Issuu

Council OKs spending, housing

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Domestic violence task force relaunched Page 12

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NHS Principal looks to future Page 14

Marilyn’s Place to close Page 19

Yoga studio aids moms

“WE

eCommunity.com/cancer

Byron H., patient

Time for a Campfire!

Council OKs spending, residential plans

Noblesville Common Council finalizes the $119M ’26 budget and a 324-unit housing development

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

The Noblesville Common Council adopted the 2026 City of Noblesville budget at its Oct. 7 meeting. The council also approved residential development plans for The Parks at Crossroads and the 2026 council and Noblesville Board of Public Works & Safety meeting dates. The next council meeting is at 6 p.m. Oct. 21 at City Hall, 16 S. 10th St.

What happened: The council adopted the 2026 City of Noblesville’s budget, which totals $119,261,048.

What it means: The budget includes a property tax rate decrease from $1.10 per $100 assessed value in 2025 to no higher than $1 in 2026. It also includes $114,036,614 in ongoing expenses and $5,224,434 in one-time expenses and is $8.4 million less than the city’s 2025 budget. The budget also prioritizes public safety, with 55 percent earmarked for operational expenses in the public safety department. The budget will go into effect Jan. 1, 2026.

What happened: The council approved development plans for The Parks at Crossroads, an $18 million residential development that will be on approximately 124 acres north of and adjacent to Ind. 32 and south of and adjacent to 181st Street.

What it means: The community will have 324 homes, including 82 townhomes and 44 duplexes. It will feature amenities, such as a central park area with more than 40 acres of open common areas; a swimming pool; sports courts; dog parks; a playground; and trails. The developer, Boomerang Development, has tapped David Weekly and Lennar as the builders, with the community featuring five home types, including side-load garage homes, frontload garage homes, alley-load homes with no garage on the front, duplexes and townhomes.

What’s next: Boomerang Development will meet with the city’s engineering department to finish final plan reviews. Construction is expected to begin next spring.

About us

Founded Sept. 15, 2009, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XVII, No. 5

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What happened: The council approved the 2026 common council and board of public works & safety meeting dates.

What it means: In 2026, the Noblesville Board of Public Works and Safety will meet at 9 a.m. and the common council will meet at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Regular meetings are held in the Council Chambers in City Hall at 16 S. 10th St.

What’s next: The approved meeting dates are Jan. 13; Jan. 27; Feb. 10; Feb. 24; March 10; March 24; April 14; April 28; May 12; May 26; June 9; June 23; July 14; July 28; Aug. 11; Aug. 25; Sept. 15; Sept. 29; Oct. 13; Oct. 27; Nov. 10; Nov. 24; Dec. 8; and Dec. 22.

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Chart

all budgeted fund appropriations by city department. (Chart courtesy of the City of Noblesville)

Rendering of the concept plan for The Parks at Crossroads. (Rendering courtesy of Noblesville Common Council meeting documents)

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• Exterior

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Grants, health deals approved

County council signs off on Riverview financial agreements and reviews tourism fund grants

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

The Hamilton County Council approved two resolutions regarding Riverview Health and reviewed projects approved for Business of Entertainment, Sport and Tourism Fund grants at its Oct. 1 meeting. The next county council meeting is at 7 p.m. Nov. 5.

What happened: The council approved a support agreement between Hamilton County and the Riverview Health Board of Trustees, along with an agreement for the county to acquire two properties Riverview Health currently uses.

What it means: The Hamilton County Commissioners approved the agreements at the Sept. 22 commissioners meeting. The first states that in exchange for the county’s support in connection with financing, the hospital agrees to a reimbursement obligation, which will be secured by hospital revenues. The hospital’s revenue will be used to make bond payments. The second allows the county to acquire property next to the hospital, which is a former car dealership, and a building in the Noblesville Square Shopping Center that Riverview Health uses. The agreement confirms Hamilton County as the lessor and Riverview as the lessee of the properties. The Riverview Health Board of Trustees approved the land acquisition Sept. 29.

What happened: Hamilton County Tourism President and CEO Karen Radcliff introduced two projects that were approved for Business of Entertainment, Sport and Tourism Fund grants. The Hamilton County BEST Investment Fund is a tourism capital improvement grant program that supports projects that will create or enhance tourism products and events that have a positive impact on Hamilton County.

What it means: The projects were approved by the Hamilton County Visitors and Convention Commission in August. One is the Indianapolis Executive Airport U.S. Customs facility, which received approval for a $500,000 grant for equipment needed inside the building. The second project is a year-round ice facility in the City of Westfield.

What’s next: Radcliff said the airport project was approved with contingencies as it awaits federal approval. Grant funds will be distributed once federal approval is received. The City of Westfield put out a Request for Proposal, a formal document used to invite vendors to submit detailed proposals for specific projects or services, and received a number of applications for the ice facility. They are down to a couple groups, and the chosen group will operate the facility at Grand Park. The facility will run year-round to allow for winter sports.

DISPATCHES

 Leaf pick-up The City of Noblesville’s bagged and loose leaf pick-up will continue through Dec. 5. Bagged leaves must be in compostable bags, which are provided by the city at no charge to Noblesville residents. Bags can be picked up at any of the fire stations, City Hall, the parks department or street department. For guidelines, visit noblesville.in.gov/261/Leaf-Pickup.

 Firefighters earn credentials The Noblesville Fire Department recently recognized Division Chief Todd Estes and Lt. Dan Milligan for their accomplishments in the field of fire investigation. Estes and Milligan have earned the Certified Vehicle Fire Investigator credential through the National Association of Fire Investigators. In addition, Milligan successfully tested for and achieved his Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator credential. Estes previously earned his CFEI in 2024.

DV Task Force relaunched

news@currentnoblesville.com

In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office, in partnership with the Noblesville-based nonprofit Prevail, Inc., has relaunched the Hamilton County Domestic Violence Task Force.

According to the announcement, the task force brings together community partners to strengthen the county’s response to domestic abuse, with a particular focus on high-risk cases to prioritize survivor safety, offender accountability and community safety.

“Domestic violence has no place in our community,” stated Hamilton County Deputy Prosecutor Joshua Kocher. “By bringing together law enforcement, victim advocates, service providers and prosecutors through this task force, we are strengthening our collective ability to hold offenders accountable and provide meaningful support for survivors.”

The task force serves as a collaborative, where agencies and individuals who work with survivors can share resources, expertise and strategies. It works to identify gaps in services, pro-

mote awareness and prevention initiatives, and assess training opportunities to ensure all partners are equipped to respond effectively.

The task force will focus on high-risk cases that are identified through Hamilton County’s evidence-based Lethality Assessment Program, which screens and identifies survivors at greatest risk of homicide based on offender behaviors. Participating officers will connect survivors directly to support services at Prevail, ensuring timely intervention and safety planning.

Noblesville fire rating rises

Department moves to Class 2/2Y, placing it in the top 5.6% of the nation

news@currentnoblesville.com

The Noblesville Fire Department has announced an improvement in its Public Protection Classification rating, evaluated by Verisk, an independent organization that assesses fire protection efforts across more than 40,000 communities nationwide.

Effective this month, the NFD’s PPC rating has improved from 3/3Y to 2/2Y, placing it in the top 2.8 percent of fire departments in Indiana and the top 5.6 percent nationally, according to the announcement.

The 2 applies to properties within the City of Noblesville, while the 2Y applies to properties within Noblesville Township.

NFD Division Chief Trevor Hash said Verisk’s Public Protection Classification

program evaluates only those features directly related to reducing property losses from structural fires.

“EMS and rescue services are not considered in the evaluation,” Hash stated. “Using its Fire Suppression Rating Schedule, Verisk analyzes local fire department capabilities, water supply systems, emergency communications and community risk-reduction efforts to assign each community a classification from 1 to 10.”

Class 1 represents superior fire protection, and Class 10 indicates that a community does not meet minimum fire-suppression standards.

Hash said the improved classification benefits residents and businesses in Noblesville, as generally, communities with better PPC ratings are more likely to see lower property insurance costs, assuming all other factors are equal.

NFD Fire Chief Matt Mitchell said the improved rating reflects the hard work and dedication of firefighters, city leaders and township partners.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2025

From left, Tami Wanninger, Prevail’s executive director, and Josh Kocher, Hamilton County’s deputy prosecutor. (Photo courtesy of Abby St. Amand)

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Senior leads Millers golf team

Kelley places fourth individually, leading Noblesville to second place in the state finals

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

It wasn’t quite the finish Noblesville High School senior Josie Kelley wanted, but she’ll take it.

Kelley finished fourth individually to help her team place second in the IHSAA girls golf state finals Oct. 4 at Prairie View Golf Club in Carmel. Zionsville won with 607 strokes. Noblesville finished with 629.

Kelley shot 70 in the Oct. 3 opening round and 77 in the second round.

Kelley, who will play golf for NCAA Division I Eastern Kentucky University next season, improved in each of the state finals. She was 36th as a freshman, 10th in 2023 and sixth last year.

“Josie has been incredible,” Millers coach Justin Werkley said. “She’s one of the best Millers of all time, there’s no question about that. It’s an honor to coach her. She meant a tremendous amount to this program and we’re going to miss her a lot.”

“It’s a little bittersweet to come up a little bit short,” Kelley said. “I’m a little disappointed about that. But I’m happy with the way that the team finished. Fourth overall is still pretty good. I’m not going to complain about that. I’m excited to play in college. I’m just thrilled with how this year went and I couldn’t have asked for anything better.”

Kelley said her concentration was stronger in the opening round.

“I let my focus slip (in the second round) and made some mistakes I normally wouldn’t,” she said.

Noblesville senior Peyton Kauzlick tied for 15th with a 76-79-155 total. She was followed by senior Olivia Fowler with 78-83-161 and sophomore Lauren Turpin with 84-82-166. The top four scores count in the team total. NHS senior Presley White shot 88-87-175.

“They played great,” Werkley said. “It’s always a long couple of days, but they did the best they could. They played awesome. Their attitudes were great. Their effort was great. Zionsville is just really good.”

Noblesville also placed second to Zionsville in 2024.

Fowler will continue her golf career at NCAA Division II University of Tampa, and Kauzlick will play for NCAA Division III St. Mary’s College. Werkley said White plans to play in college.

“We’ve got a lot of talent,” Werkley said of the program. “We’re going to reload and will be competitive next year, but I’m not ready to start thinking about that yet.”

DISPATCHES

 State of the Schools The public is invited to Noblesville Schools’ annual State of the Schools address, in partnership with the Noblesville Chamber of Commerce, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Nov. 4. New this year, Noblesville Schools Superintendent Dan Hile will share district updates at Noblesville High School and attendees will hear from teachers and students as they tour the high school’s new STEM and performing arts spaces. Register at noblesvillechamber.com

Kelley

The Noblesville High School girls golf team placed second Oct. 4 in the IHSAA state finals.

(Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

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Students learn about advanced manufacturing technology and corresponding careers at INDEX’s MFG Day 2025 event. (Photo courtesy of INDEX Corp.)

Students learn at MFG Day

INDEX Corp. hosts event to highlight the need for new talent in the engineering and trades fields

news@currentnoblesville.com

INDEX Corp., a machining manufacturer, welcomed nearly 400 high school students to its Noblesville headquarters Oct. 3 for MFG Day 2025.

MFG Day is a nationwide initiative held on the first Friday of October, designed to educate middle and high school students on careers in manufacturing. INDEX has hosted annual events since 2019.

Students from Noblesville and Hamilton Southeastern schools were introduced to the career opportunities available in advanced manufacturing.

Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen addressed students about manufacturing’s role in driving local economic growth, while INDEX President and CEO Michael Huggett spoke on the ur-

gent national need to attract new talent into engineering and manufacturing careers.

“The simple reality is that America needs more people in the trades and more young professionals pursuing careers in manufacturing,” Huggett stated. “For our nation to be competitive, we need both technology and talent. At INDEX, we’re showing students how manufacturing can be a launchpad to a long, successful career. That can be across many different disciplines, ranging from engineering and machining to finance, sales and management.”

INDEX has partnered with local schools to offer internships for technical and business-focused roles. Students at MFG Day toured INDEX’s facility and saw the technology in action, including 3D printing, robotics from RZ Automation and INDEX’s CNC multispindles, turn mills and production turning centers.

Stations throughout the event highlighted career tracks in engineering, service, logistics, training and sales.

For more, visit index-group.com.

DISPATCHES

 Halloween at Forest Park The Noblesville Parks and Recreation Department invites families to Halloween at Forest Park, a free Halloween event from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 24 at Forest Park, 701 Cicero Rd. Halloween at Forest Park includes a Trick-or-Treat Trail, hayrides, inflatables, live entertainment and food trucks. Admission and all activities are free; however, pre-registration is required to receive a wristband for attendance. Area businesses and organizations are invited to participate in the Trick-or-Treat Trail by setting up a Halloween-decorated booth with candy or free items. Local businesses and organizations interested in participating must register online at forms.office.com/g/daN3GfVTt5. For more, visit noblesvilleparks.org or call 317-776-6350.

 Trick-or-treat hours — The official trick-or-treat hours in the City of Noblesville will be from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Oct. 31. The Noblesville Police Department will be out in the community to ensure everyone’s safety, and motorists are asked to drive with extra care that evening.

NHS principal looks to future City promotes NPD officers

news@currentnoblesville.com

Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen swore Noblesville Police Department

Chief Brad Arnold, NPD Assistant

Chief Eric Cunningham and NPD Deputy Chief Corey Everhart into their new positions at a ceremony at City Hall Oct. 3.

Before the promotion, Everhart was a captain with the NPD; Cunningham served as the deputy chief; and Arnold served as assistant chief. Arnold succeeds John Mann, who announced his retirement earlier this year.

“I was honored to swear in Brad Arnold as the Noblesville Police Department’s newest chief,” Jensen stated. “With three decades of dedicated service to our community, Chief Arnold embodies the integrity, leadership and commitment that define our department.”

Jensen also congratulates Cunningham and Everhart on their promotions.

“Their leadership will continue to move Noblesville forward and keep our community a safe place to live, work

and visit,” Jensen stated.

Arnold said it was an honor to be appointed police chief.

“This community and police department have been such a big part of my life for over 30 years, and it means so much to continue to serve Noblesville in this new role,” Arnold stated. “I am so proud of the women and men of the Noblesville Police Department, who care deeply about keeping Noblesville such a safe and amazing place to live and work.”

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Noblesville High School Principal Janae Mobley, who is in her first year in the role, said she is focused on building relationships with teachers, students and the community.

She said her goals also include refining student programs.

“We want all students to have a place here at NHS as they prepare for their next chapter when they leave us,” Mobley said. “NHS is a very special place. It has bigschool opportunities while holding true to the small-town feel and traditions. It is vital that that remains while we pursue excellence on all levels.”

and school this size it is imperative that we are on the same page as we serve our school community. I am in regular communication with Superintendent (Dan) Hile, members of our district leadership team and other Noblesville Schools principals.”

Mobley, who graduated from Hamilton Heights High School, said she has always been familiar with Noblesville Schools.

“In fact, in high school, I remember thinking, ‘Wow, that has to be a cool school to go to,’ because their student cheer block was always amazing for games,” Mobley said. “So, when I got the opportunity to join Noblesville High School in 2017, I was overjoyed.”

She also said she plans to ensure the school district is taking funding seriously to ensure it is serving students at maximum capacity.

“Funding is allocated and managed overall from our district level,” Mobley said. “Community members can see funding information on our new Dollars and $ense website. In a district

Mobley has a doctorate in education leadership from the University of Kentucky. She was previously a dean of students at NHS. She was the assistant principal from 2019 until being promoted to principal and was named the 2025 Assistant Principal of the Year for north central Indiana (Region 5) by the Indiana Association of School Principals.

Mobley

Noblesville Police Department Chief Brad Arnold is sworn in Oct. 3 by Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen. (Photo courtesy of the City of Noblesville)

Westfield senior develops into top two-way player

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Westfield High School senior running back-safety Deacon King has become a major contributor offensively and defensively.

“Deacon has shouldered more responsibility each year in our program,” Shamrocks coach Josh Miracle said. “As a junior, he played a pivotal role starting as both running back and safety en route to a state runner-up finish.”

Last season, King rushed for 1,440 yards and 18 touchdowns on 236 carries.

“As a senior, Deacon has continued to take on the challenge of establishing himself as one of the premier two-way players in the state,” Miracle said. “Deacon played a great deal of defense early on in his career, so given the fact that he has really only played running back in our system for the past two seasons, it is remarkable to see the progress he has made in such a short time. Coach (Jeff) Bennett, our running backs coach, has done a phenomenal job of helping Deacon develop a wide range of skills, which has led Deacon to become an ex-

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

MEET DEACON KING

Favoritte athlete: Former NFL safety

Ed Reed

Favorite musician: Drake

Favorite subject: Math

Favorite movie: “Friday”

plosive threat any time he touches the ball.”

King rushed for 644 yards and seven touchdowns in the first seven games this season.

“I think I’ve made a lot of improvements off the field with how I recover as well as how I prepare for teams with watching film,” King said.

King said being a two-way player for a Class 6A school is a source of pride.

“I know it’s not something a lot of players can do and do well,” he said. King said he doesn’t have a favorite between the two positions.

“I like doing whatever helps the team the most, whether that’s focusing on defense or offense, depending on the week,” he said.

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King said his role as a leader has changed considerably since last year.

“I feel I’ve improved a lot in trying to help the underclassmen,” he said. “I definitely see our senior class being able to lead us to another state appearance and finish the right way this time.”

The Shamrocks finished 12-2 last season, losing to Brownsburg 22-17 in the 6A state title game. Prior to the Oct. 10 game against Fishers, Westfield had a 5-2 record.

King said he committed to continue his career at Northern Illinois University mainly because of the coaches.

“I feel a strong connection to assistant coach (Kai) Ross and head coach Tommy Hammock, and for position — I’m going to play whatever position will help them the most and get me on the field as early as possible,” he said.

King, who started playing football at age 5, also played baseball and wrestled when he was younger. He competed in track and field as a freshman and sophomore.

To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@youarecurrent.com.

Westfield High School senior Deacon King has become a top two-way player. (Photo courtesy of ohsnapindy.com)

Marilyn’s Place to shut down

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Marilyn’s Place, a Noblesville-based nonprofit that provides free nonfood necessities such as clothing, hygiene products and cleaning supplies, to financially insecure members of the Hamilton County community, has announced it will permanently close later this year.

The last day of service will be Nov. 26.

Marilyn’s Place has operated for five years. It was originally in downtown Noblesville, but for the past two years, it has operated out of a farmhouse owned by Bethel Lutheran Church.

Marilyn’s Place Founder Glenn Conn said the pantry is closing in part because of costs and must vacate the premises by the end of the year.

“We just simply cannot afford to pay the bills,” Conn said. “The church has also indicated to us that they’d like to utilize the house for different purposes. So, we had a board meeting and decided to go ahead and vacate at the end of the year. We’ve run out of money.”

Conn, who will retire when the orga-

2025

nization closes, said he is searching for anyone who would like to continue the mission of providing free clothing and goods for those in need.

Marilyn’s Place will host an open house event for the Hamilton County community and surrounding areas from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 1 at 9810 E. 206th St.

Anyone interested in learning more can contact Conn at glennconn0@ gmail.com.

INDIANAPOLIS, IN

Marilyn’s Place provides clothing, hygiene products and cleaning supplies, to financially insecure members of the Hamilton County community. (Photo courtesy of Marilyn’s Place)

Nonprofit to host Farm Fest

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Teter Organic Farm, a nonprofit and outreach mission of Noblesville First United Methodist Church dedicated to increasing access to healthy food in the community, will host its inaugural Farm Fest event from 4 to 8 p.m. Oct. 25 at 10980 E. 221st St. in Noblesville.

The festival will have live music, food trucks, vendors, exhibitors, pumpkin painting, games, horseback rides and a petting zoo, among other activities. Admission is $20.

There also will be educational opportunities, such as partner organizations discussing environmental efforts.

Teter Organic Farm Director of Operations Katy Rogers said all proceeds will support the farm’s mission.

“The funds help support our goal of feeding the hungry in Hamilton County, providing customized educational programs and continuing our efforts to heal the environment along the White River,” she said.

Rogers said the event is meant to welcome all ages for a day of enjoyment.

“We have this amazing resource, and we want people to come out and enjoy the space,” Rogers said. “Community members and children are normally here volunteering, and we want people to have a day where they aren’t expected to do any work but rather enjoy the environment.”

Rogers said members who volunteer with the organization will convene afterward to decide how best to proceed with the event in the future.

For tickets, visit teter-organic-farm. square.site/fest.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Inaugural Farm Fest, a fundraiser supporting Teter Organic Farm’s mission of increasing access to healthy food, education and environmental healing.

WHERE: Teter Organic Farm, 10980 E. 221st St., Noblesville.

WHEN: 4 to 8 p.m., Oct. 25

COST: $20

MORE INFO: teter-organic-farm. square.site/fest

Event raises $16,000 for local needs

Nonprofit’s event generates funds to help with diverse needs, from roof repairs to school supplies

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

Universal Cares, an Indianapolis-based nonprofit that connects those in need with resources and assistance, presented its second Cars, Condos & Cares fundraising event Oct. 2.

Organizers of the event said it raised $16,000 to support the organization’s initiatives. Universal Cares assists communities through personalized support, rapid response, community engagement and relationship building. The organization was founded by Rob Yeary, who operated Universal Roofing and Exteriors with his brother Randy and later his son Sam. Rob and Sam Yeary developed the nonprofit based on assistance they first provided as part of the business. The nonprofit is an “a la carte” organization — offering assis-

tance for a variety of needs, rather than a single cause.

“Rob was a roofer, and he uses Universal Cares to patch holes in the community,” said Jill Hinds, program manager for Universal Cares. “We just do a little bit of everything as people need it.”

Sam Yeary said needs of the community are often discovered just by sharing among friends, family and colleagues. The needs of those assisted by Universal Cares varies — from people who need

lawn care or roof repairs to families who may struggle with purchasing school clothing and supplies.

“We try to pick different causes that we can contribute to and kind of put pieces together,” he said.

Past projects of Universal Cares include a collaboration with athletes from Carmel High School’s boys basketball team to prepare Coxhall Gardens in Carmel for winter and delivering care kits to Family Promise of Hamilton County in Noblesville.

“Every one of our events, we always say, ‘Thanks for being here,’ and also we challenge people — we need your money; we need your time; we need you to bring us somebody who needs help,” Sam Yeary said. “If you can bring us somebody who’s in need, then we can just continue the mission of just supporting our community as engaged citizens and trying to do the right thing every day. There’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. We used to do a lot of roofing and exterior work, but as it’s grown, we find a lot of people have a lot of different needs.”

Learn more at universal-cares.com.

DISPATCHES

 Chris Barrows fundraising event Republican Chris Barrows, a Westfield resident, will host a fundraising event from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 24 at Harbor Trees Golf and Beach Club in Noblesville as he kicks off his campaign for Judge of Hamilton County Superior Court 9. An appointed IV-D Court Commissioner, Barrows presides over Hamilton County’s child support court.

 Joel Levi to hold campaign kickoff — Joel Levi, a Democratic candidate for Indiana House District 37, will kick off his campaign with a public event from 3 to 5 p.m. Oct. 25 at Livery in Hamilton Town Center. The event will feature State Senator Andrea Hunley as a guest speaker, food and conversation. Levi said he is running to put Hoosiers first, strengthen public schools, protect reproductive rights and build a future that works for everyone. Levi, a Cicero resident, is challenging House Speaker Todd Huston in what he calls a “true David vs. Goliath race.”

The second Cars, Condos & Cares event in Westfield raised $16,000 for Universal Cares. (Photo courtesy of Universal Cares)

COMMUNITY

IT’S ALL ACADEMIC

Ivy Tech Hamilton County continues to grow, expand programs

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Ivy Tech Hamilton County administrators are focused on expanding programming and offerings in the future.

Ivy Tech Hamilton County presented its inaugural State of the Campus event at the Bridgewater Club in Carmel Oct. 4, when the school’s chancellor, Rachel Kartz, shared updates on the progress and future of the school.

Ivy Tech President Marty Pollio also spoke and applauded the campus.

“Hamilton County is doing amazing work,” Pollio said. “I was blown away when I went and visited campus a few weeks back. The people that are working and serving students in Hamilton County are doing an amazing job, and the growth at (Ivy Tech) Hamilton County is just unbelievable.”

Kartz said the campus has established eight academic schools, more than 30 academic programs within those schools and more than 150 employer and skills training courses since becoming a full campus in 2021.

“We offer programs such as health care, education, technology and business,” Kartz said. “But if we pause, we see that what we really offer are pathways, opportunities and outcomes that carry weight far beyond the classroom.”

One of the most popular programs at the campus, according to Kartz, is the nursing program.

In 2023, Ivy Tech Hamilton County opened its School of Nursing. Since then, 55 students completed the school’s Associate of Science in Nursing program and became registered nurses.

“We have over 30 programs,” Kartz said. “We offer academic programs, but at a deeper level, we offer credentials of value. Ivy Tech credentials lead to livable wages aligned with employer demand, ensuring that graduates are not only employed, but are employable.”

Since becoming a full-service campus in 2021, Kartz said the number of individuals served in an academic year has

grown by 626 percent. The campus has served more than 8,500 students this academic year, and Kartz said 90 percent of students reside in Hamilton County.

“We do not look like a traditional campus because we are not a traditional campus,” Kartz said. “Sixty-one percent of our students are part time as they balance work, caregiving and other life priorities. Almost half of our students are older than 21, and our students are also high school students earning col-

IMPACT ON STUDENTS

Four Ivy Tech Hamilton County graduates — Mayra Cisneros, Nicholas Goad, Madison Schultz and Tobias Stockton — spoke about the impact the campus has made on their lives at the inaugural State of the Campus event Oct. 4.

Cisneros, who earned a degree in elementary education, said the campus allowed her to connect with community leaders and members.

“I was able to connect with a lot of veteran teachers, and also students who want to be teachers,” Cisneros said. “We had a teacher panel where teachers came in from different districts to talk to us about the raw and real part of teaching. Being able to connect with students, but also teachers from the community, was great.”

Goad, a cybersecurity graduate, said the campus changed his life by allowing him to find his career path.

“I applied to Ivy Tech a week before I graduated high school,” he said. “I was truly lost, and I had no idea what I wanted to do. I came to Ivy Tech, and I met with people, and these people truly made me feel like this is where I belong. Looking back to who I was before Ivy Tech — I had no idea who I was. If Ivy Tech Hamilton County didn’t exist, I don’t know where I would be.”

lege credit while completing their high school diploma.”

Last year, Kartz said 5,890 Hamilton County high school students earned 33,570 college credits, and since 2021, Ivy Tech has saved Hamilton County high school students and their families more than $16 million in college tuition.

Kartz said the campus also serves Hamilton County employees, such as those from Riverview Health, through its Career Link program, which provides career development services for Ivy Tech students and alumni.

THE FUTURE OF THE CAMPUS

“In the first four years of (the) campus, we have already become home to thousands of students,” Kartz said. “This is not the end of our story, but only the beginning. The future of Ivy Tech Hamilton County depends on the community’s needs.”

Ivy Tech Hamilton County is in the process of launching a naptime Child Development Associate credential program through a partnership with Invest Hamilton County, an economic development corporation.

“Through this iteration, the naptime CDA, we are literally going to early childhood classrooms while children are napping to teach early learning teachers who will eventually earn their CDA,” Kartz said.

Campus officials also will begin meeting with industry partners to explore the needs of county employers and how the campus can expand programming.

“We are going forward to further growth,” Kartz said. “We are going outward to greater partnerships with employers and schools. We are going inward to services and support to help students succeed. And above all, we are going upward to a day when Ivy Tech Hamilton County is not only the newest campus in the state of Indiana, but the model campus of what a community college should be.”

For more, visit ivytech.edu/locations/ hamilton-county.

ON THE COVER: Ivy Tech Hamilton County at 300 N. 17th St. in Noblesville. (Photo courtesy of Ivy Tech Hamilton County)

From left, Tobias Stockton, Mayra Cisneros, Nicholas Goad and Madison Schultz speak at the inaugural State of the Campus event Oct. 4. (Photo courtesy of Ivy Tech Hamilton County)

Kartz

CHN selects McGill as CEO, succeeds Mills

Community Health Network, which has a campus at 9669 E. 146th St. in Noblesville, has announced the appointment of Dr. Patrick McGill as its new president and chief executive officer. He will assume the role Jan. 1, 2026.

McGill succeeds Bryan Mills, who announced his retirement earlier this year after more than 40 years of service.

A board-certified family medicine physician and health care executive, McGill was selected following a comprehensive nationwide search and evaluation process led by Community’s board of directors, according to the announcement.

“After an extensive and thoughtful search, we are pleased to appoint a leader who already understands and embodies the mission, values and culture of Community Health Network,” stated Rafael A. Sanchez, chair of the board of directors. “The board considered candidates from across the country, and Dr. McGill emerged as the clear choice to lead us forward. His clinical expertise, strategic vision and deep commitment to innovation and equity make him uniquely qualified to serve as CEO.”

Currently, McGill is executive vice president and chief transformation officer at Community Health Network, where he leads systemwide initiatives in information technology strategy, analytics, digital transformation, population health, personalized medicine, health equity and value-based care. According to the announcement, he has more than 20 years of clinical experience and has held various leadership roles.

“I am honored and humbled to step into the role of president and CEO,” McGill stated. “Community Health Network is more than a health care system. It’s a mission-driven organization rooted in compassion, innovation and service. I look forward to working with our exceptional team to build on our legacy and shape the future of care for the communities we serve.”

McGill

Yoga studio aids moms

Shine Yoga launches prenatal class focused on breath work, strength and community

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Shine Yoga & Wellness, a health studio at 833 Conner St. in Noblesville, is now offering prenatal yoga classes.

The class is designed for expectant mothers, and each session features breath work, gentle yoga movements, stretching and meditation. Some classes also include journaling and occasional crafts.

Fishers resident Tamar Montalvo, a mother of six who started yoga when she was pregnant in 2000, leads the class, which is available every Wednesday from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

“‘I am really passionate about the prenatal class because I took a prenatal yoga class in Amsterdam while I was pregnant, and I loved it so much,” Montalvo said. “I think it’s really important, because it teaches so much about breath work and about what poses you can and cannot do during pregnancy. It’s also a good way to calm down the nervous system. We do some strength building, but we also do a lot of restorative work.”

Montalvo said it’s also a way to connect with other expectant moms. Owner of Shine Yoga & Wellness Tara Bushong said the class meets an unmet need in the community.

“Expectant moms can connect not only with other moms, but also with their newfound role of becoming a mom,” Bushong said. “Our hope is that it creates a supportive community that doesn’t stop when the babies are born.”

Each class is $20. Shine also offers class packages for multiple sessions. Bushong said the yoga studio also is

considering offering postnatal and mommy and me classes in the future if the demand is high enough.

“Even after the baby comes, the prenatal classes give moms a steppingstone to try other classes and to keep feeling good by incorporating yoga into their lives,” Bushong said. “We would love to explore postpartum classes because there’s a wave of emotions that come with giving birth, and I think allowing moms to be okay with setting time for themselves is important. Hopefully this will be a bridge to teach moms about self-care and how important it is.”

For more, visit shineyogawellness. com.

DISPATCH

 County to cut ribbon for Rely Center Hamilton County leaders and community partners will hold a ribbon cutting for the new Rely Center at 11:30 a.m. Oct. 22 at 17840 Cumberland Rd. in Noblesville. The Rely Center will provide rapid triage, assessment, stabilization and up to 23 hours of observation for individuals facing urgent mental health, substance use or psychiatric crises. It is the result of a partnership between Hamilton County; Riverview Health; the Hamilton County Health Department; the Hamilton County Council on Alcohol & Other Drugs; MindWell Solutions; and Aspire Indiana Health. The opening also marks a milestone for Aspire Indiana Health, which will operate the facility.

Shine Yoga & Wellness at 833 Conner St. in Noblesville. (Photo courtesy of Shine Yoga & Wellness)

Blueprint for Improvement: Basement remodel

Commentary by Larry Greene

This basement remodel turned an unfinished space into a stylish, multifunctional retreat, blending comfort and design for everyday living and entertaining.

THE BLUEPRINT

• Converted bare concrete and exposed framing into a fully finished living area with warmth and character.

• Added a cozy lounge with plush seating and a modern fireplace for year-round comfort.

• Designed a sleek bar with seating and open shelving, perfect for entertaining.

• Installed a striking wine wall as both a functional storage solution and a bold design statement.

• Chose layered lighting, wood accents and rich textures to create an inviting, polished atmosphere throughout.

Fishers resident draws on inspiration, memories to create concept album

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Mark Taylor drew on memories to create his first full album.

“TALES FROM THE YELLOW ROSE” by the Mark Taylor Project is a concept inspired by Taylor seeing a photo of an abandoned motel on old Route 66 in Arizona.

“Overall, the album is about the loss of sanctuary and spirituality in the modern world,” Taylor said. “I’m a storyteller, and these songs are based on people and places that I encountered while growing up and living in Colorado and southern Arizona.”

A 70-year-old Fishers resident, Taylor retired as a software engineer-IT project manager in 2017.

The 13-song album was released by Triumph Productions, a startup label owned by Nina and Ron Johnson of Carmel. The album was produced and arranged by Will Turner, who also played bass, guitar, keyboards and backing vocals on the album.

“Everybody on the album is a professional musician, and I got some of the best jazz musicians in Indy on this album,” Taylor said. “It’s not a jazz album — it’s jazzy rock. If you took Steely Dan, Dave Matthews and Santana and locked them in a room, something like this album might come out of it. The music is eclectic.”

The Mark Taylor Project band plans to perform live soon.

One musician that inspired Taylor is bassist Mark Andes. Taylor met Andes when his band Spirit played in a small club in Denver. Prior to Spirit, Andes was in an early formation of Canned Heat. Andes later became a founding member of Firefall and played with Heart for approximately 10 years, beginning in 1983. Andes has played with Jackson Browne, Dan Fogelberg and Stevie Nicks.

“We lost track of each other but reconnected when Facebook came

(Below)

The album cover of “TALES FROM THE YELLOW ROSE.”

along,” Taylor said. “Mark is a legendary rock musician. He was an original member of Spirit, which was a very innovative band for its time. They were the first to combine jazz and rock and make it sound like something new. They’re a very interesting group, highly influential on me as a 14-year-old learning to play guitar. For me, it’s just a big smile on my face and shaking in disbelief every time I think I’ve made an album with Mark Andes on it.”

Known primarily as a bass player, Andes plays guitar on Taylor’s album.

“Mark has been a huge influence on me musically with his band Spirit,” he said. “Miles Davis is another huge influence on me. Just about everything I know on musical theory comes from listening to Miles Davis.”

Percussionist Frank Loyd, who has played with Taylor since 2017, joined him on the album. Taylor was in a band called TimeSlip from 2014 to 2020 that played in the Indianapolis area. TimeSlip developed from a

blended worship service band at Fishers United Methodist Church.

“We were all part-time musicians, and I was doing all the writing,”

Taylor said. “We put together a little five-song EP. It was recorded in a makeshift studio, and we self-released that.”’

Taylor credited Roger Jenkins-Bass and his Indianapolis nightclub The Point for giving TimeSlip a chance to play many times before it disbanded.

Taylor said he has a strong background in jazz.

“I’m not a jazz musician, but I understand the complexities of jazz, especially the harmonies and types of chords,” he said. “That band kept evolving.”

Taylor, who wrote all the songs, plays guitar and lead vocals on the album. Others playing on the album include Tim Ragliff, keyboards; Justin Brewer, drums; Rob Dixon, tenor and soprano saxophone; Stephanie Turner, background vocals; and Paul Yinger, trumpet and flugelhorn.

Happenings

‘TOOTSIE’

“Tootsie” runs Oct. 16 to Nov. 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

‘SOMETHING ROTTEN’

Civic Theatre’s production of “Something Rotten” runs through Oct. 18 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

MATTHEW MORRISON

The “Matthew Morrison: Rhythms & Revelations” concert is set for 8 p.m. Oct. 17 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Country singer Maggie Baugh will perform Oct. 17, followed Dueling Pianos Oct. 18 at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Both performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘VOCE’

Voce, a vocal group from Carmel, will perform at 7 p.m. Oct. 18 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. The performance music from movies. For tickets, visit voceindy.org.

DISPATCH

 Feinstein’s starts Afterglow Dinner Series — Feinstein’s Afterglow Dinner Series is a unique, all-inclusive experience where guests enjoy handcrafted cocktails, a specially curated chef’s menu and live entertainment at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The first performance starts at 5:30 p.m. Oct. 21 and will feature Casey Abrams & Friends, Dylan Chambers and Hunter. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

(Above) Fishers resident Mark Taylor wrote all the songs on his new album. (Photos courtesy of Frank Loyd)

ENTERTAINMENT

Farrell performs key role

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Don Farrell got plenty of laughs just reading the script of “Tootsie.”

The musical is based on the 1982 movie starring Dustin Hoffman as an actor, Michael Dorsey, posing as a woman named Dorothy Michaels to get a role in the show.

“Those who love the movie are going to love the musical,” Farrell said. “There are a couple of new twists for those who know the movie. They’ll get as much of a kick out of the Broadway musical version of it.”

actor playing Michael Dorsey or Dorothy,” he said.

An Actors Theatre of Indiana co-founder, Farrell left his role at ATI in 2023 to pursue other opportunities with his own production and performing company, Crossroads Entertainment.

Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre will present “Tootsie” Oct. 16 to Nov. 23 at the Indianapolis venue.

Farrell, a Westfield resident, plays Ron Carlisle, the director and choreographer of the fictitious show. Jonathan Cobrda plays the Dorsey/Michaels role in the Beef & Boards production.

“It’s a great show to be able to lose yourselves for two hours, just laughing at crazy situations and madcap scenarios,” Farrell said.

Farrell said his character is in a couple of different scenes and musical numbers.

“But the heavy lifting is done by the

Farrell will be reunited with ATI co-founder Cynthia Collins in “Tootsie.”

In one scene, he sits next to Collins, who plays producer Rita Marshall, at an audition table.

“When I talked to Cindy, we said this is going to be hysterical,” Farrell said. “It’s an art imitates life because of the many times we’ve been doing the same thing for auditions for ATI. Now, we’ll be doing the same thing as different characters for the musical. Her character is very funny and I’m really looking forward to playing off her.”

Farrell made his Beef & Boards debut in “Fiddler on the Roof” in the early 1990s.

His most recent performance at Beef & Boards was playing the old man in “A Christmas Story” in 2024.

“It’s a wonderful group of people, production staff as well as cast, at Beef & Boards,” he said.

For more, visit beefandboards.com.

Center presents free concert

editorial@youarecurrent.com

The Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts announced a free appearance by the U.S. Navy Band Country Current.

The United States Navy Band Country Current will perform at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 13 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium, Tickets for that performance are available by phone at 317-843-3800 or in-person at the Payne & Mencias Palladium’s Fifth Third Bank Box Office, which is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 4 p.m. Saturday. Because of anticipated high demand, tickets will be limited to four per household and will not be available online.

Tickets went on sale Oct. 10 for another new show. The Grammy-winning ensemble Snarky Puppy will make its debut appearance at 8 p.m. April 25, 2026 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium. Snarky Puppy is a Brooklyn-based instrumental ensemble founded in

AND VOLUNTEERS FOR ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL FESTIVAL!

Mark your calendars for the 2026 Carmel International Arts Festival! SEPTEMBER 26-27, 2026

2004 by bassist and composer Michael League. Considered one of contemporary music’s most innovative collectives, the group defies genre boundaries by blending funk, R&B, hard rock, classic soul, modern gospel, new tech, fusion and jazz. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

The U.S. Navy Band Country Current will perform Nov. 13 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Carmel. (Photo courtesy by Allied Solutions Center)

Farrell

1. Flag maker Ross

6. Colts passing stats

10. Categorize

15. Ahead by a point

16. Local comedienne Huntington

17. Hamilton County Court pledges

18. King with a golden touch

19. Biblical garden

20. Elite invitees

21. Conner Prairie Makeand-Take toy

24. Laundry unit

25. Teensy

26. “___ voyage!”

29. Frequent website ending

32. Web address letters

35. Regions

38. Greece/Turkey separator

41. Conner Prairie October festival

44. First-class

45. Marshy hollow

46. Leak sound

47. Some WTHR fare

50. Afternoon hrs.

51. “Hamilton” highlight

53. Banish

56. Conner Prairie Makeand-Take activity

61. Video game pioneer

63. Eye part

64. Not long after midnight, for short

66. Terse

67. Egypt’s river

68. Entirely

69. “Brady Bunch” girl

70. Salon 01 goops

71. Old stringed instruments Down

1. Mooch

2. Carmel coffee shop

3. Type of list

4. I-69 traffic problem

5. Kind of question

6. Prefix meaning “false”

7. Scoundrels

8. “Star ___”

9. California city known for its zoo

10. Indy Fuel scores

11. Pacers comeback

12. Singer Redding

13. Verbal stumbles

14. LA winter hrs.

22. Consumed

23. White River mammal

26. Thai currency

27. Black-and-white cookies

28. Some tides

30. IMPD stun gun

31. India’s first prime minister

32. Where to find MA and

PA?

33. Kingdom

34. Pleasant Street divisions

36. Sum

37. Camera model letters

39. Mule’s kin

40. Just out

42. Dog-___ (like some used books)

43. Sign of an ankle injury

48. Snap, crackle and pop, e.g.

49. Have a late bite

51. Challenged

52. Bring together

54. Rot

55. Thin sounding

56. Son of Adam

57. A Great Lake

58. Shapiro’s pickle herb

59. Close

60. Angela Buchman strong wind descriptor

61. WRTV network

62. Numerical prefix

65. FC Cincinnati org.

Answers on Page 27

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