December 17, 2024
TO HAVE CURRENT DELIVERED TO YOUR PHONE
UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT
Westfield City Council signs off on Grand Park operating contract / P15
Westfield’s Joey Chestnut breaks St. Elmo shrimp-eating record / P3
Westfield parks department plans for 2025 / P7 Park and Poplar a ‘much-needed’ project / P11
January 17– 19, 2025
The 2025 Festival of Ice at Carter Green features:
• Professional ice carving demonstrations in the Arts & Design District
• Fast-paced ice carve-off competition at The Ice at Carter Green
• Firehouse chili cook-off
• And more!
A special thanks to Allied Solutions for participation and sponsorship of many of our holiday events.
Westfield’s Joey Chestnut breaks St. Elmo shrimp cocktail-eating record
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Competitive eater Joey Chestnut set a new world record at the St. Elmo Shrimp Cocktail Eating Championship at Lucas Oil Stadium Dec. 7, consuming 21 pounds of the fiery fare in eight minutes.
COMPETITION
But when he’s not putting away pounds of food at lightning speed, Chestnut is happy to cozy up at home in Westfield.
Chestnut, 41, started competitive eating in 2005 while studying engineering at San Jose State University. The California-native entered a lobster eating contest, where he tied for third and was immediately hooked.
“I thought it was going really weird, but I kind of liked it. I didn’t have to hold back,” he said. “My whole life I’ve always thought, ‘Don’t be the first one to finish, I don’t want to be embarrassed.’ And during the contest I didn’t have to hold back. It was pretty awesome. I put some thought into it, and two weeks later there was a deepfried asparagus contest. I won that. It was delicious.”
From that point he traveled on weekends, and after graduation he worked in
construction, but kept competing. Eventually, he was able to give up his day job to embrace competitive eating as a career.
“I’ve been very lucky,” he said. “There are big contests, and in big contests there are sponsors, and then there is media and fans, which brings more sponsors. I’ve been very lucky. It’s been a crazy ride.”
Those travels led him all across the U.S. for different contests. But for some reason, Indiana stood out. He moved to Westfield four years ago.
“It’s nice to come home to a quiet place,” he said. “It’s clean, it’s safe, there are nice restaurants all around the north side and I have friends here. It’s a perfect location because I travel so much.”
Chestnut said although there were other Midwestern cities that might be a suitable hub for someone who travels as much as he does, there’s something idyllic about Westfield.
“People are nice. It’s kind of laid back,” he said. “It’s a unique place. Hoosier hospitality is real. Everybody takes care of their stuff, and I can leave for five days at a time and (my home) is safe. That’s important, peace of mind. All the kids in the neighborhood are great. There are block parties. I just love everything about the
community.”
As a competitive eater, Chestnut said there are very few things he won’t try — provided they are normal menu items — but contests can be tricky when food he likes isn’t cooked well. The only contest he’s ever turned down is Rocky Mountain oysters. And, he said proudly, he’s never been disqualified for failing to keep anything down.
When it comes to the St. Elmo Shrimp Cocktail Championship, Chestnut joked that the real challenge is pushing through the pain.
“It hits so hard. It’s almost painful and then it goes away, so then you just want it again,” he said. “For a contest, it’s a tough one. It hits you hard and you have to work past that weird pain for eight minutes. Everything about this contest is different — it’s cold and you’re eating this spicy cocktail sauce, your hands get numb but your face is burning. It’s a unique contest.”
Chestnut said in Westfield, he recommends the locally owned fare along Restaurant Row on Park Street, such as Chiba and The Italian House.
And he always comes back to the basics.
“I still love to eat,” he said. “I love a good hot dog.”
to the editor may be sent for consideration to letters@youarecurrent.com. Letters have a maximum word count of 300 words. Please include your city of residence and a contact phone number for verification. Current Publishing may refuse letters.
At right, Joey Chestnut of Westfield with St. Elmo Steak House president and co-owner Craig Huse. Chestnut set a new record Dec. 7 at the St. Elmo Shrimp Cocktail Eating Championship. (Photo courtesy of Susan Decker Media)
When you’re having a baby, highly skilled care you can trust changes everything. In Indiana, more moms trust Indiana University Health to deliver their babies than anyone else in the state. We give moms-to-be our unwavering commitment to compassionate, safe and quality care. Moms give our highly skilled OB/GYNs 4.8 out of 5 stars. Moms know best. Find your highly skilled OB/GYN at iuhealth.org/moms.
Indiana Grown Holiday Box highlights local businesses
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
A Bridgewater-based chef, cookbook author and registered dietician has turned her love of cooking into a healthy, problem-solving resolution to one of the hardest questions out there — what’s for dinner?
FOOD
Michelle Dudash created Spicekick in 2019.
“Dinner is always people’s source of pain — putting dinner on the table that is healthy, delicious and the whole family will eat but doesn’t take a lot of time to prepare,” Dudash said. “As a chef, I love to use spices. You can start with a piece of chicken, but what are you going to do to add flavor to it?”
Dudash was inspired to create seasoning packets similar to what one might find in the grocery store, but without the abundance of salt, sugar and filler that most seasonings have. The result was Spicekick — an array of gluten-free seasoning packets including taco, tuna, chili and sloppy joes designed for one-pot meals — that Dudash said is a “healthy alternative” to mass-produced seasoning packets.
Dudash started selling her spices in October 2019 at the Carmel farmers market. Once the product proved successful, she began with retail packaging and moved production to a commercial kitchen in Indianapolis.
Dudash said the taco seasoning packet is one of her bestselling products.
“People say once they try mine, they don’t go back,” she said. “I think it’s because it’s packed with flavor. It has texture. There are minced onions and oregano leaves, it’s not just a powder, It’s actually texture (with) pieces of celery and onions. It’s very different in that sense.”
Seasoning packets from Spicekick were featured in this year’s Indiana Grown Holiday Box — a gift box that showcases a variety of products from Indiana Grown members across the state. The limited-edition box — which included lotions, nuts, popcorn, beef sticks, granola and coffee samplers — sold out the first week of December.
Dudash is a member of Indiana Grown — an initiative of the Indiana State Department of Agriculture to highlight local products and artisan goods.
“It’s an awesome resource, being a small business owner that is Indiana-based,” she said. “They are all about promoting Indiana-based products that help support the local everything.”
Dudash said she can envision adding additional products to her line eventually, but for now she’s focused on expanding her customer base for her spice packets.
“The packets are made with real food ingredients like herbs, spices, dried vegetables and a bit of sea salt,” she said. “When you taste it, you’ll understand the difference immediately. As a chef, taste always comes first. I use natural ingredients to make basic proteins taste amazing for dinner.”
Spicekick products are sold online and at Fresh Thyme Market, Joe’s Butcher Shop, Market District and other retail locations locally, as well as retail outlets in Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio and Wisconsin. Find retail locations and online ordering information at spicekick. com.
NOV. 23 - JAN. 5
Michelle Dudash sells her Spicekick seasoning packets during the summer and winter markets in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Michelle Dudash)
Dudash
Join us in helping people live the lives they’re capable of living.
More than 68,000 children lack access to healthy food.
Westfield parks department plans for 2025
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
As the Westfield Department of Parks & Recreation nears its one-year anniversary, staff have big plans for green spaces in the new year.
RECREATION
The Westfield Parks & Recreation Board reviewed plans for 2025 Dec. 4. Parks and Recreation Department activities for 2025 are included in the department’s $3.4 million budget, part of the 2025 municipal budget approved by the Westfield City Council in late October.
Parks and Recreation Director Chris McConnell said programming is a key focus of the department for 2025.
“We are adding dollars so that we can increase our parks programming options in the community and have a better presence, providing opportunities not only for youth but for all of Westfield,” he said.
McConnell said the department will hire a forestry specialist in 2025 to ensure that trees are safe and healthy, and that developers are planting trees as required in their projects.
“Unfortunately, a lot of our right-ofway trees are old farm road trees, and they weren’t specifically planted to be a (street-adjacent) tree,” he said. “It just happens that is where they were. They were along an old county road. We will use (the forestry specialist’s) expertise to help assess what’s healthy and what’s not, and those that are at imminent risk
to the public we will identify and remove those. That will be a big part of his or her role, as well as holding developers accountable and actually making sure that what is put in the ground is what is on the landscape plan. It’s something the city hasn’t been doing very well because of lack of staff.”
Additional plans for 2025 include:
• Completion of Phase 2 at Simon Moon Park.
• Adding security cameras at several trail crossings.
• Investing in staff through training at state and national conferences and professional certifications.
The bulk of the department’s general fund budget is $2.1 million dedicated to services, including landscaping at all facilities and parks-maintained green spaces; hiring an arborist; janitorial needs; grant writing; and irrigation. Roughly $1 million of landscape and green space needs are within six roundabouts that will be addressed in 2025.
The park impact fee budget includes $1.7 million dedicated to construction costs and services for Simon Moon Park Phase 2; restrooms at Freedom Trail park; restrooms servicing the Monon Trail; and a new playground at Woods Family Park.
The budget also includes approximately $50,000 dedicated to grant funding available to HOAs for neighborhood enhancements and beautification projects. McConnell said grant applications will be available in January and July 2025.
Completion of Phase 2 construction at Simon Moon Park is expected in 2025. (File photo)
Westfield Lions raise $25,000 during ‘Poker for Sight’
news@youarecurrent.com
More than 260 poker players competed Nov. 15-16 in the Westfield Lions Club’s semiannual Poker for Sight tournament, contributing more than $25,000 in funding to benefit organizations and projects supported by the Lions.
FUNDRAISER
Prior to each of three qualifying sessions and the final round, members of the Lions presented $1,500 in donations to organizations that work with veterans, blind students, citizens that struggle to afford health care and the homeless. This year’s recipients were the Indiana Blind Children’s Foundation; Pets Healing Vets; Heart and Soul free clinic; and Habitat for Humanity of Central Indiana.
Joshua Kublnick of Muncie won the top prize — $10,000 — and plans to use it toward a down payment on a home.
The Westfield Lions’ next poker tournament is April 25-26, 2025. Learn more and register at lionspoker.org.
The Westfield Lions are looking for men and women interested in making a difference in the Westfield community. Learn how to become a member at westfieldlions.org.
A HELPING HAND
The Westfield Lions “Poker for Sight” tournament Nov. 15-16 raised funds benefitting:
INDIANA BLIND CHILDREN’S FOUNDATION
The Indiana Blind Children’s Foundation is the fundraising arm of the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Supporting organizations that assist the blind and focus on research into the causes of blindness is one of the core service projects of Lions Clubs International. Lions have dedicated service projects and fundraising for blindness since 1926, when Helen Keller challenged Lions to be “Knights of the Blind.” Learn more at indianabcf.org.
PETS HEALING VETS
Pets Healing Vets is a program run by the Humane Society for Hamilton County. The program pairs veterans
suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury with carefully selected shelter animals. Funds raised for Pets Healing Vets defray the cost of pet ownership for participating veterans. Learn more at hamiltonhumane.com/programs/ pets-healing-vets.
HEART AND SOUL
The Heart and Soul Free Clinic in Westfield provides free medical services to those who can’t afford them, fitting with the Lions Club’s motto, “We serve.” Learn more at heartandsoulclinic.org.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
Habitat for Humanity brings citizens together to help build homes for those battling homelessness and needing a hand up. Learn more about the Central Indiana Chapter of Habitat for Humanity at indyhabitat.org.
Tournament champion Joshua Kublnick, third from left, with members of the Westfield Lions Club. (Photos courtesy of Westfield Lions Club)
Jennifer Hatcher of the Humane Society for Hamilton County accepts a replica check from Lions member Brian Abraham.
DISPATCHES
Students of the month — Westfield Washington Schools announced the November Students of the Month recently. Recognized Shamrocks are Elliot Cooks from Virginia F. Wood Early Learning Center; Madison Cornwell from Shamrock Springs Elementary School; Penny Novotney from Oak Trace Elementary School; Jackson Kakos from Monon Trail Elementary School; Bryn Dixon from Maple Glen Elementary School; Ezra Kosobud of Washington Woods Elementary School; Nathan Aguzie from Westfield Middle School; and Addison Kooi from Westfield High School.
Hamilton County Health Department partners with CredibleMind — The Hamilton County Health Department recently launched a new digital platform for residents struggling with mental health issues. Tammy Sander, the county’s communications director, said CredibleMind is a wellness-oriented platform that provides 24/7 access to more than 10,000 science-based mental health resources. Featured topics range from anxiety and stress to workplace wellness and parenting. There is also a tab for community resources where residents can find a list of local agencies that provide mental wellness services. For more, visit hamiltoncounty. crediblemind.com.
Board of Public Works meetings — The Westfield Board of Public Works & Safety released its 2025 meeting schedule. Meetings take place the fourth Wednesday of each month at Westfield City Hall, 160 Penn St., unless otherwise noted. Scheduled meetings for 2025 are Jan. 22; Feb. 26; March 26; April 23; May 28; June 25; July 23; Aug. 27; Sept. 24; Oct. 19; Nov. 19; and Dec. 17. The final two meetings of the year will take place the third Wednesday of the month due to the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. The deadline to submit agenda items is one week prior to each meeting. Meetings are broadcast on the city’s’ YouTube channel, youtube.com/user/ cityofwestfieldin.
Photos with Santa — The Westfield Washington Historical Society & Museum will host photos with Santa at the Barker Family Cabin, 136 Penn St. in Westfield, from 1-5 p.m. Dec. 21. Photos will be taken in front of the historic cabin’s fireplace. Photos are free but donations to the WWHS & Museum are welcome. The museum will be open throughout Santa’s visit. Learn more at wwhs.us.
Park and Poplar ‘much-needed’
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Plans for a $125 million mixed-used development that would anchor the west side of downtown Westfield have cleared the first hurdle for approval.
DEVELOPMENT
The Westfield Advisory Plan Commission held a public hearing for the Park and Poplar planned unit development Dec. 2.
Old Town Companies introduced the PUD to the Westfield City Council in November. Plans call for development of retail and office space; a boutique hotel; a 247-unit apartment complex; a parking structure; townhomes; and a pedestrian plaza adjacent to the Midland Trace Trail at Park Street and Poplar Street/Westfield Boulevard, just east of Westfield Washington Public Library.
Old Town Companies VP of Development and Project Executive Jeremy Lollar said the development would include “resort-style” amenities.
“We are fairly far along in the design, certainly with the aesthetics of the plaza,” Lollar said.
“We are working with the city on this. The city has some plans to improve the pedestrian facilities associated with Park Street — beautification, lighting and just overall more pedestrian-friendly. We are a part of that design conversation and working together to get all of this fit and flow really nicely together.”
The parking garage would have 523 spaces, with up to 150 spaces dedicated as public parking to support Park Street, Jersey Street and Grand Junction Plaza.
The City of Westfield would own the public plaza. Lollar said the intention is to create water retention for the project underground.
There were no public comments during the hearing.
APC member Victor McCarty said there have been several iterations of the project since 2009.
“This is very much needed,” McCarty said. “I think this is a wonderful project in establishing our downtown.”
The APC voted to waive a workshop meeting. The petition will come back to the APC at a future meeting before consideration for approval by the Westfield City Council.
Wood Wind residential development to head to council
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Plans to develop 186 residential lots west of Ditch Road between 161st and 166st streets to tie into the Westfield-owned Wood Wind Golf Club will go to the Westfield City Council for consideration.
GROWTH
Old Town Companies first presented plans for the Woodwind East PUD to the Westfield City Council in September.
The 136-acre development would include three golf holes that will ultimately be owned by the city as part of the course. Since its introduction, Old Town Companies has refined the concept plan to include buffers with existing neighbors and an amenity area with a pool and pickleball courts.
Members of the Advisory Plan Commission asked for clarity Dec. 2 on plans for golf cart crossings across 161st Street.
“There will be perimeter trails, right-ofway trails that lead you to the develop-
Woodwind East PUD would include 186 residential lots east of Wood Wind Golf Club. (Image courtesy of City of Westfield)
ment,” Old Town Companies VP of Development and Project Executive Jeremy Lollar said. “There has been ongoing conversation about a grade-separated crossing for golf carts. That would be down the road and in partnership with the city because it would be outside the limits of this project.”
The APC forwarded the PUD to the council with a favorable recommendation. The Westfield City Council is expected to view the PUD later this month.
Why Listing Your Home in December and January is a Smart Move
Many homeowners hesitate to list their homes during the winter months, assuming the market slows down. In reality, December and January can be excellent times to sell. Serious buyers are actively searching, and the competition is typically lower, giving your home a unique advantage.
During the holidays, homes often look their best - cozy, decorated, and inviting - which helps buyers connect emotionally. Additionally, January is a time of new beginnings. Many buyers are motivated by job relocations, tax incentives, or personal resolutions to make a move.
With fewer properties on the market, your home has a higher chance of standing out. And with buyers eager to close before spring, winter listings often see faster sales and stronger offers. Trust the timing - winter could be your season for success!
FEATURED LISTINGS
Now Pending | 7546 Sedge Meadow Drive
Robbin Edwards
ERG Homes, Broker Associate c 317.508.1806
robbin.edwards@encoresir.com
erin.wilson@encoresir.com Now Pending | 3935 Cherwell Drive
Erin Wilson
ERG Homes, Broker Associate c 317.270.2125
Westfield Library Foundation announces gallery wall artists
(watercolor, oil, mixed media, charcoal)
DISPLAY
Fifteen local artists will be featured on the Michael and Karen Heaton Art Gallery Wall at the Westfield Washington Public Library in 2025.
The gallery wall is named in honor of foundation supporters and donors Michael and Karen Heaton, whose financial contribution allowed the Westfield Library Foundation to create artistic space. The foundation recently selected the artists following a call for submissions.
The months of February and September have been set aside to feature the work of Black artists during Black History Month and Latino artists during Hispanic Heritage Month.
Artwork — which will include several mediums such as watercolor, photography and oil paintings — will be strategically placed in prominent areas throughout the library beginning in January 2025. Artists spaces will include the large wall by Rivet at the Library Café; the staircase leading to the Atrium; next to the elevator; and in the second-floor parlor.
Selected artists are:
• January — Scott Miller, Zionsville (watercolor)
• March — Kylie Amos, Westfield (watercolor)
• April — Elena Paul, Carmel (wildlife photography); Katie Setcoski, Westfield (photography)
• June — Donna Curry, Westfield (mixed media); Cameron Hartford, Westfield (oil, mixed media)
• July — Augusta Edwards, Noblesville (oil); Neal Snapp, Noblesville (watercolor, oil, charcoal)
• August — Samuel Glenn, Sheridan (watercolor, acrylic, mixed media)
PUZZLE ANSWERS
Answers to HOOSIER HODGEPODGE: Teams: BEARS, BENGALS, COLTS, JAGUARS, LIONS, TITANS; Parts: ANCHOR, MOTOR, PROPELLER (ROPE); RUDDER, SAIL; Pickles: DILL, KOSHER, SOUR, SWEET; Orders: BOTTLE, CAN, DRAFT; County: FAIRGROUNDS,
• October — Jessica Morrison, Carmel (acrylic, oil); Kristin Whitney, Westfield (acrylic)
• November — Steven Strawbridge, Carmel (oil); Elaine Keyes, Carmel (acrylic, oil)
• December — Francoise Webb, Westfield (acrylic, oil); Jaclyn Schilling, Westfield
March is Youth Artist Month and will feature artwork from local students, while Teacher Appreciation Month in May will feature the work of local art teachers.
Westfield artist Katie Setcoski had planned to major in art but paused those plans because of an injury. Setocski will display her photography in the exhibit.
“I didn’t think I’d get picked,” she stated. “I’ve always painted for fun — shoes, T-Shirts, you name it. This will be the first time I’ve ever had the opportunity to share my photography with the community.”
Donna Curry, also of Westfield, was chosen to display her mixed-media art.
“I’m not a trained artist, but at 72-yearsold my passion for art has been reignited,” Curry stated. “This gallery is a fantastic platform that combines my love for art and books. I can’t wait to share my nature-inspired and spiritual pieces with the public.”
Westfield Library Foundation Executive Director Erin Downey said the goal of the gallery is to enrich the community’s cultural landscape and provide a platform for local artists to shine.
“We are thrilled to see the diverse talent represented on our art gallery wall, showcasing the creativity that makes our community unique,” Downey stated. “This initiative not only supports our local artists but also invites library patrons to engage with art in a meaningful way.”
The nonprofit Westfield Library Foundation supports programs and services for the Westfield Washington Public Library through major gifts, bequests, corporate sponsorships, naming rights and private donations. Learn more at westfieldlibraryfoundation. com.
Winter market applications now open – Westfield Welcome is accepting vendor applications for Westfield Winter Market, presented by Duke Energy. The market is 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays from Jan. 18 through March 29, 2025, excluding March 1. The market takes place this year at West Fork Whiskey, 10 E. 191st St. The Westfield Winter Market features honey, bread, pastries, handcrafted items, flowers, plants, cheese, meats, produce, pet food, specialty beverages and more. Apply to be a vendor or volunteer at westfieldwelcome.com/westfield-winter-market.
Setcoski
Curry
Giving Machine returns to Clay Terrace
By Lavanya Narayanan news@currentincarmel.com
‘Tis the season — for vending-machine donations.
GIVING BACK
The Giving Machine, which allows donors to purchase items like food, clean water, medical care and even livestock for people in need, has returned to Clay Terrace.
The initiative was launched by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and is a “fun and unique activity that allows the public to donate products and services to those in need worldwide,” according to Giving Machine Indy Media Director Brenna Donnelly Ford.
The Indy chapter’s co-chair, Rhonda Peterson, described the machines as a “beacon of generosity” that has raised more than $32 million in goods and services in the eight years since its inception.
Items range in price from $3 to $300 and can be purchased at the vending machine
The Giving Machine is at Clay Terrace through Jan. 5, 2025. (File photo)
with credit or debit card or Apple Pay. The machines do not accept cash.
The spirit of generosity continues with a “Day of Giving” in collaboration with Second Helpings Indy on Dec. 22, during which volunteers staff the machine and run activities for visitors. At the event, visitors can donate items like kitchen essentials, 30 hot meals and culinary training supplies to support Second Helpings Indy’s fight against hunger.
The Giving Machine is at 14540 Clay Terrace Blvd. through Jan. 5, 2025.
Get a great vehicle and support a great cause. With every new Subaru purchased or leased, Subaru will donate $250 to your choice of charities*. Tom Wood Subaru will also donate an additional $50 to Miracle Place here in our community for each sold or leased vehicle. Additionally, for every Subaru vehicle routine service visit during the Share the Love Event, Tom Wood Subaru will donate $5 to Miracle Place. November 21 through January 2.
Zionsville athlete more than a passing success at Brebeuf Jesuit
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School senior quarterback Maverick Geske put up some eye-popping numbers during the football season.
“He’s had amazing production in his high school career,” said Matt Geske, his father and Brebeuf Jesuit’s head coach. “He finished in the top 14 all-time in career yards.”
A Zionsville resident, Maverick’s single-season total of 4,039 yards in 2024 is fifth on the IHSAA state list.
“Outside of his production and physical attributes from his freshman year to now has been the leadership, the ability to get his teammates all playing together, the camaraderie, the work ethic, all those things combined has made (him) a special on-thefield player and, more importantly, brought our team along with him,” Geske said. Maverick, who is 6 feet and 205 pounds, completed 211 of 346 passes (61 percent)
MAVERICK GESKE
Favorite athlete: Baker Mayfield
Favorite TV show: “Succession”
Favorite vacation spot: Grand Cayman
Favorite musician: Drake
Favorite subject: Social studies
with 40 touchdowns and only 11 interceptions. He also rushed for eight touchdowns and caught a TD pass for the Braves (8-3), who reached the Class 4A sectional semifinal before losing to Roncalli.
Maverick threw for 3,084 yards as a junior. He became the starter during his sophomore season, throwing for 1,651 yards while completing 56 percent of his
Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School quarterback Maverick Geske threw for 4,039 yards this past season. (Photo courtesy of LJ Lesing)
attempts. He was recently named to the Indiana Football Coaches Association’s Class 4A All-State Senior Team.
His production earned him an offer to play football at several schools, including a recent offer from Indiana University.
“Being with a lot of those guys for the past four years in the weight room and offseason, it was pretty fun,” Maverick said.
“We got a couple of special things done, like beating Carmel. We didn’t go as far as
we planned (in the postseason) but it was definitely a fun season.”
Maverick said his main improvement has been in leadership
“My leadership has improved drastically over the last two years,” he said.
On the field, he said his decision-making has been another big improvement. Studying game film helped in that aspect, he said.
Maverick, who will graduate this month, might enroll in college in January to take part in spring practice.
“I want to put on some weight to compete with those (older) guys,” he said. “I want to get a little stronger. My goal weight is 215.”
Maverick, who turns 18 later this month, had a 7-1 record for Brebeuf’s baseball team last season as a pitcher. The Braves reached the IHSAA Class 3A state championship before losing to New Prairie.
“Baseball has been a close second, but football has always been my No. 1 sport,” Maverick said.
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@ youarecurrent.com.
IndianaSpineGroup.com/Swiatek
at Northwestern in Chicago, IL. After his residency, Dr. Swiatek completed spine surgery fellowship at the world-renowned Rothman Institute and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, PA.
• Treatment of back and neck pain, sciatica, spinal stenosis, herniated discs and work-related injuries
• Management of simple and complex spine problems, including revision surgery
• Cutting edge, minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery and less post-operative pain
• Experienced, Compassionate, Fellowship-trained Spine
Geske
UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT
Westfield City Council signs off on Grand Park operating contract
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
One year after announcing a memorandum of understanding to transfer management of Grand Park from the City of Westfield to a private organization, the deal has officially been signed.
The Westfield City Council unanimously approved an agreement with Grand Park Sports & Entertainment, LLC Dec. 6 to manage and operate Grand Park beginning Jan. 1, 2025. The agreement’s initial term is 10 years, with the option for four five-year extensions based on performance.
The 90-page contract is the result of one year of sometimes contentious backand-forth between Mayor Scott Willis and the seven members of the Westfield City Council. Some of those negotiations predated the current council — a request for proposals for management of Grand Park was issued in March 2022.
Westfield Director of Facilities and Events Matthew Deck said the agreement allows GPSE — a joint venture of Bullpen Tournaments, Indy Sports and Entertainment and Keystone Realty Group — to manage Grand Park while the city retains ownership. Bullpen Tournaments operates multiple baseball tournaments yearly at Grand Park. Indy Sports and Entertainment, LLC is the parent company of Indy Eleven, headquartered at Grand Park. Deck said GPSE brings to the table what Westfield simply does not have with regard to operating a sports complex — connections.
“(These organizations) have the depth of knowledge and understanding of Grand Park and have contributed to its success in the past,” Deck said. “Government will never run a business as efficiently and effectively as the private sector. The business of sports and entertainment is all about relationships and the city could never replicate the deep relationships that GPSE has with the NCAA, FIFA, Big Ten Conference, Horizon League, IHSAA, United Soccer League, Major League Soccer and MLB. Grand Park has already benefitted from these connections.”
Deck said under the agreement, GPSE will make guaranteed annual payments totaling $184 million to the City of Westfield over the course of 30 years, should the extensions within the agreement be
approved. Those funds will come from an annual operations fee, paid in monthly installments beginning May 30, 2025. The initial operations fee will total $2.6 million, increasing incrementally up to $9.5 million in 2054. The agreement includes a fee schedule through 2064 should an additional extension agreement be made after the initial 30-year agreement expires.
A dedicated escrow fund will be established to maintain and improve Grand Park’s facilities, with the city and GPSE contributing annually. The fund will support maintenance, capital improvements and facility upgrades. The city’s first contribution — due Dec. 31 — will total $2 million, with annual contributions each year after of $1 million subject to a 2 percent annual escalator.
GPSE will make a matching contribution
Grand Park will be operated by Grand Park Sports and Entertainment beginning in 2025, with the City of Westfield and GPSE contributing to an annual escrow fund for capital improvements at the property. (File Photo)
beginning in 2025. GPSE’s contributions are subject to a credit in the amount of the Professional Sports Development Area revenues per calendar year above the amount of the city’s contribution, with an estimated total contribution of $38 million over 30 years. A Professional Sports Development Area is a designated geographic area allowed by Indiana law that creates a special taxing district to assist with funding of sports-related projects. The taxing district is based on tax growth and state sales tax. Westfield does not yet have such a district established.
The revenue stream is part of the city’s strategic plan to create a Grand Park mixed-use district to include hotels, a multisport stadium and economic incentives to draw in potential corporate headquarters.
KEEPING SPORTS LOCAL
The agreement between the City of Westfield and Grand Park Sports & Entertainment for GPSE to take over management at Grand Park includes a provision to allow Westfield Youth Sports, Inc. to continue to utilize Grand Park’s facilities at discounted rates.
“As Westfield continues to grow rapidly, Westfield Youth Sports is experiencing a surge in participation from the city’s young athletes,” WYSI Board President Chad Schenkel said. “This agreement helps the organization offer access to diamond and field facilities for the community’s youth while help-
ing to address some of the challenges we face in securing athletic spaces.”
GPSE will honor existing agreements with WYSI that support the organization’s scheduling needs and growth of youth sports in Westfield.
The agreement also ensures that signature events such as Westfield Rocks the Fourth and the Indianapolis Colts Training Camp will remain on Grand Park’s schedule, and that Westfield residents will continue to have free access to all youth sports events organized by GPSE through the Bullpen Gives Back program.
Performance metrics included in the agreement include an increase of annual visitors — excluding Colts Camp — to 3.2 million unique visitors annually over the next several years, increasing to 3.7 million by 2034. Grand Park currently draws 1.5 unique visitors, with total visits of 5.5 million visits per year.
Deck said the final agreement was the result of the combined work of the Grand Park staff, the five-member operations review committee, legal review, financial review and the combined city councils during the administrations of Willis and former mayor Andy Cook.
“We’ve really had a lot of expert information going into this agreement,” Deck said. Willis said much of the thanks goes to Cook, who piloted the 400-acre sports complex, which opened in 2016.
“What a gutsy move,” Willis said. “Now that I’m sitting in that seat, I don’t know that I would have had the guts to go down that path, but it certainly has paid big dividends for our city. (This agreement) is by far the biggest decision that our city has had to weigh in on in modern day history. This park and this agreement is going to transform the City of Westfield. I feel good and I feel like we’re handing over a contract that our taxpayers can be proud of.”
Willis said the agreement will allow the city to collect more than two times the annual revenue as currently collected.
Council President Patcick Tamm said getting to the agreement wasn’t easy but is ultimately a win for the city.
“Grand Park is Westfield’s calling card,” Tamm said. “You can go anywhere in the country and potentially in the world and tell them you live in Westfield, and they will say, ‘Isn’t that where Grand Park is?’ People know Grand Park (and) I firmly believe that only will be strengthened and continued.”
Grand Park includes three turf fields within the 370,000 square feet Grand Park Events Center; 31 soccer fields; and 26 baseball diamonds.
Learn more at grandpark.org.
ON THE COVER: The Westfield City Council signed an agreement Dec. 6 with Grand Park Sports and Entertainment to take over management of Grand Park, effective Jan. 1, 2025. (File Photo)
Songwriter Berlin’s rare piano on display
Submitted by Great American Songbook Foundation
As the air fills with the familiar strains of Bing Crosby’s “White Christmas” – the bestselling pop single of all time — the Great American Songbook Foundation is unveiling a piece of music history once owned by the man who wrote it.
Irving Berlin, a Jewish immigrant from Russia, revolutionized American popular music with many classic songs that have become part of the fabric of our culture: “Blue Skies,” “Cheek to Cheek,” “Puttin’ on the Ritz,” “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” “Anything You Can Do,” “Happy Holiday,” “I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm” and even “God Bless America,” to name a few.
His success came despite interesting personal limitations: Berlin did not read or write music, and as a self-taught pianist, he preferred playing on the black keys, corresponding to the key of F-sharp. As time went on, he commissioned piano makers to build transposing instruments — pianos with mechanisms enabling the player to shift the keyboard left or right and play in any key without changing hand position.
One of those rare instruments was donated recently to the Songbook Foundation’s vast Songbook Library & Archives by Berlin’s family. Built circa 1955 by Sohmer & Co. of New York, it is a well-constructed but simple upright piano with a twist: a transposing lever mounted under the keyboard.
After some restoration work at Piano Solutions in Carmel, the unusual instrument is back at the Songbook Library & Archives, near the Songbook Foundation’s headquarters at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Later this month, it will be publicly displayed for the first time in conjunction with Civic Theatre’s production of “White Christmas” at the Center’s Tarkington theater, a musical adaptation of the 1954 Bing Crosby film that features 17 songs by Berlin.
(“Moon River,” “Hooray for Hollywood”) and Richard Whiting (“On the Good Ship Lollipop,” “Ain’t We Got Fun?”).
Kept in the songwriter’s New York office, the piano was one of three Sohmers left to Berlin’s three daughters after his death in 1989. His daughter Mary Ellen Barrett died in 2022 and passed it down to her daughter Elizabeth Matson, who donated it to the Songbook Foundation.
“I learned about the Great American Songbook Foundation a few years ago, and knew right away it would be the perfect place to donate this treasured family heirloom,” Matson said. “There could be no better place for Irving Berlin’s special instrument than in this museum devoted to celebrating the legacy of all the Great American Songbook writers.”
Songbook Foundation Executive Director Christopher Lewis said the priceless artifact will receive the respect and attention it deserves.
“Few artists exemplify the American Songbook more than Irving Berlin,” Lewis said. “We are eternally grateful to the family for entrusting us with this historic instrument and to the Piano Solutions staff for their expertise in helping us to preserve it. This piano will soon have a prominent place in our Songbook Exhibit Gallery at the Palladium and it ultimately will be a highlight of our planned music museum and visitor experience.”
Piano Solutions owners Greg Durthaler and Brian Hostetler have serviced several historic pianos for the Songbook Foundation, including instruments owned by songwriters Harold Arlen (“Over the Rainbow,” “Stormy Weather”), Johnny Mercer
Despite their decades in the business, however, the Berlin instrument was the first transposing piano they had worked on. They described the project as a “conservation” job, returning the long-dormant instrument to its original working condition with a minimum of replacement parts. The piano had to be dismantled to a large extent, with the keyboard removed to reveal the machinery within. The meticulous work included reglueing joints and cleaning and lubricating scores of small parts, rebuilding rather than replacing any broken or worn elements. The wooden case was deep-cleaned and treated for mildew but not refinished.
The first priority was to figure out how the transposing mechanism was designed and how to get it working again. Hostetler deduced that the piano’s central pedal had to be pushed all the way down to allow the lever and the keyboard to move freely, sliding left or right in increments to cover the 12 keys of Western music. A small brass plate with markings indicates the current key.
“It’s ingenious, but it also can cause problems if you’re not really careful with it,” Hostetler said. “Over the years, the device can actually break parts that you don’t want broken.”
Now fully functioning, the Berlin piano will be viewable publicly for the first time during the Dec. 20-21 final weekend of Civic Theatre’s “White Christmas” at The Tarkington. The lobby display also will include other relevant items from the Songbook Library & Archives, including an original promotional poster for the movie, a written arrangement of “White Christmas” owned by co-star Rosemary Clooney and a snow globe gifted by Berlin to Clooney as a memento of the production.
The piano also will be employed for a tune at the Songbook Foundation’s upcoming presentation Songbook Academy Sings the Songs of the Season, with two sold-out concerts by Songbook Academy alumni scheduled Dec. 22 at the center’s Studio Theater.
‘A CHRISTMAS STORY’
Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s production of “A Christmas Story: The Musical” runs through Jan. 5 at the Indianapolis venue. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“A Sinatra Christmas” is set for Dec. 18, followed by “Deception: An Evening of Magic and Lies: Dec. 19 and Frank D’Ambrosio Dec. 21-22 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The performances start at 7:30 p.m. 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.
‘FESTIVAL OF CAROLS’
Indianapolis Symphonic Choir’s “Festival of Carols” is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 20 and 3 p.m. Dec. 21-22 at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘SEUSSICAL’
Carmel Apprentice Theatre’s production of “Seussical” runs through Dec. 22 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way. For more, visit thecat.biz.
DISPATCHES
‘Voices of Christmas’ concert set — The Indianapolis Opera’s “Voices of Christmas” concert is set for 3 p.m. Dec. 22 at the Basile Opera Center, 4011 N. Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis. The concert includes the Indianapolis Opera Chorus and a special appearance from the Indianapolis Youth Orchestra. Tickets are $25.
Foxworthy to perform in Fishers — Renowned comedian Jeff Foxworthy will perform live at the new Fishers Event Center Feb. 21, 2025, for the first Hamilton Southeastern Education Foundation Legacy Celebration. Tickets are on sale at FishersEventCenter.com. A portion of proceeds benefit staff and students of Hamilton Southeastern Schools. For more, visit jefffoxworthy.com.
SONGBOOK FOUNDATION
Songwriter Irving Berlin’s Sohmer transposing piano was donated recently to the Songbook Library & Archives in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Songbook Foundation)
‘Nutcracker’ returns to Murat
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Indianapolis Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” has been a holiday fixture at the Murat Theatre at Old National Centre in Indianapolis for several years. Althought the story remains the same, it’s always a new look.
INDY BALLET
“The production is staged every year in a similar way, but it is never the same as it is a live performance,” said Victoria Lyras, Indianapolis Ballet’s founding artistic director. “It is a wonderful time of the year to share the love for this art form with our audiences through this magical production.”
Indianapolis Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” will be presented Dec. 19-22. The production has been at the Murat since 2016 except for 2020, when the performance was canceled amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
“In this year’s production, we feature three ballerinas as the Sugar Plum with three different Cavaliers,” Lyras said. “We also have three Snow Queens with their three Snow Kings. Clara is danced by a student from the Indianapolis School of Ballet and ‘The Nutcracker’ is performed by three different dancers in the company.”
The Nutcracker Tea, featuring characters from the performance, is set for noon Dec. 21 in the Tunisian Room at the Murat Shrine. Those buying Nutcracker Tea tickets receive a 20 percent discount on the same-day matinee tickets.
“The Nutcracker Tea is very popular, especially combining it before our Saturday matinee,” Indianapolis Ballet Executive Director Don Steffy said. “Families receive two holiday experiences in one afternoon — the Tea and the performance of the full-length ‘Nutcracker.’”
For tickets, visit indyballet.org.
‘Festival of Carols’ returns
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Mary Jo Wright has been with the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir for 11 years, but being a member never gets old.
CONCERTS
“I love singing with the choir because it just provides an outlet to do really beautiful music with people that love music as much as I do,” the Carmel resident said. “I’m not professionally trained, but that is not a requirement to be in this choir, although you do have to go through an audition every year for quality control. I love that part of it and it’s challenging.”
Wright said the music changes every year, but the group always performs Handel’s “Hallelujah Chorus” from the “Messiah.” The ISC also performs “The Dream Isaiah Saw” each year.
“We usually end the concert with those two songs because it’s a very poignant part of the concerts,” Wright said.
There will be three performances of the ISC’s “Festival of Carols” at the Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The performances are at 8 p.m. Dec. 20 and 3 p.m. Dec. 21-22. There will be a 7:30 p.m. performance at the Schrott Center for the Arts in Indianapolis.
“We get our Christmas music in October and we start working on it,” Wright said. “It really is the most wonderful time of the year. It’s music we all love and people come to hear it.”
This Week’s Market Magic!
Werkstatt
Dec. 16-24, Anja Werner, Plauen Woodworking Artist
Kinderecke
Dec. 16-20, Woodworking with Deeply Ingrained
Spielhaus
Dec. 17, 4-9 p.m., Storytelling & Roz Puppets
Dec. 20, 12-3 p.m., Music & Dance with Copper Z Wellness
Dec. 21, 4-7 p.m., Snow Queen & Happy Snowman
Wright said they are revisiting “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” with longtime award-winning journalist Debby Knox doing the narrator’s part. The Lawrence Central High School choir will do two pieces and join for the final two songs.
Alden Wagaman, a 25-year-old Noblesville resident, is in his first year with the choir.
“It’s something I wanted to do my whole life as a young aspiring musician,” he said. “Being in the Symphonic Choir has been amazing.”
Wagaman, the director of choral activities at Lincoln Middle School in the Pike schools system in Indianapolis, said ISC Artistic Director Eric Stark creates a good grouping of sacred and secular songs.
“There are fast and slow tempos. There is a nice wide variety,” Wagaman said. For tickets, visit thecenterpresents.org.
Dec. 22, 12-6 p.m. & Dec. 24, 12-4 p.m. Santa
Entertainment
Dec. 17, 6-7 p.m., 6-7 p.m., Dianna Davis and Mario Joven
Dec. 20, 7-9 p.m., 7-9 p.m., Duke Tumatoe & The Power Trio
Dec. 21, 4:30-5:30 p.m. & 8-9 p.m., Mike Schneider Band
Dec. 22, 12:30-1:30 p.m. & 3:30-4:30 p.m., Mike Schneider Band
November 23 - December 24
Westfield hospital breaks ground
A ceremonial groundbreaking Dec. 9 kicked off construction of Community Health Network’s $335 million state-of-the-art health and wellness campus in Westfield.
The 425,000-square-foot campus near 196th Street and U.S. 31 will feature an ambulatory surgery center, a medical office building, an emergency department and a six-story, 100-bed inpatient tower. The patient tower will provide labor and delivery and neonatal intensive care unit rooms.
“This campus is all about enhancing access to high-quality, convenient care for Westfield residents and surrounding areas,” Community Health Network COO Jason Fahrlander stated. “It demonstrates our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of this community with comprehensive services delivered close to home.”
Construction will be completed in phases, with the medical office building scheduled to open in early 2025, followed by the surgery center and hospital facilities in 2026. Construction includes reno-
vation of existing structures, estimated to save more than $50 million in construction costs versus ground-up construction. Those buildings — 19800 and 19900 East St. — will house outpatient imaging, cardiovascular care and multiple clinical specialties.
Community Health representatives said the new campus is a significant step in expanding access to comprehensive health care for one of Indiana’s fastest-growing communities.
Learn more at ecommunity.com/ westfield-campus.
The Community Health Network Westfield campus includes a six-story patient tower. (Image courtesy of Community Health Network)
Dawes Fretzin Dermatology Group expands to Westfield
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Dawes Fretzin Dermatology Group will expand to Westfield in 2025.
SKINCARE
The practice was founded by Dr. Ken Dawes in 1995, and Dr. Scott Fretzin joined in 1997. The Westfield office — 17300 Westfield Blvd., Suite 320, next to Westfield Washington Public Library — is the provider’s sixth office in central Indiana.
Dawes Fretzin Dermatology Group Supervisor of Practice Operations Taylor Ecoff said the Westfield office will offer expanded services and full product lines for sale.
“We wanted to extend to the Westfield community,” Ecoff said. “We have a lot of patients who are coming from Westfield, so this will make it more convenient for them. We do have at our main location an aesthetics department where we sell products and we do skin care consults, a variety of services. This will be the first (satellite) location where we will have an aesthetician who will be offering these services. So, it will be more convenient for Westfield.”
Aestheticians are skin care and product specialists. Ecoff said on-site aestheticians give consultations and provide a variety of services, including hydrofacials, product recommendations, chemical peels, microneedling, dermaplaining and laser hair removal.
Ecoff said dermatology is more than just a specialty. Investing in skin care is part of maintaining overall health. Skin cancers affect 1 in 5 Americans, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association.
“Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers that people are diagnosed with,” she said. “If a patient sees a spot, we’re always (recommending) that those patients call in and get their yearly skin checks. The most important thing about skin cancer is catching it early. So, if you see something that seems suspicious, calling us and getting that skin check, getting a biopsy if necessary, just to stay on top of things (is important.) We want to catch those as early as possible and that way they can get the best treatment. There’s a large range of treatments, so the earlier we catch it, the more success that we’re going to have (treating) it.”
The Dawes Fretzin Dermatology Westfield office opens Jan. 27, 2025. Office hours will be available Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, with plans to add Thursday availability at a later date.
Dawes Fretzin Dermatology’s main office is 7910 N. Shadeland Ave. in Indianapolis/ Castleton. Additional locations are Zionsville, Kokomo, Anderson and Post Road in Indianapolis. Appointments for all locations, including Westfield, can be made at 317-516-5000.
Learn more at dawesfretzin.com.
Dawes Fretzin Dermatology Group will open its Westfield office — 17300 Westfield Blvd., Suite 320, next to Westfield Washington Public Library — in January, 2025. (Photo by Marney Simon)
BATHROOMS
BATHROOMS
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
Watch and Wait
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
HUMOR
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 1
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
I have a major issue with my Apple Watch. I was having the time of my life with it when, with no warning, my watch asked me for my passcode, and then suddenly turned off. My watch had never asked me anything before. In fact, I was the one doing the asking. What day is it? What’s the weather like tomorrow? Who’s winning the Colts game? From my watch, I never heard a word. Not a peep. Do I even have a passcode?
Incredibly, I found it. I entered it carefully. I got a prompt that said my code was wrong. It also said I had to wait 10 minutes before I could try again, which was ironic because I didn’t have a working watch. I have no idea how long 10 minutes is. When my wife Mary Ellen says she’ll be ready to leave for dinner in 10 minutes, I swear it takes a half hour, so I never know who to believe, my wife or the grandfather clock in the living room.
I tried the code again. This time, the watch directed me to attempt logging in again in an hour. What kind of stupid security protection is that? What was I going to do for an hour? Later, my login failed again. Now, it said I had to wait three hours before another attempt. I decided to take in a movie.
I Googled the problem and was informed that I could reset the watch by pressing the side button. There were two side buttons on the watch – but which one to press?
I’m not sure this waiting time is an effective strategy to discourage someone with ill intentions. When I asked my wife out on a first date 45 years ago, she declined, claiming she was too busy, but she encouraged me to try again in three months. And I did. So, apparently, that method does work. Eventually.
And what a great idea for home security systems. How about a voiceover to the burglar at your window saying, “I’m sorry, we’re here having dinner. Could you try breaking in again in three days when we are in Bermuda? Our security system just wants to confirm your criminal attempt.”
I’m writing this column as I sit in the store where I purchased the watch. The manager told me it would be four hours before I could see the technician. I was very unhappy about the delay, but my watch had a big smile on its face.
READERS’ VIEWS
Ambrose on Main will disrupt downtown Westfield
** 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.
Editor,
Thirteen downtown Westfield families residing on North Street, East Street, Penn Street and Sycamore Street would like to express our gratitude for the article published by your newspaper regarding the problematic Ambrose on Main development. We share the frustration voiced by our neighbors on Hillcrest Street.
The Ambrose on Main planned unit development asks for exceptions related to parking required per dwelling/businesses, maximum building height, and a rooftop patio. We believe in its current form, this development will negatively impact the lives of the residents in the homes around the area. Our main concerns are increased traffic, insufficient parking, noise concerns, and
disruption of our privacy.
We are in contact with the city and we hope our grievances and suggestions will be taken seriously and will be adequately addressed. Additionally, we want to voice our disappointment in the way the residents of downtown Westfield were overlooked in the redevelopment plans for the very streets where we reside.
We hope that going forward, these redevelopment efforts will be done in a more responsible way that is respectful of downtown Westfield residents.
Sincerely,
Diana Otero Svaldi, Joaquin Goñi Cortes and Whitney Kinkel on behalf of Westfield Washington Friends
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
LIFESTYLE
5. Exam for Butler MBA hopefuls
9. “Come again?”
13. Nepal setting
14. Prime 47 steak option
15. Sound of laughter
16. Apt anagram for DORMITORY
18. Change one’s story?
19. I-465 road goo
20. “Once ___ a time...”
22. Like an Indy car
25. Uppity one
26. Swampy ground
29. Japanese currency
30. Britney Spears: “Oops!...I ___ It Again” 31. Autocrats of old 33. In no way 36. Beat at the Mini Marathon
37. Apt anagram for WEST-
ERN UNION
39. Mar
40. Make sure
42. “We Have the Meats!” advertiser
43. Pen filler
44. Fishers-to-Omaha dir.
45. Colts stats
46. Arm bone
48. Europe’s longest river
50. UIndy instructor
51. Beatles: “___ the Walrus”
52. Leg hinge
55. Apt anagram for BUTTERFLY
60. Fruit trees
61. Voice quality
62. Clinton’s veep
63. Coagulate
64. Do laps in the Westfield Community Pool
65. At the summit Down
1. Depressed
2. CBS forensic franchise
3. Put on WTHR
4. Photo finish
5. Dog’s warning
6. Late Chinese leader
7. Beach Boys: “I Get ___”
8. ISO pace
9. One of the five Ws for a Current reporter
10. Peter, Paul and Mary: “If I ___ a Hammer”
11. Tuna type
12. Tit for ___
17. Talk, talk, talk
21. Kind of angle
22. Dictionary abbr.
23. Ex-Pacers coach: Slick
24. Buries in a vault
25. Locale
26. It may give a hoot on a farm
27. Using the soapbox
28. Channel with “Family
Feud” reruns
30. Calamitous
32. Proofreader’s mark
34. On the road
35. California coastal region
36. Short race, for short
38. Annapolis inits.
39. 86,400 seconds
41. Bygone airline
43. Company’s receivables
47. Some artists’ studios
48. Easley Winery container
49. Rolex rival
50. Annoying one
51. Tabloid pair
52. Col. Sanders’ chain
53. Indy Eleven’s zero
54. Sense of self
56. A third of tri-
57. Decompose
58. “My man!”
59. Slangy assent Answers on Page 12
DO CONTACTLESS EXTERIOR ESTIMATES
time!
Family/locally owned dog waste scooping service with 16 years of experience. Prices start at $16/week for one visit for up to two dogs. More frequency also available. Email: UnleashedScooping@gmail.com. Phone 317.764.4777.
shidelerjay@gmail.com www.jayspersonalservices.com
