Founded Jan. 29, 2008, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XVII, No. 29
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Westfield Fire Department answers the call
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
The Westfield Fire Department responded to 856 fire calls and 1,549 emergency medical service calls in the first half of 2024.
EMERGENCY SERVICES
WFD Chief Rob Gaylor presented the department’s midyear report to the Board of Public Works and Safety in July. He said the department averaged 13.3 responses per day from Jan. 1 to July 1, with an average turnout time of 1 minute and 19 seconds.
Gaylor said emergency services social worker Jamie Pristasch ended the second quarter of 2024 with 74 referrals and 82 contacts with people having challenges.
“We’re one of a very few departments in the state that actually has a licensed social worker on staff,” Gaylor said. “The reason that we do that is, it’s cut down on a lot of our nonemergency medical runs. A lot of times we run into, with assistance from the police department, someone who is having a mental problem. A lot of people don’t know how to get help, and so they might fake an injury or a cardiac event. Really, what they want is someone to talk to. They need resources to help them out with depression or anxiety or PTSD.”
Pristasch began with the department at the end of 2023, adding critical and valuable services to the department, Gaylor said.
“We had no idea the things that we were missing, the resources that are available in our community but also in Hamilton County and surrounding counties, until we brought Jamie in,” he said. “A lot of times
calls from
these folks would call repeatedly, two or three times a week and we would go out and help them. This has actually cut down a lot of our repeat customers, if you will. It’s less expensive to send Jamie out in an SUV to sit down and talk with the individual for 15 or 20 or 45 minutes versus a $1 million firetruck with a paramedic and an officer and a driver and a back-stepper that is now out of service. This model has been very beneficial to us.”
Gaylor also said the WFD added more than 140 users to its Community Connect program.
Community Connect is a free platform provided by the WFD that allows residents to share critical information with aid first
DISPATCHES
Ribbon cutting – Westfield Washington Schools will host a ribbon cutting at the new tennis complex, 7710 Shamrock Blvd., at 5 p.m. Aug. 20. The Westfield versus North Central High School tennis match takes place immediately following the ceremony. The tennis complex is the most modern tennis facility in the county, according to district officials, created with post-tensioned concrete that is “prestressed” during production to strengthen it to prepare for the wear-and-tear of constant use. Courts will be utilized by
district and community athletic programs and will be open to the public when not scheduled for use. The complex includes 15 tennis courts, lockers, restrooms and concessions.
Jams at the Junction, presented by Estridge Homes – The final installation of Westfield’s summer concert series at Grand Junction Plaza takes place at 7 p.m. Aug. 23, featuring No Fences, a Garth Brooks tribute band. The night includes food trucks and kids’ activities. Parking is
to July
(File
responders and emergency response personnel when responding to a call for help, such as whether there is a fire suppression system, if residents of the home have mobility or medical issues, if there are pets in the home and emergency contact information.
“It’s a way for residents in our community to share information with public safety as we respond,” Gaylor said. “Things that public safety folks need to know prior to getting to (that call).”
Register for the free service at communityconnect.io/info/in-westfield.
View the WFD midyear report at westfield.in.gov/egov/documents/1721412770_09754.pdf.
available near the Westfield Washington Public Library and Westfield Intermediate School and free shuttle service is provided.
Union Bible College tour – The Westfield Washington Historical Society will host a tour of Union Bible College and Academy — Indiana’s longest, continuously running college — from 7 to 9 p.m. Aug. 27. Visitors can learn about the school’s connection to the Underground Railroad. Participants will meet at 434 S. Union St. The event is free to attend.
The Westfield Fire Department answered 856 fire
January
2024.
photo)
Gaylor
COMMUNITY
DISPATCHES
Blood donations – The City of Westfield has partnered with Versiti/Indiana Blood Center to host a blood drive from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Aug. 30 at the Westfield Police Department, 17535 Dartown Rd. Sign up to donate at donate.indiana.versiti.org under the ‘schedule to donate’ tab.
Crew for Kids raises $200K – Indiana-based Crew Carwash recently partnered with Big Brothers Big Sisters for its 15th annual Crew for Kids fundraiser. Crew committed to donating 50 percent of the proceeds from all Ultimate Washes sold July 27 at all 48 Crew Carwash locations throughout Indiana and Minnesota to Big Brothers Big Sisters, along with cash and credit donations. Crew for Kids raised $201,786 in total for Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies.
Town Hall Meeting – Mayor Scott Willis will host a Town Hall meeting at 7 p.m. Sept. 12 at Westfield Washington Public Library, 17400 Westfield Blvd. This is the third in a series of quarterly meetings to provide residents with an opportunity to connect with the mayor and learn more about the vision for Westfield’s future, as well as ongoing community engagement efforts. Residents who would like to see certain topics discussed can email communications@westfield.in.gov.
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. Aug. 30 and Sept. 6. Visitors can bring lawn chairs or blankets to enjoy dinner and a movie on the Great Lawn. Movies will be announced on Westfield Welcome’s Facebook and Instagram accounts. Public 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.
Book signing event – Nicholas Meyer, award-winning author, screenwriter and director, will be at Black Dog Books, 115 S. Main St. in Zionsville at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 13 to sign copies of his latest book, “Sherlock Holmes And The Telegram From Hell.” Meyer is known for his bestselling novel ‘The Seven Percent Solution’ and for directing two ‘Star Trek’ franchise movies. The event is presented by Black Dog Books and the Indiana Sherlock Holmes Society. Call 317733-1747 to preorder a copy.
Walk-In-Closets
Reach -In- Closets
WESTFIELD LIONS CLUB SWEARS IN NEW OFFICERS
The new officers of the Westfield Lions Club were sworn in during the club’s July meeting at the clubhouse, 1101 E. 169th St. Attending the meeting are, back from left, Keith Sanborn, Tom Balchik, Rodney Benson, District Governor Rocky Simpson, Ron Mangus and John Wardlow and, front from left, Jeff Larrison, Bill Nesbitt, Craig Cooley and Jerry Kirby. The clubhouse is undergoing renovations to expand and update the meeting room, kitchen, bathrooms, conference room and to add storage. When completed, the building will be available for the public to rent. The Westfield Lions Club, founded in 1930, is the longest-serving service club in Hamilton County. For more, visit westfieldlions.org. (Photo courtesy of Westfield Lions Club)
New Westfield Lions Club members and their sponsors are, from left, Carrie Larrison, Judy Waldroup, District Governor Rocky Simpson, Jack Waldroup and Jeff Larrison.
Ignite plans match of week
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The Indy Ignite are more than four months away from opening their inaugural volleyball season, but team officials are working on building their fan base.
VOLLEYBALL
The team will host the Ignite High School Match of the Week Presented by Team Rehab starting Aug. 22.
we establish pro volleyball in Indiana as one of eight teams competing in the Pro Volleyball Federation in 2025, we want to support volleyball at all levels across the state of Indiana.”.
“It is designed to bring attention to the fact that women’s professional volleyball at the highest level is coming to Indiana in 2025,” said Randi Raff, Indy Ignite’s director of community engagement,
The Indy Ignite begins play at the Fishers Event Center in January 2025.
“It is also designed to make a difference in the lives of young volleyball players,” said Raff, a former head volleyball coach at the University of Southern Indiana and Indiana University assistant coach. “While
The team will select an Ignite Player of the Match and feature the player on the team’s social media platforms. The player also will receive Ignite gear and a pair of tickets to Ignite matches.
Indy Ignite High School Match of the Week schedule is:
Week 1: Aug. 22 — Pendleton Heights at Westfield; Week 2: Aug. 29
— Hamilton Southeastern at Brownsburg; Week 3: Sept. 3 — Roncalli at Cathedral; Week 4: Sept. 11 — Carmel at Zionsville, Sept. 12 — HSE at Fishers; Week 5: Sept. 17 — Brownsburg at Center Grove; Week 6: Sept. 25 — Noblesville at Carmel; Week 7: Oct. 2 — Westfield at Avon; Week 8: Wildcard Week
— The Ignite will choose three matches and poll social media audiences to pick the match to attend.
PUDs proposed in Westfield
By Marney Simon • marney@youarecurrent.com
The Westfield Advisory Plan Commission held two public hearings Aug. 5 regarding residential planned unit development proposals.
What happened: A public hearing was held regarding the proposed Westfield Yard PUD.
What it means: Westfield Yard PUD is a proposal to rezone 11 acres at Ind. 32 and Gray Road, adjacent to the Midland Trace Trail, to create a 70-unit townhome community. The applicant, Fischer Homes, plans the units to be priced between $350,000 and the high-$400,000s, with high-quality, low-maintenance housing options near the Midland Trace Trail as a key selling point. One resident spoke at the hearing, raising concerns about traffic on Ind. 32, utility relocation and drainage. APC members asked about the potential to improve facades along Ind. 32 and for more information on a pipeline easement that runs through the property.
What’s next:
The PUD moves to the APC workshop Sept. 16, with anticipated recommendation to the city council for a vote in October.
What happened: A public hearing was held for the Finley Creek Estates PUD.
What it means: The PUD, proposed by Silverthorne Homes, is located on 44 acres at 191st Street, just north of the recently approved Winterburg development with a proposed road connection to the Atwater community to the east. The proposal includes 84 single-family detached homes with sales prices averaging in the mid-$500,000s, as well as green space and a community garden. Concerns brought during the public hearing include sight lines along the adjacent roads to the development and whether development will affect existing drainage tiles on rural properties. APC members said they would like to see a playground added to the development, as well as buffering for neighboring properties.
What’s next:
The PUD moves to the APC workshop Sept. 16, with anticipated recommendation to the city council for a vote in October.
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Ghost tours reveal stories of Indiana’s past
By Conrad Otto conrad@youarecurrent.com
Unseen Press is a tourism company in Westfield that leads ghost tours through historic parts of Indiana, entertaining and educating participants about the history and folklore of the Hoosier state.
VISITORS
Unseen Press recently gave a tour in Westfield and discussed the city’s history and founding, its town hall and old buildings and its “haunted” history.
Unseen Press Co-owner Micheal Kobrowski answered the following questions about the business.
Why do ghost walks?
We thought it’s a great way to explore the places. We always like to have six to eight stops on the tour to have small, short stories on each place. Sometimes the stories get longer. We thought it was a great format.
How do you choose the locations?
Westfield we chose because, of course, we live here. We got stories from friends and businesses we’ve visited. We just look for stories, look for the history of buildings, too.
What is to be expected from the walks?
Our ghost walks last about an hour and 45 minutes to two hours depending. We walk about a mile, which means we stop quite a bit to tell the stories and then we walk to our next stop. We talk about the area; we talk about the history of the
buildings that we visit.
Have there been any crazy encounters recently?
Our Noblesville ghost walk we added on. There, we are able to go into one part of the Lacy (arts) building. We’re friendly with the owners, and they let us go in there if we can, when available. We investigated a few times, and one of the things that happened there that we heard and have a recording of was a banshee. My wife and I went to visit the place to check if the key works in the other door, and we heard it again. When you hear the scream, you’ll know.
How much do people capture in the hour-two-hour walk?
It varies. We can’t make them (ghosts) do party tricks. We always say the ghosts do what they want. Sometimes they show up, sometimes they don’t. People have gotten pictures that they couldn’t explain what it was, especially at the cemetery. People have been touched and scratched.
During those ghost walks, are there times when people’s skeptics’ minds change?
We almost every time start our tour with asking people how many of you are totally into ghosts, who’s a skeptic, who’s just along for the ride. We don’t do these tours to convince people into believing in the paranormal. We hope that people who aren’t really into the paranormal still come because we talk about history as well. To book a tour, visit unseenpress.com/ tours-events.
Micheal Kobrowski stands next to the grave of Mary F, who is believed to be the City of Westfield’s “Lady in White.” (Photo by Conrad Otto)
DISPATCHES
State of the Schools – Westfield Washington Schools superintendent Paul Kaiser will give an update on happenings within the school district during the Westfield Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon Sept. 19. The luncheon begins at 11 a.m. at the Bridgewater Club, 3535 E. 161st Street. Register online at westfieldchamberindy. com under the events tab.
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. Proceeds benefit the association’s mission of endowing, enhancing and enriching downtown Westfield. Reserve seats at westfieldchamberindy.com under the events tab.
Free shred days – Community First Bank of Indiana will have a free community shred event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept 24 at the CFB branch at 17661 Village Center Dr., Noblesville. Donations will be welcome to support Family Promise of Hamilton County. The event is drive through with a limit of five boxes per vehicle. All documents will be shredded on-site by PROSHRED Security and 100 percent of the paper is recycled. Learn more at CFBindiana. com/shred.
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, unique 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 vendor lineups and parking information, visit westfieldwelcome.com/ westfield-markets.
New troopers graduate — Indiana State Police announced that 21 troopers graduated from the 85th Indiana State Police Academy. Six were assigned to the Indiana State Police Indianapolis Post and will begin the next phase of training — a threemonth field training period riding with veteran troopers — to put into practical application the training received at the academy. The Indianapolis District includes Marion, Hamilton, Hancock, Shelby, Johnson, Hendricks and Boone Counties.
Cathedral High School congratulates Olympic Gold Medalist, Olympic recordsetter, and 2019 graduate Cole Hocker and extends a warm “you’re so welcome” to him. In a post-medal interview, Cole thanked Indianapolis, Indiana, and “especially Cathedral” for all the support. Cathedral is a faith-filled school where caring educators know, love, encourage, and support their students. And that support doesn’t end when a student graduates because of our Holy Cross value of Family. After winning Gold, Cole also stated, “I just felt like I was getting carried by the stadium and God.” How beautiful to see our Holy Cross value of Zeal on a world stage! Zeal, which is Cathedral’s Holy Cross Value for this school year, is the great desire to make God known, loved, and served. Those with this virtue fulfill their duties with eagerness, affection, courage, and perseverance. (Kind of like an Olympic Champion!) Greatness called, and you answered, Cole! You make our Holy Cross value of Excellence shine like GOLD!
GOCATHEDRAL.COM
Westfield Washington Schools receives construction updates
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Progress continues on Westfield Washington Schools’ latest construction projects, part of the district’s “Destination Westfield” long-term strategic plan for expansion to address growth.
SCHOOL NEWS
Jonathan Haggarty, executive vice president of Meyer Najem Construction, provided the board of education with updates on construction projects at the district’s new transportation center and events center in July.
Located along Ind. 32 west of Little Eagle Creek, the new transportation center will include parking for 250 buses, driver training stations, six mechanic bays, meeting space and expanded break areas. The center is anticipated for completion in June 2025.
Since the groundbreaking on the $52.5 million facility in April, fencing and grading
The new WWS transportation center will include parking for 250 buses.
have been completed, as well as construction of the building pad and installation of site utilities. Haggarty said 3D modeling of mechanical, electrical and plumbing also is complete.
As of July 1, Meyer Najem has only had to tap into $12,540 of the $1.16 million contingency fund allocation. Those funds were used for tree removal along Ind. 32.
“It’s been very favorable. We’ve only used 1 percent of that so far, it’s only been one change,” Haggarty said.
Crews are working this month on storm pipe installation, foundation work, mason-
ry work and drilling of geothermal wells. Crews are also awaiting steel delivery to begin installation.
Representatives from Meyer Najem will come to the board with the next transportation center update in September.
Haggarty said the events center, now officially dubbed Shamrock Station, will go to bid this month. Shamrock Station is the renovation of the old Westfield Washington Public Library, to provide event programming space, a culinary arts space and educational space for life skills programming.
“We will be targeting coming to you in the September board meeting for approval of those contracts and start work immediately,” he said. “This is a slightly delayed timeline based on some rework of budgets and design from when we were four or five months ago. Our intent is still to get this open by the (start of the) 2025-26 school year.”
Learn more about Westfield Washington Schools construction projects at wws.k12. in.us/about-us/destination-westfield-24.
(Photo by Marney Simon)
DISPATCHES
WWS parent app available – Westfield Washington Schools is now using the TalkingPoints platform to communicate with families. TalkingPoints allows for seamless multilingual two-way communication between teachers and families via text or through the free Families/TalkingPoints app. To ensure proper communication, parents should make sure contact information fields in PowerSchool are correct. Download the app at the App Store or on Google Play. Learn more at talkingpts. org/families.
Fellowship opportunity for college graduates – Orr Fellowship, an early career development program in Indiana, is accepting applications for its 2025 cohort of Orr Fellows. Qualified candidates for the two-year program must be anticipating graduation in August 2024, December 2024 or May 2025 and have a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher; a strong interest in leadership or business; demonstrated leadership and/or impactful work, life and volunteer experiences; and authorization to work in the United States. Orr Fellowship recruits, assesses and matches university graduates with high-agency roles in growing Indiana businesses, providing graduates with professional development resources and a support network to accelerate their careers. Orr Fellowship is funded in part by a Lilly Endowment grant to invest in capacity-increasing activities. The organization has a network of 624 alumni and 120 fellows, partnering with 41 companies in Indiana. Selected finalists will interview and be matched with partner companies Nov. 22. Apply at orrfellowship.org/apply.
Wellness summit – Employers looking to improve the health and productivity of their workers are encouraged to send representatives to the 2024 Indiana Wellness Summit Sept. 12-13 at the Indiana Convention Center in downtown Indianapolis. The two-day summit is a partnership between the Indiana Chamber of Commerce and Wellness Council of Indiana and brings together Hoosier health and wellness professionals to offer best practices that foster enhanced well-being for Indiana’s workplaces and communities. The summit will feature more than 30 educational sessions. Cost to attend is $449 for Indiana Chamber or WCI members, or $549 for nonmembers. Register at at indianawellnesssummit.com.
Zionsville resident pens book on pain, healing
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Brooke Martin was a public figure in Indianapolis when she received devastating news from her physician.
FAITH
An Emmy Award-winning news anchor and reporter for WISH-TV for 15 years, Martin said journalism was her dream job.
broken and vulnerable. It was the most heartbreaking and challenging thing, but it was also the most hopeful thing we’ve even been through.”
In 2018, the Zionsville resident announced on-air that she was pregnant with her second child. When a persistent bout of bronchitis brought her to her doctor’s office for treatment, she was offered a chance to check the baby’s development. It was then that her doctor discovered the baby, a girl, had a condition called anencephaly — a rare fatal condition where the baby’s skull does not develop.
Martin chose to carry the pregnancy to term. She and her husband Cole shared their unborn daughter’s diagnosis with viewers.
“I was 100 percent authentic,” Martin said of making her news public. “I was so
Martin’s daughter, Emma Noelle, was born March 15, 2019. She lived for 21 minutes. Emma Noelle’s name comes from the name Emmanuel, a Hebrew name which means ‘God is with us.’
Navigating her way through heartbreak, grief and healing, Martin said the experience led to what she refers to as a “spiritual journey.” She said while driving one day, she asked God to tell her what she should do next. In her mind’s eye, she saw a vision of a field undergoing a controlled burn.
Martin said that vision was an understanding of pain and how it grows: Pain is like fire — it can destroy everything in its path, but when controlled, it can create nutrient-rich soil.
“I knew I wanted to offer a message of hope and this was the framework,” Martin said. “On a total leap of faith, I left news. I just wanted to get this into people’s hands.”
Martin said she didn’t set out to write a book about her experience, but through conversations with others about her journey, she was connected with a literary agent who ultimately wanted to bring the story of a controlled burn as a metaphor for pain and healing to the public. The result is her new book, “Controlled Burn: Rising From the Ashes to Forge an Unshakeable Faith,” published by Dexterity Books.
Martin said while the writing process was difficult, she felt called to bring some hard truths to light to help others.
“It’s truth as opposed to comfort, but truth can lead to comfort,” Martin said. “It’s not a memoir. Primarily, it’s a guide to hope based in biblical truth.”
The book is a combination of advice and spiritual insights to help anyone navigating through difficult trials in life.
“Controlled Burn: Rising From the Ashes to Forge an Unshakeable Faith” is available for preorder on Amazon and at local booksellers. The paperback edition will be released Aug. 20.
Learn more about Brooke Martin’s journey at morewithbrookemartin.com.
DISPATCHES
Artist call – Indiana-based artists and arts organizations are invited to submit proposals for New Works, an annual commission program now in its fourth season at the Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. One winner will be selected for visual arts and three winners in the performing arts. The submission deadline is Sept. 13. Applications are available at thecenterpresents.org/ newworks.
Donor awareness walk – The 8th annual Strut 2 Save Lives takes place Sept. 8 at Dr. James A. Dillon Park, 6001 Edenshall Ln. in Noblesville. Strut 2 Save Lives honors the legacy of Bryan Clauson, an IndyCar and USAC driver who died in 2016 from injuries sustained in an on-track accident. A registered organ and tissue donor, Clauson’s gifts saved five people and helped heal countless others. Proceeds from the walk benefit the Indiana Donor Network Foundation. Check-in begins at 10 a.m. Registration is $30 for adults and $15 for children ages 2-12. Learn more at indianadonornetwork.org.
Martin
COVER STORY
ON THE GROW
Westfield continues to expand residential, commercial options for residents, businesses
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
There is almost no corner of the City of Westfield where the sound of nail guns or hammering are not heard throughout the day.
In 2023, a Census Bureau report showed Westfield was the sixth-fastest growing city in the U.S. with a population of more than 50,000, with a 7.7 percent increase in population between 2021 and 2022. Westfield was the only Midwestern city on the list. Most were in the South.
Growth has continued, evidenced most notably by the expansion of rooftops throughout the city.
According to an analysis by the Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis, new home permits issued by Westfield outpace other Hamilton County communities at a rate of three to five times more each month. As of July 1, of 1,657 new home permits issued in Hamilton County in 2024, 944 were in Westfield.
Earlier this year, the city approved residential developments at Ravinia and Townes at Union. In July, two additional planned unit developments came to the advisory plan commission to add two new residential developments to the city. The PUDs reflect Westfield’s continued growth.
“We have more permits being pulled in Westfield than any other county in central Indiana,” Mayor Scott Willis said. “If you take Westfield out of Hamilton County, we (issue more permits) than the rest of Hamilton County.”
According to BAGI, the new homes come at a time when inventory is low but demand is high.
“With delinquency rates at historical lows, there are few distressed property sales,” said Steve Lains, CEO of BAGI. “The only answer to demand currently is new home construction, which is why it continues to grow steadily,”
Willis said Westfield hits all the marks for people looking to build.
“Our school district is nationally ranked. When you look at the folks who are moving here, they are families — parents with kids,” Willis said. “I moved to Westfield 21 years ago because of the school district. I think that has been kind of a common
theme for a while.”
Willis said Westfield also has a strategic advantage that cities like Carmel and Fishers cannot claim — space.
“Carmel and Fishers are pretty much built out,” Willis said. “Finding a home in Carmel or Fishers is incredibly tough. Westfield is the only city right now (that’s) building because we’ve got lots of land. That combination of really being the only game in town, but then also add to it the fact that we can offer a new home product (is advantageous). A lot of people, whether it’s their first home or their forev-
er home, they want to build it. They want to live in a brand-new home that has their touches and their preferences to it.”
Willis said Westfield also has focused on expanding what is available, pointing to the city’s downtown development for retail and commercial and planning underway to add retail, restaurants and entertainment at Grand Park.
“When you look at Grand Park and some of the amenities we have and vision of where we’re heading as a community, I think people want to be a part of that,” he said.
GROWING WESTFIELD
The Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis issues a monthly breakdown of new home permits issued by municipalities in central Indiana, including those in Hamilton, Boone, Hancock, Hendricks, Johnson, Madison, Marion, Morgan and Shelby counties.
So far, Westfield outpaces every community, with 944 issued
Willis said one area where the city has struggled with growth is business. Roughly 90 percent of the city’s tax base is residential. Willis said the approval of North Point II — a commercial PUD at U.S. 31 and Ind. 38 — is a start.
“It starts with land, identifying land that is available for commercial use,” Willis said. “Historically in Westfield, we have not had a plan for that. The city overall and the comprehensive plan I don’t believe did a great job of identifying key corridors that fit what the commercial world is looking for. But once you identify it, you have to have it available. North Point II will provide, for the very first time in a long time, available land in Westfield so that when those corporations come calling and say they are interested in Westfield, we have something to offer. I don’t know if the city has always done a great job to toot our own horn — 5.5 million people (visit Grand Park annually). Why isn’t there a midpriced sit-down restaurant in Westfield? There is some low-hanging fruit and we’re getting serious about (economic development).”
Willis said he knows that not everyone is on board with the growth. But for his administration, he said growth is about embracing the inevitable.
“We can’t tell a farmer who is sitting on property that 20 years ago was worth $10,000 an acre and now is worth $200,000 an acre that they can’t sell their land,” Willis said. “We’ve created something in this community that people want to be a part of, and we have landowners who want to cash out. You just have to tell that story.”
in the first half of 2024. The next closest is the City of Indianapolis, with 787 issued in 2024 so far.
It’s a trend that has continued since 2021, when Westfield outpaced Indianapolis by 400 permits.
Since 2020, Westfield has issued 6,407 new home permits. Learn more at bagi.com.
ON THE COVER: Residential and commercial growth continues in the City of Westfield.
(Photo by Marney Simon)
Home lots are available throughout Westfield.
(Photos by Marney Simon)
New homes are being built in Westfield at a faster rate than any other Hamilton County municipality.
Actor returns as Jerry Lee Lewis in ‘Million Dollar Quartet’
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
For Brian Michael Henry, performing in “Million Dollar Quartet” expanded his musical horizons.
MUSICAL
“I love rock ‘n’ roll music, and I love getting to be able to play with a real band onstage,” he said. “The first time I played with a band was in this show and I’ve done it in many different situations since, but ‘Million Dollar Quartet’ taught me how to play with other musicians.”
Henry reprises his role as Jerry Lee Lewis in Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “Million Dollar Quartet” Aug. 29 to Oct. 6 at the Indianapolis venue. Henry played Lewis in the 2018 production at Beef & Boards.
The musical recounts an event on Dec. 4, 1956, when a twist of fate brought Lewis, Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins and Johnny Cash together at Sun Records in Memphis, Tenn., for a legendary jam session.
“There’s a new challenge every time I do it,” Henry said. “Sometimes, it’s the physicality. I’ll need to really stretch for the piano jumps and playing backwards. It’s also a lot of energy to keep up over the course of the show. Jerry Lee doesn’t really leave the stage once he enters at the beginning, so it’s a bit of an endurance test.”
Henry said he is in at least his 10th production of the musical.
“Some of those include productions where I was an understudy but went on and performed the role multiple times during the run,” he said. “I recently understudied Jerry Lee and Sam Phillips in both the Christmas version of the show and the original version. I was able to go on for Sam Phillips in both versions and it was really great to see the show from that vantage point.” Naturally, the show has become one of Henry’s favorites.
sicals, so doing this show is really a fun departure,” he said.
Henry looks forward to returning to Beef & Boards.
“When I did the show here in 2018, I just had a wonderful time,” he said.
“Working with Eddie (Curry) and Jeff (Stockberger) and everyone at Beef & Boards was so much fun and I’m really looking forward to seeing them again. I have some other great friends who will be in this production, so I’m looking forward to working with them as well. I also really enjoyed Indianapolis and I can’t wait to explore the city again.”
Curry returns in the role of Sam Phillips. Stockberger returns as director. Stockberger and Curry are Indianapolis residents.
hattan (N.Y.) School of Music.
Henry has written and recorded two albums, one EP and some singles
“I come from a classical music background, but with singing,” he said. “I went to school and grad school for opera. I’ve been playing piano since I was about 14, which is a little old to become a concert pianist, But, while I’ve gravitated toward classical music with singing, I’ve always been drawn to rock music at the piano. I used to have to barter with my piano teacher and if I’d work on my classical pieces, she’d in turn let me work on a Billy Joel song.”
‘LEGALLY BLONDE: THE MUSICAL’
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “Legally Blonde: The Musical” runs through Aug. 25 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Simply the Best: A Celebration of Tina Turner” is set for Aug. 22, followed by “Deceptions: An Evening of Magic & Lies” Aug. 23 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances start at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com
SYMPHONY ON THE PRAIRIE
“Free Fallin: The Tom Petty Concert Experience” is set for Aug. 23, followed by “Face 2 Face: A Tribute to Billy Joel and Elton John” Aug. 24 at Symphony on the Prairie at Conner Prairie in Fishers. Both performances start at 8 p.m. For more, visit indianapolissymphony.org.
‘THE WOMAN IN BLACK’
Carmel Community Players’ production of “The Woman in Black” runs through Aug. 25 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.
IMAGINE DRAGONS
Imagine Dragons: Loom World Tour is set for 7 p.m. Aug. 20 at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville. For more, visit livenation.com.
NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK
New Kids on the Block with Paula Abdul and DJ Jazzy Jeff will perform at 7 p.m. Aug. 25 at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville. For more, visit livenation.com
DISPATCH
“I tend to do a lot of ‘Golden Age’ mu-
Henry, who is based in New York City, grew up in Lock Haven, Pa., and earned his undergraduate degree at Penn State University and his master’s at the Man-
Making their Beef & Boards debuts are Sam C. Jones as Johnny Cash, Cody Craven as Carl Perkins and Jesse Plourde as Elvis. The production’s hit songs include “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Fever,” “Walk the Line,” “Sixteen Tons,” “Who Do You Love?”, “Great Balls of Fire,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On” and “Hound Dog.”
For more, visit beefandboards.com.
Fishers Blues Fest announces headliners — The Nickel Plate District AMP will host the 12th annual Blues Fest Aug. 31 and Sept. 1. The free two-night festival includes performances by local and national blues artists. Headliners for the all-ages, family-friendly concert lineup include Shemeika Copeland Aug. 31 and Bernard Allison Sept. 1. The full lineup for both nights will be released at npdamp.com/BluesFest. Tickets aren’t required for admission.
Brian Michael Henry reprises his role of Jerry Lee Lewis in Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “Million Dollar Quartet.” (Photo courtesy of Beef & Boards)
Henry
CSO to hold Motown/disco concert
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Mélisse Brunet has a broad appreciation for Motown and disco classics.
MUSIC
Brunet
“A lot of people grew up with that music,” said Brunet, who grew up in Paris. “It’s a lot of nostalgia and it’s part of our DNA. I’m so glad a lot of this music also includes orchestra.”
Brunet will serve as guest conductor for Carmel Symphony Orchestra’s Motown and Disco concert. She will be joined by Jeans ’n Classics, a group of musicians who blend rock music with symphonies, at 8:30 p.m. Aug. 23 at Coxhall Gardens in Carmel.
Brunet, who lives in Philadelphia, is the conductor for the Lexington (Ky.) Philharmonic and Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, Pa.
Brunet conducted Jeans ’n Classics last year.
“It’s a great band,” she said. “I’m also working with them with my orchestra in Pennsylvania. I’m doing a Queen (tribute) show with them. They’re amazing. I love both disco and Motown. ‘Disco Inferno’ always makes me very happy. People are going to have a big variety of selections that are going to bring back memories to them. I hope to see a lot of costumes.”
She recently conducted a pop show in Lexington, where she wore a Tina Turner dress and Prince’s “Purple Rain” outfit.
There will be a disco costume contest at 7:30 p.m. before the CSO concert.
Brunet was featured in “Maestra,” a 2023 documentary about five international female conductors.
Brunet came to the U.S. from Paris in 2010 as an exchange student.
“I didn’t know that I would love the U.S. and American people,” she said. “I became an American citizen in February. I have a lot of qualities that are purely American and I didn’t know about that before I moved because each country is so different. The only thing that hasn’t changed is my accent.”
For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21
THE PALLADIUM
The Center Celebration 2024 presented by Ice Miller is SOLD OUT! We’re so grateful to the many generous people and companies who have signed on to support the Center’s wide range of arts and educational programming, from big-name concerts to classes and lectures to free events for schools to our Prism Project arts camp for youth with disabilities – and the list goes on.
Even if you missed this opportunity, you can still join us in continuing to bring these programs to the community. Just visit our website at TheCenterPresents.org/Donate to make a tax-deductible donation to the Center and its mission.
Proceeds benefit the Center’s arts and educational programming
Special thanks to our community partners, including Ice Miller, First Merchants Bank, Aaron Wealth Advisors, Open Gate Design, the Payne & Mencias Group, Studio M Architecture, Will and Yasmin Stump and Shiel Sexton
Kiddie Academy of Chatham Hills - Westfield 1324 Chatham Commons Boulevard, Westfield, IN 46074
317.343.0654
kiddieacademy.com/chatham-hills-westfield
Today in Real Estate
On July 1, 2024, Indiana passed a new law regarding buyer’s agency representation and compensation. This resulted from a series of settlements from class action lawsuits and pressure from the DOJ that specifically addressed how buyers’ agents were compensated in real estate transactions.
Before July 1, when a seller and their agent signed a listing agreement, that agreement included a commission fee that paid the listing agent’s brokerage and the buyer’s agent brokerage upon completion of the transaction. Now, this has changed. Sellers may still offer to pay a commission to buyer’s agents, but this is no longer guaranteed or standardized. As a result, buyers may need to consider paying their agents directly for their services.
This leads us to buyer agency agreements. These are contracts between buyers and their agents, outlining the terms of their working relationship. While not entirely new, they are now required. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Services provided: The agreement specifies what services your agent will offer, such as property searches, market analysis, and negotiation assistance.
2. Duration: This sets a timeframe for the agreement, which can be adjusted according to your needs.
3. Exclusivity: Many agreements are exclusive, meaning you agree to work only with that agent for a specified period.
4. Compensation: This is a key change. The agreement will outline how your agent will be paid. It might include options like:
• You pay a flat fee or hourly rate
• You paying a percentage-based commission
• The agent is paid from the seller’s offered commission, if available
• A combination of these methods
• Termination clause: This explains how either party can end the agreement if needed.
These changes offer several benefits:
• Transparency: You’ll know exactly what services you’re getting and how much they cost.
• Flexibility: You can negotiate terms that work best for your situation.
• Commitment: Agents may be more motivated to provide excellent service when there’s a clear agreement. However, there are also considerations:
• Upfront costs: You should budget for agent services separately from your home purchase.
• Complexity: The home-buying process may seem more complicated initially.
As your realtor, we will guide you through these changes, ensuring you understand your options and helping you make informed decisions. We are here to answer any questions and tailor our working relationship to best serve your needs in this evolving real estate landscape.
Remember, these changes are designed to give you more control and transparency in your home-buying journey. Together, we can navigate this new system to find your ideal home while ensuring fair compensation for the professional services provided. We’d be happy to elaborate on any specific aspects if you’d like more information.
Robbin Edwards and Erin Wilson are the founding members of Edwards Realty Group. You can contact Robbin at robbin.edwards@encoresir.com
Barkeep Vodka hits market
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Craig Huse is convinced Barkeep Vodka will be popular with vodka drinkers.
BEVERAGES
“In my 35 years in the hospitality industry, I’ve had the privilege of sampling nearly every premium vodka on the market,” said Huse, CEO of Huse Culinary who also is one of four partners in Barkeep Vodka. “Yet nothing compares to the purity and smoothness of Barkeep Vodka, crafted using True Essence Foods’ patented compression filtering process. This groundbreaking technology has set a new standard for vodka and is poised to revolutionize the spirits industry as a whole. We are thrilled to pioneer this transformation with Barkeep Vodka, delivering the cleanest-tasting vodka experience to Hoosiers.”
Huse Culinary operates several Indianapolis-area restaurants, including St. Elmo Steak House, 1933 Lounge and HC Tavern + Kitchen.
“True Essence Foods Flavor Balancing equipment is a proprietary, nonadditive mechanical filtration system that uses
controlled pressure to eliminate off-flavors, resulting in a cleaner, balanced, more consistent tasting spirit without additives or preservatives,” said Matt Rubin, CEO of True Essence.
The product is available at most package liquor stores and should be available soon at major grocery stores. Along with Huse Culinary restaurants, it is available at other area restaurants.
Along with Jones and Craig Huse, the other partners are Jamie Blake and Chris Clifford. All live in the Indianapolis area.
“We feel this is an important fact when zero of the top 10 best-selling vodkas in Indiana are both owned and operated in the Midwest,” Jones said.
For more, visit barkeepvodka.com.
Barkeep Vodka was recently launched by four Indianapolis-area partners. (Photo courtesy of David Puimer)
CARMEL JAZZ FESTIVAL ATTRACTS VISITORS
The second Carmel Jazz Festival’s Aug. 9 schedule included Danny Lerman on Carter Green stage and “America’s Got Talent” contestant Bryan Thompson, who performs as B. Thompson, opening for Antonia Bennett and Carmel Symphony Orchestra at the Palladium at the Center for the Performing Arts. The two-day festival concluded Aug. 10. (Photos by Jennifer A. Haire)
“America’s Got Talent” fan and Connecticut resident Maceo Miller, 9, was excited to see B. Thompson perform live. He attended the concert with his grandfather Marvin Miller (Carmel). Maceo plays trumpet, bass and flute.
FREE EVENT LIGHT UP THE NIGHT
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:
Join Hamilton County Parks and Recreation for a free visual experience from 6 to 10 p.m. Aug. 23 at Potter’s Bridge Park in Noblesville, 19401 Allisonville Rd. The historical bridge will be decorated with luminaries and the event will have live music, food trucks, a beer truck and lighted canoes.
OTHER FREE AREA EVENTS
GREEKFEST — GreekFest, an event with authentic Greek food, live Greek bands, cooking demonstrations and more will take place from 4 to 10 p.m. Aug. 23 and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Aug. 24 at 3500 W. 106th St. in Carmel. Admission is free and items will be available for purchase.
Brotherhood Designs utilizes their Retired Fire Hose Waste Reduction Program to create Patriotic art as well as to supply zoos and animal sanctuaries with material they upcycle for rehabilitation and enhancement of their habitat.
x 24”-32”
on the number of letters
at $300
Make sure to check out the stories of how two local Hamilton County firefighters are making a difference and helping the environment. A full line of products can be found on our direct to consumer website,
, or by scanning the QR CODE
painted version Rustic, non-painted version
Rob and Ingrid Perdue (Carmel)
Kenneth and Diane Wendeln (Carmel)
• Maintenance-free living with seasonal lawn care and 24-hour maintenance
• Functional and stylish floor plans with wooded and waterfront views
• Wide array of amenities including community trails, fitness center, pool and a pet spa
• Planned social activities, trips and educational events
• TrailSEEKERS wellness program for a more fulfilling experience
Zionsville native pens book on yoga and spirituality
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Sally Bassett knows how to stay centered.
A Zionsville resident, Bassett began her professional career at age 20 with ATA Airlines in Indianapolis as a flight attendant, then working her way up over the course of 30 years to become CEO of the former airline’s Ambassadair Travel Club.
WELL-BEING
With the club, she led tour groups to more than 120 countries. But she knew there was more she wanted to do.
“After Sept. 11 (2001), during that crazy time period, I decided to do yoga training just for fun and just to balance me out,” she said. “I opened my own studio.”
Bassett opened a yoga studio in Eagle Creek Park. She earned her doctorate in tourism from Purdue University in 2005. That same year, she created the Peace Through Yoga Foundation, a nonprofit with the mission to make an impact through international yoga, adventure and service retreats focusing on empowering girls and women in the destinations they visit and serve.
Bassett leads four to six trips each year with the foundation. Her experience inspired her to write a book, ‘Spiritual Transformational Yoga,’ published by Christian Faith Publishing.
“I love yoga and I love what it does for you,” Bassett said. “People come to the mat for physical reasons, to tone or for flexibility. But if they stick with it, they find out it’s so much more. It’s calming, it’s peaceful.”
Bassett said the book includes everything she knows and wants to share about yoga, from the physical benefits to, as the title suggests, spiritual transformation from the centuries-old practice.
Bassett said yoga can provide a path for inner peace, a concept she shares in her book. Her book breaks down yoga poses and postures, but also explores meditation, spirituality, balance and healing.
“In the end, yoga is for everyone,” she said. “It enhances your faith, whatever that is for you. (Yoga) is not a religion — it supports your religion. It gets you to a place to be closer to God. People who come to my classes have an intention, whether it’s joy or spiritual IQ.”
Bassett teaches at Blooming Life Yoga and Pilates in Zionsville.
“I love this community,” she said. “I’m really living my best life. I love taking small groups and changing lives.”
‘Spiritual Transformational Yoga’ is available in paperback at Black Dog Books and on Amazon.
Learn more about the Peace Through Yoga Foundation at peacethroughyoga. org.
Author and yoga instructor Sally Bassett recently had a book signing event at Black Dog Books in Zionsville. (Photo courtesy of Sally Bassett)
BUSINESS LOCAL
DISPATCHES
Party on the patio – The 2024 Party on the Patio series hosted by the Downtown Westfield Association is 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 20 at Grand Junction Brewing Co. The party is sponsored by Grand Junction and Huston Electric, which is celebrating 85 years in business in Indiana. The event includes food and drinks. Grand Junction Brewing Co. serves the community from their tap room and production facility located just outside of Grand Park on 181st St. Funds raised will benefit Student Impact. Register for the 21-and-older event at westfieldchamberindy. com under the events tab.
Coolest things made in Indiana – Businesses and budding entrepreneurs have an opportunity to show off their wares at the Indiana Chamber’s fourth annual ‘Coolest Thing Made IN Indiana’ competition. Companies entered in the tournament face off in a single-elimination bracket format. The Indiana Destination Development Corp. joins the Indiana Chamber of Commerce as a program sponsor this year. The partnership will provide competitors with additional recognition through posts and videos on the IDDC’s social media and statewide plat-
forms. Products entered must be made in the Hoosier state. Businesses are limited to one submitted product. Online fan voting determines the winner of each matchup. The tournament tips off in late October and concludes in November. Entry is free. Applications are accepted through Oct. 18 at indianachamber.com/coolest.
Showcase & Taste of Westfield – The Westfield Chamber of Commerce will host the second Showcase and Taste of Westfield from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Oct. 3 at Grand Park’s main fieldhouse. Exhibitors will have the opportunity to put their businesses on display and connect with businesses and potential customers at one of the chamber’s largest networking events of the year. All types of businesses can participate, including restaurants, service and health care providers, legal professionals, entertainment venues, food providers and more. Restaurants, caterers, wineries, breweries and other food service establishments are invited to provide menu tastings as well. The deadline for exhibitor registration is Sept. 20. For registration information, visit westfieldchamberindy.com under the “events” tab.
COME
Now hear this (if you can stand the sound of it)
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
What is misophonia?
Well, if you have misophonia, you’re not going to like the sound of this. Actually, if you have it, you are not going to like the sound of a few things. The malady is characterized by an aversion to certain everyday sounds. This is a serious disorder, but let’s look at the lighter side of it by going to its website.
HUMOR
One primary care physician claims there are certain noises he can’t tolerate. Hopefully, “Ouch!” and “ahhh…” are not examples. He admits being overly sensitive to yawners and to people whose “saliva is audible when they speak.” By the way, if your saliva is saying anything interesting, I’d like to interview you for a column. Over the phone.
Many people expressed relief at discovering that other people had this problem. One man said that he suffered from the disorder way before he knew there was a word for it. This is not so unusual. As a kid, I often took candy bars off the
shelf at the supermarket and stuck them in my pocket. I had a bachelor’s degree in psychology before I realized I was a kleptomaniac.
One woman hated the sound of heavy breathing, and when she heard anyone doing it, she immediately left the room. She signed her post as “Chastity.” Makes sense. Another lady said that she hated it when people whistled through their noses and still another said that she could not stand the sound of her own chewing. OK, lady, just keep your mouth shut. All the time.
The sound of people eating popcorn was mentioned in several posts. And the crunching of apples drives a lot of people bonkers. One farmer said when her husband eats an apple, she must cover her ears, “but listening to my horse eating an apple doesn’t bother me at all.” Here’s another post: “I can’t stand any sounds that are emitted orally.” So, apparently if her partner doesn’t snore or burp, she’s happy with anything. A newlywed said that her husband’s eating sounds disgust her and she’s thinking of leaving him. What? She’s
“Many people expressed relief at discovering that other people had this problem. One man said that he suffered from the disorder way before he knew there was a word for it. This is not so unusual.”
– DICK WOLFSIE
just now discovering this? Waiting until marriage for intimacy is one thing, but waiting for your first meal together? What cult is that?
The sounds made by ice cream eaters are also annoying to some people -- what with the lip-smacking and the spoon hitting the bottom of the bowl. One woman confessed she was thinking about doing away with her husband, but instead she told him he was lactose intolerant. A senior citizen said that when his wife slurps soup, he wants to ring her neck. By the way, ringing is another sound some people hate.
Check out the website Misophonia. com. Are these real people with legitimate concerns? Who knows. Maybe it’s all just hearsay.
ADVERTISEMENT FOR REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Proposals for the performance of the City of Westfield’s Landscape Maintenance Services will be received by the City of Westfield, Indiana, at the Westfield Public Works Building, 2728 E. 171st Street, Westfield, Indiana, 46074 until 12:00 p.m., local time, on Friday, October 18th, 2024. Written confirmation of intent to bid is due on August 30th, 2024. A copy of the full Request for Proposals documents can be found on the City of Westfield website at http://www.westfield.in.gov
Please direct all questions regarding this Request for Proposals to Ben Meier, Parks and Recreation Landscape Manager, City of Westfield, 2706 E 171st Street, Westfield, IN 46074, (317) 619-5813, bmeier@westfield.in.gov
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
Different in the same way?
Commentary by Terry Anker
Studies have long shown that we humans tend to flock together. It seems that we are likely to earn about the same as those with whom we spend most of our time. That makes some sense, one could suppose, because we’d then have about the same disposable income to enjoy together and we’d be confronted with many similar financial challenges. Likewise, we are ordinarily within 20 percent or so in personal body weight to those in our social circle. OK, if we work out a lot or find ourselves to be barbecue masters, our proximity to the ideal BMI might direct us to collect with others similarly motivated.
ESSAY
The same can be said about education levels, political proclivities, religious identity and conception of justice. We absorb the world around us in the context of the way that others react to it. Still, many of us are confirmed in the belief that we are independent thinkers, free from the influence of social order and constraint.
Are we simply fooling ourselves by seeking those who are not a part of our peer group with whom to find a contrast? We stand on one side of the street with our people and point mockingly at those situated on the other. They might declare, “How can they stand to be in the sun?” At the very same time, others express, “We are so grateful for the warmth and light afforded over here!”
Perspective is important in forming our world view. Yet, what is the role of our innate human urge to be a part of the club? Perhaps, even more urgently, we fear being excluded. Doesn’t even the most eccentric of us search for a cohort of equally unusual persons to call partners? Don’t we want to be different in the same way as them?
Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@youarecurrent. com.
BATHROOMS
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INVITATION TO BID for the Project: WESTFIELD-WASHINGTON SCHOOLS
SHAMROCK SPRINGS ELEMENTARY 747 W 161st Street Westfield, IN 46074
Pre-Bid Conference: This meeting will be conducted virtually. August 20th, 2024; 9:00 am (EST) https://tinyurl.com/Shamrock-Springs-PreBidMTG Bid due date:
September 5, 2024; 2:00 pm (EST) Via Building Connected
Public Bid Opening Immediately Following: Westfield Washington Schools 19500 Tomilson Road, Suite B Westfield, IN 46074
Virtual Bid Opening Option:
https://tinyurl.com/Shamrock-Springs-Bid-Opening
Notice is hereby given that Garmong Construction Services (“CMc”), is requesting bids from qualified contractors to provide work and services related to the public work projects located at WestfieldWashington Schools for Shamrock Springs Elementary, in Westfield, IN.
Bids must be submitted electronically using Building Connected.
The sealed bids for this project at Westfield-Washington Schools for Shamrock Springs Elementary will be received electronically until September 5, 2024, at 2:00 PM (EST).
All bids received at such place, date, and time will be opened and read aloud publicly at the location listed above immediately after the posted time. All bids received after such time or incomplete bids will not be considered.
All work for the complete construction of and services for this project shall be performed under contracts with the CMc. The form of the contract is set forth in the bidding documents. Bidders must submit a completed SBOA Form 96 financial statement, statement of experience, proposed plan or plans for performing the work, and the resources, labor, technology, materials, supplies, and equipment bidder has available for the performance of the work. Bidders must include a satisfactory bid bond or certified check pursuant to Ind. Code § 36-1-12-4.5, payable to the CMc. Bid security shall be in the amount of 5% of the bidder’s total contract price. Should a successful bidder within ten (10) days after written notice of acceptance of bid withdraw its bid, fail to provide the required payment and performance bonds, or execute a satisfactory contract, the CMc may then declare that bid security forfeited as liquidated damages, not as a penalty.
Bidding documents for each project, including plans and specification are on file with the CMc and examined at https://tinyurl.com/Shamrock-Springs-Elementary (“Bidding Site”) Bidders must establish an account on the Bidding Site in order to be added to a distribution list to allow the bidder to receive communications, notices, and addendums related to the bidding documents.
Prior to approval and execution of the CMc’s contracts, each contractor who is the successful bidder for a project shall furnish an approved performance and labor and materials payment bond in the amount of 100% of the contract amount, which shall cover the faithful performance of the contract and the payment of all obligations arising thereunder. Performance and payment bonds shall remain in full force and effect for a period of one (1) year after the CMc’s acceptance of the work and CMc’s final settlement with the successful bidder.
CMc reserves the right to hold bids, including any alternates, for up to sixty (60) days from the date of the bid opening. CMc reserves in its sole discretion the right to cancel the solicitation, reject any or all bids, is not obligated to accept the lowest or any other bid, and may waive any irregularities, discrepancies, omissions, variances or informalities in the bidding procedure.
A meeting for discussion of this project, reviewing the scope of work, project specifications and drawings, contract documents, qualifying requirements, and other important matters will be on August 20, 2024, at 9:00 am EDST. All prospective offerors are encouraged to attend this important meeting. Offerors will be responsible for complying with items discussed at the meeting.
Questions regarding this project, or requests for fair and equal treatment, can be directed in writing to the CMc via Bidding Site or at bochsenhaut@garmong.net
Blueprint for Improvement: Open concept overhaul in Carmel
Commentary by Larry Greene
You had us at open concept! Our team was thrilled to help our clients reimagine their east Carmel home’s first floor. We transformed a dated layout into a modern, functional space that balances aesthetics and practicality. By removing walls and reworking the floorplan, a spacious open-concept kitchen and dining area were created — now ideal for entertaining both family and guests.
THE BLUEPRINT
• The former kitchen and dining room spaces were combined to create a new, larger kitchen that serves as the heart of the home.
• An underutilized formal living room evolved into the new dining room, improving flow and expanding gathering space.
• The new island is the perfect combination of form and function–increasing prep and convening space, while also defining the kitchen and dining areas.
• Rich wood tones on the new flooring and windows add a warm contrast to the cool hues of the cabinets, pendant lights and polished chrome hardware.
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.
LIFESTYLE
NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS!
kayo count
32. Pub projectile
33. First-aid kit item
34. See 17-Across
36. Decrease
39. “In that case...”
40. Chum
43. Bird-related
44. Pound hound
45. Havana’s home
46. Pretzel topping
47. Viral GIF, e.g.
48. Arm part
49. Moving day rental
51. DePauw vs. Wabash, for one
53. Spoofs or pranks
55. See 17-Across
56. Common soccer score
57. Charged particle
58. Drug addict
59. Stoli and Smirnoff
60. Hoosier astronaut
Grissom
61. IU profs’ degrees Down
1. Sure thing 2. Create motion pictures? 3. Balkan native
4. Gym wear
5. Fourth rock from the Sun
6. Mess hall grub
7. UFO crew
Cried like a kitten
Workplace safety org.
No-nos for Olympians
Shapiro’s dessert choice
Non-Rx
Teensy
Stubborn beast
“___ It Be”
Chemical element
29. Advise of danger
30. Kind of list
32. Day’s first light
33. Rose-Hulman, e.g. (Abbr.)
34. Geist docking device
35. “Please, go ahead”
36. Car fuel
37. Indianapolis Fertility Center lab eggs
38. Not at full strength
40. Put into print
41. Scrubbed, at NASA
42. Barnes & Thornburg staffers
44. A Simon
45. Keep mum
47. Ponders
48. Juan Peron’s first lady
50. Palindromic girl’s name
52. Brown County lodgings
53. WFYI film series
54. Numero ___
SR. SOFTWARE ENGINEER
BorgWarner PDS (USA), Inc. seeks a Sr. Software Engineer based out of our office at 2151 E Lincoln Road, Kokomo, Indiana 46902. Note, this is a hybrid position whereby the employee will work both from home and from the aforementioned office address; from our technical center, 13975 BorgWarner Drive, Noblesville, Indiana 46060; and from home. Hence, the employee must live within a reasonable commuting distance of the aforementioned office address. Note, this position does not require travel. Design and implement embedded software solutions for automotive controllers, among other duties. Email resume to ccregar@borgwarner.com and reference job number R2024-1124.
PUZZLE ANSWERS
Glaziers / Glass Installers –Gatsby Glass of NW Indianapolis is now hiring! Join now to support our rapidly growing business – apply by email at GG135@gatsbybyglass.com
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