October 4, 2022 — Westfield

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Founded Jan. 29, 2008, at Westfield, IN Vol. XV, No. 37

Copyright 2022.

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Meet the at-large school board candidates

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

The incumbent who holds the at-large seat on the Westfield Washington School Board is seeking to retain her position against three challengers in the Nov. 8 gen eral election.

Candidates Patrick Fassnacht, Alan Ford and Curt Wyatt are seeking to oust incum bent Amber Willis, who has held her seat on the board since 2015. All four individuals bring different viewpoints about issues fac ing the district, what could be improved and why they believe they are the right person to represent constituents.

Below are responses in alphabetical order based on questionnaires that were sent out to election candidates and have been edited in some cases for space and style.

Age: 48

Education:

B.A. Purdue University, West Lafayette Art Education

M.A.E. Ball State University

Educational Administra tion and Supervision

Ed.S. Oakland City University School Superintendency

Occupation: Educational administration City of residence: Westfield

How long have you resided in your school board district: Twenty-five years

Immediate family: Maggie Fassnacht, wife Sami Fassnacht, daughter, WHS Grad Josh Fassnacht, son, WHS Grad Website or best way for voters to learn more about you: Previous political experi ence: None

Why do you want to run for school board? This is such a vital time in our com munity’s history. We continue to grow at a rapid rate and continue to react to the ever-changing landscape. The next two to three years are pivotal for WWS. The choices we have been making, and are about to make, will have such profound impacts on

our children and larger community for quite some time to come.

What are your qualifications for this office? Being a teacher, principal, region al director, and director of operations in numerous settings– rural, suburban, and urban – I have a range of experiences upon which to draw. Beyond a career of serving and growing capacity with teams and com munities, I bring a passion and commitment to my work.

What are the top three issues that your campaign will focus on?

Communication, voice, and transparency

Support, connections, and accountability

Vision, principles-based leadership, and long-range planning

Westfield cannot allow growth and catch ing up to ever-changing realities to get ahead of our deliberate communication and planning as a team. First, communication simply has to improve. We have to be inclu sive, empathetic, and bring people together.

Knowing how much everything connects to everything else within a system, lead ership has to be in tune with resources, programs, and people capacity – and, more importantly, both data-driven and nuanced enough to pull the right levers in amplifying our opportunities.

What do you see as district’s strengths? We have the groundwork in place to take some amazing next steps. The impetus and people are in place to capital ize on this potential. Resources and multi tudes of programming are at our disposal to best fit into our strategic planning.

Careful assessment and review of sys tems and processes will be integral in ensuring that we can move to a more pro active mindset!

What do you see as areas of improvement at the district? Communication, bringing people together, leveraging our strengths, and finding effective connections all need to improve. Seeking out our stake holder and constituent voices is imperative. We must re-instill a continuous cycle of feedback and growth. We must make de cisions based on data, good practice, and with our people in mind. High-quality teams

build supportive environments where peo ple’s needs are met and leadership has both a vision and plan for ensuring sustained engagement and meaningful growth.

How do you feel about the district’s efforts to address student safety? What changes, if any, would you like to see made? Safety is of the utmost importance. People do well when they feel good. We all perform at our best when we are able to do so. This includes best practices in safety training, current guidance and collaboration with emergency services and responders, really and truly knowing each other. Mental health supports, social skill building, and trauma-informed learning will be essential to our success.

R.ALAN

Age: 64

Education: M.S. EE Purdue University, West Lafayette

Occupation: Senior systems engineer, retired naval officer City of residence: Westfield

How long have you resided in your school board district: 20-plus years

Immediate family: Son, daughter-in-law, two grandsons, one sister

Website or best way for voters to learn more about you: Meet and talk to me.

Previous political experience: Unsuc cessfully ran for school board in 2014 or 2016

Why do you want to run for school board? I am a grandfather, concerned about the upbringing and education of my two grandsons.

What are your qualifications for this office? For my entire career, learning and teaching has been an integral part of my profession. I am a retired Naval Officer of more than 28 years service. I currently serve as a technical team leader and re cruiter. I am also on the board of directors of the Science Education Foundation of

Patrick Fassnacht

Fassnacht

Alan Ford

Alan

for Westfield Washington for Westfield

from Page

Indiana (SEFI), where we host the state science and engineering fair, coordinate the regional fairs, and chaperone 10 to 20 young scientists every year to the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), where I have judged for more than 15 years.

What are the top three issues that your campaign will focus on?

Parents and/or guardians are premier deciders and responsible parties for the upbringing of their children. They should work in conjunction with educators, men tors, etc., to provide the BEST opportunities for their children.

To support the first goal, I believe our schools should provide full, easy and un complicated access to the lessons and other activities provided to Westfield-Wash ington Schools attendees. I feel being a member of the school board will allow me to represent my own, as well as other par ents’/guardians’ desires in the leadership of our schools.

What do you see as the district’s strengths?

Westfield Washington Schools has excel lent academic programs.

What do you see as areas of improve ment at the district?

More parent involvement, and more op portunities for our young researchers to compete for scholarships and meet and in teract with peers in the state and country.

How do you feel about the district’s efforts to address student safety? What changes, if any, would you like to see made?

While I am not intimately familiar with the school system’s protocols and proce dures, I believe there is always room for improvement. When it does not interfere or detract from instruction, practice in the expected responses by students and staff is always beneficial.

Age: 70

Education: B.S. Agricul ture, B.S. Ag Economics, MBA Finance, studied tax law Pepperdine University

Occupation: Real estate broker, FC Tucker/Carmel

City of residence: Westfield

How long have you resided in your school board district: Three years

Immediate family: Four children, six grandchildren

Website or best way for voters to learn more about you: Website is in de velopment. I am available to meet 1-on-1 or groups, cwyatt52@gmail.com

Previous political experience: None

Why do you want to run?

To support our youth and give back to the community.

What are your qualifications for this office? Education is very important to me. Strong financial background and contract management. What do you not want to see in a candidate?

What are the top three issues that your campaign will focus on? Representing the students, parents and community. Academ ics and test scores. Community outreach.

What do you see as the district’s strengths? (Supt. Paul) Kaiser and the cur rent school board.

What do you see as areas of improve ment at the district? I have a meeting (coming up) with Dr. Kaiser and the budget director and I will know more after that.

How do you feel about the district’s efforts to address student safety? What changes, if any, would you like to see made? At this point, I am fine with current safety provisions.

Age: 42

Education: B.S. from Miami of Ohio in

2003

Occupation: Sales direc tor, CSI Signs

City of residence: Westfield

How long have you resided in your school board district: Born in 1980- 2003 | 2008-current.

Immediate family: Husband, Anthony Wil lis, children, Gabriel, 14, Ava, 13, and, Nora, 2  Website or best way for voters to learn more about you: Amber Huff Willis for West field School Board (facebook.com)

Previous political experience: Westfield Washington School Board At Large, January 2015 - current

Why do you want to run for school board? As a lifelong resident of the fast est-growing school district in the state of Indiana, I want to ensure that all students get the most quality education while pro viding students with the best possible opportunities and educational experience. While some fear learning loss, we have an opportunity to use what we’ve learned to guide our schools, teachers, and students toward the future. Expanded technology, higher education partnership programs, and educational opportunities and experiences will encourage our students to be flexible, adaptable, and innovative.

What are your qualifications for this office? I am a current school board mem ber since 2015, a Westfield Washington Schools alumni -- class of 1999, I am a Westfield parent, and an employee of a fam ily-owned, local business which supports our community.

What are the top three issues that your campaign will focus on? My top priorities have always been academic excellence while keeping the classrooms safe and for all students.

Continue to retain talented teachers and staff and provide regular professional development opportunities and exceptional

working conditions.

To monitor the growth of the district and make financially sound decisions for the taxpayers

What do you see as the district’s strengths? WWS is a top achieving and growing school district with 98 per cent-plus graduation rate. Westfield High School offers a wide variety of classes and pathways for our students, such as food science, agriculture science, construction, and engineering, to name a few. Over half of graduating students receive college cred its while at WHS. All recent WHS graduates continue their education, have secured employment or made military as their initial career choice.

What do you see as areas of improvement at the district?  We are an excep tional school district but there are always areas we can improve. Our Ag Science class is new this year and we hope to grow the program and build a greenhouse in the fu ture. We offer college credit classes and are working on more partnerships here in West field to allow even more local opportunities for our community.

How do you feel about the district’s efforts to address student safety? What changes, if any, would you like to see made? We have continued to work closely with the Westfield Police Dept. on all school safety matters and initiatives. We have 5 SRO’s that interact daily with our students and provide guidance. We have created Po lice Substations in all buildings which allow any WPD officer to complete reports in their own office space within our buildings and get to know the students and have a pres ence in each of our schools.

Editor’s note: Get to know candidates Bill Anderson and Patrick Phillip, who are seeking the District 2 seat on the Westfield Washington School Board. Profiles of each candidate will be featured in the Oct. 11 edi tion of the Current in Westfield.

Curt Wyatt

Amber Willis

Wyatt

Willis

Public safety agencies receive picture communication boards

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Police officers and firefighters in West field have received picture communication boards from the Autism Society of Indiana that will be used to com municate with individuals who are nonverbal or have disabilities.

CITY

The Autism Society of Indiana provided 100 picture communication boards, which have been placed in the vehicles of all first responders in the city of Westfield, according to a news release. The boards will give police, firefighters and emergency medical services a way to communicate with people who are nonverbal, speak limit ed English, have autism or other disabilities or mental health issues.

“This is another important tool that our officers can use to assist our citizens who struggle with communication,” Westfield Police Dept. Chief Joel Rush said. “This do nation from the Autism Society of Indiana will help us better protect that segment of our community. The pamphlets allow offi cers to better communicate with people by

allowing them to point to pictures, words and letters.”

The communication boards are one solu tion to the challenges that people with disabilities in Westfield face, said Joanne Tedesco, who serves on the Westfield May or’s Council on Disabilities.

Police and fire personnel have also re ceived a training video on how to properly use the communication boards, which have been provided to first responders in 60 Indiana counties by the Autism Society of Indiana.

Police seeks public’s assistance in identifying burglary suspect

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

The Westfield Police Dept. is seeking the public’s help in identifying an individual al legedly involved with a burglary at Great Clips in Westfield.

CRIME

The burglary occurred Sept. 15 at 10 p.m. at 1521 S. Waterleaf Dr., where po lice found the front door had been smashed in with a large rock. The suspect entered through the broken door, proceeded to the cash drawer and removed cash, authorities said.

The suspect is described as a Black male, approximately 200 pounds who appeared to be between the ages of 25 to 35. He was wearing a Boston Celtics baseball-style hat, a white T-shirt and black and white Nike shoes.

Anyone with any information about the individual or have experienced similar types of break-ins are asked to contact Westfield

Police Dept. Det. Tony Howard by calling 317804-3239 and referencing WPD case number 2022-00041806. Information can also be sub mitted by calling Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at 317-262-8477.

Westfield firefighters use a communication picture board provided by the Autism Society of Indiana. (Photo by city of Westfield)

The Westfield Police Dept. is seeking the identity of a suspect involved in a Sept. 15 burglary at Great Clips in Westfield. (Photo provided by Westfield Police Dept.)

Fishers senior tennis player benefits from controlling emotions

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Fishers High School senior Reese Knoder er used to be his own worst enemy.

That’s not been as much of a problem this season.

“He’s learned to con trol his emotions better,” Fishers tennis coach Dave Heffern said. “He’s really talented but he’s always kind of gotten in his own way. Now, he doesn’t get too down on himself when he makes a mistake. That was his problem before. He would make a mistake and get so down on himself that he would make two more.”

Knoderer captured the Hoosier Cross roads Conference Tournament title at No. 1 singles for the first time by beating Ham ilton Southeastern senior Rohan Golla, in straight sets. It was the first time Knoderer had beaten Golla.

“Our conference is so tough to win, I was proud of him last weekend,” Heffern said.

Heffern said Golla had beaten Knoderer in

MEET REESE KNODERER

Favorite Athlete: Carlos Alcaraz

Favorite TV show: “Breaking Bad”

Hobbies: Hanging out with family and friends, playing basketball

straight sets earlier in the season.

“I think I have improved the most in my mentality, which has decreased my level of play the most throughout my career,” Knoderer said. “It’s a frustrating sport, but if you can keep it under control, it gives you a greater advantage.”

Knoderer said it’s easier for Heffern to coach him when he’s level-headed.

“The experience of playing against No. 1 singles players is really great since there are so many high-level players,” said Knoderer,

who had a record of 18-3 through Sept. 26. “It was very fun to be playing No. 1 since freshman year since I got to play really good senior players so young. This gave me so much experience starting out my high school career since I played many players that went on to play (NCAA) Division I In college.

Knoderer said he plans to play college tennis, but his goal is to play at the Division I level.

“I am trying to figure out where I want to go to college,” Knoderer said. “I plan on graduating from high school a semester early to get a better shot at a scholarship at Division I level,” Knoderer said.

Heffern said he believes Knoderer has enough talent to play at a Division I level.

“Attitude is even more important in col lege,” Heffern said.

Knoderer grew up mostly playing baseball and tennis.

“But I had to choose between the two at 10 years old when I had a stress fracture in my lower back,” he said. “I also played soc cer and basketball.”

Knoderer’s older brother Nic, a 2019 FHS graduate, also played No. 1 singles for the Tigers.

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Fishers senior tennis player Reese Knoderer won the Hoosier Crossroads Conference No. 1 singles title. (Photo courtesy of Kelly Applegate Photography)

Knoderer

Llamas walk at Culvers

Nonprofit hosts fundraiser

By Taylor Dixon taylor@youarecurrent.com

The Hamilton County Llama’s Group held its annual fundraising event Sept. 21 at Cul vers in Fishers, just off Olio Road. The group is a nonprofit that gives kids the opportunity to show llamas in the county 4-H and other competi tions in the area.

4-H

Organization founder and leader of the 4-H group, Marilyn Nenni, said she started the 4-H group with her husband nearly 35 years ago to get kids involved with llama’s and 4-H in the county. When the couple de cided to downsize their farm, they donated all their llamas and equipment to start the group and created the nonprofit in 2015.

Today, the Hamilton County Llama’s Group has a farm on 161st Street, just east of Gray Road in Noblesville. The program allows kids to “lease a llama” or take care of a certain animal without having to buy supplies or have a farm. There are about 80 kids in the group, according to Nenni. Participants ro tate to care for the animals, so someone is there nearly every day. Nenni said the kids help care for about 60 llamas.

“(The kids are) promoting agriculture and 4-H and just learning how to work with animals and communicate and train them,” Nenni said. “It’s a great group of youth of all ages from third through 12th grade. They all work together with helping each other and training and learning about the animals. It provides big leadership opportunities.”

Mini golf course spotlights

‘Great Squirrel Stampede’

By Taylor Dixon taylor@youarecurrent.com

Cathedral High School

Cathedral High School

Cathedral High School

Thursday, October

house

CELEBRATION

The City of Fishers is celebrating the 200th anniversary of the time squirrels ran amok through Hamilton County in what became known as “The Great Squirrel Stampede.”

To commemorate the event, and as part of the city’s ongoing celebration of the 150th anniversary of its founding, Fishers is offering a free four-hole mini golf course at the Oct. 12-15 Fall Festival at the AgriPark in Fishers. The course, which debuted late last month at the Fishers Farmers Market, will make appearances at other sesquicentenni al events throughout the year.

The free course illustrates the 1822 event when thousands of squirrels migrated across Hamilton County and trampled crops, caused mass destruction and left chaos in their wake as they continued south.

The mini golf course is part of Fisher’s ongoing 150th celebration that started in June and will run through next year. There are also opportunities for residents to par ticipate in the celebration by visiting the Fishers Sesquicentennial Trail, contributing to a community time capsule and reading blog posts, watching podcasts and pur chasing apparel being made by the city. For more, visit thisisfishers.com/fishers150.

“We’re so excited to partner with Visit Hamilton County on ‘Squirrel Stampede Mini Golf’ as part of Hamilton County’s bicenten nial and Fishers’ 150th birthday celebration,” said Stephanie Perry, assistant director of communications for Fishers. “The course is a fun way for residents of all ages to engage with and learn more about this unique piece of local history, and they join the squirrels on their journey across central Indiana.”

The mini golf course schedule can be found at thisisfishers.com/squirrelgolf.

Lilly Conley greets a llama. (Photo by Taylor Dixon)

NOBLESVILLE & NORTH

Project: New trail

Location: The project will construct an 8-foot-wide asphalt trail north from Wellington Parkway of the Wellington Northeast subdivision to the 5-point roundabout at Greenfield Avenue. Southbound 10th Street (also known as Allisonville Road) will be detoured to Eighth Street. Two more closures will happen later.

CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION

of U.S. 31 is being converted into a boulevard with a roundabout at Chad Hittle Drive. 191st Street is open to traffic going westbound using Westmore Lane and Chatham Commons Boulevard. The road will remain closed for eastbound traffic.

Expected completion: TBD

Expected completion: November.

WESTFIELD

Project: New roundabout

Location: The intersection of 191st Street and Grassy Branch Road is closed.

Expected completion: Due to delays with utility relocation, the estimated completion date is Oct. 8.

Project: Reconstruction of 151st Street Location: A section of 151st Street from Towne Road to Buchanan Lane is closed for reconstruction. The intersection of 151st Street and Towne Road will remain open during construction.

Expected completion: Summer

Project: Boulevard with a roundabout Location: A section of 191st Street west

Project: Reconstruction of 151st Street from Towne Road to Buchanan Lane Location: A section of 151st Street from Towne Road to Buchanan Lane (the entrance to Kimblewick on 151st Street) is closed for reconstruction.

Expected completion: Officials anticipate the project will be completed this month. The intersection of 151st Street and Towne Road will remain open during construction.

Project: Grand Park Boulevard extension Location: A section of 181st Street between Dartown Road and Wheeler Road is closed through September for construction of the future Grand Park Blvd. extension.

Expected completion: The road will be closed through September, but motorists can use the detour route, which is 186th Street to Wheeler Road.

CARMEL

Project: Roundabout, multi-use path construction

Location: The intersection of 106th Street and College Avenue is closed for construction of a roundabout. The multiuse path is under construction along 106th Street from Pennsylvania Parkway to College Avenue. 106th Street is not expected to be closed during construction of the path.

Expected completion: November

Project: Culvert reconstruction Location: The Monon Greenway is closed from north of west Smoky Row Road to the Hagan Burke Trail. Expected completion: End of the year

Project: Range Line Road reconstruction Location: 116th Street to Carmel Drive. A roundabout is under construction at 116th Street

Expected completion: Fall

Project: New roundabout Location: E. Main Street and Richland Avenue.  Expected completion: Fall

Project: New roundabout Location: E. Main Street and Lexington Boulevard

Expected completion: Fall

Pride of Westfield earns third at invitational

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

The Pride of Westfield marching band earned third place Sept. 24 during an invita tional competition at Avon High School.

BAND

The band, which competed in the Open Class A division, placed third be hind Center Grove and Fishers high schools and most recently competed at the Bands

of America Kentucky Regional prelims at Cardinal Stadium at the University of Louisville.

The Pride of Westfield’s next performance is set for 3:20 p.m. Oct. 8 at the ISSMA Scholastic Prelims/Open Class Invitational at Whiteland Community High School. It will also be among nearly 60 marching bands from Indiana who will compete in the Bands of America super regional prelims, sched uled for Oct. 21-22 at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Thank you, Church Church Hittle + Antrim.

In honor of your generous contribution to the future Ascension St. Vincent YMCA in West eld, we’re grateful to announce the upcoming Church Church Hittle + Antrim Commons.

For more information, contact Shannon Russell at (317) 713-1080 or visit indymca.org/y-west eld/

A place to connect. A place to belong. All because of you.

COMMUNITY

DISPATCHES

Cathedral a National Blue Ribbon School — Cathedral High School in Indianapolis was recently recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School for overall academic perfor mance. The occasion marks the fourth time Cathedral has earned in the recognition. Ca thedral is the only private school in Indiana that was recognized this year. With its 39th cohort, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has bestowed approximately 10,000 awards to more than 9,000 schools.

Driver flown to hospital after accident involving school bus — A driver was flown to Ascension St. Vincent Hospital Sept. 27 after crashing into a school bus at the inter section of State Road 38 and Horton Road. According to the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, the driver of the Ford F-350 was pulling a trailer full of Republic trash cans when it ran into the rear of the school bus. No students were on the bus and the bus driver was not injured in the incident, which remains under investigation.

City hosting heavy trash, bulk-item dropoff day — The city of Westfield will host a heavy trash and bulk-item drop-off day Oct. 8 that will allow residents to dispose of items not included in weekly trash and recycling service. The event will take place from 8 a.m. to noon at 2706 E. 171st St. There is no charge to participate, but fees are re quired to drop off certain items such as TVs, monitors, mattresses, box springs and tires. Residents are asked to bring their trash/ stormwater bill in order to prove residency. For more, visit the city’s website at https:// www.westfield.in.gov/.

Fishers United Methodist Church to hold fish fry — Fishers United Methodist Church will host a fish fry Oct 4. The event will be held at the church, 9691 E. 116th St., from 4:15 to 7:15 p.m. with the menu featuring fish, chicken, baked beans, coleslaw, ap plesauce, bread and pie. The cost is $12 for adults, $7 for children ages 5 and up, while there is no charge for individuals under the age of 5. Dine-in, carryout and drive-thru will be available. For questions, call the church office at 317-849-1805.

OrthoIndy to host open house Oct. 4 — OrthoIndy plans to hold an open house and ribbon-cutting Oct. 4 for its new location in Westfield. The event will take place at 288 W. 175th St. from 5:15 to to 7 p.m. with a ribbon-cutting planned at 5:45 p.m. Hors d’oeuvres and beverages will be provided, along with tours of the facility.

Located at 116th St. & Allisonville Rd.

Behind the Speedway Gas Station & Daycare

Monday - Friday 8AM - 6PM Saturday 9AM - 4PM

St.

FOR LESS

Business is still open through construction.

Between Rangeline & Carmel High School

Monday - Friday 8AM - 6PM

Saturday 9AM - 4PM

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COVER STORY

Community Bible Fellowship Church in Westfield breaks ground on new building after raising $5.3 million

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

Construction is underway on a 27,000-square-foot building that will be come the permanent home of Community Bible Fellowship Church in Westfield after securing more than $5 million through a fundraising campaign.

The church, which was started two years ago, broke ground on the first phase of the project Sept. 18 at 231 E. 161 St., the for mer property of Oak Springs Church. Faith leaders with Community Bible Fellowship Church purchased 15 acres and the existing church building a year ago, said Amy Flynn, director of administration with Community Bible Fellowship Church.

The church currently meets in the audito rium at Westfield High School every Sunday morning and averages about 450 people each week, said David Hoffeditz, senior pas tor at Community Bible Fellowship Church.

“It’s been a blessing to be there,” Hoffed itz said.

However, Hoffeditz said continued growth and the fact that the high school will be renovating its auditorium in the summer of 2024 were primary reasons why the church decided to pursue its current building project. When the building is fin ished, the sanctuary will be able to hold up to 850 people, Hoffeditz said.

“It was important to have a sanctuary where we could meet collectively and we put a great emphasis on congregational singing and congregational participation, and we wanted a sanctuary that lended itself to that,” Hoffeditz said.

The building will also feature a large foyer with a coffee shop, according to Hoffeditz, who noted that fellowship is an important aspect of the church atmosphere. Original ly, the building was intended to be 37,000 square feet, but was scaled back because of rising construction costs, he said.

A second phase is planned at some point in the future, which will feature an adult education room and choir room. The current church building purchased from Oak Springs Church will be renovated and used to serve students in middle and high school, while office space will also be made available,

according to Hoffeditz.

Hoffeditz said the church was able to secure $5.3 million for the first phase of the project, while the remainder of the cost will be covered by a loan. Of the $5.3 million raised, nearly 50 percent has been given through three-year pledges, he added.

“The generosity of the congregation is outstanding and humbling,” he said.

David Hoffeditz, senior pastor at Community Bible Fellowship Church in Westfield, speaks at a groundbreaking ceremony Sept. 18. The church plans to develop a 27,000-squarefoot building with a sanctuary that will be able to hold up to 850 people.

More than 100 people attended a ground breaking ceremony Sept. 18, and Hoffeditz said officials hope to be in their new build ing by the summer of 2024.

Tom Flynn, an elder at the church, spoke warmly about the project and the communi ty’s support.

“For us to start a church two years ago and start a building campaign, it’s pretty

miraculous,” Flynn said. “We want to be able to serve the Westfield community.”

Hoffeditz also said he and his church are grateful and honored to be a part of West field and looks forward to seeing what the building will look like once it is completed.

“We see God’s fingerprints all over this,” he said.

ON THE COVER: A groundbreaking ceremony was held Sept. 18 for the development of a 27,000-square-foot building for Community Bible Fellowship Church in Westfield. The project at 231 E. 161st St., is expected to be completed by the summer of 2024. (Photo by Matthew Kent)

COMMUNITY BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CHURCH

Community Bible Fellowship Church is a nondenominational, Evangelical church seeking to “love God and to love one another.” It currently meets in the auditorium at Westfield High School, 204 W. Hoover St., on Sunday mornings beginning at 10 a.m.

More than 100 people attended a groundbreaking ceremony for a 27,000-square-foot building Sept. 18 that will become the permanent home of Community Bible Fellowship Church in Westfield. The church is constructing its building on land it purchased a year ago from Oak Springs Church. (Photos by Matthew Kent)

A fiery question

Commentary by Terry Anker

Eating out has changed much through the centuries. From medieval banqueting to millennial portability and pressed Peacock to meat-free bacon, we are con tinuing to redefine how we dine. In the days when most restaurants had tables and chairs that were not attached to the floor, we could expect an array of tra ditions that are disappearing into time. The so-called “hostess” stand of the day was often decorated with all manner of treats. There would be the bowl of un wrapped butter mints, a dispenser filled with toothpicks and business cards (so that you’d be able to call for another res ervation before the internet made a call nearly pointless) and a bowl filled with books of matches.

Containing 20 or so cardboard strips coated on one end with a dollop of phosphorous sulfide, they were given to guests who were expected to light a cigarette, or a few, at the end of the meal. Even if a voracious smoker, the patron would leave with 15 or so unused matchsticks and a handy reminder of the evening spent. The best places would of fer wooden matches in tidy pocket-sized boxes. Folks collected, even prized, the tokens, with a 1927 Lindberg one selling for more than $6,000 in 2015.

One might imagine that the restaura teur sent the matches out into the world to strike thousands of little fires, remind ers to return and dine again. They might have concentrated their money into a single bonfire, with all the matches piled high. But would a fire, even one visible from miles away, have the same impact? Are we better to build and rely upon a single great act, or is our story told best through 1,000 little flames? When we interact with those around us, do we construct grand bonfires or pass out simple matchbooks?

QUOTE OF THE WEEK POLICIES

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HUMOR

Have internet, will travel

Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Friends, I’ve just spent two solid hours frolicking on Expedia and Kayak, planning dream vacations to Machu Pic chu, the Caribbean and Toronto. I know! But over the summer, my youngest and I orchestrated an extreme family challenge: Whoever pitches the best summer 2023 trip come Christmas will get the greenlight to proceed with the actual booking, provided, of course, they’ve stayed within certain travel and budgetary guidelines. Oh, it’s on.

To date, I have nine legitimate possi bilities, including the ones above. Most are within the U.S. because, unfortu nately, airfare is ridiculous right now, especially out of Indy. I had to forgo such amazing locations as Israel, India, and the entirety of Southeast Asia sim ply because flights alone would surpass the designated cost per person. Alaskan and Mediterranean cruises are no-goes for the same reason, as is beautiful and surprisingly affordable once-you-getthere Kyrgyzstan. Europe is predictable and easy and, therefore, not worthy of my consideration. Yeah, I said it.

Which leaves the Western Hemi sphere, and specifically American cities, as the frontrunners in terms of pure bang-for-your-buck. Charleston, W.V., Ni agara Falls and Bar Harbor, Maine, could prove entertaining, though certainly not the glamourous gallivanting I’d en visioned back in July. If I time it right, I can get us on a short cruise to Cozumel, and I did find a Belize all-inclusive that might work. The Peru adventure involves four days of trekking at altitude, which I’m not even sure I want to do.

Eventually, I’ll have to decide on which vacay to pitch, but frankly, it’s irrelevant. The countless hours spent daydreaming and internet surfing has already been a win!

Peace out.

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

Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC.

may email him at terry@ youarecurrent.com.

“The way prices are rising, the good old days are last week.”

— LES DAWSON

VIEWS

A difficult cellmate

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

Hi! This is Dick Wolfsie’s newest cell phone. The old phone talked to you many years ago, but since I have taken over the job, I wanted to update everyone on how things are going.

from having spent the night in the bath room. I tried to muster every ounce of ener gy. I even tried to vibrate a little. No luck.

HUMOR

He has misplaced me 43 times in the past 18 months. Of course, I was never really lost. I knew exactly where I was (I have GPS).

This past week has been something. On Sunday, I was at a movie with Dick and his lovely wife. First, I was in his back pock et, then he placed me in the little cupholder next to his seat. Then he walked out of the movie without me, but he came back into the empty theater and called me from Mary Ellen’s phone. Success! By the way, I loved the movie.

Before we headed home, he tossed me into the car, and I fell between the seats. He started looking for me while driving. This is more dangerous than texting. He found me — and also his lost AARP card and a $100 Blockbuster gift card.

Monday morning, after he showered, he put me in the pocket of his bathrobe, since he was waiting for a call. I knew where I was going to spend the entire night. In the bathroom.

Tuesday morning, he started looking for me. He checked every dresser drawer, under the bed, and even the freezer (where he once left me for three days). He called me from his landline but my battery was dead

Wednesday, Dick finally found me in his robe pocket when he showered again, but later he threw me in his briefcase on the way to a speech he was giving. I landed in a divider compartment. I was well hidden for days and he couldn’t find me.

By Saturday, he was desperate. Dick headed to the cell phone store to buy a replacement. His contract was almost expired, so they made him a deal on a sexy new model. It looked like the end of me. I was going to be cellular non grata.

– DICK WOLFSIE

When Dick got back to the car, he had a flash of insight. He grabbed the briefcase, turned it upside down and shook it. I tum bled onto the driver’s seat. I was OK, but I had no charge. I was spent.

Sunday, we headed back to the phone store to return the new phone. He had found me and wanted me back. I was touched. My circuits welled up.

Last night, Dick stuck me in his sweat pants pocket while he was exercising in the basement. I’m now in the bottom of the laundry basket. Don’t expect to reach Dick anytime soon. He only does the laundry once a week.

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

Before we headed home, he tossed me into the car, and I fell between the seats. He started looking for me while driving. This is more dangerous than texting.

BJ’s Wholesale Club opens in Noblesville

By Matthew Kent matthew@youarecurrent.com

BJ’s Wholesale Club has opened its doors to shoppers in Noblesville and marks the company’s first store in Indiana.

BUSINESS

The store, located at 13210 Tegler Dr., opened to the public Sept. 30 and offers fresh foods, a full-service deli, grocery items, apparel, toys, electronics and more. A BJ’s gas station is also available for members to use.

“We have an outstanding team here at BJ’s and are excited to welcome new mem bers to the club,” said Nazim Khan, club manager at BJ’s Wholesale Club.

BJ’s Wholesale Club, which is primarily found in the eastern United States, is head quartered in Marlborough, Mass. The com pany announced plans in June that it was opening stores in Noblesville; New Albany, Ohio; Wayne, N.J.; and Midlothian, Va.

“We’ve seen tremendous success in growing our footprint over the last several years, both in our core East Coast commu nities as well as in new markets like the greater Detroit and Pittsburgh areas,” said

Bill Werner, executive vice president of strategy and development with BJ’s Whole sale Club. “Our expansion into the greater Indianapolis and Columbus markets allows us to bring the value of our membership to these new communities we look forward to serving.”

The store, which will be open seven days a week and accepts coupons, will be a onestop shop for families that are looking for value, said Peter Frangie, vice president of corporate communications for BJ’s Whole sale Club. Customers can expect to save 25% off prices found at traditional stores when shopping at the club, he added.

“We’re looking forward to serving the hardworking families of Noblesville,” Frangie said. “The community has been very wel coming and we are excited to serve it for a long time.”

BJ’s Charitable Foundation also plans to support the community and has donated to the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis’ Fishers location and Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana. BJ’s donation will go toward the organi zation’s fall youth soccer and baseball leagues.

For more, visit bjs.com.

DINNER PARTY ON UNION

More than 400 people attended the Dinner Party on Union event in Westfield Sept. 17. The event, which benefited the Downtown Westfield Association, featured food, live music and a silent and live auction. (Photo provided by the Westfield Chamber of Commerce)

IU Health staffers give day of service

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Beth Rayfield was glad to be part of the IU Health North surgical services team vol unteering at Coxhall Gardens in Carmel.

VOLUNTEERISM

“This park has a special meaning to me because this is where my friends come and walk,” Rayfield said. “Getting to be part of something we get to enjoy makes it mean that much more.”

Rayfield, director of sterile processing and central supply for IU Health North, was part of an IU Health North members team that planted flowers and put down mulch at a street entrance of Coxhall Gardens.

The 14th annual Day of Service is an opportunity for team member volunteers to take the IU Health mission beyond the hospital walls.

Volunteers worked on several community projects from Sept. 5 to Sept. 30.

Caitlin Vendely, a community outreach consultant for IU Health North in Carmel and IU Health Saxony in Fishers, helped the sur gical services team with the Coxhall project. Vendely, a 2015 Noblesville High School graduate and a Carmel resident, previously worked in September on improvements on Cool Creek Park in Westfield.

Vendely said she was involved in service projects throughout childhood.

“Being involved with this with my job is

great because it’s always something I felt passionate about,” she said. “It’s a good team-building initiative, for one thing, but it’s also great to get out of the hospital walls and have an impact on the communi ties we serve and that we live in. We try to address our communities’ key health priori ties. One of Hamilton County’s key priorities is maintaining active lifestyles in order to prevent chronic diseases and chronic ill nesses. One reason we try to beautify land scapes is that it will increase walkability in the park and encourage more people to be active in our parks. That will help lower blood pressure and cholesterol. We’ve been working with Hamilton County Parks for 13 years now.”

IU Health North staff members worked on the Coxhall Gardens maze earlier in September.

Rayfield said when she was working out of IU Health West, she helped build houses for Habitat for Humanity. In previous years, she has worked on Cool Creek Park projects.

“This is such a wonderful way to give back to your community,” the Indianapolis resident said. “We have people stopping us thanking us for making their park beautiful.”

There were other IU Health Day of Service opportunities that team members could choose from in Hamilton County, including Morse Park Beach improvements in No blesville, where members spreading gravel, planted trees and native grasses and rein forced the seawall.

More space. More specialists. Same great care.

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Moving to 288 East 175th Street.OrthoIndy.com

Opening in October

Dr. Jeremy Ciano OD

Dr. Katherine Schuetz OD

Dr. Hannah Wilson OD

From left: Caitlin Vendely, Sydney Lofland, Kathleen Boswell and Beth Rayfield unload mulch for the Coxhall Gardens project. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

Mathis celebrates long career with ‘Voice of Romance Tour’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Johnny Mathis has one main reason he is out on tour in his 66th year as a record ing artist.

‘THE ADDAMS FAMILY’

“The Addams Family” is set for Oct. 6 to Nov. 20 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indi anapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

’THE CURIOUS SAVAGE’

CONCERT

“It’s my living. I have to eat,” he said, jokingly. “I do it because I love it.”

Mathis, 87, will bring his “Voice of Ro mance Tour” to the Palladium at the Cen ter for the Performing Arts in Carmel at 8 p.m. Oct. 15.

“Every time I step on the stage, I think of the one person who was so meaning ful to my career, (and) that was my dad,” Mathis said. “He was the first person I heard sing.”

Mathis’ father never sang in public.

“He was too busy having children. There were seven of us,” Mathis said. “We had no money. All we had was each other. Fortu nately, we grew up in San Francisco and all you had to do was embrace the public. Before I knew it, I was making records.”

Mathis grew up competing in track and field as a high jumper and a hurdler.

“The only claim to fame is that I broke the great Bill Russell’s high jump record (6 feet, 5 1/2 inches in 1955) in college (University of San Francisco),” Mathis said. “The next thing I knew, I was on a plane to New York signing a contract with Colum bia Records.”

Mathis was offered the contract the same week he was supposed to leave for the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials. He chose music, signing a five-year deal with Columbia in 1955. He remained friends with NBA legend Russell, who died at 88 in July.

Mathis’ first album was jazz.

“Then I met (legendary producer) Mitch Miller, who liked my voice but didn’t like what I was singing because it was too jazzy,” Mathis said.

Soon, Mathis said he was recording songs like “Chances Are,” “It’s Not For Me to Say” and “Misty.”

After Mathis had some success as a singer, he got to meet the late Nat King

Cole.

“I got to tell him I grew up listening to his singing and how he influenced me in so many ways,” Mathis said.

In 2021, technology allowed Mathis to sing a duet with Cole on a Christmas album.

Mathis said at one point in his career he ran out of ideas as far as what to sing.

“I lived in Europe for a while. I sang in French, German, Italian, Spanish, but that didn’t go over so well here (in the U.S.),” Mathis said. “Mostly, I listened to what I thought the record company thought would sell as my singing was concerned. That was my guide. I got an opportunity to work with some of the greatest musicians in the world and some of the greatest singers, too.”

In 2017, he released “Johnny Mathis Sings The Great New American Songbook.”

Mathis said he started trying to sing songs that the audience was familiar with during a concert.

“Then later on, I realized what they really wanted was to hear songs that I wanted to sing,” he said. “So that is how I evolved as far as what I sing and when I sing it. I’m a big fan of musicians, and over the years (I’ve performed) with some of the greatest musicians in the world. In fact, (composer/pianist) Henry Mancini and I toured the world together for many years. That’s where I get most of my en thusiasm, working with other musicians.”

When he was younger, Mathis said he developed a workout regimen that he has maintained through the years.

“That has been a good foundation for my singing,” he said.

For tickets, visit thecenterpresents.org. For more, visit johnnymathis.com.

Main Street Productions of “The Curious Savage” runs through Oct. 9 at the Basile Westfield Playhouse. For more, visit west fieldplayhouse.org.

‘RENT’

Civic Theatre’s production of “Rent” will run Oct. 7-22 at The Tarkington at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

MASTERWORKS 1

Carmel Symphony’s Masterworks 1 concert will feature vocalist/pianist Clarice Assad and the band Pavel & Direct Contact Live at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 8 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

‘A PROCESSION, A FESTIVAL, AND A SINFONIA’ Indiana Wind Symphony will present “A Procession, A Festival, And A Sinfonia” at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 8 at the Studio Theater at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit indianawindsymphony.org.

CHS grad earns spot on ‘The Voice’

Morgan Taylor Koontz, a 2019 Carmel High School graduate, earned a spot on Season 22 of “The Voice” during her blind audition that aired Sept. 26 on NBC.

All four judges turned around to signify approval of her performance of Lizzo’s song “Cuz I Love You.”

Koontz, who performs as Morgan Taylor, was selected as a Songbook Academy final ist in 2019.

Koontz selected John Legend to be her coach. Blake Shelton, Gwen Stefani and Camilia Cabello also wanted to coach her. Koontz is studying commercial music/voice at Belmont University in Nashville, Tenn.

Johnny Mathis will perform at 8 p.m. Oct. 15 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Johnny Mathis)

IWS to visit Studio Theater

By Mike Beas editorial@youarecurrent.com

The Studio Theater in Carmel is the quaintest of musical venues, seating approximately 200 spectators.

MUSIC

At 7:30 p.m. Oct. 8, the Indiana Wind Symphony takes center stage at Studio Theater in Carmel with “A Procession, a Fes tival and a Sinfonia,” seven pieces showcasing anywhere from six to 24 musicians playing at once.

“It puts us in the intimate setting of the Studio Theater,” said Charles Conrad, musi cal director of the Indiana Wind Symphony. “Literally, the front row is six feet away from me, the conductor. I can look right into the eyes of the people in front of me. I don’t even use a microphone.”

Conrad, however, won’t be conducting. He continues to recover from surgery on his right eye for a detached retina. IWS’s concert featuring film score composer John Williams’ music set for Sept. 25 was post poned because of the surgery.

Taking the baton will be Darin Sorley, di

rector of the Indiana Brass Choir.

The pieces to be performed are, in order, “Concerto for 23 Winds,” “Music for the Tem ple of the Night” and “Zephyrus” before a short intermission. After that, it’s “Sinfoniet ta in D minor,” “Second Suite” and “Elsa’s Procession to the Cathedral.”

A recently discovered march from 1928 by Fred Jewell, the famous composer who hailed from tiny Worthington, Ind, who died in 1936, will close the show. Interestingly, Jewell served as musical director for the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus from 1908 to 1911.

Although his vantage point will be much different, Conrad looks forward to the show.

“Our chamber concerts are genuinely unique because we’re really the only group in the area that does this,” Conrad said.

“Just the fact we play a repertoire that nev er gets played, that’s the reason we created this series. It’s really Grade A music. In a sense, they wrote for smaller performing ensembles.”

For tickets, visit indianawindsymphony. org/events.

Actress embraces role of Morticia

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

It seems to be Jill Kelly Howe’s destiny to be cast in the role of Morticia Addams in “The Addams Family.”

the word mortician.”

Howe will play Morticia in the Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production Oct. 6 to Nov. 20.

MUSICAL

After all, the Indi anapolis resident’s family owned a funeral home for four generations.

“The Schilb and Sons Funeral Home was started in 1857 by my great-great-grandfather Andrew J. Schilb. He was an embalmer as well,” Howe said. “However, upon his un timely passing, my great-great-grandmother Jemima Margaret Schilb, his wife, got her embalming license and became the first licensed woman embalmer in the United States (on) Oct. 17, 1902. Therefore, she also became the first female mortician in the U.S. Four generations later, my grandmother sold the funeral home to the Dooley family after my grandfather’s death.

“Because of my family history, I think it is humorous and fitting that I have the oppor tunity to portray Morticia, who has a love of the macabre and is obviously named after

“I really enjoy exploring what makes her vulnerable and what makes her strong, what brings her joy and what does not,” Howe said. “For example, she abhors bright colors, and she cuts the heads off of roses before putting the stems into a vase to enjoy. She sees the world differently than most. She is always polite, but she’s unafraid to state her opinions. She loves her family fiercely and sees no reason to apologize for her family’s unusual lifestyle. Better yet, she sees it as completely normal.”

Howe said she imagined in the past what it would be like to play the iconic role.

“Most of my life I’ve had long, very dark hair, so people have often referred to me as a ‘Morticia, Wednesday, or Bettie Pagetype,’” Howe said. “Also, not unlike how I would imagine Morticia to feel, I personally would much prefer to watch an episode of ‘Dateline’ than a romantic comedy.”

For more, visit beefandboards.com.

Howe

Conrad

IBC to present ‘Bordeaux and Ballet’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Indiana Ballet Conservatory Artistic Director Alyona Yakovleva figures wine and ballet are a perfect mix.

FUNDRAISER

“I am very ex cited about our fundraiser ‘Bordeaux and Ballet,’ as this is an exclusive preview of our annual production, ‘The Nutcrack er’,” the Carmel resident said. “‘The Nutcracker’ is set for Nov. 26-27 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. There will be a special accompaniment by the Indianapolis Children’s Choir. Step outside the Palladium, and the Christkindlmarkt is in full swing, adding to the festive holiday spirit and mak ing this a great tradition for all families.”

“Bordeaux & Ballet” is scheduled for 6 to 10 p.m. Oct. 8 at Lee Supply, 415 W. Carmel Dr., Carmel. In 2021, the Carmel-based IBC hosted “Bourbon & Ballet,” a slightly differ ent take on the event

“Since we are a nonprofit organization, fundraisers such as this enable us to im prove our stage props and costumes for pro ductions,” IBC Marketing Director Elizabeth Warn said. “Also, we have donation opportu nities at this event that can be more personal. For example, guests can choose to sponsor costumes that will appear in our ‘Nutcracker’ pro duction. Finally, we have increased enrollment this year and we are looking to expand and create an ad ditional studio in our current space.

Building costs are more than in the past, so fundraising is crucial.”

The performance will be 30 minutes. There also will be music and a silent auction.

Lee Supply, home of a luxury kitchen and bath showroom, has its own chef, Benjamin Lierman, who will create unique dishes to complement the evening.

Cocktail attire is recommended for the event for ages 21 and older.

For more, visit indianaballetconservatory. org.

‘Barefoot in the Park’ set to open

By Sammy Bredar editorial@youarecurrent.com

The Hyperion Players Executive Artistic Director Ian Hauer wanted to choose fall play that would appeal to a broad audience.

COMEDY

So, Hauer will direct Neil Simon’s “Barefoot in the Park,” a romantic comedy, which will run Oct. 6-8 at The Switch Theatre, 10029 E. 126th St., Fishers.

This is the second play for the new com munity theater in eastern Hamilton County and the first of its 2022-23 season. The non profit previously held “The Glass Menagerie” in February.

“We’re still a very young theater, so pro ducing a few tried-and-true scripts that people recognize works to our advantage,” said Hauer, a Noblesville resident who is co-founder of The Hyperion Players. “Also, since our goal is to provide a little bit of ev erything in our lineups, we think ‘Barefoot’ is a great start to a varied season.”

McCordsville resident Anna Himes, who has a lead role of Corie Bratter, is excited to be a part of The Hyperion Players.

“I believe in the people who have started

this company,” Himes said. “After I’ve met everybody else who’s working for this nonfor-profit, I think all of them are devoted to bringing acting as an art form to the community.”

Hauer is confident The Hyperion Players will be a cultural asset to the community.

“I absolutely love that moment when the house lights go down, the stage lights come up, and the audience begins to share that one-night-only experience,” Hauer said.

For more, visit hyperionplayers.com.

Anna Himes and Zach Catlin are the lead per formers in “Barefoot in the Park.” (Photo courte sy of Ian Hauer)

Yakovleva

CHS grad brings film to Heartland

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

C L A Y T E R R A C E

F A L L F E S T I V A L

As a Carmel High School student, Laura Palmer Graham’s film teacher took the class on a field trip to the Heartland International Film Festival.

MOVIE

Laura, a 2010 CHS graduate, is the executive producer of “Always, Lola.” Her husband Jeff Graham wrote and directed the film.

“In that way, it’s special to be bringing this film home because it’s a full-circle mo ment,” Laura said.

The film will be shown at the Heartland International Film Festival, which runs from Oct. 6 to 16 at various venues in the India napolis area. “Always, Lola” will be shown at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 7 at Glendale Landmark 12 and at 5:30 p.m. Oct. 8 at DeBoest Lecture Hall in Newfields.

The film was shot in August 2021 in 11 days in Indiana and Ohio.

“Most features are much longer shoots, but we were fortunate to have excellent actors and excellent crew who were up to the challenge,” said Laura, who is a human interest producer on the “Jimmy Kimmel

Live!” show.

The film debuted in June at the Marina Del Rey (Calif.) Film Festival, winning the best picture award.

“It’s a small ensemble dramedy in the vein of ‘The Big Chill’ or ‘The Breakfast Club’,” Jeff said. “ The story was personal for me because it was loosely based on the death of my best friend from high school.”

The film follows five friends who are mourning and celebrating their friend Lola, who died of an overdose the year before on an annual camping trip.

For more, visit heartlandfilm.org.

Where’s Amy?

Where’s Amy attends Carmel International Arts Festival

Laura Palmer Graham and Jeff Graham attend the Heartland Film Festival announcement party (Photo by Amy Pauszek)

Amy Pauszek is a photographer, award winning film producer and scouting and casting associate for Talent Fusion Agency in Indianapolis. She can be reached at Amy@ youarecurrent.com. To see more of her photos, visit currentnightandday.com.

Keerat Singh (Carmel), left, and Jimmy Barona (Westfield) attend the Sept. 24 opening day of the Carmel International Arts Festival in the Carmel Arts & Design District. The two-day family-friendly annual event included live music, food and an opportunity to view and purchase original art from several local and international artists. (Photo by Amy Pauszek)

Not your mom’s canned seafood

Canned seafood. When you hear that, what comes to mind? If you are like me, you think about canned tuna, maybe anchovy flats in soybean oil or smoked oysters. Did you know there is a world of canned seafood that is more than fodder for mom’s tuna salad?

Portugal and the Mediterranean coast of Spain are home to some of the world’s most refined tinned seafood called conservas. Let’s be honest, “conservas” sounds better than canned seafood, so we will go with that.

The next time you entertain with some charcuterie, consider a couple nice conser vas to bring some variety to your spread. One fantastic producer of conservas is Jose Gourmet. Jose Gourmet works with Portu guese fishermen who source seafood sus tainably and process and pack the finished product.

JG Spiced Octopus in Olive Oil would be a great addition to your charcuterie board. This conserva is chunks of octopus caught in the Atlantic Ocean and delightfully ten der. It is packed in olive oil with piri piri

peppers, a popular pepper from South Afri ca. Serve on crostini, or flatbread crackers with spicy mustard or curried mustard. Add in pickled shallot or cornichon for some ad ditional acidity.

JG Spiced Calamari in Ragout Sauce is another great option. These bits are much larger and sliced so you can get smaller bites. The squid is tender and delicate, the flavor is phenomenal! It’s combined with to mato pulp stewed and spiced with pepper, clove onion and red wine. The bits go great on toast with soft spreadable cheese like Boursin, or a Tulip Tree Fromage Frais. You could even pair with thin slices of Grana Padano or aged parmesan.

Surprise your guests, or yourself. Try these two items with your next charcuterie spread. You will find that you are standing at the top of the rabbit hole. The question is, will you find how deep it goes?

Procession, a Festival & a Sinfonia

the Chamber Ensemble

OCT. 8 | 7:30 p.m.

Studio Theater

Indiana Wind Symphony presents

BEHIND BARS: ST. ELMO SIGNATURE MARGARITA

Hiatus Blanco Tequila, Grand Marnier, lime over crushed ice, created by Kiya. To see a video of this drink being mixed, scan this QR code.

Mark LaFay is a butcher, certified sommelier and founder of Old Major Market, 4011 N. Pennsylvania St., Indianapolis.

Commentary by Mark LaFay

CHARCUTERIE

(Photo courtesy of Huse Culinary)

Blueprint for Improvement: Bathroom exudes modern allure

After

Built in 1968 in the Colony Woods neighbor hood of Indianapolis, the owners of this home were ready to add a little style and luxury to their primary bathroom, while staying true to their home’s modern architecture.

THE BLUEPRINT

• A wet room was created by bringing the stall shower and tub into a single waterproofed enclosure — maximizing comfort and simplifying cleanup.

• Updated cabinetry, luminous tile and cleanlined, modern fixtures ensure the aesthetic blends seamlessly with the home’s modern architecture.

• Cambria surfaces on the vanity countertops and in the wet rooms provide the look of natural stone without the maintenance.

Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy.com or visit worthingtonindy.com for more remodeling inspiration and advice.

Before

26 October 4, 2022 Current in Westfield currentinwestfield.com INSIDE & OUT A A A A A A PRESENTED BY childrensmuseum.org/haunted-house #HauntedTCM Oct. 12–30 • Sleek custom poplar cabinets provide ample storage space with a dose of modern style.

Commentary by Larry Greene

Visiting the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum

Commentary by Don Knebel

Today, on the way back from Cape Cod, we visit the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston.

Eerie etymologies of Halloween

Commentary by Curtis Honeycutt

I’m a sucker for all things pumpkin during fall. I watch the Charlie Brown special about the Great Pumpkin. I listen to the Smashing Pumpkins. And, of course, I carve jacko’-lanterns with my kids. I always save the seeds to roast them afterward. If you have a great recipe, send it my way.

GRAMMAR GUY

Night watchmen were called

Did you know the concept of jack-o’-lanterns comes from the Irish? Any root veg etable can be carved into one, but turnips and pumpkins were the most popular in the field.

Jack-o’-lanterns, a shortened version of “Jack of the lantern.”

Halloween once boasted its own inter esting apostrophe. Originally known as All Hallows’ Eve or All-hallowmas, Halloween was the day before the Catholic holiday All Saints’ Day. This holiday pretty much cov ered up the pagan Celtic festival of Sam hain, and I’ll let you look that up on your own time. Alholowmesse was the Middle English word for “All Saints’ Day.” From there you can see how we get the “eve” of “Alholowmesse.” All Hallows’ Evening. Hallowe’en. Hallow een. Words drift and evolve like this all the time.

– CURTIS HONECUTT

I love how many of the terms associated with Halloween come from Ireland, Scotland and England (from whence my people hail). Even the word “eerie” has its roots in these lands.

TRAVEL

Just before his assassina tion on Nov. 22, 1963, President Kennedy began considering the possible location for a future presidential library. He and his family selected a spot in Cambridge, Mass., near where he had lived during his time at Harvard, from which he graduated cum laude in 1940. A year after his death, the family announced that I. M. Pei, then a relatively unknown architect, had been se lected to design the library facility. In 1975, after a series of delays and objections from Cambridge residents, the Kennedy family decided to build the library on the site of a former garbage dump in Boston’s Dorches ter area, with a view of downtown across Dorchester Bay. The building, designed by Pei, was completed at a cost of about $21 million, and the facility was dedicated by President Jimmy Carter and members of the Kennedy family on Oct. 20, 1979.

The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, like other presidential librar ies, seeks to take people back to the time of the president. It contains a display of appliances from the early 1960s and 1960 campaign memorabilia, including a banner welcoming Kennedy to Indianapolis. Visitors can listen to a once-secret recording of Kennedy and his advisors seeking a peace ful resolution to what became known as the Cuban Missile Crisis. Television monitors highlight some of Kennedy’s most important speeches, including the one on Sept. 12,

1962, at Rice University, explaining his goal of landing a man on the moon by the end of the decade. What most impressed me was the museum’s ability to remember the spirit of optimism and hope that Kennedy and his young family created for the nation, a spirit that is sadly now missing.

Where do we get this name for a carved, lit autumn gourd? You can slice or dice your theories and legends as many ways as you can slice a pumpkin pie, but here are the most common theories.

Back in the 1600s, English people called any general man “Jack,” kind of like how we call men “guys.” Night watchmen were called Jack-o’-lanterns, a shortened ver sion of “Jack of the lantern.”

Somehow by the 1800s, the term jack-o’lantern was the word for a hollowed-out pumpkin with a candle inside. Theories from Ireland suggest that jack-o’-lanterns were similar to will-o’-the-wisps. These phosphorescent lights came from gases in rotting plants in swampy, marsh-like areas.

Whatever their etymological origin, jack-o’-lanterns lost their proper name status and crossed the pond to the U.S., where we still enjoy them.

Not to be confused with “Lake Erie,” derived from the Native American Erie tribe, the word “eerie” was a Middle En glish word meaning “timid” or affected by a superstitious fear.” Eerie’s ancestor is the Old English word “earg,” meaning “cowardly.”

With this etymological knowledge in your bag of tricks, you’re sure to be a thriller at your upcoming Halloween party. Just don’t give out toothbrushes or circus peanuts to trick-or-treaters unless you like cleaning toilet paper out of your trees.

LEGAL NOTICE DUKE ENERGY INDIANA, LLC

Public notice is hereby given to affected property owners pursuant to 170 IAC 4-9-4(f) that within two (2) to six (6) weeks of the date of this notice, weather permitting, Duke Energy Indiana, LLC will be performing vegetation management as part of its power line maintenance program in the area described below. As part of this project, one of its contractors that employ qualified utility line clearance tree workers will be trimming and/or removing trees and brush to clear the lines of vegetation in order to provide safe and reliable electric service. Vegetation management will be performed in/near Westfield on or near streets identified below:

Beginning at the substation located near the 169th St & Oak Ridge Rd intersection, to include the areas around & near:

E of substation, S of 176th St, W of Gray Rd, N of 151st St

N of substation, E of Spring Mill Rd, S of 196th St, W of Grassy Branch Rd

E of substation, N of 169th St, S of 186th St, W of Gray Rd

The date this notice is published initiates the two (2) week period for calculating implied consent by an affected property owner under 170 IAC 4-9. If you have any questions you may contact the

Duke Energy Vegetation Management toll free number, 866-385-3675.

Duke Energy Indiana, LLC Vegetation Management Department

A banner on display welcoming JFK to Indianapolis during his 1960 presidential campaign. (Photo by Don Knebel)

Don Knebel is a local resident. For the full column visit donknebel.com. You may contact him at editorial@ youarecurrent.com.

Curtis Honeycutt is a national award-winning, syndicated humor writer. Connect with him on Twitter (@curtishoneycutt) or at curtishoneycutt.com.

1960s-era appliances in a display case in the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston.

The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston.

TIRED OF CLEANING YOUR GUTTERS?

JIM WEGHORST AT 317-450-1333

RATED

GUITAR LESSONS

Carmel duke@duketumatoe.com

317-201-5856

NOW OPEN!

GROUNDHOG STUMP REMOVAL

Professional & Economical Remove tree stumps, ugly tree roots, stumps in and around chain link or wood fences. We also remove tree stumps that are protruding up onto sidewalks and around sidewalks. We grind them and/or remove. Please Call & Text at 816-778-4690.

WILL DO BOBCAT WORK

574-398-2135

Indiana Stamp Club

host the INDYPEX 2022 Stamp Show Oct. 7-9, 2022. Hamilton Co. 4-H Fairgrounds and Exhi bition Center, 2003 Pleasant Street, Noblesville. Hours 10-6 on Fri., 10-5 on Sat., 10-3 on Sunday. Exhibits and approximately 40 dealers as well as beginner/youth tables. A U.S. postal station is expected. Indiana Stamp Club and the Indiana Postal History Society information tables. Displays and cachets featur ing this year’s show theme “Title IX.” Website:www.indianastampclub.org

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

Come join the NRP Group as a Maintenance Technician at

84 unit

Meredith Meadows, in Noblesville,

are seeking a skilled maintenance individual with HVAC experience who is ready to work for an amazing company with great benefits.

BONUS POTENTIAL

apply on

Olivia Palcisko at opalcisko@nrpgroup.com

NOW HIRING NOW HIRING NOW HIRING

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS FOR SKILLED CARPENTERS!

Looking for job security? Simpson

Construction Services has so much work that it must hire five people for residential remodeling NOW. The skilled carpenters we select will have strong abilities in bathroom remodeling, but also with respect to kitchens, decks, basements, wood and tile flooring, doors and windows, interior and exterior painting, drywall, plumbing and electrical, siding and room additions.

Again: Only skilled carpenters need apply.

For immediate consideration, call Gary Simpson at 317.703.9575.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A SHOP TO CALL HOME?

Integrity Automotive is looking for a full time automotive technician. In business for 28 years in downtown Carmel with a solid, happy customer base and a positive, goodnatured work environment.

The best candidate is a motivated, well-organized technician with at least three years hands on experience in automotive diagnosis, problem-solving and repair. Able to interpret and apply diagnostic/repair information from computerized databases and other sources. Also able communicate clearly and effectively with your supervisor, your fellow employees and, as needed, with customers. A complete job description is available with a request to frontdesk@integrityautomotive.net.

We offer competitive pay with a Monday through Friday work week and (after 90 days) up to four sick/personal days per year and paid holidays.

To schedule an interview, send your resume with contact information to: frontdesk@integrityautomotive.net 40 S Rangeline Rd Carmel Indiana 46032 www.IntegrityAutomotive.net

PUZZLE ANSWERS – SPONSORED BY SHEPHERD INSURANCE

Restaurants: LA MARGARITA, MAIALINA, SIAM SQUARE, THREE CARROTS, THUNDERBIRD, TURCHETTI’S;

Emotions: ANGER, FEAR, JOY, LOVE, SURPRISE; Judges: CABELLO, LEGEND, SHELTON, STEFANI;

Words: LUCAS, OIL, STADIUM; Movies: JUMANJI, JUNGLE CRUISE; Comic: MIKE EPPS

Healthcare is bigger than a