January 23, 2024 — Westfield

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MUSIC MEMORY Deaf author shares story of perseverance through self-created ‘soundtrack’ / P8

Westfield veteran plans military legislative day / P2

Westfield Green Together clocks 780 volunteer hours / P3

West Fork Whiskey to further develop property near Grand Park / P10

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January 23, 2024

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Founded Jan. 29, 2008, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XVI, No. 48 Copyright 2023 Current Publishing, LLC All Rights Reserved.

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Westfield resident plans military legislative day

By Amy Adams amy@youarecurrent.com Jan. 16 marked the 10th annual Indiana Military Veterans Legislative Day at the Statehouse. Chaired by VETERANS Westfield resident and U.S. Air Force veteran Lisa Wilken, the event allowed veterans and members of the military the opportunity to meet with legislators, organizations and agencies.

Founded by State Rep. John L. Bartlett (D-District 95), the nonpartisan event was co-sponsored by Bartlett and Speaker of the House Todd Huston (R-District 37.)

“For the past 10 years, I have had the honor of sponsoring Indiana Military and Veterans Legislative Day to bring our honorable veterans and active military members face to face with lawmakers,” Bartlett stated.

“These brave men and women have sacrificed for the freedom of our nation. Indiana owes our servicemen and servicewomen the dignity of listening to their input on legislation to make sure that it improves their lives and the lives of their families.”

Bartlett authored and read House Resolution 3, which recognized the 10th annual IMVL Day. He also announced that he will turn over his position as event sponsor to Rep. Renee Pack (D-District 92), a U.S. Army veteran who co-authored the resolution.

The event recognized 87 bills and 36 resolutions in Indiana that have benefitted veterans over the past 10 years, highlighting several of the most significant, including the bill signed by Gov. Eric Holcomb, which eliminated state tax on veteran retirement pay.

The event also celebrated recent inductees to the Indiana Military Veterans Hall of Fame. Veterans from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, living or deceased, were considered. The 15 inductees for 2023 included Wilken and astronaut Virgil “Gus” Grissom.

Westfield-based nonprofit Chairs of Honor presented a handmade chair to be displayed in an Indiana courthouse as a reminder that every veteran holds a place of honor in communities and has a story to share. Marshall

IMVDL Committee Chair Lisa Wilken was recognized for her induction into the Indiana Veterans Hall of Fame.

County was selected to receive the chair, handmade by Marine veteran Tyler Anderson from Lakewood, Colo.

State Rep. Craig Haggard, (R-District 57) presented House concurrent resolution 9, which he authored, asking for “the support of every Hoosier to help reduce veteran suicide.” A Marine and Air Force veteran, Haggard said that an average of 17 veterans die by suicide every day.

“We’ve all lost brothers and sisters on the battlefield and after the battle,” Haggard said. “I’ve personally lost two friends. I don’t know if we’ll ever fix this, but I know a lot of people are trying.”

Keynote speaker retired Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Keith J. Williams encouraged veterans in the audience to take advantage of the benefits offered to them, especially in light of the recent PACT Act, which rep-

resents the largest Veterans Affairs expansion in history.

“Although your service was then,” Williams said, “your benefits are now.”

Hamilton County Veterans Corporation was among the financial sponsors for the event. Close to 50 exhibitors had booths set up offering information and services to veterans, and 22 JROTC men and women helped set up and provide free lunch to around 300 people in attendance.

“I am very pleased with the participation,” Wilken said. “Even with the (cold) weather, so many showed up for Hoosier veterans, and legislators attended to hear the voices of veterans. I’m extremely grateful to all of the volunteers and financial contributors and to Rep. Bartlett and Speaker Huston for sponsoring this annual day.”

For more, visit veteranslegislativeday.com.

January 23, 2024

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Green goes beyond school colors news@currentinwestifeld.com Westfield Green Together, a nonprofit dedicated to environmental stewardship and community CONSERVATION engagement, contributed 780 volunteer hours to the City of Westfield in 2023.

The volunteers of Westfield Green Together invested more than 300 hours in Westfield parks and public spaces, focusing on removing invasive species and planting native trees, shrubs and perennials, according to the organization. Notable areas impacted include Asa Bales Park, Raymond Worth Park, McGregor Park and the Midland Trace trail.

In addition, the organization devoted more than 450 hours to educational outreach and the creation and maintenance of vegetable gardens at Maple Glen, Monon Trail and Washington Woods elementary schools. The gardens serve as valuable educational tools for students, with the produce being donated to the Culinary Arts Program at Westfield High School. The ongoing commitment to the Sharing Garden, located behind the Wandering Peacock on

Volunteers with Westfield Green Together help ensure that native plants thrive in Westfield.

(Photo courtesy of the City of Westfield)

Jersey Street, provides both produce and educational opportunities to the local community. Surplus goes to the Open Doors of Washington Township food pantry.

“We want our community to be aware of the significant work that Westfield Green Together quietly does behind the scenes to improve sustainability and natural habitats in Westfield,” Westfield Green Together President Sarah Gillim stated. “Our volunteers’ dedication has made a substantial impact, and we invite everyone to join us in supporting these crucial efforts in 2024.”

For more, visit wgtogether.org.

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January 23, 2024

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Local leaders file for election

New Year.

New Home.

Compiled by Amy Adams amy@youarecurrent.com

New Lifestyle.

The Indiana Secretary of State opened the filing process for 2024 election candidates Jan 10. The following candiPOLITICS dates filed to run for county and state offices.

Live Well Every Day in a Single-Level Home and a Low-Maintenance Community.

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HAMILTON COUNTY COUNCIL © IP86, LLC 2024

Brad Beaver — At-large Hamilton County Councilor Brad Beaver, a Noblesville native, was elected to the Hamilton County Council in 1994, making him the longest-active county councilor in Hamilton County.

Sue Maki — At-large Hamilton County Councilor Sue Maki, a Carmel resident, has served with the Hamilton County Leadership Academy and Carmel Utilities. For more, go to suemaki.com.

Steve Nation — At-large Hamilton County Councilor Steve Nation, a Noblesville resident, served Hamilton County four terms as prosecuting attorney and for four terms as Superior Court judge. Nation was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash Award.

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Josh Lowry — Democrat Josh Lowry spent five years as a deputy attorney general practicing constitutional law and defending agencies such as the Department of Child Services and Indiana State Police. The Westfield resident ran for State Senate in 2022.

For more, go to lowryforindiana.com.

INDIANA HOUSE DISTRICT 39 Danny Lopez — Republican Danny Lopez is a senior executive with Pacers Sports & Entertainment. A Carmel resident, Lopez has held leadership positions in the Daniels, Pence, and Holcomb administrations and was state director for Indiana Sen. Dan Coats. For more, go to lopezforindiana.com.

Matt McNally — Democrat Matt McNally is a veteran, having served more than 20 years in the Navy Reserves and the Air National Guard. McNally serves the Carmel and Westfield communities as the senior vice commander of VFW Post 10003. For more, visit mcnallyforindiana.com.

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Steve Dillinger — District 2 Hamilton County Commissioner Steve Dillinger has served since 1989 and is the longest-serving county commissioner in the state. A Noblesville resident, Dillinger was named the 2019 Outstanding Commissioner of the Year.

Mark Heirbrandt — District 3 Hamilton County Commissioner Mark Heirbrandt is president of the Indiana County Commissioners. A Westfield resident, he has been named County Commissioner of the Year by both the ICC and the Association of Indiana Counties. For more, go to markheirbrandt. com.

From left, Hamilton County Councilors Sue Maki, Brad Beaver and Steve Nation have filed for reelection. (Photo courtesy of Sue Maki)

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Backed by the Carmel High School Ambassadors, vocal coach and singer Blair Clark, center, thanks attendees. From left, narrator Erica Thompson, Ambassador director Kyle Barker, actress Morgan Webster and actor and singer Bashiri Asad and musicians Joe Filipow on guitar, Carnell Perkins on drums and Jeff DeHerdt on piano. (Photos by Amy Adams)

Commemoration honors MLK

By Amy Adams amy@youarecurrent.com In coordination with the Mayor’s Advisory Commission on Human Relations, the City of Carmel hosted its COMMEMORATION sixth annual commemoration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the Tarkington Theater Jan. 11.

The free event, under the artistic direction of Carmel singer and vocal coach Blair Clark, incorporated multimedia presentations, live music, drama, speech and dance.

“It’s a very theatrical production,” City of Carmel Community Relations Specialist Marissa Barrett said. “But our goal is to commemorate the life of Martin Luther King Jr.” Ashhar Madni, of the Mayor’s Advisory Commission on Human Relations, spoke of the diverse community that has evolved in Carmel, calling it a “mosaic.”

“Look to your left. Look to your right. I honestly believe this is what Dr. King envisioned,” Mayor Sue Finkham said of the cultural diversity in the audience.

Chaya Reich and Erica Thompson narrated the life of King throughout the program. The Carmel High School Choir Ambassadors, under the direction of CHS teacher Kyle Barker, sang the national anthem, “As’ kwaz’ Ukuhamba” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” CHS senior Gabi Bradley performed an interpretive dance to “Freedom” by Pharrell Williams.

“Dr. Martin Luther King did so much for Black people and for people as a whole, to bring people together. He opened doors for people like me,” actress and participant Morgan Webster said. “Just for me to be a part of something like this is a testament to all that (King) and others have done.”

Webster, along with IndySoul singer Bashiri Asad and CHS seniors Julien Gourgue and DeeDee Nwafo, performed a skit written by playwright and director Shandrea Funnye, which highlighted Lewis Latimer, who invent-

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ed the long-lasting carbon lightbulb filament, and Dr. Daniel Hale Williams, who performed the first open-heart surgery.

“The skit is intended to educate the audience about what Black people have done and their contributions to the world as we know it,” Asad said. “I’ve always believed that Dr. Martin Luther King was a cog in the machine of change. He was a maverick in every sense of the word. At certain points in his life, he was shunned by everyone, even his own people. But it was all for the bigger picture.

It’s a duty for those who have gifts to use those gifts for the betterment of people.”

Asad also performed “What’s Going On”

by Marvin Gaye, along with the live music ensemble of Jeff DeHerdt, Joe Filipow and Danell Perkins. He encouraged audience members to continue to ask that question as we look at the world around us.

Sponsors of the event included the Carmel Clay Public Library, Sari-Heart Foundation, Inc., and United Negro College Fund.

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Little Eagle Creek Update — Citizens Energy Manager of Corporate and Public Affairs Laura O’ Brien gave this statement to Current in Westfield: “In addition to completing site cleanup activities, Citizens provided a response to Indiana Department of Environmental Management’s inspection report on January 12 detailing steps to address the issue and ensure future compliance with our National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit. Those steps include bolting the lid closed on the manhole upstream of the wastewater treatment plant lift station that had the overflow event into Little Eagle Creek; installing Anatomy & Physiology mechanisms to provide redundancy in our Art History wastewater treatment plant lift station; installing flood alarms in the basements of Business/Accounting wastewater treatment plant buildings; and making programming adjustments to our Carpentry operating system. Citizens also has continCertified Nursing Assistant (CNA) ued to communiccate with public officials in Westfeild to keep them apprised of our Chemistry progress. We do not plan to send letters to area residents at this time.”

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The 500 Festival Mini-Marathon — The 500 Festival hosted an event Jan. 10 at OneAmerica Tower in Indianapolis to kick off 2024 registration for its volunteer program. The OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon will be held May 4 and was named the nation’s Best Half Marathon and one of “America’s Most Iconic Races,” according to Runner’s World. To volunteer for the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon or other 500 Festival events, visit 500festival.com/volunteer.

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Safe Sitter Course — Westfield Washington Township is offering the Safe Sitter certification course for ages 11 to 13 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan. 27 at the Township offices at 1549 E. Greyhound Pass. To register for this $50 course or to learn about other classes offered by the township, go to secure.rec1.com/IN/washington-township-in/ catalog.

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Health Department Webinar — The Hamilton County Health Department will host a series of free monthly virtual webinars led by experts and intended to provide valuable information and resources to parents and caregivers in the community. The first session of the year, “Internet Safety Class for Parents,” will be 6 to 7 p.m. Jan. 24. Registration details can be found at tinyurl.com/childrens-health-webinars.

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January 23, 2024

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Fishers senior basketball player improves with age

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Fishers High School basketball coach Garrett Winegar is convinced the best is yet to come for senior Keenan Garner.

“He is just scratching the surface,” Winegar said.

Garner, a 6-foot-6 guard/forward, doesn’t turn 18 until April.

“Also, with living on a U.S. Army base in Germany for seven years prior to returning to the States last year, Keenan has not played as much basketball as many of the kids in the States have,” Winegar said.

“On top of all that, he works his butt off, is a terrific kid and leader and is going to do what it takes to continue to grow.”

Garner, who moved to Fishers in September 2022, was averaging more than 16 points and eight rebounds as of Jan. 18. The Tigers were 14-0 at the time.

“Keenan has improved the most with his ball handling, passing and finishing and his overall game IQ and feel for the game,” Winegar said. “He has really developed into a true wing/guard who has the ability to also play in the post. Keenan has worked

MEET KEENAN GARNER

Favorite athlete: LeBron James Favorite subject: Advanced physical conditioning Favorite musician: Rod Wave Favorite movie: “Coach Carter” extremely hard to improve his game and get stronger, and because of that, he’s finishing at a higher rate. He also has worked a lot on his shot and is knocking in shots when he takes them.”

Garner said everyone has to play a bigger role after Jalen Haralson transferred to La Lumiere, a prep school in LaPorte. Haralson averaged 23.4 points as a sophomore last season.

“It took a lot of people buying in the

Fishers High School senior Keenan Garner leads the Tigers in scoring. (Photo courtesy of Fishers athletics)

offseason and really just believing we can win any game we go into,” Garner said. “We have really good team chemistry. We do things on and off the court. Once you have that relationship off the court, it translates to on the court. We’re unselfish and we trust each other in the big moments.”

Garner said his biggest leap from last season has been as a leader.

“I’m teaching everybody everything I can to have a really good senior season,” Garner said. “I’m focusing on all parts of my game, not just scoring but rebounding and assisting. I’m trying to be a more versatile player.

I’m trying to do a lot of everything, not just one thing.”

Garner, who was averaging 63 percent shooting from the field, averaged 7.9 points on 55 percent shooting last season.

“We have a lot of good shooters,” he said.

“I feel like everyone on our team can step up and hit a shot, and that opens up driving lanes.”

In Germany, Garner said his high school played against other schools from military bases. Garner began playing basketball when he was about 11 years old. He was trained and coached by Mario Coursey for approximately five years.

“He helped me fall in love with the game and it grew from there,” he said.

Garner has NCAA Division I offers from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and Eastern Illinois, in addition to some NAIA offers.

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January 23, 2024

COVER STORY

MUSIC MEMORY Current in Westfield currentinwestfield.com

Deaf author shares story of perseverance through self-created ‘soundtrack’

By Amy Adams amy@youarecurrent.com The cold and snow didn’t keep a crowd from gathering at Basille Westfield Playhouse Jan. 13 for a book signing with Westfield resident and author Matt Hay presented by Westfield bookstore, Turn the Page.

Published by St. Martin’s Press, Hay’s book “Soundtrack of Silence: Love, Loss and a Playlist for Life” was released Jan. 9, and it shot to the No. 1 spot for Amazon’s biographies of people with disabilities.

“We live in a community of overachievers,” Mayor Scott Willis said in introducing his friend Hay at the event. “But I would argue that Matt stands in the front of the line.”

As a child growing up in Evansville, Hay had no idea he didn’t hear the way everyone else did because he had developed ways to compensate for his hearing deficit.

By his sophomore year at Indiana University, Hay finally went to an audiologist. After further testing, doctors diagnosed him with neurofibromatosis Type 2, a rare genetic condition that causes tumors to grow along nerve sheaths.

“NF can grow on any nerve in my body,” Hay said. “For some reason, they love the ears.”

In 2002, a tumor in his neck required surgery to remove.

The surgery left Hay unable to walk. He moved home to Evansville from where he was working in Chicago to have the help that he needed. His girlfriend Nora could have moved on with her life. Instead, she chose to move in with the Hay family.

While Hay spent a year regaining the ability to walk, his hearing was failing rapidly.

Faced with a future of silence, Hay asked himself, “What songs do I want stuck in my head for the rest of my life?”

He made a mental playlist of the songs that connected him to moments he never wanted to forget.

“I set out to create a soundtrack of my life,” Hay wrote.

Hay listened to Geroge Harrison sing “Here Comes the Sun” every morning — until he couldn’t hear it anymore.

Hay, 47, has had 20 surgeries, including an experimental auditory brain implant, and 18 years of auditory rehabilitation therapy. Listening to songs for years when he could only hear them in his mind finally paid off when he recognized a song one day when getting into the car with Nora.

His brain was relearning how to hear.

“I am not the most intelligent or the most athletic,” Hay said. “But I will go toe-to-toe with you in my level of irrational persistence.”

For Hay, that persistence didn’t simply mean learning to walk and learning to hear again. He has run multiple marathons, including the Boston Marathon and the Ironman Triathlon, while raising money for NF. Hay first publicly shared his story on NPR in 2017. Actor Channing Tatum heard it and immediately recognized Hay’s story had movie potential. Hay has since sold the option for

Kendall Reeves, front, also has neurofibromatosis and came with her parents, Stephanie and Matt, to show their support for Matt Hay and his new book.

Westfield resident Matt Hay signs his book “Soundtrack of Silence” at a launch event Jan. 13. (Photos by Amy Adams)

a movie about his life to a studio. The producers suggested having someone write a book. Hay took that challenge on himself.

“This is the book that 25-year-old me needed to read,” Hay said. “When I look back at the things I needed, they were a lot more universal than I realized. If I can share what took me a decade to learn with someone in a day instead of a decade, that’s a reason to write a book.”

The first 19 publishers who read the manuscript passed on it or didn’t reply. Hay took any advice he could get and kept refining. His editor at St. Martin’s Press said that he made the hard parts of his life sound too easy and asked him to “sit and think about the hard stuff.”

“That was probably the hardest part,” Hay said. “I promise you that this is as real and honest as I can be.”

When it came time to plan an author tour, his publisher offered New York City. But Hay only wanted to hold events in places that mean something to him, so he started with Turn the Page in Westfield.

“We are blown away by this book and the writing,” Turn the Page owner Jamie Degler said. “Matt is brilliantly able to explain what it is like to lose your hearing. And the journey that he had to go on will keep you turning the pages. I think this book is going to be a lot bigger than any of us realize.”

Besides being a first-time author, Hay is a U.S. director of advocacy for a biopharmaceutical company that creates treatments for rare diseases. Responsible for patient advocacy, he makes sure voices like his are heard. He also volunteers with the Children’s Tumor Foundation, which focuses on research to end NF.

“I spent a long time trying to figure out how to live and have a fulfilling life in spite of my circumstances,” Hay said.

“It wasn’t until the last five years that I am leading a fulfilling life not in spite of but because of those hardships. I’m only 47, so I’m not really thinking about my legacy, but I hope it is that Matt dealt with some lousy stuff, and he helped make that lousy stuff easier for some other people.”

“Soundtrack of SIlence” is available at Turn the Page at 149 Walnut St. or visit HearMattHay.com.

ON THE COVER: Mayor Scott Willis, left, introduced Matt Hay

at the author event at Basille Westfield Playhouse. (Photos by Amy Adams)

SONGS FROM THE SOUNDTRACK Here is a short list of some of the songs that made their way into Hay’s musical memory.

• “7” by Prince, 1992 • “Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys, 1966 • “Divided Sky” by Pfish, 1987 • “Beautiful Way” by Beck, 1999 • “Every Little Thing is Gonna Be Alright” by Bob Marley, 1977 • “All I Want is You” by U2, 1988 • “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles, 1969 • “That Was a Crazy Game of Poker” by O.A.R., 1997

January 23, 2024

HEALTH

Current in Westfield currentinwestfield.com

The magic of bi-focal contacts Commentary by Dr. Jeremy Ciano “How do bi-focal contact lenses work?”

That is the million-dollar question we get asked multiple times daily.

VISION In one word, the answer is: magic! It’s actually some pretty complicated physics, but “magic” is a bit easier to comprehend unless you work for NASA or love nerdy optometric ray light diagrams, but I digress.

For the sake of simplicity, the multifocal contact lenses are designed like a bulls-eye target, with alternating zones of distance and near prescriptions. Each zone helps the patient to see clearly at different distances. Simple enough, right? We’re often asked, “But how can I ‘see’ far and up close at the same time?” Well, you can and you can’t.

Multifocal contacts work on the principle of simultaneous vision. Imagine placing a screen door in between you and another person. You can choose to focus on the screen door or the person standing on the other side. You can actually see both at the same time, but you can only focus clearly

on one at a time.

The same holds true with the bifocal/ multifocal contact lenses. Your brain is getting simultaneous images from each different zone but needs to choose which one it wants to see clearly at that moment in time.

Again, this sounds a lot more difficult and complicated than in actual practice, which is why “magic” covers a lot of the explanation sans physics. The reality is that most patients adapt very quickly and easily to the above mentioned complex system.

Typically, it will take 48 to 72 hours for a patient to adjust to their new simultaneous vision contact lenses. And once they adapt, they will be able to enjoy clear vision at near, far and computer distances without needing reading glasses or having to suffer from the pitfalls of monovision.

Dr. Jeremy A. Ciano, an international lecturer and published author, is a Current Publishing columnist. For more information or to ask a question, he may be emailed at DrCiano@ Revolution-EYES.com.

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BUSINESS LOCAL

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West Fork Whiskey to expand news@currentinwestfield.com WestFork Whiskey Co. announced it has entered a partnership with Ouabache Investments that will DEVELOPMENT allow further development on the property at 191st Street to include space for outdoor concerts and more.

“We are constantly looking for ways to grow our company,” Co-founder and Co-CEO Blake Jones stated. “Throughout our history, we’ve had to limit our growth several times due to a lack of inventory. This partnership and investment will allow our company to dramatically expand our whiskey inventory, marketing and sales, leading to significant expansion.”

The partnership with Ouabache Investments based in Indianapolis will include an initial investment of $3 million, with an additional $10 to $15 million to support production contracts and real estate development that will allow the distillery to dramatically accelerate growth and expand production with a new rack house at 191st Street. The new aging facility will also give the distillery the ability to improve its tourism expe-

West Fork Whiskey in Westfield includes a family-friendly restaurant, a cocktail lounge, an event center and an educational facility. (Photo

by Amy Adams)

rience by highlighting how both barrels and the overall aging environment affect the flavor of its bourbon and whiskey.

“We couldn’t have found a better, locally based, partnership to help us reach our goal of creating world-class whiskey and bourbons here in central Indiana,” Jones stated.

Established in 2015, West Fork Whiskey Co. produces craft whiskeys and bourbons with as many local ingredients as possible. The Westfield location at 10 E. 191st St. includes The Mash House restaurant and Stave Cocktail Lounge for ages 21 and older.

For more, visit westforkwhiskey.com.

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January 23, 2024

BUSINESS LOCAL

Current in Westfield currentinwestfield.com

Farmers Bank joins community

By Amy Adams amy@youarecurrent.com During a ribbon-cutting ceremony, The Farmers Bank announced an endowment scholarship through FINANCIAL the Westfield Education Foundation.

The endowment will support graduating Westfield High School seniors who plan to pursue business or accounting degrees.

According to The Farmers Bank, it is the first financial institution to offer such an endowment through the WEF. The first $1,000 scholarship is set to be awarded at the WHS senior night ceremony in May. Applications will be available soon through the WEF. “Westfield and The Farmers Bank have a lot in common,” The Farmers Bank CEO and Westfield resident Chris Cook said. “We are both very proud of our heritage, and we are very excited about where we can go in the future under our current leadership. The other common thing I see with Westfield is that we are both community minded.”

In the spring, the financial center plans to host local school field trips, inviting students and faculty to visit and learn about the cutting-edge, solar-powered Smartflower outside the southeast corner of the facility. The first of its kind in Indiana, the sculptural flower is made up of solar panels which open and close to clean themselves for maximum efficiency.

“The Smartflower generates enough power to run internal operations here,” Cook said.

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The Farmers Bank Westfield Financial Center Director Steve LaTour, right, presents a replica check to the Westfield Education Foundation to establish an endowment scholarship. (Photos by Amy Adams)

In addition to offering educational opportunities, Westfield Financial Center Director Steve Latour spoke of other ways The Farmers Bank is becoming engaged in the community. The bank is the title sponsor for the upcoming Westfield Lantern Award Ceremony hosted by the Westfield Chamber of Commerce and the 2024 Westfield Winter Market.

“I feel like there is no better place in the entire state than to be in Westfield right now for The Farmers Bank,” LaTour said. “It is a great opportunity for me, after several years with the chamber, to step over to this side of things to grow and promote business in the community.”

The Farmers Bank Westfield Financial Center is at 360 Tricia Lane For more, visit thefarmersbank.com/ locate-contact/westfield or email Latour at steve.latour@thefarmersbank.com.

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Senior living facilites to expand news@currentinwestfield.com Senior living management company CarDon & Associates announced that expansion is underway for the GROWTH Copper Trace community at the northeast corner of 146th Street and Ditch Road. The $8.6 million addition will more than double the number of assisted living apartments, which are expected to be available by late summer 2024.

“This expansion will comfortably accommodate the growing needs of seniors in Westfield and surrounding communities,” CarDon President and CEO Kent Rodgers stated. “It offers opportunities for seniors who want to remain self-sufficient with the assurance of assistance when needed, as well as individuals coming out of short-term rehabilitation who might benefit from as-

sisted living care.”

The complex opened in 2015 with 36 assisted living apartments as well as four “neighborhoods,” each with 26 skilled nursing suites. The first phase of the complex cost $19 million, with a 116,000-square-foot building on approximately 16 acres.

Planning for the addition began in July of 2022 with Studio Three Design and includes 40 new units consisting of 27 one-bedroom, 6 large one-bedroom and 7 two-bedroom residences. Summit Construction began the building process in late September of 2023.

Other benefits of the expansion include amenities such as a renovated dining room, coffee bar, fitness room and new activity and lounge area, which will add 37,500 square feet to the main campus building.

The Copper Trace office is at 1250 West 146th St. For more, visit cardon.us.

ARETHA’S GOLD: CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE TRIBUTE TO ARETHA FRANKLIN

Fri Feb 24 at 8pm

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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.

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January 23, 2024

VIEWS

Current in Westfield currentinwestfield.com

Weighing the correct measure Commentary by Terry Anker “You’re a rich girl, and you’ve gone too far ‘cause you know it don’t matter anyway,” sang Daryl Hall from the 1977 No. ESSAY 1 hit. It tells the story of a young woman relying upon the wealth and incumbent power of her father to protect her from the consequences of her own actions. If not held to account, what keeps us from going, as the song retells, “too far?”

At the other end, in the same year an epic war film, “A Bridge Too Far,” directed by Richard Attenborough, recounts the story of a failed Allied operation during World War II. Scores of men lose their lives because of the overreach and hubris of central command.

We imagine much of what we do through the three-pronged lens of the fairy tale “Goldilocks and the Three Bears.” One thing is too much, one is too little and the final is “just right.” We push ourselves to ensure that we go far enough, but not too far, in all matters, personal and professional.

Trainers and coaches lead us to fatigue but not injury. Our technologies now lure us to engage but also encourage us to seek rest.

But for most of life, we are left on our own to decide if we’ve gone too far or not quite far enough.

Even for the “rich girl,” the risks are significant as there is a cost associated with both excess and deficiency. In interpersonal relationships, when do we pass the point of no return? If there is such a spot, what transgression, word or violation of trust cannot be recovered? And if we take no action, what will attract others to our side?

Even if supported by “the old man’s money,” is it still on us to gauge our contributions in context to those around us?

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

Grateful for my empty nest Commentary by Danielle Wilson

Upom

FEBRUARY 2-18

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Center’s Fifth Third Bank Box Office at the Palladium, call 317.843.3800 or visit atistage.org.

Oh, lord. I’ve just come from a quick trip to Louisville, where I was forcibly reminded about the challenges of parentHUMOR ing little kids. Yikes. I went to pseudo-celebrate my birthday and left with the gift of gratitude. Thank goodness those times are behind me!

My nephews, who live around the corner from my mom, are 9, 7 and 3. They showed up for dinner in all their childlike glory, the oldest launching immediately into a pitch for a movie he and his younger brothers are producing called “Mario and Godzilla,” and the middle, coatless, yelling about organizing a fast-food restaurant game. The baby, who happens to have brighter red hair than mine, was content running around in his winter apparel, making Duo Block Happy Meals for everyone. Lots of noise, lots of movement, lots of energy. Not surprisingly, my sister poured herself a goblet of chardonnay.

And actually, we were able to eat in rela-

tive peace, although the pot roast did not sit well with Mini Ginger. But as we were transitioning to dessert, all hell broke loose. From the porch room, youngest brother suddenly started crying hysterically, and middle brother began apologizing profusely. We all stared in horror at the 3-year-old as a perfectly shaped, bluish-purple goose egg emerged on his pasty white forehead. My sister downed her wine, picked up the screamer and calmly announced, “We’re leaving.”

Although they missed cake and ice cream, they had unknowingly given me a wonderful gift. A moment to be grateful for having survived the rugrat stage of parenting and to reflect on the joys of an empty nest. Happy birthday to me, indeed.

Peace out!

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

ON THE WEB: Check out this week’s column from Dick Wolfsie, where he shares a few of his Forgettable New Year’s Eve memories at youarecurrent.com/wolfsie.

January 23, 2024

Current in Westfield currentinwestfield.com

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currentnightandday.com

ATI actors get their kicks on ‘Route 66’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com Craig Underwood had so much fun with Actors Theatre of Indiana’s presentation of “Route 66” in 2012, he was MUSICAL eager to travel down that road again.

The 2000 Hamilton Southeastern High School graduate, who is based in New York City, returns to play the same character he did in 2012 in the musical about traveling the famous route in ATI’s production set for Feb. 2-18 at the Studio Theater at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

“I’m excited to do it again,” Underwood said. “I had such a great time last time.

I’m a little nervous because I am 12 years older, but I think it’ll be really fun.”

Underwood contacted ATI when he learned it was presenting the show again.

“Because it’s four people that have to sing together, it’s very specific,” he said.

“I totally understand if I’m not the right fit this time, but I’d jump at the chance to do it. I love working for ATI.” The four men play different roles in vignettes, but all go by their real first names in each vignette. The music follows the area of the U.S. and the time from the 1950s to the mid-1960s.

“I love when it gets to the Beach Boystype music,” Underwood said. “I think it amps it up and all the fun harmonies, and by that time we as performers are pretty tired because we’re like an hour and 20 minutes into the one-and-a-half-hour show. I think it gets us going again. It’s like a whole breath of fresh air. It just shows kind of how the music shifted from the ‘50s to the ‘60s.”

Cynthia Collins, an ATI co-founder and Carmel resident, is directing and choreographing the musical.

“From start to finish, it’s this high-energy journey on Route 66,” Collins said. “The show goes from Chicago to Los Angeles, and the music follows the journey. It starts out with bebop music from the ’50s.”

The musical concludes with songs such as “Dead Man’s Curve,” “The Little Old Lady From Pasadena” and “GTO.” There are audio commercials from the

‘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 Front, from left, Brett Mutter, Kieran Danaan. Back, from left, Eric Olson and Craig Underwood, form the cast of “Route 66.”

(Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

Feinstein’s presents “Deception: An Evening of Magic & Lies” at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 25; “Dueling Pianos,” presented by Brittany Brumfield & Baby Grand Entertainment, at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 26; and Eric Baker & Friends Presents: “The Piano Man: A Billy Joel Tribute” at 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 27 at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

AN EVENING WITH BRANFORD MARSALIS Saxophonist Branford Marsalis will perform at 8 p.m. Jan. 26 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

CIRQUE GOES TO THE SYMPHONY

era, and radio disc jockeys reflect the area of the nation.

Eric Olson, a Fishers resident, wasn’t familiar with the show but saw a video of the previous time ATI performed “Route 66.”

“It’s really fun to hear a mix of songs and you are like, ‘I’ve known that song my whole life,’” said Olson, who works for Indiana Repertory Theatre as institutional giving manager and is in his fourth production with ATI. “Songs like ‘King of the Road’ mixed in with songs you’ve never heard before, but (it’s) a great tune. It’s a lot of work in a little time. These shows have a way of being terrifying in the beginning, thinking, ‘There is no way I can ever do this,’ and then a few days in, it’s ‘Hey, I’m doing this and it feels great.’”

Each performer has a few solo songs.

Brandon Vos, a Camby resident, is the music director.

“It’s a fun show because I think a lot of the tunes are familiar to everybody,” Vos said. “It’s the boogie-boogie surfer rock and Beach Boys-type stuff. It’s just a lot of energy and a lot of fun for us and the

audience, too. There are participation moments a couple times.”

Vos said there are more than 30 songs, mostly between 2 and 4 minutes long.

“I’m in charge of specific parts of the music itself but they all bring their own personalities to it,” Vos said.

Vos has worked with Indianapolis resident Brett Mutter at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. Mutter previously acted in ATI’s “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” “I love tight harmonies and tight quartet singing,” Mutter said.

Cast member Kieran Danaan, a New York City resident, made his ATI debut in “Mr. Confidential” in May 2023.

“The four of us in this cast get to be so versatile,” Danaan said. “We get to explore different sides of ourselves. The four of us are witty, so it’s going to be a good time.”

Danaan said most of the music was new to him.

“The music is very relaxing but it’s also upbeat,” he said. “The music has a good message.”

For more, visit atistage.org.

The Carmel Symphony Orchestra will be joined by Cirque de la Symphonie at 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 27 at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

GHOST LIGHT CABARET Civic Theatre will present “Hidden Gems” as part of its Ghost Light Cabaret’s fundraiser shows at 6 and 8:30 p.m. Jan. 24 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

‘COCKTAILS, COMEDY & COSTUMES’ Actors Theatre of Indiana’s fundraiser, “Cocktails, Comedy & Costumes,” is set for Jan. 26 at BASH in Carmel. The cocktail party begins at 6:30, followed by a meal at 7:15 and a show at 8 p.m. For more, visit atistage.org.

DISPATCH Hyperion Players presents ‘Doubt — A Parable’ — The Hyperion Players, with the support of The Farmers Bank, will present John Patrick Shanley’s “Doubt — A Parable,” Jan. 25-28 at The Switch Theatre in Fishers. The performances are at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 25-27 and 2:30 p.m. Jan. 28. Tickets are $12 and can be purchased at hyperionplayers.com/tickets/ or at the door.

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January 23, 2024

NIGHT & DAY

Current in Westfield currentinwestfield.com

ICC to release new choral series

By Ken Severson editorial@youarecurrent.com

anapolis Children’s Choir’s new publishing arm publishes choral music for all ages and levels by composers who submit their work.

Joshua Pedde is a music man. And a pubIf accepted, Pedde said the material can lishing man, too, and he wants to make sure be shared with other music teachers. others who compose “We try to reward them for their MUSIC quality music are heard, work,” Pedde said. especially with regard And they try to encourage comto the Indianapolis Children’s Choir. posers who submit material that is The Carmel resident is the arturned down because it does not tistic director of the Indianapolis suit the choir’s needs.

Children’s Choir, which boasts one “We let them know why their of the largest children’s choir prowork doesn’t fit our needs,” Pedde Pedde grams in the world. Pedde also is said. “We try to give feedback, and one of the minds behind the Indiahopefully they continue to try and napolis Children’s Choir Publishing House, submit their work with others.” which is in partnership with Beckenhorst Pedde works with Leeann Starkey, co-ediPress of Columbus, Ohio. tor of the ICC Publishing House and also the And the partnership recently announced curriculum coordinator, as well as a director a new choral series by Henry Leck, the with the choir. Hamilton County resident Indianapolis Children’s Choir founder and Patrick Fata works with both to provide conductor laureate. new music.

“We are very excited to have Henry Leck “I’m also one of the editors,” Pedde said. have his series at the publishing house,” “We all go through the material sent to us.”

Pedde said. “He has made such an impact Besides the new choral series, the ICC on the field of choral music for over 30 Publishing House is releasing 12 additional years. We are proud to have him join us.” songs that range in style and voice arrangeFounded nearly three years ago, the Indiment, Pedde said.

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Perfect soup/sandwich combos Commentary by Mark LaFay There is something very remarkable about freezing weather and the way it makes us all state the obvious: COMFORT FOOD “Wow, it’s cold outside.” But, hey, it is cold outside, and it has me thinking about some really good comfort food. I’ve got four go-to soup-and-sandwich combos that are perfect for chilly weather. Cozy up by the fireplace or Netflix, and the combos below are sure to be great warming companions.

First up, you can’t beat the classic tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwich. It’s like they were made for each other. You’ve got that rich, somewhat-sweet tomato soup that’s just begging for a dunk of crispy, melty grilled cheese. It’s simple, delicious and never gets old. Dress up your sandwich with some bacon, bacon jam or hot pepper jam.

Now, how about mixing it up a bit with French onion soup and a roast beef sandwich? This is a bit fancier, but, oh, man, it’s worth it. That savory onion soup with a melted Gruyère topping is something else.

Pair that with a roast beef sandwich — think

crusty bread, a bit of horseradish kick and some fresh arugula. It’s a combo that’s a bit fancy but still down-to-earth good.

Chicken noodle soup and a turkey club sandwich is where it’s at if you’re looking for something on the lighter side. You’ve got your classic chicken noodle soup, warm and comforting, right next to a stacked turkey club. Crisp lettuce, tomato, bacon, a smear of mayo — it’s fresh, it’s filling, and it hits the spot without weighing you down.

Last but not least for all you seafood lovers, clam chowder is a must. It’s creamy, hearty and packed with clams. Pair it with a hot and delicious tuna melt. It’s simple, but, boy, does it complement that chowder well.

So, there you go, four perfect soup-andsandwich pairs for when the weather has got you wanting something warm and satisfying. Give ‘em a try, and I bet they’ll become your winter favorites, too.

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

January 23, 2024

INSIDE & OUT

Current in Westfield currentinwestfield.com

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Blueprint for Improvement: Bright and beautiful Zionsville kitchen Commentary by Larry Greene Built in 1998, this kitchen in Zionsville’s Austin Oakes neighborhood was in need of a refresh. Through modern aesthetics and efficient functionality, the final outcome is an inviting and practical space that radiates brightness and beauty, significantly elevating the homeowner’s everyday living experience.

After

THE BLUEPRINT • White perimeter cabinetry offers timeless style, complemented by warm wood tones on the island and bar for a touch of organic warmth.

• The reimagined appliance layout enables the inclusion of a statement double range with custom hood, establishing a functional focal point.

• Smart storage solutions, including a knife block drawer, tiered utility drawers, utensil pull-outs and roll-out shelves keep essentials close at hand while maintaining a clutterfree appearance.

• The integrated quartz counter and backsplash provide the sophisticated appeal of natural stone without the upkeep.

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.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Sealed proposals for the Blackburn Road Sidewalk Project will be received by the City of Westfield, Indiana, at the Westfield Public Works Building, 2706 E. 171st Street, Westfield, Indiana, 46074 until 11:00 a.m., local time, on Friday, February 9th, 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 a sidewalk along the north side of Blackburn Road between Tomlinson Road and the cul-de-sac at the south end of Blackburn Road.

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 NonCollusion 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 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

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Across 1. Jazz Kitchen improvised bit 5. Tibet’s capital 10. Cruise stop 14. Indianapolis Motor Speedway track shape 15. Early caucus participant 16. The “Say Hey Kid” 17. Hamilton Town Center event 18. Scream at a Colts game 19. Kind of school, like Brebeuf, briefly 20. Suggestion to charge boaters to enter a Geist cove?

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30. “___ Billy Joe” 34. Hoosier Park feedbag morsel 35. Motor City labor org.

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43. Lots 44. Put on WRTV 45. Observe 46. IMPD rap sheet letters, maybe 47. Pacers’ three-point shots 49. Channel covering Rep. Victoria Spartz 53. Music category 55. KGB counterpart 57. “Evil Woman” band 58. Indiana State Treasurer... and an anagram of 20- and 39-Across 63. “Let’s go!”

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4 22. Bob & Tom, e.g.

26. Train track 27. DOJ div.

29. Import tax 31. Supermarket section 32. Punk rock offshoot 33. Catches some rays 36. Have on 38. Ironwood Golf Course pegs 39. Give’s partner 40. Stopping by just briefly 41. Falsehood 42. Windshield sticker 43. “Indianapolis Monthly,” for short 47. Big ___ Conference 48. Civic Theatre play parts 50. Illinois’ eighth largest city (or Arizona’s ninth largest) 51. Communion tables 52. “Maybe later” 54. Approached quickly 56. “You beat me!”

6 Tom Wood Cars _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ 5 Garden Tools _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ _________________________

4 Bee Creations _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ 3 Head of ___ _________________________ _________________________ _________________________ 2 Indiana “A” Counties _________________________ _________________________

1 Festival of Ice City ___________________________

59. One way to stand by 60. A Great Lake 61. Volcano flow 62. “___ cost you!”

63. Part of a six-pack 64. Kelley School of Business deg.

Answers on Page 19

January 23, 2024

17

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