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Back to school & no time?
Second Indy-area Hindu temple opens
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Inside a commercial building in Fishers that also houses a dance academy and an indoor adventure park is Hamilton County’s first Hindu temple.
RELIGION
The new Sri Bhaktha Hanuman Temple’s location at 10080 E. 121st St. is a temporary space until a standalone temple can be built on a lot off Cyntheanne Road, but founder and priest Keerthivasan Srinivasan and Hindu families in the Fishers area have turned that temporary space into a welcoming place for worship.
Indumathi Subramaniam said before the new temple opened in mid-July, Hindus in Fishers and Hamilton County had to drive to the Hindu Temple of Central Indiana on German Church Road on Indianapolis’ east side, close to the Hancock County border. That long commute limited how often they could participate in worship activities.
“They’re able to get there only on a weekend or something,” she said, “And among our customs, we have many things going on during weekdays, too. So, having this temple is probably one of the best things our priest … did for us.”
The temple has statues honoring some of the Hindu deities, including Ganesha, Shiva, Rama and the temple’s central deity, Hanuman — the monkey-faced god. Every day, multiple times a day, Srinivasan offers prayers to the deities and local Hindus can stop in throughout the day for spiritual comfort and guidance.
Subramaniam said about 20 people have been showing up on a regular basis, and she expects the number will grow as word spreads that it has opened. She explained that in the Hindu religion, different days honor specific deities. Mondays are for Shiva, for example, and Hindus who feel a connection to Shiva will be more likely to attend services that day.
“Some people will come every day, if they can,” she said. “And some people will come because it’s their special god’s day.”
Srinivasan said opening the temple was
the result of several dreams he had during which Lord Hanuman offered guidance. There were some obstacles, but just when he felt like he wasn’t going to find a space, he had another encouraging dream and the next day he got a message that the space on 121st Street was available.
Srinivasan said there are thousands of Hindus in Hamilton County and it’s traditional for them to visit a temple for special celebrations, such as birthdays, as well as regular prayers.
“As a priest, I wanted to have the temple here in Fishers area,” he said. “In that way, you know, people can easily access day by day, and that is (why) we wanted to start the temple here.”
He said there are plans to build a permanent temple on Cyntheanne Road across from Hamilton Southeastern Intermediate and Junior High School — close to where a new Meijer will open. He said a fundraising campaign will start soon to build it.
“We will construct the temple on our own land for (the) next three to four years, and we will move all the deities from here to the big temple,” he said. “In the big temple, we are going to have a 21-foot Lord Hanuman.”
Srinivasan said the Hanuman statue will be the largest in the region. The temple
Srinivasan, priest and founder of the first Hindu temple in Fishers, performs a blessing. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
also has a new deity statue that will arrive from India this fall, Lalitha Parameswara, and he said the temple will host a special celebration after her arrival and add regular prayers in her honor.
He said the temple plans to host classes for young children, as well, including music and dance classes, to honor their culture as well as their religion.
Hema and Venkatesh Malini brought their two children to a recent daily blessing, and Hema said that since the new space opened, it’s become like a second home. She said attending regular prayers at the temple gives her a sense of calm and she’s made new friends.
Hema Malini added that she’s happy for her children that there now is a temple close to home.
“This is sort of a place where they come, they learn a lot of new things, which usually we won’t get it in the textbooks,” she said, such as respect and a sense of culture. “We have another temple (in Indianapolis), but it is not so frequent that we used to go. Since this is so near, almost morning and evening, I come with offerings and we will pray, we will chant, we will help the priest. So, this has become a second home, as I said, and this is a nurturing culture for all the people.”
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Keerthivasan
Police close investigation into Indy councilor
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
No charges will be filed following a Fishers Police Department investigation of a complaint against Indianapolis City-County Councilor Nick Roberts (D-District 4), who was accused by an unidentified woman of touching her inappropriately during a July 12 date in downtown Fishers.
INVESTIGATION
battery was received July 12 soon after the date in question. Officers interviewed the woman, who said they had been on a second date and had gotten ice cream before taking a walk on the Nickel Plate Trail.
Roberts, 24, denied the 18-yearold woman’s allegations in a July 29 social media post.
After the investigation was closed July 30, he stated in a follow-up post that the last few weeks had been a “whirlwind” but the results were what he expected and hoped.
“I’m very grateful to law enforcement for looking at a serious issue like this and for their professionalism throughout the process,” he said.
According to the FPD case report, which Current received through a public records request, the complaint alleging sexual
“At one point while on the trail (the woman) reports that she was pulled off of the trail to a darker and shaded area and (Roberts) began kissing her without her consent,” the report states, adding that the woman said he also touched her chest and buttocks and continued after she asked him to stop.
Officers also interviewed Roberts and the report states that he admits to kissing the woman and holding her hips, but denied touching her chest. Roberts also provided a text message thread to show his communication with the woman leading up to the date.
The text messages included in the police report start at around their first date on July 4, when the two met for brunch. Following that date, the woman wrote, “I appreciate you paying. I especially appreciate the kiss on the cheek (wink emoji).”
Roberts responded, “It was my pleasure (heart emoji). You can get another (and maybe more) next time.”
She replied, “I hope so. I’d like that. :)”
They arranged for another date for July 10, but the woman canceled because she had to babysit her brother. She suggested they meet for ice cream July 12 in Fishers.
The report states that officers viewed publicly available video footage of the Nickel Plate Trail and did see them walking together that evening. Camera footage was not available for the entire trail, however, and there was none for the section where the woman alleged the incident took place.
“What is captured on camera view shows two individuals (the woman and Roberts) walking together in normal walking behavior,” the report states. “In review of surveillance footage, despite (Roberts’) own admission via text and through his attorney that he did kiss (the woman), there was no video of them kissing and there is no video or witnesses for the alleged incident.”
Police discussed the case with the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office and determined there was no evidence to support charges against Roberts.
DISPATCHES
Remodeling seminars set — Worthington Design & Remodeling will host a free remodeling seminar from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Aug. 13 at its Carmel showroom, 99 E. Carmel Dr. Suite 100. The 90-minute session covers how to prep a home, set a budget, plan a realistic timeline and more. A second seminar is set for Aug. 21. Admission is free but space is limited. To reserve a spot, call 317-846-2600.
Indy foundation hires new CEO — The Indianapolis Foundation has appointed Ahmed Young as its new president and CEO, effective Sept. 1. Young most recently was director of public and government affairs for Walmart. He previously was district chief of staff and general counsel for Indianapolis Public Schools. He also was a teacher in Lawrence Township and New York City, served as a deputy prosecutor in Marion County and as an attorney and public affairs advisor at Bose McKinney & Evans and Bose Public Affairs Group. For more about the foundation, visit indianapolisfoundation.org.
Roberts
Class ring, jewelry among items stolen from area mausoleums
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
A 1960s Purdue University class ring, multiple watches and several sentimental pieces of jewelry were among items reported stolen from mausoleums at area cemeteries earlier this year.
POLICE
More than two dozen families were impacted by the break-ins, which occurred in Hamilton and Marion counties between January and March. No one has been arrested and victims continue to await closure of insurance claims filed in connection with the crimes.
In January, Washington Park Cemetery Association discovered items missing from glass front niches inside mausoleum buildings at Buchanan Group’s Oaklawn Memorial Gardens in Fishers and Hamilton Memorial Park Cemetery in Westfield. A similar theft also was reported at Our Lady of Peace Cemetery in Indianapolis, which is managed but not owned by Buchanan Group.
In March, WPCA reported another theft from a mausoleum at Washington Park East in Indianapolis, which impacted several families.
According to Ben Upton, Buchanan Group vice president of sales, it appears the “same group of thieves” is responsible for each incident.
Upton said the thieves targeted “anything of perceived value that was in plain sight” and that the monetary value of missing items is estimated to be approximately $10,000. No urns or cremated human remains are believed to have been removed or impacted.
“We’re going to do everything in our power to make sure that we protect those that are entrusted to us and the families that have been impacted,” Upton said. “(We’re going to) do our best to make it as right as possible. Again, nothing makes it right. The thief decided to violate all of us in this process.”
Current attempted to reach several families impacted by the thefts but did not receive a response. One victim confirmed the crime but declined to speak on the record.
The nonprofit WPCA, which includes seven total cemeteries, has filed insurance claims on the missing items, but many of them were worth much more to the fami-
lies than their price tag.
“That’s the tough part with the insurance claims, is that some have sentimental value,” Upton said. “We can try to make it right, but nothing makes that whole.”
Current reached out to Shepherd Insurance regarding the claim but did not receive a response. Upton said he expects the insurance claims to be closed before the end of the year.
The thieves also stole metal letters and numbers from storage drawers in the mausoleum room at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens that were likely targeted to be sold as scrap metal, according to a Fishers Police Department police report.
WPCA reported the thefts to police in Fishers, Westfield and Indianapolis, but no arrests have been made. FPD Sgt. Angela Ellison said the case has been closed out, meaning it won’t be investigated further unless new information becomes available.
The case also has been closed in Westfield because of a “lack of further leads,” according to a police report.
A Flanner Buchanan employee encountered the suspects Jan. 19 when he was locking up for the day at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens. According to the FPD police report, the employee noticed a man exiting the Good Shepherd Chapel clutching a Flanner Buchanan bag, which he found to be “odd.”
When the man needed assistance exiting the locked property, he told the employee he worked for a local construction company that frequently works on the site. The employee accepted the answer and unlocked the gate to allow the man and driver of the vehicle to leave.
The employee reported the incident to Flanner Buchanan, which confirmed with the construction company that it was not doing work on the property that day.
Flanner Buchanan has begun locking the mausoleum buildings at all times since the thefts. Previously, they were open during the day. It has also taken other measures to protect belongings.
“Anything of value that we feel like was in still in plain sight, we went ahead and tagged them and put them in our safe, just to make sure nothing else was taken,” Upton said.
Ellison recommends families using crypts take a photo of the contents to aid an investigation should a theft occur.
Ed Carpenter Racing plans move to Westfield
news@youarecurrent.com
Ed Carpenter Racing announced July 15 plans to move its corporate headquarters from Indianapolis to Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield.
INDYCAR
ECR will build a 76,000-square-foot state-of-the-art engineering facility, office and retail space; a public viewing area into the team’s operations; a full-service merchandise store; and an on-site Java House café. According to a news release, the headquarter’s design will be inviting and interactive to introduce the team and the NTT IndyCar Series to a new group of fans.
Founded in November 2011, ECR is in its 14th season of NTT IndyCar Series competition. The team’s ownership group is made up of four Indiana businessmen — Ed Carpenter, Ted Gelov, Tony George and Stuart Reed. Gelov, owner of Heartland Food Products Group, joined the team prior to the 2025 season. Heartland FPG also is headquartered in Hamilton County and is best known for its consumer brands Splenda and Java House Coffee.
“Establishing ECR’s permanent home at Grand Park is a defining moment for our organization,” Gelov stated. “This new headquarters will not only serve as the foundation for our racing operations and technical development, but also as a place where fans can truly connect with our team, our partners and the sport of INDYCAR. As a longtime Hamilton County resident and business owner, I’m proud to invest in this community and help bring a new level of energy, innovation, and opportunity to Westfield.”
ECR competes full-time in the IndyCar Series with drivers Alexander Rossi and Christian Rasmussen. Carpenter drives each May to round out the team’s threecar lineup in the Indianapolis 500.
“We are very excited about this project and how it will impact the growth of ECR into the future,” Carpenter stated. “The opportunity to build a world-class facility within Grand Park was something we could not pass up. The demographic of Grand Park and its annual visitors is not only a great opportunity for our team to reach new fans, but also a great opportunity for INDYCAR itself as we continue to capitalize on the current momentum of our sport. We are very focused on building a unique and best-in-class facility that will support our team and also showcase our brand to visitors each and every day.”
The new headquarters will be located at the current site of the D-1 field, south of the Grand Park Event Center on the west side of Grand Park Boulevard.
Construction on the new headquarters is expected to begin early 2026, with project completion anticipated by early 2027.
The Ed Carpenter Racing team at the 2025 Indianapolis 500. (Photo courtesy of ECR)
CAVA opens Indy location
northindy@youarecurrent.com
A few months after opening its first Indiana restaurant in Fishers, Mediterranean fast-casual restaurant chain CAVA has opened a second Hoosier location near the IU Indianapolis campus.
RESTAURANTS
The new CAVA, 801 W. 10th St., is a 2,250-square-foot restaurant with dining room and patio seating, digital order pickup and delivery, according to an announcement from CAVA.
“Since opening our first Indiana location in Fishers earlier this year, we’ve felt the warm welcome of the Hoosiers community,” stated Chief Development Officer Jeff Gaul. “As we continue to grow our presence in the Midwest — with additional CAVA locations throughout Indiana to come in the near future — we’re eager to connect with more members of the community and welcome them to our table to enjoy our Mediterranean cuisine and hospitality.”
The announcement stated that CAVA has a target of at least 1,000 restaurants by 2032. It opened 58 new restaurants in 2024
and expects 17 percent growth this year. Before the doors officially opened at the Indianapolis location, CAVA invited guests for a complimentary meal and accepted donations to support Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana, matching up to $1,000. Prior to the grand opening, CAVA also donated fresh meals prepared throughout the restaurant’s training period to local community members.
CAVA’s new IU restaurant will employ 25 to 40 people and is open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
For more, visit @CAVA on various social media platforms.
CHARTING AMERICA’S FUTURE Annual Event
An Evening of Big Trends, Bold Thinking, and Purposeful Leadership
MITCH DANIELS
Former Governor, State of IN
BRUCE MEHLMAN Partner, Mehlman Consulting
Thursday, September 11, 2025 5:30 - 8:00 PM (ET) Indiana State Museum, Indianapolis, IN
REGISTER HERE
CAVA opened its second Indiana restaurant Aug. 1 in Indianapolis. (Photo courtesy of CAVA)
Kanoon makes Indiana debut in Fishers
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
New Mediterranean restaurant Kanoon opened Aug. 1 in downtown Fishers, offering its unique style of smoked meat combined with Middle Eastern flavors in an upscale environment.
FOOD
The restaurant is at 8594 E 116th St., right next to the Eiffel Waffle ice cream shop. Manager Adam Hineiti said the location is the chain’s first Indiana location. They chose Fishers, he said, because the community had an “abundance” of nice restaurants, but a lack of high-end Mediterranean choices.
“We wanted to fill that gap,” he said. “We want to give people a one-stop shop to come eat in an elegant, family friendly environment, with a large variety of Mediterranean dishes and meats.”
Hineiti said Kanoon is unique because of how it prepares its meat dishes.
“Our main bread and butter here is smoked meat,” he said, noting that the restaurant specializes in brisket and lamb. “We smoke these kinds of meats and … we smoke them for 16 hours and they come out incredibly tender. They fall off the bone. It’s a new type of food that is unknown to the area.”
He said the restaurant is family owned and operated by people who are committed
to the community. The meat also is Halal, which means it was prepared in accordance with Islamic religious requirements.
“So, anyone can come eat with us,” he said. “We want people to know that the food that they’re getting with us is of the highest tier. It’d be hard for them to find another restaurant almost in all the Midwest that’ll feed them as well as we would. And we want people to feel that they’re not just our customer, but they’re now entering the Kanoon family. We pride ourselves on how well we take care of our customers.”
In addition to a meal, the restaurant offers “fire shows” a few times per evening.
“Basically, we get a piece of meat, we take it to the fire show stand, we get two torches, and we start flame-throwing the meat,” Hineiti said. “So, you’ll see flames just shooting, hitting the tempered glass that protects the customers from it. It’s just supposed to be kind of an adrenaline-boosting moment — something fun for the customers to see.”
For more, visit the restaurant’s Instagram page, kanoon_indy, or the main website, kanoonrestaurants.com.
Kanoon’s interior has an upscale Middle Eastern vibe. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
Indy man sentenced to 30 years for multiple robberies
northindy@youarecurrent.com
Javonte Smith, 34, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to six counts of robbery, three counts of using a firearm in connection to a crime and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to an announcement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office Southern District of Indiana, Smith went on an armed robbery spree starting Nov. 21, 2023, taking a total of $14,797 in cash from six businesses in less than two weeks.
The businesses were two Family Dollar stores on 38th Street, a McDonald’s on North Emerson Avenue, two Walmarts on Fall Creek Drive and North Keystone Avenue, and a Kroger on East 16th Street.
Following the final robbery Dec. 2, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers followed Smith to a Motel 6 and arrested him.
“He was found wearing … clothing he had been seen wearing on surveillance footage during several of the robberies,” the announcement stated. “During a search of his vehicle, officers found additional disguises used in the crimes, including a black coat and black wig, medical mask, sunglasses, black gloves, a black puffer jacket, a brown coat and a blue hooded sweatshirt. Officers also recovered a black Taurus handgun and the keys to a recently stolen GMC Terrain.”
Smith had previously been convicted of multiple felonies.
“This defendant terrorized hard-working people just trying to do their jobs and earn a living,” stated United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana Tom Wheeler. “Thanks to the swift work of our law enforcement partners, his violent crime spree was brought to an end and he will now face serious federal prison time. This office will continue to prioritize the prosecution of repeat offenders who use firearms to commit violence in our communities.”
West Nile virus detected in greater Indy area
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
The Fishers Health Department announced July 24 that the Indiana Department of Health has detected West Nile virus in mosquito samples collected within Hamilton County.
HEALTH
West Nile virus activity is typically highest from July through September, during dusk and dawn, according to the FHD news release. The virus is spread through mosquito bites and is not contagious from person-to-person contact.
According to the Indiana Department of Health’s insect-borne activity dashboard for West Nile Virus, tests are conducted in pools of standing water where mosquitoes breed. In Hamilton County, about 280 pools were tested and 26 had positive results for West Nile virus. That was the highest number of positive results in the state. The next highest was eight positives in Marion County. However, Hamilton County also had more pools tested than any other county — more than double the number of pools compared to Marion County, for example.
To reduce the risk of infection, the announcement encourages residents to:
• Reduce mosquito habitats by eliminating standing water like birdbaths and flowerpots.
• Use EPA-registered insect repellents with DEET, Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• Wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves and pants, particularly during dawn and dusk.
• Keep doors and windows closed and ensure that screens are intact.
• Limit outdoor activity during dusk and dawn.
People over the age of 60 are at higher risk of developing serious illness from West Nile virus, according to the state health department’s website.
For more, visit the Indiana Department of Health’s insect-borne activity dashboards at in.gov/health/idepd/zoonotic-and-vectorborne-epidemiology-entomology.
Indy woman charged with pickpocket scheme
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
An arrest warrant was issued July 22 by Hamilton County Courts for an 18-yearold Indianapolis woman who allegedly spearheaded a pickpocket scheme targeting shoppers in Fishers, Noblesville, Greenwood and Indianapolis.
CRIME
Shanya Tawan Smith faces two felony charges of organized theft and three misdemeanor theft charges, according to online court records.
A probable cause statement filed in court by Fishers Police Department Officer Ross Yoder summarized the investigation into the organized pickpocket scheme, which included several incidents at the Fishers Walmart, 8300 E 96th St.
The incidents followed a similar pattern. Older women were approached and engaged in conversation as a distraction while a third person came from behind and took wallets out of purses sitting in the
victims’ shopping carts.
Smith was detained by Noblesville police following a similar case in late March at that community’s Meijer store, according to Yoder’s statement. She was charged at that time with operating a vehicle without a license, possession of marijuana and theft.
Smith was released on $5,000 bail in that pending case, which is separate from the new charges related to the FPD investigation.
Yoder states that he interviewed Smith while she was detained for the Noblesville arrest. Smith allegedly admitted to driving accomplices to the stores and taking wallets in order to find and remove credit cards, and targeting women with purses sitting on their carts.
Smith allegedly admitted to committing the crimes in Fishers, Noblesville, Greenwood and Indianapolis, and that they had taken about 30 wallets in total. They used stolen cards to buy clothes and fast food.
DISPATCHES
Free ICO concerts — The Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra will perform two free, family-friendly, outdoor concerts in partnership with Indy Parks. The first is 7:30 p.m. Aug. 28 at Riverside Park; and the second starts at 7 p.m. Aug. 29 at Holliday Park. Concert goers can bring a blanket, pack a picnic and enjoy the sounds of classical favorites performed by the ICO and local student groups: Indianapolis Suzuki Academy and Global Prep Academy. Free registration is requested but not required at ci.ovationtix.com/36694/production/1239692.
Gainbridge guest chef applications open — Pacers Sports & Entertainment, Levy Restaurants and KeyBank have opened applications for the KeyBank Guest Chef Program at Gainbridge Fieldhouse for the upcoming Indiana Pacers season. To apply or learn more, visit GainbridgeFieldhouse. com/GuestChef.
Mid-North pantry expands hours — MidNorth Food Pantry has expanded its services to include weekend shopping hours once a month in addition to its existing weekly Monday, Wednesday and Friday hours. The new hours are 10 a.m. to noon
on the third Saturday of each month. The pantry, 3333 N. Meridian St., is expanding hours due to high levels of demand. To volunteer or donate, visit www.midnorthfoodpantry.org.
Nonprofit plans Race Away From Domestic Violence — The Indiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence is hosting its 22nd annual Race Away From Domestic Violence 8 a.m. Aug. 16 at IU Michael A. Carroll Stadium. The 5K race raises awareness of domestic violence in Indiana and shows support for Hoosier survivors.
PACE hosting mobile health clinic — Public Advocates in Community re-Entry, a nonprofit that supports people who have been incarcerated, has partnered with Aspire Indiana Health to expand on-site health services for PACE clients, their families and the Indianapolis near northside neighborhood. Aspire’s Mobile Access Care for You mobile health clinic will be at PACE, 1314 N. Meridian St., from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 13, Sept. 10, Oct. 8, Nov. 12 and Dec. 10, offering health exams for families and referrals for additional services. For more, visit paceindy.org.
New homes construction up in central Indiana
news@youarecurrent.com
The housing market in central Indiana continues to show resilience, according to a breakdown of new home permits compiled by the Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis.
DEVELOPMENT
The permit breakdown for June, released by BAGI late last month, shows a 6 percent year-over-year increase in single-family building permits, signaling ongoing momentum in the region’s residential construction market.
The data shows 926 new home permits were issued in the nine-county Indianapolis region in June 2025, up from 849 in June 2024. According to BAGI, the year-over-year growth reflects steady buyer demand and local builders who are adaptable to buyers’ needs.
“Builders are navigating today’s market with intention — prioritizing smart growth, aligning with evolving buyer needs and responding to larger economic trends,” BAGI CEO Chris Hancock stated. “Central Indiana continues to attract homebuyers and we anticipate consistent demand through the end of the year.”
Westfield has led the way in Hamilton County new home permits in 2025, issuing 685 permits between Jan. 1 and June 30.
In Hamilton County, total new home permits in 2025 include 151 in Carmel; 216 in Fishers; and 293 in Noblesville.
In Boone County, Whitestown has issued 311 new home permits in 2025, compared to 111 in Zionsville, 38 in Lebanon and 11 in unincorporated areas.
In Marion County, the number of new home permits issued in Indianapolis between Jan. 1 and June 30 is 843. The City of Lawrence has issued 55 permits.
See the full breakdown at bagi.com/ permits.
New home permits increased 6 percent yearover-year in central Indiana in June. (File photo)
PULLING TOGETHER
IndyCREW provides networking, support for women in commercial real estate
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Since the turn of the century, IndyCREW has been a welcoming and supportive space for Indianapolis professional women working in the commercial real estate industry. Founded in 2000, the only Hoosier chapter of the global nonprofit CREW network is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year.
Chapter President Chelsea Leiter Thompson, vice president of development with Browning Real Estate Partners, said CREW stands for Commercial Real Estate Women, adding that the commercial real estate industry includes developers, architects, bankers, attorneys — anyone whose job intersects with commercial development. And, she said, there are quite a few women who work in those fields.
“This is our 25th anniversary year, and we have grown to a large chapter,” she said. “We have, on average, roughly around 200 — a little over 200 to 250 members.”
While anyone in Indiana can join, she said membership is concentrated in the greater Indianapolis area. She joined IndyCREW herself when she moved to Indy and said she quickly felt a sense of what makes the city special.
“We are a small, big city and everyone knows everyone by two degrees of separation instead of six degrees of separation,” she said. “And so, I had started asking questions at my company at the time, like, ‘How do you get plugged in? I feel like this is such a tight knit community.’ And IndyCREW was one of the organizations that kept getting suggested to me. So I joined — this was probably about eight years ago now — and I couldn’t believe the community, the networking, the businesses that were happening, the mentorship that was immediately felt.”
Thompson said part of the sense of community stems from shared experiences and opportunity to network, but members also share advice that’s more specific to women.
“Even if you have a male ally or a male mentor, and I’ve been very blessed to have had many, still have many, but they are not a mentor and ally that I’m likely to go seek help for how to negotiate a maternity leave
policy or how to manage (when) I have kids doctor’s appointments or sick kids … and you’re just juggling all of these things as women, as business owners, as C-suites, as directors, as managers, as entry-level finding that footing,” she said. “It’s very unique and important to be able to have resources and kind of a village, in addition to sharing that business and networking with each other.”
Kara Riggle, president of 92c Partners, said her firm has sponsored IndyCREW for the past three years and has employees who are active in the organization. She said the nonprofit provides a powerful plat-
form for women to gain visibility and build relationships.
“Indy CREW has given us access to strong, like-minded professionals, valuable leadership opportunities and insight into trends and challenges that impact our market,” she said. “The connections and support have directly contributed to business development.”
Bonnie Riley, vice president executive banker with Community First Bank of Indiana, said she joined IndyCREW in 2021 and immediately joined two committees — membership and women in leadership. She later became co-chair of the biannual lead-
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS
The Indianapolis chapter of the global nonprofit CREW Network organizes eight monthly luncheons per year with speakers, from global real estate economists to local government officials. Chapter President Chelsea Leiter Thompson said the group also hosts a few annual events, such as a golf outing, pickleball tournament and a day at the track during the Indianapolis 500 celebration.
A special event this year will be the IndyCREW chapter’s members-only 25th anniversary gala Sept. 11 at The Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel.
“We’re excited to have everybody come together and just have a fun night and share memories and laugh and think about where we’ll be in the next several years,” she said.
Thompson said she hopes the organization will continue growing into the next 25 years and beyond.
“One of the things that I am the most excited about and proud of is … last year, we had record numbers of new members,” she said. “We had the most new members we’ve ever had in our history, and we’re continuing to see that growth.”
ership conference, which hosted more than 300 people at Newfields in 2024. She said the 2026 conference will be even larger.
“I would most certainly recommend IndyCREW to other women,” she said. “As a new member, I heard it referred to often that the best part of IndyCREW were the friendships made and after four years, I would agree with this sentiment. As our organization is celebrating its 25-year anniversary, it goes without saying it has been very successful, continuing to grow in numbers year over year.”
Thompson said when IndyCREW was founded, there were fewer women in commercial real estate. Since then, it’s become a more vibrant field for women but there’s still room for growth and the original goal of educating women about the opportunities available remains relevant.
“That’s what we strive to do now with our chapter,” she said. “We have scholarships where we send women to leadership summits. (The global) CREW network has global scholarships for undergraduates and graduate students. And so, it’s just a place to help educate, promote (and) connect women in commercial real estate.”
For more, visit indianapolis.crewnetwork.org.
ON THE COVER: IndyCREW members Bev Miller, Victoria Schuman, Joan Gibbons and Sky Block at the Oct. 17, 2024, Joint Industry Luncheon at Crane Bay. (Photo courtesy of Casey Harrison)
Participants check in at IndyCREW’s Feb. 18 luncheon, where a speaker gave an “Economic Overview and Commercial Real Estate Update.”
At the Dec. 3, 2024, IndyCREW Holiday Party at Feinsteins at Hotel Carmichael are, from left, Carrie Hill, Victoria Schuman and Jennifer Knotts. (Photos courtesy of Casey Harrison)
Blueprint for Improvement: Basement transformation
Commentary by Larry Greene
This unfinished Carmel basement was completely transformed into a stylish family room and bar area with custom built-ins, rich tones and functional design.
THE BLUEPRINT
• The raw, unfinished basement was reimagined as a polished, multiuse space for relaxing and entertaining.
• Built-in cabinetry anchors the TV wall with ample storage and symmetrical shelving.
• A textured navy wallpaper by Joanna Gaines adds depth and contrast while highlighting the crisp white cabinetry.
• The bar features sleek Cambria quartz countertops, matte black stools and modern glass pendants.
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.
After
Before
NEWSPRINT SPECIAL EDITION
Current Publishing is producing a newsprint special section with event content. It will be inserted into its newspapers on September 9. This comprehensive guide will be delivered by U.S. Mail to 113,843 households in Carmel, Fishers/Geist, Noblesville, Westfield, Zionsville and North Indy. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to affordably showcase your offerings to a well-heeled audience and help homeowners bring their projects to fruition. This advertising opportunity is open to all BAGI members. PRESENTED BY
Due to show exclusivity, financial institutions are excluded.
For more, contact your Ad Representative by email ads@youarecurrent.com or call 317.489.4444
Styx to perform “The Grand Illusion” album, other hits from the ‘70s and ‘80s
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Styx tours with other rock ‘n’ roll acts from the same era are always special for Lawrence Gowan.
Styx will perform Aug. 15 at Ruoff Music Center in Noblesville. The concert, which starts at 6:45 p.m., includes sets by former REO Speedwagon lead singer Kevin Cronin and his band, and former Eagles guitarist Don Felder.
“It’s four hours of classic rock that people know every song and just throw themselves into that evening with such abandon that it’s great to witness,” said Gowan, who has been one of Styx’s lead vocalists since Dennis DeYoung was replaced in 1999.
Styx will play its “The Grand Illusion” album from 1977 in its entirety to open its set.
During the band’s Las Vegas residency earlier this year, Styx was asked to play that album.
Gowan said the response was so overwhelming to the music and visuals that the band realized it had to be the summer tour.
“We saw people are hungry for this again,” Gowan said. “To see the way the audiences embrace that is spectacular. You’re getting to hear the album, not just in its entirety, but it’s the exact order that the sounds appear on the record. For instance, ‘Come Sail Away’ is the fourth song in the show (but usually) comes at the end (of the concert).”
The visuals show the album being flipped to the second side.
“We’re as faithful as we could possibly be to the original record,” Gowan said.
“The Grand Illusion” album also includes the title track and “Fooling Yourself” and “Miss America.”
Gowan said for younger people — who might not be as familiar with Styx’s older music — seem to enjoy the deeper cuts.
“For young people, their favorite song
might be ‘Castle Walls’ or it could be ‘Man in the Wilderness,’” Gowan said. “It’s amazing to see how well those songs go over. They go over every bit as well as the massive hits, and that’s a great thing to see from the stage.”
The second half of the concert includes many of Styx’s other hits, including “Lady,” “Too Much Time on My Hands,” “Mr. Roboto” and “Renegade.”
The set also includes “Build and Destroy,” a new song from the band’s 18th studio album, “Circling from Above,” which was released in July.
Gowan said the new song is placed between hit songs and has been well received by audiences. The album is sold at concerts and is selling well.
“It’s a big part of the lifeblood of the band to have something new on the horizon and not just sit back and say, ‘We got it all now,’” Gowan said. “We lean into every tool to make the show even 1 percent better. We dedicate ourselves to that.”
To have a new piece of music that the band is pleased with is special, Gowan said.
“It’s something that keeps us energized
and focused on the future and not entirely on the past. It’s vital,” Gowan said.
Styx released “Crash of the Crown” in 2021.
Gowan’s younger brother, Terry, joined Styx as bass player in May 2024 after longtime bass player Ricky Phillips left to take a break from touring.
“I’m pleasantly surprised to say that it’s been great,” Gowan said. “We haven’t fallen into an Oasis situation at this point.”
Gowan was referring to the Gallagher brothers in the band Oasis who have been known to feud.
“The great thing is, I’ve been doing my solo concerts from Canada as well,” Gowan said. “I do 15 to 25 solo concerts a year. Our drummer, Todd Sucherman, comes and does my solo shows. Terry has been in my solo concerts.”
Gowan said Sucherman suggested Terry as Phillips’ replacement.
“I’m kind of reluctant to give him any compliments, but he’s been absolutely perfect,” Gowan said of his younger brother.
For more, visit ruoffmusiccenter.net.
‘WAITRESS’
“Waitress” runs through Aug. 31 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Dueling Pianos” is set for 7:30 p.m. Aug. 15 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
CIRCLE CITY SOUND
“Tonight, Tonight … Circle City Sound Goes Broadway” is set for 7 p.m. Aug. 16 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘AMERICAN SON’
Carmel Community Players presents “American Son” through Aug. 17 at The Switch Theatre at Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy in Fishers. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.
DISPATCH
ICC to host Day of Song — As the Indianapolis Children’s Choir enters its 40th year, the organization will try a new and meaningful approach to opening its doors to the community Aug. 16 with a Day of Song event at Indianapolis Children’s Choir Performing Arts Center, 9111 Allisonville Rd., Indianapolis. The music-packed day is open to the public and children who want to sing, with music classes for kids and public performances and open house tours. All music classes are pay-what-you-can pricing. The performances and tours are free. Music programming for children in preschool through eighth grade will run at various times from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and require registration. Free public performances will be at 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets aren’t required. The performances will feature children who are participating in the classes that day. The ICC Performing Arts Center will be open for public tours during the 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. time frame. Open auditions for new singers in fourth grade and up will be available all day, should children want to formally join an ICC weekly choir. See the full schedule and registration details at icchoir.org/day-of-song.
Styx members, from left, Todd Sucherman (drums, percussion), Lawrence Gowan (lead vocals, keyboards), Chuck Panozzo (bass, vocals), James “JY” Young (lead vocals, guitars), Tommy Shaw (lead vocals, guitars), Terry Gowan (bass, vocals), Will Evankovich (mandolin, guitars). (Photo courtesy of Jason Powell)
NEW FOOD OFFERINGS, ART EXHIBIT COMING TO INDIANA STATE FAIR
The Indiana State Fair previewed food offerings and a new art exhibit July 31 in the Harvest Pavilion. Annual attractions returning this year include concerts at the Hoosier Lottery Free Stage, harness racing, Little Hands on the Farm and animal and art competitions. Special events include the Wolves of the World show, the inaugural Mascot Games and the return of the Big Top Circus. The fair runs Aug. 1 to 17 (closed Mondays) at the Indiana State Fairgrounds, 1202 E. 38th St., in Indianapolis. Learn more at IndianaStateFair.com. (Photos by Ann Marie Shambaugh)
Revival
Unique drink offerings from Carmel-based Urick Concessions this year include, from right, a Brunch Mimosa, Brunch Mary and Blue Cotton Candy Margarita.
Matt and Heather Hart, owners of Trafalgar-based Hart Ranch, share about their farm. Hart Ranch is one of the Featured Farmers at this year’s event.
Haley Peyron, marketing manager for Carmel-based Candy Dynamics, makes a Slime Licker Boba Blast.
Vinyl
in the Harvest Pavilion features The Art of Music Experience, an immersive exhibit highlighting the connection between music and visual art.
Carmel-based Urick Concessions is featuring Cheesy Hot Honey Chicken Fries at the state fair this year.
All in the musical family
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
The Center Celebration 2025 presented by Ice Miller with headline performance by Richard Marx is SOLD OUT! We’re so grateful to the many generous people and companies who will join us to support Allied Solutions Center’s wide range of arts and educational programming, from big-name concerts to classes and lectures to free events for schools to our Prism Project arts camp for youth with disabilities – and the list goes on.
One of Mik Hideg’s first major gigs was being the organist for the Detroit Red Wings NHL team from 1988 to 1992.
MUSIC
“It was great because I played hockey and I would go to all these games, anyway,” Mik said. “Me and my brother paid thousands of dollars to attend the games. Then I got to perform, which I love playing music at something I love to watch and get paid for it. It was like the trifecta, and I could bring people with me. It was like having four free season tickets. It was awesome.”
The Fishers resident still plays hockey with a group of friends, and has made music his career. He plays keyboards, guitar, harmonica and sings for 45RPM, which will perform at 7 p.m. Aug. 13 in the free Carmel Gazebo concert series. The band plays music primarily from 1960s rock ‘n’ roll and British Invasion eras.
In addition, Mik, nicknamed Mik the Music Man, performs with his daughter, Emily, in a 1950s band called Hot Rod Mik and the Fenders. The band includes 45RPM members Richard Breedon and Jack Fazio. That band will perform from 2 to 5 p.m. Aug. 24 at the Rathskeller’s Biergarten in Indianapolis.
You can still join us in continuing to bring these programs to the community. Visit TheCenterPresents.org/Donate to make a tax-deductible donation to Allied Solutions Center and its mission.
In addition, Mik has a family entertainment company called Jump for Joy and has a family band called Sweet Tunes Band.
For the fourth consecutive year, the family band will perform regularly at the Headless Horseman Festival at Conner Prairie Oct. 2-26 in Fishers.
Mik plays the keyboards, harmonica and accordion. His daughter Emily, 22, plays drums, and she and Mik are co-lead vocalists for the family group. Father and daughter also perform as a duo. His wife, Karey, sings and plays percussion and bass. Their son Luke, 19, plays keyboards, trombone and harmonica.
“It’s just a blast,” Mik said of performing with his family. “I’m having the time of my life. I’ve probably written 30 to 40 children’s songs.”
For more, email info.jumpforjoy@yahoo. com.
Hideg
Seventh rock from the
My Sugar Pie cream pie option
Tranquil
Drug addict 16. Unbroken 17. Hoosier Park feedbag morsel
18. Picnic pests
19. Baseball Hall of Famer Mel 21. Mythical man-goat 24. Breakfast restaurant: Wild ___ 25. Hoosier National Forest growth 26. Garden tools
Mensa stats
Hayseed
Blunder
Colts defensive coordi-
nator Anarumo
31. Apt name for a Dalmatian
33. The Waterpark wear
35. City about 30 miles north of Westfield
38. Coarse file
39. Shutout, in an Indy Fuel box score
40. Fishers Connect, e.g.
42. A step up
45. Magic, on a Pacers scoreboard
46. “___ M for Murder”
47. Therefore
48. Wine bottle word
50. Savalas of “Kojak”
51. In flames
52. Narrow opening
53. Fellows
54. Sale item label
56. Breadwinner
59. George H.W. Bush’s chief of staff
60. “Oh, Lordy!”
61. Hypnotic state
62. Disposable hanky
Down
1. JFK successor 2. ___ de cologne
3. Irritates
4. Senegal capital
5. Monogram part (Abbr.)
6. Scot’s denial
7. Employing
8. Leases
9. Carmel ___ & Design District
10. Teachers’ org.
11. Open a bottle of wine
12. Parlor piece
18. Rokita, Hill and Zoeller, briefly
20. ___ Aviv
21. That girl
22. Choice of two
23. Actress Hatcher 24. Fit with gear
25. Oz dog
27. Charged particles
28. ___ Ono
30. Hamilton County Court perjurer
31. Crooked Stick course apparel
32. The Hawthorns Golf and Country Club amenity
34. 2017 Indiana Mr. Basketball from North Central
This stunning nearly 8,000 square foot home draws inspiration from Modern Scandinavian architecture, blending warm wood tones and clean lines with lightfilled interiors. One of the home’s standout features is the Shou Sugi Ban siding—a traditional Japanese technique of preserving wood by charring it, offering both visual drama and long-term durability. Additional highlights include a spa-like primary suite, full bar and lounge area, floating staircase, and a backyard retreat with pool.
This thoughtfully designed Modern French Eclectic residence was created to entertain, inspire, and embrace the beauty of its surroundings. From the moment you arrive, you’re welcomed by striking architectural elevations and a broad, elevated stone front porch — complete with charming gas lanterns and a a breathtaking two-story library encased in a wall of windows, crowned by an elevated reading nook.
Discover an exquisite 4,700-square-foot Transitional Contemporary home, crafted by Scott Campbell Custom Homes for the 2025 Lee Supply Corp Home-A-Rama. The heart of the home is its expansive open-concept space, uniting the kitchen, dining, and great room under soaring peaked ceilings. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame stunning golf course views, while a smart pergola extends outdoor living year-round.
Calling all Realtors! Join us for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at each show home before the show opens at noon. Tickets will be discounted for REALTORS only.
A portion of the proceeds will be contributed to MIBOR REALTORS® Polictical Action Committee.
Ticket Cost: $10
September 18th | 4pm-6pm
This is a fan-favorite event with a twist! Join us as we tour each of the seven custom homes, enjoy some wine and hors d’oeuvres and hear directly from the interior designers of each showcase home to learn about the inspiration behind their design.
Limited Space. Reserve your spot today!
Ticket Cost: $60 (includes food and drink)
HOMETOWN HEROES
September 25th | All Day
Join us for a special celebratory event honoring our hometown heroes.
To show our appreciation, veterans, first responders, military personnel, healthcare workers, and teachers can enjoy 20% off their general admission ticket price.
