January 9, 2024 — Westfield by Current Publishing

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EVOLVING CITY The Browns and other longtime residents adapt to change in Westfield / P10

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Rail expands to serve dinner / P2

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City council meets for last time / P5

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January 9, 2024

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New Year’s Resolutions: Be safe. Be kind. Stay Hungry.

RAIL eatery expands hours, menu to serve dinner By Amy Adams amy@youarecurrent.com Like the Monon Railroad in the late 1800s, RAIL Epicurean created inroads into Westfield — for the foodie scene that FOOD is taking hold. In the past year, the local eatery that first opened on Park Street in 2014 has made a comeback. Now, RAIL Cafe and Market is open for dinner, as well as breakfast and lunch. RAIL owner Melanie Miles moved back to her home state of Indiana from Nashville, Tenn., ready for a career change. She decided to study culinary arts at Ivy Tech with the idea that she eventually wanted to open her own restaurant. After graduating, she worked at several restaurants, including for renowned Westfield chef Keltie Domina. That was how she met her husband, Toby. Both were chefs. Both were at a point in their careers and their lives where they were ready to start something new. RAIL Epicurean was the first restaurant to open on the west end of Park Street, now known as “Restaurant Row,” when nearby Grand Junction Plaza was just an idea being tossed around. For seven years, RAIL offered farm-to-market meals, and in 2019 they opened Cone + Crumb next door to RAIL. Although initially successful, sales during winters were hard, according to Miles, and then the COVID-19 pandemic began in March 2020. “We didn’t feel like we could keep both going,” Miles said. Although new restaurants had sprung up on “Restaurant Row,” people posted on social media about missing RAIL and about the possibility of it making a return. In October 2022, Rail reopened for breakfast and lunch in its new location at the northeast corner of Ind. 32 and Grassy Branch Road. The new spot has a bright, airy feel with plenty of room for a larger kitchen, a small version of Cone + Crumb and a market that sells locally made items — and also plenty of parking. RAIL had such a loyal following that not only have customers returned, but employees have come back to work there as well,

Rail offers a bright open space for breakfast, lunch and dinner. (Photos by Amy Adams)

Miles said. In December, the owners expanded their hours and their menu to include dinner. Although customers will find a few crossover items from the lunch menu, such as the popular Rueben and the Rail Burger, some of the items are new. “When we do our dinner menu, we have about six entrees,” Miles said. “We don’t try to have everything. We just try to do a few things and do them well, so we have more of a curated menu. One thing we’re known for is our pork chop. It’s a cold-smoked pork chopped grilled and served with homemade gnocchi with spinach cream sauce and served with wild mushrooms. I also really like our salmon right now, and we have a steak and burrato, which is a soft cheese.” RAIL offers a special most weeks, either for brunch or dinner, and Miles plans to make seasonal changes to the menu. Although Miles specialized in savory dishes in culinary school, she has experience as a pastry chef, as well. So, in addition to being able to sit down for a brunch of quiche or Spicy Mama Chicken and Grits, customers can order a cup of coffee and pick up any of a number of bakery items, from muffins to macarons. The restaurant also offers more than just

mimosas for brunch, with a full bar serving wine, beer and craft cocktails. The Park Street Manhattan is a nod to the restaurant’s roots. Drinks like the Preservation Fizz, which pays homage to the jam company Miles started before opening Rail, use locally made liquors such as Cardinal Spirits from Bloomington and Old Hamer from West Fork Whiskey. When Miles first created Preservation jam, there were no stores in the area that sold local products. Now, even if patrons don’t have time to sit down for a meal, they can stop by during regular hours to pick up some favorite local foods from the market, like Highlander Grog or Sweet Tomato Jam. “That’s why local food is important to us,” Miles said. “We also wanted to support local producers. Most, probably 98 percent, of the products in the grab and go are locally made, most from the Midwest and many from Indiana. We also use a lot of the items on our menu.” People can make reservations for dinner by calling 317-763-1376 or walk in at 3400 Nancy Street, Suite C, in Westfield, Wednesday through Sunday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday 4 to 8 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 4 to 9 p.m. For more, visit railwestfield.com.

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Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Commemoration — A combination of speeches, dances, songs and spoken word performances will honor the life and legacy of American Civil Rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 11 at Tarkington Theater at 3 Carter Green in Carmel. The event is free and open to the public.

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Winter Reading Program — Westfield Washington Library patrons can register online or through the Beanstack app for the winter reading program which runs from Jan. 1 to Feb. 29 and earn digital badges and incentive prizes. For more, go to wwpl.beanstack.org/ reader365.

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Ice Ribbon — Jan. 11, 12 and 13 are the last days for skating at the Ice Ribbon at Grand Junction Plaza at 121 Jersey St. Ticket prices, including skate rental, are $10 per session for ages 10 and under and $12 per session for ages 11 and up. Processing fees are not included. Skate aids will be available on a firstcome, first-served basis for no additional fee. For times and tickets, go to theiceatgrandjunction.com.

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Senate internships — The Indiana Senate Democratic and Indiana Senate Republican Caucuses are offering paid, spring-semester internships during the 2018 legislature. Benefits include a $750 biweekly stipend, scholarship and academic credit. For more, visit IndianaStateDemocrats.org/opportunities or IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/intern-program.

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10th Annual Melt the Trail 5K — The run/walk kicks off at 10:30 a.m. March 2, 2024, at Grand Junction Brewing Co. Tap Room and makes its way over the Monon Trail Bridge at Ind. 32. Registration includes a long-sleeve race shirt, finisher’s medal, Mylaps BibTag timing, post-race snacks, drinks and the chance to win an award.

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Winter Market — The Westfield Downtown Association hosts Winter Market with more than 50 vendors from 9 a.m. to noon every Saturday through March 9 at West Fork Whiskey at 10 E. 191st St. For more, follow Westfield Markets on Facebook.

Baseball league looking for players — A League of Our Own Midwest Independent Baseball League will be holding statewide tryouts for the 2024 season at 10:30 a.m. Jan. 30 at the Mojo-Up Sports indoor Complex in Noblesville, 16289 Boden Rd. Players must be 17 or older. For more, visit alooo247.com or contact 205-264-1468.

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Amateur radio club tunes in members By Tirzah Rowland news@currentinwestfield.com Piglet Radio isn’t the only local club for amateur radio enthusiasts, but its mission is to promote the long-distance HOBBY hobby by frequently bringing its members together. Piglet Radio was launched in summer 2022 by Hamilton County residents Chris Pacovsky (call sign W9CZK), Alexandra Auvinen (AC9XK), David Estes (KC9AAP), Derek Fronek (N9TD) and Scott Messick (W95DM). Piglet Radio (N9BCN) aims to grow its membership and interest in the hobby through events, online forums and monthly meetings. “We wanted something different,” said Chris Pacovsky, Piglet Radio president. “We wanted a radio club with a more pronounced social aspect and comradery along with a technical focus.” Currently, 30 members strong and growing, the club serves as a space for amateur radio enthusiasts to discuss and develop ways to use the radio frequency spectrum to communicate, often with people around the world, through use of purchased and self-made equipment.

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Joe Pereira communicates with amateur radio satellites during the 2023 Winter Field Day at Coxhall Gardens. (Photo courtesy of Piglet Radio)

Pacovsky, a Westfield resident and homeschool father, sees it as a family hobby and wanted a place that could be a “safe harbor for all ages,” he said. The name Piglet Radio is a play on the traditional word for an amateur radio operator, ham, and a nod to many of its members. “We are a young group,” Pacovsky said, emphasizing that the club is open to all ages and anyone eager to learn. “Our monthly meetings are a starting place to get together and learn about every aspect of the hobby.”

Club membership provides resources to pursue in the amateur radio sector, and donations help pay for expenses and FCC licensing. Piglet Radio along with other area clubs will assist Hamilton County Emergency Management during the influx of people expected for the solar eclipse in April. They are also called on to help spot storms and aid in communication for other emergency response situations. “Radio is the backbone and failsafe of communication,” Pacovsky said. “The airwaves are going to be there, pointto-point. We don’t need to rely on public infrastructure.” However, while many amateur radio clubs focus on emergency management, Piglet members have interest in a broad range of topics such as 3D modeling, engineering, Morse code and how radio impacts technology. “Our hobby is ingrained in STEM,” Pacovsky said. Piglet Radio will host an introduction to 3D modeling at Carmel Clay Public Library in February. Learn more at pigletradio.org.

January 9, 2024

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City council meets for last time Compiled By Amy Adams amy@youarecurrent.com The Westfield city council members elected in 2019 met for the final time Dec. 27, 2023. Although not a lot of GOVERNMENT business was accomplished given the lack of city employees present to answer questions, council members ended the meeting expressing gratitude for the experience of serving the city together for the past four years. Here are highlights of final public comments from council members: • “I’ve been around for almost 20 years now, so this is like a big deal to have this be the last night. This council has been incredible, and they’ve gotten such a bad rap, and it pains me knowing the hard work that you guys put in and all that we’ve tried to do. The respect that you’ve all given me is something I didn’t always have, and I appreciate it.” AtLarge Councilmember Cindy Spoljaric • “I think it would be wrong not to acknowledge someone who was a great mentor and a great leader, who we

From left, Council members Troy Patton, Jack Gilbert, Mike Johns, Scott Frei, Cindy Spoljaric, Victor McCarty and Scott Willis following the final meeting of this city council. (Photos by Amy Adams)

started to serve with and, unfortunately, is not with us today. No one could deliver a message quite like Joe Edwards. It was an honor serving with him.” District 4 Councilmember Scott Frei • “I ran for office four years ago because I hadn’t served in the military, and I felt like I owed some time to my country and to my city. I said, ‘I’m going to give you four years.’ I didn’t really expect that it was going to be four years at war sometimes. But all I can say is that it turned out to be four of the best years of my life.” District 5 Councilmember Mike Johns

What happened? Without city staff present to answer the questions of council members, a motion was made to accept the claims docket without two vehicles on it. What it means? Willis said that the vehicles purchased for incoming staff members should not have come out of general obligation bond funding.

What’s next? Although Patton and Frei expressed disappointment that public funds would be used to purchase vehicles for city staff, Willis said that the vehicles would come back to the new council this month for approval from normal city funding rather than a GO bond.

What happened? Council members voted unanimously to deny a resolution to have the clerk-treasurer encumber funds requested by certain departments of the city. What it means? At the end of a budgeting period, it is normal for departments to request that budgeted funds that were unused be reserved for the originally designated intention the following year so that they don’t revert back to general spending. Because no city employees were available to answer the questions of council members, the encumbrances weren’t approved.

What’s next? Funds requested by departments will have to be resubmitted to the next city council.

What happened? The council unanimously approved a resolution to request the Indiana State Board of Accounts conduct cash basis audits of 2021, 2022 and 2023, with an amendment that bids would be sought from at least three accounting firms. What it means? The audits are being requested to secure a AAA bond rating from S&P 500.

What’s next? Bids will be received from accounting firms to perform the audit in the spring.

What happened? An ordinance to annex the Shear property at 1510 E. 216th St. was presented to the council. What it means? Willis said the property straddles the border between Washington and Adams townships, and Johns said it could encounter pushback from the cities of Cicero and Sheridan.

What’s next? According to the schedule, a public hearing was set for Jan. 8. The council will consider adoption at its Jan. 29 meeting.

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The 2023 National Missing Children’s Day Poster Contest winner was Ayoub A. from New York. (Photo courtesy of Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention)

ner will be invited to join the state manager to travel to Washington, D.C., to participate in the U.S. Department of Justice’s National Missing Children’s Day ceremony. Deadline for submissions from participating organizations is Feb. 16 and should be sent to: Indiana State Police Museum, Attn: Sgt. Seth Tumey, 8660 E. 21st St. Indianapolis, IN 46219. For more, visit ojjdp.ojp.gov/events/ missing-childrens-day/about-poster-contest.

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Once again, the Indiana State Police is partnering with the U.S. Department of Justice in promoting the PUBLIC SAFETY 2024 National Missing Children’s Day Poster Contest for fifth-graders, according to an announcement from ISP. The poster contest provides an opportunity for schools, law enforcement and parents and guardians to discuss and promote child safety. In 1983, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed May 25 as National Missing Children’s Day. The day is dedicated to making child safety and its awareness a priority. The poster contest serves to encourage parents, guardians, teachers and law enforcement officials to discuss and promote child safety and as a reminder to continue to support efforts to reunite missing children with their families and loved ones. The poster contest is open to students in fifth grade. Each student is allowed to submit only one 8 ½-by-14-inch poster with a brief artist bio; however, there is no limit on the number of posters a school can submit. Artwork can use acrylics, watercolor, pencils, charcoal, markers, spray paint, crayons and pastels, and the theme phrase “Bringing Our Missing Children Home” must appear somewhere on the poster. The state winners will receive national award certificates from the U.S. Department of Justice, and their posters will be selected to go to the national judging competition. The parents and teacher of the national winCD:

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By the close of business Jan. 29, the library had received $15,685, enough to receive a $10,000 matching DONATIOIN grant pledged by a local benefactor to the Westfield Library Foundation. “We are so grateful for the support we have received from the library’s patrons and the community this past year,” WEF Director Erin Downey stated. “With the new library set to open this spring, the Foundation will continue working to fund educational and inspired spaces in the new library. I believe that this will be a destination spot in downtown Westfield and our

hope is for all in our community to use this great amenity.” The Foundation plays a pivotal role in sustaining the Westfield Washington Public Library as a community center for education and cultural engagement, according to Downey. Previously committed funds for special projects will provide for a miniature town in the children’s area with several playhouses, a seed library for gardening enthusiasts, a lactation room and window seats where children can curl up with their favorite books. Tax-deductible contributions to the Foundation can be made at westfieldlibraryfoundation.networkforgood.com/projects/149597 or contact Downey at edowney@wwpl.lib. in.us or 317-896-9397, ext. 119.

January 9, 2024

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A Q&A with gubernatorial candidate Brad Chambers news@currentzionsville.com Brad Chambers, a Republican candidate for Indiana governor, stopped by Current Publishing recently for a disPOLITICS cussion about what led him to run for office. Formerly a two-year appointee as state secretary of commerce and a longtime entrepreneur, Chambers said he has “an ambitious vision” for Indiana, but also recognizes he’s a political Chambers outsider. He is running in the May 7 primary election against veteran Republican politicians Mike Braun, Suzanne Crouch, Eric Doden, Curtis Hill and Jamie Reitenour. Prior to his political career, Chambers founded and served as president and CEO of Indianapolis-based Buckingham Companies. He has a bachelor’s degree in finance from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business. Question: What led you to formally declare your candidacy for governor? Answer: “I believe in the potential of our state, and I’m comfortable being uncomfortable, getting outside (my) comfort zone. I believe, as a Hoosier entrepreneur, the state has been good to me and I believe in its potential, so I’m willing to step outside my business arena and into the political arena, and I aspire to lead the state into a more dynamic economic future.” Q: What is a key issue you’ll focused on during your campaign and if you become elected? A: “Financial security and financial opportunity are fundamental to every family. Being able to build a good quality of life for every family is, too. Indiana is great, but it can be even better, so that’s important.” Q: What’s the biggest issue not being discussed thus far? A: “It’s ever more important to protect Indiana from being infiltrated by (Washington) D.C. Indiana is great and it can be better, but it’s got to continue to function based on Hoosier values. Protecting Indiana from D.C. politics is really important. (That means) we need to grow the economy, and then we can fix education. Our educational system is back-looking, not forward-looking.”

Q: What about the Indiana economy? A: “During my commerce term, I brought in two industries that were never here, because I cold called them. Go get what is good for Hoosiers, and that’s high-wage jobs in the (electric vehicle) business and in semiconductors. It grows our population, which grows our workforce, which continues to grow our economy. So, take the proceeds of a growing economy (and then) we’ve got to fix education. Our third-graders are not reading. Our literacy rate is going down. I’m not going to use the word crisis, but our growing economy starts in third grade, and so I believe it’s highly urgent, bordering on a crisis, but highly urgent. We’ve got more dollars coming in, but not the right amount of dollars going to educators.” Q: What sets you apart from others running? A: “The political arena is new to me. They’re career politicians. When you’re in the political system and you are political by nature, decision-making is on the political clock, not on the strategic clock. I make decisions for the long-term success of ‘X’, and in this case, that would be the business of Indiana.”

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Q: What is your policy on public safety? A: “There needs to be greater regional collaboration (in) law enforcement. We need to support police officers. (Policing) is a hard job. Those guys rely on qualified immunity. You don’t put your name in the hat to become a police officer — a tough job to begin with — if you don’t think you have immunity from prosecution. I’d like to codify it in state law. Also, there’s too much discretion on bail. Then we have to deal with fentanyl, too. Fentanyl is the scourge of our country. I have no optimism that the senators and congressmen can do anything bipartisan to fix it. We’re stuck with it for awhile until they do their job.”

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Q: Should you win, what becomes of your company? A: “It’s in good hands. I put a lot in place, and it was a really good exercise while I was commerce secretary, and they didn’t ‘crash the car.’ The campaign is a full-time job. Governor with a $30 billion budget is a full-time job.” For more on Chambers, visit chambersforindiana.com.

Ask Angie for more information Pictured above: David Weekley Homeowners Michael, Mila & Tasha Jenco See a David Weekley Homes Sales Consultant for details. Prices, plans, dimensions, features, specifications, materials, and availability of homes or communities are subject to change without notice or obligation. Illustrations are artist’s depictions only and may differ from completed improvements. Copyright © 2023 David Weekley Homes – All Rights Reserved. Indianapolis, IN (IND-23-005428)

January 9, 2024

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Senior guard picks up scoring for ZCHS girls basketball team By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Zionsville Community High School senior guard Emma Haan has made it her mission to help her team make up for the graduation loss of 2023 Indiana Miss Basketball Laila Hull. “I think that I’ve made the most improvement in my leadership, as that was one of my major focuses at the beginning of the season, and also my overall scoring mindset,” Haan said. “I think I’ve been more of an offensive threat this season than any other previous season.” The 5-foot-7 Haan averaged a team-high 14.8 points in the first 16 games for the Eagles (13-3). She averaged 10.4 ppg as a junior, 9.3 as a sophomore and 6.3 as a freshman. “My role has changed in that I needed to step up and score more this year with some key players graduating,” she said. “It has been an adjustment, especially with defenders keying in on what I like to do, but it has certainly helped me grow as a basketball player.” Zionsville coach Andy Maguire said Haan has developed into a more consistent

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Favorite subject: Science/biology Favorite TV show; “Gilmore Girls’ Favorite athlete: Mason Gillis Favorite musician: Taylor Swift scorer. “She is very good with the ball in her hands and has improved on playing without the ball,” Maguire said. “Emma has a high basketball IQ, and this has improved with time and experience.” Haan has improved her shooting percentage from 40 percent last season to 46 percent so far this season. She said she spends 30 minutes after practice working on her shot. She said she is working “on getting that

Zionsville Community High School senior guard Emma Haan is the team’s top scorer. (Photo courtesy of Andy Maguire)

depth and working on pull-ups for when I can’t just spot up and shoot 3s.” Haan said she has aways led by example. “As a senior leader this year, I put more of a focus on vocal leadership, helping my teammates by telling them where to go, what to do, but also being encouraging so that we can build a positive culture within our team,” Haan said. “I think that is very important and is going to be crucial as we play in the tournament.” Maguire said Haan plays hard every day. “Her range is very good and her ability to hit the 3 in crucial situations makes her a big threat to all of our opponents,” Maguire said. “Emma is also very coachable. She takes constructive criticism or coaching well and she is a pleasure to coach.” Haan has signed a National Letter of Intent to play for the University of Vermont next season. “It really felt like home when I went out there,” Haan said of Vermont. “I could see myself fitting in with the girls both on and off of the court. They play really hard, share the ball and I felt like it was a system I would fit well in. I also really loved the coaches and culture of the team.”

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Naming rights search renewed and collaboration. There has been an increased commitment to diverse performances with an estimated The Center for the Performing Arts an40 percent of the artists featured at the nounced in 2019 it was seeking a naming Center coming from diverse backgrounds, rights partner. The time The Live at the Center concert ARTS seemed right until it defiseries, which launched during the nitely wasn’t. pandemic, features free livestreams Jeffrey McDermott, the Center’s of local artists who were paid by president and CEO, said a naming the Center and then given the livespartnership agreement with a tream video and audio assets to healthcare company was nearly in allow the artists to promote themplace, but then in March 2020, the selves. There are nine Live at the McDermott COVID-19 pandemic brought it to a Center events planned for 2024. halt. Adam Arceneaux, a Carmel resident who “That naming partner, in my mind, very serves as a Center board member and the appropriately decided they needed to step chair of the naming rights committee, said back and focus on essential services and fo- this is the right time for the naming rights cused on keeping their employees engaged partner search. The committee consists of and employed and we needed to do the board and community members. same thing,” said McDermott, who agreed “We’ve come through the pandemic stronnot to divulge the company’s name. ger than ever,” Arceneaux said. “We’re findInternally, McDermott said the Center ing there is a pent-up demand and appetite made the decision to pause the search for a for performing arts. We’ve had a number of naming rights partner during the pandemic. sellout performances, and the six resident But now, McDermott said the Center has companies are all doing well.” decided to resume it. Arceneaux said there is no timetable for “Last year, we had record ticket sales a decision. and we had some record numbers with our “We’re interacting with different patrons educational programs and events,” McDerto see who might be a good fit for this opmott said. “The Christkindlmarkt, which portunity,” he said. “It’s really a long-term happens on our campus, is going stronger relationship that we are looking for.” than ever.” Arceneaux said the Center has estabThe Center saw a 45 percent increase lished itself with a reputation among perin patrons in 2023, including a 50 percent formers throughout the nation. increase in first-time visitors and a 30 per“It just seems to me like we’re on a cent increase in return visitors. growth trajectory, which makes the naming “We’re not looking for the highest bidder opportunity all the more attractive with to put their name on our campus. We’re potential partners,” Arceneaux said. looking for someone that aligns with our McDermott said the name has to be vision, our core values, all of those things,” something that makes sense for the Center McDermott said. and the partner. McDermott said the five core values are “It’s got to have a good sound and feel to excellency, integrity, inclusion, innovation it, but I saySINCE it’s all negotiable,” 1993 he said. By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

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January 9, 2024

COVER STORY

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EVOLVING CITY

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The Browns and other longtime residents adopt to change in Westfield

By Amy Adams amy@youarecurrent.com Throughout the 190-year history of Westfield, fields played an important role in the farming community. Today, some of those fields remain, growing corn, hay and soybeans, but some have become fields of a different kind — fields for baseball and soccer. Along with those new fields has come a new kind of growth. With nearly 60,000 residents, Westfield’s population has almost quadrupled since 2000. Leaders in Westfield frequently tout its status as the fastest-growing city in Indiana and the sixth-fastest growing city in the United States. “Some people call it progress,” lifetime resident Craig Wood said. “Some people call it a few other things, not necessarily so nice. And they’re both right.” Wood was born in Westfield, when it was a town, his parents having moved to the town in their youth. After he graduated from Westfield High School, Wood looked at a variety of options. Ultimately, he decided to pursue an agriculture degree from Purdue University and to come back to manage the family farm. At its height, the Wood’s farm covered approximately 450 acres, most of it northwest of U.S. 31 and Ind. 32, all within a mile and a half of their home off 191st Street. If that location sounds familiar, it’s because the Woods sold 150 acres of their farmland, which is now front and center in the Grand Park Sports Campus. “We knew that at some point in time, the land around us and our land would be developed,” Wood said. “I sit on both sides of the fence on that. We see the upside and the downside.” He said to be involved with the Indianapolis Colts, who conduct training camp at Grand Park, has been a surreal experience. The Woods never dreamed a U.S. president (Donald Trump) and two Indiana governors (Mitch Daniels and Eric Holcomb) would walk on the land that was once their fields. At the same time, he admits that he hated to see some of the downtown buildings and homes be torn down. “That’s a part of our life and part of our heritage,” Wood said. “But you have to be adaptable. I understand people that don’t want to change. Hopefully, there are going to be a lot of good things coming along.” Wood believes Grand Park is one of those “good things.” The Woods look out their dining room window and see the Grand Park Events Center every day. “But I know what’s going to go on in that building, and I feel pretty good about it,” Wood said. Longtime Westfield resident Robin Harlan Luehrmann understands Wood’s mixed feelings because she grew up playing in the area that is now Grand Junction Plaza and riding her horse in the area that is now Chatham Hills. “I know change will come,” Luehrmann said. “It is inevitable. It was extremely sad, though, to see them tear down the old pharmacy where my brother and I would sit at the

Robin Luehrmann has been driving a Westfield school bus for 34 years. (Photo by Amy Adams)

counter and drink a chocolate soda,” Luehrmann said. “But I am also excited to see the growth of Westfield.” Wood feels strongly that residents should be involved in their community. “I have very little tolerance for people who sit back and moan and groan but won’t speak their piece,” he said. “My mom and dad were always involved in the community, both in the church and civically.” Wood’s mother, Virginia F. Wood, co-founded the preschool and directed the choir at Christ United Methodist Church for years. In fact, the Westfield Early Learning Center now bears her name. Wood’s father, Bill Wood, served on the township advisory committee and the school board for years and helped start the Westfield Education Foundation. “I had the opportunity to serve on that board, as well, which was the continuation of a legacy,” Wood said. “I also served on the Westfield Board of Zoning Appeals for 14 years. Be involved. Speak up, either for or against. Even if you’re not directly impacted, you need to show up and be involved so that you understand what’s going on and who’s doing what. If it looks good, support it, and if it’s something that doesn’t look good then speak up about that.” As some have chosen to do, Luehrmann has moved to a smaller town. Yet, even though she now lives in Arcadia, she still drives a school bus for Westfield Washington Schools as she has for 34 years. She finds special joy in driving the WHS football team to their away games and watching them “fighting their way to the top.” That’s just what Wetfield is doing, Luehrmann said. “Yes, change is inevitable,” she said. “But Westfield is still making memories for those who live there.” ON THE COVER: Sandy and Craig Wood stand in front of the Colts Training Camp goalpost with their home in the background. (Photo courtesy of Sandy Wood)

Craig and Sandy Wood look over their fence toward Colts Traing Camp. (Photo courtesy of Sandy Wood)

LEADING THROUGH THE CHANGE In 2024, a new set of leaders is stepping up to serve the city and lead it through rapid growth and change. Some of those leaders have moved to Westfield more recently than others. Mayor Scott Willis moved to Westfield 19 years ago to raise his family. “Once my wife Stacey and I began having children, we started to look at communities through a different lens,” Willis said. “We ultimately settled in Westfield because we loved the small-town feel, being close to Carmel and all the amenities that came with it, and the quality of Westfield schools. I am not sure I ever envisioned Westfield growing like it has. However, after watching the demographic shift on the north side of Indy, I realized we needed to embrace it with a vision for the future versus pretending it wasn’t going to continue.” Others, like Willis’ chief of staff, Danielle Carey Tolan, come from families who have been in Westfield for five generations. “I really never left Westfield,” Carey Tolan said. “I feel rooted here for many reasons. My passion and love for this community run deep, and I am proud to have such strong roots here and that I’m also helping shape the future. It is a privilege to have such strong heritage in the place I grew up and still live.”

January 9, 2024

VIEWS

Current in Westfield currentinwestfield.com

Getting a feel for motiviation Commentary by Terry Anker Sometimes, we just don’t feel like it. We say it about ordering Chinese food on a Tuesday night. We claim it when ESSAY asked if we’d like to help put away the holiday decorations. We routinely use the generic excuse for all matter of things, big and small. Are we going to vote? Are we going to get married? Are we going to get out of bed early and get in a workout today? Probably not. We’re just not feeling it. Are we really making most of our life decisions based upon how we “feel” at any given moment? Or are we simply refusing to think instead relying upon the less complex emotional response to keep us from engaging more deeply and intellectually? With the coming of each new year, our culture has formed expectations about using the early days of the calendar for personal planning. What do we hope to accomplish in this trip around the sun? Are we going to lose weight, read more, learn piano or spend

more time with family? Whatever it may be, we set our sights on some aspirational goal. Still, most of us have scant chance of realizing the objective. We work at it for a bit, even joining a gym or planning a family meal. But then we start to lose steam. Where is our motivation? Why don’t we feel like making our dreams come true? Why isn’t someone motivating us? Why is the world making us feel demotivated? As we lurch headlong into another year, perhaps we should start our quest for self-improvement by setting some ground rules. Do we sponsor our own fire or wait for others to bring it to us? Is motivation internal or external? What can we expect and how can we think through to better outcomes?

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

Holiday missive still missing Commentary by Danielle Wilson Oh, friends, the New Year is upon us, and I find myself asking the age-old question, “Do I send a Christmas letter or HUMOR not?” I’ve obviously missed the holiday card season, but I still want to subtly brag about my family using an inappropriate amount of exclamation points and exasperated mom commentary. And who wouldn’t love to get a 2023 Wilson Squad update in 2024? I’m funny, gosh darn it. The problem is, the pressure to write a beautifully crafted, entertaining narrative that meets or exceeds previous annual missives is quite the challenge. First, I must give equally snarky coverage to each of our four young adult children (Twin B graduated from college! With a degree in French. Mon dieu! Six months later, Twin A did, too! Thank goodness. Seriously. Thank. Goodness. The youngest was a solo-backpacking goddess! Except when she experienced a devastating earthquake and scared the literal poo out of me. And the heir apparent passed his CPA exams! Finally. Now do our taxes, minions). Then, I need to include something about my bald and generally amusing husband, Doo (still works at the same place! Still occasionally hunts and skis! Still drives me bonkers!

“I’ve obviously missed the holiday card season, but I still want to subtly brag about my family using an inappropriate amount of exclamation points and exasperated mom commentary.” – DANIELLE WILSON Ha! Ha!). And of course, no year-in-review would be complete without mentioning the dog (Libby lives on! Despite her obesity, arthritis and occasional allergic reactions to nature. I mean, come on!). All this needs to be done in less than 750 words so as not to bore the reader. I want them (need them?) reaching the end and sighing, “I love getting these Wilson family letters. Such a delightful joy on Martin Luther King Jr. Day!” Peace out.

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

A real holiday time-squeeze Commentary by Dick Wolfsie Once again, the most difficult part of Christmas shopping for me was finding stuff to put in my wife’s HUMOR stocking. For over 40 years, looking for appropriate gifts for this Christmas morning ritual has stumped me. My wife, Mary Ellen, never thought the piece of coal was very funny, so I stopped doing it after we were married six years. But this year, with the help of TikTok, I found dozens of inexpensive gift ideas that that solve everyday problems, like threading a needle effortlessly or hanging a picture without a hook or nail. One product particularly intrigued me -- not a gift for Mary Ellen, but for my stocking. A toothpaste squeezer, a tiny plastic contraption with a key that when turned extracted the final bit of product from the bottom of the tube. Of course, it was made in China. I am not a big fan of Chinese goods, but I do love good Chinese — especially moo shu pork. I ordered the squeezer. Days later, I started getting notifications updating me on where in the world my toothpaste squeezer was on its trip to Indiana. I was always given both a tracking number and an order number. In the seller’s last text, I was informed that my new order number was 78675439879464, which, thanks to Bing’s AI, I now know is 78 trillion, 675 billion, 439 million, 879 thousand, 464. Mary Ellen made me add a digit at the end of the number before publishing this because she is still a little paranoid about unsavory people getting our personal information. That is a lot of plastic toothpaste squeezers, about 13,000 for each person in the world, including places where people have no teeth. My stocking-stuffer gift did finally arrive, just in time for New Year’s Eve. I quickly went to my bath-

“Of course, it was made in China. I am not a big fan of Chinese goods, but I do love good Chinese — especially moo shu pork.” – DICK WOLFSIE room cabinet and retrieved the 16 tubes of Colgate that I had refused to throw out in 2023. The notes apologizing and explaining the delay in delivery still came every day. According to the seller, that little thingamajig had spent time in post offices first in China, then Norway, Finland and Patterson, N.J. Not exactly the end of an otherwise perfect vacation. I emailed the seller. Dear Toothpaste Squeezer People: My squeezer did finally arrive. Finally. But it broke in half the first time I tried it. I would love to return it for a full refund, but I don’t think it is worth the trouble, like trying to put the toothpaste back in the tube, which is probably another gift option you are selling. I may order another squeezer next year. But only if you make one for my four two-thirds-empty open plastic containers of Gulden’s Mustard that Mary Ellen keeps threatening to throw out.

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

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES Current Publishing will consider verifiable letters of up to 300 words sent in a Microsoft Word document or in the body of an email. Letters may not be of a campaigning or advertising nature. Letters should be exclusive to Current Publishing. Unsigned letters and letters deemed to be of a libelous nature will not be published. Letter writers will be given once-monthly consideration for publication of submissions. Current Publishing reserves the right to end published audience debate on any topic. Current Publishing reserves the right to edit and shorten for space, grammar, style and spelling, and Current may refuse letters. Send submissions to letters@youarecurrent.com; letters sent to any other email address will not be reviewed. Letters must include the writer’s full name, hometown and daytime telephone number for verification purposes only.

January 9, 2024

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January 9, 2024

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Student band Jammin’ on Everything performs a mix of musical genres By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Jammin’ on Everything is true to its band name. “We all have very different MUSIC music tastes, whether that’s classic rock, funk or modern pop,” said lead vocalist Spenser Johns, a 2023 Westfield High School graduate. “The beauty of music is that there isn’t a specific mold. We can play whatever we want, however we want. We are also all very young, and I know, for me, I listen to completely different music than I did a year ago. Our styles and interests are constantly evolving, and we often bring those new interests to the band, which allows for us to have a wider repertoire of music. “We have even begun to work on some of my original songs that I have written, which I am very excited about.” Johns, an IUPUI freshman, is joined by two WHS students, sophomore Conlin Doran and senior Noah Flynn. Doran plays bass guitar. Flynn, who also sings and Noblesville High School sophomore Roman Blount, are the lead guitarists. Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School freshman Julian Lenard, from Carmel, is the drummer. The band originally formed in 2021 at Carmel Music Academy as a super band. “We went through a few members and eventually our group was put together in early 2022 as the All Star Band,” said Johns, who was the CarmelFest Has Talent 17-and-older winner in 2023. “We did numerous performances with Carmel Music Academy at the concert series in Clay Terrace and Westfield Rock The Block.” The band’s first performance separate from the academy was Dec. 9 at Carmel Holiday PorchFest. The group has been invited to the Carmel PorchFest Sept. 15 and plans to start booking performances. “What I like about the sound we make together is that it feels authentic,” Johns said. “Especially when we play songs like ‘Say It Ain’t So’ and ‘I Will Survive,’ you can

ATI fundraiser to feature comedy and costumes editorial@youarecurrent.com

Jammin’ on Everything band members are, from left, Conlin Doran, Noah Flynn, Spenser Johns, Julian Lenard and Roman Blount. (Photo courtesy of Jammin’ on Everything)

hear that we are just kids who really enjoy music and play together because we love to. We also all have musical minds and can add our own touch to songs, whether that’s singing notes differently, adding in new guitar riffs or completely transforming the genre of a song.” Doran has played the bass for almost six years and takes lessons from John Gunnell, also known as Jon. E. Gee, a bass player for John Mellencamp and owner of Carmel Music Academy. “Everyone is a very talented musician, so it makes it easy to play together,” Doran said. “I enjoy playing all genres, but I really like playing classic rock, crowd pleasers, and bass slapping is fun.” Lenard said he likes the flexibility of the group. “For example, when we play an already-written song, we can sometimes adjust my specific drum part or cut out an unnecessarily long chorus,” Lenard said. “When we write our own music, it’s all up to us. We get to add or drop anything we want.” Lenard said the group is getting better and evolving the more it plays together. “As we play and practice and learn and grow, we change,” Lenard said. “We all naturally grow up and get a better understanding of music, but we also improve a lot with each practice. Although we practice on our time, when we come

together once a week, we get to practice and see what the music sounds like with everyone playing at once versus one of us playing to the track at home.” Lenard said he loves the variety. “If a member of the band wants to play a song or write an original, they just have to bring up the idea of playing the song or present their base idea for the original, and then we have a new song to play,” Lenard said. “Plus, we can do any genre and combine it with other genres. For instance, we can write our own song that’s more classic rock and then play a heavy metal song, followed up by some alternative rock. Maybe we wouldn’t do it in that order, but you can find vastly different song types in one setlist.” Blount previously played in a four-piece band, which included Doran and Lenard. Blount said the band’s sound is much fuller with the five members. Blount especially enjoys playing The Eagles’ “Hotel California.” “We are going to have to search around ourselves and find someone who wants to let us play for them,” Blount said. “I hope to have a lot of gigs over the summer. PorchFest was fun. It was a new experience, having to set up our new equipment because we never did that because we always used the Academy’s equipment, so it was a learning curve.”

Cocktails, Comedy and Costumes, a fundraiser for Actors Theatre of Indiana, is set for Jan. 26 at BASH, 1235 Keystone Way, Carmel. Doors open at 6 p.m., followed by a cocktail party at 6:30 p.m., dinner at 7:15 p.m. and the show starting at 8 p.m. Tickets for the dinner and show are $150. The cost Fitzgerald for a table of 10 is $1,000. Allied Solutions is a corporate sponsor of the event. Attire is listed as spiffy casual. Judy Fitzgerald serves as ATI artistic director. Patrons can enjoy the nostalgia of past performances with favorite costumes modeled by some of Carmel’s most well-known personalities. In addition, attendees sip crafted cocktails from a cash bar while viewing the silent auction. The evening is designed to feature theatrical memories, comedy and a vibrant display of costumes. For tickets, visit eventbrite.com/e/cocktails-comedy-costumes-tickets-779019396987. For more, visit facebook.com/ActorsTheatreofIndiana or atistage.org.

‘MENOPAUSE, THE MUSICAL” Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre presents “Menopause, the Musical” through Feb. 4 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com. FEINSTEIN’S CABARET Feinstein’s presents Don Farrell’s “Because of You… A Tribute to Tony Bennett” at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 13 at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

January 9, 2024

NIGHT & DAY

Current in Westfield currentinwestfield.com

Concerts for a Cause set to return ON SALE

NOW!

S E A S O N P AR T NE R

BIG HEAD TODD AND THE MONSTERS

PUDDLES PITY PARTY

Thu Jan 18 at 7:30pm

AN EVENING WITH BRANFORD MARSALIS

ALAN CUMMING & ARI SHAPIRO: OCH & OY! A CONSIDERED CABARET

Fri Jan 26 at 8pm

MARIACHI HERENCIA DE MÉXICO: HEREDEROS

Fri Feb 9 at 8pm

SOFIA PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA

Fri Feb 23 at 8pm

Sat Feb 3 at 8pm

RICHARD MARX

Sat Feb 17 at 8pm

RICKIE LEE JONES

Fri Mar 8 at 8pm

317.843.3800 | THECENTERPRESENTS.ORG $15 student tickets & first responder discounts available for select events These activities made possible in part with support from the Indiana Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

local organizations. The most the group had distributed in one year previously was $80,000. Bruce Kidd has a dual purpose for ConThe Feb. 10 concert will support Teencerts for a Cause. works, an innovative program that provides The Carmel at-risk teens with summer jobs and FUNDRAISERS resident wants mentoring to prepare for life after to raise money high school. for nonprofits but also wants to The May 11 concert will feature provide exposure for a variety of three national recording artists: performing artists to the IndianapDan Navarro, Alice Peacock and olis area. Jesse Lynn Madera. The concert “I love meeting these talented will benefit Outside The Box, which McDermott artists from all over the U.S.,” said provides support and services to Kidd, co-founder and president of adults living with developmental Concerts for a Cause. “I have great admirachallenges. tion for singer-songwriters who can move The Michigan Rattlers, a folk-rock band, our emotions with their words and music. will perform Aug. 17. It will benefit Same As Live music performed well is magic.” U, a program that provides education, social The series will open with a return visit interactions and support for young adults by Michael McDermott, who is back by popwith developmental disabilities. ular demand. McDermott will open the conSinger-songwriter Paul Thorn will close cert series Feb. 10 at the Indianapolis Art the season with a Nov. 9 concert. DonaCenter, the venue for all four 2024 concerts. tions will support Seeds of Caring, which Kidd said all the nonprofits are new this empowers children to use their time and year, and this is the eighth year for the talents to help create a better community series. Kidd said the series received record with their hearts and hands. donations of more than $140,000 for four For more, visit indyconcertsforacause.org.

Grass-Cias for a great 2023! 317-565-3540

YARDVARKSLAWNCARE.COM Yardvarks...doing a common thing uncommonly well!

January 9, 2024

NIGHT & DAY

Current in Westfield currentinwestfield.com

Mocktails get January spotlight Commentary by Mark LaFay As January kicks in, a growing number of Americans are embracing “Dry January,” a monthlong break from RECIPE alcohol, yours truly included. Going alcohol-free for a month might seem challenging, but it comes with tangible benefits. Many find they sleep better, feel more focused and have increased energy levels. The break serves as a reset, promoting mindfulness and well-being. For beer drinkers out there, you’re in luck now that craft brewers have gotten better at producing alcohol-free beer that doesn’t taste like garbage. There are also several new alcohol-free wine brands popping up. Alcohol-free wine used to simply be wine with the alcohol (and flavor) stripped out. Now, there are wines being produced with concoctions of tea, juice, herbs, spices and other ingredients to create an alcohol-free experience that a wine drinker might appreciate! Around our house during this time, mocktails tend to take center stage. These nonalcoholic concoctions provide a way

to enjoy a drink without compromising on taste or creativity. We tend to keep busy, and so we do not often opt for fancy mocktails. Here is a simple mocktail recipe to try:

Regional Carmel Arts Competition

SPARKLING CITRUS MINT MOCKTAIL Ingredients: 1 cup fresh orange juice, 1/2 cup fresh grapefruit juice, 1/4 cup fresh lime juice, 2 tablespoons simple syrup (adjust to taste), Club soda or sparkling water, Fresh mint leaves for garnish, Ice cubes Instructions: • Mix orange juice, grapefruit juice, lime juice and simple syrup in a shaker. • Pour the mixture over ice in glasses. • Top up with club soda or sparkling water. • Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a slice of citrus. Here’s to the New Year and the fresh start.

Mark LaFay is a butcher, certified sommelier and founder of Old Major Market, 4201 Millersville Rd., Suite 19, Indianapolis

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January 9, 2024

INSIDE & OUT

Current in Westfield currentinwestfield.com

Blueprint for Improvement: Curb appeal in Carmel Commentary by Larry Greene Located in Carmel’s Avian Glen neighborhood, this home’s owners were looking to add dimension and architectural interest to their brick façade.

After

THE BLUEPRINT • A portico and columns add plenty of pop to the formerly plain exterior entry, as well as protection from the elements. • New double French doors replace the single front door for a stylish statement that welcomes visitors. • Stamped concrete on the walkway, rounded steps, and entry provide style and durability. • White pine tongue-and-groove on portico roof, stained in a rich wood tone, provides a warm contrast to the exterior elements. • Oversized lanterns and planters complete the look. 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

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Sealed proposals for Grand Park Lot J Project will be received by the City of Westfield, Indiana, at the Westfield Public Works Building, 2706 E. 171st Street, Westfield, Indiana, 46074 until 10:00 a.m., local time, on Friday, January 26th, 2024. Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. Any bids received later than the above time and date will be returned unopened. No conditional bids will be considered. Project generally includes construction of an asphalt parking lot in place of the existing stone parking lot at Lot J at Grand Park in Westfield, Indiana. The project will include placement of stone, grading, asphalt paving, bollard installation, and pavement striping. Bids shall be properly and completely executed on the Proposal Form obtainable at the office of the Owner. Each bid shall be accompanied by Form 96 Contractor’s Bid for Public Works, including Non-Collusion Affidavit as prescribed by the State Board of Accounts, completely filled out, signed, and notarized as required by the statutes of the State of Indiana, Section III of Part II of Form 96 titled “Contractor’s Financial Statement,” and acceptable bid security. The bid security shall be a certified check made payable to the Owner or satisfactory bond by an incorporated surety company in good standing and qualified to do business in the State of Indiana in an amount equal to 5% of the bid, said deposit being for the purpose of ensuring the execution of the contract for which bid is made. Any bid not accompanied by the above required items shall be deemed to be a non-responsive bid by the Owner. No consideration for escalation on prices can be considered; therefore, contractors are advised to not include any such escalation clauses in their proposal for this project. The Contractors to whom work is awarded shall be requiredto furnish a Performance Bond and a Payment Bond, each in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the contract price, and they shall be acceptable to the City of Westfield, Indiana. No bidder may withdraw their proposal within a period of 60 days following the date set for receiving bids. The City of Westfield, Indiana reserves the right to retain the three lowest bid proposals for a period of not more than 90 days, and said proposal shall remain in full force and effect during said time. The City of Westfield, Indiana further reserves the right to waive informalities and to award the contract to the lowest and most responsible bidder or bidders, all to the advantage of the City of Westfield, Indiana, or to reject all Proposals. The Contract Documents and drawings will be available to all interested parties from: Repro Graphix, 437 North Illinois Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204 or at eplanroom.reprographix.com. Please direct all questions regarding this project to Michael Pearce, City of Westfield, Department of Public Works, 2706 E. 171st Street, Westfield, IN 46074, (317) 473-2917, mpearce@westfield.in.gov By: Michael Pearce, City of Westfield

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Sealed proposals for Simon Moon Park – Phase One will be received by the City of Westfield, Indiana, at the Westfield Public Works Building, 2706 E. 171st Street, Westfield, Indiana, 46074 until 2:00 p.m., local time, on Tuesday, January 30, 2024. Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. Any bids received later than the above time and date will be returned unopened. No conditional bids will be considered. Project generally includes site grading and pond construction, HMA paving, sidewalks, aggregate trails, concrete boardwalks on helical piles, stormwater and ecological treatment system utilities, electric service, planting, and other site improvements, amenities, and furnishings. Bids shall be properly and completely executed on the Proposal Form obtainable at the office of the Owner. Each bid shall be accompanied by Form 96 Contractor’s Bid for Public Works, including Non-Collusion Affidavit as prescribed by the State Board of Accounts, completely filled out, signed, and notarized as required by the statutes of the State of Indiana, Section III of Part II of Form 96 titled “Contractor’s Financial Statement,” and acceptable bid security. The bid security shall be a certified check made payable to the Owner or satisfactory bond by an incorporated surety company in good standing and qualified to do business in the State of Indiana in an amount equal to 5% of the bid, said deposit being for the purpose of ensuring the execution of the contract for which bid is made. Any bid not accompanied by the above required items shall be deemed to be a non- responsive bid by the Owner. No consideration for escalation on prices can be considered; therefore, contractors are advised to not include any such escalation clauses in their proposal for this project. The Contractors to whom work is awarded shall be required to furnish a Performance Bond and a Payment Bond, each in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the contract price, and they shall be acceptable to the City of Westfield, Indiana. No bidder may withdraw their proposal within a period of 60 days following the date set for receiving bids. The City of Westfield, Indiana reserves the right to retain the three lowest bid proposals for a period of not more than 90 days, and said proposal shall remain in full force and effect during said time. The City of Westfield, Indiana further reserves the right to waive informalities and to award the contract to the lowest and most responsible bidder or bidders, all to the advantage of the City of Westfield, Indiana, or to reject all Proposals. The Contract Documents and drawings will be available to all interested parties from: Repro Graphix, 437 North Illinois Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204 or at eplanroom.reprographix.com. Please direct all questions regarding this project to Chris McConnell, City of Westfield, Department of Public Works, 2706 E. 171st Street, Westfield, IN 46074, (317) 473-2917, cmcconnell@westfield.in.gov By: Chris McConnell, City of Westfield

January 9, 2024

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January 9, 2024

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January 9, 2024

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January 9, 2024

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January 9, 2024

Current in Westfield

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