Westfield Magazine November 2021

NOVEMBER 2021

MAGAZINE

CAN YOU GET OUT? THE ESCAPE ROOM USA OPENS IN WESTFIELD

PERFECT 10

Local Couple Opens Tenth Thai Restaurant

BUILDING COMMUNITY

Meyer Foods Gets Unique New Headquarters WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESS EDITION

TownePost.com

2021

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A TOWNE POST NETWORK PUBLICATION

For advertising information, contact:

PUBLISHER BRANDON BALTZ Brandon@townepost.com 317.514.9522

IN THIS ISSUE

NOVEMBER 2021

5

21

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC.

Local Couple Opens Tenth Thai Restaurant

Red Habanero Specializes in Mouth-Watering Mexican Fare

FOUNDER/CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com 317.496.3599

WARM WELCOME

PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com 317.810.0011 ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER ROBERT TURK rob@townepost.com 317.810.0011 PRODUCTION COORDINATOR ERIN TURK DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT JOSH BROWN CREATIVE DIRECTORS TONI EADS VAL HACKER GRAPHIC DESIGNER ROBBY BERRY

PERFECT 10

FRESH TAKE

8

24

Kayla Arnold Named Director of Westfield Welcome

Local Historian Pens Book of LesserKnown Hamilton County History

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Lung Cancer Awareness Month: What to Know about Lung Cancer

Meyer Foods Gets Unique New Headquarters

IU HEALTH SPOTLIGHT

29

Local Woman Perseveres After Devastating Accident

The Escape Room USA Opens in Westfield

LESSONS LEARNED

13

WWS PARENT UNIVERSITY LOOKS TO PROVIDE STIGMA-FREE ACCESS TO ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

Scan the QR code to see this magazine’s real-time reach and distribution numbers.

16

DINING DISTINCTION

The Italian House on Park Receives Top 100 Honors From OpenTable

18

District Partners with Westfield Organizations to Reach Entire City Population

36

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT™ Spray-Net TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: 317-810-0011

CAN YOU GET OUT?

34

Hamilton County Tourism

REAL-TIME ANALYTICS

BUILDING COMMUNITY

11

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT™

COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS

HIDDEN TREASURES

Timothy Steele

38

YOU ARE NOT ALONE

Local Parents Caring for Children with Rare Conditions Look for Answers

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KEY CONTRIBUTORS

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BRIAN BROSMER / CHRISTY HEITGER-EWING / JON SHOULDERS JUBILEE EDGELL / JULIE YATES / JUSTIN SICKING / MARIAH KRAFFT MATT KEATING / MEGAN ARSZMAN / RENEE LARR / SAM ZACHRICH

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Contact us at lennarind@lennar.com Pursuant to the Fair Housing Act, this housing is intended for occupancy by at least one person 55 years of age or older per home, although the occupants of a limited number of the homes may be younger. Within this limited number, one member of the household must be 45 years or older with no one in permanent residence under 19 years of age. Existing and proposed amenities for the community are subject to changes, substitutions and/or deletions without notice. Lennar makes no representation or guarantee that the community or any amenities will be built out as currently planned. Please see your New Home Consultant and home purchase agreement for actual features designated as an Everything’s Included feature, additional information, disclosures, and disclaimers relating to your home and its features.

Elevations of a home may vary and we reserve the right to substitute and /or modify design and materials, in our sole opinion and without notice. Please see your actual home purchase agreement for additional information, disclosures and disclaimers related to the home and its features. Stated dimensions and square footage are approximate and should not be used as representation of the home’s precise or actual size. Any statement, verbal or written, regarding “under air” or “finished area” or any other description or modifier of the square footage size of any home is a shorthand description of the manner in which the square footage was estimated and should not be construed to indicate certainty. Garage sizes may vary from home to home and may not accommodate all vehicles. Features, amenities, floor plans, elevations, square footage and designs vary per plan and community and are subject to changes or substitution without notice. Lennar makes no guarantee as to the availability of homes within the price ranges set forth above. Price subject to change without notice. Visit Lennar.com or see a Lennar New Home Consultant for further details and important legal disclaimers. This is not an offer in states where prior registration is required. Void where prohibited by law. This advertisement provided by Lennar Indianapolis located at 11555 N. Meridian Street, Suite 400, Carmel, IN 46032. Copyright © 2021 Lennar Corporation Lennar, the Lennar logo and the Everything’s Included logo are U.S. registered service marks or service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. Date: 11/2021 LNIND892

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PERFECT 10

LOCAL COUPLE OPENS TENTH THAI RESTAURANT Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographer / Justin Sicking

Sixteen years ago, Kenneth Fary was out to dinner with friends when he was introduced to the chef, who had a mesmerizing cooking style and an equally mesmerizing personality.

Kenneth was smitten with Saowalux, a Thai chef who learned her craft from her aunt when she was just 12 years old.

in kitchens for years, but her dream was always to have her own restaurant. Kenneth knew opening a Thai restaurant would be a hit because his wife’s recipes were mouthwatering.

“You’re getting authentic Thai food from family recipes in and around Bangkok,” Saowalux says.

“I took her out on a date and that was it,” Kenneth says.

As a result of being near Indonesia, Cambodia, China and Burma, different flavors merge in one place.

The two later tied the knot and began not just a happy marriage, but also a successful business partnership. Saowalux had worked

“There are a lot of tastes you’ve never really had, and some you’re just really going to fall TownePost.com / NOVEMBER 2021 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / 5

in love with,” Kenneth says.

A decade ago, they opened their first restaurant in Fishers, called Thai Garden.

Through the years they have opened and/ or purchased other restaurants in and around Indianapolis, including Zapp Thai in Greenfield, Bangkok Kitchen in Avon, Thai District in Brownsburg, Bangkok Restaurant & Jazz Bar in downtown Indy, and Siam House in Bloomington. They recently opened their tenth restaurant, Thai Delight, in Westfield, which seats up to 80 people and includes a quiet outdoor dining area.

“We wanted to be the first upscale family

dish is thin, flat rice noodles, stir-fried in a spicy sauce with egg, mushrooms, green beans, bell peppers, water chestnuts, corn, tomatoes, cabbage, carrots, onions and basil.

“If you’re ‘kee mao’ in Thailand, you’re drunk,” Kenneth says.

Thai restaurant in Westfield,” says Kenneth, noting that they have a large menu, extensive wine list and a bottoms-up draft beer system, which is new to Westfield.

“This is a wonderful growing area, and we have found that people really appreciate having a nice Thai restaurant that offers fresh, authentic food in a beautifully decorated atmosphere with soft jazz music playing in the background,” Saowalux says.

The Volcano is a house special that is chicken or shrimp stir-fried with mixed vegetables and bell peppers, served with their special sauce on a hot plate.

“The Volcano comes to your table bubbling on a hot plate,” says Saowalux, whose nickname is Pooky.

Working in the restaurant industry for so long, the couple has encountered their fair share of challenges, but have overcome them all.

“We have learned a lot - that’s why we are successful,” says Kenneth, who equates running a restaurant to piloting a ship on the ocean. “It has to keep going. If something breaks down, you have to get it fixed right away. To keep everything running like a tight ship, we are constantly working on making sure it’s moving and that everything is working properly.”

Community response to Thai Delight has They also have a crab rangoon appetizer that been phenomenal, and folks were eager for is one of a kind. Made of crabmeat, cream the opening. As for Saowalux and Kenneth, cheese and onions in a wonton wrap, it’s a they just love making people smile. top-selling dish.

“We are in the good-experience business, It didn’t take long for guests to start raving “When people think of crab rangoon, they as we make sure people have a good about the cuisine. All dinners include a think of Chinese food, but Thai food is not experience when they come into our choice of meat. They have curry entrees even close to Chinese food,” Saowalux says. establishments,” says Kenneth, a musician including green, red, mussaman and panang “Ours is made in-house and is, of course, a who, for two decades, played piano at Ruth’s curry, which is different from Indian curry Thai recipe. ” Chris Steak House. Now he plays piano on dishes.

Fridays and Saturdays at his own restaurant, If you have avoided Thai food in the past Bangkok Restaurant & Jazz Bar. “That’s a real misconception that they are because you were afraid it would be too the same,” Kenneth says. “This curry is more spicy, here guests can order their food mild, “We make sure the food and wine, of a lighter flavor.” medium, hot or Thai hot. background music, and service are all good,” Kenneth says. “We want to enhance people’s The Pad Thai, which consists of rice noodles “I would not advise anyone in America to lives and encourage them to come back.” cooked in a homemade tamarind sauce, try Thai hot at first, or else you’ll call the fire stir-fried with bean sprouts, green onions, department on your mouth,” Kenneth says Thai Delight is located at 17409 Wheeler egg and peanuts, is by far the most popular with a chuckle.

Road in Westfield. For more information, call dish. The Pad Kee Mao (Drunken Noodles) 317-804-5553 or visit thaidelightindy.com.

6 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

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WARM WELCOME

KAYLA ARNOLD NAMED DIRECTOR OF WESTFIELD WELCOME

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

Kayla Arnold couldn’t be more excited about her new role with the City of Westfield. She has plans that will enhance the city for both residents and visitors.

“I am the director of Westfield Welcome,” Arnold says. “Westfield Welcome coordinates all of our city events including Westfield in Lights, Westfield Rocks the 4th, Grand Run and many more.”

Arnold says plans for 2022 in Westfield will be fun.

“In 2022 we will also be charged with coordinating Grand Junction Plaza, including three or four new signature events, along with weekly programming,” she says.

Arnold says there are more exciting events and programs Westfield Welcome will oversee that Westfield residents will be very enthusiastic about.

“Our department also spearheads our New Resident program, the Westfield Way Award, and volunteer and hospitality trainings,” Arnold says.

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looking forward to our team creating a unique community gathering space for the residents of Westfield, their families and other visitors,” Arnold says. “We have a number of ideas and events that we are excited about bringing to life. We want people to explore the plaza, “I have more than 12 years of experience in coordinating events, whether intentionally through our events, or unintentionally by ranging from small group activities to concerts with 50,000-plus grabbing dinner on Park Street or the surrounding area. They can people, and multi-day shopping and conference events,” she says. then find their way over afterwards, and have a space Arnold says she also loves that residents are proud to helping businesses, and show off to their friends and looking for ways to help “ I LOVE HOW WESTFIELD IS families.” them grow.

Arnold has a vast wealth of experience in her field, which will be of great benefit to Westfield residents.

“I have a passion for locally owned businesses, and I love being able to find ways to help promote them through our events,” Arnold says. “I most recently worked for the City of Noblesville as their community engagement manager.”

GROWING. PEOPLE ARE SEEING ALL THAT WESTFIELD ALREADY HAS TO OFFER AND WHAT’S TO COME, AND THAT’S REALLY EXCITING.” —KAYLA ARNOLD

Arnold adds that she is continually inspired by Westfield.

Arnold has a solid vision for the future of Westfield.

“I love how Westfield is growing,” she says. “People are seeing all that Westfield already has to offer and what’s to come, and that’s really exciting. My husband and I are also big fans of the Midland Trace Trail, because it’s so easy to connect to downtown Westfield. We’ve been Westfield residents since 2019.”

“With the launch of Grand Junction Plaza in the near future, I’m

For more info, visit westfieldwelcome.com.

17470 Wheeler Rd. Westfield, IN 317.763.1100 GRI NDSTONEONTHEMONON.COM

TownePost.com / NOVEMBER 2021 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / 9

HEALTH SPOTLIGHT

LUNG CANCER AWARENESS MONTH Dr. Thomas Birdas, MD

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT LUNG CANCER

Dr. Thomas Birdas, MD and medical director of Thoracic Surgical Oncology at the IU Health Joe & Shelly Schwarz Cancer Center at IU Health North Hospital

Lung Cancer Awareness Month is recognized in November and is an opportunity to bring awareness to the various ways we can improve and maintain lung health. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death not only in the U.S., but also throughout the state.

Both the incidence rate and mortality rate of lung cancer in Indiana are well above the national averages, and lung cancer accounts for thousands of Hoosier deaths every year.

TYPES AND RISK FACTORS There are two main type of lung cancer: small cell lung cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. Non-small cell lung cancer is more common, accounting for 84% of all lung cancers.

You might be at a higher risk of lung cancer if you smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke, if you have a family history of the disease, if you are being treated with radiation therapy to the breast and chest, or if you are frequently exposed to asbestos, chromium, nickel, arsenic, soot, tar, or radon.

AVOIDING LUNG CANCER You can reduce your risk for lung cancer by not smoking cigarettes and by avoiding secondhand smoke. The U.S. Department of Health

and Human Services estimates that smoking contributes to 80 percent and 90 percent of lung cancer-related deaths in men and women, respectively. Nonsmokers who are exposed to secondhand smoke increase their chance of getting lung cancer by 20 to 30 percent.

Radon, a natural gas, is responsible for more than 20,000 lung cancer deaths per year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. It is thought to be the second leading cause of lung cancer and is found at 1 in 15 homes in high levels. You can test your home for radon with an at-home kit or by hiring a professional.

SCREENING AND TREATMENT OPTIONS If you or a loved one is a heavy smoker and over 50 years of age, a lung scan can help determine the risk for cancer. Talk with your doctor to see if a lung screening is recommended for you.

Lung cancer can be treated in several ways depending on the type and stage. Most cases of non-small cell lung cancer are treated with a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. Those with small cell lung cancer are typically treated with a combination of radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

A treatment plan will be created with the consultation of a variety of doctors.

Learn more and request a lung scan by visiting iuhealth.org/lungscans.

10 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

LESSONS LEARNED LOCAL WOMAN PERSEVERES AFTER DEVASTATING ACCIDENT

Writer / Renee Larr Photography Provided

A decision to go for a ride in a friend’s truck changed Ashley Miller’s life forever. She had recently graduated from high school and enlisted in the Navy.

Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis.

“The ride was 15 minutes from Bloomington to Methodist,” Miller says.

“During the flight, they lost me for eight minutes. They lost me again once I got to the hospital. I broke and dislocated my neck, broke my back, shattered my pelvis, my hip socket and tailbone, punctured both lungs, and fractured eight ribs.”

“I decided to go out with some friends one evening before I was supposed to leave for basic training,” Miller says. “None of us were wearing seat belts. The driver overcorrected, About one year after Miller’s devastating car which sent the truck flipping over. I flew out accident, she met Grant Mansard and began of the car, and first responders found me a relationship. lying face down in a ditch.”

The injuries she sustained were lifethreatening. She was taken to IU Health Bloomington Hospital, and eventually transported via LifeLine to IU Health

“I found out I was pregnant,” Miller says.

“We found out at 28 weeks that our daughter had a rare chromosome deletion.

When we found out, I was devastated. Here

I was still recovering from my accident, and then to get this news - I felt like my whole world was crushed.”

Miller shares her daughter Madi’s journey, along with her own story of overcoming incredible odds, at instagram.com/ lovebeyondrare.

“Madi’s chromosome deletion is extremely rare,” Miller says. “I think there are only 60 cases worldwide. In sharing her story, we’ve met three families with the same condition as Madi. I’ve met so many people who also had spinal cord injuries. The page has just taken off, and I have about 8,000 followers now.”

Miller named her Instagram handle “Love

TownePost.com / NOVEMBER 2021 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / 11

school graduate,” Miller says. “Then I met Grant, and we had Madi. Suddenly, I had a reason to get up every day. I had a reason “I came up with the name because I wanted to eat right, to take care of my baby. I’m so to show there is love beyond a rare diagnosis thankful for her every single day.” or love beyond a terrible car accident,” The couple lives in Westfield with their Miller says. children, Madi, 6, and Isabelle, 2.

Recently, Miller was able to meet the LifeLine team who saved her.

Beyond Rare” in honor of her daughter and her diagnosis.

“I was able to meet Lisa, Eric and Ivan,” Miller says. “I know they do their job without expecting a thank-you, but I wanted to tell them thank you and put faces with the names. Lisa told me I was only the second person she’s met, and she’s been doing this a very long time.”

At first Miller wasn’t sure why she even survived the car accident, but found meaning in her unexpected pregnancy.

“I had to relearn how to walk, and it was a huge change for an 18-year-old high

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TOURISM SPOTLIGHT

The most wonderful time of the year is nearly here, and there are plenty of ways to feel the spirit of the season in Hamilton County, Indiana. Make memories with friends and family with these special events.

CARMEL CHRISTKINDLMARKT After a year hiatus, the Carmel Christkindlmarkt returns. Do some holiday shopping and check out the authentic products imported from Germany, like wooden toys, nutcrackers, music boxes and ornaments. Don’t miss the collectible items like the boot mug and Bierkrüge for adult beverages.

A GUIDE TO HOLIDAY EVENTS IN HAMILTON COUNTY, INDIANA

A MERRY PRAIRIE HOLIDAY Celebrate the season with A Merry Prairie Holiday at Conner Prairie! Back for its third year, experience a unique holiday event and make new family traditions. New for 2021, the William Conner House will transform into a magical 3D projection mapping holiday show that will capture the feel and nostalgia of the holidays. Immerse yourself in the story as the house comes to life with this imaginative and heartwarming show.

Don’t forget to take a ride on Kringle’s Carousel or get a rush zooming down the 150-foot Polar Bear Plunge tubing hill.

Reindeer Ride Express

MAGIC OF LIGHTS For the first time ever, Ruoff Music Center will host “Magic of Lights,” a family-friendly drive-through holiday lights display. This is an experience designed for you to enjoy the lights and displays from the safety and comfort of your car. Nearly a million lights sparkle along the route.

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY Make your list, check it twice and shop local! Mark your calendar for Small Business Saturday Nov. 27. Popular one-stop shopping destinations include Clay Terrace, Carmel City Center, Hamilton Town Center, the Nickel Plate District, Fishers District and the Historic Noblesville Square. Each has free parking nearby and local restaurants to take a break from your shopping adventure.

While you’re shopping, sip a hot mug of Glühwein (mulled wine) or hot cocoa. Come hungry to enjoy a German pretzel, Bratwurst, Lebkuchen (German cookie), Raclette (melted cheese served on bread) and Stollen (dried fruit bread).

Along with vendors to shop, the market will include the Ice at Center Green skating rink.

All aboard the Nickel Plate Express for a funfilled train excursion! Celebrate the season and help Santa deliver all the presents on time during this festive ride. Sing carols, enjoy a cookie and cocoa, and see Santa himself!

The train is festively decked out in Christmas lights. Adult beverages will be available for purchase on board. Your ticket includes the ride, time with Santa, and a cookie and gift from Santa.

HOLIDAY SHOWS Live music is back, and there are plenty of toe-tapping shows on the calendar this holiday season. Get your tickets for performances of “A Charlie Brown Christmas” or “Elf” at Civic Theatre, or concerts like “Festival of Carols” at the Palladium at The Center for the Performing Arts.

For a full list of holiday events and festivities, go to VisitHamiltonCounty.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON EVENTS IN HAMILTON COUNTY, GO TO VISITHAMILTONCOUNTY.COM AND FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM. NOVEMBER 2021

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HAMMITT HANDBAGS VIP Medium Handbag - Hottest handbag designer in America. Designing a functional, fresh approach to modern handbags. FEEL ITT. LOVE ITT. HAMMITT. $295 NOVEMBER 2021

DUKE CANNON Made in USA - Stuff more stockings the easy way this holiday season with Duke Cannon’s premium Lump of Coal soap. It’s the best way to clean up after mischief and shenanigans. $11

Health Coverage Made Easy As your health insurance broker, we can help with all of your health insurance needs including Medicare, individual coverage on or off the Health Insurance Marketplace/healthcare.gov, small group plans, dental and vision coverage.

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NOVEMBER 2021

Matthew Kubal

Matthew Mundy

DINING DISTINCTION THE ITALIAN HOUSE ON PARK RECEIVES TOP 100 HONORS FROM OPENTABLE

Writer / Renee Larr Photographer / Mariah Krafft

The Wolf family has made an impact in the local restaurant scene, and they’re now being recognized nationally. The Italian House on Park was recently included in the 100 Best Neighborhood Gems in America for 2021 by online company OpenTable.

Scott and Nyla Wolf opened The Italian House on Park in November of 2015 after a lifelong desire to open an Italian restaurant.

“At a young age, my parents always wanted to open up an Italian restaurant,” says Alec Wolf, area director. “Their dream of a Little Italy restaurant got outshined by Wolfies for nearly 10 years. When things settled down, they found this location by chance, and the dream came true. Naming it The Italian House was simple, given the aesthetics of the store and our cozy atmosphere.”

The team was surprised and delighted when they received word of the honor.

“We were ecstatic to receive this award,” Wolf says. “We’ve always felt we had our own little gem here. It’s an old house that we converted to be a restaurant. We’re located on Park Street, surrounded by old homes, so it does feel like we’re in a neighborhood.”

later this year called Nyla’s,” Wolf says. “It’s going to be located next door to The Italian House. We started renovating the building.

It has an old-style barn look on the exterior.

We’ll have high-end steak and seafood inside.”

OpenTable used internal data to create the list, highlighting the restaurants that contribute to the character of their neighborhoods. Customer reviews played a major role in the decision-making process.

The Italian House on Park is located at 219 Park Street in Westfield. For more information, call 317-804-5619 or visit theitalianhouseonpark.com.

“We always knew we had something special,” Wolf says. “It’s the reinforcement the customers give us each time they come in and write a review that makes us feel like we’re doing something right.”

The family owns six Wolfies Grill restaurants in Noblesville, Fishers, Carmel, Westfield, Geist and West Lafayette. They also own the Broken Barrel in Carmel. They plan to open a new restaurant later this year.

“We’re going to be opening a new concept

Wolf Family Restaurants WOLFIES GRILL Carmel Fishers Geist Reservoir Morse Reservoir West Lafayette Westfield

BROKEN BARREL Carmel Geist Reservoir

THE ITALIAN HOUSE ON PARK Westfield

COMING SOON!

Nyla’s in Westfield

NOVEMBER 2021

CONGRATULATIONS!

Named to the

“ 100 Best Neighborhood Gems in America for 2021”

by Open Table.

One of only two restaurants in Indiana!

The Italian House on Park 219 Park St. Westfield, IN 46074 theitalianhouseonpark.com

Esli Alfaro, Executive Chef with Area Director Alec Wolf

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RED HABANERO SPECIALIZES IN MOUTH-WATERING MEXICAN FARE

working as a dishwasher, then a prep cook, at a few local Mexican and steakhouse restaurants.

“I did almost everything you could do in restaurants,” he says.

Writer / Jon Shoulders Photographer / Brian Brosmer

Providing a reliable and encouraging employment environment for his sizable staff, as well as a menu of made-fresh Mexican cuisine for his patrons, is something Raul Perez, co-owner of Red Habanero restaurant, doesn’t take lightly.

Having opened his first Red Habanero location back in 2005 at 96th Street and Gray Road, and locations in Noblesville and Westfield since then, Perez says he’s never stopped valuing each and every member of his team.

“Taking care of the employees is very important to me, and I feel good when they tell me things like they are able to move into a bigger house or are buying their first car,” says Perez, who co-owns the Red Habanero locations with his brother Adrian. “That makes me happy, that we can keep giving them a good place to work and feel good about it. Also, customers becoming regulars and sometimes asking my name and getting to know me a little bit - that keeps me doing what I’m doing.”

Perez moved to central Indiana in 1998 and says he began in the restaurant business NOVEMBER 2021

Eventually, he began formulating the idea to open his own establishment and started researching locations and requirements for doing just that. His idea, from which he has never deviated since opening 16 years ago, was to offer nothing but fresh food made inhouse, and he felt confident that customers would come if he adhered to such a plan.

“My dream was to give work to my family, and more families here,” Perez says. “That was my biggest inspiration. I noticed there were a lot of families that weren’t getting jobs, and that was my dream. I wanted to buy my own car and things like that. I noticed that I had the skills to cook and talk to the people in restaurants, and that helps a lot.”

Soon after researching what it would take to operate his own eatery, Perez began learning the business side of the restaurant industry

rather quickly.

“In those early years it was difficult, especially because we did not realize all the expenses we had to think about like employees, taxes, utilities, rent and everything,” he says. “Learning all that really fast though, it made us stronger, and we survived.”

Seven years after moving to the Indy area, Perez had opened the flagship Red Habanero spot, and the foundation for what would lead to multiple locations had begun.

Perez decided to open additional locations for a very simple reason - he wanted to expand the opportunities for current and future staff members to thrive, and at the same time provide a larger customer base with fresh Mexican fare. His Noblesville location sits on Clover Road off of State Road 37, and he and his team opened their Westfield location in 2015 on Carey Road.

“In 1998 I was living in the Carmel area right next to 151st Street, by Carmel and

by Westfield,” Perez says. “I was feeling at that time, 20 years ago, that it was going to be a good place for businesses to grow there. Then 20 years later, when there was an opportunity to have my own business over there, I took the opportunity without even thinking about it. Having the Westfield and the Noblesville restaurants has been something I’ve enjoyed.”

Each of the menu selections is made fresh every day, and Perez says nothing is frozen or from pre-made kits. As a nod to this approach, he and Adrian added the phrase “Fresh Mexican Grill” as an unofficial subheading for the restaurant name more than 13 years ago.

This fresh-made approach is all the more impressive once one takes a look at the sizable menu, which features salads, dips, nachos, signature burritos, quesadillas, fajitas, combo platters, vegetarian options, Perez eventually relocated his original desserts and more. Patrons can also choose location to a spot on East 96th Street near from several salsa flavors. The lunch menu is Interstate 69, and he says the staff members at served on weekdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. all three locations continue to enjoy success.

NOVEMBER 2021

Perez’s own favorite Red Habanero dish is the Pineapple Fajita, which comes with chicken and steak and is served right in a pineapple shell, fresh from the grill.

The drink options are also plentiful, including an expansive specialty margarita and cocktail selection.

“My brother and I have always created something new,” Perez says of the menu.

“We always are working on the menu and recipes. Every six months to a year, we put out new menu items and see which ones work and are popular with customers.”

Perez adds that he and his staff have weathered the pandemic thanks to the support of the communities surrounding each of his locations.

“It was hard to survive last year, but we’ve had people come in and keep buying food even in those hard times,” he says. “The great customers we have are what keep us alive.”

For more info including a menu, online ordering, location details and more, visit redhabanerogrill.com.

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David Heighway

H I D D EN TREASURES LOCAL HISTORIAN PENS BOOK OF LESSER-KNOWN HAMILTON COUNTY HISTORY

Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided

David Heighway, Hamilton County historian, says readers will enjoy learning about Hamilton County in his new book, “Hidden History of Hamilton County, Indiana.”

“This is a collection of stories that I have written over the last 20 years,” Heighway says. “I do many programs for local groups, and I’ve found that the most popular material is about offbeat people and incidents. This book is also about what has been left out of the county histories before now, and some of the diverse people who haven’t been included.”

historian since 1981.”

Heighway says readers will enjoy the variety of topics in the book.

“It covers a wide range of topics, from natural history to the performing arts, to industry and inventions, and to politics and social issues,” he says. “While I have included all of my sources, the book is not meant to be scholarly or heavy. Hopefully, it’s a good book for reading on the porch on a nice day.”

Readers can learn about places in Hamilton County they may or may not be familiar with.

Heighway thoroughly enjoyed working on the stories while researching Hamilton County.

“While I have written about these topics before, new readers will definitely find stories about topics that they didn’t expect,” Heighway says.

“I was appointed county historian by the Indiana Historical Society in 2007,” Heighway says. “I took over after Joe Burgess retired. He had been county

Heighway says one such story is about a groom who disappeared just before his wedding in 1867. Many people assumed he got cold feet and took off before his NOVEMBER 2021

nuptials. Forty years later, his remains were found buried under a shed. The reasons for his disappearance remain a mystery today.

Heighway says another story focuses on “a giant wave of ravenous squirrels in 1822.

They descended on central Indiana to feast on crops, to the shock and dismay of new settlers.”

Heighway learned a lot about Noblesville during his research.

“I have a story about a Noblesville African American theatrical group in 1956, and it was one that I didn’t know about until someone from the local black community told me,” he says. “It’s a great example of a story of diversity in the community.”

Heighway says a story about a man named Isaac Cachel is also intriguing.

“He was a person who wrote some humorous and satirical letters to the local paper in 1837 and ended up going viral later,” Heighway says. “He was written

about internationally, even though he was essentially a fictional character.”

Heighway’s book is available at the Hamilton County Historical Society, and at arcadiapublishing.com. It can also be purchased through Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

inBody Shaping

Heighway has enjoyed talking to readers about his book.

“I’ve been surprised by the overwhelmingly good feedback that I’ve gotten,” he says. “I honestly didn’t think this was going to have much of an impact. We’ve been selling out

of books at all of the book signings that people have asked me to do. I’m really kind of shocked.”

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Jeff Meyer

BUILDING COMMUNITY

MEYER FOODS GETS UNIQUE NEW HEADQUARTERS Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Jubilee Edgell

Back in 2017 Jeff Meyer, president of Meyer Foods, the owner and operator of area Culver’s restaurants, noticed a for-sale sign at the old Noblesville Boys & Girls Club building. A longtime history buff, his interest was piqued as the property on Conner Street remained for sale for several months. As he researched and learned more about the building, the idea of renovating it and relocating his company’s offices evolved. Today, his plan to upcycle an old structure has not only resulted in a new home for the Meyer Foods corporate headquarters, but also offers the community shared workspace opportunities and an event venue.

“Purchasing it actually happened fast,” Meyer says. “The time we put an offer in to acceptance of the final deal was less than a month. We bought the whole building. It was not in the greatest shape, but not so bad that we couldn’t restore it. The outside walls are 2’ thick but we had to redo everything inside. No one else wanted to put the

resources in. Planning out what we wanted to do with the building took an enormous amount of time. We wanted to make sure it was done for the community and we only had the time to do it right once. Great detail was gone into strategically thinking out what the build could and couldn’t support for the community.”

While the bones of the building remained intact, almost everything else was entirely rebuilt. New electricity, plumbing, HVAC systems and roofing were installed. The gymnasium, part of the original structure that was built in 1914, was covered with a special carpet to preserve the flooring. A high-definition television, nearly 18’x38’, was hung for large-scale presentations.

“If walls could talk,” Meyer says. “For over 100 years, kids have been coming in and out of this building. The building was once used as Noblesville High School, and as the town grew the building continued to be built onto, into the 1920s.”

Inside, the renovated space houses Meyer NOVEMBER 2021

Foods offices, an event center and a shared workspace. Employees and tenants have access to amenities like pickleball, tennis, volleyball and basketball courts, plus a fitness and weight room. An area for gamers and a massage chair are available.

The auditorium can house a live band and silent auction, and is spacious enough for large fundraisers. A kitchen with restaurant equipment, and all that’s needed to cater an event, is on-site.

The shared workspace has three conference rooms and a variety of desk areas, and a state-of-the-art podcast room is in the works. One conference room houses a large table, while the other two can hold up to 20 people. The 30 fully furnished offices range from 5’x5’ to 15’x25’, and can be rented for a day or a half day.

Meyer, who grew up on a farm in Rushville, continues to be interested in agriculture.

He owns and operates a couple of sod farms nearby. His children raise goats and participate in 4-H. “I was born and raised on a farm and I love agricultural communities,” Meyer says. “It’s important to get the message out there as to where food comes from. I like Noblesville because of its agricultural feel. It feels like a rural community of 5,000 people, not 50,000, if you don’t pay attention to the high-traffic areas. I want to do my best to support the community and help it thrive and grow.”

Is Your

Meyer began his tenure with Culver’s when he became a franchisee in 2004.

Currently the company has 12 restaurants in operation, is building an additional seven, and is currently purchasing one in Ohio. Some of the restaurants operate with partners that own a 19% share. Company leaders plan to have approximately 20 Culver’s locations open within one year’s time.

“I love farming and I love people,” Meyer says. “I was looking for a concept that involved people and an agricultural environment. I used to watch the television show ‘Cheers’ that said, ‘A place where everyone knows your name.’ I want everyone to know who we are and that we can’t be duplicated. We would never jeopardize the quality of our product over price. We treat everyone like family and respect every individual, especially our team members who try and work so hard every day. Our hope is to teach others to be the best they can be.”

“This building belongs to Noblesville,” Meyer continues. “It not only creates a unified spirit with our company team, but it is also here to serve the community.

It’s a place to celebrate the greatness of individual people, nonprofits and organizations.”

The Meyer Foods corporate office is located at 1448 Conner Street in Noblesville. For more info, call 317-770-4654.

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TownePost.com / NOVEMBER 2021 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / 29

If you can get out in 45 minutes,

you’re in the top 5%

Writer / Christy Heitger-Ewing Photographer / Sam Zachrich

E

very now and then, we all need an escape. Now you can break free right here in Westfield, at The Escape Room USA. Founded in 2015 in downtown Indianapolis, located directly above The Old Spaghetti Factory, that location was the first escape room in

the state of Indiana. One year later they opened a second location in Fishers. During 2016 and 2017, escape rooms swelled in popularity. The coronavirus, however, served to winnow the field.

“COVID was nasty to the industry as a whole,” says Brendon Harbron, Chairman of The Escape Room USA. “Collectively, we saw roughly a third of escape rooms across

the country close. We feel very fortunate to be through the worst of the pandemic and are looking forward daily to welcoming guests into our venue.”

Not only did Harbron’s escape room locations survive the pandemic, but this month they are also opening a brandnew location in Westfield. Like the other locations, The Escape Room USA team has

30 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

poured a lot into each unique adventure with regard to design and artistry. Harbron, along with his wife Jennifer Harbron, CEO, and Don McPheron, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Escapitect (a term The Escape Room has trademarked), ensure that each adventure is magical.

“Making a story into an immersive adventure takes time and planning, and it’s so rewarding in the end,” Jennifer says.

“We work as a team, using creativity and design detail in new ways to bring an adventure to life,” McPheron adds.

The Westfield location will offer five adventures. It’s not accurate to call them “rooms” because they have an average of three rooms per adventure, due to lots of secret doors. A popular adventure is Escape the Titanic. One of the founders of the Macy’s department store and his wife nobly decide to give their lifeboat spots to others and will ultimately go down with the Titanic. As their loyal servants, your group must find a cache of jewels and return them to America for Macy’s to avoid bankruptcy.

This adventure is unique in that the whole room is built on a slant so it feels like the Titanic is sinking.

captured by the KGB. The bad guys plan to give you a drug that will turn you into a Soviet agent long-term, unless you escape.

Early in 2022, The Escape Room USA creative team will open their newest room called the Grand Elven Adventure, a fairytale-esque experience in a woodland setting. It will be two to three times the size of a normal adventure, and can amp up or down in difficulty depending on the age of the group.

do really well,’ but if you’ve not done it before, it can be tricky.”

Each location has a room considered more challenging than the others. At Westfield, that’s the KGB adventure.

“That room is hard,” Brendon says.

“Probably half the people are successful all the way through, and half aren’t.”

There is an 80% to 90% success rate for most adventures, meaning that most teams are able to get out prior to the 60-minute time limit. With the help of the Adventure Guide, who accompanies each group and provides up to three hints along the way, the majority of teams escape with four minutes or fewer to spare.

One outcome from the pandemic is the realization that when it comes to a team situation, many people like working with those they already know. Pre-COVID, if someone bought four tickets for a sixperson adventure, that left two tickets open that could be purchased by another party.

Now, however, all adventures are private, so when you book, it’s just your group that’s on an adventure together.

“If you can get out in 45 minutes, you’re in the top 5%,” says Brendon, who suggests that first-timers start with a more basic adventure. “People think, ‘I’m smart, I can

Anyone who is worried about safety standards needn’t be. The staff has all the necessary fire-safety training. Though you are “locked in,” there is a button

“Despite being a tragedy, people love the tale of the Titanic,” Brendon says. “Guys love it from the adventure side and women like the romantic side of it.”

Another adventure is Jail Break, where your group is framed for a crime you didn’t commit. Not only do you have to get out, but since the Sheriff and his brother-inlaw (the jail’s Warden) are in cahoots, you also have to gather evidence to prove your innocence.

HOOSIER HYSTERIA

The Escape Room USA team is bringing back and revamping one of the very first rooms, Hoosier Hysteria, which is based around an evil sportscaster who stole the Indiana high school state championship basketball trophy. Your team has to enter his game room and reclaim the trophy.

The KGB Interrogation, set in the 1960s, casts you as American agents who have been TownePost.com / NOVEMBER 2021 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / 31

THE KGB INTERROGATION

next to every door that opens it. Should the building lose power, all doors in the building automatically unlock.

Though the point is to get out, everyone has a blast being locked in.

“People enjoy escape rooms because they love the experience of doing something with other people, especially coming out of COVID when we were denied the opportunity to be with others,” says Brendon, who loves watching people have fun. “To come in with a group of people, and put aside life and have an adventure together, is like reading a fiction book that enraptures you in a story. You get to live that story for an hour with people you care about. That’s pretty awesome.”

Prices vary depending on group size, and costs range between $30 and $44 per person.

The Escape Room USA Westfield is located at 16848 Southpark Drive. For more information, call 317-556-1873 or visit escaperoomusa.com.

Grand Opening!

The Escape Room USA Westfiel 16848 Southpark Drive Book an Adventure by November 15 for any date in 2021.

Use Promo Code WESTFIELD21 for $20 off one room.

escaperoomusa.com 32 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

Coming Next Month!

Local retailers - promote your holiday gift items in our December issue starting at just $150! Want to promote several items in your store? Ask about our co-branded holiday pages!

TownePost.com / NOVEMBER 2021 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / 33

WWS PARENT UNIVERSITY LOOKS TO PROVIDE STIGMA-FREE ACCESS TO ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS DISTRICT PARTNERS WITH WESTFIELD ORGANIZATIONS TO REACH ENTIRE CITY POPULATION Westfield Washington Schools is excited to announce the launch of a new community initiative that will share local nonprofit resources and service providers with Westfield residents in need of services. The Shamrock Community Board was created in collaboration with Westfield Washington Township, Westfield Washington Public Library, The Wellbeing Coalition of Westfield and the Indiana Youth Institute.

Boards will be placed in high-traffic areas to get the information out to those who need it

at the locations that people frequently visit.

The boards feature a selection of local organizations that provide services for food, medical needs, mental health services, recreational support, and more. A person simply needs to scan the QR code with their cell phone camera that corresponds to an organization they need, and it will take you directly to their website.

Ashley Knott, Westfield Washington

Schools’ coordinator of family & community engagement, says that these boards allow the school district to meet people where they are.

“Offering help to people in need has always happened,” Knott said. “How we reach people has shifted dramatically during the COVID-19 crisis. With more people than ever in need of some sort of assistance -- whether it’s food, housing, financial, mental health et cetera --, the stigma around

34 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

asking for help has not shifted as much as the demand. Even within our school community, we are always asking families to let us know how we can provide support.

So, we created the Shamrock Community Resource Board as a way to help them get the support they need without feeling judged.”

ABOUT PARENT UNIVERSITY

Parent University is a collaborative effort to assist Westfield Washington Schools to follow our Mission Statement. Parent University focuses on creating pathways that engage, educate and equip our students, staff, parents, and community. We hope Parent University helps you connect with WWS and our community partners. For more information, visit parentuniversity.wws.k12.in.us

Danielle Carey Tolan, Westfield Washington Township Trustee, said the township partnered with the schools on this project because their staff works on a daily basis with clients who are facing emergency financial situations.

“By creating these resource boards and placing them around Westfield, we hope that our residents will now have a better understanding of what organizations serve Westfield and who they can reach out to if they have an immediate need for assistance,” Carey Tolan said.

The boards will be placed in the following locations: • Westfield Washington Schools Central Office • Westfield High School • Westfield Middle School • Westfield Intermediate School • Maple Glen Elementary School • Carey Ridge Elementary School • Oak Trace Elementary School • Shamrock Springs Elementary School • Monon Trail Elementary School • Washington Woods Elementary School • Westfield Washington Public Library • Westfield Open Doors • Westfield Chamber of Commerce • MacGregor Park • Asa Bales Park • Freedom Trail Park • Quaker Park • Simon Moon Park • Cook Creek Park

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STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

TIMOTHY STEELE

SPONSORED BY:

GROWING UP...FAST!

WESTFIELD SENIOR, TIMOTHY STEELE IS ON THE ROAD TO INDY

From a very early age, Timothy Steele’s focus has been on motorsports. As a toddler, his favorite toys were race cars and he loved to watch races on TV. By the age of 4, he was using chalk to draw race tracks on the driveway. Timothy spent countless hours driving his Big Wheel around his race tracks and before long, he was timing his laps and going for the “New track record”, as IMS announcer Tom Carnegie would say. This went on for years and Timothy eventually wore out the Big Wheel.

When Timothy was 10-years-old, he started racing competitively on the oval dirt track at Ben-Hur Speedway in Crawfordsville, Indiana. On this high-speed dirt track, Timothy learned valuable lessons in kart control and racing strategy.

At the age of 11, Timothy moved from the dirt tracks to the paved road courses. At this point in Timothy’s young racing career, his parents, Rob & Kim Steele, reached out to former Formula 1 and IndyCar driver, Derek Daly, to ask for some advice.

Timothy was improving steadily, he was fully committed to racing, but his parents didn’t have any racing experience, and thus, they were unable to coach him. As Timothy’s driver coach since 2014, Derek Daly has been instrumental in the continued development of Timothy’s racing skills.

Timothy earned his first racing trophy shortly after he started working with Derek...Timothy now has 77 trophies & medals in his collection, but this doesn’t mean that racing is easy for him. It’s a very

36 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

challenging endeavor and it’s difficult to win races. Timothy says, “The best racers in the world, like Lewis Hamilton, might win 30% of the races in their career. Mario Andretti won 16% of the time in his amazing career.

So even if you’re elite in this sport, you have to be prepared for the challenges and plenty of disappointing results. I love to race, win or lose, it’s always very exciting. Finishing P1 is the greatest feeling but even if I don’t win, I’m counting the days to my next race”.

During the 2017 racing season, with continued coaching support from Derek Daly, it all started to click for Timothy and he was consistently in the lead pack of karts, battling for the win. In the last three years, Timothy won the Class Championship at New Castle Motorsports Park, he won the Race for Riley Hospital at NCMP, he was the Series Champion in the 2020 Stars Championship Series, and he had podium finishes at the last three USAC National races at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

With 7 years of karting experience, and the dream of becoming a professional race car driver, it’s time for Timothy to transition from karts to race cars. He knows that it won’t be easy and he knows that sponsorship is needed to get to the next level. In the coming year, Timothy’s goal is to race in the SCCA F1600 Championship Series. He and his family are actively seeking

the funding for this important step in Timothy’s career. In the meantime, Timothy is a senior at Westfield High School. He is a straight-A student, he takes Honors and AP courses, and he was invited to join the National Honor Society. Follow along on Instagram and find updates on Timothy’s racing @timothysteele_ and @ steelecarreras

SMILE

A smile is a curve that sets everything straight.

(317) 896-3444 / WittlerOrtho.com 534 East State Road 32 / Westfield, IN 46074 TownePost.com / NOVEMBER 2021 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / 37

YOU ARE NOT ALONE LOCAL PARENTS CARING FOR CHILDREN WITH RARE CONDITIONS LOOK FOR ANSWERS

to the Vollmer family through baseball and our older sons playing together, and they have a younger son, Graham, with spinalmuscular atrophy, or SMA. Their family has also been very supported by Westfield sports, because of his big brother, and the community, and his mom is a big advocate for the disease and bringing awareness to help raise money.

“Many people feel like whenever they see Londyn, or they see Graham, they smile,” Jenna adds. “Londyn is such a happy child, except when she’s really feeling sick. But who could continue to hold a smile when you’re going through chemotherapy?”

Because Londyn’s story has been shared a lot lately, Jenna hopes to use her daughter’s story to help others in the community.

“We want to put aside the cancer diagnosis and focus on children with disabilities in Westfield and what their families can do to help them live more normal, happy lives,” she says.

SCHOOL AND CHURCH Writer / Megan Arszman Photography Provided

When the Hoffman family was anticipating a little girl, they never imagined the struggles that would be born with her. At just six years of age, Londyn has fought more battles than most adults do, after being diagnosed with a rare genetic mutation and rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare, fast-growing tumor behind her eye. After undergoing treatment for rhabdomyosarcoma, she was then diagnosed with Guillain-Barre Syndrome, a disorder where her immune system attacks her nerves.

Now, half a year after the Guillain-Barre diagnosis, she can be seen on the sidelines

cheering for her big brother, Lincoln, and the Westfield Middle School football team.

Her spirit is one that lights up the entire building, not just the room. Londyn’s fight has caught the attention of local news outlets.

“Londyn is a child with a disability, period.

There are a lot of other awesome families in Westfield that also have children with disabilities that are huge advocates for whatever their disease or syndrome is, whether it’s cancer or developmental delays,” Jenna says. “There are so many great families in our community dealing with the same type of issues that might need to know how they can get help. We were connected

Both mothers praise the Westfield Washington School District for working with the children and continuing to grow in their knowledge. “Graham is in a typical classroom and is doing great,” says Adrienne Vollmer. “The school has been great about providing for his needs.”

“The developmental preschool within the Westfield school district has been amazing,” Jenna adds.

Northview Church caters to children like Graham and Londyn in terms of accessibility. The Northview Kids Ministry has allowed for Graham and Londyn to be a part of a community of their peers while growing in their relationship with God.

38 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / NOVEMBER 2021 / TownePost.com

MEDICAL Both Graham and Londyn are Riley Kids, and it’s no surprise to Hoosiers the reach that the children’s hospital has to help children of all ages with all sorts of disabilities and conditions. Working with doctors and becoming close with nurses and aides helped both mothers to learn how to help care for their children while becoming advocates for their children’s care and livelihood.

COMMUNITY

“One of the most important things for us was to get in contact with a network of other parents who had children with SMA,” Adrienne says. “But, I know that’s not always easy when you have a child like Londyn who doesn’t have a specific diagnosis. But, even looking for other parents of children with special needs gives you that feeling that you’re not alone.”

While social media has gotten a bad reputation lately, both Adrienne and Jenna are grateful to the community that they have found on Facebook: Indy Parents Special Needs Community. The group offers connections for equipment pools in the state, tips and advice and just a place to vent.

“The biggest thing I try to encourage parents with is to have hope and take it one day at a time and hold onto that hope for your children,” Adrienne says.

You can follow along with Londyn’s story on Facebook at facebook.com/ londyntime.

TownePost.com / NOVEMBER 2021 / WESTFIELD MAGAZINE / 39

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