Founded Sept. 15, 2009, at Noblesville, IN Vol. XVII, No. 15
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Opinions
The views of the columnists in Current in Noblesville are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.
Primary care facility now open
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Ascension Medical Group St. Vincent opened its Noblesville primary care facility Jan. 13 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9460 E. 146th St.
The facility offers expanded access to family medicine, preventative care and health screenings for the Noblesville community, according to Ascension.
Lyndsey Ambler, COO for Ascension Medical Group, said the new facility is a celebration of growth for health care in Noblesville.
“We are not just opening doors to buildings, we are opening doors to improve health, provide convenient health care and (create) a stronger support system for families in Hamilton County,” Ambler said. “(Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen’s) vision for a healthy, thriving community aligns very nicely with Ascension’s mission, so we’re super excited for this new partnership.”
Ascension St. Vincent Fishers President Aleks Overby said data showed a lack of primary care providers in the area.
“For too many families, getting to a doctor means navigating heavy traffic, driving all over town and many miles,” Overby said. “With the opening of this clinic, we’re trying to close that gap a little bit.”
The new facility has 16 rooms and
at 9460 E. 146th St.
serves patients of all ages.
As Noblesville grows, Jensen said access to health care is essential for a thriving community.
“I think one of our larger goals
Spartz
Spartz announces reelection campaign — Republican U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz has filed to run for reelection for Indiana’s 5th District congressional seat. “Our nation will soon face significant fiscal challenges, and my extensive expertise on fiscal issues and health care will be greatly needed in Congress,” Spartz stated. “Too many people are running for office with corrupt personal agendas and radical policies that have been destructive to our country and undermine President (Donald) Trump’s conservative agenda, and we cannot allow them to prevail. Too many Americans have sacrificed for our freedoms.”
Hays and Boyer named partners at CCHA Law — Church Church Hittle and Antrim has announced that Justin Hays and Shyann Boyer have been named partners. Bays has been named a partner in the firm’s Business Services and Real Estate practice groups and will contribute to the firm’s long-term leadership. Boyer has been promoted to a partner in the firm’s School and Education Law practice
as a state is to aim to have healthier Hoosiers, and that’s going to take all of us rowing in the right direction to do that,” Jensen said. “We talk a lot about road infrastructure and sewer infrastructure. One thing we probably don’t talk as much about is the human infrastructure and what that looks like to keep our community vibrant and healthy. It’s investments like this in Noblesville that will continue to go a long way.”
Ascension Medical Group St. Vincent Noblesville Primary Care is open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more, visit healthcare.ascension. org/locations/indiana/inasc/noblesville-ascension-medical-group-st-vincent-noblesville-primary-care.
group and practices at CCHA’s Noblesville office. Officials said the promotions reflect CCHA’s continued commitment to recognizing talent, leadership and dedication to client service while investing in the firm’s long-term success.
Fever Confidence leadership program — Pacers Sports & Entertainment, the Indiana Fever and the Marion County Commission on Youth recently launched Fever Confidence, a new leadership program designed to empower girls in the greater Indianapolis area. Twenty high school seniors are part of the inaugural class — each paired with mentors from PS&E, the Indiana Fever and leaders from corporate and community organizations. Sessions also include a behind-the-scenes tour of Gainbridge Fieldhouse and the Indiana Fever’s facilities, the opportunity to watch a Fever practice and time to meet players and coaches. The 202526 Fever Confidence cohort includes Peyton Turner from Brownsburg High School; CaMya Webster from Carmel High School; Calajah Miller from Fishers High School; and Aspen Stadtfeld from Noblesville High School. Interested students can find more information at MCCOYouth.org/ Fever-Confidence.
Ascension Medical Group St. Vincent Noblesville Primary Care
City officials and Ascension Medical Group St. Vincent staff cut the ribbon Jan. 13 to the new facility. (Photos by Jessica Todd)
Lions to host trivia night
news@currentnoblesville.com
The Noblesville Lions Club will present a trivia night Feb. 5 at Bier Brewery in Noblesville, with proceeds benefiting Lions KidSight, a vision-screening program serving preschool-aged children in the community.
The fundraiser will help purchase a new vision-screening camera for the local KidSight program. Teams of one to eight players can participate for $80 per team. Check-in begins at 6 p.m., with trivia starting at 7 p.m. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.
Trivia categories will focus on a range of topics and prizes will be awarded for the highest-scoring team, as well as for best team name and theme.
Lions KidSight is a worldwide program that brings Lions Clubs together to ensure children receive vision screenings and follow-up care when needed. The program trains and mobilizes volunteers to efficiently screen the vision health of young children, helping identify issues early.
According to Lions KidSight, 80 percent of a child’s learning and devel-
opment depends on healthy, corrected vision, making early screening critical to academic and social success.
“Whether you’re a trivia fanatic or a rookie, we guarantee you’ll have fun supporting a great cause,” stated Josh Kozicki, Lions Club member and trivia host.
Registration is available at zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/ trivia-night-for-kids-sight--2026.
For more, contact Kozicki at josh@ thekozickis.org or visit lionskidsightusa.org.
Noblesville Lions Club members at the 2025 Trivia Night. (Photo courtesy of the Noblesville Lions Club)
Resident raises concerns regarding Flock Safety
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
A Noblesville resident raised concerns about the use of Flock Safety cameras in the city at the Jan. 13 Noblesville Common Council meeting.
Flock Safety is a public company that sells networks of AI-powered cameras to cities, businesses, schools and law enforcement agencies to deter and solve crimes by capturing vehicle data through Automated License Plate Readers and sharing it within a community-police partnership.
Noblesville Police Department Lt. Bruce Barnes said the NPD uses ALPRs to identify stolen vehicles, locate crime suspects and assist in criminal investigations and missing persons cases. He said NPD has established strict policies, procedures and accountability measures for all personnel with ALPR access.
NPD has used the cameras since 2022, according to Barnes. There are 18 in Noblesville. They cost $2,500 per camera per year.
Noblesville resident Ethan Whitaker, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and former cyber warfare officer, urged the city to reconsider its contract with Flock Safety because of “ethics and constitutionality,” referencing two Supreme Court cases — Carpenter v. United States and United States v. Jones.
Carpenter v. United States was settled in 2018. The court held that government entities violate the Fourth Amendment
when accessing historical cell site location information records containing the physical locations of cellphones without a search warrant.
United States v. Jones, settled in 2012, was a case in which the court held that installing a Global Positioning System tracking device on a vehicle and using the device to monitor the vehicle’s movements constitutes a search under the Fourth Amendment.
“Carpenter made clear that collecting detailed location needed over time, even in the public domain, constitutes a search requiring a warrant and probable cause,” Whitaker said. “That’s per the Fourth Amendment. United States v. Jones held that monthlong vehicle monitoring is a Fourth Amendment search. Flock’s network replicates that capability.”
Council member Mark Boice, liaison to the NPD, thanked Whitaker for the information.
“I’ll take it back to them,” Boice said. “I know when we first got the cameras, it was actually a pretty big win when we got them, because we were able to get a few different shopliftings where they found the license plates were people that were wanted from other places and some different things. So, it actually worked really well. But I’ll make sure we bring it up and we’ll talk about it and discuss it.”
The next common council meeting is at 6 p.m. Jan. 27 at City Hall, 16 S. 10th St.
DISPATCHES
Romance on the rails — This February, Nickel Plate Express will offer a full schedule of themed experiences departing from Forest Park in Noblesville. Friday nights are trivia nights on the train, kicking off with Rom-Com Trivia Night Feb. 6 and 1980s Trivia Night Feb. 20. A new experience, Cocktails and Candlelight, will be Feb. 7 and Feb. 14, offering reserved seating, the whole train set with candlelight and the opportunity to add in specialty cocktails and charcuterie. There will also be family-friendly Valentine’s Day rides throughout the month. For more, visit nickelplateexpress.org.
GriefShare — Noblesville First United Methodist Church at 2051 Monument St. has announced the beginning of its next GriefShare sessions. The weekly winter sessions will meet from 4 to 6 p.m. beginning Feb. 1. Participants can join anytime during the 13 weeks of meetings. A one time registration fee of $20 is appreciated. GriefShare is a 13-week non-denominational group featuring Christ-centered programming that focuses on grief topics associated with the death of a loved one. For more, visit noblesvillefirst.com or contact Coleen Albright at coleen.albright58@gmail. com.
Commissioners OK grant, contract
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
The Hamilton County Commissioners and approved grant awards and a construction contract at their Jan. 12 meeting.
The next commissioners meeting is at 1 p.m. Jan. 26 at the Hamilton County Government and Judicial Center.
WHAT HAPPENED: The commissioners approved 2026 Problem-Solving Court Grant Awards.
WHAT IT MEANS: The Indiana Office of Court Services has awarded $12,500 in grant funds to Hamilton Superior 5 Drug Court and $4,500 in grant funds to Hamilton Superior 7 Veterans Court.
WHAT’S NEXT: Hamilton Superior 5 Drug Court will use the funds to offset the cost of its free screen/incentive program for participants. The Hamilton Superior 7 Veterans Court will use the funds to offset the cost of team members attending the 2026 AllRise Conference, which provides problem-solving court training and training regarding specific disciplines such as attorneys, case managers and program coordinators.
WHAT HAPPENED: The commissioners approved the Hamilton County Strategic Projects 2026 Contract with Skender, an Indianapolis construction company.
WHAT IT MEANS: Skender is working with the county on the Hamilton County Judicial Center expansion project in 2026. The contract sum is $6 million.
WHAT’S NEXT: Included in the contract are judicial center office renovations and moves to enable new courts within the existing building, new courts and support spaces on the third floor of the existing building; and renovations to other county-owned buildings to support functions for the judicial center expansion project.
Two file for sheriff
news@currentnoblesville.com
John Lowes, chief deputy of the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, and Dustin Dixon, a HCSO lieutenant, have filed to run for Hamilton County Sheriff.
Lowes, a Republican, has more than 28 years of experience and is running to continue strong conservative leadership and ensure Hamilton County remains one of the safest communities in Indiana, according to an announcement from Lowes.
Lowes oversees the daily operations of the HCSO and works with deputies and command staff to support public safety across the county. He has served in a wide range of roles, including patrol, investigations, field training and administration.
“I am running for sheriff because I believe Hamilton County deserves experienced conservative leadership that will protect our families, uphold the Constitution and enforce the law fairly and firmly,” Lowes stated. “Public safety requires vigilance, accountability and a commitment to conservative principles that put the rule of law first.”
According to the announcement, Lowes has been endorsed by Hamilton County Sheriff Dennis Quakenbush, who is term-limited and will conclude his second term this year.
Dixon, a Republican, is in his 24th year of service with the HCSO. As a lieutenant, he oversees all aspects of day shift patrol operations, including animal control and probation security.
“I am running for Hamilton County Sheriff because this community has trusted me to serve and protect it for nearly 25 years,” Dixon stated. “Public safety will always be my No. 1 priority. I believe in leading with integrity, supporting our deputies and maintaining transparency and trust with the citizens we serve.”
According to the announcement, Dixon has been endorsed by Doug Carter, a retired Indiana State Police Superintendent and former Hamilton County Sheriff.
The Republican primary election is May 5.
For more, visit lowesforsheriff.com and dixonforsheriff.com.
Belfry Theatre to relocate
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Volunteers from Belfry Theatre, a nonprofit dedicated to inspiring creativity and fostering talent, look toward the future as they say goodbye to part of their past.
Since 1969, a building at 10690 Greenfield Ave. in Noblesville, formerly Union Chapel Church, has been Belfry Theatre’s home. The organization sold the building and is raisling money for a new facility.
“We are the oldest theater troupe in Hamilton County,” Belfry Theatre President Eric Matters said. “We’ve been putting on shows inside of that little theater since 1969 and have at this point done over 100 productions in that space. It’s been a wonderful space for us.”
Matters said the building's state of disrepair, coupled with the the organization’s growth, contributed to the search for a new home.
Belfry Theatre is earmarking money from the building sale to build a new facility.
“We are in the process of working
with the City of Noblesville and other arts partners in Noblesville to create a space that works not just for us, but for other arts organizations in the city,” Matters said.
Matters said the organization is eyeing the arts district in downtown Noblesville, the west side of the city or space near Innovation Mile as possible locations for a new home.
“The city is expecting a master arts proposal to come in February, and we’re working with the consultant the city has hired, as well as members of the city council and other arts organizations, to figure out what works best for the city and ourselves,” Matters said.
For more, visit thebelfrytheatre.com/ index.php.
Nonprofit tackles housing
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Healthy & Dwell, a Noblesville-based nonprofit that creates housing for people facing mental health challenges, is building four duplexes on property in Noblesville.
Healthy & Dwell co-Executive Director Ronda Owens-Deme started the organization in 2020. This will be the nonprofit’s second time creating housing in Noblesville.
“I had a woman named Kelli Hoffman reach out to me in May 2024 for housing for a relative of hers, and unfortunately, I didn’t have anything available,” Owens-Deme said. “The person was a female, and we only had male beds at the time. I asked if Kelli was interested in joining forces, and she came aboard.”
Just before Christmas of 2025, Healthy & Dwell purchased property in Noblesville to continue the mission. The organization plans to tear down the six structures on the property and rebuild them as duplexes.
“The current houses there were rentals from someone who had passed
away, and his daughters had them up for sale all next door to each other,” Owens-Deme said. “But they are inhabitable. They’re in really bad shape.”
The project is largely funded by a recent $700,000 donation. Demolition will begin on the properties in February.
“We’re really excited about expanding housing to those that struggle with mental health,” Owens-Deme said. “We’ve been looking for over a year for something that was big enough to support what we’re trying to do.”
The duplexes will be able to house 16 individuals and accommodate males and females. To live in the homes, individuals must have a serious mental illness diagnosis, such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
Owens-Deme said her goal is to remove stigmas regarding mental health.
“These people are already living in the community,” Owens-Deme said. “This is only going to help support them and keep them safe.”
For more, visit healthyanddwell.org.
Proposed rendering of Belfry Theatre’s new facility. (Rendering courtesy of Eric Matters)
Westfield High School freshman has high basketball IQ
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Westfield High School freshman guard Lillian Clark benefits from being a strong student of the game.
“She is someone who watches basketball and studies it,” Shamrocks coach Kelsey Steele said. “She has a strong IQ that will only continue to develop.”
Through the first 21 games, Clark led the Shamrocks (16-5) in scoring with a 14.6 points per game average on 46 percent shooting and has been one of their top defenders.
“I feel that I have improved incredibly on my defense, whether that be guarding my (area) and simply slowing someone down or making it harder for opponents to get easy looks,” she said. “I’m working hard to improve on attacking the rim and getting to the free throw line.”
Steele said Clark has improved dramatically on the defensive end.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
LILLIAN CLARK
Favorite athlete: University of Notre
Dame guard Hannah Hidalgo
Favorite subject: Math
Favorite movie: “Love and Basketball”
Favorite vacation spot: Anna Maria Island
“She is learning how to play defense within our system, and her commitment to being the best player she can possibly be has allowed her to develop at a fast pace,” Steele said. “Lillian is the ultimate competitor, and she has shown that in how she has competed to be her best this season.”
Steele said Clark’s top strength is her work ethic.
Westfield High School freshman guard Lillian Clark leads the Shamrocks in scoring. (Photo courtesy of David L. Dixon)
“Lillian is a young lady who pours her heart into basketball and spends a ton of time working on her craft,” Steele said. “On the court, the biggest strength is her ability to shoot the basketball, and she’s demonstrated that at a high level this season.”
Clark said her primary goal is to win the Class 4A Carmel Sectional, which starts Feb. 3.
She began playing in kindergarten with Westfield Youth Sports Inc.
EXPERT SPINE CARE NOW IN WESTFIELD
“However, as COVID-19 came around and I had days full of nothing to do, I would often find myself playing basketball outside hours on end, and that is when I discovered my true love for the sport,” Clark said. “Growing up, I was involved in many sports, like volleyball, flag football, track and cross country, but since the sixth grade, I’ve shifted my focus to only basketball.”
Clark said preparation also is a reflection of her passion for the sport.
“Whether it be long hard workouts or days full of back-to-back trainings, it has always been something that I look forward to and love very much,” she said. “I simply just love to have a basketball in my hands and a court under my feet.”
Clark said she doesn’t plan to play AAU this summer
“But I will be working in the gym on developing as a player so that I can be ever better next high school season,” she said.
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@youarecurrent.com.
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Included with every salt cave and foot spa session — no additional charge. All services $45. Gift Certificates Available.
Barriers to health care aren’t always apparent. Depression and mental illness can impact every aspect of an individual’s life. Fortunately for Donnisha, she found the courage to challenge the stigma around mental illness, and her journey is now inspiring others.
Daniel files for Ham. Co. seat
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
The impact of the state’s new property tax law has inspired a Carmel Democrat to run for the Hamilton County Council.
Chris Daniel said he’s become increasingly involved in local politics in recent years, but watching projects and programs get shelved or cut because of Senate Enrolled Act 1 led him to take additional action. So, he is running for the District 1 seat, currently held by first-term Republican councilor Tim Griffin, a Carmel firefighter. The district includes most of Carmel and the western edge of Fishers.
tributed to a decision to put plans for a domestic violence center — and other projects — on hold.
“Working on revamping those projects and getting them started again are going to be really important,” Daniel said.
Daniel works in a local hospital as an emergency room nurse.
SEA1 lowers property tax bills for most Hoosiers, but it also decreases the amount of property tax revenue growth Indiana municipalities and counties are set to receive. Hamilton County is expected to take in $6.5 million less than originally projected in 2026, with steeper drops expected in 2027 and 2028.
County officials said that SEA1 con-
“Hamilton County has long been considered one of the best counties in the country and the way to maintain that status is to ensure that the people who live and work here have affordable housing options, quality child care and access to health care,” he stated. “If elected, I will work tirelessly to make sure the hardworking people of Hamilton County are always supported by their local government.”
The primary election is May 5, and the general election is Nov. 3. Candidates can file for the primary election through noon Feb. 6.
Learn more about Daniel at instagram.com/chrisforhamiltoncounty or by emailing chrisforhamiltoncounty@ gmail.com.
Daniel
Court commissioner launches campaign for judge
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
Westfield resident Christopher Barrows has filed to run for judge of Hamilton County Superior Court 9 in the May 5 primary election.
A Republican, Barrows has served as Hamilton County Court Commissioner since 2022. He presides over the Title IV-D court, which has three full-time prosecutors, private counsel, public defenders and pro se participants.
He also handles criminal, civil and family law cases as a judge pro tem. Previously, he served as a guardian ad litem for more than 20 years.
“With 27 years in the courtroom and the last four on the bench, the best place I can continue to serve Hamilton County is as Judge of Superior Court 9,” Barrows stated. “My long experience, lifetime
“With 27 years in the courtroom and the last four on the bench, the best place I can continue to serve Hamilton County is as Judge of Superior Court 9."
– CHRISTOPHER BARROWS
community service and integrity to apply the law as written makes me the most qualified candidate for Superior Court 9.”
Hamilton County Superior Court 9 will begin operations on Jan. 1, 2027.
Carmel resident Paul Sweeney also has launched a campaign to become the court’s first judge.
Barrows is a board member for the Westfield Youth Assistance Program, the Westfield Education Foundation and the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, Indiana Chapter. For more, visit ChrisBarrowsForJudge.com.
Barrows
Ford launches campaign for 5th district
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
Democratic State Sen. J.D. Ford has launched a campaign for Indiana’s 5th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, a seat held by three-term Republican Victoria Spartz.
Ford, who announced his candidacy Jan. 14, said his decision to run for federal office was inspired in part by the recent push for midcycle redistricting in Indiana by President Donald Trump and some Republican lawmakers. Legislators, including Ford, rejected those efforts.
and lowering costs; and ensuring Hoosier voices and concerns are heard at the federal level.
“Washington politics has been playing an outsized role in our state’s government and too many decisions are made based on power instead of people,” Ford stated in a press release. “I’m running for Congress because my service to Hoosiers doesn’t stop at the Statehouse. I want to bring Indiana’s hard work and community values to our nation’s capital. Hoosiers deserve a compassionate leader who shows up, listens, and takes action.”
“Hoosiers were put to the test when our leaders put politics over people and tried to steal your vote and your voice, but you spoke up,” Ford, 43, said in a video announcing his campaign. “You were impossible to ignore, and you rejected partisan redistricting. Your strength and resilience made something clear to me, Washington politics don’t stay in Washington.”
An Indianapolis resident, Ford does not reside within the 5th District, which includes Hamilton, Madison, Delaware, Grant, Tipton and a portion of Howard counties. However, he was already planning a move there before deciding to run for the office, according to a campaign spokesperson. Congressional candidates are not required to live in the district they would represent.
Ford’s campaign will focus on affordability of groceries, housing and routine services; protecting health care access
Spartz won reelection to the 5th District in 2024 with nearly 57 percent of the vote. Ford is aiming to flip a Republican stronghold for a second time, as he defeated longtime Republican State Sen. Mike Delph in 2018 to earn his current position representing District 29.
Ford is the first and only openly LGBTQ+ state legislator in Indiana. He has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Akron and a master’s degree in education from Purdue University Northwest.
Besides Spartz, Republican Scott A. King and Democrat Todd Shelton have filed to run for Congress in the 5th District.
Ford’s District 29 seat is also on the ballot this year. As of Jan. 14, Democrat David W. Greene Sr. and Republican John Ruckelshaus — who served as a state senator from 2016 to 2020 — have filed to run for the seat.
The primary election is May 5, and the general election is Nov. 3.
Learn more about Ford at ElectJDFord.com.
DISPATCHES
Hamilton County Leadership Academy Education Day — All six Hamilton County superintendents shared about school leadership and challenges at Hamilton County Leadership Academy Education Day, hosted at Noblesville Schools Jan. 8. Class members learned about school funding and school boards, and had an opportunity to tour Noblesville High School.
Awards nominations open — The Indiana Manufacturers Association is accepting nominations through April 30 for the 2026 Manufacturing Excellence Awards, which honor Indiana companies and individuals for outstanding work, exceptional contributions and impact on the future of manufacturing in Indiana. For more, visit indianamfg. com/2026-manufacturing-excellence-awards.
Ford
Indiana Chamber announces priorities
news@youarecurrent.com
The Indiana Chamber of Commerce has announced its priorities for the 2026 legislative session.
“This session, we are focusing on the policies we believe will have the biggest impact on employers, particularly small employers, and can get accomplished in the short timeframe we have,” Indiana Chamber President and CEO Vanessa Green Sinders stated in a news release. “What they all have in common is preserving or improving Indiana’s economic competitiveness in various areas and overall business climate.”
The full list of the Indiana Chamber’s 2026 legislative priorities is:
• Ensure tax conformity or decoupling with the One Big Beautiful Bill Act to maintain Indiana’s competitive tax status
• Enact tort reform to protect business owners and improve the state’s business climate
• Address liability barriers for em-
“This session, we are focusing on the policies we believe will have the biggest impact on employers, particularly small employers, and can get accomplished in the short timeframe we have.”
– INDIANA CHAMBER PRESIDENT AND CEO VANESSA GREEN SINDERS
ployers hiring students under 18 for work-based learning experiences
• Enable scholarship granting organizations to serve children aged 5 and under in child care settings
• Provide the option for township governments to eliminate themselves
• Build economic development collaboration across the state
• Enhance workplace safety
• Continue to deregulate as appropriate and cut environmental red tape
INNOVATION HUB
By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com
Residents now have access to a new creative space in Noblesville.
The Hamilton East Public Library at 1 Library Plaza now has an Ignite Maker Lab, a dedicated area to support creativity and innovation. A grand-opening celebration is set for 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Jan. 31.
HEPL Makerspace Director Megan Benson said there has been demand for the concept since Ignite Studio, an art makerspace, opened at the HEPL branch in Fishers in 2018.
“It’s always been a big request from patrons to have something like this at our branch,” Benson said. “The Ignite Studio in Fishers is a really well-used space, and because we serve people in two different cities, people in Noblesville were wanting something closer.”
The new space differs from the Ignite Studio by offering a smaller, more equipment-based format.
“In Fishers, the Ignite Studio has art kits, workshops and classes,” Benson said. “The Ignite Maker Lab is geared toward advanced users and small business owners. It is not going to have art classes or the art kits and supplies that we have at the Ignite Studio. It’s designed to be used to make branded apparel or custom prints.”
Ignite Maker Lab equipment ranges from 3D printers to an embroidery machine.
“One of the big pieces of equipment that we got a lot of requests for is a long arm quilting machine, and we’re really excited to now have that available at the Noblesville branch,” Benson said. “Our embroidery machine is an industrial level embroidery machine — you can load up to 15 colors of threads in there. And we have a direct-to-garment and direct-tofilm printer, where you can load a T-shirt or sweatshirt right into the printer, and the ink goes directly onto the garment.”
Benson said space is geared toward adult creators.
JANOME 500HD SEWING MACHINE — A heavy-duty mechanical sewing machine for advanced users only. Beginning sewists can visit the Ignite Studio in Fishers.
BOOK BINDING STATION (HEAT PRESS) — Uses heat to melt adhesive in premade covers for quick, professional-looking book assembly.
TWO BAMBU LABS X1C 3D PRINTERS — High-end, user-friendly desktop 3D printers known for speed, reliability and advanced features to create multicolor designs.
HANDI-QUILTER MOXIE LONG
ARM QUILTING MACHINE — With ProStitcher Lite and 8-foot loft frame. Certification required for advanced users. Beginning sewists can visit the Ignite Studio in Fishers.
EPSON SURECOLOR F2270 DIRECT TO GARMENT/DIRECT TO FILM PRINTER — Prints directly on T-shirts, sweatshirts and garments of all kinds. (Garments not provided).
BAI MIRROR EMBROIDERY MACHINE — Creates design on flat fabrics or hats and load up to 15 colors at once. Possibilities include monograms, custom hat designs and personalized towels, T-shirts and sweatshirts. (Thread and stabilizers provided, bring your own blanks to embroider on).
CRICUT MAKER 4 + HEAT PRESS — Combines Cricut’s powerful smart cutting machine with a specialized heat press, allowing you to cut intricate designs from 300-plus materials.
REVOPOINT 3D SCANNER — Scan a physical object and recreate it on the 3D printers.
“We wanted this new space to have a little bit higher level of technology than the other branch,” Benson said. “We’re kind of taking what we have at the Ignite Studio and going up to the next level.”
The space is open to the public. Equipment use is mostly free, with minimal charges on consumable materials.
“One of the central components of the space that we’re really proud of is to offer this to anyone from any ZIP code,” Benson said. “You do not need to live in Hamilton County. You do not need to have a library card. This is open and available for anyone, and business collaborations with community partners are definitely a possibility in the future.”
Benson said small business owners can benefit from the space.
“We’re hoping people will be doing branding and customization — anything related to their marketing needs,” Benson said. “We have had a number of businesses get their start at the Ignite Studio in Fishers where they’re making the products that they sell in the studio. So, we’re hoping to have that in Noblesville as well. Any business can come create customized marketing materials.”
Kim Davis owns the Noblesville small business Left Grain, which sells handmade leather patch hats, gifts and event decor. She used the laser engraver at the Ignite Studio in Fishers when she started designing merchandise, and said free creative spaces create endless opportunities.
“When you own a small business, margins can be tight, especially in the beginning,” Davis said. “Getting the chance to try and use something without having to invest in and find a space to store and use machines is incredible. It’s the biggest reason my business has grown into what it is today.”
Benson looks forward to the Ignite Maker Lab becoming a creative, accessible space in the community.
“We just want to spread what we have at the Ignite Studio in Fishers to a larger group of people,” Benson said.
For more, visit hamiltoneastpl.org.
Ignite Maker Lab introduces high-tech equipment and branding tools to the Noblesville library branch
ON THE COVER: The Ignite Maker Lab at the Hamilton East Public Library in Noblesville. (Photos courtesy of Megan Benson)
IGNITE MAKER LAB EQUIPMENT
Benson
Commentary by Larry Greene
This back porch renovation transformed a basic concrete patio into a finished outdoor living space. With added structure and thoughtful design details, the area now feels intentional, inviting and ready for everyday use.
THE BLUEPRINT
• The redesign ties the porch seamlessly to the home, creating a cohesive, intentional addition.
• A custom masonry fireplace anchors the space and extends its use beyond warmer months.
• Improved layout and flow strengthen the connection between the home and yard.
• Clean lines, neutral tones and layered stonework complement the existing exterior.
• The result is a low-maintenance outdoor retreat that turns the backyard into a destination.
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.
Spotlight on PorchFest features headliner Midnight RedEye
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Midnight RedEye has a deep playlist featuring a mix of country, classic rock and 1990s alternative hits.
“We want to focus on making people aware that we have a pretty wide genre of music,” Midnight RedEye drummer Ryan Morris said. “We cover a very large array of music from the ‘50s, ‘60s, ’70s, ’80s, ’90s, all the way up to the newer stuff. We’re pretty lucky that our singer has a very wide range. He can get down to some low octaves of doing Johnny Cash and Elvis (Presley), which we do, and get up into the high octaves of doing some Guns N’ Roses and Bon Jovi.”
Midnight RedEye is the headliner for Spotlight on PorchFest Jan. 24 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The concert supports the Carmel PorchFest Grant Program.
The evening starts at 5:30 p.m. with a VIP reception and silent auction in The Tarkington’s lobby.
Lisa Frank and the Trapper Keepers, a 1990s cover band, will perform at 7 p.m. Carmel PorchFest will award four $1,500 music grants to students from the Carmel community at 8 p.m. Midnight RedEye performs at 8:30 p.m. Morris, lead singer Trey Chelf and lead guitarist Mike Kruer live in Westfield. The other full-time members are bassist Abel Robinault, Frankton, and violinist and backup vocalist Georgina Sanchis-Miralles of Fishers.
Keyboard player Alex Poisal, Beech Grove, is a part-time member who will join the band at The Tarkington.
Morris said the band formed in 2022, playing its first concert as Midnight RedEye in April 2023. He said the band is working on some original songs.
“We have five songs in the works right now that we’re hoping to polish up and maybe get recorded before the
end of the year,” he said. “We might do one of the originals. We did one live in November, but we just want to get it a little more perfected.”
Morris said all band members have full-time jobs. They play a little more than 20 shows a year on average.
Midnight RedEye has played at Carmel PorchFest twice and headlined Carmel PorchFest’s Late Night on Main in 2024.
“Late Night on Main was a huge exposure event for us,” Morris said. “I think there were about 1,500 people there, so that was a lot of fun for us.”
Morris and Kruer have been friends for several years. They met Chelf and Robinault at an open mic night at Morse Reservoir in December 2022.
Lisa Frank and the Trapper Keepers is named for the multicolored school supplies from the 1990s, drummer Steve Fulton said.
“It’s three guys with a beard,” said Fulton, a 1996 Sheridan High School graduate who lives in Broad Ripple. “Some people totally get it, and some people think there’s a girl in the band, which makes it hilarious.”
Kris Huntley, a Fishers resident
who grew up in Noblesville, is the lead singer and guitarist. Indianapolis resident Steve Krider plays bass.
The band performs songs by groups such as Nirvana, Weezer and Smashing Pumpkins
“There are a lot of one-hit wonders,” Fulton said.
Fulton said the band has played Carmel PorchFest several times.
“It’s always a favorite show of ours for the year,” said Fulton, who said the band plays across the state. “We play a lot of breweries and private events. We also played on Late Night on Main in Carmel.”
General admission tickets are $15. VIP reception and preferred seating tickets are $50. The Carmel PorchFest Grant Program was created to provide financial support to students interested in the musical arts to cover such items as new instruments, lessons, schooling, musical opportunities, etc., in exchange for volunteer hours at PorchFest events. To date, Carmel PorchFest has awarded more than $30,000 to students.
For more, visit thecenterpresents. org.
‘THE MOUSETRAP’
“The Mousetrap” runs through Feb. 15 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Now That’s Funny: Kristen Toomey” is set for Jan. 22, followed by “Thank You for the Music! An ABBA Party” Jan 23. at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘MIDNIGHT GREEN TOUR’
“Neko Grey Midnight Green Tour” is set for 7:30 p.m. Jan. 22 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
LOCAL MIX MUSIC SERIES
The Local Mix Music Seres features Teresa Reynolds and the Slicktones at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 22 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center. To register for free livestream or buy $10 tickets, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘BYE BYE BIRDIE’
A youth production, presented by The Drama Department, of “Bye Bye Birdie” is set for Jan. 23-25 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.
MAC MCANALLY
Country artist Mac McAnally will perform at 8 p.m. Jan. 23 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
CABARET AT WOODSTOCK
Cabaret at Woodstock, an Indianapolis Opera fundraiser, is set for 5:30 to 9 p.m. Jan. 24 at Woodstock Country Club in Carmel. The fundraiser will feature cocktails, dinner, musical numbers from Broadway, the Great American Songbook and opera favorites. For more, visit indyopera.org.
Midnight RedEye members, from left, Trey Chelf, Abel Robinault, Mike Kruer, Georgina Sanchis-Miralles and Ryan Morris. (Photo courtesy of Kristi Swango Photography)
ENTERTAINMENT
‘Cinderella’ finally arrives at the Point Theater
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Laura Baltz has been eagerly anticipating this production.
The Point Theater founding artistic director said the youth theater’s presentation of “Cinderella” was set for the 2015 schedule, but the licensing was pulled.
for its own production.
“We’ve rented the carriage to other schools since obtaining it,” Baltz said.
“It’s always a little heartbreaking to watch it roll across other stages while we continue to wait. Seeing it finally cross our own stage will be incredibly meaningful.”
Mickelson Hackney
“Cinderella” was again on the schedule for the 2020-21 season, but the COVID-19 pandemic forced a cancellation.
“Our theater has the students vote on the shows we perform, and ‘Cinderella’ hasn’t won the vote again until this year,” Baltz said.
The Point Theater, featuring students ages 8 to 18, will finally present the classic musical from Feb. 6-8 at Marian University Theatre.
The Point Theater has owned Cinderella’s carriage for years, waiting to use it
Westfield High School freshman Abby Mickelson plays the title role.
“Cinderella is definitely one of the largest roles I’ve had,” she said. “I’m looking forward to getting to sing some of my favorite songs in musical theater as Cinderella. I am also so excited to share the stage with my best friends.”
Mickelson said there are some challenges.
“It’s a lot of time onstage throughout, and I have had to learn a lot of ballroom dancing, something I’ve never really done before,” she said. “It’s also such a big undertaking to play such a timeless
29D05-2512-PL-013908
Hamilton Superior Court 5
SUMMONS - SERVICE BY PUBLICATION
Filed: 12/16/2025 9:41 AM Clerk Hamilton County, Indiana
STATE OF INDIANA ) IN THE HAMILTON CIRCUIT/SUPERIOR COURT ) SS:
COUNTY OF HAMILTON ) CAUSE NO. 29D05-2512-PL-013908
JEFFREY P. JOHNSON TRUST, THE CITY OF NOBLESVILLE ) UTILITIES, ET AL., “THE WORLD”, ) Defendants. )
NOTICE OF SUIT
You are notified that you have been sued in the above-referenced Court.
This Summons and Notice of Publication is directed to the following persons who may have an interest in the following described real estate located in Hamilton County, Indiana that is the subject of this proceeding, and whose whereabouts are known to Plaintiff as follows: Jeffrey P. Johnson Trust, The City of Noblesville Utilities, and John Doe/Mary Doe as Unknown Occupants, Et Al., “The World”.
Lot Numbered 22A in Pebble Brook Villas, Secondary Plat, as per plat thereof recorded January 22, 2018 as Instrument No. 2018002861 in Plat Cabinet 5, Slide 784, in the Office of the Recorder of Hamilton County, Indiana.
Commonly known as: 4999 East Amesbury Place, Noblesville, IN 46062
Tax Parcel ID No.: 10-06-33-00-12-041.000 and 29-06-33-012-041.000-013
And all other persons claiming any right, title or interest in the described real estate herein, through or under them or any other person or entity, the names of all who are unknown to the Plaintiff.
In addition to the above-named Defendants being served by this summons, there may be other Defendants who have an interest in this lawsuit.
If you have a claim for relief against the Plaintiff arising from the same transaction or occurrence, you must assert it in your written answer.
The Publication of Notice is given pursuant to Indiana Code 32-20-3-14 and Indiana Code 43-21-1.
You must answer the Complaint in writing, by you or your attorney, on or before the _____ day of ___________________, 20__, the (same being within thirty (30) days after the Third Notice of this Suit), and if you fail to do so, a judgment will be entered against you for what the Plaintiff have demanded.
ATTEST: BY: /s/ Jynell D. Berkshire
/s/ Kathy Kreag Williams Jynell D. Berkshire #21999-49 Clerk of Court
BERKSHIRE LAW GROUP
1320 E. Vermont Street
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Phone: (317) 434-3000
Email: jynell@berkshirelawllc.com
Counsel for Plaintiff
“It’s also such a big undertaking to play such a timeless and iconic character but being Cinderella in this musical has always been one of my biggest dreams.”
– ABBY MICKELSON
and iconic character but being Cinderella in this musical has always been one of my biggest dreams.”
Carmel Middle School eighth-grader Evan Hackney plays the Prince.
“This is one of the biggest roles I’ve had besides playing SpongeBob in ‘SpongeBob the Musical,’” he said. “I’ve
had a lot of challenges playing this role because a lot of the roles I’ve played have felt like me and felt similar to who I am offstage, but this role is very much different than who I am, so it takes a lot of work to get into character and learn the personality of the Prince.”
Hackney didn’t expect to get the role when he auditioned.
“At callbacks, I still didn’t believe the part would be mine because I had never gotten a role this big through a Point show, but I was so thrilled to receive it and so excited to play it,” he said.
Hackney has been acting for eight years. Nine of his 14 shows have been with Point Theater.
For more, visit thepointtheater.org.
29D03-2512-EU-000560
STATE OF INDIANA ) IN THE HAMILTON COUNTY ) SS: SUPERIOR COURT
COUNTY OF HAMILTON ) ESTATE DOCKET: IN THE MATTER OF THE UNSUPERVISED ) ADMINISTRATION OF THE ESTATE OF ) STEPHEN T. PAYNE, DECEASED. )
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION FOR PUBLICATION
Notice is hereby given that Jackson S. Payne was, on December 29, 2025,, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Stephen T. Payne, deceased, who died on November 7, 2025.
All persons who claims against this estate, whether or not now due, must file the claim in the office of the Clerk of this Court within three (3) months from the date of the first publication of this notice, or within nine (9) months after the decedent’s death, whichever is earlier, or the claims will be forever barred. Dated at Noblesville, Indiana, this 29th day of December 2025.
/s/ Kathy Kreag Williams Clerk of the Hamilton County Superior Court, Probate Division Attorney for Estate:
Jeffrey J. Jinks, #17058-49
JEFF JINKS LAW
450 E 96th St., Ste. 500 Indianapolis, IN 46240 (317) 810-1400
29D03-2512-EU-000555
STATE OF INDIANA ) IN THE HAMILTON COUNTY ) SS: SUPERIOR COURT COUNTY OF HAMILTON ) ESTATE DOCKET: IN THE MATTER OF THE UNSUPERVISED ) ADMINISTRATION OF THE ESTATE OF ) HEIDI L. HERALD, DECEASED. )
NOTICE OF ADMINISTRATION FOR PUBLICATION
Notice is hereby given that James E. Geisert was, on December 23, 2025,, appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Heidi L. Herald, deceased, who died on October 20, 2025. All persons who claims against this estate, whether or not now due, must file the claim in the office of the Clerk of this Court within three (3) months from the date of the first publication of this notice, or within nine (9) months after the decedent’s death, whichever is earlier, or the claims will be forever barred. Dated at Noblesville, Indiana, this 23rd day of December 2025. /s/ Kathy Kreag Williams
Clerk of the Hamilton County Superior Court, Probate Division Attorney for Estate: Jeffrey J. Jinks, #17058-49
JEFF JINKS LAW
450 E 96th St., Ste. 500 Indianapolis, IN 46240 (317) 810-1400
PUZZLES
meal
15. Mexican money
16. A Four Corners state
17. Carmel’s Christkindlmarkt machine for a smashing keepsake?
19. Remain unsettled
20. Terminate
21. Update, as an atlas
23. Above
26. Uno + uno
29. Financial review
32. Remove
33. Fishers district
36. Collectible print, briefly
38. ___ wave
39. ISP option
40. Workplace safety org.
42. Former Hamilton County Prosecutor Garrison
44. Picture holders
47. Completed
48. They might be licked, smacked or sealed
52. Woolworth’s and Kresge’s, e.g.
54. Hawaii island
55. Indiana Supreme Court garb
56. Gen-___
57. Marge Simpson or Carol Brady
58. Quitter’s cry
61. Garden tool
62. A Stooge
64. Colts’ passer
70. Prohibit
71. Worldwide relief org.
72. Fishers N-S Road
73. Kuaba Gallery piece
74. Inclined
75. “___: Warrior Princess” DOWN
1. Victory Field souvenir shop buy
2. GPS reading
3. Bard’s nightfall
4. Iranian coin
5. Black stone
6. EMT skill
7. “The Jeans that Built America”
8. Cold War inits.
9. Big name in speakers
10. “Drag Race” host
11. Blended family member
12. Moving vehicle
13. IU prof’s degree
18. Mani mate
22. Hoosier National Forest tree
23. Magic, on a Pacers scoreboard
24. Seven, on some clocks
25. Geist summer hrs.
27. Twice tetra-
28. Biathlete’s need
30. Part of TGIF
31. ___ Aviv
33. Barely beats
34. More avant-garde
35. Cooking fats
37. Skills class rebranded as Family & Consumer Sciences, familiarly
