What is Functional Fitness?
Why is it Important for Older Adults?
Carol Weesner, MD
Functional Fitness helps you move easier, increase your strength and become more flexible. The result is increased ability to move your body for tasks which we call Functional Movements. When your muscles work better, you are able to do the things you need and want to do, or simply put, Activities of Daily Living. Why is this important? - to continue living independently the way you would like.
“Functional Fitness” The exercises which strengthen our body to perform functional movements.
“Functional Movements” The movements we must complete to perform a task, such as pushing, pulling and lifting.
“Activities of Daily Living” The tasks we perform each day such as pushing yourself up from a chair, pulling out a garden hose, or even picking up items from the floor.
At Motion 4 Life Fitness
We specialize in weekly personal training for older adults.
We provide a supportive, encouraging and welcoming environment.
We show you exercises that help you move better, so you can remain active and independent.
We recognize getting started is difficult which is why we offer a free two-week trial to see if you like M4L.
We don’t pressure you to join, so you can relax, experience our community, and be proud of yourself for taking the first step.
For your LABORS Puccini’s awaits!
Hamilton County’s plan to implement vote centers draws mixed response
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
A proposal to use vote centers rather than precinct-based polling locations on Election Day drew mixed reaction at the Hamilton County Election Board’s Aug. 13 meeting.
ELECTION
Of Indiana’s 92 counties, 67 use Election Day voting centers, which allow voters to cast a ballot at any polling location within the county. In Hamilton County, they must vote at their assigned precinct.
cushion for any concerns of not being enough machines out in the county,” said board member Kathy Kreag Williams, a Republican who also serves as Hamilton County Clerk.
Moving to voting centers would eliminate one of the most common problems to arise on Election Day: Voters showing up at the wrong precinct and being turned away. Board member Greg Purvis described this as “a persistent and real problem.”
“This happens at every polling place in every election. Some of those people end up finding where they need to go and voting, but we have people coming five to 10 minutes (before the polls close),” Purvis said. “So, those people, unless their correct polling place is very close — have no chance to vote.”
County officials are proposing 52 vote centers, less than half the number of polling locations open during the most recent election. Based on the number of voters in Hamilton County, state law would only require 26 vote centers.
“We felt (52 centers) gives us an extra
Movie in the Plaza — Westfield’s final family-friendly movie on the great lawn at Grand Junction Plaza for summer is “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” Aug. 27. The movie begins promptly at 7:30 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to bring blankets and lawnchairs.
The plan calls for each center to have at least 10 voting machines, more than typically available at precinct voting sites. The total number of voting machines available is not expected to drop.
ty getting there and longer lines for those that do.
A switch to vote centers would allow the county to hire fewer poll workers. Currently, 500 to 700 workers are needed, but with the proposed model only 400 to 500 workers would be required.
A switch to vote centers would allow malfunctioning voting machines to be replaced more quickly, as backup machines would be programmed with all ballots rather than a ballot for a specific precinct.
Purvis, the lone Democrat on the three-member board, said he is concerned the reduced number of polling locations could lead to longer lines and overwhelm workers.
During public comment, Keith Johnson, who moved to the county five years ago from Washington state, shared some of those concerns. He said under the existing system, many residents live within walking distance of their polling location and that he’s concerned the move to a reduced number of sites could lead to more difficul-
DISPATCHES
LEAD Local in Grand Park — LEAD Local — an acronym for learn, engage, align, develop — is an initiative to connect the public and nonprofit leaders from across Hamilton County to explore meaningful ways to get involved in the community. An event to learn about board and committee
“There’s a good chance that the (center) that’s the most convenient to the most people is going to be overwhelmed at some point, and you’re going to have the same situation that we had with early voting, with an hour’s wait to get in to vote,” he said. However, most people who provided public comment spoke in support of the switch to vote centers.
Noblesville resident Lisa Dick, president of the League of Women Voters of Hamilton County, said she believes vote centers will lead to “greater engagement.” She said the system has been proven to work well in much of the state.
“We are not a guinea pig in this process,” she said. “This is not something revolutionary.”
For the county to switch to vote centers, the election board must vote unanimously for the change. The Hamilton County Council and Commission must also vote in favor
If the plan is approved, Hamilton County expects to begin using vote centers for the May 5, 2026, primary election.
Hamilton County residents may submit written feedback on the proposal through Sept. 13 by emailing Williams at Kathy.Williams@hamiltoncounty.in.gov. The plan is avialable to view on the county’s website. The next election board meeting is Sept. 18.
service and volunteer opportunities takes place from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Sept. 4 at Grand Park Event Center in Westfield. The program is sponsored by Hamilton County Community Foundation and Westfield Washington Township. Register at tinyurl. com/4fn5af23.
to the editor may be sent for consideration to letters@youarecurrent.com. Letters have a maximum word count of 300 words. Please include your city of residence and a contact phone number for verification. Current Publishing may refuse letters.
Purvis
Williams
S E PT EM B E R 5
4:30 - 7:30 P.M.
SENSORY HOUR: 4:30 - 5:30 P.M
GRAND PARK SPORTS CAMPUS LOT F
PRESENTED BY CENTIER BANK
AUGUST 28 SEPTEMBER 4
5 - 8 P.M.
GRAND JUNCTION PLAZA
225 S. UNION STREET
PRESENTED BY DUKE ENERGY
CRIME
WPD assists with child sexual exploitation sting
news@youarecurrent.com
The Westfield Police Department was one of 13 law enforcement agencies that partnered in an operation that resulted in the arrest of five men for allegedly attempting to sexually abuse minors in Boone County.
The arrests were announced Aug. 18 following a three-day operation led by the Boone County Child Abuse and Sexual Exploitation Task Force and the Indiana State Police, in collaboration with the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
According to a news release, investigators focused on identifying and apprehending individuals who used digital platforms to target minors for criminal activity. Undercover officers engaged with suspects online by adopting various
identities. Interactions led to the arrest of individuals who traveled to Boone County intending to engage in sexual activity with minors.
Arrested and charged were Ethan Craun, 27, of Westfield; Zachary Bullock, 31, of Indianapolis; Nicholas Bozzone, 27, of Plainfield; Evan Geeslin, 60, of Richmond; and Daniel Trusty, 36, of Russiaville.
The investigation was a collaboration between the Boone County Prosecutor’s Office, Indiana State Police, Department of Homeland Security, Boone County Sheriff’s Office, Zionsville Police Department, Lebanon Police Department, Whitestown Police Department, Avon Police Department, Plainfield Police Department, Westfield Police Department, Greenfield Police Department, Howard County Sheriff’s Office and Terre Haute Police Department.
Sheriff’s office offering Fall Citizen’s Academy
news@currentinwestfield.com
The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office is accepting applications for its Fall Citizen’s Academy. The 12 week course helps the community understand the inner workings of law enforcement.
PUBLIC SAFETY
Beginning Sept. 4, participants will meet for 11 weeks of immersive training from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Thursday evenings. A graduation ceremony will take place at the end of the training session.
HSCO Sgt. Bryan Melton said this is the 31st class of the Fall Citizen’s Academy.
“The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office is offering the Fall Citizens Academy to give our community a deeper understanding of how we operate and the many services we provide,” Melton said. “Our goal is to show that we are people just like them — neighbors, friends and fellow community members — working in a service-oriented profession to protect and support the public, often being a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves.”
Throughout the training, participants will hear directly from those working in
patrol, courthouse security, investigations and juvenile services, among other specialized teams.
“This program offers a unique opportunity for residents to meet our team in a relaxed, welcoming environment, ask questions and gain firsthand insight into the wide range of work we do every day to keep Hamilton County safe,” Melton said.
The training gives participants the opportunity to:
• Visit the HCSO campus and see instruction deputies receive.
• Get behind the wheel of a patrol vehicle and navigate a precision driving course.
• Visit the range to learn about firearms and less lethal platforms.
• Meet K-9 partners and learn how they track, detect and protect.
• Learn about drone operations, the different situations in which they are deployed and see a demo.
• Gain insight into the law and specialized equipment.
Spots are limited. Register at hamiltoncounty.in.gov/1257/ Citizens-Academy-Online-Application.
SEVEN STUNNING HOMES.
THREE FUN WEEKENDS. ONE GREAT SHOW.
Realtor Day
September 12th | 10am-2pm
Calling all Realtors! Join us for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at each show home before the show opens at noon. Tickets will be discounted for REALTORS only.
A portion of the proceeds will be contributed to MIBOR REALTORS® Polictical Action Committee.
Ticket Cost: $10
September 18th | 4pm-6pm
This is a fan-favorite event with a twist! Join us as we tour each of the seven custom homes, enjoy some wine and hors d’oeuvres and hear directly from the interior designers of each showcase home to learn about the inspiration behind their design.
Limited Space. Reserve your spot today!
Ticket Cost: $60 (includes food and drink)
HOMETOWN HEROES
September 25th | All Day
Join us for a special celebratory event honoring our hometown heroes. To show our appreciation, veterans, first responders, military personnel, healthcare workers, and teachers can enjoy 20% off their general admission ticket price.
Ticket Cost: $16-24
THREE WEEKENDS
THURSDAY - SUNDAY
SEPT. 11–14 SEPT. 18 – 21 SEPT. 25 – 28
Take advantage of early bird pricing to save $5 on your ticket through the start of the show!* *Use Code: HAREARLY Early bird pricing ends 9/10 at 11:59 pm.
Westfield High School golfers, coach enjoy LIV experience
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Will Harvey’s summer just keeps getting better.
GOLF
The 2025 Westfield High School graduate captured the IHSAA state individual title and helped the Shamrocks to a team title in June. Harvey, a Purdue University freshman golfer, was able to play in the LIV Golf Pro-Am Aug. 14 at The Club at Chatham Hills in Westfield. Harvey said he had to thank Westfield Mayor Scott Willis for the pro-am invite.
“We paired up with Joaquin Niemann and Carlos Ortiz, who are both great golfers and cool dudes to hang out with,” Harvey said. “Playing with them was an unreal experience, and I’m so grateful to get that once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Finally, I thought it was awesome that Westfield was the center point of attention over the weekend, and I thought it was an awesome tournament. It was so special getting to see guys I idolized as a kid playing so close to home and will definitely be something I won’t forget. I was able to attend all three days which was so cool, as the crowds were some of the biggest I’ve ever seen for a golf tournament.”
WHS senior golfer Lilley Ku enjoyed seeing the pros play on a hometown course.
“It was a very foreign concept seeing the golfers in someone’s backyard like that, but I loved how personal and fun it felt because there was less tension and seriousness in the air,” Ku said. “The best part of it for me was being able to see and greet the players up close on the first and third day. I went to both concerts, but it was odd seeing a bunch of spectators in their golfing attire get down to live music, especially since the sun hadn’t gone down, either.”
WHS senior golfer Taylor Nokes volunteered all three days.
“That gave me a cool behind-the-scenes perspective and allowed me to feel like part of the tournament,” she said. “Seeing them play on a course I’ve played made them not seem so surreal.”
WHS boys and girls coach Josh Bryant helped with the pro-am day as a caddy and was part of the standard bearers group during tournament play.
“My overall impressions of LIV have definitely changed,” Bryant said. “I found
them to be focused on supporting golf in our local community and our young people. They did multiple activities with our kids, including a behind-the-scenes business of golf that was well-received by our boys and girls players who attended. I think they are onto something regarding bringing the non-golf purists to the game of golf by utilizing activities for the entire family, especially with their concert series. That is a big draw for the non-golfers. I thought the music would bother me as a player, but outside of a few tee boxes it just becomes sound in the background and not really a nuisance, in my opinion.”
Bryant said the last groups in the Aug. 17 final round were focused solely on the competition.
“I personally walked in the group with Dustin Johnson and Sebastian Munoz and those two guys were definitely grinding to win a golf tournament,” Bryant said.
Munoz defeated Jon Rahm, who won the season’s overall individual points championship, in a one-hole playoff.
“The LIV organizers really went out of their way to ensure that our players felt a part of the event and included,” Bryant said.” I definitely saw that they wanted to expose their brand of golf and ideas around a tournament experience to our young people.”
From left, Joaquin Niemann, Westfield Mayor Scott Willis and golfer Will Harvey. (Photo courtesy of Will Harvey)
West Nile virus detected in Hamilton County
news@currentinwestfield.com
A Hamilton County resident has tested positive for West Nile virus, a mosquito-borne disease that can cause illness in humans, birds and other animals.
WELLNESS
This is the second human case reported in Indiana this summer. Additional information about the case will not be released to protect patient privacy, according to Hamilton County Communications Director Tammy Sander.
Dr. Charles Harris, Hamilton County’s health officer, said most people infected with West Nile virus have no symptoms or mild flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea or a rash.
“Some people will develop a more severe form of the disease affecting the nervous system, including inflammation in the brain and spinal cord, muscle paralysis or even death,” Harris stated.
Sander said people 60 and older and those with weakened immune systems have a higher risk of West Nile virus becoming severe. Anyone who thinks they may have West Nile virus should see their health care provider.
“Hamilton County confirmed its first WNV positive mosquito sample in June,” Sander stated. “Since then, the health department has increased surveillance and testing throughout the county. It also has conducted mosquito spraying to decrease the number of adult mosquitoes.”
HCHD Director of Environmental Health Amy Ballman said
warm, humid weather and recurring storms have created perfect conditions for mosquitoes this year.
“The season is longer and populations are growing faster — making this a year to be especially cautious,” Ballman stated.
The Hamilton County Health Department and Indiana Department of Health recommend taking the following precautions to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne disease:
• Use insect repellent.
• Wear protective clothing like loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants.
• Know when to expect mosquito bites. Mosquitoes responsible for WNV are active mostly between dusk and 1 a.m., and at dawn.
Officials also recommend homeowners, landlords and property managers take the following steps to control mosquitoes indoors and outdoors:
• Install screens on windows.
• Keep doors in good repair.
• Look for containers that could hold water such as trash, tires, buckets, toys, pools, birdbaths, flowerpot saucers or trash containers.
• Regularly service septic systems, keep grass mowed and shrubs trimmed, clean gutters regularly and aerate ornamental pools.
To view the Indiana Mosquito-Borne Activity Dashboard, visit: http://bit.ly/4mqDJtp
DISPATCHES
Touch-a-Truck event — The City of Westfield will host a touch-a-truck event from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 5 at Grand Park Sports Campus, Lot F. The event will allow children the chance to get up close and explore their favorite vehicles, including fire trucks and construction equipment, police cruisers, a fire truck, concrete mixer, dump truck, skid steer and more. The event is free and open to the public.
Homecoming parade — Westfield Washington Schools will celebrate homecoming with a parade beginning at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 25. The parade steps off on Hoover Street and includes floats from the district’s schools, clubs, athletics and the local community. The 2025 homecoming football game is Sept. 26.
Coolest Thing contest open — Indiana manufacturers are invited to submit the cool things they make for the annual Indiana Chamber of Commerce Coolest Thing Made IN Indiana competition. To participate, a business does not need to be headquartered in Indiana, but the product must be made in the state. Indiana Chamber membership is not required. Entries will be accepted through Oct. 13 at indianachamber.com/ coolest.
Westfield teen competes on second place rowing team
news@youarecurrent.com
A Westfield teen was part of a two-person rowing team that earned second place at the USRowing Youth National Championship this summer — the first team in the history of the Indianapolis Rowing Center to make the podium.
The 2025 Youth National Championships took place June 12-15 in Sarasota, Fla. with 886 entries from 231 clubs around nation. The 2025 regatta was the largest youth championship in event history.
Jack Foltz of Westfield and Kayden Coddens of Indianapolis won the silver medal in men’s youth double sculls. The accomplishment was the highest-ever placement for any IRC crew at Youth Nationals.
Foltz, 18, who will row for 16th-ranked Temple University Crew in 2025-26, has been rowing since 2021. Although Foltz has won several medals previously, he said the USRowing Youth National Championship has a different meaning.
“Kayden and I have been training together for many years,” Foltz stated. “We were so close last year in the men’s youth quad event with our two other teammates, but
ATHLETICS ATHLETICS
Rowing in the
came in fifth. We used that motivation to push harder with our training and make other adjustments this year, and it paid off.”
Foltz and Coddens, who both graduated from Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School in 2025, spent spring break in training in Tennessee.
Ingrid Thompson from Noblesville also placed for IRC, taking home the bronze medal in women’s under 17 single sculls. Learn more about the Indianapolis Rowing Center at indyrowing.org.
Special Olympics Indiana returning to Grand Park
news@youarecurrent.com
Grand Park in Westfield is one of five central Indiana sites that will host events as part of the Special Olympics Indiana fall championship season.
Nearly 3,000 Special Olympics athletes and Unified partners — individuals without intellectual disabilities who train and compete alongside athletes — are expected to take part in the eight championship tournaments this fall.
Grand Park will host Eunice Kennedy Shriver Weekend Sept 28, featuring championships for cornhole; flag football; distance run/walk; and soccer. Named in honor of Special Olympics founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the weekend is a partnership with Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School. Participating athletes at Grand Park will have the
opportunity to receive free medical screenings for podiatry and dentistry by medical professionals.
The fall championship season began Aug. 23 with the equestrian state event at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds in Danville. Additional events include Softball at Center Grove Lassie League Sept. 6; Golf at Hickory Stick Golf Club in Greenwood Sept. 7; and Unified Volleyball at The Academy Volleyball Club in Indianapolis Nov. 15.
Admission to all events is free.
Special Olympics Indiana — which includes more than 19,000 athletes and Unified partners supported by 10,000 coaches and volunteers — uses sports as a catalyst for social change, exposing inequity and highlighting the abilities of people with intellectual disabilities.
For more or to volunteer, visit soindiana. org/fall-games.
USRowing Youth National Championship, from left, Jack Foltz of Westfield and Kayden Coddens of Indianapolis. (Photo courtesy of Carrie Burns)
senior’s consistency key to volleyball success
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Hamilton Southeastern High School senior Madi Miles comes from a volleyball family.
Madi and twin sister
Raegan are seniors on the volleyball team, and their younger sister, Morgan, is on the Royals freshman team. They were introduced to the game by their mother, Olivia, who played in high school.
“I started playing recreation league at the end of third grade and started club in fourth grade,” said Madi, who has committed to play at the University of Illinois. “I played some other sports, but it was always volleyball. I just thought it was really fun. Playing club and all the tournaments is a fun experience.”
Madi, who is 6-foot-1, is in her fourth year on varsity.
“She is incredibly hard working,” Royals coach Jason Young said. “Madi is a tremendous teammate and role model to
MEET MADI MILES
Favorite athlete: Indy Ignite’s Anna Debeer
Favorite TV show: “Gossip Girl”
Favorite musical performer: Taylor Swift
Favorite vacation spot: On the beach in Florida
many of our younger players. Illinois is getting a fantastic volleyball player and an even better person. “
Madi said she has become a more consistent hitter through the years.
“I think my biggest improvement is consistency in keeping the ball in play, hitting different shots and not just hitting it to one spot and being predictable,” she said.
“That comes with experience.”
Naturally, Madi’s goal for the season is to win another state championship. The Royals captured the IHSAA Class 4A
EXPERT SPINE CARE NOW IN WESTFIELD
state title in 2022 and 2023 and lost in the semistate championship in 2024.
“We need more leadership this year since we graduated some really good players,” Madi said. “I’m a quieter player, but I’m really encouraging my teammates and try to keep a positive attitude.”
She plays club volleyball for Boiler Juniors.
“We have a really successful team,” Madi said. “We’ve won nationals two times.”
Madi has mostly played on the same team with her twin sister, who is a middle hitter for the Royals. Raegan has committed to play for Taylor University next season.
Madi committed to Illinois in the summer of 2024.
“I went to a camp there and I loved being coached by them,” she said. “They were great. The (Big Ten) conference is obviously competitive. Being in the Big Ten, my parents can go to games, which is something I really wanted.”
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@ youarecurrent.com.
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• Less invasive techniques for faster recovery and less post-operative pain
• Experienced, Compassionate, Fellowship-trained Spine Surgeon
• Same-Day and Next-Day Appointments
• No referral necessary*
From left, the Miles sisters, Madi, Morgan and Raegan. (Photo courtesy of the Miles family)
Miles
Westfield travel team has memorable season
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
This was a season to remember for pitcher Myles Braasch.
BASEBALL
“Last season was a blast, it was filled with opportunities to find out what I can rely on and what I can improve on in the sense of pitching,” the Westfield High School senior said.
Braasch pitched a no-hitter in the Westfield Shamrocks’ 16-and-under team’s 2-1 victory over Jags Elite in seven innings in the Hamilton County Invitational in July. Braasch had 15 strikeouts and allowed three walks. Braasch, who played in the outfield when not pitching, had a 0.672 earned run average for the season. Opponents had a .092 batting average.
What made the tournament win special was that the Westfield Youth Sports Inc. travel team was going against teams made up from all over the state, not just one city, Shamrocks coach Chris Lovelace said.
“As a team we faced moderate to high competition in larger tournaments and it showed where we needed to improve,” Braasch said. “Nonetheless, our team was super tight with one another and we faced lots of adversity and came out on top of a tournament.”
Braasch gave credit to his catcher Will Dyer for calling a great game en route to the no-hitter.
“I have to give him props for calling on the signs the entire game,” Braasch said. “We’ve been a great battery for quite some time now.”
Braasch was the only senior of 12 players, the rest are juniors.
Lovelace has been coaching the Westfield travel baseball team for 13 years but this will be his final season.
“This was it, which made it extra emotional,” Lovelace
said. His son, Chase, was the team’s first baseman.
“I think we’re the last community-based baseball team around (the area), most areas stop community-based teams by age 12 and they go to bigger teams like Mustangs club teams,” he said. “We keep these boys around and we made it all the way through 16U and that’s never been done at Westfield before.”
Lovelace said Dyer was the only team member who played in the high school program last spring. Dyer was on the junior varsity roster.
“Every team we played had multiple high school players,” Lovelace said. “We go into it undermanned. We have a couple kids on the team that probably should be high school players.
Assistant coach Russell Kooi’s twin sons, Ben and Grant, are WHS junior football players.
“They do a good job playing together as a team,” Kooi said. “Most of those players have been together for a while. The uniqueness is with just one high school player we’ve had a lot of success over the last couple of years. We had very good starting pitching. Our pitching definitely carried us.”
Braasch, who will play for the Indiana Braves in the summer of 2026, said he plans to try out for high school team in the spring. He was hampered by arm injuries the previous two years.
Westfield travel team captured a Hamilton County Invitational in July. (Photo courtesy of Westfield Shamrocks)
news@youarecurrent.com
The Hamilton County Democratic Party recently announced Racheal Bleicher of Westfield and Erin Retif of Carmel have been selected for Class 8 of Hoosier Women Forward, a leadership development program for Democratic women. Bleicher and Retif are among 24 Democratic women from across the state chosen to participate in the program, which provides women with tools, training and connections to lead in their communities and through public service. This year’s class includes participants from 14 counties and represents a range of ages, backgrounds and professional experiences.
“We are incredibly proud of Racheal and Erin,” stated Meredith Fox, vice chair of the Hamilton County Democratic Party. “Their selection is a reflection of their commitment to public service and their leadership in our community. Hoosier Women Forward is a powerful launching pad, and we know these women will use the experience to help build a better future for Hamilton County and Indiana.”
Hoosier Women Forward was founded in 2017.
Learn more about the Hamilton County Democratic Party at hamcodemsin.org.
Indiana Authors Awards nominees sought — Indiana Humanities is accepting nominations for the 2026 Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana Authors Awards. Books published between Jan. 1, 2024, and Dec. 31, 2025, are eligible. Nominations will be accepted until Jan. 9, 2026. To learn more about the Indiana Authors Awards, visit IndianaAuthorsAwards.org.
Bleicher
news@youarecurrent.com
Indiana State Senator Jim Buck, R-Kokomo, will seek another term in the state senate.
ELECTION
Buck recently announced that he plans to run in 2026 to retain his seat in District 21, which includes Westfeld and Sheridan. Buck has served in the Indiana State Senate since 2008 and was a member of the Indiana House of Representatives from 1994 to 2008.
“I’m excited by our recent efforts to reform property taxes, and advance education and health care reforms. I want to continue to be a part of these important initiatives,” Buck stated. “I have always believed in limited government and fiscal responsibility and I’m proud of my record on those issues. Hoosiers deserve gov-
Buck to seek another term in state senate Mapping data modernized
news@youarecurrent.com
ernment that works responsibly within its means, and I will continue to focus on making sure our state works for all her citizens.”
Buck chairs the Senate Committee on Local Government and also serves on the Environmental Affairs; Homeland Security and Transportation; Judiciary; Rules and Legislative Procedure; and Veterans Affairs and the Military committees.
“I have enjoyed working with the new Braun administration and with my colleagues in the legislature, and I would like to continue to be a part of instituting new policies to make the Hoosier state an even better place to live, work, and raise a family,” he stated.
Buck lives in Kokomo with his wife Judy. They have five children and 10 grandchildren.
the system current.”
Hamilton County is preparing its 911 system for the next generation of emergency response.
EMS
The county’s Geographic Information Systems team, in collaboration with city GIS teams from Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville and Westfield, has transitioned its emergency mapping data to align with the National Emergency Number Association’s Next Generation 911 GIS data model.
Hamilton County Communications Director Tammy Sander said the project was several years in the making and involved cooperation among city and county teams.
“Each city provides updated location information, like new streets and addresses, directly into the county’s shared GIS database,” Sander stated. “This helps reduce errors and makes it easier to keep
Tom Bassett, GIS specialist with Hamilton County Public Safety Communications said having accurate GIS data is essential for emergency dispatchers and responders. He said the update puts the county in a strong position for the future.
Sander said the recent upgrade brought Hamilton County in line with national standards that are shaping the future of 911 systems across the country, putting Hamilton County ahead of the curve as 911 technology continues to evolve nationwide.
“This is a huge undertaking,” stated Joan Keene, director of GIS for Hamilton County’s Information Systems Services Department. “We are the only county in Indiana to implement these standards in a real-time collaborative GIS system. This initiative shows what’s possible when city and county departments work together.”
United Way grants open — United Way of Central Indiana has opened grant funding to nonprofits outside of its accredited partner network in Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion, Morgan and Putnam counties. Nonprofits have until Sept. 2 to submit letters of intent for Basic Needs Fund and Family Opportunity Fund grants. For more, contact Renate Myler, United Way’s impact funds director, at renate.myler@uwci.org.
Buck
Recruits sought — The Indiana State Police is accepting applications for the 89th Recruit Academy for lateral applicants. Individuals interested in beginning a career as an Indiana State Trooper must apply at IndianaTrooper. com. The website provides a detailed synopsis of the application process and information on additional career opportunities with the Indiana State Police. Applications must be submitted electronically by 11:59 p.m. Sept. 28. Applicants must be a United States citizen; at least 21 and less than 40 years of age as of March 19, 2026; meet a minimum vision standard; possess a valid driver’s license; and be a high school graduate.
Rail survey — INDOT is seeking public input as part of the process to update the Indiana State Rail Plan. The
plan is a way to connect the state’s infrastructure investments, programs and policies toward a common goal of optimal rail transportation. The plan will identify the highest priority needs for funding within the next several years. Although INDOT does not finance, own, operate or maintain any rail infrastructure or services, the Highways and Transportation Act of 1977 requires INDOT to prepare a State Rail Plan. Take the survey by Sept. 10 at surveymonkey.com/r/FQ8NRH3.
Volunteers sought — The Salvation Army in Central Indiana has volunteer opportunities available for the holiday season. The organization is seeking volunteers to assist with the Coats for Kids campaign from Sept. 17 to Nov. 8; bell ringing at kettle stands Nov. 10 to Dec. 24
TOWNES AT GRAND PARK VILLAGE
at retail locations; and Angel Tree volunteers in November and December. Sign up for volunteer opportunities at sacentralindiana.org/volunteer.
Blood donations sought — The American Red Cross will hold blood donation drives in Hamilton County in August as part of National Wellness Month. People of all blood types — especially those with type O positive or B negative blood — are encouraged to donate. Donors will be provided with diabetic screening. Blood drives are 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 26 at Sun King Brewing Co. in Fishers and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Aug. 30 at Venture Christian Church in Carmel. Schedule an appointment at RedCrossBlood.org.
Air Force Mechanical Careers
Air Force Mechanical Careers
The Air Force flies thousands of missions around the world each day and also uses a vast array of vehicles to meet its global mission. We rely on Airman with specialized mechanical skills to perform these critical missions.
Air Force Mechanical Careers
The Air Force flies thousands of missions around the world each day and also uses a vast array of vehicles to meet its global mission. We rely on Airman with specialized mechanical skills to perform these critical missions.
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NEWSPRINT SPECIAL EDITION
PRESENTED BY
Current Publishing is producing a newsprint special section with event content. It will be inserted into its newspapers on September 9. This comprehensive guide will be delivered by U.S. Mail to 113,843 households in Carmel, Fishers/Geist, Noblesville, Westfield, Zionsville and North Indy. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to affordably showcase your offerings to a well-heeled audience and help homeowners bring their projects to fruition. This advertising opportunity is open to all BAGI members.
A WIN FOR WESTFIELD
Chatham Hills residents pleased with LIV Golf tournament
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Thousands of golf fans braved the heat and the threat of inclement weather as LIV Golf held its individual championship weekend Aug. 15-17 at The Club at Chatham Hills in Westfield.
According to LIV Golf, the tournament drew more than 60,000 visitors over three days, culminating in the second straight season-long title for John Rahm, captain of LIV Golf team Legion XIII.
But as visitors packed into buses and waited for entry, neighbors in Chatham Hills took advantage of the international attention given to their corner of Westfield, welcoming visitors with signature Hoosier Hospitality and enjoying the view from their own backyards.
Scott Perkins has lived with his family behind the first hole at The Club at Chatham Hills for five years.
Perkins said he and some neighbors were skeptical about how the course would transform after the November 2024 announcement that LIV Golf would host a tournament in Westfield. But, he said, the change was exciting.
“I think what they’ve done, none of us expected that it was going to be this magnitude,” he said. “The size of it and all the things they’ve done to make it a cool experience. It’s really been amazing.”
Perkins said he was surprised at the care that was taken to make changes to the Pete Dye-designed course, including new tee boxes, 13 new bunkers and expansion of the range fairway from 3 acres and 220 yards deep to 6 acres and 275 yards deep.
“It’s been quite an undertaking,” Perkins said. “I think as it was happening, people were concerned about how much was going on. But now that they see what it is, it’s been exciting. Our take on it was, let’s wait and see what it’s like when it’s done before we have judgment whether it was worth it or not. But it’s been really pretty cool. I think we’ve all had a lot of fun with it.”
Perkins said the anticipated return of LIV Golf in 2026 is good for the sport, the fans and for Westfield.
“I think the atmosphere has been
great,” he said. “I don’t think there’s any complaint about that. The atmosphere has been awesome. When you look at how much foot traffic is on the course — and honestly what it’s going to take to put it back together, that might be a different story but I’m certain they’ll put it all back together.”
Laura Folz moved to Chatham Hills with her family this summer. Rather than make
plans to escape the extra traffic and noise, the Folz family decided to offer a way to beat the heat. Daughters Jordy, 9; Eleanor, 6; and Willow, 3, sold lemonade and Arnold Palmers in front of their home Aug. 15.
“The girls love to be involved and love meeting people,” Folz said. “We thought it’d be a good opportunity to meet people who walk by. A lot of our neighbors have introduced themselves. Then the girls are
LIV GOLF TO RETURN TO WESTFIELD
Local leaders praised the announcement Aug. 16 that LIV Golf would return to The Club at Chatham Hills in Westfield in 2026.
Although final numbers on the economic impact the tournament had on Westfield have not been calculated, local officials said having an international spotlight on central Indiana is an opportunity to showcase the community, Hoosier hospitality and local quality of life.
“We are excited to welcome LIV Golf back for the 2026 season,” stated Pat-
rick Talty, president of Indiana Sports Corp. “Indiana has a proven ability to host world-class events, and the return of this championship underscores our standing as a premier destination. We look forward to collaborating with our partners to deliver another exceptional experience for athletes, spectators and visitors alike.”
The tournament at The Club at Chatham Hillis is the ninth event confirmed for the LIV Golf 2026 season and is part of the league’s global 14-event schedule. Learn more at LIVGolf.com.
learning about money and counting back change and things like that. They’re doing fun stuff. They’ve got things that they’re saving up for and so we want to teach them about hard work and saving money for things that they want.”
The girls said despite the heat, selling lemonade to people walking to and from the tournament was the highlight of their day.
“I thought maybe it would be fun and we would learn a lot of stuff,” said Jordy, a third grade student at Monon Trails Elementary School. “I told my friends at school, and they also told other people, so that’s why we got a lot of customers.”
Folz said her daughters have already attended golf camps, so living in Chatham Hills and hosting an international golf tournament was an exciting and welcome experience at their new home.
The family will have the opportunity to set up their lemonade stand next year.
LIV Golf announced Aug. 16 that the tournament will return to The Club at Chatham Hills in 2026. The course will serve as the host site for the LIV Golf League Individual
Selling lemonade outside the LIV Golf tournament are, from left, Willow, Eleanor and Jordy Folz. (Photos by Marney Simon)
Neighbors on the third hole at The Club at Chatham Hills put up banners for golfers.
Continued from Page 16
Championship Aug. 21-23.
“We are thrilled to confirm LIV Golf’s return to The Club at Chatham Hills next year,” stated Steve Henke, owner at Henke Development Group, developer of The Club at Chatham Hills. “LIV Golf delivers an incredible mix of competition, entertainment and premium hospitality that has showcased our community on a global stage. It’s an honor for our course to serve as the
backdrop for such an elite event and we plan to make the 2026 event even bigger and better.”
Earlybird tickets are available at LIVGolf. com/schedule/indianapolis-2026.
ON THE COVER: The Club at Chatham Hills in Westfield welcomed 60,000 visitors over the three-day LIV Golf tournament Aug. 15-17. (Photo by Marney Simon)
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Fans watch the action on the ninth hole at the LIV Golf tournament Aug. 16.
Interactive fan experiences, like the chipping challenge, were part of the LIV Golf three-day weekend in Westfield.
Attendees walk through the fan experience area near the first hole and the clubhouse at The Club at Chatham Hills.
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Healthy school strategies
Commentary by Dr. Bianca Maya
With the 2025-26 academic year underway, families are adjusting to new routines, responsibilities and expectations. Establishing healthy habits early in the school year plays a critical role in supporting children’s academic performance, emotional well-being and overall development.
MANAGING SCREEN TIME
For children ages 2-5, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting recreational screen use to about one hour per day, focusing on high-quality, interactional educational programming.
For children 6 and older, the emphasis should be on balance rather than strict limits. Families are encouraged to create routines for screentime.
MAINTAINING SCHOOL-HOME PARTNERSHIPS
PRIORITIZING SLEEP AND ROUTINES
Adequate sleep is essential for learning, memory, mood regulation and physical health.
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends that children ages 6-12 receive 9 to 12 hours of sleep each night, while adolescents ages 13-18 require 8 to 10 hours. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends, helps stabilize circadian rhythms and improves classroom performance.
Some habits to incorporate include keeping the room quiet, limiting caffeine and sugar in the evening and ensuring adequate physical activity no later than three hours before sleep.
BACK TO SCHOOL EVENT
Active communication between parents and educators is vital to student achievement.
Monitoring grades, reviewing homework assignments and addressing challenges early in the school year can help prevent problems from going unaddressed.
Although changes are inevitable, consistent efforts can build lasting habits that benefit children.
Gala to support Riverview
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
The Riverview Health Foundation, which creates charitable opportunities in support of Riverview Health, will present its annual Gratitude Gala Sept. 12 at Ritz Charles in Carmel, 12156 N. Meridian St.
The casino-themed event will feature casino-style games, silent and live auctions, a dessert dash and a bourbon pull, among other activities. A VIP reception begins at 6 p.m., and the general cocktail reception begins at 7 p.m. Dinner will be served at 8 p.m.
Vice President of Foundation and Community Affairs Megan Wiles said the organization previously held a black-tie fundraiser every few years, but after the success of last year’s Gratitude Gala, they decided to try to do the event annually.
“Last year was the first year that we had called it the Gratitude Gala,” Wiles said. “Previously, we would just call it a blacktie event, but we’ve been hosting events for many, many years, helping to raise
funds to support the foundation that in turn supports Riverview Health.”
The event raised $330,000 in 2024. This year’s goal is $350,000.
“We’re continuing to raise money for the renovation of the Mindrebo Family Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit,” Wiles said. “Phase 1 of that project is almost completely finished, but we’re continuing to work to renovate the existing unit, as well as raise funds for the Help for Healing fund, which is our patient financial assistance fund to help those most in need pay for expenses that the hospital can’t pay for.”
Wiles said she looks forward to sharing more about Riverview Health with attendees.
“During dinner, we will have a program to talk about Riverview Health’s values of compassion, belonging and excellence, and we’ll be sharing stories that connect each of those values with people,” Wiles said.
Individual tickets are $250, and sponsorship opportunities are available. The deadline to purchase tickets is Aug. 27.
For more, visit donate.riverview. org/25GratitudeGala.
Dr. Bianca Maya is a pediatrician at Riley Children’s Health Pediatric Primary Care in Fishers.
Boutique specializes in custom plant art
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
For Carmel native Stephanie Carlson, her plant boutique business, Naturspire, is a second-career labor of love.
RELOCATION
But when a 2021 fire consumed part of the business at 421 S. Range Line Rd., that could have been the end of Carlson’s dream to create nature-based art. It wasn’t.
After relocating to the Indiana Design Center in Carmel in 2021, Naturspire has returned to its original location and celebrated its grand reopening Aug. 23. The business specializes in nature-based art and landscaping, and it plans to expand offerings.
“We do anything that involves nature,” said Carlson, 60, a Westfield resident. “If it’s indoors, if it’s outdoors, if nature is a part of it, that’s what we do.”
Among the items Naturspire offers are living walls and moss walls — natural decorative art that brings greenery to indoor and outdoor spaces that wouldn’t otherwise have it.
The natural decor was part of the reason Carlson founded Naturspire in 2017, but she had conceived of the business before that.
“So, what do I want to do with the second half of my life?” said Carlson, who wore many hats during her career, including stints as a marketing specialist and journalist.
“I love plants. I love gardening. I always had (my) kids help me in the yard,” she said. “We made gardens every year. It was something I enjoyed. And so I started looking into living walls, plantscapes and how to do it.”
Early on, Carlson said she approached area businesses and received interest in her craft. An early break came when she won a contract to design exterior landscaping at what is now Gainbridge Fieldhouse in downtown Indianapolis. Naturspire eventually would add residential projects to its business profile.
Carlson said the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 saw an upswing in interest in house plants and nature-based decorations, and that interest helped Naturspire’s residential business grow.
Naturspire founder Stephanie Carlson and daughter Makenzie Curtis display some of their nature-based art at the Naturspire business at 421 S. Range Line Road. (Photo courtesy of Naturspire)
As it expanded, Carlson’s daughter, Makenzie Curtis, 30, made a career change in 2020 to join her mother in the business.
“I went to school for golf management (at Coastal Carolina), but I needed to do something different,” said Curtis, who was on Carmel’s 2013 girls golf state championship team.
Curtis, who resides in Westfield, runs Naturspire’s website and social media channels, among other duties.
All was well until the 2021 fire. It began in a dumpster behind the building. The fire spread and destroyed a garage where many of the supplies for the business were stored.
“We lost literally everything,” Carlson said.
In the wake of the fire, Naturspire relocated to the Indiana Design Center.
“We were there for four years, and that was a really great place to connect with (customers) in residences,” Carlson said.
Naturspire’s business has grown to include exterior landscaping, and it also is offering custom porch decorations for the fall; that effort will be known as Pumpkin Decor Indy.
Carlson said seasonal porch pots will be grown for sale. The pots are decorated based on the seasons, and Naturspire will update the theme four times a year.
“We just make people smile at the end of the day. We’ve had zero complaints from somebody who sees the piece that comes into their home,” Carlson said.
For more, visit naturspire.com.
Concert to feature film composer Zimmer’s famous scores
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
German composer Hans Zimmer has a huge haul of honors through this career. Zimmer has been honored with two Academy Awards, three Golden Globes, five Grammys, an American Music Award and a Tony Award. That legendary repertoire will be represented in “The World of Hans Zimmer: A New Dimension” at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 23 at the Fishers Event Center. This is the first North American tour for the production.
Zimmer, 67, does not perform on stage but is the show’s curator, producer and musical director. Matt Dunkley, who has worked with Zimmer for more than 20 years, conducts the performances.
“The idea is that this is a journey through his film music from over 40 years of film scoring from the early days of ‘Driving Miss Daisy’ and ’The Rock’ right up to the present day like the Bond movie ‘No Time to Die’ and the second ‘Dune’ movie,” Dunkley said. “It’s just taking the audience through the amazing body of work. It’s just a wonderful evening of music nearly three hours long and a fantastic group of soloists and orchestra. It’s an amazing sound.”
Dunkley said Zimmer has a show where he performs with a band and a small orchestra.
“But it’s more of a rock and roll kind of show almost, so the idea was to recreate the scores live with a large ensemble with visuals and effects and make it a real sort of arena experience,” Dunkley said. “We’ve played in Europe for a few years and it’s been hugely successful, so this is the first time we’re bringing it to the states, so it’s very exciting.”
Dunkley said the program includes a wonderful solo cellist in Timothee Berte Renou. Zimmer’s crew learned about Renou through his YouTube posts.
After Renou missed earlier attempts to contact him through Facebook, the
native of France was contacted by email by Zimmer’s team about the possibility of auditioning.
“My first message back to them is ‘I’m pretty sure this is a scam and I’m not interested,” Renou said. “It just seemed so huge and exciting that I couldn’t believe it was even true.”
He was given 48 hours to send a recording from Zimmer’s “Hannibal” movie with all the musical instrument digital interface files.
“That’s when I knew it was the real deal,” he said. “I went in the studio and worked really hard to get that recording down. At the time, I was living in the states for 12 years and working graveyard shifts at the railroad. I stayed up for 30 hours trying to get the recording done. I guess I got really lucky. I still feel extremely lucky to be part of this production. Being able to play for so many people, such beautiful music, it’s just a blessing.”
Renou, who went to Indiana University for a master’s degree when he first moved to the U.S., joined approximately a year ago and has been through two tours in Europe.
Dunkley has conducted several of
Zimmer’s famous scores in the recording studio, including music from two of the “Pirates of the Caribbean” movies, “No Time to Die” and “The Dark Knight.”
“But to be able to conduct this music in front of a large audience brings a whole different direction to it,” he said. “You look around the audience and you see people crying. They are really moved by the experience.”
Dunkley said it’s a real privilege that Zimmer asked him to conduct those shows. The performance includes film clips, but they are not shown all the time.
“It’s a good mix of innovative visuals that represent the music but quite abstract,” he said. “Then we have live cameras that pick out our soloists, so they really connect with the audience. Then we mix the visuals from the movies as well. It’s a really creative mixture.”
In addition to the soloists and the orchestra, there are four singers and a small chamber choir.
“You get your money’s worth with this show with a stage full of musicians,” Dunkley said.
For more, visit fisherseventcenter.com and worldofhanszimmer.com
‘WAITRESS’
“Waitress” runs through Aug. 31 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Now That’s Funny — Comedy Night” is set for Aug. 28 and “The Magic of David Ranalli” Aug. 29 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Both performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
FISHERS BLUES FEST
The Fishers Blues Fest is set from 5 to 10 p.m. Aug. 30 and 31 at Nickel Plate District Amphitheater in Fishers. For more, visit npdamp.com.
DISPATCH
Glick Art donation supports CSO’s Music Matters concerts — The Carmel Symphony Orchestra announced Glick Art has awarded funding to support the orchestra’s Music Matters concerts, which bring live symphonic music to more than 1,000 schoolchildren across central Indiana. Two Music Matters concerts will be performed Oct. 27 in the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The concerts are designed for fifth- and sixth-grade students and introduce young audiences to the sights, sounds and stories of the orchestra. “By funding the Music Matters concerts, Glick Art continues to champion access to cultural experiences that enrich lives and strengthen communities,” said Marianne Glick, founder and CEO. Nancy Sutton, the CSO board chair, said “Thanks to Glick Art’s generosity, we can continue providing transformative live music experiences to children who might otherwise never have the chance to hear an orchestra in person. This support allows us to inspire the next generation of musicians, patrons and arts advocates.” The Music Matters program aligns with the CSO’s mission to engage the community through outstanding musical performances, education and outreach.
Matt Dunkley is the conductor of “The World of Hans Zimmer.” (Photo courtesy of Frank Embachler)
ICC’s ‘Voyages’ set to launch
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The Indianapolis Children’s Choir is opening its 40th season, and executive artistic director Joshua Pedde has been a fixture with the organization for much of that time.
MUSIC
Pedde, a Carmel resident, is in his 10th year as artistic director and 25th year as an ICC employee. His first position was a student conductor for ICC founder Henry Leck.
that the ICC has toured to every continent, except Antarctica.
He said there are several choirs participating in “Voyages,” including Beginning Level Choirs that have locations in Carmel, Fishers, Hendricks County, Boone County, Johnson County, and in Indianapolis at Butler University and the ICC Performing Arts Center. The concert also will include the ICC’s more advanced singers in Lyric Choirs, Indy Voice and Master Chorale.
Pedde
The season-opening concert, “Voyages,” is set for 7 p.m. Sept. 28 at STAR Bank Performing Arts Center in Zionsville.
“All of the music is repertoire from past ICC tours around the world, so they will be a great reflection of this special aspect of being a member of the ICC,” Pedde said. “One of my personal favorites is ‘The Castle of Dromore’ from the very first tour that I participated in as an ICC director, which was to Ireland.”
Pedde said he loves to share the fact
“We plan on having some very special guests that are going to elevate the performance to give a taste of the cultural experience that our singers get when they travel abroad on tour,” Pedde said. “We are still finalizing our guests, and they won’t be past directors or necessarily ICC members, but current arts partners from the community.”
Season tickets and single concert tickets are available for the 2025-26 season. The ICC gala, “A Touch of Red,” is set for 6 p.m. Oct. 24 at Ritz Charles in Carmel.
For more, visit icchoir.org
The Center Celebration 2025 presented by Ice Miller with headline performance by Richard Marx is SOLD OUT! We’re so grateful to the many generous people and companies who will join us to support Allied Solutions Center’s wide range of arts and educational programming, from big-name concerts to classes and lectures to free events for schools to our Prism Project arts camp for youth with disabilities – and the list goes on.
FHS alum realizes lifelong dream
By David Jacobs david@youarecurrent.com
MUSIC
Blake Liller was first introduced to the drums when he was 4 years old, messing around on an old drum set in his basement. Slowly getting more involved with music as he grew up, Liller has signed on to tour with cinematic rock band City of Sound.
“I pretty much grew up on the game Rock Band,” he said. “I started getting into church bands at Mercy Road (in Carmel) in fifth or sixth grade, and that was great practice because you have to play live on stage. Throughout high school, I did marching band and got to learn a lot through that.”
Upon graduation from Fishers High School in 2023, Liller and several friends from his Mercy Road church band formed their band — separate from the church — and performed throughout Indiana, mostly at youth group camps and retreats.
You can still join us in continuing to bring these programs to the community. Visit TheCenterPresents.org/Donate to make a tax-deductible donation to Allied Solutions Center and its mission.
Liller’s church connections continued to pay dividends as one of his producers at Mercy Road connected him with City of Sound lead singer and Carmel resident Jordan Wright once he learned Liller had been a fan of the band’s music.
“It’s just a surreal opportunity,” Liller said. “Jordan and I are huge gamers, so I watched him play Rocket League (on YouTube). So, to be watching somebody like that, and then one random day, you wake up and they’re like, ‘Hey, come play some events for us.’ It’s just crazy to even think about.”
As Liller prepares for his debut slated for Aug. 28 at Dragon Con — a pop-culture, sci-fi, fantasy and gaming convention — in Atlanta, Ga., he never thought he would be playing on such a big stage.
“To play an event as big as Dragon Con as my first event with them, that’s a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity,” Liller said.
For more, visit cityofsoundmusic.com.
Blake Liller first performed on stage at Mercy Road Church in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of City of Sound)
NIGHT & DAY
Fishers musician plans debut
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
As a Fishers resident, Tommy Baldwin is naturally eager for his first opportunity to perform in the Fishers Blues Fest.
BLUES FEST
“First off, I love that Fishers supports the blues, because honestly, in my opinion, it is one of the most important genres of our time because it created rock, it created pop, and all these genres that are massive now,” Baldwin said. “There are a bunch of blues festivals that tons of people show up to, which I love.”
Baldwin is tentatively scheduled to open the two-day 13th annual Fishers Blues Fest at 5 p.m. Aug. 30 at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater. The Aug. 30 headliner is Ruthie Foster and the Aug. 31 headliner is D.K. Harrell. Admission is free.
“When I learned about it years ago, I was like, ‘How do I get on that?,’” Baldwin said. “It’s finally time to jump on it and hopefully do it justice.”
A North Central graduate, Baldwin is a singer-songwriter and guitarist. Baldwin, 29, said the band will play
Tommy Baldwin, a singer-songwriter and guitarist, is set to make his debut in the Fishers Blues Fest.
(Photo courtesy of Rich Voorhees)
mostly original songs with a couple of covers. His recently released second album is called “Nappy Headed White Boy.”
The tentative schedule is Aug. 30: 5-5:45 p.m.: Tommy Baldwin; 6-7 p.m.: Danny Garwood; 7:15-8:15 p.m.: TBA and 8:30-10 p.m.: Ruthie Foster. Aug. 31: 5-5:45 p.m.: Rebekah Meldrum: 6-7 p.m.: Gordon Bonham Blues Band: 7:15-8:15 p.m.: Solomon Hicks and 8:30-10 p.m. D.K. Harrell.
“This year’s lineup showcases a rich mix of talent, combining seasoned artists with emerging musicians,” said Marissa Deckert, who helps run the event as Fishers Parks and Recreation director.
For more, npdamp.com and tommybaldwinmusic.com.
Annual Event
CHARTING AMERICA’S FUTURE
An Evening of Big Trends, Bold Thinking, and Purposeful Leadership
MITCH DANIELS
Former Governor, State of IN BRUCE MEHLMAN Partner, Mehlman Consulting
Thursday, September 11, 2025 5:30 - 8:00 PM (ET) Indiana State Museum, Indianapolis, IN
A fabufantastic museum
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
“Indianapolis doesn’t have a bad reputation; it has no reputation,” says retired award-winning journalist Will Higgins. He’s only half kidding, which means he is half right.
HUMOR
According to Will, the quirky, eccentric stories about his home city have never been really celebrated. Higgins learned of some of these untold tales by listening to old-time reporters back in the ’90s as they recounted their experiences tracking down stories. “We’ve got a freaky cultural history, and I want to tell it,” Higgins proclaims.
The result is the Museum of Fabulosity on the southeast side of Indy in the Garfield Park area. The exhibit is part of a contemporary art museum called the Tube Factory at 1125 Cruft St. The neighborhood is dotted with charming businesses like a tattoo parlor, a vintage clothing store, a retro kind of hardware store and coffee shops.
Inside Will’s space are some 16 displays that reflect the cheeky history of the Circle City. As you enter the museum, a myriad of “props” draws your attention to stories that Will has written in his inimitable style.
For example, the pole in the corner of the room is not the actual pole that Mauri Rose Kirby sat atop in 1958 for almost a year as part of a restaurant promotion, but the story is true, all 71 feet of it. While the artifacts are not authentic, they direct you to the stories that chronicle a rich history of unconventional and unusual Hoosiers.
No, it’s not the real pack of Pall Malls that Kurt Vonnegut once smoked, but it gives Will an opportunity to reflect on this unhealthy aspect of the celebrated author’s life. In Will’s words:
“Kurt Vonnegut smoked Pall Malls near-
Editor,
When LIV Golf was first recruiting golfers, I recall controversy over the sportswashing of Saudi Arabia; the protests of Sept. 11, 2001 victims’ families; and the disgust expressed by fellow journalists of the murdered Jamal Khashoggi. Golfers chose to take the money anyway. That gave a veneer of legitimacy to the enterprise to the point where cities like
ly his whole life… This would have given him time to smoke 1 million Pall Mall cigarettes….8.8 percent of Kurt Vonnegut’s time on earth.” By the way, Vonnegut threatened to sue Brown & Williamson because he didn’t die from smoking, despite the package warning.
It’s also not the actual purple velour shirt worn by the flamboyant and convicted pimp, the late Jerry Hostetler, whose equally ostentatious house on East Kessler Boulevard was not a sight for sore eyes, but an eyesore for many years. And still is.
Then there was the so-called hanging farmer from Illinois who came to Indy to assist in the execution of George Barrett, convicted of killing an FBI agent. The Illinois man was summoned because he, well, let’s say, knew the ropes.
Then there’s the fascinating story of Elfrieda Mais, a racecar driver wannabee who often ran a few laps prior to regional races around the nation to demonstrate her prowess. Maybe she was the country’s first female racecar driver. She also walked on the wings of planes, possibly the air-apparent of future stunt women.
And then there’s John Dillinger, whose proficiency at baseball led to his learning how to rob a bank.
The exhibit is only open till Sept. 20. Will Higgins is pleased with the success of his exhibit and is thinking of doing a future display of Indy 500 off-beat memorabilia. How will he pull that off? Where there’s Will, there’s a way.
Westfield are hosting the LIV tournament — apparently proudly, judging by signs that advertise it.
You can count me as appalled and dismayed. The LIV golfers and the City of Westfield had an opportunity to hold Saudi Arabia (accountable) for their actions. Money isn’t everything.
Michele Grossman, Noblesville
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
LIFESTYLE
Deadly sin 15. Rock music genre
16. Butler dorm alternative 17. Flower part
18. ___ Severin Hotel
19. Fishers Arts Council monthly event
meas.
37. Move like a bunny
40. KGB counterpart
42. Toy bricks
43. “Sweet!”
46. Put on WTHR
47. Beast of burden
48. Fancy footwear
49. Daily journal
51. “Well, ___-di-dah!”
53. Short time, for short
54. Surf with a remote
58. Bigfoot’s Himalayan kin
60. Smoothie berry
61. Cherry centers
64. Tied
65. Engine knock
66. IU conference foe
67. “The Way We ___”
68. Org.
69. Religious offshoot Down
1. DOJ branch
2. Neither’s partner
3. Hamlet or King Lear, e.g.
4. Minimal amount
5. Model X maker
6. Door sign
7. Declare
8. “Good heavens!”
9. Wild animal track
10. Cinnamon blend for a Thanksgiving recipe
11. Raggedy doll
12. Hit the slopes
20. Part of 66-Across
21. Unexpected problem
22. Indiana Statehouse VIP
23. Sellout inits.
26. U-turn from WSW
27. Banned pesticide
29. Tuna type
30. Indianapolis Opera voice
31. Picks up the tab
34. Indy Zoo beasts
35. Fruit trees
38. ___ del Rey, Calif.
39. Indiana State Road that runs from Angola to Lawrenceburg
40. Rogue
41. Midafternoon, on a sundial
44. Browns, on a Lucas Oil
Stadium scoreboard
45. PC key
48. LBJ’s veep
50. German river
51. Tilts
52. Set straight
55. California wine valley
56. WTTV military drama
57. Musical composition
58. It sounds like you
59. Night before
62. Pampering, briefly
PUZZLE ANSWERS
TV’s!
This is a 2nd floor unit with wide exterior stairs.
We have Fall and Winter Snowbird discounts for longer stays that you can’t pass up. To rent, you must be 25.
Please email for pricing and we will send you a link to the photos of the condo and its location. mcnallygroupllc@gmail.com
Staying Fit is Child’s Play!
“Remember when staying fit was child’s play – freeze tag , kick the can, and streetball? We played with our friends and neighbors - it was social and fun.”
