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Hamilton County nonprofit celebrates 40 years of supporting victims
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
For four decades, Prevail — a Noblesville-based nonprofit — has provided free, confidential services to Hamilton County residents and people in neighboring counties impacted by crime and abuse.
Founded in 1986 by former Superior Court Judge Steve Nation and Beth Gellhausen, who worked in the department of family services, the organization will celebrate its 40-year anniversary July 1.
Prevail served 43 individuals in its first year. In 2025, it helped more than 3,300 adults and 7,200 youth. Executive director Tami Wanninger attributes the growth to population increases and a shifting society where people are more willing to talk openly about domestic violence and sexual assault.
“Our county is growing, and our municipalities are growing, so we are seeing a greater need for services,” Wanninger said. “I think back to 40 years ago, and people didn’t talk about victim issues, domestic violence and sexual assault. It was something that you closed the door on. I think we’ve evolved a little bit as a society, but there’s still a stigma.”
Wanninger said staff are more educated about trauma and how to help victims navigate their healing journey than they were 40 years ago.
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“I also feel like a lot of our cases are more complex than they used to be,” Wanninger said. “People are coming to us for safety, whether it’s domestic violence or whatever type of abuse it is. But there’s also a lot of modern things that are happening. We’re seeing a lot of financial and technology abuse. As technology has advanced, we’re seeing more harassment and stalking. We have also seen a huge shift to do case management work in the last seven to 10 years.”
With growth comes additional challenges. Prevail is bracing for an estimated 40 percent reduction in its largest federal funding source this year following multiple cuts the past decade. To fill the gaps and support clients, the orga-
nization hopes to diversify its funding through private grants and community donations.
“We’ve had to get creative in our approaches to serving people efficiently and ensuring there’s no waiting list,” Wanninger said. “I think it’s about helping the community understand that we provide free and confidential services, so contributions and fundraising events help us fill the gap. We have private grants and private funding dollars that also allow us to fill in the gaps, but clients have needs and we need to make sure we’re still able to support and help them.”
When asked how Prevail has made a difference in their lives, survivors shared that the organization connected them with resources that helped them rebuild stability and independence and made them feel believed and supported.
Jessica, a survivor who keeps her last name private for safety reasons, said community members could be saving someone’s life by helping them connect to Prevail.
“It can be easy to pass judgement, but you really don’t have any idea what someone’s dealing with,” she said. “Take time to educate yourself and show up with empathy, kindness and compassion.”
Looking ahead, the organization is focused on building partnerships.
“Partnerships are so critical and important, and 40 percent of our referrals come from law enforcement,” Wanninger said. “Building up those partnerships, whether it’s with law enforcement, the prosecutor’s office, county officials or other nonprofits, allows us to be more accessible in our community. We are exploring an opportunity with one of our local law enforcement organizations right now to have a staff member housed out of the police station, so that might be a great way for us to be more present in the community, but also help decrease overhead costs at the same time.”
Wanninger said disrupting and curtailing violence cycles remains the focus.
“It’s about constantly assessing programmatically what those needs are,” Wanninger said. “We’ve reinstituted our domestic violence task force, and that’s where we’ve brought our law enforcement, prosecutors and other key individuals together to see how we can better respond to domestic violence situations within our community and county. We have our SART team, which is our sexual assault response team, and again, that’s individuals coming together to collaborate and educate each other about how can we do better on responding to those things as well. I think we just have to continue to educate and learn.”
For more, visit prevailinc.org.
ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
This year, Prevail’s annual gala will be replaced with a public anniversary celebration Aug. 1 at Ritz Charles in Carmel.
“It’s really a celebration of our community coming together to support survivors that are served through Prevail, and we are honoring 40 individuals and organizations that have made an impact with Prevail in
the last 40 years,” Prevail’s Executive Director Tami Wanninger said. “July 1 is our actual anniversary, so we’re looking at that being a ‘Prevail Day’ where we will be doing some stuff on social media and trying to get the community engaged. We just want to celebrate the amazing work our community has done to support Prevail.”
Prevail at 1100 S. 9th St. in Noblesville. (Photos by Jessica Todd)
Wanninger
Westfield Grand Park zoning district proposed
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
The Westfield City Council recently reviewed a proposed new zoning district for Grand Park, an update to the area’s master plan. The proposal, introduced during the council’s June 22 meeting, would establish design standards and permitted uses for the area.
The proposal was scheduled for a July 6 Westfield Plan Commission public hearing before returning to the council for a vote.
Westfield Economic Development Director Janell Fairman told the council that city planners have been working closely with developers to draft the proposed zoning district, which should set the tone for development over the next decade.
“This is … approximately a billion dollars or more investment over the course of … the investment life of this project,” she said. “So, we want to make sure that it really can stand the test of time.”
Lauren Gillingham-Teague, senior planner, noted that the document includes allowed and prohibited uses within the zoning district. The proposal states that permitted uses include hotels and conference centers, commercial recreational facilities, parks, indoor theater, sports facilities, nonresidential educational institutions and residential developments.
Prohibited uses include auto and motorcycle service and sales businesses, pet-oriented businesses, drive-thru
facilities, retail tobacco and alcohol stores and outdoor storage.
Design standards include building height limits, cohesive landscaping, an architectural theme and prohibited materials — such as vinyl, stucco and stamped concrete.
Gillingham-Teague said the team that worked on the proposal wanted some flexibility built into the plan.
“So, this brings us to the creation of some new approval processes, particularly those that permit enhanced director discretion or just minor departures from the regulating plan,” she said, noting that small departures from the standards could be approved administratively and larger changes would go before the Plan Commission.
Councilor Noah Herron said he would like the council to know about larger changes and asked that the council be updated at least quarterly.
Councilor Kurt Wannager said he appreciated city staff’s work on the project, calling it a “generational opportunity” for the community.
“I would like to have seen this in place 14 years ago, when Grand Park started to be developed, and we’d probably be enjoying some of that today,” he said. “But as we move forward, this plan here sets a good baseline. I’d like to see that baseline continue to go up and not down. Don’t compromise on any of the aspects of it, because we only got one chance at it in our generation.”
The next Westfield City Council meeting is 7 p.m. July 13 at Westfield City Hall.
The Grand Park Master Plan calls for a walkable, sports-centered district. (Image courtesy of the City of Westfield)
Area mayors conclude first public safety summit
news@youarecurrent.com
Area mayors and police chiefs kicked off the Regional Mayors’ Public Safety Partnership Summit June 26 with discussions about how to efficiently work together to improve public safety.
Zionsville Mayor John Stehr said between 30 and 40 people traveled from Boone and Hamilton counties for the first meeting at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in downtown Indianapolis.
The summit was spearheaded by Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam and Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett following comments Finkam made about Indianapolis leadership needing to do more to prevent repeat criminals. The comments came after a man, who had dozens of charges in Marion County, allegedly stole a car in Carmel before crashing it.
Finkam described the meeting as a first step that will be followed by discussions with prosecutors, judges and state legislators.
“We had a productive conversation about how we can make our region safer for our residents,” Finkam stated in a
press release.
Stehr said a topic of conversation was the disconnect between crime statistics and public perception. Crime is going down, he said, though the public doesn’t think so.
“You need to tell the story and what’s really happening,” he said.
Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness said the meeting was a positive step forward and the first of several that will take place this year.
“I think there are maybe three more meetings between now and the end of the year,” he said. “We have different topics that we’ll be addressing in each of those, so that we can kind of chunk this out and get more in depth on each of those subjects.”
Upcoming topics include law enforcement, the judicial system, the correctional system and the legislature. While the first meeting involved
THE GRE AT A ME RIC AN CD SPECIAL
Limited time only
mayors and police, Fadness said future meetings can include prosecutors, judges and lawmakers.
“I think we’re pretty well informed as mayors and police chiefs about what we’re doing to try to address crime within the confines of our abilities,” he said.The next few meetings will be more about us learning about the other aspects of the criminal justice system, and hopefully from that educational experience, we can gain some deeper insight into what some of the options are to improve.”
Westfield Mayor Scott Willis said he looks forward to finding solutions.
“It’s definitely a problem,” he said of repeat criminals. “I don’t know if I would frame it in the sense of it’s a Marion County problem — I think it’s bigger than that, quite frankly.”
Willis said one way to tackle the
problem is through better information-sharing technology, so regional and statewide law enforcement can help each other.
Noblesville Deputy Mayor of Development Sarah Reed and Noblesville Police Department Captain Dennis Coffey attended the summit on behalf of the City of Noblesville. Reed said the summit reflects the strong partnership that keeps central Indiana moving forward.
“By coming together to understand crime trends and best practices better, share information and hear directly from our police department leadership about what is or is not working and the gaps that need to be filled, we’re strengthening the safety of every community in our region,” Reed said.
The group will meet three more times this year. The goal is to develop an action plan by the end of meetings. The next meeting is set for August and will focus on understanding gaps and barriers in the legal system.
Current editors Spencer Durham, Jessica Todd, Ann Marie Shambaugh and Leila Kheiry contributed to this report.
early
Upon renewal, the
Stehr Finkam
Willis Fadness
WESTFIELD FAR ME RS MARKET
May 7–September 3 (Thursdays) . 5–8 p.m.
Grand Junction Plaza | 225 S. Union St.
presented by Community Health Network
W IF FLE BALL AT T HE PLAZA
July 8, 22 (Wednesdays) . 10–11 a.m.
Grand Junction Plaza | 225 S. Union St.
Registration: FREE | Reserve your spot!
CREEK STOMPS
July 9, 16, 23, 30 (Thursdays) . 10–11 a.m.
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K IDS SUMMER SERIES
July 14, 21, 28 (Tuesdays) . 9:30–11 a.m.
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OWL PELLET DISSEC TIONS
Wednesday, July 15 . 10–11 a.m.
Grand Junction Plaza | 225 S. Union St.
Registration: $8 | Reserve your spot!
JAMS AT THE JUNCTION
July 17; August 7, 21, 28 (Fridays) . 7–9 p.m.
Grand Junction Plaza | 225 S. Union St.
July 17: The Why Store
August 7: Groovesmash
August 21: Midnight RedEye Band
August 28: Jai Baker Trio
MOVIES IN THE PLAZA
Wednesday, July 22; Saturday, August 15 . 7:30 p.m.
Grand Junction Plaza | 225 S. Union St.
July 22: Brave
August 15: Star Wars - The Last Jedi
‘Unseen Hope’ inspired by author’s experience
By Samantha Kupiainen news@youarecurrent.com
Westfield resident Fred Smith worked on-and-off for almost 10 years writing a faith-based novel, but he was inspired to finish it when he was home recovering from surgery for six weeks.
The book is called “Unseen Hope,” published by River Birch Press. The story follows the fictional story of Christopher Baldwin, a man recovering from surgery at his estranged family’s house for six weeks, and chronicles the complicated relationships concerning his children, ex-wife and girlfriend.
“I was at home with some time on my hands and I thought about what would be an interesting book,” Smith said. “This idea was pulled from my experiences over time. A lot of people struggle with their career and family balancing the two. Well, I said, ‘Maybe there’s something there I can pull on.’
I came up with a story about someone spending six weeks at home that was very career focused. Chris finds himself in a quandary about his life choices, relationship with his family, and his relationship with his girlfriend, who makes him feel young and free,” Smith added. “Which life will he choose?”
Smith, 68, also drew inspiration from Scripture, where “people spent 40 days or about six weeks isolated, like in the wilderness, and God changed them.”
When crafting the novel, Smith wanted readers to relate to the characters.
“Conflict between career and family is a typical struggle for many families, would make an interesting story and show how God uses people for his plans and purposes,” Smith said. “I think of ‘Unseen Hope’ like a modern-day parable that uses fictional story and characters to illustrate biblical truths that are still valid today.”
A Massachusetts native, Smith earned a doctorate in aeronautics and astronautics from Purdue University. He worked in and retired from the aerospace industry in Indianapolis.
Proceeds Smith receives from ‘Unseen Hope’ will be donated to churchbased nonprofits.
‘Unseen Hope’ can be purchased on Amazon and local shops Capstone Cafe and Bookstore and Turn the Page Books and Gifts and can be borrowed from the Westfield Washington Public Library.
DISPATCH
Beekeepers club meeting — North Central Beekeepers Club meets at 6:30 p.m. July 15 at Cool Creek Nature Center in Westfield. Topics will include mite treatments, condensing hives and honey bottling and labeling requirements. A free introduction to beekeeping is offered during every meeting. Meetings are free to all levels of beekeepers, including those interested in becoming beekeepers. For more, visit the club’s Facebook group, “NCBC (North Central Beekeepers Club).”
Smith
Apartment complex opens
By Hannah VanLandingham hannah@youarecurrent.com
Farmhouse at Lantern Commons, a luxury apartment complex at 1500 Taper Way, celebrated its grand opening June 25.
Residents at the complex will have access to a fitness center, co-working space, resort-style swimming pool, clubhouse and outdoor kitchen.
“(Farmhouse) is a very beautiful complex,” Westfield Mayor Scott Willis said. “This will be a very vibrant place for the future of our residents.”
The apartments are an extension of Lantern Commons retail area, offering residents “convenience, luxury and peace of mind,” according to the developer website. Both were developed by Tennessee-based Front Street Partners.
“As with a lot of things, the things that are more challenging can be more rewarding,” said Martin Ing of Front Street Partners. “Driving through here now and seeing how it’s going to slot in and connect up with the rest of the (city), it’s very rewarding.”
Ing added that Westfield is a great
place for both developments.
“We’re thrilled to be part of the Westfield community,” he said. “Every time that we have an opportunity to come up (and) spend time here, we discover something new that is impressive, superlative”
Ing also thanked city officials for being approachable and reasonable throughout the process.
“They have always met us with a solid attitude,” Ing said. “We’ve always had a sense that we were welcome in Westfield.”
For more, visit farmhouselanterncommons.com.
“Life
- Federico Fellini
Martin Ing of Front Street Partners, center, cuts the ribbon at the Farmhouse at Lantern Commons grand opening celebration. (Photo by Hannah VanLandingham)
Stella’s Ice Cream opens new Westfield shop
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
A new ice cream shop named for a bulldog has opened in Westfield, offering ice cream and ice cream-based treats made on-site, along with baked goods, beverages and a special challenge for extra-hungry guests.
Briana Edwards is the general manager of the new franchise, owned by Ron Watson, who has opened other restaurants in the central Indiana area.
“He chose Westfield for this location because it’s just booming,” she said. “Everyone is really nice and really community oriented. One of the things that Stella’s really strives for is serving all kinds, and that’s not just ice cream, that’s serving all types of people in our community, and that’s something that Westfield seems to provide as well, is a lot of families of all types and all kinds.”
The first Stella’s opened in Idaho with the goal of providing a place where people could feel comfortable just hanging out, she said, and the franchises — including the Westfield shop — strive to maintain that atmosphere.
Edwards said the new ice cream shop
will offer 10 regular flavors year round, along with dairy-free flavors. It can accommodate special dietary restrictions, she added, in part because all ice creams are made in-house.
Edwards said a bulldog figure will greet customers as they enter, and the shop is dog-friendly for people who get an ice cream craving while out walking their pets.
“Bring your dog in — we want to see your puppy,” she said. “We also sell puppy treats. When we say we serve all kinds, we are talking four-legged and two-legged.”
For ice cream lovers with a large appetite, Stella’s has a “Dog Bowl Challenge.” Served in a dog bowl, the challenge includes one scoop of all 16 flavors, topped with whipped cream, sprinkles, chocolate sauce and a cherry. It costs $50, but if a customer can eat the whole thing in one hour, it’s free. Winners also get a free T-shirt and their photo on the shop’s Hall of Fame.
Stella’s Ice Cream, 170 Jersey St. Suite 190, in Westfield opened in time for the July 4 weekend. For more, visit stellasicecream.com/location/ indianapolis-in.
‘Hailey’s Army’ golf fundraiser set — The Hailey's Army Charity Golf Tournament is set for July 11 at the Wood Wind Golf Course in Westfield, 2302 W. 161st St., with registration opening before the 12:30 p.m. start. The event supports Hailey's Army's mission to provide education, advocacy and resources to help keep kids safe while navigating the digital world.
HALF A CENTURY OF
HOME sweetHOME
Save on a new David Weekley home as we celebrate our 50th anniversary and 15 years in Indianapolis! Enjoy 4% off the base price – up to $40,000 – when you purchase a select David Weekley home in the Indianapolis area from June 10 to July 31, 2026.
Join generations of happy Homeowners by scanning to learn more or by contacting 317-799-1874
CELEBRATING 15 YEARS IN INDIANAPOLIS
Stella’s Ice Cream, 170 Jersey St. Suite 190, in Westfield has opened. (Photo courtesy of the City of Westfield)
GO FRAMELESS
VIA Women’s Health Collective celebrates grand opening
By Megan Dial news@youarecurrent.com
VIA Women’s Health Collective, 17300 Westfield Blvd., Suite 330, celebrated its grand opening June 18 with the Westfield mayor, Westfield Chamber of Commerce and other supporters. Dr. Taylor Hahn said she founded VIA Women’s Health Collective to support women in every stage of life.
“Something that we say quite a bit to our patients is that if you have a woman in your life that you love, then you should know about (our) services and our practice,” she said. “That’s a big reason why we wanted to establish in Westfield was really to be that presence for the women of our community.”
VIA providers collaborate to offer preventative care, advanced treatments and specialized women’s health services, such as gynecologic care, perimenopause and menopause, sexual health and contraception, surgeries and other procedures, weight management and aesthetic services.
“It’s a service that we need here in Westfield … and as our community grows, I am sure you guys will be providing some services that will benefit our residents,” Mayor Scott Willis said. “We certainly appreciate you.”
Westfield Chamber of Commerce President Courtney Albright said she recalled hearing about the potential for the new clinic in 2023.
“I remember that conversation very, very well, and I said, ‘Just call us when you’re ready and we are here,’” she said. “And now we’ve done the groundbreaking and the ribbon cutting.”
For more, visit viawomenshealth.com.
Dr. Taylor Hahn, third from left, cuts the ribbon on her new women’s health care clinic in Westfield. (Photo by Megan Dial)
COMMUNITY
Father, son come up aces
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Most golfers go a lifetime without getting a hole-in-one.
Joel Kirsh, 66, and his son, Trevor Kirsh, 33, got their aces in the same round June 7 at The Bridgewater Club in Westfield.
“It was amazing and it was both of our first holes-in-one,” said Joel, who lives with his wife on the fourth tee box on The Bridgewater Club. Joel’s younger son, Harrison, 24, was there to witness the remarkable occurrence.
“People have had holes-in-one before in the same round, but for a father and son to do it in the rain on the same day was something that people, even golf pros, said they’ve never heard of anything like that,” Joel said.
Trevor started off with a hole-inone on the 158-yard No. 2 hole, using a 7-iron. Joel’s hole-in-one came on the par-three 130-yard No. 11 hole, using a 9-iron.
“When we pulled up to the first tee, it was pouring down rain,” Joel said. “We decided to sit under a tree to not get soaked. We played the first hole and it was still raining. We got to the second hole and it was still raining. I said, ‘How are you guys feeling? Time for someone to get a hole-in-one.’ Just kind of joking around.”
The shot looked good, but they didn’t see it go in. Harrison sprinted up the hill and to see if the ball rolled past the hole before confirming it went in.
“When I hit it felt really good, and thought it could possibly be in,” he said. “Harrison again sprints up the fairway. Trevor grabs his phone and does a video commentary, ‘Hold on, ladies and gentlemen, I think we might have another one.’”
Trevor filmed his father’s reaction because he was sure he saw it roll into the hole.
“We all ran out on the green, we’re all high-fiving and hugging,” Joel said. “I literally said out loud on the video, ‘This is a miracle. I cannot believe it. Both of us in one day is unbelievable.’”
Joel plays twice a week, but sometimes only nine holes.
“We love to play but we’re very average golfers,” Joel said.
Joel and his wife moved to the Bridgewater neighborhood 12 years ago, then moved to a home on the golf course eight years ago.
Trevor, a 2011 Lawrence Central High School graduate and Indianapolis resident, typically plays once a week.
“My dad was telling everyone around the course about mine, he was very proud,” Trevor said. “My dad’s hole-inone will always stand out to me more than mine, probably because I was 50 times more excited for him.”
Trevor Kirsh, left, and father, Joel Kirsh, had holes-in-one in the same round at Bridgewater Club. (Photo courtesy of Bridgewater Club)
Colts Camp schedule set
news@currentinwestfield.com
The Indianapolis Colts have released their 2026 training camp schedule, kicking off July 29 at Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield.
This year marks the eighth and final summer of Colts Camp at Grand Park. In 2027, the training camp will move to the Indiana Farm Bureau Football Center in Indianapolis.
This year, activities and events at Grand Park will focus on entertaining the whole family and giving fans access, as well as celebrating the Colts partnership with Westfield, according to a news release.
“We’re thrilled to kick off Colts Training Camp next month and can’t wait to see all our fans, neighbors and partners in Westfield as we build our team for the 2026 season,” Colts owner and CEO Carlie Irsay-Gordon stated. “It’s also bittersweet that this will be our last camp at Grand Park, so we look forward to incorporating many special moments to celebrate the memories and friends we’ve made during our Westfield era.”
Westfield Mayor Scott Willis stated that Colts Training Camp has become a summer tradition in Westfield.
“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome fans back to Grand Park for one final season,” he stated.
Thirteen open practices are set for July 29 through Aug. 20. A ticket is required to enter each day and may be downloaded at Colts.com/Camp.
Grand Park charges a daily parking fee per vehicle. Parking passes can be purchases for $5 in advance at Colts. com/Camp or on site for $10. For more, visit colts.com/events/ trainingcamp.
Tracy Pielemeier recalled the wave of guilt she felt when she passed the beehives in her backyard.
She knew the boxes were full of honey, but it was too late in the season to harvest it. It was 2012, and, up to that point, all she knew about beekeeping was a one-day class she’d taken to get started and the two years her dad kept hives on her property.
She was sure the hives were doomed.
“So fall came, winter came, and I walked past those beehives on my way to the barn multiple times every day, going, ‘I’m a terrible person. I’ve killed them. I can’t believe I’ve killed them,’” Pielemeier said. “In the spring, they came busting out of those hives. They were every bit alive and happy. I couldn’t believe it.”
She asked a local beekeeping business to help her harvest, and her colonies produced more than 100 pounds of the sticky-sweet nectar. When the Westfield resident reached out for community in the hobby, she found it in the Central Indiana Beekeepers Club, which meets in Holliday Park.
She found the group welcoming and knowledgeable, but the drive to Nora for meetings was becoming arduous. When Pielemeier announced she wanted to start a beekeeping club closer to home, she was surprised to find an enthusiastic group ready to establish one with her, and in 2014, the North Central Beekeepers Club began in Hamilton County — a regional club that’s open to anyone interested in beekeeping, regardless of experience level. It has members from Westfield, Fishers, Noblesville and Carmel – all eager to teach and learn.
Both clubs are part of The Beekeepers of Indiana, which comprises 33 clubs across the state. Every year, the clubs select someone brand new to the hobby as the recipient of the jumpstarter kit. That person receives free equipment that includes everything needed to
North Central Indiana Beekeepers share sweet community
start their own hives, as well as a mentor to guide them through their first year.
Peter Murphy and his wife Peg found the beekeeper’s group around eight years ago.
Murphy, also of Westfield, said they find the popular pollinators fascinating — so much so that Peg started a business beekeeping for others. She’s paid to take care of their hives and her customers get to keep the honey.
“It’s not just about the bees — you’re learning about the weather, you’re learning about plants, so there’s a lot to learn,” Peter said. “People who have been in it for longer than me say they’re
always learning something new every year, and it is kind of fascinating. It’s amazing what the bees accomplish, and how they accomplish it, and that they know to accomplish it.”
Pielemeier said the community brings a wealth of knowledge that can’t be replicated online.
“Beekeeping is so local with regard to the weather,” she said. “You can watch all the YouTube you want. However, people experiencing your exact weather are a huge help. You can text them a picture and go, ‘Is this normal?’ The YouTube person is not going to be able to answer you on that kind of stuff.”
During meetings, beekeepers share
UN-BEE-LIEVABLE FACTS
• There are more than 20,000 species of bees. Fewer than a dozen species can be maintained in bee boxes and make enough honey for humans to harvest.
• Queen bees lay between 1,500 to 2,000 eggs a day during the summer.
• Bees vibrate their wings to keep their hive at an optimal temperature.
• Male honeybees (drones) develop from unfertilized eggs and have only one set of chromosomes.
experiences through networking and presentations. In a way, the group has formed a hive of its own. What started as roughly a dozen members in 2014 has become a regular gathering of 40 to 60, who meet monthly at Cool Creek Park Nature Center.
Like others in the club, the hobby has turned into a business for Pielemeier. When harvesting honey, she realized there was no food-grade equipment to capture honey.
“We were frustrated that there wasn’t anything clean and food-grade to bring your honey out of the hive and hold it to extract at your convenience. The old-school method was just to pull the whole wooden box off and bring it in, but the box has no bottom, so wherever you sit it, it’s going to leak and ooze and get dirt on it and grass bits and all that,” she said.
She now travels to events to show off her Hive Butler, a special tote designed to help store, manage and transport the boxes.
What started as uncertainty one season has turned into a deep appreciation for the pollinators. After 14 years, Pielemeier said she finds zen in beekeeping, and she sees the bees’ intelligent design as confirmation of her faith. More than that, Pielemeier said the people he has met through the hobby remind her what’s possible in a connected community.
“I have met lots of beekeepers in many, many places, and they are all universally motivated, interested, helpful, kind and generous. I am astonished at the community,” she said. “Beekeepers are my tribe, so I’m so thankful to have found them.”
The North Central Indiana Beekeepers Club meets at 6:30 p.m. every third Thursday of the month at the Cool Creek Nature Center in Westfield.
ON THE COVER: Wearing protective suits, beekeepers Jan Kea, left, Laurie Hunt and Tracy Pielemeier take a group photo. (Photo courtesy of Tracy Pielemeier)
A European honeybee on a pink flower, gathers pollen for the hive.
(Photo courtesy of Tracy Pielemeier)
North Fishers primary bath reimagined
Commentary by Larry Greene
This North Fishers primary bath was reimagined with an improved layout, timeless finishes and luxurious details for everyday comfort and relaxation.
THE BLUEPRINT
• Reconfigured the layout for improved functionality and openness.
• Added a spacious walk-in shower with decorative accent tile and frameless glass.
• Installed a freestanding soaking tub for a spa-inspired focal point.
• Updated the vanity with rich cabinetry, Cambria quartz countertops and modern fixtures.
• Finished with large-format tile, refined lighting and timeless neutral finishes throughout.
Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy. com or visit worthingtonindy.com for more remodeling inspiration and advice.
Vote no on school operating referendum VIEWS
Editor,
I urge Westfield residents to vote no on the upcoming school operating referendum. Claims that this tax increase is simply “for the children” or that our schools will fail without it are emotional appeals that distract from the real issues of fiscal responsibility and accountability. The current operating referendum rate is approximately 17 cents per $100 of assessed value. The proposed rate would rise to 39.41 cents per $100 — a 132 percent increase. This is not a modest adjustment; it is a dramatic tax hike at a time when homeown-
ers are already paying more due to sharply rising assessed values, higher insurance, increased utilities and inflation. Families and seniors on fixed incomes should not be guilted into approving unsustainable burdens under the banner of supporting kids. We can — and should — want excellent schools, strong teachers and bright futures for our students while insisting that the school board and administration prove why such a massive rate increase is necessary. More money does not automatically equal better outcomes. Before asking taxpayers for this kind of jump, officials
�� Subaru Loves to Care® 2026 ��
By Tom Wood Subaru
On June 16th, a group of our Tom Wood Subaru team members had the privilege of visiting Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital as part of the 2026 Subaru Loves to Care® initiative in partnership with Blood Cancer United® (formerly The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society).
During our visit, we were honored to work with Laura Keefe, CCLS, Certified Child Life Specialist, and Kaitlin MacGruder-Knapp of Ascension, along with the incredible hospital staff and Mary Green from Blood Cancer United. Their compassion, dedication, and commitment to supporting children and families facing cancer inspired all of us.
Together, we delivered 80 cozy blankets that had been lovingly rolled into heart shapes, along with patient care kits filled with thoughtful items such as socks, drink bottles, markers, sleeping masks, and more. We also included handwritten Messages of Hope to remind patients and their families that they are not alone in their journey.
The Subaru Loves to Care initiative is dedicated to providing warmth, comfort, and encouragement to those facing cancer treatments. Since the partnership began, Subaru and its retailers, including Tom Wood Subaru, have helped support more than 550,000 cancer patients and their families nationwide. Subaru is proud to be the largest automotive donor to Blood Cancer United, helping pro-
vide care, resources, and hope to those who need it most.
While blankets and care kits bring comfort during treatment, this partnership also helps support programs through Blood Cancer United that connect families with valuable resources and assistance during difficult times.
We are incredibly grateful to Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital, Blood Cancer United, and everyone involved in making this year’s delivery possible. Thank you for allowing us to be a small part of bringing warmth, kindness, and hope to patients and families in our community.
❤ At Tom Wood Subaru, caring for our community is at the heart of everything we do.
must explain the specific expenditures driving the need, detail the cost-saving measures already implemented, show what alternatives were seriously considered and demonstrate how past funding has been used effectively. Our community has experienced tremendous growth. Taxpayers have every right to expect that this growth would help fund our schools without requiring a rate increase. Voting “no” is not antichild or antischool — it is responsible.
Abby Sostre, Westfield
From left to right: Scott Reckley (GM), Bobby Miller, Alex College, Russ Stevens, Eric Nyberg & Alicia Frakes.
(Advertorial)
Musical farce set for Red Barn Theatre
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Red Barn Theatre Artistic
Director
Michael Taylor is convinced audiences will embrace the season finale.
“It’s a newer show with a very contemporary feel that is based in the Renaissance times,”
Taylor said. “It’s the story of the creation of the first musical. It’s funny. It’s a great way to end the season.”
Red Barn will present “Something Rotten!” July 9-12 and July 15-19 at the Frankfort venue.
The musical will feature a cast of 23 — the largest that Taylor has had in his 10-year tenure as artistic director.
“We’ve pulled together a cast that is very talented,” said Taylor, a Hamilton Southeastern High School graduate. “I think people are going to really love seeing and watching this cast.”
The cast includes Noah Johnson as Nick Bottom and Ben Brickner as Nigel Bottom.
Nick is a frustrated playwright who is obsessed with Shakespeare, and Nigel is his younger brother.
“The younger brother falls in love with a Puritan girl, whose father is (against) them coming together,” Taylor said.
Kody Horrocks plays Portia, the Puritan girl. Samara Rose Shavrick portrays Nick’s wife, Beatrice.
“It’s a show I’ve seen (on Broadway) and really loved,” Taylor said. “When I’m looking for shows, I’m trying to find shows that have a nice variety or feel different. It’s very costume heavy. When I looked at shows, I thought this is the year to do it. We have enough local talent that can fill in the ensemble. I was able to bring in enough professional talent to fill in the leads and put together a strong cast.”
Taylor said some cast members are from area high schools.
“Some others are local but at the college level,” he said. “They are no
longer little high school kids. They’ve matured into excellent performers.”
Taylor was directing rehearsals for “Something Rotten!” while acting in “Wait Until Dark,” which was scheduled to end July 5
“Fortunately, I don’t have any lines in the musical,” Taylor said.
Matthew Reich plays William Shakespeare, an arrogant, fictionalized version of the playwright, known as The Bard.
“The music is very clever,” Taylor said.
Red Barn Associate Artistic Director Luke McLaughlin, a Frankfort resident, portrays the soothsayer Nostradamus.
“It’s a really silly, fun part that fits right into my farcical wheelhouse,” McLaughlin said. “It’s going to be a lot of fun bringing this character and this story to life.”
Taylor has seen “Something Rotten!” on Broadway. McLaughlin saw a production in Fort Wayne several years ago.
“It has been a show I’ve brought up a number of times to Michael when we are thinking about the season,”
McLaughlin said. “The dance numbers are a ton of fun, the jokes are constant, and for those who love musical theater, there are plenty of references that audiences will recognize and enjoy. Michael and I love a good farce, but it is always fun to do a show that can transcend that mold. Though ‘Something Rotten!’ has a ton of farcical elements, it’s a story with a lot of heart and worldly advice. I think the main characters’ struggles are relatable, and the lessons they learn along the way elevate this story into a truly special musical.”
McLaughlin said cast members range in age from the 50s to 14 years old.
“We have performers from all across the country — New York, Florida, California, Nebraska, Illinois, Colorado, Missouri and, of course, a nice mix of local talent that our audiences have come to love and recognize over the years,” McLaughlin said. “Personally, I think this is the strongest vocal and dancing ensemble we’ve ever had, and I’m super excited to see the finished product.”
For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.
‘CINDERELLA’
“Cinderella” runs through July 12 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
2000’s Night: BBMak, a British pop trio, is set for July 7, followed by Jed Harrelson July 11 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc. com.
‘SOMETHING ROTTEN!’
“Something Rotten!” runs July 9-12 and July 15-19 at Red Barn Theatre in Frankfort. For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.
LOBSTER PALOOZA
Indianapolis Opera’s Lobster Palooza is set for 6 p.m. July 11 at Basile Opera Center in Indianapolis. For more, visit indyopera.org.
MARSHALL CHARLOFF
Marshall Charloff & the Purple Xperience will perform at 7:30 p.m. July 10 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. For more, visit hendrickslive.org.
‘A TAYLOR EXPERIENCE’
York Automotive Concert Series presents “Are You Ready For It? A Taylor Experience” at 8 p.m. July 11 at Hendricks Live! For more, visit hendrickslive.org.
CARMEL COMEDY CLUB
Carmel Comedy Club will present a show at 7 p.m. July 11 at The Cat in Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.
Band of Horses set for Fishers show — Band of Horses will perform at 8 p.m. July 25 at Nickel Plate District Amphitheatre in Fishers. Band of Horses is co-headliner with Dinosaur Jr. For more, visit npdamp.com.
From left, Noah Johnson, Ben Brickner, Anna Cari-Taylor and Delia Cragun rehearse for “Something Rotten!” (Photo courtesy of Luke McLaughlin)
Taylor
ENTERTAINMENT
Farrell’s performance repertoire continues to grow
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Since leaving his role as Actors Theatre of Indiana artistic director in September 2023, Don Farrell has stayed busy.
Farrell and accompanist Terry Woods regularly appear at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael on an average of twice a month.
Farrell, a Westfield resident, said he and Woods have created 13 different
shows, including the most recent, “Velvet Voices: A Coroner Celebration.” The concert begins with a lesser-known crooner, Russ Columbo.
“Columbo can arguably be called one of the first crooners in that style,” Farrell said. “We go from there to Bing Crosby to eventually Tony Bennett and Frank Sinatra to Michael Bublé and Harry Connick Jr. We follow the progression of the art form and how the
invention of the microphone allowed the singer to be a little more intimate with the audience. It’s a wonderful tribute and I’m able to cover a whole different bunch of artists, which I dearly love.”
Farrell also covers artists such as Nat King Cole, Mel Tormé, Andy Williams and Perry Como. Along with appearing at Beef & Boards, Farrell returned to ATI this spring to appear in “Sunset Boulevard.”
Farrell’s latest venture is ”Blé After Dark: An Evening in Paris” at 7 p.m. July 18 at Blé French Bistro in Noblesville.
The upcoming shows at Feinstein’s are “Thank You for the Music, an ABBA Party,” July 24; “All the Way Frank, A Sinatra Tribute,” Aug. 1; “Sweet Caroline: The Life & Music of Neil Diamond” Aug. 8; and “Bubbles Up! Let’s Celebrate Jimmy Buffett,” Aug. 29 and “Velvet Voices,” Sept. 11.
For more, blebistro.com and feinsteinshc.com.
Farrell
The living truth?
Commentary by Terry Anker
“Dead men tell no tales.” The proverb is so well known among us as to become a part of our common lexicon. Most scholars agree that a variant was introduced by English moral and religious writer Thomas Becon in the late 1500s. Some 100 years later, the exact quote began to appear in print. By 1883’s release of Robert Louis Stevenson’s epic “Treasure Island,” protagonist Jim proclaims “Dead men don’t bite” to Isreal Hands in a swashbuckling battle scene. Eighty-four years later, Walt Disney opens his “Pirates of the Caribbean” attraction. A ghostly gang of pirates, including Blackbeard himself, chant the expression as millions of parkgoers float past skeletons and shipwrecks. While indoor boat trips around a fictional island gave us a respite from the hot amusement park sun, it also reinforced a blunt human truth: Eliminating witnesses eliminates testimony. Whatever they know dies with them. By the revamp of the “Pirates” films in the 2000s, America had become
a different place, but the veracity of death as a final arbiter remained unchanged. Happily, most of us will not know lives of danger on the high seas. Instead, we apply the adage in our own ways. If we are done listening, we might proclaim, “You are dead to me.” We move across country, cut them out of the will and remove them from the narrative. What they were no longer exists to us.
Still, death is the most final. As our parents die, we lay unfettered claim to the past. How we define them to future generations becomes reality. A deceased progenitor never disagrees with our assessment. They don’t defend their view and they cannot correct the record. If we tell the tale of the dead men, are we truthful or mired in our own perspective, temptation and bias?
PUZZLES
Kind of PU prof
Mortgage adjustment,
of view
15. Footnote abbr.
16. Overly sentimental 17. Hater of a laboratory substance?
20. Indiana’s tallest building: Salesforce ___
21. Loses traction
22. Wonder
23. Freddie Gibbs’ music genre
25. Classic pop
27. Colts foe
30. Online commerce
33. SeaWorld attraction
37. Bard’s “before”
38. Make a Current story better
39. Kick in or kick off
40. Spicy pepper chewy candy?
44. Asian nurses
45. Wrinkly fruit
46. Clean air org.
47. Indonesian island
48. Lukewarm
50. Change for a five
51. Stuff
53. Indiana School for the Deaf subj.
55. “Harper Valley ___”
58. “The Zoo Story” playwright
61. WRTV spot seller
65. Boutique lodging in Carmel...and an anagram of 17- and 40-Across
68. What Pavlov’s dogs were conditioned to do 69. NHS prom rental
70. Singer Guthrie
71. Cher’s early partner
72. Statistical average 73. Fishers HS mid-term, e.g.
