Founded Jan. 25, 2011, at Fishers, IN Vol. XVI, No. 1
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Opinions
The views of the columnists in Current in Fishers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.
Residents hold vigil for Renee Good
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
More than 200 people gathered Jan. 11 at Holland Park in Fishers to remember Renee Good, who was shot and killed Jan. 7 in Minneapolis by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent — an incident that sparked nationwide demonstrations.
Participants held candles, sang songs and listened to speakers during the brief demonstration, hosted by Fishers Resists — a grassroots organization formed about six months ago. Julie Roberts is one of the founding members and said the event was about remembering Renee Good.
“We’re just all grieving and just want to support the sacrifice that she made,” Roberts said. “We believe that nothing she did was illegal, and we are really convinced of that … and the fact that she was killed, it was like they were looking for a reason to kill this person. And this is just unacceptable and intolerable, and we are very angry about it.”
Roberts said she doesn’t believe the federal government’s interpretation of events that led to Good’s death, which is under investigation by federal agen-
cies. Minnesota officials have launched a separate investigation of the shooting, as well. Roberts said it seems like the federal government is trying to eliminate people’s right to speak out.
Pam Martin is another Fishers Resists member who organized the vigil. She said the group heard from many people who felt fearful, angry and frustrated.
“I wanted to create this so that we could bring people together and just stand in unity and stand against what happened to Renee Nicole Good, because she was an unarmed person doing her legal right of protesting, and nothing she did was worthy of being shot,” Martin said. “We wanted something close, in our community, to bring people together and get them involved
in the work that we’ve been doing for months — standing up to the violations against the Constitution.”
Scott Johnson said he wasn’t a Fishers Resists member, but he planned to join. He saw a post about the vigil on social media and decided to attend — and to donate a supply of electric candles, hand warmers, and extra hats and gloves that he had at his home.
Johnson said the shooting of Renee Good marked an escalation of violence against American citizens that, once started, will be difficult to stop.
“Unfortunately, we’re in that point where it’s going to have to get worse before it gets better,” he said. “And it’s going to get a lot worse.”
State Rep. Victoria Garcia-Wilburn (D-Fishers) also attended and spoke briefly to the crowd.
“Thank you to our community and I’m just grateful for this turnout,” she said. “We stand here as a common humanity today. We don’t stand here today pointing fingers or taking sides. We’re standing here to say that we’ve had enough of this darkness.”
Fire department hiring new recruits
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Fishers Fire Department has openings for more than a dozen new recruits. Department officials hope to fill those spots through an upcoming hiring process that kicks off Feb. 2 and runs through March 2.
FFD Chief Ky Ragsdale said ideal candidates are men and women between 21 and 40 who genuinely want to help others.
“At its core, this career is about helping people in many ways, particularly through fire suppression, medical services and all types of emergency response,” he said. “My ideal candidates are people who genuinely feel called to serve others. Skills can be taught, but character, work ethic and integrity
must come from within.”
Ragsdale said the department wants people who are dependable, humble and team-oriented, stay calm under pressure, communicate well and treat everyone with respect and compassion.
“A strong firefighter is someone who shows up prepared, stays committed to continual learning and understands that this job is about service to the community and their fellow firefighters,” he said. “If you bring heart, accountability and a willingness to grow, we can build
Wilburn led a prayer asking for peace, unity and a focus on the common good. the rest.”
The application process involves several phases, including a written examination, oral interviews, physical agility tests, health screenings and background checks. Successful candidates move on to the recruit academy. FFD expects to bring on at least 16 new firefighters by fall.
“To anyone looking for a meaningful career, Fishers Fire Department offers exactly that,” Ragsdale said. “Every day, our firefighters connect with members of the community during some of their most difficult moments. Whether responding to emergencies or supporting residents in need, the work makes a real and lasting difference in people’s lives.”
He added that although FFD firefighters work 24-hour shifts, they go home with two full days off to recharge and stay connected with families.
FFD Firefighter Collin Yust, 41, is a recent recruit and said he had a longheld interest in public service.
Continued on Page 3
Fishers residents gather for a candlelight vigil at Holland Park. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
Fishers Fire Department’s recruit Class 38 takes the oath of office during a 2025 graduation ceremony. (Photo courtesy of Fishers Fire Department)
Ragsdale
Yust
Continued from Page 2
“I was a public school teacher for 15 years. I enjoyed my time within the classroom and the community that I served,” he said. “However, I was ready for a new adventure. When I was done teaching, I knew I wanted to continue working in the public sector and I wanted a challenge — physically, mentally and intellectually.”
Yost said the application and academy process was smooth, with clear communication from FFD. Now, he said, he couldn’t ask for a better place to work.
“As a new guy coming on to shift, it can be daunting walking into a firehouse for that first shift,” he said. “However, if you apply yourself and show that you want to be there, everyone from newly appointed firefighters or senior firefighters to officers will go out of their way to show you a new skill, help you fine-tune your skills or just offer advice to help make your transition into the service better. Everyone I’ve had the pleasure to spend 24 hours with on shift wants you to do well and wants to see you succeed.”
Yost said instructors in the academy prepare recruits well for all aspects of fire service.
“If you are in a career unrelated to the fire service, I guarantee the skills and knowledge you have acquired will suit the department in some shape or form,” he said. “If you are committed to hard work and discipline, you’ll gain the necessary skills and knowledge throughout the hiring process, the academy and on shift that will shape you into a firefighter.”
The Fishers Fire Department provides fire suppression, emergency medical services, technical rescue, hazardous materials response and community risk reduction. The department operates seven fire stations across the city and in 2025 employed 155 sworn personnel — including 48 paramedics — plus four civilians.
The department maintains a Special Operations Division, which includes hazardous materials, technical rescue and water operations response teams.
FFD will host a recruitment open house, set for Jan. 24 at Station 91, 2 Municipal Dr. Registration is open for two time periods — 9 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. For more, visit fishersfiredepartment.simplybook.me/v2/?.
For more about compensation and benefits, visit fire.fishersin.gov/ work-for-us.
2025 SUBARU FORESTER HYBRID
New restaurants announced for Fishers District
news@currentinfishers.com
Two new restaurants are opening at The Union at Fishers District, a mixeduse development near the Fishers Event Center. Developer Thompson Thrift announced that Cunningham Restaurant Group and Flower Child signed leases to operate in the area off I-69 and 116th Street.
“Each new lease underscores the strong demand we’re seeing from bestin-class restaurant and retail brands,” stated Ryan Menard, vice president of development for Thompson Thrift Commercial. “The mix of national, regional and local concepts coming together here will create a dynamic environment that positively impacts both the Fishers community and the broader Indianapolis market.”
Cunningham Restaurant Group, the Indianapolis-based hospitality group that operates Rize, BRU Burger Bar, Provision, Livery, Vida and other concepts, signed a lease for a two-story building with plans for approximately 5,700 square feet of fine dining up-
stairs and a 2,400-square-foot bar on the ground floor offering small plates. The restaurant concept will be unique to the CRG portfolio, according to the announcement.
Flower Child will open its second Indianapolis-area restaurant at The Union, signing a lease for a 3,500-square-foot freestanding building. The restaurant offers a customizable menu featuring bowls, wraps, salads, mix-and-match veggies, grains, fruits and proteins that cater to different dietary preferences.
Thompson Thrift also has signed leases with dessert and beverage shop Dot Sugar and The Oakmont, a restaurant and bar. Previously announced tenants at The Union include Piedra, Kitchen Social, Niku Sushi, Everbowl, Racha Thai, Renova Aesthetics, Sweathouz, Unplug Soy Candles and a jewelry store. Some space remains available for lease in the development, including office, retail and restaurant opportunities.
The Union is one of five developments within Fishers District.
Flower Child, which opened in Nora in 2025, plans to open a new restaurant in Fishers. (File photo)
HSE Schools announces 98.8% graduation rate
Hamilton Southeastern Schools recently announced that students in Hamilton Southeastern and Fishers high schools are completing high school at high rates, with nearly every senior in the Class of 2025 earning a diploma.
According to the district, the results for 2025 represent the highest overall graduation rate in district history at 98.8 percent, placing both schools above the state’s overall graduation rate and among the highest-performing high schools in central Indiana.
At Fishers High School, 99.66 percent of seniors graduated — 878 of 880 students. Hamilton Southeastern High School achieved a 97.99 percent rate, with 879 of 897 students successfully earning diplomas.
“Graduation is a milestone that reflects years of effort, support and growth,” Superintendent Patrick Mapes stated. “These outcomes speak to the commitment of our students and the work of our educators to ensure students are supported and prepared for what comes next.”
Graduation success was seen across all demographics, including English language learners, exceptional learners and students qualifying for free and reduced-price meals, according to the announcement.
DISPATCHES
Hays and Boyer named partners at CCHA Law — Church Church Hittle and Antrim announced that Justin Hays and Shyann Boyer have been named partners. Bays is in the firm’s Business Services and Real Estate practice groups. Boyer is in the firm’s School and Education Law practice group.
January art exhibit — Fishers Arts Council’s Art Gallery at City Hall presents “Untamed,” featuring art by Aparna Bhave, the Best in Show winner at the annual Juried Exhibit of Hamilton County Artists. The exhibit is on display through Jan. 30 at the gallery, which is inside the Fishers Municipal Center, 1 Municipal Dr.
Albright files for Indiana Senate
news@currentinfishers.com
Fishers resident Dr. Juanita Albright, who declared her intention to run for State Senate District 31 in late 2025, officially filed for the Republican nomination Jan. 7, the first day of the filing period for Indiana’s May 5 primary election. Senate District 31 incumbent Kyle Walker (R-Lawrence) announced he is not seeking reelection. The district comprises parts of Marion and Hamilton County, including Fishers and Lawrence.
Albright, a physician, is president of the Hamilton Southeastern Schools Board of Trustees. She also serves on the Fishers Senior Center Committee.
According to a news release from her campaign, Albright is running on a platform focused on lowering inflation and the cost of living, fiscal responsibility, quality education and health care, and public safety.
“Public service has shaped my career,” Albright stated in the news release. “Filing today is about continuing that work and bringing responsible, results-driven leadership to the Indiana Senate.”
Albright has practiced medicine and lived in Fishers for more than 20 years with her husband, Eric, a pediatric pathologist. They have three children, all graduates of Fishers High School who now attend colleges in Indiana.
For more, visit albrightforindiana. com.
Dr. Juanita Albright files to run for the Republican nomination for Senate District 31. (Photo courtesy of Albright for Indiana)
Two file for sheriff
news@currentinfishers.com
John Lowes, chief deputy of the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, and Dustin Dixon, a HCSO lieutenant, have filed to run for Hamilton County Sheriff.
Lowes, a Republican, has more than 28 years of experience and is running to continue strong conservative leadership and ensure Hamilton County remains one of the safest communities in Indiana, according to an announcement from Lowes.
Lowes oversees the daily operations of the HCSO and works with deputies and command staff to support public safety across the county. He has served in a wide range of roles, including patrol, investigations, field training and administration.
“I am running for sheriff because I believe Hamilton County deserves experienced conservative leadership that will protect our families, uphold the
Constitution and enforce the law fairly and firmly,” Lowes stated.
According to the announcement, Lowes has been endorsed by current Hamilton County Sheriff Dennis Quakenbush, who is term-limited and will conclude his second term this year.
Dixon, a Republican, is in his 24th year of service with the HCSO. As a lieutenant, he oversees all aspects of day shift patrol operations, including animal control and probation security.
“I am running for Hamilton County Sheriff because this community has trusted me to serve and protect it for nearly 25 years,” Dixon stated.
According to the announcement, Dixon has been endorsed by Doug Carter, a retired Indiana State Police Superintendent and former Hamilton County Sheriff.
The Republican primary election is May 5.
For more, visit lowesforsheriff.com and dixonforsheriff.com.
Daniel files for county seat
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
The impact of the state’s new property tax law has inspired a Carmel Democrat to run for the Hamilton County Council.
Chris Daniel said he’s become increasingly involved in local politics in recent years, but watching projects and programs get shelved or cut because of Senate Enrolled Act 1 led him to take additional action. So, he is running for the District 1 seat, currently held by first-term Republican councilor Tim Griffin, a Carmel firefighter. The district includes most of Carmel and the western edge of Fishers.
“Working on revamping those projects and getting them started again are going to be really important,” Daniel said.
A Perry Meridian High School graduate, Daniel has lived in Carmel since 2022. He and his wife have one son.
Daniel
SEA1 lowers property tax bills for most Hoosiers, but it also decreases the amount of property tax revenue growth Indiana municipalities and counties are set to receive. Hamilton County is expected to take in $6.5 million less than originally projected in 2026, with steeper drops expected in 2027 and 2028. County officials said that SEA1 contributed to a decision to put plans for a domestic violence center — and other projects — on hold.
Daniel works in a local hospital as an emergency room nurse.
“Hamilton County has long been considered one of the best counties in the country and the way to maintain that status is to ensure that the people who live and work here have affordable housing options, quality childcare and access to health care,” he stated. “If elected, I will work tirelessly to make sure the hardworking people of Hamilton County are always supported by their local government.”
The primary election is May 5, and the general election is Nov. 3. Candidates can file for the primary election through noon Feb. 6.
Learn more about Daniel at instagram.com/chrisforhamiltoncounty or by emailing chrisforhamiltoncounty@ gmail.com. A campaign website is expected to launch soon.
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COMMUNITY
Court commissioner launches campaign for judge
By Ann Marie Shambaugh AnnMarie@youarecurrent.com
Westfield resident Christopher Barrows has filed to run for judge of Hamilton County Superior Court 9 in the May 5 primary election.
A Republican, Barrows has served as Hamilton County Court Commissioner since 2022. He presides over the Title IV-D court, which has three full-time prosecutors, private counsel, public defenders and pro se participants.
County is as Judge of Superior Court 9,”
Barrows stated. “My long experience, lifetime community service and integrity to apply the law as written makes me the most qualified candidate for Superior Court 9.”
He also handles criminal, civil and family law cases as a judge pro tem. Previously, he served as a guardian ad litem for more than 20 years.
“With 27 years in the courtroom and the last four on the bench, the best place I can continue to serve Hamilton
Yocum
Hamilton County Superior Court 9 will begin operations on Jan. 1, 2027. Carmel resident Paul Sweeney also launched a campaign to become the court’s first judge.
Barrows is a board member for the Westfield Youth Assistance Program, the Westfield Education Foundation and the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, Indiana Chapter.
Learn more about Barrows’ campaign at ChrisBarrowsForJudge.com or by emailing barrowsforjudge@gmail.com.
files for House District 88 primary
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Stephanie Jo Yocum has filed to run in the Democratic primary race for House District 88, which includes parts of Fishers, Geist, Lawrence, McCordsville, Fortville and Madison County.
Yocum ran for the same seat in 2024, winning the primary but ultimately losing to incumbent Republican Chris Jeter, who at deadline had not yet filed to run for reelection.
states that affordability is another reason she wants to represent the district at the Statehouse.
“It’s more expensive to live here than ever and our quality of life is declining,” she stated. “We are losing talent at a staggering rate; more than half of Indiana college students leave Indiana after graduation.
In a social media post, Yocum stated that one of the reasons she’s running is to protect public schools. She stated that the Republican supermajority is acting to remove local control, starting with Indianapolis Public Schools. On her campaign website, Yocum
According to the U.S. News and World Report, Indiana is 43rd in health care, 50th in the natural environment and we don’t break the top 15 in education. As your next representative, I will work toward a future where Indiana is a state where people choose to live because of job opportunities, thriving small businesses, adequate housing and a safe environment.”
For more, visit stephaniejoyocum. com.
Barrows
Yocum DISPATCH
HSE softball standout heads into IU Indy Hall of Fame
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Roni Chinn wasn’t thinking about the possibility of enshrinement in the IU Indianapolis Hall of Fame.
“I kind of think of older players,” said Chinn, who played under her maiden name of Patterson. “I guess I am kind of old now since it’s been a while since I played.”
Chinn, 30, will be inducted into the IU Indianapolis (formerly IUPUI) Hall of Fame Feb. 12 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. A 2013 Hamilton Southeastern graduate, Chinn played from 2014-17 for IU Indy.
“It’s a huge honor,” she said. “It was definitely unexpected, but a happy, unexpected surprise.”
Chinn was an all-Summit League selection four times, including twice first team. She played third base her first two years and was primarily a catcher her last two seasons.
Chinn, a Westfield resident, is the school’s all-time leader in home runs with 40 and set the school’s NCAA Division I-era records for runs scored (151), runs batted in (149), total bases (397) and slugging percentage (.631).
Chinn said her biggest thrill was winning the Summit League regular season championship as a senior during the school’s final year in the conference before joining the Horizon League.
“That was a huge accomplishment for our class,” she said. “There were four of us, and we played under our coach for three years, and then we got a new coach our senior year. Becoming all-conference my freshman year I feel
was a pretty big accomplishment.”
Chinn said playing third base was probably her favorite position because she played it a lot in summer softball for Indy Edge.
“But I do love catching,” she said. “I had been catching since I was 7, but my body liked me playing third as I got deeper in my career.”
Chinn is a registered emergency room nurse and has two young daughters with her husband, Jake. She has a bachelor’s degree in communications and earned a nursing degree at IU Indy.
Hamilton Southeastern won the IHSAA state championship when Chinn was a freshman catcher. She played catcher all four years for the Royals.
Amanda Eberhart, her IU Indy coach her first three seasons, will introduce Chinn at the induction ceremony.
“Roni was my first recruit as a head coach,” Eberhart said. “Recruiting my first student-athlete is something I’ll always remember, but watching Roni grow into the player and person now being honored in the Hall of Fame is truly special. She set the standard from Day 1 through her work ethic, leadership and love for the game.
Roni Chinn is IU Indianapolis’ all-time leader in home runs.
(Photo courtesy of IU Indianapolis)
Westfield High School freshman has high basketball IQ
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Westfield High School freshman guard Lillian Clark benefits from being a strong student of the game.
“She is someone who watches basketball and studies it,” Shamrocks coach Kelsey Steele said. “She has a strong IQ that will only continue to develop.”
Through the first 21 games, Clark led the Shamrocks (16-5) in scoring with a 14.6 points per game average on 46 percent shooting and has been one of their top defenders.
“I feel that I have improved incredibly on my defense, whether that be guarding my (area) and simply slowing someone down or making it harder for opponents to get easy looks,” she said. “I’m working hard to improve on attacking the rim and getting to the free throw line.”
Steele said Clark has improved dramatically on the defensive end.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
LILLIAN CLARK
Favorite athlete: University of Notre
Dame guard Hannah Hidalgo
Favorite subject: Math
Favorite movie: “Love and Basketball”
Favorite vacation spot: Anna Maria Island
“She is learning how to play defense within our system, and her commitment to being the best player she can possibly be has allowed her to develop at a fast pace,” Steele said. “Lillian is the ultimate competitor, and she has shown that in how she has competed to be her best this season.”
Steele said Clark’s top strength is her work ethic.
Westfield High School freshman guard Lillian Clark leads the Shamrocks in scoring. (Photo courtesy of David L. Dixon)
“Lillian is a young lady who pours her heart into basketball and spends a ton of time working on her craft,” Steele said. “On the court, the biggest strength is her ability to shoot the basketball, and she’s demonstrated that at a high level this season.”
Clark said her primary goal is to win the Class 4A Carmel Sectional, which starts Feb. 3.
She began playing in kindergarten with Westfield Youth Sports Inc.
“However, as COVID-19 came around and I had days full of nothing to do, I would often find myself playing basketball outside hours on end, and that is when I discovered my true love for the sport,” Clark said. “Growing up, I was involved in many sports, like volleyball, flag football, track and cross country, but since the sixth grade, I’ve shifted my focus to only basketball.”
Clark said preparation also is a reflection of her passion for the sport.
“Whether it be long hard workouts or days full of back-to-back trainings, it has always been something that I look forward to and love very much,” she said. “I simply just love to have a basketball in my hands and a court under my feet.”
Clark said she doesn’t plan to play AAU this summer
“But I will be working in the gym on developing as a player so that I can be ever better next high school season,” she said.
To nominate a high school student for Athlete of the Week, contact mark@youarecurrent.com.
Experienced,
Clark
HOMECOMING
Celebrity chef makes full circle to open new Fishers restaurant
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
Chef Kelsey Murphy has returned to where it all began — opening her new Clutch Kitchen in the former Fishers Test Kitchen space that incubated and eventually hatched her professional culinary career.
Murphy, a Fishers resident, didn’t expect to be a professional chef. Her first career was physical therapy — she has a doctorate in that field and practiced for 12 years. But food has always been important, she said. Her heritage is a blend of Italian and Polish, and on both sides of the family, the kitchen was central.
“I just don’t remember a day where I wasn’t in the kitchen,” she said. “We had home-cooked meals every night, either from my grandma or from my mom. And so, that was just part of my upbringing. It just became — I wouldn’t say an obsession — but it was how I showed love to my family and my friends.”
Murphy said she became an avid food television fan, read books about food and cooking and embraced what was, at that time, her hobby. Her father-inlaw eventually pushed her to try out for Master Chef.
“I thought this was the most ridiculous idea I had ever heard,” she said. “Why would I audition for a reality TV show? But he made me.”
Six months later, Murphy was flying west to California to cook for celebrity chef Gordon Ramsey, and she eventually won Season 11 of ‘Master Chef.’ She said that experience helped her realize she could change her career and fully embrace her love of cooking.
“I just couldn’t see myself going back to my job and just pretending like that never happened,” she said. “It was like it opened this whole other side of me that had been dormant for so long.”
With her husband’s support, she quit her job and started to “hustle,” she said, adding that living in Fishers is part of what made her success possible. The Greater Indianapolis area is growing —
not only in population but its culinary scene — which meant there were more opportunities. The first big break was close to home. Murphy said she came by the then-brand-new Fishers Test Kitchen at Sun King Brewery in 2022 to take some head shots, and the owner suggested she sign up for one of the three incubation kitchens. That led to Inspo — short for “inspiration” — Murphy’s debut restaurant concept.
“That was my first introduction to figuring out the food world and the restaurant industry,” she said. “It was such a blessing for me, because it allowed me to kind of tiptoe into this, as opposed to taking this massive financial leap and putting everything out there.”
About six months later, Murphy had another opportunity and opened the first iteration of Clutch Kitchen at Lucas Oil Stadium, specializing in “elevated” stadium food.
“This is not just your average burger or your average sandwich,” Murphy said. “Everything we do is from scratch. Everything is chef driven. All of these recipes are completely mine and my hands are still on all of the food that’s coming out of it, and that’s such an important piece of it.”
Murphy built her brand locally while continuing to get national exposure through food television opportunities. And now, she’s returned to where she started — 9713 District North Dr. in the Fishers District.
Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness said he and other city officials had been watching Murphy’s progress and were happy to offer her the space when Fishers
Test Kitchen was transitioning out. The Fishers Test Kitchen and the Fishers Redevelopment Commission negotiated a settlement agreement allowing Fishers Test Kitchen to terminate its lease early, and that agreement was finalized in late December.
“It’s a perfect fit from our perspective,” Fadness said of the new Clutch Kitchen. “It’s exactly what we’re trying to accomplish. Aspiring culinary entrepreneurs — this is the platform we wanted to provide. So, this is kind of serendipitous.”
Fadness said the Fishers District area, which the city developed with Thompson Thrift, was built intentionally to get away from the “big box” retail developments of the 1990s.
“We really thought experiential retail
WHAT’S ON THE MENU?
most popular menu item is its
“It has become the top-selling item at Lucas Oil Stadium,” she said. “People wait for 45 minutes in line to get their Cuban sandwich. And we actually did launch it here when we were in the Test Kitchen. It did great. We brought that
immediately to the stadium and it took off like crazy. So, that is still our No, 1 item. We will never take that off the menu, it is like our ride-or-die.”
In addition to the Cuban sandwich, Clutch Kitchen offers other sandwiches — a Reuben, crispy chicken and more — hand-tossed pizzas, smashburgers, salads, grain bowls and wings.
was where we wanted to be, and so we spent a lot of time coming up with more of a culinary-focused development,” he said. “And we weren’t sure how the market would respond to that. It was kind of a gut instinct sort of thing.”
The instinct panned out and various restaurants throughout Fishers District have largely seen success, with more opening on a regular basis. Fadness said although many of the restaurants are high-end, it’s important to offer options.
“You still have people like me who have three little kids, and yeah, I’m not going out to a nice restaurant every night,” he said. “What I think Kelsey brings to this is, she’s also a mom in that situation. And so, where I’ve seen in the past, people’s culinary ideas might be a little too avant garde, or it doesn’t cater to a family. I think you can do both. I think you can cater to a couple going out or a family, but it’s threading the needle.”
Murphy said it’s about problem solving. In this case, she’s solving a problem for families, including her own.
“I want a place that is a place I can bring my family, where my kids have some sort of freedom to move around when we go out to eat so I’m not yelling at them the entire time, where I can feed my family of five a substantial meal for under 80 bucks,” she said, adding that she also will offer catering and private dining experiences.
Clutch Kitchen is open with a limited menu, and will remain open while the kitchen area is renovated in the coming months. What is now three separate kitchens will be integrated into one large cooking space, she said. A side room will be remodeled for her chef’s table dining experience, during which guests can watch her prepare and plate multicourse meals — providing a private fine-dining experience next door to her family-friendly offerings.
For more, visit eatclutch.com.
Chef Kelsey Murphy makes a Cuban sandwich, her most popular menu item.
(Photo by Leila Kheiry)
Chef Kelsey Murphy said Clutch Kitchen’s
Cuban sandwich.
ON THE COVER: Chef Kelsey Murphy prepares food at the newly opened Clutch Kitchen in Fishers District. (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
Commentary by Larry Greene
This back porch renovation transformed a basic concrete patio into a finished outdoor living space. With added structure and thoughtful design details, the area now feels intentional, inviting and ready for everyday use.
THE BLUEPRINT
• The redesign ties the porch seamlessly to the home, creating a cohesive, intentional addition.
• A custom masonry fireplace anchors the space and extends its use beyond warmer months.
• Improved layout and flow strengthen the connection between the home and yard.
• Clean lines, neutral tones and layered stonework complement the existing exterior.
• The result is a low-maintenance outdoor retreat that turns the backyard into a destination.
Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy. com or visit worthingtonindy.com for more remodeling inspiration and advice.
VIEWS COMMUNITY VOICES
Pay attention
Editor,
As the 2026 Hamilton Southeastern Schools board elections approach, it’s important to take an honest look at what’s at stake — and what we’re already seeing take shape.
Over the past decade, HSE schools became a testing ground for highly political ideas: expanded equity bureaucracy, restorative justice frameworks, ideological training for staff, handbook language that blurred boundaries and decision-making that often felt disconnected from parents and classrooms. Fishers One emerged — and candidates were elected — not to politicize schools, but to push back against a system that already had.
Now, many of the same activist networks are regrouping. Expect polished messaging about “unity,” “nonpartisan governance” and “moving past division.” Behind those words are the same organizations and voices that previously drove decisions that divided the community and distracted from academics.
The risk in 2026 is not loud conflict
it’s quiet reversal.
If school board seats are won by candidates supported by fully partisan organizations operating under neutral branding, the district could quickly return to governance defined by ideology, not academic outcomes.
Most families want the same things for HSE Schools:
• Strong academics and high expectations
• Safe, orderly schools
• Respect for parents and teachers
• Transparency and local accountability
Fishers One will continue to inform, organize and support candidates who keep the focus where it belongs: classrooms, students, and results.
We encourage you to stay informed, not just to what candidates say but who is organizing, funding and amplifying them.
The future direction of HSE schools will be decided by those who show up to vote.
Jennie J. Nicol, Fishers
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The Center for Fully Functional Health onezonechamber.com
DON’T MISS THE 2026 SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE!
An informative resource for parents and caregivers, this comprehensive guide will be published on Feb. 24. It offers valuable insights, camp options, summer programs and engaging activities in and around Suburban North Indy. Delivered to 126,990 households in Brownsburg, Carmel, Fishers, Geist, Noblesville, North Indy, Westfield and Zionsville via U.S. Mail, you may seize this opportunity to reach a wide audience at an affordable price and explore the best tips and listings to make the most of your family’s summer experiences.
Spotlight on PorchFest features headliner Midnight RedEye
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Midnight RedEye has a deep playlist featuring a mix of country, classic rock and 1990s alternative hits.
“We want to focus on making people aware that we have a pretty wide genre of music,” Midnight RedEye drummer Ryan Morris said. “We cover a very large array of music from the ‘50s, ‘60s, ’70s, ’80s, ’90s, all the way up to the newer stuff. We’re pretty lucky that our singer has a very wide range. He can get down to some low octaves of doing Johnny Cash and Elvis (Presley), which we do, and get up into the high octaves of doing some Guns N’ Roses and Bon Jovi.”
Midnight RedEye is the headliner for Spotlight on PorchFest Jan. 24 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The concert supports the Carmel PorchFest Grant Program.
The evening starts at 5:30 p.m. with a VIP reception and silent auction in The Tarkington’s lobby.
Lisa Frank and the Trapper Keepers, a 1990s cover band, will perform at 7 p.m. Carmel PorchFest will award four $1,500 music grants to students from the Carmel community at 8 p.m. Midnight RedEye performs at 8:30 p.m.
Morris, lead singer Trey Chelf and lead guitarist Mike Kruer live in Westfield. The other full-time members are bassist Abel Robinault, Frankton, and violinist and backup vocalist Georgina Sanchis-Miralles of Fishers.
Keyboard player Alex Poisal, Beech Grove, is a part-time member who will join the band at The Tarkington.
Morris said the band formed in 2022, playing its first concert as Midnight RedEye in April 2023. He said the band is working on some original songs.
“We have five songs in the works right now that we’re hoping to polish up and maybe get recorded before the
end of the year,” he said. “We might do one of the originals. We did one live in November, but we just want to get it a little more perfected.”
Morris said all band members have full-time jobs. They play a little more than 20 shows a year on average.
Midnight RedEye has played at Carmel PorchFest twice and headlined Carmel PorchFest’s Late Night on Main in 2024.
“Late Night on Main was a huge exposure event for us,” Morris said. “I think there were about 1,500 people there, so that was a lot of fun for us.”
Morris and Kruer have been friends for several years. They met Chelf and Robinault at an open mic night at Morse Reservoir in December 2022.
Lisa Frank and the Trapper Keepers is named for the multicolored school supplies from the 1990s, drummer Steve Fulton said.
“It’s three guys with a beard,” said Fulton, a 1996 Sheridan High School graduate who lives in Broad Ripple.
“Some people totally get it, and some people think there’s a girl in the band, which makes it hilarious.”
Kris Huntley, a Fishers resident
who grew up in Noblesville, is the lead singer and guitarist. Indianapolis resident Steve Krider plays bass.
The band performs songs by groups such as Nirvana, Weezer and Smashing Pumpkins
“There are a lot of one-hit wonders,” Fulton said.
Fulton said the band has played Carmel PorchFest several times.
“It’s always a favorite show of ours for the year,” said Fulton, who said the band plays across the state. “We play a lot of breweries and private events. We also played on Late Night on Main in Carmel.”
General admission tickets are $15. VIP reception and preferred seating tickets are $50. The Carmel PorchFest Grant Program was created to provide financial support to students interested in the musical arts to cover such items as new instruments, lessons, schooling, musical opportunities, etc., in exchange for volunteer hours at PorchFest events. To date, Carmel PorchFest has awarded more than $30,000 to students.
For more, visit thecenterpresents. org.
‘THE MOUSETRAP’
“The Mousetrap” runs through Feb. 15 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
“Now That’s Funny: Kristen Toomey” is set for Jan. 22, followed by “Thank You for the Music! An ABBA Party” Jan 23. at Feinstein’s cabaret at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
‘MIDNIGHT GREEN TOUR’
“Neko Grey Midnight Green Tour” is set for 7:30 p.m. Jan. 22 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
LOCAL MIX MUSIC SERIES
The Local Mix Music Seres features Teresa Reynolds and the Slicktones at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 22 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center. To register for free livestream or buy $10 tickets, visit thecenterpresents.org.
‘BYE BYE BIRDIE’
A youth production, presented by The Drama Department, of “Bye Bye Birdie” is set for Jan. 23-25 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit thecat.biz.
MAC MCANALLY
Country artist Mac McAnally will perform at 8 p.m. Jan. 23 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium. For more, visit thecenterpresents.org.
CABARET AT WOODSTOCK
Cabaret at Woodstock, an Indianapolis Opera fundraiser, is set for 5:30 to 9 p.m. Jan. 24 at Woodstock Country Club in Carmel. The fundraiser will feature cocktails, dinner, musical numbers from Broadway, the Great American Songbook and opera favorites. For more, visit indyopera.org.
Midnight RedEye members, from left, Trey Chelf, Abel Robinault, Mike Kruer, Georgina Sanchis-Miralles and Ryan Morris. (Photo courtesy of Kristi Swango Photography)
PUZZLES
meal
15. Mexican money
16. A Four Corners state
17. Carmel’s Christkindlmarkt machine for a smashing keepsake?
19. Remain unsettled
20. Terminate
21. Update, as an atlas
23. Above
26. Uno + uno
29. Financial review
32. Remove
33. Fishers district
36. Collectible print, briefly
38. ___ wave
39. ISP option
40. Workplace safety org.
42. Former Hamilton County Prosecutor
Garrison
44. Picture holders
47. Completed
48. They might be licked, smacked or sealed
52. Woolworth’s and Kresge’s, e.g.
54. Hawaii island
55. Indiana Supreme Court garb
56. Gen-___
57. Marge Simpson or Carol Brady
58. Quitter’s cry
61. Garden tool
62. A Stooge
64. Colts’ passer
70. Prohibit
71. Worldwide relief org.
72. Fishers N-S Road
73. Kuaba Gallery piece
74. Inclined
75. “___: Warrior Princess” DOWN
1. Victory Field souvenir shop buy
2. GPS reading
3. Bard’s nightfall
4. Iranian coin
5. Black stone
6. EMT skill
7. “The Jeans that Built America”
8. Cold War inits.
9. Big name in speakers
10. “Drag Race” host
11. Blended family member
12. Moving vehicle
13. IU prof’s degree
18. Mani mate
22. Hoosier National Forest tree
23. Magic, on a Pacers scoreboard
24. Seven, on some clocks
25. Geist summer hrs.
27. Twice tetra-
28. Biathlete’s need
30. Part of TGIF
31. ___ Aviv
33. Barely beats
34. More avant-garde
35. Cooking fats
37. Skills class rebranded as Family & Consumer Sciences, familiarly
41. 33rd POTUS
43. Car storage
compartment
44. 32nd POTUS
45. ___ de Janeiro
46. Completely surrounding
47. Dr. of rap
49. Beatles: “___ the Walrus”
50. Chao Vietnamese Street Food soup
51. Add
53. Jamaican Style Jerk menu item
57. Rocky ridge
59. Greenish blue
60. Convent ladies
61. Weightiness
62. PU’s Mitch Daniels School advanced deg.
63. Rowing blade
65. Hoosier Dome title sponsor
66. Big ___ Conference
67. Grand Junction Brewing Co. brew
68. Bengals, on a Colts scoreboard
69. RV park chain ANSWERS ON PAGE 19
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