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Tuesday, November 18, 2025 youarecurrent.com

WWS board approves rebalancing plan Page 3

Pickleball courts coming to Freedom Trail Park Page 9

FEEDING A NEED Local food pantries maintain services despite challenges

Gov. Braun visits Westfield for Veterans Day

Page 21

Page 12

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WWS board votes for rebalancing plan By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com The Westfield Washington Corp. approved a rebalancing plan recommendation by a 4-1 vote during its Nov. 11 meeting at the Westfield Washington Schools Administration Center. Carrie Larrison, who attended the meeting via Zoom, was the lone board member who voted against the plan. The vote came a few hours after public commentary near the start of the meeting. The plan will set school boundaries for when WWS changes from from six elementary schools serving kindergarten to fourth grade to eight elementary schools serving kindergarten to fifth grade starting in the 2026-27 school year. The additional elementary schools will be Midland Crossing Elementary — currently under construction on Towne Road and 166th Street — and Westfield Elementary. The latter school will be in what is now Westfield Intermediate School. The new K-5 and middle school model eliminates the need for an intermediate school. The rebalancing also takes into account the opening of Westfield West Middle School for the 2027-28 school year. The approved map was slightly altered from the map that was presented during an Oct. 14 school board meeting. WWS made an alteration Nov. 6. There were changes made in relation to the boundaries for Westfield Elementary on its border with Carey Ridge and Oak Trace Elementary Schools. In a 40-minute summary of the plan presented by WWS Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum Ryan Hoover, it was noted that 81 percent of the rebalancing committee approved Map 4, which was presented at the Oct. 14 WWS meeting. Hoover also noted that rebalancing ensures some longevity in the process. “You want to try to have something in place that ultimately we’re not going through this process every couple of years,” said Hoover, who stressed the balance between real-time numbers in

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A map of where elementary school students will attend based on the rebalancing plan approved during the Westfield Washington Schools board meeting meeting Nov. 11. (Screenshot from WWS website)

the schools versus projected numbers going forward. Hoover also noted that balance of enrollment in the two middle schools also is important. Westfield Middle School East will have Carey Ridge, Monon Trail Washington Woods and Westfield Elementary as its feeder schools. Westfield Middle School West will have Maple Glen, Midland Crossing, Oak Trace and Shamrock Springs as feeder schools. Board Member Bill Anderson noted that discussion on rebalancing could continue going forward. “Somebody mentioned that they believe this vote locked us in. I don’t see it that way. I think we’ll consider all options continuing down the road,” Anderson said. Ultimately, Anderson voted for the rebalancing plan, citing the need to

get students out of portable buildings. Board Member Rebecca Ogle cited the 81 percent support for the map by the rebalancing committee for her vote. During public commentary, several community members, many of whom also spoke during the Oct. 28 meeting, expressed opposition. A total of 15 people spoke. “It’s been said more than once that not everyone is going to be happy with this plan,” Brandon Nelms said. “Maybe that sounds reasonable. Maybe it feels like the voice of strong leadership. But with this plan, that phrase has been the excuse that keeps you from seeing what’s right in front of you. This isn’t about who’s complaining. It’s about what they’re complaining about.” After the vote, many of those opposed walked out.

 Christmas lights at the Fairgrounds — The Indianapolis State Fairgrounds present the Christmas Nights of Lights through Dec. 31, a drive-through holiday light show with a synchronized music radio broadcast. Through Nov. 22, a portion of ticket prices will benefit the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition when purchasers use promo code NOCC25. For more, visit christmasnightsoflights.com.

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Bids, contracts approved by commissioners By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com The Hamilton County Commissioners reviewed bids for replacing a Hamilton County bridge and approved a contract with RAK Academy, which will provide seminars for Hamilton County public safety officials. The next commissioners meeting is at 1 p.m. Nov. 24.  WHAT HAPPENED: The commissioners reviewed bids for the replacement of a Hamilton County bridge on 281st Street over McKinzie Ditch in Adams Township.

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 WHAT IT MEANS: The county received the following bids: Contemporary Contractors, Inc., $1, 307,513; Hoosier Pride Excavating, $1,062,515.20; HIS Contractors, $1,109,863; Duncan Robertson, $1,089,992.22; Beaty Construction, $1,402,800.

 WHAT’S NEXT: The highway department selected Hoosier Pride Excavating for the work. Construction is expected to begin in the spring of 2026.  WHAT HAPPENED: The commissioners approved a contract with RAK Academy, which teaches Response to Active Killers, or RAK, techniques.  WHAT IT MEANS: Ryan Tennesseen with Hamilton County Emergency Management said RAK Academy will provide two eight-hour seminars to Hamilton County public safety officials about the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. Representatives will share lessons learned from the incident about what did and did not go well to increase preparedness in the case of active assailant incidents in the county. The cost of the project is $9,106.

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Dartt questions Westfield appropriations request us through the year,” Dartt said. “To ask for dollars in November, I think we have to improve our process and maybe ask for appropriations on a quarterly baDuring the Oct. 10 Westfield City Council meeting, sis, versus one time a year.” councilor Jon Dartt criticized some of the spending Dartt also noted language that included “projectincluded in an appropriations ordinance that aded” in relation to how much money needed to be dresses shortfalls in the balances in several spent in each fund before the end of 2025. city funds for the remainder of the 2025 calenDartt cited the Law Enforcement Fund redar year. quest as an example. The ordinance would authorize and approve “The encumbered balance in the Law additional appropriations from the operating Enforcement Fund is projected to exceed balance of the General Fund, Fire Fund, Park $70,000,” he said. “Shouldn’t we know at this Impact Fund, Law Enforcement Fund, Police point of the year, the middle of November, Donation Fund, Police Vehicle Fund, Commushould we use the word ‘projected?’” Dartt nication Programming Fund, F&E ProgramCarey Tolan said “projected” is standard ming/Events Fund and Road Impact Fund. legal language in ordinances. The ordinance had its first reading at the Nov. 10 “All I’m suggesting is whether it’s a legal form or meeting. not, all I’m suggesting is that we are in the middle of “This is several expenditures that you just didn’t November, and we don’t know exactly what the balanticipate during the budget cycle. They have everyance is per line item between now and the end of the thing from Park impact fees, which are nontaxpayer year, and so I’ll leave it at that,” Dartt said. funded items, to road impact fees to nonreverting There will be a public hearing at the Nov. 24 city funds,” Westfield Deputy Mayor Danielle Carey Tolan council meeting at City Hall, where the ordinance told the council. can be considered for adoption. Dartt asked whether some of what was requested Requests that are included in the ordinance. was overspending by city departments that didn’t General Fund appropriate funds in the 2025 budget accurately. • Police Department Salary — $230,766. “It’s a little disheartening that we’re here in No• Facilities and Events — $91,000 vember and we’re asking for additional dollars to get By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com

• IT Department — $40,000 • Human Resources Department, Worker’s Comp — $45,000 • Human Resources Department, Insurance Property & Casualty — $77,045 • Fire Fund • Equipment — $50,000 Park Impact Fund • Services — $965,000 Law Enforcement Fund • Equipment — $70,000 Police Donation Fund • Promotions — $11,510 Police Vehicle Fund • Equipment — $73,021 Communication Programming Fund • Promotion — $12,000 F&E Programming/Events Fund • Promotions — $235,000 • Services — $15,000 Road Impact Fund • Road Impact Land Purchase — $1,080,000

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WPB approves Park Street constructor manager By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com The Westfield Parks and Recreation Board approved a resolution at its Nov. 5 meeting to proceed with the selection of a constructor manager for the Park Street improvement project in downtown Westfield. The project involves transforming Park Street between Poplar and Mill Streets into a plaza street; development of a public plaza space; and design and reconstruction of a section of the Midland Trace Trail. F.A. Wilhelm Construction was recommended as the constructor manager. “The CMC recommendation is F.A. Wilhelm Construction company. They happen to be the same company that did CMC from Grand Junction, so they are familiar with the area,” said Deb Kunce, a senior vice president at Indianapolis consulting firm J.S. Held, in her presentation to the board. Westfield Parks and Recreation Su-

perintendent Chris McConnell cited the significance of working with F.A. Wilhelm. “We already have a designer and (with) the construction manager as constructor, we are hiring a construction manager to help through the design process so we can try and get the best idea of what the total price is going to be and get them there up front because they’re going to know a lot of those questions and have a lot of those questions answered,” he said. “They’re also going to help us be able to get better unit pricing and keep costs down … it works a little better for our perspective because it brings them in early on the front (end), as opposed to going through the construction documentation, then hiring a contractor. You can better control price with a CMC.” McConnell said that the timeline for the project will partly depend on utility relocation, but he expects construction would begin next year and be completed sometime in 2027.

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Top Dentist Westfield’s Freedom Trail Park will soon have pickleball courts and a restroom building. (Photo by Todd Golden)

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Pickleball, restrooms set for Freedom Trail Park By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com Freedom Trail Park in Westfield will soon have six pickleball courts and a restroom building. Plans for were approved by the Westfield Parks and Recreation Board during its Nov. 5 meeting. V3 Companies Ltd. is contracted for the projects. Westfield Parks and Recreation Superintendent Chris McConnell expects the additions to draw more visitors to Freedom Trail Park, which is at the northeast corner of downtown Westfield at 500 Deer Walk Trace. “We have a playground there already and three football fields and it’s very underutilized,” McConnell said. “The playground is wonderful, but because we don’t have a permanent restroom there, it is only frequented so often.” The new restroom is expected to be 825 square feet and cost between

$660,000 and $800,000, according to documents submitted to the parks board. The pickleball courts will be on the east side of the park “We have been looking over the last several years where we might be able to add additional pickleball courts,” said McConnell, who noted that the only other pickleball courts at a Westfield Parks facility are at Quaker Park. McConnell said the pickleball courts will be built on an existing athletic field. “It really fit (at Freedom Trail Park) because it’s not going to create noise issues with our neighbors because there’s woods on either side that are going to muffle those noises,” McConnell said. McConnell hopes construction can begin in the summer for both projects, with completion of the pickleball courts by the fall of 2026 and the bathroom building by 2027, at the latest.

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Carmel, Westfield raise more than $50,000 in charity challenge By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com

A charity challenge between Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam and Westfield Mayor Scott Willis, as well as city councilors in both cities, raised $50,126.81 for Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank. Carmel raised $27,632.81 to Westfield’s Finkam $22,494 in the “Tackling Hunger Together” challenge, which raised money from Nov. 4 to Nov. 9. Finkam and Wilis initiated the challenge ahead of the Nov. 7 Class 6A IHSAA Class Willis 6A sectional championship football game between Westfield and host Carmel. No. 6-ranked Westfield won 23-20 in overtime. But beneficiaries of the food bank were the big winners. “This is about turning rivalry into unity,” Finkam stated when the challenge was announced. “No matter which team wins on the field, both communities can be proud to stand together in the fight against hunger.” “We all want bragging rights, but the real victory is making sure no one in our community goes hungry. Let’s prove that teamwork extends far beyond the game,” Willis stated.

DISPATCHES  Westfield yard waste clearance – Westfield leaf cleanup will go for five weeks starting in November. Use paper compost bags only (no plastic or loose leaves will be picked up) and set leaves curbside for Waste Management by 6:30 a.m. on your regular trash pick-up day. Yard waste includes leaves, branches, and brush (no pumpkins or hay). For more information or to register for WM’s Fall Leaf Collection subscription, call 866-797-9018 or visit wm.com/ca/en/ support.

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HAVE YOU OVERDONE IT? Dave Sobczak, left, presents Westfield Lions Club Board Chairman Rodney Benson with a ceremonial key to the club’s new community center. (Photos courtesy of Westfield Lions Club)

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Westfield Lions celebrate 95 years of service news@youarecurrent.com The Westfield Lions Club celebrated 95 years of service in Hamilton County last month during an anniversary dinner and building dedication at the club’s new community center, 1101 E. 169th St. The club was chartered in 1930 and is the longest-running service club in Hamilton County. Membership has grown to 73 men and women — the highest count in the club’s history. Ron Keller, international director at Lions Clubs International, was the keynote speaker at the anniversary dinner. Lion Dave Sobczak, owner of Sobczak Construction and the project manager for the communion center renovations, presented Westfield Lions Club board chairman Rodney Benson with a ceremonial key to the building. During the evening, Lion Ron Mangus was presented with the Roy O. Hadley Lion of the Year Award. Mangus has served as a club officer and plays a critical role on the club’s poker tournament committee. Lion Bob Benson also was recognized for leading the efforts to organize the event. Benson has been a Lion for more than 56 years and is considered the Club’s historian. Dinner was provided by Klink’s Kreations and the entertainment was provided by the Westfield High School Signature Sound Choir. Members of the Westfield Lions Club follow Lions Clubs International’s mot-

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Ron Mangus was presented with the Roy O. Hadley Lion of the Year Award last month by the Westfield Lions Club.

to, “We Serve.” As the club has grown over the years, the Lions have expanded their work and their influence in the community through volunteer and fundraising opportunities that support local nonprofits and Westfield Washington Schools. According to the club, the Lions provide approximately $50,000 annually through donations to organizations like Open Doors Food Pantry, Heart & Soul Free Clinic, Westfield Youth Assistance Program, Westfield Education Foundation, scholarships for students and free eye exams and glasses for those in need. Learn more at westfieldlions.org.

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Braun recognizes veterans at Westfield ceremony By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com Indiana Gov. Mike Braun was among the speakers at the City of Westfield’s Veterans Day Ceremony at the IMMI Conference Center Nov. 11. Braun noted that he did not serve in the military, which, as a result, deepens his appreciation for Veterans Day. “We all come to appreciate what veterans do, and for those of us who haven’t served, it’s even more important,” Braun said. Braun told the story of his father, Amos, who served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. “The first discussion I had with a veteran was with my own father, Amos. It took a long time to tease out of him what it was like,” Braun said. Braun said his father was a tail gunner in a B-17 bomber. “The deadliest job in World War II was the tail gunner, and that’s what he did,” Braun said. “Before there were fighter escorts, there was an 80 percent chance (that) in six months, you were going to be in the next dimension. You had given your life up, which was almost a certainty.” Braun said his father’s stories instilled in him the importance of service and its sacrifices at a young age. “That really brings back, in your own way, what veterans go through,” Braun said. “Especially when you’re looking at those that are involved at the beginning of their lives and have to give it all and put it on the line.” Braun noted the importance of celebrating Veterans Day. “Today, I want to express our extreme gratitude to everyone that has served,” he said. “For everyone that’s acknowledging it, keep doing it. It’s an honorable tradition to carry on,” Braun said. Braun was one of four featured speakers. The others were Jeff Harrison, president and CEO of Citizens Energy Group, which sponsored the event; Westfield Mayor Scott Willis; and Westfield veteran Mike Madigan. “It is a day that we set aside our differences and show respect to each other,” said Madigan, who served during the Vietnam War in the U.S. Marine Corps. “A day that we all remember our freedoms that have always been protected,

Indiana Governor Mike Braun speaks during the City of Westfield’s Veterans Day Ceremony at the IMMI Conference Center Nov. 11. (Photos by Todd Golden)

but not by words alone, but by the actions of ordinary citizens who answered an extraordinary call to the service of this great nation.” Willis, who served for 30 years in the U.S. Marine Corps, retired in 2022 as a colonel. “Whether they were an active duty, reserve duty, or the National Guard, every man or woman took an oath to defend this nation,” Willis said. “The path this oath would take them was uncertain. Would it mean service in peacetime or in war? Result in physical or mental scars or cost them their life?” Willis also presented gifts to the veterans in attendance and introduced children who won poster and essay contests related to Veterans Day. Harrison spoke of the contributions veterans have made to Citizens Energy Group. “We are proud that veterans represent 10 percent of our workforce. Veterans’ contributions enrich our culture, and we are deeply grateful for their service to our nation and to the outstanding work they do for us every single day,” Harrison said. During an Armed Forces medley performed by the Signature Sound Westfield High School Choir, members of each branch of service stood when the song representing their branch of service was played. U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz and several officials from Hamilton County and the City of Westfield government entities attended the event.

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DISPATCHES  Best places to work contest — Nominations are open for the Indiana Chamber of Commerce Best Places to Work in Indiana competition. The 21st annual edition of the awards program includes a “Walk of Fame” theme. The contest honors top organizations in the state as determined through employer reports and comprehensive employee surveys. Winners are chosen in five size categories ranging from businesses as small as 15 employees and as large as 1,000 or more employees. Apply by Nov. 21 at bestplacestoworkindiana.com. Winners will be honored May 13, 2026, at the Best Places to Work awards dinner at the Indiana Convention Center in downtown Indianapolis.  Jingle and Mingle Holiday Luncheon and Style Show – The Jingle and Mingle Holiday Luncheon and Style Show, hosted by the Assistance League of Indianapolis, will take place Dec. 4 at Ritz Charles in Carmel. Doors open at 10 a.m. and the fundraiser concludes at 1 p.m. Fashions from Tangerine Cards and Gifts will be included. There will be raffles including a gift card wreath, Purse-A-Palooza; gently used purses for sale, each with bonus surprises inside and a 50-50 raffle. Vendors include Zionsville Olive Oil, Kits and Kaboodle Classic Toys and Tangerine Cards and Gifts. There will also be a silent auction.Proceeds from this event will benefit Operation School Bell which includes three divisions: Apparel, Shoes and Beyond the Bell; ALI Bears; ALI Friends; Reading Buddies; and Assault Survivor Kits. Visit alindy.org/holiday-luncheon.html for more information.  Re-Wilding Indiana’s Hibernation Ball — The Indiana Historical Society’s Re-Wilding Indiana’s Hibernation Ball will take place 6 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Indiana Historical Society during its Festival of Trees. The 21-and-over fundraiser gives injured and orphaned animals a second chance. Guests will enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres, a bar, raffles, and a live program featuring Mark Booth and the raptors of Take Flight! Wildlife Education. Attire suggested is holiday elegant. Tickets and tables are $65 for individuals, $350 table for six and $750 for a corporate table. Tickets can be purchased at rewildingindiana.org or by check payable to Re-Wilding Indiana, 9330 Waldemar Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46268

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Ice Ribbon returns Nov. 22 news@youarecurrent.com The Ice Ribbon at Grand Junction Plaza returns Nov. 22. The synthetic ice, also known as Glice, lets guests skate in any weather. The Ice Ribbon, at 225 N. Union St. in Westfield, is open until Jan. 3, 2026. “Our Parks Department has done a fantastic job of transforming Grand Junction Plaza into a winter wonderland, even when it hasn’t snowed yet,” Mayor Scott Willis stated. For the 2025 holiday season, there will be some special guests at the Ice Ribbon for children. Meet and Greets on the Glice begin Nov. 29. Children can skate with and take pictures with their favorite characters. The schedule is as follows: • Nov. 29: Bluey • Dec. 13: Buddy the Elf • Dec. 24: Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer • Jan. 3: Frosty the Snowman During regular events, each 90-minute skating session must be reserved online in advance. Tickets are $12 for ages 11 and older, and $10 for ages 10 and

The Ice Ribbon at Grand Junction Plaza in Westfield will open Nov. 22. (Photo courtesy of the City of Westfield)

younger. Each ticket fee includes skate rental and optional skate aids for beginners (processing fees apply). ADA accessible sleds are also available at no cost on a first-come, first-served basis. All skaters must check in for their session at the Grand Junction Café Pavilion building. Additional skating hours will be offered during Westfield Washington Schools winter break from Dec. 22 through January 3, 2026. For more or to reserve a skating session, visit theiceatgrandjunction.com.

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CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 11.18.25 • youarecurrent.com

No injuries reported in Westfield house fire By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com

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Firefighters from the Westfield and Noblesville fire departments extinguish a fire at 4760 Ashfield Drive in Westfield Nov. 5. (Photo by Todd Golden)

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11.18.25 • youarecurrent.com

HSE senior soccer player had memorable prep career By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Hamilton Southeastern High School girls soccer coach Greg Davidson wasn’t surprised senior forward Riley Boyd scored the game-winning goal in the Class 3A state championship final. “She is such an amazing athlete,” Davidson said. “She’s one of my captains. She has been such an amazing leader. She plays with such heart that it was not surprising. We’ve had a couple of goals where we have pressured a goalie or a center back so much that they coughed it up, and that’s another reason why she is a phenomenal forward (because) she takes advantage of those opportunities. She presses so hard and plays so fast that it disrupts defenders and goalies, and that is what happened for her to create that.” Boyd scored the winning goal in the Royals’ 1-0 victory over Carmel Nov. 1 at Carroll Stadium in Indianapolis. It was the first girls soccer state title for the Royals. “Being the one to score the winning goal for the team, coaches and program

Hamilton Southeastern High School girls soccer player Riley Boyd scored the gamewinning goal in the state final. (Photo courtesy of Hamilton Southeastern Newtwork)

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK MEET RILEY BOYD Favorite athlete: Trinity Rodman. Favorite TV show: “Outer Banks” Favorite movie: “Avatar” Favorite musician: Drake Favorite subject: History was an unforgettable feeling,” Boyd said. “The minutes leading up to the goal required motivation, hard work, positivity and love that each player carried with them, which makes the goal even more special. Being able to be in that situation meant a lot to me and I wouldn’t want to have been surrounded by another group of girls when helping make history.” She said the team had a very tight

bond. “The love and support we gave each other throughout the season is what helped us achieve a state championship,” she said. Boyd injured her lower back in the 2024 season opener against Carmel and missed the entire season. She said that made the championship season even sweeter. She shared the team lead for goals with Sloane May, a University of Michigan recruit, with 15 each. Boyd committed in August 2024 to play at

Indiana University. Boyd was named to the Indiana Soccer Coaches Association All-State First team and May was named Player of the Year. “What makes me so passionate about soccer is being able to fulfill my dreams I had as a little kid,” she said. “Winning a state championship and going on to play (NCAA Division I) soccer is something I dreamed of as a little kid. Also, being able to express my values of discipline, confidence, competitiveness, creativity and teamwork on the field has always given me the reason to be so passionate about soccer.’’ Boyd said the deciding factor for continuing her career at IU was her family. “I have a huge supporting and loving family and I couldn’t imagine not seeing them in the stands or being only an hour away,” said Boyd, who plans to major in business. She started playing soccer when she was 3 years old “Growing up, I played basketball, volleyball, ran track and gymnastics.” said Boyd, whose club team is FC Pride Elite. She gave up basketball and track in seventh grade to concentrate on soccer.

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 YMCA toy drive — Over the last 24 years, more than 63,000 children throughout the greater Indianapolis area have received gifts from the Holiday Toy Drive hosted by Avondale Meadows YMCA, part of the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis. Preregistered families can pick up gifts Dec. 20 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds West Pavilion, 1202 E. 38th St. Donations of new, unwrapped toys for children ages newborn to 15 can be dropped off at any Indianapolis-area YMCA, Tom Wood or First Merchants Bank through Dec. 18. For more, visit indymca.org/events/ Garage Garage Cabinets Cabinets toydrive. Garage Cabinets  Nominations open for Lantern Awards — The Westfield Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for the 42nd annual Lantern Awards — a time-honored tradition of the chamber that recognizes outstanding individuals and businesses of Westfield. The cocktail reception and awards ceremony is from 6 to 9 p.m. Jan. 29, 2026 at Prairie Waters Event Center in Westfield. Submit nominations by Dec. 19 at tinyurl. Hobby Hobby Rooms Rooms Hobby Rooms com/24yt8yph.

COMMUNITY

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD

11.18.25 • youarecurrent.com

United Way of Central Indiana awards $350,000 news@currentnoblesville.com

United Way of Central Indiana, a nonprofit that addresses poverty in central Indiana, has awarded $350,000 in grants to five Hamilton County nonprofits. The grants come from United Way’s Basic Needs and Family Opportunity Funds. The organization awards the funds twice a year — once for organizations accredited with United Way and once for nonprofits outside its accredited network. The Basic Needs Fund focuses on safe and affordable housing, healthy food access, transportation and health services. The Family Opportunity Fund supports integrated programming that serves youth and adults in the same household. The Hamilton County nonprofits receiving grants are: • Alternatives Inc: $50,000 Basic Needs • Boys & Girls Club of Noblesville: $75,000 Basic Needs

• Children’s TherAplay: $50,000 Basic Needs • PrimeLife Enrichment: $50,000 Basic Needs • Shepherd’s Center of Hamilton County: $125,000 Basic Needs In all, United Way of Central Indiana is awarding $17.3 million in grants to 71 nonprofits across the region. This round of grant funding was open to nonprofits in Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion and Morgan counties that are accredited with United Way of Central Indiana. Funding contracts begin Jan. 1, 2026. “Now more than ever, this funding is critical to helping our partners meet the growing and changing needs of our community,” stated Shannon Jenkins, United Way’s vice president of impact. “Nonprofits continue to face increased demand and shifting resources, and these grants help support their efforts to deliver essential services and create opportunities for the individuals and families they serve.”

OBITUARY Jack A. Houtman of Carmel, Indiana, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025, after a short illness, surrounded by his loving family. Born and raised in Kalamazoo, Michigan, Jack was a warm, outgoing “people person” who never met a stranger. He will be deeply missed by the many friends and family members whose lives he touched. A proud alumnus of the University of Michigan’s School of Engineering, Jack went on to serve his country as a U.S. Army Captain before beginning a distinguished 33-year career with General Electric. Over the course of his life and career, Jack and his family made their homes in Michigan, North Carolina, and Indiana, building lasting friendships in each community. A man of lifelong Christian faith, Jack served in several leadership positions in the churches he attended and sang joyfully in church choirs throughout his life. He was also an active volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and the Boy Scouts of America. Blessed with mechanical talent and a true engineer’s curiosity, Jack had a lifelong fondness for cars—especially the Corvettes he owned and enjoyed over the years. He

also loved music, boating, fishing, and growing roses. Jack always had some kind of project underway and found great satisfaction in fixing things, both big and small. Jack is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Diane; their three children, Sue Grassley (Dave) of Monroe, Michigan, Bruce Houtman (Diane) of Westfield, Indiana, and Alan Houtman (Holly) of Milford, Michigan; four grandchildren; and four greatgrandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Paul Houtman of Holland, Michigan. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Henrietta Houtman; his sister, Carol Loher; and his brother, David Houtman. A Celebration of Life service honoring Jack will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Westfield Christ United Methodist Church, 318 N. Union Street, Westfield, Indiana. His loved ones will greet family and friends beginning at 11:30 a.m. (ET), followed by the service at 12:00 noon, with lunch to follow. Memorial contributions may be made to Open Doors Food and Clothing Pantry (Westfield, Indiana), Westfield Christ United Methodist Church, or Greater Indy Habitat for Humanity.

CARMEL

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CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 11.18.25 • youarecurrent.com

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Hamilton County judges welcomed Magistrate Danica Eyler to the bench with a robing ceremony Nov. 6 at the Hamilton County Government & Judicial Center in Noblesville. The county’s eight elected judges appointed Eyler to the position following the departure of Magistrate Aaron “A.J.” Johnson. Eyler has spent most of her adult life in Hamilton County. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business from IUPUI in 2001 and her law degree from the Indiana University McKinney School of Law in 2004. “Becoming a lawyer has been my dream since I was 9 years old,” Eyler stated. “My mom was a student studying to become a paralegal, and I loved helping her hunt for law books in the library.” Eyler began her legal career in downtown Indianapolis, where she practiced civil litigation, criminal defense, land planning and zoning, and probate law from 2003 to 2015. She joined Webster & Garino LLC in 2018 and earned partner-

Danica Eyler is sworn in Nov. 6. (Photo courtesy of Tammy Sander)

ship in 2020. “Over the past decade in private practice, I’ve found the greatest reward in helping people reach resolution,” Eyler stated. “This new role gives me the opportunity to help people move forward.” Hamilton Circuit Court Judge Andrew Bloch said he has high hopes for Eyler. “We are excited to add Magistrate Eyler to the Hamilton County bench,” Bloch stated. “She has been an attorney for over twenty years and brings unique practical and legal experience in a wide variety of areas of law to our growing judiciary.”

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CURRENT IN WESTFIELD

FEEDING A NEED 11.18.25 • youarecurrent.com

Local food pantries maintain services despite challenges

By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com Food insecurity in Indiana is a problem that confronts the state every day, but with the holidays approaching, it’s a critical time of year for area food banks and pantries. In Westfield, Open Doors of Washington Township and Shepherd’s Gate Food Pantry are among the food pantries that provide for those in need. Outside of Westfield, Hamilton County organizations such as Fishers-based Good Samaritan Network and Cicero-based Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank, among others, provide the same service. According to Midwest Food Bank, 1 in 5 Indiana children lack consistent access to nutritious food. The organization supplies several area food banks, including Open Doors and Shepherd’s Gate in Westfield, as part of its effort to provide 24.5 million meals to those in need annually. Organizations that track food insecurity note that 2025 has seen a rise in people seeking assistance. “Coming into this year, we had already seen hunger across the country, but specifically in Indiana, in some of the highest numbers that have ever been,” said Marcie Luhigo, development director of Indianapolis-based Midwest Food Bank. “Midwest Food Bank was already serving the largest numbers of people and set to distribute their largest amount of food ever — $74 million worth of food by the end of 2025.” At Open Doors, 19360 Tomlinson Rd. in Westfield, Kurt Wanninger, vice president of operations, has seen an increase in food demand. “We have seen about a 14 percent increase (in food demand) overall this year,” Wanninger said. The federal government shutdown has led to the suspension of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, which — according to local food pantry officials — unprecedented disruption of SNAP has created uncertainty for entities devoted to fighting

Shepherd’s Gate Food Pantry volunteers Bill Behan, left, and Bill Sullivan, right, prepare to distribute food Nov. 10 to those who need it in the parking lot of Shepherd’s Gate, which is located at the St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church at 17102 N. Spring Mill Rd. in Westfield. (Photo by Todd Golden)

food insecurity. “Anyone who was getting SNAP support, (benefits) are going to be delayed at a minimum,” Luhigo said. “That could be weeks. It could end up being longer, because when the federal government reaches some consistent consensus or releases funds, we don’t yet know, what will the impact then be at the state level.” Disruption of SNAP benefits is expected to continue, at least temporarily, whenever the shutdown ends as states will require time to process funds. “Will the states immediately release funds? Will they wait to receive funds from the federal government?” Luhigo said. “So, is that another week delay?

Is it a month delay? None of us really know, because we’ve not been in this situation before.” In Westfield, Wanninger noted that many who use SNAP are already patrons of Open Doors. “It’s not that we’re going to see a larger influx due to just the reduction in those benefits. What we’ll see is we’ll be providing more food to them,” Wanninger said. “’Are you able to get the food you need? Are you not getting your SNAP benefits and things like that? OK, we’re going to give you more meat. We’re going to give you more of this and that and those types of things.’ So, we’ll increase our volume of donation to those individuals.”

MOST NEEDED ITEMS According Open Doors of Westfield, the following are its most pressing needs: • Tomato paste/pasta sauce • Canned soups – Beef, cream of chicken, cream of mushroom, bean, vegetable, potato, chowder • Canned fruit – Pineapple, Mandarin oranges, applesauce, peaches • Canned vegetables – Beets, mixed vegetables, yams, spinach, carrots,

potatoes • Refried beans/chili beans • Canned tuna/salmon/beef stew/chili • Tuna and Hamburger Helper • Plain rice • Crackers/saltines • Jelly • Pancake mix and syrup • Instant mashed potatoes/au gratin potatoes • Jiffy muffin mix

Open Doors Of Washington Township volunteers distribute food to those in need. (Photo courtesy of Kurt Wanninger)

Michelle Cradick, who recently became pantry manager at Shepherd’s Bank, which is at St. Maria Goretti Catholic Church at 17102 Spring Mill Rd., said the food supply at Shepherd’s Bank remains consistent. “I can’t say that we change our shopping habits, our behavioral habits, because it doesn’t matter, really, whether it’s February or it’s Christmas. We just try to be stocked and we’re ready to go,” Cradick said. Local food pantries note that charitable donations have increased. Open Doors is ramping efforts to distribute food to those in need for Thanksgiving and Christmas. The organization will have its Thanksgiving Food Giveaway Nov. 22. “So far, as monetary donations, the community has just stepped up. They see the need,” Wanninger said. “We’re having so many people contact us right now when they do food drives and other monetary (help). I think we’ll be able to sustain (the demand). Let’s put it that way.” ON THE COVER: Open Doors Of Washington Township, located at 19360 Tomlinson Rd. in Westfield, is stocking up food for the holiday season. (Photo by Todd Golden)

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 11.18.25 • youarecurrent.com

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

Carmel dancer ready for second stint as IBC’s Sugar Plum Fairy By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Emily Geon is eager for her second turn as the Sugar Plum Fairy in the Indiana Ballet Conservatory’s presentation of “The Nutcracker.” “I learned that it’s really important to have fun while you are doing it,” said Geon, a Carmel resident who is a high school junior who takes online classes. “I think I was kind of stressed going into the technique part of it last year. This year, I’m trying to focus more on the facial expressions and just having fun making the artistry.” IBC’s production of “The Nutcracker” is set for Nov. 29-30 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Performances are 2 and 7 p.m. Nov. 29 and 1 and 6 p.m. Nov. 30. Geon plays the Sugar Plum role in the afternoon shows. Clara Crane, a Westfield High School junior, plays Sugar Plum in the evening shows. She played Sugar Plum in a special performance in Wabash last year. “This has been my dream role and I’m excited to do it with my IBC family and just to get to perform at the Palladium,” Crane said. Crane, who is in her 14th year as an IBC dancer, said she is trying to improve on last year’s performance. Nora Woloszyn of Brownsburg, a fifth-grader, plays Masha. “I like that we get to dance with the Nutcracker and I like all my costumes and fun ballet moves,” she said. Meredith Drucker, a sixth-grader from Carmel, also has two shows as Masha. “This is my first time dancing en pointe,” she said. “I’m looking forward to dancing with the Nutcracker and my friends.” Isaiah Kubicek, a senior homeschooled student from Batesville, plays the Spanish lead and Arabian Doll. “I’m looking forward to the live mu-

‘TOOTSIE’ From left, IBC dancers Clara Crane, Meredith Drucker, Nora Woloszyn and Emily Geon. (Photos by Mark Ambrogi)

“Tootsie” runs through Nov. 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com. FEINSTEIN’S CABARET “Thank You For The Music! An ABBA Party” is set for Nov. 20, followed by “The Magic of David Ranalli” Nov. 21 and country signer Zachariah Smith Nov. 22 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc. com. ‘DEATH OF A SALESMAN’ Main Street Productions presents “Death of a Salesman” through Nov. 23 at Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit westfieldplayhouse.org. ‘FOUR WEDDINGS AND AN ELVIS’ Carmel Community Players presents “Four Weddings and an Elvis” through Nov. 23 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.

From left, IBC dancers Charli Klink, Isaiah Kubicek and Starla Karlsson.

sic with the Carmel Symphony Orchestra,” he said. “Arabian Doll is a very fun role to play.” Kubicek, in his first year with IBC, has performed in “The Nutcracker” with other dance organizations. “I like that it’s a full production. I haven’t done that for five or six years,” he said. Charli Klink, a Westfield resident and online high school freshman, performs as the Spanish lead. She said the most challenging part is learning all the parts of the role and coordination. She is the Spanish lead in the afternoon shows. She also plays the Snow Waltz, Arabian and Young Ladies. Starla Karlsson, a Carmel resident who moved to the U.S. from Sweden when she was 4 years old, has been with IBC for eight years. The online

high school junior is playing the Spanish role for the third time, “I’ve been getting more comfortable with it every year,” Karlsson said. “I’ve been working on connecting with the audience. Alyona Yakovleva, IBC’s founding artistic director, is eager to see how the dancers perform. “Every year, each performance is different because of the cast, the new Mashas, new Sugar Plums,” she said. “With the Carmel Symphony, it’s a completely beautiful experience for the entire community. I think we all try to polish and elevate ‘Nutcracker’ every year to a higher level.” Professional ballet dancer Luis Ocaranza is the guest artist. For more, visit indianaballetconservatory.org.

‘A MOTOWN CHRISTMAS’ “A Motown Christmas” is set for Nov. 20 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org. PEABO BRYSON Peabo Bryson will perform at 8 p.m. Nov. 21 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org. ‘WISH YOU WERE HERE’ “Wish You Were Here: The Sight and Sound of Pink Floyd” concert is set for 8 p.m. Nov. 22 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

ENTERTAINMENT

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD

11.18.25 • youarecurrent.com

CHS grad gets musical role

will perform as the voices in Nash’s head. “Nash always said that the reason Ian David Bossung understands the why schizophrenia was so difficult for importance of a live audience for a dehim to parse was that the very voices he veloping production. was hearing when he was having parThe 2014 Carmel High School anoid episodes, those were the graduate will take part in Disvoices that gave him his ideas covering Broadway’s concert of that created some of the greatest “A Beautiful Mind.” The musical math that any of us have ever is based on the book and movie seen,” composer-lyricist Zoe about mathematical genius Sarnak said. John Forbes Nash. The concert Porter, a 2020 Avon High is set for 7:30 p.m. Nov. 21 at The School graduate and recent InBossung Tobias Theater in Newfields in diana University graduate, perIndianapolis. Discovering Broadway, formed in Discovering Broadway’s “The an incubation process, was founded by Trouble with Dead Boyfriends” in 2024. 2012 CHS graduate Joel Kirk in 2019. “To get to perform in a musical being “It is a great pleasure to be at the workshopped and getting to put that forefront of new theater as writers-dion stage for the writers is so exciting,” rectors start the process of workshopPorter said. “The two people leading the ping,” said Bossung, who performed in show, Derek Klena (Nash) and Krysta a Discovering Broadway concert for the Rodriguez (Alicia Nash), are big in the musical, “The Turning,” in 2022. “This theater industry and community, so I’m is where musicals are living things, and excited to watch them in action right what is needed most is to get them off in front of me and to collaborate with the ground in front of an audience.” them.” Bossung, Alanna Porter, Sophia SandFor more, visit discoveringbroadway. ers-Whiteley and Braylon Gretencord org. By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

A holiday classic comes to life on stage just steps away from the Carmel Christkindlmarkt! MUSIC AND LYRICS BY BENJ PASEK AND JUSTIN PAUL BOOK BY JOSEPH ROBINETTE Based on the motion picture A Christmas Story distributed by Warner Bros., written by Jean Shepherd, Leigh Brown, and Bob Clark, and upon In God We Trust: All Others Pay Cash written by Jean Shepherd.

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ENTERTAINMENT

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 11.18.25 • youarecurrent.com

Tuttle concert set for Vogue By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Molly Tuttle’s new album, “So Long Little Miss Sunshine,” is a departure from her bluegrass music. Tuttle, who said she tries to be a chameleon with her music, will perform on “The Highway Knows Tour” at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 20 at The Vogue in Indianapolis. “This is my fifth album, so I feel like I’m at the place where I have quite a bit of material for the live shows, which is fun,” Tuttle said. “These shows have been really dynamic. Going on this musical journey that spans from playing bluegrass music around one mic to rocking out a little bit on some of the newer stuff off the new record, which expands into rock, Americana and country a little more.” Tuttle, who plays guitar, toured with Golden Highway for three years. She said they decided to take a break while she released a solo record. “So, it’s a new band lineup and new instrumentation,” she said. “We’re still playing a lot of the Golden Highway material. Some of it we revamped with

Molly Tuttle, who has a condition called alopecia areata, with her many wigs. (Photo courtesy of Ebru Yildiz)

different instruments.” Tuttle and Golden Highway won Grammy Awards for the albums “Crooked Tree” in 2022 and “City of Gold” in 2023. “So Long Little Miss Sunshine” has been nominated for a 2026 Grammy for Best Americana Album. Her song, “That’s Gonna Leave A Mark,” is nominated for Best Americana Performance. Tuttle, 32, has been bald since age 3 because of an autoimmune condition, alopecia areata. One song on the new album is “Old Me, New Wig.” For more, visit thevogue.com.

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