Come celebrate our partnership with Sister City, Kawachinagano, Japan
SUNDAY, MAY 4
2025 | 1 – 4 PM
• Japanese Food Vendors
• Musical, Dance and Martial Arts Performances
• Japanese Cultural Activities
10 MAY SATURDAY 2-6 PM
MIDTOWN PLAZA
29, 2025
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Westfield residents are invited to participate in an online workshop through May 9 to assist with the development of the city’s comprehensive plan.
The workshop mirrors two public meetings held recently at Westfield Washington Public Library. Attendees at the open house-style events were given the opportunity to review elements of the comprehensive plan and provide feedback.
The comprehensive plan is a long-term vision for the future of Westfield. It focuses on multiple aspects related to growth, including community character; land uses and amenities; transportation; bicycle and pedestrian connectivity; and community vision and values. “This update is crucial for guiding Westfields growth, addressing emerging challenges and capturing new opportunities,” Mayor Scott Willis stated.
The comprehensive plan — being drafted by Rundell Ernstberger Associates — is an update to the city’s 2007 comprehensive plan and will provide a blueprint for land use, infrastructure, economic growth and community development through 2045.
Information collected at the public meetings indicated that the community considers Westfield’s core values to include a community that is family-focused, safe, and rooted in history with great schools and quality health care. Members of the community voted on what they would like to see as priority community values for the future, including a safe, vibrant, sustainable and welcoming community.
In terms of missing amenities, participants in public meetings indicated they would like to see more sit-down restaurants, parking, public art, community gardens and passive green spaces.
The plan’s draft vision statement calls Westfield “a city with a bold vision for a place that embraces destination tourists and new residents, has a local and regional economic base and has the quality of life that makes it desirable for generational families to prosper in the community.” The vision statement is a series of “big picture” statements and is not final.
The comprehensive plan also will include value statements on growth, schools, safety, housing, trails, businesses, leadership, parks, services and local opportunities.
Residents who particiapate in the online workshop can weigh in on long-term goals
for housing, economic development and transportation.
Once complete, the comprehensive plan will provide the framework for updates to key areas of the city, including downtown, Grand Park, and the Westfield Washington Township communities of Hortonville, Lamong, Eagletown and Jolietville.
Westfield’s Board of Public Works and Safety approved an agreement with Rundell Ernstberger Associates, Inc. in August 2024 for $520,000 for creation of the plan.
A comprehensive plan is a nonbinding document that municipalities use to guide
decisions on growth, attracting businesses, residential developments, safety and park planning. Westfield’s comprehensive plan will focus on several key areas, including land use, zoning, transportation, infrastructure, economic development, sustainability, environment and community engagement.
The draft plan is expected to be finalized by October, with review by the Advisory Plan Commission and adoption by the Westfield City Council by December 2025 or January 2026.
Learn more and participate in the online workshop at tinyurl.com/3xut2uep.
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CELEBRATE THE CONCLUSION OF THE PARADE OF HOMES WITH A BEHIND THE SCENES PREVIEW OF HOME-A-RAMA!
May 4, 2025 | 2 – 6pm 1360 Chatham Ridge Ct., Westfield, IN 46074
The 2025 Lee Supply Corp Home-A-Rama will be held at Chatham Hills in Westfield this September. Get a sneak peek at this fun event hosted by Henke Development and enjoy some tacos, margaritas and under construction masterpieces.
Ripple Effect Choir from South Bend, Ind. will perform at New Joy Church, 316 W. 156th St. in Westfield, at 4:30 p.m. May 4. Ripple Effect Choir was started by Sherry Klinedinst to encourage acceptance, nurture well-being and promote a sense of community while transforming social awareness through the power of music. The members envision a world in which every human is treated with respect, kindness and love. The performance is open to the public and donations will be accepted. For more, contact Beckie Flannery at rfoldmom@comcast.net. View performances of Ripple Effect Choir at youtube.com/@SherryK/videos.
The 2025 Westfield farmers market returns to Grand Junction Plaza from 5 to 8 p.m. May 8. Mayor Scott Willis will kick off the market season by ringing the opening bell at 5 p.m. The market is every Thursday through Sept. 4, excluding July 3, and features produce, locally sourced food and beverages, artisanal goods and more. Learn more at westfieldin.gov/433/ Westfield-Farmers-Market.
Stuckey Farm, 19975 Hamilton Boone Rd. near the Westfield/Zionsville border, will host “Mother’s Day Tea with Mums” at 1 p.m. May 4. Besides a menu of finger sandwiches, savory bites, scones, sweet treats and premium teas, visitors will enjoy a hands-on planting experience with the teapot-shaped U-plant flowerpot. Other activities include lawn games and photo opportunities. Tickets are presale only. Family-style lunch is $75 per person and tables are available for $280 for up to four people and $400 for up to six people. Learn more at stuckeyfarm.com/special-events/ mothers-day-tea-with-mums.
Westfield resident and naturalist Randall Tatum will guide a hike for all ages from 9 to 10 a.m. May 4 at Raymond Worth Park, 16301 Little Creek Ave. participants will explore the park’s flora and fauna and experience the magic of the spring season. This hike is free and open to the public, but registration is requested. Learn more at tinyurl.com/3h9jj5n9.
Westfield Mayor Scott Willis will host a town hall meeting at 7 p.m. May 7 at Wood Wind Golf Club, 2302 W. 161st St. Residents are encouraged to attend to learn about city developments and share comments or concerns with the mayor and city staff. The event is free and open to the public but RSVPs are requested. Register at tinyurl.com/y63t3y38.
The 10th annual Sip n’ Shop vendor market takes place at Roundtripper Sports Academy, 16708 Southpark Dr., Westfield, from 6 to 8 p.m. May 8. The event will feature more than 60 local business owners, live music, wine, beer, nonalcoholic beverages and food trucks. The vendors will have a variety of goods including Mother’s Day and graduation gift ideas. The event is sponsored by Vino Mobile Bar in Carmel. Learn more at facebook.com/ vinomobilebar.
Visitors are welcome to explore diverse arts, entertainment, traditions and food from all over the world at the Westfield International Festival — previously Cuisine Connect Culture — from noon to 3 p.m. May 10 at Grand Junction Plaza. The festival includes performances, diverse cuisines, traditions, crafts, products and games from other countries. Learn more at tinyurl.com/3urwcwc3.
Westfield-based volunteer group Recycled Cycles will host a used bicycle sale and donation day from 10 a.m. to noon May 17 at the organization’s repair shop, 810 E. Main St. north of Big Hoffa’s. Approximately 40 bicycles in top condition and highend equipment will be for sale. All bicycles have been repaired, adjusted, lubricated and inspected for safe use. Payment by check is preferred. Proceeds will be used to purchase parts to repair other bicycles. Recycled Cycles volunteers repair child and adult bicycles throughout the year under the sponsorship of Good Samaritan Network of Hamilton County. Donations of any used bicycle, no matter what condition, are accepted and parts from unrepairable bikes are salvaged to make whole bikes. In 2024, Recycled Cycles repaired and gave away 400 bicycles to deserving families.
This event is free and open to the public. To learn more and RSVP, visit westfieldin.gov/memorialceremony
news@currentinwestfield.com
Westfield Washington Public Library has added some “things” to its collection.
The Westfield Library Foundation recently provided the library with an Adult Library of Things, in honor of the library’s 123rd birthday. As its name suggests, the library includes items not typically found for checkout at the public library — including tool sets, craft supplies and cameras.
“We wanted to give the library a gift the entire community could benefit from,” stated Erin Downey, Executive Director of the Westfield Library Foundation. “This collection will allow our neighbors to discover new hobbies, try out new tools and learn in a way that fits their lifestyle. What a fun way to celebrate the library and all its patrons.”
The Adult Library of Things is housed on the second floor of the library near the nonfiction section. The collection includes
The Adult Library of Things is on the second floor of Westfield Washington Public Library. (Photo courtesy of the Westfield Library Foundation)
a variety of tools and resources like a bicycle tool kit, a rotary cutting set, ukuleles, an electric yarn winder and a thermal imaging camera. All items are available for checkout to adult library cardholders.
Patrons can donate to the Adult Library of Things by purchasing a gift from the library’s Amazon Wish List at ow.ly/ OHzB50UjCmO.
The Westfield Library Foundation is a nonprofit supporting innovative programs and services for the Westfield Washington Public Library. Learn more at westfieldlibraryfoundation.com.
news@currentinwestfield.com
A new townhome community on the Midland Trace Trail is the latest revitalization effort in downtown Westfield.
Midland South, a luxury townhome community by Old Town Design Group, is under construction along the trail east of Grand Junction Plaza. The development is one of several downtown revitalization projects in downtown Westfield, including Union Square, Sun King Brewery and Park and Poplar, a mixeduse commercial and residential planned unit development west of Grand Junction Plaza.
“This is truly a once-in-a-generation moment for Westfield,” Mayor Scott Willis stated. “We’re creating a vibrant, walkable downtown that residents and visitors alike will enjoy for decades to come.”
Old Town Design Group officials said Midland South’s access to downtown Westfield represents investment potential.
The townhomes include high-end finishes, fireplaces and accent walls on the interior, with pedestrian access to downtown, trails and green spaces in an area where home values are expected to climb.
“People want to be where the action is,” stated Matt Huffman, President of Old Town Design Group.
Learn more and tour available homes at oldtowndesigngroup.com.
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Indiana’s new state tax bill, Senate Bill 1, was signed into law April 15 by Gov. Mike Braun. Beginning in 2026, the new law will lower property taxes through tax credits and limit how much communities can raise through property taxes.
The bill is designed for property tax relief but will impact local municipalities by reducing what they can collect. The legislation will cap local income tax rates for counties at 2.9 percent. Municipalities can impose rates up to 1.2 percent.
The City of Westfield has not yet announced plans to address how the bill will impact the city’s finances.
“Given the complicated nature of the bill, we are still working to understand the impacts of SB1 to the city,” Westfield Communications Director Kayla Arnold said. “Once we have additional clarification and projections, we will work to adapt accordingly.”
The state tax bill also affects funding for public schools, which receive property tax revenue as part of their overall budgets.
Read Senate Bill 1 at iga.in.gov/ legislative/2025/bills/senate/1/details.
Brave the Barricades in Westfield — The City of Westfield recently launched the Brave the Barricades campaign to encourage residents and visitors to support local businesses by offering incentives for visiting local businesses affected by the closure of Ind. 32. The City of Westfield and the Downtown Westfield Association have partnered with local businesses in a stamp campaign. People who make a purchase at a participating business will earn a stamp. At the end of each month from May through October, participants will be eligible to win $200 in gift cards. Gift cards for May include Chiba, Wine Vault and Big Hoffa’s BBQ. Learn more at 32connects. com/barricades.
In partnership with the CheckIt4Andretti Foundation and in honor of its founder, John Andretti, join us for Riverview Health’s Drive2Detect!
A night of exotic cars, local cuisine and great race-themed experiences, all in a unique atmosphere. Help us in our mission to increase colon cancer awareness and raise funds to provide no-cost colonoscopies and post-diagnosis support to those who cannot otherwise afford it.
Tickets are now available! Simply scan the QR code or visit drive2detect.com to reserve your place. A limited number of VIP Access tickets to meet Jarett Andretti are available only while they last!
May 17, 2025
6:00 to 11:00 P.M.
Motor District Garage Condos
Westfield, IN
Two middle school students from Westfield recently took part in the Indiana Senate Page program, attending a day at the Statehouse with State Sen. Jim Buck.
Heritage Christian School seventh-grade student Cooper Alber and Heritage Christian eighth-grader Jude Young were among nine area youth who attended the program with Buck in March and April.
Pages spent a day touring the historic Statehouse in Indianapolis, observing debates and interacting with elected leaders.
“There is no better way to learn about state government and the legislative process than to be a Senate page,” Buck stated. “The Senate Page program is a unique learning experience, and I encourage all parents and schools to take advantage of this opportunity.”
The page program is open to students in grades six through 12. The 2025 program has concluded; parents interested in having their child sign up for the 2026 program can visit IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/ Page-Program.
Take charge of clutter in Westfield — Professional home organizer Cindy Garloch will host an interactive workshop with practical solutions for tackling household clutter and maintaining order at 10 a.m. June 21 at the Westfield Washington Township Building, 17400 Westfield Blvd. Attendees will walk away with actionable strategies to create a more functional and peaceful home environment. Registration is $24 and seating is limited. Register by June 20 at westfieldwashingtontwp.us under the program registration/special events tab.
Automated trucks deployed between Indiana and Ohio — A pair of tractor-trailers with automated truck platooning technology recently began traveling I-70 between Columbus, Ohio, and Indianapolis delivering shipments for EASE Logistics. The deployment is a collaboration between the Ohio Department of Transportation and the Indiana Department of
Transportation to advance the adoption of truck automation technologies in the logistics industry across the Midwest. The trucks are equipped with technology that electronically links the vehicles and allows the driver of the lead vehicle to control the speed and direction of the second truck. Professional drivers are in the driver’s seat of both trucks throughout the deployment and can turn off the technology system and take over as needed. The trucks are equipped with cameras and sensors for object detection that enable the following vehicle to automatically adjust its speed or stop if another vehicle or object moves in between the trucks. The initiative is part of a multi-year $8.8 million project funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to deploy varying levels of automation into freight-hauling operations. INDOT is expected to seek a request for proposals for additional deployments of automated trucks later this year.
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By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
The Hamilton County Soil & Water Conservation District has renewed its Callery Pear Removal Program for 2025.
The program was launched in 2024 intended to defray landowner costs for removal of mature, standalone and landscape Callery pear trees.
“We have a pretty robust invasive species program called the Hamilton County Invasive Partnership, and it’s a collaborative of volunteers like private citizens and all the different parks departments in the county and municipalities,” Urban Conservationist Claire Lane said. “We heard from a lot of people throughout the years that they can’t afford to take the trees down. So, we knew there was a need there.”
For approved applicants, the program provides a $400 reimbursement for the removal of any variety of Callery pear tree. Trees must meet specific requirements to be approved for removal.
“Trees must be mature, have a trunk at least 20 inches in circumference and be in
a landscape setting,” Lane said. “Participants get a response from us on their application, have a contractor of their choice come out and take out the tree and then they get their rebate check.”
Lane said the state gave the Hamilton County Soil & Water Conservation District a grant to run a pilot program last year for the trees, and all of the money was gone within a month.
“We were able to dedicate some of our funds and budget for 2025 to open the
“You can’t just put it off.”
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program up again,” Lane said. “We have already allocated half of the money in the first round of applications this year. With the pear trees being in bloom right now, people are always a little more aware of the problem, and we’re always working to educate people as well.”
Lane said Callery pear trees are shortlived, have a foul smell when they bloom, have weak branch structure and are susceptible to wind and ice damage. The trees are still for sale in Indiana.
“Callery pear is a catch-all term for all the different Callery pear species like Bradford, aristocrat, Cleveland select and chanticleer,” Lane said. “They produce berries, and birds eat those berries and then plant them, which causes the infestation to spread. The problem there is that they are eliminating habitat for native trees and shrubs, which native wildlife, pollinators and birds are dependent on.”
Lane said the Hamilton County Soil & Water Conservation District wants to work with individual communities or get more grants to continue the program.
For more, visit hamiltonswcd.org/landscapepeargrants.html.
The City of Westfield will offer spring bulk trash day from 8 a.m. to noon May 10 at Westfield City Services, 2728 E. 171st St. Bulk trash day gives residents the opportunity to dispose of items that are not accepted during weekly garbage or recycling pick-ups, including applicances, carpet, furniture and select electronics.
“As the weather warms up, many of us are tackling our spring cleaning,” stated Travis Stetnish, Westfield Community, Fleet and Safety officer. “Bulk trash day is the perfect opportunity to safely dispose of unwanted items that have been collecting dust over the winter, and we encourage everyone to participate.”
The event is open to all residents in Westfield or Westfield Washington Township. Proof of residency — such as a utility bill or driver’s license — is required.
Some accepted items include air conditioners; bicycles; cardboard; carpet; tree debris; rocks; dirt; bundled brush no longer than four feet in length; washers and
dryers; furniture; grills (no propane tanks); lawn equipment; large toys; freezers; swing sets; printers; laptops; speakers; cellphones; microwaves; and handheld electronics.
Items accepted for a cash-only fee include:
• Tires — $5 each for car tires; $10 each for truck tires
• Computers and monitors — $20
• Televisions — $20
• Mattresses and box springs — $5 each, plastic wrapped only Chemicals, paint, prescription drugs and other hazardous waste items will not be accepted. A complete list of accepted items can be found at westfieldin.gov/ bulktrashday.
Commentary by Brad Owen
What legal steps can you take to protect a loved one’s well-being while respecting their wishes? In Indiana, guardianship and power of attorney are two essential tools that can help, but knowing the differences is key.
At Dillman & Owen Estate & Elder Law, we help families navigate these options with clarity and care. Whether you’re planning ahead or responding to an urgent need, our experienced attorneys will guide you toward the best solution.
What is guardianship?
Guardianship is a protective measure ordered by the court when someone can no longer make decisions for themselves because of incapacity, such as dementia, mental illness or a disability.
• Court-ordered protection: A guardian is appointed through a formal court process to make decisions on behalf of the individual (known as the “ward”).
• Comprehensive authority: The guardian may oversee personal, medical and financial decisions, ensuring the ward’s best interests are met.
• Court oversight: The court monitors the guardian’s actions to ensure compliance and protection for the ward.
• Guardianship duration: Guardianship typically remains in place until the court determines it is no longer necessary, such as if the ward regains capacity or passes away.
For example, if a loved one suffers from advanced Alzheimer’s disease and cannot manage their health care or finances, guardianship ensures someone is legally empowered to act in their best interest.
What is a power of attorney (POA)?
A power of attorney is a legal document that allows an individual (the “principal”) to name someone they trust (the “agent” or “attorney-in-fact”) to make decisions on their behalf. Unlike guardianship, this arrangement does not involve the courts unless disputes arise.
• Private agreement: A POA is created without court involvement, mak-
ing it faster and more flexible than guardianship.
• Principal’s control: The principal decides who their agent will be and what powers they will have, such as managing finances, making medical decisions, or both.
• Revocability: As long as the principal is competent, they can revoke or change the POA at any time.
• Durable vs. limited POA: A durable POA stays in effect even if the principal becomes incapacitated, while a limited POA only covers specific tasks or a set period of time.
For instance, if someone wants their adult child to handle their finances while they’re traveling abroad, they can create a limited POA for that purpose.
What are the differences between guardianship and power of attorney?
The main difference is in how they’re established and the level of control they provide. Guardianship requires a court process, where a judge appoints a guardian to make decisions for someone who is unable to do so themselves. This arrangement comes with ongoing court oversight to ensure the guardian acts in the ward’s best interests.
In contrast, power of attorney is a private agreement created by the individual (the principal) while they are still competent. The principal chooses an agent to act on their behalf and specifies the powers granted, which can range from managing finances to making medical decisions. Unlike guardianship, power of attorney can be revoked at any time by the principal, provided they are still competent. While guardianship often involves more comprehensive authority and court involvement, power of attorney offers a flexible, less intrusive option for planning ahead.
If you’re deciding between guardianship and power of attorney, don’t wait to get experienced guidance. Contact Dillman & Owen Estate & Elder Law for a consultation.
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The owners of Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy know music can provide many benefits for the mind and body.
So, the Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy in Fishers has partnered with the Fishers Art Center to offer free Music and Movement for Silver Age classes for people 55 and older.
Doug Whisman, co-owner of the Music Academy with his wife Ji-Eun Lee, said the idea was pitched to the Fishers Arts and Cultural Commission to hold the classes at the Fishers Art Center, which is on the first floor of Fishers City Hall
“It’s certainly larger than my theater,’ Whisman said. “We could have done this on our own in our theater, but we thought it made more sense to have it at the Fishers Art Center because it’s for the community.”
Classes are from 1 to 2 p.m. on Tuesdays for six weeks, starting May 6. Although it’s a free class, registration is required at fishersmusic.com. The classes will be directed by Abby Rose Veselsky, a theater director and voice instructor at the Music Academy.
“You don’t have to stand,” Whisman said. “It’s OK to be in a wheelchair. It’s partly for social activity, partly for physical movement and partly to sing and have fun.”
Lee said Veselsky’s classes will range from musical theater to pop music
“It can be ‘60s and ‘70s pop music, something really familiar,” Lee said. “It’s a very relaxed environment where they can sing together. Then we put on the dance moves a little bit. Abby is hoping it will be more structured and maybe at the end there will be a short performance all together.”
Classes are designed to help participants improve flexibility, balance and overall health.
Whisman said participants don’t have to attend every class.
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
It was not Freddie Kelvin’s idea to write “Embracing the World’s Faiths.”
It came as a suggestion from Charlie Wiles, then the executive director of the Center for Interfaith Cooperation.
“In September 2023, he unexpectedly invited me to write a series of monthly essays about the world’s faiths,” Kelvin said. “As a nonpracticing secular Jew, I did not consider myself sufficiently well-informed about any faith or religion. However, he persisted, and having seen my memoir ‘Urban Nomad,’ opined that I can write. It was flattering, and so I accepted. I had no idea what was in store for me.”
the Sanskrit word ‘Sindhu,’ which referred to the Indus River.”
Kelvin said ancient Persians had difficulty pronouncing the letter “s” and therefore called the people living beyond that river “Hindus.” So, he said the word was initially only a geographic designation and not a term denoting a religion.
The 81-year-old Carmel resident said he was surprised to learn how many of the world’s faiths evolved from a single founder.
“While most of us know that the three major monotheistic religions, Judaism, Christianity and Islam, as well as Buddhism, originated in this way, I found out that this was also true of other, less well-known faiths such as Sikhism, Jainism, and the Baha’i Faith,” Kelvin said. “Hinduism is a notable exception, and indeed, its name is a misnomer. The term ‘Hindu’ originated from
“It was also fascinating to find out that several religions originating in India, specifically Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism, all believe in reincarnation,” he said. “Parenthetically, the thought that your soul is reborn after death has far more appeal to me than the dubious alternatives of heaven or hell.”
Kelvin said each time he studied another religion, he was filled with unexpected pleasures.
“I found out that both Sikhism and the Baha’i Faith consider that all people, whatever their religion, race, or sex, are equal in the eyes of God,” Kelvin said. “These strong examples of mutual respect are very much in keeping with the core values of the interfaith tradition. Now, more than ever, we need to respect and understand each other’s belief systems if we are to live in relative harmony and survive intact. Fortunately, Carmel is a progressive and increasingly diverse community that provides hope for such an outcome.”
Kelvin worked on the book from October 2023
through October 2024.
“I was thoughtfully connected to carefully selected members of the CIC community, many of whom co-authored the essays pertinent to their faith,” he said. “Each member was provided with my initial draft, which was then amended and extended, usually following one or more phone conversations. The final draft for each faith was approved by each member of that faith.”
Although he is well aware of the rise of antisemitism and other bigotry, Kelvin said they weren’t factors in writing the book.
“As the son of parents who narrowly escaped the fateful grip of the Nazis in Austria, I have always been fully aware of the widespread nature of antisemitism,” he said. “My agreement to write these essays took place before the onset of the more than 300 percent increase in antisemitic incidents that have been recorded in the USA — according to the Anti-Defamation League — since the Hamas massacre of Israelis on Oct. 7, 2023, and the subsequent war that Israel is still waging against Hamas and Iran’s other proxies. Islamophobia is another dangerous prejudice that has currently given rise to grossly unnecessary acts of discrimination which should, in any civilized society, be roundly condemned.”
The book was published by BookBaby Bookshop and will be available on Amazon.
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Susan Hill has seen many changes in her nearly 33 years at Griffon Decorative Fabrics in Carmel.
“We’ve had our up years and down years,” Hill said. “We survived the (Great) Recession (in 2008-09). Other than the initial month of COVID (March 2020), when everyone freaked out and we had to close, we did OK because everyone was staying home and re-doing a lot of their stuff. We do a lot of reupholstering work. We have workrooms that do draperies and pillows.”
A 60-year-old Noblesville resident, Hill has been with the store since it opened in the fall of 1992.
“We were opened by two men out of North Carolina, and then four years after that, myself and Judy Stewart bought it from them,” Hill said. “They originally opened four stores around the country, but this is the only one left.”
Stewart, a Fishers resident, retired five years ago and Hill became the sole owner. Although the store is popular
with older shoppers, Hill said it has customers of all ages.
Griffon Fabrics started at 116th St. and Range Line Rd. and remained there for 20 years and then moved in 2012 to its present location at 598 W. Carmel Dr.
“We do a lot of reupholstery work, custom draperies, custom cushions, custom bedding and pillows,” Hill said.
“We have started to carry a few accessories like small side tables, artwork, lamps and tabletop items. Sometimes, I’ll pick up an antique chair and reupholster it and sell it.”
DBy Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
ebbie Cooney takes full advantage of the activities at Sycamore Reserve Senior Living in Indianapolis.
There are exercise classes six days a week and she tries to participate in as many as she can. Classes include yoga and gentle aerobics and rehab sessions three times a week.
He worked at the Chrysler Foundry and Cooney served was his caregiver when he went on disability.
Although Cooney can still drive, she takes the Sycamore’s bus on weekly supermarket trips.
Cooney also enjoys bingo, trivia games and the Friday afternoon happy hour with live entertainment.
“I’ve made some good friends here and everybody has been welcoming — the staff and the residents,” she said. “It’s been very enjoyable. They offer a lot. I don’t go to all the activities. I have to pick and choose.”
Cooney, 73, moved to the Indianapolis senior living center in November 2024 from an apartment on the east side of Indianapolis. Her husband, Clifford, died at age 70 in June 2023.
She was a preschool teacher for 38 years at Old Bethel Weekday School in Indianapolis, retiring when the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020. An Indiana University and Hobart High School graduate, she taught one year in Portage.
“I loved the children,” she said.
“I appreciated their exuberance for learning. I taught every age but mostly ages 3 and 4. I do miss it.”
Cooney has two adult children, Heather Moody and Bob Cooney. Heather had two children and Bob has three. Her youngest grandchild is 6, and the next youngest is 15.
About a year after retiring, Cooney volunteered at Old Bethel for a short time. She had to give it up because of back issues.
Commentary by Dr. David Sullivan and Dr. Kenneth Stumpf
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, reminding us to prioritize skin health, particularly in often-neglected areas like the feet and lower legs. Skin cancer is among the most common types of cancer, making early detection crucial. Regular examinations by health care professionals, especially podiatrists, are essential for skin health in these regions.
The feet and lower legs are frequently exposed to environmental factors such as sun and pollutants. Many neglect to apply sunscreen in these areas, increasing the risk of skin cancer, especially for those with a history of sunburn. There are several types of skin cancer to be aware of:
• Melanoma: The most serious type, which can appear as a new dark spot or a change in an existing mole.
• Basal cell carcinoma: Typically presents as a shiny bump and is generally found on sun-exposed skin, causing local damage if untreated.
• Squamous cell carcinoma: May appear as a firm red nodule or a flat sore and requires attention if persistent.
Podiatrists play a vital role in identifying skin conditions specific to the lower extremities.
To protect against skin cancer, individuals should consider several preventive measures:
• Conduct regular self-examinations of the feet and lower legs for any changes.
• Apply sunscreen to these areas, even in cloudy weather.
• Wear protective footwear to limit UV exposure.
• Schedule routine visits to a dermatologist as well as a podiatrist for thorough lower extremity skin checks.
Dr. David Sullivan and Dr. Kenneth Stumpf are both board-certified foot surgeons at Westfield Foot and Ankle, LLC. Contact them at appt@westfieldfoot.com or 317-896-6655.
Commentary by David Stordy
As we age, it’s natural to think about maintaining our independence while ensuring we have the support we may need. Home care is an essential part of this planning, whether you’re managing a chronic condition or preparing for the future.
Home care can range from basic help, like meal prep and bathing, to more specialized services such as nursing care, physical therapy or memory support for conditions like Alzheimer’s. Identifying potential needs early allows you to choose the right care provider, whether it’s a personal caregiver or a specialized agency.
When researching home care options, ask about the services offered, caregiver qualifications and availability. It’s important to understand how agencies handle scheduling, emergencies and backup caregivers. Look for providers who can adjust care as your needs change over time.
Another key part of planning is having conversations with family about your
preferences. Discussing home care and end-of-life decisions now ensures your loved ones can support you according to your wishes, avoiding potential conflicts later.
Home care checklist
• Agree on roles: Assign responsibilities for finances, medical decisions and home maintenance.
• Monitor your health: Track physical or cognitive changes and adjust care plans as needed.
• Discuss preferences: Have ongoing conversations with family about care and end-of-life wishes.
• Gather documents: Prepare key records, insurance policies and powers of attorney.
Planning ahead brings peace of mind, knowing your future care will align with your needs and preferences.
David Stordy is the directorowner of BrightStar Care. To learn more about home care or schedule an assessment, call BrightStar Care at 317-706-0799 or visit brightstarcare.com.
Commentary by Autumn Kolpin
As a personal trainer, one of my favorite parts of the year is when the weather starts to shift. These early spring days when the sun sticks around a little longer, there’s more energy in the air, and people start coming out of winter hibernation. You see neighbors walking, kids playing, gardens getting some love again. It’s like everything and everyone starts to wake up.
Every year around this time, I hear the same thing from clients and friends: “I just want to feel good doing the things I love this summer.”
Whether it’s running around with the grandkids, playing pickleball, going on a vacation hike or just working in the yard, feeling strong and capable makes all the difference.
What a lot of people don’t realize is that you don’t need to change everything all at once or hit the gym six days a week to feel better. It can be as simple as building a little more strength in your legs so walks feel easier or working on your balance so that you feel steadier when you’re on uneven ground. I’ve seen clients go from being nervous about getting back into movement to confidently doing the things they love again. That’s the kind of progress that excites me.
And it’s not just physical.
Getting your body moving again has a huge impact on your mental health, too. I’ve had clients come into a ses-
sion feeling tired, stressed or a little off and leave with more energy, better focus and a smile. There’s something about moving your body, especially in a supportive space, that lifts your entire mood.
Spring and summer are filled with chances to move more and have fun doing it. But to really enjoy it, to feel free and not held back by aches, stiffness or low energy, you need to give your body a little love now and continue to do so that you feel good all year round. A bit of strength training, some core work, improving mobility, it all builds a foundation that makes summer activities easier and way more enjoyable. When summer ends, you’ll be ready to tackle the cold weather ahead.
So, my advice? Start small. Start now. Take a walk, stretch a little more, try a new class or ask a trainer for guidance if you’re unsure where to begin. You don’t need to be an athlete. You just need to be ready to say “yes” to all the opportunities that come with warm, sunny days.
If I can help someone feel more confident in their body and enjoy summer to the fullest, then I’m doing what I love, too.
Here’s to moving more, feeling better and having a whole lot of fun this season!
Meridian Audiology LLC, a private Audiology practice, was founded by Dr. Alison Wyss, Au.D and Kira VonBlon, M.S. in 2021 after working together in an ENT setting for more than 13 years.
The seasoned Audiologists strive to consistently provide premier care to patients with hearing loss, tinnitus and auditory processing disorders as well as those who want to protect their hearing from damage.
In stark contrast to the medical audiology world where patients are in and out in quick succession, private practice allows Ali and Kira to spend the time their patients want and need from them for their individual hearing healthcare situation.
“We love getting to know our patients, and we feel we treat them like we we would treat our own family,” VonBlon said.
“We won’t rush you out the door to get our next patient.
We both feel one of our greatest compliments over the last 4 years is how many of our previous patients have found us at Meridian Audiology and have followed us here for their continued hearing treatment.”
The Meridian Audiology Audiologists pride themselves on keeping up with, and
offering the top-of-the-line newest technology in hearing aids, tinnitus and auditory processing disorders. While we focus on Phonak and ReSound, we can work with most all major hearing aid companies to be able to help a wide majority of patients with existing hearing aids. We know there are many places you can go to treat your hearing loss, but if hearing your absolute best, feeling comfortable and safe in your providers office and trusting your Audiologist are priorities for you, Meridian Audiology is where you belong.
M Meridian Audiology accepts most major insurances, offers convenient scheduling via phone, email or online and are independent of other medical practices or hospitals Hours are 9am-4pm Monday-Friday by appointment only We are also available to speak to your local community clubs about hearing and hearing loss.
By Dr. Camden Burns, MD, IU Health spine and orthopedic trauma surgeon
The spine has five sections of vertebrae, including the neck (cervical spine), the midback (thoracic spine), the lower back (lumbar spine), the base of the spine (sacrum) and the tailbone (coccyx). Pain generated from any of these areas can have different causes, ranging from a muscle or ligament strain to spinal tumors. As a lifelong athlete, I learned firsthand the importance of the musculoskeletal system, leading to my career in orthopedics and sports medicine. It’s my goal to help patients afflicted by these musculoskeletal types of injuries and conditions and get them back to a healthy, functional lifestyle. Proactively addressing your spine health can help prevent more serious pain and injuries in the future. There is a wide array of treatment options, from physical therapy to pain management to spine surgery.
BACK PAIN AND INJURY SIGNS THAT SHOULDN’T BE IGNORED
All back injuries should be taken seriously. Minor injuries, such as muscle strains, can be treated with over-the-counter medication, rest and relaxation. Sometimes, these minor injuries may require a short course of physical therapy as well. More significant and persistent injuries, especially herniated disc fractures, may need to be seen and evaluated by a spine specialist. Certainly, anytime you experience neurological symptoms, such as pain, numbness, tingling and weakness in the extremities, you may need to be evaluated more urgently.
Conservative options for management of spinerelated issues start with rest and relaxation, physical therapy and a combination of either over-the-counter or prescription medications. If symptoms persist, there are some interventional pain management procedures, such as injections, that may also help. In more extreme cases, surgical intervention may be warranted when there are neurological symptoms that not only involve pain in the neck and back, but also symptoms in the extremities.
Patients with new onset and minor symptoms should first be evaluated by their primary care physician. They may suggest a short course of rest, followed by physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medication. More severe symptoms are sometimes seen in the emergency room. Again, conservative treatment is usually attempted first if there are no emergent symptoms. For more chronic symptoms that fail conservative measures, patients may be evaluated by either the physical medicine and rehab or the anesthesia pain management service for further nonsurgical intervention. If those efforts fail or if the patient has significant neurological symptoms in their extremities, evaluation by a spine surgeon may be necessary.
Over the past decade, we have made efforts to expand spine care at IU Health outside of the downtown region. Certainly, we still
maintain a large presence in that area. However, we understand that patients may not have the ability or desire to travel downtown for evaluation and treatment. In those instances, we have established practices at IU Health North in Carmel and IU Health West in Avon, with plans for further expansion to other suburban facilities in the future.
I think the best way to describe the Spine program at IU Health as “complete.” It is the only academic Spine program in the state of Indiana. It is also the most comprehensive spine care program comprised of non-operative sports medicine, physical medicine and rehab, anesthesia pain management, interventional radiology, as well as neurosurgery and orthopedic surgery. We have the ability to provide treatment in all aspects to spine care throughout the Indianapolis Metropolitan and suburban region.
To learn more about IU Health’s Spine program, visit iuhealth.org/find-medical-services/ back-spine-care.
Suffer from back or neck pain? Find highly skilled treatment options from non-invasive to surgical close to home. Visit iuhealth.org/spine and schedule your appointment today.
Golf helps keep Carmel resident in the swing of things
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Webber LaGrange doesn’t have a lengthy explanation for his longevity.
“I’ve exercised most of my life,” said LaGrange, who turns 98 May 2.
Good genes help, too.
“My dad was a month short of 99 when he passed away,” he said. “I’m trying to pass him.”
LaGrange’s advice to recent retirees is, “Stay active. The guy who dies the quickest is the one who sits on the front porch.”
LaGrange, who lives in The Stratford in Carmel, stays active through exercise classes and playing golf several times a week when the weather turns warm.
LaGrange has only been to the hospital once in his life, which was for cataract surgery when he was 33. He has never had a broken bone or any other operation.
“I’m fortunate. I can see that when I look around here (at The Stratford),” he said. “I can still walk without a walker.”
Golf gives him the opportunity for some good walks.
“We play about 25 golf courses around here every summer,” said LaGrange, who has had an 88 stroke average the last two years. “I do my best to ride with someone so I can walk as much as I want. It keeps you young. I’m playing more golf now than when I was in my 60s.”
LaGrange plays golf with a travel group on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and plays in a men’s club at Wood Wind Golf Club in Westfield. He has a plaque from Wood Wind for twice shooting 81 – 16 strokes below his age — in 2024.
“When you play in a group like that, you don’t have to worry about tee times,” he said. “Someone has (set) it up and you just show up.”
LaGrange, who enjoys several aspects of golf, said he frequently plays at Wood Wind.
“I enjoy the fellowship and the 19th hole, especially,” he said. “It keeps me moving. I exercise all winter at The Stratford. It’s nice to have a different means of exercise.”
LaGrange was in his late 30s when he took up golf.
“It took too much time away from my family on the weekends, so I gave it up for a while,” he said. “When the kids got out of high school, I started playing golf again.”
LaGrange moved to The Stratford around 11 years ago. His wife, Kathryn, died nearly14 years ago. He did his homework before moving to the Carmel senior living center.
“I looked at 10 or 12 places, and this was the best bang for the buck and still is,” he said.
LaGrange recently had his driver’s license renewed.
“That allows me to play golf,” he said.
Neal Miller, The Statford lifestyle advisor for independent living, said LaGrange is a very accomplished
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individual.
“But with regard to his longevity he’s a perfect example that if you live right you can continue to do the things you want and enjoy for a very long time,” Miller said. “Most people think aging is synonymous with decline and that’s just not the case. My hope is that people will see Webber and say, ‘Hey, I can do that too.’’’
LaGrange keeps busy socializing, too. He said residents have a lot of outings and events at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
‘They have nights where they go out for dinner at different restaurants,” he said. “There is nice camaraderie. They’ve got so many activities here (that) you can’t do them all. You can pick and choose what you like.”
A 1945 Franklin Community High School graduate, LaGrange persuaded his parents to let him enlist in the U.S. Navy during World War II.
“I was at sea when my class graduated,” he said. “I was on a battleship in the South Pacific. They took me three or four months before graduation, so they didn’t waste any time getting rid of me. They were kind enough to present my diploma while I was gone.”
Webber LaGrange in front of the Indiana War Memorial plaque. (Photo courtesy of The Stratford)
LaGrange, who served 18 months in the Navy, said the ship was on its way to Japan when the Japanese surrendered.
“So, we did a U-turn and went to Hawaii,” he said. “I tried college, but I ended up doing the school of hard knocks. I farmed some and then got into banking. My uncle had a big farm in Franklin, but I was trying to work smarter, not harder.”
LaGrange was a banker for 25 years, eventually becoming a senior vice president of the Fidelity Bank of Indiana in Carmel. Then he became national treasurer for the American Legion for 20 years. He also was named to the Indiana War Memorial Commission and named executive director of the Indiana War Memorial in downtown Indianapolis. He has been honored with three Sagamore of the Wabash awards by three different Indiana governors — Robert Orr, Evan Bayh and Frank O’Bannon.
LaGrange’s daughter, Susan Loman, lives in Carmel, and his son Gene LaGrange lives in Franklin. His middle child, Alan, died of pancreatic cancer at age 56 in 2014.
LaGrange has five grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and one greatgreat granddaughter.
ON THE COVER: Webber LaGrange has three Sagamore of the Wabash awards. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)
• Restaurant-Style Gourmet Dining
• Activities & Social Calendar
• 24-Hour On-site Staff
• Housekeeping
• Transportation
• Emergency Trip / Fall Pendant
• Outdoor Heated Saltwater Pool
• Utilities (Power, Water, Trash)
• High-Speed Internet (Wi-Fi)
• HD Cable TV
• Theater Room
• Fitness Center
• Dog Park
• Putting Green
• And So Much More...
TBy Les Morris editorial@youarecurrent.com
he first Marble Brain Body Fitness “brain gym” in the U.S. was opened in Fishers by wellness entrepreneur Sharea Clark, and now she is on track with a novel concept with a new business for a growing community.
• Varicose Veins/Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Spider
Clark, 50, also owns Fitness 4 Function, a fitness company that helps seniors stay in their homes by providing in-home fitness care.
While attending a Chicago conference in February 2024 sponsored by the International Sports Sciences Association, Clark heard a presentation by Cody Sipe and Dan Ritchie, who both have doctorates and ties to Purdue University. Their talk included an idea, not fully formed, about a facility that would aid older adults with their
Continued on Page 15 cognitive functions. That idea resonated with Clark and that led to conversations with the pair
• Personalized brain-body workouts for adults aged 55+, addressing physical and cognitive abilities.
Dual-Task Approach
• Simultaneous cognitive-motor training for maximum effectiveness.
High-Tech, High-Touch
• Engaging exergaming technology with personalized support for members.
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
he Wright Brothers’ final performance was in February 2023, but Tim Wright isn’t slowing down.
The 72-year-old Wright, who performed for many years with older brother Tom, plays with a variety of groups and also is a solo performer.
Wright plays pedal steel guitar, guitar and sings a few songs for Barometer Soup, a Jimmy Buffett tribute band, which will play from 5 to 7 p.m. May 13 at Hoosier Village in Zionsville. Another free public concert at Hoosier Village is Aug. 5 with Josh Kaufman, the Season 6 winner of “The Voice.”
Wright knew a few of the late Buffett’s famous songs, but he learned more when he played a regular solo show several years ago for since-closed Bahama Breeze on the north side of Indianapolis.
“They gave out song lists they want you to play, and most of it was reggae and Jimmy Buffett songs,” he said. “I learned about 300 Buffett songs the
At age 72, Tim Wright keeps an active performing schedule. (File photo)
three years I played there when they were open.”
Barometer Soup will play June 21 at the Sunset Music Fest at Clay Terrace in Carmel.
Wright doesn’t mind if he doesn’t sing.
“I’m farming myself out as a pedal steel player,” he said. “I’d rather play pedal steel with other people than anything. I’ve sung my whole life since I was 19. I don’t mind if I don’t sing a note. It’s easier and fun to play.”
Tim Wright and the Steel Petals, which includes two female vocalists, will play at 7:30 p.m. May 2 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel.
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about opening what turned out to be the first franchise and location for the initiative.
Clark said she was uncertain about the gym’s prospects at first.
“I said yes, then no, then I don’t know, and I finally said yes, and here we are,” she said.
The gym is at11386 Olio Rd. in Fishers in a 1,600-squarefoot facility that opened April 7. The philosophical underpinning of Marble Fitness is dual tasking – attempting to ward off cognitive decline in adults 50 and older by activities that engage the body and brain at the same time.
“This is for cognition and brain health,” Clark said. “We’re focused on doing exercise on your body and brain
to decrease the risk of cognitive decline.”
All the activities at the gym are evidence based, Clark said. After a brief initial assessment to measure a baseline of cognitive ability, members schedule 30-minute group sessions at the facility. The activities are primarily designed to improve brain performance, cognitive performance, processing speed and memory but there also are multiple body benefits, including gains in strength, endurance, balance and mobility.
Membership levels are based on the number of visits per week, ranging from two to five times a week. Rates are $149 to $299 monthly, depending on the frequency of visits.
Marble Fitness’ grand opening is May 8, with a ribbon cutting at 4 p.m. and an open house to follow.
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The shop also sells Hunter Douglas blinds.
“Upholstering is the top seller now,” Hill said. “There was a time (when) we did tons of bedding and a time (when) we did a ton of draperies. Styles change, too. It’s a little more simplistic now, not as fancy.”
The store has another full-time employee and two part-time designers on staff. Griffon Fabrics is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.
For more, visit griffonfabrics.com.
I’m Kimberly Hughes, a licensed sales agent in Hamilton County, serving central Indiana. When it comes to Medicare, it’s important to consider all of your options. What works well for your neighbor may not be the best fit for you. I know the ins and outs of Medicare, and I’m ready to answer your questions and help you find a plan that fits your needs. Make the most of my knowledge and experience to:
• Take the confusion out of Medicare
• Get help comparing plans
• Receive one-on-one service
• Make enrolling in a plan easier
I look forward to helping you explore your Medicare options so you can enroll in a plan with confidence.
Kimberly Hughes Licensed Sales Agent 3177925227, TTY 711 berlyhughes@gmail.com www.myuhcagent.com/kimberly.hughes
A world to explore, a vibrant community to come home to. A lifestyle that embraces true independence, friendships, culinary celebrations, and the safety of community.
It’s time to enjoy retirement the way it’s meant to be.
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Like many communities throughout Indiana, Hamilton County has a shortage of child care options for working parents, and that shortage is going to get worse as the population grows, potentially limiting the county’s ability to attract new residents.
Invest Hamilton County, which focuses on economic development, recently released its childcare action and investment plan, which President/CEO Mike Thibideau presented to stakeholders during an April 15 kickoff meeting at the Hamilton County Community Foundation building in Fishers. Thibideau said developing the plan has been a multiyear process.
“We started to really hear about the challenges existing within this ecosystem in our community,” he said. “We had a number of day cares closing (because of a) lack of workers. We started to see costs begin to rise in order to lift wages and retain workers, and we began to see more and
more, as our population continued to grow, the deserts that existed throughout the community.”
The process started with a survey of about 600 parents with children under the age of 5. Thibideau said about half of those parents reported that the child care available in the county didn’t meet their needs. Some of the biggest concerns were the lack of openings at a preferred provider, no available providers close to home or work and cost.
The annual cost of child care has grown in Hamilton County from about $15,000 per child in 2016 to about $20,000 per child in 2024. Thibideau said many two-income families in the county can afford that, but about 30 percent of residents on the lower end of the income scale are struggling.
Capacity is an ongoing concern, as well. He said the county already has a capacity deficit of about 4,600 openings — a number that was adjusted to consider families with at-home caregivers. Thibideau said if the county does not add more capacity, that deficit will grow to about 9,400 in the next decade.
“We need to increase seats by about 6
percent per year in order to break even with unmet demand by the year 2034,” he said.
He noted that when surveying Hamilton County businesses, about 60 percent reported that job candidates ask about childcare availability during the interview process. Thibideau said they also assessed how many people reported that they wanted to work but didn’t because of a lack of childcare.
“The number we came up with was 2,339 workers in Hamilton County,” he said. “That’s a real number — it’s not an
… approximate statistic. This is an actual number of people who are left out of our labor force in Hamilton County due to lack of quality or affordable child care.”
He said that means that not only are families not earning as much as they could, the county and its communities are missing out on tens of millions in local tax revenue.
One of the solutions in the plan is to grow capacity wherever possible through programs that offer resources to child care facilities to build or expand. The plan also calls for building a more reliable child care workforce, which is already an issue and will get worse as demand increases.
Thibideau said paying higher wages helps retain workers, but that means higher costs to parents. To address that, the third strategy in the plan is assisting parents with child care grants, for example, and helping child care facilities go through the process of signing up for accepting those grants — a sometimes cumbersome administrative task.
For more about the child care action and investment plan, visit investhamiltoncounty.com/childcare-action-investment-plan.
news@currentinwestfield.com
The City of Westfield will present its annual Memorial Day Ceremony at 6:30 p.m. May 21, paying tribute to the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The event will take place at the Fallen Hoosier Heroes Memorial, 401 N. Union St.
Join us for our Open House and a delicious brunch buffet! Take a tour of the community, mingle with our residents and their families, and then enjoy crispy fried chicken, made-toorder omelettes, fluffy waffles, and all your favorite fixings. It’s a perfect way to gather and savor a little something sweet (and savory) together.
We can’t wait to see you there!
Kindly RSVP to (317) 770-0011.
The ceremony will feature remarks from local veterans, including Mayor Scott Willis and keynote speaker Lt. Col. Billy Ray Moore. The Westfield Community Choir also will perform a special selection of songs to honor fallen heroes.
“Serving our great nation as a U.S. Marine is one of my greatest honors in life,” Willis stated. “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to honor my brothers and sisters who gave everything for our safety and freedom. Their sacrifices are an important reminder that we must never forget their service, their courage, or the ideals they gave their lives to protect.”
As part of the ceremony, all attendees will be invited to place a carnation at the base of the Fallen Heroes Memorial.
Free parking is available at Christ United Methodist Church, 318 N. Union St., and at Westfield High School. Shuttle service will be provided.
The event is free to attend, but attendees are asked to RSVP at tinyurl. com/3ktenp8e.
The Hamilton County Commissioners reviewed the 2024 Title VI/ADA annual goals & accomplishment report during their April 14 meeting.
Hamilton County Chief Compliance Officer Steven Rushforth presented the report, which outlines projects and initiatives completed by county departments in 2024. Rushforth was the safety and risk manager and Americans with Disabilities Act & Title VI coordinator for the Hamilton County Safety & Risk Management Department in 2024.
Each department updated the department liaison list as requested by the Governance, Risk and Compliance Division, ensuring accurate representation of ADA and Title VI liaisons across departments. There are no outstanding grievances in the report.
Some projects and initiatives completed in 2024 include:
• Staff members attended training that covered various civil rights-related topics, including ADA compliance and nondiscrimination.
• The auditor’s ADA/Title VI Liaison attended the ADA training webinar “Title II – Accessibility for State and Local Government Funded Facilities” and watched the ADA training webinar “Maps for All – Building Accessible Maps.”
• The auditor’s office received and processed one request for an interpreter.
• Prepared assessor’s office to include
ADA and Title VI compliance language in vendor and consultant contracts.
• Established procedures to assist taxpayers who may require a county-provided interpreter.
• Appointed a social services coordinator.
• Trained 40 staff members in dementia-friendly business practices and achieved Level 2 recognition as a dementia-friendly business location.
• Launched the self-help website CredibleMind to address social, behavioral health and wellness issues.
• Earned accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies.
• Staff members attended multiyear training covering disability accommodations and inclusion tips.
• Provided special accommodations for callers, staff and visitors, as needed.
• A polygraph exam was offered as a reasonable accommodation for a partially blind correction officer candidate during pre-employment screening.
• The jail utilizes a free application that provides sign language interpretation and virtual visit options for incarcerated individuals with hearing impairments.
• Established an ADA group for Hamilton County
The full report can be found at hamiltoncoin.portal.civicclerk.com/event/1142/files/ agenda/6098 on pages 23 through 55.
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Westfield High School senior Will Harvey’s athletic future is on the golf course.
However, the Purdue University-bound golfer was a starting guard for the Shamrocks boys basketball team this season.
“I thought it was cool to finish off my senior year,” Harvey said. “I almost quit going into (my) junior year. Once I committed to that I knew I was going to finish that out. Basketball season was a lot of fun with a lot of my buddies.”
Harvey averaged 9.0 points and 3.6 rebounds per game. He averaged 7.9 ppg as a junior. He finished tied for 15th at the IHSAA boys golf state finals in 2024. He tied for 10th in 2023 and tied for 17th in 2022.
“Will is in that rarified air where he’s a three-year varsity letter winner for us, which is pretty difficult,” Shamrocks golf coach Josh Bryant said. “He and Jake Cesare are in the same class. He’s a special young man, where he has been able to manage two varsity sports at Westfield at a high level. He’s been all-conference (Hoosier Crossroads) in basketball as well as all-con-
Favorite athlete: Stephen Curry
Favorite subject: Math
Favorite sports team: Cincinnati
Bengals
Favorite musician: Bruno Mars
Favorite TV show: “Stranger Things”
ference, all-county and all-state for golf. We couldn’t be luckier to have him.”
Bryant said Harvey’s game has grown throughout his career.
“Early in his career, he had a big reliance on his short game,” Bryant said. “As he’s grown, he’s gotten stronger and is an incredibly powerful player now. What makes
Will Harvey has finished in the top 20 at the boys golf state finals his first three seasons.
(Photo courtesy of Rari Films)
him special (is), he’s got incredible creativity around the greens. More than anything, he’s a good teammate. He’s a good competitor. Guys who play against him love being paired with him.”
Harvey said time management was important for juggling two varsity sports.
“Just being really disciplined,” Harvey said. “You come home from basketball, and you are always tired from practice, and it’s just being able to, late at night, to hit golf balls.”
The Shamrocks finished second in the state team finals the past three seasons. The 2025 state finals are June 17-18 at Prairie View Golf Club in Carmel.
“We finally want to finish it off and win a state championship,” Harvey said. “Individually, I want to be all-state, all-conference, all-county and also want to win state individually, so I think those are big goals for me this year.”
Harvey said he always had a golf club in his hand growing up.
“My dad kind of forced me to play when I was younger, but I grew up loving it,” he said. “I love being able to go out and practice on your own. Just the grind makes it all worth more in the long run.”
The Purdue coaching staff was a big reason he chose the Boilermakers.
“They were one of the schools that were interested in me early, and they were there for the whole ride,” said Harvey, who plans to major in accounting. “Other schools recruited me later, but they saw the vision and I think that’s why I chose Purdue.”
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@youarecurrent.com.
IndianaSpineGroup.com/Swiatek
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By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Young entrepreneurs from Westfield High School are on the cutting edge of their fields — even with years of high school still in front of them.
Students from the WHS entrepreneur class showed off their inventions for a chance at financial support at the annual Westfield Chamber of Commerce innovation luncheon April 17.
WHS educator John Moore said the luncheon was the second of a three-round competition where students design and showcase their products. The students created their products from scratch — starting by identifying a problem and then conducting research, design and prototype development before coming up with a marketing pitch for potential investors.
“A month ago, we started off with the first round of our innovation competition,” Moore said. “Students from around Westfield High School all year have been working on creating a business based around solving a problem that they’re having. Eighty-one teams from around the school competed last month in an open house trade show type of experience where they pitched their items and they showed off their prototypes. The top 15 from 81 are (at the innovation luncheon).”
Moore said after the first round, students made adjustments to their businesses and refined their products. With that feedback, they brought their improved items to the innovation luncheon. The top five teams from the luncheon advance to the final round May 15, where they will have the chance to win $10,000. Funds were provided by local sponsors.
“The kids have to use that money to grow their businesses,” he said. “Most of these kids, we have a few seniors, but most of these kids are freshmen through juniors. We have quite a few freshmen here, which is really impressive because they know that next year, they’re going to expand on this and get better and actually get their business up and running.”
Sophomores Ritvik Bhatia and Rayan Elbanhawy created the winning product — a smart toothbrush called Smilo, designed
to help the user track dental health. The pair was awarded $1,000 by the Westfield Chamber of Commerce for product development.
The toothbrush works with an app to create an online profile. The app includes AI technology that utilizes the camera from a smart phone to create a three-dimensional profile of the user’s teeth. The app can then analyze oral health, such as tracking plaque build-up. The app also can make recommendations and reports can be downloaded for the user’s dental records.
The pair said market research shows a demand for advanced dental technology. If their invention takes off, future plans
would include partnering with dentists and developing an app for parents to help their children take care of their teeth.
Students said the entrepreneur class been an inspiration.
“I love the class. It’s something that I don’t see in other schools,” Elbanhawy said. “Having a teacher-mentor that is able to support us and give us this opportunity is insane. I’m super grateful for people organizing this. It truly is something different.”
Bhatia echoed that sentiment.
“With Mr. Moore and his entrepreneurship class, we got to win this, and we got the chance to show what our minds can do,” he said. “We get the experience, and
Westfield High School entrepreneur educator John Moore said the entrepreneurship program at WHS is designed to enrich education with real-world experiences. He said previous winners of the innovation competition have gone on to sell their products as adults.
“It’s not just a class, they’re actually creating a product that some of them can actually sell,” he said. “I tell the kids on the first day of our entrepreneurship classes that we’re not playing school.
(They) have a chance to make real money through this program. Most of them take it really seriously. Outside of just wanting to earn money, a lot of these kids’ companies are already selling. They have shops on Amazon or Etsy or TikTok and they’re already making revenue from that. So, they have a lot of real businesses going. It’s awesome.”
Learn more about the WHS extracurricular entrepreneur club at tinyurl.com/ yv3ct48b.
we get an opportunity because a lot of people think our generation — kids our age — that we don’t have the minds that we can think something big. So, I feel like with this class, it gives everyone opportunities. It’s amazing. I love the class.”
The students said the class has opened their eyes to opportunities beyond the school walls.
“You build good connections, you get to network, you gain experience, (and) not only that, but you get to build your own business,” Bhatia said. “I know a lot of people nowadays, they want to become entrepreneurs, create their own business. No one wants to work for someone else, they want to be their own boss.”
Elbanhawy said he would recommend his fellow students give entrepreneurship class a try.
“I think it’s most important to find a mentor because we don’t know everything and you don’t know what the other person knows until you talk to them,” he said. “I think the most important thing is to find a mentor. I’m so thankful for having (Moore) as my mentor and the most important thing is to find one.”
Moore said the class is for everyone who sees an issue and wants to find the solution.
“These are students who are problem solvers,” he said. “They’re students that are very motivated, but they’re not always motivated by traditional schooling. These are kids that want to go out and do something. They want to be their own boss. And this is a way for them to actually do all of that.”
And, he said, it’s never too early to learn how to be an entrepreneur.
“I would tell people, you’re never too young to start,” he said. “It’s not like when we were in high school. We never had these opportunities. With this technology and everything these kids have at their fingertips, they could start a business or a successful business right now.”
sophomores Ritvik Bhatia and
Pool supplies, service and maintenance provider Poolwerx recently held a grand opening for its new Westfield store, 222 W. 161st St. The store held a ribbon-cutting ceremony April 14, with a grand-opening event April 26. Poolwerx provides supplies and equipment for central Indiana pool and spa owners.
The Westfield location is owned by franchise partner Jessica Thomas, who opened her Poolwerx mobile business in Noblesville in 2024.
Thomas was born and raised in Noblesville. She moved back to Indiana following her service in the United States Coast Guard. Thomas leads a team of pool service professionals who provide mobile service to clean, maintain, repair and install equipment for pools, hot tubs and swim spas across the area.
“We’re very excited to open our new store in Westfield and better serve pool and spa owners in the community,” she stated. “Our mobile technicians have the expertise to keep any pool or spa sparkling clean and
in top working condition. Our retail store will make it easy for customers to get a free water test, pick up supplies, shop a selection of pool equipment, and get helpful pool advice right in their neighborhood.” Learn more about Poolwerx at poolwerx. com/locations/indiana/poolwerx-westfield.
By Les Morris news@currentinwestfield.com
Carmel’s Clay Terrace will be the first Midwest location for a rapidly growing network of full-service veterinarian offices this summer.
CityVet, a Dallas-based practice with 59 locations in seven states, will open in a 3,850-square-foot space just west of Whole Foods at the outdoor shopping center.
“Clay Terrace is excited to welcome CityVet to the center, bringing top-tier veterinary care directly to our pet-loving community,” said Christine Foulke, Clay Terrace’s marketing director. She added the new business will fit right in with the center’s dog park and pet-friendly policy.
The Carmel CityVet location will be able to handle most medical and surgical conditions, including hospitalization when needed. Urgent care, grooming, boarding, dental services and specialty therapies also will be available.
In a press release, the company stated its plans to establish additional clinics in the Indianapolis area in coming years.
“As we expand, we seek communities where we can make a meaningful impact – providing pet owners with exceptional veterinary care while offering veterinarians the resources and support to thrive,” said David Boguslawski, CityVet CEO. “The Greater Indianapolis area presents an exciting opportunity for us to introduce our unique veterinarian-led model.”
CityVet was founded in Dallas in 1999 by veterinarian Dr. Chip Cannon. Every CityVet location is run and owned by the veterinarians.
In Carmel, that responsibility belongs to Dr. Stephanie Beeson, whose title will be lead practitioner. Beeson earned her veterinary degree from Texas A&M University in 2015.
“I didn’t want to wear all the hats required of a sole business owner,” Beeson stated in an email. “I chose to partner with CityVet so that I could focus on practicing medicine and building my team. The culture at CityVet is one of collaboration and support, and I wanted to carry that over to my team, my clients and my patients.”
Learn more at CityVet.com.
Editor,
U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz held a town hall in Westfield. When her answers indicated she was not going to stand up for our district against the draconian actions of the Trump administration, the crowd responded with chants against her.
“Do your job” was echoed as she used excuses about why she won’t stand up to President Trump. She and others in Congress are giving up their ability to check the president and, in turn, to balance gov-
ernment. Passing on their responsibilities to pass laws that respond to executive orders or Supreme Court decisions is not doing their job as our representatives. So, we chant, “Do your job” as we want our leaders to do their jobs without fear or favor. And as voters, we need to do our job and vote in the best candidates to represent us — not vote only for a political party.
Shelley Carey, Carmel
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The Indianapolis Opera is taking a different approach to “West Side Story.”
Instead of the original tale of the feud between the Puerto Rican gang the Sharks and the white gang the Jets — as depicted in the 1957 Broadway play and 1961 movie — the story will not be set in New York in the 1950s.
“The (original) script is about the racial and ethnic difference,” said A. Scott Parry, who is directing the show. “The script and songs remain the same but we’re taking it into the future.
“It looks very post-modern.”
Indianapolis Opera’s production of “West Side Story” is set for 7 p.m. May 9-11 at the Bicentennial Pavilion at the Indianapolis Zoo.
“We no longer think of this as far as the ethnicity of the performer but rather the color of clothing the performer wears,” Parry said. “We’re not focusing on ethnicity but anything that makes us feel different or separate. It could be religion, politics, gender, sexuality, socio-economic conditions, neurodivergence, civility, anything in society (that) currently feels like us versus them. How that idea of difference creates a fracture in society and tension and violence. How do we bridge that idea of difference and see each other more humanistically, more as equals and in an empathetic way with each other’s positions.”
Sondheim.
Parry, a professor at New York University and Manhattan School of Music, has directed several productions for Indy Opera. He has a longtime association with two cast members.
Parry said the dance numbers show physical differences in the groups. The only other time Parry directed a full production of “West Side Story,” it was with this adaptation in October 2001 in Phoenix.
“It’s nice to come back to it after almost a quarter century,” he said.
The famous musical score is by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen
Opera General Director David Starkey for almost 30 years, usually approaches musical theater from an operatic perspective.
“I ride that middle line of doing opera and musical theater equally, and I think that’s why David appreciates that,” Parry said. “We talk all the time that there is too much stigma that this is an opera or this is a musical and they are really one (and) the same thing.”
Castro has played Maria twice in other productions and was once one of the Shark girls.
“The music and the whole score, I never get tired of it,” Castro said. “I always find new moments in the music whenever I hear it and whenever I perform it. As far as Maria, the character, I love how she is a symbol of hope, and she is willing to put aside whatever she’s learned culturally from her family to be able to learn about somebody that is different from her. I think that’s very wise for a young woman. She is growing up and coming of age and learning to look past prejudices to find love, humanity and acceptance. I think that’s very powerful in a young woman. Not every role is easy to come back to, but I love Maria as a character.”
Cristina MarÍa Castro, who plays Maria, is Parry’s former student when he was at Ohio State University and she was working on her master’s degree in 2011.
Olga Perez Flora, who plays Anita, was Parry’s former college roommate in the 1990s. Flora also was one of Parry’s students while working on her doctorate at Ohio State.
“I’ve worked with a couple other performers on other productions but don’t have as long a relationship with them,” he said.
Parry, who has known Indianapolis
Castro said Maria tried to bring people with differences together.
“Singing ’Tonight’ as a duet and then when it comes back as a quintet might be my favorite,” she said. “What I like about the score is it can be performed classically, or it can be approached more theatrically.”
Castro said her previous performances were traditional versions.
“I do believe the story can be told in many different ways and that’s why it’s timeless,” Castro said. “I love working with Scott Parry and I’m excited to work with him again. Scott and I have stayed in touch and we’ve done a couple productions since then. He’s a mentor of mine and a friend.”
For more, visit indyopera.org.
“Church Basement Ladies” runs through May 18 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards. com.
“The Carpenters Project” is set for May 1, followed by Tim Wright & Steel Petals May 2 and Eric Baker & Friends present “Echoes of Soul” May 3 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘9 TO 5’
Actors Theatre of Indiana’s production of “9 to 5” runs through May 11 at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit atistage.org.
Civic Theatre presents “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” through May 10 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center. For more, visit civictheatre.org.
Marty Stuart & His Fabulous Superlatives will perform at 7:30 p.m. May 1 at the Payne and Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
Grant’s ‘Christmas Together Tour’ set for Fishers Event Center — Grammy winners
Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith and CeCe Winans have announced plans to co-headline the “Christmas Together Tour.” The tour will hit nine major markets across the U.S., making a Dec. 4 stop at the Fishers Event Center. Tickets are available at FishersEventCenter.com and Ticketmaster.com. While Grant and Smith’s holiday concerts have become regular events of the season for more than 30 years, the “Christmas Together Tour” will mark the first time they’ve been joined by Winans on the holiday venture since she originally appeared on their 1998 Christmas tour.
By Sara Palmer editorial@youarecurrent.com
More than 400 young voices from across central Indiana will come together May 3 to perform “Christel DeHaan In Harmony:
A Beautiful Tomorrow,” the Indianapolis Children’s Choir season-finale concert. Joined by its affiliate choirs, the Anderson Area Children’s Choir and the Columbus Indiana Children’s Choir, singers from kindergarten through ninth grade will take the stage at 3 p.m. at the Pike Performing Arts Center.
help one another?”
Songs like “Be the Bridge” and “Rainbow Connection” reinforce messages of empathy and hope. One of the emotional highlights, according to the ICC, will be “Now is the Time,” an original composition by ICC’s composer-in-residence Lee Ann Starkey. Starkey, an ICC alumna who wears many hats for the organization, said the song was inspired by the choir’s March concert and written with the singers in mind.
Centered on themes of compassion, connection and hope, the performance invites audiences to reflect on joining voices to shape a better tomorrow, according to the ICC.
“The concert focuses on the message of tomorrow -- what kind of community do we want in tomorrow?” said ICC Artistic Director Joshua Pedde, a Carmel resident who has been with the organization for 25 years. “What kinds of things can we do for one another? How can we reach out and
“Our children are the voices of tomorrow, and there is power in their words and in what they are capable of doing,” Starkey said. “They deserve to hold a special place in our world. That’s the message they sing in the song, ‘Now is our time to shine, now is the place, now is our chance.’”
Pedde agreed.
“The way the kids sing it, the way she composed it, it’s magical,” he said. “And I think the audience is really going to enjoy it.”
For tickets and more about ICC’s programs, visit icchoir.org.
MAY 9, 10 & 11, 2025
Commentary by Larry Greene
What once was an open, unfinished back patio was reimagined into a serene and stylish screened-in porch in the heart of west Carmel. The transformation turned an underutilized outdoor space into a cozy yet refined extension of the home — perfect for entertaining and relaxing.
• By enclosing the space with full-height screened panels, the homeowners now enjoy protection from the elements while maintaining clear views of their beautiful backyard and surrounding neighborhood.
• The addition of warm-toned furnishings, cozy seating and layered greenery creates a welcoming ambiance that blends comfort with sophistication.
• Soft overhead lighting enhances usability during evening hours, while the consistent design materials tie seamlessly into the rest of the home’s exterior.
• The upgraded porch now functions as a true outdoor living room, offering three-season versatility and timeless charm.
• With the simple addition of screens, lighting and purposeful furniture placement, the space was transformed into a multifunctional retreat without the need for major construction.
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.
Anger
12. Four-time Indy 500 winner Mears
13. ___ Speedwagon
14. A mad, mad, usually mild-mannered neighborhood Mister?
17. Pacer foe from Ohio, briefly
18. ___ and aah
19. Henhouse perch
21. Tough nut to crack
23. 1/2 fl. oz.
26. “Waking ___ Devine” (1998 film)
27. French miss (Abbr.)
28. Carmel City Councilor Locke
29. Leaky tire sound
30. Women’s clothing size
32. Tree house
34. Gravity yielding mistake?
38. Barcelona boy
39. Sped around I-465
41. Some email attachments
44. ___-bitsy
46. Evil
47. Magic, on a Pacers scoreboard
48. From the beginning
49. Director DeMille
50. Cable service
52. UFO crew
54. “Norma ___”
55. Hamilton County prosecuting attorney, and an anagram of 14- and 34-Across 59. Deity
60. DVR option
61. GOP org.
62. Colts stat
63. Warning sign
64. Opposite of NNW Down
1. Divine happenings
2. “Saturday Night Fever” star
3. Chill (out)
4. First 007 film
5. Northern Indiana interstate
6. Big name in ATMs
7. Boxing ref’s decision
8. Sandwich cookie
9. White River waders
10. Tree-trunk growths
15. WIPX network
16. Org.
17. Pitch tents
20. Colts stat
22. Wears the crown
24. “Kapow!”
25. Grumpy coworker
28. Bring under control
29. Tried hard
31. ___ Fridays
33. Sellout sign
35. Musical staff symbol
36. Butler frat letters
37. Dependency
40. Editing mark
41. Soda
42. Dreadfully slow
43. Fishing gear
45. Change course suddenly
48. GPA part (Abbr.)
49. CBS forensic drama
51. Traders Point restaurant: ___ Montana Grill
53. Suffix with Jumbo or cyclo
56. Classic muscle car
57. “Ready, ___, fire!”
58. Fourth-yr. students at FHS Answers on Page 27
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