Good morning, Carmel.

Eleven people were sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a drug trafficking ring that smuggled hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills and over 15 kilograms of methamphetamine into central Indiana — including Carmel resident Jayden Bertram, who was convicted of conspiracy charges.

Indiana’s trees will gradually change color this fall with peak foliage expected mid to late October in the north, late October to early November in central areas, and early November in the south—rainfall, humidity, and cooler nights are key factors in the timing.

On Aug. 18, Carmel CFO Zac Jackson presented a plan to fix employee salaries and job titles by replacing annual step increases—he noted a city study found 160 of 327 employees have mismatched titles and some councilors expressed surprise while the proposal awaits review by the council’s finance committee.

Attorneys for Mayor Sue Finkam and the City asked a judge to dismiss a defamation lawsuit filed by former Carmel Christkindlmarkt board chair Sue McDermott, who claims the mayor incorrectly stated that requested financial records were not provided.

The motion argues that Finkam is absolutely immune under the Indiana Tort Claims Act—McDermott’s attorney disputes this immunity since some comments were made in a personal capacity, and a hearing is set for 10:30 a.m. Oct 6 in Hamilton County Superior Court 2.

Indianapolis Colts coach Shane Steichen said he will not play quarterbacks Daniel Jones or Anthony Richardson in Saturday's preseason finale at Cincinnati — he added that most starters will not take the field to protect them for the Sept.

7 season opener against the Miami Dolphins.

Indianapolis Cars & Coffee

8-11 a.m. — Meridian Mark — Free entry — Explore a vast array of stunning cars with family-friendly vibes in Carmel's largest lot.

Broadway Sings

1-2:30 p.m. — Feinstein's at Hotel Carmichael — $10 cover charge — Sing along to your favorite Broadway tunes at an open mic event.

Indiana Fever vs. Seattle Storm

7-8:30 p.m. — Gainbridge Fieldhouse — Single game tickets available — Experience the excitement of WNBA action with a thrilling matchup between the Fever and Storm.

Brand Distillery: Preview Workshop

10 AM – 12 PM — Industrious — Registration includes beverages and breakfast — A focused workshop to refine brand messaging for leaders and marketers.

Indiana Women's Running Festival Pasta Night

5-10 p.m. — Renaissance Indianapolis North Hotel — Cost varies — Enjoy a carb-loading buffet with fellow female runners before the festival.

Indy Women's Half Marathon & 5K

7:30 AM - 6:00 PM — Carmel Gazebo — Check website for fees — Experience the largest women’s-only half marathon in Indiana filled with camaraderie and inspiration.

Noblesville Bouquet Crawl

11 AM – 4 PM — Just Lagom — Free entry — Experience Noblesville's first bouquet crawl with local florists and an enchanting community vibe.

Adagio Live Music: The 78's

7-10 p.m. — Adagio Lounge at Hotel Carmichael — Cost varies — Enjoy an evening of curated live music paired with fine cocktails and small plates in a stylish lounge setting.

Polo At Sunset

5-9 p.m. — Hickory Hall Polo Club — General Admission $40 — Experience a delightful evening of polo matches with family-friendly activities and local treats.

Blues In The 'Burg with John Nemeth

2-8 p.m. — Arbuckle Acres Park — Family-friendly fun — Enjoy award-winning blues music along with food trucks and activities for all ages.