Founded Jan. 29, 2008, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XVII, No. 23
Copyright 2024
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Puccini’s Pizza Pasta Puccini’s
West Clay at 131st & Towne Rd
Westfield to oppose Duke Energy rate hike
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
The City of Westfield will seek permission to participate in the case from the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission in response to Duke Energy’s proposed rate increase.
UTILITIES
Duke Energy has submitted a rate request to Indiana utility regulators, seeking an overall 16 percent tiered increase. The case was filed April 4 with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission and reflects an overall average bill increase of approximately 12 percent in 2025 and an additional 4 percent in 2026.
given to Duke in June 2020.
Willis encourages residents to provide written comments to the Office of Utility Consumer Counselor. Those comments will be accepted through July 5.
The mayor has set a budget of $130,000 for the fight, the estimated cost of the legal work involved, he said.
The mayor made the announcement June 27 just hours before the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission heard more than an hour of public testimony during a field hearing at the Fishers Library, with speakers overwhelmingly opposed to Duke Energy’s proposed rate increase.
said. “Any increase, no matter how small, can make a significant impact on these Hoosiers and their families’ budgets.”
Dorothy Keyes of Fishers said Duke Energy shouldn’t get any rate increase unless that money goes toward renewable energy projects.
“Duke is wanting to put millions of dollars into the existing coal facility so that they can convert an additional half-million more tons of coal every year from now until 2029,” she said. “Any new money requested should not be put into coal. It should only be put into clean energy. We need to do this for our future.”
If approved, the increase will vary among consumers depending on the cost to serve different types of customers, such as residential and business. The total monthly impact of the combined increases for a residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours a month would be about $27.63, according to Duke Energy. However, the Indiana-based Citizens Action Coalition estimates that the increase would be closer to $42 a month.
In April, Mayor Scott Willis released a statement urging Duke Energy to explore alternative solutions that prioritize the well-being of Westfield residents. Willis also cited a rate increase of $146 million
Janus earns grant funds — Janus Developmental Services, Inc. is the recipient of a $15,000 grant from the Hamilton County Community Foundation. The funding will assist Janus in its mission to to support adults with differing abilities in Hamilton County. Janus offers a variety of programs tailored to empower each individual to explore their interests and gain new skills by providing opportunities for community volunteering, commissioned artwork creation, workforce development for successful careers and more. Programs equip individu-
Speakers cited the electricity provider’s multimillion-dollar profits and lack of investment in renewable energy, as well as the financial hardship a rate increase would have on customers, especially those who already are struggling. Duke Energy serves about 900,000 customers in Indiana.
Fishers resident Jason Tomcsi was the first to testify during the June 27 hearing. He was speaking on behalf of AARP Indiana and older residents throughout Duke Energy’s service area.
“Many of the Hoosiers most impacted by this request are on low or inflexible incomes, which makes rising electricity bills a challenge when combined with higher groceries, housing and medical costs,” he
DISPATCHES
als with skills and experiences to lead independently. For more, visit janus-inc.org.
Flag disposal — American flags that are tattered and worn should be disposed of following federal guidelines, which include burning and proper handling of the ashes. Collection bins for flags in need of retirement can be found throughout Hamilton County, including VFW Stanley E. Banks, Sr. Post 10003, 12863 Old Meridian St. in Carmel; American Legion Post 173, 852 W Main St. in Carmel; Vfw Ralph Lehr Post 6246, 654 S 9th
Comments received during field hearings and submitted in writing will be considered during the commission’s deliberations. Written comments can be submitted by mail through July 5 to the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, 115 W. Washington St, Suite 1500 South, Indianapolis, IN 46204; or emailed to uccinfo@oucc. IN.gov.
Evidentiary hearings on the proposed rate adjustment are scheduled to start Aug. 29. A decision is expected in early 2025.
For more about the proposed rate increase, visit Duke Energy’s website, duke-energy.com/Home/Billing/DEIRates-2024; the Citizens Action Coalition’s website, citact.org; or the commission’s portal for the Duke Energy case, bit. ly/3VJKytJ.
St. in Noblesville; and American Legion Post 102, 9091 E 126th St. in Fishers.
Riverview Health seeks volunteers — Riverview Health is looking for volunteers to join its team at Noblesville and Westfield locations. Shifts are available in the morning or afternoon at least one day per week, Monday through Friday. Interested parties can contact the manager of Volunteer Services, Melinda Nash at 317-776-7236 or mnash@riverview.org or complete an application online at riverview.org.
Willis
DISPATCHES
Hamilton County court text program
— Hamilton County Courts have joined a pilot program spearheaded by the Indiana Supreme Court’s Office of Court Technology to enhance communication and reduce failures to appear in court. The program sends text message reminders to petitioners and respondents in divorce, paternity, and other family cases. Participants receive text reminders about upcoming court hearings if they provide a cell phone number in their party record with the Court. Hamilton County began the pilot program in May and is currently assessing its effectiveness. Interested residents can update their cell phone numbers with the Clerk’s office, 1 Hamilton County Square Suite 106 in Noblesville.
Mornings with the Mayor — Join Mayor Scott Willis to talk all things Westfield at 7:30 a.m. July 10 at Biggby Coffee, 529 S. Waterleaf Dr. There will be complimentary refreshments provided and attendees can ask questions and interact more one-onone with Mayor Willis. Willis will also host Mornings with the Mayor Aug. 15 at Starbucks on 191st Street and Sept. 6 at Westfield City Service Center.
Carey Ridge expansion — Westfield Washington Schools will host a ribbon cutting event at 6 p.m. July 23 at Carey Ridge Elementary School. The expansion project includes a new wing for the cross-categorical program and a new playground. Learn more about construction updates in the district at wws.k12.in.us/about-us/ destination-westfield-24.
Downtown dinner party — Reservations are available for the 7th annual Dinner Party on Union, hosted by the Downtown Westfield Association. The event is 6 to 11 p.m. Sept. 21. Dinner Party on Union is the largest outdoor dinner party in Indiana, according to the association. Guests will enjoy dinner from Prime 47, live entertainment from The Bishops and a silent auction. Reservations are $400 per couple; $1,600 per 8-person table; and $2,000 per 10-person table. A limit of four front-row 10-person tables is available for $3,000. Proceeds go toward the association’s mission of endowing, enhancing and enriching downtown Westfield. Previously, the association has donated to projects at Grand Junction Plaza, Westfield Playhouse, Student Impact and the new Westfield Washington Public Library. Reserve seats at westfieldchamberindy.com under the events tab.
KIDS SUMMER SERIES
JULY 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 | 10 - 11:30 A.M.
GRAND JUNCTION PLAZA
MOVIES IN THE PLAZA
JULY 12, 19 | Movie starts at 7:30 P.M.
GRAND JUNCTION PLAZA presented by Community First Bank
JAMS AT THE JUNCTION
JULY 26 | 7 P.M.
GRAND JUNCTION PLAZA presented by Estridge Homes
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
An ordinance that would move $12.9 million of unencumbered funds from the City of Westfield’s general fund to the infrastructure improvement fund was introduced for a first reading and public hearing before the city council June 24. Director of Economic Development Jenelle Fairman explained the intention of the transfer to city leaders. The funds will be used toward several multimillion-dollar development plans for downtown Westfield, including the ‘Quaint Core’ — the block bordered by Park, Jersey, Poplar and Mill streets — and Park & Poplar — the area where the Midland Trace Trail borders Park and Poplar streets.
CITY NEWS
“We are aiming to preserve the character that we have on this central block, then also provide development along Jersey Street and additional development along Park Street,” Fairman said. “As we all know, there is a lack of parking in downtown, and we are focused on the redevelopment commission on developing more parking. On a short-term standpoint, we are working on the acquisition, demolition and grading for some temporary parking that will be located on a couple of surface lots on Park Street and the Midland Trace Trail.
We’ll be working on a longer timeline on some parking garages located in that north block along Jersey Street and also south of the Midland Trace Trail.”
Fairman said initial plans for Park & Poplar include a 550-space parking garage, up to 60,000 square feet of office and commercial space, 10,000 square feet of retail space, a boutique hotel and 250 family units
On Jersey Street, planning is underway for mixed-used development — currently in the concept phase — including a 525-space parking garage, 36,000 square feet of commercial and office space, 50,500 square feet of retail and restaurant space, 172 family unit dwellings and a pedestrian plaza.
Fairman said the transfer will ultimately put money into the hands of the Downtown Westfield Community Development Corp. for those projects. Formed in 2024, the DWCDC is a nonprofit organization that supports strategic projects that promote the development of downtown Westfield. No comments were made during the public hearing.
The ordinance will return to council this month for adoption.
Councilors also approved a resolution for a grant agreement June 24 to allow a onetime grant of $5.8 million to the DWCDC to provide financial assistance for construction, rehabilitation and/or repair of commercial property related to those projects.
Plans are moving forward for strategic development of downtown Westfield. (Photo by Marney Simon)
Westfield to update comprehensive plan
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Westfield Mayor Scott Willis said planning is underway to update the city’s comprehensive plan.
CITY NEWS
A comprehensive plan is a nonbinding document that municipalities use to guide decisions on growth, attracting businesses, zoning, residential developments, safety, park planning and just about anything else that may happen within its boundaries.
Willis told residents at a town hall meeting June 20 at Westfield Washington Public Library the city’s current comprehensive plan was developed in 2007 by a citizen-led process prior to Westfield changing municipal status from a town to a city. Since then, the plan has undergone several amendments but is still far behind the city’s actual growth.
“There has not been a holistic change to the vision or the comprehensive plan since it was implemented,” Willis said. “In 2007, Grand Park wasn’t even built. When we develop this vision, the elephant in the room in Westfield today wasn’t even born.”
Willis said the plan lists the west border of the city as Towne Road. However, the city has annexed land along Ind. 32 to the Boone County border.
“Builders are coming to us with projects. Farmers are getting encroached on; they
can’t farm like they used to. It’s too expensive, there are too many people on the roads, it’s not safe,” he said. “They’d like to cash out and rightfully so. But we haven’t really thought about what the future would look like.”
Willis said the city is in the process of selecting a consultant to guide the creation of a new plan. The goal is to create a comprehensive plan not just for Westfield, but for all of Westfield Washington Township.
“That may not happen for 50 years, and that’s OK. We’re not in a hurry,” Willis said. “But, if you look at Carmel and you look at Fishers and you look at Noblesville, our sister cities, they have consumed their townships.”
Willis said the plan will include community input.
“We’re going to have people engaged throughout this community to help us build that vision for the future,” he said. “It will also strategically align with our infrastructure… This comprehensive plan is going to help us identify future needs around roads and bridges and trails, and we’re going to be able to start planning.”
The plan also will address commercial development in Westfield.
When a firm is selected, the Westfield City Council will approve the expenditure for the comprehensive plan. A cost estimate is not yet available.
The Westfield City Council will soon approve a firm to create an updated comprehensive plan for the city. (File photo)
County mayors discuss collaboration, competition
By Ann Marie Shambaugh and Adanna Mbanu news@youarecurrent.com
The four mayors of Hamilton County’s largest cities participated in a panel discussion June 18 as part of the Hamilton County Leadership Academy’s Leadership Summit at the Embassy Suites Conference Center in Noblesville.
HCLA
Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam, Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen, Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness and Westfield Mayor Scott Willis answered questions about regionalism and collaboration from Terry Anker, dean of the HCLA Class of 2014.
COLLABORATION, COMPETITION
Anker asked the mayors how they balance collaboration and competition with neighboring communities as they make decisions for their own city.
Jensen said he considers other regions — such as the Denver, Colo., or Nashville, Tenn., areas — as competitors more than other municipalities in Hamilton County.
“Indiana is known for its Hoosier humility,” he said. “We need to chuck that Hoosier
humility and decide if we want to be a global competitor. We have to be going forward. We have to tell our story. We have to tell our metrics and we have to push each other to get those metrics better.”
Fadness said Hamilton County municipalities often look for ways to work together, but even when they are in competition it can benefit the region as a whole.
“The relationships among cities in Hamilton County have matured to a point now where we understand that there are seasons where we will compete,” Fadness said. “When a company comes to Hamilton County and is looking around, every one of us is going to put our best foot forward. That’s what we’re supposed to do. But you know what? If I don’t win and (Noblesville) wins it or (Carmel) or (Westfield), that’s great. It’s good for the collective.”
INSPIRED INNOVATION
Another question focused on how innovation plays into shaping Hamilton County communities.
Finkam said Carmel has long been a leader in innovative thinking, citing the city’s transformation of most of its signaled intersections into roundabouts.
She said innovation is sparked by listening to the stories and experiences of a variety of residents and stakeholders.
“I’m trying to bring people from our community into projects and committees to make them richer and different, because I think we all get stuck in one particular mindset,” she said. “And I think when we talk about diversity, part of this is diversity of thought and making sure really we’re growing our minds on what is possible, even if it takes change, to get it done.”
Willis said Westfield and other local leaders have been inspired by several innova-
tions in Carmel, such as limiting suburban sprawl and building walkable communities.
“Carmel set that standard and I think every single city here is taking pieces of that and transforming it into something that’s unique for their community,” Willis said. “We’re following that walkability component to attract future generations.”
WHICH TOOLS ARE MISSING?
Anker asked the mayors what resources they have to make their jobs more manageable and which ones they wish they had.
Willis said that two years ago, Westfield had “gone into a shell” and wasn’t a pro-growth town. But he said the town’s involvement with the Central Indiana Regional Development Authority helped them move forward.
“We’re going to benefit from that in our community with a $4 million grant that we would have never had if we had not been a part of CIRDA,” Willis said.
The grant will support Westfield’s Park and Poplar project establishing a central business district.
Finkam said that for Carmel to continue to prosper, it needs the General Assembly’s support.
From left, moderator Terry Anker, Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen, Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness, Westfield Mayor Scott Willis and Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam. (Photo by Ann Marie ShambaugH)
COMMUNITY
DISPATCHES
Rock the Block — The third annual “Rock the Block” returns to the soccer field at Westfield High School from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 2. The free community event includes games, activities and prizes for residents of all ages. The block party aims to energize students, families, staff and the community for the 2024-2025 school year. The event will also include local vendors selling food and other goods. Businesses or organizations that would like to reserve a booth can do so at tinyurl.com/mvjruxc7.
WeCan Meeting — The Westfield Community Association Network is a group of individuals who serve on an HOA board or work for a Homeowner Association company. The City hosts these meetings quarterly to update attendees on important city news, HOA related content, and more. The next WeCan meeting is at 7 p.m. Aug. 28 at Westfield Washington Public Library, 17400 Westfield Blvd. Light refreshments will be provided courtesy of The Farmers Bank.
School supply kits — Westfield Washington Schools families can purchase back-toschool supply kits for students enrolled at the early learning center, elementary schools, intermediate school and middle school. The kits include supplies indicated on the classroom supply lists by grades, including pens, pencils, crayons, markers, notebooks, glue and other items, listed by both school and grade level. To order a supply kit, visit 1stdayschoolsupplies.com and enter your ZIP code, then choose the appropriate school.
Farmers market — The Westfield Farmers Market presented by Duke Energy runs from 5 to 8 p.m. each Thursday through Sept. 26 at Grand Junction Plaza, 225 S. Union St. in Westfield. The market includes meat and produce farmers, artisan vendors and food trucks. Jersey Street between Mill and Union streets is closed during the farmers market from 2:30 to 9 p.m. For more, visit westfieldwelcome.com/westfield-markets.
Movies in the Plaza, presented by Community First Bank — Westfield Welcome hosts movies at Grand Junction Plaza, 225 S. Union St. at 7:30 p.m. July 12, July 19, Aug. 30 and Sept. 6. Movies will be announced on Westfield Welcome’s Facebook and Instagram accounts. Parking is available in the parking lot at the southwest corner of Poplar Street and Park Street, and in designated on-street spots along Union Street and Mill Street.
Colts Camp returns to Grand Park July 25
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Threat of rain made the June 26 Colts Camp Kickoff celebration a washout at Grand Junction Plaza. But it was all sunshine and smiles as Westfield Mayor Scott Willis and Indianapolis Colts Chief Sales and Marketing Officer Roger VanDerSnick announced this year’s training camp schedule in a special presentation posted at colts.com June 26.
FOOTBALL
Colts training camp returns to Grand Park Campus July 25, with 12 practices, the return of Colts City, theme days and joint practices with the Arizona Cardinals.
“The football season starts with Grand Park,” VanDerSnick said. “It is a chance for us to welcome 50,000 or 60,000 fans to these practices. It’s a chance for them to really see players in action in a different fashion than they can at Lucas Oil Stadium. It’s a wonderful place. It’s very different from most of the NFL. We’re one of the few teams that does this and we’re looking forward to opening up camp soon.”
Willis said the camp presents the City of Westfield with name recognition along with an economic boost.
“For a month or two, all you hear about is Colts, Grand Park and Westfield, and that certainly brings huge value to our city,” Willis said. “We do have a lot of people come into Westfield. They spend the night in Westfield and go to our restaurants, which is an economic engine for our community and our businesses.”
Open practices are scheduled for July 25, 27, 28, 30 and 31 and Aug. 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 14 and 15. Tickets are required to enter. All
practices are free to attend for fans 17 and younger. Tickets for five Primetime Practice days — July 27 and 28 and Aug. 4, 14 and 15 — are $5 for people 18 and older. Proceeds of those sales benefit the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis.
Parking at Grand Park is $5 in advance and $10 at the lot.
VanDerSnick said the Colts have made it a priority to make training camp accessible to fans and family-friendly.
“We want to welcome as many fans as we possibly can at our training camp practices and we want to deliver then, to those fans, a great experience,” he said.
Theme days include Family Day, Give Back Sunday, Back to School and Salute to Service.
Willis said Colts Camp provides fans with memories that last a lifetime.
“I can remember the first time I brought my son to (see former quarterback) Andrew Luck. He was in his second year with the Colts, and we got an autograph from Andrew up close,” Willis said. “These are things that you never get to experience as a kid, and residents in Westfield get this on a daily basis for about six weeks. We just love having the Colts in town.”
The Colts’ regular-season schedule was released in May.
“We’re looking to build on some exciting developments we’ve already had,” VanDerSnick said. “Our season tickets are already sold out. We have limited numbers of single-game tickets and group tickets available. We’ve announced our expansion into Germany and Austria and we’re busy putting together plans for all of that.”
Colts Camp tickets can be purchased at colts.com/camp.
Colts Camp returns to Grand Park for 12 practices starting July 25. (File photo)
City approves tax abatement for proposed industrial building
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
The Westfield City Council approved a tax abatement for an anticipated project inside NorthPoint Business Park.
CITY NEWS
Farnam NP I LLC and Williams Enterprises LLC applied for abatement of the proposed project to be constructed at 20221 Grassy Branch Rd.
“This is a 10-year, real property (tax) abatement for a spec building, it’s a shell,” Jenell Fairman, Westfield’s director of economic development, told the Westfield City Council June 24.
Fairman said the project site totals 12.9 acres, with the building expected to be 159,000 square feet.
The value of the abatement over 10 years is $1.1 million. The estimated project cost is $14.9 million. The abatement schedule is 100 percent for year one, then reduces by 10 percent each year for 10 years.
Councilor Jon Dartt questioned the term of the abatement schedule for a development without a tenant.
“I’m a supporter of tax abatements. I think it’s a great tool for this city to be able to use to attract businesses, but I’m still scratching my head on an abatement for a shell building,” Dartt said. “We said we would consider abatements for businesses coming into Westfield if it was light manufacturing, if it was in the health and medical device or maybe high-tech (fields). Those were the type of businesses that we want to attract to Westfield. I think we still do. At this point, we have no idea who would be coming into this building.”
Dartt said he prefers short-term abatements, with reevaluations when a developer leases or sells the building and the city knows who the tenant is.
Fairman said discussions with area municipalities indicate that a 10-year graduated abatement is the industry standard.
“For us to be able to attract development here in Westfield, I think we’re going to have to do (10-year abatements) on shell buildings,” Fairman said. “I’m not saying that this is ideal; I’m just saying that this seems to be the standard that is in place around central Indiana. If we want to be
competitive and we want to encourage development here from a commercial perspective, we’re going to have to meet what’s happening within the market.”
Dartt said he believes the city is underestimating its potential value to developers within Hamilton County.
“I’m not sure how many 12-acre parcels are available in Noblesville or other cities, but I know that they don’t have the safety record that we have,” Dartt said. “I know that they don’t have the schools that we have. I know that they don’t have the residential communities that we have. And I think we’re underestimating the draw of businesses to Westfield.”
Mayor Scott Willis said the abatement structure is designed to put the city in the best position to draw in development.
“Ninety percent of our tax revenue comes from the residential side,” Willis said. “It is absolutely imperative that we are competitive and that we’re snagging these businesses as quickly as we can, the right kinds of businesses for Westfield.”
Willis noted that the planned unit development outlines what kind of businesses are permitted in NorthPoint, which narrows the scope of what can be housed in the business park.
The council approved a resolution awarding the abatement by a 6-1 vote, with Dartt the lone no vote.
The plan is expected to be introduced in August for rezoning as part of a rezoning of NorthPoint architectural standards. The site is currently zoned as industrial as part of the NorthPoint PUD.
The proposed building will be constructed at 20221 Grassy Branch Rd. inside NorthPoint Business Park. (Image courtesy of City of Westfield)
Dartt
New county public safety center planned
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
The Noblesville Common Council re-
cently approved the rezoning of a 22-acre property east of Ind. 37 and Ind. 38 for a new $85 million Hamilton County Public Safety Center.
DEVELOPMENT
The building at 18291 Presley Dr. will feature a three-story, 108,000-squarefoot emergency operations center for 911 dispatch, emergency operations, training and more.
Hamilton County Commissioner Christine Altman said dispatchers with Hamilton County Public Safety Communications work out of the basement of the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, which is at capacity.
“If (the) county council gave us additional dispatchers, we wouldn’t have a place to put them unless we start splitting between our main operation and our backup operation,” Altman said.
Altman shared the vision for the new public safety center, which includes plans for additional storage to hold items necessary for immediate access in the event of an emergency and the potential for a child care facility in the future.
Construction is expected to begin later this month.
Rendering of the new Hamilton County Public Safety Center. (Rendering courtesy of DLZ Corp.)
The City of Westfield will host the Mayor’s Grand Gala, presented by Card and Associates, Keystone Group and Indy Eleven, from 6 to 10 p.m. Oct. 5 at Grand Park Sports Campus.
“We are excited to announce the launch of the Mayor’s Grand Gala benefiting the newly established Advancing Westfield Foundation that underscores our commitment to the wonderful nonprofit partners throughout the city,” Mayor Scott Willis stated. “This gala presents a unique opportunity for our residents and business owners to come together, celebrate our shared vision and contribute to the continued growth of our city.”
The Advancing Westfield Foundation was established to serve as a conduit for the mayor’s initiatives, according to the city. The foundation will channel funds raised from the net proceeds of the Mayor’s Grand Gala to nonprofit organizations within our community.
The mission of the foundation, which has applied for 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, is to support the efforts of nonprofit partnerships to ensure sustainable support for a
wide range of vital services for our youth, adults, seniors, veterans and disabled community members in Westfield.
The foundation board is made up of nine community members with voting privileges and one nonvoting city representative.
The Mayor’s Grand Gala will include entertainment, a live auction, a silent auction and food from a variety of Westfield restaurants. Included in the festivities will be a reverse raffle, offering attendees the chance to win a two-year lease of a 2025 Cadillac CT5 donated by Chariot Automotive Group in Kokomo. A limited number of tickets for the reverse raffle will be available at the event for $100.
The Mayor’s Grand Gala supports the efforts of the city’s non-for-profit partnerships through the Advancing Westfield Foundation to ensure sustainable support for the vital services that enhance the lives of those in need. Proceeds from the gala will support the Westfield Youth Assistance Program and other local Westfield non-profit organizations.
Tickets for the Mayor’s Grand Gala start at $200 and are expected to sell out.
For tickets and sponsorship information visit westfieldgrandgala.com.
DISPATCH
Downtown detour – Westbound traffic traveling through downtown Westfield is now detoured because of utility work. Citizens Energy Group is upsizing and relocating a water main along Ind. 32 between Union Street and Gurley Street, part of a major overhaul of Ind. 32 through the
center of the city. Vehicles will be directed north on Grassy Branch Road, west on 191st Street and merging south onto U.S. 31 to return to Ind. 32. The detour is only in effect for westbound traffic while eastbound traffic remains open. The closure is anticipated to last until October.
Zionsville nonprofit assists homebuilding efforts in Haiti
By Adanna Mbanu adanna@youarecurrent.com
Founded in Zionsville, Project Rouj is a nonprofit organization that provides jobs and builds houses in Haiti.
HOUSING
Project Rouj CEO Jamalyn Peigh Williamson moved to Haiti in 2003 with her husband David to better understand how the United States influences the rest of the world after taking a class on developing nations while attending Duke University.
The couple moved to Zionsville in 2005 but were back in Haiti in 2010 when a devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake hit, collapsing the country’s infrastructure and destroying homes. The Williamsons stayed to help rebuild homes and quickly realized that Haiti needed something more.
“We thought the mission was building houses, but really what the mission had turned out to be is creating jobs, and the byproduct of that is that people get safe, secure housing,” Williamson said.
The increase in housing in Haiti has allowed people to move forward with their lives. It also kept many homeowners from spending excessive amounts of money to have a place to live, according to Williamson.
“One of our homeowners, because they weren’t spending money trying to fix this house that was falling apart, was able to start a tree nursery,” Williamson said. “So, now we are able to plant around 100 trees at every house we build because his tree nursery is where we buy those trees from. People have been able to have more money by either having a job with us, or getting a house from us, which then frees up money
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they were spending to try and keep themselves dry from a leaky roof.”
Project Rouj is the largest employer in Fondwa, Haiti, employing more than 150 people, according to the organization, whose name is derived from the word rouj — which means red in Haitian Creole — representing the red roofs commonly seen throughout Fondwa.
Project Rouj prides itself on not simply building homes in Haiti, but allowing Haitians to work for the organization, which can ultimately help end the cycle of poverty.
“We never hand a dollar directly to a person that hasn’t worked for it,” Williamson said. “We really are trying to help (Haitians) help themselves. We felt our main project was to help people get out of dilapidated homes, get them in a secure place, make them feel safe so that they can then think about what dreams they want for their lives. We’ve achieved that, but we’ve also had this enormous blessing of now being able to help people by giving them jobs.”
Learn more at projectrouj.org.
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Haitians assist in building homes in Fondwa, Haiti with help from Zionsville-based nonprofit Project Rouj. (Photo courtesy of Project Rouj)
Catchings shares passion for tea by expanding business
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Former WNBA star Tamika Catchings has been quite busy since her retirement from the Indiana Fever.
EXPANSION
“Life doesn’t stop when the ball stops bouncing,” she said.
After retiring in 2016, she was named director of player development and franchise development for Pacers Sports & Entertainment. The 2021 Women’s Basketball Hall of Famer was later promoted to vice president of basketball operations and general manager for the Fever. She left that post in 2022.
Catchings, a former University of Tennessee standout and four-time U.S. Olympic gold medalist, has been a television analyst for women’s college basketball for ESPN and the SEC Network since 2017.
She became the owner of Tea’s Me Cafe in early 2017 and has added two locations in Indianapolis. She has now launched bottled teas to retailers.
Catchings said she has been a tea drinker since childhood, when her mother would
make sun tea. As an adult, she drinks more hot tea.
“Tea has been a vital part of calming me down and keeping me centered around the family values we had,” said Catchings, who lives on the west side of Indianapolis. “It played such an important role in my life.”
Catchings heard about Tea’s Me Cafe, 140 E. 22nd St., from a fan in 2005.
“I went in there and met the owners and it became my space I would go to,” Catchings said. “I was having a meeting when I heard the owners were moving and shutting it down.”
Catchings bought it and then opened a location at 3967 N. Illinois St. in the Butler Tarkington area in 2021, followed by a third one at Ivy Tech, 2535 N. Capitol Ave., in 2023. The cafe serves breakfast, lunch and desserts.
In 2023, Catchings took Tea’s Me Cafe into the retail market. The bottled teas include Pomegranate Blueberry and Keywine (herbal teas), Summer Blush and Tropical Cyclone (green teas) and Kenya (black tea).
The teas are sold at Meijer stores in Zionsville, Westfield, Noblesville, Carmel, and Indianapolis (96th Street). Catchings said
Former Indiana Fever star Tamika Catchings with five types of bottled teas. (Photo courtesy of Dittoe Public Relations)
Kroger, Market District and Fresh Thyme sell the teas as well.
A percentage of sales from the bottled teas are donated to the Catch the Stars Foundation, which Catchings founded with her sister, Tauja Catchings, 20 years ago. Tauja played at the University of Illinois. Their father, Harvey Catchings, played 11 seasons in the NBA.
Catch the Stars provides underprivileged youth with fitness, literacy and mentoring programs.
Catchings played 15 seasons with the
Fever, leading the team to the 2012 WNBA title.
After tearing her ACL her senior year at Tennessee, she sat out her 2001 rookie year with the Fever while rehabbing and got to know Indianapolis.
Catchings is delighted to see WNBA attendance grow with the arrival of Fever rookie star Caitlin Clark, along with rookies such as the Chicago Sky’s Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardosa.
“I love watching the WNBA continue to grow,” she said. “There are so many great young players who have been able to come out of this class at an unprecedented time.”
Catchings said it’s great to see Fever fans rejuvenated with the attention Clark receives. The Fever have not made the playoffs since Catchings retired.
“(The fans are) coming alive. During our runs there were a lot of people there with us when we won the championship in 2012 and when we went back in 2015,” Catchings said. “It’s been a couple of rocky years (since), but I’m really excited about the future of the Fever. They still need some time to figure out how to play together. I hope the city gives our team grace.”
COVER STORY
A PLAN ‘FORE!’ TRAILS
Mayor introduces idea of Westfield as golf cart city
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Mayor Scott Willis has a long list of ideas for the future of Westfield. His latest, he said, might not be everyone’s cup of ‘tee.’
“The vision is, our entire trail system — other than Monon Trail — will open up to golf carts,” Willis said during a town hall meeting at Westfield Washington Public Library June 20.
First passed in 2010, the city’s golf cart ordinance permits golf carts under specific conditions. In addition to required safety equipment, golf carts are only permitted on roads with a speed limit of 25 mph or less and can only be operated by licensed drivers 16 and older.
Golf carts are permitted on the eastern portion of the Midland Trace Trail. Willis said he wants to expand on that.
“(The trails) are identified as safe for golf carts,” Willis said, noting that most approved trail routes are east of Union Street, including Bridgewater, Oak Manor, Brookside and areas to the east of downtown and south of Ind. 31.
“It’s a heavy density of golf carts in that area,” he said. “We opened up a trail many years ago to allow golf carts to get from that area into our downtown area. So, this has been going on for eight to 10 years (on the Midland Trace Trail). We’ve had no accidents, nobody injured. It is safe. It’s going to be scary for some people, I get it, it’s change. But I run that trail, I run the Monon almost on a daily basis. What scares me more is unleashed dogs — I’ve been bitten on the trails — and bicycles.”
Willis said his plan is modeled after the golf cart ordinance in Peachtree City, Ga.
“The entire community is golf carts,” Willis said. “Yes, they have cars, but golf carts are the primary mode of transportation. You go to the high school, you see more golf carts than you see cars.”
Willis said the only distinction Westfield will make is keeping the age limit for golf carts at 16. He said in Peachtree City, children as young as 12 can be seen riding around town.
“Their trails are about 4 feet more narrow than what we have in Westfield,” Willis said. “We can do this. It will be controversial. There will be growing pains. But
I do believe this will be a unique feature to Westfield that no other Hamilton County city has that is going to be a real enhancer to the quality of life for our residents.”
Willis said as plans firm up, the city will address areas of concern, including portions of trails that need to be widened or adding safety measures such as additional signage. Willis said there will also be trail connections created for neighborhoods that do not have easy access to trails.
The city is in the early stages of the golf cart vision. A team will head to Peachtree City to do research and meet with their elected leaders and the chief of police.
A timeline for that junket has not been determined.
“We’re going to do our homework before we open up the floodgates,’ Willis said. “But I want to plant the seeds because it’s going to come, probably in 2025.”
Willis said if his golf cart vision comes to fruition, it will lead to a better and more desirable Westfield.
“(The trails) are wide enough, they’re safe enough and right now only one portion of our community has the ability to access downtown (on a golf cart),” Willis said. “We want to create golf cart charging areas where you can get on your golf
cart from anywhere in the city, you get downtown, and you can have a bite to eat any evening you want. I’ll tell you what, if you’ve never done it, it’s fantastic. I’ve done it for years with my kids. There’s nothing more exciting than saying ‘get on the golf cart and let’s go get pizza downtown.’ It’s a wonderful thing to share with the family.”
WESTFIELD’S GOLF CART ORDINANCE
The city’s ordinance on golf carts was passed in 2010 and amended in 2011 and 2018. In 2020, a petition was launched by a resident to rescind the ordinance after a near-miss accident between a bicyclist and a golf cart on the Midland Trace Trail. However, her husband was nearly injured by a cart while cycling. That effort was not successful.
The ordinance establishes rules and routes, including the Midland Trace Trail between Grand Junction Plaza and Carey Road; Carey Road between the Midland Trace Trail and Bridgewater Club; within Bridgewater Club; and within Chatham Hills.
GOLF CART RULES INCLUDE:
• Golf carts shall be equipped with headlights, taillights and turn signals. Between sunset and sunrise, golf carts must include one of the following: slow moving vehicle sign, a
bicycle flag or rear flashing light.
• Operators of golf carts within the corporate limits must be at least 16 years of age, possess a valid driver’s license and carry insurance.
• Operators of golf carts must yield the right of way to all pedestrians and bicycles and are only permitted to operate upon roadways with a speed limit of 25 mph or less. Crossing of roads with speed limits in excess of 25 mph is permitted only where posted.
ATVs, utility vehicles and modified golf carts are not permitted. Golf carts must be inspected and registered with the City of Westfield.
Read the text of the golf cart ordinance at westfield.in.gov/ egov/documents/1543520378_43272.pdf.
ON THE COVER: The Midland Trace Trail allows golf carts on a portion of the trail. Mayor Scott Willis has a plan to expand golf cart usage in the city of Westfield. (Photo by Marney Simon)
Mayor Scott Willis shares his “golf cart vision” during a town hall meeting June 20 at the Westfield Washington Public Library. (Photos by Marney Simon)
Westfield is already golf cart-friendly, with reserved parking spots at the new Westfield Washington Public library.
Zionsville Community High School graduate gets dream role in ‘Legally Blonde’ at Beef & Boards
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Olivia Broadwater couldn’t have asked for a better launch to her professional career.
The 2020 Zionsville Community High School graduate will appear as Elle Woods in Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “Legally Blonde: The Musical” July 11 to Aug. 25.
“I am over the moon about making my Beef & Boards debut,” Broadwater said. “Being from the Indy area, I have always known about the amazing productions taking place there and have dreamed of taking the stage myself one day. I never dreamed that my first time would be playing a dream role like Elle. I can’t explain how grateful I am for this opportunity. Also, my mom was an intern there when she was in college, so this is even more special to share that experience with her.”
Broadwater, a 2024 Ball State University graduate, appeared in Civic Theatre’s Young Artists Program’s production of “Legally Blonde” before entering her freshman year of high school and played the role of Delta Nu/Jump Roper.
“To say I’m a fan of this musical is an understatement,” Broadwater said. “I’ve been singing these songs ever since my fellow ‘musical theater nerd’ sister played them for me when I was 6 years old. One of my favorite numbers has always been ‘What You Want.’ It is so uplifting, ridiculous, energetic and iconic in so many ways. I think it showcases the optimistic world that Elle lives in where any goal is possible as long as you have heart and good intentions behind it. It challenges the audience to reframe their thinking and face the world with pink-colored glasses like Elle.”
Broadwater said Elle was a fashion role model, too.
“Fun fact, I wore something pink every day for a year in elementary school
because it was my signature color,” she said. “I’ve always admired Elle for being a strong woman who goes after what she wants but shows compassion and loyalty to others while doing so.”
Broadwater said the role is daunting in many ways
“The role itself is very physically taxing from lengthy dance and vocal numbers such as the Act I closer, ‘So Much Better,’” she said. “However, that is a challenge I am extremely excited to take on and I feel blessed to have this opportunity. Like I said, she is a very important character to me and I am excited to bring her to life with the tools I have to build and share this story.”
Broadwater was first runner-up for Miss Indiana in 2022 and second runner-up in the 2021 competition.
Broadwater appeared in “Rent” at Civic Theatre in October 2022.
Since then, she played Sandy Cheeks in “SpongeBob SquarePants the Musical” at Ball State, New Wave Girl/Dance Captain in “Heathers” at Eclipse and Angie in “Prom” at Ball State. She also performed in a workshop for a new musical called “Dawn’s Early Light” in New York through Discovering Broadway.
Broadwater plans to move to New York in September after the production. She has signed with an agent, The Price Group.
“Doing this production in my hometown before moving to New York is so special to me,” Broadwater said. “I am so grateful for the continued support from the Indiana theater community. I truly would not be where I am without your love.”
Broadwater was selected as one of 40 finalists to the Songbook Academy in 2018.
For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Celebrating Celine,” a tribute to Celine Dion, is set for 7:30 p.m. July 12-13 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
LOBSTER PALOOZA
Indianapolis Opera’s 14th annual New England Style Lobster Boil called Lobster Palooza is set for 6 p.m. July 13 at the Basile Opera Center, Indianapolis. Premium Blend is the musical guest. For more, visit Indyopera.org.
‘YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN, THE MUSICAL’
Red Barn Summer Theatre presents “Young Frankenstein, The Musical” July 11-14 and July 17-21 at the Frankfort venue. For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.
SYMPHONY ON THE PRAIRIE
“Disco Fever! With Enrico Lopez-Yanez” will appear at Symphony on the Prairie at 8 p.m. July 12-13. For more, visit indianapolissymphony.org.
BRET MICHAELS & PARTI-GRAS
Poison lead singer Bret Michaels’ Parti-Gras features Don Felder and Lou Gramm, among others, at 7 p.m. July 12 in a concert at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville. For more, visit livenation.com
DISPATCH
Indy Shorts features 200-plus films — Indy Shorts International Film Festival will feature the largest lineup of films in the festival’s history with 200-plus films. With a pool party theme, Indy Shorts officials said attendees are invited to dive into the splashy short films July 23-28 at Living Room Theaters and Newfields. There will be 41 World Premieres including: “Facing the Falls” with executive producers Hillary and Chelsea Clinton, “Taking Care” featuring Seth Rogen and “Night Session” starring Richard Kind. There will be five outdoor screenings at The Amphitheater and The Beer Garden at Garden Terrace at Newfields. Two Indiana Spotlight Programs featuring 17 films are by or about Hoosiers. For tickets, visit IndyShorts.org
Olivia Broadwater has the lead role of Elle Woods in “Legally Blonde: The Musical.” (Photo courtesy of Olivia Broadwater)
‘Young Frankenstein’ planned
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
When Red Barn Summer Theatre Artistic Director Michael Taylor first saw “Young Frankenstein, The Musical” on Broadway, he thought it was a show that Red Barn could never do.
MUSICAL
The show ran on Broadway from Nov. 8, 2007, to Jan. 4, 2009. Taylor’s view changed when he saw a recorded version of the revised musical that opened at London’s West End in 2017.
and Thomas Meehan. It is based on the 1974 movie written by Brooks and Gene Wilder.
“I love the humor, the comedy and the timing to put on a show like this,” Taylor said. “People who love Mel Brooks will love this. It’s very true to the movie, other than the added musical numbers.”
The 16-person cast features Luke Aguilar as Victor Frankenstein, Juliette Maners as Inga, Luke McLaughlin as Igor, Cole Riegle as The Monster, Kiara Wood as Frau Blucher, Cassidy Benullo as Elizabeth and Adam Nichols as Inspector Kemp.
“The original Broadway show was such a spectacle and now they’ve gone a little more true to the movie,” Taylor said. “They’ve cut out some of the effects. It kind of lets the material breathe, which I think lends better to humor and characters.”
Red Barn will present the revised production of “Young Frankenstein, The Musical” July 11-14 and 17-21 at the Frankfort venue.
The music and lyrics are by Mel Brooks
“When I was looking at this season, I just thought it fit,” Taylor said.
Taylor said tap dancers from Stage 1 Dance Academy perform during the “Puttin’ on the Ritz” number.
“The biggest challenge is the big tap number,” said Taylor, who became artistic director in 2017. “I couldn’t tell you the last time they did a tap number at the Barn, but I don’t believe it’s since I’ve been around. It will be cool to see it come together.”
For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.
Taylor
NIGHT & DAY
WHS singers set for program
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
SONGBOOK ACADEMY IN CONCERT
SAT, JUL 20 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM
AVERAGE WHITE BAND:
A FUNK FINALE
SAT, AUG 10 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
JEROME COLLINS: REWIND–
A JOURNEY TO MOTOWN & BEYOND FRI, SEPT 13 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
VERONICA SWIFT
SAT, SEPT 14 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
CENTER CELEBRATION 2024
FEATURING CHRIS BOTTI
SAT, SEPT 21 AT 5PM | THE PALLADIUM
NICK CARTER: WHO I AM TOUR
THURS, SEPT 26 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM
LEONID & FRIENDS: THE MUSIC OF CHICAGO AND MORE FRI, SEPT 27 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
DAMIEN ESCOBAR:
VICTORY LAP TOUR SAT, SEPT 28 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
BEN FOLDS: PAPER AIRPLANE REQUEST TOUR
THURS, OCT 10 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM
#IMOMSOHARD: LADIES’ NIGHT!
FRI, OCT 11 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
RENÉE ELISE GOLDSBERRY
SAT, OCT 12 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER ORCHESTRA
SUN, OCT 13 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM
GRAND FUNK RAILROAD
SAT, OCT 19 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
SPACE ODDITY: THE QUINTESSENTIAL DAVID BOWIE TRIBUTE EXPERIENCE
SAT, OCT 26 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
DANA & GREG NEWKIRK’S HAUNTED OBJECTS LIVE
SUN, OCT 27 AT 7PM | THE TARKINGTON
VITAMIN STRING QUARTET: THE MUSIC OF TAYLOR SWIFT, BRIDGERTON AND BEYOND SUN, OCT 27 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM
ZAKIR HUSSAIN & RAHUL SHARMA
FRI, NOV 1 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
BONEY JAMES
SAT, NOV 2 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
THE MAGIC OF MICHAEL GRANDINETTI–EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC
SAT, NOV 2 AT 2PM & 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
GRUPO NICHE
FRI, NOV 8 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
THE PIANO GUYS
SAT, NOV 9 AT 4PM & 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
BUCKETS N BOARDS SUN, NOV 17 AT 5PM | THE PALLADIUM
DON WAS & THE PAN DETROIT ENSEMBLE FRI, FEB 28 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
AN EVENING WITH LESLIE ODOM JR. FRI, NOV 22 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
CANADIAN BRASS SAT, NOV 23 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
DIONNE WARWICK SUN, NOV 24 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM
CHERRY POPPIN’ DADDIES:
WWII TIKI XMAS CANTEEN THURS, DEC 5 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM
THE FOUR PHANTOMS: HOLIDAY SHOW FRI, DEC 6 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
JANE LYNCH’S A SWINGIN’ LITTLE CHRISTMAS SAT, DEC 7 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
MATTEO BOCELLI: A NIGHT WITH MATTEO THU DEC 12 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM
DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS
CHRISTMAS TOUR 2024 FRI, DEC 13 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
JON MCLAUGHLIN & FRIENDS
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS SAT, DEC 14 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
MAC MCANALLY
FRI, JAN 10 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
YESTERDAY AND TODAY: THE INTERACTIVE BEATLES EXPERIENCE SAT, JAN 18 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
THE EVOLUTION OF JONI MITCHELL
STARRING LAUREN FOX FRI, JAN 24 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
HEART OF AFGHANISTAN
FEATURING THE FANOOS ENSEMBLE SAT, JAN 25 AT 8PM || THE TARKINGTON
JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER ORCHESTRA WITH WYNTON MARSALIS SUN, JAN 26 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM
THE KINGS OF QUEEN SAT, FEB 1 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
PETER SAGAL: HOST OF NPR’S WAIT WAIT...DON’T TELL ME! FRI, FEB 7 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
FOLSOM PRISON EXPERIENCE:
LEGENDARY 1968 JOHNNY CASH
CONCERT
SAT, FEB 15 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH STEVE WARINER FRI, FEB 21 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
KALANI PE’A: GRAMMY-WINNING
SINGER, SONGWRITER SAT, FEB 22 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
THE STEPCREW FRI, MAR 7 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
BROOKLYN CHARMERS: A STEELY DAN TRIBUTE FRI, MAR 7 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
WELCOME BACK: THE RETURN OF EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER FRI, MAR 21 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
DUSTBOWL REVIVAL: A LAUREL CANYON RETROSPECTIVE FRI, MAR 21 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON
THE RED HOT CHILLI PIPERS SUN, MAR 23 AT 7PM | THE TARKINGTON
GRIMMZ FAIRY TALES SUN, MAR 23 AT 5PM | THE PALLADIUM
LANG LANG FRI, MAR 28 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
PURE PRAIRIE LEAGUE SAT, APR 5 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
UNITED STATES ARMY FIELD BAND & SOLDIERS’ CHORUS WEDS, APR 9 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM
UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN SAT, APR 12 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
BACHELORS OF BROADWAY: GENTLEMEN OF THE THEATRE SUN, APR 13 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM
ITZHAK PERLMAN IN RECITAL THURS, APR 17 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM
MICKY DOLENZ OF THE MONKEES: AN EVENING OF SONGS & STORIES FRI, APR 25 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
BLACK VIOLIN SAT, APR 26 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
OUR PLANET LIVE: A NETFLIX ORIGINAL DOCUMENTARY SERIES WITH DAN TAPSTER TUES, APR 29 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM
MARTY STUART AND HIS FABULOUS SUPERLATIVES THURS, MAY 1 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM
CELEBRATE THE SONGBOOK: MICHAEL FEINSTEIN WITH THE INDIANAPOLIS CHAMBER
ORCHESTRA SAT, MAY 10 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM
iLUMINATE SUN, MAY 11 AT 4PM | THE PALLADIUM
Journee Woodley didn’t know about the Songbook Academy until her parents brought it to her attention.
MUSIC
“We’re always looking for new things to do musically to branch out.” said Woodley, who will be a Westfield High School senior in August.
After she applied, she said the anticipation was building to see if she was selected. So, she said she was excited when she got the news she was accepted.
Woodley will be joined by 2024 Westfield High School graduate
Keegan Connor as two of the 40 national finalists for the Songbook Academy, an intensive program set for July 13-20 at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. There will be a Songbook Showcase at 7 p.m. July 18 and a Songbook Academy concert at 7 p.m. July 20, both at the Palladium.
Woodley said she has always loved Sarah Vaughan.
clubs for a living.
The feedback she received so far has been about the storytelling.
“They want you to dive deep into it and allow people that are watching you to resonate with the lyrics and the meaning of the song,” Woodley said. “So, they can interpret it any way they choose, but it’s all about the storytelling. From people that have been in (Songbook) before, they always say they learned so much.”
“She’s always spoken to me as a jazz singer,” Woodley said. “So, she has a song ‘Tenderly’ that I’d like to work on.”
Duke Ellington’s “Sophisticated Lady” is another song Woodley plans to work on with the Songbook mentors.
Woodley said she loves to watch musical theater and all types of music.
“But I would say jazz really resonates with me.” she said.
Woodley is in the WHS jazz a cappella choir and attends the School of Rock and plays the guitar. Her plan is to pursue vocal performance and jazz studies at the collegiate level. She aspires to sing in jazz
Connor concluded her reign as Miss Indiana’s Teen in late June. She will attend the University of Alabama this fall.
“The final push to apply was I wanted to do something different before college,” she said. “I wanted to stretch my boundaries as a performer. A lot of my friends did it in the past and they said they grew a lot as performers.”
Connor has performed in musicals for several years.
“I definitely love musical theater and that’s what I will probably sing for the rest of my life,” Connor said. “But I love how the Songbook does really stretch my abilities as a performer and makes me look into these different genres of music, so I’m excited to explore jazz and even some of the Golden Age songs from the 1920s.”
Connor plans to sing “When I Fall in Love” and “You Don’t Own Me.” She said she appreciates the feedback she has already received.
“Before we even meet our mentors for the week, it’s exciting to see they are already ready to help us make a performance that much better,” she said. “ For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
FREE EVENT COXHALL MANSION TOURS
Feeling strapped for cash but still want to have some fun? Each week, Current helps you find things to do without breaking the bank. Here’s what’s on tap this week:
Hamilton County Parks offers tours of the Coxhall Mansion and Museum on the stately grounds of Coxhall Gardens at 11669 Town Rd. in Carmel. The next tour is from 4 to 5:30 p.m. July 17. For more, visit hamiltoncounty.in.gov/1928/ Parks-and-Recreation.
OTHER FREE AREA EVENTS
SECOND SATURDAYS: Join Noblesville Creates at 107 S. 8th St. on the second Saturday each month for a free deep dive into exhibit topics.
MINI GOLF: Play 9 holes of LED mini golf inside Options Noblesville at 9945 Cumberland Pointe Blvd. from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. July 17. Learn more about Options Schools while you’re there.
RENEE ELISE GOLDSBERRY
PETER SAGAL
LESLIE ODOM JR.
MICKY DOLENZ
LANG LANG
Connor
Woodley
Hamilton County veterans fair returns to Noblesville
news@currentnoblesville.com
The Hamilton County Veterans Corp. is hosting a countywide resource fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 20 at 1775 Field Dr. in Noblesville for not only military members, veterans and their families, but for all Hamilton County residents.
EVENT
According to the HCVC, of the 55 resource tables at last year’s event, 35 were common resources to help anyone. There will be 85 resource tables this year.
Free resources include providers and outreach specialists from Federal VA Benefits, Roudebush VA Hospital, County Veteran Service Officers, Indiana Department of Veteran Affairs, Veterans Readiness and Employment, Military OneSource, Indiana WorkOne, County Health Department and more.
Roudebush VA Medical Center officials will be on-site to inform attendees about the PACT Act’s expansion of benefits. They will register, enroll, perform toxic exposure
screenings and start filing claims for disability compensation.
Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans and the Daughters of the American Revolution will be at the event to honor Vietnam veterans. Indy Honor Flight will also be on site for veterans to sign up to fly to Washington, D.C., to see their memorials.
The Hamilton County Veterans Corp. will have a table for visitors to find out how to help build stronger veterans and stronger communities and become a member of the organization.
Posters and programs will include a floor map showing areas where specific needs can be addressed. The entrance to the building is on the south side, where a Hero Hut will greet guests as they arrive. The front door facing the parking lot is the exit.
Food trucks will be in the parking lot near the building until 1:30 p.m.
For more, email president@hamiltoncountyveterans.com or secretary@hamiltoncountyveterans.com.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 16 TH , 2024
11AM to 3PM at Lucas Estate, Carmel, IN
Be among the first to tour our model cottage, where you’ll experience the distinction of sophisticated design and discover the benefits of modern living that sets Promenade Trails apart.
• Maintenance-free communit y
• Functional and stylish floor plans
• Wooded and waterfront views
• 24-hour maintenance
• Seasonal lawn care
• Snow and ice removal
• Professional landscaping
• Curbside or valet trash service
• Optional handyman services
Bub’s Burgers plans new restaurant in Westfield
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Bub’s Burgers will build a new restaurant in downtown Westfield.
FOOD
The Westfield Advisory Plan Commission approved a development plan in June for the construction of a new Bub’s Burgers restaurant at 229 Mill St., across from Grand Junction Plaza.
In January, Bub’s Burgers received a permit from the Board of Zoning Appeals for a sit-down specialty restaurant at the site, which currently is occupied by residential dwellings.
The APC approved a detailed development plan June 17 pending necessary approvals from the Westfield Public Works Department and the Hamilton County Surveyor’s office prior to any work beginning at the property.
Bub’s Burgers and Ice Cream was founded in Carmel in 2003. The restaurant opened franchises in Bloomington and
Zionsville and expanded with a smaller Bub’s Burgers site on Tournament Trail in Westfield in 2015. That location closed permanently in April in anticipation of the new location downtown.
The restaurant is expected to open in 2025.
The addition of the new restaurant is part of an overall revitalization plan for downtown Westfield, which includes development of Union Plaza and the Park & Poplar project.
Bub’s Burgers will construct a sitdown restaurant at 229 Mill St. in Westfield. (Image courtesy of City of Westfield)
Falling for a sales pitch
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
Last year, my wife Mary Ellen and I spent our 43rd anniversary downtown at a charming bed and breakfast, celebrating all the years since we fell in love. To commemorate this, I fell out of bed.
HUMOR
It has occurred several more times since then — once with me almost ending up in the ER. Mary Ellen has often asserted I should have my head examined and after that crash landing, we knew something had to be done.
She purchased an inflatable bed bumper rail from a company called hiccapop. When the box arrived, I thought hiccapop was one of those fancy energy drinks Mary Ellen likes. By the way, I know the name shouldn’t be lowercase, but no words in their brochure are capitalized. not one. they think that is clever. i don’t. i think it’s pretentious.
This bed rail is a 5-foot-long cylindrical pillow. Inflated, it looks like a long white log. Placed under the fitted sheet on the side of the bed, it prevents the sleeper’s potential plummet to the floor. The instructions suggest it’s intended for toddlers who have transitioned from a crib to a real bed, a transition I made during the Truman administration.
One woman writes on Amazon, “The hiccapop keeps my son safe. I no longer have to worry about the little guy falling out of bed. It’s a relief to know my 6-year-old is protected.”
Note: Reread that review and substitute the word husband for son and old man for little guy. Then, replace the number six with 77. See how humiliating this whole predicament is for me?
Nettie, our housekeeper, came this week. She told Mary Ellen she couldn’t clean the
“This bed rail is a 5-foot-long cylindrical pillow. Inflated, it looks like a long white log.”
– DICK WOLFSIE
bedroom because I was napping.
“That’s not my husband. That’s his hiccapop.”
“Well, whoever he is, I can’t vacuum until he gets out of bed.”
Consumer-oriented hiccapop boasts, “If you ever need parts, we will send them to you free of charge.” Question: Have you ever needed to replace parts in a pillow?
The warranty includes, “Even if your dog chews it accidentally.” Barney, our old beagle, once chewed up Mary Ellen’s brand-new shoes.
“Why don’t you scold him?” she asked me.
“Because it wasn’t his fault. He ate them accidentally.”
Concerned about having other baby hiccapop product ideas ripped off, the company issued this warning in its brochure: “To you beef-witted design pirates, do NOT copy our stuff, or we will sue you.” I have never heard that expression, but there’s nothing more threatening than a well-placed meat metaphor.
By the way, the bumper really works. I haven’t rolled off the bed since we installed it, but I have to get a new one. I’m a restless sleeper with a lot of nervous energy, and I chewed into my hiccapop one night, deflating it.
Mary Ellen forgave me. I told her it was an accident.
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
Blueprint for Improvement: Effortless elegance in Carmel
Commentary by Larry Greene
Built in 1999 in Carmel’s Laurel Lakes neighborhood, this home’s kitchen was due for a contemporary facelift. Our team envisioned a timeless transformation featuring a classic palette, thoughtful storage solutions and strategic appliance placements, resulting in a functional and effortlessly elegant space.
THE BLUEPRINT
• A classic palette featuring tones of white, taupe and gray offers a versatile backdrop that adapts beautifully to evolving trends.
• Organic warmth is introduced through wood barstools, seagrass dining chairs and iron accents.
• Functionality is significantly enhanced by relocating the range off the island, providing additional prep and entertaining space.
• The removal of an impractical desk makes way for additional cabinetry, streamlining sight lines and increasing counter and storage space.
• The design is elegantly finished with a double-basin apron-front sink, crown molding and brushed nickel hardware, bringing both charm and practicality to the forefront of this kitchen transformation.
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.
29. Taj Mahal city
30. Old stringed instrument
31. Challenge
32. Rip
33. Wide shoe letters
34. Ladies’ men
35. Sunset direction + pasture
38. County blue-ribbon events
40. Website ID
41. IMPD alerts
45. Boundary
46. Egyptian goddess
47. Got bigger
48. Swiss peaks
49. Greek war god
50. Crystal-lined rock
51. Pie ___ mode
52. In the past
53. It launched on Nov. 8, 1972
55. Colts’ org.
56. Lofty + touch down
59. Not hip
61. More furtive
62. Bashful
63. Oahu and Maui
64. Lilly lab dept. Down
1. Use for target practice, say
2. Cruise stop + get older
3. Carmen from “Baywatch”
Nintendo console
Passover meal
Puncture sound
Get in the way of
Annoy
“Not guilty,” e.g., in Hamilton County Court
“___ be an honor”
Old sitcom set at the
12. Fescue and zoysia
14. Music genre
16. “Auld Lang ___”
21. So far
25. Pincered bugs
27. “You can’t make me!”
28. First-aid kit item
30. Subtraction word
31. Ctrl-Alt-___
34. Three Seventeen Hair
Design supplies
36. Bard’s “before”
37. Notre Dame’s Fighting
38. Italian director of “8 1/2”
39. Magazine sales
42. Me, myself or I
43. Crib + Tom Wood brand
44. Puffed up
46. Attended to pressing needs?
48. Oohs and ___
49. Once more
50. Doomed one
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FINE BATHROOMS
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www.iwantanewbathroom.com
& Text at 816-778-4690.
Handyman/Repairs/Renovations
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C&H TREE SERVICE
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Index Corporation seeks a Purchasing Manager in Noblesville, IN to identify, document, & adhere to all processes performed & interfaces w/ other depts. BS in Operations, Purchasing, Mgmt, Bus Admin or rltd field & 8 yrs of CNC machine tool manufacturing environment exp. Employer will accept any suitable combination of education, training, or exp. Travel 25% of time. This position will have supervisory responsibilities. For position details & to apply, visit: https://www.index-group. com/en_us/company/careers
Cleaning House Sale: 1957 Chev. four-door Hard Top. car and several extra parts $1,500.
¼ Midget Race Car 5 hp Honda several extra parts $1,500
All Original 1955 Studebaker Champion. Been sitting several years in dry barn. Motor locked $2,800 Call 317-501-3421
Custom Log Cabin For Sale Beautiful custom one of kind hand crafted artistically designed square log cabin sitting on 86 acres in Switzerland county Indiana. Property is just off 129, 15 minutes from Vevay, Indiana. Cabin sits on top of the property with a pond view. Full walkout basement with 30’ x 12’ wide porch. There are 2 ponds appx ¾ acre on the property for your fishin pleasure. Creek adjacent to the roadside that you cross for entrance into the property. Half mile gravel driveway. Four wheel drive vehicle is highly recommended. There are trails for riding atvs or just enjoying a hike around the property.
Nice spacious front and back covered porch 34’ x 12’.
Cabin has 3 levels with 2 full bathrooms and 1 half bath.
New green metal roof December 2023. Main level has an open concept style. One full bath in the main level with a Custom cedar king bed and custom cedar couch and chair. Main level overlooks a pond with multiple large windows. Living room area has a propane fireplace faced with creek rock. Poplar saw milled log floors, Full kitchen with custom hickory kitchen cabinets all on main level. Loft upstairs with a half bath. Downstairs open concept with full bath. Downstairs
kitchen area has a double sink with lower cabinets and fridge. Sleeping area has a full-size custom cedar bed and fireplace with washer and dryer located downstairs. The downstairs room walks out on the back porch which overlooks the pond. Cistern water tank holds 2,000 gallons. Water is available in town for you to haul and propane furnace. 24 x 40 Barn located just off the side of the cabin for storage of large equipment, recreational vehicles etc.
Bonus smaller cabin!!! - small hunters cabin/lodge with a 16.8 front porch with small garage appx 16 x 16.
Bonus Bonus! - electric hookups for campers at the base of the property across from the creek
This property is a must see dream home for the ones that want to enjoy the great outdoors!
Enjoy the wildlife with your morning cup of joe. Turkeys and deer visit often for your viewing pleasure. If you’re a hunter then this property is made for you as well. Permanent tree stands made within the property or just for viewing wildlife. Sportsmans paradise!
*Attractions close by Belterra Casino 13 miles - 23 minutes
