WHY LOCAL SEO MATTERS MORE THAN EVER IN 2025 And why your Google Business Profile is now mission critical
BACK HOME AGAIN
Local Couple Transforms Porch into Four-Season Retreat with Help from Hometown Window and Door Company
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
Sara Dustova
ANYTHING BUT ORDINARY
Pizza Uncommon Brings Bold Flavors to Westfield
Hamilton County Tourism
Family-Owned Business
Elevates Homes with Custom Pergolas & HighEnd Remodels
STEPHANIE DUNCAN
HEATHER HAAS
ROBERT JONES
JULI KNUTSON
RENÉE LARR
AVERY MARTIN
KELSEY MUSICK
NATALIE PLATT
JULIE YATES
PROUD MEMBER
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BRIGHT FUTURES
WESTFIELD YOUTH ASSISTANCE PROGRAM EMPOWERS LOCAL YOUTH
the EIA establishes a plan for support to help the youth reach their full potential.
WYAP FREE AND VOLUNTARY SERVICES
Westfield Youth Assistance Program (WYAP) advocates for youth ages 3 to 17 who are facing difficult life circumstances. The organization collaborates with the community’s vast array of talents, services and resources to help empower Westfield’s youth, parents and caregivers. Its services are free, voluntary and confidential.
Since 2009, WYAP has served more than 200 youths and their families annually, with more than 1,500 referrals.
The majority of WYAP’s referrals come from Westfield Washington Schools counselors and the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office. Once the Early Intervention Advocates (EIAs) receive a referral, they connect with the legal guardian or parent and youth. If the family consents to services,
“We receive referrals for youth in our community who are overcoming life obstacles that may be placing them at greater risk for juvenile services,” says Megan Contreras, EIA for WYAP. “It’s the greatest feeling in the world to be able to better understand the situation and all of the details, to then pivot and put into place truly helpful, accessible support for that youth and family.”
Through prevention efforts, WYAP aims to change the trajectory of young lives by connecting them with mental health supports, tutoring, mentoring, pro-social activities, camps and local resources. Full services include:
• Attendance support and behavioral plans
• Adult mentors for youth
• Educational tutoring resources
FAMILY/YOUTH COORDINATION OF SERVICES
• Camp and recreational opportunities
• Counseling and mental health resources
• Medical and dental care
• Food, clothing and financial assistance
In addition, WYAP is always looking for mentors and tutors to be matched with the amazing youths in the Westfield community. For mentors, the commitment is just an hour per week for one year, making it a great way to get involved in the community and, most importantly, to make a huge impact in
Writer / Natalie Platt
a young person’s life.
“We know it can be hard to make the leap to become a mentor, but we want potential mentors to know that we are here to support them with ideas for things to do with their mentees, as well as special opportunities throughout the year to expand the experiences of the youth,” says Tammy Havard, President of the WYAP Board of Directors.
To become a mentor, you must be 21 or older with a clean background check. No special skills are required.
LOOKING AHEAD
After years of community generosity through the Yellow Tie Gala, WYAP is proud to usher in a new era of giving. The Yellow Tie Gala name has been formally retired, making way for a fresh, inspired experience designed to both elevate and engage.
Coming in February 2026, the inaugural Westfield Youth Assistance Program Masquerade Ball: A Night of Promise will debut. The elegant event will blend the rich, spirited flair of New Orleans with the heart and purpose of Westfield. It will feature live music, Creole-inspired cuisine,
and opportunities to raise critical funds to sustain a full year of services for youth, including access to tutors, mentors, camp experiences and counseling.
For more information about WYAP’s services, or to get involved or support the organization, visit westfieldyap.org.
WOMEN IN BUSINESS
BARREL TO BOTTLE
CRAFTERS PIZZA & DRAFTHOUSE TEAM SELECTS SIGNATURE BOURBON, ONE TASTE AT A TIME Writer & Photographer / Stephanie Duncan
wners of Crafters Pizza and Drafthouse in Carmel, Brian and Alexis Hall, routinely select unique single-bourbon barrels and have them bottled for their patrons to purchase. But they don’t do it
This year, they assembled a team to travel to the Angel’s Envy campus in Louisville, Kentucky, to pick out the next barrel for their signature bourbon. Some distilleries offer to ship single bourbon samples for customers to choose from rather than tasting on site, but Brian prefers to be more hands-on.
“I really prefer to be here in person,” he says. “Then we can show our guests the process. Some people think you’re just putting a sticker on a bottle.”
Angel’s Envy is the first full-production whiskey distillery along Whiskey Row in downtown Louisville since Prohibition. Its bourbon is known for fruity notes, with hints of vanilla and caramel, thanks to aging in port wine barrels.
The tasting team included two experienced bartenders, Javier Colon and Sebastian Simmons, as well as a loyal customer, Matt Miller. Together, they brought their collective expertise to the table to help the Crafters team select their next single barrel of Angel’s Envy.
Before the tasting, the group went on an
in-depth tour of the distillery. Angel’s Envy tour guide Charlie Neal showcased each step of the distilling process and the unique history of the building.
Upon entering the fermentation section, the group noted the distinct smell of fresh bread and whiskey. They got a closer look at the giant fermentation tubs, the machinery that cooks the grain and water that make up the bourbon, and the grain selection room, where each batch is tested for moisture content, starch levels, and potential contaminants such as pesticides—all factors that affect the final taste.
Next, Neal led the group into a room filled with bourbon barrels stacked high on pallets. More than 2,000 barrels are curated explicitly for Angel’s Envy’s Single Barrel Program. The distillery sources its port wine barrels from the Douro region of Portugal, and every barrel holds a nuanced flavor profile.
Neal hand-selected three barrels for the team. Each person used a special tool called a whiskey thief to extract a small sample from the barrels.
The group was then led to a private tasting room, where they sampled three distinct barrels. The host guided the team through the tasting process, and the team highlighted specific flavor notes, aromas, and nuances in each sample.
Between the three, the team noticed how different each barrel tasted. Sample 1 had an earthy flavor with notes of spearmint. Sample 2, a frontrunner, featured a sweet berry taste thanks to strong contact with the port wine barrel. Sample
3 was also popular, with an approachable butterscotch flavor. After testing the picks at different proofs, they settled on 110 proof. Sample 3 won out based on its versatility.
“When we do a single barrel, we like it to taste great neat or on the rocks, but also so we can make a cocktail from it,” Alexis says.
This visit marked her third barrel pick at Angel’s Envy and her 13th barrel pick overall.
Crafters memorializes each selection with a framed certificate on the wall and keeps one bottle from each barrel pick.
Knowing what customers like plays a significant role in the selection process.
“The tasting is definitely easier the more I do it, but you also have to have a good palate and know what you’re looking for,” Alexis says.
That’s also why they included bartenders Colon and Simmons in the process. Their experience with guest preferences adds a valuable perspective.
“You have to pick somebody you trust,” Brian says. “Sebastian and Javi have been allowed to pick because I trust their palate.”
This was Colon’s third barrel pick, and he says knowing your customer is key.
“We didn’t even pick out our favorite,” Colon says. “When you pick your single barrel, you’re picking for the customers and what they like.”
The Halls also invited Matt Brown, a regular
at Crafters, to participate in the selection. They want guests to know how much care goes into choosing the signature bourbon. Brown appreciated being included.
“It puts a little pressure to pick the right one,” he says.
It takes about six weeks for Crafters to receive their bourbon, but the owners and staff are eagerly awaiting the finished product.
One perk after the bourbon is bottled: the
owners get to keep the barrel. Sometimes they ship it to a brewery to create a limitededition barrel-aged stout. Some lucky Crafters customers can even win a barrel once it has been retired from brewing and distilling.
Crafters Pizza and Drafthouse is located at 2430 E. 146th St. in Carmel and offers tavern-style pizzas with globally inspired toppings, along with sandwiches, salads and popular sports bar appetizers. For more information, call 317-798-2056 or visit craftersdrafthouse.com.
A
WHY LOCAL SEO MATTERS MORE THAN EVER IN 2025
And why your Google Business Profile is now mission critical
THE RULES OF SEARCH HAVE CHANGED.
There was a time when ranking on Google meant one thing: building a strong website. But today, local visibility depends far more on something else — your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business). It’s now the launchpad for local SEO success, and if you’re not optimizing it, your business might be drifting in digital space.
Google has shifted its focus toward local intent — prioritizing businesses that are relevant, nearby, and credible in the eyes of its algorithm. When someone searches “electrician near me” or “best pizza in Indianapolis,” it’s your Business Profile that determines whether you show up in that coveted local 3-pack, not your website alone.
Think of it like mission control: your website is the full ship, but your Google Business Profile is what gets you off the ground. Without it fully optimized, Google may pass you by in favor of a competitor who’s done the groundwork.
ROBUST PUBLISHER NETWORK COVERAGE PAYS OFF
Complete and accurate NAP (Name, Address, Phone) data across all major directories
Regular updates with highquality, formatted images
Verified hours, services, and categories
Consistent business info across platforms like Yelp, Apple Maps, Bing, and dozens more
Active customer reviews and timely responses
That’s where Local SEO comes in. It’s not just about being found — it’s about being chosen. A polished, consistent presence across directories builds trust with both customers and Google’s algorithm. And with more than 90% of consumers using search to find local businesses, this is visibility you can’t afford to ignore.
At Towne Post Digital, we help businesses sync their online listings, optimize their Google Business Profiles, and climb the ranks in local search
results. Because in this digital universe, showing up is everything — and showing up first is everything else.
NEED HELP GETTING DISCOVERED IN YOUR LOCAL ORBIT?
Let’s get your business optimized and ready for takeoff.
*Call (317) 867-2665 and mention the Towne Post or scan the QR code for details and special pricing!
Discover The HamCo Hubway: Where Everything Connects
The HamCo Hubway is more than a trail — it’s a central line for life in motion. Like a bike hub, it brings together towns, people, parks, and paths into one seamless ride. Whether you’re cruising for coffee or commuting across cities, this is the pulse point of connection.
The HamCo Hubway is Hamilton County’s integrated trail system of paved, easyto-navigate paths connecting Carmel, Westfield, Noblesville, and Fishers. It consists of four primary trails (Monon Trail, Midland Trace Trail, Nickel Plate Trail and The 106 Trail) and numerous connector paths, making it easy for users to bike or walk between cities and offers access to a range of local destinations along the way. Whether for leisure, wellness, or exploration, The HamCo Hubway offers a safe and enjoyable experience for people of all ages.
THE FEATURED TRAILS OF THE HAMCO HUBWAY INCLUDE:
MONON TRAIL
A paved, rails-to-trails path that stretches over 20 miles from Carmel to downtown Indianapolis. It’s part of the USBR 35 bike route and connects to the Indianapolis Cultural Trail.
MIDLAND TRACE TRAIL
Running along the former Midland Railway corridor, this paved trail spans nearly 4 miles
in Westfield and over 3 miles in Noblesville. Trailheads offer amenities like restrooms, water fountains, benches, and even bike repair stations.
NICKEL PLATE TRAIL
These trails offer easy access to shopping, dining, and parks, making them ideal for leisurely outings.
THE 106
Hamilton County’s trail system is more than just a way to get from point A to B— it’s a gateway to nature, community, and recreation. With printable maps, difficulty ratings, and trail guides available online, planning your next outdoor adventure is easy. Whether you’re biking through the heart of Carmel or hiking along the White River, the HamCo Hubway invites you to explore the best of Indiana’s outdoors.
Plan your trail adventure with the trails map and itineraries at HamCoHubway.com
PERGOLA PERFECTION
FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS ELEVATES HOMES WITH CUSTOM PERGOLAS & HIGH-END REMODELS
Writer / Kelsey Musick
Family Premier Pergolas is a family-owned and -operated business founded by married couple Jay and Jackie Bates.
The Bates are driven by their passion to help Hoosiers elevate their indoor and outdoor living through custom pergolas and high-end home remodels.
Jay grew up in the building industry, with his father a custom builder from Southern Indiana. Bates went on to study building construction technology at Purdue University, and after graduation, he followed in his father’s footsteps and started his own business.
“My husband started his first construction business in 1990, Jackie says. “He grew it to 135 employees and
completed projects in 29 states.”
The Bates family sold that company and transitioned into the pergola business, which has been their main focus since 2021. “In 2021, we had the opportunity to sell Jay’s first company, so now we are able to spend more time at home with our family and slow our pace,” Jackie says.
But then an opportunity came along, and it was one that neither of the Bates was willing to pass up.
“We saw an opportunity to leverage his years of industry knowledge and strong reputation to deliver high-quality service and superior products,” Jackie adds. “That expertise not only inspired the creation of the Family Premier Pergola, but also positioned us to offer high-end finishes in spaces like basements, kitchens, baths and outdoor living areas.”
Jackie credits Jay’s hard work and strong reputation in the construction industry as the main reason why Family Premier Pergolas has excellent relationships with top local tradesmen who share the Bates’ commitment to providing clients with the highest-quality service and products.
“Transitioning from a large company to a small family business allows us the time to find out what our clients want and need,” Jay says. “We are able to be more flexible and help people understand their spaces better. Some people have a hard time envisioning a completed project from drawings on paper, so we’re there to help with that.”
or foundation. I’ve helped on and off throughout the years on the business end of things. I’m always impressed with Jay and his expertise in the field. I like that he’s picked a quality product.”
Family Premier Pergolas serves Boone, Clark, Hamilton, Hancock, and Madison counties. For more information, contact Jay or Jackie Bates at 317-552-9568 or info@ familypremierpergolas.com.
According to Jackie, completing a project the right way is more important than profit.
“When you do things the right way, it will help build your reputation, and reputation is everything in this industry,” she says.
Jackie adds that the pergolas they build are made of a high-quality aluminum material.
“They’re easy to install, and the process only takes us a day or two,” she says. “But it also takes a lot of skill, especially if you’re attaching it to someone’s house
SHADES OF COMFORT
BLINDS AT HOME BRINGS PERSONALIZED WINDOW SOLUTIONS TO YOUR SPACE
The character of a home reflects the people in it.
That is why Blinds at Home consultants come to the customer’s space. On site, they discuss and design custom window treatments that fit the unique style and vision of each home or business.
Blinds at Home is locally owned and operated, serving Indianapolis and eight surrounding counties with tailored solutions and service. Brian Tipmore owns and operates the business, which offers a wide variety of quality blinds, shades, draperies and shutters to complement any space, residential or commercial.
Before starting Blinds at Home, Tipmore had a window covering franchise with another company. With that experience, he successfully transitioned into his own business — a dream realized. The company has more than 25 years of combined experience in the Indianapolis area and also has representatives in the greater Cincinnati area and Louisville.
“We believe our customer service experience sets us apart. Blinds at Home makes selections and installations an easy, stress-free process,” Tipmore says.
Every project brings a custom solution designed specifically for the customer’s space. On-site consultations allow staff to see the actual space, décor and windows where products will be installed. Customers receive design advice, multiple sample options, and exact measurements on the spot. Professional installation ensures quality results to successfully wrap up each project.
Customers want window treatments that fit their space, both literally and aesthetically. Blinds at Home can meet nearly every need, inside or outside the home or business.
A wide variety of blinds, shades and shutters is available in a range of colors and styles, as well as fabric options in draperies, Roman shades and top treatments. Blinds at Home works with leading window covering manufacturers, including Springs Window Fashions, Norman Window Fashions and
Hunter Douglas.
Shades are available in seven types, including popular cellular shades that help insulate the home, versatile roller shades, and sliding panels to cover expansive windows — among other stylish choices.
Blind options include faux wood, wood, aluminum and vertical blinds in a variety of colors to fit any style.
Shutters are a classic solution for windows and are offered in both wood and faux wood, in various slat sizes and colors.
Exterior options include solar shades and aluminum plantation shutters to guard against the elements.
All shades and blinds are cordless and have the popular option of motorization. The base-level option uses a remote control, while the upgraded smart hub application works via smartphone. Customers can manage multiple shades, set timers and adjust them even while traveling.
Writer / Juli Knutson Photographer / Robert Jones
Tipmore believes the “at home” business model provides a better, more personalized experience than a physical store can offer.
“We can connect with customers in their home, where we can see their décor, their style,” he says. “Then we can provide expert advice to come up with the right solution together.”
This model has benefits for the Tipmore family, too. Brian is able to work from home, allowing him flexibility to attend soccer games, track meets and school events.
His leap of faith as an entrepreneur is a win-win. Looking to the future, Tipmore plans to grow the business, starting with a presence in Fort Wayne.
You can contact Blinds at Home at 317-4898139 or visit online at blinds-at-home.com for more information.
BBQ & BREWS
BIG HOFFA’S ADDS SPEAKEASY BAR TO WESTFIELD LOCATION
With its large, colorful pirate mural, Big Hoffa’s Smokehouse BBQ, located at 800 East Main Street in Westfield, is hard to miss. It’s also known as one of Central Indiana’s best places to get mouthwatering barbecue along with some seriously delicious ice cream concoctions from Big Hoffa’s Freezer. Now there’s a third reason to visit: Big Hoffa’s Speakeasy Bar has recently opened on site.
While the family-friendly barbecue and ice cream side of the business has expansive seating both indoors and out, Big Hoffa’s Speakeasy Bar has a different vibe. Chicago brick and wood plank siding invoke an oldschool prohibition atmosphere. Open late nights, the interior features ample leather seating, accommodating 55 patrons.
“It’s something I’ve been thinking about doing for a long time, and the city finally granted us a permit,” says Owner Adam Hoffman. “We worked on it for three months before opening in mid-August. It has a ‘hard to get into,’ quiet atmosphere like
Writer / Julie Yates Photographer / Heather Haas
an old speakeasy.”
The Speakeasy Bar offers everything on the usual Big Hoffa’s BBQ menu during normal business hours but also has late-night items such as several varieties of crispy wings plus chips and dips. A popular option is Hoffman’s innovative spin on flautas, rolled tortillas stuffed with different kinds of shredded meats and fried for a crunchy exterior. Typically served with sauces for dipping, they pair perfectly with specialty cocktails.
“The inspiration for our drink list in the bar comes from different places across the world,” Hoffman says. “Our featured cocktails range from about $11 to $15. There are some cool martinis such as caramel espresso, orange creamsicle, and lychee. We have a house margarita and rum punch. Our wine list includes varieties from Australia, Calistoga in Napa Valley, Italy, and New Zealand.”
Hoffman says he has additional plans for
the Speakeasy. He would like to have an outdoor patio connected to the bar and hopes to offer cigars for sale. Also in the works is the possibility of hosting live music nights.
“When I moved to Indiana from California, people were friendly and welcoming,” he says. “They gave me a chance. I met my wife here 17 years ago, and now I have two sons. There has been a lot of competition, but Big Hoffa’s is still going strong after 23 years. I always want to come up with something new and creative to challenge my customers’ expectations. We feel safe enough here to take risks.
“Three years ago, I introduced a smash burger as a special,” he adds. “It became the best-selling item. I brought it to another level with onions fried in beef tallow and our in-house sauce. It’s so good that I have one once a week.”
Several menu items veer from what customers might expect at a typical BBQ
joint. The Saigon Special features pulled pork and pickled veggies on a French roll, essentially a Bahn Mi sandwich. The Barbecue Sundae is brown sugar baked beans topped with the choice of any smoked meat and barbecue sauce. Another innovative choice is the El Segundo: a bed of jasmine rice topped with fries, mac and cheese, pulled pork, cilantro, onions, spicy mayo, and a lime wedge.
“Nothing brings a bigger smile to my face than bringing families together to create memories,” Hoffman says. “I have a list of more than 100 customers who were pregnant when I met them, and the wife was craving BBQ. Over the years, I ended up catering their baby showers, babies’ first birthdays, graduation open houses, and grown-up kids’ weddings.
“Now customers can come to Big Hoffa’s and have date night with or without kids. The Speakeasy Bar offers a different level of service. It’s a cozy atmosphere where
customers can have a nice drink and feel like they are on vacation.”
Big Hoffa’s Smokehouse BBQ, Freezer Ice Cream, and Speakeasy Bar are located at 800 East Main Street in Westfield. The phone number is 317-867-0077.
To view the catering menu and place orders, visit bbqindianapolis.com.
BACK HOME AGAIN
LOCAL COUPLE TRANSFORMS PORCH INTO FOUR-SEASON RETREAT WITH HELP FROM HOMETOWN WINDOW AND DOOR COMPANY
When Carol Ryan moved to Noblesville in 1976, the town was a quieter place — but full of the charm that still makes it feel like home today. She and her husband, Tom, became known business owners in the community. Tom started a construction business, The Ryan Company, and built several commercial buildings in the area. Carol, meanwhile, became a beloved figure on the Square as the original owner of The
Writer / Natalie Platt Photographer / Robert Jones
Linden Tree, a gift shop that became a local staple for nearly 25 years.
“We loved being part of the community,” Carol says. “But eventually, Tom — being a golfer — wanted to spend more time in Florida. And you can’t do that during Christmas when you’re in retail.”
So the couple made the leap to Florida full
time, enjoying visits from their five children and 13 grandchildren, and soaking up the sun during their retirement years. But after nearly eight years as full-time Florida residents, the couple felt the call to return home to Noblesville for good.
That return brought them to their current home near Harbour Trees Golf Club. Back in the town they helped shape, the Ryans
decided it was time to update their house to better suit their needs. One space in particular — the screened-in porch — held a lot of potential.
“We’ve always enjoyed sitting outside,” Carol says. “But as we got older, we wanted to be able to enjoy that space year-round. So we decided to enclose the porch and make it a four-season room.”
That’s where Hometown Window and Doors of Noblesville came in. Locally owned and operated, Hometown Window and Door Company is entirely owned and staffed by people who live and work
in the Indianapolis area. They take pride in offering exceptional work in their own community, knowing their professionalism directly impacts their personal lives.
The Ryans have known Darren Peck, the owner, for years. Their children grew up with Darren and his wife, Monica, attending school and spending time together in the Harbour Trees neighborhood.
“Darren has such a good reputation — honest and dependable. We felt very comfortable working with him,” Carol explains.
From the very first meeting, she says, the
experience was seamless.
“Darren came out to the house first to look at the porch and talk through what we had in mind,” she says. “We had already priced a few other places, but Hometown’s quote was very fair — and they offered a better quality product with the Andersen windows.”
Hometown is a full-service Andersen dealership, carrying all products from Andersen Windows & Doors. Every customer receives experienced, in-home help with choosing the right doors and windows for their home. All customers have the office number, as well as the personal
cell number of their design consultant.
After visiting the Ryans’ home, Darren brought in a project specialist to take detailed measurements and brainstorm a few custom touches. An important request was a pet door for their elderly dog.
“They were great about everything,” Carol says. “Listened to what we wanted, made helpful suggestions, and made sure we felt comfortable with the plan.”
The project officially began in June, and within four to five weeks, it was complete.
“TOM AND I BOTH WOULD VERY HIGHLY RECOMMEND THEM. IN FACT, MY SON, MIKE MALOY, ALSO USED THEM FOR WINDOW REPLACEMENT AND WAS JUST AS HAPPY WITH THE RESULTS.”
—CAROL RYAN
“It didn’t take long at all,” she says. “Especially when you hear horror stories from people about contractors. The crew was terrific — very professional, stayed on schedule, kept us informed, and did excellent work. It was really first-class.”
Once the finishing touches were complete, Hometown’s installation crews — each with years of experience — ensured everything was done to the highest standard. Even seasoned installers receive training on the correct method for each type of door and window.
Now, their former screened-in porch has become a bright, cozy four-season room — one where they can sit and enjoy the outdoors no matter what Indiana weather brings.
“I love it out there,” Carol says. “We like to sit in this room a lot, and now that it’s enclosed, we can enjoy it in the winter and still look out and feel like we’re outside.”
Her praise doesn’t end with the project. She’s quick to recommend Hometown Window and Doors to friends and
neighbors, especially those who want a worry-free, high-quality experience.
“Tom and I both would very highly recommend them,” she says. “In fact, my son, Mike Maloy, also used them for window replacement and was just as happy with the results.”
For the Noblesville couple, the experience was more than just a home improvement — it was part of settling back into a town that holds so many memories. They raised their kids here, worked here, and came back here — Noblesville is part of who they are. And now, thanks to the team at Hometown, they have a home that feels just right for the next chapter.
With their craftsmanship and hometown service, you can’t go wrong when hiring Hometown Window and Door Company. If you’re looking for window and door replacements from a local company in the Indianapolis area, request a free quote now or contact them at 317-659-6293.
Hometown serves customers throughout the Indianapolis area, including Avon, Zionsville, Westfield, Fishers, and Carmel.
Writer / Renée Larr
At just 18 years old, Sara Dustova is already shaping a legacy that transcends borders, bridges digital divides and uplifts girls through the transformative power of technology. A senior at Westfield High School, she’s not only an exceptional student but also on a mission to create a more inclusive and equitable tech landscape.
Dustova’s journey into the world of computer science began in an unlikely way: with a bribe. Her father handed her a copy of Python for Dummies, promising a hibachi dinner if she finished it. What started as a fun incentive quickly turned into a spark. The book ignited a passion for technology that would soon evolve into a purpose.
Recognizing the gender gap in STEM fields, Dustova founded and now serves as president of Westfield High School’s Girls Who Code chapter.
“I wanted to build a space where girls felt confident asking questions and excited to create with code,” she says.
What began as a small group has blossomed into a thriving hub of collaboration, offering workshops, mentorship and hands-on coding experiences.
But she didn’t stop there.
SARA DUSTOVA
WHS SENIOR EMPOWERS GIRLS THROUGH TECHNOLOGY
Dustova also launched and leads the school’s Computer Science Club, which welcomes students of all experience levels to explore coding languages and career pathways.
“My goal was to create a community where anyone curious about tech could feel like they belong,” she says.
The club has become a first step for budding
developers, fostering not just skills but friendships and self-confidence.
For Dustova, computer science isn’t just a school activity — it’s a global calling. In 2024, she founded Noor Nonprofit, an organization dedicated to empowering women and girls in Tajikistan through digital literacy. As the daughter of Tajik immigrants, she felt a deep connection to her heritage and a responsibility to give back.
(Formerly Wittler Orthodontics)
“I couldn’t just be thankful for the opportunities I’ve had,” Dustova says. “I wanted to extend those opportunities to others.”
Noor now provides access to technology, educational resources and mentorship programs for women and girls who have long been excluded from the digital revolution.
In an effort to increase her impact, Dustova traveled to Tajikistan this summer to conduct a qualitative research study exploring how access to technology shapes the lives of women in both rural and urban regions. She recorded dozens of interviews, capturing personal stories, challenges and dreams of the women she met.
“The experience was incredibly moving,” she says. “These women are hungry to learn. They’re eager to grow. They just need the tools and someone to believe in them.”
As she prepares to graduate, Dustova’s ambitions are only growing. She plans to pursue computer science and artificial intelligence in college, with hopes of expanding Noor’s reach and influence. Her future plans bring a sense of hope and optimism for the future of tech and social impact.
Whether she’s leading a club meeting, mentoring her peers or listening to the voices of women across the world, Sara Dustova is proof that one young woman with vision, compassion and determination can make a profound difference.
And she’s only just getting started.
For more information, visit noorbridging-the-digital-divide-in-tajikistan. b12sites.com and linkedin.com/in/saradustova-556387260.
ANYTHING BUT ORDINARY
PIZZA UNCOMMON BRINGS BOLD FLAVORS TO WESTFIELD
When David Long opened Pizza Uncommon in 2021, his mission was to give people a place that was not predictable — not like every other cookie-cutter chain — but something that’s anything but ordinary. The Pizza Uncommon brand has since expanded to Westfield and is redefining what pizza can be. With every handmade ingredient and creative topping combination comes a story of family, purpose and passion.
Before launching Pizza Uncommon,
Writer / Avery Martin Photographer / Robert Jones
Long spent more than 15 years managing convenience stores, starting at age 20.
“My only experience with food was gas station food. Cheap, quick and not very good,” he says.
That model stuck with him, but he wanted to explore ways to upscale the quality of his own recipes.
The spark for starting a pizza business came from an entirely different place: the desire to adopt children.
“We had a dream of adopting kids internationally, but when we looked into it, the cost was upwards of $120,000,” Long says. “So we thought, maybe if we start something of our own, we can raise the money ourselves.”
That “something” became Pizza Uncommon — a family-run business with a dual mission: make food that’s not just good but good for you, and use the profits to change lives.
Everything on the menu is made in-house with a focus on health, digestibility and creativity.
“We don’t use any preservatives, and nothing comes pre-packaged,” Long says. “We make our own dough, our own sauces, shred our cheese — everything is raw and fresh. The dough itself is a sourdough hybrid, fermented for up to 124 hours for better digestion and flavor.”
What really sets Pizza Uncommon apart is its boundary-pushing menu. Think Crab Rangoon pizza, honey apple sausage or even cheddar Ritz cracker gelato.
“We just like to take risks,” Long adds. “I always ask, ‘What if we tried this?’ Whether it’s a spicy ice cream or a fruity pizza, we want to give people something they’ve never had before.”
Long personally develops every recipe.
“I’m always creating,” he says. “I’d say my favorite pizza is the next one. I love coming up with new things.”
They’ve managed to expand quickly by following a smart and sustainable model: acquiring former restaurant spaces and rebranding them instead of starting from scratch.
“We just go to the hardware store, repaint, rebrand and make it ours,” Long says. “No big loans, no outside investors.”
At its heart, Pizza Uncommon is a family business.
“It was just me and my wife when we opened our first store,” Long says. “She was
taking orders while putting our baby to sleep in a shopping cart.”
The business has grown to three locations so far: two near Purdue University and one in Westfield, with around 75 employees. But the culture remains close-knit and intentional.
“Before you can be voted the best restaurant, you have to be the best place to work,” Long says. “That’s been our focus — to build a good team and treat people well.”
Walking into Pizza Uncommon, customers
can expect more than just a slice. It’s a place built on family values, inclusivity and bold flavors. From dietary-friendly crusts to dairy-free gelato, everything is made with care and curiosity.
“We want it to be a fun, casual, familyfriendly space,” Long says. “Somewhere kids with allergies can still enjoy a pizza.”
Pizza Uncommon is located at 3400 Nancy St in Westfield. For more information, visit them online at pizzauncommon.com/ location/pizza-uncommon-westfield/ or give them a call at 317-804-3544.
