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Founded Jan. 29, 2008, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XIX, No. 11
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Murder victim shot multiple times
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
The Westfield Police Department and Hamilton County Prosecutor Josh Kocher provided details on the March 12 murder of James “Matthew” Lushin in Westfield during a March 30 press conference.
Ronald Brown Jr., 50, was arrested March 27 by WPD. He is being held without bond in the Hamilton County Jail and is charged with murder and a firearm enhancement charge. WPD Chief Shawn Keen and Kocher said the investigation is ongoing and the risk to the community is minimal. Officers responded to a call at 7:24 p.m. in the 3900 block of Westfield Road to assist medics on a report of a person down inside the residence. Officers found Lushin, 47, inside and was pronounced dead at the scene. The Hamilton County Coroner’s Office later determined he had seven gunshot wounds. According to the probable cause affidavit, investigators found several containers of what appeared to be marijuana inside Lushin’s home and determined that he was involved in a “high amount of gambling.” A pokernews. com story quoted in the probable cause affidavit said that Lushin played in poker tournaments and had “$511,000 in live tournament cashes, including a fourth-place finish for $69,542 in a 2025 World Series of Poker event in Amsterdam.”
Lushin also allegedly participated in local cash games at the VFW Post in Carmel and at the Knights of Columbus on 71st Street in Indianapolis. A witness later said that he had played with Lushin and Brown at the Carmel VFW. Multiple documents found in Lushin’s home recorded his gambling wins and losses. Additional marijuana also was found after a search warrant was executed. Ring surveillance footage
showed that a black Dodge Durango that backed into Lushin’s driveway March 12 was a rental vehicle rented by Brown.
On March 18, the coroner’s office informed detectives that $15,590 in cash was found in a purple Crown Royal bag on a side table in the master bedroom of Lushin’s home. Detectives also found a safe in an outbuilding on Lushin’s property that contained eight sealed bags, weighing just less than 11 pounds, of a substance consistent with marijuana.
Brown has a criminal history of dealing marijuana and gambling-related crimes, according to authorities. According to investigators, Brown allegedly owed Lushin “thousands” of dollars, but a witness told investigators he was paying Lushin back. Detectives also found that Brown and Lushin had been communicating via the Signal messaging application.
Witnesses told WPD that Lushin allegedly advanced Brown “$20,000 to $70,000 worth of product to sell.” Investigators also found 16 separate payments from Brown to Lushin totaling $17,900 from January 2025 to March 2026 via CashApp. After March 5, the pattern of payments to Lushin stopped. Investigators triangulated cellphone data to determine that Brown was living near the 3300 block of Butler
Avenue in Indianapolis. Multiple police raids were conducted in the area March 27 to locate Brown.
“Detectives worked tirelessly to follow up on leads, process evidence and conduct additional interviews,” Keen said. “Their persistence developed the probable cause necessary to obtain search warrants for residences inside of Indianapolis on Friday morning. Investigators, multiple SWAT teams, simultaneously executed search warrants. One of these search warrants was in the 3300 block of north Butler Avenue in Indianapolis. It was at this location that Brown was located and taken into custody.”
Brown allegedly refused to provide a statement or answer questions about Lushin’s murder.
A search warrant of the Butler Avenue residence led to the discovery of a Glock 26 9mm handgun and ammunition consistent with the make and caliber used to kill Lushin.
Detectives also discovered vacuum-sealed bags consistent with the ones found in Lushin’s safe. The residence also contained several pounds of marijuana and cellphones that matched those traced by investigators. In addition, $22,489 in cash was found in the residence.
Kocher said that he does not believe the relationship between Brown and Lushin indicates a larger drug-dealing ring. He also said no other suspects or accomplices are being sought but encouraged the public to provide any additional information that is relevant to the case.
Westfield Mayor Scott Willis said the homicide was the first in Westfield in seven years.
“This is a difficult moment for our community, but our message is clear, if you commit a crime like this in Westfield, we will use all available resources to ensure you are held accountable, ensuring Westfield remains one of the safest places to live in America remains my No. 1 priority,” Willis said.
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Opinions
The views of the columnists in Current in Westfield are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.
Westfield Police Chief Shawn Keen, left, and Hamilton County Prosecutor Josh Kocher provide information on the March 12 murder of James “Matthew” Lushin. (Photo by Todd Golden)
West Clay at 131st & Towne Rd
Brown Jr.
Everything you need for the perfect date night is right here in Westfield. Start your evening with a wine tasting at the Wine Vault or grab a table at Italian House on Park, a local favorite for a cozy, romantic dinner. After dinner, take a sunset stroll through our DORA District with your favorite drink in-hand. Whether you're celebrating something special or just enjoying a night together, downtown Westfield is the perfect place to slow down and make it memorable.
Ready to sip, stroll, and stay a while? Scan the QR code or visit DiscoverWestfieldIN.com to learn more!
Smith finishes record-breaking career
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
After Purdue’s men’s basketball team lost 79-64 to Arizona in the NCAA Tournament West Regional final March 28, the record-breaking collegiate career of Westfield native Braden Smith ended.
Purdue coach Matt Painter said Smith gave the Boilermakers stability at point guard throughout his career.
“To be able to not worry about that position for four years, it’s a tough position. If you have a great point and have a great center, that’s a great place to start, right?” Painter said after the loss to Arizona in post-game transcripts available to all media. “Braden was that way for us for four years. Very, very consistent. Very competitive. Good guy. Honored to coach him.”
Smith, who played at Purdue from 2022 to 2026, set the all-time NCAA record for career assists with 1,103, passing former Duke star Bobby Hurley during the Boilermakers’ 104-71 first-round NCAA Tournament victory against Queens College. He averaged
7.4 assists per game and twice led the NCAA in assists per game.
Smith also averaged 13 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.7 steals per game during a career in which he started all 149 of his games at Purdue.
In 2024, Purdue made its first Final
HALF A CENTURY OF
Four since 1980 and played in its first NCAA championship game since 1969, losing 75-60 to Connecticut in the final.
Purdue won two Big Ten regular-season titles (2023, 2024) and two Big Ten Tournament championships (2023, 2026) with Smith on the team.
Moreover, the Boilermakers spent 55 weeks in the Associated Press Top 10, including 16 weeks at No. 1, and went 117-32 with a .785 winning percentage during Smith’s career.
Smith was the 2022 Indiana Mr. Basketball winner at Westfield High School.
Smith said he will miss the relationships with his Purdue teammates.
“Obviously, it’s a sad moment, and we don’t want it to end, but at the end of the day, you’re with a group of dudes who enjoyed being around each other (and) always hung out off the court,” Smith said in the transcripts. “I’ve never had an issue with anybody in my four years, and I think that’s pretty rare too. I never disliked anybody on the team. I’ve never not wanted to talk to people on the team. I enjoyed every single person.”
HOME sweet HOME
DISPATCHES
Early voting begins April 22 in Westfield — Early voting for the May primary begins in Westfield on April 22. Those interested in early voting can do so at Westfield City Hall, 130 Penn Street, Westfield; Cool Creek Nature Center, 2000-1 E 151st St.; Westfield Washington Township Offices, 17400 Westfield Blvd., Westfield. Early voting will take place on the following dates:
• April 22-23 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• April 24-25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• April 29-30 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• May 1-2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Nature Walks extended into April — The Westfield Parks and Recreation Department’s Nature Walk series has been extended into April. Nature Walks are an easy-to-moderate 2-mile guided walk across the Central Midland Trace Trail. This event is free and open to participants of all ages. Friendly dogs on a leash are permitted. To register, visit shorturl. at/m7d7D
This year, David Weekley Homes is thrilled to celebrate many incredible milestones, including our 50th anniversary as a company and 15 years of building within the Indianapolis area. It’s been our privilege to bring our Customers’ dream homes to life since 1976, and we can’t wait to create ones for your Clients!
Learn more by scanning the QR code or calling 317-708-1551
Purdue guard Braden Smith delivers a pass during a Feb. 14 game at Iowa. (Photo courtesy of Purdue athletics)
SAFETY MEETS STYLE
Nelson to run for Congress in Indiana’s 5th District
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Carmel resident Tara Nelson, a Democrat, has filed to run for Indiana’s 5th District U.S. House of Representatives seat. Nelson will face State Sen. J.D. Ford, Steven Avitabile Avit, Jackson Franklin, Phil Goss, Dylan McKenna and Deborah A Pickett in the May 5 Democratic primary election.
“To me, (the number of candidates) shows that they’re paying attention to what’s going on, and they also feel passionate about needing to see a change in Washington,” Nelson said. “I’m really glad to see other candidates on the ballot. I honestly would love to see more.” Nelson ran unsuccessfully for Congress 14 years ago in Indiana’s 4th District against Republican Todd Rokita.
“I’ve been thinking about running for Congress since last fall,” Nelson said. “I honestly was hoping something would change where I wouldn’t need to run for office again, but I am consistently seeing (President Donald) Trump and his administration violate the Constitution repeatedly, and I think we need someone in office who is going to impeach him and hold his cabinet accountable.”
Nelson said her campaign will focus on impeaching Trump along with immigration and health care reform.
“I feel like what’s going on right now with immigration is completely horrifying to see — more warehouses are being bought with our tax dollars for continual inhumane treatment of immigrants, and really just anyone who’s being kidnapped. I think the people are not the problem — the process is a problem. It shouldn’t take 15 years to get citizenship.”
Nelson is an IT director in the finance industry. She has previously worked for a pharmaceutical company, on global transformation programs and at the Department of Child Services and Department of Revenue.
Nelson
City home to St. Jude Dream Home Showplace
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
When Old Town Design Group President Matt Huffman received word that his business had been chosen to build and host Indiana’s first St. Jude Dream Home Showplace, he was taken aback.
“We asked them, ‘Why us?,’” Huffman said. “They typically try to look for a builder that has defined itself in a community and can also create opportunities within their own development.”
The St. Jude Dream Home Showplace is a charitable project created by nonprofit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, based in Memphis.
According to St. Jude, Showplace homes are built by local home builders through community support, donated labor and materials from local trade partners, vendors and national sponsors. Upon completion, the house is sold and net proceeds from the sale of the house are donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Carmel-based Old Town chose the Springwater development in Westfield for the home, which is at 16519 Burlwood Dr. The $1.3 million home has 4,047 square feet of living space, including five bedrooms and five bathrooms.
St. Jude, which conducts pediatric cancer research, provided input on the
design.
“What they saw work in the past is a four- to five-bedroom house that is in a nice community,” Huffman said. “With Westfield seeing the growth that it has, it was kind of a no-brainer for us to kind of make it work within Westfield.”
The home is on the east edge of Springwater and the backyard faces trees. Open house showings were offered March 21-22 and March 28-29.
Old Town sales coordinator Katie Ingersoll said some people viewing the home had children who were St. Jude parents or who were St. Jude patients themselves.
“I had goosebumps listening to some of these stories,” said Ingersoll, who estimated that 100 different groups toured the home on the opening weekend alone. “When you see kind of the ripple effect and the people that have been directly involved or directly benefited from (St. Jude) with their outpouring and support, it’s amazing.”
Huffman said Old Town was delighted to participate in the project.
“When we get an opportunity to kind of work outside of our normal work and actually be involved in a project like this,” Huffman said. “I think my whole team lights up.”
As of April 1, the home was still available for purchase. For more, contact Adam Streitmatter at AdamS@ OldTownDesignGroup.
The first St. Jude Dream Home Showplace in Indiana is located at 16519 Burlwood Dr. in Westfield. (Photo by Todd Golden)
BE BOLD, NEVER OLD! Traditions of Westfield is a brand-new senior living community designed for exceptional comfort, care and multi-generational connection.
COMING SPRING 2026 We are just off the Monon Trail!
Guerin Catholic infielder wants another state title shot
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For Guerin Catholic High School junior infielder Ben Canada, the team goal is simply to win the state baseball championship.
The Golden Eagles nearly reached the title game last year, losing to Jasper 5-0 in the IHSAA Class 3A semistate final.
“Getting really close to that state game makes our team incredibly hungry,” Canada said. “We are returning all of our starters from last year. My goals for myself this season are consistency at the plate and (having an) above .980 fielding percentage.”
Canada hit .407 with six home runs for the Golden Eagles last year. He got off to a solid start with two hits in Guerin’s 11-1 romp over Delta March 30 in the season opener.
The Noblesville resident plays second base for Guerin and third base for the Indiana Bulls 17-and-under black travel team.
“Infield has always been my position, whether it’s second, short or third,” he said. “I feel like my biggest strength is
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
MEET BEN CANADA
Favorite vacation spot: Hawaii
Favorite TV show: “Stranger Things”
Favorite song: “Hours In Silence” by Drake
Favorite sports team: Purdue University basketball team
Favorite subject: Math
my in-game hitting and my eye. I hardly ever chase pitches out of the (strike) zone.”
Canada committed to continue his baseball career at Northwestern University on Sept. 1, 2025.
“What attracted me to Northwestern was how much I was wanted there by the coaching staff,” he said. “It’s a great
academic school with amazing facilities and a competitive schedule, so that played a role as well.”
Canada started playing baseball at age 5.
“My dad put the bat in my hand and made me a left-handed hitter,” said Canada, who throws right-handed. Canada played basketball through his
freshman season.
“I quit because I felt like my baseball game had a chance to make the next level, so I quit to focus on (baseball),” he said.
Canada’s father, Brian Canada, is in his second year as a Guerin varsity assistant coach and a coach for the Indiana Bulls. He is a 2001 Hamilton Southeastern High School graduate who played third base for Miami (Ohio) University. He said his son has improved his strength and speed.
“He has really prioritized his nutrition, weightlifting and speed training over the last 24 months,” he said. “He went through a growth spurt, put on about 25 pounds and really focused on power and form with his speed and has shaved off about 0.7 seconds on his (60yard dash) over the last two years.”
The elder Canada said he wants his son to enjoy the moment and journey ahead of ups and downs like any season.
“Guerin really has an amazing group of players, and this team is so special, so we really try to focus the boys on enjoying the grind and journey ahead together as one team,” he said.
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Guerin Catholic High School junior infielder Ben Canada has committed to Northwestern University. (Photo courtesy of Canada family)
� Say Goodbye to maintenance
Now is your time to connect with the people, places and things you enjoy most. Learn more about the Village Cooperative of Westfield – a community coming soon specifically for Active Adults (62+)!
See below for details about our upcoming FREE informational seminar or to learn more…
DISPATCHES
Absentee ballot deadline — Those wishing to vote absentee must submit an application before midnight April 23. The form can be submitted electronically at indianavoters.com. Voters also call 317-776-8476 and make a request for an application.
WLF brick fundraising campaign —
The Westfield Library Foundation has launched a commemorative brick fundraising campaign to support the upcoming Read & Roam Garden at the Westfield Washington Public Library. The Read & Roam Garden will transform the library’s outdoor space into a park and open-air classroom designed for reading, play, and learning. Community members can support the project by purchasing an engraved brick, with the option to personalize their message, honor loved ones or showcase their business or organization. Brick options include:
The Village Cooperative of Westfield is a new community for active adults (62+) who want home ownership and no maintenance or worries! Discover the advantages of carefree living...
Informational Seminar Thursday, April 16th at 1pm
• 4x8 Brick (no clip art): 3 lines, 20 characters per line – $200
• 4x8 Brick (with clip art): 3 lines, 15 characters per line – $200
• 8x8 Brick (no clip art): 6 lines, 20 characters per line – $400
• 8x8 Brick (with clip art): 4 lines, 20 characters per line – $400
• 8x8 Brick (corporate logo): $500. Corporate logo submissions should be emailed to Erin Downey at edowney@ wwpl.lib.in.us. Orders placed by April 20 will be installed in time for the Grand Opening of the Read & Roam Garden on June 1. For more or to purchase a brick, visit fundraisingbrick.com/online-orders/wlf/ or contact Erin Downey at edowney@wwpl.lib.in.us.
Kickoff to May contest — The 500 Festival and STAR Financial Bank have launched the 2026 Kickoff to May Contest. Themed “Racing Through History,” the challenge offers Hoosiers 18 and older a chance to win a prize pack valued at more than $1,000. It includes Indianapolis 500 Carb Day passes, 500 Festival Parade VIP tickets and a $250 Huse Culinary gift card. To enter, participants must answer three trivia questions at resources.starfinancial.com/star-500-festival by 11 a.m. April 29. The winner will be announced during the free Kickoff to May event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 29 on Monument Circle. For more, visit 500Festival.com/Kickoff.
COMMUNITY
Spartz, King address District 5 campaign issues
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
U.S Rep. Victoria Spartz (R-District 5) is running for reelection and has been challenged in the GOP primary by Scott King of Noblesville. Both candidates answered questions about their primary run.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE?
King: Until a few years ago, I found the notion to be frivolous and pointless. However, today I feel it my genuine duty to step into the political spotlight and campaign for Congress. I vow to leave no stone unturned in my approach to serving my district and the American people.
Spartz: There is no lobby for the people in Washington, D.C., so I have to be one — as someone who has an enormous appreciation for the fundamentals of our republic.
WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM YOUR OPPONENT?
King: I am, without a doubt, the most capable candidate out there. I don’t approach; I accomplish. With that being said, keep in mind, we can no longer afford people swearing oaths to agendas that usurp the Constitution of the United States.
Spartz: Years of experience as a businesswoman and an effective legislator.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE CAMPAIGN ISSUES?
King: First and foremost, my main concern is to begin unraveling the red tape that leads to unlawful surveillance and police state activity. Next; the medical community mission statement, when it comes to rights and care. Finally; IMMIGRATION.
Spartz: Health care; national debt; energy generation.
WHAT DO YOU MOST WANT VOTERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
King: Many times in the past I have had people tell me I should run for office, become involved in politics because I cannot be bought or moved from my faith. I am a devout Christian. This country needs to return to common sense and decency-based initiatives.
Spartz: It has been a great honor and a huge responsibility to represent District 5, and I will always fight to deliver real results regardless of politics and how difficult it may be.
HOW WILL YOU ENSURE FEDERAL INFRASTRUCTURE AND ECONOMIC POLICIES SERVE BOTH THE RAPIDLY GROWING SUBURBS AND RURAL COMMUNITIES OF DISTRICT 5?
King: I will be hands-on in undertaking various different needs that are present and/or needed in the future. That means monitoring contracts and overseeing progress. Budgeting must be realistic or my office will remind everyone involved that they need to resubmit proposals. We cannot continue feeding greed and nepotism.
Spartz: Making health care and energy more affordable, and getting “real” inflation under control will benefit economic development and opportunities in all areas of my district.
HOW WILL YOU ADDRESS THE NATIONAL DEBT WHILE MAINTAINING ESSENTIAL SERVICES AND NATIONAL SECURITY?
King: I will have my nose in every bit of business that revolves around wasteful or nonessential spending. National security and essential services take top priority. I want to cut programs that should be 501(c)3 rather than NGO-oriented endeavors. Let the private sector endow those entities.
Spartz: By fixing health care controlled by government-subsidized oligopolies charging outrageous prices.
King
Spartz
Author pens first book
By Lauren Weidinger news@youarecurrent.com
Westfield resident Alli Koscal recently published her first book, “Love and Loyalty: Heart Lessons from the Book of Ruth,” a seven-week bible study broken into five lessons per week that can be explored individually or within a group setting.
The Bible study dives into the biblical character of Ruth, the inspiration for the book.
“I was going through a podcast with some friends called ‘The Bible in a Year,’ and when I got to the Book of Ruth, I was captivated by her story and her strength as a woman,” Koscal said. “She was brave, courageous and all these things that I wanted to be, so it stuck with me.”
Last year, Koscal founded the ministry Finding Haven, which helps women explore their faith and find fellowship. The “haven” in Finding Haven is an acronym for hope, authenticity, vulnerability, encouragement and need for in-person connection.
“The overarching goal is to create sa-
cred spaces of peace and rest in a world that is super chaotic,” Koscal said.
As a devout Catholic — Koscal is a parishioner at Our Lady Of Mount Carmel — and mother of seven, she wants to help other women and mothers continue to explore their faith and what it means to be a daughter of God.
Love and Loyalty, published by Faith and Family Publications, can be purchased via Amazon at amazon.com/ Love-Loyalty-Heart-Lessons-Book/dp/ B0GHGWPR5Y.
For more about Finding Haven, follow Koscal on Instagram @Findinghaven7 and on substack @Findinghavens.
Solara teams with Pacers
By David Jacobs david@youarecurrent.com
Fans who attend the April 7 Indiana Pacers game against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Gainbridge Fieldhouse will have a chance to receive a limited-edition pickleball paddle designed by Solara ‘94, a pickleball and lifestyle brand based in Westfield.
The promotion is part of the Pacers’ Pickleball Night. The paddles can only be obtained with a promotional ticket via the Pacers’ website at nba. com/pacers/tickets/theme-nights/ pickleball-night.
Solara ’94 founder Clayton Mosley started playing pickleball three years ago and said there is a market for aesthetically pleasing durable paddles.
“I went from cheap paddles that you find on Amazon to wanting to get something a bit nicer,” Mosley said. “Part of my inspiration was to get my wife into pickleball, and I knew she would care more about the aesthetics of the paddle. So, I wanted to create something that offered both a great aesthetic and something that would perform well.”
After establishing his brand, Mosley connected with the Pacers events and marketing team through the founders of The Pickler in Noblesville in August 2025.
The paddles feature the Pacers’ City Edition branding, with the team’s throwback logos on each side.
“I created some designs and really leaned into being a local brand,” Mosley said.
Mosley went through several iterations of designs before launching the Legacy Collection, which is what the limited-edition paddle is a part of.
For more on Solara ‘94, visit solara94. com.
Westfield author Alli Koscal with her book “Love and Loyalty: Heart Lessons from the Book of Ruth.”
(Photo courtesy of Alli Koscal)
Solara ‘94 founder Clayton Mosley shows off one of his pickleball paddles. (Photo courtesy of Clayton Mosley)
Outdoor activity space planned for WWPL, township property
news@youarecurrent.com
Westfield Washington Public Library and Westfield Washington Township will soon begin a landscaping project that will create outdoor activity space at the building they share at 17400 Westfield Blvd.
The outdoor activity space will feature two shaded structures, reading nooks, ADA-accessible tables, drinking fountains, several water features and fresh landscaping.
Completion is planned for late summer.
“This outdoor space is the final piece of our new library’s plan,” Executive Director of Westfield Washington Public Library Sheryl Sollars stated. “It will expand our programming possibilities in such exciting ways — from story times under the shade structures to family activities and summer learning events. And the best part is patrons can watch the progress through the library’s many windows and outdoor patios.”
Employees in the Westfield Washington Township office, which is on the west side of the shared building,
Rendering of the outdoor area plans for the Westfield Washington Public Library and Westfield Washington Township shared building at 17400 Westfield Blvd. (Courtesy of Westfield Washington Public Library)
is equally eager to see the new green space take shape.
“This open lawn area will give us a beautiful, flexible space for township and library events alike,” stated Jamie Goetz Mills, Westfield Washington Township trustee. “It will be a place where residents of all ages can come together to learn, celebrate and connect. We’re especially excited to use it for our summer camps and youth programs.”
The project was designed by Mader Design and will be developed by KD Landscaping.
DISPATCHES
New public transit service offered — A new public transit service that takes riders between Hamilton and Hancock counties has launched through a Central Indiana Regional Transportation Authority, Hamilton County Express and RIDE Hancock partnership. One-Call Connect helps riders navigate a public transportation funding rule that doesn’t allow transit providers to cross county lines. The new service, which offers users a flat one-way fee of $8, has a transfer point in McCordsville where riders switch between each county’s ADA-accessible transit providers. To book a trip weekdays between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m., call 317-327-7433 at least 48 hours in advance.
Spring Swing returns —The City of Westfield’s dance event, Spring Swing, returns to The Bridgewater Club April 18, for music, dancing and family activities. Spring Swing combines the
tradition of father-daughter and mother-son dances and adds a “Someone Special” category, open to any child and a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, foster parent or other loved one. The addition allows families of all kinds to participate. Each dance session will feature family-friendly music from a professional DJ, crafts, airbrush and balloon artists, snacks and refreshments, outdoor games and activities, and a professional portrait station by Tenth Street Photography. All activities are included with admission. Tickets are required for each attendee and are $20 per person, regardless of age. Tickets go on sale March 18 at 10 a.m. and are expected to sell out. Dance sessions include: Someone Special Dance: 2–4 p.m.; Mother-Son Dance: 4:30–6:30 p.m.; Father-Daughter Dance: 7–9 p.m. All ages are welcome, though the event is recommended for children ages 3–10.
(Advertorial)
ORTHOPEDIC URGENT CARE: When Pain or Injury Can’t Wait
By Dr. Robert Falender OrthoIndy Urgent Care Physician
Last week, a weekend warrior came into our urgent care center convinced he’d torn his ACL during a pickup basketball game. He’d spent two anxious days icing his knee, wondering if his active lifestyle was over. Within an hour, we’d done X-rays and a physical exam, ruled out the tear and sent him home with a treatment plan for a moderate sprain. He was very relieved.
That’s exactly why OrthoIndy Urgent Care exists.
The Gap Between “It Can Wait” and “Call 911”
Most musculoskeletal injuries fall into an uncomfortable middle ground. Your ankle rolls during a hike. Your shoulder pops out of place. Your back seizes lifting groceries. These aren’t heart attacks, but they’re not minor inconveniences either—and waiting days or weeks for answers can mean unneeded pain, anxiety and sometimes worse outcomes.
Emergency rooms do critical work saving lives, but for a suspected fracture or joint injury, you’ll often wait hours alongside true emergencies, only to be referred to an orthopedic specialist anyway. Your primary care doctor may need to schedule you out weeks.
What We Actually Do
At OrthoIndy Urgent Care, we’ve built something different: walk-in orthopedic evaluation by specialists who diagnose and treat bone, joint and muscle injuries all day, every day.
We see a lot of sports injuries— torn ligaments, dislocations and suspected fractures. Also, acute back and neck pain, sudden joint swelling that won’t resolve, and the “I heard a pop and now I can’t move it” injuries.
Having on-site X-rays mean we can tell you what’s wrong and what to do about it before you leave. Bracing, splinting, pain management strategies, activity modifications— we handle it on-site. Most patients are in and out within two hours with a clear diagnosis from an or-
thopedic specialist instead of waiting numerous hours for an emergency room generalist for treatment.
When You Need More
Not everything resolves with conservative treatment. When you need physical therapy, advanced imaging like an MRI or a surgical consultation, we connect you directly into OrthoIndy’s network of specialists. No starting over, no repeating your story to five different people.
Who Benefits Most?
Honestly; anyone who’s ever injured themselves on a Saturday and spent the weekend in limbo. Student athletes who need to know if they can play Mondaytomorrow. Older adults dealing with sudden mobility issues who can’’t afford to wait. Busy parents who need answers now, not next week or next month. We have five locations across Central Indiana with extended hours because injuries don’t respect business schedules.
The Bottom Line
If you’re hurt enough to worry but not hurt enough for the ER, we’re here. No appointment needed. Just walk in, get evaluated by people who specialize in exactly what’s wrong and leave with a plan.
OrthoIndy Urgent Care Locations: Brownsburg | 9070 E. 56th St. Ste. 400 | Brownsburg, IN 46112
Fishers | 10995 N. Allisonville Rd. Ste. 102 | Fishers, IN 46038
Greenwood | 1260 Innovation Pkwy. Ste. 100 | Greenwood, IN 46143
Northwest Indianapolis | 8450 Northwest Blvd. | Indianapolis, IN 46278
Westfield | 288 East 175th St. Ste. 100 | Westfield, IN 46074
WMS WINS COUNTY ACADEMIC TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP
Kamath, Wesley Thayer and coach Linda Ogle. (Photo courtesy of Linda Ogle)
WMS fitness camp — A fitness camp for Westfield Middle School students in grades 6-8 is being hosted by WMS coaches. WMS boys and girls are encouraged to join as we focus on developing training techniques. This camp will focus on lifting techniques, muscular strength, mobility, flexibility, and core strengthening. Session II takes place Mondays and Fridays from April 13-May 15 from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. at WMS. Cost is $50 with the same sibling discount. Checks can be made payable to Westfield Washington Schools with “WMS Fitness Camp” included in the check memo line. Mail payment to Westfield Washington Schools, 19500 Tomlinson Rd., Suite A, Westfield, IN 46074 Attn WMS Fitness Camp. Scholarship assistance available upon request to coach Todd Hagemeier at hagemeiert@wws. k12.in.us or 317-385-2770.
Hiker completes mission
By Samantha Kupiainen news@youarecurrent.com
Westfield resident Chris Bradley is an avid hiker and mountain climber. He recently completed the mission to hike all designated hiking trails at Indiana’s 24 state parks, a goal he called “Operation HAT-SPIN.”
HAT-SPIN stands for Hike All Trails – State Parks of Indiana.
“I just kind of had it in the back of my mind (to try it),” said Bradley, a teacher and dean of academic affairs at University School. “Then, on a spur of the moment in February 2025, I just thought, ‘Let’s go ahead and do it.’”
Bradley began at Fort Harrison State Park in Indianapolis because it was nearby and then slowly worked his way through all 177 trails in the state parks system in less than a year and a half. Initially, he thought it would take two or three years.
Bradley completed his goal March 28 at McCormick’s Creek State Park.
“I decided a while ago to have that be the final one because McCormick’s Creek State Park was the first of the
Indiana state parks to be founded back in 1916,” Bradley said. “So, I thought that might be appropriate to have the official end of this be at the first Indiana State Park.”
Bradley’s biggest takeaway was a renewed appreciation for the beautiful natural places in Indiana.
“There’s a great variety available to us that I think we can miss sometimes,” he said. “There’s just so much beauty available to us here. One of the things that’s nice, too, are the glimpses of the natural world, which are just harder to see.”
Members of the Westfield Middle School Academic Team. Front row, from left: Victor Pisarski, Isaac Galan, Luke Miller, Braden Norris, Sanjayraj Kalaivendhan, Kate Sullivan, Caitlin Raupp, Isabelle Reis, and Adam Lindemann-Cox. Back, from left: Shyamak Patel, Graeme Dunlap, Hayden Parker (with plaque), Isaac Whipple, Akhil
Chris Bradley at the entrance to one of the trails at Shades State Park in western Indiana. (Photo courtesy of Chris Bradley)
GO FRAMELESS
WPD offers golf cart registration
The Westfield Police Department will host community inspection days to help residents complete required inspections for golf cart registration.
Residents can attend any of the following inspection times and locations: APRIL 18
• 9 a.m.-noon: The Bridgewater Club, 3535 E. 161st St. (south side near Pro Shop)
• 1-4 p.m.: The Club at Chatham Hills, 1100 Chatham Hills Blvd. APRIL 19
• 9 a.m.-noon: Shamrock Springs Elementary School, 747 W. 161st St.
• 1-4 p.m.: Washington Woods Elementary School, 17950 Grassy Branch Rd.
MAY 8
• 9 a.m.-noon.: The Bridgewater Club, 3535 E. 161st St. (south side near Pro Shop)
• 1-4 p.m.: The Club at Chatham Hills, 1100 Chatham Hills Boulevard
MAY 9
• 9 a.m.-noon.: Carey Ridge Elementary School, 16231 Carey Rd.
• 1-4 p.m.: Monon Trails Elementary School, 19400 Tomlinson Rd. Staff will be on-site to inspect golf carts and assist residents with the registration process. Inspections help confirm that each vehicle meets safety standards required for use on designated roads. Residents should bring their golf cart, valid identification and proof of insurance.
Permits cost $100 and are valid through Dec. 31 of the second calendar year after inspection. Carts must pass inspection by the WPD and have proof of insurance.
Violations are $100 for first offenses, $150 for the second offenses and $300 for subsequent offenses. Additional fees may apply. Continued violations may result in citation and impoundment. Impaired driving will result in impoundment, additional penalties, and all associated towing and storage costs. Additional details about golf cart requirements and registration can be found at westfieldin.gov/golfcarts.
Indy Design Week set for April 20
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
An annual festival celebrating the Greater Indianapolis area’s design community — from commercial graphic designers to graffiti artists, and everything in between — kicks off April 20, with workshops, meet-ups and more scheduled over six days, culminating in a public market for designers to show and sell their work.
Indy Design Week Communications
Director Alli Donovan said the event started in 2018 when a group of local designers got together and decided that Indianapolis needed its own Design Week — modeled after similar festivals in other cities. It did well initially, but attendance dwindled during the COVID-19 pandemic. A group of new leaders worked to refresh the festival, and it’s grown in recent years.
“We have built, really, a community where it is just driving folks to celebrate and elevate the Indianapolis design community and the creative community overall,” she said. “We’re not focused on just designers. We say that if you are creative or a creative enthusiast, this festival is for you. So, we really focus on our partnerships and just highlighting all the incredible things that happen in Indianapolis.”
While the week focuses on design, various artistic endeavors are celebrated and shared, Donovan said.
“Last year, for example, we had a whole workshop day where we were opening it up to the community and a lot of students,” she said. “If you have this itch … or something new that you want to learn, come out and do our workshop day with us. That includes graffiti artists and sneaker designers and all these different pieces that you don’t see in a normal day-to-day job. If you just appreciate art and appreciate the things that are happening around you, come out, you’ll learn something new, you’ll meet a really great group of people.”
A new workshop this year focuses on native plant gardening and is set for April 22 — Earth Day — at the COhatch in Broad Ripple. It will be led by Amy Gastelum, who owns a local native plants and flower business.
Executive Director Tori Witter said the workshop and an accompanying Lunch & Learn event also will mark
One of the 2025 Indy Design Week events was a graffiti workshop. (Photo courtesy of Indy Design Week)
the launch of Gastelum’s new book, “The Search for Self: A Gardener’s Workbook,” a collaboration with local designer Aby Cortes.
“The workbook was created as a tool to help guide Amy’s clients through the creative process of imagining and designing their gardens,” Witter said. “Launching the book during the festival felt like a natural way to highlight a local collaboration between design and horticulture — and it fit beautifully with our Earth Day programming.”
Returning to the schedule this year is the April 21 downtown walking tour, offered in partnership with Indiana Landmarks. Witter said the 2026 festival theme, Field Guide, inspired Indiana Landmarks’ Kasey Zronek when planning this year’s tour.
“She began pointing out all the historic buildings in the East Mile Square area that are central to Indianapolis’ art and design story,” Witter said, “From there, we started shaping a tour specifically for IDW that highlights those hidden-in-plain-sight design landmarks.”
The final day, April 25, is market day, with designers showing off and selling their creations in booths and offering demonstrations for visitors and fellow designers.
This year’s market will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Factory Arts District, 1125 Brookside Ave.
Donovan stressed that Indy Design Week celebrates local designers, specifically.
“You hear of Chicago and New York and LA, but we’ve got an incredible, incredible amount of creatives here who are doing the work,” she said. “This is kind of that field guide of making everybody know that Indianapolis is indeed a design city, and if you don’t know, then you’re going to know after this festival.”
For more, visit indydesignweek.com.
DISPATCHES
Mayor’s Youth Council Application Portal Open — The City of Westfield has opened its application portal for the 2026-27 cohort of the Westfield Mayor’s Youth Council. The Westfield Mayor’s Youth Council is a leadership development program designed for local high school students eager to make a positive impact in their community. The online application will remain open until April 17. To be eligible, applicants must:
• Be a resident of Westfield (at least
one parent or legal guardian residing in Westfield)
• Be a current or incoming high school student (public, private, or homeschooled)
• Be self-motivated and committed to fulfilling their responsibilities
• Be able to dedicate approximately 5-10 hours per week to WMYC activities
For more, visit westfieldin.gov/m/ newsflash/home/detail/180
(Advertorial)
TRAVELING WITH AMBASSADAIR
By Bob Kraft
When Barbara Gentry and I started dating in 2014, she regularly entertained me with stories of her travels around the world. She traveled extensively after her divorce in the 1990’s, often with the original Ambassadair and the new Ambassadair after its merger with Grueninger Travel. My travels up to that time had been limited to family visits and driving vacations with my late wife as well as occasional business trips.
Barb encouraged me to renew my long-expired passport and began sharing travel information with me. Finally, in early 2019 she convinced me to join her at Ambassadair’s presentation about their upcoming cruise from Greece to Turkey through the Greek Isles. I was fascinated by both the itinerary and the opportunity to travel on a four-masted sailboat, and we signed up.
This was the first of ten trips that Barb and I have taken with Ambassadair. Each has been unique, but each has been carefully choreographed and supplemented with knowledgeable local guides. We have travelled in commercial airliners and a single engine prop plane that landed on an airstrip carved out of the center of San Pedro, Belize; on sailboats and tour boats and river cruise ships; on cog railroads; on ski-lifts and cable suspended gondolas; and on a number of motor coaches (which Ambassadair never calls busses).
With Ambassadair we have visited world renowned sites such as the Vatican, the Acropolis, La Scala Opera House, and the Black Forest as well as lesser-known locations identified by the Ambassadair staff. We Hoosier flatlanders have been awed by
the majesty of the Rockies in Glacier National Park, the Alps in Switzerland, Italy and Croatia, and the fiords of Scandinavia. We have enjoyed local cuisine and sampled local beverages including an afternoon at Munich’s Oktoberfest.
Recently, we attended a couple of pre-trip presentations by Ambassadair. We were not among strangers. Many of those in the audience had been with us on one or more of our previous trips. That so many former travelers returned to Ambassadair’s presentation indicates that they share our view that reinforces the value of traveling with an experienced tour guide and following a pre-established itinerary.
Barb and I have already committed to traveling on two more Ambassadair trips. It is exciting that a locally based tour company offers such a variety of travel experiences and that the trips are totally escorted starting in Indianapolis.
Ambassadair offers leisure group travel to destinations all around the world. For more information visit ambassadair.com or call 317-581-1122.
MAKING MEMORIES
New venue to host weddings, community events
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
After graduating from Palm Beach Atlantic University in Florida, Zionsville native Shelby Dempsey started her career as a full-time wedding photographer and videographer.
Dempsey estimated that she shot 400 weddings in her visual arts job and gained a wealth of experience.
“I was mentally taking note of what could have been done from a facility side, a facilities design side and a team service side to smooth that out and make it easier for (wedding client and guests) to just be in the moment,” Dempsey said.
On April 25, Westwood Vowery and Estate will celebrate its grand opening at 18342 Spring Mill Rd., next to Urban Apples Cidery in Westfield.
Dempsey co-owns the business, which she calls Westwood for short, with her husband Seth Dempsey and her parents Chris and Tana Henry. Dempsey and her family opened The Sixpence, an event rental space in Whitestown that specializes in barnstyle weddings, in 2021 that they still run.
Westwood is larger than The Sixpence, with 20,200 square feet of space between two buildings compared to 8,000 square feet at The Sixpence. They have one thing in common.
“Beautiful and functional spaces can exist in the same space,” Shelby Dempsey said.
Dempsey applied her experience as a wedding photographer to the design of Westwood.
“The easy one right off the bat is natural lighting,” she said. “Artificial light, no matter how beautiful the fixture is that it’s coming from, it doesn’t photograph as well as just really good natural light.”
The main space, the “vowery room,” is exposed to natural light on three sides, from ceiling to floor. The venue also has an outdoor courtyard.
Dempsey also takes pride that her business focuses on guests’ experiences as much as clients.’
“Sometimes, I think venues are crafted with just the couple in mind, and they forget about the 300 other people that are going to be a part of the day and how you best support them through the facilities that you make available to them,” Dempsey said.
Dempsey said accessibility for the disabled, effective heating and cooling, restroom accessibility and ease of building layout are a few amenities that make the experience better for clients and guests.
Dempsey hopes vendors appre-
ciate the enhancements as much as customers.
“The kitchen design here is much more expansive,” Dempsey said. “And then we don’t have any back of house parking at Sixpence (for vendors), which is not a deal breaker, but it’s nice to have the separation and just be able to load in and out all evening long without pulling a cart.”
There also is a second building on the premises — Henry’s At Westwood — designed for events with up to 50 guests. It features a full bar, pool table, lounge
MAKING A WESTFIELD CONNECTION
Westwood Vowery and Estate co-owner Shelby Dempsey wants to make sure the new Westfield business is part of the Westfield community by hosting memorable events for families and companies in the years to come.
Westwood is hosting two hospitality scholarships with the Westfield Education Foundation. The WEF is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.
“We’re funding hospitality scholarships for graduates from Westfield High
School every year for the next 10 years,” Dempsey said. “We’re finding ways to give back in that way.”
Dempsey said Westwood reflects the city’s growth.
“Westfield is a fast-growing community, and we really believe that the people who live here deserve to have a space that prioritizes and supports milestone moments,” she said. “So, we’re excited for that.”
space, a dedicated indoor cigar lounge, and an outdoor fire pit and patio.
Westwood has already booked a prominent local fundraising event — the May 1 “Mayor’s Grand Gala: A Night of Giving,” which raises money for local initiatives.
Westfield Mayor Scott Willis is pleased Westwood chose to build in Westfield.
“It’s a great opportunity not only for our residents, but this kind of venue will draw in weddings from all over the central Indiana area,” Willis said. “I think it will be a tourism component for Westfield.”
Westwood books events and weddings each day of the week.
“We are sitting at about 175 bookings today which is a fantastic number. We’re really excited,” said Dempsey, who also noted that Westwood has events booked into the summer of 2028. For more, westwoodvenue.com.
ON THE COVER: Co-owners Shelby and Seth Dempsey will open Westwood Vowery and Estate at 18342 Spring Mill Rd. in Westfield. (Photo courtesy of Shelby Dempsey)
A rendering of the grand entrance at the Westwood Vowery & Estate as it will look when construction is complete at the facility. (Rendering courtesy of Shelby Dempsey)
Co-owners Shelby and Seth Dempsey atop the Westwood Vowery and Estate during construction. (Photo courtesy of Shelby Dempsey)
City firm earns FDA designation
By Lauren Weidinger news@youarecurrent.com
Westfield-based Portal Diabetes, Inc. has received the Breakthrough Device Designation from the Food and Drug Administration for its implantable insulin pump system called Portal Pump.
The Portal Pump is an implantable insulin device that delivers insulin directly to the liver, offering fully automated insulin delivery for patients with Type 1 diabetes. The glucose monitor within the system continually measures blood glucose levels and communicates with the pump without the need for involvement from the patient.
“The pump and continuous glucose monitor are in constant communication,” Portal Diabetes CEO Stacy Chambliss said.
Chambliss said the alternative method to insulin is multiple daily injections or external pump therapy, both of which deliver insulin under the skin. The disadvantage relates to time action of insulin traveling through the body before it eventually reaches the liver.
Portal Pump was developed by Westfield-based Portal Diabetes, Inc. (Photo courtesy of Portal Diabetes)
“The insulin [by multiple daily injections] takes a very long time to travel all throughout the body,” Chambliss said. “It can be somewhat unpredictable before it can eventually get to the place it is supposed to go, which is the liver. So that’s the huge difference in today’s therapy and an implantable pump … we’re delivering right to the place it needs to go in the liver.”
The Breakthrough Device Designation will facilitate interactions with the FDA as Portal Diabetes, Inc. undergoes clinical trials and regulatory approvals.
Portal Diabetes plans to begin clinical trials for the Portal Pump combination system at the end of 2027.
big trees now!
price includes installation & warranty
By Brittney Dial Testin news@youarecurrent.com
Westfield Mayor Scott Willis joined representatives from Beazer Homes and the Westfield Chamber of Commerce on March 18 to cut the ribbon for the new Winterburg Community.
“A couple years ago when I first came to Beazer Homes, we came out here and stepped on dirt,” said Rob Montgomery, division president for Beazer Homes. “It was nothing but a farm field, and to see what it has become today is pretty exciting.”
Winterburg, a master-planned community just west of Grand Park, offers single-family homes with three to five bedrooms and up to 3 1/2 bathrooms, according to Beazer Homes.
“(We are) just excited to get the community started,” Montgomery said. “Right now, we see a few homes going up, but soon we will see people in their backyards and the smell of barbeque, kids riding their bikes, dogs in the yards, great memories at the pool. Just
excited to be here in Westfield again.”
Beazer Homes is a national homebuilder based in Atlanta.
“Glad to have you guys back,” Willis said of Beazer. “We are getting ready to approve our comprehensive plan for the city to expand out to the entire township, and soon you’ll be engulfed in more development.”
For more, call 317-214-8105 or visit beazer.com/indianapolis-IN/westfield/ winterburg.
Winterburg Community opens Motorsports-themed hotel proposed
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
A hospitality company looking to launch a brand of motorsports-themed luxury hotels is eyeing Carmel for its $189 million flagship location.
Veloce Hotels are designed to be a destination landmark, rather than just a place to stay, according to founder and CEO Jennifer Stormes.
“I have long described Carmel as the ‘Monaco of the Midwest’ due to its commitment to world-class infrastructure and high-prestige programming,” Stormes said.
Veloce is also considering a separate project in Westfield that would “vary significantly” from the Carmel hotel, Stormes said.
Stormes, who has professional experience in marketing, trust fund asset management and business development, said she was inspired to launch the brand after recognizing a “profound gap in the American market for high performance hospitality.”
“We saw the success of international
concepts like Motorworld in Europe, but realized the U.S. was missing a 5-star, standard of execution,” she said. “Veloce was born to bridge that gap — combining world-class automotive passion with elite guest experiences.”
In addition to guest rooms, some of which would have in-suite parking, Veloce would include a club and spa featuring motorsports human-performance training; a two-story culinary and social lounge; an Italian coffee, pastry and champagne concept; and a secure, climate-controlled automotive gallery.
Learn more at velocehotels.com.
Representatives from Beazer Homes, Westfield Mayor Scott Willis, and the Westfield Chamber of Commerce cut the ribbon March 18 to officially open the new Winterburg Community. (Photo by Brittany Dial Testin)
The podium suite at Veloce would include insuite parking. (Image courtesy of Veloce Hotels)
Mandolinist Thile set for solo show
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Chris Thile has toured through the years with his bands Nickel Creek and Punch Brothers. However, his latest venture is solo.
“It’s been so fun,” Thile said. “Playing solo is an interesting way to connect with your audience because without other people on stage. If you are doing your job, it can be a really intimate feeling. You are not looking left and right at the people on stage. You are looking out at the audience for all the communion you are going to get. I’ve really enjoyed it and soaked up every minute of it.”
Thile will perform at 8 p.m. April 10 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. It will be his first solo visit to the Allied Solutions Center, but he did perform there with the Punch Brothers in 2012.
The tour is in support of his album “Bach’s Sonatas and Partitas, Vol. 2.” Although the music was designed for the violin, Thile plays it on mandolin.
“The show is pretty rangy,” Thile said. “Certainly, I’ll play a fair amount of Bach over the course of the night, but I also dip into my back catalog in a way that seems related to Bach and can be recontextualized by it. When we listen to Bach, we put our serious ears on. It’s almost like we go into a costume as music lovers. I don’t know if that is always beneficial. Sometimes, you can just kick your feet back and listen to Bach in your comfy clothes.”
Thile said it’s also sometimes beneficial to listen to folk songs with serious ears.
“The basis of the show is you are trying to create a cohesive musical narrative with ostensibly wildly disparate elements,” Thile said.
Thile has toured Europe and the U.S. in support of the album, which was released in November 2025.
“We’re in the homestretch of it now,” Thile said of the Bach tour.
“We’ll be transitioning into Punch Brothers. There is a new record in the works. We’re starting to bring the Bach festivities in for a landing. That’s another reason to soak it up. It’s been my favorite solo experience by far, so far.”
During the Palladium show, Thile said he might perform songs by Nickel Creek and Punch Brothers.
“It can be interesting for me to tackle those alone and see how the music reacts to that,” he said.
Thile enjoys sharing stories with the audience.
“I love talking and I love storytelling,” he said. “I feel it’s a natural extension of my musicianship to rap with people about it.”
Thile hosted a public radio show from 2016 to 2020. He originally replaced Garrison Keillor as host of “A Prairie Home Companion.” Thile had been a guest host during Keillor’s ten-
ure. Thile’s show was later renamed “Live From Here.”
For the past two years, he has collaborated with the Punch Brothers on “The Energy Curfew Music Hour,” which is a collaboration with Audible.
“It’s 100 percent acoustic,” he said. “It’s more focused on collaboration than ‘Live From Here’ was, but it’s equally obsessed with variety.”
Thile’s wife, actress Claire Coffee, is the director and co-writer.
“She is an incredible artist in her own right,” he said.
Thile said the different projects keep him fresh.
“I think a well-lived musical life contains multitudes, at least for me,” he said. “I have a lot of energy. I get done with a thing and I don’t want a break. It makes me want to do something else.”
For more, visit thecenterpresents. org.
‘SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN’
“Singin’ in the Rain” runs April 9 to May 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
Feinstein’s cabaret presents “Velvet Voices: A Crooner Celebration” April 9, followed by Casey Abrams and Hunter April 10-11 at Feinstein’s in Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
SOUL ASYLUM
Soul Asylum will perform an acoustic set April 8 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. Corey Glover is the opening performer at 7:15 p.m. For more, visit hendrickslive.org.
CARRIE NEWCOMER
Carrie Newcomer performs at 8 p.m. April 10 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. For more, visit hendrickslive.org.
‘SUITE DREAMS’
Indiana Wind Symphony presents “Suite Dreams” at 4 p.m. April 12 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
Rhett to perform at LIV Golf at Chatham Hills — LIV Golf announced country music star Thomas Rhett will perform at LIV Golf Indianapolis Aug. 21, taking the stage immediately following the conclusion of Round 2 of the League’s Individual Championship event. The after-play concert begins at 5:30 p.m. at The Club at Chatham Hills in Westfield. Fans in attendance for the second round can enjoy Rhett’s performance as part of their entry alongside world-class golf and immersive fan entertainment as concert access is included with all Friday ticket and hospitality offerings
Chris Thile will perform April 10 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Josh Coleman)
JUNE 5-6
FRIDAY VIP 11AM-12PM
FRIDAY SHOW 12PM-7PM EST
SATURDAY VIP 9AM-10AM EST
SATURDAY SHOW 10AM-5PM EST
Blues guitarist’s concert set
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Kenny Wayne Shepherd broke out on the music scene with his debut album released when he was only 18.
Shepherd is celebrating the album with the “Ledbetter Heights” 30th Anniversary Tour, which stops at 7:30 p.m. April 22 at Brown County Music Center in Nashville.
The concert will feature two full sets each night: One featuring the album performed in full, and another featuring other songs from Shepherd’s other albums.
“We’ve never played every song off that record,” Shepherd said. “Some of these songs we haven’t played in 29 years since the record came out.”
“Ledbetter Heights” was named after a historic Black neighborhood in Shepherd’s hometown of Shreveport, La., and pays tribute to blues legend Huddie “Lead Belly” Ledbetter.
“Blues music is the foundation of everything that I do,” he said. “Early on when I picked up the guitar I started with blues music. It’s always been what I built the sound of my music (on) over the years. The first album kind of established the core of my sound and it connected us with our fan base. My music has been more bluesy and less bluesy and everything in between over the years. I think people expect artists to grow and follow the inspiration wherever it might lead them. I never
wanted to be predictable, so I write and record the music I feel inspired to write and record at any given time.”
Shepherd wrote or co-wrote nearly every track on “Ledbetter Heights.”
“The tour has been great. It shows that this music has held up for 30 years and people are still responding to it today,” said Shepherd, who started the tour in February.
Noah Hunt, co-vocalist in the Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band for nearly 30 years, will perform “Ledbetter Heights” live on the tour for the first time. A rerecorded version of “Ledbetter Heights” is scheduled to be released in May.
“He’ll be performing the songs for the first time and then on the new record that will come out in May, which is cool because he’s been with me so long and that’s the only record he wasn’t a part of,” he said. “A lot of fans over the years have wondered what that album would have sounded like if Noah had been on it.”
Shepherd was part of late Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay’s band that included many top musicians for two years at Lucas Oil Stadium.
“That was a cool experience for everyone involved, a once-in-a-lifetime situation,” he said. “I was friends with Jim for 20 years. He was a one-of-akind guy. I miss him and think about him almost every single day.”
For more, visit browncountymusiccenter.com.
Kenny Wayne Shepherd will play at Brown County Music Center.
(Photo courtesy of Larry Philpot)
ENTERTAINMENT
IWS features students
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The Indiana Wind Symphony has a tradition of performing a side-by-side concert with high school musicians during summertime at the Carmel Gazebo.
IWS Music Director Jay Gephart wanted to make the experience even better.
“I wanted to make this really a special event for the high schoolers,” he said. “I wanted them to have the opportunity to play on the Palladium stage. We’ll introduce them individually. Each one will receive a certificate for being a side-byside participant.”
in the second half of the concert.
“The title of the concert comes from a composer named Steven Bryant, and the piece was actually commissioned by the Jasper High School band,” Gephart said. “It’s one of a series of compositions that Bryant took concert band themes and actually created a piece using some of that thematic material.
The concert opens with “The Ringmaster’s March” from the suite “The Soul Has Many Motions,” written by John Mackey.
Crown Point High School student Caliel Mosley, the IWS Concerto Competition winner, will perform during the second piece.
Eighteen high school musicians will perform two pieces with the IWS during its “Suite Dreams” concert at 4 p.m. April 12 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
The high school students will play “The Dam Busters” by Eric Coates and “First Suite in E-Flat for Military Band”
Participating students include two from Carmel High School — Simon Nelson, alto saxophone and Connor Sudduth, trumpet — and two from Lawrence North, Sam Katowitz, baritone saxophone and Guillermo Ceja, horn.
Other participants include trumpet players Bryant Buckles, Zionsville Community; and Abe Greenfield, Lawrence Central
Actor ready for ‘Rain’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Evan Michael Vaughan has envisioned himself on the Beef & Boards stage since he was a child.
“Beef & Boards has been on my radar since I first saw ‘Annie Get Your Gun’ as a child with my family,” Vaughan said. “I even auditioned for ‘The Sound of Music’ as a child and it was my first professional audition. I got a call back and that alone made me feel so special. I’m really excited to be performing in my hometown.”
Vaughan enjoys his role as a swing member.
“I have been a swing in other productions before and I love how organized it makes me become,” he said. “As silly as it sounds, I love getting to take all my notes and organize my charts in ways that work for my brain and allow me to remember so many different roles.”
Vaughan has performed on Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
The 2020 Lawrence Central High School graduate will perform as a swing cast member in “Singin’ in the Rain” April 9 through May 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis.
“I have not been in a production of ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ before, but I am so excited to bring this iconic show to the stage,” Vaughan said. “I grew up watching the musical with my grandparents and often would put on my own performances of it for my family when I was young.”
“On Regent, I performed as a singer-dancer in their production cast,” he said. “We had four production shows and they all differed — pop music, country music, rock music, Broadway hits. Throughout the contract, I visited 35 countries and four continents. Some of my favorites were Barcelona, Santorini, Brazil and Antarctica. I am currently still based in the Geist area and am so happy to be back home for a few months after my cruise contract, although later this year I plan to make the move to New York City and continue performing.”
For more, visit beefandboards.com.
Vaughan
Gephart
COMMUNITY VOICES
Too much construction noise
Editor,
Westfield is one of the fastest-growing communities in the nation. As such there are construction projects ongoing all over our city. Should existing residents expect a degree of solace in their home or should they have to put up with construction noise from sun-up to sundown? Older citizens may have moved into their retirement home and look forward to sitting on their porch to enjoy watching a sunrise or sunset in peace. That person might not have that many years to enjoy such experiences. To have that experience taken away as land development around them subjects them to noise pollution for multiple years, is very problematic and should be addressed by our city leaders. Development of residential and commercial property is inevitable and ultimately will make our com-
munity a more exciting place to live. This does not mean, however, that existing residents should have to endure construction noise for almost all of the daylight hours of the day. Some construction teams even work seven days a week, meaning existing residents won’t even have one day of respite. I believe it is reasonable to have a timeframe for construction activity that respects existing residents’ need for some solace in their home. A timeframe of 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, possibly having reduced hours on Saturday. People should write to the mayor and city council members and request the establishment of an ordinance that creates such a timeframe. They can be reached at westfieldin. gov/170/City-Council and westfieldin.gov/27/Mayors-Office.
Vernon Poland, Westfield
LEGAL NOTICE OF LOW INCOME CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FOR ELECTRIC UTILITY SERVICE FOR ELIGIBLE CUSTOMERS DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC
DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC (“Duke Energy Indiana”) hereby provides notice that, on or around May 1, 2026, Duke Energy Indiana will submit tariff language for approval under the Commission’s thirty-day administrative filing procedures and guidelines for a low income customer assistance program pursuant to Ind. Code ch. 8-147 to provide financial assistance to eligible residential customers for the payment of monthly electric utility bills. This submission is expected to be approved approximately thirty days after filing, unless an objection is made. Any objections may be made by contacting the Secretary of the Commission, or the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor at the following addresses or phone numbers:
Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission 101 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 East Indianapolis, IN 46204-3407 317-232-2703
Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor - PNC Center 115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South Indianapolis, IN 46204 317-232-2494.
LEGAL NOTICE OF DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC’S FILING OF REVISIONS TO TARIFF NO. 6 – RESIDENTIAL ELECTRIC SERVICE AND TARIFF NO. 20 – YOUR FIXEDBILL
DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC (“Duke Energy Indiana”) hereby provides notice that on or around May 1, 2026, Duke Energy Indiana will submit revisions to its Tariff No. 6, Residential Electric Service, and Tariff No. 20, Your FixedBill, for approval under the Commission’s thirty-day administrative filing procedures and guidelines. This filing is in accordance with Ind. Code § 8-1-2-4.7, which requires, pursuant to Ind. Code § 8-1-2-4.7(e)(1), that beginning with the first monthly billing cycle that begins after June 30, 2026, electric utilities apply a levelized billing plan to all active customer accounts that are eligible for, and have applied for, assistance from a home energy assistance program administered under Ind. Code ch. 4-4-33, and to which a levelized billing plan does not already apply. In addition, pursuant to Ind. Code § 8-1-2-4.7(e)(3), electric utilities must, not later than July 1, 2026, amend or design their levelized billing plans to comply with the reconciliation mechanism described in Ind. Code § 8-1-2-4.7(a)(3).
Any objections may be made by contacting the Secretary of the Commission, or the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor at the following addresses or phone numbers: Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission 101 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 East, Indianapolis, IN 46204-3407 317-232-2703 Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor - PNC Center 115 W. Washington St., Suite 1500 South, Indianapolis, IN 46204 317-232-2494.
Fell for a fast-walking woman
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
My wife Mary Ellen walks faster than I do. If I hadn’t broken into a full gallop down the aisle the day we got married, she’d have beaten me to the justice of the peace by a nose. I’ve mentioned this before in this column, but things have gotten much worse and far more embarrassing
When we take a walk around the block, Mary Ellen has to turn around every three or four minutes and walk back around me so that she doesn’t get too far ahead. As embarrassing as this is, I demand that she do it because a 79-year-old man should not be yelling to his wife, “Wait up!,” an expression that I thought I had stopped using in junior high school.
get themselves in trouble. When I saw those lovely limbs, my mind turned to romance, but I should have realized that she’d be walking faster than me for the next 50 years. I knew I was going to marry a woman who was smarter. But faster? That was never the plan.
“ I knew I was going to marry a woman who was smarter. But faster? That was never the plan.”
– DICK WOLFSIE
In fact, during high school and college, I never dated girls who were fast (my mother approved of that).
Sometimes, just to feel loved and wanted, I would hide behind a tree to see if my wife would look for me. Out on a hiking trail, this is OK, but in a residential neighborhood, men behind trees are frowned upon. When you are telling your story to a police officer and he keeps using the word “lurking,” you have a great deal of explaining to do.
What makes this more humiliating is that I have always been a good athlete. I played center field on my high school baseball team and even ran track. My wife is not an athlete. When she tries to run, she doesn’t bend her legs at the knees and she ends up looking like a soldier doing a goose step on too much coffee.
No, she can’t run. But, boy, can she walk.
And I can’t figure out why she walks faster. Let’s see … her legs are longer than mine. And she moves them back and forth faster than I do. OK, I just figured it out.
The great irony in this is that one of the reasons I was attracted to my wife almost 48 years ago was her long, slender legs. This is exactly how men
Now, when we walk around our new neighborhood, she feels like I slow her down, and the sight of her circling me every few minutes has the neighbors talking. Instead, when my wife and I want to walk, we go in different directions around our neighborhood circle. No matter how leisurely I walk, we pass each other at exactly the same time.
I know that was an incredibly stupid thing to say. But don’t try to explain it to me. You know how slow I am.
Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
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Duke Energy Indiana, LLC By: Stan Pinegar, President
Duke Energy Indiana, LLC By: Stan Pinegar, President
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker.
16. Speech hesitations
17. Strong strings
18. Home teams’ opponents
20. Victory Field doubleheader pair
22. Spooky
23. Notable 1980 cable
TV debut
25. Indianapolis Motor Speedway owner
29. Salty spots on margar-
ita glasses
30. Lift with effort
32. Aid for a submarine captain
34. Arm bone
35. Prefix for “dynamic” or “nautical”
36. Molten rock
38. Swiss peak
39. Marathon alternative
44. Indiana’s richest person: ___ Cook
46. Fabricated
47. Permission or penalty
51. Nixon’s first veep
52. Cautious
53. Colts QB-to-receiver six-pointer
55. Teller of groan-worthy jokes
56. Change
58. Puccini opera
60. Copycat
64. Stove part
67. “Mayday!”
68. Butler frat letter
69. Actress Seyfried or Plummer
70. Notable 1988 cable
TV debut
71. Simple
72. Knock down a peg DOWN
1. Evansville’s summer hrs.
2. DVR button
3. Straightening
4. Okonori seafood item
5. Free from liability
6. Watch over
7. Pacer foe from Texas, briefly
8. Kimono sash
9. WFYI net.
10. Southernmost Great Lake
11. Phoenix suburb larger than the Illinois city it shares its name with
12. Okonori seafood item
13. Beasts of burden
19. Purdue semester
21. ___-cone
23. Pal
24. French Quarter city, familiarly
26. Okonori seafood item
27. Hang on to
28. Fishers Farmers Market corn unit
31. “Casablanca” pianist
33. ___ de plume
37. Notre Dame’s sports org.
38. Parched
40. Texter’s “Wow!”
41. Neckerchief
42. Notion
43. Vulgar
45. One with “Esq.” on the door
47. Okonori seafood item
48. Many a tenant at The Stutz
49. Russian denial
50. ___ King Cole
51. Take as a given
52. Pants measure
54. Just awful
57. Bring down the house
59. Okonori seafood item
61. Darjeeling export
62. NBA tiebreakers
63. Car czar Skillman
65. Current staffers, briefly
66. “Norma ___” ANSWERS ON PAGE 27
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The Envision collection is available as a sectional, sofa, chair, or ottoman.
The Envision collection is available as a sectional, sofa, chair, or ottoman.
Choose fabric, arm style, seat depth, back height, silhouette, back pillow and seam detail, base and wood finishes.
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The Envision collection is available as a sectional, sofa, chair, or ottoman. Choose fabric, arm style, seat depth, back height, silhouette, back pillow and seam detail, base and wood finishes.
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RG DECOR.COM (317) 873-6139
RG DECOR.COM (317) 873-6139
RG DECOR.COM (317) 873-6139
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KAREN KING, OWNER
KAREN KING, OWNER