December 9, 2025 — Current in Noblesville

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Hamilton County Community Foundation focuses support on nonprofits, services

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

It’s challenging to serve an area like Hamilton County, with busy, growing cities on one end and smaller, rural communities on the other. To address those very different needs as well as the changing needs of the county overall, Hamilton County Community Foundation launched a new strategic plan early in 2025, and its implementation is starting to bear fruit.

HCCF President and CEO Danielle Stiles-Polk said the previous strategic plan was six or more years old — preCOVID-19 and pre-so many other changes — and it was time to rebrand.

“The world was totally different when that strategic plan had launched, and it was based on focus areas,” she said. “It looked a little bit more needs focused. I think the reality that set in, and a lot of our conversations were like, ‘The Community Foundation is not going to singlehandedly solve (for example) food insecurity in Hamilton County.’”

So, she said, they flipped the script and went back to the roots of what community foundations do best — make connections, bring people together and support nonprofit organizations through grants and education.

The new strategic plan is the result of a lengthy process, funded through the Lilly Endowment Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow initiative, that involved a community-needs assessment, listening sessions and some driving.

“We spent time out in the community, just really trying to understand what Hamilton County needs,” she said. “I think it suffers — that might be a little bit of a strong word — but there’s always that, ‘It’s Hamilton County and everything is golden’ perception.”

But, she said, there are a lot of people who are struggling for various reasons. Some might face food insecurity. Others

That means HCCF can focus on supporting those nonprofits in their missions through direct grants and through finding the best fit for its donor-advised funds. Foundation officials also made a point of diversifying where its grants go.

“We made a strategic-plan goal to increase the number of awards that we made to nonprofits that either had never received a grant before or who hadn’t received an award for the last five years,” Stiles-Polk said. “We set the metric at 10 percent, just to start … and I think we got to, like, 15 percent this year.”

Besides those grants, she said HCCF is gearing up to offer new services to further help nonprofits, including shared services — marketing, bookkeeping, etc. — and training programs to help nonprofit officials be more effective.

might lack access to child care, and still others might be on the edge of losing their home.

“We really tried to better understand what that looked like for the county as a whole, and really drill down, even into specific locations within the county,” she said. “It’s hard to look at data broadly, because you’re looking at everything from Carmel to Arcadia.”

Through numerous conversations, HCCF honed its new strategic plan to focus on four key areas — affordable housing, education and training, social services and child care solutions. StilesPolk noted that Hamilton County has many nonprofits that address those concerns.

“Hamilton County has, I think, one of the strongest nonprofit ecosystems of probably anywhere,” she said. “I would hold it up to any other county in the state, because it’s a group of people who are running organizations and ensuring that there’s not a ton of duplicative services, but there are supports in every different area (and) all of the organizations work really well together.”

HCCF also opened its space in Fishers for other organizations to meet, is working with food pantries and other organizations focused on improving food resources, is the fund holder for the county’s Dolly Parton Imagination Library program and supported the county Behavioral Health Collaborative as it worked toward opening the Rely Center in Noblesville.

“We have helped fund those collaboratives, as well as have been participants in the work they’re doing,” Stiles-Polk said. “As we kind of grow and evolve our strategies and where they’re going, those may shift some over time, but I think the model of trying to bring people together to solve systems-level issues for the county specifically will continue.”

Stiles-Polk credited the foundation’s staff and board for HCCF’s accomplishments.

“We have a team of rockstars who are working every day to ensure that we are present in the community and focused in the same direction,” she said. For more, visit hamiltoncountycf.org.

About us

Founded Sept. 15, 2009, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XVII, No. 12

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Council OKs ordinance for infrastructure project, appropriation transfer

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

The Noblesville Common Council approved an ordinance for the Embrace Downtown project — an infrastructure initiative that will begin in 2026 — and an appropriation transfer for the replacement of the Forest Park carousel at the Dec. 2 Noblesville Common Council meeting.

The final common council meeting of the year is at 6 p.m. Dec. 16 at City Hall, 16 S. 10th St.

 WHAT HAPPENED: The council approved an ordinance authorizing the issuance of bonds to finance construction for Phase 1 of Embrace Downtown, which will include construction on Logan Street between 8th and 9th streets.

 WHAT IT MEANS: The cost of Phase 1 of Embrace Downtown is estimated at $8,175,000. It will be funded using the Downtown Development Fund, a city-created fund that supports downtown enhancement projects, which is primarily funded through food and beverage tax revenue. City of Noblesville Engineer Ali Krupski said the ordinance authorized a maximum amount — $6.5 million — that can be bonded for the project. The total cost includes the $6.5 million maximum bond amount and items that will be paid for outside of the bond, including wastewater, stormwater and Indiana American Water work. Stormwater and wastewater work will be paid for with utility funds, and IAW work will be reimbursed to the city by IAW.

 WHAT’S NEXT: Krupski said once an actual bid amount is established, the council will follow up with a bond appropriation ordinance. That appropriation amount must be less than or equal to the authorized $6.5 million bond amount. Bid opening for the project is set for Dec. 16 at the Noblesville Board of Public Works meeting.

 What happened: The council approved an appropriation transfer for the replacement of the carousel at Forest Park.

 WHAT IT MEANS: The carousel in Forest Park has been inoperable since June 2024, and because of its age and condition, the city has determined building a new one is more cost effective. The Noblesville Parks & Recreation Department has identified a company that has agreed to construct and install a new carousel in 2026 for $473,000 — a guaranteed price including a government discount if the city pays an initial deposit of $173,000.

 WHAT’S NEXT: The 2025 City of Noblesville budget included a $500,000 one-time appropriation from the general fund for the acquisition of property to construct a new fire station, and $497,000 remains available. A deposit will be made on the new carousel by transferring $173,000 from those remaining funds. The fire station project remains funded in the city’s capital plan, but the main costs won’t be incurred this fiscal year, allowing the parks department to use a portion of the available balance.

DISPATCH

 Senate page program applications available — The Indiana Senate is accepting applications for the 2026 Senate Page Program. Through the full-day program, students in grades six through 12 tour Indiana’s Statehouse, listen to debates from the Senate floor and help staff with age-appropriate tasks. Students also have the opportunity to meet their state senator. The program begins in January and continues throughout the legislative session. For more or to apply, visit IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/ Page-Program

The right choice for specialized care.

HEPL launches annual Season of Giving

news@currentnoblesville.com

Hamilton East Public Library’s annual Season of Giving campaign, running through Jan. 11, 2026, encourages community members to donate items that will help fill various needs in Hamilton County.

Donation collection sites will be available at the Noblesville and Fishers branches throughout the campaign. This year’s donation drive includes:

• Winter Warmth Drive: New socks, winter hats and mittens/gloves (all sizes) are needed to help keep community members warm this season. Donations made at the Fishers library will support the Delaware Township Trustee’s Office. Donations made at the Noblesville library will support the Noblesville Township Trustee’s Office.

• Nonperishable Food Drive: In partnership with the Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank, HEPL is collecting shelf-stable, nonperishable food items for local neighbors in need.

• Period Care Product Drive: The drive supports HamCo Love, a local nonprofit working to end period poverty in Hamilton County. Community members can donate items from HamCo Love’s Target, Amazon or Walmart wish lists or contribute directly via Venmo (@ HamCoLove).

HEPL also has partnered with Ham-

ilton Southeastern Schools’ public relations class through an externship program designed to give students real-world communications experience. During the fall semester, three Hamilton Southeastern High School students worked with HEPL’s marketing and communications team to help shape the storytelling and outreach efforts behind the Season of Giving.

“Our goal was to increase donations by 5 percent (over last year) in the library’s Season of Giving campaign through blogs, social media and more,” HSE senior and externship team lead Claire Robertson stated. “We’re so thankful to our adviser, Bill DeLisle, and HEPL’s Director of Marketing and Communications Kelsey Sweet for giving us this opportunity. We hope the products we created will spread joy and love throughout the community during this Season of Giving.”

In addition to donation opportunities, the Season of Giving features family-friendly and community-focused programs, such as:

• Bling-a-Book for adults and teens –Dec. 13 at Fishers Library

• Season of Giving Blood Drive – Dec. 26 at Noblesville Library

• Heart Connectors – Jan. 8 at Fishers Library

For more about the Season of Giving initiative, donation guidelines or event details, visit hamiltoneastpl.org.

a select David Weekley Quick Move-in Home in the Indianapolis area between November 1 and December 18, 2025, and qualified buyers may be eligible for a starting rate as low as 3.99% when the home purchase is financed with a conventional 7/6 SOFR adjustable rate mortgage home loan from Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. Home must close by December 31, 2025.

See a David Weekley Homes Sales Consultant for details. The 7/6 SOFR adjustable rate mortgage home loan with a starting rate as low as 3.99% offer is only valid for qualifying buyers who purchase an eligible David Weekley Quick Move-in Home (selected or designated as eligible by David Weekley Homes) in the Indianapolis area between November 1, 2025, and December 18, 2025 (the Program Period ), and finance the home purchase with a conventional 7/6 SOFR adjustable rate mortgage loan from Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. Home must close by December 31, 2025. Qualifying buyers must have a minimum FICO score of 740 and make a down payment of at least 10% of the Total Purchase Price. Contact mortgage loan originator for details on financing options. Borrower must meet lender’s qualification criteria. David Weekley Homes has arranged a Forward Commitment of a limited amount of mortgage financing for qualifying buyers, who finance with a home loan from Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation. Applications under the Forward Commitment will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until the limited amount of mortgage financing is depleted, or the program end date, whichever occurs first. Actual loan pricing may be adjusted based on the borrower’s credit profile and the borrower may need to pay discount points to get the rate under the commitment. This rate is not applicable for all credit profiles and not all borrowers will qualify for the rate. Offer must be presented to Sales Consultant prior to signing a Purchase Agreement and buyers who qualify for the Forward Commitment rate will not be eligible for any other Financing promotions

SFamily shares son’s legacy in documentary

news@currentnoblesville.com

Bryan Clauson, a former Noblesville resident, was a dirt-track, IndyCar and NASCAR driver who died in an on-track accident in 2016.

After his death, his family learned Clauson had signed up as an organ and tissue donor. He saved five lives through organ donation and helped save and heal dozens of others through tissue donation.

Now, his family is sharing his story in a new documentary available to watch for free on Tubi and on subscription platforms Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV and Google Play.

The documentary, “Driven to Save Lives,” follows the journeys of four Indiana families within the motor sports community. The film, created by nonprofit Indiana Donor Network and its in-house marketing team, highlights the lifesaving impact of saying “yes” to becoming an organ and tissue donor.

“I’m always in search of meaningful stories. I’m grateful for the vulnerability of the families and their stories shown in this film,” stated Aaron Winneroski, editor of the film.

The Driven2SaveLives program at the Indiana Donor Network, a federally designated organ recovery organization that coordinates organ and tissue donation in Indiana and transplantation throughout the nation, educates thousands of race fans each year about organ and tissue donation, encouraging fans to learn the facts about donation and choose to sign up to be a donor.

“Every heartbeat tells a story of courage, community and the race we’re in daily to save lives,” stated executive producer Taylor Sweeden, Clauson’s sister and a member of the marketing team at Indiana Donor Network.

According to the announcement, more than 104,000 Americans are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. In the U.S., a new person is added to the transplant waiting list every nine minutes.

Anyone can sign up to be a donor at DonateLifeIndiana.org.

Philanthropist earns award

The Hamilton County Community Foundation has announced that Frank Levinson, a fundholder with HCCF, has received the 2025 Outstanding Philanthropist Award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals — Indiana Chapter.

Levinson works with HCCF to give The Levinson Family Lifetime Philanthropy Award, which was established to honor young people who embody the values of peace, equality and civic engagement. According to the organization, each recipient is entrusted with a lifetime donor-advised fund to support the causes they care about most, and receives mentorship.

“About one century ago, a member of my family started the tradition of giving an award to the best student at Noblesville High School,” Levinson stated. “My grandfather, Frank Kinsey Levinson, and then my dad, Alan Charles Levinson, have continued this tradition over the ensuing years. My dad passed in August of 2013 and so now it is my opportunity.”

Danielle Stiles-Polk, president of HCCF, said Levinson’s philanthropy is innovative and generous.

“By empowering young residents with lifelong tools for strategic giving, he’s strengthening the Hamilton County community today and building a pipeline of civic leaders for tomorrow,” Stiles-Polk stated.

For more, visit hamiltoncountycf. org.

Shamrocks senior guard gets lift from basketball family

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Drew Haffner has reaped the benefits of coming from a basketball family.

His father, Scott Haffner, was an Indiana All-Star at Noblesville High School and played one season at the University of Illinois and three seasons at the University of Evansville. A second-round draft pick of the NBA’s Miami Heat, Scott Haffner played 43 games for Miami in the 1989-90 season and then seven games for the Charlotte Hornets the following season.

“My dad playing definitely has had an impact on my IQ in the game. He’s coached me from a really young age, and I have always grown up around basketball,” Drew Haffner said.

He learned from his brother, as well. A 2022 Westfield High School graduate, Cam Haffner played one season for Eastern Illinois University, two seasons at Evansville and is now at Western Kentucky University.

“My older brother had a really big impact on my game. Just competing with him every day since I was young

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

DREW HAFFNER

Favorite athlete: Jayson Tatum

Favorite vacation spot: Florida

Favorite TV show: “Breaking Bad”

Favorite movie: “Mission Impossible”

has definitely improved my mental toughness,” Drew Haffner said.

A 6-foot-4 shooting guard, Haffner averaged 12.4 points per game last season, shooting 48 percent from 3-point range and 46 percent overall. He helped the Shamrocks to an 18-4 record.

“I feel like I’ve made a really big improvement in my ball handling and being able to get downhill more efficiently,” said Haffner, who averaged 3.8 points as a sophomore.

He scored 20 points in a Nov. 25 season-opening victory against Scecina.

“Some goals I have is to win the sectional championship and make the Indiana All-Star Team,” he said.

EXPERT SPINE CARE NOW IN

Shamrocks coach Shane Sumpter said Haffner should have been selected as one of the Indiana Junior All-Stars.

“He’s a kid that had a terrific year and we expect him to do the same again this year,” Sumpter said. “Every year he’s been in our program, he’s improved. I thought he had a breakout year last season. I think he has a good chance to be an Indiana All-Star if he has a good year and our team has a good year. He’s probably one of the best shooters in the state and one of the best I’ve coached. He’s been a great kid to coach.”

Haffner, who has played with the Grand Park Premier club team since fourth grade, recently signed with Abilene (Texas) Christian University, an NCAA Division I program.

“The key in my decision to go to Abilene Christian was the coaches and the environment,” he said, “I love the way they coach, and it just felt like home for me ever since I visited.”

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

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Campaign supports youth

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Noblesville Beta Epsilon, a local chapter of Indiana-based women’s philanthropic service sorority TriKappa, which focuses on charity, culture and education, is celebrating 20 years of its Red Stocking Fund campaign.

The campaign is a holiday philanthropic service where funds raised aid families in need with school supplies, clothing and shoes, medicines, utilities and shelter, among other essential support.

“Twenty years ago, a group of TriKappa ladies (realized) there was a need within the schools to help the kids,” said Kim Claussen, chair of the Red Stocking Fund. “It’s a foundation of what we like to do as far as the community and giving back. With education and children being one of our main focuses, it allows them to concentrate on their studies and not on the daily struggles.”

Since 2006, more than $242,500 has been collected and distributed to children and families of Noblesville. Clauss-

en said a portion is given to each school in the Noblesville Schools district and the remaining amount goes to the Noblesville Trustee’s Office.

Last year, the organization raised more than $11,000, providing Shoe Carnival and Kohl’s vouchers for more than 100 children. Money also was used to help some families with utility and other home bills.

This year, the fundraising goal is $20,000.

“It’s truly a grassroots effort,” Claussen said. “There is no administrative fee. Everyone who chooses to help donates their time and all the stamps and paper. It is for families, but essentially it is for the kids. We’ve encouraged schools to give a little bit of money to each of the school counselors for them to use for kids with Christmas, but then also they can help direct families to the Noblesville Township Office where those funds are also.”

Check donations can be made out to Noblesville Red Stocking Fund and mailed to PO Box 162, Noblesville, Indiana, 46061.

Holiday Donation Drive

Donate new, unopened items to bring joy to kids spending their holidays in the hospital. Thank you for supporting local children.

Requested Items:

Crayola pencils/markers (10–12 ct)

Uno card decks

Small puzzles (24–48 pcs)

Play-Doh tubs

Expires 4/30/25

Faculty honored for teaching practices

From left, adjunct faculty for health sciences

Deborah King, assistant professor of math/ assistant department chair for general studies

Semere Sebhatu, dual credit English instructor at Options High School

Padam Chauhan and Ivy Tech Hamilton County

Chancellor Rachel Kartz.

(Photo courtesy of Ivy Tech Hamilton County)

news@currentnoblesville.com

Three Hamilton County faculty members and instructors were recently honored with Ivy Tech Community College’s Presidents Awards.

Semere (Sam) Sebhatu, assistant professor of math-assistant department chair for general studies, Deborah King, adjunct faculty for health sciences and Padam Chauhan, English/ dual credit instructor at Options High School in Noblesville were recognized for embodying the highest standards of teaching across Ivy Tech

campuses, according to the school. Ivy Tech honored 57 faculty, adjunct faculty and dual credit instructors with its annual President’s Awards.

“Every Ivy Tech student has their ‘why’ that inspires them and drives them forward in their education journey, and so often an Ivy Tech faculty member is a part of that story,” stated Marty Pollio, Ivy Tech Community College president. “The faculty, adjunct faculty and dual credit instructors being honored are not simply teaching their students; they are changing lives.”

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COMMUNITY

BY DESIGN

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Jordan Carpenter, a 2020 Noblesville High School graduate, has found her home away from home.

Carpenter, 23, is a senior at Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, Ga., where she majors in production design. She became interested in theater when she was 11. In middle school and at NHS, she participated in show choir, musicals and technical theater.

Carpenter said she chose to major in production design because of what she learned in high school.

“I took technical theater classes and behind-the-scenes theater classes with Greg Richards in high school, and we learned about scenic painting and the basics of construction,” Carpenter said. “My senior year, I performed as Belle (in ‘Beauty and the Beast’) and was a part of the crew building backstage. During one of the performances, one of the lights had fallen, and I had run, grabbed a lift and wheeled it over. I’m still in my costume, and I was lifted to the top, handed a wrench and fixed the light.

I’ve always loved doing both.”

Carpenter credits the Noblesville school system and staff for preparing her for college.

“I always say it was the greatest place to grow up,” Carpenter said. “I started in choir with Jordan Rattenbury in middle school, and I did show choir and musicals in high school. Susan Nieten taught so many different acting classes while Greg Richards taught a lot of technical theater classes. There is so much to learn there and a lot of room to create.”

Rattenbury, the choir and drama club director at Noblesville East Middle School, said it is special to hear about students following their passions into adult life.

“To know that Jordan is continuing her pursuit of theater and the arts makes me so happy,” Rattenbury said. “To know that the ‘spark’ that you had a hand in igniting/fueling is still going strong, when they love something

NHS graduate embraces opportunities at specialty college

you taught them as much as you loved teaching it — that is definitely very special.”

Most recently, Carpenter was selected to present the Rising Director Award to actress and director Kristen Stewart at the eight-day SCAD Savannah Film Festival. Stewart is best known for her role as Bella Swan in the “Twilight” movies. She is preparing to debut her latest directing project, “The Chronology of Water,” in theaters Dec. 10.

Jonathan Sage, SCAD public relations manager, said it is an honor for a student to be selected to present an award at the festival.

“Students within SCAD’s school of film and acting (audition) in front of faculty and the dean of the school of film and acting selects who presents what,” Sage said. “After being selected, they try to align students with connections or ties to whomever they’re presenting to. (Carpenter) was selected to present purely off of her presentation skills and talent, which is even more impressive because Kristen is one of our A-list guests.”

Carpenter said the best word to de-

scribe the opportunity is “cool.”

“I got to meet her and several sound designers she’s worked with that were all SCAD grads,” Carpenter said. “I gave a speech about her and her accolades, and we went straight from there to a studio and did an interview to dive deeper into this film and why she chose it to be her first directing project.”

Carpenter has participated in the film festival each year of college.

“My freshman year, I was a volunteer,” Carpenter said. “For the last two years, I’ve stood in line and got tickets and went to all the production design panels. This year was completely different. I went to all of the master classes I could with all of the directors and actors that came. It was a completely new experience”

Next for Carpenter is the 2026 SCAD acting showcase, where students demonstrate their acting skills.

‘I’m taking five years for my undergrad instead of the traditional four, so I’ll still be at SCAD next year,” she said. “I was cast in SCAD’s 2026 acting showcase — a huge honor — and I wanted to make sure that opportunity didn’t

pass me by. I’m pouring a lot of myself into that showcase and exploring all the things on stage and off stage that I adore about acting.”

THE CARPENTER FILE

Plans after graduation: “I’m still exploring the best path for me. During my final year and a half at SCAD, I’m looking forward to expanding my skills in set design and fabrication, taking on acting opportunities that challenge me and continuing to work with talented artists.”

Favorite part about college: “My favorite part about SCAD is all of the exceptionally talented people that I’ve met there. My peers and professors are all incredibly passionate about what they’re doing, and everyone is always collaborating, inspiring and challenging each other to do better work.”

Favorite Noblesville place to learn more about the arts: “I was always interested in musical theater and loved my time at Noblesville High School in their music and theater programs. I (also) was dazzled by the scale of shows being put on at Grace Church Theatre.”

Commentary by Larry Greene

This Pebble Brook home in Noblesville underwent a dramatic basement transformation, turning a basic lower level into a polished entertainment center with a custom bar.

THE BLUEPRINT

• A new semi-custom bar, painted Sherwin-Williams Peppercorn, creates a dramatic focal point.

• Cambria quartz countertops and a round BLANCO sink combine durability with elevated style.

• Mirrored geometric tile adds sparkle and depth, while glass shelving keeps the bar open and refined.

• Updated lighting and new LVP flooring complete the transformation, turning the basement into a polished, entertainment-ready retreat.

Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy. com or visit worthingtonindy.com for more remodeling inspiration and advice.

Noblesville basement becomes luxe lounge

Riverview to host women’s summit

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Riverview Health will present its second Women for Women Health Summit from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Feb. 5, 2026, at The Bridgewater Club in Carmel.

The summit will offer an expanded program and venue to meet growing interest from women seeking information and resources on health topics that matter most during midlife and beyond.

Lindy Thackston, Fox59 news anchor and a colon cancer survivor, is the keynote speaker for the event.

“I was diagnosed with stage three colon cancer, and then it went to stage four the next year,” Thackston said. “A lot of women go in not feeling right in their stomach and are kind of told they’re crazy. Over this time, I witnessed women locally and across the country who were told for so long, ‘There’s no way it’s what you’re thinking.’”

The event will feature discussions led by an all-women panel of Riverview Health specialists who will cover hormones, lifestyle medicine, mental wellness and pelvic health, among other topics.

“This panel is going to cover so much, and I think it’s going to be so useful for people,” Thackston said. “Since I’ve gone through everything, I’ve tried to go to events that may seem out of my comfort zone, and I’m really glad I have. This may not be something a person in the public thinks they should go to, but I would really encourage any woman to even just come alone. I promise she will be so glad she did.”

Attendees also can participate in networking and a resource expo to explore self-care, family medicine, pelvic floor therapy and imaging services, among other resources.

Space is limited to 150 attendees. Tickets are $10 and proceeds go to the Riverview Health Foundation Women’s Endowment Fund.

For more, visit riverview.org/ women4women.

Vanquish Shower Mold!

Spot the signs

Account takeover fraud rising

Commentary by Matthew Darrah

Hamilton County businesses — from Carmel to Fishers, Noblesville and Westfield — run on speed and trust. That’s exactly why account-takeover attempts increasingly probe owners juggling payroll, payables and growth. The good news: clear warning signs and smart habits help you spot and stop fraud early.

THE RED FLAGS APPEAR QUIETLY

Unfamiliar password-reset emails. Login alerts you didn’t trigger. Messages asking you to “confirm” a one-time code you never requested. Contact information changed without your action. A transfer or bill payment you don’t recognize. Any one of these deserves immediate attention; two or more should be treated as an emergency.

HOW A BREACH BECOMES A BREAK-IN

A common vulnerability is reusing the same password for shopping, email and banking. After a retailer’s data breach, criminals test stolen credentials across bank logins. If they get in, they change the phone and email in the profile, lock the owner out and queue transfers. Often, the takeover isn’t discovered until a routine payment fails — turning minutes of preparation into hours of recovery.

WORK WITH YOUR BANK BEFORE TROUBLE STARTS

Modern defenses are layered: multifactor authentication with authenticator-app support; risk-based “step-up” checks for unusual locations, devices and behavior; and out-of-band verification before sensitive changes take effect. When systems see a high-risk combo — say, a profile change followed by a first-time external transfer — they can pause the action, send alerts and require extra confirmation.

WHAT YOU CAN CONTROL IN REAL TIME

Mobile tools — like our Online and Mobile Banking for Business — let you lock a card instantly, set transaction and login alerts, and tailor limits on certain activity. These controls help catch small anomalies before they become big losses.

HOLD A STANDARD FOR YOUR FINANCIAL RELATIONSHIPS

Expect the essentials — multifactor by default, fast alerts and extra verification for sensitive changes — plus a banker in Hamilton County who knows your operating rhythm and can act quickly when minutes matter. Look for self-serve card controls to lock a card, set limits and fine-tune alerts instantly. Establish a recovery playbook with your banker so if access is compromised, you know how accounts are secured, activity is reviewed, services are restored and resolution is confirmed.

IF SOMETHING LOOKS WRONG, ACT FAST

Change your password and security questions if you can still log in. Contact your financial partner immediately to report findings. Lock or freeze cards in the app while the investigation is underway. Tighten alerts to watch new activity closely. Then file a report at IdentityTheft.gov to generate a formal recovery plan.

BOTTOM LINE

Expect all of this — plus a personal relationship with a banker who knows your business and advocates for it. If you’re struggling to find that fit, we’re here to help. Learn more at 1stsource. com/business.

 Indiana earns 16th AAA rating — The State of Indiana recently announced it has maintained its AAA credit rating for the 16th consecutive year. AAA is the highest rating available. The rating means lower borrowing costs for projects like roads and schools, and it makes the state an attractive environment for new business investments. All three major credit agencies — S&P Global Ratings, Moody’s Investors Service and Fitch Ratings — affirmed Indiana’s AAA status. Indiana is one of 14 states to hold the top rating from all three agencies.

Empire Group closes $53M loan for community

news@currentnoblesville.com

Empire Group of Companies has closed on a $53 million construction loan with Arbor Realty Trust to develop Village at Hyde Park, a single-family build-to-rent community in Noblesville.

The 256-unit project spans 25.5 acres west of I-69 at E. 141st St. and Marilyn Road, anchoring the west end of the 270-acre Hyde Park master-planned community.

Village at Hyde Park will offer one-, two- and three-bedroom detached rent al homes with private backyards and amenities including a resort-style pool and spa, clubhouse, fitness center, dog park and wash, charging stations and landscaped open spaces.

“We are thrilled to bring this rela tively new and high-demand asset class

to this rapidly growing and dynamic community,” stated Randy Grudzins ki, partner at Empire Group. “Aside from its proximity to I-69, the project is just a couple of minutes from some of the best shopping, restaurants and entertainment in northeast Indy metro, which should be a huge draw for future residents.”

Village at Hyde Park marks Empire’s

Home permits remain stable

news@currentnoblesville.com

The Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis reported in late November that single-family building permit ac tivity across central Indiana remained relatively stable through October, with total permits year-to-date coming in slightly below 2024 levels.

According to an announcement from BAGI, the region recorded 8,708 permits for the year through October, compared to 8,729 during the same period last year — a marginal change that indicates sus tained buyer interest as monthly activi ty softened heading into winter.

“Central Indiana’s housing market continues to demonstrate remarkable balance,” BAGI CEO Chris Hancock stated. “Our builders are navigating economic uncertainty with discipline — carefully managing inventory, respond ing to local demand and positioning the market for a stable start to 2026.”

Indianapolis Symphonic Choir’s ‘Festival of Carols’ returns to Palladium

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

For Indianapolis Symphonic Choir Artistic Director Eric Stark, this truly is the most wonderful time of the year.

The choir’s “Festival of Carols” has become an annual tradition in Carmel. The performances are set for 8 p.m. Dec. 19 and 3 p.m. Dec. 20 and 21 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. There also is a 7:30 p.m. Dec. 22 performance at Schrott Center for the Arts on the Butler University campus in Indianapolis.

“The holidays are always a great time for folks to gather together for the community, kind of the extended family,” Stark said. “We try to give people a wide variety of things to enjoy in the concert. So, they’ll hear some traditional carols. They’ll hear ‘O Come All Ye Faithful’ and ‘Away in a Manger,’ but they’ll also hear some new things, some uptempo numbers, a couple of gospel-style numbers that will be a lot of fun. We like to laugh at these concerts, also, so we’ve got some moments of audience participation and some surprises.”

carol they want and Duncan will improvise a brand-new composition on the spot.

Stark said it is special, especially later in December, to gather with friends and family.

“Sometimes our audience members are hosting family members from out of town who come in for the Christmas holiday, so they come to one of the concerts just a few days before, and there’s just a nice, warm feeling of sharing and fellowship when we can all get together like that,” he said.

There are approximately 130 ISC members.

The performances feature guest vocalist Bruno Sandes alongside the full Indianapolis Symphonic Choir and the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra. Sandes was the guest soloist last year as well.

“The audience loved hearing him sing and interacting with him,” Stark said. “He’ll be singing a mix of things, some familiar, like, ‘It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,’ the great Andy Williams tune. We’ve got a Spanish carol he’s singing, and a kind of an Andrews take on ‘Jingle Bells’ that’s really kind of fun.”

There will be an interactive “Battle of the Carols” segment led by ISC keyboard artist David Duncan, who invites audience members to vote on which

“Some are in the choir for the first time this year and some have been in there for decades, 20 or 30 years or more,” Stark said.

The spotlight choir is from Mt. Vernon High School.

“This is part of our outreach program,” Stark said. “Each year, we like to share our stage with a talented and promising group of young musicians from one of the local high schools.”

The Dec. 21 and 22 performances will include American Sign Language interpretation by Chuck Daube, “‘Festival of Carols’ has become one of our most meaningful traditions because it reflects who we are as a city,” stated Jennifer Cooper, the Indianapolis Symphonic Choir’s executive director. “This choir is about more than mu-

The Indianapolis Symphonic Choir will perform “Festival of Carols” Dec. 19-21 in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of ISC)

sic; it’s about belonging. Each performance is a reminder that the simple act of gathering and singing together has the power to restore hope, strengthen community and remind us of the good that still binds us.”

The Indianapolis Symphonic Choir also will perform “Handel’s Messiah” at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 18 with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra at the Payne & Mencias Palladium.

“We enjoy performing with lots of the great groups in town,” Stark said.

Before the Dec. 19 and 21 shows, audiences are invited to experience a new pre-concert opportunity: “A Holiday Walk & Talk with Sampson Levingston,” through the platform Through2Eyes.

Levingston, who is known for immersive walking tours, will guide viewers through a storytelling experience that connects the “Festival of Carols” to the broader cultural landscape of Indianapolis, offering new insights and perspectives before the first note is sung.

“It’s a unique perspective behindthe-scenes as we’re getting ready to open the show on those days,” Stark said. “I think people who tune in will get a glimpse into something that regular audience members don’t normally see.”

To register for the free Walk & Talk, visit eventbrite.com/e/festival-of-carols-walk-talks-tickets-1975306553074. Tickets for “Festival of Carols” are available at indychoir.org.

‘A BEEF & BOARDS CHRISTMAS!’

“A Beef & Boards Christmas!” runs through Dec. 31 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

‘SHAKE ‘EM ON DOWN’

Samantha Fish, Cedric Burnside and Jon Spencer will perform on the “Shake ‘Em On Down” tour at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 10 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

“Now That’s Funny: Comedy Night” is set for Dec. 11, followed by Franc D’Ambrosio Dec. 13-14 at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The performances are set for 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘DAVE

KOZ & FRIENDS’

“Dave Koz & Friends” is set for 8 p.m. Dec. 12 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘THE NUTCRACKER’

Central Indiana Dance Ensemble’s presentation of “The Nutcracker” is set for Dec. 12-14 at the STAR Bank Performing Arts Center in Zionsville. For more, visit cidedance.org.

CHRIS ISAAK

Chris Isaak will perform at 8 p.m. Dec. 13 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at the Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

‘HOLIDAY POPS WITH THE CSO’ Carmel Symphony Orchestra’s “Holiday Pops with the CSO: Spirit of the Season” concert is set for 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium. For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

ENTERTAINMENT

CSO holds Holiday Pops

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

For Carmel Symphony Orchestra guest conductor Kelly Kuo, holiday concerts are always special.

“I love watching kids attend performances — some of them are there for the first time,” Kuo said. “Hearing a live orchestra is such a rare experience I find for younger children these days, regardless of what music is being performed, obviously with more festive music in this particular case. It always takes me back to my childhood and hearing orchestras for the first time, and I think that’s just magical.”

diana, will narrate “The Snowman” during the matinee.

“It was originally a symphonic poem that was written to accompany a film made out of a wordless children’s picture book,” Kuo said.

The narration will substitute for the film, allowing the audience to imagine the pictures.

Kuo will guide Carmel Symphony Orchestra’s “Holiday Pops Spirit of the Season” concerts at 2 and 7 p.m. Dec. 14 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

The 2 p.m. matinee is for younger audiences.

Westfield resident Don Farrell, a co-founder of Actors Theatre of In-

“We will have a child soloist singing ‘Walking on Air,’ which is originally from ‘The Snowman,’” Kuo said.

Farrell will sing a few numbers during the evening performance, including “The Christmas Song,” “White Christmas” and “What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?”

There will be music from “Frozen” and selections from “The Nutcracker.” In addition, the “Chanukah Festival Overture” will be performed.

Kuo, who has been based in Cincinnati since 2006, is the music director of the Reno Chamber Orchestra and associate artistic director of American Lyric Theater in New York.

For more, visit carmelsymphony.org.

This Week’s Market Magic!

The Market will be open December 10-24 (hours vary), with holiday fun the whole family can enjoy. Free to attend, free parking, no tickets required.

Werkstatt (Workshop)

Meet our German artisans while they work!

• Dec. 10-14, Seiffen School Students — See students make wooden toys in real time

Kinderecke (Kids Corner)

Enjoy crafts for all ages!

• Dec. 11, Button Tree Ornaments

• Dec. 14, Paper Straw Wreaths with Hanukkah colors available Spielhaus (Play House)

Meet-and-greets and magical shows.

• Dec. 12, 12-3 p.m., Singing Mrs. Claus

• Dec. 13, 5-7 p.m., Bongo Boy Music School

• Dec. 14, 12-5:30 p.m., Santa

Winter Pavilion

Experience authentic German entertainment.

• Dec. 12, 2:30-4:30 p.m., Indy Polkamotion

• Dec. 14, 12-1:30 p.m., The Mike Schneider Band

Special Events

• Dec. 10, 7:30-9 p.m., Ornament Exchange & German Sing-Along

• Dec. 14, 5-5:45 p.m., Menorah Aflame

November

22 - December 24

ICC holiday concerts set

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The Indianapolis Children’s Choir will celebrate its 40th anniversary concert season with holiday performances that focus on its history.

“This year’s theme of ‘Holiday Memories’ is special because we get to pull out some of our favorite pieces from past ICC holiday concerts,” ICC Executive Artistic Director Joshua Pedde said. “It’s fun to reintroduce the classic songs to the next generation of singers. Plus, it’s delightful for audiences to hear some fan favorites.”

mance, “Angels Sing,” will feature advanced and high school choirs. The 4 p.m. Dec. 14 concert is “Sounds of the Season” with intermediate choirs, the ICC Alumni Choir and advanced choirs.

“Our singers take a lot of pride in the work they put into them, and also keeping up this important tradition for the Indianapolis community that’s been happening for so many years,” Pedde said.

Pedde said there are several pieces this year that he enjoys.

There will be four performances of “Holiday Memories” concerts at Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis.

At 7 p.m. Dec. 12, “Angels Sing” will feature advanced and high school choirs. There will be two performances Dec. 13 with the 3 p.m. “Celebrate the Season” concert featuring beginning level singers and high school singers, and the 7 p.m. candlelight perfor-

“I have some fond memories especially of ‘Somewhere in My Memory’ from ‘Home Alone,’ because it brings me back to my own vivid holiday memory of seeing the movie for the first time when I was a kid,” he said. “‘Night of Silence’ transports me to a special memory of my daughter Annabelle’s first outing after being released from the NICU as a baby. ICC singers sang the song to her, and it was incredibly special. Overall, holiday music as a whole is some of my favorite music, in general.”

For tickets, visit icchoir.org/tickets.

Stocking material

“Love Letters in the Sand” singer: Pat ___

15. Butler building wall cover

16. “You Light Up My Life” singer: Debby ___ 17. Stand by 18. Moyer Fine Jewelers

sparkler

19. Name with Nixon on old bumper stickers

20. Wrong

22. Most cunning 23. Tiny crawler

24. Thailand neighbor

25. Not neg.

26. Paperback ID

27. Hamilton County Court order

28. Braying beast

31. Shock

34. “Yikes!”

36. Planet’s path

38. Right on an Indiana map

39. Frontiersman Daniel

41. Where a Carmel Sesquicentennial license plate from 1987 sold for $7

42. Star, Times and Current, collectively

44. Rude look

45. Like some excuses

46. US 31 road sealer

47. King topper

49. “Arrivederci!”

51. Help

52. Often-lost laundry item

53. School org.

56. Firmly plants

59. They make assertions

61. Taste of Westfield vendor’s stall

62. Also

63. Deserve

64. Family name with three generations of Major League Baseball all-stars

65. Snoopy or Scooby-Doo

66. I-865’s county

67. Wander

68. Snoop

69. Rent collector DOWN

1. Name with Biden on old bumper stickers

2. Kind of situation

3. Sunrise Cafe side

4. “Don’t bet ___!”

5. Flower parts

6. Compartmentalize

7. Levels

8. Noblesville HS basketball game site

AUTO AUCTION

9. Emblem attached to a Pacers jersey

The following will be sold for charges on: 12/20/2025

10. Meditation mentors

10AM AT 17110 RIVER RD, NOBLESVILLE 2007 DOD 1D8GT28K57W619323 $3342.00

11. Single

12. Singles

The following will be sold for charges on: 12/22/2025

29. “The King and I” setting

30. Eyelid affliction

31. Fisher’s Harvest Fest mo.

32. “Gone With the Wind” estate

33. Addict

35. A Stooge

37. Move, in Realtor lingo

40. The unmarried woman in “An Unmarried Woman”

43. Greeted, informally

48. PNC Bank offerings

50. With hands on hips

51. Blue Cross Blue Shield rival

52. Ice cream serving

53. “Evita” name

54. Angola university

10AM AT 17110 RIVER RD, NOBLESVILLE 2015 CHE 2GNFLFE31F6194603 $3274.00

13. Former Speaker Gingrich

21. Skewered fare

22. Massage Envy, e.g.

26. Colts QB stats

27. IU Health services:

Obstetrics & ___

28. “Dancing Queen” group

55. Fall bloomer

56. Recedes

57. Pointless

58. Party pooper

60. Catty remark

62. Colts QB stats ANSWERS ON PAGE 23

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