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City eyes stricter tree protection rules Page 2

Commissioners critique Eagle West proposal Page 6

A CENTURY IN WESTFIELD Lifelong resident celebrates 100th birthday with family and friends

Initiative promotes international cuisine

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City eyes stricter tree protection rules By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com An ordinance that would add tree-protection regulations to the city’s development standards — and fines for violations —was introduced July 27 by the Westfield City Council. Senior Planner Lauren Gillingham-Teague told the council that the proposal would strengthen the city’s existing tree protection and landscape inspection policies. “Under this process, the developer of any major subdivision greater than 5 acres in size that includes tree preservation, either voluntary or involuntary, would have to submit a detailed tree inventory, tree protection drawings and written description of tree protection measures to the Parks Department through a formal application, review, approval (and) inspection process,” she said.

The Westfield City Council had a first reading July 27 of an ordinance to strengthen tree protection rules for new developments. (File photo)

Gillingham-Teague said that if a developer removes trees that were supposed to be preserved, the ordinance includes strict fines based on the caliper inch of each protected tree that was destroyed. “In addition to that, this ordinance also expands our tree credit system to better incentivize voluntary tree preservation,” she said. Director of Parks and Recreation

Chris McConnell told the council that the process for determining what trees will be preserved would remain part of the planned unit development process. The proposed ordinance addresses only how the city ensures the tree-preservation plans are followed. McConnell said the proposed fines are $500 per violation, plus a certain amount per caliper inch. The fee schedule was not available, but he gave an example. “So, if they cut a 24-inch tree down … if it’s $100 per caliper inch, they’re charged $2,400 for that single tree, plus the $500 for making the mistake in the first place,” he said. The fee schedule will be included when the ordinance comes back to the council. A public hearing on the measure was held Aug. 3 in front of the Westfield Plan Commission. The matter will return to the city council at a later time.

Handbooks detail new cellphone ban By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

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The Westfield Washington Schools Board of Trustees has formally adopted student handbook language detailing the district’s new rules regarding cellphones, tablets, smartwatches and other wireless communication devices — the district’s response to a state law passed earlier this year that prohibits cell phone use during school hours. During a July 29 special meeting, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Ryan Hoover told the board that the handbook revisions reflect a policy previously adopted by the board. “The proposed revisions are (that) students may not use personal wireless communications during the school day,” he said. “All personal wireless communication devices must be powered off, stored away and inaccessible

The Westfield Washington School District has updated its student handbook to include new rules for wireless communication devices. (File photo)

from the beginning of the school day until dismissal — including passing periods and lunch. (The) policy applies to cellphones, smartwatches connected to cellular or internet devices, tablets, laptops, gaming devices, Meta and other smartglasses and similar wireless communication devices.” The handbook specifies a few exceptions permitted in the new state law,

such as emergencies, documented medical conditions, individual education plans, 504 plans, language translation for multilingual learners and school-approved instructional devices. Hoover said because this is a significant change for students, the district will work to spread the word before school starts Aug. 17. In other matters, the board unanimously approved a motion to switch the schoolwide communications system for parents to Parent Square. Hoover told the board that the platform is a single, integrated system that provides for mass notifications, two-way messaging, language translation, digital permission slips, volunteer signups and emergency communications. The district currently uses multiple platforms for those services. The first year’s cost to the district will be about $67,500, which is about $7,500 more than the current systems.

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Why I Started Carmel Salt Caves - A Journey in Wellness By Dr. Skye Winslow August is National Wellness Month. For me, it also marks something deeply personal. Just days before Wellness Month begins, I quietly celebrate another anniversary — not the opening of Carmel Salt Caves & Spa, but the anniversary of the brain surgery that forever changed my life. People often ask me one question: “Why did you create Carmel Salt Caves?” The answer has very little to do with salt. Years ago, I underwent a ten-hour brain surgery to remove a tumor. What followed wasn’t simply recovery — it was rebuilding an entirely different life. There were days when standing felt impossible. Walking required determination. Balance disappeared. My confidence disappeared with it. For a long time, I kept waiting to feel “better.” Then one day I realized something profound. Wellness isn’t a destination. It’s a decision we make every single day. Not once. Every day. My journey back wasn’t one dramatic breakthrough. It wasn’t one medication, one therapy, or one miracle. It was thousands of tiny choices. A healthier meal. A short walk. A deep breath. Learning

(Below) A scar left as a result of brain surgery.

(Above) Learning to walk again after a ten-hour brain surgery.

3 years ago while building the Salt Caves in Carmel, Indiana.

Graduating at 63 after 12 years of school. Celebrating with my husband, Bob.

something new. Laughing with friends. Resting without guilt. Choosing hope when fear seemed easier. Each choice was almost invisible by itself. Together, they gave me my life back. That realization became the inspiration for Carmel Salt Caves & Spa. I didn’t want to build another spa. I wanted to build a place where

people could pause. A place where families celebrate each other. Where friends reconnect. Where couples breathe together. Where someone carrying the weight of the world can simply sit quietly for fifty minutes and remember what peace feels like. Whether someone chooses halotherapy, a foot detox, red

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light therapy, or simply enjoys the calming atmosphere with their pet, my greatest hope has never been that they leave saying, “That was relaxing.” I hope they leave thinking... “I deserve to feel this way more often.” Because wellness isn’t reserved for people with perfect health. It belongs to all of us. It isn’t earned. It is practiced. If there is one thing fourteen years have taught me, it is this: Don’t wait until your body demands change. Start today. Drink another glass of water. Take a walk. Call someone you love. Sit quietly for ten minutes. Choose one small act of kindness toward yourself. Tomorrow, choose another. Those little choices become habits. Habits become lifestyles. Lifestyles become lives transformed. This August, as we celebrate National Wellness Month, I invite you to celebrate something even more important. Celebrate yourself. Not because you’ve arrived. But because you’re willing to begin. Your path to wellness doesn’t have to look like mine. It only has to begin with one small step. I’ll be cheering you on every step of the way. — Dr. Skye Winslow

Founder, Carmel Salt Caves & Spa

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Grand Park zoning district heads back to city council By Kaitlin Fallowfield news@currentinwestfield.com The Westfield Advisory Plan Commission unanimously approved design standards and permitted uses Aug. 3 for the proposed Grand Park District, sending it back to the city council for a final vote. The proposed new zoning district would streamline development inside the Grand Park footprint. Senior Planner Lauren Gillingham-Teague said it allows new permitted projects or site uses inside of the sports park to move quickly with city approval, while maintaining a standard of review for both significant and minor variations. When the Grand Park zoning district was presented at the July 6 Plan Commission meeting, Gillingham-Teague said previously approved proposals that become unfeasible could use the new process to request a variation for a replacement project, which administrators would review and approve. Rejected proposals could then appeal decisions through the Board of Zoning Appeals. She said administrative approval allows for faster decisions. No residents spoke on the matter during a public hearing. The proposed zoning change comes a year and a half after the City of Westfield revealed its vision for an expansion of Grand Park in its master plan, which calls for expanding the 400-acre sports campus to include a 10,000-seat stadium on the north side of 186th Street, inside the master plan’s North Grand Park District. Across 18th street in the South Grand Park District, the city has a vision for more multifamily and single-family homes, office and retail spaces, a pond, canal and green space. The Grand Park District proposal was to move on to the Westfield City Council for a final vote.

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Commissioners critique Eagletown Road development By Kaitlin Fallowfield news@currentinwestfield.com Westfield Advisory Plan Commissioners expressed reservations about a 127acre neighborhood proposed by Pulte Homes, taking issue with the density and the precedent it may set for future development. Eagle West would have approximately 270 homes at 186th Street and Eagletown Road, close to Grand Park and Westfield’s newest middle school. Representing Pulte Homes at the Aug. 3 meeting, Jon Dobosiewicz of Nelson & Frankenberger said the developer wants to build 2,300- to 3,300-square-foot homes with front- and side-facing garage variations, amenities and 45 acres of green space. The area is zoned for agriculture and has been designated in Westfield’s Comprehensive Plan for future village neighborhood and traditional residential builds. The surrounding area is home to some new-build homes and residences that have stood for decades. Dobosiewicz said Pulte had to build its plan in a U-shape around an existing horse farm on 186th Street, placing green space between the backs of the residential properties and the established farm. One resident spoke during the public hearing. Terry Vest, who lives on 186th Street, said he’s concerned about the rapid expansion of homes around him at the expense of Westfield’s dimming rural character. “People have horses, farms, and all of a sudden this thing just plopped right in the middle of it, and we’re forced to change our lifestyle out there,” Vest said. “That’s concerning me, concerning for the people who’ve lived out there for over 50 years. All of a sudden they’re going to be surrounded by this development.” Vest added that he’s worried that roads won’t support traffic for another 270 homes and the heavy equipment to build them. “The traffic from Grand Park already is a concern,” he said. “Adding this many more units concerns me as well, without any additional road construction being done prior to this.” Dobosiewicz acknowledged that the proposal seeks a higher-density neigh-

An aerial map shows the proposed site for Pulte Homes’ Eagletown Road neighborhood. (Image courtesy of Pulte Homes)

borhood, but said a recent update to the Comprehensive Plan includes a vision for that. However, Commissioner Victor McCarty said he voted against that update in the plan due to concerns of preserving estate-style properties and creating a smooth transition between dense neighborhoods and the open fields and farms that stand between Westfield and Zionsville. Some commissioners asked that the larger homes be placed toward the outside of the neighborhood, closest to the road, while others questioned whether the size and number of ponds were adequate for the neighborhood’s density. As for the roads, McCarty noted a recent report that the traffic count has nearly doubled near Casey Road and 186th Street. Dobosiewicz said Westfield would need to annex some of the parcels indicated in Pulte’s plan into its jurisdiction to service the surrounding roads. McCarty and other commissioners agreed that road updates at those locations were necessary, with one key project scheduled for 2027. Commissioners Michael Neal and Omar Khan emphasized that officials are still getting used to the changes made to the Comprehensive Plan, and that they are legally bound to adhere to it. “It’s not lost on us that with a neighborhood like this, as we start to go north and west, that we are setting a precedent for that. And what is the precedent we want to set for these types of areas?” Neal said. The issue will return for a Westfield Plan Commission workshop Sept. 21. The commission could vote on a recommendation Oct. 5, with the vote to rezone possibly returning to the council Oct. 12.

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Gateway at Lantern Commons is a mixed-use development planned for 161st Street and Westfield Boulevard. (Renderings courtesy of the City of Westfield)

Council OKs TIF bonds for two development projects By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com The Westfield City Council approved tax increment financing bonds July 27 for two development projects — Gateway at Lantern Commons and Trace Commons. Executive Chief of Economic and Community Development Jenell Fairman said the $7.25 million bonds for the Lantern Commons project supports a $30 million investment at 161st Street and Westfield Boulevard. “This is a 102-unit luxury multifamily building with 29,000 square feet of commercial and retail space,” she said. “It does have 280 surface parking spaces, an outdoor public plaza and enhanced pedestrian connectivity.” The mixed-use development includes residential, commercial and restaurant space, and a dog park. Fairman said it will support future development in that area, including a planned hotel. The council voted unanimously in favor of the bonds. Fairman said the $13.3 million developer-backed TIF bonds for the Trace Commons project supports the approximately $80 million project at Ind. 32 and Shady Nook Road. She added that the TIF revenue will be split between the developer and the city, with the city receiving 40 percent.

Trace Commons at Ind. 32 and Shady Nook Road is an approximately $80 million mixeduse development with commercial and residential space.

“We’re using a portion of that to reinvest into the roundabout at Shady Nook and State Road 32,” she said. “We (also) have an annual school referendum increase that will be approximately $148,000 per year. The mixed-use development has about 27,700 square feet of retail, 283 luxury multifamily units and 24 (for-sale) townhomes.” The development includes 455 surface parking spaces and room for pop-up events along the Midland Trace Trail. Construction on the roundabout is expected to start in 2028. The motion to approve the Trace Commons bonds passed 6-1 with Councilor Joe Duepner voting no. Duepner also voted against establishing a TIF district for the project, which was approved by the council July 13.

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view all submissions and select artists based on quality, originality and appropriateness for the venue. The committee’s goal is to showcase a variety of media throughout the year, including photography, painting and mixed media. Artists can download an application at westfieldlibraryfoundation.com. Completed applications and portfolios can be emailed to edowney@wwpl. lib.in.us. Artists will be notified of the committee’s decision after Nov. 1.

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Westfield artist Chris Winberg was the January 2026 Mike & Karen Heaton Art Wall artist. (Photo courtesy of Westfield Library Foundation)

 Traditions grand opening set — Initial construction is complete at Traditions of Westfield, a new 147-unit senior living community serving central Indiana and bringing up to 80 jobs to the area. Residents, guests and community leaders will celebrate with a special Grand Opening ceremony from 4 to 7 p.m. Aug. 13 at the facility, 17939 Dartown Rd. For more, visit traditionswestfield.com. NBI

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The Westfield Library Foundation and Westfield Washington Public Library are accepting submissions for the 2027 Mike & Karen Heaton Art Wall — a gallery wall that showcases rotating artwork, providing local artists the opportunity to display their work and enhancing the experience of library visitors. “The Art Wall is a meaningful way to showcase the creativity of local artists while enriching the library experience for our patrons,” stated Erin Downey, executive director of the Westfield Library Foundation. “We’re excited to welcome a new group of artists in 2027 and continue celebrating the talent that makes our community so unique.” To qualify, artists must be at least 18 years old and must submit a completed application and portfolio by Oct. 1, according to a news release. Artwork must be display-ready, framed and matted, or otherwise equipped to hang using the library’s hanging system. Artists are responsible for the installation and removal of their work during their assigned exhibit month. AI-created or AI-enhanced artwork will not be considered. The Art Gallery Committee will re-

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McNear announces candidacy County and ensuring tax dollars are spent responsibly. “Even though we’re the most prosFor the last couple of years, Ti’Gre perous (city), anything can happen,” McNear had been considering a bid for McNear said. “How can we enhance political office. what’s already been done well? I want So, when the Hamilton County Demto ask the questions, the whats, the whys, who it has impacted, who ocratic Party was looking for does it benefit.” candidates to run in several racMcNear, who is married and es that had unopposed Repubhas an adult daughter, owns a licans in the May primary, she consulting firm, 3T Outreach, was ready to step up. where she works as an HR proMcNear, a Carmel resident, was selected through a caucus fessional and training and develprocess to run for Hamilton opment consultant focusing on McNear County commissioner in Disorganizational processes, worktrict 1. She will face off against longtime force development, and mental health incumbent Christine Altman in the instruction. Earlier in her career, she Nov. 3 general election. worked as a substitute teacher, a case “We didn’t start in the beginning manager with social safety net prowith everybody else, but we’re here grams, and a retail store administrator. now and ready to roll up our sleeves “I have a servant’s heart,” McNear and get to work,” she said of candidates said. “I am concerned about what matselected in the caucus. ters most to people. Those things matMcNear, who grew up in Gary, ter to me. I want to serve people with said her top campaign priorities are authenticity and integrity.” expanding access to mental health reLearn more about McNear’s camsources, improving awareness of youth paign at votemcnear.com. programs and initiatives in Hamilton By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

May joins council race farms, specifically noting White River Township. “We should protect these assets, reDoug May, a Noblesville resident, has ducing erosion (and) improving water been selected through a caucus process quality while expanding recreational to run for the District 3 seat on the opportunities through parks, trails and Hamilton County Council. waterways,” May said. “Preserving that May, a Democrat, will face farmland and forests is importRepublican Mark Hall in the ant to all of us. Nov. 3 general election. He He also wants to address qualsaid he stepped forward when ity of life issues impacting resia Democratic candidate had to dents, such as affordability and withdraw in June. gaps in child care. He is in favor “As I campaign, I am studying of collaborating with public the county budget, meeting schools and nonprofit organizaMay with residents and working to tions to create additional child develop thoughtful, informed posicare options. “As our south-central communities tions,” May said. “My goal is to help continue to grow, I support responsible preserve what has made Hamilton development that strengthens our tax County one of the best places to live in base while maintaining affordability Indiana while planning responsibly for and protecting the quality of life that its future. attracts families and businesses to May, who is retired, previously Hamilton County,” May said. “I am a worked in human services and served strong believer in public education and as director of planning and quality will work to support and preserve our assurance for CICOA. He said he is focused on building on positive aspects of excellent public schools — some of the county infrastructure and development best in Indiana and the nation.” while conserving land for parks and By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

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The Hamilton County Community Foundation has created Strategic Grants as a new funding pathway designed to provide larger investments in organizations pursuing significant opportunities or navigating critical challenges. PLUS TAKE Through its inaugural Strategic AN EXTRA Grants cycle, HCCF awarded $1.675 milTerms and Conditions: 40% off any order of $980 or more or 30% off any order lion to eight organizations across Hamof $680 or more on any complete unit order of custom closet, garage, or home office, and any other products. Take an additional 10% off on any complete ilton County. system order. Not valid with any other offer. Free installation with any complete unit order of $850 or more. With incoming order, at time of purchase only. Expires “Our Strategic Grants are very dif9/13/26. Offer not valid in all regions. ferent from our traditional funding,” stated Danielle Stiles-Polk, HCCF presSPECIAL FINANCING FOR 18 MONTHS With approved credit. Call or ask your Designer for details. ident. “They are designed to meet orgaNot available in all areas. Reach -In- Closets nizations at key moments when a larger investment can help them take the next step.” The 2026 Strategic Grant recipients Reach Reach -In-InClosets Closets Reach -In- Closets include: • Child Care Answers: Awarded $150,000 to establish a child care resource specialist position to support families, child care providers, employers, and community partners. • Grace Care Center Foundation: Awarded $125,000 to support volunteer leadership development, staff capacity and improved operational systems. • Habitat for Humanity of Greater Indianapolis, Inc.: Awarded $250,000 to aid in the purchase of 6-plus acres in Hamilton County for a future 46-home affordable housing development. • Hamilton County Youth Assistance Program: Awarded $250,000 to support the expansion of services Garage Garage Cabinets Cabinets Garage Cabinets across all six local youth assistance branches. • Prevail, Inc.: Awarded $200,000 to strengthen fundraising capacity and long-term sustainability. • Shepherd’s Center of Hamilton County: Awarded $200,000 to expand core programs that provide case management, counseling and volunteer services for older adults and caregivers. • Teter Organic Farm: Awarded $250,000 Laundry Laundry Rooms Rooms Hobby Hobby Rooms Rooms Laundry Rooms Hobby Rooms to support construction of Laundry Rooms a new Produce Production Barn. For more, visit hamiltoncountycf. org/grants-resources.

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Centier Bank opens new Westfield branch news@currentinwestfield.com Centier Bank celebrated the opening of a new Westfield branch July 30 with a formal ribbon cutting at the new space, 126 E. Spring Mill Pointe Dr. — a move from Centier’s original facility at 3002 Ind. 32. “The new location combines modern conveniences with hospitality and personalized financial support,” a news release stated. “Clients will have access to Centier’s comprehensive suite of services, including everyday banking, lending solutions and tailored financial guidance for individuals, families and businesses.” Troy Kafka, senior vice president and Greater Indianapolis market president for Centier Bank, stated that although the bank has been in Westfield 15 years, the new branch will elevate the experience for clients. “We are excited to pair this beautiful new branch with Centier’s hospitality-driven approach to banking, along with a more convenient location to deliver long-term value and better services for the residents of Westfield,”

Centier Bank and City of Westfield officials cut the ribbon July 30 for the new branch at 126 E. Spring Mill Pointe Drive. (Photo courtesy of the City of Westfield)

Kafka said. The new Westfield branch is part of Centier’s growth strategy for Greater Indianapolis. “This new (branch) represents Centier’s ongoing investment in both Westfield and the Greater Indianapolis area,” stated Chris Campbell, Centier Bank’s president. “We will continue to hold

true to our promise to provide worldclass hospitality, while helping clients to achieve their financial goals — all while staying true to our not-for-sale promise, as Centier remains a family-owned and operated bank, serving communities across Indiana, as we have for the past 131 years.” For more, visit centier.com.

DISPATCHES  Special Olympics championship season announced — Special Olympics Indiana kicks off its fall championship season Aug. 15, with events taking place throughout central Indiana, including Oct. 4 at Grand Park in Westfield, when participants will compete in cornhole, flag football, distance run/walk and soccer. Nine events are scheduled in different venues through Nov. 21. For more, visit soindiana.org/fall%20games.  ‘Mothers’ Room’ planned at Colts Camp — Holiday Rambler, an RV manufacturer, will host a “Mothers’ Room” at Indianapolis Colts Training Camp at Droplight Grand Park Sports Campus, giving nursing mothers an air-conditioned, private space at the event. The Mothers’ Room RV will be next to the Colts Kids Camp area across from the Play 360 field. The Westfield Milk Bank will provide supplies as well as brochures for anyone who may be in need of Milk Bank services. Colts Camp continues through Aug. 20.

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 08.11.26 • youarecurrent.com

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Nonprofit flies patients for long-distance medical care By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com The nonprofit Lifeline Pilots is ensuring distance never stands between a patient and medical treatment. LifeLine Pilots is an organization that offers free flights for passengers with medical or humanitarian needs far from home. It was created by pilot Wanda Whitsitt in 1981. LifeLine Pilots Communications and Public Relations Manager Andrea Pietrowsky said what started as Whitsitt volunteering her time to transport blood to hospitals from the Red Cross has transitioned to transporting patients undergoing things like cancer treatments to their long distance medical appointments. “We’ve never flown more patients than we do today,” Pietrowsky said. “The key point of distinction is that these aren’t emergency flights; these aren’t air ambulances. What was done 45 years ago is the same as today — flying people to their appointments that they would otherwise struggle to access, or maybe not even be able to access at all.” Flights are typically facilitated in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee and Wisconsin. In Indiana, many flights take off at Indy Executive Airport, a Zionsville-based airport owned by the Hamilton County Airport Authority, and Indy Metro Airport in Fishers. Jennifer Hatcher, a Noblesville resident and development manager for LifeLine Pilots, said although Hamilton County is viewed as affluent, many people struggle to get to and from medical appointments. “I think there’s a misconception that people here don’t need help,” Hatcher said. “But there is a need here. We want to be able to reach the people who need us and who can use our services. Our goal is to increase word here and also maybe get any pilots on board to volunteer since we do have a large pilot community here being so close to the Indy Executive Airport and Indy Metro Airport.” Locally, Hatcher works within the community to spread the word about LifeLine Pilots to community organizations like the Noblesville Rotary Club and at community events. “The mission really spoke to me, and

LifeLine Pilots volunteer pilot Bernie Hirsch, right, with passenger Darrin and his stepdaughter. (Photo courtesy of Lifeline Pilots and Bernie Hirsch)

I’ve been trying to do grassroots outreach here to get the word out,” Hatcher said. “I’ve been fortunate to see one of the flights out of Indy Metro, and it’s just really rewarding.” Last year, LifeLine Pilots flew nearly 1,300 flights at no cost to patients. The one qualification is passengers must have a physician treating them who can verify the need and that they are safe to fly. “There’s no requirement of age or con-

dition,” Pietrowsky said. “It’s simply if someone can show they have a case and need assistance. There’s no strict income threshold. It’s just that if you would need to fly weekly or monthly, and that shows some sort of challenge. If there’s a barrier of distance, or if you physically struggle to ride for hours in a car.” A database system shared with other charitable public aviation groups is used to identify patients in need. “It’s based on regional access for

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where the pilots are,” Pietrowsky said. “A lot of our pilots are flying flights that are no more than 200 miles at a time, but we do fly passengers up to 1,000 miles from where they’re going. Sometimes, it becomes a two-legged flight where two pilots and two planes are doing a tradeoff from Point A to B to C. Our pilots are incredible volunteers. They love helping people.” Approximately 300 pilots volunteer their time, planes and fuel. Locally, Bernie Hirsch, a Carmel resident, has been flying planes for LifeLine Pilots since 1998. Hirsch said every flight is interesting and fulfilling. “I’ve been a pilot for over 40 years, and my philosophy about that is I’m going to fly around anyway, so I might as well do something useful with that and something that impacts the lives of other people in a positive way,” Hirsch said. “I think it’s important that people who have specialized skills use them in a way to help other people, and that’s primarily what I’ve been doing for decades with LifeLine Pilots.” For more, visit lifelinepilots.org.

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DISPATCHES  Movies in the Plaza — The final Movies In The Plaza event is set for 7:30 p.m. Aug. 15 at Grand Junction Plaza, with a screening of “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.”  FiA North Indy to host meet-andgreet — Females in Action, or FIA, is a national nonprofit organization active in 24 states. The groups host free, peer-led outdoor workouts for all women, all ages and all fitness levels. The North Indy group meets at 7 a.m. Saturdays at Dillon Park Disc Golf and 7 a.m. Wednesdays at the Westfield-Washington Public Library parking lot for a walk. The North Indy group will host a coffee meet-n-greet from 10 a.m. to noon Aug. 22 at Epic Coffee, 7249 E. 146th St. in Carmel.  Organization workshops set — Cindy Garloch, a professional home organizer based in Westfield, will lead a free session from 6 to 7:15 p.m. Aug. 19 at Westfield Washington Public Library, 17400 Westfield Blvd. To register, visit wwpl.lib.in.us.

Initiative promotes international cuisine “Whether planning a date night or gathering the family for lunch or dinner, participants can use the passport to discover the variety of cuisine available throughout Westfield,” the news release stated. The Westfield International Passport is available year-round. Featured businesses include Chiba, Jawdi Grill, Kizuki Ramen & Izakaya, Korean BBQ & Chicken, Pasto Italiano, Thai Isaan, Tous Les Jours, Venezuelan Cheat Meal and more. Participating businesses and prizes may change.

news@currentinwestfield.com The City of Westfield has launched the Westfield International Passport, a free digital experience that encourages participants to explore more than 30 local restaurants, markets and businesses that offer international cuisine and experiences. Featured restaurants offer Korean barbecue, Japanese ramen, Venezuelan dishes, Mediterranean favorites, Mexican cuisine, Italian meals and French-inspired pastries, according to a news release. “Westfield has developed an exciting and increasingly diverse food scene,” Mayor Scott Willis stated. “The International Passport gives residents and visitors a fun reason to try somewhere new while supporting the local entrepreneurs and businesses that help make our community unique.” Participants can sign up for the passport at discoverwestfieldin.com/wip. No app download is required. After registering, participants can use their phones to check in when they visit participating locations. Each check-in

HOW IT WORKS

Jawdi Grill in Westfield is one of many restaurants participating in the city’s new International Passport initiative. (File photo)

earns 100 points that can be redeemed for prizes, while supplies last.

• Visit discoverwestfieldin.com/ wip • Register for the free digital passport • Visit a participating restaurant, market or event • Check in using your phone to earn 100 points • Redeem accumulated points for available prizes

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SUPPORTING HEART AND SOUL Rotary Club of Westfield raised funds for local nonprofit organizations during the July 24 Cool Creek Park Concert Series featuring Cornfield Mafia. Besides selling bratwursts and hot dogs, Rotarians mingled with the crowd, selling 50/50 raffle tickets with half of the proceeds going to Heart and Soul Free Clinic. The raffle raised $425 for the nonprofit. Rotarians John Salladay, left, and Bruce Watson sell tickets to concertgoers. The club meets at 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays at The Bridgewater Club in Westfield. For more, visit westfieldrotaryin. com. (Photo courtesy of Michael Schramm)

COMMUNITY

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 08.11.26 • youarecurrent.com

Noblesville volunteer steps up for students By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com For Noblesville resident Rob Bocko, helping students navigate life is a calling. Bocko volunteers with Compass Mentoring, a school-based, volunteer mentoring program at Noblesville Schools that provides opportunities for students to build a developmental relationship with an adult who offers support, guidance and encouragement to help students overcome challenges, and set and reach goals. Bocko said he has been volunteering with Noblesville Schools since the early 2000s, when his kids started school. He has been involved with the textbook adoption committee, Miller Ambassadors and the Noblesville Schools Education Foundation. “I’m very involved with the schools in general, and that started way back with being a parent volunteer and helping in classrooms when my kids were little,” Bocko said. “My youngest is a senior at Noblesville High School now, and I have three NHS grads. I’ve got

Community Member Spotlight presented by

Rob Bocko, right, with a student he has mentored. (Photo courtesy of Noblesville Schools)

some miles on me.” That involvement led him to Compass Mentoring, which Mentor Coordinator Nicole McClain launched in 2020. “I thought it sounded pretty wonderful,” Bocko said. “It really didn’t take off that first year all that well because of the pandemic, so that first year was mostly learning, talking, organizing and getting ready. The next year there were eight of us volunteering, and last I heard that number was approaching 100.” The program is offered at all 10 of the district’s schools, and more than 100 students are involved. Bocko said it has

provided him a chance to be a steady adult in the lives of several students. “It’s not counseling. You’re not going in to fix anybody. You’re not going in to solve problems. Really, I am just there to be a constant presence in someone’s life,” Bocko said. “Through the process of building a relationship and building trust, if they choose to share something with me, I’m also there to be a trusted resource. If something were to come up that I think rises to the level of ‘Oh my, I think the school counselor needs to hear this,’ I’m there to help be part of that support. I’m really just there to be a presence that I wish I would have had in my life when I was a kid.” Bocko said his work with Compass Mentoring helps him teach kids how to function as part of the community.

“I care about the world we’re leaving for our kids,” Bocko said. “It kind of comes back to what I wish I would have had. I figured out a lot of things on my own. It would have been so much easier to figure out with somebody to have a conversation with.” McClain said Bocko’s work with the program has extended beyond the students he’s mentored, saying it’s reflected in the culture of Compass Mentoring itself. “From the very beginning of the program, he has walked alongside students from elementary school through high school, ensuring they feel seen, known and supported,” McClain said. “As mentor coordinator, he’s been a trusted sounding board whose wisdom, perspective and steady encouragement have helped shape me as a leader and a person. Whenever I need an extra volunteer, a thoughtful perspective or someone I know will show up for a student without hesitation, he’s one of the first people I think of.” For more, visit noblesvilleschools.org/ departments/student-services-home/ compass-mentoring.

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COMMUNITY

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A CENTURY IN WESTFIELD Lifelong resident celebrates 100th birthday with family and friends

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com During the past 100 years, Bob Whitmoyer has watched his hometown of Westfield go from a farm-based community of around 500 to a still-expanding city of about 65,000. Whitmoyer, who turned 100 Aug. 1, celebrated that milestone with family, friends, fellow residents of Sanders Glen Assisted Living and Westfield Mayor Scott Willis — who presented the centenarian with a certificate of recognition during a gathering at the facility’s dining room. Before the party started, Whitmoyer recalled his earliest years in Westfield, where he lived on the family farm. He said it was a lot of work, but there also were opportunities for fun, like an outdoor movie theater. Although small, the town had three grocery stores, he said, so even then, Westfield was a busy place. After graduating from high school, Whitmoyer joined the U.S. Army near the end of World War II. “I was a dumb farm boy,” he said. “(But) I qualified as an expert with a rifle, which meant you became a sniper. And we were on a three-man sniper team headed for Japan for the invasion. In fact, we were ready to get in the boat and we were going to row to shore. But, on the way to the boat, (President) Truman dropped the atomic bomb.” So, instead of fighting in Japan, Whitmoyer was deployed to Italy, where he helped gather and dispose of Army supplies that had been intended for the war effort. When he returned to Indiana, he went to Butler University and then worked at Anthem Insurance until his retirement in the 1980s. Some of Whitmoyer’s family attended the party at Sanders Glen, including his daughter, Donna Whitmoyer Snyder, and son, Dave Whitmoyer. Dave recalled the family farm, which spanned both sides of Ind. 32 close to Gray Road, where they grew corn and soybeans. “They had hogs and sheep and I think they had cattle for a little while,” he said. “Grandpa Whitmoyer ran a milk route. (It) went a little bit east towards Noblesville, but mainly went through

Army veteran Bob Whitmoyer, left, receives U.S. Army-themed gifts for his 100th birthday from Sgt. 1st Class Zeon Battise.

Bob Whitmoyer speaks to a group gathered to celebrate his 100th birthday, which was Aug. 1. (Photos by Leila Kheiry)

Westfield, and then they delivered milk up to Sheridan, and both (Bob Whitmoyer) and his brother took over that milk route from Grandpa … while they were in high school, and a little bit after they got out of high school.” The family didn’t run a dairy farm, he added, but delivered it from the milk factory. Snyder, who now lives in North Carolina, said her dad was a tremendous role model for her. “He has the best disposition,” she said. “He was a very engaged father. We did a lot of family trips. We did a lot of fishing trips into Canada, Wisconsin,

Minnesota — that was our annual family vacation: fishing. He’s just given me a lot of advice and he’s just a very positive role model, very optimistic — a very happy person.” Dave Whitmoyer, who lives in Lapel, agreed and said their dad has been a stabilizing force for the family. He added that the elder Whitmoyer is an extrovert and loves interacting with people. Speakers at Whitmoyer’s party confirmed that he is a positive, social person, stating that when a new resident or prospective resident comes through Sanders Glen, they always make sure to introduce Bob. Fellow Sanders Glen

CITY RECOGNITION In addition to friends and family, centenarian Bob Whitmoyer’s party included City of Westfield Mayor Scott Willis, who presented a certificate of recognition to the lifelong Westfield resident. “Rumor has it that Bob’s turning 100 years old,” Willis said, calling Whitmoyer a legend in Westfield. “When the city

found out, I was like, we’ve got to come and celebrate this veteran, this rock in our community.” The certificate states: “We call upon all citizens of the City of Westfield to recognize Bob Whitmoyer as he celebrates his 100th birthday. Presented on this 30th day of July, 2026.”

resident Bill Ghormley said Whitmoyer was his hero — honest, straightforward and a symbol of what an American man should be. “You just learn the value of friendship and community,” he said. “I think that we all look around and we see who our neighbors are and who we admire and who our hero figures are, and I think anybody that has had a chance to get to know you, Bob — (you) always have a smile, always have a ready handshake and stand for our (armed services).” Addressing the gathering, Whitmoyer — who credited his longevity to a healthy diet and staying active — said it’s interesting to look back and remember some of his most happy experiences. He specifically recalled a red wagon that he received when he was 4 years old and, more recently, getting a hug from his great-granddaughter. “It makes you realize what’s important in this life,” he said. “Anyway, I appreciate all of you being here just for old Bob’s birthday. But, 100 years — I’ll try to live another 100.” ON THE COVER: Bob Whitmoyer, right,

greets Westfield Mayor Scott Willis at Whitmoyer’s 100th birthday celebration at Sanders Glen Assisted Living. (Photo courtesy of the City of Westfield)

BUSINESS LOCAL

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD

08.11.26 • youarecurrent.com

McCool’s Flooring opens new showroom news@currentinwestfield.com McCool’s Flooring has opened its new showroom at 146th St. and Carey Road — on the borders of Westfield, Carmel and Noblesville — marking the next chapter for the family-owned company that started in Kokomo in 1967. After 25 years in its boutique showroom on West Carmel Drive, McCool’s Flooring invested in the standalone facility at 3404 E. 146th St., designed to better serve customers and position the company for continued growth, according to a news release. The new showroom spans more than 10,000 square feet for customers to explore a wide selection of flooring materials, compare products and collaborate with flooring consultants. “Our new showroom reflects who we are today and our commitment to the future,” stated owner Doug McCool. “It gives us a permanent home … where we can continue building lasting relationships, providing exceptional service

McCool’s Flooring has opened a new showroom at 3404 E. 146th St. (Photo courtesy of McCool’s)

and creating an even better experience for everyone who walks through our doors. Everything we do has always been guided by our commitment to faith, family and flooring, and this new showroom allows us to continue living out those values every day.” Founded in 1967 by Virgil and Carole McCool, McCool’s Flooring remains family-owned and operated. Today, Doug and Carmen McCool, and their children Luke and Raegan, lead the company. For more, visit mccoolsflooring.com.

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BUSINESS LOCAL

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 08.11.26 • youarecurrent.com

Moroccan-born chef blends cultures at Niku Kitchen By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com Aziz Mountassar had master’s degrees in political science and economics when he first linked up with the top chefs in France. His first dish would take him in an entirely different direction. “When I saw the smile on the people’s face, I said, ‘That’s what I want to do,’” Mountassar said. Today, he’s Chef Aziz at Niku Kitchen & Sushi Bar, an upscale Japanese restaurant at The Farm in Zionsville. Niku, which is Japanese for meat, has a menu that blends Japanese cuisine with other cultures. The restaurant opened at the end of May. For example, the marinated sea bass with miso butter includes a microgreen salad with citrus for a dish that combines Japanese and Mediterranean cuisine. Mountassar, who was born in Casablanca, Morocco, and grew up in France, said he wants to introduce people to new cultures when they visit Niku. “My job in the world is to mix cultures,” he said. “If people can meet,

Chef Aziz Mountassar blends Japanese cuisine with other cultures at Niku Kitchen & Sushi Bar in Zionsville. Mountassar is from Morocco and has worked at Michelin Star restaurants in France, Italy and Spain. (Photo by Spencer Durham)

what about ingredients?” Mountassar, who lives in Carmel and speaks eight languages, is well-traveled. He cooked at Michelin Star restaurants in France, Italy and Spain before moving to the U.S. He attended Institut Paul Bocuse in Lyon, France. Typically reserved for the wealthy and well-connected, a chef supported Mountassar so he could attend the culinary school. Mountassar regards himself as a sort of psychology doctor when it comes to food. “My medicine is whatever I put on

the plate,” he said. “Whatever I give you should make you feel better.” Niku also offers one of the only omakase experiences in the Indianapolis region. Omakase is a Japanese dining experience where customers do not order from a menu, rather the chef chooses selections based on their preferences. Customers who opt for omakase, which translates to “I’ll leave it up to you,” have the food prepared at their table and can choose from nigiri or sashimi sushi. Presentation and atmosphere is an

important part of Mountassar’s craft. Every dish has a special touch. “My goal is (for you to) remember the last bite,” he said. Mountassar previously managed the kitchen at Anthony’s Chophouse in Carmel, worked at the Capital Grille in Indianapolis and opened Marrakesh Moroccan Cuisine & Bar at 49th Street and College Avenue. He was brought in as a consultant and ended up sticking around. “This is what I call the baby,” he said. Mountassar said he wants to put Niku on the map. Other locations are being considered. Hospitality is an important part of Moroccan and Japanese cultures. Mountassar said in his home country it is commonplace for people to offer one a place to stay if needed. In Japan, hospitality is called omotenashi, where care of guests is emphasized and based on Japanese tea ceremonies. It ties nicely into Mountassar’s approach for his kitchen and Niku’s dining experience. “If I can mix the cultures, I can mix the flavors,” he said.

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08.11.26 • youarecurrent.com

Father-son duo’s musical set for Carmel By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com The adage of writing what you know seemed appropriate for Dr. Jeff Foy. An emergency room physician in Indianapolis, he always thought the ER would be an ideal setting for a musical. “I thought it would be awesome if I could be the one to tell that story,” he said. But he didn’t think it could happen because he can’t play or write music. When hearing his then-15-year-old son Jacob Foy work on a melody in his room, the 53-year-old Fishers resident had an idea that they could work together. The Foys will stage their largest production yet of “Emergency The Musical,” with five performances Aug. 27-30 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. There was a performance in Bloomington in 2018, which Jacob developed as an independent project when he attended Indiana University. That was followed by three performances at the New York Theater Festival. “Since the New York production, we’ve added five new songs,” Jeff said. “The first-act closer is new. We have obviously changed some of the storylines and some of the dialog to accommodate the new songs. I think it’s more streamlined of a show with strong character development.” A 2017 Fishers High School graduate and a Carmel resident, Jacob wrote all the music. Father and son wrote the lyrics and script together. “We got started when I was 15 or 16, and that’s a hard age for any boy in their parents’ relationship because you’re trying to find your independence and find out who you are, so it was fun for us to connect back then,” Jacob said. “Then it’s given us a really good avenue to maintain a really fun aspect in our relationship. It’s easy when your dad is your co-writing part-

‘THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG’

Jacob Foy, left, and Jeff Foy during a casting session for their musical. (Photo courtesy of Jeff Foy)

ner because you already have a level of comfortability that you need for a good collaboration. We understand each other’s tastes and what we think is going to work well.” The plot in the ER centers on intern Justin Marks having one shift to prove himself because he didn’t match into a residency program. “He is going against his med school rival on the same night for that one spot, so they are competing against one another,” Jacob said. Cole Winston, who performed in the IU production, returns in the role of Justin. Robbie Russo, another IU student who was in the original production, also returns. The cast has 30 members, larger than the 14 in the New York performances. None of the returning cast members performed in the New York production. “I’m looking forward to having a big cast for the first time,” Jacob said. “There is a lot of ensemble singing in the show. The other thing I’m most excited for is just to share it with the community. We got a lot of support from Hoosiers, in general. When we started this in Bloomington, people came from all over the state to see it. Then people came from Indiana to

New York to see it. We had people help us out all over the state.” Jeff said many community members told him they wanted to see the production when it came to the area. “It’s really rewarding and exciting to bring it here, so people can see what we’ve been working on since 2015,” he said. “I’m also excited to debut the five new songs. I’m excited to see how these songs feel and sound and mesh with the show.” Jeff’s sister, Melissa Stainbrook, is the music director. She is a Brownsburg High School choir teacher. Her daughter, Madison Stainbrook, is in the ensemble. Olivia Broadwater, a 2020 Zionsville Community High School graduate, plays Gina. “I love the role of Gina because she supplies comic relief in a very serious environment,” Broadwater said. “She clearly doesn’t fit into the usual role of an ER worker, but Gina loves to stand out. I’m excited to work on making her bubbly personality believable in this workplace so that she seems real and relatable.” Jeff Whiting, from New York, directs and choreographs the musical. For more, visit thecenterpresents. org and emergencymusical.com.

“The Play That Goes Wrong” runs through Aug. 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com. BIG THIEF Big Thief’s “Somersault Slide 360” concert is set for 7 p.m. Aug. 11 at Rock the Ruins at Holliday Park In Indianapolis. For more, visit rocktheruins.com. FEINSTEIN’S CABARET Human Jukebox with The Ahlwards is set for Aug. 14, followed by Dueling Pianos Aug. 15 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com. ‘NATIVE GARDENS’ Carmel Community Players will present “Native Gardens” through Aug. 16 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz. NAPTOWN HEPCATS Local Music Mix Series will feature Naptown Hepcats at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 14 at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org. ‘RHYTHM OF LOVE’ Circle City Sound will present “The Rhythm of Love” at 7 p.m. Aug. 15 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

DISPATCH  Center Presents single-show tickets on sale — With subscription packages still available for the 2026-27 Center Presents Season at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, tickets for single shows were to go on sale Aug. 7. Tickets are available online at thecenterpresents.org, by phone at 317-843-3800, or through the Fifth Third Bank Box Office at the Payne & Mencias Palladium, 1 Carter Green, Carmel.

ENTERTAINMENT

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 08.11.26 • youarecurrent.com

Hepcats to be featured

By Hannah VanLandingham hannah@youarecurrent.com

ENJOY ARTISTS, PERFORMERS, FOOD AND REPRESENTATIVES FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD!

CARMEL INTERNATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL

SEPTEMBER 26-27 CARMEL ARTS & DESIGN DISTRICT

Visit carmelartsfestival.org for more information.

Naptown Hepcats, an Indiana-based rockabilly band, will be spotlighted in the Local Mix Music Series at The Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Drummer Terry Fox and bassist Mike Strauss are Carmel residents. Vocalist-guitarist Spencer Mitchell resides in Fishers. They look forward to the performance. “We’ve played Carmel Porchfest the past couple of years, and we’ve played (the) Noblesville (Front Porch Music Festival) the last couple of years,” Mitchell said. “So, we’ve had our presence in the community, but to be highlighted by such a prominent show is going to be new to us, and we’re excited about that.” The band started as a tribute to Stray Cats, a three-musician rockabilly band formed in 1979 consisting of Brian Setzer, Lee Rocker and Slim Jim Phantom. Naptown Hepcats now perform original music, though they’ve stayed within the genre.

From left, Mike Strauss, Spencer Mitchell and Terry Fox, members of Naptown Hepcats, will perform in the Local Mix Music Series at The Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Hepcats)

“We are different (from) anything you’ve probably heard before, and that’s exciting. It’s definitely fun to hear a style of music that you’re definitely not typically familiar with,” Mitchell said. Naptown Hepcats music is available online. “If people want to get an idea of what our sound is like, they can find us online and give us a listen and come check us out live after that,” Mitchell said. For more, visit naptownhepcats.com.

Fly fishing as therapy

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Al White still remembers hearing his sister’s scream when he got the call that their grandfather had been brutally murdered in New York. “I lost other family members to violent crime,” said White, who was 9 years old and living in Dover, Del., at the time. “My father was in and out of lockup. I had my own challenges as a result and made some wrong decisions.” In 2020, the 56-year-old Carmel resident found fly fishing to be a peaceful hobby that proved cathartic. It then became the basis for McCordsville resident Grant Michael’s short film “On the Stream,” which is just under 12 minutes long. It premiered at the Mayfly Film Festival in New York, and was then shown at the Indy Shorts Film Festival in July. It has been accepted into six film festivals. “Al was actually a client for a corporate recruitment video series I was directing,” Michael said. “We hit it off and stayed in touch afterward. Eventually, he invited me out to film while he was

Fly fishing has become a peaceful hobby for Carmel resident Al White. (Photo courtesy of Al White)

fly fishing. The more time I spent with him, the more he opened up about what that time on the water meant to him and how his childhood shaped who he became. That’s when I knew there was a film here.” Michael said the story is about how nature provides space to process life. White is certain fly fishing or an outdoor pastime can help others. “Fly fishing happens to be my escape, a place I can go to that is a significant stress reliever and a place that allows me to do incredible thinking or no thinking at all — and just be at peace,” he said. For more, visit onthestreamfilm.com

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD

08.11.26 • youarecurrent.com

VIEWS

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 08.11.26 • youarecurrent.com

COMM UNI TY VO I CES

Set a timer Editor, I have a few concerns, questions and comments about the article “Beckwith: Ban call to prayer” by Ann Marie Shambaugh. A lot of people who live in certain urban areas (such as Chicago) and states are wanting to escape their current living situations for better living. How

would having to be forced to listen to a loudspeaker calling for Muslim prayer five times a day be better living for the majority of citizens that are not of the Muslim community? If they need to be reminded to pray, can’t they set a personal timer? Diane Koelling, Westfield

Cellphone rules harsh Editor, I’m a student that’s affected by the new cellphone laws and I just wanted to share my opinions on the (July 30 online) article about the details on the new cellphone laws, “Westfield student handbooks detail new cellphone ban.” Firstly, the rules are harsh. They restrict cellphone usage in places where it never was a problem, like lunch. Secondly, it “solves” a problem that was never an issue to begin with. The students who were on their phones don’t want to learn and won’t start now that phones are banned. This rule just punishes the people who weren’t on their phone, which is a lot more people than you think. For

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE CARMEL BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS HEARING OFFICER Docket # PZ-2026-00150V Notice is hereby given that the Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals Hearing Officer meeting on the 24th day of August 2026 at 5:15pm in the City Hall Council Chambers, 1 Civic Sq., 2nd floor, Carmel, IN 46032, will hold a Public Hearing upon a Development Standards Variance application to: Seeking approval for a variance to encroach on the easement on the property listed below. A 20’ setback is currently in place. We are seeking approval for an 18” rear setback for the installation of a louvered roof pergola. With the property being known as: 14399 Kelso Court The application being identified as Docket #: PZ-2026-00150V The real estate affected by said application is described as follows: Parcel #29-09-20-026-060.000-018 Section 20. Township 18 North, Range 3 East, Albany Village, Lot 37, Irregular shape The petition to be examined on the City’s website, through Public Documents – Laserfiche. All interested persons desiring to present their views on the above application, either in writing or verbally, will be given an opportunity to be heard at the above-mentioned time and place. Petitioners: Ross Atteberry, The Smart Pergola, on behalf of Eugene and Angel Silas, homeowners

example, in all of my classes the teachers probably told people to get off their phones less than 10 times. The board making this law just shows how disconnected they are to actual schools. I’m definitely biased against this but I think it’s still important to hear the other side of things. Will Trebley, Fishers

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft Word document or in the body of an email. Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising nature. Letters should be exclusive to Current Publishing. Unsigned letters and letters deemed to be of a libelous nature will not be published. Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent.com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.

COLUMNISTS ON THE WEB This week’s commentaries by Current Publishing essayist Terry Anker and humorist Dick Wolfsie may be read at youarecurrent.com.

PUZZLES 1

08.11.26 • youarecurrent.com

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