August 18, 2026 — Current in Westfield

Council eyes Tomlinson Road safety improvements

Tuesday, August 18, 2026 youarecurrent.com

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CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

Current in Westfield

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Westfield council eyes Tomlinson Road safety improvements

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com Two months after a fatal car accident on Tomlinson Road that killed a 7-year-old boy, the City of Westfield has proposed safety improvements for that stretch of road, including crosswalks, connected pedestrian trails, flashing pedestrian signs and lowering the speed limit from 40 to 35 mph.

Chief of Operations John Nail presented the proposed changes to the Westfield City Council Aug. 10. He noted that the area has seen residential growth in recent years and the construction of an elementary school, which added to pedestrian traffic.

Nail said a traffic study shows that existing traffic does not warrant stop signs, which led the city to look at gaps in trail connectivity. The city plans to close some of those gaps and add marked crosswalks with flashing pedestrian signs. There also will be a pedestrian “refuge” at the crossing next to the Monon Trail Elementary School entrance, providing a safe place for pedestrians in the center of the roadway.

“If all things go well, we will be doing construction on this trail project at the end of this year, late fall, once we have right-of-way acquisition,” Nail said, adding that bat protection rules limit when some of that work can begin.

“There are some trees that need to be removed … and those trees need to come down after Oct. 1.”

The proposed 35 mph speed limit was introduced during the Aug. 10 meeting, but there was discussion about whether the speed should be reduced more.

Chris Stidham, the father of the young boy who was killed, spoke during public comment earlier in the meeting and asked the city to reduce the speed limit to 30 mph, rather than 35. He said the proposed 35 mph limit was based in part on the “85 percent rule,” which looks at how fast people drive on a roadway and then sets a limit at 85 percent of that speed. He said new federal guidelines are based on the “safe system” program.

“The problem with the 85 percent rule is it literally just looks at speed limits,” Stidham said. “It doesn’t look at anything else. It doesn’t look at sidewalks, what types of activities or

New crosswalks, a pedestrian “refuge,” flashing crosswalk signs and a reduced speed limit have been proposed for Tomlinson Road. (Image courtesy of the City of Westfield)

use along the road, why people might be crossing the road — those kinds of things. The (safe system) looks at a variety of things and so, it’s a much more comprehensive method.”

He said data shows reducing speeds from 40 to 30 cuts the risk of serious injury in half and the risk of death by 25 percent.

During council discussion of the speed limit change, Councilor Joe Duepner said he doesn’t want to minimize the tragedy of the fatal accident, but he also doesn’t want to make decisions based on emotion. He noted that there are other roads close to schools and neighborhoods that have 40 mph speed limits and the city isn’t proposing changing those.

“I just want to go with the facts and the engineering principles that we have in front of us, so we’re not just changing speed limits based upon something that happens,” he said, adding that he agreed with other councilors who suggested expanding the school zone, and the need for a more consistent speed limit along Tomlinson Road.

Nail said the accident is not the sole reason for the recommended speed limit change. He added that simply changing the speed limit will not be enough and no matter what that limit is, the city also plans to increase enforcement.

He said reducing the speed to 35 mph is

what the city’s engineers recommend based on data, but if the council wants to reduce it further, city staff will look into it.

In a follow-up email to the council, which he also sent to Current, Stidham wrote that he understands community safety, data and best practices should control decisions, and argued that those factors support a 30 mph speed limit.

“The Safe Systems report … indicates changing speed limits can result in a 4 mph reduction in the 85 percent speed and a 25 percent reduction in casualty crashes on average,” he wrote, citing a case study in Seattle, “where a reduction in speed limits resulted in a 22 percent reduction in all crashes and an 18 percent reduction in injury crashes, as well as a 54 percent reduction in vehicles traveling at or faster than 40 mph.”

Stidham wrote that his goal is to reduce the chance of another family losing their child.

“I understand that there is no reasonable way to completely eliminate the risk along roadways,” he said. “But if there are changes we can reasonably make as a community to reduce the risk of severe injuries and fatalities even a little bit, then we should absolutely pursue those.”

The ordinance will come back to the council at a later time.

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD

08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

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CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

Municipal attorney Brian Bosma speaks Aug. 10 to the Westfield City Council. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)

Westfield council starts redistricting process

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com The Westfield City Council kicked off the city’s redistricting process Aug. 10, a move to redraw district lines within the growing city and expand the number of representatives on the council.

Westfield is moving toward becoming a second-class city in 2028, which means the council will expand from seven to nine members — all elected in November 2027.

Before the council’s unanimous vote to move forward with the plan, municipal attorney Brian Bosma of Kroger Gardis Regas provided details about the process and a timeline for moving forward. He noted that redistricting doesn’t have to be a public process.

“There is no requirement for public input,” he said. “There is no requirement for notices. You can do it in a smoke-filled room, pop it out here and adopt it in one meeting if you waive the rules.”

But, he said, the city has opted for a public process, which includes an opportunity for members of the public to submit their own district maps for consideration. Council President Patrick Tamm will serve as the redistricting coordinator, Bosma said, noting that Tamm will submit a council proposal by noon Sept. 9.

“That’s when the deadline is for all plans to be submitted,” Bosma said.

“It’ll be considered on first reading at a public hearing on Sept. 14 and, if all goes well and the council is ready to proceed, adopted on final passage on Sept. 28.”

Members of the public who want to submit their own plans can pick up packets at the clerk’s office or download them from the city’s website, he said.

Bosma also detailed state requirements for municipal districts.

A district must be contiguous — connected — and “reasonably compact,” he said.

“The most important (requirement) is they contain as nearly as possible equal population,” Bosma said. “It’s different for local governments than it is for Congress. Congress has to (have) absolutely equal population.”

He said the rules are less stringent for local government districts, allowing up a 10 percent deviation, but that much of a deviation can be challenged.

“The guidelines set a goal of a 5-percent deviation or less, and if it is more than 5 percent, then it needs to be justified in writing,” Bosma said.

The city technically has until Dec. 31 to adopt a plan, he said, but getting it done earlier will make it easier for elections officials as they prepare for the 2027 primary election filing period.

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08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

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Grissom Air Show set for Aug. 29-30

By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com Those who attend and enjoy the Grissom Air & Space Expo later this month can thank a Zionsville resident.

Maj. Joni Friar, who serves in the U.S. Air Force Reserves, is the air show director for the Aug. 29-30 event at Grissom Air Reserve Base near Peru and Bunker Hill.

Friar, who lives in Zionsville, has been on orders for the last three years with the Air Force, serving as the wing executive officer at Grissom. She added the title of air show director in December 2025 because of her experience with aviation. When she was in the Air Force, she was a drone pilot, operating the RQ-4 Global Hawk, a high-altitude surveillance aircraft.

As air show director, Friar is in charge of coordinating and scheduling the event and working with the base’s many partners to ensure the experience is enjoyable for spectators. And perhaps more importantly, making sure there are enough restroom facilities, she joked. A previous air show at Grissom

Maj. Joni Friar, a Zionsville resident, speaks to the media prior to a mid-air refueling mission earlier this year at Grissom Air Reserve Base. She is the air show director for the Grissom Air Show Aug. 29 and 30. (Photo courtesy of Tech.

Sgt. Alexa Culbert)

did not have enough.

The Thunderbirds, an Air Force demonstration unit, are the highlight of the show. They are known for their flight formations and solos.

“If you’ve never seen the Thunderbirds, (they) are unmatched,” Friar said. “Everytime I’ve (seen them), ‘I’m like, ‘Oh, my gosh, this is amazing.’”

The Thunderbirds will perform at 4 p.m. both days.

Grissom AFB applied for an air show in 2024. It was awarded the Thunderbirds, the Air Force’s premier demo

team.

“We really hit the lottery with them,” Friar said.

Admission and parking are free.

There will be food vendors and kids activities. Roots in Blue, a music group with the Air Force’s Band of Mid-America, will perform.

On display will be a variety of aircraft, including the KC-135 Stratotanker — Grissom is known for the 434th Air Refueling Wing — along with one of the only B-29s that still fly and a C-5 Super Galaxy, the largest aircraft in the Air

Force.

“Aviation enthusiasts are going to love this if they’re in the Indy area,” Friar said.

Friar was working at a law firm immediately after college when she thought about what she wanted to do with her life. A friend recommended enlisting in the Air Force. She had her sights set on being a pilot but was 0.2 inches too short, so she became a drone pilot instead.

“I’m very lucky in my path,” Friar said.

Friar’s on-orders time will conclude later this fall. She’ll then go back to being “Civilian Joni” and her regular job with Northrop Grumman — training NATO pilots on the RQ-4 drone. She’ll spend two months in Sicily, her seventh trip doing so.

A free community event, including a meet-and-greet with Thunderbirds crews, will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Aug. 28 at the Grissom Air Museum.

“I just want people to show up to this thing,” Friar said.

For a full schedule, visit grissomfss. com/airshow.

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Longtime Westfield Washington Township Director of Education Kristy White is retiring.

(Photo courtesy of WWT)

Westfield Washington Township Director of Education Kristy White has announced her retirement after 19 years in the position.

“Throughout her time with the township, Kristy has made a lasting impact on countless children and families by bringing classes, camps and educational field trips to life,” a township news release stated. “We are incredibly grateful for her years of creativity, care and commitment, and we wish her all the best as she begins this exciting new chapter.”

The township’s new director of education is Hallie London, who earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Ball State University and has a connection to the township’s programs. “(London) first participated in programs as a child before returning as a camp counselor for the past several years,” the news release stated. “We look forward to seeing her continue the tradition of creating meaningful, engaging experiences for our community’s youngest learners.”

London started her new role Aug. 12.  Harvest Dinner planned — Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank’s annual Harvest Dinner is set for 6 to 8 p.m. Sept.

27 at Late Harvest Kitchen, 8605 River Crossing Blvd., Indianapolis. Tickets are $125 per person, with proceeds supporting the food bank’s work to provide food and resources to local pantries in Hamilton County. Seating is limited. For more, visit hchfoodbank.org/events.

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CURRENT IN WESTFIELD

08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

Westfield Washington Schools officials and staff celebrate the district’s new transportation center. (Photo courtesy of Rocks Media House)

Westfield schools opens new transportation center news@currentinwestfield.com Westfield Washington Schools officially celebrated the opening of its new transportation center with an Aug. 4 ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The new facility at 17900 Towne Rd. provides the district’s transportation team with a modern facility designed to support daily operations, driver training and the district’s continued growth, according to a news release.

“This Transportation Center represents an important investment in the future of Westfield Washington Schools,” stated Rebecca Ogle, president of the WWS Board of School Trustees.

“It marks a new chapter for our transportation operations as the team can take advantage of a space built specifically to support their important mission of transporting students safely and efficiently.”

The new facility replaces an aging transportation center that no longer met the operational needs of the district, the news release stated. Director of Transportation Michael Reinhardt stated that it allows the transportation team to better serve students and families.

“This facility provides our team with the room and resources to continue improving the work we do every day,” Reinhardt stated. “It’s a place where we can collaborate, provide ongoing training and professional development for our drivers and staff, and continue refining the systems and processes that help us safely and efficiently serve our growing district.”

Superintendent John Atha stated that the investment reflects the district’s ongoing commitment to ensure students have safe, reliable transportation.

“Every school day and many extracurriculars begin and end with trans-

portation,” Atha stated. “This facility gives our team the space and resources needed to safely and efficiently serve our growing community while supporting collaboration, training and professional development for years to come.”

The $52.5 million center has parking bays for 250 buses. The project included a new intersection on Ind. 32 with the facility to the north and the planned extension of Towne Road to the south. It is next to Westfield Middle School West — which is under construction and will open for the 2027-28 school year.

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CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

10th annual ‘Walk for Graham set at Grand Park

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The 10th annual CureSMA Walk for Graham is set for Sept. 12 in Grand Park.

The event is a fundraiser for CureSMA, an organization dedicated to finding a cure for SMA and supporting those with the disease and their families.

Adrienne Vollmer and her husband Nick, the event organizers, got involved with CureSMA after their son Graham was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy — or SMA — at eight weeks. SMA is a genetic neuromuscular disease that damages nerves that control muscle movement.

“We found CureSMA online (in) doing some research into what the disease was and what the diagnosis meant,” Adrienne said. “We registered on their website as a newly diagnosed family, and they sent us this huge care package, and just really made us feel like, ‘Hey, you’re not alone in this really scary diagnosis and you have a community of people that’s here to support you.’”

When Graham was born, he was given a two-year life expectancy. When it came time to celebrate his second birthday in 2017, his family wanted to do something special and decided to start the CureSMA Walk for Graham.

The Walk for Graham raises awareness for the disease and raises money for CureSMA. The organization’s ability to obtain funding and continue research is important to the Vollmers because of the aid it provided their family.

“It was really important that (CureSMA’s) research continued to find a cure because when Graham was diagnosed, there was no treatment drug available on the market and there was no cure,” Adrienne said. “We were able to get Graham into a clinical trial that ended up being, two years later, the first FDA-approved treatment drug for SMA.” The first walk was a big success and prompted the family to think about continuing the event in the future.

“We just had a really great turnout and a huge showing of support from our community, and we thought, ‘Why not make this like an annual event?’”

From left, Nick, Lucy, Graham, Adrienne and Ben Vollmer at a previous CureSMA Walk for Graham. (Photo courtesy of Adrienne Vollmer)

Adrienne said. “(Now) we have over 30 SMA families that come and attend the event. Some of them have lost their loved ones to SMA. Others are parents with children with SMA, or even adults living with SMA. So we’ve really been able to just expand the scope of what the event is and incorporate a lot more as it has grown over the years.”

The event begins at 4 p.m. and will feature family-friendly activities, food, drinks and music, with a welcome ceremony at 6:15 p.m. and the walk starting at 6:30 p.m. The event will conclude at 8 p.m.

There also will be donation opportunities throughout the event to support a fundraising goal of $200,000.

“We’ve just done this … to raise awareness for SMA and show our fellow SMA families here in the state of Indiana that there is a huge community of people that are behind them that are rallying around them and are here to support (them),” Adrienne said. “People are still willing to put money and effort and time into additional treatments and hopefully one day finding a cure.”

For more, visit walk.curesma.org/ graham.

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CURRENT IN WESTFIELD

08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

Grand Junction Plaza wins international award news@currentinwestfield.com Westfield’s Grand Junction Plaza has been awarded the Outstanding Award in Sustainability and Resilience from World Landscape Architecture.

The WLA Awards celebrate the top achievements in global landscape architecture, acknowledging both built and conceptual projects, according to the organization’s website.

“Many of the projects develop landscapes and spaces that tackle challenges faced by communities, cities and the natural environment,” the website states. “This year’s winners showcase exceptional projects from around the world.”

Also recognized in the Sustainability and Resilience category were the Xili Lake Greenway, Chenhu International Wetland and Yangtze Delta Living Loop in China, and the Benjakitti Forest Park in Thailand.

“The WLA professional awards are selected from more than 275 projects in

Grand Junction Plaza in Westfield recently won an international landscape design award.

(Rendering courtesy of the City of Westfield)

16 categories with winners from over 25 different countries, meaning Grand Junction Plaza has now been recognized on a global level for its design,” a City of Westfield announcement stated.

Other countries represented in the awards include Oman, Singapore, The Netherlands and Canada.

For more, visit awards.worldlandscapearchitect.com.

DOOLEY O’TOOLE’S WINS TENDERLOIN TITLE

Carmel restaurant Dooley O’Toole’s won the Tenderloin Tuesday competition presented by Hamilton County Tourism and Current Publishing. Representatives from Hamilton County Tourism presented the award Aug. 5 to restaurant owner Doug Kemp.

From June 30 to July 28, participating restaurants in Hamilton County offered deals and competed to win the title of “Best Tenderloin in Hamilton County.” (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

Dooley O’Toole’s employees, from left, Caitlyn Strawn, Jaime Clark, Izabella Hunter, Faith Holowka, Doug Kemp, Kaleb Gulley and Jakob Heaton after the award presentation.

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08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

11

Goalkeeper right fit for CHS boys soccer player

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Carmel High School senior Gray Morgan started as a goalkeeper in soccer for a specific reason.

“When I was younger, I hated the conditioning,” he said. “I always thought the goalies didn’t have to do the conditioning, and when I was 8 or 9, I didn’t want to do the conditioning, so I was the goalkeeper. I just stuck with it. I felt I was kind of decent at it.”

Indeed, he has been.

Morgan had 15 shutouts last season in helping the Greyhounds win their first state title in boys soccer since 2006. CHS (18-1-3) topped West Lafayette Harrison 3-1 in the Class 3A championship match.

Morgan shared time as goalkeeper as a sophomore and took over as the only starter as a junior.

“He’s a natural leader and he’s stepped up to take more of a leadership role that kind of transcends across his game,” Greyhounds coach Shane Schmidt said. “He works with our goalkeeper coach Henry Geisel, and I think he’s improved a bunch over the last sea-

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK MEET GRAY MORGAN Favorite athlete: LeBron James Favorite movie: “Interstellar” Favorite musician: Drake Favorite subject: History son. He’s always been a good goalkeeper, but last year I think he took it by the reins and did everything that he did in a leadership kind of role.”

Morgan plays for Indy Eleven Academy during the club season.

“He plays at a high level during his club season and gets good training there,” Schmidt said Schmidt said Morgan also has benefited from tips from Indy Eleven goalkeeper Eric Dick, a CHS graduate.

Carmel High School senior goalkeeper Gray Morgan had 15 shutouts last season for the Class 3A state championship team. (Photo courtesy of CHS athletics)

“Gray looks for ways to get better, and it shows,” Schmidt said.

The 6-foot-2 Morgan said he would love to top the 15 shutouts he tallied last season.

“It’s going to be an uphill battle because we have a lot of new defenders, but I’m confident in our back line and confident in myself,” he said. “I always

tell myself to control what you can control and save what you can save. You’re never going to save that top corner screamer from 40 yards out, but as long as I can stop the balls that are right at me and do it successfully, I have a pretty good chance to break that.”

Morgan said it was special to get Schmidt his first state championship in 19 seasons as Carmel’s head coach. He was the varsity assistant when the Greyhounds won in 2006.

“Coach Schmidt is such a good coach,” Morgan said. “He knows what he’s doing. He’s playing at the highest level, so he knows what it takes as a player. At the same time, he’s been the varsity coach for so long, he knows what it takes to motivate a team. He knows what is effective and how to run his training sessions.”

Morgan said he is still looking at options to play collegiately if he can find the right fit. He plans to major in business and then attend law school to become a corporate lawyer.

To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@youarecurrent.com.

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CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

Hamilton County law enforcement recognized news@currentnoblesville.com The Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office honored three members of the county’s law enforcement community Aug. 4 during its annual Officer of the Year Awards, recognizing service in patrol, investigations and community engagement.

The awards were presented to Patrol Officer Ezekiel McCarthy of the Westfield Police Department; Detective Michael Morley of the Carmel Police Department; and K-9 Luna and her handler, Sgt. Ben Lugar, of the Noblesville Police Department.

“We are incredibly fortunate to serve alongside some of the finest law enforcement professionals anywhere,” Hamilton County Prosecutor Joshua Kocher stated. “This year’s honorees not only stand apart from everyone else, but they exemplify the dedication, courage and compassion that define our law enforcement partners every day.”

McCarthy was named Patrol Officer of the Year, Morley received the Detective of the Year award, and the K-9 of the Year award was presented to Luna and Lugar.

Westfield Police Department Patrol Officer Ezekiel McCarthy, left, who was named Patrol Officer of the Year, with Hamilton County Prosecutor Joshua Kocher. (Photos courtesy of Hamilton County)

Carmel Police Department Detective Michael Morley, left, who was named Detective of the Year, with Hamilton County Prosecutor Joshua Kocher.

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Noblesville Police Department Sgt. Ben Lugar and K-9 Luna receive the K-9 of the Year Award from Hamilton County Prosecutor Joshua Kocher.

COMMUNITY

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD

08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

Consignment store opens

By Hannah VanLandingham hannah@youarecurrent.com Maison Willow, a women’s wardrobe consignment store at 230 E. Main St., celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Aug. 5.

The ceremony was attended by Westfield Mayor Scott Willis, members of the Westfield Chamber of Commerce and Maison Willow employees and supporters.

“We need more retail in our community,” Willis said. “We have very little of it and this will be a great addition to downtown.”

The shop features a handpicked selection of women’s blouses, dresses, pants, skirts, shoes, purses and jewelry in high-end vintage and classic styles.

Customers interested in a more personalized experience can book private shopping experiences according to the business website.

Owner Tracy Bello started the business out of a passion for thrifting and fashion.

“This has been a dream of mine for many, many years,” she said. “As my

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Maison Willow, a women’s wardrobe consignment store, celebrated its grand opening Aug. 5 at 230 E. Main St. (Photo by Hannah VanLandingham)

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Bello emphasized a goal of inclusivity at her store, with a selection for all sizes and ages.

“Whether it be ordinary, wearable arts, everyday dress up (or for) events, I want my store to represent all styles (and) all ages, not just (what’s) trending,” she said.

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COMMUNITY

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

STREET CORN PIZZA, SPAM DOG AMONG STATE FAIR FARE

Vendors at the Indiana State Fair presented samples of featured Taste of the Fair food and drink items during an Aug. 6 preview event in the Harvest Pavilion. The fair runs to Aug. 23 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, 1202 E 38th St. in Indianapolis. Learn more at IndianaStateFair.com.

From left, Cheyenne and Will Miller of Wisconsin-based Charlie’s Fair Foods display their Taste of the Fair entry, Charlie’s Mexican Street Corn Pizza. (Photos by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

Carmel-based Urick Concession’s Taste of the Fair entries include The Junkyard SPAM Dog.

A video rental store display greets visitors just inside the main entrance of the Harvest Pavilion.

Joel McWaters of Lebanon-based McWaters Concessions displays the Bacon Jalapeno HoneyBun Burger, a Taste of the Fair entry.

COMMUNITY

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD

08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

15

Election board to revisit vote centers The news release states Adler said his decision was influenced by watching Allen County successfully implement The Hamilton County Election Board has announced it will reconsider transi- vote centers with few issues and by the Hamilton County Election Office’s work tioning from traditional precinct-based to reestablish partnerships with local voting to a countywide vote center school districts. model.

After several districts previLast year, the proposal failed to receive the unanimous elecously stepped away from serving as polling places because of tion board vote required under security concerns, all have now Indiana law, despite unanimous agreed to host vote center locaapproval from the Hamilton County Commissioners and tions throughout the county, county council. according to the release.

Williams A public meeting and vote Hamilton County Clerk Kathy are scheduled for 10 a.m. Sept. 29 in Kreag Williams, who authored Indithe Commissioners Courtroom at the ana’s original vote center legislation Hamilton County Judicial Center in while serving in the Indiana House Noblesville. of Representatives, says the model is If approved, Hamilton County would designed to make voting easier for resbegin using vote centers during the 2027 idents while allowing elections to keep municipal elections, giving election ofpace with county growth.

“One of the biggest reasons this proficials time to refine the process before the 2028 presidential election. posal works is because our local school Unlike the current system, which districts have stepped up as partners requires voters to cast ballots at their once again,” Williams stated. “By assigned precinct, vote centers allow opening their buildings as vote centers, residents to vote at any designated lothey’re helping ensure voters across Hamilton County have a convenient cation in the county on election day.

Hamilton County currently operates 102 place to cast their ballot close to home. precincts, but under the proposal would We’re incredibly grateful for their willestablish 57 vote centers — more than ingness to work with us to make voting double the 27 locations required by state more accessible.” law based on the county’s registered The public can attend the Sept. 29 voter population. meeting or email their opinions to According to a news release from the kathy.williams@hamiltoncounty. county, election board member Ray Adin.gov. Community members also can complete an online survey before ler, who voted against the proposal last year, says he now intends to support the Sept. 25 at forms.cloud.microsoft/g/ uYqcnXCA4h. measure. news@currentnoblesville.com

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CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

Westfield set to host LIV Golf Indianapolis news@youarecurrent.com LIV Golf Indianapolis returns to The Club at Chatham Hills Aug. 20–23, bringing four days of professional golf and live entertainment to Westfield.

In addition to professional golf, country music performer Thomas Rhett will play Aug. 21 and Disco Lines will perform Aug. 22.

EVENT SCHEDULE AUGUST 20 • Gates, hospitality areas and the Fan Village open at 10:30 a.m.

• Play begins at 1:15 p.m.

AUGUST 21 • Gates, hospitality areas and the Fan Village open at 9:30 a.m.

• Play begins at 12:15 p.m.

• Thomas Rhett concert starts at 5 p.m.

AUGUST 22 • Gates, hospitality areas and the Fan Village open at 8:30 a.m.

• Play begins at 11:15 a.m.

• Disco Lines concert starts at 4 p.m.

AUGUST 23 • Gates, hospitality areas and the Fan Village open at 11:30 am • Play begins at 2:05 p.m.

TICKET INFORMATION Tickets start at $27, and children ages 12 and younger receive free grounds admission when accompanied by a ticketed adult.

General concert admission is included with a LIV Golf Indianapolis ticket.

Grounds Passes, Grounds Plus and Concert Stagefront tickets are available online at westfieldin.gov/LIV. Concert Zone A provides access to a premium concert-viewing area.

LIV Golf Indianapolis offers active-duty military members and veterans up to two complimentary single-day grounds passes per day. Eligible attendees must present a valid military ID in person at the Ticket Resolution window near the main entrance. Staff will process complimentary tickets before entry. The offer applies only to grounds passes and does not include hospitality tickets.

For more about tickets, entry procedures, prohibited items and event policies, visit westfieldin. gov/LIV.

LIV Golf Indianapolis offers four days of professional golf at The Club at Chatham Hills Aug. 20-23. (Photo courtesy of the City of Westfield)

PARKING AND SHUTTLES

ROAD CLOSURES

All general event parking will be north of Grand Park at 308 E. 191st St. Free shuttles will transport attendees between the parking area and The Club at Chatham Hills. Shuttles will run continuously each event day, beginning 30 minutes before gates open.

The final shuttle will leave The Club at Chatham Hills one hour after play or after the concert concludes.

Road closures will be in place to support event traffic and public safety. They include: • Cox Avenue between Chatham Ridge Boulevard and Chatham Pointe Lane, closed from 7 a.m. Aug. 17 through 9 a.m. Aug. 24.

• Tomlinson Road between Cox Avenue and East 199th Street, closed 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Aug. 20; 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Aug. 21; 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Aug. 22; and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Aug. 23 Drivers should plan alternate routes and allow additional travel time throughout the event.

ACCESSIBILITY LIV Golf Indianapolis is an accessible event — including all hospitality areas — and welcomes spectators who require assistance.

Wheelchairs and motorized scooters are allowed. Attendees should bring their own mobility devices. Rentals will not be available on-site.

Small folding stools and chairs without armrests are permitted. Accessible viewing areas will be available throughout the course on a first-come, first-served basis.

All shuttle pickup locations and shuttle buses are wheelchair accessible.

INTERNATIONAL PASSPORT Visitors can expand their Westfield experience beyond the golf course with the Westfield International Passport.

The free digital passport highlights more than 30 international restaurants and businesses throughout the community. Participants can check in at featured locations, earn points and discover food, products and experiences representing cultures from around the world.

Information about the passport, LIV Golf Indianapolis and other local attractions is available at westfieldin.gov/LIV.

LIV GOLF LIVES ON news@youarecurrent.com LIV Golf has secured funding from an outside investor to keep the circuit alive beyond this season.

ESPN reported Aug. 5 that league CEO Scott O’Neil didn’t identify the investor or how much money will be injected into the league, but said terms should be finalized soon, with the transaction to be closed in September.

O’Neill stated that there is interest from additional parties to serve as minority investors. ESPN reported that the league needs $250 to $300 million after Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund announced in April that it would no longer finance it.

The league has planned 10 events in 2027, including five team “majors” at international sites such as Australia, South Africa, England, Hong Kong and Mexico.

The future schedule will also include five team “signature events” in the United States. The league’s website doesn’t indicate where the U.S. events will take place.

After the league’s Aug. 20-23 tournament in Westfield, it’s scheduled to play Aug. 27-30 in Michigan. There have been questions about whether the Michigan event will take place, but the website is still selling tickets.

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD

08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

17

WESTFIELD INTERNATIONAL PASSPORT feeling hungry?

Craving a new adventure? The Westfield International Passport is your guide to exploring global cuisine and experiences right here in our community. Check in at the Westfield International Festival, a featured stop, to earn bonus points toward prizes!

HOW TO GET STARTED 1. Visit the link below to claim your digital passport.

2. Check in at featured businesses to earn points.

3. Collect enough points and redeem them for prizes! **PRIZES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE BASED ON AVAILABILITY

Claim your pass! discoverwestfieldin.com/wip

SEPTEMBER 19 | 12–4 P.M. GRAND JUNCTION PLAZA 225 S. UNION STREET

PRESENTED BY CENTIER BANK Explore arts, entertainment, traditions, and cuisine from around the world at the annual Westfield International Festival, presented by Centier Bank. Enjoy live performances, browse handcrafted goods, and experience cultures from across the globe.

Returning this year is the Savor & Snack Pass! Enjoy five sample tastings from participating food trucks and vendors for a delicious way to discover new favorites. Learn more and purchase a pass at westfieldin.gov/internationalfestival.

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COMMUNITY

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

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Particular, Not Pretentious

The Humane Society for Hamilton County presented its annual Woofstock 5K and Dog Walk fundraising event Aug. 8 at LaunchFishers, with proceeds benefiting the nonprofit’s Survivor Program.

The Survivor Program provides lifesaving medical care to animals in need. (Photo by Evelyn Rose) Runners, walkers and canines participate in the Aug. 8 Woofstock 5K and Dog Walk benefiting the Humane Society for Hamilton County.

COMMUNITY

19

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD

08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

Area leaders discuss legal system gaps, barriers

cycling back into communities.

The conversation focused on the Central Indiana mayors, police chiefs entire criminal justice continuum, and county prosecutors gathered Aug. 3 recognizing that public safety depends on every part of the system working for continued discussion and planning together. Participants discussed in support of public safety soluthe importance of building tions that benefit residents and stronger relationships between visitors. law enforcement and prosecuCivic leaders from Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, tor offices to positively affect Johnson, Madison, Marion and prescreening and charging Morgan counties met at Gaindecisions, Indiana Department of Correction policies on timebridge Fieldhouse, the second in Finkam served and early release and ina series of meetings that kicked off June 26. Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam formation sharing across agencies. led the public safety initiative in collabLeaders also examined how inadoration with Indianapolis Mayor Joe equate funding, gaps in communicaHogsett to host the summit. tion and coordination, inconsistent City leaders and police chiefs were approaches and public safety policies joined by eight county prosecutors, the can contribute to repeat offending and U.S. attorney for the Southern District identified opportunities for stronger of Indiana and the Indiana State Police collaboration among local, state and superintendent with a goal of underfederal partners.

The summit expects to hold at least standing gaps and barriers in the legal two more meetings. system that result in repeat offenders news@currentincarmel.com

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MOVIN’ ON UP 08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

21

Westfield prepares for transition from third- to second-class city

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com On Jan. 1, 2028, the City of Westfield will become a second-class city — a move that will bring the city’s finances into the mayor’s office, add two more members to the city council and — maybe — open a Westfield City Court.

The move toward becoming a second-class city started in 2021, when then-Mayor Andy Cook’s office commissioned a report from financial consulting firm Baker Tilly, which recommended making the transition. The 2020 CenThe Westfield City Council will grow from seven to nine members in 2028. (Photo by Leila Kheiry) sus confirmed that Westfield had surpassed the 35,000 mark — the threshold ing and asset management and all the partment positions in 2027 to work with for becoming a second-class city. things that a finance department has to the clerk-treasurer’s office and make Cook brought the matter to the weigh in on or manage.” sure the transition in 2028 is as seamless council in 2022, but the council Willis said as the city grows, as possible. initially rejected the proposal. its finances become more Victor McCarty is the only sitting Then in late 2023, councilors complicated.

Westfield City Council member who reconsidered and unanimously “We’re close to a $200 million was serving when the council voted for voted to become a second-class budget,” he said. “I think most the city to become a second-class city. city. That vote was after the Nopeople would look at that and He said that before serving on the coununderstand — do you want $200 vember election and right before cil, he had been disappointed when the million of taxpayer dollars being proposal initially failed. newly elected Mayor Scott Willis Willis managed by a certified accounassumed office.

“Then and now, my support for Willis said in a recent interview that Westfield becoming a second-class city tant and a professional finance departas soon as he became mayor in January ment, or do you want that to be an elect- boils down to three reasons,” he said.

2024, it became his job to prepare West“First, it provides more opportunity for ed official? You know, Marla has done a community voices to be heard through great job. She’s not an accountant. She’s field for 2028, when the move would be two additional council seats. Second, not a CPA — and nobody on her staff is. complete.

And again, that’s not a slam on her. That city finances should have a specialized Clerk-treasurer Marla Ailor also had department. Third, (it grants) the city is the system we’re under right now.” just been elected to her position and, by Willis said the city has hired a finance council autonomy over meetings inlaw, the city had to wait for her term to director, Kelly Kemper — who has expe- stead of being run by the mayor.” end before making the switch. When the transition officially takes place, city McCarty said that, as a third-class rience as a CPA and municipal advisor finances will be managed by a city concity, the mayor is technically the presi— and will hire additional finance detroller, appointed by the mayor.

Willis said that will be the primary CITY CLASSIFICATIONS change for the city, and a big reason why he supported the move.

Westfield is the last of Hamilton “third-class” cities with a seven-member “Right now, you have a clerk-treasurCounty’s four cities to gain second-class city council and an elected clerk-treaer’s office, you have a city and we have designation. Fishers transitioned from surer. After reaching the 35,000 threshour own financial analysts in-house,” a town to a second-class city in 2015, old, cities can become ”second-class,” he said. “And then, both entities have Noblesville became a second-class city with a population between 35,000 and their own advisors that they hire, conin 2016 and Carmel made the move in 600,000, a nine-member city council tract with, to advise them on municipal 2020. and an elected clerk. finance because it’s very, very compliAccording to the state’s website, a Indianapolis is the only “first-class” cated and you don’t want to make a municipality in Indiana must have a mini- city in Indiana under state law, making mistake. We’ll be bringing a lot of that mum of 2,000 people to incorporate as a it subject to a consolidated government in-house and beefing up a true finance known as Unigov. city. Cities with up to 35,000 people are department with payroll and account-

dent of the council, although Councilor Patrick Tamm chairs council meetings.

McCarty added that the change won’t make a huge difference to city residents right away, but it is important to have the right systems in place as Westfield continues to grow.

A special Census conducted in 2025 shows Westfield’s population at around 65,000 people, compared to about 46,000 in 2020. Updated population numbers mean more tax dollars coming back to the community, Willis said, and it gives a better picture for the required redistricting that will determine new city council district boundaries.

The city now has seven councilors — five district seats and two at-large members. The new nine-member council in 2028 will have one additional district seat and a third at-large councilor.

Although it’s not required, Willis also has proposed that Westfield add a city court. The council introduced an ordinance to move in that direction and will vote on whether to adopt it at a later date. A city court might require some one-time infrastructure improvements as well as staffing and a new elected judge. But, he said, a city court does generate revenue.

“Is it enough to pay for itself? In some cities, it does. Some make money off the city courts. Some break even. Some lose money, so that’s to be determined,” Willis said. “But it’s not about the revenue; it’s about controlling your own destiny.

Your own elected judge is making decisions on ordinances, speeding tickets, any violations that our police department might write at the city level — one of your own people, residents, is weighing in on that, not somebody from Noblesville or from the county.”

Willis said there will be additional ongoing expenses from added finance positions, but noted that the city’s growth would have warranted many of those new positions anyway.

ON THE COVER: A collage of photos shows scenes from the City of Westfield. (File photos)

22

HEALTH

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

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Accepting New Patients

App aids bone health

By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com When Lexi Lewis’ mother Marcy broke a hip, Lewis assumed there was an app to aid her recovery, one that had some exercises for older women diagnosed with osteoporosis.

“That’s when we found a gap,” Lewis said.

Lewis, a Zionsville native who lives in North Carolina, worked with Bettye Ellison, a Zionsville exercise physiologist to develop an app. Along with co-founder Ben Wesorick, a medical student in North Carolina, they launched Bone-IQ, a subscription-based app geared for people with osteoporosis.

The workout-based app is meant to be an easy entry level to build strength.

Users fill out a quick intake form, and the app develops an exercise program based on one’s answers. Questions ask users about their ability to do pushups, squats, deadlifts and at what intensity, as well as any health issues and injuries.

“It can be extremely daunting (to start exercising),” Lewis said. “The app is built to meet the user where they’re at and progress as they go on.”

Osteoporosis is a lack of bone density and often affects older adults. It leads to weaker bones and is the most common reason for fractures in elderly people.

It is especially prevalent in women over 50. About 20 percent of women in that age group will be diagnosed with osteoporosis. Bone density decreases in older women after menopause because of a lack of estrogen.

Lewis said a diagnosis often comes after a fall and fracture.

“They call osteoporosis a silent disease,” she said.

That’s how her mom, Marcy Lewis, learned she had osteoporosis. She fell while on her horse farm.

“I think it was a blessing in disguise,” Lexi Lewis said. “She wouldn’t have known otherwise.”

Zionsville native Lexi Lewis, left, created Bone-IQ, with help from Zionsville resident Bettye Ellison. (Photo courtesy of Lexi Lewis)

Squats, deadlifts, pushups and their variations are common exercises on Bone-IQ. Workouts can be modified if they are too easy or too hard. Lewis said the compound movements improve bone density.

“One of the most important things in your bone density … is doing progressive overload,” Lewis said.

This is known as Wolff’s law which states a healthy bone will adapt to the loads placed on it. Simply, bones become stronger to resist heavier loads.

Each exercise includes a video demonstration by Ellison. She designed the workouts.

“We’ve heard real positive feedback that everyone really loves Bettye,” Lewis said.

Lewis and her team also partnered with physicians, endocrinologists and nutritionists while developing the app.

Bone IQ launched earlier this year and is available in both the App Store and on Google Play. Users get a twoweek free trial. Bone-IQ costs $19 a month or $99 for a year.

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The views expressed in this column are that of Dr. Lindsay Moore and FreedomDoc.

BUSINESS LOCAL

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD

08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

BAGI reports rising residential building activity news@youarecurrent.com The Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis recently reported that single-family building permit activity across central Indiana gained momentum through June 2026, defying national trends.

The nine-county region recorded 1,082 permits in June 2026 compared to 952 permits in June 2025, a 14 percent year-over-year increase for the month.

Year-to-date totals stand at 5,421 permits compared to 5,256 during the same period last year, a 3 percent overall increase according to a news release.

The National Association of Home Builders reported that 380,130 single-family permits were issued nationwide through May, a 6.1 percent decline compared to the same period in 2025.

After tracking nearly even with last year’s pace through May, June’s permit activity pushed the region to a 3 percent year-to-date increase, highlighting continued demand for new housing despite national headwinds.

“Central Indiana’s housing market continues to demonstrate resilience in an increasingly challenging national environment,” BAGI CEO Chris Hancock. “While builders across the country continue to navigate affordability

concerns, higher construction costs and elevated mortgage rates, our region has maintained steady demand and experienced a strong increase in permit activity heading into the summer.”

As affordability concerns, rising land and material costs and persistent labor shortages continue to pressure builders, BAGI reports that central Indiana’s housing market continues to benefit from strong regional fundamentals, including population growth, a relatively affordable cost of living and sustained demand for homeownership.

“While activity varies across our nine-county region, central Indiana continues to demonstrate resilience,” Hancock stated. “Builders are adapting to changing market conditions, responding to local demand and remaining focused on creating the housing opportunities our growing communities need.”

By county, June permits totaled: • Boone: 109 • Hamilton: 366 • Hancock: 103 • Hendricks: 146 • Johnson: 91 • Madison: 26 • Marion: 143 • Morgan: 56 • Shelby: 32

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DISPATCHES  Former governor launches AI transition initiative — Former Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb and former U.S. Secretary of Commerce and Rhode Island Gov. Gina Raimondo recently announced the launch of RAISE US, a nonpartisan national organization that will partner with governors, employers, workers and training organizations to help the American workforce transition to an AI economy. For more, visit raiseus.ai.  Open mic nights at Grand Junction Brewery — Grand Junction Brewery, 1189 E. 181st St., is holding open mic nights at 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Wednesdays.

Participants can perform music, comedy, poetry or spoken word.  Golf outing set — Westfield Young Professional Council will host its 4th annual golf outing for all skill levels Aug. 26

at Wood Wind Golf Course. The event is a chance to network with other young professionals of Westfield and Hamilton County while enjoying golf. For more and to register, visit westfieldchamberindy. com and click on the chamber events tab.  Community Health launches AI tool for patients — Community Health Network has launched Emmie, a new artificial intelligence assistant available in MyChart, providing patients with a secure, conversational way to understand their health information and take next steps in their care. Emmie allows patients to ask questions about their health records and receive immediate, personalized responses based on information available in their chart. The tool is designed to simplify how patients interpret medical information, manage appointments and navigate their care journey.

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24

INSIDE & OUT

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

BLUEPRINT FOR IMPROVEMENT: Commentary by Larry Greene On Indy’s northside, this addition expands the second floor with a new primary suite while blending naturally into the home’s original architecture.

Seamless second-floor addition on Indy’s northside AFTER

THE BLUEPRINT • A new second-floor addition creates a spacious primary bedroom and walk-in closet.

• The primary bath was relocated and redesigned for improved comfort, privacy and flow.

• New windows and exterior siding were carefully matched to the existing home.

• Interior changes connect the new suite smoothly with the original second-floor layout.

• The finished addition adds valuable square footage without disrupting the home’s classic exterior.

Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy. com or visit worthingtonindy.com for more remodeling inspiration and advice.

BEFORE

Your source for local arts & entertainment and upcoming events • youarecurrent.com

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD

08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

25

Artomobilia to feature Lane Museum cars

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Artomobilia’s newest attraction will have a grand entrance.

“The ones that are raising the most eyebrows are the Jeff Lane Motor Museum cars,” said John Leonard, Artomobilia’s co-founder and director. “We’re going to bring those into the Arts & Design District under their own power, so people see these things move around. You can go down to Nashville (Tenn.) and see them in a museum but you don’t hear them, you don’t see them move. That’s a unique attribute of what we’ll bring this year.”

When Artomobilia — an automotive design festival and car show — starts at 11 a.m. Aug. 29 in downtown Carmel, the cars will drive into their position in front of the 1933 Lounge on Range Line Road.

“That will be something to see these crazy cars drive down the road,” Leonard said. “These cars will be the last ones into their spots.”

There will be six vehicles from Lane Motor Museum: • 1932 Helicron: A one-of-a-kind, propeller-driven French car found in a barn in 2000, still road-legal in France, and pushed along by a propeller spinning at its nose.

• 1959 Citroën ID 19: The elegant French saloon whose hydropneumatic self-leveling suspension and aerodynamic shape made it decades ahead of its time.

• 1964 Peel P-50 Replica: A nod to the Guinness-record smallest production car ever made, 54 inches long and around 130 pounds, with no reverse gear.

• 2013 Peel Trident Replica: The bubble-topped, clear-domed twoseat sibling of the P50, a microcar that looks straight out of a 1960s space cartoon.

• 1947 Tatra T87: The streamlined, air-cooled rear-V8 Czech saloon with a dorsal fin and a dark legend: so many German officers died driving its 100-mph chassis

‘THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG’ “The Play That Goes Wrong” runs through Aug. 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

CARMEL COMEDY CLUB

The 1964 Amphicar 770 is the most successful amphibious car ever built, a convertible that swims on twin propellers. (Photo courtesy of Lane Motor Museum)

that they were reportedly banned from it.

• 1964 Amphicar 770: The most successful amphibious car ever built, a convertible that swims on twin propellers and carries the highest tailfins of any production car.

“The cars have left the museum for some other big car shows, but they don’t usually take six cars anywhere,” Leonard said.

Leonard said he met Jeff Lane in September 2025 when comedian and car enthusiast Jay Leno appeared at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. “(Lane) is a walking encyclopedia on all the cars nobody knows anything about,” Leonard said. “There are all kinds of guys who are experts on Camaros and Corvettes, Lamborghinis and Ferraris. Jeff is an expert on all the cars that are right on the fringe.”

Leonard said 530 cars are registered entrants along with 40 or more that are sponsored and partner cars. The event started with 40 cars in 2008.

“We’ve gotten more space in Carmel’s Midtown,” he said. “We’ve gone much farther south on Elm (Street) than we normally have.”

There are more than 25 collector car classes on display. In addition, there

will be select vehicles from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Putnam Park Road Course on display.

Leonard said an estimated 20,000 visitors attend the free event, which ends at 5 p.m.

“Carmel has benefited and Artomobilia has benefited from the fact they do so many events that gives people an opportunity to see downtown Carmel,” Leonard said. “For the last 19 years, we have been giving a certain demographic a great reason to check out Carmel and come back.”

Carmel resident Joe Molina, who has a long career in automotive public relations, has joined Artomobilia as an adviser.

During Artomobilia, Carmel on Canvas, a plein air paint-out exhibition and contest will be featured, It will start Aug. 28.

The VELOCE Hangar Party will return from 7 to 10 p.m. Aug. 28 to the Jet Access Center at Indianapolis Executive Airport in Zionsville. It will feature 50 performance automobiles.

The evening includes craft cocktails, dinner and live music.

The Porsche Classic Restoration Challenge is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m Aug. 28. at the Motor District, 1516 West Tournament Trail in Westfield.

For more, visit artomobilia.org.

Carmel Comedy Club features Zach Ryan Sterling, Parker Busick, Tripti Luna Rose and Terry Shepard at 7 p.m. Aug. 21 and Haley Wilcox, Ryan Rogers, Marty Quinn and Ken Evans at 7 p.m. Aug. 22 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.

‘HEUNG’ KPAC Indiana presents “HEUNG: Inspiring Korean Music” at 5 p.m. Aug. 23 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

TWILIGHT ON THE TERRACE The Twilight on the Terrace features ‘A Rodney Stepp Experience’ at 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 21 at Plainfield’s Hendricks Live!

For more, visit hendrickslive.org.

COLTON DIXON The York Automotive Concert Series features Colton Dixon at 8 p.m. Aug. 22 at Plainfield’s Hendricks Live! For more, visit hendrickslive.org.

DISPATCH  Garfunkel’s performance rescheduled for Oct. 5 — Art Garfunkel’s Payne & Mencias Palladium performance, originally scheduled for July 24, has been rescheduled to 8 p.m. Oct. 5. Previously purchased tickets will be honored for the new date. For any questions, please contact the Fifth Third Bank Box Office at 317-843-3800 or tickets@thecenterpresents.org.

26

ENTERTAINMENT

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

Dance performance benefits nonprofit

By Mark Ambrogi mark@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.

Ballet INitiative co-founder Christina Voreis firmly believes in giving back to the community.

“We do change the beneficiary for Happy Hour For a Cause each year to highlight a different local nonprofit that resonates with our dancers and choreographers,” Voreis said. “This year, our chosen charity is Gennesaret Free Clinics. Twenty percent of proceeds from the performances will benefit Gennesaret, helping provide medical care to underserved members of our community.”

Happy Hour For a Cause is set for 7:30 p.m. Aug. 29 and 2 p.m. Aug. 30 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel.

“The program features a mix of original contemporary and ballet works choreographed by local artists, giving our dancers the opportunity to showcase a range of styles and artistry,” Voreis said.

“The performance also creates a platform for our featured charity to share its mission directly with audiences, with opportunities to learn more about their work and support their organization beyond the performance.”

Voreis said the company this summer is based in downtown Indianapolis at Dance Kaleidoscope and DanceWorks Indy studios.

“We are excited to be starting a new partnership with Dance Innovations in Westfield in just a few weeks, and that will be our main home base for the foreseeable future,” she said.

Voreis, a Westfield resident, serves as co-director with Lauren Nasci, Carmel. Although Voreis is no longer

Julie Stelzer, left and Lauren Nasci perform at a past Happy Hour for a Cause. (Oldson Photography)

performing, Nasci is one of 12 Ballet INitiative dancers. Other dancers include Kylin Kempson, Carmel; Shelby Hildebrand, Fishers and Tyler Parnella, Brownsburg.

For tickets, visit balletinitiative.org.

CONCERTS FOR A CAUSE SET Singer-songwriter-actress Mary Fahl is the headliner for Concerts for a Cause at 6 p.m. Aug. 29 at Indianapolis Art Center, 820 E. 67th St., Indianapolis.

Indianapolis singer-songwriter Marc Imboden is the opening performer..

Carmel resident Bruce Kidd founded Indy Concerts for a Cause in 2016, with four concerts set each year benefiting a different nonprofit. The Aug. 29 concert supports Village of Merici, which provides personalized coaching, support and housing for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities.

Tickets are $100. For more, visit indyconcertsforacause.org.

DISPATCH  ICC expands locations, staff — The Indianapolis Children’s Choir plans to expand its choir locations and staff to serve more children in central Indiana as they begin their rehearsals this fall. New sites will be on Indianapolis’ eastside in Irvington, on the southside at the University of Indianapolis and in northern Indiana in Upland.

Staff also is being expanded to direct choirs across the state. Caitlyn McGlynn joins the ICC team as the outreach and marketing coordinator, who along with administrative duties will use her prior experience from the Cincinnati Youth Choir to direct 8 ICC ensembles from Preparatory Choir to ICC’s intermediate level in various locations across the state. After serving as interim director last season, Jillian Corman joins the staff as well and will direct the Columbus Indiana Children’s Choir division’s top choir while drawing on her experience leading classrooms and the Capital City Chorus. The ICC’s choirs across central Indiana are enrolling now. For more, visit icchoir.org.

ENTERTAINMENT

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD

08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

Noblesville artist raising money for debut album

By Alex McCarthy alex@youarecurrent.com Aura Ray’s feet hurt.

It was the Noblesville-based singer-songwriter’s first time visiting New York City, and she wanted to wear high heels as she walked through Times Square. After a while, she couldn’t stand wearing them any longer, so she took them off and explored the city while feeling the cement under her bare feet.

The experience inspired her latest single, “Barefoot in Times Square,” which is scheduled to come out Aug. 14.

That single, along with her July release “Poisoned Message in a Bottle,” will appear on her upcoming full-length album “Between Places.” Ray, who was born and raised in Germany before moving to central Indiana, hopes the album will come out by the end of the year.

Ray, 24, and her music partner Sean Noel are performing four or more times per week across Indianapolis and the northern suburbs to raise money for the album. They also have a GoFundMe collecting donations to make the album a reality.

Ray said it feels weird to ask for money but noted there are many hidden costs to releasing an album.

“We don’t just write the song or put it out,” Ray said. “There’s a lot of marketing happening, a lot of music video content creation. If (people) contribute to it, they help make the art that wouldn’t exist otherwise.”

Noel, who performs with Ray in the duo Beauty and the Beats, said the recording process at Round Table Recording Co. in Broad Ripple has been rewarding.

“The recording process has been an incredible journey because you get to hear these songs evolve from an idea we created into something real,” Noel said via email. “What makes it especially meaningful is knowing that the music is being created for people to connect with, not just to sit on our hard drives.”

Most of Ray’s output has leaned toward country in recent years, but her newest releases are pop songs. She and Noel have explored various sounds and find that pop might suit her best.

“We love to play all genres, and I feel

Aura Rey has released two singles this summer.

(Photo by Sean Noel Pena | Touring Mantis Media)

like pop just sums it up all together,” Ray said. “It has influences of everything and especially international pop.

I love to sing in different languages.”

Ray’s music is constantly shifting, both in genre and in language. She said her debut album is about times of transition. As someone who has moved from Germany to the United States and who has experimented with different genres, Ray speaks from experience when she writes about being between places.

“Sometimes you’re between relationships, between dreams, between who you were and who you’re becoming,” Ray said. “And sometimes you haven’t figured it out yet, and that’s OK. This album is not about having all the answers. It’s about figuring out where you belong, and if that takes time, that’s OK.” Ray is taking her time, too. She’s trying to make sure the album is the best it can be. She’s also taking her music career as it comes. She thought about heading to Nashville at some point in her career, but said she has felt immense support from the Indianapolis area music community and she’s happy where she is now.

She is ready to follow that path wherever it leads her — whether she’s in heels or making the journey barefoot.

For updates on Aura Ray’s music and live performances, see auraraymusic. com or follow her on Instagram @auraraymusic. You can find the GoFundMe at gofundme.com/f/independent-album-real-stories-lets-build-it-together.

27

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VIEWS

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Bald legals soar on billboards Commentary by Dick Wolfsie Darron Stewart and Nick Wagner have baldly gone where no lawyers have gone before.

The two personal injury attorneys don’t take most things too personally, especially their lack of hair. In fact, they can make a case that being so open about it has been good for business. You will enjoy their unique way of reaching out to the public, highlighting their lack of a mop on top and their legal acumen.

Their billboards that celebrate their shiny pates are a testimony to the power of self-deprecating humor. These two bald legals have created more than a dozen of these billboards to attract potential clients who may be uncomfortable combing over the internet in search of legal assistance. In fact, the two have been adamantly opposed to comb-overs most of their adult lives.

Darron says, “We have a lot of fun.

We have a serious job to do, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy it. We are convinced that this method of reaching out to the public makes the process less scary and makes our legal team more approachable.”

They don’t know exactly how the balding billboard idea began, but talking to these very creative guys one morning last week, I’m pretty sure the concept just came off the top of their heads.

Darron Stewart’s father started the firm back in 1982, making Darron the heir apparent of the business. Unlike the counselor’s hair, the firm has experienced steady growth, now employing some 40 people in Carmel. Nick started as an unpaid intern in 2010, and a year later joined the company.

“I love the creative part of working here,” Nick said. Then, pointing to his skull, he noted, “But I haven’t had a part up here in 20 years.”

Here are some of the billboards you can buzz by…

• TWO GREAT MINDS/ ZERO BAD HAIR DAYS • BALD IS BEAUTIFUL/ JUST LIKE OUR RESULTS • GO BALD OR GO BROKE • NOTHING TO HIDE/ NOT EVEN A HAIRLINE Needless to say, their domes are prominently displayed on all the giant placards, as they are in several TV commercials that have aired. Marcus Bailey is a meteorologist at WISH-TV. His shiny noggin has direct access to the atmosphere, boosting his ability to predict the weather. He loves the billboards.

“My former minister used to say that God only made a few perfect people,” he said. “The rest have hair.”

Despite their legal specialty involving personal injury, the bald boys do not want people to be distracted while driving and then cause a collision. But at home, they are big advocates of really close shaves.

Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker.

Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.

COLUMNIST ON THE WEB This week’s commentaries by Current Publishing essayist Terry Anker may be read at youarecurrent.com.

L E TTE R TO T HE 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.

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31. Phrase welcomed by parents this month 35. Kind of code 38. Lubricates 39. Secret supply 40. Cowboys, on a Colts scoreboard 41. Pop lover?

42. Cable channel 44. Chick magnet?

45. Like 38 percent of Hoosiers, unfortunately 47. Leave out 49. Young fellows 50. Big name in healthy snacks 53. “___, Brute?”

54. Piece of turf 55. Groaner: Why did the cow cross the road? To get to the ___ side!

59. Cyber chuckle 61. “Quiet!”

63. Mine find 64. Where you go for a fresh start 70. Unexpected Fever win 71. Bird food 72. Among 73. Mass Ave nightclub 74. Route-finding app 75. Employs DOWN 1. Indiana Supreme Court garb 2. Not together 3. Chocolate source 4. Moose relative 4 Shapiro’s Breads

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13. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang Salon job 18. Spanish finger food 19. Bank charges 24. Butler’s Andre B. Lacy School graduate deg.

25. World’s busiest airport, for short 26. Went berserk 28. Our Place Coffee order 29. ___ and aahed 30. Secluded valleys 32. Dove’s call 33. Japanese garment 34. IV units 35. Clay brick

36. Morocco’s capital 37. Vote in 41. Gathered together 43. A/C measure 46. One who moves with stealth 48. Angry 49. Was ahead 51. Nobel Peace Prize city 52. German river 56. Destines to failure 57. Pulitzer Prize-winning Pyle 58. Marsh plants 60. Man’s palindromic name 61. Canal to the Red Sea 62. Detest 64. ___ a ride (hitchhike) 65. Indy Zoo beast 66. Gary’s winter hrs.

67. U-turn from NNE 68. Sine ___ non 69. Perrier, par exemple ANSWERS ON PAGE 31

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NOW HIRING

NOW HIRING

Part-Time Tax Preparation Position

PUZZLE ANSWERS R A C E S S N S K N E A D L A T E C A M P Y O P A L B A C K T O T H E F U T U R E A W E E P A E R A S T O M P A L E S M O G B A C K T O S C H O O L O I L S C A C H E A R E A M O M T B S H E N D A L O M I T L A D S O B E S E B A C K T O N A T U R E E T T U S O D U D D E R L O L S H H O R E B A C K T O S Q U A R E O N E S U E T A M I D U P S E T W A Z E U S E S M E T R O

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CURRENT IN WESTFIELD

08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

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Studio in Home near Brownsburg HS Most ages 30 minutes: $20 Email me for detailed reply Contact Nancy 317-734-7481 Or nutmegNJH@gmail.com

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YOUR CLASSIFIED AD HERE! Call Dennis O’Malia 317-370-0749

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32

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 08.18.26 • youarecurrent.com

Tom Roush Mazda Indy’s #1 Mazda New Car Volume Dealer for 2025 Your Local Dealer Since 1972

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Covid-19 Store Update

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