December 3, 2024 — Westfield by Current Publishing

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Mayor Willis touts $1 billion in commercial investment in Westfield

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

Westfield Mayor Scott Willis delivered his first State of the City address to nearly 400 guests at the Westfield Chamber of Commerce luncheon Nov. 21 at the IMMI Conference Center.

CITY NEWS

Willis focused his 45-minute speech on progress and challenges in 2024.

“I was handed a very good hand to play,” Willis said, thanking former Mayor Andy Cook, who attended the luncheon. “We’re going to take advantage of that, and certainly Mayor Cook and his staff were a big part of that, and I am forever grateful for that.”

Willis said 2024 was a record year for investment in Westfield, nearing $1 billion in commercial investment. Willis has previously said commercial development is one of his key priorities for his administration, noting that the city’s tax base is roughly 90 percent from residential.

“I said we were going to expand our commercial tax base, and we are doing just that,” he said. “We’re not there yet. We have more work to do but this is a great start for 10 months in office. But we’ve got a lot more work to do to get Westfield in a healthy place where we have a good balance between residential and commercial.”

The mayor also touted advances in public safety in 2024, including plans for a new Westfield Police Department Headquarters near Grand Park and John Dippel boulevards. The city expects to break ground at the site in mid-2025 and open in 2027. The building will accommodate the department’s future growth and expansion.

The city also is in the planning phase for Fire Stations 84 and 85. The Westfield Fire Department anticipates a 25 percent increase in staff for Station 84.

Other accomplishments Willis discussed for 2024 include the introduction of a capital improvement plan and more than $200 million committed to downtown projects such as Union Square, Park and Poplar and Ambrose on Main.

Willis said the city’s purchase of Wood Wind Golf Club in 2024 was a major investment in green space preservation.

“The golf course was in jeopardy,” he

said. “I had been approached before I was mayor about a redevelopment of that golf course into high-density housing. I told them no, go away. They came back a couple of times and it got to a point where we were very concerned about what was going to happen. So, I said… if you want to sell the golf course, we’ll buy it. That started off a series of conversations, and at the end of the day we own the golf course.”

Willis said while the $3.1 million price tag seems high, the land is valued at $11 million.

“We got a pretty good deal, and the golf course generates revenue every year,” he said. “Last year, the profits were about $300,000, and it’s going to continue to climb for a lot of reasons. I am excited about the potential. My commitment to you who live here in Westfield who golf at Wood Wind, we are going to reinvest every dollar we make on that golf course into that golf course to get it where it needs to

be to be a world-class course. I think it’s a very good place to play.”

Willis discussed his four-pillar plan, which includes quality growth and livability; accountability and transparency; excellence in public safety; and empowerment through continuous improvement. Willis said the pillars are a roadmap for the city’s long-term success.

Willis also highlighted new businesses opened or announced in Westfield in 2024, including Becky the Bakester, Bub’s Burgers, Rise n’ Roll Bakery, Portal Diabetes, Skender Construction, HNTB Engineering and Community Health Network’s new hospital campus.

Willis will host a 2024 Year in Review at 7 p.m. Jan. 15, 2025, at the Westfield High School Auditorium. The event will be free, but attendees are asked to register as seating is limited.

Reserved tickets will be available in mid-December.

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obits@youarecurrent.com Contact the editor Have a news tip, calendar item or photo to share? Contact Managing Editor Marney Simon at marney@youarecurrent.com or call 317.489.4444 ext. 804. You also may submit information at currentinwestfield.com. Our print deadline is eight days prior to publication. Submissions for online accepted daily.

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The views of the columnists in Current in Westfield are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.

Westfield Mayor Scott Willis delivers his State of the City address Nov. 21. (Photo courtesy of City of Westfield)

Westfield Youth Assistance Program announces Giving Tuesday donation match

news@youarecurrent.com

Westfield Youth Assistance Program recently launched its 2024 campaign leading up to Giving Tuesday Dec. 3. The campaign’s goal is to raise $24,000 for WYAP programming and operations.

NONPROFIT

WYAP connects youth with services such as mentoring, tutoring, mental health counseling, summer camps, enrichment activities, and more. The funding for WYAP’s services is mainly through donations and sponsorships from members of the Westfield community.

The organization takes part annually in Giving Tuesday, a global movement that asks people to take time during the holiday season to think about how they can give back to their communities.

Anonymous donors to WYAP have pledged a $12,000 match to this year’s fundraising effort.

“We are beyond grateful to our generous matching donors and all those who plan to

donate to our Giving Tuesday campaign,” WYAP Board President Tammy Havard stated. “It is truly inspiring to see our community come together to make a lasting positive impact on our youth.”

Founded in 2009, WYAP assists local youth and their families who face challenging life circumstances. Over the past 15 years, the organization has grown exponentially alongside rapid expansion in

In 2023, WYAP connected 30 youth with a mentor; served 64 youth with WYAP tutors; connected uninsured/underinsured youth with 456 individual/family therapy sessions; and provided 397 camp and enrichment activity opportunities for Westfield youth. Giving Tuesday donations can be made at westfieldyouth.kindful.com. The campaign is open through Dec. 7.

DISPATCHES

Gingerbread house competition — Local Girl Scouts will host a gingerbread competition during Westfield in Lights Dec. 7. The winner is chosen by earning the most in monetary donations. Proceeds will benefit Hands of Hope foster care services and Cure SMA which funds research for spinal muscular atrophy. The competition begins Dec. 5 at Christ United Methodist Church, 318 N Union St. and the winner will be announced on the main stage at Westfield in Lights at 5:20 p.m. Online voting is available at tinyurl.com/ mtp7c9z4.

Westfield Holiday Festival — Westfield High School Performing Arts students including concert band, symphonic band, wind symphony, percussion ensemble, New Waves Choir, Signature Sound Choir and Limited Edition Choir are part of the holiday festival at 7 p.m. Dec. 13 and 2 p.m. Dec. 14 at the WHS auditorium. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for students. Purchase tickets at westfield.band/concerts.

Westfield Youth Assistance Program mentor Rachel with mentee Daisy. (Photos courtesy of WYAP)

Westfield Youth Assistance Program tutor Jennifer assists program participant Memito. Westfield.

Beckwith visit to WHS back on

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

Indiana Lt. Gov.-elect Micah Beckwith will visit Westfield High School this month after a dispute over a planned visit in November brought the Noblesville Republican to the airwaves.

AGRICULTURE

Beckwith went on the Kendall and Casey broadcast on 93.1 WIBCFM Nov. 21 and said he had been invited to observe the agriculture program at WHS. Indiana’s lieutenant governor serves as the state’s secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. A part of the governor’s cabinet, duties of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture include advocacy for Indiana agriculture at managing soil conservation programs and licensing grain firms throughout the state, according to the ISDA website, in.gov/isda/ about/about-isda.

courage these students to go into the agriculture world because that’s the backbone industry of Indiana.”

However, Beckwith told the radio program that his invitation to WHS was rescinded after parents complained about the visit.

During the broadcast, Beckwith encouraged listeners to call or email Westfield Washington Schools Superintendent Paul Kaiser. The following day, the invitation was reissued.

In a message to WWS families Nov. 22, the district wrote:

“I accepted (the invitation), I was excited to do that,” Beckwith said during the broadcast. “Let’s go talk about ag. I was excited to answer any questions and en-

“Westfield High School agricultural science students are looking forward to presenting our award-winning program to Lieutenant Governor-elect Micah Beckwith, who will serve as the Secretary of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture. Invitations have also been extended to the current Lieutenant Governor Suzanne Crouch, Westfield’s Mayor Scott Willis, Senator Jim Buck as well as incoming House Representatives Danny Lopez and Hunter Smith. We are working with all involved to find a date in December.”

Beckwith

David Weekley Homes unveils new models in Westfield

news@youarecurrent.com

David Weekley Homes recently hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the grand opening of its new model homes — The Sterling and The Woodson — at Harvest Trail in Westfield on 191st Street, just north of Grand Park.

DEVELOPMENT

The Sterling model home features three bedrooms, two full baths, one half bath and a two-car garage. The Woodson model home features five bedrooms, four full baths, one half bath and a three-car garage in a spacious two-story floor plan.

“We’re excited to bring more of our award-winning homes to Harvest Trail,” David Weekley Homes Division President Jess McKinney stated. “We’re thankful for the opportunity to delight future homebuyers in the Westfield area as we make their dream home a reality.”

David Weekley Homes offers three series of homes within the community — the Courtyard, Signature and Executive collections.

Priced from the high $300,000s, the Courtyard Collection features 36-foot homesites with six two-story elevations ranging

in size from 1,800 to 2,400 square feet with three to four bedrooms, two to three full baths, one half bath and two-car garages.

Homes in the Signature Collection are 2,300 to 4,600 square feet on 65-foot homesites, with three to five bedrooms, with three to four full baths, one half bath and three- to four-car garages. The Signature Collection starts in the mid-$500s.

The Executive Collection, priced from the high $600s, features five one- and two- story floor plans situated on spacious 90-foot homesites with 2,400 to 4,800 square feet of living space with four to six bedrooms, three to five full baths, one half bath and two- to four-car garages.

When complete, Harvest Trail of Westfield will include a 5-acre park with a playground. The site has easy access to Grand Park Sports Campus and the Monon Trail, connecting via the trail to downtown Westfield, Ascension St. Vincent YMCA and Grand Junction Plaza.

In addition to Harvest Trails, David Weekley Homes are featured at The Club at Chatham Hills in Westfield; Gramercy West in Carmel; Marilyn Woods in Noblesville; and The Lakes at Grantham in Fishers.

Learn more at davidweekleyhomes.com.

David Weekley Homes recently hosted a grand opening for its newest model homes, The Sterling and The Woodson, in Harvest Trail at Westfield. (Photo courtesy of David Weekley Homes)

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

The Westfield City Council recently approved two ordinances setting salaries for all elected and unelected employees in 2025. The salary ordinance for non-elected officials set the maximum biweekly base salary for employees. Approved salaries

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Elected officials’ salaries were raised slightly over 2024, with the mayor and clerk-treasurer salaries increasing by approximately $1,000 annually, and city councilors seeing a $700 annual increase. Annual salaries for elected officials were approved as follows:

• Mayor — $128,672

• Clerk-treasurer — $109,782

• City councilors — $17,839 Additional considerations for elected officials include:

• Clerk-treasurer vehicle allowance — $5,000

• Clerk-treasurer stipend — $5,000

• City council president — $2,500

• City council vice president — $1,000

The ordinances also set bonus standards and dates for holiday pay.

Image: Aren Straiger

Local law enforcement

assists in federal meth bust

CRIME news@geistcurrent.com

Eleven Indiana residents have been indicted in federal court on charges of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine following a multiagency operation that included Hamilton/Boone County Drug Task Force, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and the Lawrence Police Department.

In all, 16 agencies coordinated to execute 22 arrest and search warrants at 11 locations in central Indiana Nov. 20. Ten individuals were arrested and are in federal custody.

According to an announcement from the U.S. Attorney’s office for the Southern District of Indiana, federal agents and local police seized firearms and quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine and marijuana.

The people indicted are:

• Matthew Fishman, 38, of Bloomington

• Megan Gaskin, 29, of Indianapolis

• Joseph Grubb, 37, of Bloomfield

• Amanda Hornaday, 40, of Indianapolis

• Candace Rich, 44, of Indianapolis

• Ashley Russell, 38, of Indianapolis

• Colton Shorkey, 33, of Franklin

• James Sublett Jr., 39, of Westfield

• James Tyus Jr., 39, of Indianapolis

• Kelly Willis, 52, of Indianapolis

• Thomas Winkley, 45, of Indianapolis

Joseph A. Grubb remains a fugitive, according to the announcement.

The indictment alleges that since February, all 11 defendants conspired to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Tyus allegedly acted as the leader of the operation and Sublett was named as the supplier. The remaining defendants allegedly acted as dealers and distributers.

The alleged meth deals took place at various locations across Indianapolis, including parking lots, gas stations, apartment complexes, motels and a gentleman’s club.

If convicted, each defendant faces up to life in federal prison.

KKK fliers distributed in Hamilton County

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

Some Hamilton County residents reported finding fliers in neighborhood streets Nov. 18 and Nov. 19. The fliers ask people to “track and monitor illegal immigrants” and “report them Jan. 20” to U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement. The fliers claim to be distributed by the Trinity White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan from Maysville, Ky.

LAW ENFORCEMENT

Fliers purported to be distributed by the Ku Klux Klan were discovered Nov. 18 and Nov. 19 in Hamilton County. (Photo provided)

Special Events

Dec. 4, 4:30-9 p.m., Christkind ChoralFest

Dec. 6, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Sankt Nikolaustag

Dec. 7, 12:30-3 p.m., KulturFest

Werkstatt

Dec. 4-8, Falk Bauer & Katrin Zapf, Lauscha Glassblowers

Kinderecke

Dec. 5, 4-9 p.m., String Art Craft

Dec. 6, 4-9 p.m., Dry Snow Globes Craft

Spielhaus

Dec. 4, 4-9 p.m., Market Magic Show

Dec. 5, 4-9 p.m., Storytelling & Music

Dec. 8, 12-6 p.m., Santa

Entertainment

Dec. 5, 4:30-6 p.m., Matt Tolentino Trio

Dec. 5, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Duke Tumatoe & The Power Trio

Dec. 6, 7-9 p.m., Alex Meixner

Dec. 7, 6:30-9 p.m., Alex Meixner

Dec. 8, 1-3 p.m., Alex Meixner

Fliers were discovered on the ground by residents in downtown Westfield. Several residents made reports to the Westfield Police Department. However, there is little the police can do at this time.

“There was a case report done, but nothing illegal was done, as disturbing as it may be,” WPD Captain Rob Dine said. “It is documented. It seems like some fliers were found in Carmel and Fishers as well. It kind of looks like someone just threw them out

of a car window as they were driving.”

Current Publishing readers also reported finding fliers in Noblesville.

Dine said although a report was made, the fliers are considered protected speech under the First Amendment.

“The KKK is considered a hate group, but it’s not illegal to be a member,” Dine said.

“The literature may be disturbing to Hamilton County residents, but unfortunately, it’s not illegal.”

November 23 - December 24

Holiday Porchfest

MIDTOWN PLAZA

Join us at Holiday PorchFest, a free holiday event in Midtown Carmel with performers singing our favorite Holiday songs. Vendors will be onsite o ering warm beverages and snacks.

2:00 p.m. Bach to Rock Band

3:00 p.m. Carmel PorchFest Grant Presentations

3:10 p.m. School of Rock Band

Midtown Plaza is a Trolley Stop for the Carmel Holiday Trolley.

Veteran seeks support for property tax petition

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

A Westfield military veteran who started a grassroots campaign to lobby for change to Indiana’s tax credit for those who have served is urging the public to continue the fight — and for lawmakers to listen.

SERVICE

Mike Madigan, who served in the U.S. Marine Corps in Vietnam, began circulating a petition in spring 2024 seeking reform on the state’s veteran tax credit. According to the Indiana statute on taxation, veterans with a disability of at least 10 percent that is service-related and who served during World War II or the Korean, Vietnam and the Gulf wars can receive a property tax deduction of up $24,960 from the assessed value of taxable, tangible property.

Veterans with total disability or who are 62 or older with a partial disability who served at least 90 days are eligible for a deduction of up to $14,000.

Madigan said the credit, with a value limit of assessed property of $240,000, does not represent true home values, especially in areas north of Indianapolis. Since

“This is not a new request for veterans, but a necessary update to a benefit given to veterans due to the neglect of the credit over the past five decades.”

– MIKE MADIGAN

summer, he has presented his petition to local veterans groups and municipalities seeking support, hoping to bring it to lawmakers. The petition calls for increasing the property tax abatement to 100 percent for disabled veterans and 25 percent for all other veterans, and raising the assessed value cap.

“I have contacted all Indiana state senators and representatives to outline the current tax credit and the reasons it needs to be updated,” Madigan said. “This is not a new request for veterans, but a necessary update to a benefit given to veterans due to the neglect of the credit over the past five decades.”

Madigan said to date, he has collaborated with several veterans organizations on the petition, but he’s seeking additional

support, especially as a new administration gets set to take office at the Indiana Statehouse.

“As veterans retire or transition out of the military, it’s essential for Indiana to welcome their skills and talents,” Madigan said. “With only 1 percent of our population serving in our military, we must show them the respect they deserve. I understand that our senators and representatives are likely to address the five decades of neglect regarding the Veterans Tax Credit, but this will likely happen only after the election. I sincerely hope they will do the right thing, and I look forward to a new beginning for veterans in 2025.”

People 18 and older interested in signing the petition can contact Madigan at santa. mike.52@hotmail.com.

Westfield High School senior improves her post presence

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

In her first year as a starter, Westfield High School senior Samantha Price has made a significant impact on the girls basketball team.

“She has good size and athleticism inside and we want to get the ball into her when we can,” Shamrocks coach Kelsey Steele said. “Sam can run the floor well for us and put pressure on the defense in those ways.”

Price saw limited action as a sophomore. As a junior, she averaged 3.7 points and 3.4 rebounds per game for the Shamrocks, who finished 13-11 last season. She sank 61 percent of her shots and was 36 percent from the free throw line.

Prior to the Nov. 26 game at Pike, the 6-foot-1 Price was averaging team-highs of 14 points on 65 percent shooting and 8.7 rebounds per game for the Shamrocks (2-3).

“Sam has made the most improvement in her post game at the rim. We are continuing to work on this with her but we are proud of the growth we have seen so far,” Steele said.

SAMANTHA PRICE

Favorite TV show: “Outer Banks”

Favorite musician: Drake

Favorite vacation spot: Florida

Favorite subject: Math

Price said she has become more comfortable with the ball in the post.

“I’ve had to step up more and lead more than I did last year,” Price said.

Steele said Price is growing as a vocal leader and growing her game.

“Sam does so much more than just score,” Steele said. “An underrated part of her game is her ability to affect the game on the defensive end. She has incredible

instincts around the ball and impacts the game in so many ways.”

Westfield graduated three starters, Ellie Kelleher, Kiki Loveless and Reagan Lorenzen, from last season’s team. All three are playing college basketball. Kelleher is at Indiana Wesleyan, Lovelace is at Indiana Tech and Lorenzen is at Rose-Hulman.

Price’s goal for the season is “to win sectionals and make it to state.”

Price will play basketball for Mount St. Joseph University, an NCAA Division III pro-

gram in Cincinnati.

“I just felt the most comfortable and at home there,” she said. “Everyone was really nice and welcoming.”

Price started playing basketball in recreation leagues in second grade.

“(I) started playing competitively in ninth grade,” said Price, who also played softball growing up.

To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@ youarecurrent.com.

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• Management of simple and complex spine problems, including revision surgery

Westfield High School senior Samantha Price has become a solid scorer in her first year as a starter. (Photo courtesy of Samantha Price)

Smith sworn in as

Dist. 24 representative

news@youarecurrent.com

Zionsville native and former Indianapolis Colts punter Hunter Smith took the oath of office Nov. 21 as the new state representative for Indiana House District 24.

POLITICS

Indiana Supreme Court Chief Justice Loretta H. Rush administered the oath to all House lawmakers during a swearing-in ceremony in the House Chamber at the Statehouse during Organization Day, which marked the formal start to the 2025 legislative session.

“I’m humbled by the opportunity to serve my community at the state level,” Smith stated. “My goal is to represent the voices and values of House District 24 while supporting agricultural and environmental policies that make our state the best place to work and call home.”

Smith owns WonderTree Farm in Zionsville, where he lives with his wife, Jen, and their four children. He is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame.

Smith defeated Democratic challenger Josh Lowry Nov. 5 with 56 percent of the vote. District 24 includes portions of Boone and Hamilton counties, including Zionsville, Westfield, Carmel and Sheridan.

Constituents can reach Smith at in.gov/ h24.

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Don’t miss your chance to join us for Epcon’s Holiday Tour of Homes.

Hunter Smith takes the oath of office at the Statehouse Nov. 21. (Photo courtesy of Indiana House Republicans)

Westfield Lions members honored for service

news@youarecurrent.com

The Westfield Lions Club celebrated its 94th anniversary in October and presented special awards for members.

RECOGNITION

Jerry Kirby, second vice president of the club, was awarded the Richard T. Miyamoto Fellowship Award for his volunteer work at club events and participation on several club committees. The Miyamoto Fellowship is named after Dr. Richard Miyamoto. It is awarded to Lions for exceptional dedication and service to others in accord with the mission of Indiana Lions Speech and Hearing, Inc.

The W.P. Woods Fellowship was awarded to John Wardlow for 10 years of service. Wardlow has served as the club’s president and is a four-year member of the board of directors. His efforts to secure American Rescue Plan Act funds during the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the Westfield Lions Club being awarded a $12,000 grant from Hamilton County. The W.P. Woods Fellowship was established to honor the first president of Lions International, W.P. Woods, who was an Indiana Lion from Evansville.

Rodney Benson received Lions Clubs International’s Melvin Jones Fellowship Award. Named in honor of LCI’s founder, the fellowship award is the top award a Lion

Roxanne (Mantooth) Imlay, 64, of Greenfield, IN, passed away peacefully, after a brief battle with cancer, on Monday, November 18, 2024.

Roxanne was born on November 21, 1959, to Aaron Dwight and Mary Louise (Gibson) Mantooth.

can receive. Benson recently completed his second term as the club’s president and oversaw its substantial membership growth during that period.

The highlight of each year’s awards night is the presentation of the Roy O. Hadley Lion of the Year award, which recognizes a member whose work allows the club to be a major asset to the Westfield community.

The 2024 Lion of the Year is Gary Smith. Smith has served in all the leadership positions of the club, including president and a member of the board of directors.

The evening was catered by the Westfield High School Foodies.

Westfield Lions are always seeking men and women who want to help make a difference in Westfield. Learn more at westfieldlions.org.

OBITUARY

stepchildren, Justin

Roxanne had an eclectic taste in music and loved traveling, especially out west. Some of her favorite trips included a dude ranch with her dad, a cruise with her parents and sister, and most recently multiple trips out west with her husband, Troy. She could often be found riding her Harley or driving around in her Jeep enjoying whatever scenery she encountered. She was an avid animal lover, most especially horses and dogs.

Roxanne is survived by her loving husband, Troy Imlay, of 26 years; children, Shannon Spencer (Michael) and Daniel

and Tyler Imlay; 10 grandchildren: Morgan, Chase, Emma, Blake and Cooper Spencer, Ethan Marshall and Joshua Hobbs, Luke and Wyatt Imlay, and Brennon Shortt; and 1 great grandson, Everett Spencer. She was preceded in death by her parents, Aaron and Mary Louise Mantooth as well as her sister, Cheryl Bethel.

Stillinger Family Funeral Home, Greenfield, is of assistance to the Imlay family. A Celebration of Life gathering will be held at a later time. Memorial contributions may be made of the donor’s choice. If you would like to sign the online guest book or send condolences to the family, you may do so by visiting www. stillingerfamily.com

Hobbs;

Imlay (Jessica)

Members of the Westfield Lions Club recognized on awards night are, from left, Rodney Benson, Gary Smith, John Wardlow and club president Bill Nesbitt. Not pictured, Jerry Kirby. (Photo courtesy of Westfield Lions Club)

DISPATCHES

Westfield in Lights — Free winter-themed games, food vendors, retail merchants, live llamas and visits from Frosty the Snowman and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer are just some of the activities scheduled for Westfield in Lights from 3 to 6 p.m. Dec. 7 to Grand Junction Plaza, 225 S. Union St. The event culminates with the traditional Tree Lighting Celebration beginning at 5:50 p.m. on the main stage. Mayor Scott Willis and special guests will officially light the tree at 6 p.m. During the event, Mrs. Claus will be at Something Splendid, 217 Mill St. for a picture and cookies.

Public Safety — The Hamilton County Traffic Safety Partnership is getting ready to increase patrol visibility as part of the annual Safe Family Travel campaign. The campaign, which began Nov. 16, focuses on impaired driving, aggressive driving and proper use of seat belts. During the campaign, officers will work overtime conducting sobriety checkpoints and saturation patrols designed to discourage impaired driving and promote seat belt use. The high-visibility enforcement campaign is funded with grants provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration through the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute. Motorists are encouraged to call 911 if they encounter an impaired or unsafe driver on the road.

Online food permitting — The Hamilton County Health Department has launched an online system for food permit applications. The system allows new and established food vendors to apply for and renew permits. Starting in 2025, food establishment renewals can be processed through the online system. Once approved, applicants can pay for their permits online through Google or Apple IDs. Vendors will still be allowed to apply or renew permits in-person or by mail. For more or to apply for a food permit, visit hamiltoncounty.in.gov/256/ Food-Establishment-Program.

Letters to Santa — A Letters to Santa mailbox will be available with direct service to the North Pole at Grand Junction Plaza, 225 S. Union St. through Dec. 15. Mailboxes are also located outside Westfield City Services, 2728 E. 171st St.; Westfield Fire Department Headquarters/Station 81, 16901 Ditch Rd.; the Westfield Washington Public Library, 17400 Westfield Blvd. Please include a self-addressed stamped envelope so Santa can reply promptly.

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HEAD OF THE CLASS

Westfield High School Spanish eductor honored as Teacher of the Year

By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com

For Westfield High School Spanish teacher Jen Hasler Troutman, making connections is the key to helping students develop a love of learning world languages.

Hasler Troutman was named Teacher of the Year by the Indiana Foreign Language Teachers Association at its Nov. 9-10 conference in Indianapolis

It’s the second honor for Hasler Troutman this year. In May, she was selected by the Indiana Chapter of the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese as its 2024 Indiana Teacher of the Year in the high school category.

“I knew that I had been chosen by Spanish and Portuguese teachers, but once I got to the conference, I made it to another level and that was a surprise,” she said.

Hasler Troutman has spent nearly 30 years in education and has a reputation as a favorite among students.

“One of the keys is building connections among the students,” she said. “I want to have connections with my students, but sometimes if I am approaching them, they will be quiet because they are afraid to make a mistake in front of me. But, with each other, they will jump in and give it a try and use their Spanish. So, building connections and friendships with their classmates is key.”

Those connections mean results for WHS students. In the 2023-24 school year, 36 of 44 students passed the AP Spanish Language and Culture exam and 10 of 10 passed the AP Spanish Literature and Culture exam.

Since the inception of AP Spanish Language and Culture as an elective at WHS, more than 100 students have earned a score of 5 on the AP exam — the highest score possible. Additionally, 199 students have earned a score of 4, with 195 earning a score of 3. Scores of 3 or higher translate to college credit at most accredited colleges and universities.

Students also have a 100 percent pass rate for AP Spanish Literature and Culture and AP Spanish Language and Culture.

Senior Mayah Lopez said in addition to offering a rigorous and engaging class, Hasler Troutman is just plain nice.

“She’s such an incredible teacher and a person in general,” Lopez said. “You can tell that she truly does care about the students and she cares about our success. If you mess up or are struggling with your Spanish, she’s always there to help us.”

Lopez said one thing that makes Hasler Troutman stand out among educators is her ability to listen.

“She’s definitely the kind of teacher who values students’ opinions,” Lopez said. “Often what she’ll do is, she’ll have us take out a piece of paper and she’ll ask us open-ended questions, like ‘what do you think I’m doing in this part of the course?’ (and) ‘how can I improve as a teacher?’ I personally really appreciate that. It shows she

truly cares about what the class is thinking.”

Hasler Troutman was part of the team that created the AP Spanish Literature and Culture curriculum for WHS. She was inspired by a unique interaction with another educator.

“I started that process because I met another teacher on a plane who taught AP, and she said I should give it a try,” she said. “Then a few years later, there’s another AP Spanish Literature and Culture class that’s a little harder. We’ve only been able to run it twice, but we were able to bring that here and the students have taken it very well.”

Hasler Troutman isn’t a favorite only among her students. WHS Content Area Director of World Languages Stacey O’Brien said Hasler Troutman also is an inspiration to faculty and staff.

“She is an amazing example of a teacher who thinks outside the box,” O’Brien said. “She meets every student as they walk in the door, wherever they are. It’s really easy as teachers to get caught up in the curriculum and what the pacing guide says and to check off all of the boxes. But, she really sees each student as an individual

and identifies what they need. She really tries to provide that for them.”

O’Brien, a 16-year educator who teaches French and Spanish, said the recognition as Teacher of the Year is deserved for Hasler Troutman, who works daily to strengthen those connections with her students and coworkers.

“She is so caring and loving,” O’Brien said. “She creates an environment of just comfort for the students to make mistakes as they learn a new language. Everyone is going to make mistakes. She makes an environment where she is going to require them to push themselves out of their comfort zone but also provides that support — if they feel like they’re failing, she has that place to catch them.”

Hasler Troutman said in her class, no one is a stranger. “I cry pretty easily, it’s just part of working with me,” she said. “I think being real and vulnerable and sharing what touches your heart draws people in.”

ON THE COVER: Jen Hasler Troutman teaches AP Spanish students at Westfield High School. (Photo courtesy of Shawn Davis/Rocks Media House)

AN EAR FOR WORLD LANGUAGES

Spanish is a second language for Indiana Foreign Language Teachers Association Teacher of the Year

Jen Hasler Troutman.

Hasler Troutman, who teaches Westfield High School, said the key to mastering a foreign language is being immersed in the culture.

“The key is host families,” she said. “Thankfully, a family in Mexico hosted me. I went to Indiana University, which is known for languages, but I still didn’t know that I could interact with proficiency and understand and be understood. That exchange of messages and negotiation of meaning is really important in

language learning. This family opened their home to me and welcomed me and that made a huge difference to me.”

Hasler Troutman said the recognition as Teacher of the Year will allow her to speak to more people about the importance of global languages in education.

“The timing is really good to emphasize the importance of learning other languages and learning about other cultures,” she said.

World Language courses at Westfield High School include Spanish, French and German. Learn more at whs.wws.k12.in.us under the academics tab.

Jen Hasler Troutman was named Teacher of the Year by the Indiana Foreign Language Teachers Association. (Photo courtesy of Shawn Davis/Rocks Media House)

WHS educator Jen Hasler Troutman accepts the recognition as Teacher of the Year with Indiana Foreign Language Teachers Association President Brandon Fitzsimmons. (Photo courtesy of Westfield Washington Schools)

‘WWII Tiki Xmas Canteen’ set for Palladium

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Steve Perry’s group originally started out as a punk rock/ska band.

“Our first music was swing music, so we’ve really been playing swing music from the beginning along with the other stuff,” Perry said.

The Cherry Poppin’ Daddies will perform its “WWII Tiki Xmas Canteen” concert at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5.

“We’re basically known for being a swing band, which is a large amount of 20th century popular jazz,” Perry said. “We run the gamut from ragtime to hot jazz to all the way to 1961 with the Rat Pack and Frank Sinatra vibes. We touch on all of these subgenres of music that swings. It’s very danceable and very 20th century.”

Perry calls the “Xmas Canteen” concert a swing spectacular

“We ended up playing in Hawaii as part of Pearl Harbor celebrations on Dec. 7 and started doing this 1940s music,” Perry said. Perry said the night before the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, there was a battle of the bands between U.S. Navy ships.

“Different ships sent their bands to compete in it and I’m sure it was a wild night,” he said. “They were probably hung over and then Dec. 7 hit.”

The concert will include 1940s classics. The band’s latest album, “At the Pink Rat,” focuses on the golden era of swing music of the 1940s highlighted by Glenn Miller and Benny Goodman.

“The biggest job is to be a popularizer of this kind of music because it kind of fell out of favor in the early 1960s,” Perry said. “After The Beatles came, it was pretty much gone forever. This last record I tackled that as well. I hadn’t really written in that style, which means big band (music) with major chords. We also have our own music, which is very danceable and upbeat.”

One of the original songs is “Brown Flight Jacket,” which is about a dying grandfather who bequeaths his jacket to his grandson who works at a Starbucks

“The kid hangs (it on) his closet door and stares at it, thinking about his own life compared to his grandfather, who dealt with life and death situations (in World War II),” Perry said. “It’s a modern take on old music.”

The musical setting is a military canteen during the holidays in Hawaii or the Pacific Theater from 1941-45.

“It’s Christmas, it’s 90 degrees and they are in the middle of the war,’ Perry said. “It’s a way for us to address the golden era of swing in our way. There will be fun Christmas songs you can dance to as well, such as ‘Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy’ and ‘Roll ‘Em.’ We hit a few different eras even though it’s a 1940s theme for the most part. It’s very upbeat and fun.”

Perry said the band plays the late-Steve Allen’s song “Cool Yule.”

“We recorded that for a movie,” Perry said. “I asked him if I could change a chord and he tongue-lashed me like you wouldn’t believe and he said, ‘If every note I wrote cannot be played, there will be no symphony.’”

Perry founded the band in Eugene, Ore., in late 1988.

“We have a lot of material and could have three different bands with all the material we have,” Perry said. “It’s a project that’s never been completed quite to my satisfaction until this era. I’m 61 and I’m finally getting it to touch on all the things I want to touch on. In the next couple of years, I’ll finally reach the goals I’ve set for myself.”

Two other members, bassist Dan Schmid and trumpeter Dana Heitman, have been part of the band for the entire time and several members have been a part of it for several years.

“We caught fire in Southern California, where there is a huge retro music appreciation,” Perry said.

The band’s first compilation album of its first three studio albums, called “Zoot Suit Riot: The Swingin’ Hits of Cherry Poppin’ Daddies.’” was released in 1997 and enjoyed commercial success.

For more, visit thecenterpresents.org and daddies.com.

‘A CHRISTMAS STORY’

Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “A Christmas Story: The Musical” runs through Jan. 4 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Holiday Blues at the Club with Zach Day is set for 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5, and Indiana Christmas with Ahlwardts is set for 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 7 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc. com.

‘WHITE CHRISTMAS’

Civic Theatre presents “White Christmas” through Dec. 24 at The Tarkington at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

‘ANY KIND OF CHRISTMAS’

Home Free’s “Any Kind of Christmas” tour stops are at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 3 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

FOUR PHANTOMS

The Four Phantoms Holiday Show is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 6 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents. org.

‘A

SWINGIN’ LITTLE CHRISTMAS’

Jane Lynch’s “A Swingin’ Little Christmas” concert is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 7 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘ENJOY THE HOLLY DAYS’

Indiana Wind Symphony’s “Enjoy the Holly Days” concert is set for 4 p.m. Dec. 8 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit indianawindsymphony.org.

ALABAMA

Alabama’s Roll On II North America Tour stops at 7 p.m. Dec. 9 at Fishers Event Center. For more, visit fisherseventcenter.com.

MUSIC

The Cherry Poppin’ Daddies will perform its “WWII Tiki Xmas Canteen” concert at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Palladium. (Photo courtesy of Cherry Poppin’ Daddies)

Koz’s holiday show returns

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

This is the 27th year saxophonist-composer Dave Koz has taken his Christmas show on the road.

CONCERT

Koz said a stop in Carmel has become a given the last several years.

“The Palladium is one of my personal favorite venues in the entire United States, maybe even the world,” Koz said. “It’s a spectacular place to play. I love the way the staff makes you feel. I love the way the audience wraps fully around you and you are immersed in the audience. It’s a gorgeously sounding room. The audience that comes to see us is so full of love and energy and warmth. We love (going) there. It’s a very special part of this tour.”

Jade.

“Jonathan is like my musical brother, partner, especially at Christmastime,” Koz said. “We love making music any time, but at Christmas, it’s very special. He brings all that emotion, all that heart and soul from his background.”

Ingala and Hawley are new to the tour while Jade is making her fourth appearance.

The Dave Koz & Friends Christmas show is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 13 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The show will feature Jonathan Butler with special guests Vincent Ingala, Adam Hawley and Rebecca

For more, visit thecenterpresents.org. Koz

“Adam Hawley is a young guitar player and the future of contemporary jazz guitar,” Koz said. “We have a single together that is moving up the (Billboard smooth jazz) charts now called ‘Automatic.’ Vincent Ingala is an incredible saxophone player, singer and guitar player. He’s an all-around entertainer. He’s been doing a competing Christmas tour for the last (several) years. This is the first year he’s been able to do our tour and bring all of his good vibes with us. We have a lot of new (performers) and a lot of veterans to bring a heartfelt, highly energetic and fun show, which I think we really need right now.”

NIGHT & DAY

IWS features holiday favorites

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Indiana Wind Symphony’s holiday concert should evoke many memories.

CONCERT

“We’re doing a combination of works that will appeal to children in the audience as well as the adults,” IWS Music Director Jay Gephart said. “We’re doing a medley of music from ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas.’”

and orchestras. “She is top-notch. She has performed with my ensembles on three different occasions. My Purdue world absolutely adores Twana. She really made a connection with my Purdue audiences.”

That is just part of the 70-minute show set for Indiana Wind Symphony’s “Enjoy the Holly Days” concert at 4 p.m. Dec. 8 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

Twana Harris is the special guest and will perform “O Holy Night.” The North Central High School graduate is a pastor and music director at a church in Detroit.

“She sings more a gospel style than a classical opera style, but I think she will be well-received by the Indiana Wind Symphony community,” said Gephart, who is a chair of the Purdue University bands

Harris will be accompanied on piano for “Some Children See Him.”

“Santa has committed to being there in his busy schedule,” Gephart said. “So will Mrs. Claus, who narrates ‘’Twas the Night Before Christmas.’”

There also will be Christmas music from various Broadway shows and a performance of late jazz composer and arranger Sammy Nestico’s “Good Swing Wenceslas.”

Gephart said more serious work is a transcription by H. Robert Reynolds of Morten Lauridsen’s “O magnum mysterium.”

“It was originally written for chorus by Morten Lauridsen and then transcribed by H. Robert Reynolds, who was the former director of bands from University of Michigan,” Gephart said.

For more, visit indianawindsymphony. org.

Dancers set for sweet debuts

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

This will be Westfield resident Maddie Neff’s 11th appearance in Central Indiana Dance Ensemble’s presentation of “The Nutcracker,” and this one is extra special.

PERFORMANCE

“I’ve had many different ‘Nutcracker’ roles, but I’ve never danced the role of Sugar Plum before,” said Neff, who recently graduated early from Westfield High School.

Neff shares the role of Sugar Plum Fairy with Carmel High School senior Claire Barbour. Neff will perform as the Sugar Plum at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13 and 2 p.m. Dec. 14. Barbour will take over as Sugar Plum at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 14 and 2 p.m. Dec. 15. All performances are at STAR Performing Arts Center in Zionsville.

“This role has always been a dream of mine,” said Neff, who also plays Candy Cane. “It’s always been my favorite part to watch, and I am so excited to finally get to dance it.”

This is Barbour’s first time as the Sugar

From left, CIDE performers Maddie Neff, Claire Barbour and Ella McNeely have key roles in “The Nutcracker.” (Photo courtesy of Paul Rezlaff)

Plum, too. She also plays Arabian.

“What I enjoy most about the classic role is having the freedom to perform it as my own,” said Barbour, who has attended CIDE for seven years. “Most of the time I will either be by myself or with my partner on stage, so I won’t have to prioritize matching other dancers around me as much as I have had to in previous ‘Nutcrackers.’

Fishers High School senior Ella McNeely is enjoying her role as Snow Queen.

“The music for the Snow pas de deux has always been one of my favorites, so I am very grateful to be able to dance to it this year,” McNeely said.

For more, visit cidedance.org.

JANE LYNCH’S A SWINGIN’ LITTLE

DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS CHRISTMAS TOUR 2024 FRI DEC 13 AT 8PM THE PALLADIUM

Harris

Barriers to care are not always obvious. Thanks in part to community partners, volunteers and donors, these barriers are being overcome. Learn more or join the movement at EskenaziHealthFoundation.org.

KLaunch announces free access to new AI Cloud Innovation Lab

news@youarecurrent.com

KLaunch, a leader in omni-channel conversational AI technologies, has officially opened its cutting-edge AI Cloud Innovation Lab, and in a groundbreaking move, it’s entirely free. The initiative allows businesses, entrepreneurs, startups and innovators to experiment, prototype and deploy AI-driven solutions without the usual financial barriers.

TECHNOLOGY

As a result, KLaunch aims to accelerate technological advancement, making AI innovation accessible to everyone.

The AI Cloud Innovation Lab is equipped with world-class resources, a team of AI experts, and sophisticated conversational AI frameworks like KBot Lightning and HumanX, along with all other major LLM’s that can integrate into the ecosystem. This will empower users with the tools they need to tackle real-world concepts with AI, unlock new growth avenues, and transform industries.

By offering free access, KLaunch is breaking down financial barriers, inviting organizations of all sizes to explore and deploy AI solutions that can enhance customer experiences, drive operational efficiency, improve workforce productivity and scale innovation.

Key Features of the KLaunch AI Cloud Innovation Lab

• Free AI prototyping and experimentation: Users can bring their ideas to life with powerful prototyping tools, data analytics, and model training resources, enabling rapid iteration and validation of AI concepts with zero upfront costs. Users can build out their prototypes, once finalized, and can launch their real-world environments from the same ecosystem.

• Access to advanced AI models and tools: The lab includes access to KBot Lightning and HumanX, pre-trained models, use case templates, state-ofthe-art machine learning frameworks, and an intuitive interface, making it accessible for both AI experts and beginners.

• Collaborative environment with expert support: Participants will have

direct access to KLaunch’s AI specialists for guidance and support, fostering a collaborative space where ideas can evolve into actionable solutions.

• Ethics and governance tools: KLaunch’s commitment to responsible AI is evident in the lab and production environments, where integrated tools ensure projects align with ethical standards, security and compliance, with special infuses on data privacy, transparency, and fairness in AI applications.

• Real-world application testing and launch from ecosystem: The lab provides capabilities to test prototypes in simulated real-world environments, helping businesses measure effectiveness before deploying at scale and also has built in tools to launch live when ready.

• Lab participants own IP on what they build/design: While KLaunch facilitates the underlying technology and owns the rights and use of their AI engines and protocols, anything built in the lab is the intellectual property of the lab participant. What it means for businesses and innovators

The KLaunch AI Cloud Innovation Lab isn’t just an ecosystem —it’s a catalyst for meaningful AI adoption and release. Businesses now have the unprecedented opportunity to leverage private and secure powerful AI tools, refine their operations, and unlock new growth potential without the financial and technical hurdles typically associated with AI deployment. This democratization of AI tools is designed to encourage innovation across all sectors, from government, health care, nonprofits, and the like. How to get started Businesses, developers, and innovators can sign up for free access to the AI Cloud Innovation Lab by clicking this link klaunch.io/contact and putting in their information with AILab in the comments. Once registered, participants will gain immediate access to the KBot Lightning and HumanX ecosystem, along with expert guidance and support to bring their AI-driven ideas to life.

For more information, visit klaunch.io.

Editor,

READERS’ VIEWS

Stay engaged in local politics

Many of us are feeling the weight of this election. We poured time and energy into pushing back against extremism, supporting public schools, protecting the lives of women and marginalized communities and building an Indiana where businesses, doctors and teachers would want to stay. It’s understandable to feel discouraged that more Hoosiers weren’t moved to support these visions.

But even in defeat, we should recognize one of our greatest wins — the vibrant community of engaged, hopeful people we’ve built. Over the past few years, we saw Democrats emboldened, connecting with others passionate about the same issues (and) sharing hopes for a brighter

Indiana.

This community remains powerful, regardless of the election outcome. Together, we’ve shown how participation can ease anxieties and remind us that none of us are alone in this fight. So, take time to process your feelings. But then, let’s stand up and link arms with our neighbors, ready to walk forward again. Join local meetings, advocate for positive change and support vulnerable community members who need protection now more than ever. Maybe the battle isn’t lost — it’s simply still underway, and together, we can keep moving it forward.

Cary

Fuller, Westfield campaign volunteer, Lowry for Indiana

“Together, we’ve shown how participation can ease anxieties and remind us that none of us are alone in this fight.”

– CARY FULLER

December 3, 2024

Current in Westfield

currentinwestfield.com

LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICIES

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

Names And Addresses Of Owners and/or Occupants And Persons With Substantial Interest: INDY FLIPPER LLC; MICHAEL BURTON; UNKNOWN OCCUPANT at 408 S. Main St, Sheridan IN 46069; Owners of Record at time of sale: Indy Flipper LLC RE: NOTICE OF SALE AND EXPIRATION OF PERIOD-OF REDEMPTION: COUNTY:HAMILTON PARCEL NUMBER: 02-01-32-03-14-007.000 REDEMPTION EXPIRATION DATE: 9/19/25

(LAST DAY TO REDEEM)

STREET ADDRESS: 408 S. MAIN STREET, SHERIDAN IN 46069

Dear Sir Or Madam:

Pursuant to IC. 6-1.1-25-4.5, you are hereby notified that the below-described real estate was sold at tax sale for the non-payment of real estate taxes. According to public records, you had a substantial interest in this property on the date of the tax sale. You are hereby notified as follows:

1. A Petition for Tax Deed will be filed on or after 9/20/25.

2. The Petitioner intends to petition for a tax deed on or after 9/20/25.

3. Street Address or Common Description of the Tract or Real Property, if any: 408 S. MAIN STREET, SHERIDAN IN 46069

4. Key Number of Real Estate: 02-0l-32-03-14-007.000

5. Legal Description of Real Estate: ACREAGE .00, SECTION 32, TOWNSHIP 20, RANGE 3, THISTLETHWAITE S 4, LOT 2, BLOCK

6. Date Of Tax Sale: September 19, 2024

7. Name(s) of Purchaser(s) or Purchaser( )’s Assignee: BREMEN MHC LLC

8. Any person may redeem the tract, parcel, or real property.

9. Amount Required For Redemption: ** Call the county auditor for this amount. the components of the amount required to redeem are as follows.

(a) Judgment Amount Due At Time Of Tax Sale

(b) PLUS 10% ofltem 9(a) ifredeemed WITHIN 6 (six) months of the date of the tax sale, AND/OR 15% of item 9(a) if redeemed AFTER 6 (six) months of the date of the tax sale.

(

c) The amount by which the purchase price, (the final bid amount at the tax sale), EXCEEDED Item 9(a) - (this is commonly known as the overbid or surolus amount).

(d) PLUS 5% per annum on Item 9(c)&(e):

(e) PLUS additional taxes and/or assessments paid by the Purchaser(s) subsequent to Sale (to date):

( f) PLUS additional expenses incurred by Purchaser( s) recoverable under LC. 6-l.l-25-2(e) to date:

(g) TOTAL needed to redeem the parcel: Contact auditor for dailv total

$4,787.58

$71,212.42

Dialing in on a lost cellphone

Commentary by Dick Wolfsie

After our recent church auction, I couldn’t find my phone at the end of the evening. I panicked. My wife, as always, was a calming influence, explaining that the cell had to be somewhere in the room. I asked my son to call on his phone to see where the device was hiding. No ring was heard, but …

HUMOR

** If asterisks are shown in a box above, then call the.county auditor for that amount.

10. The purchaser, or the purchaser’s successors or assignees are entitled to reimbursement for additional taxes or special assessments on the parcel or real property, that were paid by the purchaser subsequent to the tax sale and before redemption, plus interest.

11. The parcel or real property has not been redeemed.

12. The date of expiration of the period ofredemption is September 19, 2025.

13. The purchaser or the purchaser’s assignee is entitled to receive a deed for the parcel or real· property, herein described, if it is not redeemed on or before the date specified in paragraph 12.

14. The purchaser or the purchaser’s assignee is entitled to reimbursement for the costs described in I.C. 6-12.l-25-2(e),

15. If the property is not redeemed, the owner of record at the time the tax deed is issued may have a right to the tax sale surplus, if any.

** The amount required for redemption of the parcel or real property, can increase as the purchaser( s) fulfill( s) the requirements for the issuance of a Tax Deed and as the amount of interest increases. If you are interested in redeeming the property, please call the County Auditor’s Office for the redemption amount.

Scott Richards # 19871-49

Attorneys for Purchaser

WlLLIAM R. RICHARDS PC 8465 Keystone Crossing #212 Indianapolis IN 46240 (317) 859-5666

Alexa twice, but there was no response. The internet was down temporarily, but I knew Mary Ellen was in the kitchen having coffee.

“What time is it?” I screamed out from the bed.

No answer. So, louder this time.

“What time is it!”

No answer again.

“Hello, this is Amy.”

“Amy, this is Brett Wolfsie, Dick’s son. You were sitting with us all evening tonight. You must have taken my dad’s cellphone home by mistake.”

“I don’t think so, Brett.”

“Well, you’re talking on his cell now. Turn it over and look at the back.”

The back of my cell clearly directs what to do if found.

I took Brett’s phone and explained to Amy that she would have to answer my phone that evening and pretend she was my wife, Mary Ellen. Otherwise, people would wonder what I was up to when a mysterious woman answered the phone at 11 p.m.

“Dick, this was an honest mistake I made. I’ll tell whoever calls that I have your phone because we spent the night together.”

“Amy, please rephrase that.”

The next morning, I was lost without a phone. I always check the weather and time before I get out of bed. I asked

Wait, I forgot the most important part. With Alexa, it must be personal to work. I tried again.

“Mary Ellen! What time is it?”

“Good morning, Dick. It’s 8 a.m. Now, leave me alone, please. I’m having my coffee.”

Well, at least she was connected and working.

Later that morning at church, Amy returned my phone and said she only got one call. It was from my sister who was visiting her daughter in California.

“I pretended I was Mary Ellen,” Amy said, “but I’m not sure it worked.”

“ I guess she didn’t recognize your voice?”

“She also didn’t recognize my hair, nose and eyes. She was using FaceTime.”

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARMEL, INDIANA ORDINANCE No. Z-694-24

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Common Council of the City of Carmel, Indiana, meeting on the 16th day of December, 2024 at 6:00 o’clock p.m., at their regular meeting place in the Council Chambers, Second Floor, City Hall, One Civic Square, Carmel, Indiana 46032, will hold a Public Hearing to consider a request for approval of the “Towne 146 Planned Unit Development District 2024 Ordinance”, Ordinance Number Z-694-24.

The subject site is the parcel that is identified by the Auditor of Hamilton County, Indiana as Tax Parcel Identification Number 17-09-21-00-00-001.000 which parcel consists of 15.7 acres and is located at the southeast corner of 146th Street and Towne Road (collectively, the “Real Estate”).

The Real Estate is currently zoned S-1 Residential and the request seeks approval to rezone the Real Estate to the “Towne 146 Planned Unit Development District Ordinance” (the “Towne 146 PUD”) in order to permit the development of a for-sale residential community consisting of a total of 87 lots which will include 17 ranch homes that have a first-floor primary bedroom, 12 ranch/2-story detached homes that offer a first-floor bedroom and 58 2-story townhomes.

The proposal details are on file at the Department of Community Services, Carmel City Hall, One Civic Square, Carmel, IN 46032, telephone 317/571-2417, under Docket Number PZ-2024-00028 PUD and may be viewed Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Copies of the proposed request are also on file for examination at the Clerk of the City’s Office, Carmel City Hall, One Civic Square, Carmel, IN 46032, telephone 317/571-2414.

Interested persons appearing at the hearing for this matter shall have the right to be heard or may file written comments prior to the hearing. In addition, the hearing may be continued by the City Council as it may find necessary.

Clerk of the City of Carmel

Jacob Quinn

This notice prepared by: James E. Shinaver, Attorney and Jon Dobosiewicz, Professional Land Planner Nelson & Frankenberger, LLC, 550 Congressional Blvd., Suite 210, Carmel, IN 46032 Phone: (317) 844-0106.

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

Wayne

25. Cohort of Larry and Curly

38. Online community and slogan to promote area businesses

43. Dog command

44. Prefix meaning “skin”

45. Family and consumer sciences class, familiarly

48. Indiana House members, briefly

49. “Big Blue”

52. MCL dessert choice: pie ___ mode

53. Thai neighbor

55. Rolling Stones title woman

57. Alternative to drapes

61. Poisonous shrub

64. Mideast ruler

65. “Pop ___ the weasel”

66. Army uniform color

67. Actress Hatcher

68. Art Deco artist

69. Balance sheet plus

70. NASA force unit, for short

71. Not as much Down

1. Slapfish spot for oysters and clams

2. Possible reply to “Where are you?”

3. Twisted and turned

4. Dine at home

5. Auctioneer’s cry

6. “Happily ___ after”

7. Painter Magritte

8. :-(

9. Monon Trail jogger

10. Not new

11. Seek damages in Hamilton County Court

12. Tiny bit

13. Foxy

21. Civil rights org.

22. Colts QB stat

25. Hawaiian island

26. Gaze wantonly

27. White River slitherly fish

30. Butler frat letter

31. Kind of quarters

32. Tribal leader

34. The Hoosier State, briefly, and a hint to what can be found in the puzzle’s circles

36. Old stringed instrument

38. Marlboro competitor

39. Austen classic

40. Big foot designation

41. Little devil

42. Type of spray

43. Hornets, on a Pacers scoreboard

46. Evoke

47. Recycle bin item

49. Pay no attention to this clue

50. Upscale bathroom fixtures

51. Slob’s creations

54. Start of a poetic tribute

56. WIBC’s “The Hammer and ___ Show”

57. Waves from a boat on Geist

58. A sign of a kind

59. Electrical line

60. Ship’s jail

61. Jamaican music

62. Sounds of hesitation

63. More, in Mexico Answers on Page 27

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