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Sheriff candidate faces questions about old case Page 3

Tuesday, October 20, 2026 youarecurrent.com

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EMILY ANGEL SHAW For Judge · Hamilton County Superior Court 8 Experienced. Prepared. Ready to Serve. “A courtroom should be a place where people are heard, the law is applied fairly, and every person is treated with dignity.” With more than 14 years of legal experience across a wide range of practice areas, Emily brings a commitment to public service and thoughtful, impartial decision-making.

VOTE EMILY NOVEMBER 3 www.emilyforjudge.com

Paid for by the Committee to Elect Emily Angel Shaw

EXPERIENCE THAT MATTERS. PERSPECTIVE THAT COUNTS. Emily Angel Shaw’s legal career began at Legal Aid, helping people who otherwise might not have had access to an attorney. Her career has included representing children and families, leading large multidisciplinary teams at Kids’ Voice of Indiana, training advocates statewide, and running her own private practice. Her experience spans family law, probate, criminal, and business-related matters. Emily earned her law degree, cum laude, from Indiana University’s Robert H. McKinney School of Law and a Master of Laws in Children’s Rights and Family Law from University College Cork in Ireland. Emily is a mother of three and the wife of a union electrician. She grew up on the near west side of Indianapolis, and her family and working-class upbringing shape how she listens, addresses challenges, and treats people.

Emily Angel Shaw For Judge - Hamilton County Superior Court 8

WHY DOES THE JUDGE MATTER? PERSPECTIVE

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Every case deserves

Accountability and

So does understanding

preparation, careful attention,

compassion can coexist. Every

the people who walk into

and an impartial decision

person deserves to be heard

the courtroom.

based on the law and the facts.

and treated with dignity.

The law governs each case. A judge’s experience shapes how the courtroom is managed. Paid for by the Committee to Elect Emily Angel Shaw

CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 10.20.26 • youarecurrent.com

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Hamilton County sheriff candidate faces questions about old case to review the facts of the case in the light most favorable to the plaintiff and to draw “all reasonable inferences in Pastore’s favor.” A decade-old civil case involving Pratt included detailed background, Hamilton County sheriff candidate Lt. noting that on March 7, 2014, Pastore Dustin Dixon has come to light about had taken antidepressant meda month before Election Day, revealing that then-Sgt. Dixon ication, smoked marijuana and had been accused of using excesconsumed about five alcoholic beverages at a 96th Street bar sive force during an arrest, and before getting in his Jeep and a federal judge denied his claim heading west toward Keystone of qualified immunity. Parkway. A Carmel Police DeThe case was headed for trial, but both sides agreed to settle. partment officer saw Pastore Dixon Dixon, a Republican, respondspeeding and changing lanes without signaling and initiated a traffic ed through a spokesperson with a brief stop. statement after excerpts from a ruling Pastore didn’t stop immediately, but in the old case were quoted Oct. 5 on eventually pulled onto the shoulder the Hamilton County Democratic Paron southbound Keystone Parkway. The ty’s social media. Carmel officer didn’t approach the ve“No court or jury ever made a ruling that Lt. Dixon committed excessive hicle right away and Pastore passed out force,” the spokesman wrote in an Oct. while waiting. According to the court 8 email. “The case was dismissed. If the ruling, Pastore didn’t hear the officer’s Hamilton County Democrat Party chair directions to exit the vehicle because or their anointed nominee for sheriff he was unconscious, even after anothwant to coddle criminals, they should er officer arrived with a loudspeaker. move to Marion County and get a job Additional law enforcement gathered with Ryan Mears.” to help, including Dixon and his K-9, Current obtained a full copy of the Dibo. Dec. 30, 2016, ruling, in which U.S. DisThe probable cause affidavit filed in trict Court Southern District of Indiana court by the arresting officer at the time of the incident stated that offiJudge Tanya Walton Pratt denied a summary judgment motion to dismiss cers could see Pastore moving in his Louis Pastore’s case against Dixon, stat- vehicle, but not following commands. According to Pratt’s court ruling, howing that “a reasonable jury could find that Sergeant Dixon’s use of force was ever, video evidence from the incident objectively unreasonable.” showed Pastore was not conscious. Pratt’s ruling meant the case against “Pastore was visibly passed out,” she Dixon could go to trial. However, the wrote. “Throughout the videos, the two sides negotiated a settlement officers discussed that Pastore appeared agreement and the case was dismissed to be passed out in the front seat, he in February 2017. Current has submitwas not responsive to light and was not moving. Officers broadcast over the ted a records request with Hamilton radio that ‘there was no movement or County for the terms of the agreement, response from the driver of the vehiincluding any taxpayer money paid to complete the settlement. cle,’ and that ‘he must be laying down In her summary judgment ruling, in the front seat or something because I Pratt cautioned that she was required can’t see him.’” By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Current has submitted a request to Carmel Police Department for camera footage from the arrest. In her ruling, Pratt wrote that, at one point, officers fired a foam projectile at the Jeep’s rear window to break it and allow entry, but that was unsuccessful and Pastore remained unconscious. “An officer then used his baton and shattered Pastore’s front driver’s side window,” Pratt wrote. “After hearing the window shatter, Pastore finally woke up. Officers commanded Pastore to show his hands, open his door and exit the vehicle. Pastore attempted to exit the Jeep with his hands raised, but he could not unlatch the seat belt and turned back to release the button. While Pastore’s hands were raised up and outside of the Jeep, Sergeant Dixon ordered Dibo to attack Pastore.” According to the court ruling, the K-9 tried to pull Pastore from the vehicle, but the seat belt was tangled around his arm. Another officer had to cut the belt and the dog continued to bite Pastore for about 30 seconds. Pastore was treated at an area hospital for injuries. He eventually pled guilty to resisting law enforcement and operating a vehicle while intoxicated with a prior conviction. According to online court records, four other charges were dismissed. In May 2015, he filed the civil complaint in Marion County Superior Court alleging excessive force by Dixon and a Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office deputy who fired the foam projectile. The case was moved to federal court by the defendants. The defendants’ motion for summary judgment argued that any force used was reasonable because Pastore failed to comply with verbal commands and was a possible danger to the community and officers. Citing case law, Pratt Continued on Page 7

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(ISSN: 3143-0686 | USPS: 25933) Founded: Jan. 9, 2008 • Vol. XIX, No.39 Copyright © 2026 by Current Publishing, LLC. Published weekly by Current Publishing, LLC, 525 North End Dr. Ste. 175, Carmel, IN 46032. Business, Editorial, Accounting and Circulation Offices: 525 North End Dr. Ste. 175, Carmel, IN 46032. Call (317) 489-4444 to subscribe. Periodicals postage paid at Carmel, IN. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Current in Westfield, 525 North End Dr. Ste. 175, Carmel, IN 46032.

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10.20.26 • youarecurrent.com JAMIE GOETZ MILLS JIM AKE TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE

TOWNSHIP BOARD

DANYELE EASTERHAUS TOWNSHIP BOARD

ERICA STRAHM TOWNSHIP BOARD

REELECT

ROOTED IN WESTFIELD. READY FOR WHAT’S NEXT. 98 YEARS OF COMBINED HISTORY IN THE WESTFIELD COMMUNITY. Through unprecedented growth and change, we have stayed focused on serving people well, protecting township resources, and preserving the pieces of Westfield that matter.

Growth will continue. Our responsibility is to help manage it thoughtfully ina fiscally responsible way while remembering what has always made this community feel like home.

SUPPORTING PUBLIC SAFETY When Fire Station 82 needed a significant expansion and major remodel, we worked collaboratively with the City of Westfield, Hamilton County Parks, the Hamilton County Commissioners, and other local partners to move the project forward. That collaboration helped create a safer, more functional station for first responders and the community while sharing responsibility across local government. Collaboration matters. It allows us to safeguard public resources while also protecting the people who protect us.

WESTFIELD WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP BOARD PRESERVING LAND, HISTORY + COMMUNITY

Together, MacGregor Park and the newly acquired McCullough Park create the opportunity for 170 acres of connected green space dedicated to conservation, exploration, education, and community. GROWTH AND PRESERVATION DO NOT HAVE TO COMPETE. WE BELIEVE THERE IS ROOM FOR BOTH.

HELPING FAMILIES FIND STABILITY

Sometimes, people experience a hard season. Township Assistance helps eligible residents with basic needs, such as housing and utilities, while also providing budget counseling and connecting them to community resources that can support long-term stability.

NAVIGATING CHANGES FROM SEA 1

SEA 1 creates real fiscal challenges for local governments. Townships have no control over establishing the LIT rates. Under current Indiana code, the Hamilton County Council will establish the LIT rate in 2028 for 2029 revenue, and we believe they will establish a LIT rate to make the Township whole.

Numerous vehicles parked outside an Airbnb rental in a Westfield neighborhood. (Photo courtesy of Melissa Tucker)

www.votejimake.com facebook.com/Danyele4TownshipBoard facebook.com/ericastrahmwashingtontownshipboard facebook.com/ericastrahmwashingtontownshipboard facebook.com/JamieGoetzMillsForWestfieldWashington Township

PRESERVING WHAT MATTERS. PREPARING FOR WHAT COMES NEXT.

HELP FOR TODAY. CONNECTIONS FOR TOMORROW.

Paid for by Friends of Jamie Goetz Mills, Friends of Danyele Easterhaus, Committee to Elect Jim Ake, and Vote Erica Strahm for Washington Township Board

JAMIE GOETZ MILLS TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE

JIM AKE

TOWNSHIP BOARD

DANYELE EASTERHAUS ERICA STRAHM TOWNSHIP BOARD

TOWNSHIP BOARD

ROOTED IN WESTFIELD. READY FOR WHATS NEXT More than 98 years of combined history in the Westfield community. SUPPORTING PUBLIC SAFETY Our collaboration helped create a safer, more functional station for first responders and the community, while sharing responsibility across local government.

 www.votejimake.com

 facebook.com/Danyele4TownshipBoard

 facebook.com/ericastrahmwashingtontownshipboard

 facebook.com/JamieGoetzMillsforWestfieldWashingtonTownship

PLEASE ON NOVEMBER 3RD Paid for by Committee to elect Jim Ake

Council postpones short-term rental vote By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com The Westfield City Council postponed a vote Oct. 12 on an ordinance that would require owners of short-term rentals, such those listed with Airbnb or Vrbo, to obtain permits from the city. The ordinance would allow the city to temporarily revoke a permit if a property owner racked up too many citations for noise, parking, maintenance, etc. Councilors delayed the vote to provide time to adjust some of the language in the ordinance, but expressed an intention to approve it when it comes back to the council in November. The ordinance was introduced Sept. 28 after complaints of late-night noise, vehicles blocking the road and trespassing guests from Westfield resident Melissa Tucker, who lives next door to an Airbnb. Tucker spoke during the public comment portion of the meeting and said the home in question recently was sold. “The listing of it was geared toward a business and not toward a single-family residence,” she said. “It was very clear in the listing. It was very clear how they wanted this to sell. There were no showings of the house. It sold pretty quickly and, come to find out, it will continue as an Airbnb.” Tucker said another home in her neighborhood also is an Airbnb, and she’s concerned that additional homes will be marketed toward businesses, making housing unaffordable for families. Tucker’s husband, Ken Tucker, also

spoke. He compared the situation to living next to a motel. He suggested the city find a developer to create a neighborhood specifically for short-term rentals. “There’s still plenty of land out there,” he said. “Some of the developers that are usually here, I was going to (tell them), ‘Buy the land and just make it an Airbnb community.’ Give them the hot tubs. Give them pools. Let it all stay in there and give us our city back.” According to the ordinance, shortterm rental permits would cost the property owners a one-time $150 fee, which City Attorney Kaitlin Glazier previously told the council follows provisions allowed in state code. The ordinance will take effect in January, giving the city and property owners time to plan. Glazier said Oct. 12 that the city is exploring software to keep track of code violations, in addition to software to help the city identify which properties are listed as short-term rentals. The proposed ordinance requires owners of short-term rentals to provide the name and contact information for an emergency contact and specifies that short-term rentals can’t be used to house sex offenders, operate sober-living homes or be used for illegal activities. Short-term rental property owners who do not obtain a permit before renting the property would be cited with a Class C infraction — a state violation — for each rental transaction. The ordinance will return to the council Nov. 9.

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Westfield council OKs 2027 city budget, salaries Park Street should be completed by Dec. 1. The Jersey Street project is next. “This one’s probably going to be a litThe Westfield City Council unanitle bit more complicated because we’re actually cutting some of the road and mously approved the city’s 2027 budget eliminating elevations to make Oct. 12, totaling $89.4 million — it safer and more walkable,” he about $9 million more than this said. “But we’re using lessons year’s budget despite a slight tax learned from this first process to decrease. work with the business owners Mayor Scott Willis introduced and try to support them.” the budget to the council in The estimated 2027 tax rate mid-September, noting that it will be 71.62 cents per $100 asincludes some new positions to Willis prepare for the transition to besessed value, compared with 71.63 cents this year. Willis noted earcoming a second-class city in 2028. “As always, public safety eats up a big lier that due to the state property tax chunk of our budgets, roughly 51 perlaw, Senate Enrolled Act 1, the city will receive about $3.5 million less revenue cent,” Willis said. “Well deserved — evin 2027, about $6.5 million less in 2028 ery dollar we spend — and we continue and about $11 million less in 2029. to invest to ensure we have the best and In related votes, the council also the brightest, most capable to protect approved salary ordinances for elected and serve our community.” and nonelected city officials. Public safety spending includes five The mayor’s salary in 2027 will be additional police officers and two ci$139,159, an increase from this year’s vilian police positions, expansion of $132,532; clerk-treasurer will be paid the police emergency response drone $118,728 compared to $113,075 this year; program, occupational cancer screenand each councilor will receive $19,465, ings for firefighters and new EMS an increase from $18,889. In addition, equipment. the clerk-treasurer will receive a $5,000 Some key projects in the 2027 budstipend; the council president will reget include a pedestrian bridge at the Monon Trail over 191st Street; road wid- ceive a $2,500 stipend and the council vice president will receive a $1,000 ening and new roundabouts on 191st; a stipend. Councilor Victor McCarty new playground at Freedom Trail Park; voted against the elected official salary connecting gaps in the pedestrian trail ordinance. system; restoring the Old Friends CemFor more, visit westfieldin.gov/ etery; and Jersey Street improvements. budget. Willis noted that improvements to By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

DISPATCHES  Fall event at MacGregor Park — Westfield Washington Township will host Into the Hollow Woods from 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 29 at MacGregor Park. The free event will include pumpkin painting, crafts, games and a lantern-lit walk on forest trails. For more and to register, visit secure.rec1.com/IN/ washington-township-in/catalog.  WPD seeks historical photos, documents — The Westfield Police Department is seeking historical photos and documents to display in its new headquarters. For more, contact Assistant Chief Billy Adams at badams@westfield. in.gov.

 A Salute to Veterans — The Hamilton County Historical Society presents A Salute to Veterans through Nov. 14, showcasing military uniforms from throughout the nation’s 250 years. The exhibit displays uniforms worn or owned by Hamilton County residents and is presented in conjunction with the Clay Township Military Library and Museum in Carmel and other county veterans. The Hamilton County Historical Society Museum is free for tours and open to the public Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. It also will be open Nov. 11 for Veterans Day. For more, visit hamiltoncoinhs.com.

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 Westfield Youth Assistance seeks board members — Westfield Youth Assistance Program is searching for new board members with various experiences and skill sets. WYAP serves youth in the community by connecting them with services such as mentoring, tutoring, mental health counseling, camps, enrichment activities and more. The deadline for applications is Oct. 23. For more, visit westfieldyap.org.  Veterans Day contest opens — The City of Westfield’s annual Veterans Day Student Poster, Poem & Essay Contest, sponsored by T-Mobile Fiber is open through Oct. 30 for students in kindergarten through 12th grade to showcase their creativity while reflecting on the theme, “What Does Freedom Mean to Me and How Have Veterans Helped Protect It?” Winning students will be recognized during the city’s Veterans Day Ceremony Nov. 11 at the IMMI Conference Center. Poem winners will have the opportunity to share their work and the winning essay will be read. For more, visit westfieldin.gov/veteransdayceremony.  Veterans Day honorees sought — The City of Westfield is seeking local veterans to feature as Hometown Heroes during the City of Westfield Veterans Day Ceremony. Submissions are due by Oct. 30. To submit a local veteran, visit / bit.ly/4xTbwkm.  Beekeepers Club meeting — North Central Beekeepers Club meets at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 21 in the St. Joseph Room at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church, 14598 Oak Ridge Rd. — a temporary change from the usual meeting location. Topics will include fall and winter bees, managing honey and a note taking app. A free introduction to beekeeping is offered every meeting in a separate room. For more, visit NorthCentralBeekeepersClub.com.

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 Early voting opens — Early voting for the Nov. 3 General Election is open at the Hamilton County Judicial Center, 1 Hamilton County Square, in Noblesville and the Hamilton County Fairgrounds, 2003 Pleasant St., Noblesville. Additional early voting locations in Carmel, Fishers and Westfield open Oct. 21. For locations, dates and hours, visit HamiltonCounty.in.gov/1399/ Vote-Early---In-Person.

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Continued from Page 3 wrote that the primary question was whether Dixon’s actions were objectively reasonable, which was a matter best left to a jury. “Defendants contend that their actions were objectionably reasonable because they did not know whether Pastore had access to a weapon or was planning to flee,” she wrote. “The court respectfully disagrees.” The judge wrote that there was no evidence Pastore had a weapon, he was

visibly unconscious and officers had about 30 minutes to come up with a way to get Pastore out of the vehicle. “Whether it was objectively reasonable for Sergeant Dixon to perceive Pastore’s unresponsiveness as a threat to the officers’ safety that warranted ordering a K-9 to attack Pastore, severely injuring him, is highly disputed and an issue for trial,” she wrote. Pratt dismissed the claim against the deputy who fired the foam projectile, but ruled that the civil case against Dixon could move forward.

DISPATCHES  Menards hosting food drive — Menards home improvement stores are serving as drop sites for local food pantries through the end of October. Donations can be placed in large collection boxes near the exit doors.  Decluttering workshops set — Two decluttering workshops led by Cindy Garloch, a Westfield-based professional home organizer, are set for 6 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 20 at the Westfield Washington Public Library; and 10 to 11:30 a.m. Nov. 12 at the Westfield Washington Township Building. To register for the events, visit wwpl.lib.in.us.

 Finding Common Ground event set — The Westfield Diversity Coalition will host “Around the Table,” part of the group’s community conversation series, from 6-8 p.m. Nov. 16 at the Meridian Room at SpringHill Suites. Registered participants will each bring a dish and a story that has meaning to share with other participants. There will be a facilitated conversation about food, culture and tradition. For more and to register, visit WestfieldDiversity.org/calendar.

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Meet the Hamilton County sheriff candidates Compiled by Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

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Westfield Police Department Lt. Charles Hollowell, a Democrat, and Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Dustin Dixon, a Republican, are vying to become the next sheriff of Hamilton County in the Nov. 3 general election. Learn more about Hollowell, 56, a Fishers resident, at CharlesHollowell. com. Learn more about Dixon, 49, a Noblesville resident, at Facebook.com/ DustinDixonforSheriff. WHY ARE YOU RUNNING ? Dixon: I’ve been honored to serve our community throughout my entire adult life. Throughout my service in the military and in public safety, the trust of both the public and my colleagues has been humbling. After 25 years Dixon of service at this agency, I understand both its inner workings and the respected relationships, past and present, that define it. Hollowell: I’m running for sheriff to bring experienced, accountable leadership that understands different backgrounds, cultures and perspectives. With 27.5 years in law enforcement, I’m prepared to proactively Hollowell fight crime, strengthen partnerships, support employees, protect constitutional rights, responsibly manage taxpayer resources and ensure the sheriff’s office serves everyone. WHAT MAKES YOU THE BEST CHOICE?

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Dixon: The sheriff has unique statutory responsibilities including the county jail, security and service of the courts, managing the Sexual and Violent Offender Registry, and the county’s juvenile services center. I am the only candidate with experience in each of these areas who has served in the agency I seek to represent. Additionally, my business experience — where I oversee a seven-figure budget, manage relationships with over 20 clients, and lead more than 100 employees — demonstrates real-world administrative

experience. Hollowell: I offer 27.5 years of law enforcement experience, executive leadership, an MBA, finance degree, PMP certification and advanced police leadership training. I’ve led diverse teams, managed multimillion-dollar budgets, and understand the needs of a diverse, changing community. I bring the experience, education, relationships and collaborative leadership Hamilton County needs. WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE CAMPAIGN ISSUES? Dixon: A. Crime including the influx of violent crime from our surrounding areas and our proactive response to those issues. B. Retention and wellness of our officers and staff. C. Positioning the sheriff’s office for the future requires increased service within the corrections and court divisions and specialized law enforcement services within our operations division. Hollowell: 1. Stronger communities through partnership — Building trust through outreach, education, accessibility and collaboration with local partners. 2. Professional public safety and effective law enforcement — Proactively fighting crime, drugs and emerging threats through technology, innovation, intelligence sharing and coordinated partnerships. 3. Accountability, rehabilitation and organizational excellence — Supporting employee wellness, addressing inmate mental health needs, protecting rights, reducing recidivism and responsibly managing taxpayer resources. WHAT CHANGES, IF ANY, WOULD YOU MAKE IN HOW THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE WORKS WITH US ICE WHEN A PERSON NOT IN THE U.S. LAWFULLY IS BROUGHT TO THE JAIL? Dixon: As sheriff, I’m committed to enforcing the state and federal laws currently in place regarding immigration and detainer requests. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners at the local, state and federal levels. The current administration signed an agreement to participate in the 287g program through the Jail Enforcement Model. My incoming administration Continued on Page 9

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Continued from Page 8 will review all agreements to determine the benefits for public safety and operational efficiencies as we move into 2027. Hollowell: My goal is to end the Sheriff’s Office’s 287(g) agreement with ICE and redirect those resources toward Hamilton County public safety needs. However, as sheriff, I will follow all applicable federal and state laws, honor lawful court orders and fulfill required notification and cooperation obligations while protecting constitutional rights. WHAT CAN THE SHERIFF’S OFFICE DO TO OPERATE MORE EFFICIENTLY? Dixon: I have a plan to restructure our agency’s staffing to focus more frontline officers in enforcement and correctional roles while utilizing support staff in administrative functions. I have identified positions that can be streamlined to avoid role duplication and allow us to utilize that staff in essential roles. I think this can be accomplished without financial implications for the taxpayers. Hollowell: I will conduct regular operational analyses to identify inefficiencies, outdated programs and opportunities to reduce costs. I’ll collaborate with employees and the community to solve problems, use data and technology to improve services, strengthen local partnerships and increase sheriff’s office visibility and accessibility throughout Hamilton County. WHAT WILL YOU DO TO MAINTAIN OR IMPROVE WORKING RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHER LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES IN HAMILTON COUNTY? Dixon: I’m proud of my strong working relationship with our public safety partners, demonstrated by the endorsement of every Fraternal Order of Police lodge in Hamilton County. I firmly

believe the sheriff’s office role is to support the communities we serve, regardless of their size, alongside our law enforcement partners. We will launch joint task forces and specialty units that work in conjunction with our public safety partners to prioritize regional public safety and the influx of crime from Marion County using our existing staffing allocation. Hollowell: I will strengthen relationships through open communication, joint training, intelligence and resource sharing, and coordinated task forces. I’ll regularly meet with local public safety leaders, collaborate on shared challenges, and recognize when the sheriff’s office should lead, support or follow, always focusing on what best serves Hamilton County. HOW DO YOU PLAN TO BRIDGE THE PARTISAN DIVIDES TO SERVE ALL YOUR CONSTITUENTS? Dixon: The partisan divide is real and, unfortunately, quite damaging at times. My role as the sheriff is to provide the highest quality of public safety for all of our Hamilton County residents and guests. Regardless of your politics, ethnicity, race, religion, financial status or sexual orientation, we will provide professional public safety to all those we serve. While my personal beliefs and values guide my decisions and leadership, our professional agency will be expected, and mentored, to serve everyone fairly and professionally. Hollowell: I will serve every Hamilton County resident by listening, finding common ground and collaborating across political differences. My decisions will be guided by the Constitution, public safety, data, fiscal responsibility and community needs, not politics. Every resident deserves fairness, respect and a voice. Serving All. Protecting All.

DISPATCHES  Grant supports online volunteer hub — United Way of Central Indiana has created a centralized online platform, volunpair.org, where nonprofits can post volunteer opportunities and community members can match their volunteer interests with what’s available. The new website is supported by a $1.3 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc.  NOWIB scholarship applications open — The Network of Women in Business is accepting applications for

its 2026 scholarship supporting women pursuing skilled trades or entrepreneurship. Women ages 17 to 25 who are enrolled in a trade school or have a developed business plan are eligible. Applications are due Oct. 30 and must include an application, proof of enrollment or business plan documentation and other required materials. Recipients will be selected based on goals, innovation and commitment to personal and professional growth. For eligibility requirements and applications, visit nowib.com.

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Indiana Learning Center, a private tutoring organization that provides personalized academic instruction for students in kindergarten through PLUS TAKE senior year, has expanded to Hamilton AN EXTRA County. Terms and Conditions: 40% off any order of $980 or more or 30% off any order of $680 or more on any complete unit order of custom closet, garage, or home Indiana Learning Center provides office, and any other products. Take an additional 10% off on any complete system order. Not valid with any other offer. Free installation with any complete personalized educational support for unit order of $850 or more. With incoming order, at time of purchase only. Expires students through private tutoring in 11/22/26. Offer not valid in all regions. math, English Language Arts, reading SPECIAL FINANCING FOR 18 MONTHS and other educational areas, with serWith approved credit. Call or ask your Designer for details. vices available in-person and online. Not available in all areas. Reach -In- Closets Originally Junifon Enlightenment LLC, the organization, founded in 2022 in Batesville, rebranded as Indiana Reach Reach -In--InClosets Closets Learning Center in August. In addition Reach -InClosets to Hamilton County, the organization also expanded to Marion, Hancock and Johnson counties. Austin Balser, founder and CEO, said the expansion comes at a time when schools are struggling to maintain a 1-on-1 balance with students. Balser “We wanted to find a way to offer that 1-on-1 instruction outside of that small town we were working in,” Balser said. “We now have in-person lessons in 15 counties, and that’s still growing.” Balser said the organization works with students of all ages and educational needs by focusing on each student’s goals, strengths and challenges. Garage Garage Cabinets Cabinets There are no plans for a brick and Garage Cabinets mortar facility, with in-person lessons often taking place in a coffee shop or library, according to Balser. “Within five to 10 years or so we think more families will be comfortable with online tutoring, and students might change the way they’re learning over time,” Balser said. “We don’t know that an in-person facility is really productive at this point.” Tutoring sessions are $30 an hour, which Balser said is cheaper than comLaundry Laundry Rooms Rooms Hobby Hobby Rooms Rooms peting organizations. Laundry Rooms Hobby Rooms Laundry Rooms For more, visit indianalearningcenter.org.

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Westfield Lions celebrate 96th anniversary news@currentinwestfield.com The Westfield Lions Club celebrated 96 years of service Oct. 1 with its annual anniversary dinner, which included awards to members for their contributions to the club and the community. Perfect attendance pins were given to 27 Lions, including Ted Engelbrecht, who was recognized for 55 years of perfect attendance; and Bob Benson, who hasn’t missed a meeting in 57 years. Joel Davis was awarded the Richard Miyamoto Fellowship for his service to the club and the community. The award is named in honor of Dr. Richard Miyamoto, known for his work in audiology and speech and language pathology. The fellowship was presented by Past District Gov. Eric Schuman, a trustee for the Indiana Lions Speech & Hearing Project. Lions Bill Nesbitt and Kathleen Busby received the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired Fellowship for their volunteer efforts involving vision screening of elementary school students and collaborating with the club to provide eye exams and glasses for those in financial need.

Jeff Larrison, left, gives Bill Nesbitt the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired Fellowship award. (Photo courtesy of Jeff Larrison)

The Mark Hallett Memorial First Responders Award was presented to Lions Jacqui and Dennis Lloyd. The award recognizes new and newer Lions who go above and beyond to fulfill the Lions Club motto, “We Serve.” The Melvin Jones Fellowship, one of the highest honors in Lions Clubs International, was presented to Carrie Larrison for her service to the club, including volunteering at numerous events and projects, recruiting new members and serving

the community. The Roy O. Hadley Lion of the Year Award was presented to Linda Hallett in recognition of her work on the golf outing committee, recruitment and volunteer activities. The event also featured Hamilton County Commissioner Mark Heirbrandt, who discussed developments throughout the county, infrastructure projects and flood recovery efforts. For more about the Westfield Lions Club, visit westfieldlions.org.

DISPATCHES  Legislative internships available — The Indiana Senate Republican Caucus is offering paid spring-semester internships in its communications, information technology, legal, legislative, page and policy offices during the 2027 session of the Indiana General Assembly. Qualified candidates may be of any major and must be at least a college sophomore. Recent college graduates, as well as graduate and law school students, are can apply. Interns earn a $900 biweekly stipend. Senate internships are full-time positions at the Statehouse in downtown Indianapolis that typically begin with a mandatory orientation in late December or early January. The incoming intern class will conclude their work at the end of the 2027 legislative session, which by law must end by April 29. For more, visit IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Intern.

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CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 10.20.26 • youarecurrent.com

Guerin volleyball player breaks the ‘Cardinal rule’ By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Guerin Catholic High School senior Emery Cardinal had a choice to make about her future. As a sophomore, she realized to play for the Pineapple High Performance volleyball club in Ft. Wayne she had to give up basketball. “My whole life I’ve known that I love volleyball more,” Cardinal said. “It just brought me a different kind of feeling than basketball has done. I knew I wanted volleyball to be my life and I couldn’t keep juggling both.” What made it hard is she comes from a basketball family. Her dad, Brian Cardinal, played for Purdue University and in the NBA. Her mother, Danielle (Bird) Cardinal, played at Purdue and is the Guerin Catholic girls basketball coach. Her brother, Bryson, plays at Butler University. Even younger sister Delanie is a sophomore basketball player at Guerin. The 6-foot-3 middle blocker knows she made the right choice as she will play volleyball next for the University of Iowa. “She is that athlete that is super competitive and has that fire. As a coach, you want (that) on the court,” said Jennifer Shortenhaus, who has been Guerin’s volleyball coach for two seasons. “She has really put time and thought into being a leader. She’s shown tremendous leadership, and that has been foundational

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in building our program.” Shortenhaus said Cardinal is a dynamic hitter. “She is also a formidable blocker,” she said “She can dominate at the net. We try to get her the ball a lot.” Cardinal, a Westfield resident, missed the final games of the regular season with patellar tendinitis but hoped to play in the IHSAA Class 3A sectional at New Castle, which was scheduled for Oct. 17. “What makes me passionate is volleyball has given me a future and it has grown me as a person and given me the ability to continue to compete and do something I love,” she said. “The atmosphere and the community that it brings is just so amazing. It makes me have so much joy playing it.” Cardinal has especially loved playing for the Golden Eagles. “I’ve played with the same girls all four years and it’s a great place to be,” she said. “It’s really embedded some big friendships in my life.” Cardinal said she made the most improvement playing club her sophomore year. “It put people around me who are competitive and want to play (NCAA Division I),” she said. “It definitely changed my mindset and my game as a player.” Cardinal said the coaches were the biggest factor in choosing Iowa. “I want them to know their stuff and make me feel secure and they definitely did for me,” she said. “The culture Iowa has is unbelievable.”

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Westfield Lions and supporters are greeted by Mayor Scott Willis during the club’s third annual charity golf outing, “Fore the First Responders” Sept. 15, which raised $17,800 to help purchase equipment for the Westfield police and fire departments, including a Kevlar vest for the WPD’s newest K-9 officer. Funds also will be donated to the Westfield Fire Department’s nonprofit foundation, which addresses firefighter hardship and supports bereavement, training and a memorial. For more, visit westfieldlions.org. (Photo courtesy of Westfield Lions)

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Meet the candidates for state comptroller Compiled by Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com Republican incumbent Comptroller Elise Nieshalla, a Zionsville resident, is running for her first full term. She was appointed to the office in 2023. Nieshalla is challenged by Democrat Jessica Bailey, the Porter County clerk, and Libertarian John Schick, a management consultant. The state comptroller oversees Indiana’s accounting system and tracks revenue and spending. For more on their campaigns, visit eliseforcomptroller.com and baileyforindiana.com. Schick did not provide a campaign website. The election is Nov. 3. WHY ARE YOU RUNNING ? Bailey: Every office I’ve held started with something broken no one was willing to fix, from unequal programming between schools to an election board with no set meetings. As Porter County clerk, I fixed it. As compBailey troller, I’ll bring accountability to a State Board of Finance that rubber-stamps decisions without oversight. Nieshalla: To continue executing and advancing: fiscal responsibility through accurate accounting and reporting; timely payroll, bill payments and distriNieshalla butions of tax dollars; transparency through administrating the Indiana Transparency Portal and Federal Funding Expenditures Dashboard; and sound governance for Indiana’s pension and deferred compensation plan. Schick: So Hoosiers have a choice that favors Schick personal liberty over the polarized left-right agendas. WHAT MAKES YOU THE BEST CHOICE? Bailey: I’m the only candidate with real financial management experience in public office, either years as Porter County clerk running budgets, elec-

tions and public records. I’ve already proven I’ll fix broken systems instead of simply rubber-stamping them, and voters across the political spectrum trust and respect my record. Nieshalla: From serving as the president of both the Indiana County Councils Association and the Boone County Council, to leading the Accounting and Reporting Office for the state, I offer a proven record of fiscal responsibility. In addition, I lead the National Debt Crisis Task Force of state financial officers. Schick: The state comptroller’s office would be independent of the political party making spending decisions.

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WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE CAMPAIGN ISSUES? Bailey: Transparency, accountability for the board of finance. Votes should have genuine explanations and oversight. Modernize the Transparency Portal so taxpayers can see and understand where their government is spending money. Full, honest reporting on tax breaks like the $655 million in data center exemptions only disclosed after reporters forced it. Nieshalla: Six Cents to Common Sense: Republican leadership saved Indiana financially as Democrats left us with 6 cents in the bank. Indiana, the Sunshine State: we’re shining the brightest light of transparency on Indiana’s finances. Make America Like Indiana: Indiana is a model of fiscal responsibility; America is $40 trillion in debt. Schick: Independence of the state comptroller from the majority party in the legislature. Complete overhaul of the State’s Transparency Portal that is anything but transparent. More use of press releases to keep the legislature and citizens informed of state spending.

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HOW DO YOU PLAN TO BRIDGE THE PARTISAN DIVIDES TO SERVE ALL YOUR CONSTITUENTS? Bailey: I’ve spent the last eight years in a nonpartisan office built on trust, not party lines. I work with Republicans and Democrats everyday in Porter County. As comptroller, I’ll judge state spending on facts, not the letter after the person requesting its name, and ask Continued on Page 16

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Continued from Page 15 the same questions of everyone. Nieshalla: It’s my duty and honor to oversee the state’s accounting and reporting on behalf of every Hoosier, ensure each state employee and vendor is paid, distribute revenues to state and local units across Indiana and serve as a fiduciary for all the beneficiaries of the state’s pension and retirement plan. Schick: Libertarians are not interested in using the government to pick winners and losers between special interest groups. The divide is between people seeking to use government force against others who don’t share their point of view. HOW WILL YOU INCREASE TRANSPARENCY IN STATE SPENDING AND MODERNIZE INDIANA’S PAYROLL AND ACCOUNTING SYSTEMS FOR GREATER EFFICIENCY? Bailey: Rebuild the Transparency Portal in plain language, modernize outdated payroll and accounting systems for faster, accurate payments, and give workers and unions a direct channel to check prevailing wage, potential violations and contracts for state funded projects. I’ll keep asking questions on the Board of Finance instead of rubber-stamping transfers. Nieshalla: Our office made a leading-edge advancement in transparency among the states by launching the FFED for easy-access viewing of federal funding expenditures separated out from total state expenditures. We also modernized timekeeping for payroll and incorporated bulk EIN/TIN verification and early warning services to confirm data matching across banks. Schick: The State’s Transparency Portal needs a complete overhaul. The data for my county shows 60 percent of spending allocated to a single account called “Settlements,” with no further information about where the money is going.

Vote centers approved news@youarecurrent.com The Hamilton County Election Board voted unanimously Sept. 29 to transition from traditional precinct-based voting to a countywide vote center model beginning with the 2027 municipal elections, giving election officials an opportunity to refine the process before the higher-turnout 2028 presidential election. Under the new system, Hamilton County voters will no longer be required to cast their ballot at an assigned precinct on election day. Instead, they will be able to vote at any designated vote center in the county. Hamilton County operates 102 polling sites. Under the approved plan, the county will establish 57 vote centers — more than double the 28 locations required by state law based on Hamilton County’s registered voter population. “This gives voters more flexibility while allowing us to build an election system that can better accommodate Hamilton County’s continued growth,” Hamilton County Clerk Kathy Kreag Williams stated. “Beginning next year, voters can choose the vote center that works best for them rather than being tied to one specific location.” The unanimous vote marks a change from last year, when the proposal fell one vote short

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of the unanimous approval required. Ray Adler, the Republican appointee to the election board, voted against the proposal at that time, saying he wanted to see how vote centers worked in Allen County before making a significant change in Hamilton County. “I had concerns last year because this is a major change that will affect hundreds of thousands of voters,” Adler stated. “We’ve had another year to study the process, learn from other counties and strengthen our own plan. I’m comfortable that we’re ready to move forward.” According to county officials, a key part of the plan is the renewed participation of Hamilton County’s local school districts. Several districts had previously stopped serving as polling locations because of security concerns, but have now agreed to host voting locations throughout the county. “One of the biggest reasons this proposal works is because our local school districts have stepped up as partners once again,” Williams, who authored Indiana’s original vote center legislation while serving in the Indiana House of Representatives, stated. “By opening their buildings as vote centers, they’re helping ensure voters across Hamilton County have a convenient place to cast their ballot close to home.”

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Education foundation awards 85 teacher grants Cut. Build. Create. will give approximately 500 students access to tools that transform recycled cardboard The Westfield Education Foundation into sculptures, architectural modhas awarded 85 educator grants through its 2026 Fall Teacher-Led Grant proels, and original creations while incorporating art, engineering and gram, funding proposals ranging from problem solving. literacy resources and hands-on science • At Washington Woods Elementary, experiences to STEM equipment, music the All About That and art materials, Bass grant will add student wellness, “We are proud of what new instruments career exploraour community has built to the music classtion and creative together, and we are projects. room, expanding Submitted proopportunities for excited about what we can students to learn posals totaled more accomplish together in the and perform. than $72,000 and next 40 years.” • At Cool the foundation had — ASHLEY KNOTT Creek Elementary, a little more than Building Success$53,000 available. An earlier grant from the Advancing Westful Learners Through Mindful Breaks will provide third grade field Foundation helped fill the gap and all students with screen-free opportuof the 85 Teacher-Led Grant applications submitted were ultimately funded. nities to recharge and refocus, sup“This is what makes Westfield speporting student wellness alongside academic learning. cial,” stated Ashley Knott, executive di• Through the A Street Through rector of the Westfield Education FounTime project, WMS students will dation. “We began with the resources to use illustrated resources to visualfund 53 grants, but there were so many great ideas coming from our educators. ize civilizations and better underBy working together with the Advancstand how people lived throughout history. The Career Exploration for ing Westfield Foundation, our (ParAll grant will help about 800 eighth ent-Teacher Organizations), principals grade students participate in Juand community partners, we were able to say yes to 85.” nior Achievement JobSpark, conSome of the grant-awarded projects necting classroom learning with include: careers and future possibilities. • At Maple Glen Elementary, the • At Westfield High School, grants Discover the Magic of Science grant will provide educators with addiwill bring hands-on science expetional resources to create relevant, engaging learning experiences riences to approximately 100 kinas students prepare for college, dergarten students, encouraging careers and life beyond Westfield curiosity and exploration through Washington Schools. interactive learning. Founded in 1986, the Westfield Educa• At Monon Trail Elementary, Literacy for All Learners will provide tion Foundation is celebrating 40 years kindergarten classrooms with of supporting Westfield Washington hands-on, multisensory resources Schools. designed to strengthen letter rec“Forty years of impact doesn’t hapognition, phonemic awareness and pen because of one organization,” Knott early phonics skills. The reusable stated. “It happens because of commumaterials can support students and nity partners, donors, PTOs, educators, educators for years to come. school leaders and families who believe • At the newly opened Midland in our students. This grant cycle is a Crossing Elementary, Building wonderful example of that collaboraTomorrow’s STEM Explorers will tion. We are proud of what our comprovide reusable STEM materials munity has built together, and we are for more than 120 second-grade excited about what we can accomplish students each year. together in the next 40 years.” • At Shamrock Springs Elementary, For more, visit wwswef.org. news@currentinwestfield.com

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THANK YOU FOR 20 YEARS! 10.20.26 • youarecurrent.com

You win with people, and for two decades, we’ve been fortunate to have the very best on our team and in our corner. Behind every edition delivered to your mailbox is a dedicated staff, a vibrant community, and a diverse network of advertisers — from local shop owners to regional and national brands — who make our work possible. To celebrate 20 years of local reporting, cofounder Steve Greenberg looks back at our scrappy beginnings, major milestones, and what’s next for Current. SCAN THE QR CODE TO READ CO-FOUNDER STEVE GREENBERG’S STORY ON HOW CURRENT GREW FROM AN IDEA INTO 20 YEARS OF COMMUNITY IMPACT.

TO YOU, OUR INCREDIBLE ADVERTISERS: Thank you for being the fuel behind our journey. Reaching our 20th anniversary truly would have been “mission impossible” without your unwavering trust, partnership and vision. You didn’t just support our platform, you built this milestone with us! Here’s to two decades of shared successes!

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Every issue we deliver carries your investment in our communities. For two decades, your loyalty and belief in local media have been the foundation we’ve built on. This anniversary belongs to you as much as it does to us. With deep gratitude, here’s to the next 20 years of growing together!

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GOOD NEWS 10.20.26 • youarecurrent.com

Westfield preschoolers practice reporting skills, channel their natural curiosity

room with them, asking what reporters really do, and what her favorite color was, while also admiring her toenail polish. Budimir said interactive play is the best way for kids that age to learn. And you never know what they might ask or answer. “Sometimes they really surprise you,” she said, adding that there are no wrong answers — it’s about building synapses and getting comfortable with trying to figure out those answers on their own. For more, visit goddardschool.com/ schools/in/westfield/westfield.

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com Holding microphones and facing a camera crew, two news anchors sit behind a desk — one sporting a blazer and dark-rimmed eyeglasses — as they discuss the news of the day. It’s a typical newscast, except the reporters are around 4 years old and the big news story is about the Three Little Pigs. The Goddard School of Westfield’s preschool classes recently celebrated World News Day by playing reporters, photographers, weather forecasters and videographers — a fun game that school officials say is also a great learning experience. Owner Lauren Budimir said the school’s curriculum is based on inquiry and curiosity, which goes well with jobs such as journalism. “When children ask questions, they dive a little deeper into their learning,” she said. “And so, giving them the opportunity to do it from the perspective of being a journalist gives them a really natural way to segue into that type of curiosity.” Leading up to World News Day, the students started with “inquiry questions.” “Depending on where the children take it, based on their interest and what they’re naturally curious about, is how they decide where to go next,” Budimir said. “They start with really broad questions that are not ‘yes’ and ‘no’ (answers). Oftentimes, when we’re raising our children, we’re asking them yes or no questions or compliance questions that have one-word answers: ‘Are you hungry?’ ‘Do you want to wear red or blue?’ It’s one-word answers. What we’re trying to do is expand their minds to be more critical thinkers.” Some of the questions were, “What makes a family?” “What kinds of jobs are there?” and “What types of community members make up our community?” she said. The classrooms use age-appropriate activities to engage with those questions to move on from the original

Two students give an up-to-the-minute weather report from a window at The Goddard School of Westfield. (Photos by Leila Kheiry)

question and expand the students’ curiosity. “Goddard is focused on making sure that children are being met where they are, and then continuously celebrating that, but then also pushing them and challenging them to think beyond where they’re at currently and create really, really critical thinkers,” Budimir said. “The most successful people in our world today are risk takers and critical thinkers.” To celebrate World News Day, the classrooms had news desks with props, microphones and cameras that printed

out small photographs of students as they reported on what they did that weekend, their favorite animals and the plot of the children’s story, “The Three Little Pigs.” In another classroom, the news desk focused on the best ways to spread kindness, like releasing a grasshopper outside that the kids had found in the classroom. Two students were asked to give a weather update, so they walked over to the window and reported that it was sunny outside. Some of the students also interviewed a professional reporter in the

ON THE COVER: The Goddard School of Westfield preschool students interview each other during World News Day. (Photo by Leila Kheiry) A preschool student pretends to be a press photographer during World News Day at The Goddard School of Westfield.

WORLD NEWS DAY World News Day is observed Sept. 28, coinciding with the United Nation’s Universal Day for Access to Information, which recognizes journalism as a key element to keeping the public informed. According to the World News Day website, the day is part of a global campaign to draw attention to the role journalists play in providing trustworthy information that serves citizens and democracy. It’s hosted by the World Editors Forum — part of the World Association of News Publishers; Project Kontinuum, a global media initiative to advance journalism; and the Canadian Journalism Foundation. The first World News Day was in 2018. For more, visit worldnewsday.org.

Props used by The Goddard School of Westfield preschool students on World News Day include a microphone and a sign with the basic questions news stories should answer. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)

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CURRENT IN WESTFIELD 10.20.26 • youarecurrent.com

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Community-GoHealth and the City of Westfield officials celebrate the new Westfield center Oct. 8. (Photo courtesy of Community-GoHealth)

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Representatives from the City of Westfield, Westfield Chamber of Commerce and Community-GoHealth Urgent Care celebrated the opening of the new Westfield urgent care center Oct. 8 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new facility, 124 W. Spring Mill Pointe Dr. The new Westfield center, which had a soft opening in early September, is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. It offers treatment for adults and children 6 months and older for nonlife-threatening illnesses and injuries, on-site X-ray services and diagnostic

testing. The center is open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Sunday, with limited holiday hours. Providers at the center can connect patients who need follow-up care to Community Health Network’s primary care providers, specialists and advanced testing and treatment services, with integrated electronic medical records supporting continuity of care. The new center will take walk-ins, or patients can use Community-GoHealth’s website to secure a spot in line, check-in and complete registration before arriving. For more, visit gohealthuc.com/ community/locations/westfield.

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CURRENT IN WESTFIELD

10.20.26 • youarecurrent.com

Actor embraces role in ‘Little Shop’ By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Joey Boos has developed a personal connection with Seymour, the shy floral clerk. Boos is playing Seymour for the third time in Actors Theatre of Indiana’s production of “Little Shop of Horrors” Oct. 23 to Nov. 8 at the Studio Theater at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. “I love Seymour and I find a lot of things that are similar,” Boos said. “I feel like he’s such a people pleaser, which is something that I am. I find those things that are similar that help me hold on to the character and become him a little more.” The first time Boos played Seymour was when he was 18 in a community theater at home in Salina, Kan. The second time was at Beef & Boards in 2019. Boos, an Indianapolis resident, is making his debut with ATI. “The thing about doing a role again is you are doing it with different people, and that affects your feeling in a scene,” he said. “Each experience and my emotions in the show have been different. I still get to start at Square 1 with the new group of people that I’m working with.” Seymour is in love with Audrey, his co-worker, who is played by Michaela McGarel. Kevin Toniazzo-Naughton plays Audrey’s sadistic dentist boyfriend along with some ensemble characters. “He’s of an antagonist nature to an extreme personality type,” Toniazzo-Naughton said. “I get to be completely evil and loving it. The show itself lends itself to these larger-than-life personalities. I get to play this Snidely Whiplash, Machiavellian character who is a motorcycling, tooth-pulling maniac. It is kind of the opportunity of a lifetime. I always wanted to play the role. It’s so far removed from who I am as a person but it’s the most amazing mask to put on and play this comedic villain.” Toniazzo-Naughton, a Philadelphia

‘CATS’ “Cats” runs through Nov. 22 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com. ‘TRIBUTE TO JOHNNY CASH’ James Garner’s “Tribute to Johnny Cash” is set for 7 p.m. Oct. 22 at Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org. ‘SALEM’ Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre presents “Salem” at 7 p.m. Oct. 23 and 5 p.m. Oct. 24 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit gregoryhancockdancetheatre.org. ‘BEST OF BROADWAY’

Michaela McGarel and Joey Boos will perform in Actors Theatre of Indiana’s “Little Shop of Horrors.” (Photo courtesy of Joey Mervis)

resident, had unsuccessfully auditioned for the dentist role before. “The main challenge is to have as much fun the next day as I had the day before,” he said. “This show is a gift and I’m so excited to work with everyone on it.” Toniazzo-Naughton and Boos were in Beef & Boards’ production of “The Play That Goes Wrong” in the summer. Indianapolis resident Mark Fishback plays Mushnik, the greedy shop owner, for the third time. He played the role in a small production and then again at Civic Theatre more than 20 years ago. “It’s always great to come back to a part I love,” he said. “Every time you have a new cast, new venue, new everything, it’s completely different. The easiest thing is rememorizing the lines, so you don’t have to start from scratch.” He previously performed in “Come-

dy of Tenors” with ATI in 2018. Jathan Briscoe plays the voice of Audrey II, the man-eating plant. The late Levi Stubbs of the Four Tops used his baritone voice for the 1986 movie. “I’ve dreamed about this and my dream is coming true,” he said. “I’m really excited to be doing this. The Four Tops and Temptations were groups I looked up to and it’s really cool to do this role and pay my respects to Levi Stubbs and everyone else who has played this part.” Briscoe, from Lexington, Ky., has been preparing for the role for two months. “I’ve been watching the movie and looking at other versions of how people have played the character,” he said. This is the first time Briscoe, who will be off stage, has been a voice actor. For more, visit atistage.org.

“Sharpe Family Singers: Best of Broadway” is set for 8 p.m. Oct. 24 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org. ‘WONDERBOY’ Magician-comedian Michael Carbonaro presents his “Wonderboy” show at 8 p.m. Oct. 23 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org, ‘FROM BROADWAY TO ITALY’ Singer Anthony Nunziata and the Serenade Jazz Orchestra will perform at 8 p.m. Oct. 23 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. For more, visit hendrickslive.org. FOREIGNER’S JOURNEY Foreigner Journey presents music from Foreigner, Journey and other classic rock songs at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 25 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. For more, visit hendrickslive.org.

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‘Salem’ takes witch hunt into future By Alex McCarthy alex@youarecurrent.com Most fictional representations of the infamous 1692 Salem Witch Trials transport audiences back to the Puritan era of Biblical fears and mass hysteria. That’s not the case in the Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre’s upcoming show “Salem.” “This is a futuristic version of it,” administrative assistant and coordinator Christine Thacker said. “Kind of a ‘1984’ meets ‘Handmaid’s Tale’ version of it.” The one-act ballet, which runs Oct. 23-24 at the Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel, is the first show of the 2026-27 season for GHDT. It features sound design by Seager, a composer and recent Purdue graduate based in West Lafayette. The shows also will include several other performances, including the world premiere of “Ophelia,” a ballet based on the tragic figure of Ophelia in Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.” The performance features a haunting score by composer Cory Gabel. More information and tickets are available at thecenterpresents.org. Hancock — the company’s founder, executive artistic director and principal choreographer — envisions timeless performances that make audience members think differently about the source material. “He likes to present stories that are not rooted in a particular time or place,” Thacker said. “He wants a story to be something that speaks to anyone from anywhere at any time. So, that’s one of the reasons why he’s pulled ‘Salem’ out of the 1600s and he’s put it into this innocuous future.” From the moment “Salem” opens in a futuristic prison yard, the show will

Dancer Abigail Lessaris performs during “La Llorona” at Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre. “La Llorona” will be one of the performances along with the premiere of “Salem” on Oct. 23. (Photo courtesy of Gregory Hancock Dance Theatre)

feel almost like a rock show, Thacker said. She added that screens on stage will offer close-up views of the dancers, and the light show by lighting designer Ryan Koharchik will make for a vibrant atmosphere. Thacker said audiences never leave a GHDT production without feeling something. “It’s not just spectacle, it’s not just dance,” Thacker said. “It’s usually something that touches something emotionally in all of our audience members, whatever that emotion is. I think ‘Salem’ is going to have a very interesting message at the end of it.”

DISPATCH  Students win at Carmel International Arts Festival — Nearly two dozen local high school students earned awards at the annual Carmel International Arts Festival, which ran from Sept. 26-27. Young artists from Carmel High School and University High School submitted 133 works of arts across various media. The festival displayed their work at the Indiana Artisan Gallery on Range Line Road and awarded scholarships to 24 pieces. University High School student Liz Maitz won the Rosemary Waters Excellence in the Arts Scholarship ($2,500) for a watercolor entitled “Spring in Finland.” A full list of scholarship winners can be found on youarecurrent.com.

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10.20.26 • youarecurrent.com

Ahlwardt’s concert set By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Ryan Ahlwardt drew on many of his favorite songs from his youth in creating his latest solo album. The album, “Crying in the Canyon,” which is set to be released Oct. 23, features Ahlwardt’s eight new original songs. “Much of the musical inspiration comes from the early ’70s Laurel Canyon era and artists I grew up listening to like James Taylor, Eagles, America and Crosby Stills Nash & Young,” he said. “There’s a warm, organic, nostalgic quality to that music that I wanted to capture while still making a record that sounds like me today.” The Fishers resident will perform selections from the new album along with songs from his previous albums at an 8 p.m. concert Oct. 30 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. There will be a few other surprises. “I wanted the concert to feel bigger than simply playing the new record front to back and to tell some of the

Fishers vocalist Ryan Ahlwardt will perform Oct. 30 at The Tarkington. (Photo courtesy of Megan Mellinger)

story of my music along the way,” Ahlwardt said. A 1999 graduate of Hamilton Southeastern High School and Indiana University, Ahlwardt was a member of Straight No Chaser’s professional group from 2008 to 2012. Ahlwardt stepped down in June as the co-host of “Indy Now” on WXIN-59. “Stepping away from ‘Indy Now’ was very intentional,” he said. “I loved my time there, but I knew I wanted to create more space for music, performing and some of the other creative work I’ve been building.”

Chorus honors history By Alex McCarthy alex@youarecurrent.com

The Indianapolis Men’s Chorus is paying tribute to the state of Indiana’s contributions to American music with its upcoming show “American Voices, Indiana Stories.” The show includes selections from Hoosier artists one might expect, such as Michael Jackson, Hoagy Carmichael and Cole Porter. The show draws its format from an Indianapolis native one might not expect — David Letterman. The 7:30 p.m. Oct. 29 performance at Basile Theater at the Eugene and Marilyn Glick Indiana History Center follows the format of a late-night talk show. Along with the performances, it will include interviews with key figures in the Indiana music scene. Nicholas Johnson, professor of musicology at Butler University, plays the Letterman role. Johnson provided historical research and interpretation for the show, working closely with curator and director Joseph Perkins Jr. to determine the lineup and flow of the show. “You don’t really want people to

The Indianapolis Men’s Chorus is performing songs from Indiana musicians in honor of the United States’ 250th anniversary. (Photo courtesy of Shotwell Photos)

know that they’re learning,” Johnson said. “You’ve got to kind of trick them through laughing and enjoying music.” The idea stemmed from the Indiana Arts Commission, which was commissioning projects that celebrated the United States’ 250th anniversary, IMC Executive Director Stephen McCoy said. He knew that the IMC could put together an entertaining show honoring Indiana musicians, and reached out to Indiana Humanities, which provided financial support and Johnson’s services. Tickets for “American Voices, Indiana Stories” are $15 and available at indianapolismenschorus.org.

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From left, Doug Allen, Dr. Steve Ahlfeld, John Laskowski, John Kamstra and Dr. Steve Green at the “First Five” premiere. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

Knight’s first IU class featured in ‘First Five’ By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com At first, Dr. Steve Green didn’t know what to think about the idea of making a documentary about Indiana University coach Bob Knight’s first five recruits in 1971. The idea came from a friend of the late Wayne Radford, who said at Radford’s funeral in 2021 that Radford said there was much he learned from that first class. Radford was a freshman on the Hoosiers’ 1974-75 team. “We didn’t want it to be a ‘1975 or ’76 — who’s better,”” said Green, a Fishers resident and dentist. Instead, it was a story of how the first class built the foundation for success under Knight. The five players were Green, John Laskowski, Dr. Steve Ahlfeld, John Kamstra and Doug Allen. The documentary, “First Five,” premiered Oct. 7 as part of the Heartland International Film Festival at the Scottish Rite Cathedral. “We did turn (the basketball program) around pretty fast and we started winning a lot of games,” Laskowski said. “People don’t know how that came about, so that’s what we’re describing how it came about. It wasn’t too hard. You listen to what Coach Knight told you to do. You worked harder than you even thought you could and good things started to happen. It was just a wonderful experience.” Laskowski said the documentary has given the former teammates a chance to reconnect. “We don’t have daily work jobs and we’d go to lunch and talk about this and that and tell a story,” he said. “It’s just great to relive that.” Green said he hopes a streaming ser-

vice will pick up the documentary. “But if it doesn’t, our pledge to each other if we get the story out (is) we don’t care if it’s the five of us talking to 10 people,” he said. Green said one of the assistant coaches, Bob Weltlich, on the 1974-75 team, said he believed Knight, who died in 2023, would have loved the film. Weltlich was interviewed as part of the documentary. Allen said he heard about the documentary from Green. “We talked and said, ‘You know what, we have a special story that no one else can tell,’” he said. “So, let’s talk about our experiences, get it on film for future players to be able to come back and see what the early years were like.” Allen said what Knight loved most is how all the players were successful. Allen, Laskowski and Kamstra were successful businessmen. Ahlfeld is an orthopedic surgeon and served as the IU basketball team’s orthopedic surgeon for nearly 40 years. “We all started our different occupations and we’ve had success,” Allen said. “I think that’s what he’d take the most pride in.” Knight said in the 1990s that the 197475 team was the best he ever coached. Scott May, who averaged 16.3 points per game, broke his left arm late in the season. He missed the first NCAA Tournament games and tried to play against Kentucky with a cast but managed only seven minutes and scored two points in IU’s 92-90 loss in the Elite Eight game. The Hoosiers had beaten Kentucky by 24 points early in the season. The 1974-75 team finished 31-1. The 1975-76 is the last unbeaten NCAA champion with a 32-0 record. For more, visit firstfivemovie.com and heartlandflilm.org.

PUZZLES 1

10.20.26 • youarecurrent.com

20 23

24 29

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52 56

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wooly beast 19. Lubed 20. Decapitated 22. Family card game 23. Doesn’t do a thing 24. African flies 6 Big 10 Schools

28. Bound 29. Steer clear of 32. Letters on a toothpaste box 33. Conclusion 35. Key ___, Fla. 37. Local living history museum 40. Dwelling 41. Kind of dive 42. Shriner’s topper 43. To start with 44. ___-bitsy 48. Act of disloyalty 51. Bring to mind 52. Comic bit 53. With 20-Across, scary equestrian at a festival at 37-Across 56. Macho guys 59. Occupy, as a desk 60. Colts passing stat 61. Do some editing 62. Beech ___, Ind. 63. Oolong, e.g. 64. Eccentric 65. Sound of amusement 66. Surgical venues, briefly DOWN 1. TV therapist 2. Acquiesce 3. Indian spice mixture 4. Fargo’s partner 5. Wheel turner 6. “Buenos ___” (“Good day”) 7. Hoosier National Forest trees 4 Fingers

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6 4 2 5

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Down

2. What supports or disproves a claim 4. Earlier decision that guides a later one 7. Irish city where Emily earned her LLM 9. A jury’s decision 11. Evidence given under oath 12. Court process for administering an estate 14. Negotiation with a neutral third party 15. Emily’s nonprofit workplace (2 wds.) 16. A judge’s withdrawal from a case 17. Out-of-court statement offered for its truth 18. Fairness; also a branch of law 19. A solemn promise to tell the truth

Across

1. Advice—or the lawyer giving it 3. Free of favoritism 5. Legal help for those unable to afford it (2 wds.) 6. Constitutional guarantee of fair procedure (2 wds.) 8. Request for review by a higher court 10. A court’s list of cases 13. A court’s authority to hear a case 20. Emily’s two-word surname (2 wds.) 21. Person appointed to protect another’s interests 22. Law enacted by a legislature

WORD SEARCH Find all 16. look in every direction W N M

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ACCOUNTABILITY IMPARTIALITY

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ACCESSIBILITY

PROFESSIONALISM

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TRANSPARENCY

PREPARATION

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Q H O

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Issue 27 | AUTUMN 2026

AND BETTER

Carmel resident entertains fellow senior center residents, guests

MAKE EVERY SEASON MORE MEMORABLE (317) 648-5458

55+ LIVING

55 AND BETTER Autumn 2026

DISPATCHES A Salute to Veterans — The Hamilton County Historical Society presents A Salute to Veterans through Nov. 14, showcasing military uniforms from throughout the nation’s 250 years. The exhibit displays uniforms worn or owned by Hamilton County residents and is presented in conjunction with the Clay Township Military Library and Museum in Carmel and other county veterans. The Hamilton County Historical Society Museum is free for tours and open to the public Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. It also will be open Nov. 11 for Veterans Day. For more, visit hamiltoncoinhs.com. Community Center accepts ‘SilverSneakers’ — The Fishers Community Center accepts insurance-based memberships, such as SilverSneakers, Renew Active, Silver&Fit and Active&Fit. Insurance-based memberships provide the same access as regular memberships, but fees are processed directly through the member’s insurance. For more, visit fisherscommunitycenter.com/insurance. Cross-county public transit service offered — A new public transit service that takes riders between Hamilton and Hancock counties has launched through a Central Indiana Regional Transportation Authority, Hamilton County Express and RIDE Hancock partnership. OneCall Connect helps riders navigate a public transportation funding rule that doesn’t allow transit providers to cross county lines. The new service, which offers users a flat one-way fee of $8, has a transfer point in McCordsville where riders switch between each county’s ADA-accessible transit providers. To book a trip weekdays between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m., call 317-327-7433 at least 48 hours in advance. Forever Young Club — The City of Lawrence hosts a weekly event with games, fun and fellowship geared toward active older adults, set for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursdays at Lawrence Community Center, 5301 N. Franklin Rd.

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55 AND BETTER Autumn 2026

When arthritis affects your feet and ankles

MERIDIAN AUDIOLOGY WANTS TO PREPARE YOU FOR HEARING DURING THE HOLIDAYS

Commentary by Dr. David Sullivan and Dr. Kenneth Stumpf The holidays are fast approaching! And with holidays come family gatherings and parties with your friends or coworkers. And if you can’t hear well, it can cause frustration and miscommunication. We want to provide you with some tips for hearing better at your holiday gatherings: If you’re the one with the hearing loss: • Arrive at gatherings relaxed and well-rested in order to hear your best • Sit toward the middle of the table, where you’re able to see everyone’s face and lips for speechreading • Choose a seat with a wall behind you to avoid background noise and distance yourself from a bustling kitchen, if possible • Use smartphone apps or a remote microphone if you have them • Sit with an ally who understands your hearing loss and can help you • Have one-on-one conversations in other rooms, or away from the noise • Give yourself frequent breaks, as group settings are tiring physically and mentally • Don’t bluff—tell the other person you didn’t hear and ask them to repeat or rephrase for you • Accept that you won’t hear everything, and neither will anyone else! If you’re hosting someone with hearing loss, consider: • Keep background music low and turn it off during

F From left, Kira VonBlon, M.S. and Dr. Alison Wyss Au.D. of Meridian Audiology.

dinnertime when conversations are key • Use smaller round tables that allow guests to hear dinner table conversation and see faces for speechreading • Skip large centerpieces that block faces and visual clues • Avoid dim lighting—ensure lights are bright enough to see faces • Speak clearly while facing guests, and avoid talking while chewing or drinking • Do your best to minimize household noises during conversations—running water, dishwasher, dogs barking, kids playing nearby all interfere with listening (https://www. hearingloss.org/find-support/ social/holiday-hints/) If you have difficulty with hearing and understanding others, please call and make an appointment. We’ll be happy to help you look at your current hearing aids, check your hearing or determine if new hearing aids are your best option! Meridian Audiology, LLC Independently owned and operated by Alison Wyss, Au.D. and Kira S. VonBlon, M.S. Licensed Audiologists

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55 AND BETTER Autumn 2026

or many adults over 55, arthritis is a familiar condition that can affect the knees, hips, hands – and the feet and ankles. Because our feet support us throughout the day, arthritis in these areas can have a significant impact on mobility, balance, and overall quality of life. Arthritis occurs when the joints become inflamed or the protective cartilage that cushions the bones begins to deteriorate. Osteoarthritis, often associated with aging and years of wear and tear, is one of the most common forms affecting the foot and ankle. Previous injuries, excess weight, certain medical conditions and family history can also increase the likelihood of developing arthritis.

Recognizing the symptoms

Foot and ankle arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and tenderness around an affected joint. Some people notice discomfort when they first get out of bed or after sitting for an extended period. Pain may become more noticeable with walking, standing, or climbing stairs. Arthritis can also cause reduced joint motion and make certain shoes uncomfortable. In more advanced cases, changes in the shape of the foot or ankle may develop, making it increasingly difficult to remain active.

Treatment can help

Treatment depends on the severity of arthritis and which joints are involved. Fortunately, surgery is not always necessary. Conservative treatments may

include supportive footwear, custom orthotics, activity modification, physical therapy, and medications to help control pain and inflammation. Maintaining a healthy weight can also reduce stress on the feet and ankles. For some patients, injections may provide temporary relief when inflammation and pain are more significant. When arthritis becomes severe and significantly interferes with daily activities, surgical options may be considered. Depending on the location and severity of the arthritis, procedures can range from removing damaged bone or correcting deformities to joint fusion or joint replacement.

Don’t ignore persistent foot pain

Foot and ankle pain should not simply be accepted as a normal part of getting older. Early evaluation can help identify arthritis and other conditions that may be contributing to discomfort. A podiatrist can examine your feet and ankles, review your symptoms, and recommend an individualized treatment plan designed to help you remain active and independent. If foot or ankle pain is interfering with your daily activities, schedule an appointment with your podiatrist. Getting the right diagnosis and treatment can help you take comfortable steps toward maintaining an active lifestyle. Dr. David Sullivan and Dr. Kenneth Stumpf are boardcertified foot surgeons at Westfield Foot and Ankle, LLC. Contact them at appt@westfieldfoot.com or 317-896-6655.

2026 SR - CURRENT 55 AD - Medicare - v5.qxp_Layout 1 10/13/26 10:44 AM Page 1

Catherine Dillman moved into Sycamore Reserve Senior Living Center more than two months ago. (Photo courtesy of Sycamore Reserve)

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Wednesday, October 28th Sycamore Reserve resident enjoys new home By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

atherine Dillman is a newcomer to Sycamore Reserve, but she is feeling quite at home. Dillman, who moved in a little more than two months ago, is enjoying meeting new people at the Indianapolis senior living center. “I love the people that are here and I’m very happy with it,” she said. “I’ve been to the roundtable discussions and some of the devotional things in the morning. My niece and I have been decorating my apartment, so I haven’t participated that much in the activities.” She is eager to work with the garden club in the spring. “I love flowers and vegetables and I’d kind of rather be outside than inside,” said Dillman, who lives with her black cat, Halle. The 84-year-old Dillman grew up in Westfield, graduating from Westfield High School in 1960. Her father was a farmer. “When I graduated, there were only 39 people in my graduating class,” she said. There were 715 in the 2026 class at WHS.

After marrying, she moved to Indianapolis. Several years after her husband Larry Dillman died in 2001, she moved to Carmel for about 14 years. “God never gave me children of my own, so my husband and I managed kids,” she said. “My husband was a coach, umpire and referee for sports. That’s what we did for recreation.” Dillman said softball was her main hobby. Her husband played fast pitch softball when he was younger. “We had a young girls team in slowpitch and the 18-and-under boys team,” she said. “In Indianapolis, they started slow-pitch co-ed teams, and Larry and I were in that for 22 years. Plus, he was a nationally ranked umpire, so we traveled quite a bit in the summer.” Dillman hasn’t been able to get to many softball games because a pinched nerve in her hip has kept her from driving the past three years. Dillman worked in the home loan department of the Veterans Administration for nearly 40 years. Her husband worked for the U.S. Postal Service and the state of Indiana Motorcycle Division. For more, visit sycamorereserve.com.

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55 AND BETTER Autumn 2026

Retired Butler professor writes sales book By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

aniel McQuiston found his calling was teaching. Now professor emeritus of marketing at Butler University, McQuiston has put his years of experience and research to use. His book, “The Serving Salesperson: Seven Pillars to Transform The Customer Relationship,” was released in June. The idea for the book was formed 25 years ago when the 75-year-old Carmel resident became aware of the Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership. Robert Greenleaf was an executive at AT&T. “His idea was you take the organizational pyramid and turn it upside down where rather than the boss being at the top and filtering down to the employees, employees (are) at the top and then filter down to the boss,” he said. Instead of the supervisor issuing orders, the attitude would be what the supervisor could do to help the salesperson accomplish what he needs. At one point, Butler conducted a

Retired Butler University professor Daniel McQuiston wrote a book, “The Serving Salesperson.” (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

symposium with the Greenleaf Center. “I started reading some of it and said, ’This is very applicable to what’s successful in sales,’” McQuiston said. “It’s the authenticity, the honesty, the integrity and so forth. I was talking to my dean about some research I was thinking of doing. He leaned back and said, ‘You should write a book on being a serving salesperson.’ So, that seed got planted. That was probably around 2001.” McQuiston began conducting seminars and management development

sessions. He said he viewed his role as preparing students for their first job in sales. “When I had nonsales groups, I would ask what salespeople did that you really liked,” he said. “I’d hear the same answers — integrity, honesty and hard work. You know all of this, but I was in a seminar one time and there was a woman who was sitting right down there in front and she said, ‘The best salespeople, the ones I like best, I feel they’re there to serve me rather than serving themselves.’” McQuiston said the entire audience agreed, which led him to again consider a book. He said it couldn’t be a book based on his beliefs. “So, I said this can’t be an ‘I think’ book because nobody cares what I think,” he said. “Sad, but true.” McQuiston said he identified some serving salespeople, men and women, and asked what they do to serve their customers. He asked them to give him the name of another serving salesperson. He would interview them and then ask for more names. He eventually in-

terviewed 33 salespeople and came up with seven practices of a serving salesperson. He wrote an article about it. When McQuiston was retiring, the advice given to him by his financial representative was, “You don’t retire from something, you retire to something.” So, he decided it was time to make it a book with the help of two research professors at Butler. He interviewed two dozen MBA students on what salespeople do that creates value for them. McQuiston and the professors created an electronic survey. “We got back over 300 usable responses, and so we took that and analyzed it, and (that’s) where I have the seven pillars of a serving salesperson,” he said. McQuiston provides a step-by-step approach to achieving each pillar. “I just want people to be successful,” he said. “It’s been shown time and time again that companies that have a servant leadership mentality are just more successful. They’re more profitable. They have less turnover. Their employContinued on Page 8

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ees are happier.” The seven pillars are: 1. Set Serving as Your True North 2. Blend Passion and Perseverance 3. Sharpen Your EQ 4. Build Trust Through the Human Touch 5. Communicate for Impact 6. Facilitate the Journey 7. Guide the Transformation A chapter is devoted to each of the pillars. McQuiston said his parents set an example for him. “I grew up in what could be called a servant-led household as both of my parents had a true serving mentality,” he said. ”My father was a member of the Battle Creek (Mich.) Board of Education for 44 years, served on any number of community boards and in his retirement was a fundraiser for nonprofits. For 33 years, my mother ran the local children’s theater and focused on giving kids the opportunity to be on a stage they wouldn’t have had otherwise. Even today, 15 years after her passing, I get messages on the impact she had on people’s lives.” McQuiston and his wife, Cathy, have two daughters and four grandchildren. McQuiston didn’t start out to be in the academic world. “I tried working for a living once and I didn’t like it. They expected results and everything,” he said jokingly. “No, the short story is that I was rather unfocused when I graduated from college.” McQuiston, who earned his undergraduate degree from Indiana University, said his undergraduate performance was less than stellar. When he was 25, he decided to get more serious and went back to get a Master of Business Administration from Bowling Green State University. After getting his MBA, he earned a doctorate from Ohio State University. While at Bowling Green, he did a graduate assistantship in 1979-80. “I got to do a little teaching and I thought I like this environment and it just so happened they needed somebody to teach a sales class,” he said. “I thought, ‘Well, let’s try this and see if I like it,’ and I did, so I decided to pursue academics as a career.” After earning his doctorate, McQuiston taught at IU for five years. After that, he spent 31 years at Butler University before retiring in 2021. The book is available on amazon.com.

The men’s group at the annual camping renewal trip. (Photo courtesy of Tom Weesner)

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The sounds of silence Commentary by Tom Weesner

“

’m giddy!” After hearing these two words, we know that in just six weeks we will be together – a collective of men and young sons on our annual camping renewal at Pokagon State Park in Angola. And there, we will hear the sounds of silence — raccoons in the trash, wind, raindrops and walnuts crashing through the leaves before hitting the ground (or us). Yet, these background instruments are just warmup for the symphony created by a group of men building brotherhood through acceptance, strengthening selves through solitude and conversation and setting an example for the next generation of men. We have been gathering annually for the last 27 years. It is my seventh year, and for something that began as a father and sons adventure, the “family” has expanded to friends and strangers. Chuck, a 21-year attendee said, “I’m lucky to be surrounded by a bunch of cool people. Once a year we get together and enjoy the conversation of what this last year has done for us, what we expect out of the next year, and on top of that, lets us build a relationship that can grow and be nurtured in between that one-year camping trip.” Why do we return each year? In the guys’ words, “family,” “fellowship,” “building connections,” “lots of guitars,” “euchre” and traditions like Aunt Jean’s chocolate cake, berry cobbler and thick steaks grilled over the fire — and, of course, the first Christmas music of the year. And the amazing thing? For many, we only see or talk to one another once a year, yet when we camp, it is as if a day hasn’t passed. The relevance? As men, we are faced

with thousands of images daily of what it is to be a man. Many of which are created by whom? In our noisy world of work, traffic, messages and social media, we often find ourselves lost, disconnected and in need of support. We call our group “Man-Up,” precisely to dispel the notion that to be a man you need to be “macho,” “unemotional,” or “judgmental.” Rather, that in the face of adversity, men can listen to, share with and support one another in this difficult life. Larry said it best: “We all have a good time and a trust that has been built up over so many years. We also have a nearly unbreakable bond because we can accept each other for who we are, regardless of situation, regardless of background, regardless of political and religious ideologies — it doesn’t matter.” And so, when you silence the noise of everyday life, the strumming of new chords is heard — conversation, acceptance, support and love — men becoming better men and setting examples for their sons. In Larry’s words, “When it is all said and done, and I’m driving home tomorrow, there’s going to be a bit of sadness, but it gives me new insight and new drive and new focus to look at the coming year.” Men’s mental health is as important as physical health. So, take a walk away from the everyday freneticism of work, light and noise pollution. And when you return, call that friend or relative and just say, “I care about you.”

Tom Weesner is the president of Motion 4 Life Fitness

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UNDERSTANDING BREAST CANCER: WHY EARLY DETECTION MATTERS

By Dr. Folasade Imeokparia, breast surgeon at the IU Health Joe & Shelly Schwarz Cancer Center in Carmel

very October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as an important Dr. Folasade reminder to Imeokparia prioritize breast health, learn about breast cancer risk factors and stay up to date on recommended screenings. While awareness campaigns often highlight the impact of a breast cancer diagnosis, they also provide an opportunity to focus on something equally important: early detection. Understanding breast cancer and knowing when to get screened can help people take an active role in their health and may lead to better outcomes if cancer is found. UNDERSTANDING BREAST CANCER Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, although men can also develop the disease. It occurs when abnormal cells in the breast begin growing uncontrollably. There are several different types of breast cancer, and they can develop in different areas of the breast. Some cancers grow slowly, while others are more aggressive. Because every cancer is unique, providers use specialized testing to better understand the characteristics of a tumor and develop an individualized treatment plan. What works for one patient may not be the best option for another, which is why personalized care plays such an important role in breast cancer treatment.

This imaging test uses low-dose radiation to look for changes or abnormalities in breast tissue that may not yet be noticeable during a physical exam. For women at average risk, conversations about screening mammograms should begin around age 40. Women ages 50 to 74 are generally recommended to receive a mammogram every other year unless their healthcare provider suggests a different screening schedule. For women with dense breast tissue, additional imaging may be recommended. In some cases, an ultrasound is used alongside a mammogram to improve cancer detection and provide a more complete picture of breast health.

THE POWER OF EARLY DETECTION One of the most effective ways to improve breast cancer outcomes is to find cancer early, before symptoms develop or the disease has had a chance to spread. Breast cancer is often detected through routine screening or when a lump is felt in the breast. When found early, treatment options may be less extensive, and outcomes can improve significantly. In fact, early detection can increase a woman’s fiveyear survival rate to 97%.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER AN ABNORMAL SCREENING? Receiving a call after a mammogram can be unsettling, but it does not automatically mean cancer is present. Additional testing is often needed to gather more information. Depending on the situation, follow-up testing may include diagnostic mammography, ultrasound, MRI or a biopsy. These tests help providers determine whether cancer is present, identify its location and understand the stage of the disease.

WHY MAMMOGRAMS MATTER A mammogram remains one of the most important tools for early breast cancer detection.

TREATMENT CONTINUES TO ADVANCE Breast cancer treatment has evolved significantly over the years. Depending on the type and

55 AND BETTER Autumn 2026

stage of cancer, treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy or targeted therapies designed to attack specific cancer cells. Surgical options may include a lumpectomy, which removes only the tumor, or a mastectomy, which removes breast tissue. Some patients may also choose breast reconstruction as part of their treatment journey. Advances in research and clinical trials continue to create new opportunities for more personalized and effective treatments, helping patients receive care tailored to their specific diagnosis. TAKING CHARGE OF YOUR BREAST HEALTH Breast Cancer Awareness Month is about more than wearing pink. It is a reminder to schedule preventive screenings, understand your personal risk factors and pay attention to any changes in your body. Whether you’re approaching your first mammogram or simply looking to learn more about breast health, taking proactive steps today can make a meaningful difference tomorrow. Early detection remains one of the most powerful tools in the fight against breast cancer, and staying informed is an important part of protecting your long-term health. IU Health offers online mammogram scheduling at convenient locations throughout the Indianapolis metropolitan area. Learn more at iuhealth.org/mammo.

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55 AND BETTER Autumn 2026

Carmel resident entertains fellow senior center residents, guests By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

ouise Newman never gets tired of playing the piano. The 95-year-old, who everyone calls Lou, plays daily where she lives at StoryPoint Carmel, formerly Woodland Terrace of Carmel. There is a piano in the main area. “We have a piano or keyboard in every major room in this facility,” said Newman, who also has a piano in her apartment. “We even have one in the memory care unit. We have a small choir here that I accompany, and once a month we go down to the memory care. It’s amazing how people don’t know their own children’s names but they know the words to some of the old songs.” Newman plays whenever anyone gets a tour of the facility. “They seem to be impressed when they walk in to hear piano music,” she said. “I play after meals and maybe at night at request.” Newman can play approximately 500 songs. “Music has been the biggest part of keeping me going,” she said. “People stop by the piano every day, they say, ‘I was so down this morning, but when I heard your music, it made me happy.’ So, how can you not play?” Newman plays music from the Great American Songbook and Broadway show tunes. She said sometimes when she plays a song, someone says it was their wedding song. Her late husband, Lenny, was an accordionist. “We played together in nursing homes, retirement centers, like we did in Bloomington,” Newman said. They even played in weddings.

55 AND BETTER Autumn 2026

Lou Newman plays piano at StoryPoint Carmel. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

Newman started out playing short tunes when she was 6 years old and then took lessons at age 7 in her hometown of New Madrid, Mo. “My parents had a ready-to-wear store and a used furniture store across the street,” she said. Newman accompanied the school choir on piano and for people competing in vocal competitions. Her reasons for playing weren’t always altruistic. “I found if I had to practice my piano, I had to do it after dinner, so my sisters had to do the dishes and I got out of that job,” she said. Newman attended Interlochen (Mich.) Arts Camp when she was 14.

“They picked 18 (campers) to sing in the choir, and I asked the director, ‘Why on earth would you pick me to sing in the choir when you have so many with really fine voices?’” Newman said. “He said, ‘That’s why I picked you. I need voices that will blend in, not stand out.’” She said her husband knew many members in her family before he met her. “One day I got a call, ‘This is Lenny. I hear that we’re probably going to be getting married, but I’d like for us to meet first,’” said Newman, who was a freshman at the University of Wisconsin at the time. “I said, ‘I think that would be a good idea.’” Instead of flying home to Memphis

from Madison, Wis., where her family had moved, Lenny suggested he pick her up at the airport in St. Louis. Her parents, who knew him, said that would be fine. Newman said Lenny, a Purdue University graduate, picked her up at the airport and then went to her cousin’s house. “He sat on the piano bench and played ‘Back Home Again,’ and I moved him over and played, ‘In Indiana.’ He said, ‘You’ll do just fine.’ He called his mother that night and said, ‘I’m going to be marrying this girl.’” Lenny was a Purdue cheerleader but Continued on Page 13

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From left, Lou Newman at the piano with Dee Bloom and Heidi Newman. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

Continued from Page 12 was in the crowd when the bleachers collapsed in 1947 during a basketball game at Lambert Fieldhouse in West Lafayette. Three students died and many spectators were injured. It blew out Leonard’s eardrums. He was living in St. Louis because he had ear surgeries there. The couple lived in Lenny’s hometown of Jasper for nearly 40 years. “At one point, we counted over 20 instruments in our living room,” Newman said. “That included the recorders, little banjos and percussion instruments, but there was always music around.” Newman used to play with a tennis group at an indoor facility in French Lick, “We ended up around the piano after tennis and the girls were all singing, so that was a nice tradition we had for several years,” Newman said, When Lenny retired following heart bypass surgery, they sold the department store and kept the jewelry store for several years before they sold it and moved to Bloomington because three of the couple’s five children lived in the

Indianapolis and Bloomington areas. Newman said they were in Bloomington only two weeks before her husband found himself the board of one of the Indiana University music school’s competitions. “We were asked to join the board of the Friends of Music, which is the fundraiser for the music school,” Newman said. While in Bloomington, the couple recorded music videos of Lenny and Lou’s Second Kitchen Collective, which can be found on YouTube. “It’s mind-blowing how they flow together,” said their daughter, Heidi Newman. The home piano was a gift from Lenny with the inscription, “To Lou with a heart full of deepest love for 25 years of perfect harmony, Lenny.” The couple, who were married 67 years, moved to StoryPoint about 10 years ago. Lenny died in 2019 at the age of 91. Daughter Dee Bloom lives in Carmel. Heidi lives in Indianapolis. Son Marty lives in the Lawrence area of Indianapolis. Son Alan lives in Phoenix and daughter Shelley Smuckler lives in St. Louis.

55 AND BETTER Autumn 2026

Bill Paradise is in the process of writing his fourth book. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

Stratford resident pursues passion for writing, spirituality

55 AND BETTER Autumn 2026

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

ill Paradise developed a passion for writing in retirement. The first book The Stratford resident wrote was “You and God,” which is about having a relationship with God. It came out in 2010. His second book, “Cancer, You and God,” was published in 2017. “I’m a bit biased but it’s an interesting book,” he said. “It’s got 21 stories of patients, surviving spouses and healthcare providers and then a lot of reflections on cancer itself.” Paradise, 86, had a minor battle with skin cancer. He had members of his extended family deal with cancer. “In these 21 stories, God is in all of them, one way or another,” he said. “Some of the people I interviewed have died since then.” The book’s subtitle is “Spiritual, mental and emotional help for cancer patients and their loved ones.” Paradise moved to The Stratford in Carmel in July 2025. He spent his career in the health insurance industry, mostly in sales and marketing. He retired from United Healthcare in June 2006. He pre-

viously worked for Anthem and Golden Rule. His fourth book, “Belief in God Makes a Lot of Sense,” is projected to be out by the end of the year. “Modern science makes a lot of sense for belief in God,” he said. The third book he co-authored was “Alzheimer’s: A Patient’s Journey” in 2021. He wrote it with Indianapolis resident Mike Langdon, his friend of 50 years, who was diagnosed in 2017. “He said he wanted to tell his story, but ‘I can’t write it myself,’” he said. “He’s since passed away from Alzheimer’s (in 2023), but it’s a very short book. It’s for a patient, or a spouse or other family members dealing with it. He was a great friend and it was a joy for me to work with him and help tell his story.” When Paradise wrote the first book, he was asked to visit the Indiana’s Women’s Prison in Indianapolis to discuss the book with a small group of inmates. He would go for a six-week period to discuss each section of the book. “It was successful, and I did that for 12 years,” he said. For Paradise, the books are a labor of Continued on Page 15

Continued from Page 14 love. Another love is golf, which he plays twice a week with seven other friends. “We play different courses, but Plum Creek in Carmel is our favorite,” he said. Paradise said it’s important to stay active. “I’ve come up with the idea of three Es: engage, exercise and execute,” he said. “So, I engage with other people, and there are a lot of opportunities at The Stratford. People are very interesting and very nice. They come from different backgrounds. I get together with a retired physics professor and retired pastor on a monthly basis. We have great discussions.” Paradise takes part in The Stratford exercise groups

and golfs., “I think it’s important for people to volunteer,” he said. “I think reading is very important, whether fiction or nonfiction, whatever your interest. I think it’s important for people to have a spiritual life.” Paradise attended Saint Fisher University in New York and went to graduate school at the University of Syracuse. Before graduate school, Paradise served a year in the U.S. Army in Vietnam in 1967-68. He was drafted three weeks before he would have been too old for conscription. “I wasn’t out there on the lines but I saw limited combat,” he said. “I made friends who I am still in contact with today.”

Paradise and his wife, Bernie, have been married for 57 years. They were introduced by mutual friends in Washington, D.C., in 1969. “It was love at first sight, and five months later, we were married,” he said. They moved to Indianapolis from Washington, D.C., in 1972, when he began working on a federally funded project. He did that for seven years before moving into an insurance role in 1979. His wife retired as associate director of the Catholic Schools of Indianapolis the same day he did in 2006. They have three children, Naomi, 54, Matthew, 52 and Angela, 49, and eight grandchildren. His first book is out of print, but the other two books are available on Amazon.com

Have Medicare questions? I have answers I’m Kimberly Hughes, a licensed sales agent in Hamilton County, serving central Indiana. When it comes to Medicare, it’s important to consider all of your options. What works well for your neighbor may not be the best fit for you. I know the ins and outs of Medicare, and I’m ready to answer your questions and help you find a plan that fits your needs. Make the most of my knowledge and experience to: • Take the confusion out of Medicare

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What Would You Do If You Retired Tomorrow? Commentary by Kyle McCune CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Practitioner Reify Wealth Advisors

Anyone can dream of retirement. Reify helps make it real. “Reify” means to make an abstract idea concrete—and that’s exactly what we do at Reify Wealth Advisors. Whether you envision a flexible semi retirement, travel-filled years, or simply the peace of knowing you’re financially prepared, Reify helps turn that vision into reality with personalized retirement planning tailored to your unique goals and lifestyle.

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Imagine tomorrow is your last day at work. You’ve thought about retirement for years, and now it’s here. You have investment accounts, Social Security on the horizon, maybe a pension. You feel reasonably prepared. Then Monday arrives. Where will your money come from? How much can you spend? Which accounts do you draw from first? When should you claim Social Security? How will your taxes change? During your working years, the goal was simple: save, invest wisely and build a nest egg. In retirement, the question shifts from “How much have I saved?” to “How do I make this last 20, 30 or even 40 years?” That transition requires some thought. Consider Social Security. When you begin benefits can affect your monthly income for life. For married couples, the decision is more complex — each spouse’s claiming strategy can affect household cash flow, including for the surviving spouse. Then there are your investments. Your portfolio’s job changes — instead of just growing for the future, it may need to fund your current lifestyle. That makes market swings and withdrawal timing more important. Taxes are another piece of the puzzle. Retirees often hold traditional IRAs or 401(k)s, Roth accounts, and brokerage accounts, each taxed differently. The order and timing of withdrawals can affect your tax bill, and later on, Required Minimum Distributions add another variable. Even Medicare can be affected by your income. A higher income year can potentially result in higher

Medicare premiums through the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount, or IRMAA. None of these pieces exists in isolation. A Social Security decision affects cash flow. Cash flow affects withdrawals. Withdrawals affect taxes. Taxes affect Medicare premiums. And Medicare premium adjustments can circle back to reduce Social Security payments. One simple decision can snowball. This is why retirement planning is less about finding one perfect answer and more about coordinating the different pieces of your financial life. You don’t have to wait until the day before retirement to figure it all out. The years immediately before retirement can be some of the most valuable years for planning— time to adjust savings, evaluate Social Security strategies, consider future tax implications, review investment risk, and determine whether your expected spending is realistic. A retirement plan shouldn’t be something you create once and put in a drawer. Life changes. Markets change. Tax laws change. Your spending may change. A good plan should be flexible enough to adapt. If you could retire tomorrow, would you know exactly where your next paycheck—or more accurately, your next month’s cash flow—would come from? If the answer isn’t clear, that doesn’t necessarily mean you’re unprepared. It may simply mean there are still decisions to work through. Working with a financial planner can help bring those decisions together. Rather than looking at investments, taxes, Social Security or retirement income separately, a planner can help you see how the pieces fit together and identify the decisions that deserve attention before you retire.

Carmel Comedy Club to host monthly programs for seniors By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

We have a new website! Scan the QR Code and follow the info to connect to Karen Sigman Agency.

armel Comedy Club founder Debbie Hughes understands many older adults might not want to attend an evening comedy show. However, she figures they might be up for some afternoon laughs. “Laughter is the best medicine,” Hughes said. “It also provides socialization outside of the living environment. From the seniors’ perspective, they enjoy going out during the daytime and not being out at nighttime. We want to bring laughter and joy into their lives.” Hughes, who performs as Lady Wisecrack, said a matinee series will be called “Lady Wisecrack Presents You Crack Me Up.” The matinees will debut at 1 p.m. Dec. 4 at Meridian Music School’s Goodwin Hall, 845 West Carmel Dr., Carmel. The venue has 60 seats. “There are going to be local, regional and national comedians,” she said. Included in the admission cost will be coffee, light appetizers and finger food desert. The admission prices will likely vary. The schedule of comedians will be on carmelcitycomedyin.com.. The series is planned on the first Friday of each month. Hughes said her goal is to show Carmel is a senior-friendly city. In that spirit, Carmel Comedy Club also will host another monthly series. “The Laughing into Longevity” series begins at 1 p.m. Dec. 3 at Goodwin Hall. The plan is to present it on the first Thursday of each month. Hughes said the series is designed to bring humor to issues the aging might face. Carol Applegate, a retired elder law attorney and chair of Mayoral Advisory Commission on Seniors, will join the discussion. The first session is “Hard of Hearing.”

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www.karensigmanagency.com Debbie Hughes is the founder of Carmel Comedy Club. (Photo courtesy of Debbie Hughes)

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Hughes said an expert such as an audiologist might be included. She said the plan is to use humor to get seniors and their family members to discuss senior aging issues. “So, we’re providing the comedy that’s relatable to the audience about hard of hearing and then there will be speakers on the point,” she said. “There could be an audiologist there or a hearing aid representative. We’re going to be looking for resources to help elderly access how to improve their hearing.” Hughes said sponsorship is being sought for the program. The Carmel Comedy Club began presenting shows at The Cat in Carmel in June. For more, visit carmelcitycomedyin. com.

“Laughter is the best medicine. It also provides socialization out of the living environment.”

— Debbie Hughes 55 AND BETTER Autumn 2026

How often should you update your estate plan? Commentary by Christine Stolle

early one in four Americans with an estate plan has never updated it since it was created. If that’s you, your plan may no longer reflect your life, your wishes, or even the people you intended to protect. Creating an estate plan is important, but it should not be set aside forever. As your life, family, and assets change, your plan may no longer reflect your wishes or your loved ones’ needs. For Indiana families, reviewing an estate plan every few years is a good habit, as is reviewing it after major life changes. At Dillman & Owen, our estate planning attorneys help families create, review, and update estate plans so their wishes are clear and their loved ones are protected. Why estate plans need to be updated An estate plan is meant to guide important decisions if you become incapacitated or pass away. It may include a will, trust, powers of attorney, health care directives, HIPAA authorization,

beneficiary designations, and other planning tools. Outdated documents may name the wrong decision-maker, omit a new child or grandchild, or overlook a home, business, retirement account, or other major asset acquired after the plan was created. Updates help your documents match your life. When should you review your estate plan? Review your estate plan every three to five years. A review does not always require changes; it may simply confirm your plan still works. Review sooner after a significant life or family change. Major life changes that may require an update You may need to update your estate plan after: • Marriage or divorce • Birth or adoption of a child • Death of a spouse, child, beneficiary, trustee, or named decision-maker • A serious illness or disability

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• A child becoming an adult • A change in family relationships • Moving to or from Indiana • Buying or selling a home • Starting, selling, or closing a business • Receiving an inheritance • A major change in retirement accounts, investments, or life insurance • A loved one developing special needs or long-term care concerns These changes can affect who should inherit, who should make decisions, and how your property should be managed. Review the people named in your plan One of the most important parts of an estate plan is choosing the right people to act for you. These may include a personal representative, trustee, financial power of attorney, health care representative, or guardian for minor children. Someone who was the right choice ten years ago may no longer be the best fit today. They may have moved away, passed away, developed health concerns, or become less involved in your life. Confirm that everyone named is still willing, able, and appropriate for the role. Check beneficiary designations too Your will or trust is only part of the picture. Some assets pass by beneficiary designation, including many retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and payable-on-death accounts. If these designations are outdated, they may override what you intended in your broader estate plan. For example, an old beneficiary form may still name a former spouse, omit a child, or fail to reflect a trust you created later. Review beneficiary designations whenever you update your estate plan. Why legal updates matter Estate planning laws, tax rules, health care forms, and Medicaid planning considerations can change over time. Your documents may still be legally valid, but that does not always mean they are the best fit for your current situation. An Indiana estate planning attorney can help review your documents, explain whether updates are needed, and make sure your plan is still structured around your goals. Updating your plan does not have to be a complete restart Updating a plan does not always mean starting over. A limited update,

amendment, or new supporting document may be enough. The first step is simply gathering your existing documents and talking through what has changed. From there, your attorney can help determine what needs attention. How long-term care costs can impact your estate Reviewing your estate plan becomes especially important as you or your loved ones age, because the cost of long-term care can quickly erode the assets you hoped to preserve for your family. In Indiana, the median cost of a private nursing home room is $123,918 per year, or about $10,326 per month. A semi-private room costs a median of $107,310 per year. Even non-medical care at home averages about $80,080 annually based on 44 hours of care per week. Many families assume Medicare will cover these expenses, but Medicare generally does not cover ongoing longterm custodial care, such as extended nursing home care or help with activities of daily living. It may cover certain short-term skilled nursing or home health services when specific requirements are met. That means an estate plan that made sense at age 50 may not provide the same protection at age 75. Reviewing your plan with future care needs in mind can provide an opportunity to consider tools such as trusts, updated powers of attorney, and Medicaid planning while more options may still be available. Timing matters. Indiana Medicaid generally reviews certain transfers of assets made during the 60 months before an individual becomes institutionalized and applies for Medicaid. Planning well before a long-term care crisis can therefore provide significantly more flexibility than waiting until care is immediately needed. Meet with an estate planning attorney today Your estate plan should give you peace of mind, not uncertainty. If your documents are several years old, or if your life has changed since they were signed, now may be a good time to review them.

Christine Stolle is an attorney at Dillman & Owen Estate and Elder Law. For more, visit dillman-owen.com.

From left, Jonah Smith, tenor saxophone; Derek Ai, alto saxophone; Will Eaton, trumpet; and Junmo Kang, alto saxophone, are all members of Jazz for Discovery and students or recent graduates of Park Tudor High School. (Photo courtesy of Jazz for Discovery)

Carmel teens use jazz to connect generations By Piper Bailey Piper@youarecurrent.com

or some residents of Carmel-area senior living communities, a Jazz for Discovery performance offers more than entertainment. Familiar melodies can bring back memories of their younger years and create opportunities for residents to connect with the students performing. Founded in 2024 by high school students Derek Ai and Alex Mi, Jazz for Discovery is a student-led jazz band that performs at senior living communities and public venues in Carmel and Indianapolis. The band includes students and recent graduates from Park Tudor School and Carmel High School who share a passion for jazz music. The group has performed nearly 30 times since its founding, including at senior living communities and public venues in Indianapolis such as the Jazz Kitchen in Broad Ripple. “Jazz is a form of expression where it’s not confined by just a single musical phrase,” said Junmo Kang, vice president of Jazz for Discovery. “I feel like there’s more emotion in it rather than a stagnant piece of music. I think it’s a very good way for us to connect with Carmel.” The students have seen that connection firsthand. During performances, Mi said he has watched residents tap their feet, nod their heads and smile along with the music. Afterward, the students sometimes talk with residents about their musical memories and experiences. During one performance, a resident recognized a song and told the students she had played saxophone in

a jazz band years earlier. Mi recalled that the band may have been based in Noblesville. “It’s these small things that kind of trigger their core memories from their childhood,” Mi said. “I think (that) is a reason why we keep performing.” In addition to connecting with older adults, Jazz for Discovery raises money for N=1 Collaborative, an organization focused on researching rare diseases in children and developing individualized treatments. The students were inspired by the organization’s work, including its efforts to develop Milasen, a drug created to treat a rare neurological condition affecting a child named Mila. According to Kang, Jazz for Discovery has raised more than $2,300 for the organization since its founding. “It’s really rewarding that this has all worked out so great for us, and we’re able to (fundraise while performing),” Ai said. All three student leaders are seniors and want to recruit younger musicians to continue the organization after they graduate in May. Mi said connecting younger and older generations is an important part of the group’s mission, particularly for residents who may experience isolation. “I think it’s important for us to bring the community to them,” Mi said. Jazz for Discovery has performed nearly every weekend during the past two months, although it does not have upcoming performances scheduled. The group hopes to recruit more musicians and connect with more senior living communities throughout the school year. To learn more about Jazz for Discovery, visit jazzfordiscovery.com.

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