August 3, 2021 — Westfield by Current Publishing

Tuesday, August 3, 2021

HANDS-ON LEARNING Westfield High School expanding options to prepare students for life after graduation / P10

Clerk-treasurer IT investigation perceived as cyber security threat / P3

Clerk-treasurer accuses city of installing spyware on her computers / P8

Wright’s Grand Property seeks tax abatement / P14

Residential Customer Local ECRWSS

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August 3, 2021

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August 3, 2021

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IT director stops ‘active cyber-security breach’ after clerk-treasurer issues third-party contract By Anna Skinner anna@youarecurrent.com City of Westfield Director of Informatics Chris Larsen stopped what he believed was an active cyber-securiGOVERNMENT ty breach occurring in Clerk-Treasurer Cindy Gossard’s office the night of July 26 and, in the process, found laptops belonging to a third-party contractor hired — but not identified — by Gossard. Larsen also discovered unknown software running on the city’s computers and city computers with dismantled hard drives in Gossard the office. The breach occurred the same evening of the Westfield City Council meeting during which Gossard accused the city of using BeyondTrust, a software the city has used in some capacity since 2011, as spyware on all six computers in the clerk’s office and accessing and potentially changing the data on those computers without her permission. She said her staff began noticing “glitches,” such as mouse cursor moving without the employees’ input. There also was a saved user login for one of the staff member’s computers separate from the staff member’s login, she said. Westfield City Attorney Blake Burgan issued a letter to Will Webster, Gossard’s attorney, July 27 informing him of the breach. The letter stated Larsen stopped the breach when he observed laptops in the clerk-treasurer’s office running an unknown software.

However, Gossard told Current there was no breach and that the third-party copying the city’s hard drives to their computers was conducting the investigation Gossard had informed the council about during its July 26 meeting. Gossard told the council that the clerk-treasurer’s office would be conducting its own investigation into the BeyondTrust software on the six office computers. However, when the city gave her a list of approved IT investigators, she opted for a different company that she and Webster refused to name. The company arrived at her office July 26, and after the council Larsen meeting, Larsen observed the computers copying the city hard drives in what he thought was a cyber breach. In an attempt to stop the breach, he seized the unknown computers. The investigation company then planned to press charges against Larsen for theft but but didn’t because Larsen returned the computers. The hard drives were still in the third-party investigator’s computers, and they were planned to be returned to the city July 29. “(Larsen) also observed that city laptops were dismantled, with the hard drives removed. With all of the sensitive information on the city’s systems, including financial information, confidential vendor documents, confidential police and other data, Mr. Larsen was forced to take immediate action to preserve that information,” the letter from Burgan stated. Gossard confirmed the investigator

doesn’t work for the city and was contracted through the clerk-treasurer’s office. Gossard said she’s not sure what data was included on the hard drives. “(The city) knew I wasn’t doing a security breach, I was doing my investigation,” Gossard said. “They stopped my investigation.” Gossard said her investigator did copy the entirety of the computers’ hard drives and that the investigation could take two or three weeks to complete. “(Gossard) doesn’t have authority to have somebody access city resources for any reason whatsoever,” said Manny Herceg, one of the city’s attorneys. “Hiring someone to access city systems for whatever purpose does not directly affect the (clerk-treasurer) job, and we know the computers hooked up to city computers were not city computers.” Herceg has requested what data had been downloaded from the city computers but hasn’t received the information. “We need to be sure what happened. We need to be sure that our city employees’ data wasn’t downloaded,” Herceg said. In his letter, Burgan called the act “unprecedented.” “For the clerk-treasurer to act with such brazen disregard for the integrity of the city’s data is not only reckless, it is a clear breach of her duties. We need immediate answers about what occurred (July 26) and what information was removed from city property and systems. We also need the contact information of the third party and the alleged ‘contract’ the Clerk-Treasurer entered into with that party,” the letter stated.

Prevail executive director resigns By Anna Skinner anna@youarecurrent.com Prevail, a Noblesville-based nonprofit that serves victims of crime and abuse, has announced the resignation of COUNTY Executive Director Susan Ferguson’s resignation. Her last day was July 15. A new executive director has yet to be named, but a press release from Prevail said the search would begin immediately.

“It has been a pleasure to serve as Prevail’s Executive Director for the past eight years. This experience has provided endless opportunities for professional and personal development. I have enjoyed working for the agency and appreciate the support provided to me during my tenure,” FerguFerguson son stated. The press release stated that Ferguson

left the organization to “enjoy personal time and explore opportunities.” Prevail Board Chair Liz Tate applauded Ferguson’s commitment to Prevail. “This is a highly demanding job and her commitment to Prevail for eight years is extraordinary,” Tate stated. “Additionally, we are coming out of a trying time for all nonprofits, and we are so fortunate that Susan’s work has positioned us for a healthy future. We wish her continued success.” For more, visit prevailinc.com.

August 3, 2021

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August 3, 2021

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School spending at record highs news@currentinwestfield.com

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Back-to-school spending is hitting record highs, according to the National Retail Federation, with spending for EDUCATION grade school through high school families expected to spend nearly $40 billion. College families are expected to spend more than $70 billion. “The pandemic forced parents and their school-aged children to K-12 BACK TO SCHOOL SPENDING quickly adapt to virtual learning, and they did it $40,000,000,000 with an incred$35,000,000,000 ible amount of resolve and $30,000,000,000 flexibility,” NRF President and $25,000,000,000 CEO Matthew Shay said. “We $20,000,000,000 enter the new $15,000,000,000 school year with plans to $10,000,000,000 return to the classroom, and $5,000,000,000 retailers are prepared to help $0

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Americans find and purchase whatever they need to make this transition as seamless as possible.” The biggest spending increase across the age demographics is for electronics. Americans are spending 8 percent more (for kindergarten through high school students) and 17 percent more (for college students) on electronics than in 2020. The NRF says that the increases are across the board.

August 3, 2021

COMMUNITY

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Mercer hopes summer provides springboard for success By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Carmel High School senior tennis player Eli Mercer got a nice lift from his summer experience. Mercer joined 2021 CHS graduate Jones McNamar and four other friends on a boys and girls team that won the World Team Tennis national title for 18 and under in Orlando at the United States Tennis Association campus. The Central Indiana team beat a California team in the final. “It was special because we’ve all known each other since we were in second or third grade,” Mercer said. “We’ve played the same competition the last three years, and to finally make it to the top is really nice.” In June, Mercer won the Central Indiana 18 and under boys singles title and advanced to the Midwest Section tournament. Mercer said he is playing at a high level entering his final high school season. Carmel tennis coach Bryan Hanan said Mercer is an exceptional leader for the younger players. “He is a very hard worker and has really showed great improvement the last four

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Eli Mercer was unbeaten at No. 2 singles for Carmel High School as a junior. (Photo courtesy of Eli Mercer)

years,” Hanan said. “He puts the work in during the offseason and plays in a lot of tournaments, and that’s the reason for his success.” Mercer finished 27-0 as a junior at No. 2 singles for the state champion Greyhounds (23-0). “He also was the clinching point in the state finals and was the reason we won the state championship last year,” Hanan said. Mercer’s three-set win was the difference

in a 3-2 victory over North Central in the state final. Senior Broc Fletcher was the No. 1 singles player last season. “I think it will be interesting to see Eli and Broc battle it out for the top spot,” Hanan said. “I think competition is a great thing and both those guys will be able to push one another to get better this year. They are both really good friends and great competitors, but when it’s all said and done, whoever plays one singles they will still be the other one’s biggest cheerleader because just that’s how they both are. They are just great kids that come from great families.” Mercer said his conditioning has improved since last season. “I’m more fit and I’ve just grown a little bit,” he said. “My serve has gotten better. I’m just trying to play smarter tennis. I’ve got smarter on the court from practicing with a lot of good players.” Mercer said he expects the Greyhounds to contend for another state title. “We still have four really good players returning and we have some good freshmen and sophomores,” he said. “I’m feeling confident we can get a sixth one in a row.”

August 3, 2021

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Non-certified Westfield schools staff see 2 percent pay raise news@currentinwestfield.com Westfield Washington Schools has announced a 2 percent pay increase across the board for all non-certified SCHOOLS staff, such as instructional assistants, maintenance, groundskeeping, tech staff, front office support staff and bus drivers. Employees in those positions received a raise of at least 2 percent, but if they were already topped out on the pay scale, they were given a 2 percent stipend. “It’s important that our staff know we value them and the hard work that they do for our district, for our students and for our community,” stated Chris Baldwin, director

of human resources. “These people are the backbone of our district, and as the largest employer in the city, they are the backbone of our community.” WWS CFO Brian Tomamichel said public education funds prioritized by the Indiana General Assembly made the raise possible. “With the funds provided, we were able to ensure that our pay remains competitive so we can retain and attract the most qualified and talented people,” Tomamichel stated. WWS also plans to negotiate with the Westfield Classroom Teachers Association to extend similar pay raises to teachers. The district employs 600 teachers and approximately 250 support staff. For more, visit wws.k12.in.us.

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Westfield Washington Schools publishes 2021-22 calendar news@currentinwestfield.com • Aug. 10: First student day • Sept. 6: Labor Day, no school • Sept. 15: Professional development day, no school for students • Oct. 18-22: Fall break, no school • Nov. 4: End of first trimester • Nov. 5: Teacher planning/parent conferences, no school for students • Nov. 24-26: Thanksgiving Break, no school • Dec. 20-Jan. 2: Winter break, no school • Jan. 3: School resumes

• Jan. 12: Professional development day, no school for students • Jan. 17: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, no school • Feb. 17: End of second trimester • Feb. 18: Teacher planning, no school for students • Feb. 21: Presidents’ Day, no school • April 1-8: Spring break, no school • April 20: Professional development day, no school for students • May 27: End of third trimester and last day of school

Road work to begin this week on U.S. 31 bridges in Hamilton County news@currentinwestfield.com INDOT will soon begin maintenance on several bridge decks on U.S. 31 in Hamilton County. CONSTRUCTION Work is scheduled to start this week on multiple bridges. It will affect both directions of U.S. 31 from 181st Street to Range Line Road. The project is scheduled to be complete

in mid-October. During construction, there will be intermittent lane closures and ramp restrictions. There will always be one lane open in each direction on U.S. 31 throughout construction. The only full closures scheduled during the project are the Keystone Parkway/U.S. 31 ramps. Details on the closure of those ramps will come at a later date. Work will occur on a total of 21 bridge decks in the area.

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August 3, 2021

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Clerk-treasurer accuses city of installing ‘spyware’ on computers By Anna Skinner anna@youarecurrent.com

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Gossard said she and her staff have made repeated requests to have the software removed. A meeting between city attorAt the July 26 Westfield City Council ney Blake Burgan, Gossard’s attorney Will meeting, Westfield Clerk-Treasurer Cindy Webster, Larsen and council member Jake Gossard acGilbert was tentatively set for the GOVERNMENT cused the city week of Aug. 2. administration “I can advise the council that of installing “spyware” on all six my office is undertaking efforts to computers in the clerk’s office and further investigate this matter to accessing the data on those comdetermine who has been accessing puters without her permission. my computer or all the computThe software, which provides ers in the clerk’s office and if any Gossard remote access for the city IT departsystems have been compromised,” ment to handle computer issues, is created Gossard said. by BeyondTrust. The city issued a statement Gossard said she retained a forensic IT after the meeting refuting Gossard’s claims. investigations company to look into the Gossard said that the software “appears matter and expects the results in several to give unfettered and unauthorized access” weeks. Gossard said the city administration into computer and data systems managed also has limited her ability to communicate by her office. directly with the city’s IT staff and has re“This situation is deeply concerning given stricted her use of email and other modes that this software would allow a user to of communication with city staff. potentially access city financial information, Mayor Andy Cook was not present at the city bank information and information on meeting, but the city issued a statement city employees,” Gossard said. “Further, a after it concluded. user could potentially use this software to “Prior to the financial investigation access and change data in a way to make it commissioned by Mayor Cook, the clerk’s appear these systems were being accessed office never raised any concerns about the and changed by either myself or one of my security of the city’s computer network. The staff.” BeyondTrust software (or predecessor) is a Chris Larsen, the city’s director of inforprogram that the clerk is well aware of and matics, said the software wasn’t spyware has used dozens of times,” the statement and that the city has installed a version of read. “It allows the IT department, upon the software on every computer in the city request and with permission, to remotely since 2011. access a computer while it’s in operation Council member Scott Willis said his to assist with issues raised by individupersonal business uses a similar software, als throughout the city. It’s on every city and IT staff must ask permission to obtain computer and has been used for 10 years. full control of the computer. Larsen said the This technology is standard in almost all city’s software is able to take full control industries. without the user’s permission, however, the “It is strange that this is coming at a user can end the session at any time. time when the clerk has, after months and “A box pops up and shows ‘information months, provided BKD (a CPA firm currently support is here.’ It’s an icon we can’t conducting an audit of the city) with most remove,” Larsen said. “The data she is — but not all — of the financial documents trying to protect is the data I am trying to that have been requested. To impugn the protect.” professionalism and character of our city’s Larsen said members of the IT departIT department is not acceptable and highly ment using the software are unable to login unprofessional.” as the user. He said if the IT department Cook ordered the audit of the city’s achad logged into a computer, an investigacounts in August 2020, after which BKD was tion would show the login as an IT member retained for the audit. and not the computer user. For more, visit westfield.in.gov.

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don’t worry your roof is ﬁne. But,there if the being damage on your roof. hail is the size of a golf ball or larger, your roof should be checked by a

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WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE HAIL?

Council approves new subdivision

If the hail around your home is in between the size of a pea or a quarter, don’t worry your roof is ﬁne. But, if the hail is the size of a golf ball or larger, your roof should be checked by a

August 3, 2021

Current in Westfield

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If your plants and trees in your INSPECTING YOUR HAIL DAMAGE

Compiled by Anna Skinner • anna@youarecurrent.com

yard are shredded to pieces

If your plants and trees in your Many times if the hail damage is andthe was caused by home hail falling, Check sidings of your The Westfield City Council met July 26. Its next meeting is scheduled 7 p.m. Aug. to 9 atpieces yard areforshredded signiﬁcant enough, your gutters for holes. If there is new damage there is a good chance there Westfield City Hall, 130 Penn St. For the agenda, visit westfield.in.gov. and was caused by hail falling, will be heavily dented or ripped in to your thatto is ayour goodroof. issiding, damage there is a good chance there If your plants and trees in your places. If this is the case, you indicator that your roof may also Many times if the hail damage is Check the sidings of your hom What happened: The Westfield City Council approved the Sycamore Glen planned unit yard are shredded to pieces is damage to your roof. signiﬁcant enough, your gutters for holes. If there is new dama have a good reason to be conbe damaged. development, 5-1. and was caused by hail falling,about will be heavily to your siding, that is a good cerned your roof.dented or ripped in What it means: Jon Dobosiewicz, an attorney with Nelson and Frankenberger, presented on behalf of Coronado Custom Homes regarding a rezone request to permit the development of a single-family subdivision on 28.5 acres on the southwest quadrant of 159th Street and Towne Road. Dobosiewicz presented an updated concept plan with significant modifications, including modified zoning that reduced the maximum number of lots from 55 to 31, for a density of 1.1 homes per acre. “This is my district, and I’m not sure neighbors are convinced this is 100 percent

If your plants and trees in yourplaces. Many times if the hail damage is Checkindicator the sidings that of your homeroof may a there chance there the right spot for it,” council member Scottis a good If this is the case, you your yard are shredded to pieces signiﬁcant enough, your gutters for holes. If there is new damage Frei said. is damage to your roof. have a good reason to be conbe damaged. and was caused by hail falling, will be heavily dented or ripped in to your siding, that is a good Frei said he appreciated the effort made cerned your there is a good chance there places. Ifabout this is the case,roof. you indicator that your roof may also is damage to your roof. to enhance the development but cast the have a good reason to be conbe damaged. cerned about your roof. only no vote for the request. Council member Cindy Spoljaric also thanked the petitioner and called them “stelIf you Ifare ofthese these warning lar to work with”. youexperiencing are experiencing all all of hail hail warning 1. Call your insurance agent “They have done a very good job in trying signs, herehere areare the steps you should signs, thenext next steps you should take: take: 2. Call Hays + Sons for an inspection to be sensitive to this site,” she said. 1. Call your insurance agent Dobosiwicz said the average home price 1. Call your insurance agent 2. Call Hays + Sons for an inspection originally was $500,000 to $650,000, but 2. Call Hays + Sons for an inspection with the lot reduction, average prices rose to $800,000-plus.

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August 3, 2021

COVER STORY

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Westfield High School expanding options to prepare students for life after graduation By Anna Skinner anna@youarecurrent.com Learning at Westfield Washington Schools doesn’t always involve traditional desks and chalkboards. Westfield High School Assistant Principal Matt Putman said the district is taking steps to introduce students to hands-on learning and prepare them for the day after graduation. “We have had a lot of conversations over the last couple months about better aligning programs and resources available for our students,” Putman said. “If certain Putman students are looking to get into health science careers or construction trades or the hospitality and tourism industry, we want to make sure we have the right pathways and programs available.” Putman said focusing on hands-on learning also is a priority of the district’s new leadership team of Supt. Paul Kaiser Kaiser and John Atha, assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, who joined the district in late May. “The nice thing is, it seems like everything is starting to align,” Putman said. “The new leadership’s vision and our vision at the high school is really starting to align perfectly.” Kaiser said in the modern world, companies and jobs are created faster than curriculum can keep up with, so students should be able explore opportunities outside the classroom to keep up with that evolution. “What last year (with the COVID-19 pandemic) cemented for all of us is that, in order to keep up with the pace of society, education needs to go way beyond the classroom,” Kaiser said. “That’s why it’s important that we prepare Westfield students to be life-ready. The sooner our Shamrocks can get hands-on experience in their desired fields, the better equipped they will be to continue to impact our community and our world.” Kaiser detailed several classes that prepare students, such as the medical detectives class that teaches students how to evaluate crime scenes; the construction program that instructs students how to build structures from the ground up; and coding classes and the family and consumer sciences programs, which place students directly into hospitality jobs. “We are even looking into creating an agricultural science program to ensure our students are prepared for Indiana’s flourishing farming industry,” Kaiser said. “Classroom learning is the foundation of education and allows students to see and select from a variety of educational and professional pathways. We want hands-on learning to bolster their joy for education and put them ahead of their peers the day they walk across the graduation stage.” Putman said the district has partnered with the Westfield

Human Body Systems students use fetal dopplers and blood pressure cuffs to measure ankle/brachial index. (Photos courtesy of Westfield High School)

Education Foundation to secure grants, such as one from Duke Energy that funded new equipment for a construction

GIVING STUDENTS A CHANCE TO EXPLORE Also new this school year are three days, one each in the fall, winter and spring, that would traditionally be e-learning days that are now opportunities for students to explore outside the classroom. “We are encouraging students to do job shadows, college visits or look at apprenticeship schools,” Putman said. “We are getting students outside the traditional WHS walls and getting them exposure to career opportunities or additional educational opportunities to get their eyes open.” Putman said there also will be an online component to those three days. “It’s not truly an off day,” he said. “It’s still considered part of the school day, but it’s more aligned to getting them out finding opportunities and exploring some of those opportunities.”

trade program to help students become OSHA certified. “OSHA is a safety certification that’s universal in the construction industry, and it shows (when) our students come out with that certificate that they understand the important aspects of safety,” Putman said. “Coming out with that certificate is a game changer for a lot of our students and gets them to that next level instead of just their foot in the door.” Another WEF grant funded a career book that outlines the school’s nearly 300 courses. “This career book is really going to connect all of our courses to certain career pathways,” Putman said. “Such as, if a student really wants to go into the biomedical or health science field, it’s going to help them plan out what courses to take at the high school level to help prepare them for additional education they need to receive. That helps them figure out and map out a timeline and plan for them after they graduate from Westfield High School.” ON THE COVER: Westfield High School students taking a biomedical class present their research projects to friends and family at the end of the 2020-21 school year. (Photos courtesy of Westfield High School)

August 3, 2021

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Playing favorites

Commentary by Terry Anker “You are wrong, and I don’t want to hear what you think,” barked the domineering spouse to their beleaguered partner. Wouldn’t it make sense to consider what they say before determining disagreement with it? Wouldn’t it be more reasonable to have our views challenged openly than to rest insecurely in ignorance? Indiana Congressman Jim Banks was recommended by his peers for appointment to a review commission. Our nation’s capital is rife with such blue-ribbon panels, special committees, and double-secret boards. One can assume that they are designed to help our leaders gain insight into important or faddish matters and oil the rusty gears of government so that they might lurch forward. In this case, a wrench has fallen into the works. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has broken tradition by blocking Banks from appointment. There are many, given the chance, who would do the same to her. Is it true that open discussion is dangerous in that it only obscures a predetermined truth? Or are we calling folks liars before they lie? A commission is not required to determine the moment of sunrise. Still, there is much debate about whether we should awake before, at, or after it. We all have our perspectives, perhaps firmly held, of when to emerge from slumber. So, how do we honor the views of those with whom we disagree? It is an alluring temptation to prevent those thoughts that don’t align from ever being heard. It is an alluring temptation to hold back that seat at the table. It is an alluring temptation to invite disingenuous compliance from those who will quiet their own beliefs to avoid expulsion. But do we benefit from their exclusion or are we weakened by failure to seek challenge? Can we seek the truth if we already believe we know it?

Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@ youarecurrent.com.

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

QUOTE OF THE WEEK “In the long run, the sharpest weapon of all is a kind and gentle spirit.” — ANNE FRANK

POLICIES Letters to the editor: Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 150 words. Letters must be thoroughly vetted prior to submission. Current retains the right to reject or return any letter it deems to carry unsubstantiated content. Current also retains the right to edit letters, but not their intent. Send letters to info@youarecurrent.com. Writers must include a hometown and a daytime phone number for verification. Guest columns: The policy for guest columns is the same as the aforementioned, but the allowable length is 240 words. Guest columns should address the whole of Current’s readership, not simply special-interest groups, and may not in any way contain a commercial message.

People often ask which of our four heirs is my favorite. The expected response is, “I don’t have one,” and I suppose in the aggregate, that’s true. But let’s be honest, on the daily, there is absolutely a podium placement for Most Loved Kid. And though it changes frequently, I’ve noticed the gold medal normally goes to whoever is in their happy place, typically when they are away from the expectations of established family roles. To that point, last week’s Champion Child was our youngest, simply because I had the chance to spend time with just her. We traveled to Massachusetts for a few days to visit fancy colleges and geek out on American history (our reenactment of the Boston Massacre is sure to become legendary). It was amazing to me that once I got her on her own, she transformed into a totally different person. Instead of encountering an angsty teenager who constantly competes with her older brothers and verbally spars with her sister, I enjoyed a kind and caring young woman who is quite funny (she dramatically threw the “snowball” at my unsuspecting British soldier, beginning the aforementioned Boston Massacre reprisal). Now that we’re back home again in Indiana, she’s returned to her usual MO of either hiding in her room except, for meals, or running off to hang with her besties. We communicate through eye-rolling, cold silence and incessant hurumphing, if we see her at all. It’s a struggle to remember that the girl with whom I’m occasionally interacting isn’t necessarily who she is. Suffice it to say, she is no longer my reigning favorite. Congratulations Male Heir No. 2! Peace out.

Danielle Wilson is a contributing columnist. You may email her at info@youarecurrent.com.

August 3, 2021

VIEWS

Current in Westfield

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Remembering a close friend and public servant Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

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There will never be another Dr. Pat Keener. This dear friend of the Wolfsies passed away two weeks ago. Even HUMOR if her name is not familiar to you, her lifelong dedication to the health of this city — indeed the nation — should not be forgotten. Among a score of accomplishments, this dedicated pediatrician and neonatologist founded the Indianapolis Campaign for Healthy Babies back in 1989 that improved the dismal infant mortality rate in central Indiana. She also was the founder of the Safe Sitter Program, a national training initiative to teach teens how to be better babysitters. The program covers everything from whether it’s OK for sitters to raid the fridge to how to save a choking toddler. For the past 40 years, Pat was resolute in finding appealing little snippets in magazines and newspapers, cutting them out and sending them to me via snail mail. I always looked forward to seeing what was in each next installment. If it weren’t for Pat, I wouldn’t know that: • It is possible to lead a cow upstairs but not downstairs. • A duck’s quack doesn’t echo, and no one knows why. • The shape of a Pringle is a hyperbolic paraboloid. Dr. Pat once mutilated a brand-new copy of the “New England Journal of Medicine” so she could send me an article saying babies are born with about 300 bones, but by the time they reach adulthood, these bones will have fused together to form 206 bones. There is something about opening a ma-

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nilla envelope fresh from the mailbox and having several pieces of a newspaper article (that was continued on three different pages) tumble out across the kitchen table and flutter to the floor. Just fitting it all together was always a challenge, and I must admit that I have probably read the parts in the wrong order more than once. My mother also used to send me newspaper articles with references to people I knew from years earlier. She usually included a little note with each article: “Thought you’d want to see this. Wasn’t he a friend of yours?” Mom asked. I know my mother’s heart was in the right place, but obituaries didn’t quite cheer me up the way Pat’s articles did. Pat read everything, so I always wanted to look smart when I was with her. One evening, she and her husband, Garry, were out to dinner with Mary Ellen and me. I tried to jazz up the conversation. “Pat, did you know that an ostrich’s eye is bigger than its brain?” “I did,” she said. “I’m the one who sent you the article.” There is so much about this incredible woman that I will miss. There was a wonderful write-up about her in the newspaper when she passed away. In her honor, I cut out the article … and mailed it to several of my friends.

Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.

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August 3, 2021

HEALTH

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How to create and IHP Commentary by Brenda McLean It’s back-to-school time again, which means excitement, new experiences and many unknowns. If BACK TO SCHOOL you’re the parent or caregiver of a student with a chronic medical condition, the unknowns can be scary, especially in this era of COVID-19. For students under the age of 12 and unable to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, parents may have real concerns and questions about their child’s health and safety in the school environment. As a school counselor who works closely with kids with lifelong medical conditions, specifically rare bleeding and blood disorders, I’m often asked how I help families prepare ahead of the school year. Gathering the right information and communication with the school is key, especially during the pandemic: Talk to your student’s health care provider about a health plan: Share the school’s COVID-19 safety plan with your child’s health care provider. Ask your provider to provide a list in writing of your child’s medical needs, any requirements, restric-

tions or supports your child will need to safely participate to the fullest in the school environment. Talk to your school nurse and administrators: Provide your school with a copy of the written plan from your child’s health care provider. Set up a meeting to collaborate with school staff to develop an Individualized Health Plan, or IHP, to support your child’s medical needs at school. Also, discuss the need for a Section 504 document or assessment for an Individualized Education Plan, or IEP, to support your child’s unique learning needs. Talk to your student: Discuss this health plan with your student. Talk about why this plan is important. Let them share how they feel about it. Children do not like to feel different or singled out from their peers. Talk through ways to reduce this concern. For the full column, visit youarecurrent.com. Brenda McLean is a school counselor with the Indiana Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center (IHTC) who helps schoolaged patients and their families navigate education settings with their health concerns in mind.

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August 3, 2021

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A 3-D rendering of the second story proposed for the 360 Movement Academy under construction at Grand Park. (Photo courtesy of westfield.in.gov)

Wright’s Grand Property seeks tax abatement for expansion By Anna Skinner anna@youarecurrent.com

Become a volunteer today Riverview Health is looking for volunteers to join its great team. Some of the many volunteer service areas include patient transport, guest services and the gift shop. Shifts are available in the morning or afternoon, at least one day per week, Monday-Friday. If you’re interested in volunteering at Riverview Health in Noblesville or Westfield, please contact the manager of Volunteer Services, Melinda Nash, at 317.776.7236 or mnash@riverview.org. RIGHT SIZE. RIGHT CARE. RIGHT HERE.

The Westfield City Council heard an introduction of two items on the July 26 agenda that would allow for an COUNCIL annual 40 percent tax abatement for 10 years for Wright’s Grand Property. Economic Development Director Kai Chuck said the abatement is contingent on the company’s creation of a second floor at 360 E. 186th St., where Wright’s Grand Property recently broke ground on the 360 Movement Academy to offer comprehensive programming for children, including traditional gymnastics, ninja offerings, dance and an academic preschool. Wright’s Grand Property plans to invest $5.1 million for a 37,000-square-foot building at the location, 12,000 square feet of which will be the second story, which has not yet broken ground. If the second story is constructed, the company would relocate 19 jobs in Westfield to Grand Park and relocate 15 jobs outside of Westfield to Grand Park and create 37 new jobs in three to five years. A second floor would allow for the expansion of corporate offices that are cur-

rently in Greenwood. Church, Church, Hittle & Antrim attorney Matt Skelton presented on behalf of owners Casey Wright and Tate Schuetz. Skelton said the proposal would enhance the city’s sports tourism initiative by expanding the facility to allow for conferences, competitions and other large events. After the presentation, Council President Mike Johns asked if Wright’s Grand Property was the parent company of NinjaZone Academy, which sued the city in 2019. The city settled and paid the company $625,000 in two installments following the lawsuit. Johns asked Chuck to provide more information regarding the lawsuit to help him “make a decision” regarding approval. Council member Scott Willis said the company sued the city after the Westfield breached its contract when it signed the Indianapolis Colts to conduct training camp at Grand Park, which then prevented NinjaZone Academy from using its space within the Grand Park Events Center for a period of time. A vote was not taken because the item was only an introduction. A vote is planned for the Aug. 23 council meeting. For more, visit westfield.in.gov.

August 3, 2021

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Hamilton County breweries strike gold By Anna Skinner anna@youarecurrent.com Three Hamilton County breweries won big at the July 10 Indiana Brewers Cup. Grand Junction Brewing Co., BEER Westfield, won four medals and took home the Best of Show designation for its Mulligan Scottish Ale. Field Brewing, Westfield, won two gold medals. Primeval Brewing, Noblesville, won seven medals — one gold, four silver and two bronze. The seven medals tied Primeval Brewing with Metazoa Brewing Co. in Indianapolis for Brewery of the Year, but Metazoa won the distinction by virtue of receiving more gold medals than Primeval. GJBC owner Jon Knight said the brewery has participated in the Indiana Brewers Cup for the past seven years and he was confident entering the competition that the brewery would do well. Winning Best of Show was a first-time accomplishment for the brewery. Knight credits GJBC’s head brewer, Ryan Thomas, for the achievement. “We have got a tremendous head brewer, and he has actually won medals in the past for us, and I think he’s really hitting his stride,” Knight said. The competition had more than 500 entries. The Best of Show category pits gold medal-winning beers in 35 categories against each other. GJBC won a trophy and banner with the Best of Show designation and plans to display the items in the brewery.

Mulligan Scottish Ale won Best of Show at the Indiana Brewers Cup. (Photo courtesy of Ryan Thomas)

Knight said the competition shows that breweries in Hamilton County strive to produce the best beers. “When you’ve got 13 medals between three breweries 12 to 13 miles apart, that’s a pretty unique thing,” Knight said. Field Brewing owner Jackie Dikos credits the brewery’s head brewer, Rian Umbach, for the brewery’s wins at the competition. “Working with Rian has been amazing. He definitely feels like part of our team and family for sure. He started with us

before we opened Field Brewing,” Dikos said. “I feel like what Rian’s creating is the backbone of who we are in Westfield and the type of beer we wanted to create. Rian’s greatest strength is making beers approachable.” Primeval Brewing co-owners Nathan Compton and Tim Palmer also serve as the brewers at Primeval. The brewery produces mainly European-inspired beer, drawing from Germany, Great Britain and Belgium. Compton and Palmer have competed in the Indiana Brewers Cup as home brewers for several years, but this is the first year they competed as professionals. Compton said although he didn’t expect to win so many medals, he was confident about his chances of winning something. “It’s limited to 12 entries (per brewery), so in a competition of that size, to place in over 50 percent of your entries is certainly more than you could reasonably expect,” Compton said. Compton described Primeval Brewing as “contrarian” in the craft beer world. “The American craft beer scene has tended to push the envelope on bigger beers, hoppier beers, and beers more out there with creative additions,” Compton said. “We focus more on traditional styles, and we try to make them as best we can.” Thomas said that’s his strategy at GJBC as well. “I pride myself on not being a brewer that only brews IPAs or trying to figure out the next ridiculous thing I can put in a beer to sell as much as I can,” Thomas said.

HAMILTON COUNTY WINNING BEERS Grand Junction Brewing Co., 1189 E. 181st St., Westfield: • Mulligan Scottish Ale, won Best of Show and gold in the Scottish & Irish Ale • Westfield Underground ESB, a strong bitter, won bronze in the Pale British Ale • Imperfect Backside Oatmeal Stout, an oatmeal stout, won bronze in the British & Irish Stout • Westfielder 8, a Biere de Garde, won

silver in the Belgian Ale Field Brewing, 303 E. Main St., Westfield:   • Doppel Dribble, a Doppelbock, won gold in the Strong European Lager • Black Friday, a sweet stout, won gold in the British & Irish Stout category Primeval Brewing, 960 Logan St., Unit 100, Noblesville: • Rauch My World, a Rauchbier, won gold in the Smoke-Flavored Beer • Chompinator, a Doppelbock, won

bronze in the Strong European Lager • Edelweiss, a Weissbier, won silver in the German Wheat & Rye Beer • Titus, a Weizenbock, won bronze in the German Wheat & Rye Beer • My Pretty Irish Girl, an Irish stout, won silver in the British & Irish Stout • Afterflow, an English Strong Ale, won silver in the Strong UK Ale • Spring Fling, a Saison, won silver in the Saison

BEEF & BOARDS Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre presents “The Sound of Music” through Aug. 15. For more, visit beefandboards.com. FEINSTEIN’S Don Farrell will perform “All the Way: A Frank Sinatra Tribute” at 6:30 p.m. Aug. 5 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Carol J. Bufford will perform at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 6-7. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com. CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS The Songbook Academy Online Virtual Showcases, held at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel, will be presented at 8 p.m. Aug. 6-8. The virtual events are free, but registration is required. Donations are accepted. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

Discovering Broadway hosts ‘Hamlet’ concert editorial@youarecurrent.com The creative team of the new musical “Hamlet” will participate in Discovering Broadway’s writers’ retreat program in Carmel. Discovering Broadway Inc. will premiere songs at 8 p.m. Aug. 20 in a concert from the new musical “Hamlet” in the Frank and Katrina Basile Theatre at the Indiana Historical Society in Indianapolis. The writers’ retreat begins Aug. 17 at the Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Discovering Broadway founder Joel Kirk, a 2012 Carmel High School graduate, is the bookwriter and director for “Hamlet.” The concert features Jordan Donica (“My Fair Lady”) as Hamlet; Samantha Pauly (“Six”) as Ophelia; Adam Pascal (“Rent”) as King Claudius; and Bryonha Marie Parham (“Prince of Broadway”) as Gertrude. Giving the concert a local flavor are performers Eric Wiegand, a CHS graduate; Christina Barnes, a Zionsville Community High School graduate; and Sophie Miller, a 2018 CHS graduate.

August 3, 2021

NIGHT & DAY

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Indy Opera regulars to perform at Lobster Palooza By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Indianapolis Opera veterans Daniel Narducci and Marci Jackson will FUNDRAISER display their musical theater talents at the 11th annual Lobster Palooza. The Indianapolis Opera Narducci fundraiser is set for 5 to 9 p.m. Aug. 8 at Daniel’s Family Vineyard and Winery in McCordsville. Jackson said they will start by singing four songs with a pianist and then perform a Nat King Cole song with the Dean Martini Band. “It’s a little musical theater, a little Gershwin. It will be fun,” Jackson said. “Dean Martini has a ton of great songs. If they need background vocals, I might feel the need to pop in.” Narducci said he has always performed in opera and musicals.

“I always cherish the opportunity to present the classic music theater,” said Narducci, who lives in Unionville. “I’ll be singing a Frank Wildhood song from the modern Broadway era. The Dean Martini band does a lot of ‘50s and ‘60s songs, kind of jazzy blues. The whole point is just to have a blast.” This will be Narducci’s first time at Lobster PalooJackson za, which previously had been held in downtown Indianapolis. Narducci appeared as King Arthur and Jackson was Guinevere in Indy Opera’s Camelot in March 2019. Jackson, an Indianapolis resident, is eager to perform live again. “This will be my first public performance since a recital in March 2020, just a week before the pandemic shut things down,” Jackson said. Jackson attended Lobster Palooza a few years ago. For more, visit indyopera.org.

Front Porch Music Fest set By Anna Skinner anna@youarecurrent.com When Noblesville resident Jason Pearson and his wife, Jessica, took a trip to Evansville for a weekend getaway and EVENT saw a front porch music festival, they thought downtown Noblesville would be a perfect fit for a similar event. The Front Porch Music Festival will be from 3 to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 7 on Logan Street between 10th and 14th streets. Logan Street will be blocked to vehicle traffic, making the event pedestrian friendly. Bands will perform on nine porches, with half of the bands performing throughout the first block and the last block of the street, with

the middle area reserved for food vendors. Admission is free. “Local businesses have sponsored the event to pay the musicians,” Pearson said. “We want to make sure this is a free event, but the musicians aren’t donating their time. They’re sharing their talents and need to be compensated for that.” The event is the first of its kind in Noblesville. Depending on turnout, Pearson would like to make it a biannual event. Pearson said he chose Logan Street for the event because of its proximity to the courthouse square, the historic brick street and beautiful homes along the street. Pearson said Noblesville resident Ken Bubp has been instrumental in planning the event.

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August 3, 2021

NIGHT & DAY

Current in Westfield

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Behind bars: HGS Get it at LouVino, Fishers Ingredients: 2 oz. vodka, 3 dashes grapefruit bitters, 1 orange wedge, 1 lime wedge, 1 basil sprig, 1 rosemary sprig, soda water, cranberry juice Directions: Muddle the orange, lime, basil and rosemary with the vodka and bitters, then shake with ice and pour into a tall glass. Top with soda water and a splash of cranberry juice.

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Commentary by Anna Skinner Address: 8626 E. 116th St., Fishers What to get: Seared duck and peaches Price: $28   Anna’s take: LouVino is an excellent place for date night or brunch with friends. I tried an array of items, including the baller board charcuterie ($36), which was overflowing with Italian pepperoni, Manchego, a triple-cream brie, Capacolla, pancetta and local honey, among other items; Brussels sprouts salad ($11), which gave me fiesta vibes with cilantro lime vinaigrette, pickled cherry peppers and roasted corn; and the raspberry wedge salad ($14), a delicious, sweet salad with crushed raspberries, dates, gorgonzola cheese, red onion, Marcona almonds, romaine and a creamy raspberry vinaigrette.

Seared duck and peaches features thinly sliced duck, juciy peaches, fingerling potatoes. (Photo by Rachel Greenberg)

My favorite dish was seared duck with peaches ($28), which was thinly sliced layered duck and juicy peaches atop fingerling potatoes, assorted veggies and a sweet cognac gastrique that paired beautifully with the duck. Another favorite was the vegan stir fry ($20), which consisted of vegetables tossed in a spicy sweet ginger sauce. LouVino does an excellent job with cooking its veggies, which may seem like an easy task, but I’ve found most restaurants overcook them, whereas LouVino prepares them with the perfect amount of crisp and still hold their shape. End your meal with chocolate chip cookie dough stuffed beignets ($9).

WE’VE BEEN QUIET...BUT WE’VE BEEN BUSY! WE HAVE A SEASON...AND A PRE-SEASON AND A BRAND NEW WEBSITE! Carmel Community Players and PrimeLife Enrichment Senior Center are presenting 3 weekends of staged readings. This is when the play is read out loud by actors with scripts in hand. It’s a fun way to get the season started! No cost for these readings, but a free will donation will be accepted at the door. All proceeds will be divided between CCP and PLE.

TUESDAYS WITH MORRIE by Mitch Albom Two of our community’s most well-respected actors read Mitch Albom’s life-affirming play. Performances: Friday, August 6 - 7:00 pm, Saturday, August 7 - 2:00 pm Venue: PrimeLife Enrichment, 1078 SW 3rd Ave., Carmel, 46032 THE SILENT WAR by Neil Simon Two of Central Indiana’s finest comedic actors perform this Neil Simon comedy 1-act play. Performances: Friday, August 13 - 7:00 pm, Saturday, August 14 - 2:00 pm Venue: PrimeLife Enrichment, 1078 SW 3rd Ave., Carmel RIPCORD by David Lindsay-Abaire This cast of Central Indiana’s “who’s who” of actors bring joy and heart to this topical play. Performances: Friday, August 20 - 7:00 pm, Saturday, August 21 - 2:00 pm Venue: PrimeLife Enrichment, 1078 SW 3rd Ave., Carmel

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August 3, 2021

NIGHT & DAY

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William to play at Feinstein’s By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

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‘Willie Wonka,’” said William, who is based in New York. “I even do a song from the TV show ‘Smash,’ so it’s a range of different Mark William puts his own spins on being material. Whatever age comes in, they are a classic crooner. going to have a good time.” “I love Great William, a native of Toledo, Ohio, CONCERT American Songbook said this is first chance to take his material and classic tour out of New York. He previously Broadway stuff,” William said. “But has performed shows in Maine. I try to stay up to date as well, “It’s an exciting time and I’m so I like to bring material from all glad to have Feinstein’s be a part different genres and eras and inof that,” he said. “My manager and terpret through the lens of a young I are spearheading a musical that William crooner.” is for me, which hopefully will be William will perform at 7:30 p.m. happening next year. I also recorded Aug. 13-14 at Feinstein’s cabaret in the Hotel a pilot for a new television show as the lead Carmichael in Carmel. The title of his show of a young priest who is struggling with his is “Come Croon with Me,” which also is the faith and personal life. I started in musical name of his album, which came out in the theater, but I’ve done the work and develfall of 2019. oped my skills to go and do anything.” William, 25, will perform songs from that William developed his love of music from album and a couple bonus songs. his mother, Teresa Blowers, a pianist and Some of the songs that are part the almusic teacher. His mother is bringing a bum are “Come Fly With Me,” “Moon River” large group or friends to the Carmel shows. and “On The Street Where You Live.” “I’m sure it will be wonderful to see so “I do stuff by Peter Allen and stuff from many people I haven’t been able to perform some of the classic movies that my nieces since I left home,” William said. and nephews watch, like ‘Wizard of Oz’ and For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

Artist ‘grinds away’ at painting By Rick Morwick rick@youarecurrent.com

tured the finest work of juried artist members in the categories of watercolor; oil/ acrylic; drawing/mixed media; photography; While exploring the gristmill at Spring Mill and 3-D art. State Park, Dr. Robert Bratton was intrigued A retired dentist, Bratton, 82, took first by a piece of pre-Industriplace in the watercolor category ART al Revolution machinery as well as Best in Show. He took inside the 18th-century up painting three decades ago structure. after taking lessons from a former “I went inside the old mill there patient. and was struck by the wooden “I have always been interested in cogs that turned the millstone creativity and art, which is useful in grinder,” he said. “I decided that it the dental profession,” Bratton said. Bratton would make a good subject for a “I have been painting in watercolors painting. I photographed it for a reference almost exclusively for about 30 years. I love and planned on emphasizing the colors and to paint metal objects, architecture, matextures so that I could create an abstract, chinery, animals, or anything that has color realistic painting.” and texture. Bratton did more than that. The Carmel “I particularly like to paint old, rusty resident created a watercolor painting that steam locomotives or things relating to the won Best of Show at the June 4 “All Our railroad.” Best” reception for the Hamilton County A frequent exhibitor at the Birdie Gallery, Artists’ Association at the Birdie Gallery in has been a juried member of the HCAA since Noblesville. 1994 and is a Cardinal Fellow of the WaterBratton’s painting, “Grinding Away,” was color Society of Indiana. the centerpiece of the HCAA’s “All Our Best” “It’s what I love to do in retirement, and I exhibit that was on display June 5 through enjoy entering competitions,” said Bratton, July 24 at the Birdie Gallery. The exhibit feawhose website is robertbrattonart.com.

August 3, 2021

LIFESTYLE

Current in Westfield

www.currentinwestfield.com

Holistic spelling of wholistic Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

T. C. Steele State Historic Site, near Nashville, Ind. (Photos by Don Knebel)

Visiting T. C. Steele State Commentary by Don Knebel Continuing to focus on Hoosier historic sites, my 450th column is about Brown County’s T. C. Steele State HisTRAVEL toric Site. Theodore Clement Steele, Indiana’s best-known artist, was born in Owen County in 1847. After studying at Munich’s Academy of Fine Arts, Steele and his family settled in Indianapolis, where he earned a living painting portraits for $500 (about $16,000 today). However, his passion was for plein air (outdoors) painting and his impressionist landscapes gained widespread acclaim. In 1907, he moved with Selma, his second wife, to the House of the Singing Winds, a studio/residence featuring high ceilings and porches he built on a remote hilltop 10 miles south of Nashville. He expanded the site and built a barn-like studio in 1916, where he displayed his works for visitors from across the nation. Steele frequently painted his woodlands and formal gardens Selma created on the property, but also traveled, painting from a horse-drawn wagon. Steele’s Brown County paintings drew other plein air artists to Nashville,

where they established an artist’s colony. When Steele died in 1926, his ashes were buried on his property, marked by a stone proclaiming “Beauty Outlasts Everything.” Selma, who was 23 years younger, maintained the property until just before her death in 1945, when she donated the entire 211 acres and 350 of Steele’s paintings to the state of Indiana. Today, the Indiana State Museum operates the site. A visitor’s center, opened in 2019, provides information about the Steeles and their property. The spectacular grounds, including hiking trails, a lily pond, Selma’s restored gardens and a replica of Steele’s studio wagon, are open to the public without charge. The House of the Singing Winds, furnished essentially as it was at Selma’s death, and Steele’s barn studio, displaying his works on a rotating basis, are available with a reservation and a modest fee at tcsteele.org/.

We all know the difference between a “whole” and a “hole.” Entire doughnuts and bagels have both! For most things, if they get a hole, GRAMMAR GUY they’re not whole. Sure, this is a whole lot of “hole” talk, but right now it’s time to examine the difference between the words “holistic” and “wholistic.” Other than the “w,” what distinguishes these two words? Holistic is an adjective describing the whole being greater than the sum of its parts. Clear as mud? And did you catch the word “whole” in the definition? I’m already confused. That didn’t help too much, so let’s check the definition of “wholistic.” After arriving at its dictionary entry, I find a one-word definition: holistic. Thanks for clearing it up, dictionary. The first usage of the word “holistic” was in the 1920s when South African statesman Jan Smuts used it in his book “Evolution and Holism.” As a side note, is “statesman” a job? If so, I’d like to know

presents

the starting salary. The term “wholistic” actually came out of “holistic” after Mr. Smuts developed the idea of holism. In the past century, both words evolved to mean slightly different things (emphasis on “slightly”). The words get used interchangeably, but there is a more precise distinction: The term “wholistic” gets used to underscore the totality of something — the whole thing. When someone uses “holistic” (especially in therapeutic fields), they are likely emphasizing the interaction and interdependency of the parts. Still, other jargon juggernauts insist “wholistic” is merely a misspelling of “holistic” and do not recommend anyone use the “w” spelling. If you do decide to pick one over the other, opt for holistic. Curtis Honeycutt is a national award-winning, syndicated humor writer. Connect with him on Twitter (@curtishoneycutt) or at curtishoneycutt.com.

Casual New England Style Lobster Bake

al 11th Annu

Don Knebel is a local resident who works for Barnes & Thornburg LLP. For the full column visit donknebel. com. You may contact him at editorial@youarecurrent.com.

Sunday, August 8

Signature drinks • Dinner • Dancing Outside, under a tent, rain or shine at