual Ivy Tech Day, a statewide day of giving, is set for April 21.
The Hamilton County Commissioners declared the day as Hamilton County’s celebration of Ivy Tech and will light the courthouse green in celebration. The campus will highlight the impact of philanthropy while rallying support for students pursuing education and training for in-demand careers.
“Ivy Tech Day is a day where the community comes together and supports opportunities for students,” said Rachel Kartz, chancellor of Ivy Tech Hamilton County. “All of the dollars raised on that day go directly to supporting students in our area of greatest needs fund.”
Stephannie Bailey, president of the Ivy Tech Foundation, said the day is significant for everyone associated with the college.
“People across the state come together to support our students, celebrate our alumni and enhance the impact we have in Indiana,” Bailey stated. “Ivy Tech Day is a moment where we can celebrate our
successes and nurture the opportunities ahead. We look forward to alumni and friends joining us on this special day.”
Ivy Tech Hamilton County has set a goal to raise $45,000 in unrestricted support this year.
“Indiana communities rely on Ivy Tech to produce a workforce that will support their community workforce needs for decades to come,” stated Marty Pollio, president of Ivy Tech Community College. “We are excited to join hands with our friends and supporters to grow what we’ve started.”
The Hamilton County campus has embraced the theme “Hog Wild for Ivy Tech,” celebrating its campus mascot and community pride. Throughout the day, supporters are encouraged to share messages on social media and participate in giving challenges. In addition to online giving, the campus will host an on-site celebration from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring a bracelet bar, games provided by SERVE Village, food and music, among other activities.
Starting at midnight April 21, anyone can give for 24 hours at giveday.ivytech. edu/hamiltoncounty26.
WHAT’S YOUR HOME WORTH?
Homebuilding permits slow in central Indiana
The Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis reported that single-family building permit activity across central Indiana showed a slight pullback in February.
According to a news release, the nine-county region recorded 662 permits in February — compared to 723 permits in February 2025 — reflecting an 8 percent year-over-year decrease.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau and analysis from the National Association of Home Builders, single-family permitting and housing starts remain cautious nationwide as affordability pressures and interest rate conditions continue to influence builder activity. Recent NAHB data also shows new home sales declined sharply in January — in part because of severe winter weather disruptions.
“Central Indiana’s housing market
continues to demonstrate balance as we move through the early months of 2026,” stated Chris Hancock, CEO of BAGI. “Builders are staying disciplined — pacing production, responding to buyer demand and adjusting to economic conditions while maintaining a steady pipeline. Compared to national trends, central Indiana remains relatively stable. The fundamentals supporting this market are still in place, positioning the region for steady performance as we move further into 2026.”
Hamilton County had the highest number of building permits in February with 185; followed by Marion County with 155. Hancock County had 76; Hendricks County, 69; Johnson County, 67; Boone County, 59; Madison County, 26; Morgan County, 13 and Shelby County, 12.
For more, visit BAGI.com/Permits.
Hospitality Indiana is rebrand for INRLA
news@youarecurrent.com
The Indiana Restaurant & Lodging Association has been renamed Hospitality Indiana.
The change “reflects the full breadth and evolution of the state’s dynamic hospitality community” according to a press release from Hospitality Indiana.
“Indiana’s hospitality industry has grown far beyond traditional definitions,” stated Patrick Tamm, president and CEO of Hospitality Indiana.
president of the Westfield City Council.
The rebrand signals a more inclusive and accurate representation of the diverse businesses that make up Indiana’s hospitality community, including food trucks, fast-casual establishments, catering companies, bed and breakfasts, event venues, luxury hotels and everything in between.
“From local restaurateurs and food entrepreneurs to hotels, event venues, tourism destinations and service providers across the state, our industry drives experiences, jobs and economic growth every day. ‘Hospitality Indiana’ better reflects the full scope of who we serve and the future we are building together.”
Tamm is a Westfield resident and the
Hospitality Indiana represents nearly 300 member organizations operating thousands of locations across the state, within an industry that employs nearly 14 percent of Hoosiers and plays a vital role in Indiana’s economy.
“This is more than a name change,” Tamm stated. “It is a clear signal of where our industry is headed and our commitment to ensuring every corner of Indiana’s hospitality community is represented, supported and connected.”
For more, visit hospitalityindiana. org.
Veteran Who Served Our Country Leader Focused on Public Safety
Strong Community Relationships
Proven to Deliver for Hamilton County
Endorsed by 4 FOPs
Endorsed by 3 Hamilton County Mayors
• Sue Finkam, Carmel Mayor
• Scott Fadness, Fishers Mayor
• Chris Jensen, Noblesville Mayor
Endorsed by Doug Carter, Retired Indiana State Police Superintendent and Hamilton County Sheriff
Vote on or before May 5th
Tamm
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Hamilton County aims to increase poll site numbers
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
County officials are expressing frustration as several local schools have opted out of being polling sites for elections.
Indiana Code 3-11-8-4 states, “School buildings, fire stations, and all other public buildings shall be made available without charge to a county for holding an election,” which means schools are required to provide access to conduct elections.
“The county wishes the schools would comply with the Indiana Code and open their facilities for polling as it was intended to be,” Hamilton County Commissioner Mark Heirbrandt said. “The schools should be off that day. It was intended as a government learning day as I understand it.”
The whole reason why we would like to use the schools is because they’re large, they have a lot of parking, they’re ADA compliant and if we ever went to vote centers, that would be ideal as well.”
Local schools have several reasons for not participating. Craig Tierney, Westfield Washington Schools spokesperson, said the school district believes other locations are a better fit.
County school buildings previously served as polling locations, but in recent years have opted out due to concerns about maintaining student safety.
“Essentially, the schools don’t host election sites for a few different reasons — to prevent disruption to the school day for our staff and students; other organizations like churches are very enthusiastic about hosting so there isn’t a shortage in locations to host; for safety, we require background checks and check in/out procedures for visitors to our schools, and election site hosting brings with it more of an ‘open-door’ policy that does not align with those safety protocols,” Tierney said.
Sheller said although many churches participate, she is concerned more will opt out.
CHEERS TO, PRESLEY ROSS CLASS OF 2026
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Hamilton County Elections Administrator Beth Sheller said the issue has not been pushed in the county because officials want student safety to be the top priority.
“We could request, and the Hamilton County Commissioners have the right to lawfully enforce it by Indiana Code,” Sheller said. “However, all of that would hopefully never be necessary if we could work together and ensure the safety of students and still have the school polling sites.”
Sheller said plans are underway to discuss making Election Day an e-learning day for students.
“I think we could start with discussions and the pros and cons and see where that gets us,” Sheller said.
Sheller said there are 105 polling sites this year, but there used to be more. She said the county would like to transition to a voting center model with 50 to 60 polling sites.
“I call churches over and over asking them, and I’m not getting a very good response anymore on adding locations,” Sheller said. “I fear that we are going to lose more and more.”
Hamilton Southeastern Schools spokesperson Emily Abbotts said community growth creates an election site challenge.
“Displacing P.E. classes from the gyms and having to barricade and man the adjoining areas of the building to keep the community from entering the school became a safety challenge,” Abbotts said. “Couple that with the parking lot issues, particularly at arrival and dismissal times — it became too much.”
Sheller said her hope would be to make Election Day an e-learning day for students in time for the 2028 election year.
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“These would need to be larger facilities,” Sheller said. “If we remain precinct-based voting, and if we could safely use the schools, then we would eliminate some of our little locations with hardly (any) parking and combine them to make voting more accessible.
“I think if we did the 2028 elections, it would give the schools the time to figure out a calendar and figure out how it’s doable while still keeping the students safe,” she said.
Noblesville Schools spokesperson Marnie Cooke said if the district received a formal request about making Election Day an e-learning day, they would discuss the option.
Sheller
COMMUNITY
BROTHERLY SHOVE
Work ethic, athleticism, production put WHS graduate on NFL path
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Dillon Thieneman understands he would not be on the cusp of reaching his dream of playing in the NFL were it not for his older brothers Jacob and Brennan Thienman.
A 2023 Westfield High School graduate, Dillon played two seasons at Purdue University before playing for the University of Oregon last year. A 6-foot, 205-pound safety, he is projected to go in the first round of the NFL Draft April 23.
“They (brothers) helped me with everything, going to college, transferring and finding an agent,” said Dillon, noting that all three siblings played safety. ‘They’ve always been there. Growing up and watching them, going to Purdue games, I think that made me excel faster.”
Jacob graduated from Guerin Catholic in 2014 and Brennan graduated in 2016. Both walked on at Purdue and eventually earned scholarships and starting positions.
“He works unbelievably hard,” Jacob said. “I’m 8 1/2 years older than Dillon, so when I was coming up. I had to break through that door at Purdue and make a name for myself. Then Brennan followed me. Dillon grew up with that (being) normal. For Brennan and I, playing college football at Purdue was a ceiling we had to break through. That was the base expectation for Dillon that he grew up with, watching us play games when he was in elementary and middle school. When you grow up with that expectation, it shapes how you approach things and how you think. He saw the training we were putting in even in high school. So, when you grow up in that environment, it’s definitely going to help you and push you. And what younger brother doesn’t want to outdo their older brothers?”
Jacob said people would often ask him and Brennan who among them was the better player.
“Our answer was always Dillon,” Jacob said. “Even when he was in middle school, we were saying Dillon.” It was obvious, Brennan said.
“It was apparent he was going to be the most athletic of the three of us from the moment we put a football in his hands,” Brennan said. “It was actually unfair how much more athletic he was over other kids when he was around 8 years old.”
Dillon said his work ethic came from watching his brothers earn their spots at Purdue.
Dillon played two seasons for Purdue before transferring to Oregon for the 2025 season. He had 96 total tackles, two interceptions and five pass deflections for the Ducks, who lost to Indiana University in the College Football Playoff semifinals in Atlanta. He helped his cause even more by running the 40-
yard dash in 4.37 seconds at the NFL Combine.
Consistency is an asset he offers an NFL team.
“I feel like I am the same guy day in and day out,” he said.
Dillon said he was confident he would be in a favorable draft position.
“I had that goal set for myself, and I had that mindset that it was going to come true,” he said. “I started to put my head down and make sure it became a reality.”
His season with the Ducks certainly helped.
Dillon, 21, was the Big Ten Freshman of the Year and a Freshman All-American in 2023 but was disappointed with
FOOTBALL FOCUS
“It’s just never certain no matter how good someone is that they can make it this far,” said Gilbert, now the Wabash College head coach. “But if anyone
could do it, that guy could.”
Gilbert said Dillon has a single-minded focus.
“He was dead set to reach his full potential,” he said. “He was just so serious-minded. He loves the game of football. He loved the work and was a student of both.”
his sophomore season.
“It was extremely humbling,” he said. “I felt I didn’t perform as well as I needed to and as a team we didn’t perform well. I felt like I wasn’t being developed the way I needed to make it to the next level.”
Still, he said it was a hard decision to leave Purdue. He was looking for three things when he entered the transfer portal.
“First, a team that had a great culture,” Dillon said. “Second was the correct defensive scheme that would prepare you for the next level, playing multiple coverages and different rotations. Third was the competition side.”
Dillon said his Oregon coaches provided solid direction when reviewing film.
“They didn’t sugarcoat anything,” he said. “I took that to heart and tried to get better.”
Dillon said he worked on his weaknesses from Purdue.
“My open-field tackling wasn’t the best that second year at Purdue,” he said. “That’s something I really worked on in the offseason with my coaches, doing extra drills.”
Dillon said he made the decision to declare early for the draft after talking with NFL general managers, his coaches and his family. He got a draft grade projecting him to be a likely first- or second-round selection.
“I had three years of starting experience, so I felt I had enough experience,” he said.
Wherever Dillon lands in the NFL, his brothers are considering a move to follow.
Jacob and Brennan are online fitness coaches. Jacob, who made the San Francisco 49ers’ practice squad in 2019, lives in Carmel. Brennan lives in Noblesville. The siblings can work anywhere.
“We’re not going to Seattle or Minneapolis or somewhere cold and not fun,” Jacob said. “But if it’s Miami, Tampa or (Arizona), we’ll be there.”
ON THE COVER: From left, Jacob, Dillon and Brennan Thieneman after a University of Oregon victory. (Photo courtesy of Jacob Thieneman)
Westfield’s Dillon Thieneman takes part in the NFL Combine in February at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. (Photos courtesy of University of Oregon athletics)
Westfield’s Dillon Thieneman is shown playing for Oregon during a September 2025 Big Ten game at Northwestern’s Martin Stadium.
Former Westfield High School coach Jake Gilbert knew Dillon Thieneman had the talent during his high school career.
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WESTFIELD
COLLECTIVE RIBBON CUTTING
Officials cut the ribbon April 15 for the Westfield Collective, an entertainment-based dining destination at 751 E. 181st St. Westfield Mayor Scott Willis, Westfield Collective co-owner Mike Ewers, Westfield Collective co-owner Heather Ewers, ibeach31 founder and Westfield Collective beach director Katie Conner are joined by members of the Westfield Chamber of Commerce, City of Westfield employees and well-wishers at the ceremony. (Photo by Todd Golden)
Local business receives award
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK Indianapolis North, a full-service junk removal company, recently won the Junk Eco Hauler Award, a top national recognition for environmental stewardship out of the brand’s 70 locations nationwide.
The company, which originated in Noblesville, achieved a 5.24 percent disposal cost, which is the lowest in the country. TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK Indianapolis North General Manager Curtis Lewandowski, a Noblesville resident, said this is the first time the Indianapolis North location has earned the award.
“It starts with the trucks,” Lewandowski said. “While we’re out there, we’re sorting on each job and going through the items the customers want us to haul away to figure out what we can reuse and where we can recycle. There’s some items that have to go to the landfill, but we try to keep that as minimal as possible.”
The 5.24 percent disposal cost means the majority of what the company col-
lects is recycled, repurposed or donated in the community rather than being dumped into a landfill.
“As a company, we try to do landfill diversion,” Lewandowski said. “So, we try not to have items go to the dump as much as possible. We’re really trying to donate as many items as we possibly can or recycle. We try to make sure our items have a place, whether it’s a charity, women’s shelter or Salvation Army.”
Lewandowski said he hopes to connect with more organizations in 2026 and lower the disposal cost.
“We’re really proud that we were able to achieve this feat,” Lewandowski said. “Going into 2026, we’re trying to redo that, donate as much as possible and try to keep things out of the landfill. We’re shooting for a 4.24 percent disposal cost for the year by reaching out to different recycling plants to see what items they can take that we may not have known before or reaching out to other charities and seeing what kind of stuff they may need.”
The company offers clean-out services, furniture removal, debris and trash pickup and appliance removal. For more, visit twomenandajunktruck.com.
HEALTH
The CLIMB classes help Parkinson’s patients
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Mark Levenson has gotten a new lease on life, thanks to The CLIMB exercise classes at PrimeLife Enrichment in Carmel.
“It’s fantastic. It’s made all the difference in the world,” he said. “It’s a tremendous benefit.”
After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in November 2025, the 77-year-old Westfield resident immediately contacted the Noblesville-based Indiana Parkinson Foundation and learned about the classes.
“When the diagnosis came, it was shocking but answered a lot of questions,” he said.
Levenson has been attending the CLIMB exercise classes, designed for people with Parkinson’s disease, three days a week. With April being Parkinson’s Awareness Month, the Indiana Parkinson Foundation’s Choose to Move 5K Run and Walk and 1-mile Walk will be held April 25 at Witten Park in Fishers. Levenson said the Choose to Move event is important, but since he has had nine back surgeries he can’t walk that far.
Levenson said he recently appeared on a podcast for the Indiana Parkinson Foundation to raise awareness about the event and the benefits of The CLIMB classes.
“The PrimeLife director of fitness, Lindsay Williams, is phenomenal,” he said. “Her caring and positive attitude really enlightened me. It took something that was a real negative going through it and turned it around to where I was able to be really positive again. I had all the symptoms you can have with depression and anxiety along with hallucinations and delusions. Because of the program it has given me the basis to feel renewed.”
Levenson briefly was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in Houston about five years ago, but he said doctors later undiagnosed it.
Two years later, it was incorrectly diagnosed by one neurologist as atypical seizures.
Levenson was a high school band director for seven years in the Minneapolis area before becoming a human resources executive. He later had his own
human resources consulting firm.
Levinson’s love of music has never wavered. He works as a private teacher for saxophone, clarinet and flute for Meridian School of Music in Carmel.
“For a while, my playing of the horns was altered because of the tremors in my hands, but one of the medicines has helped that,” he said. “I’m playing a lot more, so that’s a good thing.”
Levenson said he is helping PrimeLife with his background in HR.
“When I was in Florida, I did an employee handbook for a senior center,” he said. “So, I’ve redone the employee handbook for PrimeLife.”
Levenson and his wife, Kathy, moved to Westfield three years ago when his daughter and son-in-law Amy and James Losee moved with their daughter, Maddie Losee, who will graduate from Carmel High School this spring.
Maddie previously was a highly competitive gymnast in Simone Biles family’s gymnastics center in Houston but had to quit at age 14 because of knee injuries. She became a top platform diver, finishing eighth in a tower dive at USA Junior National Championships in 2022. She competed for CHS but has since given up competing due to injuries. She will attend the University of Alabama with plans to become a nurse. Levenson also has a son in Raleigh, N.C.
For more, visit indianaparkinson. org/choose-to-move-race.
Mark Levenson, who has Parkinson’s disease, is able to give music lessons with the benefit of exercise classes. (Photo courtesy of Mark Levenson)
ATI presents ‘Sunset Boulevard’ musical
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Judy Fitzgerald is indeed ready for her close-up as Norma Desmond.
Fitzgerald, the Actors Theatre of Indiana’s artistic director, plays silent-screen star Norma Desmond in “Sunset Boulevard” April 24 to May 10 in ATI’s production at the Studio Theater in Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
“My goal is for the character to be true to the movie and the musical,” Fitzgerald said. “It’s an honor to get to play the role. It’s a huge role that runs the gamut from falling in love to going completely crazy.”
Don Farrell, an ATI co-founder along with Fitzgerald and Cynthia Collins, is making his first ATI performance since “Million Dollar Quartet” in June 2023. He stepped away from ATI to work on his other projects.
“When Judy called and said we’d love to cast you in this, I was honored she thought of me for this role,” he said. “I can’t think of a better way to come back to working with Judy on this stage that has so many memories.”
Farrell portrays Max, Desmond’s loyal servant.
“The tragedy and desperation for each character — and when you hear the score Andrew Lloyd Webber has for each character — it’s really something special,” he said. “Max is a fierce defender of Norma. He’s very silent but he’s always there. He’s always observing. It’s almost creepy. He’s watching the relationship between Joe and Norma and how she’s starting to fall (for Joe). He’s wanting to protect her.”
Fitzgerald said Max has a lot more presence in the musical.
“He has some big numbers,” Fitzgerald said.
Farrell saw the show on Broadway in the early 1990s.
“It’s amazing storytelling,” Farrell
said. “There’s so much mystery.”
Fitzgerald said the musical is true to the 1950 movie, which starred Gloria Swanson as Norma Desmond.
Luke Weber, who is based in Dallas and performed in “Violet” with ATI in 2022, plays Joe Gillis, a writer.
“There’s a lot of decisions Joe makes that I’m thinking, ‘Why would he do that?’” Weber said. “But I think it’s his desire to be involved and wanting to be recognized for his work and wanting to make it big in some way. There’s a lot bubbling under the surface that I’m excited to play with.”
Fitzgerald’s former North Central High School classmate Michael Blatt is directing.
“I love getting to come back to Indianapolis and ATI,” Blatt said. “This will be my fifth show with ATI, and I am so grateful to be able to practice my craft at such a wonderful theater. It’s always
so special for me to get to do theater here. I really found my love for theater in Indianapolis and had wonderful opportunities here, in starting from a young age at Starlight Musicals, Jr. Civic and Footlite Musicals, and then later at North Central High School.
And it’s extra special to get to direct Judy Fitzgerald. We have been friends since high school and starred in all the shows together there. I think our young selves would be so happy that all these years later we are still friends and creating theater together.”
Blatt is directing an Andrew Lloyd Webber musical for the first time.
“It really feels like a rite of passage to finally direct one of his shows,” Blatt said. “I’m a huge fan of Andrew Lloyd Webber and I’ve seen every Broadway production of ‘Sunset,’ and I’m excited to put my own stamp on the material.”
For more, visit atistage.org.
‘SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN’
“Singin’ in the Rain” runs through May 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards. com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
Feinstein’s cabaret presents Ball State Studio Band & Josh Kaufman April 23, followed by Human Jukebox with The Ahlwardts April 24 at Feinstein’s in Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc. com.
‘MEN ON BOATS’
The Carmel Community Players production of “Men on Boats” runs through April 26 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.
JOSHUA BELL
Violinist Joshua Bell will perform at 7:30 p.m. April 23 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘FIDDLER ON THE ROOF’
Civic Theatre presents “Fiddler on the Roof” April 24 to May 9 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.
SNARKY PUPPY
Snarky Puppy will perform its Somni Tour concert at 8 p.m. April 25 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘THE
GOLDEN RECORD’
Hendricks Symphony’s “The Golden Record” concert is set for 7:30 p.m. April 24 and 3 p.m. April 26 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. For more, visit hendrickslive.org.
Judy Fitzgerald and Luke Weber perform in “Sunset Boulevard.” (Photo courtesy of ATI)
Farrell
ENTERTAINMENT
Hendricks Symphony show set
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Hendricks Symphony Music Director Amy Eggleston came up with a unique concept for a concert.
Hendricks Symphony will perform “The Golden Record” at 7:30 p.m. April 24 and 3 p.m. April 26 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. The name was derived from “The Golden Record,” which went into space on the Voyager in 1977.
“Many of our selections are directly from the record, which is music and cultural sounds from all over the planet (that) we sent out into space to tell any extraterrestrial being that we come in friendship and peace and to demonstrate what sounds happen on planet Earth,” Eggleston said.
Eggleston said the symphony will conclude the first half with Ludwig van Beethoven’s “Ninth Symphony, the Ode to Joy.”
“So, everybody will know that (piece),” she said.
Igor Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring,” including dancers from The Children’s Ballet, is about 35 minutes and is the entire second half of the concert.
“That is not a piece many orchestras get the opportunity to play, so many of the members are excited about putting it together,” Eggleston said. “We’re going to have fun with it.”
“The Golden Record” included greetings from Earth in many different languages. It also included bird sounds and other natural sounds along with music.
Eggleston said the concert includes pieces from the record, such as the first movement of Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Brandenburg Concerto” and the “Queen of the Night” aria from Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s “The Magic Flute” opera.
“It had a lot of pieces of music of all different genres,” Eggleston said. “So, I concentrated on the more classical pieces that are on there, but I did include a few (unique pieces), like there is a native Navajo piece in the concert.”
For more, visit hendrickssymphony. org/.
Eggleston
Violinist Bell to perform
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Each year, violinist Joshua Bell talks about cutting down his schedule. However, that never seems to happen.
“I play about 120 concerts a year, which means some 200 days of traveling and six major continents,” he said. “I have friends everywhere, so I tend to keep filling up (my) schedule. I’m lucky to be in that position. I’ve been based in New York City for the past 30 years or so. New York was an easier base for my touring life since I spend half of my year in Europe, but Indiana is still my spiritual home.”
The Indiana University graduate and Bloomington native will perform at 7:30 p.m. April 23 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
Bell, 58, will be accompanied by recording artist and pianist Shai Wosner. The appearance will be Bell’s sixth at the Palladium.
“Shai is a wonderful pianist that I met several years ago in New York and it’s really a duo recital for violin and piano,” he said. “All the pieces are equal for violin and piano. We have four big sonatas that we’re playing on the program that are different sides of classical music.”
The composers include Franz Schubert, Edward Greig, Segei Prokofiev and Maurice Ravel.
“It’s kind of a tasting menu of classical music is the way I like to think of it —- all very accessible and exciting pieces,” he said. “I’ve probably not done all in this combination, and some I have not done with this pianist. All the pieces have been in my repertoire for a long time in my life. You live with them
and get to know them better, and you start working with a new pianist and it changes your perspective.”
Bell said the great thing about classical music is he gets to explore the depth of the pieces.
“They are so rich and so deep with the genius of these composers,” he said. “These four composers are some of the great musical minds of the last couple of centuries.”
Bell has been the music director of the Academy of St. Martin of the Fields in London since 2011.
Bell purchased a Stradivarius violin, known as a Gibson ex Huberman, from 1713 in 2001. He paid about $4 million for it, but it is estimated now to be worth $14 million.
“I’m incredibly privileged to have acquired a Stradivari and I think it is one of the great ones,” he said. “The fact of the matter is when you get used to one instrument and all the nuances, it’s very hard to switch between instruments.”
Bell purchased his first Stradivarius at age 19.
“I got very lucky, but it was one of the cheaper ones because it didn’t have all its original parts but still for me it was incredibly expensive,” he said. “But I was able to trade myself up throughout my career, and this is the third Stradivari that I’ve owned.”
Violinist Joshua Bell will perform April 23 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Allied Solutions Center)
ENTERTAINMENT
NC grad returns for ‘Figaro’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
This will be a change of pace for Ian Michael.
“It will be nice to do more of a comedic role,” he said. “I think the character is funny.”
The 2010 North Central High School graduate will portray Antonio in “The Marriage of Figaro” May 1-3 at The Toby Theater at Newfields at Indianapolis. The performances are at 7:30 p.m. May 1-2 and 3 p.m. May 3.
Michael, a South Bend resident, is the chair of the community engagement and education committee for South Bend Lyric Opera.
“It’s been several years since I lived in Indy, so it’s nice to come back and actually spend time here,” he said. This is Michael’s second production with Indianapolis Opera, as he performed in “Rigoletto” in November 2025.
For “Figaro,” Michael is in the ensemble for the first act and then appears as Antonio in the second act.
“The funny thing is, he doesn’t show up until the middle of Act 2 finale and (the script) says half-drunkenly, running into tell someone about the plot,” he said. “It’s more a comedic role compared to Count Ceprano in ‘Rigoletto.’ It’s nice to do something a little more slapstick.”
Michael performed with Indiana Repertory Theatre, Civic Theatre and Summer Stock Stage as a youth.
“I didn’t know that much about Indy Opera, so it was a pleasure when I came in November to see what the experience was like,” he said. “It was phenomenal. I was blown away by the cast’s talent.”
A bass-baritone, Michael attended the University of Michigan and then moved to Fort Wayne after graduation. He was part of Heartland Sings Inc. and became involved with Fort Wayne Philharmonic.
“Opera is one of the things I do but I style myself as a crossover artist,” he said.
For more, visit indyopera.org and ianmichael.org.
Yakovleva
Michael
COMMUNITY VOICES
An appeal for Buck
Editor,
As an 86-year-old resident of Hamilton County since 1984 I am offended and appalled by the scurrilous attacks on Indiana State Sen. Jim Buck by his primary opponent. Jim Buck has been in office for over 30 years because he represents our district in keeping with our wishes as his constituents. Age has nothing to do with this. Jim Buck votes for us, not for someone or something outside of our district. This vicious campaign against Jim Buck is funded
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
Sealed proposals for 191st Street Road Widening Project will be received by the City of Westfield, Indiana, at the Westfield Public Works Building, 2706 E. 171st Street, Westfield, Indiana, 46074 until 10:15 a.m., local time, on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. Any bids received later than the above time and date will be returned unopened. No conditional bids will be considered.
Project generally includes roadway widening and re-construction of approximately 3,300 feet converting a two-lane roadway to a five-lane boulevard-style with curb and gutter, curbed medians, storm sewers, multi-use path, sidewalk, curb ramps, pavement markings, signing, and lighting. A roundabout at the intersection of 191st Street and Grand Park Boulevard and a bridge over 191st Street for the Monon Trail are included in the construction limits.
Bids shall be properly and completely executed on the Proposal Form obtainable at the office of the Owner. Each bid shall be accompanied by Form 96 Contractor's Bid for Public Works, including Non-Collusion Affidavit as prescribed by the State Board of Accounts, completely filled out, signed, and notarized as required by the statutes of the State of Indiana, Section III of Part II of Form 96 titled "Contractor's Financial Statement," and acceptable bid security. The bid security shall be a certified check made payable to the Owner or satisfactory bond by an incorporated surety company in good standing and qualified to do business in the State of Indiana in an amount equal to 5% of the bid, said deposit being for the purpose of ensuring the execution of the contract for which bid is made. Any bid not accompanied by the above required items shall be deemed to be a non-responsive bid by the Owner.
No consideration for escalation on prices can be considered; therefore, contractors are advised to not include any such escalation clauses in their proposal for this project.
The Contractors to whom work is awarded shall be required to furnish a Performance Bond and a Payment Bond, each in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the contract price, and they shall be acceptable to the City of Westfield, Indiana. No bidder may withdraw their proposal within a period of 60 days following the date set for receiving bids. The City of Westfield, Indiana reserves the right to retain the three lowest bid proposals for a period of not more than 90 days, and said proposal shall remain in full force and effect during said time. The City of Westfield, Indiana further reserves the right to waive informalities and to award the contract to the lowest and most responsible bidder or bidders, all to the advantage of the City of Westfield, Indiana, or to reject all Proposals.
The Contract Documents and drawings will be available to all interested parties from: Repro Graphix, 437 North Illinois Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204 or at eplanroom.reprographix.com.
Please direct all questions regarding this project to Michael Pearce, City of Westfield, Department of Public Works, 2706 E. 171st Street, Westfield, IN 46074, (317) 473-2917, mpearce@westfield.in.gov
By: Michael Pearce, City of Westfield
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
Sealed proposals for SR 32 and Mule Barn Road
Intersection Improvement will be received by the City of Westfield, Indiana, at the Westfield Public Works Building, 2706 E. 171st Street, Westfield, Indiana, 46074 until 10:00 a.m., local time, on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. Any bids received later than the above time and date will be returned unopened. No conditional bids will be considered. Project generally includes roadway widening and re-construction of approximately 3,000 feet of Mule Barn Road, including improvements to the intersection at SR 32 that will add a southbound left-turn lane, eastbound left-turn lane, and westbound right-turn lane at the intersection. Both concrete and asphalt mainline paving, along with shoulders and drainage improvements are included in the construction limits.
Bids shall be properly and completely executed on the Proposal Form obtainable at the office of the Owner. Each bid shall be accompanied by Form 96 Contractor's Bid for Public Works, including Non-Collusion Affidavit as prescribed by the State Board of Accounts, completely filled out, signed, and notarized as required by the statutes of the State of Indiana, Section III of Part II of Form 96 titled "Contractor's Financial Statement," and acceptable bid security. The bid security shall be a certified check made payable to the Owner or satisfactory bond by an incorporated surety company in good standing and qualified to do business in the State of Indiana in an amount equal to 5% of the bid, said deposit being for the purpose of ensuring the execution of the contract for which bid is made. Any bid not accompanied by the above required items shall be deemed to be a non-responsive bid by the Owner.
No consideration for escalation on prices can be considered; therefore, contractors are advised to not include any such escalation clauses in their proposal for this project.
The Contractors to whom work is awarded shall be required to furnish a Performance Bond and a Payment Bond, each in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the contract price, and they shall be acceptable to the City of Westfield, Indiana.
No bidder may withdraw their proposal within a period of 60 days following the date set for receiving bids. The City of Westfield, Indiana reserves the right to retain the three lowest bid proposals for a period of not more than 90 days, and said proposal shall remain in full force and effect during said time.
The City of Westfield, Indiana further reserves the right to waive informalities and to award the contract to the lowest and most responsible bidder or bidders, all to the advantage of the City of Westfield, Indiana, or to reject all Proposals.
The Contract Documents and drawings will be available to all interested parties from: Repro Graphix, 437 North Illinois Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204 or at eplanroom.reprographix.com.
Please direct all questions regarding this project to Michael Pearce, City of Westfield, Department of Public Works, 2706 E. 171st Street, Westfield, IN 46074, (317) 473-2917, mpearce@westfield.in.gov
By:
Michael Pearce, City of Westfield
by sources outside of our district. This means Jim Buck’s opponent will not follow the wishes of those of us in the district but will do the bidding of those who are funding the campaign against Jim Buck from outside of our district. These forces criticize Jim Buck for not supporting the redistricting of Indiana in an attempt to eliminate two Democrats from Indiana in Congress. Jim
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
Sealed proposals for Grand Park Boulevard and Tournament Trail Traffic Signal Installation Project will be received by the City of Westfield, Indiana, at the Westfield Public Works Building, 2706 E. 171st Street, Westfield, Indiana, 46074 until 10:30 a.m., local time, on Tuesday, April 28, 2026. Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. Any bids received later than the above time and date will be returned unopened. No conditional bids will be considered.
Project generally includes installing a traffic signal at Grand Park Boulevard and Tournament Trail. ADA curb ramps, concrete sidewalks, pavement markings and highway signs are included in the construction limits. Bids shall be properly and completely executed on the Proposal Form obtainable at the office of the Owner. Each bid shall be accompanied by Form 96 Contractor's Bid for Public Works, including Non-Collusion Affidavit as prescribed by the State Board of Accounts, completely filled out, signed, and notarized as required by the statutes of the State of Indiana, Section III of Part II of Form 96 titled "Contractor's Financial Statement," and acceptable bid security. The bid security shall be a certified check made payable to the Owner or satisfactory bond by an incorporated surety company in good standing and qualified to do business in the State of Indiana in an amount equal to 5% of the bid, said deposit being for the purpose of ensuring the execution of the contract for which bid is made. Any bid not accompanied by the above required items shall be deemed to be a non-responsive bid by the Owner.
No consideration for escalation on prices can be considered; therefore, contractors are advised to not include any such escalation clauses in their proposal for this project.
The Contractors to whom work is awarded shall be required to furnish a Performance Bond and a Payment Bond, each in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the contract price, and they shall be acceptable to the City of Westfield, Indiana.
No bidder may withdraw their proposal within a period of 60 days following the date set for receiving bids. The City of Westfield, Indiana reserves the right to retain the three lowest bid proposals for a period of not more than 90 days, and said proposal shall remain in full force and effect during said time.
The City of Westfield, Indiana further reserves the right to waive informalities and to award the contract to the lowest and most responsible bidder or bidders, all to the advantage of the City of Westfield, Indiana, or to reject all Proposals.
The Contract Documents and drawings will be available to all interested parties from: Repro Graphix, 437 North Illinois Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204 or at eplanroom.reprographix.com. Please direct all questions regarding this project to Michael Pearce, City of Westfield, Department of Public Works, 2706 E. 171st Street, Westfield, IN 46074, (317) 473-2917, mpearce@westfield.in.gov
By: Michael Pearce,
City of Westfield
Buck voted the way we, his constituents, asked him to vote on the issue. During the 42 years we have lived here in Hamilton County, we have never witnessed such a horrible and vicious campaign. The people of our district did not and will not fund such a horrible and vicious campaign. I urge all voters represented by Jim Buck to vote for Jim Buck in the May 5 primary election. To do otherwise is to give away our right to be represented as we wish, and instead to be directed by someone or something outside of our district who will dictate to Jim Buck’s opponent. If elected, Jim Buck’s opponent will be a puppet of these nebulous forces. Please vote for Jim Buck in the May 5 primary election to protect our interests and not those of someone or something else from outside of our district.
Steve Baranyk,
Westfield
COLUMNISTS ON THE WEB
This week’s commentaries by Current Publishing essayist Terry Anker and humorist Dick Wolfsie may be read at youarecurrent.com.
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15. Plural of louse
16. Be a bad winner
17. One way to stand by
18. Boatload
19. Swindles
20. Iconic design created
by Terre Haute’s Root
Glass Company in 1915
23. Actor Reeves
24. Medical research agency inits.
25. “Norma ___”
27. Indiana tax ID
28. Boot part
31. Tangle
34. Astronomical “Way”
36. Paper units
37. Indy’s Taggart Baking Company creation in 1921
40. Plot of land
42. Glower
43. Butler’s non-scholarship players
46. WTTV net.
47. WFYI net.
50. Falcons, on a Colts scoreboard
51. Choose
53. Retailer with 2,486 stores in 1994. In 2026? Three.
55. Innovation created for use at the Indy 500 in 1911
60. Noncommittal answer
61. Hindu royal
62. Sit in the sun
63. Freeze
64. Publishing ID
65. Bad day for Caesar
66. Westfield HS exams
67. Durable wood
68. Army officers (Abbr.) DOWN
1. Movies
2. Changes the decor
3. “The Wizard of Oz” prop
4. Ancient Central American
5. Too
6. Cash drawer
7. Arctic ___
8. Beginner, to a gamer
9. Letters before Q+
10. Dismounted
11. I-90 in Indiana, e.g.
12. Zero in
13. UFO crew
21. Slice
22. Electrical unit
26. Chicago trains
29. Antiquated
30. Barely get, with “out”
32. Beer, slangily
33. Authentic
34. Imitation
35. Jr. and Sr. at NHS
37. White River fish
38. Letters on an email header, maybe
39. Steal
40. Defunct IND carrier
41. Exhausting routine
44. Indianapolis Monumental Marathon mo.
45. Ghost
47. Annual July 4 CarmelFest event
48. Not working
49. Emphasize
52. Josh
54. “Sex and the City” character
56. Be next to
57. Spartz and Carson, briefly
58. Fever’s org.
59. Stole material
60. Cambridge univ. ANSWERS ON PAGE 31
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