Collaborative information center speeds up police responses / P13
July 15, 2025
Current in Noblesville currentnoblesville.com
About us
Founded Sept. 15, 2009, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XVI, No. 36
Copyright 2025 Current Publishing, LLC
All Rights Reserved.
525 North End Dr. Ste. 175 Carmel, IN 46032 317.489.4444
Contact the editor
Have a news tip, calendar item or photo to share?
Contact the Managing Editor Jessica Todd at jessica@youarecurrent.com or call 317.489.4444 You also may submit information at currentnoblesville. com. Our print deadline is eight days prior to publication. Submissions for online accepted daily.
Share your thoughts
Letters 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.
Advertise your business
If you’re interested in reaching the Noblesville market (22,087 households), you may obtain more information by emailing ads@youarecurrent.com (subject: Noblesville advertising) or by calling 317.748.2662.
Obituaries obits@youarecurrent.com
Legal advertising legals@youarecurrent.com
Delivery questions
circulation@youarecurrent.com
Join our community facebook.com/currentinnoblesville x.com/youarecurrent instagram.com/youarecurrent
Opinions
The views of the columnists in Current in Noblesville are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.
Hamilton County 4-H Fair returns to Noblesville
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
The Hamilton County 4-H Fair returns to the Hamilton County Fairgrounds at 2003 Pleasant St. from July 17 through July 21.
EVENT
Exhibits and displays will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. July 17-20. Admission and parking are free.
As construction continues on Pleasant Street and at the Bicentennial Pavillion, 4-H Youth Development Extension Educator Kathleen Bohde is asking patrons to enter the fairgrounds from Clover Road.
“We know there’s projects going on here in Hamilton County for the betterment of our community, and there are a lot of projects going on at the same time,” Bohde said. “We have lots of parking in our back 14 acres and will have signs directing people back to our grass lot away from Pleasant Street.”
With renovations completed on the Llama Barn and Exhibition Center, Bohde looks forward to celebrating youth in Hamilton County.
“Every project on display represents the hours of dedication, problem solving and passion our 4-H’ers have been providing throughout the year, whether it’s the rocket launch, the perfectly stitched garment or a well-trained animal,” Bhode said. “Each exhibit tells a story of learning by doing. We take great pride in showcasing the talents and achievements of our 4-H members.”
For more, visit extension.purdue.edu/ county/hamilton/hamilton-county-fair/visitor-information.html.
Schedule of events:
JULY 17
• 8:30 a.m.: 4-H bucket calf show
• 9:30 a.m.: Llama senior showmanship
• 10 a.m.: 4-H crops judging, 4-H horse &
Stuff the bus — The Salvation Army will conduct a Stuff the Bus event from noon to 4 p.m. Aug. 9 for shoppers to give local students a strong start to the school year. The event will take place at the Noblesville Walmart, 16865 Clover Rd. Walmart shoppers can grab extra school supplies and drop them in The Salvation Army’s collection bins at the front of the store. All school supplies collected during the campaign will stay in the local community, directly benefiting students in central Indiana.
pony english show, 4-H poultry show and 4-H robotics activities
• Noon: 4-H dairy goat show
• 1 p.m.: 4-H tractor driving contest, Extension Homemakers Flower Show and children’s story time
• 7 p.m.: 4-H sewing & consumer clothing revue and Grace Scott Band
• 7:30 p.m.: Walk-A-Llama
JULY 19
• 8:30 a.m.: 4-H public speaking contest
• 9 a.m.: 4-H swine show
• 9:30 a.m.: 4-H llama junior showmanship
• 10 a.m.: 4-H horse & pony dressage
• 11 a.m.: 4-H demonstration contest
• 1 p.m.: Antique tractor pull and chil-
DISPATCHES
Nonprofit plans Race Away From Domestic Violence — The Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence is hosting its 22nd annual Race Away From Domestic Violence at 8 a.m. Aug. 16 at IU Michael A. Carroll Stadium. The 5K race raises awareness of domestic violence in Indiana and shows support for Hoosier survivors. This year, participants can double their impact — every dollar raised will be matched up to $7,000. For more, visit icadvinc.org.
dren’s story time
• 1:30 p.m.: 4-H llama field obstacle
• 2 p.m.: Kids’ craft activities
• 3 p.m.: Extension Homemakers’ Food & Craft Show
• 5 p.m.: 4-H cat show and 4-H dog drill team demonstration
• 5:30 p.m.: 4-H llama costume contest
• 6 p.m.: 4-H horse & pony contesting show
• 6:30 p.m.: Homemade ice cream contest
• 7 p.m.: Walk-A-Llama and youth swine exhibition
• 8 p.m.: Bracken DJ & Sound Company
JULY 20
• 9:30 a.m.: 4-H sheep wool judging
• 10 a.m.: Worship service, 4-H horse & pony hunter & jumper show and 4-H sheep show
• Noon: 4-H pocket pet show
• Noon to 4 p.m.: Caravan Classes kids’ crafts
• 1 p.m.: 4-H lawn & garden tractor contest, children’s story time and Walk-A-Llama
• 1:30 p.m.: Westfield Ukulele Circle
• 2 p.m.: Gilbert Family Gospel Band and youth pedal tractor pull
• 2:30 p.m.: 4-H parents’ llama show
• 3 p.m.: Kids’ craft activities
• 4:30 p.m.: Youth sheep exhibition
• 5 p.m.: Antique tractor parade, 4-H food & microwave auction and pet parade
• 6 p.m.: Farmer olympics
JULY 21
9 a.m.: 4-H beef show
9:30 a.m.: 4-H 1/16th tractor pull
10 a.m.: 4-H horse & pony versatility show and 4-H llama youth judging
2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.: Youth talent contest
3 p.m.: Royal showmanship
7 p.m.: Supreme showmanship
Grants — Three companies in Hamilton County have been selected to receive a Manufacturing Readiness Grant. Hamilton County recipients include ETI Fab, Inc., Market Square Popcorn Company and ZR Tactical Solutions, LLC. Manufacturing Readiness Grants are provided by the Indiana Economic Development Corp. and administered by Conexus Indiana. The grants have helped manufacturers make capital investments to integrate smart technologies.
COMMUNITY
DISPATCHES
State chamber offers tobacco program — Indiana officials estimate that nearly 40,000 Hoosiers will soon try to stop using tobacco after tax increases went into effect July 1. The new average price of a pack of cigarettes in Indiana is $11 because of the $2 per pack bump. The tax hike also applies to vapes and chewing tobacco. To assist individuals in the workplace, the Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s Wellness Council of Indiana is releasing an enhanced version of its Quit Now Tool, a web-based platform that offers modernized ready-to-use modules for tobacco users, non-users and employers. The program is free for WCI members. For more, visit wellnessindiana.org.
State of the Campus — Ivy Tech Community College Hamilton County will host its inaugural State of the Campus event from 9 to 11 a.m. Oct. 3 at The Bridgewater Club in Carmel. The event will feature Chancellor Rachel Kartz and other campus leaders as they share accomplishments, growth milestones and the vision for the future of Ivy Tech’s Hamilton County campus. Attendees also will hear directly from Ivy Tech students about their experiences and the impact the college has had on their educational and career journeys. The morning will feature a breakfast buffet and opportunities for engagement and networking. Tickets are $30 through Aug. 29 and $45 after. All event proceeds will benefit Ivy Tech Hamilton County students through the Ivy Tech Foundation. For more, visit link.ivytech.edu/IVY2025.
Scholarships — The Riverview Health Foundation has awarded seven 2024-25 high school seniors from Hamilton County the Dr. And Mrs. Malcom Bray Medical Scholarship and Hamilton County Medical Society Scholarship. Established in 1993, the Dr. and Mrs. Bray Medical Scholarship is presented annually to graduating seniors from each public high school in Hamilton County who plan to pursue a career in the medical field. Each recipient receives a one-time $1,000 scholarship. In partnership with the Riverview Health Foundation, each student received an additional $500 from the Hamilton County Medical Society Scholarship. Scholarship recipients include Lainey Adkins, Fishers High School; Bassel Ashour, Noblesville High School; Alex Augustine, Hamilton Southeastern High School; Madeline Linville, Westfield High School; Madelyn Putman, Carmel High School; Elizabeth Smith, Hamilton Heights High School; and Makaley Terry, Sheridan High School.
Tickets on sale for inaugural Noblesville Bouquet Crawl
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Karly Elbrecht, owner of Noblesville floral business Camino & Co., and Lindsey McVey, owner of Just Lagom boutique in Noblesville, will present the inaugural Noblesville Bouquet Crawl from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 31.
EVENT
“Karly and I both love flowers,” said McVey, who is also the chief marketing officer of the Indiana Peony Festival. “We are always trying to think of ways we can collaborate with the other downtown businesses, and this seems to marry all of our favorite things.”
Tickets are $55 and include a bouquet crawl passport, a commemorative bouquet tote, a professional photo by Haley K. Photography, a take-home bouquet and a chance to win a Just Lagom and Camino & Co. gift basket.
“Attendees will pick up their commemorative tote and a bouquet crawl map that
shows all the participating locations,” McVey said. “Each location on the map is going to be partnered up with a local flower farmer and will be carrying different stems (like) dahlias (and) sunflowers. People can shop around the square and build their bouquet along the way.”
Some downtown restaurants will sell floral-themed drinks, and attendees can conclude the crawl with a photo opportunity at a new mural at 942 Maple Ave., painted by Derien Cole.
Elbrecht said she looks forward to raising awareness for local businesses.
“Being able to support so many local businesses downtown as well as flower farms all in one is what I am really looking forward to,” Elbrecht said. “People don’t even realize how many flower farms we have in the Hamilton County area. I’m excited to bring some exposure to their farms — this event has a lot of heart and community in it.”
For tickets, visit http://bit.ly/44CS8e7.
Johnson files candidacy for County Court 4 judge seat
news@currentnoblesville.com
Magistrate Aaron Johnson recently announced his candidacy for the open Hamilton County Superior Court 4 judge seat.
ELECTIONS
According to the announcement, Johnson, a Republican, has 20 years of legal experience spanning civil and criminal law. He now serves as an appointed magistrate judge in Hamilton County Circuit and Superior Courts.
caught in the criminal justice system,”
Johnson stated. “In Superior Court 4, which handles a significant volume of misdemeanor and lower-level felony offenses — many involving individuals aged 18 to 27 — it is critical to strike a balance between accountability and rehabilitation.”
Johnson’s legal background includes work in employment, criminal, family, civil rights, landlord-tenant, contract, estate planning, probate law and small-claims. He previously served as general counsel and chief ethics officer for the Indiana Supreme Court. He also served several years as trial counsel for the Indiana Supreme Court Disciplinary Commission.
“As a magistrate judge, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges facing young adults
Johnson graduated from the Indiana University Maurer School of Law. He also is a graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Citizen’s Academy and the Indiana State Bar Association’s Leadership Academy.
Outside of the courtroom, Johnson judges youth civic competitions and mentors teens and young adult boxers at Coach Colin’s Boxing Club in Fishers. He serves as a governance committee member of a parochial preparatory school and he is a member of the Indiana Bar Foundation, working with youth throughout Indiana. For more, visit votejohnsonforjudge. com.
Johnson
If bigger banks are better, why aren’t their rates bigger and better, too?
4.25 % APY*
Hop on over to where your money is safe, secure, and earning more.
Merchants Bank is a unique bank. As rates move up and down, we consistently offer the highest deposit rates in the country— without gimmicks or hidden fees. What you see is what you get: a great rate, backed by decades of experience and a proven track record as one of the nation’s top-performing banks.**
Noblesville Schools grieve loss of Millers fan
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Noblesville High School is grieving the loss of Rickie Woods, who, according to NHS girls basketball coach Donna Buckley, was one of the biggest fans of the school’s athletics program.
IN MEMORIUM
Woods, 76, died June 27. Buckley said he was buried wearing a state championship ring given to him when the girls basketball team won the IHSAA state title in 2021.
“I’m not sure there’s a bigger Millers fan than Rickie,” Buckley said. “I’ve never seen anything quite like the support he’s shown our kids and community.”
Buckley said Woods’ children played sports, and he had attended games since 1962.
“He loved high school sports, but he also went to all of our middle school and travel ball games,” Buckley said.
Katelyn O’Reilly, the NHS girls basketball team’s assistant coach and a former play-
er, said she met Woods her first year of high school in 2012.
“He was a staple at every Miller game — home or away, in-state or out of state,” she said. “I will always remember (and) miss him saying, ‘Get ‘em’ before every game.”
Meredith Tippner, a 2025 NHS graduate who played soccer and basketball, said Woods always gave her a fist bump and pep talk before games.
“I am certain he will look down and continue to cheer on the Millers from the best seat in the house,” Tippner said.
Red Geranium Artisan Market returns next month
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Presented by First Presbyterian Church of Noblesville, the 10th annual Red Geranium Artisan Market will return to 1207 Conner St. from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 16.
EVENT
The market, which is free to attend, will feature more than 60 artisans selling handmade products, including antiques, collectibles, garden art, clothing, furniture and jewelry, among other products. It is held inside and outdoors behind the church.
The event also will have live music, a Smoky Blue BBQ food truck and a bake sale. Proceeds from vendor booth rentals help support the church’s local and worldwide mission projects.
Market coordinator Jennie Auble said the mission team at First Presbyterian Church of Noblesville started the market.
“The first year we did it, we had 20 people volunteer to come and put up a booth,” Auble said. “They had no idea what they
were doing, but that started the whole thing off, and it was successful.”
Auble said there was only room for 60 vendors this year, but the market received 140 applications.
“We squeezed in 10 more spaces outdoors to bring us up to 60 vendors,” Auble said. “We’ve arranged our layout in a new way that’s going to offer a better flow of traffic.”
Auble looks forward to raising funds for charities.
For more, visit redgeraniummarket.wordpress.com.
Rickie Woods, left, with the Noblesville High School mascot. (Photo courtesy of Carol Montgomery)
Guests attend a previous Red Geranium Artisan Market. (Photo courtesy of Jennie Auble)
The SWEETEST SANDWICH of the Summer.
This summer, we’re celebrating Tenderloin Tuesday’s Sweet Sixteen! Over 50 Hamilton County restaurants will offer special deals and savory spins on Indiana’s favorite sandwich on Tuesdays from June 24th to July 29th . Claim your passport at TenderloinTuesday.com to redeem deals at your favorite tenderloin spots. Let’s celebrate 16 sweet years of Tuesday tenderness!
Fundraiser to benefit youth
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
The Boys & Girls Club of Noblesville will conduct its 10th annual cornhole tournament at 12:30 p.m. Aug. 1 at Forest Park in Noblesville, 701 Cicero Rd.
EVENT
The tournament is double-elimination, with all teams guaranteed three games. There will be a silent auction and raffles, with proceeds benefiting the club to help provide affordable after-school and out-ofschool programs for local youth.
Tony Eslamirad, BGCN’s community center director, said people attend the event for various reasons.
“The vibe is what makes it stand out,” Eslamirad said. “People come out to either compete, for a networking opportunity or some people are just out there to have fun. All of our events have a similar premise to raise awareness and funds for the Boys & Girls Club, but it is a little different since it’s at Forest Park, and people can bring their own food or alcoholic beverages to the park.”
Advance-sale tickets are $100 per team and include two shirts, entry into the tournament and two food vouchers. The price is $120 the day of the tournament. Raffle tickets will be available for five for $5 or an arm’s-length strand for $10.
The BGCN also awards cash prizes to the first- and second-place teams.
“Typically, first place wins about $250, and second place wins $150,” Eslamirad said. “We also have a ‘toilet bowl,’ which is something we’ve added the last couple of years. With the triple-elimination tournament, if teams lose the first two games, they are entered into a ‘toilet bowl,’ and the winner of that receives a toilet bowl trophy. A lot of people are actually after that.”
Eslamirad said the event grows each year.
“We have more sponsors and more silent auction items, so we’re hoping that attracts more people to participate this year,” Eslamirad said.
To register, visit bgcni.org/index.php/ boys-girls-club-cornhole-tournament.
Attendees participate in a previous cornhole tournament. (Photo courtesy of Boys & Girls Club of Noblesville)
news@youarecurrent.com
The Indianapolis Colts return to Grand Park in Westfield July 23 through Aug. 14 for training camp, with 13 practices open to the public. Training camp includes bleacher seating, family-friendly activities, opportunities to see players up close and a joint-practice day with the Green Bay Packers.
FOOTBALL
This is the seventh year for the camp in Westfield.
Six of the 13 practices are free to attend. Tickets for Primetime Practice days — July 26 and 31 and Aug. 2, 3, 9 and 10 — are $5 for fans 18 and older. Children 17 and younger are free for those practices, but a ticket is required. Tickets for Joint Practice Day with the Green Bay Packers Aug. 14 are $10 for adults and free for youth 17 and younger, with tickets required for all entries.
For the first time at Grand Park, the team will have a night practice from 8 to 10 p.m. July 31, with a “Thirsty Thursday” special presented by Bud Light.
“We are thrilled to return to Grand Park for 2025 Colts Training Camp,” Indianapolis Colts owner and Chief Brand Officer Kalen Jackson stated. “Over the years, we’ve been able to provide a fun, exciting and accessible experience for Colts fans of all ages and this year will be no different.”
Ticket proceeds will benefit USA Football to support Flag Football development in Indiana through equipment and coaching support.
Parking at Grand Park is $5 in advance and $10 on-site. Learn more and download tickets at Colts.com/Camp.
Fans watch the Indianapolis Colts during training camp in 2024. (File photo)
Gared Performance Sports Systems to relocate
news@currentnoblesville.com
The City of Noblesville announced July 8 that Gared Performance Sports Systems, a leading manufacturer of institutional-grade sports equipment, is relocating its headquarters to the Deer Creek Business Park on the city’s east side.
BUSINESS
Gared Performance Sports Systems is currently located at 9200 E. 146th St. in Noblesville. Noblesville Communications
Director Lexie Rock said the new headquarters will retain 125 jobs and create 175 new jobs. It is expected to open in August 2026, and construction is scheduled to begin this month.
“Gared is a valued Noblesville business, and we’re happy to see continued investment and expansion into a new headquarters,” Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen stated. “Already an important part of the community, Gared will continue to invest in the workforce in Noblesville, and I look forward to following their success in the
new headquarters on the east side.”
Rock said Gared Performance Sports Systems has served schools, recreation centers and sports facilities worldwide since its founding in 1922. The company offers a range of products, including basketball systems, volleyball equipment, soccer goals and football goalposts, among other items.
Gared Performance Sports Systems CEO Marcus Johnson said he looks forward to expanding the business as it will provide service to a growing market and customer base.
“By further establishing ourselves and partnering with the City of Noblesville, we are positioning ourselves for long-term growth and continued success in a rapidly evolving market,” Johnson stated. “We are excited and honored to contribute to the region’s economic development and build lasting partnerships that will drive both local and global success for years to come.”
For more, visit garedperfsports.com.
price includes installation & warranty
If you happen to have missed us these last few years, we’re a locally owned and operated company specializing in large trees. We stock thousands of them in our yard at 300 South (146th) and Michigan Road. Come walk through the farm and choose the perfect trees for your space, or give us a call and we’ll pick them out for you. From there, we’ll handle everything: delivery, installation, mulch, cleanup, and warranty. It’s all included in our prices. We’re grateful for the thousands of customers who have trusted us, most of whom have left us 5-star ratings. We’re fully stocked and ready to earn your business!
TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE
Collaborative information center speeds up police responses
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
A partnership between Hamilton County municipalities and the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office is facilitating faster and resource-efficient law enforcement responses, according to local law enforcement officials.
HCSO Sgt. Bryan Melton said the Hamilton County Real Time Information Center, which has been fully operational since November 2024, is a multiagency collaboration that enhances public safety and emergency response operations.
The RTIC, funded through local income tax funds and the HCSO, is a joint effort of the Carmel Police Department, the Noblesville Police Department and the HCSO. RTIC Director and HCSO Lt. Brian Niec said the Westfield Police Department and Fishers Police Department support the collaboration and that the WPD might eventually join.
“The RTIC is on Westfield’s planning agenda for next year,” Niec said. “To be truly involved, we really need staffing. Westfield is committed to providing staffing, but we are not on Fishers’ agenda to add staffing or anything other than moral support.”
Last summer, CPD discussed forming its own RTIC, but Hamilton County Sheriff Dennis Quakenbush proposed forming a countywide task force instead.
“There are 300 or 400 other RTICs in the United States, but they are all individual pillars,” Niec said. “What we do that’s special, and why all eyes are on Hamilton County, is because we are a true regional task force.”
Melton said RTIC operations strengthen data and intelligence sharing.
“Since its inception, RTIC has enhanced response times, improved information accuracy and reduced operational costs while simultaneously improving officer safety and public service delivery,” Melton said.
Niec said the RTIC identifies calls for service when immediate attention is needed for criminal and noncriminal matters.
“We do our best to get prompt and immediate information to responding officers so they’re responding with the most data they can to make the best-educated decision on how to operate a particular call,” Niec said. Previously, Niec said all information
about a criminal suspect came from a 911 caller. Now, 911 calls are routed directly to the RTIC, and operators have immediate access to information. RTIC personnel can retrieve prior call history, examine location-specific data, research subject qualifiers and assist responding agencies with real-time intelligence.
Additionally, a key feature of the RTIC is the implementation of Drones as First Responders.
Melton said drones provide live overwatch, aid in suspect apprehension, assist in foot pursuits and offer real-time situational assessment.
Through the nationwide initiative, drones are deployed to various calls for service like traffic accidents and active crime scenes.
• November 2024: Assisted the Noblesville Police Department with finding a missing person.
• January 2025: Assisted the Carmel Police Department and Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department by aerially monitoring a pursuit using the Drones as First Responders technology.
• February 2025: Assisted the CPD and Westfield Police Department by
Niec said CPD is the only agency that has a drone that takes off and lands from its department, but it’s flown through the RTIC.
“The pilot is sitting in the RTIC, and if any call comes within a three mile radius of the Carmel department, it’s up in the air and it’s watching,” Niec said. “Noblesville is soon to get one similar to that.”
The DFR program will expand in 2026.
using DFR as overwatch.
• March 2025: Assisted the NPD on a report of a suspicious person using live video from an emergency management camera trailer, leading to an arrest.
• April 2025: Assisted the NPD by monitoring live video from a camera until officers arrived for a known fraud suspect at a bank.
Niec said the Hamilton County RTIC will serve as a beta tester for a fixed-wing drone for Flock, which owns the drone company AeroDome. The fixed-wing drone, which Niec says can fly at more than 100 mph, will dispatch from the RTIC and can respond anywhere in the county.
It also will have AI capabilities.
“Say there’s a missing kid, and he’s wearing a blue shirt and red shorts,” Niec said.
“That drone will have the ability to make a grid pattern overhead and search for that, and if it finds a child that matches the description, it can monitor the area until a patrol unit gets there.”
Niec wants to expand public safety capabilities in the county.
“This is a law enforcement endeavor,” Niec said. “We are not invading anybody’s privacy, and everything we respond to is particular to our task at hand. We are working with local intelligence to track criminal elements as they come to Hamilton County so that we’re prepared and ready to respond, not just in a reactive way, but in a proactive way.”
ON THE COVER: Hamilton County RTIC employees work in the basement of the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office. (Photo by Jessica Todd)
Niec
The Hamilton County RTIC will continue operating out of 18100 Cumberland Rd. in Noblesville when the Hamilton County Public Safety Training Center and E911 center are built. (Photo by Jessica Todd)
The Hamilton County RTIC logo on the door to the center.
NPD officer discusses NobleACT
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
MENTAL HEALTH
Noblesville Police Department Sgt. Ben Lugar recently joined licensed marriage and family therapist Kristen Boice for Mental Health Monday, the City of Noblesville’s biweekly Facebook live platform that addresses mental health in the community.
Lugar discussed his involvement with the NobleACT program, a mental health collaboration between the city and public safety officials that aims to strengthen community-based responses to mental health crises. Lugar works with paramedics, a social worker and NPD therapy dog Luna to connect residents struggling with mental health, addiction or homelessness with resources and support systems.
So far this year, Lugar said NobleACT officials have assisted more than 500 individuals with housing, mental health crises, challenges associated with aging and premature birth and addiction issues.
Lugar said the NobleACT team addresses crisis response, follow-up and education.
“We want our community to be able to get directly connected with our resources in those earlier stages where it’s effective, and we can prevent a traumatic situation,” Lugar said.
The types of calls NobleACT responds to vary daily.
“We’ve had a lot of isolation lately,” Lugar said. “We’re seeing quite a number of folks that are looking for support but maybe not knowing that first step. Conflict resolution is another big one that we see. We do a lot of family mediation where we will be that neutral party to help ensure everybody (understands) where each other is coming from.”
Lugar said Luna helps deescalate stressful situations. She was the NPD’s first therapy dog, and Noblesville now uses Luna and two other therapy dogs, Sadie and Carbon.
“We got Luna back in 2022,” Lugar said. “Luna’s job is to respond to the 911 calls. She rides with me when we’re going to those emergency situations. She has some special commands that can help ground (them) back into the moment.”
For more, visit http://bit.ly/3GD4niM.
Bank celebrates groundbreaking
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
City of Noblesville officials, The Farmers Bank President and CEO Chris Cook, members of the bank’s board of directors and the bank’s senior leadership team broke ground on The Farmers Bank Financial Center at Midland Pointe in Noblesville July 8.
MONEY
The branch will be the bank’s 13th. Construction is scheduled to begin in the next several weeks, and Cook anticipates the bank will open in the second quarter of 2026.
“This location is almost exactly 5 miles from our Westfield branch and 5 miles from our other Noblesville branch,” Cook said. “As a community bank, we’re always focused on the community, so we’re going to stay grounded in that.”
The Farmers Bank will celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2026.
“It will be our 35th anniversary here in Hamilton County,” Cook said. “We’re just proud to be a part of this community and all the communities we serve.”
Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen applauds
From left, Noblesville Chamber of Commerce
President and CEO Bob DuBois, Alderson Commercial Group Vice President Daniel Taylor, The Farmers Bank President and CEO Chris Cook, The Farmers Bank board member Barbara Cutillo and Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen break ground on The Farmers Bank Financial Center at Midland Pointe July 8. (Photo by Jessica Todd)
the growth on the city’s west side.
“Noblesville started as a smaller community with a tight-knit town square,” Jensen said. “And I’m proud to say that we still have that tight-knit town square, but now we’re starting to develop and have more opportunities as we grow and become the ninth-largest city in the state of Indiana. It’s important for us to have these nodes of opportunity all across our community, and this area speaks to that.”
For more, visit thefarmersbank.com.
high-energy country music band is out of Fishers, IN. Jai, with brother David and best friend Kevin Bonewitz, knows how to entertain a crowd. The street party begins at 6 p.m. with plenty of food and beverage vendors.
15th Annual New England Style Lobster Boil
Saturday, July 26, 2025 Basile Opera Center • 6pm
Join us to celebrate summer, connect with friends, and make new memories in the heart of the historic Meridian-Kessler neighborhood. Featuring live singers, dancing, an open bar, and a delicious lobster and/or beef tenderloin dinner, this fun-filled summer event will be an evening to remember!
SUPPORTING MUSIC EDUCATION IN OUR CITY
To purchase tickets visit IndyOpera.org call 317-283-3531 or scan the code
Drive your advertising message to the best audience in Indiana.
Entertainers on tap! Kids 12 and under free!
Biggest event in suburban Indy in years!
The LIV Golf Tournament Indianapolis at Chatham Hills in Westfield will attract a discerning and affluent audience. Our August 5 special guide for this prestigious event offers direct access to the highestvalue demographic in Indiana. Attendees, many hailing from prosperous communities like Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville, Westfield and Zionsville in Hamilton and Boone counties, as well as North Indy, actively are looking for premium dining, unique shopping and top-tier entertainment. Position your marketing message in this section to help our audience make its spending decisions and for you to be top of mind during this exciting event
Space reservations due: Ad content due: July 25, 2025 July 28, 2025
Jason Derulo Riley Green
currentnightandday.com
Toto lead singer still enjoying life on the road
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Joseph Williams is best known as the lead singer for the rock band Toto off and on since the mid-1980s.
Yet Williams has lent his voice to other projects, including “The Lion King,” and has written scores for TV shows and movies. He learned from one of the best as his father is legendary film composer John Williams, who has won five Academy Awards for his film scores.
For the moment, Joseph Williams’ focus is on Toto’s summer tour, which has an Aug. 6 stop at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville. Toto will be joined by Christopher Cross and Men at Work in a 6:45 p.m. concert. Guitarist Steve Lukather is the sole continuous founding member of Toto.
“We just have so much fun, so that keeps us going, and the audiences have been growing over the years,” Williams said. “We did the three years with Journey and (that) actually helped us a lot with ticket sales and all that stuff. So, it’s been a great run and it just keeps getting better. Speaking for Luke (Lukather) and myself, we love to be on the road, and the audiences seem to really be digging it. So, that keeps me motivated.”
Williams said the group changes up the setlist whenever it can.
“Obviously, the hits are there, but there are a handful of other songs that are different (from last tour),” Williams said. “We love to pull out some deep cuts from some of the albums. Diehard fans will obviously know some of these more than the casual fans. We rock really well and groove really strongly. It’s a good set. I think people are going to be pleased.”
Among the band’s biggest hits are “Hold the Line,” “Rosanna” and “Africa.”
“The audience response is great and gives us a kick in the pants,’ Williams said of “Africa.” “David Paich isn’t really touring with us anymore and I get to sing his parts in the verse, and that’s a lot of fun because it’s down on a slightly
different range for me. It’s great to see the younger generations loving it, knowing that song with the help of all the covers over the years.”
Williams said “Africa” has surpassed 2 billion streams on Spotify.
Williams, 64, served as the lead vocalist from 1986 to 1988 before he returned full-time in 2010. In between, he performed occasionally with Toto.
“I was primarily writing scores for TV shows,” he said. “It was perfect timing because I could work at home and be with my kids when they were growing up, which was great.”
Williams’ father is still active.
‘“He’s an amazing specimen,” Williams said. “He’s going strong and currently working on something for the Vienna Philharmonic. He’s 93 and sharp as a tack. I’m not going to speculate I’ll be as sharp as he is at that age, but I’m going to try.”
The first time he worked with his father was in 1975 when he was 15 years old.
“He would never have me working on something if he didn’t know I could do it,” he said. “I was very fortunate I got to work on a couple of ‘Star Wars’ films and a few others.”
Williams said it’s hard to choose which of his father’s scores is his favorite.
“One that is really high on my list is the first Indiana Jones, ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark,’” Williams said. “I think that’s a brilliant score. He’s got so many. ‘Schindler’s List’ is incredible. I love all the ‘Star Wars’ stuff.”
Williams provided the singing voice of Simba in the 1994 animated version of “The Lion King.”
“I’m very proud of that. It’s great to be part of the Disney legacy,” he said. Toto is known for its versatile musicianship.
“It’s a band of excellent musicians who have careers working with other artists,” Williams said. “That was true when the band formed and we try to keep to that idea.”
For tickets, visit, ruoffmusiccenter.net.
‘WAITRESS’
“Waitress” runs July 17 to Aug. 31 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
‘XANADU’
Red Barn Summer Theatre presents “Xanadu” July 16-20 at the Frankfort venue. For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.
SONGBOOK ACADEMY
Songbook Showcase is set for 7 p.m. July 17 and Songbook Academy in Concert is set for 7 p.m. July 19 at the Payne and Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“I Want My ‘80s! A Totally Tubular Party!” is set for July 17, followed by vocalist Melissa Sondhi July 18 and Dueling Pianos July 19 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All three performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘PUFFS’
Main Street Productions presents “Puffs,” a youth production, July 17-27 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org.
DISPATCH
Potter to perform in Fishers — Singer-songwriter Grace Potter will perform at 8 p.m. Sept. 5 at the Nickel Plate District Amphitheater in Fishers. Tickets are on sale at npdamp.com and mokbpresents.com. Potter burst onto the scene in the early 2000s both as a solo artist and with her band the Nocturnals. She disbanded the Nocturnals in 2013, teaming with producer Eric Valentine for the 2015 album “Midnight.” In 2025, Potter released “Medicine,” produced by T-Bone Burnett. For ticketed shows, the venue is an all-ages facility, and children 2 and under are admitted free. Guests can bring their own lawn chair and blankets. For more, visit gracepotter.com and fisherslive.com. The new date for Band of Horses is 7:30 p.m. Aug. 5 at Nickel Plate District. It was previously postponed by severe weather and high winds.
Toto members Steve Lukather, left, and Joseph Williams will play Aug. 6 at Ruoff Music Center. (Photo courtesy of Toto)
ZCHS grad to make B&B debut
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Izzy Casciani has attended Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre shows for years.
MUSICAL
Now, the 2024 Zionsville Community High School graduate will make her Beef & Boards debut in the ensemble of “Waitress,” set for July 17 to Aug. 31 at the Indianapolis venue.
“I saw many Beef & Boards shows as a teenager and I always admired the quality and professionalism happening so close to my hometown,” said Casciani, who attends New York University School of Arts. “I feel very lucky to be up there myself now. I am most looking forward to working as an understudy for the first time, and I’m very excited to meet and work with all of the talented people involved in Beef & Boards.”
Casciani said she loves the music in “Waitress.”
“I went through a big phase of listening to it nonstop in middle school,” she said. “I like that (‘Waitress’ composer) Sara Bareilles’ music easily connects with people, whether they like musical theater or not,
Zionsville Community High School graduate Izzy Casciani will perform in “Waitress.” (Photo courtesy of Izzy Casciani)
and I also love the underlying theme of the importance of feminine relationships, whether that’s friendship or motherhood. I’m very excited to perform in the wedding scene in Act II. It’s so joyful and fun.”
Casciani attended the Songbook Academy, the Great American Songbook Foundation’s summer intensive summer program, in 2022 and 2024.
“My time at Songbook gave me a beautiful foundation for my work as both an actor and singer, but also just as a human,” she said. “It has been such a privilege going to school in New York City, and aside from the incredible training, I love that I can have one foot in that hub of music and theater and one foot here, where the talent is no less abundant but much more accessible.”
For more, visit beefandboards.com.
Carmel native returns for show
By Ken Severson editorial@youarecurrent.com
Opera singer Melissa Sondhi will perform a concert at 7:30 p.m. July 18 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel.
CONCERT
A former Carmel resident and a graduate of Park Tudor School in Indianapolis, Sondhi has lived in San Francisco for the past decade and has an impressive background as an opera singer.
the Los Angeles Semifinals of the Music International Grand Prix competition. Two years earlier, she was a semifinalist in the Orpheus Vocal Competition, and in 2017, she was a finalist in the East Bay Opera League’s Young Artists Scholarship Awards Competition.
Sondhi
Sondhi began singing at age 12, starting with the school choir. She then auditioned for a school musical in what she described almost as a joke, but after getting the lead part, she stayed with singing and took voice lessons soon after.
“It’s just grown and grown for me every time,” Sondhi said.
Her body of work has grown as well.
Earlier this year, Sondhi, a soprano, was a semifinalist in the Loren L. Zachary Society for the Performing Arts competition, a national vocal competition for young opera singers. In 2023, she took first place in the Adult Classical Voice category at
Last year, Sondhi returned to Opera San José for her second season as the inaugural Wadhwani resident artist, with her debut as Pamina in “Die Zauberflöte” and singing the role of Musetta in “La bohème.” She also will return to Pocket Opera in her debut of Mariane in “Tartuffe.”
For her performance at Feinstein’s, Sondhi will sing opera but promises a variety of genres.
“What I’m going to be doing is some opera but mix it in with some musical theater,” Sondhi said. “Some classic standard songs, too, and I have a couple of jazzier things in there. It will be a mix of genres, but opera will be the highlight.”
The performance will be her first at Feinstein’s making the evening even more special.
Opera event returns to roots
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Indianapolis Opera General Director
David Starkey sees it as only fitting that Lobster Palooza is back at its original Meridian-Kessler roots for its 15th anniversary.
FUNDRAISER
The event returned to the Basile Opera Center in 2023 after two years at Daniel’s Vineyard in McCordsville during renovation of Basile Opera Center. Lobster Palooza is set for 6 p.m. July 26 at 4011 N. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis.
in December of 2016 and I thought this is one of the weirdest, exciting events I’ve ever heard of in nonprofit fundraising,” he said. “Whoever thought of in the heat of July, Larry Bird, opera and lobster. I just thought that it was the craziest combination I’d ever heard.”
Bird, the NBA legend and former Indiana Pacers head coach and executive, and his wife, Dinah, served as honorary chairs of Lobster Palooza for a few years.
Starkey said they can use the entire property because Indianapolis Opera owns the building now.
“Meridian-Kessler is historically synonymous with long-running events,” Starkey said. “One of them is this particular building and campus (that) used to host GreekFest when the Greek Orthodox Church was here and that grew from a one-day event to three.”
Starkey said the event started on the property in a circus tent with an idea of legacy board members.
“I remember coming to the company
“We’re not sure anybody else does anything like this on any level,” Starkey said. “You still get the fresh Maine boiled lobster that we fly in the day before, and on top of that, you get a fundraising event with opera singing, an incredible array of mixed drinks and refreshment of Fork and Ale beer, Tito’s and exquisite wines.”
A cigar bar has been added this year.
The event helps support the Indianapolis Opera’s music education programs.
For more, visit indyopera.org.
Starkey
Sleepless in Indianapolis
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
HUMOR
Every health magazine features articles about sleep. How many hours do you need? What time should you go to bed? What should you eat before retiring? Should you wear pajamas or sleep au naturel? Should pets sleep on your bed?
I saw a magazine the other day that featured an entire article on the pros and cons of wearing socks to bed. I always wear socks to bed; otherwise, my shoes give me blisters when I roll over.
Race in-person or virtually
Leashed & in-stroller dogs welcome Shirt, medal and swag for all participants
Fundraise for PAWsome prizes
Proceeds benefit the Humane Society for Hamilton County’s Survivor Program, providing life saving care to animals in need.
I’ve had sleeping issues my entire life. I tried everything, so now I use a very beneficial prescription medicine. I’ve been taking it for 25 years. My wife Mary Ellen complains that I disturb her sleep by thrashing around, saying bizarre things, and sometimes rolling out of bed. I even sleepwalk. Things get even worse if I remember to take the drug.
I do sleep better on a bus. The second I get in the seat, I’m out cold. Mary Ellen told me recently that we once took a bus tour through Paris. That was news to me. But why do I sleep better on a bus? There is nothing on a bus that lends itself to sleeping.
I do want to wean myself off this drug, so I decided to try to simulate the very conditions on a bus that send me to Never Neverland. I requested that Mary Ellen stand at the foot of the bed and talk about whaling in Juneau. When we toured Alaska, this method gave me an hour of sleep, thanks to our monotone guide.
Mary Ellen felt dumb talking to me from the foot of the bed, especially with her back to me like she was the bus driver. First, she tried to explain to me how to
“I saw a magazine the other day that featured an entire article on the pros and cons of wearing socks to bed. I always wear socks to bed; otherwise, my shoes give me blisters when I roll over.”
– DICK WOLFSIE
play mahjong. That didn’t work. Explaining the benefits of yoga had no effect, either. But then I asked her to rock the bed back and forth, so I’d feel like I was on the bus. That was getting a little too weird for her, so she opted to sleep on the couch. It irked me that she fell asleep right away.
Maybe it was the sun that made me drowsy, so I shined a floor lamp directly in my eyes. Then I started rocking up and down on the bed like I was on a bus. My neighbor Paul could see me bouncing from his bedroom window. I don’t know what he thought I was doing, but the next day he kept winking at me.
Then I had another idea. A bus is filled with people. Was that the crucial factor? But we didn’t have 30 chairs to put alongside the bed while I was trying to doze off. I’m not going to take that drug tonight. So, how will I fall asleep?
I’m taking the 12:35 to Muncie.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES
Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft Word document or in the body of an email. Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising nature. Letters should be exclusive to Current Publishing. Unsigned letters and letters deemed to be of a libelous nature will not be published. Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@ youarecurrent.com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.
AUTO AUCTION
The following will be sold for charges on: 07/26/2025
10 AM AT 17110 RIVER RD. NOBLESVILLE 09 NIS 3N1CC11E09L422423 $2257.00
The following will be sold for charges on: 07/28/2025
10 AM AT 17110 RIVER RD. NOBLESVILLE
00 TOY 4T1BF28B7U030657 $3104.00
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
LIFESTYLE
1. “The Tortoise and the Hare” writer
6. WTTV military drama
10. Apple tablet
14. Riyadh resident
15. Parts of OMG
16. Multi-nation defense org.
17. IMPD criminal record listing
18. Taj Indian Cuisine bread
19. Calif. neighbor
20. What you might call a roundabout while approaching one...
23. New Big Ten school, initially
25. Teachers’ grp.
26. Ruth Lilly Prize winners
27. ...what you call the roundabout while waiting to enter...
32. Butler GPA booster
33. Crucifix
34. Florist’s cutting
35. Bottleneck consequence
37. Zilch
41. TV’s “Warrior Princess”
42. Indiana State Seal bovine
43. ...what you call the roundabout when you realize you’re in the wrong lane...
47. Whirlpool alternative
49. Ancient
50. Put in stitches
51. ...what you call the roundabout when you miss your turnoff
WILL MOW LARGE residential and commercial lawns WILL DO SPRING CLEAN UP WILL DO BOBCAT WORK
Trim/Remove trees & shrubs
Building Demolitions Clean Gutters
Trash Removal & Odd Jobs
Painting inside or Outdoors Property Clean Outs FULLY INSURED
Text or Call Jay 574-398-2135 shidelerjay@gmail.com www.jayspersonalservices.com
PUZZLE ANSWERS
resume email position4newperson@gmail.com.
Staff Support for Accounting & Tax Practice-Part Time
Ideal for a parent that wants to work while the kids are at school or retired person seeking part-time work in far northside Marion County We are a friendly, growing, professional company that provides accounting, tax and business advisory services, searching for a service-oriented person as an addition to our team. This new position will work closely with our clients and other team members to enter data, ensure accurate & timely processing of documents, and maintain both internal and client files. For more information & qualifications or to submit a resume email: position4newperson@gmail.com
