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Westfield Police Department breaks ground on new headquarters
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
The Westfield Police Department broke ground Nov. 12 on its new headquarters at 18224 Grand Park Blvd.
The $35 million building will provide more space and serve modern operational needs for WPD. It is expected to be completed in 2027.
WPD’s current headquarters inside the Westfield Public Safety building on I-32 is no longer adequate for the needs of WPD, according to officials. The Public Safety building was built in 1997 when Westfield had a smaller population and smaller police department.
“For one thing, we’re one of the fastest-growing cities in the state and one of the fastest in the entire United States,” WPD Chief Shawn Keen said. “The current building was designed and built about 30 years ago for a department about 20 to 30 percent of the size it is now, so we had to grow with that.”
Westfield Mayor Scott Willis said that the new headquarters reflects city growth.
“We’ve outgrown the building we’re in. So, for us to be able to keep pace with the growth of the city and the needs of the city, we have to provide ad-
Holiday Drive for Riley Cheer Guild — Worthington Design & Remodeling is collecting new, unwrapped donations for the Riley Cheer Guild at Riley Children’s Hospital. The Riley Cheer Guild provides comfort items, toys and activities to children and families at the hospital. Donations of small toys, art supplies, and games for all ages are accepted Dec. 1–12 at the Worthington showroom, 99 E. Carmel Dr., Suite 100, Carmel, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Food, candy, latex and handmade items
equate space for our police department to operate from,” Willis said.
Willis also noted that the location is in line with the city’s growth.
“As we grow to the west, this will be almost dead center of the city,” Willis said. “It’s quick access to (Indiana) 32 which is still one of the big arteries in our city. And when you look at some of the more high-impact areas of our city — Grand Park, the High School — where when you need somebody there, you need them now. This is a great location for that.”
Keen noted a training area that will double as a space the community can use as well.
“We’re focused on a training area
DISPATCHES
cannot be accepted. Full guidelines are at RileyCheerGuild.org. Contact Worthington at 317-846-2600.
IHSAA 6A championship game — The Indiana High School Athletic Association Class 6A football state championship game will be played at 7 p.m. Nov. 29 at Lucas Oil Stadium. Westfield played Fort Wayne Carroll Nov. 21 in a Class 6A semistate game that was played after Current In Westfield’s Nov. 25 print deadline. With a win, Westfield
that will allow us to host schools and bring people in from the outside to teach our officers, but that space can also be used for public meetings and nonprofits,” Keen said. “A lot of the feedback we got from (public) input was to have more educational talks with the public. So, having that space to be able to do that in a safe environment that is also partitioned from the rest of the department is going to be a huge benefit to us for community engagement.”
Westfield’s Informatics Department also will move into the new headquarters, which will have an 30,000 square feet of available space if an addition is needed within the next 10 to 20 years.
would play in the Class 6A game against either Warren Central or Brownsburg. According to the IHSAA, tickets are $20 per person per day. Children age five and younger admitted free. All seats are general admission. Per Lucas Oil Stadium policy, all ticket sales will be digital only; printed tickets will not be used. All purchased tickets will be sent as mobile tickets to the purchaser’s smart phone and that verification should be shown at the admission gate. Gates open at Lucas Oil Stadium at 10 a.m. Nov. 29.
Founded Jan. 29, 2008, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XVIII, No. 42
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Members of the Westfield Police Department break ground on the new Westfield Police Headquarters building on Grand Park Boulevard Nov. 12. (Photo by Todd Golden)
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Jessica P., patient
Grand Park reaches naming rights agreements
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
In the space of six days, Grand Park Sports & Entertainment reached naming rights agreements with two companies for the Westfield sports complex.
On Nov. 12, Grand Park reached a naming rights agreement for the campus with Indianapolis-based strategic and creative services firm Droplight. The new name is Droplight Grand Park Sports Campus.
On Nov. 18, Grand Park and Indianapolis-based Community Health Network announced that the Grand Park Events Center will now be called the Community Health Network Events Center.
“It has been a banner last week or two,” Grand Park Sports & Entertainment co-CEO Greg Stremlaw said. “(We) really try to find not only synergies and economies of scale, but really to run (Grand Park) like a business and bring our sports management acumen to the table. And part of that overall mission is to find great corporate partnerships as well to make sure that the
campus continues to thrive and be sustainable for decades and decades ahead.”
A representative from Grand Park said the agreement with Droplight is multiyear but terms were not disclosed. Naming rights costs also were not disclosed for the Community Health Network naming rights agreement.
Stremlaw said he wanted the right corporate partners to fit the mission of Grand Park, which is reliant on the youth sports that have tournaments
MEET & GREETS
THE GLICE
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29 1–3 P.M.
Community Health Network Events Center is the new name for the facility at the rechristened Droplight Grand Park Sports Complex. (File photo)
and events at the 400-acre campus.
“There are certain categories that we really didn’t feel were appropriate for the country’s largest youth sports campus,” he said. “So, once we have that in hand it was (about) going to market and trying to find the right partner that also wanted and saw what we’re doing.”
Stremlaw was familiar with Droplight as the company also has a partnership with the United States Soccer League Championship team Indy Eleven. Stremlaw is president of the
Indy Eleven. An agreement with the Indy Eleven was signed in August for the Droplight logo to be on the back of players’ jerseys.
Per the Community Health Network agreement, Stremlaw said the health and wellness side of the partnership for the 377,000-square-foot center that opened in the summer of 2016 was an important aspect.
“We don’t just want to be a sports tourism destination. We also want to think about health and wellness community connection,” Stremlaw said. “Community is right in their name, and Droplight is a Hoosier company that does a great job of helping grow other businesses and startups and is an exceptional consulting company.”
Stremlaw said Grand Park would have further announcements in the future. He said the Grand Park District — a plan to bring more development to the area — will fuel more growth.
“We’re excited by that. We think it’s great for the city, great for the community, and obviously trying to make sure that we’re doing what we’re supposed to do as well,” Stremlaw said.
WWS principals will head new schools in 2026
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
Two principals inside Westfield Washington Schools will oversee new schools for the 2026-27 school year.
During the Nov. 11 Westfield Washington Board of School Trustees meeting, it was announced that Andy Hilton will be principal at Westfield Elementary School and Annette Patchett will be principal at Shamrock Springs Elementary School.
Hilton and Patchett will begin their roles July 6, 2026.
The retirement of principal Robb Hedges at Shamrock Springs Elementary School, as well as the conversion of Westfield Intermediate School to Westfield Elementary School, prompted the shift in personnel.
Hilton has been the principal at Carey Ridge for 10 years and has 28 years of experience in education. He will be the first principal at Westfield Elementary.
“I feel truly blessed to be the principal at Carey Ridge. It’s a great group
of kiddos, their families and the staff is amazing,” Hilton said. “Moving forward, I would just like to thank (WWS administration and the board) for the continued confidence in allowing me to move to Westfield Elementary School. I’m super excited about it and truly blessed to serve.”
Patchett, who was previously principal at Westfield Intermediate School, has 33 years of experience in education.
“The last 11 years at Intermediate School have been quite an incredible journey and it’s one that I have valued,” Patchett said. “I am truly thrilled and honored to be named the next principal of Shamrock Springs. Following in the steps of Robb Hedges will not be an easy task.”
With Hilton’s move to Westfield Elementary, WWS is seeking to fill the principal role at Carey Ridge for the 2026-27 school year.
WWS also announced that Craig Tierney will join the district as communications and PR coordinator.
Pride Of Westfield makes BOA Grand Nationals debut
The Pride of Westfield band made its Bands Of America Grand Nationals debut Nov. 14 at Lucas Oil Stadium.
The Pride of Westfield did not advance from the preliminary round, but it was still a notable accomplishment for the band.
“The Pride of Westfield is thrilled to attend Bands of America Grand Nationals for the very first time in our program’s history,” Pride Of Westfield band director Andrew Muth stated in an email prior to the competition. “As the director, I couldn’t be more proud to provide this unforgettable opportunity for our performers and to showcase the excellence of our school and community.”
The Pride of Westfield 2025 show was
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Members of the Pride of Westfield perform their show “Through Rose Colored Glasses” during a recent competition. (Courtesy of The Pride Of Westfield)
titled “Through Rose Colored Glasses” and features: “An American In Paris” by George Gershwin, “I Love Paris” by Cole Porter, “La Vie En Rose” by Edith Piaf and “L’autre Valse D’amelie”, “La Noyee” and “Les Jours Tristes” by Yann Tiersen.
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HOLIDAY FILM SCREENING & WHITE CHRISTMAS ARTIFACT DISPLAY THU, DEC 4 AT 7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
JON MCLAUGHLIN & FRIENDS HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS FRI, DEC 5 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
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ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA WITH RAY CHEN FRI, JAN 30 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
CECE TENEAL’S DIVAS OF SOUL
GREAT AMERICAN CROONERS: A JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER PRESENTS PRODUCTION WED, FEB 25 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
PEKING ACROBATS THU, FEB 26 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
JEROME COLLINS: REWINDA JOURNEY TO MOTOWN AND BEYOND SAT, MAR 7 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
JOSHUA HENRY: GET UP STAND UP FRI, MAR 13 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
GREGORIAN: PURE CHANTS WORLD TOUR FEATURING SONGS OF ENIGMA
ONE NIGHT IN MEMPHIS: THE NUMBER ONE TRIBUTE TO PRESLEY, PERKINS, LEWIS AND CASH THU, MAR 19 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
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ILLUSIONIST RICK THOMAS SAT, APR 4 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
Holiday Adventure Pass available through Dec. 31
news@youarecurrent.com
Visit Indy and Visit Hamilton County’s Holiday Adventure Pass is a guide for residents and visitors to experience holiday attractions throughout Marion and Hamilton counties. The free pass is available through Dec. 31.
To earn points, users must check in via a QR code found at the following participating locations:
• Athenaeum Christkindlmarkt
• Carmel Christkindlmarkt
• Children’s Museum: WinterFaire
• Civic Theatre: “A Christmas Story The Musical”
• Conner Prairie: A Merry Prairie Holiday
• Eiteljorg Museum: Jingle Rails
• Ice Ribbon at Grand Junction Plaza
• Ice skating at Carter Green (at the Carmel Christkindlmarkt)
• Ice skating at Elevance Health Rink (at Morris Bicentennial Plaza)
• Ice skating at Holliday Park
• Ice skating at Noblesville Ice Plaza (at Federal Hill Commons)
• Indiana Historical Society: Festival of Trees
• Indiana Repertory Theatre: A Christmas Carol
• Indiana State Museum: Celebration Crossing
• Indiana State Fairgrounds: Christ-
mas Nights of Lights
• Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra: AES Indiana Yuletide Celebration
• Indianapolis Zoo: Christmas at the Zoo
• Monument Circle: Spark Holidays on the Circle
• Newfields: Winterlights presented by Bank of America
• Nickel Plate Heritage Railroad: Reindeer Express
• The Payne & Mencias Palladium Visiting a participating venue allows users to accumulate points, which can be redeemed for holiday-themed prizes. Some participating venues are ticketed attractions; the Holiday Adventure Pass does not cover entry fees, so guests must purchase tickets directly for admission.
For more, visit visitindy.com/events/ holidays/holidays-adventure-pass.
Apartment development coming to Westfield
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
Real estate developer Thompson Thrift announced Nov. 17 that an apartment complex will be built at the intersection of U.S. 31 and 191st Street in Westfield.
The development, Revere, will include 350 apartments averaging 1,000 square feet. Thompson Thrift said it will offer one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments with the expectation of opening by February 2027.
“Westfield continues to stand out as one of the fastest growing and most desirable communities in the country,” stated Josh Purvis, managing partner
for Thompson Thrift Residential. “With its strong demographics, high quality of life, and recognition as one of the best places to live, Westfield is an attractive place for new residents to call home, and we are excited to deliver a thoughtfully designed community that complements the city’s momentum.”
The 23-acre development — which will be adjacent to IMMI’s corporate headquarters at the same intersection — will be spread across six buildings and feature a fitness center, a 24-hour social hub space, a heated swimming pool, electric firepits, a dog park with a grooming station, a community grilling area, a business center and conference room.
The Holiday Adventure Pass. (Graphic courtesy of Visit Hamilton County)
Loss fuels
Eagles’ title run
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The Heritage Christian School girls soccer team had extra motivation going into the postseason. The Eagles lost in the semistate title game in 2024.
“Getting so close last year in semistate, after having a pretty easy ride to get there, made us realize we had gotten a little too comfortable,” said senior Lauryn Dolvin, a Westfield resident. “That loss made us hungry for another shot, and it reminded us that each game was going to be a battle. This season we came in sharper, not expecting any easy wins. We pushed ourselves with a level of discipline and determination that we were lacking last season. The loss stayed in the back of our heads throughout the whole season as a reminder of how much potential we had. We came into this season ready to finish what we started.”
The Eagles (16-7) finished that mission by shutting out Bremen 3-0 Nov. 1 in the IHSAA Class A state title game in Indianapolis. Sophomore Myla Spangler had two goals and sophomore Adriana Everhart scored the other goal on a penalty kick.
Dolvin, who will play for Taylor University next season, led the Eagles with 24 goals for the season. Junior Emma Gast was next with 20 goals and Spangler had 13.
“What made this group so special was their love for each other,” Heritage Christian coach Reyna Eckel said.
The Heritage Christian School girls soccer team captured the IHSAA Class A state title Nov. 1 in Indianapolis. (Photo courtesy of IHSAA)
Dolvin
COMMUNITY
Artist draws on experience
Elaine Keyes, 84, debuts first exhibit after years pursuing
other careers
By Lauren Weidinger news@currentincarmel.com
At an early age, art brought joy into Elaine Keyes’ life. She has memories of studying art in high school and winning a contest her sophomore year to paint storefront windows.
“It was really a fun thing, because you got the day off, too,” Keyes said. With hopes of becoming an art teacher, Keyes had plans to attend Herron School of Art and Design; however, her life took a different path. She got married, started a family, supported her first husband through night school and pursued various careers, working as a secretary and a multiline insurance adjuster.
“Between that and my family, I really did not have time to pursue (art),” Keyes said.
Later in life, the Carmel resident began rekindling her relationship with art during a time of hardship and grief.
“When my second husband started getting ill and going in and out of the hospital, I had a lot of time on my hands,” she said. “I started really putting out different pieces of art, and then when he passed away, (art) was really a lifesaver. And I turned this time that I had, especially this grieving time, into working on my art.”
Keyes began taking online courses and eventually showcasing her art on Facebook. Although she intended it to be more of a hobby, she began receiving
requests from people to purchase her paintings. So, she began selling prints on Fine Art America.
Later, after learning about The Mike and Karen Heaton Art Wall at the Westfield Washington Public Library and receiving encouragement from friends and family, Keyes decided to submit an application for her work to be featured.
The Westfield Library Foundation selected Keyes to display her art during November, coinciding with her 84th birthday.
“You really know that you have it made when your grandkids want to have the paintings,” Keyes teased.
Keyes said she did not realize all of the work that went into creating an art display. She relied heavily on her family members for the planning, preparation and execution of her exhibition.
Keyes will have 15 paintings on display at the library through Nov. 30. She will donate 20 percent of proceeds back to the library. Keyes’ work is also available to view online at fineartamerica. com/profiles/elaine-keyes.
DISPATCHES
Westfield YAP Giving Tuesday — Westfield Youth Assistance Program Giving Tuesday, an annual charitable day of giving, will take place Dec. 2. Westfield YAP’s goal for its 2025 Giving Tuesday Campaign is to raise $20,000. Westfield YAP said anonymous donors will match donations up to a $10,000 total. To donate, visit westfieldyouthassistanceprogram-bloom.kindful.com/
Food drive — The Westfield Fire Department, Westfield Washington Township Trustees Office and Trustee Jamie Goetz Mills will conduct a food drive to support food pantry Open Doors of
This Week’s Market Magic!
The Market will be open November 26 and 28-30, closed November 27 for Thanksgiving. Free to attend, free parking, no tickets required.
Werkstatt (Workshop)
Meet our German artisans while they work!
• Nov. 26-30, Maria von Mücke, Hand Carved & Painted “Jumping Jacks”
Kinderecke (Kids Corner)
Enjoy crafts for all ages!
• Nov. 26, Fabric Tree Ornaments
• Nov. 28, Lebkuchen Heart Necklaces
• Nov. 29-30, Snowman Advent Calendars
Spielhaus (Play House)
Meet-and-greets and magical shows.
• Nov. 26, 6-9 p.m., Market Magic Show
• Nov. 29, 12-5 p.m., Roz Puppets
• Nov. 30, 12-6 p.m., Santa Sundays
Winter Pavilion
Experience authentic German entertainment.
• Nov. 28, 7-9 p.m., Jennie DeVoe
• Nov. 29, 7-8:45 p.m., Jay Fox & the Jammin’ Germans
Westfield. Residents are encouraged to donate non-perishable food items at the following drop-off locations.
• Westfield Fire Station 381 — 17001 Ditch Rd.
• Westfield Fire Station 382 – 1920 E 151st St.
• Westfield Fire Station 383 – 17944 Grassy Branch Rd.
• Westfield Washington Township Trustees Office – 17400 Westfield Blvd.
The drive was announced Nov. 12 and will continue through the end of January 2026.
Special Events
• Nov. 26, 4-6 p.m., Sankt Martinstag
November 22 - December 24
Elaine Keyes displays a painting. (Photo by Lauren Weidinger)
Gramlich to run for Indiana House seat
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
Carmel resident Lindsay Gramlich will run for election in 2026 for the Indiana House of Representatives District 39 seat. She announced her candidacy Nov. 14.
Gramlich is president and CEO of Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis, a nonprofit leadership organization dedicated to helping girls realize their full potential.
“You will see me around Carmel, at school drop-offs and pick-ups, cheering for my children at their activities, or biking and exercising on the Monon Trail,” Gramlich stated. “I am running as your neighbor because I care deeply about the future we are building together.”
that cares about the people that live in District 39,” Lowry stated. “Lindsay has proven through her career and volunteering that she is always working to improve her community. She will bring that exact same focus to the General Assembly.”
Gramlich
Josh Lowry, chair of the Hamilton County Democrats, stated his support for Gramlich.
“District 39 needs a representative
District 39 serves Carmel, roughly north of 116th Street and east of Ditch Road and Clay Center Road. The district also serves southern portions of Westfield. The seat is occupied by Republican Danny Lopez.
Gramlich is a graduate of The Stanley K. Lacy Leadership Fellowship and Mitch Daniels Leadership Fellowship. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from DePauw University, a Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University, and has over 15 years experience in philanthropy in Central Indiana.
Gramlich will host a campaign launch party at Woodland Country Club from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Dec. 16.
CHS soccer player concludes career with dream season
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Carmel High School boys soccer coach Shane Schmidt views Quinn Wu’s prep career as a storybook ending.
Despite playing only one varsity season because of an injury, the senior midfielder was recently named Indiana Soccer Coaches Association Player of the Year for boys soccer after leading the Greyhounds to a Class 3A state title Nov. 1 in Indianapolis. Carmel topped West Lafayette Harrison 3-1.
“It’s an honor to have received an award of this caliber,” said Wu, who doesn’t plan to play in college. “I owe it to my teammates and coaches, as they lifted me up during the lows of our season and put me in the right positions to do what I can do.”
Schmidt said the honor was well deserved.
“He was the best player in just about every single game all season long, not just for our team but for the game itself,” Schmidt said. “He was fantastic. He’s going to be missed, but it was a pleasure to have the opportunity to
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
MEET QUINN WU
Favorite athlete: Tyrese Haliburton
Favorite subject: Math
Favorite TV show: “The Voice”
Favorite vacation spot: Maine
coach him.”
It was Wu’s only varsity season. He missed his junior year with a knee injury and served as the team manager.
Wu finished with seven goals and seven assists.
“That doesn’t do a whole lot of justice to the impact that he had on every single game, both in the attack and defensively,” Schmidt said. “He was an awesome leader.”
Wu said it was special to go out with
Carmel High School senior midfielder
Quinn Wu was named the Indiana Soccer Coaches Association Player of the Year for boys soccer. (Photo courtesy of Mike Bardos)
a special group of teammates he has played with since his freshman year.
“I knew it was big for our coach,” he said. “We hadn’t won it in 19 years. We’ve had some talented squads come through Carmel in the past, so to put it all together and get the end (result) was huge for us.”
Wu said Carmel (18-1-3) losing at Homestead 4-3 Sept. 19 was a turning point in the season
“If we’re not playing all together and firing on all cylinders playing our best,
EXPERT SPINE CARE NOW IN WESTFIELD
we can lose games,” he said. “We’re not untouchable. I think that was a good wake-up call for us.”
Wu said being a manager gave him a new perspective.
“I think it really helped me appreciate every moment watching from the sidelines,” he said. “It was hard for me to watch when people were messing around or not enjoying the process and what was happening because I wanted to be out there really badly. Last year, I watched us blow a 2-0 lead (in a regional loss to Lawrence North) with 15 minutes left, so I knew I would not let that happen to our team.”
Wu said the team benefited from excellent balance as the leading goal scorer Troy Enslin had nine goals.
“It was a big factor in our success,” he said. “No one had too big of an ego. Everyone was pretty level-headed, and that helped us play more as a team.”
And made the Greyhounds harder to defend.
“There is not one player they could shut down that would win them the game. They had to shut down everybody, which is a hard task,” Wu said.
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Players take part in the first round of the Westfield Lions Club “Poker For Sight” Nov. 14 at the Hamilton County Fairgrounds. (Photo courtesy of Westfield Lions Club)
Westfield Lions raise $25K through poker tournament
news@youarecurrent.com
The Westfield Lions Club hosted its “Poker for Sight” Texas Hold ‘Em tournament Nov. 14-15 at the Hamilton County Fairgrounds to raise money for local charities.
A total of $25,000 was raised. The Lions Club stated in a press release that the money raised will fund “numerous projects, grants, and scholarships.”
More than 200 players took part. Marcus Ellison of McCordsville won the tournament and the $10,000 prize. Marlena Evans of New Whiteland finished
second and won $4,000. David Meyers of Noblesville was third and won $2,000. A combined $25,100 was paid out to all the winners.
The two-day tournament featured three qualifying sessions and a championship round. The top 15 percent of players in the qualifying sessions advanced to the championship round.
The Westfield Lions will conduct their next tournament in April 2026 at the Hamilton County Fairgrounds 4H Building.
For more or to register, visit lionspoker.org.
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STATE OF THE CITY
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
Westfield Mayor Scott Willis delivered his second State of the City address Nov. 13 at the IMMI Conference Center.
Willis touched on the following topics.
LIV GOLF TOURNAMENT
Willis lauded the job Westfield and the Club at Chatham Hills did in hosting August’s LIV Golf Indianapolis event in August. LIV Golf will return in 2026 as a four-day event.
“What was really interesting about LIV is the demographics and who showed up for it,” he said. “PGA Golf, I love it, but it’s an old white male demographic that follows it. It just is what it is. I think the average age you’ll see at a PGA golf tournament is high 50s, low 60s. The demographics for (LIV) was 30 percent women and the average age was like 35.”
FIRE DEPARTMENT CAPACITY
Willis noted that as Westfield grows, the Westfield Fire Department will grow with it. He noted that one new fire station is under construction; ground was just broken on another; and he said at least three additional stations will be needed in the future.
“Our fire department is growing very rapidly, and we got a lot of work to do,” he said. “This is probably an area where I think we’re the most exposed from a public safety perspective.”
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Willis noted that Westfield accrued $1 billion in economic development in 2025. He said the city needs to create more inventory to draw more businesses. He also noted that Ind. 32 will be a focal point of more economic development.
“You’re going to see an explosion going west (on Ind. 32), especially with Citizen’s (Energy) bringing in water along 32 to get to the LEAP district,” he said. “It’s going to open up what has been a hindrance for a lot of development. It’s going to open that up and
make it very affordable.”’
GRAND PARK DISTRICT MASTER PLAN
Willis stressed his goal to keep tourism dollars generated by Grand Park in Westfield as he said the city is losing those dollars to neighboring cities with more entertainment options. He said the Grand Park Master Plan was drafted to accomplish the goal.
“It’s going to have a spine going down in the center of Grand Park that’s going to have restaurants and shops,” he said. “We’re looking at a trolley system that would connect our hotel district into the park. My goal is, you come to Westfield on a Thursday night, park your car, and you don’t get back into it until Sunday night when you leave the city.”
SENATE ENROLLED ACT 1
Willis said Westfield will “survive” SEA1’s impact on city finances and added, “I’m fine with SEA1.” However, he also pointed out that the negative effect of the state’s new property tax law is more impactful to city revenue in future years as it is written.
“SEA 1 did take about $2 million out of our pockets for 2026,” he said. “So, as we start to think about growth, infrastructure and all of the things we’re investing in, we have to be smart with those dollars. We don’t have as much as we used to. Where I really get concerned is 2027 and 2028. We’re going to lose about $10.5 million over those two years, and then in 2028, we go off a cliff. It’s about $12 million lost annually to the city. I don’t know how we function with that kind of a hit. We’re being told changes are coming. I’ve been at the Statehouse advocating for our city routinely. We’re telling our story, I think they’re listening, but we’re not there yet. So, pay attention because that certainly will impact Westfield and other cities.”
ART MASTER PLAN
Willis said he is working on a master plan with Noblesville Creates to display art in the downtown area, including Underground Railroad-themed artwork.
“I’m super proud to be in a city that
really was on the cusp of equal rights and on the cusp of antislavery,” he said. “What happened in this town in the 1800s was truly remarkable. We’re going to honor that with a piece of art.”
STANDARD OF LIVING
Willis noted Westfield’s ranking as one of the best small cities in America. He cited a recent WalletHub survey of America’s best small cities, in which Westfield ranked fourth overall but was 1,048th in quality of life.
“That’s embarrassing,” he said. “We’ve got a lot of work to do in Westfield to build out quality of life. But we’re addressing it. We’re working hard in our downtown area to create family entertainment options — places to eat, places to shop. When you see (the quality-of-life ranking) start to drop, we’re going to beat them. We will be No. 1.”
Westfield mayor delivers optimistic outlook for growing city
ON THE COVER: Westfield Mayor Scott Willis delivers the State of the City address at the IMMI Conference Center Nov. 13. (Courtesy City of Westfield)
Westfield Mayor Scott Willis speaks about the Grand Gala during the Westfield State of the City address at the IMMI Conference Center Nov. 13. The Grand Gala will take place May 1, 2026. (Photo courtesy of the City of Westfield)
SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY
Local businesses set for special promotions
By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com
Small Business Saturday takes place Nov. 29. Among the participating Westfield businesses is Root 31, a plant boutique at 17808 Grassy Branch Rd.
“Small Business Saturday is always the most emotional day of the year for us,” Root 31 owner Angela Gapinski said. “It is the day we look forward to the most out of everything that we do/ There’s just something so wonderful about the intentionality behind it.”
Something Splendid boutique at 217 Mill St. also is participating.
“This is honestly probably my favorite day of the year. It is truly incredible to see how many people in the community come out and support small businesses,” co-owner Elyse Haverstock said.
For many small businesses, the holiday season is one of the most important times of the year.
“For a small business, the months of October and November can be extremely nerve wracking,” Gapinski said. “So, it feels like (for) all of your hard work, you kind of get the payoff on Small
Business Saturday.”
Even businesses that aren’t strictly product-sales-driven look forward to Small Business Saturday, such as Collective Beauty Salon and Med Spa at 380 E. Main St.
“For us, Small Business Saturday celebrates the relationships and trust we’ve
Winter illnesses are
Guardian Pediatrics is always available to put the happy back in your holidays. Come see us for truly compassionate care, dedicated pediatricians on call 24/7, prioritized same-day appointments and timely wellness visits.
built within our community. It’s about more than just shopping local — it’s about supporting the people behind the businesses and creating spaces where our guests can relax, recharge and feel beautiful inside and out,” Collective Beauty owner Sheri Ikerd said. “We love meeting new faces, helping our
guests feel their best, and being part of a local network that truly cares about one another.
Collective Beauty will offer 20 percent off all boutique items as well as hair care and skin care products, except for
Continued on Page 19
Quinn Bensi Jaime McKeever Alicyn Robb Wendy Schulte
Something Splendid at 217 Mill St. in Westfield will participate in Small Business Saturday Nov. 29. (Photo by Todd Golden)
Collective Beauty at 380 E. Main St in Westfield, will participate in Small Business Saturday Nov. 29. (Photo courtesy of Collective Beauty)
SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY
Continued from Page 17 Westfield, construction has been a hurdle for customers.
holiday kits. Collective Beauty will also have an online promotion for customers to receive a $5 bonus card with a $50 purchase.
Garinski looks forward to welcoming customers. “You get to see all your favorite customers that you know sup port you and that they’re as excited to come shop as you are excited to greet them to come shop,” Gapinski said. Gapinski also noted that she learned to treat Small Business Saturday as its own event.
“When I first started, I felt a lot of pressure to compete with Black Friday,” Gapinski said. “I felt all this pressure to have deals and doorbusters and all this stuff. And then you kind of quickly re alize the whole point of Small Business Saturday is not to be like Black Friday … so it’s been much more of a relaxed Small Business Saturday approach as I’ve kind of grown in my small business ownership. Now, what we try to do is make it feel like our friends are coming over to our house.”
Root 31 will give a free 2-inch plant with any Saturday purchase. Anyone with a purchase exceeding $100 will be entered in a raffle for a chance to win a Root 31 gift package valued at more than $375. Snacks and drinks will be provided, along with hot cider and cof fee bar by Jaws Treat Co. In addition, all proceeds from Poinsettia sales on Small Business Saturday will go to the Mid west Food Bank.
“Every year (Small Business Saturday) becomes better and better, and especially in Westfield right now, where there’s just so much construction,” Haverstock said. “It takes a lot for people to come here. To still come means the
Small Business Saturday comes at a good time for businesses. A few owners cited the challenge of navigating tariffs. At Something Splendid in downtown
grass-fed whey protein, coconut but ter, almond milk, cacao nibs, raw cacao and banana. It offers a nutritious option for shoppers looking to refuel during Small Business Saturday.
PURE GREEN FROZEN HOT CHOCOLATE
Root 31 at 17808 Grassy Branch Rd. in Westfield will participate in Small Business Saturday Nov. 29. (Photo by Todd Golden)
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS
Holiday rinks are open
news@youarecurrent.com
The 2025 holiday season is officially here, with outdoor ice rinks in Carmel, Noblesville and Westfield now open for skating.
THE ICE RIBBON AT GRAND JUNCTION PLAZA
Location: 225 S. Union St., Westfield
Dates: Open now through Jan. 3, 2026
Hours: Sessions are timed (typically 90 minutes); check the website for daily time blocks.
Cost: $12 for ages 11 and up; $10 for ages 10 and under (includes skate rental).
For more: theiceatgrandjunction.com
THE ICE AT CARTER GREEN
Location: 10 Carter Green, Carmel (at the Christkindlmarkt)
Dates: Open now through Feb. 1, 2026
Hours:
• Wednesday – Thursday: 4-9 p.m.
• Friday – Saturday: 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.
• Sunday: 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Closed Mondays, Tuesdays and Christmas Day.
For more: theiceatcartergreen.com
ICE PLAZA AT FEDERAL HILL COMMONS
Location: 175 Logan St., Noblesville
Dates: Open now through Jan. 5, 2026
Hours:
• Monday – Thursday: 5-9 p.m.
• Friday: 5-10 p.m.
• Saturday: Noon-10 p.m.
• Sunday: Noon-9 p.m.
Cost: $13 for ages 13 and up; $11 for ages 12 and under (includes skate rental).
For more: noblesvilleparks.org
THE ICE RINK AT HOLLIDAY PARK
Location: 6363 Spring Mill Road, Indianapolis (just south of the Hamilton County line)
Dates: Nov. 29-March 1, 2026
Hours: Public skating hours vary throughout the season; typically, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. on weekends and 2:30 p.m.6 p.m. on weekdays, with extended holiday hours.
Cost: $14 per person (includes skate rental); children 4 and under are free.
For more: hollidaypark.org/rink
The big red suit is here
When and where Santa will be
news@youarecurrent.com
The holiday season officially launches this weekend with Santa Claus making his first appearances across the community. Whether you prefer a quick photo op at the mall or a festive breakfast, opportunities to meet the man in red abound.
WELCOME PHOTOS WITH SANTA
• Dec. 5 & 6
• 17400 Westfield Blvd, Westfield, IN 46074
• ticketleap.events/tickets/westfieldwelcome/2025PictureswithSanta#
URBAN VINES WINERY & BREWERYCOOKIES WITH SANTA
• Noon - 2 p.m. Dec. 7
• 303 E 161st St., Westfield, IN 46074
• urban-vines.com/event_listing_type/ free-event/
CRATE ESCAPES DOG PARK + BARSELFIES WITH SANTA
• 10 - 11:30 a.m Dec. 21
• 18595 Carousel Lane, Westfield, IN 46074
• eventbrite.com/e/selfies-with-santa-his-puppies-tickets-1972120962888
COOL CREEK NATURE CENTER - HOLLY JOLLY JAMBOREE (CARMEL/WESTFIELD AREA)
• 2-4 p.m. Dec. 13
• 2000 E 151st St, Carmel, IN 46033 (Hamilton County Parks)
• hamiltoncounty.in.gov/Calendar. aspx?EID=6868
CLAY TERRACE - SANTA SOIRÉE
• 4-6 p.m. Dec. 6 and 3-6 p.m. Dec. 14
• 14390 Clay Terrace Blvd, Carmel, IN 46032 (Village Green)
• clayterrace.com/events/ santa-soiree-2025-2/
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS
Holiday arts season brings classics, concerts to the stage
news@youarecurrent.com
From the timeless tradition of “The Nutcracker” to high-energy holiday pop concerts, the 2025 performing arts season is officially in full swing across Central Indiana. Theaters and concert halls in Carmel, Fishers and Noblesville are offering a diverse lineup of seasonal entertainment, ranging from local community productions to nationally touring acts.
Christmas at the Playhouse: Holiday Shorts by Mark Harvey Levine – 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5-6 and 2:30 p.m. Dec. 7 at the Basile Westfield Playhouse, 220 N. Union St., Westfield. For tickets visit westfieldplayhouse.org
A Beef & Boards Christmas 2025 –Nov. 28-Dec. 31 (times vary) at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre, 9301 Michigan Rd., Indianapolis. For tickets visit beefandboards.com
A Christmas Carol – Dec. 5-22 (select dates) at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre, 9301 Michigan Rd., Indianapolis.
For tickets visit beefandboards.com
Indiana Wind Symphony: Sleigh Bells and Snowflakes – 4 p.m. Dec. 7 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, 1 Carter Green, Carmel. For tickets visit thecenterpresents.org
Indiana Ballet Conservatory: The Nutcracker – 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Nov. 29 and 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Nov. 30 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, 1 Carter Green, Carmel. For tickets visit thecenterpresents.org
Civic Theatre: A Christmas Story, The Musical – Dec. 5-27 (times vary) at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, 3 Carter Green, Carmel. For tickets visit civictheatre.org
Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra: Handel’s Messiah – 7:30 p.m. Dec. 18 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, 1 Carter
Continued on Page 27
HOLIDAY FILM SCREENING & WHITE CHRISTMAS ARTIFACT DISPLAY THU, DEC 4 AT 7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
JON MCLAUGHLIN & FRIENDS HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS FRI, DEC 5 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
SAMANTHA FISH, CEDRIC BURNSIDE AND JON SPENCER: SHAKE ‘EM ON DOWN TOUR WED, DEC 10 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS FRI, DEC 12 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
LET’S SING TAYLOR: AN UNOFFICIAL LIVE TRIBUTE SHOW SAT JAN 17 AT 2PM & 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
NEKO CASE: NEON GREY MIDNIGHT GREEN TOUR THU, JAN 22 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
ROYAL PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA WITH RAY CHEN FRI, JAN 30 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
CECE TENEAL’S DIVAS OF SOUL SAT, JAN 31 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
MARIACHI HERENCIA DE MÉXICO LA NUEVA GENERACIÓN TOUR FRI, FEB 20 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
GREAT AMERICAN CROONERS: A JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER PRESENTS PRODUCTION WED, FEB 25 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
PEKING ACROBATS THU, FEB 26 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
JEROME COLLINS: REWINDA JOURNEY TO MOTOWN AND BEYOND SAT, MAR 7 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
ORPHEUS CHAMBER ORCHESTRA & MARC-ANDRÉ HAMELIN SAT, MAR 7 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
JOSHUA HENRY: GET UP STAND UP FRI, MAR 13 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
GREGORIAN: PURE CHANTS WORLD TOUR FEATURING SONGS OF ENIGMA SAT, MAR 14 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
ONE NIGHT IN MEMPHIS: THE NUMBER ONE TRIBUTE TO PRESLEY, PERKINS, LEWIS AND CASH THU, MAR 19 AT 7:30PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
BRANFORD MARSALIS QUARTET FRI, MAR 20 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
FROM ROME: THE THREE ITALIAN TENORS
AT 7PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
ILLUSIONIST RICK THOMAS SAT, APR 4 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
CHRIS THILE FRI, APR 10 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
AN EVENING WITH MICHAEL FEINSTEIN FRI, APR 17 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
SNARKY PUPPY: SOMNI TOUR 2026 SAT, APR 25 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
THE ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA EXPERIENCE SAT, MAY 2 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
AN EVENING WITH JAKE SHIMABUKURO FRI, MAY 8 AT 8PM | PAYNE & MENCIAS PALLADIUM
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS
Continued from Page 25
Green, Carmel. For tickets visit thecenterpresents.org
Indianapolis Symphonic Choir: Festival of Carols – 8 p.m. Dec. 19 and 3 p.m. Dec. 20-21 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, 1 Carter Green, Carmel. For tickets visit thecenterpresents.org
Jon McLaughlin & Friends: Home for the Holidays – 8 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, 1 Carter Green, Carmel. For tickets visit thecenterpresents.org
An Intimate Evening with David Foster & Katharine McPhee – 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, 1 Carter Green, Carmel. For tickets visit thecenterpresents.org
Preservation Hall Jazz Band: Creole Christmas – 7:30 p.m. Dec. 8 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, 1 Carter Green, Carmel. For tickets visit thecenterpresents.org
Christmas with Lorie Line 2025 – 7 p.m. Dec. 9 at The Studio Theater at the Allied Solutions Center for the Perform-
ing Arts, 4 Carter Green, Carmel. For tickets visit thecenterpresents.org
Dave Koz & Friends – 8 p.m. Dec. 12 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, 1 Carter Green, Carmel. For tickets visit thecenterpresents.org
Carmel Symphony Orchestra: Holiday Pops – Spirit of the Season – 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts, 1 Carter Green, Carmel. For tickets visit thecenterpresents.org
Amy Grant, CeCe Winans & Michael W. Smith: Christmas Together – 7 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Fishers Event Center, 11000 Stockdale St., Fishers. For tickets visit fisherseventcenter.com
Mud Creek Players: 4X’MAS – Nov. 20-Dec. 6 (times vary) at Mud Creek Theater, 9740 E. 86th St., Indianapolis. For tickets visit mudcreekplayers.org
Wizards of Winter – 7 p.m. Dec. 5 at The Arena at Innovation Mile, 14157 CJ Way, Noblesville. For tickets visit ticketmaster.com
Hendricks Civic Theatre: A Seussified Christmas Carol – Dec. 5-7 (times vary) at Hendricks Live!, 200 W. Main St., Plainfield. For tickets visit hendrickslive. org
Hear Lindy Thackston, Fox 59 anchor, share her inspiring journey through cancer and healing. Gain expert insights on menopause, lifestyle medicine, mental health and more from Riverview Health’s all-women physician panel of experts
Commentary by Larry Greene
This charming Carmel home near Woodland Country Club gained new life with a front porch addition designed for comfort, character and year-round enjoyment.
THE BLUEPRINT
• The new covered porch creates a welcoming entry and gathering spot for family and friends.
• Classic columns and stone-wrapped bases add architectural detail and timeless curb appeal.
• A stamped concrete walkway and spacious seating area enhance both style and function.
• Warm lighting and natural textures make the porch feel inviting in every season.
• This addition beautifully blends with the home’s exterior, bringing lasting charm and value.
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.
A cozy Carmel porch addition
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Performers return in lead roles in Civic Theatre’s ‘A Christmas Story’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Parrish Williams will get another turn as the Old Man in “A Christmas Story: The Musical.”
The New Palestine resident reprises his role in Civic Theatre’s production Dec. 5-27 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
Zionsville resident Mikayla Koharchik, who plays his wife, also played the same role in Civic’s 2022 production. Carmel resident Emily Rogge Tzucker returns as director.
“There are definitely things I wanted to tweak in my performance,” Williams said. “I was glad to get the second opportunity to do it, plus to get to work with (Koharchik and Tzucker). I learned I liked the show. I knew the movie, but I didn’t know the stage show. None of us knew the songs or the additional things that are different from the movie. I think we’ve been able to fine-tune things, maybe a lot more than we did the first time because we already had a base of understanding what the show was about.”
Williams said the interactions have improved, especially with Koharchik.
“It just comes with experience and familiarity,” he said.
Koharchik agreed it helps broaden the performance.
“It’s just because your relationship deepens and you build more trust with each other, then you can go deeper with the characters and their relationships,” Koharchik said. “I was really proud of the show we put on three years ago, but it’s fun to explore the characters in a new way.”
Two new actors portray the couple’s boys. Preston Blair, a Carmel seventh-grader, plays Ralphie Parker, and Colin Davis, a Carmel fifth-grader, plays the younger brother Randy. The story centers on Ralphie’s quest to get a BB gun for Christmas.
Evan Cohen, a Carmel eighth-grader, plays Scut Farkus, the older bully. He played Grover Dill in Civic’s previous production.
Williams said he watches the movie every year.
“My dad loves it, so I like to watch it at least once a year with him, generally on Christmas Eve,” he said. “I almost have the movie memorized.”
Koharchik said she doesn’t really love the movie but does love the musical. She said the relationships on stage between the characters seem to stick out better.
Williams said the show expands what goes on in the family dynamic.
“It’s odd to say because usually everything is truncated in a musical version of a movie, but I don’t think that happens in this show,” he said.
Returning to a Civic role isn’t unusual for Williams. He has played Moonface Martin in “Anything Goes” twice
and Santa Claus in “Elf” three times. Koharchik said she has reprised roles before, but this is the first time at the same theater with some of the same cast members.
Tzucker is enjoying the experience.
“I love returning to a show because you get to do some things the same, but you get a lot of new people or you get people with a new perspective,” Tzucker said. “So, it makes you understand the story in a way you hadn’t the first time, and the first time was good, too. This story, for me, is such a wonderful story about celebration, ritual and family.”
At each rehearsal, Tzucker asks a cast member to share a memory from a holiday celebration
“I love the musical and the movie,” she said. “I think the musical has a lot more love and a little bit more heart. The movie is very funny and silly.”
For more, visit civictheatre.org.
‘A BEEF AND BOARDS CHRISTMAS!’
“A Beef and Boards Christmas!” runs from Nov. 28 to Dec. 31 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
Tim Wright & Steel Petals is set for 7:30 p.m. Nov. 29 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘THE NUTCRACKER’
Indiana Ballet Conservatory presents “The Nutcracker” at 2 and 7 p.m. Nov. 29 and at 1 and 6 p.m. Nov. 30 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit indianaballetconservatory.org.
‘JINGLE & SWING’
The Fishers Community Chorus and Mudsock Jazz Combo will perform at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 4 at Fishers Art Center Theater. For more, visit fisherschorus. org.
‘BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT’
Carmel Apprentice Theatre presents “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever!” Nov. 28 to Dec. 7 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, vist thecat.biz.
Reilly returns as ATI executive director – Actors Theatre of Indiana announced the return of Jim Reilly as executive director. Reilly previously held this position from 2012 to 2023. Reilly, who retired from ATI in December 2023, replaces Brian Frost. A long-time patron and supporter, Reilly first joined ATI in 2011 as a consultant before moving into the executive director role. The Actors Theatre of Indiana Board of Directors thanked Frost for his leadership during the past two years.
From left, Preston Blair, Parrish Williams, Mikayla Koharchik and Colin Davis appear in “A Christmas Story: The Musical.” (Photo courtesy of Joshua Hasty Photography)
Foster, McPhee to perform
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
David Foster and his wife, Katharine McPhee, are the ultimate power couple.
A producer, composer, arranger and musician, Foster has won 16 Grammy Awards. McPhee, the 2006 “American Idol” runner-up, has performed on Broadway, TV shows and in movies.
Foster and McPhee will perform some of their hits along with holiday favorites at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2 at Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center in Carmel.
They have toured together for about five years.
“It was not really necessarily something we thought was going to be long term,” McPhee said. “But after COVID, people were excited to go back to seeing live shows. We just kind of keep going and staying on the road.”
This is their second Christmas tour. McPhee said there is a standard set list of songs.
“People definitely want to hear all the great songs that David wrote and produced for Celine Dion, Whitney Houston and even Michael Bublé,” McPhee said. “So, we will weave a lot of the holiday spirit in our regular show, but people can expect a real holiday spirit show.”
Foster said it’s interactive.
“I love to go to the audience, get people to sing and just like to have fun, because when I go to a concert, I want the artist to interact with me,” he said. “I don’t want them just to do their music, so we try to do a lot of that.”
McPhee said she and Foster interact with each other as well.
“It’s kind of a cabaret style where you
feel really intimate and you get to hear personal stories that weave into the songs and just in a much bigger venue than cabaret style,” McPhee said.
Foster said a few venues where they perform have a large distance between the stage and the first seat.
“We really don’t like that because you feel immediately disconnected from the audience,” he said. “We like to have them up close and personal.”
Foster said his theory is people don’t want to hear new Christmas songs.
“They want to hear the standards,” Foster said. “They want to hear ‘Jingle Bell Rock’ and ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.’ I did write a song years ago called “Grown-Up Christmas List” and we’ll do that. Other than that, it’s all songs you know and love.”
McPhee said she often sings the female-driven songs Foster wrote.
“But I like a lot of the songs he did with Al Jarreau and Chaka Khan and I’m always begging him, ‘Let’s add that to the show,” she said, Foster said they eventually will because, “We’re going to get bored.”
McPhee said they always do some Broadway tunes, including a song from “Waitress,” her Broadway debut, and from her TV show, “Smash.”
David Foster and Katharine McPhee will perform Dec. 2 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center in Carmel. . (Photo courtesy of Allied Solutions Center))
ENTERTAINMENT
Holiday tradition returns
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Kenny Shepard loves the family feel of “A Beef and Boards Christmas!”
“I think the show has remained a family show since Doug Stark began it years ago. My friend and choreographer, the late Ron Morgan, always called it a show with ‘TV revue-show energy for everyone in the family,’” Shepard said. “Songs can come and go and come back again in a reinvented way, but family and a feel-good energy is still at the heart of it all.”
The Christmas revue is set for Nov. 28 to Dec. 31 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis.
Shepard, who is the co-host with Deb Wims, has been performing in the show for 26 years, starting in its second year in 1994.
“This year, my former Ball State student, AnnaLee Higgins, is choreographing the show with her husband Dan Bob Higgins, and it’s a real full-circle moment,” said Shepard, a former Fishers resident who now lives in the Geist area. “AnnaLee and Dan Bob are great
friends now, and after years of telling her where to go and what to do on stage, it’s fun to sit back and let her take the helm.”
Shepard was living in New York when he heard Beef & Boards was staging an annual revue.
“I missed the first season (in 1993), but I thought, ‘I have to be part of this, so I can be home for the holidays each year,’ and that’s exactly what happened,” Shepard said.
Shepard said performing “The Christmas Waltz” is one of his favorite parts of the revue.
For more, visit beefandboards.com.
‘Winterfest’ returns
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre Executive Artistic Director Gregory Hancock understands how many different performances of “The Nutcracker” are out there.
So, the GHDT created “Winterfest” in 2024. The show will return Dec. 4-7 and Dec. 11-14 at The Florence in The Academy of GHDT in Carmel.
“Even though GHDT’s ‘Nutcracker’ is a contemporary reimagining of the holiday classic, the market is simply saturated with ‘Nutcracker’ productions, so we decided to present ‘Winterfest” for a while, to give audiences an alternative entertainment option that still maintains a global and cultural focus, as GHDT ‘s ‘Nutcracker,’” Hancock said. “We hope to someday bring GHDT’s heart-warming production of ‘The Nutcracker’ back to the stage, but we are excited to share ‘Winterfest’ with audiences now.”
Hancock said this year’s “Winterfest” features some new music and choreography.
Audrey Springer performs “We Need a Little Christrmas” at Winterfest. (Photo by Lydia Moody)
“Casting is different from last season, so it is always fresh to see dancers in different roles,” he said.
Hancock said the show celebrates the global holidays of Saint Nicholas Day, Winter Solstice, Kwanzaa, Saint Lucia Day, Las Posadas, Hanukkah and Christmas.
“There are some quick costume changes that are a bit challenging, but GHDT is known for rapid costume changes, so just part of our usual job,” Hancock said.
For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org.
UPCOMING SHOWS
HOLIDAY CHEER IN CARMEL | Presented by Franc D’Ambr osio ALL THE WAY FRANK: A SINATRA TRIBUTE | Presented by Don Farrell HUMAN JUKEBOX: HOLIDAY EDITION | Presented by Ryan & Lauren Ahlwardts
DUELING PIANOS BY BRITTANY BRUMFIELD| You Pick, We Play!
DRAG ME TO BRUNCH | Presented by Pat Yo’ Weave, 21+ Only AN ACCOUSTIC CHRISTMAS | Presented by Tim Wright & The Steel Petals
A SINATRA CHRISTMAS | Presented by Don Farrell, 2:0 0 & 7:30
THE MAGIC OF DAVID RANALLI | Signature Magic Show
MURDER MYSTERY | The Most Wonderful Crime of the Ye ar REMEMBER WHEN ROCK WAS YOUNG | Elton John Experienc e
Deb Wims and Kenny Shepard perform during a previous “A Beef & Boards Christmas!” (Photo courtesy of Beef & Boards)
McLaughlin set to return
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For Jon McLaughlin, performing in Carmel is always a homecoming.
The Anderson native, who is based in Nashville, Tenn., lived in Carmel for two years after his marriage in 2005.
The “McLaughlin & Friends: Home for the Holidays” concert is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
‘You’ve got to hear this person,’” McLaughlin said. “I either leave or go to the side stage and look at the crowd as they hear this person’s amazing voice, or I get to sit at the piano and watch the crowd.”
The occasion marks the third consecutive year McLaughlin has brought his holiday show to the Palladium.
McLaughlin said he is glad the tour starts with Carmel despite there being some nerves in the first show.
“But that first show is maybe a little more organic,” he said. “We haven’t done it five times and the sixth time you’re comfortable. The first night it’s a little more alive.”
McLaughlin will be joined by vocalist Morgan James for the first time, along with 2009 “American Idol” winner Kris Allen and singer-songwriter David Davis.
“My favorite thing about the show is bringing out somebody and saying,
McLaughlin has been friends with Allen, who also lives in Nashville, for several years. Allen joined McLaughlin on the 2023 tour.
“I was a huge fan before we became friends,” he said. “I see him on a weekly basis, but I don’t always hear him sing. Every time I hear him sing it’s, ‘Dang, this guy is good.’ You forget how good he is.”
Davis joined the tour last year.
“I want them to do their own songs, pop out and do some vocals, take a verse here and there,” McLaughlin said.
McLaughlin said 90 percent of the show will be Christmas music. McLaughlin released his latest album “Scenarios” in late October.
“I’m definitely going to have play one of the new songs,” he said. “Since the album just came out, I’m riding high off it.”
For more, visit thecenterpresents. org.
Holiday film exhibit set
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Visitors will have a rare chance to see authentic artifacts from the 1954 film “White Christmas” when the Great American Songbook Foundation presents a free holiday exhibition Dec. 1-20. The display in the Traditions Senior Communities Songbook Gallery in the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel, will feature iconic and rarely seen materials exploring the artistry, design and cultural legacy of the classic holiday musical, which featured songs by Irving Berlin and lead roles for Rosemary Clooney and Bing Crosby. Alongside treasures from the Foundation’s own Songbook Library & Archives, the exhibition will include historical items on loan from Rosemary Clooney House Museum in Augusta, Ky., which preserves the beloved star’s longtime home and celebrates her legacy.
During the exhibition, the gallery will be open extended hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays and 2-4 p.m. Saturdays, except Dec. 4-5 when the gallery will be closed for a special event. Admission is free, and guests can reserve tickets in advance or obtain them on arrival. Reservations may be made online at TheSongbook.org/ WhiteChristmasDisplay, by phone at 317-843-3800, or in person at the Payne & Mencias Palladium.
The exhibit coincides with a holiday film screening at 7 p.m. Dec. 4, hosted by the Songbook Foundation in partnership with Allied Solutions Center. The event at the Palladium will feature a live talkback and Q&A with Clooney’s daughter Maria Ferrer Murdock, sharing stories and insights about her mother’s remarkable life and career. Tickets for the screening are $10 per person and $5 for military personnel, available at TheSongbook.org/ WhiteChristmas.
McLaughlin
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