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Founded March 12, 2024, at Indianapolis, IN Vol. 2, No. 1

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Officials break ground on park project

northindy@youarecurrent.com

City of Indianapolis officials celebrated the official groundbreaking of a $1 million improvement project March 23 at Canterbury Park, 5510 N Carvel Ave., close to the Monon Trail, Broad Ripple and the Indiana State Fairgrounds.

The 3-acre park was identified for improvements by City-County Council Vice President John Barth and area residents through a city program designating one-time project funds for each councilor’s district, according to a news release from Indy Parks.

“This investment in Canterbury Park is a direct result of residents speaking up about what they wanted to see in their neighborhood,” Barth stated.

“We’re creating a more active, welcoming space that strengthens connections along the Monon and reflects the priorities of the community.”

Canterbury Park is the most recent park along the Monon Trail to receive

upgrades. In 2023, Frank and Judy O’Bannon Park got a new playground and splash pad, and the Rev. Charles Williams Park recently opened with a new playground, event lawn and connector trail to the Monon.

“This project at Canterbury Park is just another example of how we are changing the way we do recreation in this city,” Mayor Joe Hogsett stated. “Improving connections between our

growing network of trails and our beloved Indy Parks gives our neighbors a whole new way to enjoy nature and the abundance of public amenities in Indianapolis.”

More than 40 Indy Parks are under construction or pending the start of construction — part of an investment of more than $150 million. The timelines for the projects can be found on the Indy Parks website.

“Parks like Canterbury are perfect examples of parks being for community, whether that’s a neighborhood volleyball game, kids exploring a new playground or the connectivity the park offers along the Monon Trail,” Indy Parks Director Brittany Crone stated. “The park may appear small on the map, but it has an outsized impact on daily life for the community it serves.”

Construction at Canterbury Park is expected to last through late this year. For more, visit parks.indy.gov/parks/ canterbury-park.

Indy’s Northview Middle School wins $10K

northindy@youarecurrent.com

Northview Middle School in the Metropolitan School District of Washington Township recently won $10,000 for its selection as a National Institute for Excellence in Teaching Founder’s Award finalist, which put it in the running for an additional $50,000 in early April.

The Founder’s Award, created by Lowell Milken in 2008, honors one school in the United States each year for its work to build educator excellence and advance student success, according to a news release. Northview Middle School was among five schools nationwide under consideration for the $50,000 grand prize, which will be announced at NIET’s April 1 national conference in New Orleans.

“Northview’s rigor and high expectations have led to increased teacher

Northview Middle School educators have been working with the National Institute for Excellence in Teaching and recently won a $10,000 NIET award. (Photo courtesy of MSDWT)

retention and student achievement,” Milken stated. “Congratulations to Principal Thomas Hakim, his Instructional Leadership Team, and to Superintendent Dr. Sean Taylor for advancing excellence for educators and students every day.”

From 2023 to 2025, the percentage of Northview students scoring proficient on state assessments increased 22 points

in math and 11 points in English Language Arts, the news release stated. The proficiency rate statewide increased by only one point in math and decreased in ELA during the same time period.

A key component of Northview Middle School’s partnership with NIET has been reshaping the school’s leadership team, shifting the group’s focus to instruction and including teachers interested in leadership roles.

“Our partnership with NIET allowed us to reshape our ILT, moving from a group that previously met weekly to discuss buildingwide logistics to a team that put instruction and student outcomes as the focus of our work,” Hakim stated.

Northview Middle School on the north side of Indianapolis has about 1,000 students in grades six through eight, with almost half qualifying for free/reduced-price lunch.

525 North End Dr. Ste. 175 Carmel, IN 46032 317.489.4444

Contact the editor

Have a news tip, calendar item or photo to share?

Contact Managing Editor Leila Kheiry at leila@ youarecurrent.com or call 317.489.4444. You also may submit information at youarecurrent. com. Our print deadline is eight days prior to publication. Submissions for online accepted daily.

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Opinions

The views of the columnists in Current in North Indy are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett, center, back, watches as a young park user helps break ground March 23 for the Canterbury Park improvement project. (Photo courtesy of Indy Parks)

COMMUNITY

Damar faces lawsuit

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

Damar Services, Inc., an Indianapolis-based residential services provider for individuals with developmental disabilities, faces a lawsuit filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission for allegedly violating federal law by refusing to hire a Deaf applicant.

According to the lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court March 24, Damar Services allegedly applied hiring standards to screen out applicants with hearing and vision disabilities and made prohibited disability-related inquiries.

“In March 2023, the company conducted a phone interview with an applicant for a housekeeping position,” EEOC stated in a news release. “When Damar learned of the applicant’s deafness during that interview, the company told him it could not accommodate his disability and rejected him, despite his ability to perform the job with or without reasonable accommodation.”

2_5x4_67 Ad.pdf 1 3/13/26 1:07 PM

The federal agency also alleged that

Damar’s interview questions included prohibited medical inquiries, and its qualification standards required applicants to hear and see within normal ranges and communicate verbally.

“An employer cannot refuse to hire an applicant simply because the applicant is deaf without considering a reasonable accommodation,” stated Kenneth Bird, regional attorney for the EEOC’s Indianapolis District Office.

“Declining to hire someone because they may need a reasonable accommodation for a disability is unlawful discrimination.”

The EEOC reported that the lawsuit was filed after first attempting to reach a settlement through its administrative conciliation process.

In response to a request for comment, Damar Chief Strategy Officer Jenny Peters stated, “Damar believes this case is without merit. We have a long history of fair employment practices and look forward to shining a light on the truth in court.”

More information about EEOC is available at eeoc.gov.

Eiteljorg to host annual Indian Market & Festival

Tickets went on sale March 30 for the 34th annual Eiteljorg Museum Indian Market & Festival, set for June 27-28, featuring more than 100 American Indian, First Nations and Alaskan Native artists, food and a mix of entertainers — some new to Indianapolis and some returning favorites.

Native artists from across the U.S. and Canada who specialize in multiple mediums — jewelry, pottery, basketry, beadwork, carvings and more— will sell their work from booths inside and outside the museum, according to a news release.

A new performance is planned for this year’s festival — Turtle Island: From the Creation Story of the Haudenosaunee — an outdoor production that fuses Iroquois dance, aerial puppetry and community engagement.

“A multicolored, parade-sized tethered balloon, the Turtle, floats above stage as eight dancers from the Skywoman Iroquois Dance Theater present a moving visual and musical representation of Haudenosaunee cosmology,” the news release stated. “The producers describe it this way: ‘Turtle Island invites audiences to witness the birth of the world atop the Turtle’s back — a story that resonates across cultures as a symbol of resilience and interconnectedness.’”

Indigenous Enterprise will return to Indian Market & Festival for its second year, featuring champion powwow dancers from multiple tribes and nations. The group blends traditional dance styles with contemporary influences.

“Every year, the Eiteljorg Indian Market & Festival invites people to experience the vibrancy and resilience of Native cultures as living, evolving traditions — not something stuck in the past,” stated Eiteljorg Festivals Manager Conner Richberg of the Mohawk Turtle Clan. “When visitors come, they’re directly supporting Native artists, hearing stories from Native voices and engaging with traditions that have endured despite generations of challenges.”

Market visitors also can enjoy art demonstrations in the museum’s studios and meet two artists who have upcoming residencies at the Eiteljorg this fall. Visitors also can tour exhibits, such as Cowboy Couture: The Fashion of Jerry Lee Atwood, included with festival admission.

Advance online tickets to the event offer a discount. Tickets also will be available at the gate. Admission is free for museum members and anyone with a tribal ID.

For more, visit eiteljorg.org/ Indian-Market-and-Festival.

Among the artists who showed and sold their art at the 2025 Eiteljorg Indian Market & Festival was pottery artist Erna Chosa-Wilson of the Jemez Pueblo.

(Photo courtesy of Eiteljorg Museum)

COMMUNITY

Former state senator calls for COVID-19 after-action

By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com

Six years after the COVID-19 pandemic shut down much of the world, former State Sen. Jim Merritt is calling for state and federal officials to report what they got right and wrong in their response to better prepare the public for the next crisis.

Merritt, a Republican who represented portions of Hamilton and Marion counties from 1990 to November 2020, on Jan. 26 released his second book, “Lessons Learned: Are We Ready for the Next Pandemic? History Says No.” In its 146 pages, Merritt explores the impact of past pandemics and how society remained ill-prepared in their aftermath.

Lack of preparation could be avoided the next time, Merritt said, with an official COVID-19 after-action report.

“I want the takeaway to be a clarion call for everyone to demand answers as to what happened,” Merritt said. “Government ought to stand up and say, ‘Mistakes were made.’ I think if that would happen, it would restore a lot of trust in government.”

Merritt, who moved to Carmel in 2020, said the pandemic continues to impact society in a variety of negative

Lessons Learned

ways, from disrupted education to emptier workplaces. But he believes there is a much bigger unresolved problem.

“There is no trust. There is fear,” he said. “If the president or the governor would come forward tomorrow and say, ‘Sorry, you’re going to have to shelter in place for the next 30 days or six months,’ I don’t believe anybody would follow them.”

On the other hand, Merritt believes the pandemic led to some positive outcomes.

“One of the good things that came out of COVID was telehealth,” he said, adding that advancements also were made in human genome tracking.

Merritt’s book is available at bit.ly/48m1o94

DISPATCHES

 Indy environmental efforts recognized — The City of Indianapolis has been recognized by environmental nonprofit CDP for its work toward environmental transparency, climate action and resilience planning, securing a place on CDP’s respected annual ‘A’ List. This is the eighth time it has received an ‘A’ rating. To be recognized with an A, a city must meet a series of criteria, including publicly disclosing environmental data, maintaining a comprehensive city-wide emissions inventory and publishing a credible climate action plan.

 ‘Jeff’s Day’ to support area family

— An Indy music festival and fundraiser honoring former Fishers resident and area musician Jeff Day will help support

a Fishers family whose 8-year-old child is battling cancer. “Jeff’s Day” is set for 1 p.m. May 3 at the Rathskeller in Indianapolis, 410 E. Michigan St. Day died from colon cancer in 2024 and his wife, Jessica, hopes to raise awareness and encourage people to get colonoscopies. “The purpose of this event is to bring hope and joy through music, which Jeff really loved,” she stated. For more, visit facebook.com/ profile.php?id=61588407313044.

 Airport surpasses record — The Indianapolis International Airport ended 2025 with record-setting passenger traffic. Airport officials announced that the facility welcomed more than 10.6 million passengers during the year, about 100,000 passengers more than in 2024.

Merritt

James W. Merritt, Jr.

“Lessons Learned” by Jim Merritt was released in January. (Photo courtesy of Jennifer Ehrbacher)

DISPATCHES

 Kickoff to May contest — The 500 Festival and STAR Financial Bank have launched the 2026 Kickoff to May contest. The “Racing Through History” challenge offers Hoosiers 18 and older a chance to win a prize pack valued at more than $1,000. It includes Indianapolis 500 Carb Day passes, 500 Festival Parade VIP tickets and a $250 Huse Culinary gift card. To enter, participants must answer three trivia questions at resources.starfinancial.com/

star-500-festival by 11 a.m. April 29. The winner will be announced during the free Kickoff to May event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 29 on Monument Circle. For more, visit 500Festival.com/ Kickoff.

 School open house set — The Indianapolis German Language School has scheduled a free open house, set for 10:30 a.m. to noon April 25 at 4330 N. Michigan Rd. For more, visit ighs.org.

(Advertorial)

TRAVELING WITH AMBASSADAIR

By Bob Kraft

When Barbara Gentry and I started dating in 2014, she regularly entertained me with stories of her travels around the world. She traveled extensively after her divorce in the 1990’s, often with the original Ambassadair and the new Ambassadair after its merger with Grueninger Travel. My travels up to that time had been limited to family visits and driving vacations with my late wife as well as occasional business trips.

Barb encouraged me to renew my long-expired passport and began sharing travel information with me. Finally, in early 2019 she convinced me to join her at Ambassadair’s presentation about their upcoming cruise from Greece to Turkey through the Greek Isles. I was fascinated by both the itinerary and the opportunity to travel on a four-masted sailboat, and we signed up.

This was the first of ten trips that Barb and I have taken with Ambassadair. Each has been unique, but each has been carefully choreographed and supplemented with knowledgeable local guides. We have travelled in commercial airliners and a single engine prop plane that landed on an airstrip carved out of the center of San Pedro, Belize; on sailboats and tour boats and river cruise ships; on cog railroads; on ski-lifts and cable suspended gondolas; and on a number of motor coaches (which Ambassadair never calls busses).

With Ambassadair we have visited world renowned sites such as the Vatican, the Acropolis, La Scala Opera House, and the Black Forest as well as lesser-known locations identified by the Ambassadair staff. We Hoosier flatlanders have been awed by

the majesty of the Rockies in Glacier National Park, the Alps in Switzerland, Italy and Croatia, and the fiords of Scandinavia. We have enjoyed local cuisine and sampled local beverages including an afternoon at Munich’s Oktoberfest.

Recently, we attended a couple of pre-trip presentations by Ambassadair. We were not among strangers. Many of those in the audience had been with us on one or more of our previous trips. That so many former travelers returned to Ambassadair’s presentation indicates that they share our view that reinforces the value of traveling with an experienced tour guide and following a pre-established itinerary.

Barb and I have already committed to traveling on two more Ambassadair trips. It is exciting that a locally based tour company offers such a variety of travel experiences and that the trips are totally escorted starting in Indianapolis.

Ambassadair offers leisure group travel to destinations all around the world. For more information visit ambassadair.com or call 317-581-1122.

Irish capture 3A state basketball title

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The Cathedral High School boys basketball team used “365” to describe its mission this season.

The Irish wanted to remember the disappointment of losing to Crispus Attucks in the sectional semifinal in 2025.

“It’s been waiting for 365 days for this moment,” senior wing R’Mani Wells said. “We’ve been working hard during that time, so trusting in the work we put in and our teammates just helped us finish it. We always talk about playing four quarters. For three quarters, body blows, then in the fourth quarter, throwing the knockout punch. I think we did that well.”

The Class 3A No. 2 Irish held a 22-10 edge to the fourth quarter to top New Haven 71-61 in the IHSAA Class 3A state championship game March 28 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. It was the third state basketball title for the Irish (25-5), who won a 4A championship in 2022 and a 3A crown in 1998.

Senior guard Julien Smith led four Irish players in double figures with 21 points. Senior guard Keaton Aldridge had a double-double with 17 points and a team-high 11 rebounds. Junior guard Skylar Rodgers scored 12 points, followed by junior wing Owen Peterson had 11 points and 10 rebounds.

“It was a dream coming true, knowing that it was our last game and seeing that clock go down and we were winning and I’m with my brothers,” Alrdidge said.

Aldridge said the Irish benefited from some close games, edging No. 10 Brebeuf Jesuit 69-67 in the regional and No. 1 Silver Creek 73-68 in the semistate final.

“I think those games prepared us for a lot of adversity and overcoming it,” he said. “Just keep playing together and keep fighting no matter what until the buzzer.”

Irish coach Jason Delaney said the team showed resiliency.

“We were hitting our stride to where in the fourth quarter, we were able to keep going,” Delaney said. “We were really good in the fourth quarter. Nothing fazed them. They came in every day to work. They loved each other. They were coachable and just awesome people to

be around. That’s what makes us special. The season flew by because it’s one of the most enjoyable teams I’ve ever had in my 20-some years. I’m happy for these guys and I know they’re going to do great things.”

Smith said they wore down New Haven.

“That’s our strategy, we run all four quarters,” he said. “Having Keaton take the ball up the court and if you don’t stop him, he’s going to go all the way.”

Smith and Wells, who are brothers, transferred from Mt. Vernon to Cathedral after their sophomore season. Mt. Vernon captured the Class 4A state title in the game following Cathedral’s victory.

Aldridge, who is headed to play for University of Detroit Mercy, averaged a team-high 18 points per game. Smith, a Mount St. Mary’s University commit, was second on the team with a 15.8 ppg average.

“What they’re going to leave with these younger guys is they led beautifully and that’s part of their legacy,” Delaney said of his three seniors.

Smith said the returning players will learn the importance of developing a bond with their teammates.

“Hanging out off the court and just really being a family and sticking to the values and characteristics,” he said. “I think it’s going to lead to a very strong team next year.”

Delaney said Smith and Aldridge are all-state caliber players.

“You know what you’re going to get with these guys,” he said. “We always said off the bench we got to get two guys every night to contribute, and it would be a different two every night.”

The Cathedral High School basketball team with its state championship trophy. (Photo courtesy of IHSAA)

COMMUNITY

(Advertorial)

ORTHOPEDIC URGENT

CARE: When Pain or Injury Can’t Wait

By Dr. Robert Falender OrthoIndy Urgent Care Physician

Last week, a weekend warrior came into our urgent care center convinced he’d torn his ACL during a pickup basketball game. He’d spent two anxious days icing his knee, wondering if his active lifestyle was over. Within an hour, we’d done X-rays and a physical exam, ruled out the tear and sent him home with a treatment plan for a moderate sprain. He was very relieved.

That’s exactly why OrthoIndy Urgent Care exists.

The Gap Between “It Can Wait” and “Call 911”

Most musculoskeletal injuries fall into an uncomfortable middle ground. Your ankle rolls during a hike. Your shoulder pops out of place. Your back seizes lifting groceries. These aren’t heart attacks, but they’re not minor inconveniences either—and waiting days or weeks for answers can mean unneeded pain, anxiety and sometimes worse outcomes.

Emergency rooms do critical work saving lives, but for a suspected fracture or joint injury, you’ll often wait hours alongside true emergencies, only to be referred to an orthopedic specialist anyway. Your primary care doctor may need to schedule you out weeks.

What We Actually Do

At OrthoIndy Urgent Care, we’ve built something different: walk-in orthopedic evaluation by specialists who diagnose and treat bone, joint and muscle injuries all day, every day.

We see a lot of sports injuries— torn ligaments, dislocations and suspected fractures. Also, acute back and neck pain, sudden joint swelling that won’t resolve, and the “I heard a pop and now I can’t move it” injuries.

Having on-site X-rays mean we can tell you what’s wrong and what to do about it before you leave. Bracing, splinting, pain management strategies, activity modifications— we handle it on-site. Most patients are in and out within two hours with a clear diagnosis from an or-

thopedic specialist instead of waiting numerous hours for an emergency room generalist for treatment.

When You Need More

Not everything resolves with conservative treatment. When you need physical therapy, advanced imaging like an MRI or a surgical consultation, we connect you directly into OrthoIndy’s network of specialists. No starting over, no repeating your story to five different people.

Who Benefits Most?

Honestly; anyone who’s ever injured themselves on a Saturday and spent the weekend in limbo. Student athletes who need to know if they can play Mondaytomorrow. Older adults dealing with sudden mobility issues who can’’t afford to wait. Busy parents who need answers now, not next week or next month.

We have five locations across Central Indiana with extended hours because injuries don’t respect business schedules.

The Bottom Line

If you’re hurt enough to worry but not hurt enough for the ER, we’re here. No appointment needed. Just walk in, get evaluated by people who specialize in exactly what’s wrong and leave with a plan.

OrthoIndy Urgent Care Locations:

Brownsburg | 9070 E. 56th St. Ste. 400 | Brownsburg, IN 46112

Fishers | 10995 N. Allisonville Rd. Ste. 102 | Fishers, IN 46038

Greenwood | 1260 Innovation Pkwy. Ste. 100 | Greenwood, IN 46143

Northwest Indianapolis | 8450 Northwest Blvd. | Indianapolis, IN 46278

Westfield | 288 East 175th St. Ste. 100 | Westfield, IN 46074

Meridian Audiology LLC, a private Audiology practice, was founded by Dr. Alison Wyss, Au.D. and Kira VonBlon, M.S., after working together as Audiologists in an ENT setting for more than 12 years. The seasoned Audiologists strive to consistently provide premier care to patients with hearing loss, tinnitus and auditory processing disorders as well as those who want to protect their hearing from damage.

In stark contrast to the medical/ENT audiology world where patients are in and out in quick succession, private practice allows Ali and Kira to spend whatever time their patients need from them for their individual hearing healthcare situation.

WILL BE ANSWERING OUR PHONES AND HELPING ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS AND GET YOU SCHEDULED FOR APPOINTMENTS! PLEASE TALK TO HIM AS YOU WOULD ALI OR KIRA!

Kira and Ali are available to evaluate your hearing and walk through your many options if you are a hearing aid candidate. Kira and Ali will spend the time to explain the differences in hearing aids, the best options for the hearing concerns you have, and will even have their benefit company call to verify if you have a benefit or discount plan for hearing aids through your insurance. We believe this makes the difference in you feeling comfortable with your individual hearing loss action plan. W WE ARE EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE THAT WE ARE ABOUT TO IMPLEMENT OUR NEW DIGITAL HEARING ASSISTANT, MICHAEL, WHO

Kira and Ali are also available to speak to your local community clubs about hearing, hearing loss and the link between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline. Dr. Wyss states “We’ve done many presentations to community clubs in the area and the participants always appreciate our time in giving them information about hearing loss, cognitive decline and tinnitus as well as answering their questions.”

Meridian Audiology accepts most major insurances, offers convenient scheduling via phone, email, or online and are independent of other medical practices or hospitals. Hours are 9am-4pm Monday-Friday by appointment only. T They are located at 911 E 86th Street, Suite 035 P Phone 317-731-5386

Email info@meridianaudiology com Website: www meridianaudiology com

Homebuilding up compared to 2025

news@youarecurrent.com

The Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis has reported that single-family building permit activity across central Indiana began 2026 on a positive note compared to January 2025.

The nine-county region recorded 731 permits in January — compared to 700 permits in January 2025 — reflecting a 4 percent year-over-year increase and showing resilience relative to broader national housing trends, according to a news release.

The U.S. Census Bureau and an analysis from the National Association of Home Builders indicates single-family permitting and housing starts have remained cautious nationwide as affordability pressures and interest rate conditions continue to influence builder confidence. Against that backdrop, central Indiana’s year-over-year increase points to a market maintaining

forward momentum despite ongoing economic headwinds, according to BAGI.

“Central Indiana’s housing market is starting 2026 on solid footing,” BAGI CEO Chris Hancock stated. “Builders are entering the year with a disciplined approach — carefully managing production, aligning with buyer demand and responding thoughtfully to evolving market conditions. Compared to national trends, central Indiana continues to demonstrate stability and measured growth. Those fundamentals provide confidence as builders and buyers move further into 2026.”

Hamilton County had the highest number of building permits in January with 265; followed by Marion County with 128. Hancock County had 91; Boone County, 75; Johnson County, 68; Hendricks County, 65; Madison County, 18; Morgan County, 13 and Shelby County, 8. For more, visit BAGI.com/Permits.

Dive deep into Alaska’s wild heart by land, rail & sea:

Spot iconic wildlife in Denali National Park Take in panoramic views from McKinley Explorer dome railcars Sail through the Inside Passage alongside towering glaciers

For more information call: (317) 581-1122 or visit https://ambassadair.com/product/9135/

VonBlon Wyss

COMMUNITY

BY DESIGN

Indy nonprofit to host weeklong festival celebrating local designers

By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com

An annual festival celebrating the Greater Indianapolis area’s design community — from commercial graphic designers to graffiti artists, and everything in between — kicks off April 20, with workshops, meet-ups and more scheduled over six days, culminating in a public market for designers to show and sell their work.

Indy Design Week Communications Director Alli Donovan said the event started in 2018 when a group of local designers got together and decided that Indianapolis needed its own Design Week — modeled after similar festivals in other cities. It did well initially, but attendance dwindled during the COVID-19 pandemic. A group of new leaders worked to refresh the festival, and it’s grown in recent years.

“We have built, really, a community where it is just driving folks to celebrate and elevate the Indianapolis design community and the creative community overall,” she said. “We’re not focused on just designers. We say that if you are creative or a creative enthusiast, this festival is for you. So, we really focus on our partnerships and just highlighting all the incredible things that happen in Indianapolis.”

While the week focuses on design, various artistic endeavors are celebrated and shared, Donavan said.

“Last year, for example, we had a whole workshop day where we were opening it up to the community and a lot of students,” she said. “If you have this itch … or something new that you want to learn, come out and do our workshop day with us. That includes graffiti artists and sneaker designers and all these different pieces that you don’t see in a normal day-to-day job. If you just appreciate art and appreciate the things that are happening around you, come out, you’ll learn something new, you’ll meet a really great group of people.”

A new workshop this year focuses on native plant gardening and is set for April 22 — Earth Day — at the COhatch in Broad Ripple. It will be led by Amy Gastelum, who owns a local native plants and flower business.

Executive Director Tori Witter said the workshop and an accompanying Lunch & Learn event also will mark the launch of Gastelum’s new book, “The Search for Self: A Gardener’s Workbook,” a collaboration with local designer Aby Cortes.

“The workbook was created as a tool to help guide Amy’s clients through the creative process of imagining and

designing their gardens,” Witter said. “Launching the book during the festival felt like a natural way to highlight a local collaboration between design and horticulture — and it fit beautifully with our Earth Day programming.”

Returning to the schedule this year is the April 21 downtown walking tour, offered in partnership with Indiana Landmarks. Witter said the 2026 festival theme, Field Guide, inspired Indiana Landmarks’ Kasey Zronek when planning this year’s tour.

“She began pointing out all the historic buildings in the East Mile Square area that are central to Indianapolis’ art

IF YOU GO

Indy Design Week includes coffee meet-up opportunities, Lunch & Learn events with special presentations, daytime workshops and evening events throughout the six-day festival, set for April 20-25. Festival events are at different times and in different locations

to accommodate varied schedules and allow as many people as possible to attend at least one.

For a full schedule and to purchase tickets, visit 2026.indydesignweek.com/ schedule.

and design story,” Witter said, “From there, we started shaping a tour specifically for IDW that highlights those hidden-in-plain-sight design landmarks.”

Another popular event that’s returning is First Draft, which Donovan said allows designers to show the start of their creative process.

“You always see the final design,” she said. “The thing that hits the TV commercial or hits the magazine, we all know in the design community that (it) went through so many rounds of revision. And so, a couple years ago, we allowed four different panelists to get up and show … ‘Here’s what the finished product was. But I want to take you back to the first draft.’ We brought that back this year, kind of showing that work behind the curtain.”

The final day, April 25, is market day, with designers showing off and selling their creations in booths and offering demonstrations for visitors and fellow designers.

“It’s been anything from photography and paintings to jewelry,” Donovan said. “We have a really great partner who is a letterpress designer, and so he does his own letterpress designs, and has those on prints. We’ve even had fashion designers before who have their own articles of clothing there for sale.”

This year’s market will be open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Factory Arts District, 1125 Brookside Ave.

Donovan stressed that Indy Design Week celebrates local designers, specifically.

“You hear of Chicago and New York and LA, but we’ve got an incredible, incredible amount of creatives here who are doing the work,” she said. “This is kind of that field guide of making everybody know that Indianapolis is indeed a design city, and if you don’t know, then you’re going to know after this festival.”

For more, visit indydesignweek.com.

(Above) Participants attend the 2025 Indy Design Week kick-off gathering. (Photos courtesy of Indy Design Week)

ON THE COVER: One of the 2025 Indy Design Week events was a graffiti workshop. (Photo courtesy of Indy Design Week)

(Below)

Jenn Felts, founder of Indianapolis -based streetwear design brand Tokyo Twiggy, during the 2025 Indy Design Week.

Commentary by Larry Greene

This Zionsville kitchen was reimagined into a light, refined space, blending classic detailing with improved functionality and a seamless connection to surrounding living areas.

THE BLUEPRINT

• Thoughtfully reconfigured layout to enhance flow and everyday livability.

• Expanded island with seating, integrated sink and generous prep surface.

• Custom cabinetry in soft green and white for a timeless, layered aesthetic.

• Quartz countertops paired with a subtle backsplash for understated elegance.

• Statement range framed by a custom hood for architectural interest.

• Updated lighting with tailored pendants to elevate warmth and ambiance.

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.

Zionsville kitchen gets elevated remodel

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Romeo & Juliet

Mandolinist Thile set for solo show

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Chris Thile has toured through the years with his bands Nickel Creek and Punch Brothers. However, his latest venture is solo.

“It’s been so fun,” Thile said. “Playing solo is an interesting way to connect with your audience because without other people on stage. If you are doing your job, it can be a really intimate feeling. You are not looking left and right at the people on stage. You are looking out at the audience for all the communion you are going to get. I’ve really enjoyed it and soaked up every minute of it.”

Thile will perform at 8 p.m. April 10 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. It will be his first solo visit to the Allied Solutions Center, but he did perform there with the Punch Brothers in 2012.

The tour is in support of his album “Bach’s Sonatas and Partitas, Vol. 2.” Although the music was designed for the violin, Thile plays it on mandolin.

“The show is pretty rangy,” Thile said. “Certainly, I’ll play a fair amount of Bach over the course of the night, but I also dip into my back catalog in a way that seems related to Bach and can be recontextualized by it. When we listen to Bach, we put our serious ears on. It’s almost like we go into a costume as music lovers. I don’t know if that is always beneficial. Sometimes, you can just kick your feet back and listen to Bach in your comfy clothes.”

Thile said it’s also sometimes beneficial to listen to folk songs with serious ears.

“The basis of the show is you are trying to create a cohesive musical narrative with ostensibly wildly disparate elements,” Thile said.

Thile has toured Europe and the U.S. in support of the album, which was released in November 2025.

“We’re in the homestretch of it now,” Thile said of the Bach tour.

“We’ll be transitioning into Punch Brothers. There is a new record in the works. We’re starting to bring the Bach festivities in for a landing. That’s another reason to soak it up. It’s been my favorite solo experience by far, so far.”

During the Palladium show, Thile said he might perform songs by Nickel Creek and Punch Brothers.

“It can be interesting for me to tackle those alone and see how the music reacts to that,” he said.

Thile enjoys sharing stories with the audience.

“I love talking and I love storytelling,” he said. “I feel it’s a natural extension of my musicianship to rap with people about it.”

Thile hosted a public radio show from 2016 to 2020. He originally replaced Garrison Keillor as host of “A Prairie Home Companion.” Thile had been a guest host during Keillor’s ten-

ure. Thile’s show was later renamed “Live From Here.”

For the past two years, he has collaborated with the Punch Brothers on “The Energy Curfew Music Hour,” which is a collaboration with Audible.

“It’s 100 percent acoustic,” he said. “It’s more focused on collaboration than ‘Live From Here’ was, but it’s equally obsessed with variety.”

Thile’s wife, actress Claire Coffee, is the director and co-writer.

“She is an incredible artist in her own right,” he said.

Thile said the different projects keep him fresh.

“I think a well-lived musical life contains multitudes, at least for me,” he said. “I have a lot of energy. I get done with a thing and I don’t want a break. It makes me want to do something else.”

For more, visit thecenterpresents. org.

‘SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN’

“Singin’ in the Rain” runs April 9 to May 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Feinstein’s cabaret presents “Velvet Voices: A Crooner Celebration” April 9, followed by Casey Abrams and Hunter April 10-11 at Feinstein’s in Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. The performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

SOUL ASYLUM

Soul Asylum will perform an acoustic set April 8 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. Corey Glover is the opening performer at 7:15 p.m. For more, visit hendrickslive.org.

CARRIE NEWCOMER

Carrie Newcomer performs at 8 p.m. April 10 at Hendricks Live! in Plainfield. For more, visit hendrickslive.org.

‘SUITE DREAMS’

Indiana Wind Symphony presents “Suite Dreams” at 4 p.m. April 12 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.

DISPATCH

 Rhett to perform at LIV Golf at Chatham Hills — LIV Golf announced country music star Thomas Rhett will perform at LIV Golf Indianapolis Aug. 21, taking the stage immediately following the conclusion of Round 2 of the League’s Individual Championship event. The after-play concert begins at 5:30 p.m. at The Club at Chatham Hills in Westfield. Fans in attendance for the second round can enjoy Rhett’s performance as part of their entry alongside world-class golf and immersive fan entertainment as concert access is included with all Friday ticket and hospitality offerings

Chris Thile will perform April 10 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. (Photo courtesy of Josh Coleman)

FRiddler on the oof

IWS features students

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

The Indiana Wind Symphony has a tradition of performing a side-by-side concert with high school musicians during summertime at the Carmel Gazebo.

IWS Music Director Jay Gephart wanted to make the experience even better.

“I wanted to make this really a special event for the high schoolers,” he said. “I wanted them to have the opportunity to play on the Palladium stage. We’ll introduce them individually. Each one will receive a certificate for being a side-byside participant.”

in the second half of the concert.

“The title of the concert comes from a composer named Steven Bryant, and the piece was actually commissioned by the Jasper High School band,” Gephart said. “It’s one of a series of compositions that Bryant took concert band themes and actually created a piece using some of that thematic material.

The concert opens with “The Ringmaster’s March” from the suite “The Soul Has Many Motions,” written by John Mackey.

Crown Point High School student Caliel Mosley, the IWS Concerto Competition winner, will perform during the second piece.

Eighteen high school musicians will perform two pieces with the IWS during its “Suite Dreams” concert at 4 p.m. April 12 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.

The high school students will play “The Dam Busters” by Eric Coates and “First Suite in E-Flat for Military Band”

Participating students include two from Carmel High School — Simon Nelson, alto saxophone and Connor Sudduth, trumpet — and two from Lawrence North, Sam Katowitz, baritone saxophone and Guillermo Ceja, horn.

Other participants include trumpet players Bryant Buckles, Zionsville Community; and Abe Greenfield, Lawrence Central

Actor ready for ‘Rain’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Evan Michael Vaughan has envisioned himself on the Beef & Boards stage since he was a child.

“Beef & Boards has been on my radar since I first saw ‘Annie Get Your Gun’ as a child with my family,” Vaughan said. “I even auditioned for ‘The Sound of Music’ as a child and it was my first professional audition. I got a call back and that alone made me feel so special. I’m really excited to be performing in my hometown.”

Vaughan enjoys his role as a swing member.

“I have been a swing in other productions before and I love how organized it makes me become,” he said. “As silly as it sounds, I love getting to take all my notes and organize my charts in ways that work for my brain and allow me to remember so many different roles.”

Vaughan has performed on Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

The 2020 Lawrence Central High School graduate will perform as a swing cast member in “Singin’ in the Rain” April 9 through May 23 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis.

“I have not been in a production of ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ before, but I am so excited to bring this iconic show to the stage,” Vaughan said. “I grew up watching the musical with my grandparents and often would put on my own performances of it for my family when I was young.”

“On Regent, I performed as a singer-dancer in their production cast,” he said. “We had four production shows and they all differed — pop music, country music, rock music, Broadway hits. Throughout the contract, I visited 35 countries and four continents. Some of my favorites were Barcelona, Santorini, Brazil and Antarctica. I am currently still based in the Geist area and am so happy to be back home for a few months after my cruise contract, although later this year I plan to make the move to New York City and continue performing.”

For more, visit beefandboards.com.

Vaughan

Gephart

16. Speech hesitations

17. Strong strings

18. Home teams’ opponents

20. Victory Field doubleheader pair

22. Spooky

23. Notable 1980 cable

TV debut

25. Indianapolis Motor Speedway owner

29. Salty spots on margar-

ita glasses

30. Lift with effort

32. Aid for a submarine captain

34. Arm bone

35. Prefix for “dynamic” or “nautical”

36. Molten rock

38. Swiss peak

39. Marathon alternative

44. Indiana’s richest person: ___ Cook

46. Fabricated

47. Permission or penalty

51. Nixon’s first veep

52. Cautious

53. Colts QB-to-receiver six-pointer

55. Teller of groan-worthy jokes

56. Change

58. Puccini opera

60. Copycat

64. Stove part

67. “Mayday!”

68. Butler frat letter

69. Actress Seyfried or Plummer

70. Notable 1988 cable

TV debut

71. Simple

72. Knock down a peg DOWN

1. Evansville’s summer hrs.

2. DVR button

3. Straightening

4. Okonori seafood item

5. Free from liability

6. Watch over

7. Pacer foe from Texas, briefly

8. Kimono sash

9. WFYI net.

10. Southernmost Great Lake

11. Phoenix suburb larger than the Illinois city it shares its name with

12. Okonori seafood item

13. Beasts of burden

19. Purdue semester

21. ___-cone

23. Pal

24. French Quarter city, familiarly

26. Okonori seafood item

27. Hang on to

28. Fishers Farmers Market corn unit

31. “Casablanca” pianist

33. ___ de plume

37. Notre Dame’s sports org.

38. Parched

40. Texter’s “Wow!”

41. Neckerchief

42. Notion

43. Vulgar

45. One with “Esq.” on the door

47. Okonori seafood item

48. Many a tenant at The Stutz

49. Russian denial

50. ___ King Cole

51. Take as a given

52. Pants measure

54. Just awful

57. Bring down the house

59. Okonori seafood item

61. Darjeeling export

62. NBA tiebreakers

63. Car czar Skillman

65. Current staffers, briefly

66. “Norma ___” ANSWERS ON PAGE 12

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The Envision collection is available as a sectional, sofa, chair, or ottoman.

Choose fabric, arm style, seat depth, back height, silhouette, back pillow and seam detail, base and wood ﬁnishes.

The Envision collection is available as a sectional, sofa, chair, or ottoman.

Choose fabric, arm style, seat depth, back height, silhouette, back pillow and seam detail, base and wood ﬁnishes.

back height, silhouette, back pillow and

Custom order yours today!

The Envision collection is available as a sectional, sofa, chair, or ottoman. Choose fabric, arm style, seat depth, back height, silhouette, back pillow and seam detail, base and wood ﬁnishes.

Custom order yours today!

RG DECOR.COM (317) 873-6139

KAREN KING, OWNER