Indianapolis Monthly March 2025

DISCOVER ICELAND WITH INDIANAPOLIS MONTHLY SEPTEMBER 12–21, 2025

GLACIERS, GEYSERS, AND THE GOLDEN CIRCLE

EXPERIENCE ICELAND’S MIDNIGHT SUN WITH INDIANAPOLIS MONTHLY ’S FEATURES EDITOR JULIA SPALDING

DEADLINE FOR REGISTRATION IS MARCH 13!

Do you love exploring natural wonders and visiting historic landmarks? You’ll get the best of both worlds in Iceland. From volcanic lava and geothermal fields, to massive glaciers and flowing waterfalls, to distinctive European architecture, you’ll experience all the otherworldly beauty of this spectacular Nordic island nation. Space is limited, so reserve your spots for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure today.

Visit indianapolismonthly.com/discover-iceland for more information.

48

THE 100 GREATEST INDIANA ATHLETES

After a fun, rigorous, and at times (playfully) heated process, we compiled our catalog of the Hoosier state’s most impressive sports figures. Check out who made our list and debate us if you dare.

EDITED BY ANDREA RATCLIFF

TAILOR MADE

Local tailors may no longer be as in demand as they once were, but they still provide a personalized service you can’t find anywhere else. These Indy-area clothiers turn out the city’s sharpest-dressed men and women.

EDITED BY JULIA SPALDING

56

CALIFORNIA DREAM

A Berkeley, California, couple traded the pressures of West Coast living for the quiet serenity of Monroe County. See how they updated a midcentury architectural gem to preserve its rich detail while adding modern convenience. BY

BAILEY BRISCOE

Carmel’s Tailored Society

Illustration by Ryan Olbrysh

PHOTO BY JAY GOLDZ

LOVE YOUR extraordinary LIFE

CIRCLE CITY

IndyFringe’s rebranding as IF Theatre marks an exciting new era for those who tread the boards and their audiences.

Our Indiana expert gets energized about wind energy in Indiana.

ASK ME ANYTHING

Coach Curt Cignetti discusses IU’s most recent football season and how he built a team he plans to take all the way. 16

Over 90 years ago, John Dillinger’s death warranted a special edition of The Indianapolis Times

Five can’t-miss events in Indy this month.

GOOD LIFE

Tote cans and bottles in style with a drink box that will elevate your next picnic to Gatsbyesque proportions.

Settle in with a cozy cocktail and a snack as you enjoy the quaint, historic atmosphere at Noblesville’s Chapter Book Lounge.

Pack light with these pouches, Dopp kits, and makeup bags.

Experience luxury and seclusion on a Westfield hilltop or in a Fortville country estate.

Sarasota offers circus history, fine art, a botanical sanctuary, and quartz-crystal beaches for days.

Old World cooking shines at Freeland’s, where the Albanian corn fritter dish Shapkat sticks to your ribs.

The Damien Center opens a cafe, Chuck Brezina tells us to embrace variance, and The Alchemist brings coffee by day, cocktails by night. 31 FOODIE

One of the few female sushi chefs in the world, Nina Takamure blazes a trail alongside her father at Asaka Japanese Restaurant. 32 TASTE TEST

If standard Brussels sprouts bore you, prepare to be swept off your feet.

Josh Mazanowski’s Lone Pine is earning its chops in Carmel City Center.

EDITOR’S

NOTE

Game Face

I MIGHT be the least likely person on the IM staff to willingly head up a sports feature (p. 36). I’m not even sure how I got roped into recruiting the writers, sorting and organizing the master list of 100 athletes (which was originally closer to 150), and writing a handful of bios myself. Did I develop selective amnesia? Did Julia Spalding hypnotize me?

Andrea Ratcliff Editor-in-Chief

You see, I am not much of a sports fan. Sure, I’ll go to an organized game of some sort every once in a blue moon. But if I’m being honest, it’s usually more about hanging out with friends than paying attention to what’s happening on the floor or field below. There will never be a game playing on TV at my house, and not just because I don’t own a TV (which is a whole other story).

Living in a place where sports is king, though, it’s not easy to avoid the hype and rahrah energy. Almost by osmosis, Caitlin Clark mania has taken over the Circle City. We collectively celebrate big wins by our local teams and revel in the fanfare of major tournaments and events hosted right in our backyards. The spirit of competition is strong here, and it inspired me to want to play along and tell the stories of some of the greatest athletes Indiana has known. It was fun to bounce ideas around with the writing team and turn our elimination process into a verbal round of whack-a-mole. Even I couldn’t help but get in the game.

To add to the wave of enthusiasm, our digital editor and resident sports writer Clay Maxfield scored a Q&A with IU’s head football coach Curt Cignetti (p. 14). Throw in a special advertising section on the Big Ten women’s and men’s basketball tournaments (p. 103), and this issue is flush with sports coverage. March Madness, indeed.

( CONTRIBUTORS )

WHILE CHEERING INDIANA SPORTS FIGURES (P. 36), WE ASKED THE STAFF TO TOUT THEIR PROUDEST ATHLETIC ACHIEVEMENTS.

“I placed first in a two-man CrossFit contest for ages 45-50. My all-time PRs were: 480-pound deadlift, 375-pound back squat, and 285-pound bench.”

–Vu Luong, Production Director

“I went out for track in seventh grade on a whim and found I liked and excelled at distance events. I’m most proud of receiving the Mental Attitude Award every year in varsity crosscountry. I owe a debt of gratitude to my hero and coach, John Cleland.”

–Amy Cecil, Account Executive

Brian Garrido

Writer Brian Garrido has traveled to six continents and 250 cities, sharing stories on the food cultures of each destination. His work has appeared in LA Weekly, Vox Media, Edible Indy, and Eater.com. He moved to Indianapolis from Los Angeles for his partner Nick’s job. Garrido continues exploring the Midwest food scene, including Nina Takamure’s Asaka (p. 31).

Writing about Indiana’s top athletes (p. 36) brought back memories for freelance writer Laura Kruty, who grew up during the Pacers’ heyday in the ’90s. She once owned an iconic (but bulky) blue and gold pullover Pacers Starter jacket. It complemented few outfits and was particularly garish paired with church clothes. Nonetheless, it was a treasured possession.

Sarah Shields brings stunning homes to life (p. 56). Masterfully using light and composition, she showcases top designers and builders in magazine-worthy style. When she’s not behind the camera, she’s answering endless “Mom!” calls from her 6-year-old, planning trips with her husband, or snuggling with her Weimaraner.

“Without any training or preparation, I signed up for the two-day, notoriously quad-killing Hilly Hundred bike ride in Southern Indiana. I finished the first day, openly crying. I didn’t go back the second day, so I can proudly say I completed the ‘Hilly Fifty.’”

–Julia Spalding, Features Editor

“I was never much of a sports person, but in high school my mom made me start running with my dad. Because I was certified in first aid and CPR, she decided I could ‘save him’ if he ‘had a heart attack.’ For several years, we were in a running club and ran local races, and I never had to rescue him.”

–Missy Beiting, Operations Director

Sarah Shields

Interior photographer

Laura Kruty

PUBLISHER Ivy Bayer

EDITORIAL

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Andrea Ratcliff

FEATURES EDITOR Julia Spalding

LIFESTYLE EDITOR Christina Vercelletto

FOOD & DINING EDITOR Eve Batey

MANAGING EDITOR Camille Graves

DIGITAL EDITOR Clay Maxfield

Art | production

DESIGN DIRECTOR Margo Wininger

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Vu Luong

EDITORIAL ART DIRECTOR Maura Broderson

ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR Christiana Bertsch

Advertising | Business

SALES DIRECTOR Holly Whitney

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Amy Cecil, Matthew Clements, Jena Jennings, Nancy Oliphant

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Missy Beiting

IndianapolisMonthly.com/ advertise-with-us

PUBLISHED BY Cincinnati Media, LLC, A SUBSIDIARY OF HOUR MEDIA, LLC

CEO Stefan Wanczyk

PRESIDENT John Balardo

EDITORIAL / ADVERTISING OFFICES

Indianapolis Monthly 8909 Purdue Rd., Suite 130 Indianapolis, IN 46268 317-969-6954

Subscriptions 1-866-660-6247

IndianapolisMonthly.com/ subscribe service@hourmediagroup.com

64 MARCH

64 // FACES OF INDY

Meet Indy-area business leaders representing a wide range of industries, such as real estate, finance, education, retail, medicine and dentistry, travel, residential design, and restaurants and hospitality. They’ll share details about their professional successes, philosophies, and focus areas.

103 // BIG TEN BASKETBALL FAN GUIDE

Hoops fans convene on the Circle City for women’s and men’s college tournament action. Get details about the Big Ten, Indy’s strengths as a host city, and fun attractions to visit during the championships.

111 // SUPER LAWYERS

When you need qualified legal advice, where do you turn? Our listings include attorneys recognized for excellence in their practices who were identified through a patented selection process involving peer nominations, evaluations, and independent research.

CORRECTION: In the January issue, Brian E. Brown, Brown Family Dentistry, 7126 N. Shadeland Ave., Ste. B, 317-842-6402, brownfamilydentistry.us, was omitted from the General Dentistry section of our Top Dentists list. IM regrets the error.

HEALTH WATCH: ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY

With medical advances like robot-assisted procedures, minimally invasive techniques, regenerative medicine, and patient-specific implants, orthopedic specialists have a growing number of tools to effectively treat their patients.

HOMETOWN: DOWNTOWN

Our Hometown sections highlight the top attractions, activities, shops, and dining establishments in Indianapolis and its surrounding communities. In April, the focus is on all the best things to see and do in the very heart of the Circle City.

Being thoughtful in building a home is about considering not just the aesthetics, but also the functionality. It’s about understanding the needs and desires of the people who will inhabit it. It’s evident in the layout, that feels special and inviting... more than just a structure; it becomes a sanctuary, a place where memories are made and that you're proud to call home.

CIRCLE CITY

SPEED READ As IF

For years, IndyFringe has been more than just an annual theater festival in August. Its headquarters, a renovated church in Chatham Arch, is a favored place for artists and arts companies to rent out and showcase talent. Now, with new management and a new name to better reflect its year-round impact—IF Theatre—come even greater ambitions.

ARTS GROUPS ARE IN THE SPOTLIGHT. In its early years, the IndyFringe Theatre Festival admitted acts strictly on a firstcome basis. Later, a lottery system was imposed. Quality wasn’t at the forefront of decision-making. And during the rest of the year, the space was available to rent for just about anything. Going forward, an attempt will be made to consistently level up what is presented. IF is partnering with established local companies to create the Spotlight Series. American Lives Theatre, Betty Rage Productions, Defiance Comedy, and others have been given favored rental rates and additional marketing support to be part of the series. “These are companies we know we can count on to produce quality work,” says Paul Daily, IF’s executive director. “So we’re taking on more of a financial risk for them.” Upcoming Spotlight Series productions include Cryptid Entertainment’s April’s musical Reefer Madness

YOU CAN EXPECT MORE VARIETY.

Traditionally, Fringe productions disappeared when the festival ended. But IF has begun supporting encore runs for some of the more popular shows. For instance, Paige Scott’s joyful Titanic spoof, Ship of Dreams, and Matt Kraft’s comedy Somebody That I Used to Know have reached wider audiences with post-festival runs. In addition, Red Curb Comedy, which shuttered its Avon theater in 2024, now has a slot on the first Saturday of each month. IF also works with the music ensemble Forward Motion to present a holiday series with live accompaniment to silent films.

“I WANT AUDIENCE MEMBERS TO BE SURPRISED BY WHAT THEY EXPERIENCE. IN ALMOST 40 YEARS OF DOING THEATER, I’VE NEVER SEEN A PERFORMANCE QUITE LIKE IT.”

zation. The Flanner Fringe Lab teaches playwriting, with three projects to be selected for development assistance and coveted spots in this year’s festival.

IF WILL PRODUCE ITS OWN WORK. First up: the appropriately named Unknown Forces. Details are hush-hush. All that has been confirmed as of press time is that it will happen at the Factory Arts District (formerly Circle Center Industrial Complex) on April 4. Daily describes it as an “immersive” production that will tap more than 100 theater artists. “I want audience members to be surprised by what they experience,” he says. “In almost 40 years of doing theater, I’ve never seen a performance quite like it.” Daily’s hope is to do one such community production per year. “IF Theatre should inspire different ways of experiencing theater,” he adds.

—LOU HARRY ( SPEED READ CONTINUED )

got a makeover (one is now adorned with headshots of artists who have worked at the festival over the years). A new support structure went under the floor of the stage after an engineer found that it wasn’t up to code. Soon, a new front awning will be installed. A push to be more environmentally conscious is also happening. “We’re making additional efforts to be sustainable, financially and environmentally,” says Daily. “This year, the festival is working with the city’s Office of Sustainability as a case study.” An initial step will be adding recycling bins at all festival venues.

THE FUTURE HOLDS MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR LOCAL THEATER ARTISTS. “We keep hearing that artists here feel like they’ve hit a plateau and think they need to move elsewhere to grow,” says Daily. To stem that tide and create training opportunities, he has plans to transition IF’s smaller, simpler performance space—what is known as a black box theater because it resembles a black box—into a place for classes and workshops. One education initiative already underway is a partnership with the Flanner House community organi-

A STURDIER STAGE IS AMONG FACILITY UPGRADES. Long overdue cosmetic and structural changes are underway. The Basile Theatre, IF’s mainstage, received an interior paint job, and the bathrooms

THE 2025 FESTIVAL WILL BE ON MASS AVE. While acts and venues weren’t locked down at press time, Daily says that in addition to familiar settings like The District Theatre, the festival will use less traditional spaces. Last year’s expanded to Fountain Square, but the board felt strongly about focusing on Mass Ave this time. “We want to go back to being a walkable festival,” explains Daily. He expects to see a return of national and international acts. Many were slow to resume touring after the pandemic. “But we’re seeing our numbers get closer to years past.”

MONEY IS STILL AN OBJECT, THOUGH.

“Nothing we do pays for itself,” admits Daily. “We’re in a tough market. Theater is hard everywhere. Essentially everything we do goes to subsidize the artists. It’s my job to get the corporate and individual contributions so that we can lower rents and hold down entry fees.”

Up in the Air

Q: HOW MUCH POWER DOES INDIANA GET FROM WIND?

A: It may be eye-opening to learn that we get roughly 10 percent of our electricity from eco-friendly wind turbines. But it’s likely less of a surprise if you’ve seen the kaiju-sized structures bestriding I-65 for miles through Benton, White, and Jasper counties. They’re part of Meadow Lake Wind Farm, the sixth largest facility of its kind in the U.S., with more than 400 gargantuan turbines churning out about 800 of Indiana’s approximately 3,300 annual wind megawatts. The Hoosierist, however, thinks this place also performs a lifesaving secondary function. The towering structures are literally the only point of visual interest on the numbingly dull Indy-to-Chicago route. Who knows how many wrecks they’ve prevented when their sudden appearance startles drowsy drivers back to attentiveness? —SAM

STALL

( UNSPOKEN RULES )

Karnevale

A MANNER-FESTO FOR PARTYING LIKE IT’S 1399 AT THE ATHENAEUM ON MARCH 1.

Opt for $50 VIP tickets, which get you two drinks, a champagne toast, German-inspired hors d’oeuvres, and validated parking in the Block 20 garage. Reserve your preferred seat in the Basile Theatre. It’s the first time that’s doable. Don cocktail attire in blue and white, the event’s color scheme. Wear dancing shoes. The Grand March is a must. Bring a carnival mask. It’s a masquerade ball. Leave the kids at home. Step into the Basile Theatre at 8:11 p.m. sharp for acts by Indy Drag Theatre and a comedian from Germany. (The number 11 was linked with fun pranks in medieval times.) Savor the festivities until they end at 11:11 p.m.

Don’t get too smug about our wind power performance just yet. The Hoosier state burns more coal each year than any other in the nation except Texas.

ask THE HOOSIERIST

Curt Cignetti, football coach

HE WENT FROM INDIANA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA TO ELON UNIVERSITY, THEN TO JAMES MADISON BEFORE LANDING AT IU AS HEAD COACH—AND NEVER POSTED A LOSING RECORD. THE TREND OF SUCCESS CIGNETTI HAS HAD FOR THE LAST 14 YEARS IS VIRTUALLY UNMATCHED. WE CAUGHT UP WITH HIM JUST AS HIS LATEST STUNNING SEASON WRAPPED. BY CLAY MAXFIELD

You’re not very far removed from the 2024 season. Have you had a chance to digest all that was accomplished?

In bits and pieces, but the way we played kind of left a sour taste. I think the silver lining is it provides the motivation going into next season, as opposed to having the feel-goods about everything we accomplished. That brings challenges of its own. But it was a lot of firsts, a lot of

great things. It’s a good start, but we’re committed to making the next step next season. I give a lot of credit to the players, coaches, and the administration for their commitment and efforts throughout. Not only was it gratifying to string together the wins, start 10-0, and win 11 games for the first time but also to have the support we had from the fans. Thousands were outside tailgating that couldn’t

get tickets. It was over-the-top excitement about Indiana football.

Playing in the Big Ten Conference is a different animal than regular college football, but you’ve been around the game for a while. What did this season teach you?

We had a similar turnaround in my second year as head coach at Elon, a place that had not had success. Many on campus thought it was an impossible situation. They were 12-45 before we went in there. It was one of the toughest football championship subdivisions in the country at the time, and we started 8-1 and played for the conference championship at the end of the season. Having that experience to draw from before this all started was a plus. I knew how one thing could lead to another, and that’s sort of how it fell into place for us.

So much about college football has changed since you first became a head coach in 2011. What continues to drive you?

I love the game and the opportunity to put a roster together and build the intangibles of a team. I love to put all the people in place, whether it’s coaches or players, and build an environment, culture, and mindset where everyone can thrive and become the best version of themselves. We’re very processoriented, with high standards, expectations, and accountability. Our philosophy on how to play the game is: Be where your feet are and make the most of every moment, every day, and stack those moments, meetings, and practices to put yourself in the best position on Saturday. At the end of the day, I’m competitive, and the thing that drives me is winning. But to be honest with you, I think I hate losing more than I like winning.

You had 13 players along with seven coaches come with you from James Madison University. How much does that buy-in illustrate the kind of culture that you create and bring with you? This process happened so fast. IU made a change on a Sunday

“I LOVE TO PUT ALL THE PEOPLE IN PLACE, WHETHER IT’S COACHES OR PLAYERS, AND BUILD AN ENVIRON MENT, CULTURE, AND MINDSET WHERE EVERYONE CAN THRIVE AND BECOME THE BEST VERSION OF THEMSELVES.”

afternoon and by Wednesday night, I was offered the job and accepted it. I never once entertained the notion that any of those guys might follow me. When I flew out Friday morning with four coaches and my strength and conditioning coordinator, a couple of them started jumping the portal. Then more came in, and I realized what was possible. I think those guys were huge in this because they understood the program. They could answer questions from the other guys, and they led by example. They had a great work ethic and understood the standard that leads to success. And they knew how to handle that success, as well as failure. A lot of other transfers we brought in had come from winning programs too. They all knew how to play ball and started for two or three years, which was important to me. The one thing I’m most proud of is that for the most part, we played with great consistency from beginning to end. From the first play to the last, we were never satisfied. We played with an edge and as a team. Guys were focused on the same goal. Of course, they all had their individual goals, I’m sure, but they were able to subordinate those for the greater good of the team.

You’ve preached “production over potential” when evaluating potential recruits. What do you and your coaching staff look for first, or most often, when it comes to watching film or meeting with potential players? You’ve got to love football, first of all. There are a lot of guys who play for different reasons, but we want guys who love ball, love the process, and love the development. Even though it’s not always fun, they yearn for the discipline and structure. A good foundation to have is character. You

can get a sense of that in where they came from and how they present themselves. Within the first couple of minutes of sitting down with them, you can get an idea of their character and form a first impression. It isn’t absolute, but it is often correct. A portal guy and a high school guy are different. A high school guy, you have to develop, mentor, and bring along. A portal guy has maturity. They’re coming because they want an opportunity. This is a platform to show what they can do. They want to play at the next level, and they all want to win. In the end, they just have to be our kind of guy and able to fit into our team system.

Much of the talk around college athletics of late has been focused on the difficulty in building a program when you have the portal and NIL (name, image, and likeness) issues to worry about. Do you see anything in the changing landscape that has improved college athletics? That changing landscape has given people like us an opportunity to be successful right off the bat. The downside of the portal is your roster got lean, but the upside is that it gives you an opportunity to bring in the new faces that you need. I like the control that it provides in terms of building and determining what your roster is going to look like year in, year out. In the past, your roster was built through the high school route. Now, kids who might not have been in the best situation are finding a better situation.

Your father was a Hall of Fame coach; your younger brother has coached for 30 years. Was there ever anything else you wanted to be as a kid? No, absolutely not. My dad halfheartedly tried to steer me in

a different direction when I was in college, but I knew by third grade that I wanted to be a coach. We moved to Morgantown, West Virginia, when Bobby Bowden took the West Virginia job. My dad went with him, and I was on the sideline for the home games and in the locker room for halftime. Listening to coach Bowden talk, I knew right then and there it was what I wanted to do.

The trait most often referenced when describing your coaching style is confidence. What do you think about that?

I probably was a little [more] over the top this year at Indiana than I’ve been at other places I’ve coached, but I felt like that was what was needed. Walking into a place where a lot of people didn’t see much hope and having to get the fan base excited, I had to show confidence. I think it rubbed off on our players too. You’re on more of a national stage here. That gets across more often, so from year one, that was my thing. Confidence was the recipe.

What stands out to you about Bloomington now that you’re a full-time resident?

We really love it here. It’s a wonderful university town. The people are very friendly and welcoming. I like the climate. I just think it’s a beautiful place. I’d been to the university a couple of times before I took the job and was always impressed by the campus. The people I work for, Scott Dolson and Pam Whitten, are great. They’re committed. I feel a real sense of responsibility toward continuing to elevate this program.

Free time is surely scarce as a head coach, but when you do get it, what do you gravitate toward to wind down and reset?

Right off the bat, I go to my recliner! Then my wife, Manette, and I will get away to whatever destination she chooses. It’s usually a sunny beach. I’ve always been a big reader. I used to be an avid golfer too, but once I became a head coach, I quit golfing because it took up too much of my time. Nowadays, this job is 24/7.

the Indianapolis Times

VINTAGE:1934

Resides at the Indiana State Police Museum

OVER10 months, John Dillinger and his gang killed 10 men, robbed banks and police arsenals, and staged three jailbreaks across the Midwest. This framed extra edition of The Indianapolis Times, an 1888–1965 evening newspaper, dated July 23, 1934 was donated to the Indiana State Police Museum by local resident Marge Walker. Raised in Indianapolis and Mooresville, Dillinger’s colorful personality and the fact that his notorious crime spree coincided with the worst years of the Great Depression led the media to portray him as somewhat of a Robin Hood figure. The sensationalism spurred J. Edgar Hoover to invest in tactics to fight organized crime. On Sunday, July 22, 1934, FBI agents ambushed Dillinger as he left a Chicago theater. His demise at age 31 is said to be the beginning of the end of the gangster era. —CHRISTINA VERCELLETTO

PHOTO BY TONY VALAINIS

(1) International Women’s Day Event

March 4

Kick off Women’s History Month at the Indiana Government Center South Auditorium, where the Indiana Commission for Women hosts a celebration themed on “accelerating action.” After networking, get a professional headshot. in.gov/icw/events

(2) Matthew Morrison: Rhythms & Revelations

March 7–8

Tony, Emmy, and Golden Globe–nominated actor Matthew Morrison— beloved as Glee’s Mr. Schuester and on Broadway in Footloose and Hairspray—brings his solo show to The Cabaret stage. thecabaret.org

(3) 32nd Annual Shamrock Run & Walk

March 15

Shake your seamróg starting at the IFD Union Hall, through the Old Northside, all the way to the new finish line at Bottleworks District

Stay for the post-race party with live entertainment, a beer garden, and food. indystpats.com

(4) Blake Shelton

March 29

The country music superstar and The Voice coach with the endearing “aw-shucks” demeanor stops at Fishers Event Center. Craig Morgan, Deana Carter, and Trace Adkins join him on his Friends & Heroes tour. ticketmaster.com

(5) Indiana Artisan Marketplace

March 29–30

The Ag/Hort Building at the Indiana State Fairgrounds is the place to buy hand-smithed jewelry, homemade caramels, fine watercolor works, striking wood art, and functional pottery directly from Hoosier makers. indianaartisan.org/ spring-marketplace

Champagne Taste

The handsome Fieldbar Drinks Box totes cans or bottles and keeps them “champagne cold” for an astounding 50 hours. This safari-inspired cooler boasts commercial grade aluminum hinges; a double-stitched, offcut leather handle; and silicone feet. Individually numbered and stamped, each is hand-built in Cape Town, South Africa, to lend ease and style to your next outing—and countless more after that. Shown in Sea Boat Blue. Also available in Orchard Orange, Parisian Green, Bazaruto Blue, and Safari White. $219. Addendum Gallery, Carmel City Center, 317-253-3400 —CHRISTINA VERCELLETTO

Photo

Chapter Book Lounge

ADDRESS

996 Conner St., Noblesville

HOURS

( SHOP TALK )

Literary Genius

A SPOT FOR BIBLIOPHILES TO BOND BUSTLES IN A HISTORIC HOTEL BUILDING. BY

CHRISTINA VERCELLETTO

FRIENDS since college, Noblesville residents Brooke Heffernan and Jen Todderud shared a dream: creating a needed “third space” for the community to meet up. So the avid readers opened a cozy book shop and bar bedecked with crystal chandeliers in the Becker House, built in 1884.

Despite the relentless incursions of technology, you can still find a certain book-bosomed populace that delights at built-ins lined with bound volumes. And at noon on a recent Saturday, the chairs at the Chapter Book Lounge were filled with them, sharing reading suggestions, chatting about their personal libraries, or playing a board game while nibbling bottomless truffle popcorn. Despite the early hour, the bartender was busy building toasted marshmallow espresso martinis and spicy margaritas. Mocktails, coffee, and tea are also offered.

A special display houses frequently challenged books, including Lord of the Flies, To Kill a Mockingbird, and the Harry Potter series. Staff picks are denoted by a handwritten ode on an index card. And take a chance on a “blind date with a book,” a $10 preloved title wrapped in brown paper inscribed with intriguing clues to its identity.

Michelle Warble

Co-Leader, The International Order of Mrs. Ropers Indiana Chapter

CLEARLY, YOU IDENTIFY WITH THE SAUCY HELEN ROPER OF THREE’S COMPANY I’m into the tiki scene, which is pro-caftan. When I heard of Mrs. Roper Romps, I had to join. I love caftans, a vintage aesthetic—and sassy broads with lots of accessories!

YOUR ENSEMBLE REALLY CAPTURES HER SPIRT. My caftan is from the collection of Babs Davis, authentic to the time of Mrs. Roper [the late 1970s]. My accessories come from thrift stores and my travels.

ANY OTHER INSPIRATIONS? Iris Apfel is my icon. My life’s goal is to become a funky old lady with outrageous outfits and big glasses. I think I’m well on my way. —C.V.

(1) All Day Cocktails, $25 (2) Ceramic book vase, $27 (3) One Word a Day journal, $15 (4) Canvas book tote, $15 (5) Sloth Warmies Junior, filled with natural grains and dried French lavender to soothe, $15

(1) Trvl Luxe’s Provence hanging toiletry case has a green pinstripe lining. $84. Parkside Linen, 1762 E. 86th St., 317-844-6320

TRENDING

Grab and Go

STASH TRAVEL MUST-HAVES IN STYLE. BY

STEPHEN GARSTANG

(2) The signed Cherry Blossom pouch stands upright. $36. Walter Knabe Studios, 1134 E. 54th St., Ste. H, 317-986-6900 (3) This doublezip Dopp bag conveniently wipes clean. $40. Heritage Clothier & Home, 1134 E. 54th St., Ste. K, 317- 426-5732

(4) Block printed, Maelu’s makeup bag is handwoven of heavy cotton. $32. Grazie Mille, 825 E. Westfield Blvd., 317-955-9908

(5) The roomy Continental waist pack doubles as a cross-body. $55. L.L. Bean, 4030 E. 82nd St., 888-491-4846

(6) Colorful tufts of shearling are sandwiched in vinyl to make Primecut’s Fruit Salad bag $68. Rooftop Fruit, 1058 Virginia Ave.

(7) Add a touch of shimmer to your look with the Hi, Love Travel wristlet. $42. 8Fifteen, 815 E. 65th St., 317-253-1234

(8) Tote grooming essentials and more in Haute Shore’s Tripp train case $42. Civvies, 1134 E. 54th St., Ste. L, 317-653-1169

Westfield or Fortville?

REAL ESTATE listings like these jump out. One home sits in an exclusive golf course-adjacent spot, while the other lures on a peaceful, 16-acre property.

The Hilltop Hideaway

Located in Westfield’s affluent Chatham Hills, this Integra Builders–designed stunner offers more than 7,000 square feet of luxury. Its modern facade features a two-tone color scheme, with wood accents popping against dark siding. Inside, the main living spaces’ open layout stays grounded through the tasteful use of wood beams. The natural texture carries through into the kitchen, which wows with a timeless yet sumptuous design. Envy-inducing extras include two generous islands and a 5-foot-wide refrigerator. Entertaining is easy in the walkout lower level, which has a wet bar, workout space, home theater, and more. Lovely water views can be enjoyed from the home’s hilltop perch.

The Country Charmer

With great restaurants, cute shops, and an easy drive to downtown Indianapolis, Fortville has lots to offer. Now it also offers a slice of pastoral paradise. At the heart of the homestead sits a modern farmhouse with snowy-white siding, black framed windows, and cedar posts under a covered porch. The vaulted, wood-clad ceiling runs the length of the open concept main level, soaring above the kitchen and great room. Opposite the kitchen, sliding French doors lead into a home office boasting built-ins and bountiful natural light. The primary suite and second bedroom rest on the main level, while the third and its private bath are in the loft space.

This 18,000-square-foot luxury show home combines cutting-edge design and amenities with seclusion and natural beauty on 8 wooded acres near Geist Reservoir in Fishers. The creative teams of Carrington Homes, Revkah Design, and Emily Handke Design collaborated on the high-end signature residence that includes custom features such as a gaming lounge, indoor basketball court, wellness center, gourmet kitchen, pool and spa, and more.

Step Right Up

ART, ANTICS, AND NATURAL BEAUTY SET SARASOTA APART.

POLITICS aside, you’ll find a vast difference between the left and the right at Sarasota’s The Ringling museum (ringling .org). Stick to the right side of the 66-acre bayfront grounds and be immersed in the lore of the self-proclaimed Greatest Show on Earth. The property was the home of John and Mable Ringling, the former of whom helped found the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. A series of buildings contain memorabilia and interactive activities. (You can’t get shot out of a cannon, but you can walk a tightrope.) It also houses a diorama that is jaw-dropping in scale and scope: Howard Tibbals’ 3,800-square-foot replica of the circus, created over the course of 50 years with more than 45,000 pieces.

In stark contrast, the left side of the property houses a world-class art museum specializing in 16th- to 18th-century Baroque art, including five of Peter Paul Rubens’ immense The

Sarasota, FL

BY LOU HARRY

Triumph of the Eucharist canvases. On the same lush grounds, you can see a play at Asolo Repertory Theatre (asolorep.org), one of Florida’s leading regional theaters. Then head downtown to Marie Selby Botanical Gardens (selby.org). One of Time’s 100 Greatest Places, this sanctuary contains 15 acres worth of carefully curated natural beauty. Accessible paths wind through more than 5,000 species of plants, including the world’s most diverse collection of living epiphytes, or air plants. Arrive early to score food to feed the fish in the koi pond.

Another lauded recreation spot is also at hand: one of Tripadvisor’s 2024 best beaches in the world. Kick back on the unique, powdery quartz-crystal sand of Siesta Key (visitsarasota.com/siesta-key). Getting there and getting around is as stress-free as soaking up the sun and the scenery of the Gulf of Mexico thanks to plenty of free parking and a complimentary trolley around the island.

IF YOU GO

SPOT GATORS The Canopy Walkway at Myakka River State Park (floridastate parks.org) offers a 25-foot-high vista of birds and alligators.

RAISE A GLASS Craft beer lovers can get their fill at 99 Bottles Taproom (99bottles.net). Nab a bagel shipped from the Big Apple at weekend brunch.

SAVOR DESSERT

The caramelized banana-chutney flan at Selva Grill (selvagrill.com) will have you planning your next trip.

The three rooms in the Fort Wayne Museum of Art’s GLASS WING are dedicated to the past, present, and future of glassmaking in America. The brilliant-cut glass display is stunning. But the real showstopper is the life-size, freestanding woven glass kimono, accented with gold and silver foil and a rainbow of glass beads. fwmoa.org —CHRISTINA

TRAVELER

This Old House

When Tinker Street founder Tom Main bought a historic Carmel house, he knew he wanted to open a restaurant that was distinct from his contemporary American spot. Freeland’s, which opened in February, pulls its menu from the European home cooking Indiana’s colonizers brought to the region, chef Matt Hamilton says. His spin on traditional Albanian casserole Shapkat is just one example, a corn fritter dish made with a batter of yogurt, braised leeks, and green onions resting on whipped sheep’s milk feta and topped with “copious amounts of pecorino cheese.” 875 Freeland Way, Carmel, @freelands.restaurant —EVE BATEY

SWOON

Photo by TONY VALAINIS

( NEW IN TOWN )

Safe Space

A CAFE INSIDE THE DAMIEN CENTER SEEKS TO FEED SOULS AND SPIRITS. BY EVE BATEY

AT A TIME when many of Indiana’s leaders seem set on reversing decades of change, Indy’s Damien Center is moving resolutely forward, opening a public-facing cafe inside an LGBTQ+ landmark. In 2021, the health equity service organization bought the former home of longstanding gay bar Zonie’s Closet with a plan to turn it into an employment services center offering on-the-job training via a restaurant. That vision manifested in February with Cafe Oztara, a vibrant daytime restaurant serving salads, sandwiches, and soups, as well as baked goods and grab-and-go items. Everything is made by its staff, some of whom are career food service workers and others who are learning on the job. Dining there is a great opportunity not just to grab a freshly made meal but also to support some of our most vulnerable neighbors during this crucial and troubling time. 1446 E. Washington St., cafeoztara.com

PINCH OF WISDOM

“Expect variance! Don’t lose hope if your bread turns out differently even when you follow the same recipe each time. It takes practice to get consistent results and to find your ideal water temperature equation.”

–Chuck Brezina , owner and executive chef, Subito

( CHEERS )

Winning Combination

Cocktails and coffee come together at Kennedy-King’s The Alchemist.

WHEN NICOLE and Cody Neville learned West Fork Whiskey Co. was shuttering its Kennedy-King tasting room, it felt like a sign. The area residents own the Red Lion Grog House in Fountain Square and nearby coffee equipment company Espresso Enterprises and had long hoped to marry those passions. The former distillery felt like the perfect spot for The Alchemist, their new cocktail bar by night, coffee shop by day.

“The location is phenomenal,” Nicole says. “You’re so close to everything.” Chicago-based Philosophy Coffee provides beans for day drinks, while nighttime libations feature unexpected ingredients such as bacon fat–washed rye, maple syrup, and even smoke. 1660 Bellefontaine St., 317-683-0957, theal chemistindy.com E.B.

ALL HAIL King Jugg Brewing is building a new $4 million taproom in Noblesville, with a 3,077-square-foot outdoor dining area, public art, and an expansive kids’ play area. BALLER BREAD For the last year, Indiana Pacers CTO Carl Ceresoli and partner Allie Rijfkogel have honed their sourdough skills, on display at their new Zionsville bread shop, The Baker’s House. E.B.

One Roll at a Time

SUSHI CHEF NINA TAKAMURE CHOPS

MYTHS AND SERVES LEGACY AT ASAKA JAPANESE RESTAURANT.

BY BRIAN GARRIDO

SITTING IN Asaka Japanese Restaurant’s dining room, diners glimpse Indy sushi chef Nina Takamure alongside her father, Tsutomu. Since 2009, the duo have worked together: She handcrafts the nigiri and maki, while he cooks the ramen and tempura for the restaurant’s devotees.

“There are many,” says Nina. “We have customers who come into Indy annually for business or events. They get a hotel near [Asaka] so they can come every day while in town.”

Nina was born in Kumamoto, a prefecture on the island of Kyushu. Her family immigrated to Indianapolis when she was a child and Tsutomu, a former businessman, decided to buy Asaka and operate it as a family endeavor. As a teen, Nina joined as a server, then—at Tsutomu’s urging— apprenticed and became as proficient as her master sushi chef dad.

To find a woman expertly cutting a sliver of toro over a mound of vin-

egared rice is a rarity. Several myths regarding women persist in the field, such as the demands being too great, their hands being too small or warm, and—the kicker—their menstrual cycle affecting a dish’s taste. All are easily debunked as nothing more than misogyny, and those falsehoods don’t matter to Asaka’s enthusiasts.

On a recent Thursday night, the parking lot was full of cars covered in

fresh snow while their occupants sat over bowls of steaming noodles and handrolls.

Nina, now mother to a 3-year-old, is enjoying the good times at the restaurant while they last. “My dad is 73,” she says, “and I want to grow my family.” Retirement, it seems, is on the horizon for both. “In a few years— three tops—when he is done, [Asaka] will be done.”

(1) Parenthood. “We love going to different parks around Indy.”

(2) Cooking. “If I had to choose what kind of food I love to cook, of course it would be Japanese.” (3) The Asaka staff. “They are amazing.”

(4) Garfield Park Farmers Market.

“It’s one of my daughter’s favorite days of the week during that time.”

(5) Tsutomu Takamure. “Working with my dad is a gift.”

FAVORITE THINGS

FOODIE

TASTE TEST

Sprouting up

FORGET THE MUSHY BRUSSELS YOUR PARENTS MADE YOU EAT. THESE SPROUTS ARE ALL GROWN UP, AND DAMN, ARE THEY TASTY.

BY AMY LYNCH

Blistered Brussels sprouts

THE BULLDOG

Flash-fried, tossed in a sweetand-sour Japanese chili pepper porter gastrique, and finished with cheese fondue and crunchy toasted macadamia nuts, these sprouts give standard bar food gourmet-level status. 5380 N. College Ave., 317-377-4735, bulldogbr.com

BrusselS LIVERY

A menu mainstay, these tender sprouts benefit from a long, confitstyle butter poach before crisping up in the oven. Freshly grated cotija cheese and a kicky roasted garlic/ green onion hot sauce complete the tasty picture. Pair ‘em with the fresh citrus notes of a Carriage House Margarita. 720 N. College Ave., 317-383-0330, livery-restaurant.com

Fried Brussels sprouts

ASH & ELM CIDER CO.

Here, customers get to choose how they want their sprouts—sauced with a sweet, tart Sunset cherry cider gastrique or with a sticky maple bacon glaze. “The Brussels sprouts are gluten-free, and all our ciders are naturally gluten-free as well,” mentions founder Aaron Homoya. Multiple locations, ashandelmcider.com

Hot honey Brussels sprouts

HALF LITER

Scratching that sweet-spicy itch, this crispy side is the perfect foil for a slab of smoky ribs, a brisket grilled cheese sandwich, or a pile of chicken wings. 5301 Winthrop Ave., 463-212-8180, halfliterbbq.com

Crispy Brussels sprouts

MAGDALENA

This new Fountain Square hot spot infuses Brussels sprouts with Southern flavor by frying them, plating them up with whipped ricotta and a drizzle of savory miso bagna cauda, then showering them with nutty benne seeds for a textural crunch. 1127 Shelby St., magdalena.bar

PHOTO BY TONY VALAINIS

Against the Grain

A BEHOLDER PARTNER GOES SOLO WITH AN OFF-SCRIPT TAKE ON STEAKHOUSE FARE.

BY TERRY KIRTS

THERE’S something coolly Darwinian about the decor at Lone Pine, Josh Mazanowski’s Carmel City Center steakhouse. In the narrow downstairs dining room, a painting by prolific local landscape artist Casey Roberts depicts a rabbit snared in the claws of an owl, the predator’s eyes glowing victoriously. In the cozy second-floor loft, two more Roberts paintings imply a similar scenario, one depicting two coyotes surveying the landscape for prey and another depicting the rabbit they’re presumably chasing. Interspersed with stuffed deer heads and vintage maps of great wine regions, the art conjures a ranch aesthetic, albeit a sleek and modern one. This is Carmel, after all.

A sommelier by trade and training, Mazanowski cut his teeth locally alongside Greg Hardesty at Recess before heading to Seattle, where—as he puts it—he “soaked up a decade of vibrant dining culture.” A partner with chef Jonathan Brooks at Beholder since it opened in 2018, he helped its wine program gain national recognition and picked up plenty of ideas for his own place. When the former Tucci’s space in Carmel City Center became available, he jumped on the opportunity, with partner Bridgit Desautel’s family ranch in Montana as further inspiration. A menu that straddled classic chophouse fare and everything else he loves to eat soon followed.

Adaptations to please the northside palate are still ongoing, Mazanowski admits.

LONE PINE

710 S. Rangeline Rd., Carmel 317-907-0177, lonepinecarmel.com

HOURS

Tue–Thu, 5–10 p.m.; Fri–Sat, 5–11 p.m.; Sun, 5–9 p.m.

VIBE

New wave chophouse

TASTING NOTES

Dry aged and American wagyu steaks; funky riffs on classic French bistro fare

NEIGHBORHOOD

Carmel City Center

MUST-ORDER

Smoky barbecued carrots with pistachio dukkah, steak frites in hearty mushroom gravy, umamirich miso greens, creamy panna cotta with seasonal fruit compote

3-STAR RATING

From left: Lone Pine’s Cornish game hen; owner Josh Mazanowski; art by Casey Roberts punctuates the dining areas

PHOTOS BY TONY VALAINIS

“The opening menu was pretty much my own,” he says, “but we’re figuring out what works and what to cut.” An elegant, earthy “barbecued” carrot dish, a good hit of smoke married to harissa, rich tahini, and fragrant pistachio dukkah, will likely stay on the menu, as will an aromatic Pizza Mushroom dish, oyster and matsutake nestled atop a pool of basil aioli with roasted peppers, pepperoncini, and a dusting of parm to mimic your favorite pizzeria pie.

Other standouts on a recent visit included French onion soup with a sweet undertone of sherry and a delectable gruyere toast, while dry aged and American wagyu steaks from nearby Illinois and Kentucky were all solid. The steak frites, with mushroom gravy and textbook fries, was also hard to beat, with every cut beefy and with just the right chew.

A special of lamb chops with a minty pea pistou, especially tender and wellseasoned, also hit the mark. Steakhouses don’t often do justice to French bistro classics such as cassoulet, but the version here with fall-apart confit of duck leg, Old Major Toulouse sausage, and a deeply savory broth buoying white beans was a stunner. Sadly, local diners failed to appreciate the dish, though Mazanowski promises it will return as a special. In the meantime, diners can solace themselves with delectable fried chicken–like Cornish game hen with rustic accompaniments, which were celery root puree with black garlic and a bright salsa verde when we had it.

A dolled-up wagyu burger our waiter claimed leaned “to the rare side” was actually closer to medium well, though

we didn’t mind that with the great crust on the patty, the thick-cut bacon, and the tangy onion jam. Creamy local greens with the addition of miso made for an accompaniment we could hardly write off as a side. An updated wedge salad with a kicky bloody mary vinaigrette was a welcome riff, though we missed the typical chunks of blue cheese that, integrated into the dressing, were a bit lost in the background.

Lone Pine’s desserts, designed by kitchen staffer Angel Martinez, were

impressive in an unassuming way. Tiramisu was as creamy and smooth as any without being overly boozy, and panna cotta measured up to any in the city, thick and not too sweet with a beautifully cooked-down rhubarb compote when we got it.

The phrase “steakhouse” isn’t in Lone Pine’s name, but Mazanowski doesn’t mind if it’s considered one. “People ask me all the time if Indy really needs another steakhouse,” he says with a knowing grin. “Yes, it needs mine.”

Clockwise from left: Lone Pine’s steak frites in mushroom gravy; smoky barbecued carrots; PEI mussels in white wine broth

Our (somewhat subjective) catalog of the most impressive sports figures tied to the Hoosier state, from Hank Aaron to Fuzzy Zoeller

Edited by Andrea Ratcliff

written by Mike Botkin, Bob Kravitz, Laura Kruty, eld, Derek Schultz, and Julia Spalding

INDIANA GREATEST ATHLETES of

GREATNESS CAN BE measured and quantified using a variety of different metrics—by baskets or touchdowns scored, by tournaments won, by gold medals or trophies collected, by records broken. Rightly, all the competitors listed herein have demonstrated outstanding technical skill and prowess in their respective sports. But our methods weren’t entirely stats-based. Our own dream team of editors and sports writers compiled this list of the 100 greatest athletes in Indiana history, some born and raised here and some merely passing through the Hoosier state as a pit stop on far-reaching career paths. We included storied heroes and household names alongside up-and-comers and little-knowns—because greatness is also achieved through pop-culture buzz, or by inspiring an iconic sneaker, or even in having an unforgettable name (our apologies to Robbie Avila, who did not make the cut despite his bank of punny nicknames). No doubt our selections will be disputed and debated, which is part of what made this massive endeavor so fun. When it comes to picking Indiana’s best athletes of all time, it’s anyone’s game.

Steve Alford BASKETBALL

Hank Aaron BASEBALL

One of baseball’s all-time legends, Aaron began his professional career with the Indianapolis Clowns in the Negro leagues before becoming a legendary MLB player. “Hammerin’ Hank” broke Babe Ruth’s home run record, finishing his career with 755 homers; that record was later broken by Barry Bonds.

A 25-time All-Star, Aaron’s leadership, consistency, and commitment to excellence made him a Hall of Famer. His impact transcended baseball, inspiring future generations and advocating for civil rights throughout his remarkable career. Era: 1950s–1970s

William “Dick the Bruiser” Afflis

WRESTLING

Before he became known as “The World’s Most Dangerous Wrestler,” he was William Fritz Afflis—a kid from Delphi, Indiana, who played football at Purdue University and the University of Nevada, as well as for the Green Bay Packers. During his brief NFL career, Afflis suffered an injury to his larynx that resulted in the signature gravelly voice that came in handy when he transitioned to professional wrestling and changed his name to Dick the Bruiser. A fan favorite with the face of a surfer, tanned and crowned by corn silk blond hair with trapezii made of concrete blocks, The Bruiser was intimidating but relatable, with epic career highs (and lows) that included multiple championship titles, a couple of riots, and a notable stint as a wrestling promoter in Indianapolis—where he lived in a modest Kessler Boulevard home until he retired to Florida in the mid-1980s. Era: 1950s–1980s

This basketball legend from New Castle was a standout athlete and coach. As a player at IU, he led the Hoosiers to the 1987 NCAA Championship and earned numerous accolades. As a coach, Alford has had successful stints with multiple programs, including UCLA and, currently, the University of Nevada, where he continues to build his legacy. As a player, every time Alford released the basketball, you were sure it was going in—a true Hoosier sharpshooter.  Era: 1980s (Coaching: 1991 to present)

Damon Bailey BASKETBALL

When you think of Indiana high school basketball, you think of Damon Bailey. He’s widely viewed as one of the greatest high school basketball players in the state’s history, leading Bedford North Lawrence to the state title in 1990 while being named Mr. Basketball. He became something of a cult figure in our state, his team selling out the Hoosier Dome for the state championship game. He entered IU to great fanfare and had a hugely productive career in Bloomington. Era: 1990s (Coaching: 2005–17)

DaMarcus Beasley

SOCCER

There’s a reason why Beasley has a statue at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. The Fort Wayne native earned 126 caps during his National Soccer Hall of Fame career and was the first American man to appear in four different FIFA World Cups.  Era: 2000s–2010s

Grace Berger

BASKETBALL

Berger solidified herself as IU royalty when she helped lead the Hoosiers to Elite Eight and Sweet 16 appearances in 2021, 2022, and 2024. During her tenure with the Indiana Fever, her impact was seen in the prevalent No. 34 jerseys donned by young girls throughout Assembly Hall and Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Era: 2020s

Larry Bird

BASKETBALL

Aliyah Boston

BASKETBALL

After her dominant collegiate career at South Carolina, during which she won the 2022 NCAA Most Outstanding Player and AP Player of the Year titles, Boston was exactly the shot in the arm the Fever needed. She was named the 2023 WNBA Rookie of the Year and is a two-time WNBA All-Star on a team that only stands to get stronger.

Era: 2020s

Call him “Larry Legend.” Call him “The Hick from French Lick.” In the end, call Larry Bird one of the greatest basketball players of all time. A three-time NBA champion and three-time MVP, Bird led the Boston Celtics to glory with his remarkable shooting and passing ability and an off-the-charts hoops IQ. Known for his fierce competitiveness and clutch performances, he revolutionized the game with his all-around skill set. Bird’s rivalry with Magic Johnson elevated the NBA to great heights. He is the only person ever to earn MVP, Coach of the Year, and Executive of the Year honors.  Era: 1970s–1990s (Coaching: 1997–2000 )

DIVING

A three-time Olympic diver on the 10-meter platform, Boudia won medals in the London and Rio de Janeiro Olympics. His gold medal in 2012 was the first by an American man in the event since Greg Louganis in 1988. In 2016, he teamed with Purdue Boilermaker Steele Johnson to win silver in the synchronized 10-meter. Boudia also won bronze in London (synchro) and Rio (individual). He is now a diving coach at Purdue. Era: 2000s–2010s (Coaching: 2021 to present)

Drew

Texas native Brees was a relative unknown when he came to Purdue in 1997. That changed quickly. Brees set 19 Purdue records, 13 conference records, and two NCAA records; was a two-time Heisman finalist; and, in 2001, led Purdue to its first Rose Bowl since 1967. Era: 1990s–2010s (Coaching: 2022)

David Boudia

Brees FOOTBALL

GREATEST ATHLETES OF INDIANA

Mordecai

“Three Finger” Brown BASEBALL

Born in Nyesville, Indiana, Mordecai Brown lost his index finger in a farm accident, then disfigured another finger in a fall while chasing a rabbit as a youngster. But the hand injuries that led to his nickname

“Three Finger” didn’t hinder his professional baseball pitching career. He played for the Chicago Cubs from 1904 to 1912 before moving to Cincinnati and then playing in the Federal League. Brown ended his career in 1916 after returning to the Cubs with a 239-130 win-loss record, a 2.06 earned run average, and 55 shutouts.

Era: 1900s–1910s

Tyra Buss

BASKETBALL

Buss laid the groundwork for IU women’s basketball when she led the Hoosiers to a National Invitational Tournament championship in 2018. She tops the program’s leaderboard in most assists and steals and is second in overall points scored. Era: 2010s (Coaching: 2019 to present)

AUTO RACING

Castroneves may have given Indy sports the first hint of a return to normalcy when he climbed the fence after his fourth Indianapolis 500 win in 2021 during the Covid-19 pandemic. Besides driving and climbing, Castroneves dances, too; his Season 5 Dancing With the Stars win gave him some national shine among non-race fans in 2007.

Era: 1990s–2020s

Tamika Catchings

BASKETBALL

A legendary player for the Indiana Fever, Catchings is regarded as one of the greatest women’s basketball players of all time. A 10-time WNBA All-Star, Catchings led the Fever to their first WNBA championship in 2012 and was named Finals MVP. Known for her defensive prowess, leadership, and versatility, she won five Defensive Player of the Year awards and left an indelible mark on the WNBA.

Era: 1990s–2010s

Oscar Charleston

BASeball

In case you haven’t heard his name before, Oscar Charleston played 43 years of professional baseball—yes, you read that right—and may be the greatest player in Negro League history, as well as one of the best in the sport’s history, period. The Indianapolis native, whose legacy has finally become more appreciated in the decades since his passing, was enshrined in Cooperstown in 1976.

Era: 1910s–1940s

Calbert Cheaney

BASKETBALL

Caitlin Clark

BASKETBALL

Too soon? Nonsense! Caitlin Clark accomplished more in 10 months in Indiana than others have in 10 years. Perhaps the most popular and recognized athlete in American sports at this moment, the Fever sharpshooter’s star will only rise from here, both on and off the court, and we can’t wait to see how high it goes.

Era: 2020s

Cheaney’s Big Ten scoring record still stands over three decades since he graduated from Indiana, and it may never be broken. Arguably the least heralded of Bob Knight’s celebrated 1989 recruiting class, the eventual Wooden Award winner was the top player during the last truly great era of IU basketball. Era: 1980s–2000s (Coaching: 2013–present)

Rosevelt Colvin FOOTBALL

One of Purdue football’s greats, Colvin holds records for most sacks in a career and sacks in a season. His legacy lives on in his daughter Raven, who suits up for Purdue volleyball, and his son Myles, who plays for Purdue men’s basketball.

Era: 1990s–2000s

Mel Daniels

BASKETBALL

Without Mel Daniels, the rafters at Gainbridge Fieldhouse would look a lot more empty. One of the ABA’s alltime greats, Daniels earned MVP honors in 1969 and ’71, was a seven-time All-Star, and helped lead the Pacers to three ABA titles in 1970, 1972, and 1973. Upon retiring, the league’s all-time leader in rebounds coached Larry Bird at Indiana State. Era: 1960s–1970s (Coaching: 1977–1993)

Muriel Davis Grossfeld

GYMNASTICS

An Indianapolis native, Grossfeld competed at the 1956, 1960, and 1964 Olympics and was a member of the gold medal–winning team at the 1963 Pan American Games. She was the first gymnast to earn a perfect 10 at the 1964 Olympic Trials in floor exercise and also won 18 national championships.

Era: 1950s–1960s

Hélio Castroneves

Skylar Diggins-Smith BASKETBALL

Diggins-Smith put the basketball world on notice early in her career when she starred at South Bend’s Washington High School, where she went 102-7 in four seasons. She sits atop the state’s greats as the current sixth overall in Indiana with 2,790 points scored.

Era: 2010s–2020s

Katie Douglas

BASKETBALL

Roots in Hoosier hoops don’t get much deeper than Douglas’. The 2023 Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame inductee was an Indiana All-Star at Perry Meridian; a two-time All-American at Purdue, where she helped win the 1999 NCAA Championship; a five-time WNBA All-Star; and a 2012 WNBA champ with the Fever.

Era: 2000s–2010s

Annie Drews Schumacher

VOLLEYBALL

The first volleyball player from Indiana to make an Olympic team, Drews Schumacher has collected five gold medals from across the Pan-American Cup, FIVB Nations League, and Tokyo Olympics since 2017, as well as silver in the 2024 Paris Olympics. The 6’4” graduate of Elkhart’s Penn High School won back-to-back state titles before playing a standout role on the Purdue University squad from 2012 to 2015. She is an opposite hitter with the LOVB Madison pro team in Wisconsin.

Era: 2010s–2020s

Chloé Dygert

CYCLING

Hailing from Brownsburg, Dygert has made a name for herself as an American cyclist, collecting eight gold medals at the UCI Track Cycling World Championships and four medals at the Olympic games.

Era: 2010s–2020s

Zach Edey

BASKETBALL

Known as “Big Maple” in his native Canada, Edey will be forever remembered as the player who led the Purdue Boilermakers to the national college basketball championship in 2024. Edey was a two-time Big Ten and National Player of the Year and now plays for the Memphis Grizzlies.

Era: 2020s

Ray Ewry TRACK & FIELD

This Lafayette native and Purdue grad was nicknamed “The Human Frog” for his incredible jumping ability. He accumulated 10 Olympic gold medals in the 1900, 1904, 1906, and 1908 games. Ewry’s specialty events were the standing high jump, standing long jump, and standing triple jump. All of his gold medals came in events that were later eliminated from the roster of games.

Era: 1890s–1900s

Bill Garrett

BASKETBALL

Marshall Faulk

FOOTBALL

Drafted second overall by the Colts in 1994, Faulk made an immediate impact, rushing for three touchdowns in his NFL debut and earning Rookie of the Year honors. He rushed for over 1,000 yards in four of his five seasons in Indy.

Era: 1990s–2000s

A.J. Foyt

AUTO RACING

Foyt is perhaps the most accomplished motorsports icon of the Indianapolis 500 four-timers, having also won the Daytona 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Known for his fiery demeanor, Foyt memorably smacked fellow Indy winner Arie Luyendyk after a disputed 1997 finish in Texas.

Era: 1960s–1990s

In 1947, Bill Garrett shattered the unspoken racist “gentlemen’s agreement” of the Big Ten, becoming Indiana University’s first Black basketball player. The Shelbyville native had already led his high school team to a state championship and was crowned Indiana Mr. Basketball—kicking off a distinguished career in the face of adversity. After college, he was drafted by the Boston Celtics, though his professional career was cut short by his service in the Korean War. He briefly joined the Harlem Globetrotters but cemented his legacy as a true leader during his 10 years as head coach of Crispus Attucks High School, leading the team to the 1959 Indiana State Championships. He was inducted into the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame in 1974, the same year he passed away at the young age of 45 due to a heart attack.

Era: 1940s–1950s (Coaching: 1956–1968

Bill Garrett coached the Crispus Attucks High School basketball team to the 1959 state championship.

Dwight Freeney FOOTBALL

The Syracuse alum was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in 2002 as the 11th overall pick. He became the anchor of a solid defense for 11 years in Indy and helped win a Super Bowl in 2007.

Freeney was named an All-Pro three times, allotted seven Pro Bowls, forced 47 fumbles, and accumulated 125.5 sacks over his career and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2024.

Era: 2000s–2010s

Katie Gearlds BASKETBALL

Indiana Miss Basketball at Beech Grove and All-Big Ten performer at Purdue—where she now serves as head coach—Gearlds once shared McDonald’s All-American Game MVP honors with LeBron James. How’s that for a career highlight?

Era: 2000s–2010s (Coaching: 2013–present)

Paul George BASKETBALL

In the post–Reggie Miller era, the Pacers sought a new identity. They found it in George, who delivered a litany of offensive highlights including a dunk over Chris Andersen in Game 2 of the 2013 Eastern Conference Finals. Most importantly, though, he catapulted the Pacers back into relevance for years to come.

Era: 2000s–2020s

Eric Gordon BASKETBALL

Named Indiana’s Mr. Basketball in 2007, Gordon led North Central High School to the state title game only to fall to East Chicago Central. As a freshman at IU the next year, he led the Big Ten in scoring, earning Big Ten Freshman of the Year and first-team All-Big Ten honors. He also was awarded third-team All-American. The seventh pick in the NBA’s 2008 draft, Gordon currently plays for the Philadelphia 76ers.

Era: 2000s–2020s

Jeff Gordon AUTO RACING

Gordon’s family moved from California to Pittsboro, Indiana, to create new opportunities for the young racer. From his home in the country, Gordon became one of the best drivers in NASCAR history, solidifying his local lore by winning the inaugural 1994 Brickyard 400 race at age 23. Today, Gordon is an American stock car racing executive and vice chairman of Hendrick Motorsports.

Era: 1990s–2010s

Wayne Gretzky HOCKEY

Did you know “The Great One” got his professional start in the Circle City? In 1978, 17-year-old Canadian Wayne Gretzky graduated from junior hockey and signed with the World Hockey Association’s Indianapolis Racers. Gretzky played just eight games before the WHA folded and he was traded to the Edmonton Oilers. Era: 1970s–1990s (Coaching: 2005–2009)

Tyrese Haliburton

Basketball

Acquired in a blockbuster trade in 2022 from the Sacramento Kings, Haliburton has been the face of the Indiana Pacers ever since, helping lead the team to its first playoff appearance in four years in the 2023–24 season and its first playoff series win since 2014. He is the only Pacer to ever record 40-plus points and 10-plus assists in a game. Era: 2020s

Bob Griese FOOTBALL

This Purdue grad and Super Bowl–winning quarterback for the Miami Dolphins was known for his accurate passing and poise under pressure. Griese was a key figure in the Dolphins’ 1972 season, led the team to two Super Bowl victories, and was named to six Pro Bowls.

Era: 1960s–1970s

Gary Hall Sr.

SWIMMING

Making his name as a swimmer at Indiana University, Hall went on to earn two silver medals and a bronze in three Olympic appearances in 1968, 1972, and 1976. His son, Gary Hall Jr., appeared in the 1996, 2000, and 2004 Olympic Games, making the pair the first three-time father-son competitors.

Era: 1960s–1970s

She left a career in aerospace engineering for auto racing. After becoming the first woman to race in the Daytona 500 in 1977, Guthrie became the first woman to qualify for the Indy 500. Era: 1970s

FOOTBALL

Drafted 19th overall in 1996, Harrison was instant offense when he stepped on the scene in Indy. No. 88 is synonymous with greatness for all who rooted for the 2007 Super Bowl champion. Era: 1990s–2000s

Marvin Harrison

Janet Guthrie AUTO RACING

Gordon Hayward BASKETBALL

Hayward’s career is full of “what ifs.” What if he made his half-court heave at Lucas Oil Stadium and Butler beat Duke to win the 2010 NCAA title? What if he didn’t fracture his tibia and dislocate an ankle 5 minutes into his Boston Celtics career?

The Brownsburg native and Butler hero spent 14 years in the NBA, retiring in August 2024 to concentrate on family and his film production company.

Era: 2000s–2020s

Billy Herman BASEBALL

Born in New Albany, Herman was a terrific defensive second baseman and accomplished hitter while playing for the Chicago Cubs in the 1930s and ’40s. Herman was a 10-time All-Star and a key contributor to the Cubs’ success. He was viewed as one of the game’s elite players during his era.

Era: 1930s–1940s

Darriann “Diamond” Hewson

DERBY

ROLLER

Named to USA Roller Derby in 2024, Indy’s Darriann Hewson is a force to be reckoned with on the flat track, skating locally for Circle City Roller Derby and the Race City Rebels. She is also a member of Team Indiana Roller Derby and the national Black Diaspora Roller Derby. This July, she joins USA Roller Derby’s training squad at the sport’s 2025 World Cup tournament in Innsbruck, Austria, alongside modern legends Scald Eagle, Bonnie Thunders, Freight Train, and Mutch (we’ll forgive you for not recognizing their names).

Era: 2010s–2020s

George Hill BASKETBALL

This Broad Ripple High School alum defied the odds. The pride of IUPUI, Hill turned his successful small college career into a 16-year NBA profession, which included playing with the Indiana Pacers for five years (2011–16) and again in 2023 before taking time off from basketball to concentrate on other interests. He lives on 900 acres in Texas he calls Scenic Hills Ranch, building his own personal zoo with more than 1,000 different species

Cole Hocker RUNNING

Middle- and long-distance runner Cole Hocker entered the scene last summer, winning gold at the Paris Olympics in the 1500meter, but his athletic ability was already apparent in eighth grade when he ran a 4:36 mile.

Era: 2010s–2020s

Gil Hodges BASEBALL

Born in Princeton, Indiana, Hodges was one of the most admired figures in baseball in his time, both as a player (mostly with the Brooklyn Dodgers) and as a manager for the Washington Senators and New York Mets. He was an eight-time All Star, a three-time World Series champion as a player and manager, and a three-time Gold Glove winner for his deftness as a first baseman. Hodges was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2022, 50 years after his tragic death from a heart attack.

Era: 1940s–1960s

Lauren Cheney Holiday

The two-time gold medalist, World Cup champion, Ben Davis star, and first person in NWSL history to have her jersey retired after she retired from the league had such an illustrious soccer career that her NBA All-Star spouse, Jrue, might be better known as “Lauren Cheney’s husband.”

Era: 2000s–2010s

Robbie Hummel BASKETBALL

Until a knee injury on a cold night in a game against Minnesota in 2010, Hummel was one of the best college basketball players in the country. The Valparaiso native and Purdue star recovered and went on to play in the NBA with the Minnesota Timberwolves. Hummel is now a basketball analyst for the Big Ten Network, NBC, and Fox.

Era: 2000s–2010s

Lynna Irby-Jackson TRACK & FIELD

From 2014 to 2017, IrbyJackson, then a Pike High School student, swept the finals in the 100-, 200-, and 400-meter dash. Quick math: That’s 12 state championships. As a senior, she set the girls’ Indiana high school record in the 100-meter dash at 11.41 seconds. She went on to win gold with the US relay team at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Era: 2010s–2020s

SOCCER

Edgerrin James FOOTBALL

Selected fourth overall in the 1999 NFL draft, James was the best running back in the NFL during his time with the Indianapolis Colts. James left the Colts with over 9,000 yards rushing in 2005, and the team won Super Bowl XLI the following season. He had been so integral to the team during his time in Indiana that owner Jim Irsay sent him a ring. James was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame with the class of 2020.

Era: 1990s–2000s

Tommy John BASEBALL

It’s too bad that even though this kid from Gerstmeyer High in Terre Haute pitched in the majors for 26 years and amassed over 2,200 strikeouts and 288 wins, with an earned run average of 3.34, all he is remembered for is a medical procedure. John’s unprecedented reconstructive elbow surgery took place 50 years ago and is hailed as the most important medical advancement in baseball history. To date, over 2,400 Tommy John surgeries have been performed for major league players.

Era: 1960s–1980s

Marvin Johnson

BOXING

A relentless southpaw, threetime light heavyweight world champion, and Olympic bronze medalist in the 1972 Munich games, Johnson was inducted into the World Boxing Hall of Fame in 2008. Fans knew him as an aggressive but always entertaining fighter who had a lot of heart. Even Indy residents who were not boxing fans were familiar with Johnson’s bombastic style from his multiple television commercial spots for Eastgate Chrysler Plymouth: “Just 500 North Shadeland … Indianapolis.” Era: 1970s–1980s

Lilly King

SWIMMING

A three-time gold medalist and two-time silver medalist, IU alum King holds the world record for the long course 100-meter breaststroke. She is in a league of her own when it comes to her impact on swimming in the Hoosier state. Era: 2010s–2020s

Steele Johnson DIVING

Johnson’s name implies a person as durable as steel, but it was silver he took home from the 2016 Rio Olympic games after competing in the 10-meter synchronized platform diving competition with fellow Purdue Boilermaker David Boudia. The Carmel native, who announced his retirement from diving in December, is also a five-time NCAA diving champion. Era: 2010s–2020s

Alex Karras

FOOTBALL/WRESTLING

Art imitated life in the 1980s sitcom Webster, in which Karras portrayed fictional retired football player George Papadapolis. In real life, Gary-born Karras graduated from Iowa’s program and went on to a 12-season career as defensive tackle for the Detroit Lions. With a couple of pro wrestling stints to add to his resume, Karras later found fame as a sportscaster and movie and TV actor.

Era: 1950s–1960s

Shawn Kemp BASKETBALL

Born in Elkhart, Kemp was a dominant force in the NBA during the 1990s, known for his powerful dunks, athleticism, and rebounding. Playing primarily for the Seattle SuperSonics, Kemp was a six-time All-Star and a key player in their 1996 NBA Finals run. His high-flying playing style and ability to change the game with his physicality made him one of the most exciting players of his era.

Era: 1990s–2000s

Chuck Klein BASEBALL

Unless you’re a baseball historian, chances are you’ve never heard of Chuck Klein. Well, start researching and get up to speed on the Indianapolis native. He was a power-hitting outfielder whose bat dominated Major League Baseball in the 1930s while he played for the Phillies. He won the National League home run title three times and was the 1932 MVP. A Hall of Famer, Klein was known as “The Hoosier Hammer.”

Era: 1920s–1940s

Jeanette Lee BILLIARDS

Known as “The Black Widow” on the pool-playing circuit, Lee was neither born here nor currently resides in Indiana. But she lived in Mooresville during the height of her career, so we still claim the billiards legend as ours. Her honors include induction into the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame and All-Time BCA President’s Award. Diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2021, Lee was successfully treated and lives in Tampa, Florida.

Era:

1990s–2000s

Kenny Lofton BASEBALL

This electrifying center fielder from East Chicago was known for his speed, defense, and leadoff hitting. A six-time All-Star, Lofton amassed over 600 stolen bases and was a key contributor to several playoff teams, including the Cleveland Indians. He was both an offensive and defensive stalwart, one of the best players of his era.

Era: 1990s–2000s

Clyde Lovellette BASKETBALL

At 6 feet, 9 inches, Lovellette (aka “The Terre Haute Terror”) was a giant among men. A two-time All-American basketball player, Lovellette won the 1952 NCAA title at Kansas, scoring 33 points and grabbing 17 boards in the championship game. Later that year, he joined six fellow Jayhawks on Team USA to defeat the Soviet Union for the gold medal at the Olympic Games in Helsinki.

Era: 1950s–1960s

Peyton Manning Football

Emmett “Branch” McCracken

BASKETBALL

What hasn’t been said about Manning? He’s one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, playing 18 seasons, setting a plethora of passing records, and winning five MVP awards and two Super Bowls—one with the Colts and one with the Broncos. Known for his work ethic, football IQ, and precision passing, Manning was a consummate student of the game. His impact transcended the field, and he has left his mark in both communities where he played—Indianapolis and Denver—as well as in his home city of New Orleans.

Era: 1990s–2010s

With a name like Branch McCracken, how could this Monrovia-born Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame inductee be anything but memorable? During his college years at IU, he was named Big Ten MVP in 1928 and set the 1930 Big Ten season scoring record. After a brief pro career, McCracken returned to Bloomington to coach the Hoosiers, twice earning NCAA championships and Coach of the Year honors.  Era: 1920s (Coaching: 1930–1965)

Andrew Luck FOOTBALL

Despite an early retirement, Luck was and still is one of the most respected Colts to play, setting record after record while leading Indy to four playoff appearances in his seven seasons. Coming out of Stanford, Luck was so sought after by NFL teams that fans created a campaign known as “Suck for Luck” in hopes their team would be awarded the overall draft pick.

Era: 2010s (Coaching: 2023–present)

Maicel Malone-Wallace TRACK & FIELD

Though her name might not be instantly recognizable, Malone-Wallace, who attended North Central High School, was an exceptional track and field athlete specializing in the 400 meters and hurdles. She earned gold at the 1996 Atlanta Games. In her time, she was known as one of America’s best sprinters.

Era: 1980s–1990s

Robert Mathis FOOTBALL

A self-professed “quarterback hater,” Mathis struck fear in the hearts of many and respect from all in his 13-year career as linebacker. Retiring as the Colts’ leader in sacks in a single season as well as sacks in a career, Mathis also helped take Indy to its second franchise Super Bowl in 2007.

Era: 2000s–2010s (Coaching: 2017–present)

Don Mattingly BASEBALL

Evansville’s Mattingly was a sweet-swinging first baseman for the New York Yankees, where he was known for his consistency and defensive ability. An iconic figure in the 1980s, Mattingly was a nine-time Gold Glove winner and a three-time Silver Slugger. Despite injuries, he amassed over 2,000 hits and was named to six All-Star teams.

Era: 1980s–1990s (Coaching: 2004–present)

Reggie Miller BASKETBALL

The six-story mural downtown tells you all you need to know about Miller’s enduring impact on the city. He was Indianapolis’ first major pro sports star,

George McGinnis

BASKETBALL

The most skilled player on the championship-winning 1969 Washington High School rst sophomore to lead the Big Ten in scoring during his single season at IU, and an ABA champion and MVP with the Pacers, Big Mac belongs in the upper room of Indiana’s greatest basketball players to ever lace ’em up.

Besides sharing the record for most Indianapolis 500 wins with four checkered ags, Mears also started in the front row an astonishing 11 times and still holds the mark for the most pole posi-

Rick Mears

Rick Mount BASKETBALL

In 1966, Mount was the first high school athlete to grace the cover of Sports Illustrated, a lanky kid with a buzz cut and an intense gaze. Legendary sportswriter Frank Deford wrote the accompanying longform profile. It’s a fitting distinction, as the Lebanon native’s story reads like mythology with its elements of both talent and turbulence. Dubbed “The Rocket,” he possessed what was regarded as one of the purest jump shots in history and scored a spectacular 2,595 points in high school. A true hometown hero, Mount went on to play for Purdue and the Pacers.

Era: 1960s–1970s

Greg Oden BASKETBALL

Oden’s impact on the hardwood sent shockwaves throughout the Hoosier state for years after he and his Lawrence North teammates collected the Class 4A championship three years in a row. Among his many titles, he was named Player of the Year in 2005 and ’06 and Indiana Mr. Basketball in 2006 and went on to be picked No. 1 overall by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2007 NBA draft. Era: 2000s–2010s

Victor Oladipo BASKETBALL

Oladipo won over Hoosiers fans as a starting guard on IU’s 2012–13 squad, which spent 10 weeks ranked No. 1. After playing for the Orlando Magic and Oklahoma City Thunder, he returned to Indiana in 2017 after being traded to the Pacers. Replacing Paul George as franchise star (albeit only for a few seasons), Oladipo was a two-time All-Star.

Era: 2010s–2020s

Jermaine O’Neal BASKETBALL

Joining the Pacers in a trade that sent Dale Davis to Portland, O’Neal spent eight of his 18 NBA seasons defending the paint in Indy, landing Most Improved Player in 2002, six All-Star nods, three All-NBA honors—and one helluva punch in the Malice at the Palace scuffle.

Era: 1990s–2010s

Bobby Plump BASKETBALL

During the 1954 Indiana State High School Boys Basketball Tournament, Milan High School’s Plump hit a set shot at the final buzzer to take down the Muncie Central Bearcats. The legendary game inspired the 1986 movie Hoosiers, which included the historic quote by the character Merle Webb, “Let’s win this game for all the small schools that never had a chance to get here.”

Era: 1950s

Rajeev Ram TENNIS

A Carmel High School Greyhounds Hall of Famer and IHSAA singles state champ, Ram’s tennis journey began at the Carmel Racquet Club, where he honed his skills before turning pro in 2004. Noted for his aggressive serve-and-volley style, Ram quickly rose to the top as a doubles player, winning six Grand Slam titles, two Olympic silver medals (one with mixed doubles partner Venus Williams), and three consecutive U.S. Open doubles championships. His nonprofit, EntouRaj for Kids, fosters tennis accessibility in Indianapolis.

Era: 2000s–2010s

Antwaan Randle El FOOTBALL

Drafted by the Chicago Cubs out of high school, this versatile athlete instead chose to attend IU, playing varsity baseball, as well as basketball for Bob Knight. But it was Randle El’s time as quarterback that cemented his name among Hoosier greats. He was the first player in NCAA history to pass for 40 touchdowns and rush for 40 touchdowns, and the Big Ten Freshman of the Year Award is now named partially in his honor.

Era: 1990s–2010s (Coaching: 2019–present)

Oscar Robertson

BASKETBALL

Born in Indianapolis, Robertson is considered one of the greatest basketball players in history. Known as “The Big O,” he led Crispus Attucks to consecutive state championship wins in 1955—the first for an all-Black school in the state or the country—and 1956, recording the first perfect season for any Indiana high school team, as well. He was a 12-time NBA All-Star and the first player to average a triple-double for an entire season (and remains one of only two to do so). Robertson’s scoring, playmaking, and leadership set new standards for the game at the high school, college, and professional levels, and his impact helped shape the modern NBA. He remains a true pioneer and legend in basketball history.

Era: 1950s–1970s

At a time when horse racing was one of the most popular sports in the country, this noted American mahogany bay Standardbred pacer’s talent was second to none. He was so fast other owners wouldn’t enter their horses in races against the Oxford native. Dan Patch broke world speed records more than 14 times in the early 1900s and earned millions of dollars for his owner, Marion Willis Savage. In a weird twist of fate, Dan Patch died on July 11, 1916, and Savage passed away just one day later. Era: 1900s

Dan Patch HORSE RACING

Glenn Robinson BASKETBALL

Before Zach Edey, no Boilermaker was as dominant as “Big Dog.” Robinson, the 1991 Indiana Mr. Basketball and state champion from Roosevelt High School in Gary, slammed his way to the Wooden and Naismith awards while at Purdue in 1994 before becoming a No. 1 draft pick and two-time All-Star in the NBA.

Era: 1990s–2000

Scott Rolen BASEBALL

Hailing from Evansville, Rolen was a standout third baseman in Major League Baseball. Known both for his bat and his defensive prowess, Rolen won eight Gold Gloves and amassed more than 2,000 hits. He was a seventime All-Star and earned a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Era: 1990s–2010s

Keagan Rothrock SOFTBALL

Put this pitching phenom in the “Next Big Thing” category. The Gatorade National Softball Player of the Year, Rothrock went a ridiculous 77-4 at Roncalli High School before leading the nation in wins at University of Florida in the 2024 season, with a 33-8 record, and earning the SEC Freshman of the Year honor.

Era: 2020s

Jeff Saturday FOOTBALL

From undrafted free agent to Super Bowl champion with the Indianapolis Colts in 2007, Saturday was an integral part of Indy’s offensive line. Named a Pro Bowler six times, Saturday was inducted into the Colts Ring of Honor in 2015.

Era: 1990s–2010s (Coaching: 2017–2022)

Kyle Schwarber

ments: He’s in the top five in Indians history for home runs, RBIs, and doubles; he was team MVP in 1984; and he helped the team clinch three division titles, four American Association championships, and two Triple-A Classic crowns in the 1980s and ’90s. Or maybe it’s the name.

R-r-r-r-r-r-r-right?

Era: 1970s–1990s

Mark Spitz SWIMMING

If a gold medal for the best ’stache were awarded, this Indiana University and Olympic star would walk away with top honors. Instead, swimmer Spitz won seven gold medals during the 1972 Munich Olympics, each marking a world record, after earning two gold medals in the 1968 Mexico City games. Spitz is one of the most decorated and beloved American Olympians of all time.

Era: 1960s–1970s

Schwarber’s legendary status was cemented when he became a World Series champion with the Chicago Cubs in 2016, but his rise to stardom began in 2013 when he helped IU place fifth in the College World Series. As a Hoosier, he ranks in the all-time top 10 in five categories, including seventh for most home runs, with 40 during BASEBALL

Era: 2010s–2020s

Tony Stewart AUTO RACING

Columbus native Stewart’s career is one of the most notable in race car driving history. Also known as “Smoke,” Stewart excelled in midget cars, NASCAR, and IndyCar and was named one of the 75 greatest NASCAR drivers in 2023. Of his five Indianapolis 500 starts, his best finish was fifth in 1997.

Era: 1990s–2010s

George Taliaferro FOOTBALL

Taliaferro, who played multiple positions, was a football AllAmerican for three years at IU and helped the undefeated 1945 team win the Big Ten Championship—all while segregation kept him from living and eating alongside his teammates. His impact extended past the field as he helped desegregate IU.

Era: 1940s–1950s

Chuck Taylor BASKETBALL

Beating Mr. Air Jordan by several decades, this 1915–19 Columbus High School basketball standout (and later top Converse salesman and hoops promoter) left an enduring mark on the sport. Taylor’s name adorns the iconic canvas Converse All-Star high tops, his design improvements on the standard sneaker saving countless turned ankles.

Era: 1910s–1920s (The shoes: timeless)

Jonathan Taylor FOOTBALL

Taylor’s single-mindedness with the ball in his hands was evident from his first snap as a backup in 2020. As a rookie, he tied the ninth place record for most yards rushed in a game at 253 yards. Since then, he’s remained a staple of the Colts’ offense and solidified his place in team lore. Era: 2010s–2020s

Marshall Walter “Major” Taylor CYCLING

This groundbreaking cyclist from Indianapolis was one of the world’s fastest men in the late 19th century. Overcoming racial barriers, he won numerous national and international titles, including the World Championship in 1899. Taylor’s success in a segregated sport helped pave the way for future African American athletes. His accomplishments made him a trailblazer and an enduring icon in cycling and sports history.

Era: 1890s–1900s

Isiah Thomas BASKETBALL

In just two seasons at IU, Thomas led the Big Ten in steals each year, was named an AllAmerican as a sophomore, and earned Most Outstanding Player in the 1981 NCAA Tournament, helping IU net its fourth title. He went on to play for the dominant 1980s Pistons, netting back-toback championships, 12 All-Star nods, and the 1990 NBA Finals MVP honor, before a stint as Pacers head coach.

Era: 1980s–1990s (Coaching: 2000–2012)

Reggie Wayne FOOTBALL

Wayne ended his career as 10th all-time in the NFL in receptions and receiving yards. Equally impressive is his stamina— 211 games played, the most in Colts history.

Era: 1990s–2010s (Coaching: 2022–present)

Dick Weber BOWLING

Yes, bowling is a sport. And, yes, Weber, of Indianapolis, ranks as one of the greatest, if not the greatest, in bowling history. He won 26 Professional Bowlers Association titles and dominated the lanes with his smooth delivery. He is enshrined in the PBA Hall of Fame. During his heyday in the 1960s and ’70s, Weber was The Man, the best-known bowler in the world.

Era: 1950s–1990s

Stephanie White BASKETBALL

The 1995 Indiana Miss Basketball and Gatorade Player of the Year at Seeger High School, national champion and Big Ten Player of the Year at Purdue, and five-year WNBA pro, White is back home for her second stint as Indiana Fever head coach.

Era: 1990s–2000s (Coaching: 2003–present)

As a player and a coach, Wooden was a basketball legend. Born in the unincorporated town of Hall, he earned All-American honors at Purdue and won a national championship as the team’s point guard. As a coach, Wooden’s impact was immense, winning 10 NCAA titles with UCLA, including seven consecutive championships. Known for his leadership, discipline, and the “Pyramid of Success,” Wooden influenced generations of athletes, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the greatest coaches in sports history.

Era: 1920s–1930s (Coaching: 1933–1975)

Mike Woodson

BASKETBALL

One of 12 children, Woodson used basketball to play his way from Broad Ripple High School to stardom at Indiana University. He parlayed his successful collegiate years into becoming the 12th pick in the 1980 NBA draft, joining the New York Knicks. Following his pro career, he was an NBA coach from 1996 to 2021, most notably for the Atlanta Hawks and the Knicks, before moving to Bloomington to lead the Hoosiers.

Era: 1970s–1980s (Coaching: 1996–present)

This legendary defensive back from Fort Wayne is regarded as one of the greatest cornerbacks in NFL history. Known for his speed, versatility, and playmaking ability, Woodson earned 11 Pro Bowl selections and was a key contributor to the Pittsburgh Steelers’ defense. His skills and leadership solidified his place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

BASKETBALL

What’s next for Princeton native Young—Indiana Miss Basketball and Naismith National Player of the Year in 2016, the state’s all-time leading high school scorer, a champ at Notre Dame, the 2019 No. 1 WNBA Draft pick, a two-time WNBA title-winner with the Las Vegas Aces, and a two-time Olympic gold medalist? Probably acquiring a larger trophy case. Era: 2010s–2020s

Frank “Fuzzy” Zoeller GOLF

New Albany native Zoeller’s 10 PGA Tour victories include the 1979 Masters and the 1984 U.S. Open Championship, in addition to two Ryder Cup wins. Nowadays, you’re more likely to spot Zoeller sipping his namesake vodka at one of the many courses he’s designed around the U.S., including two in Southern Indiana.

Era: 1970s–2000s

John Wooden BASKETBALL

Rod Woodson FOOTBALL

GREATEST ATHLETES OF INDIANA THE

Tailor

DO YOU know a good tailor? We do. They may not be as in demand as they once were due to changing trends and fast fashion, but these local clothiers turn out Indy’s sharp-dressed men and women while delivering a timeless ritual of personal service. They just don’t make them like this anymore.

Made

BY EVE BATEY, AMY LYNCH, JULIA SPALDING, AND SAM STALL - - - PHOTOS BY JAY GOLDZ

Smoking Iron Alterations

MIKE DOLLINGER’S nimble needlework covers the gamut, from last-minute wedding dress alterations to from-scratch costumes for historic reenactors (everyone from Civil War fans to, at one time, Conner Prairie staffers). The shop’s name is a tip of the hat to coal-burning 18th and 19th century irons that literally smoked while in use. These days, Dollinger works from a cozy Broad Ripple bungalow, but his decades of tailoring have taken him all over the city. “I started sewing in 1981 with my dad [who was also a tailor],” Dollinger says. Over the decades, he worked for Redwood & Ross and Jacobson’s (among others) before settling in his current digs. His bread and butter is alteration work. Prom season always brings in lots of items, and he’s forever altering wedding dresses and groomsmen’s tuxes. Covid tanked his reenactment costume business, but it’s slowly coming back. The most complex piece he’s ever produced is a luxurious, War of 1812–era red Highland regiment musician’s coat bedecked with lace and trim. He also gets his fair share of rush jobs, including bridal dresses that were purchased and altered perhaps a year before the wedding, which can be a problem in a world where cookies and pizzas exist. “Women would come in and say that their wedding dress didn’t fit, and they needed it in a few weeks,” Dollinger says. “This happened a lot after Covid, when a lot of delayed weddings happened. I burned a lot of midnight oil for a while.” 6503 Ferguson St., 317-255-5470, smokingironindy .com. Open Monday through Friday, Saturday by appointment.

Mike Dollinger stitches everything from wedding dresses to historic reenactor uniforms at his Broad Ripple shop.

Lee’s Custom Tailoring

JIN LEE’S slim stature belies a giant in his field. With 50 years of experience, the only certified Master Tailor in Indiana (and one of just several hundred in the world) runs his shop like a well-oiled sewing machine. Originally from Seoul, the impeccably dressed Lee began apprenticing in 1967 at age 13. “At that time in my country, everybody went to work after elementary school,” he says. “The three most popular careers were haircutter, tailor, or shoemaker. I chose tailor.” Recognized by the Republic of Korea’s Ministry of Labor as a Master Tailor in 1980, Lee earned an Instructor certification several years later. A move to the United States followed in 1985, with Lee establishing his own shop

at 62nd Street and Keystone Avenue and eventually landing on North Keystone near 71st Street. Subtle signage in front of the shop cues new customers and a devoted base of regulars who already know exactly where to find him.

On any given day, you might glimpse business executives, professional athletes, politicians, or TV personalities getting measured for bespoke suits and custom shirts in the fitting room.

The secret to Lee’s longevity is a pioneering CAD program that he still uses today. Ahead of his time, so it would seem. And although the 70-year-old says he’s officially retired, he stays active by continuing to serve clients during abbreviated store hours. “I’ll keep going as long

as I can!” he laughs. 7002 N. Keystone Ave., 317-251-7002, leescustomtailoring.com. Open Tuesday through Saturday.

A precision craftsman, Jin Lee opened Lee’s Custom Tailoring in 1985.

FIT CHECK

Formal menswear and business attire have their own set of measurement rules—jacket sleeves should sit half an inch above the wrist, the tip of the tie should graze the top of the belt buckle. But the guidelines are less established for women’s clothing, which changes with the whims of fashion. Stylist Stephanie Topolgus, owner of Bloomington boutique Alibi, offers some guidelines for a timeless style.

WIDE-LEG PANTS

“The way these pants are meant to be worn is with a full break, where the hem of the pant covers almost the whole top of the shoe for a more formal look. They look best with a pointed toe, at whatever heel height you are comfortable with,” Topolgus says. Be sure to bring the shoes you plan to wear along to the tailor.

CROPPED PANTS

The most flattering (meaning lengthening and slimming) look is for the hem to fall at the narrowest spot just above your ankle bone.

COATS

When trying on a coat or jacket, raise your arms out straight in front. “If the sleeve pulls up to reveal your wrist, either the sleeves are too short or the jacket is too small,” Topolgus notes.

MAXI DRESSES

“This year’s trends bring a resurgence of boho-chic, all about romance and femininity, so you’ll see a lot of voluminous, flowy skirts and maxi dresses,” Topolgus says. “Skirt lengths can be customized to the most flattering length, with midi ending at the narrow point of the calf and maxi ending at the narrow point above the ankle or going full floor-length.” Just watch out for prints or details that might get cut off if you know you’ll have to alter the length.

FITTED POLO SHIRTS

Topolgus says tailored, fitted polo shirts are a key trend this spring. “They’re fun and easy vintage pieces to upcycle. You can customize an Izod or Ralph Lauren from the ’80s with darts and even a short cap sleeve. This also works with cool vintage graphic or concert tees.”

A. Mina Clothier

TAILORING runs in the blood. When Aldo Mina immigrated from Italy in 1949, he set a chain of events in motion that would inspire his son Anthony (who goes by Tony) to open his own menswear store 50 years later. “Dad taught me the trade. I was an apprentice with him at an old downtown store called Redwood & Ross,” Tony Mina says.

Just don’t call him a stylist. He much prefers the term “wardrobe specialist” focusing on men’s tailored clothing and formal wear. “Suits are making a comeback,” he says. “You’re already looking at spending $300 to rent a nice suit for a wedding; why not just spend a couple hundred more and buy one? That’s a trend we’re seeing a lot.”

Located inside the Salesforce Tower on Monument Circle (with parking available through the Columbia Club), A. Mina is ideally positioned to serve the downtown community, from lawyers and business executives to government employees and pro athletes (Mina has made sport coats for every Colts Ring of Honor recipient since 1998). Coming up on his 60th birthday, Mina says the satisfaction he gets from helping his clients look good is what’s kept him in the business. “I think men want to put their best foot forward when it comes to fashion,” he says. “I believe they’re more productive when they’re dressed up a little bit.” 111 Monument Circle, 317-631-2702, minaclothier .com. Open Monday through Friday, Saturday and Sunday by appointment.

Erin Young Designs

ERIN YOUNG’S clients are all dressed up with everywhere to go. Located in the same SoBro strip that houses Diavola and Walter Knabe, Young’s women’s clothing atelier rolls out bolts and bolts of internationally sourced fabrics to fashion into or update gorgeous frocks, from prom attire to vintage wedding dresses.

Young started sewing at age 5, later training in couture design and technique and earning degrees from Purdue University and the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. Her current staff of six all hold college degrees in fashion design, bringing fresh perspectives and ideas to the table for a prestigious client list that claims celebrities,

CEOs, athletes, politicians, and other VIPs. Her creations have also made appearances in national commercials, interviews, and photo shoots. She even turned down a chance to participate in Bravo fashion reality show Project Runway because she didn’t want to give up the rights to her designs for the three years the show requires.

In Young’s view, collaboration and personal service are the keys to building customer relationships that span generations—some of the customers she outfitted in first communion dresses are now returning for wedding and bridesmaid gowns. “As people are purchasing more items online, the human

element is what’s missing.” 1134 E. 54th St., 317-384-1070, erinyoungdesigns.com. Open Tuesday through Saturday.

SoBro designer Erin Young, left (with manager Cassie Kramer), trained at New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology.

HANDLE WITH CARE

Vintage fashions tell an interesting story. But not all vintage clothes are built to withstand a modern twist. Clothes made of these five delicate fabrics are best left unaltered.

SILK

Over time, the silkworm’s luxurious work can become brittle and prone to tearing, making it difficult to alter without damaging the fabric.

RAYON

Already susceptible to wrinkling and shrinking, vintage rayon from the 1940s and 1950s tends to weaken and lose its structure, especially when its worn-in seams are pulled into new positions.

ACETATE

That slick 1970s jumpsuit might have survived disco, but the semi-synthetic silk wannabe is given to fraying when stitched or handled too much.

LACE

The more intricate the pattern, the riskier the alteration job when it comes to clothing made with this most fragile heirloom material.

VELVET

Originally made of silk, velvet’s most luscious quality—the irresistible tangibility of its soft, dense nap—can also render it unsightly when it goes under the seam ripper. After years of laying in the same position, the fabric’s short pile leaves permanent marks on the surface.

Lam Son Tailor

“THIS IS not an easy way to make a living,” says Bang Nguyen. “It’s long hours. I don’t need to be more busy. I’m 72.” But the customers just keep coming, bringing in piles of clothes for Nguyen’s skillful adjustments. And why wouldn’t they? The beloved regulars receive smiles and hugs, and the free entertainment by way of the friendly banter flying back and forth between Bang and his wife— this is literally a mom-and-pop shop—is worth the visit alone.

Lam Son translates to “blue mountain,” a reference to a Vietnam War–era military offensive, in case you were wondering. Open since 1984, when Nguyen moved to the United States as a refugee, this one-man operation next to the old Keystone Sports Review may just be one of the city’s best-kept secrets, just the way Nguyen likes it. Need a dress hemmed? Sure. Pants shortened? No problem. The action mostly takes place on an industrial sewing machine at the front corner of the store. Nguyen learned the trade as a teenager and did custom tailoring work in his younger years. Now it’s alterations only.

You’d probably drive right on by the place, which is marked only by a small, nondescript sign that says “Alterations,” if you weren’t specifically looking for it. Inside, the cozy room is full of hanging items and stacks of clothes, further attesting to its popularity. Doesn’t look like Nguyen’s getting his wish any time soon. 5618 N. Keystone Ave., 317-255-6016. Open Monday through Saturday.

Tailored Society

CO-OWNERS Wade Forman and Zachary Reeder have worked in the menswear industry most of their adult lives, developing a passion for the highest of high-end work. Their elegant Carmel shop produces not only custom clothes but also bespoke suits, pants, shirts, and sport jackets that are pieced together after careful discussions with the clients about their wardrobe philosophies, followed by fabric selection, taking precise measurements, and fittings. Tailored Society is the exclusive VIP room folks who buy custom clothing don’t even know exists. “I would say our clients are highperforming individuals who are motivated in their careers and take their appearance seriously,” Forman says. He reckons it takes about 12 weeks and 100 hours to make a suit and 60 to 80

hours to make a jacket. Not surprisingly, these top-end duds go for top-end prices. For instance, the average sport jacket, Tailored Society’s biggest draw, costs $2,500 to $4,000. “Guys in Indiana want to wear a nice pair of jeans and a pair of loafers and then have a sport coat on top of it,” Forman says.

But it isn’t just guys in Indiana who employ the store’s services. The owners work with clients in 11 states. Though all their customers have unique anatomical traits, one of their toughest challenges was dressing a former power lifter with a massive chest, broad shoulders, big thighs, and biceps the size of canned hams. “It was kind of like dressing the Incredible Hulk,” Forman says. “Trying to make a garment that looks good on a body like that is very

tough. It was probably one of our most difficult fittings, but it turned out incredible.” 23 E. Main St., Carmel, 317-7978371, tailoredsociety.style. Open daily.

Wade Forman, left, and Zachary Reeder study the art of the fit at Carmel’s Tailored Society.

SMARTY PANTS

A know-before-yousew for your favorite pair of jeans.

“I haveoften said that I wish I had invented blue jeans,” highend designer Yves Saint Laurent famously said—and YSL, as he was casually known, knew more than most about the power of a custom fit. Denim offers a couple unique challenges when it comes to tailoring, so before you take a pair of jeans into your favorite clothier for a fix, there are a few things to consider.

HOW DRESSY DO YOU WANT

TO BE? The more form-fitting a pair of jeans, the more formal they look, but only to a point: Too tight, and not only will you feel miserable, but you’ll cross the line from chic to spring break 1985. Your dungarees should skate over your body, not restrict it; make sure your tailor understands that at your first fitting.

HEM LENGTHS CHANGE. SO DO SHOE STYLES.

When your seamstress hems your jeans, make sure they leave a significant (albeit hidden) allowance of fabric, so when trends revert, your pants can, too.

EMBRACE ANACHRONISM.

It’s tempting to alter a beloved pair of jeans to reflect the current style. But before you do, think about the future. Those barrel cut jeans look great on Instagram today, but what about tomorrow? Sometimes the most stylish move is sticking to your guns.

A Stitch in Time

LIVING THROUGH car crashes, fires, and other catastrophes, Leon Tailoring Company was nothing if not a survivor. But after a remarkable 120-year run, the family-owned menswear institution announced last month it was hanging up its tape measure.

It all started with European husband-and-wife immigrants Leo and Sadie Ettinger, who relied on the skills they brought with them to the new country to set up their tailor shop on Indiana Avenue in 1905. In 1967 (after a couple stints on Mass Ave), the store moved to the corner of St. Clair and Delaware Streets, where the sewing machines hummed away for almost 60 years. There was never any question that the third-generation owners, brothers Larry and Norman Ettinger, would carry on their grandparents’ legacy. “When I was 12 years old, my father sat us down on a table and told the cutter to show us how to mark in and cut out suits,” Larry recalls.

But last month, the Ettinger brothers, now both in their 80s, officially retired. It was the end of an era in which Leon’s team of seasoned artisans turned out custom-made and ready-to-wear men’s clothing, women’s apparel, and tuxedos, not to mention stage costumes, police uniforms, military clothing, and those ubiquitous candy-striped Indiana University team blazers. “We’ve worked with people from every walk of life, from ditch diggers to the vice president of the United States,” Larry says. “To us, the most rewarding thing is seeing customers delight in how they feel and look in their clothing.”

California Dream

With a FaceTime tour and a long-distance renovation, this family transformed a Midwest midcentury modern gem without disrupting its architectural legacy.

By

Bailey Briscoe ∙ photos by Sarah Shields

Living in Berkeley, California, in 2021 felt like sitting on the front lines of a shifting world. The Covid-19 pandemic had upended daily routines, and the West Coast fire season added instability to isolation. For one young family living thousands of miles away from their support system in Indiana, the stress was especially palpable. While they loved the Bay Area for its climate and culture, the couple began to look for a second home that would offer them variety and a chance to build memories.

The couple’s Midwest housing search led them to Bloomington, a place the husband recalled fondly from his studies at Indiana University. With its blend of college-town energy, scenic beauty, and proximity to family, Bloomington seemed like the ideal mix of urban convenience and rural charm.

The call came on a Saturday evening, shortly after the family returned from the beach. According to their Realtor, a house that was about to go on the market was a must-see. Sure enough, after a 30-minute FaceTime tour, the couple was ready to submit an offer.

From the living room of their 1,600-square-foot Bay Area townhome, the couple pictured all the potential the midcentury modern home held as a totally different space. Namely, natural light, warmth, privacy, and room for outdoor activities.

“This house had a lot of character for the Midwest,” says the wife. “Even over

elements of style

Natural wood surfaces accented by Brown County river rock abound inside and outside the midcentury home. A new addition, the custom sectional (left) was designed by the homeowner and built by Stoll’s Woodworking of Odon.

FaceTime, you could tell there was so much detail, thought, and care put into the home.”

Perhapsthe couple felt a connection to the place because the first owners were also transplants from California. Built in 1960 by the Martin family, the house is a true architectural gem—designed using plans from a 1959 Ladies’ Home Journal issue.

The property remained in the Martin family until 2018, when it was sold to another California couple who left it relatively untouched. The home has certainly stood the test of time over 65 years, but like any aging beauty, it needed a little TLC to bring it into the 21st century.

When it came time to find the right contractor to tackle the renovation, the new owners knew they wanted to hire someone who would honor the house’s legacy. Enter Loren Wood Builders, a company that specializes in large-scale renovations of architecturally significant homes, many of them in the midcentury modern style.

Loren Wood and his team have worked on homes around Bloomington, including one just across the street from this property. Wood had visited the house in the past and already had a grasp of the project scope. His connection to the house and the neighborhood made him the perfect fit for the job.

“It’s a real treat to work with a house like this, one that has such a rich history and amazing original architecture and construction,” says Wood. “This house was well-designed, well-built, and well-maintained for over 60 years.”

The first thing Wood and his team did was stabilize the home and bring it up to code. It had aging mechanicals, bad wiring, and flooding

TIMELY TREASURES

Built in 1960 by the Martin family, the house is a true architectural gem—designed using plans from a 1959 Ladies’ Home Journal issue.

The light fixtures above may be new (albeit replicas of their predecessors), but the graphic rug was handed down from the original owners of the home. The knotted wood sculpture is by California artist Katie Gong.

issues. In fact, in the early stages of the project, a giant rainstorm left several feet of standing water in the basement. From California, the homeowners felt helpless. Wood’s team came to the rescue and remediated the damage.

“We weren’t even under contract yet. Loren went above and beyond before the project even started,” says the husband. “The amount of care, concern, and detail Loren and his team put into our home without being asked was amazing.”

From the start, the goal of the renovation was clear: Stay true to the home’s original design and respect the spirit of the architecture while also updating it for modern living. “This style is very different from our Berkeley home,” says the wife. “This was our chance to create a space that’s warm, and cozy, and fun.”

Throughout the process, Wood and his team worked closely with the homeowners to ensure the updates reflected the period in which the home was built and maintained its original details and character. The features significant to the 1960 design—like the expansive glass windows, symmetrical floor plan, and radiant floor heating—were meticulously preserved. The materials, too, were painstakingly preserved and reused. The stone and California redwood remain as primary fixtures of the design both inside and outside the home.

Among the many challenges in renovating the old house, the kitchen stood out as a top priority. “The kitchen, laundry room, and bathroom were all one room,” says the wife. “I could see the toilet from the stove.

I knew that had to change.”

Unfortunately, being built on a concrete slab meant the plumbing was set in stone, making it impossible to move key elements without costly and complex alterations. The owners knew they couldn’t relocate the laundry room or bathroom, so they had to find another way to create separation.

The solution came through the creative partnership of architecture and design, led by teams from Indianapolis firm Haus and Californiabased 3 Hill Designs. The fix?

A clever hidden door in the kitchen, a feature that provides visual separation from

the intermingled laundry room and bathroom without compromising the structure. A grain-matched walnut door now blends seamlessly with the rest of the cabinets and walls, going unnoticed to guests and anyone who doesn’t know the trap door exists. This late-stage idea transformed the area from an awkward, cluttered space into a set of elegant, functional rooms that align with the home’s aesthetic.

Redwood and walnut surfaces abound in the kitchen, flanked by a quartz backsplash and floating shelves. The kitchen island connects directly to the

dining table bench and is constructed of walnut sourced from just beyond the sweeping glass doors. “The walnut came from dead trees that were on the property,” the wife explains. “They were at risk of falling and potentially damaging the house, so we had them milled and kiln-dried to make furniture for the home.”

Another modern design decision that stands out in the kitchen—and is mirrored throughout the entire home—is the lack of knobs and handles. Instead, sleek push-to-open drawers and doors were installed. This sleek aesthetic was key

Project runway

A catwalk connecting the two wings of the house provides an open, overhead view of the first floor, as well as the backyard patio area (above).

The homeowners’ art collection includes a colorful piece by Bay Area artists Kelly Tunstall and Ferris Plock, commissioned as part of a set (right).

The features significant to the 1960 design— like the expansive glass windows, symmetrical floor plan, and radiant floor heating—were meticulously preserved.

for the homeowners, who wanted the kitchen to remain streamlined and easy to clean, especially with a toddler in the house.

Upstairs,

the symmetry and balance of the home continue, with bedrooms on either wing mirroring each other. The homeowners sacrificed some closet space to increase the footprint of the bathrooms. Light tile and white counters balance the warmth of the redwood, with ample natural light flowing in through the original casement windows.

Outside, the setting is stunning—a serene, private retreat that feels tucked away

from the world, despite being in a neighborhood. The back patio features a uniquely designed firepit area. Sunken bench seating enhances the privacy and reduces visual clutter while nodding to a key 1960s design staple.

The biggest challenges of this renovation are also the ones Wood is most proud of.

“Often when you are gutting a house, most of it goes. There’s no risk of collateral damage,” Wood says. “Here, we had to work around the existing conditions, like glass and soft redwood.”

Not to mention keeping some pesky houseplants alive. Wood nurtured species

The setting is stunning—a serene, private outdoor retreat that feels tucked away from the world, despite being in a neighborhood.

a room with a view Paned windows frame a verdant perspective on the densely wooded property behind the house (below). Green floral bedding, wood accents, and natural hues in the bathrooms are complemented by the surroundings (right).

that had been growing in a built-in planter box alongside the staircase for many years. The potted plants had to be moved for the span of the renovation to protect them.

Those plants are now back in their rightful home near a room adorned with a blackand-white abstract-print rug that’s also been on the property for years. Above the greenery is a catwalk connecting the two wings of the home, which was refinished with redwood found in the basement during construction. To the untrained eye,

the edge detail may look like trim, but it actually functions as a vent system for the radiant floor heating.

Unique elements like this, successfully brought to life by Wood and his team’s craftsmanship, caused the renovation budget to “balloon a bit.” But ultimately, the homeowners decided the magic was all in the details.

“The reason we put so much into the house is because we had complete trust in Loren and his team,” the wife says. “Even though managing it remotely wasn’t

always easy and quality control could be a challenge, we were 100-percent happy with the results. Loren took some liberties with the design— things we wouldn’t have even thought of, like curving the edges of the trim. In the end, everything he did was exactly what we wanted.”

Moving in October 2023, the couple found a peaceful escape from life as they knew it on the West Coast. After living in their new-to-them home for more than a year, the family has made Indiana their full-time residence.

FACES OF I N D Y INDY

Meet the 2025 Faces of Indy—prominent local business leaders representing a wide range of industries, such as real estate, finance and banking, education, medicine and dentistry, residential design, and restaurants and hospitality. They share details about their professional successes, philosophies, and focus areas on the following pages.

Photos by Tony Valainis

ith sales of more than $100 million in each of the last fi ve years and the unprecedented achievement of surpassing $2 billion in career sales, Bif Ward is the legendary face of Indianapolis real estate. And for good reason. With over 45 years of experience at the F.C. Tucker Company, Bif Ward is the seasoned expert, renowned for delivering exceptional results and unmatched customer service built by decades of unwavering work ethic and drive. Throughout Bif’s incredible career, she has developed a reputation for integrity, dedication, and a deep understanding of everchanging market dynamics. Bif’s success always starts and ends with the client, by tapping into their needs and using her unmatched experience to deliver the results that make their dreams come true. Not content with resting on past successes, Bif has charged into 2025, surpassing the $2 billion career sales ceiling and proving she has no intent of slowing down. Trusted by thousands of clients over the decades, The Bif Ward Real Estate Group continues to be a powerful force in Indy’s housing market, one poised for even more growth in 2025.

THE FACE OF DIAMONDS

Reis-Nichols Jewelers

For over 100 years, Reis-Nichols Jewelers has been a part of the Indianapolis area’s DNA. With over 40 years of experience in the luxury jewelry business, BJ Nichols, president of Reis-Nichols Jewelers, is more passionate than ever about helping people select the perfect diamond.

“There is no better feeling than to be able to assist our clients in selecting the perfect diamonds to celebrate the moments of their lives that matter most,” explains Nichols. “I am thrilled that I can work with our team and seek out the world’s most beautiful diamonds,” he says. “Diamonds are unique in that they are a treasure representing both strength and beauty, and one of the most precious and magnifi cent creations of nature.”

Nichols has spent his career seeking out the most exceptional diamonds and gemstones from around the globe and is dedicated to passing along all that he has learned to his team of experts including his daughter, Hannah Nichols-Hale.

“We want to give our clients the very best experience,” says Hannah. “It is so much more than just selecting the perfect stone. From the moment they step through our doors, our goal is to create an exceptional experience for every client!”

Reis-Nichols offers top designer brands, including David Yurman, Pomellato, Messika, Marco Bicego, and Roberto Coin, and has a state-of-the-art facility on-site with a team of skilled artisan jewelers on staff to create exclusive custom-made jewelry.

“People have an intimate relationship with jewelry, it can become a lasting piece of a family legacy, we don’t take that responsibility lightly,” Nichols sums up. “Our goal is to find our clients the diamond that will live up to that!”

THE FACE OF PERIODONTICS & IMPLANT DENTISTRY

Kurt Van Winkle, D.D.S., M.S.D., P.C.

Dr. Kurt Van Winkle is a periodontist with over 30 years of experience, specializing in dental implant tooth replacement and periodontal (gum) treatment. He is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care to his patients. An established provider in his fi eld, he is one of the fi rst periodontists in Indiana to utilize the Periolase™ laser, a painfree "no cut, no stitch" surgical procedure to treat periodontal disease. Dr. Van Winkle enjoys improving patients' smiles with recent techniques for gum grafting. Additionally, his use of digital diagnostic imagery, including dental CT scans, allows for the most accurate dental implant placement and the highest success rate. Certifi ed in all levels of sedation dentistry, Dr. Van Winkle is able to provide patients with a comfortable and relaxing experience in his newly remodeled dental offi ce. His compassion and commitment to his patients has been acknowledged by local dentists and earned him recognition as an Indianapolis Monthly Top Periodontist for the past 14 years. He is widely respected in the dental community for his high standards of patient care. Many patients have asked Dr. Van Winkle why he chose dentistry as a profession. His response: "My father always told me that I was good with my hands, and I should utilize this talent." Dr. Van Winkle is an active member of the American Dental Association, American Academy of Periodontology, Indiana Dental Association, and the Indianapolis District Dental Society.

8902 N. Meridian St., Ste. 138, Indianapolis 317-844-2792 | vanwinkleperio.com

READINESS

Ms. Gracie Sahm, MSD of Lawrence Township

MSD of Lawrence Township Teacher of the Year

Ms. Gracie Sahm isn’t just teaching students how to dice and saute—she’s transforming lives in the culinary arts program at the McKenzie Center for Innovation & Technology. With 17 years of classroom experience in a workplace specialist fi eld, Sahm is a master teacher in the classroom and at Bernie’s Place, a student-run restaurant and staple eatery for the greater Lawrence community. From mastering fundamental cooking techniques to exploring global cuisine, she provides comprehensive instruction that equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for success in the culinary and hospitality industries. Her students learn professional skills, gain industry certifi cations, and discover potential career pathways through hands-on experiences that simulate realworld restaurant environments. Sahm believes in career and technical education as a critical alternative to traditional academic tracks, showing students that success comes in many forms.

THE FACE OF CUSTOM CATARACT & LASIK SURGERY

Dr. Michael Behforouz, Center for Sight

With more than 20 years of surgical experience, Dr. Michael Behforouz and the team at Center for Sight provide premium surgical services to improve vision at all stages of life, ranging from LASIK to refractive lens exchange and cataract surgery. Center for Sight’s approach to addressing individuals’ unique visual needs is apparent in Dr. Behforouz’s personalized treatment plans based on patients’ goals and lifestyles. His patients’ overwhelming satisfaction with their visual results and experience is the reason he is highly recommended among the medical community. Center for Sight is compassionate and communicative every step of the way.

Come and see why your vision is our vision! 3985 W. 106th St., Ste. 120, Carmel | 317-334-4424 | Lasik: 317-689-7672 | caringforeyes.com

THE FACE OF KNEE CARE

K. Donald Shelbourne, MD & Rodney Benner, MD

Our knees move us in so many ways, but back in 1982, there were no knee care specialists. That’s when Dr. Shelbourne opened his fi rst orthopaedic practice, completely changing the face of knee care. His ACL rehabilitation protocols are utilized around the world, with results shared in more than 150 medical journal articles. Today, he runs the Shelbourne Knee Center with Dr. Benner and an experienced team of therapists, athletic trainers, and research staff. Their main focus: geting patients back to play and back to their lives. In fact, Shelbourne Knee Center has a return-to-sport rate of 85 percent, versus the industry average of 50 percent. What also sets Shelbourne Knee Center apart are the research-based rehab programs customized to a patient’s unique needs. These treatment plans are based on more than 30 years of continual research, proven results, and a true dedication to total knee care. 1500 N. Ritter Ave., Ste. 500, Indianapolis 317-924-8636 | fixknee.com

THE FACE OF

GENERAL & COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Indy Dental Group

OVER 30 YEARS!

ndy Dental Group was founded in 1993 by Dr. Jack M. Miller, a three-time driver in the Indy 500, and Dr. Elizabeth B. Lewis, a leader in comprehensive, cosmetic, and family dentistry with a special focus on patient education and family dental health. Indy Dental Group has ten doctors who bring a broad range of expertise to the team. All share the same philosophy and are committed to providing you with excellence in dentistry by combining exceptional education, extensive clinical experience, and personal dedication. The six world-class Indy Dental Group locations have been designed with patient comfort in mind. Our Carmel offi ce (located in The Village of West Clay) showcases Dr. Miller’s racing memorabilia and his “Walls of Fame” and even has one of his Crest® race cars hanging from the ceiling. A dedicated team of doctors, hygienists, technicians, and administrative staff help provide Hoosier families with the best dental care and support available. Indy Dental Group is dedicated to serving the entire family and providing comprehensive dental care and support. We look forward to working with you and your family to help ensure a lifetime of good dental health.

nthony’s Chophouse redefi nes the modern fi ne dining experience by serving classic steakhouse cuisine with a unique culinary spin and distinctive cocktails. With a seasonal, chef-curated menu and a commitment to delivering a VIP dining experience for every guest, Anthony’s professional staff understands that perfection lies in the details. Rotating tableside desserts and Foie Bon Bons in a smoking cloche entertain guests with culinary showmanship, bringing energy and excitement into an anything-but-average dining experience. The most discerning connoisseurs, and those seeking to discover something entirely new, delight in one of the most diverse and thoughtfully curated wine lists in the city.

Signature off erings include the A-5 Waygu Strip, sourced from Miyazaki in Kyūshū, Japan, which off ers unmatched marbling and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, and the Flight of Beef, showcasing a trio of 4 oz. fi lets. Every steak can be personalized with unique accompaniments, like crab Oscar or tableside-shaved bone marrow, making each dish a standout feature at the boutique steakhouse.

THE

FACE

OF JOINT REPLACEMENT

Central Indiana Orthopedics

For more than 75 years, Central Indiana residents have trusted the experts at Central Indiana Orthopedics with their joint replacement surgeries.

CIO specializes in advanced orthopedic care with a personalized approach. We are the fi rst orthopedic practice in Central Indiana to utilize Mako SmartRobotics™ robotic-arm assisted technology in total and partial knee replacements and total hip replacements.

With this state-of-the-art robotic tool, our surgeons have helped over 3,000 patients experience personalized and more precise outcomes from joint replacement surgeries.

From a personalized pre-op plan to 24/7 post-surgery support, as our patient, you’ll benefi t from individualized, expert treatment. Receive the unmatched care you deserve.

Schedule an appointment and experience the diff erence at ciocenter.com/fi shers-mako.

Pictured (left to right): John R. Martin, MD, Thomas L. Salsbury, MD, P. Jamieson Kay, MD, Joseph G. Jerman, MD, Brian E. Camilleri, DO, Nimu K. Surtani, MD

Not pictured: Ryan D. Cieply, MD, Brent M. Damer, DO, Ryan R. Jaggers, MD

Shown below: The Mako™ robot used for hip and knee replacement

THE FACE OF REMODELING

The Guy Corporation

CRAFTING DREAM HOMES AND LASTING RELATIONSHIPS

In the heart of Central Indiana, there’s one name that’s synonymous with exceptional craftsmanship, innovative designs, and a customer-fi rst approach—GuyCo Homes and Remodeling. For over two decades, this family-owned business has been a trusted partner for homeowners seeking to transform their living spaces into something extraordinary. Whether you’re envisioning a custom-built home or a kitchen renovation, GuyCo’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction sets it apart as one of the premier names in the industry.

Founded by Jon Guy, GuyCo Homes and Remodeling started with a mission to provide high-quality, personalized homebuilding and remodeling services. What sets GuyCo apart is its unwavering dedication to creating personalized solutions for every client. Whether a project is large or small, GuyCo focuses on understanding the unique needs, style preferences, and functional requirements of each homeowner. The company partners with trusted suppliers and uses the best materials available to ensure that every project is built to last. They are committed to a high standard of craftsmanship, relying on a network of experience d trade partners who share a dedication to excellence. Integrity is at the heart of everything GuyCo does. Its reputation for reliability and trustworthiness has earned its repeat business and numerous referrals from satisfi ed clients.

For homeowners looking for an experienced, dependable, and visionary team to bring their home renovation dreams to life, GuyCo Homes and Remodeling is the trusted partner you need.

150 Vista Park Way, Avon | 317-272-2236 | guycohomes.com

THE FACE OF SUPPER CLUBS

The Fountain Room

Mass Ave’s Finest Supper Club

830 Massachusetts Ave., Ste. 1480, Indianapolis 463-238-3800

thefountainroom.com

Astylish departure from steakhouse tradition, The Fountain Room embraces Supper Club fl air without the formality, blending fi ne dining with unabashed fun. Guests can indulge in timeless fare, including pickled relish trays, richly fl avorful prime rib, classic side dishes, and house-made desserts, paired with strong cocktails and a well-curated wine list. The stunning space features velvet banquettes, glowing chandeliers, and a reel-to-reel machine that evokes a sense of nostalgia. Look for the historic Bottleworks Hotel entrance and listen for sounds of mischief.

With an uncompromising eff ort to deliver authentic cuisine from around the Midwest, Clancy’s Hospitality is a lifestyle hospitality group that focuses on the integrity of our products, impeccable service, and redefi ning the traditional dining experience. Started in 1965 by Indiana Restaurant Hall of Fame member Carl Fogelsong, Clancy’s Hamburgers was the fi rst double drive-thru fast food restaurant in the Midwest.

The Fountain Room, which opened in summer 2022 at Bottleworks District, was inspired by a trip to Wisconsin during the pandemic by father/son restaurant team Perry and Blake Fogelsong and combines Wisconsin-style supper club tradition with a Roaring Twenties, Jazz Age steakhouse vibe. Executive chef Ricky Martinez’s menu evolves the American supper club off erings for the more modern diner. Designed by locally renowned designers Phanomen Design, inspiration for The Fountain Room stems from visions of a retro supper club vibe. Repetitive geometric patterns and timeless millwork details are paired with texture and color combinations that are meant to give visitors a sense of nostalgia for times past. Think of a traditional Art Deco dining establishment that also functions as a social club. High class, yet aff ordable. Formal, yet relaxed.

THE FACE OF CUSTOM HOMES

Carrington Homes

Built on Family,

Designed for Yours

At Carrington Homes, family isn’t just important—it’s everything. As a threegeneration, family-owned business, we’ve been building ultracustom homes in Central Indiana for over 30 years. Our legacy is built on trust, craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to our clients.

We take a personal approach to homebuilding, ensuring every detail is tailored to your lifestyle and needs. From designing the perfect home offi ce to creating a cozy retreat for your growing family, we’re here to bring your vision to life. But for us, custom isn’t just your home—it’s your journey.

As a local builder, we understand the community, the land, and the people we serve. When you build with Carrington Homes, you become part of our extended family—because family is at the heart of everything we do. Proud to be the builder of 2025 Indianapolis Monthly Dream Home.

10418 Hague Rd., Fishers 317-418-2816 | carringtonhomes.com

Back Left – Maureen Glunt: Senior Treasury Management Sales Officer

Back Center – Tim Oliver: Market President

Back Center – Karissa Shaffer: Treasury Management Sales Officer

Back Right – Megan Vissering: Commercial Banker

Front Left – Derek Jones: Senior Commercial Banker

Front Right – Scott Bove: South Region President

or over 80 years, STAR Bank has proudly served Hoosiers as a locally owned and operated community bank, transforming banking by putting our customers’ needs fi rst. What sets us apart is our commitment to personalized service, innovative solutions, and the fl exibility to deliver exactly what you need to grow and thrive.

Located at 46 Monument Circle, STAR Bank combines expert fi nancial advice with a comprehensive range of services, ensuring your fi nancial well-being is our top priority. As a locally owned institution, we understand the unique needs of Indiana businesses and individuals, providing solutions tailored to your goals.

Visit us today or schedule an appointment at starfi nancial.com to experience the STAR diff erence—a bank where local expertise, personalized care, and innovative solutions come together to support your success.

DENTISTRY

Pediatric

John Bozic,

Zach Bozic,

Amanda Martinez,

Atrip to the “tooth doctor” can be intimidating for even the bravest of patients, and working with a team of specialists trained specifi cally in pediatric dentistry lays the foundation for positive experiences in the future. For over 40 years, Pediatric Dentistry West has strived to create smiles for the next generation. Drs. John Bozic, Zach Bozic, and Amanda Martinez go the extra mile to ensure each child not only feels comfortable but is actually excited for their dental visit. Working closely with families, we foster communication, invite questions, and provide practical, research-driven guidance and support. We look forward to partnering with you. Together, we will help your child establish healthy habits for a lifetime of healthy smiles!

Napleton Kia of Carmel stands out as a premier destination for both new and used vehicles. As Central Indiana’s fastest-growing dealership, it has quickly gained a proven reputation among locals and car enthusiasts alike thanks to its commitment to exceptional customer service and having a diverse inventory. Napleton Kia of Carmel’s comprehensive service department goes above and beyond. Staff ed by expert technicians, the service center off ers maintenance and repair services using state-of-the-art equipment and genuine Kia parts. Customers can trust that their vehicles are in good hands, receiving care that meets the highest standards. Choosing Napleton Kia of Carmel means joining a family that values relationships built on trust and respect. As the most rapidly expanding Kia store in the area, the dealership continues to lead the way with its outstanding selection of vehicles, exceptional service, and commitment to the community.

Emily has been turning her clients’ dreams for their future homes into reality for 12 years. Utilizing 3D design technology, Emily and her team architecturally orchestrate the most luxurious and tasteful homes in the area. Clients choose to work with EHD to break the mold and design homes customized to their lifestyles and tastes. The team gets to know their clients as if they are family, tailoring their designs to clients’ needs and helping clients create memories for years to come.

EHD’s European Cottage style custom home won the People’s Choice Award at Home-A-Rama in 2024. You can tour their work in person at the 2025 Indianapolis Monthly Dream Home in August and the 2025 Home-A-Rama tour in Chatham Hills. Follow EHD’s latest work on Instagram @emilyhandkedesign.

THE FACE OF MEDICAL SPAS

Shelley Clayton, NP Ageless Aesthetics

Shelley Clayton, NP, is a renowned aesthetics expert and the visionary behind Ageless Aesthetics. A board-certifi ed nurse practitioner with years of advanced training, she has become a leader in the anti-aging industry, known for her expertise, integrity, and ability to achieve natural, transformative results. Since opening her fi rst location in 2017, Shelley has expanded to three award-winning clinics, earning a reputation for excellence. Her meticulous approach, artistic eye, and commitment to patient safety make her the trusted choice for those seeking expert aesthetic care. For a refreshed, youthful look that enhances your natural beauty, Ageless Aesthetics is the name to know.

THE FACE OF

CATERING

Ritz Charles

Ritz Charles was established in 1986 with a vision of a high-quality venue focusing on social gatherings, fundraisers, corporate meetings, and, of course, weddings. The beautiful 15,000-square-foot facility on Meridian Street was the catalyst to expanding to additional, unique venues and off site catering. Over the years, Ritz Charles has acquired a renowned culinary staff, professional servers, dedicated managers, and a talented design team. All combined, our team has over 300 years of experience serving Ritz Charles clients. Our experience ensures you will have the best event possible.

With eight exclusive and unique venues, Ritz Charles is one of the largest caterers in Indiana. The original Ritz Charles site in Carmel features remodeled ballrooms, the glass-walled Garden Pavilion, and the Chapel. Unique venues across the city that trust their events to Ritz Charles include Coxhall Mansion and Gardens, Indianapolis Public Library, Indianapolis Artsgarden, Artisan Acres Estate, The Bluff s at Conner Prairie, and many more. At Ritz Charles, no event is too big or too small. Whether you are planning a wedding reception, a corporate event for 1,000 guests, or a social gala, we want you to enjoy the event and the time with your guests, leaving the work to us. A personal design team specialist and experienced day-of event coordinator will deliver a seamless event to any location.

THE FACE OF WEALTH MANAGEMENT

The National Bank of Indianapolis

At The National Bank of Indianapolis, we take a comprehensive approach to managing our clients’ wealth. Led by a dedicated Private Banker, our experienced Wealth Management specialists work closely with you to understand your needs, develop custom solutions, and expertly manage your wealth and protect your legacy.

Private Banking and Wealth Management team members provide highly personalized service in the areas of lending, fi nancial planning, investment management, personal trusts, estates, and retirement plans. When it comes to investing, The National Bank of Indianapolis provides the right partner to manage your wealth. Whether you are an accomplished investor or just getting started, our team of experts creates an investment plan based on your objectives. We deliver comprehensive solutions with the proven expertise and unparalleled service you deserve.

THE FACE OF PHILANTHROPY

Heroes Foundation

elebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025, the Heroes Foundation is an altruistic movement born from a commitment made by a 26-year-old cancer patient, his wife, and a group of Hoosiers who rallied around them. Together they founded the Heroes Foundation as a public nonprofi t dedicated to Hoosiers touched by cancer.

Over the years, many more partners and individual supporters have joined the Heroes Foundation. Through their generosity, the Foundation can support partners and projects that align with its mission: to provide meaningful support to cancer patients, education to promote cancer prevention , and resources to advance research for a cure.

The Heroes Foundation’s supporters make it possible for cancer patients in Indiana to pay for groceries, medicine, transportation to doctors appointments, utility bills, and housing. Thanks to donors, hundreds of people each year participate in cancer support groups to heal the mind, body, and soul, and Indiana’s youngest cancer patients enjoy pizza parties and receive LEGO sets during their hospital stays.

The Heroes Foundation demonstrates what can happen when the Hoosier community comes together for Indiana!

Thank you to Duncan Supply Company and the Chris Hendricks family for making this profi le possible and for their leadership and fi nancial support to further the Heroes Foundation mission.

ou will be whisked away to Key West the minute you walk through our door. Tipsy Mermaid Conch House & Cocktails brings Key West to the Midwest.

Opened in 2023, Tipsy Mermaid is the vision of Shari Jenkins, based on her love for this special island.

Serious foodies of the Florida Keys will taste the magic in every dish we serve. Our menu is a celebration of island fl avors, including Key West pink shrimp, Bahamian conch, and Cuban Mojo dishes. Pair these island delights with one of our many exciting rum cocktails for the ultimate dining experience.

We are located on Zionsville’s charming brick Main Street, one block away from our sister restaurant, noah grant’s grill house & oyster bar.

We invite you to indulge in our unique weekend brunch and dinner menus and enjoy our superior hospitality as you’re transported to the Florida Keys.

Hamilton County’s fi rst cat cafe opened in January 2023 and provides a safe, free roaming environment for up to 24 cats to enjoy. In the cat lounge, you’ll often witness several cats energetically climbing, leaping, and playfully exploring the fullsize tree specially designed for their enjoyment. The cafe rotates between accepting adoptees from various humane societies and rescues, rehoming over 735 cats in its fi rst two years of service. Visitors can expect top-notch coff ee drinks and snacks from the full-service coff ee shop. “While our focus is on our cats, we tap into other local small businesses for our fresh coff ee and espresso as well as pastries,” says owner Holly Moss. The cafe hosts fun events like cat yoga, painting with cats, and Princess crafting events—all with the furry felines. The entire cafe can be reserved for private events, and a monthly unlimited membership is available for feline superfans.

THE FACE OF MENOPAUSE MANAGEMENT

Body Bar MD

At Body Bar MD, our entire team is passionate about helping you live your healthiest, happiest life. As experts in menopause, we are a team of healthcare professionals who specialize in empowering women to take control of their health during menopause. Together we create personalized plans that help you balance your hormones, regain energy, and rediscover confi dence.

But we’re not just here for women. Hormonal health is just as important for men, and our team is equally dedicated to helping men overcome challenges like low testosterone and other imbalances. At Body Bar MD, we take a whole-person approach to health, working with you to address your unique needs and create a roadmap to feeling your best. With our expertise and care, you’ll never face these challenges alone. Let’s take this journey to better health together!

Pictured (left to right): Dr. Christy Watson Brandon Lee, NP-C

Songbird Social House is Carmel’s premier date night destination, thoughtfully designed and owned by a husband-and-wife duo who share a passion for great food, music, and meaningful connections. Located at 7245 E. 146th St., Suite 100, this upscale yet approachable venue is perfect for creating unforgettable memories with your special someone.

Enjoy artisanal wood-fi red pizzas, fresh pastas, and rotating weekly specials, paired with handcrafted cocktails, fi ne wines, or a curated selection of bourbons. The space boasts an art deco dining area and an intimate upstairs speakeasy, ideal for a cozy, romantic evening.

Live music every Friday and Saturday adds the perfect soundtrack to your night, making Songbird a place where romance and fun come together eff ortlessly. Whether it’s a fi rst date, your forever date, or just a night out, Songbird Social House sets the stage for a night to remember.

PJE Lawn Care & Landscaping LLC, founded by Philip (Phil) James Ennis, specializes in designing, building, and maintaining stunning outdoor spaces in Indiana. Phil started the company at 19 and has since assembled a talented team dedicated to bringing clients’ visions to life.

At PJE, the focus is on understanding each client’s unique needs and delivering exceptional results that enhance their lifestyle. The company operates on the Golden Rule: “Treat others the way you want to be treated,” building trust through clear communication, attention to detail, and a commitment to excellence.

PJE is renowned for its client-focused approach, tackling outdoor challenges with creativity and precision. Phil and his team take pride in delivering personalized solutions that refl ect each homeowner’s style and preferences. By fostering strong relationships and consistently exceeding expectations, PJE has become a trusted name in the outdoor living industry.

Beyond projects, PJE actively supports local organizations and community events, refl ecting a dedication to giving back. Through innovation and a clientfi rst mindset, PJE Lawn Care & Landscaping LLC continues to redefi ne what’s possible in creating beautiful and functional outdoor spaces.

THE FACE OF Franciscan Health Heart Center

s Franciscan Health celebrates the 20th anniversary of its Indianapolis Heart Center, it boasts a legacy that started much earlier in Beech Grove. Behind the Healthgrades No. 1 state ranking for heart care in 2024 and 2025 is a 47-year commitment to excellence, innovation, and personalized cardiac care. Physicians and staff not only provide compassionate care but also pioneer new ways of caring for patients.

Franciscan Health Heart Center Indianapolis 8111 S. Emerson Ave., Indianapolis FranciscanHealth.org

Find a heart specialist: 317-893-1900

• Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols for cardiac/vascular surgery

• Minimally invasive techniques for open-heart surgery/interventional procedures

• Structural heart program addressing heart valve repair/replacement and stroke prevention

• 24/7 cardiac provider coverage and an emergency heart attack protocol to ensure patients get treatment as quickly as possible

• Electrophysiology

program for arrythmias and atrial fi brillation

• $49 heart scans

• Gold Center of Excellence honors for cardio-oncology

• On-site cardiac, pulmonary, and vascular rehabilitation

• Cardiac genetic counseling

• Nationally recognized vascular surgery program, including vein clinic for cosmetic and complex conditions

• Community programs and outreach

• Specialty care programs for heart failure, cardiometabolic care, cardio-obstetrics, and cardio-palliative care

• Medical research, clinical trials, and research submissions to medical publications

• Same-day, evening, and Saturday cardiology appointments

• Cardiology clinics in Indianapolis, Greenwood, Mooresville, Columbus, Plainfi eld, Greencastle, Shelbyville, and Greensburg

The state’s top cardiac program off ers:

1st row (L-R): Saeed Shaikh, MD, MBA, FACC, FSCAI, RPVI; Stephen Cook, MD, FACC; Neal Ramchandani, MD, RPVI; Atul Chugh, MD, FACC, RPVI; Marc Gerdisch, MD, FACS, FACC, FHRS; Kristen Fralich, PA-C; Philip George Jr., MD

2nd row (L-R): Vijay Rao, MD, PhD, FACC, FASE, FHFSA, FIC-OS; Caitlin Luebcke, DNP; Anthony Bashall, MD, FACC; Angela Brittsan, MD, PhD, FACC

THE

Franciscan Health Cancer Center

or 150 years, women have been at the heart of our mission—caring, leading, and fi ghting for one another. Founded by six Sisters to begin a ministry of health care for the poor and neglected, Franciscan Health continues that legacy of compassion, strength, and perseverance—where women have always made a lasting impact.

Our sisterhood has expanded over the years, providing comprehensive cancer care led by female physicians across various specialties. Treating breast, lung, colorectal, and gynecologic cancers, our dedicated medical oncologists, radiologists, pulmonologists, surgeons, genetic counselors, and more off er a collaborative, communicative approach where each care plan is personalized depending on your unique needs.

We understand that facing a cancer diagnosis requires not just the latest treatments, therapies, and clinical trials but also trust, comfort, and a deep connection that comes from truly understanding you—because at Franciscan Health, we believe in the power of supporting women. Whether you have a vision to help others or need extra support in your fi ght, we have a history of helping women fi nd their strength.

World-class cancer care, led by women—at Franciscan Health.

Franciscan Health Cancer Center Indianapolis

FACE OF

1st row (L-R): Tobi Reidy, DO, FACS, FASCRS; Meghana Raghavendra, MD; Jaime Ranieri, MD, FACS; Jessica Gillespie, MD

2nd row (L-R): Morgan Dally, MS, CGC, LGC; Sandra Okoli, MD; Tina Ayeni, MD; Jamie Murphy, MD; Erika Rager, MD, MPH

cott Bates Custom Homes is a small boutique building company, constructing only a handful of homes per year in order to off er you the personal attention your home deserves. This attention to detail is what sets us apart from the others.

As a home building veteran of 20-plus years in Indianapolis, Scott is personally involved in every job from start to fi nish. We have a great team and an organized process to support you throughout the build that fosters communication and makes the project fun!

Your custom home is one of the most personal investments of your lifetime. The team at Scott Bates Custom Homes takes the trust you place in us seriously and will work hard every day to ensure that you love the fi nished product.

A P E R F E C T PERFECT10

Big Ten Tournaments generate big fun in Indianapolis.

By Amy Mallett

Ready to hoop it up? The 2025 TIAA Big Ten Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments bounce into Indianapolis this month, and fans can’t wait.

The women’s games tip off at Gainbridge Fieldhouse March 5 and run through March 9. The men’s tournament is scheduled for the following week, March 12-16.

“Indianapolis was purposely built to host these large-scale events,” says Sam Reel, manager of marketing and communications for Indiana Sports Corp. “With our walkable downtown, connected infrastructure, hundreds of restaurants and premier facilities, event organizers like the Big Ten can come to Indy and have everything that they need within a few blocks.”

Here are all the details you need to know about the action taking place on and off the court, as well as a little bit of history about the conference itself.

Big Ten Background

The Big Ten’s Midwestern roots run deep, dating back to 1895 when then-Purdue president James H. Smart and leaders from other regional universities met in Chicago to discuss the idea of creating a set of principles

to guide a college sports organization factoring in both athletics and academics. The Intercollegiate Conference Athletic Association incorporated in 1905, informally becoming known as the “Big Ten” in 1917 and finally making the name change official in 1987.

“The Big Ten Conference is the oldest Division I college athletics conference in the United States,” says a spokesperson for the organization. “The Big Ten Conference leads all conferences with 9.4 million alumni and nearly 823,000 students. On the international stage, nearly 2,000 Big Ten competitors have participated in the Olympics, winning more than 600 medals. All Big Ten member institutions were represented at the 2024 Summer Games, competing for 64 nations in 17 sports.”

“The 2025 tournaments are the first Big Ten events to feature a 15-team field following the additions of the University of Oregon, UCLA, USC, and the University of Washington this summer.”

Since its early days with seven initial member schools, the conference has shifted and evolved many times. “Big Ten” is actually something of a misnomer these days, as schools have joined and departed the conference through the years—recent additions have actually brought the current total number of member schools up to 18. The conference goes way above and beyond basketball to sponsor 28 official men’s and women’s college sports, and the broad-based programs of its member institutions provide direct financial support for more than 14,000 student-athletes.

“The 2025 tournaments are the first Big Ten events to feature a 15-team field following the additions of the University of Oregon, UCLA, USC, and the University of Washington this summer,” Reel mentions.

A Love Affair With Indy

While thoughts of the Indianapolis sports scene usually call auto racing to mind first, Big Ten tournaments are certainly no stranger to the Circle City.

“Indy’s central location, proven track record in hosting major events, and vibrant downtown campus have made the city a frequent host for Big Ten Championships across multiple sports,” says Clare Clark, senior communications manager for Visit Indy. “With an emphasis on sports tourism, community partners, hotels, and attractions [team up] to create a memorable visitor and athlete experience that is customized

for each event. From our climatecontrolled, connected hotels to visitors arriving at the No. 1 airport in North America, Indy continues to prove why it’s the ultimate host city.”

According to Indiana Sports Corp statistics, Indianapolis has hosted the TIAA Big Ten Women’s Basketball Tournament 27 times, the TIAA Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament 14 times, and the Discover Big Ten Football Championship every year since its inception in 2011.

All told, the 2025 men’s and women’s basketball tournaments are expected to draw crowds of 35,000 attendees each, generating a combined total of $28 million in economic impact for the city. The women’s basketball tournament plans to remain in Indianapolis next year as well, with the men’s basketball tournament returning in 2027 after a commitment to spend 2026 in Chicago.

“The City of Indianapolis has long been an outstanding host for Big Ten tournaments and championships, providing exciting postseason opportunities for our student athletes, coaches, and fans, both locally and from across the country,” the Big Ten spokesperson shares. “The city’s experience hosting large-scale events coupled with the connectedness and walkability of its downtown arena, stadium, hotels, and restaurants make it the perfect location for

THE THRILL OF VICTORY Indianapolis hosted the Big Ten basketball tournaments in 2022, filling Gainbridge Fieldhouse with enthusiasm.

PHOTOS BY TONY VALAINIS

PROTEIN TO HELP REBUILD & RECOVER

our men’s and women’s basketball tournaments, and we look forward to partnering with them and the Indiana Sports Corp again this year.”

Indy has also hosted plenty of other Big Ten tournaments, championships, and events in a variety of sports from outdoor track and field, swimming and diving, and football to golf, soccer, rowing, and wrestling, and it has already been confirmed as the site of the Discover Big Ten Football Championship annually through 2028.

“We competed with other markets to win hosting duties for [the Big Ten men’s and women’s basketball tournaments] this year and the future years that we were awarded,” Reel explains. “The bid process for these events is very competitive and is only becoming increasingly so as more cities look to host.”

Reel says good old-fashioned Hoosier hospitality helps give Indy an edge.

“It’s more than a catchphrase; it’s a real factor in elevating an event,” he continues. “Rights holders know that when they select Indianapolis, a dedicated volunteer base will be there

to support them, they’ll be welcomed by local businesses who want to engage with their event, and the team of local organizers led by Indiana Sports Corp will do all that we can to make

“Any day or session that you choose to go to, you’ll see some of the best collegiate basketball in the country.”

sure their event is not only a success but will be taken to new heights.”

Game On!

Although the teams playing in the 2025 tournaments won’t be determined until the conclusion of the regular season, the schedule of games

is already in place and available to view online at bigten.org. No matter who’s playing, Reel guarantees an exciting fan experience.

“The Big Ten has some of the top-rated teams and players in the country on both the men’s and women’s sides,” he says. “Any day or session that you choose to go to, you’ll see some of the best collegiate basketball in the country.”

The Indiana Sports Corp team begins working with the Big Ten Conference and community partners a year or more in advance of the event dates to exceed expectations and pull off a seamless execution of plans for everyone involved.

“Hosting the Big Ten Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments is another testament to Indy’s love for hoops and Hoosier hysteria, especially as we welcome the first 15-team tournament in the expanded Big Ten,” Clark adds. “Over 29 days this spring, we’ll host 43 games across the Big Ten tournaments, Horizon League Championships, NCAA regionals, and the National Invitation Tournament

and Women’s Basketball Invitation Tournament. With those games come fans, many experiencing downtown Indy for the first time and taking in everything the city has to offer.”

While You’re Here…

Beyond the Big Ten games themselves, Indianapolis offers a wealth of sporty fun for all ages to round out a visit.

“Thousands of fans travel to Indianapolis for these Big Ten events and will stay at our hotels, eat at our restaurants, and inject energy into our downtown,” Reel says. “It’s a chance to show the country what makes Indianapolis a special place.”

In between the games, visitors will want to make time to check out some of Indy’s most beloved attractions.

“The Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is a great way to celebrate the city’s rich sports history in a fun, interactive way,” Clark says. “Opening for the season

in mid-March, it perfectly aligns with the excitement of the tournaments and gives visitors an opportunity to play on kid-sized Indiana Fever and Indiana Pacer basketball courts.”

Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2025, the Children’s Museum will dress its larger-than-life outdoor dinosaur mascots in March Madness gear and will also debut a 110-foot Ferris wheel outside the Sports Legends Experience on March 15.

Located adjacent to Gainbridge Fieldhouse, the recently unveiled $30 million Bicentennial Unity Plaza is sure to be abuzz with fan-centric activations all throughout the month of March. Also downtown, the new Tom’s Watch Bar maintains a dizzying array of 135 screens to keep track of all the games at once, along with a tasty menu of elevated bar food like jumbo wings, deep-dish nachos, mac and cheese topped with butter-poached lobster and shrimp, and a signature prime rib French dip sandwich. Meanwhile, the Hangar makes a great spot for a watch party or a pregame tailgate with

indoor golf simulators, HandleBar pedal pub tours, and a DIY crafting bar.

Indy’s wide range of hotels offers an expansive choice of accommodations where guests can rest up and rejuvenate during some downtime.

“Many downtown properties have recently undergone renovations, including the historic Omni Severin Hotel and the JW Marriott,” Clark says. “We’ll soon welcome an InterContinental right off Monument Circle, adding a luxury hotel to our downtown core. With more than 7,500 hotel rooms downtown, visitors have plenty of options just steps away from Gainbridge Fieldhouse.”

Ticket information

Tickets for the 2025 TIAA Big Ten Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments are on sale now at ticketmaster.com with VIP hospitality packages available through Indiana Sports Corp. For more information, visit bigten.org

INDIANA 2025

THE ANNUAL LIST OF TOP ATTORNEYS

Contract & Commercial Law | Entrepreneurship & Small Business

Business Litigation & Dispute Resolution | Employment & Labor

BJ Brinkerhoff

Top 50: 2025

Super Lawyers Honoree: 2019-2025

Rising Stars Honoree: 2014, 2018

Kimberly D. Jeselskis

Top 25 Women: 2019, 2022-2025

Top 50: 2023-2025

Super Lawyers Honoree: 2015-2025

Rising Stars Honoree: 2011-2013

Hannah Kaufman Joseph

Top 25 Women: 2023-2025

Top 50: 2023-2025

Super Lawyers Honoree: 2018-2025

Rising Stars Honoree: 2013-2017

Recognized Leaders in Indiana Family Law

Beth A. Barnes

Amy E. Hidgon

Michael R. Kohlhaas

At Cross Glazier Reed Burroughs, PC, our attorneys combine a passion for family law with the experience, sensitivity and insight necessary to guide you through your family-related legal challenges. The attorneys of Cross Glazier Reed Burroughs, PC, devote their entire practice to family law. Our experienced attorneys help individuals, families and business owners through relationship transitions of all types. We have earned a reputation throughout Indiana as distinguished family law attorneys.

Among our attorneys are Fellows of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Certified Family Law Specialists – Family Law Certification Board, registered family law mediators and attorneys trained in the practice of collaborative law. We have the knowledge, experience and compassion to help resolve your family law matters while also minimizing the stress inevitably involved in such matters.

Lana Lennington Pendoski

LAWYERS HONOREE

Natalie Marie Snyder

LAWYERS HONOREE Jane Daet

Kathryn Hillebrands Burroughs

Nancy L. Cross

LAWYERS HONOREE

Mark A. Glazier

LAWYERS HONOREE

James A. Reed

LAWYERS HONOREE

Nancy L. Cross INDIANA

Kathryn Hillebrands Burroughs

Mark A. Glazier

INDIANA

Kathryn Hillebrands Burroughs

Nancy L. Cross

INDIANA

SELECTION PROCESS

The objective is to create a credible, comprehensive and diverse listing of outstanding attorneys that can be used as a resource for attorneys and consumers searching for legal counsel. We limit the lawyer ratings to those who can be hired and retained by the public, i.e., lawyers in private practice and Legal Aid attorneys.

The Super Lawyers selection process involves the steps outlined in the graphic (at right).

Avery, Melissa J.

Bell, Tina M.

Bishop, MaryEllen K.

Burroughs, Kathryn Hillebrands

Caruso, Deborah J.

Cassman, Stephanie L.

Christensen, Margaret M.

Cox, Dina M.

Cross, Nancy L.

DeLaney, Kathleen A.

Geyer, Rebecca W.

Gibson, Brandi A.

Goldenberg Schuman, Jill

TOP 25 WOMEN

Greene, Betsy K.

Hahn, Stephanie Jane

Hanefeld, Stacy L.

Jeselskis, Kimberly D.

Johnson, Kelley

Kaufman Joseph, Hannah

McKinnon, Patricia L.

Morical, Alice M.

Ricafort, Nissa M.

Schaefer, Paula J.

Smith, Deborah Farmer

Toops, Lynn A.

TOP 50

2025 INDIANA SUPER LAWYERS

TOP 10

BABB, BRYAN H.

CROSS, NANCY L.

DEETS, NICK

GEYER, REBECCA W.

GREENE, BETSY K.

MALEY, JOHN R.

SOSHNICK, ANDREW Z.

TRIMBLE, JOHN C.

TURNER, WAYNE C.

WININGHAM, JR., WILLIAM E.

Ardery, Samuel R.

Avery, Melissa J.

Babb, Bryan H.

Bell, Tina M.

Bishop, MaryEllen K.

Brinkerhoff, William

Burroughs, Kathryn Hillebrands

Caruso, Deborah J.

Cassman, Ryan H.

Cassman, Stephanie L.

Christensen, Margaret M.

Christie, Lee C.

Cox, Dina M.

Craig, David W.

Cross, Nancy L.

Daly, Jr., John P.

Deets, Nick

Dignam, Robert J.

Garau, Jerry A.

Geyer, Rebecca W.

Glazier, Mark A.

Goldenberg Schuman, Jill

Greene, Betsy K.

Hanefeld, Stacy L.

Hewitt, Brian C.

Jensen, Travis N.

Jeselskis, Kimberly D.

Johnson, Kelley

Kaufman Joseph, Hannah

Kehoe, D. Bruce

Ladendorf, Mark C.

Langer, Steven L.

Levin, Irwin B.

Maley, John R.

Patterson, Tony

Reese, Jason R. Ricafort, Nissa M.

Rooth, Barry D. Sarkovics, Rodney T.

Schroeder, Pete Soshnick, Andrew Z.

Trimble, John C.

Turner, Wayne C.

Van Winkle, Travis A.

Vinovich, Daniel B. Voyles, Jr., James H.

Wagner, Stephen Winingham, Jr., William E.

Young, James H. Zoeller, Brian K.

INDIANA

RISING STARS

BY PRIMARY AREA OF PRACTICE

ANTITRUST LITIGATION

SUPER LAWYERS

ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION

SUPER LAWYERS

Millard, Kendall APPELLATE

SUPER LAWYERS

Page, Denise

RISING STARS

Moseley, Alexander

AVIATION AND AEROSPACE

SUPER LAWYERS

BANKING

SUPER LAWYERS

Rudolph, Ross

Schroeder, Pete

RISING STARS Carter, Whitney

BANKRUPTCY: BUSINESS

SUPER LAWYERS

RISING STARS

BANKRUPTCY: CONSUMER

SUPER LAWYERS

RISING STARS

BUSINESS LITIGATION

SUPER LAWYERS

Oliver, Scott

Rose, Sara

Hodson, Samuel

Kight, Andrew

Means, Harley

Steinkamp, John

Brinkerhoff, William

RISING STARS

Bohney, Nicholas

Carr, Evan

Dickson, Candace

B. TOO KELLER KELLER MACALUSO LLC www.kellermacaluso.com

Korin, Offer

Herceg, Manny

McCoskey, Monica

McMiller, Emanuel

Mills, Adam

Reichard, Alejandra

Tanner, Spencer

Thomas, Brett

Wilson Pantos, Alexandra

Zacher, Adam

BUSINESS/CORPORATE

SUPER LAWYERS

Hagenow, Christopher

Gordon, Kristine

Macaluso, Matt

MATT MACALUSO KELLER MACALUSO LLC

www.kellermacaluso.com

Wormser, Barry

RISING

Bognanno, Nicholas

Brinegar, Kole

Cartwright, William

Casey, Kris

Lobermann, Heather Rhetts, Joe

Richert, Charles

Semsarieh, Neda

Wilson, Brett

CIVIL

Raman, Barath

Juerling, Katelyn

Kleber, Rebecca

RISING STARS

Brown, Sarah

Cavanaugh, Corban

David, Lynsey Fishers

McGinley, Barry

Hagerty, Brandais

Heeb, Ryan

Jones, Tyler

Niblick, Charles

Rasey, Taylor

Roncevic, Ashley

Sommers, Betsy

Vrabel, Sarah

CIVIL LITIGATION: PLAINTIFF

SUPER LAWYERS

Lammers, Steven

Tabor, Jeffrey

RISING STARS

Bower, Blake

Dissett, Taryn

Lyons, Mackenzie

Naum, Nicholas

Orner, Blake

Schneider, Jared

Zimmerman, Kayla

CLASS ACTION/MASS TORTS

SUPER LAWYERS

RISING STARS

Thomas, Amina

CLOSELY HELD BUSINESS

SUPER LAWYERS

Kaufman Joseph, Hannah

L-R: Lainie A. Hurwitz*†, Carey Haley, Michael G. Ruppert*†, Paula J. Schaefer*†, Lauren E. Harpold**

CONSTRUCTION LITIGATION

SUPER LAWYERS

Kennedy, Jay

RISING STARS

Drewry, Christopher

Karns, Timothy

Schmitt, Elizabeth

RISING STARS

Kraft, Jeff McKinney, Kristin A.

Norris, Evan

Romney, Byrin

CONSUMER LAW

RISING STARS

Keller, Duran

CREDITOR DEBTOR RIGHTS

SUPER LAWYERS

Fowler, Sarah

LAW OFFICE OF JESSIE A.

Eskew, Christopher

Frederick, Bill

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

SUPER LAWYERS

Hixson, Timothy

Brower, Adam

Chambers, Julie BRYAN L. COOK

BRYAN L. COOK, ATTORNEY AT LAW www.attorneybryancook.com

Moudy, Joshua Ruemmele, Jane

JESSIE A. COOK

COOK

Tolliver, Terry

Vaiana, Frederick Wiley, Max

Eklund, Ashley

Fouts, Peter Harris, Grey

Harwell, Jonathan

RISING STARS

Bailey, Jenna

Benitez, Naun

Campbell, Michael

Cunningham, Mike

Swinney, Josiah

Whalin, Trampas

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: DUI/DWI

SUPER LAWYERS

Lopez, Marc

CRIMINAL DEFENSE: WHITE COLLAR

SUPER LAWYERS

RISING STARS

Hughes, Alyssa

Massey, Eric

E-DISCOVERY

SUPER LAWYERS

Biederman, Ray

ELDER LAW

SUPER LAWYERS

www.clairelewis.net

RISING STARS

Holwager, Mark

EMINENT DOMAIN

SUPER LAWYERS

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

SUPER LAWYERS

INDIANA TOP 10 RANKED #3

SUPER LAWYERS

RISING STARS

Ernst, Kayla

Sterling, Ryan

Strickland, James

Williamson, Aaron

EMPLOYMENT LITIGATION: PLAINTIFF

SUPER LAWYERS

RISING STARS

Roberson, Elizabeth

Roberts, Kevin

Wright,

EMPLOYMENT LITIGATION: DEFENSE

SUPER LAWYERS

Kult, Gregory

Poor, Ryan

Joey

INDIANA TOP 25 WOMEN

Cleveland, Jason

RISING STARS

Dudas, Amy

SUPER LAWYERS

RISING STARS

Hitchcock, Jennifer SUPER LAWYERS

Fulk, Jason

ENVIRONMENTAL

SUPER LAWYERS

Braun, Christopher

Gahl, Nicholas

Lorbieski, Michele

Padgett, Greg

CURTIS E. SHIRLEY LAW OFFICE OF CURTIS E. SHIRLEY, LLC www.shirleylaw.net ROBERT W. YORK www.york-law.com

RISING STARS Licari, Michael SUPER

RISING STARS

Berg, Amy

Kulam, Zakariah

Lipinski, Arie

Sokolowski, Tommy

ENVIRONMENTAL LITIGATION

SUPER LAWYERS

WILLIAM J. DALE, JR.

www.daleeke.com

DIANE HUBBARD KENNEDY DIANE HUBBARD KENNEDY, ATTORNEY AT LAW

Fishers

Ten Eyck, Peter

PETER TEN EYCK HACKMAN HULETT LLP www.hhlaw-in.com

RISING STARS Ahler, Jacob

Ali, Tara Bryant, Autumn EMPLOYMENT

JASON S. GRAY Andersongraylaw.com

Howard, Victoria Nichols, Micah

Pauker, Robyn

Terrell, Grace

FAMILY LAW

SUPER LAWYERS

Andrews, Julie

Bruggenschmidt, Lindsey

KATHRYN HILLEBRANDS BURROUGHS CROSS GLAZIER REED BURROUGHS, PC

www.cgrblaw.com

JOAN E. CHAMPAGNE WHITE AND CHAMPAGNE

www.whiteandchampagne.com

NANCY L. CROSS CROSS GLAZIER REED BURROUGHS, PC

www.cgrblaw.com

Dixon, Julie Douglas, Christine

Emswiller, Claire

MARK A. GLAZIER CROSS GLAZIER REED BURROUGHS, PC www.cgrblaw.com

Goldenberg Schuman, Jill

Haymaker, Shelley Hester, Judy

Innovative Solutions to Complex Challenges

Will Gooden and Kristin McKinney serve construction and lakefront property owner clients and understand the players and issues unique to the construction industry and to lakefront property rights and disputes. Will is also

mediator with over 20 years of successfully resolving cases for fellow lawyers and their clients.

PRACTICE AREAS

Construction Law & Litigation of Construction Project Disputes, Payment Claims, Mechanic’s Liens, Bond Claims, Delay & Defect Claims, Real Estate, Lakefront Property and Riparian Rights Law & Litigation, including Lake Access Easements and Pier/Dock Location Disputes

(317) 637-1321 |

L-R: William W. “Will” Gooden, Attorney and Mediator, Super Lawyers Honoree 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025

Kristin A. McKinney, Attorney, Rising Stars Honoree 2024, 2025

AMY E. HIGDON CROSS GLAZIER REED BURROUGHS, PC www.cgrblaw.com Hollingsworth, Kena

Rabiola, Tara

Fishers

Kaufman, Wendy

JILLIAN C. KEATING KEATING LEGAL, LLC www.Keating-legal.com

López Aguilera, Vanessa

Lowe, Brian

LANA LENNINGTON PENDOSKI CROSS GLAZIER REED BURROUGHS, PC www.cgrblaw.com Ponist, Rachelle

ROBERT E. SHIVE www.ewnc-law.com

N. SCOTT SMITH SMITH LEGAL LLC www.scottsmithlegal.com

NATALIE MARIE SNYDER CROSS GLAZIER REED BURROUGHS, PC www.cgrblaw.com

RISING STARS Abdelhak Barker, Yasmin

Bartelt, Andy

Black, Renee Brunson, Rachel Daet, Jane

Derringer, Lavonna

Elswerky, Romy

Highsaw, LaToya Jarrett, Tonisha

Kapela, Kristy Martinez, Alexandra

McAtee, Nicole McCoy, Tiffany Penman, Jennifer

Phillips, Zach Pitcher, Sara

Roberts, Thomas

Fishers

White, DawnMarie

Chesterton

Stevens, Anthony

FOOD AND DRUGS

SUPER LAWYERS

RISING STARS

FRANCHISE/DEALERSHIP

SUPER LAWYERS

GENERAL LITIGATION

SUPER LAWYERS

Barber, Steve

Meyer, Tammy

RISING STARS

Clark, Jason

Lobermann, Bernard

GOVERNMENT FINANCE

SUPER LAWYERS

RISING STARS

Frissell, Scott

HEALTH CARE

SUPER LAWYERS

RISING STARS

Benson, Joel

Bitner, Douglass

Hilton, Roxanne

Mazyck, Shamika

Steuerwald, Erika

Warner, Andrew

SUPER LAWYERS

www.adamsimmigration.com

Flora, Jason

RISING STARS

Estrada, Alfredo

Panyard Holton, Lacy

Rosenberger, Katie

Sahi, Komal

www.adamsimmigration.com

INSURANCE COVERAGE

SUPER LAWYERS

Downham, Jordan

Furminger, Jeffrey

Moreillon, Shane

Peluchette, Neil

Wright, Casey

Miller, David

RISING STARS

Lee, Corben

Obszanski, Paul

MILITARY/VETERANS LAW

SUPER LAWYERS

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LITIGATION

SUPER LAWYERS

Bereveskos, Spiro

Carter, Trevor

NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

RISING STARS

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: DEFENSE

SUPER LAWYERS

RISING STARS

Abel, Edmund

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

SUPER LAWYERS

RISING STARS

Etienne, Mike

AFFAIRS

RISING STARS

Box, Lauren

SUPER LAWYERS

Huelat, Jerry

RISING STARS

RISING STARS

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

SUPER LAWYERS

Baker, Nick

Gladish, David Green, R.T.

Patterson, Tony

Bigler, Matt

Hassler, Mark Hawley, Richard

Reichert, Eddie

Hum, Houston

Schultz, Fred

Karres, Katherine

SAM D. KRAHULIK KRAHULIK INJURY COUNSEL

www.krahulikinjury.com

Kramer, Jack

Devereux, Timothy

Ebbs, Theresa

THERESA EBBS

www.glaserebbs.com

Ladendorf, Lance

Lee, Nathaniel

Townsend, Carol

Van Ostrand, Amy AMY VAN OSTRAND www.roweandhamilton.com

Wagner, Stephen

Ward, Charles TESS A. WHITE WHITE AND CHAMPAGNE www.whiteandchampagne.com , Wilson Kehoe

Worland, Lance

RISING STARS

Barth, James

Bowen, Kevin

Coker, Whitney

Craig Stevens, Samantha

Gore, Daniel

Green, Collin

Kotter, Jacob

Langer, Robert

Lawrence, Kyle

Lohmeier, Bradley

Midla, Patrick

Noyes, Jon

Piscione, Katie

Sarkisian, Katherine

Singleton, David

Smith, Jesse

Tate, Brandon

Trueblood, Alex

Tufts, Phil

Tuley, Aaron

Walker Swafford, Laura

RISING STARS Kus, Alan Minke, Lauren

PERSONAL INJURY MEDICAL MALPRACTICE: PLAINTIFF

SUPER LAWYERS

Zipes, Tyler

PERSONAL INJURY MEDICAL MALPRACTICE: DEFENSE

SUPER LAWYERS

Deets, Nick

Burchett, Michelle

Johnson, Kelley

Knotts, Elizabeth

Powless, Jeff

PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY: DEFENSE

SUPER LAWYERS

Spandau, Benjamin

RISING STARS , Wilson Kehoe

Kuhn, Justin

Popejoy, Lindsay

Seib, Autumn

PERSONAL INJURY PRODUCTS: DEFENSE

SUPER LAWYERS

Olmstead, Patrick

PATRICK OLMSTEAD

PATRICK OLMSTEAD LAW LLC

www.patrickolmsteadlaw.com

REAL ESTATE

SUPER LAWYERS

SUPER LAWYERS

RISING STARS

Lawson, Chandler Fishers

RISING STARS

SECURITIES LITIGATION

SUPER LAWYERS

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY

SUPER LAWYERS

Smith, Ted

O’Bryan, Rory

Reddick, Marci

RISING STARS

Hasic, Eldin

PERSONAL INJURY PRODUCTS: PLAINTIFF

SUPER LAWYERS

Chapman, Neil

Mulligan V, Edward

RISING STARS

Bowman, Alex

Farrington, Drew

RISING STARS

Marks, Ashley SUPER LAWYERS

laportelegal.com/shaw-r-friedman

www.btbhlaw.com

Mundrick, Keith

SUPER LAWYERS

Camden, Julie

SUPER LAWYERS TRANSPORTATION/MARITIME

CHRISTOPHER M. BARRY

magna cum laude

JOHN B. BISHOP

MARYELLEN K. BISHOP

ANDREA L. CIOBANU

WHITNEY COKER

LLC

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

DAVID W. CRAIG

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

LLC The Best Lawyers in America Semitruck Wreck: A Guide for Victims and Their Families

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

BRYAN L. COOK The New York Times, Newsweek USA Today CRIMINAL DEFENSE

SAMANTHA CRAIG STEVENS

LLC

R. CRAIG

LLC

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

STEVEN M. CRELL

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

SCOTT A. FAULTLESS

ENRIQUE S. FLORES

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

LLC The Best Lawyers in America

ALEXANDER

magna cum laude

THERESA EBBS

STEVEN J. GLAZIER

REAL ESTATE

JILL GOLDENBERG SCHUMAN

FAMILY LAW

KELLEY JOHNSON

PERSONAL INJURY MEDICAL MALPRACTICE: PLAINTIFF

GENERAL LITIGATION

JOHN F. KAUTZMAN The Best Lawyers in America,

J. KELLEY II

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

ROBERT D. KING, JR.

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

summa cum laude

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

SAM D. KRAHULIK

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

WILLIAM

JACOB KOTTER

PAUL S. KRUSE

KRYSTEN M. LEFAVOUR LLC

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION

SIDNEY MICHELLE LEWELLEN LLC

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

ELDER LAW

CLAIRE E. LEWIS Laws of Aging

VANESSA LÓPEZ AGUILERA

FAMILY LAW

FAMILY LAW

L. MCKINNON

JOHN M. MCLAUGHLIN

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

WESTON E. OVERTURF

CREDITOR DEBTOR RIGHTS

TERRY KAISER PARK

PERSONAL INJURY MEDICAL MALPRACTICE: PLAINTIFF

PATTERSON

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

PATRICIA

TONY

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

A. SHARTZER

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

DEBORAH FARMER SMITH

FAMILY LAW

FAMILY LAW

C. TISCH

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

FAMILY LAW

PERSONAL INJURY GENERAL: PLAINTIFF

ROBERT W. YORK

TIMOTHY A. ROWE

JASON

N. SCOTT SMITH

ANDREW Z. SOSHNICK

STARKEY

BRYAN

Photo by TONY VALAINIS

Max & Tilly’s Bakewell tart (p. 142)

V Vegetarian friendly

$ Under $20 Named one of IM’s Best Restaurants in 2024 New addition to the guide

$$$$ $50 and up

$$$ $30–$40

$$ $20–$30

Restaurants included in this guide are selected at the discretion of the Indianapolis Monthly editorial staff based on food quality, innovation, atmosphere, service, value, and consistency. IM does not accept advertising or other compensation in exchange for dining coverage. Price symbols indicate the average cost of a meal per person (without tax, tip, or alcohol). Due to limited space, this list does not cover every evaluated restaurant. For a more comprehensive guide to Indianapolis dining, visit IndianapolisMonthly.com/Dining Feedback? Please email ebatey@IndianapolisMonthly.com

9th Street Bistro

BR 2024 SEASONAL Co-owners Samir and Rachel Firestone Mohammad’s tiny innovator is almost always packed by fans eager for the duo’s globally inspired Midwestern dishes. In response, the pair has created a community dinner series to allow even more patrons to sample their takes on the local farmstead ingredients that inspire their dishes. Mussels in aromatic broth, house-made burrata with of-the-moment garnishes, and pasta with shrimp and lemony cream sauce still anchor the menu, but it’s better to let the creative duo keep you guessing. 56 S. 9th St., Noblesville, 317-7745065, 9thstbistro.com V $$$

Abyssinia

ETHIOPIAN This spot—where diners use a spongy sour flatbread known as injera in lieu of utensils—provides a thorough introduction to Ethiopian cuisine. Aficionados of East African food will be impressed by the seasoning of the stewed lamb, beef, and spicy chicken; vegans and vegetarians will appreciate their greens, lentils, and chickpeas. 352 W. 38th St., 299-0608, abyssiniaindy.com V $$

Ali’i Poke

POKE Follow the IU and Purdue students to this delightfully fresh fast-food spot just off the now-separate schools’ Indianapolis campuses. The scooped-to-order poke bowls have a rice base (sticky or brown) over which customers layer their protein of choice (chicken or tofu are also on offer) and a rainbow of add-ons. Fresh mango, edamame, avocado, pickled ginger, seaweed salad, and unagi sauce are just a few of the available toppings. Go wild ladling them on, or get the Hawaiian Style with just rice and fish. Multiple locations, aliipoke.com V $$

Anthony’s Chophouse

STEAKHOUSE The interior of this swanky heavy hitter along Carmel’s Main Street has the polished gleam of a new Vegas hotel, with an upper-level lounge containing the salvaged mahogany bar from The Glass Chimney, another fine dining legend. The food has equal flourish. Lobster bisque with

a hunk of tempura-fried meat begins a meal that might include a cowgirl ribeye, a flight of filets, or a domestic wagyu burger. Take note—the steak menu also lists a spinalis. You may never eat another steak this perfect. Black-suited and professional servers, an impressive wine list, and well-composed cocktails keep the high-dollar meal running smoothly. 201 W. Main St., Carmel, 317740-0900, anthonyschophouse.com $$$$

Aroma Experience

INDIAN Vinita Singh’s portfolio of restaurants expanded in March 2024, when she brought a new location of her Aroma mini-chain of restaurants to Carmel City Center. Those who enjoy her Aroma Indian Cuisine and Bar spots in Fountain Square and SoBro will find plenty to like in this glitzy, date-night venue. The other locations’ daily dinner menus of Northern Indian dishes such as tikka masala and Kerala-style curry are on offer, as are ambitious entrees including a lehsuni prawn dish that plays notably with Aroma’s coconut and cashew naan. (There’s also a chili garlic naan so engaging that one could enjoy it unaccompanied.) Lunch, which is served daily, is a more concise affair of bowls, rolls, and wraps. There’s also a full bar and some standout, homemade ice cream–based desserts. Multiple locations, aromaindy.com V$$$

Ash & Elm Cider Co.

CIDERY Ash & Elm’s array of complex and quaffable ciders gets broader all the time, with funky cocktails demonstrating a flavor profile well beyond sweet apples in the vibrant tasting room at the former Ford Assembly Plant on Washington Street. The food pairs beautifully with the drinks, from the now legendary elote fritters made with Indiana corn and cilantro crema to the crispy fried Brussels sprouts flavored with cider vinaigrette. A thick-cut Cuban and an Italian hoagie with all the meats are great choices among sandwiches, though the pimento cheeseburger with pickled green tomato is hard to beat. But more uptown offerings, such as ricotta gnocchi with seasonal garnishes or a lunchtime bulgogi noodle bowl, showcase how cider brings out the flavors in world cuisines as deliciously as fine wines. 1301 E. Washington St., 317-600-3164; 525 North End Dr., Carmel, 317-740-1991; ashandelmcider.com V $$$

Athens on 86th

GREEK Whether you select a large chicken gyro or the kota psiti—a roasted chicken with green beans and Greek potatoes—add an order of the fries, served here with feta, Mediterranean spices, and Greek dressing. Their gyro pizza is a fun marriage of the craveable classics, and it’s hard to argue with their multiple takes on the classic Greek salad. For the hungry, indecisive, or just plain adventurous, the sampler platter gathers nearly everything in the expansive menu onto one plate. 2284 W. 86th St., 317-879-8644, athenson86th.com V $$

Auberge

FRENCH Brick Street Inn’s classic French bistro installed talented chef Toby Moreno (of The Loft at Traders Point Creamery and Plow & Anchor) in early 2022 and immediately sent him to Paris, where he trained in the kitchens of famed chef Alain Ducasse.

Moreno has added that continental know-how to the vintage dishes he makes fresh with as much local produce, meats, and cheeses as he can. That translates to an impressive plate of buttery escargot topped with croutons, seasonal salads, and a deeply flavorful French onion soup with a rich broth. Seafood shines among the entrees, especially crispy-skinned roasted cod, though diver scallops with asparagus puree showered with herbs and toasted almonds also impress. 175 S. Main St., Zionsville, 317733-8755, auberge-restaurant.com $$$$

Baan Thai Bistro

THAI Roxanna Williams’ cozy Thai eatery, which she opened in a former house and hair salon in late spring of 2023, is a welcome addition to Wanamaker’s dining offerings, bringing aromatic flavors and artful presentations to dishes like the lightly breaded and fried Son-in-Law Eggs (Kai Look Keuy), which is drizzled with earthy-sweet tamarind sauce, and generous summer rolls that come with a trio of tangy dipping sauces. Less expected starters to split include rich and flavorful Isan Thai Sausage with just the right amount of spice, served with a not-too-hot dipping sauce and a darling bamboo basket of sticky rice; a Crispy Rice Salad that crackles and pops; and airy steamed dumplings. Hearty Boat Noodle Soup and Crispy Pork Belly Ramen with a light mushroom-scented broth are good bets for main dishes, as are the kicky Crying Tiger Steak and more typical curries and noodle dishes. Adventurous diners will want to try one of three fish dishes redolent of ginger and basil, and a sumptuous mix of whole chicken drumsticks and sweet curry noodles makes for a comforting supper. 8705 Southeastern Ave., 317-759-8424, baanthaibistro .com V $$

Bearded Bagel

DELI Food truck veteran Tom Race opened this brick-and-mortar bagel deli on Indy’s northeast side in late 2021, featuring his signature steamed bagel sandwiches with dozens of topping combinations. Breakfast versions, such as the Slammin Sammy with bacon, egg, and American cheese or the Hangover Helper with spicy cream cheese, bacon, egg, and three slices of cheese are a no-brainer. But whimsical tributes to fast-food favorites, such as the R-Bee’s with roast beef and extra cheddar, are great lunch choices. Vegetarians can opt for the Urban Farmer with “all the veggies,” avocado, and cheese, and traditionalists can sink into a cream cheese–schmeared bagel with lox, tomato, capers, onions, and cucumbers. Puffy cinnamon rolls, biscuits and gravy, and loaded tater tots complete the menu, along with a short list of cookies and brownies. 7305 E. 96th St., 317-516-5938, beardedbagel.com V$$

Beholder

BR 2024 CONTEMPORARY You never know what to expect from restaurateur Jonathan Brooks’ Windsor Park kitchen, aside from one of the most innovative and wellexecuted meals in town. The menu is difficult to track, mainly because Brooks builds his dishes around seasonal ingredients that are fresh and of-the-moment. Impeccable servers will guide you through the evening’s offerings, which start small at the top of the menu (fresh

oysters, perhaps, or pork rinds with kimchi and chicken liver mousse) and bulk up toward the bottom (think wild boar Bolognese or a massive pork Wellington portioned for two). Finish with the most exotic flavor of house-made ice cream. 1844 E. 10th St., 317-419-3471, beholderindy.com V $$$$

Bluebeard

BR 2024 CONTEMPORARY Tom and Ed Battista’s charming little restaurant has led the charge in getting Indy’s dining scene on the national radar. A perennial nominee for the James Beard Awards with mentions in outlets such as The New York Times and Bon Appétit, Bluebeard—which takes its name from one of native son Kurt Vonnegut’s novels—still delivers on the hype. The menu has settled into a comfortable groove, starting with shareable small plates such as house-frizzled chips and French onion dip, gourmet bar nuts, and grilled bread from sibling bakery Amelia’s served with a flight of slatherings. A plate-spanning Faroe Island salmon, beef-and-pork Bolognese, and other larger entrees make for a nice, lingering dinner accompanied by ambitious cocktails in a dining room decorated with shelves of books and Vonnegut-era typewriters. 653 Virginia Ave., 317-686-1580, bluebeardindy .com V $$$

Bodhi Craft Bar + Thai Bistro

BR 2024 THAI This Mass Ave restaurant serves a small, focused menu of Thai dishes like massaman curry with braised beef and Bodhi’s own version of pad thai. Cocktails get a lot of attention on a drinks list designed by beverage director Dalton Lineback. 922 Massachusetts Ave., 317-941-6595, bodhi-indy .com V $$$

Bonge’s Tavern

AMERICAN Opened in the 1930s near the rush of the White River and purchased by Charles Bonge a little over 10 years later, Bonge’s Tavern has been a part of Indiana dining history for more than 90 years. In the fall of 2023, Burgess Restaurant Group purchased it and installed Dean Sample as executive chef. The centerpiece of the menu is still the signature tenderloin, appropriately named the Perkinsville Pork. Other favorites include a stuffed duck breast and a fresh fish entree. Chef Sample inflects his own ideas into the menu, with a Southern influence. It’s worth the risk to order whatever delightful special he adds to the menu. Make sure to grab a reservation long before you plan to go—they go quick—and arrive early enough to tailgate in the parking lot with other diners, a Bonge’s tradition worth keeping. 9830 W. 280 N, Perkinsville, 765-734-1625, bongestavern.com $$$

Borage

BR 2024 ALL-DAY CAFE Josh Kline and Zoë Taylor’s long-awaited all-day cafe, dinner spot, and market took years longer to open than they expected when they chose its Speedway site. Some even despaired that the couple in business and life—who met while toiling in the kitchen at Milktooth— might never see their dream realized. But suddenly last summer, Borage threw its doors open, and all worries vanished. Every menu lineup, from breakfast to dinner and everything in between, is a collage of standby ingredients,

such as polenta or milk bread, reimagined into well-portioned small plates that will fill your table. Mussels float in kimchiflecked coconut broth alongside a meatloaf sandwich made with brisket and bacon. Every aspect of the restaurant, its bakery, and the attached retail space feels thought-through and intentional. Borage was worth the wait. 1609 N. Lynhurst Dr., 317-734-3958, borageeats.com V $$

Che Chori

MAIN COURSE

Beholder chef Jonathan Brooks is on the short list for the James Beard Awards best chef honor. This is the third time he’s gotten a Beards nod, as he was also a contender for his work at Milktooth in 2016 and 2017. Also named was Bluebeard, with a semifinal slot in the hospitality category.

ARGENTINEAN The focus of the menu at this colorful drivethru is a selection of traditional butterflied-sausage sandwiches and warm empanadas filled with seasoned meats. Make sure to pick up the house-made dulce de leche, which is sold by the jar, as well as their churros and specialty Argentinian shortbread cookies. And don’t overlook the cook-at-home sausages, from Spanish-style chorizo to Argentinean black sausage. 3124 W. 16th St., 317-737-2012, chechori.com $$

Cheeky Bastards

BR 2024

ENGLISH Co-owners Michael Rypel and chef Robert Carmack fell in love with British culture and cuisine during travels abroad. Their Geist restaurant is a true tribute to the food, serving not only a classic full English breakfast and sausage rolls made with imported meat but also a very convincing fish and chips featuring crispy planks and hand-cut potatoes. Don’t forget to ask for the malt vinegar or the HP Sauce for the full UK experience. 11210 Fall Creek Rd., 317-288-9739, cbindy.com $$

Chin Brothers

BURMESE One of the oldest Burmese restaurants in town, this brightly lit and friendly spot attached to a large, well-stocked market serves as a cultural center for immigrants from the Chin state of Myanmar. Invigorating refreshers such as sweet tea with condensed milk and a cane syrup beverage with puffed rice offer a colorful taste of Burmese culture. Fried rice and soups are solid standards here, as well as luscious and tender curried goat. Their Lahpet Thohk salad, made with fermented tea leaves, greens, and spices, may be one of the best in the region. 2320 E. Stop 11 Rd., 317-888-1850, chinbrothers.com V $$

Chopped Cheese Boys

DELI New York’s beloved bodega snack is the eponymous specialty at this no-frills Irvington convenience store and takeout deli. True to form, well-seasoned ground beef gets chopped on a sizzling flattop, then pressed into a sub sandwich roll, and finally topped with plenty of gooey cheese and mayo, which makes for a rich and flavorful mashup of the smashburger and a Philly cheesesteak. But be sure to dip into the eye-popping menu of wings, chicken tenders, fried fish, and—another Big Apple food cart favorite—chicken over rice (tender grilled chicken breast meat with a signature white sauce slathered over rice) with falafel. 1520 N. Arlington Ave., 317-377-4951 V $$$

Commission Row

BR 2024 FINE DINING

This glossy spot from Indy’s near-ubiquitous Cunningham Restaurant Group is just steps from Gainbridge Fieldhouse, and it reflects its neighbor’s baller vibes with a three-figure seafood tower, caviar service, and an eight-steak menu (which offers add-ons such as foie gras and lobster tail). Sure, you can play small with its excellent burger or sizable salads, but if you do, you’ll be missing the point. Appropriately, its wine list leads with bubbles by the glass or bottle, while its cocktail list boasts eight takes on a classic martini. 110 S. Delaware St., 317-550-2500, commissionrow.com

$$$$

Convivio

ITALIAN With a menu that traces the geographical regions in Italy, this is not your average red-sauce joint. The pasta, including curled nests of black squid ink spaghetti and purple beet-infused fettuccine, are all made in-house. The torchietti pasta, tossed with dried figs, black olives, basil, goat cheese, and parmesan, has been known to induce deep cravings in the weeks after eating, and the frutti di mare packs a generous serving of mussels, clams, shrimp, scallops, and calamari with tonnarelli pasta in a spicy and bright tomato sauce. Beyond pasta, the menu offers Neapolitan-style pizzas served blistered and hot from the imported Italian pizza oven, rotating regional specials, and an easy-to-navigate, Italian-heavy wine list that makes picking a bottle for the table a pleasure. 11529 Spring Mill Rd., Carmel, 317-564-4670, convivioindy.com $$$

A Cup of Chai

TEAHOUSE Punjab native Pravy Nijjar’s cozy, funky teahouse, which opened in July of 2023 on a secluded section of Shelby Street in Fountain Square, offers a true taste of Indianstyle chai with several different spice profiles. For the genuine article, go for the masala chai, a dairy-forward drink that features ginger, cardamom, fennel, and cloves, equally good hot or iced. Pair that with one of Nijjar’s street food–inspired snacks, such as golden, aromatic samosas or tasty kati rolls (tender paratha stuffed with spiced chicken, paneer, or potatoes). Coffee drinkers can get an espresso or cappuccino, and those avoiding caffeine can go for a spice-infused golden latte, mango lassi, or minty pineapple lemonade. 1028 Shelby St., 317-998-4463, acupofchai.us $

Fernando’s

Mexican & Brazilian Cuisine

BR 2024 LATIN AMERICAN

A subtle name change in the last year, owing to a legal request from the international fast-food chain Nando’s, has done nothing to diminish the spirit and vibrant flavors of this Broad Ripple restaurant featuring the cuisines of Mexico and Brazil. Enjoying a flight of fruit-infused caipirinhas and a plate of crisp, savory chicken croquettes on Fernando’s spacious sheltered patio is still a warm-weather delight, and dishes

SMALL BITE

like feijoada with fall-apart-tender pork and rich stewed black beans, as well as chicken stroganoff and a delectable Brazilian take on the homey pot pie, remain hearty staples that are hard to find elsewhere. Fare such as queso fundido and arroz con pollo more than hold their own against the best, and refreshing desserts such as an ultra-creamy flan and Brazilian-style guava cheesecake are worth saving a few bites of your entrees to make room for. 834 E. 64th St., 317-377-4779, fernandosindy.com $$$

Gather 22

BR 2024 CONTEMPORARY This colorfully cozy all-day hangout and cocktail spot in Fall Creek Place from Byrne’s Grilled Pizza owners Adam Reinstrom and Pablo Gonzalez draws on Reinstrom’s love of interior design and Gonzalez’s background in innovative mixology. Vibrant wall fixtures by creators such as Bootleg Signs & Murals and revolving works by locals from the LGBTQ art community provide a funky backdrop for sipping seasonal elixirs; salads include a wedge with smoked blue cheese and roasted-poblano ranch. Byrne’s original pizzas, cracker-thin and charred, are on offer, as are thicker-crusted Roman-style oval pies with well-chosen toppings. Fresh takes on shareable plates include crispy-skinned salmon with kale and quinoa and intriguing scallop sliders with Asian-style slaw. On Sundays, the brunch menu features classics such as egg dishes and French toast. There are also breakfast pizzas such as the Chilaquiles, a thin crust topped with chorizo, salsa, eggs, and fried tortillas. Coffee drinks and a solid sandwich list anchor the daytime menu, and desserts feature a luxe take on the Hoosier classic sugar cream pie. 22 E. 22nd St., 317-258-2222, gather22.com $$

Julieta Taco Shop

BR 2024 MEXICAN Gabriel Sañudo and Esteban Rosas’ taco shop in the Stutz Building shows the pair’s skill and fine dining experience in little details such as the marinades for meats, tortillas handcrafted from heirloom corn varieties, and surprisingly flavorful vegetarian options. Their tender grilled or braised meats are excellent but the signature taco al pastor is the star. 1060 N. Capitol Ave. $$

King Dough

Love Handle

SANDWICHES Daily lunch and brunch features such as schnitzel and waffles and a pulledchicken Hot Brown are the main draw at Chris and Ally Benedyk’s cheeky sandwich shop. The chalkboard menu (which is also updated online) also offers side options in the form of braised greens and potato salad with roasted tomatoes. Fridays often see a fish special, and weekends are a chef’s playground of eggy experiments, satisfying hashes, and sweet sides. 877 Massachusetts Ave., 317-384-1102 $$

Maialina Italian Kitchen + Bar

ITALIAN Straw-wrapped chianti bottles, wooden cross-back chairs, and family photos give a throwback trattoria feel to this addition to the city’s Italian scene. Meatballs from a family recipe with a solid house marinara are always a good choice. Pastas range from a straightforward toss of rigatoni with sausage and broccoli rabe to a rich, three-meat Bolognese lavished atop plump gnocchi. 1103 Prospect St., 317-982-7676, maialinaindy.com V $$$$

Max & Tilly’s

NEW

BRITISH A traditional UK-style chip shop from the owner of Tilly’s Tea Room, Max & Tilly’s serves traditional pub classics such as cock-a-leekie soup and mushy peas alongside house-baked scones, spotted dick, and Bakewell tarts. It’s the fried offerings that transport you to a cozy mystery mindset, especially the Filthy Fries with hot shredded roast beef and, of course, the golden planks of beer-battered cod over hand-cut chips. 8701 E. 116th Street, Fishers, maxandtillys.com $$

Milktooth

FRESH AS A…

Newly opened in the Factory Arts District, Daisy Bar is the latest business from the family behind longstanding Mexican restaurant La Margarita. Owner Jon Carlos Rangel has been testing its menu of comfort foods at La Marg since 2016, where the braised short rib brings down the house.

BR 2024 PIZZA This industrialfeeling pizza spot began as a student-friendly Bloomington destination in 2014; now it’s a local mini-chain with three locations. The huge wood-burning pizza oven (it’s named Thunder Dome) is the first thing diners see when they enter the space, and the open kitchen feels like a grown-up version of the exhibition pizzerias so popular in the 1980s. But this is present-day pizza, bubbly and charred, with seasonal toppings such as truffles and imported Taleggio cheese. Multiple locations, kingdoughpizzas.com V $$

BR 2024 BRUNCH This airy diner-style cafe has a playfully gritty vibe and a menu that changes with both the seasons and the whims of its chef. The early morning counter service featuring pastries and coffee gives way to a full-service brunch and lunch menu—if they’re serving a Dutch baby pancake, get it. Daytime craft cocktails are also on offer, pairing well with a rotating selection of substantial savory offerings such as latkes, sandwiches, and salads. 534 Virginia Ave., 317-986-5131, milktoothindy.com V $$

Mr. Patakon

COLOMBIAN The name of Diana Moreno and Brenda Sánchez’s cheerful, authentic southside Colombian eatery comes from the popular Latin and South American dish patacones— flattened, fried plantains filled with everything from shredded barbecue chicken criollo to cheese, corn, and shredded beef. Or try the Super Perro hot dog, which is topped with every meat in the kitchen, quail eggs, and a special house sauce. Mazorcada (heaps of sweet corn topped with meats, cheeses, and potato sticks) is a delectable side dish. Fruit drinks and desserts, especially obleas (wafer cookies filled with

dulce de leche and cheese), are worth the extra calories for a flavor experience like no other in the city. 7415 U.S. 31, 317-692-9829, mrpatakon .com $$

Negrill Jamaican Restaurant and Bar JAMAICAN You’ll need to come early to this spirited island spot if you want to score some of the day’s tender, rich oxtail stew or aromatic curried goat, served up in “lickle” (little) or larger portions dressed with rice and peas, steamed cabbage, and sweet fried plantains. Jerk chicken has just the right heat. Beef patties, fried or “escovitch” fish garnished with tangy veggies, and soups, depending on the day, round out the menu. 3701 W. 10th St., 317-602-8553, negrillrestaurant.com $$

Nowhere Special

COCKTAIL BITES Dan Cage’s funky cocktail lounge and small bites spot is far from its all-too-modest name. Sleek banquettes in earthy greens and brushed brass tabletops provide an elegant backdrop to classic pours and a host of new elixirs created by the talented bar staff. Try the light and fruity Love Island with passion fruit liqueur, tangy citrus cordial, and bubbles. 608 Massachusetts Ave., nowhereindy.com $$

Oakleys Bistro

CONTEMPORARY The meticulously plated fare at Steven Oakley’s eatery hails from a culinary era when sprigs of herbs and puddles of purees provided the flavor, and every single element on the plate served a purpose. The presentations are wild, with menu descriptions giving little more than clues as to what might arrive at the table. Heads-up on anything that appears in quotes, such as a creative “Coq au Vin.” 1464 W. 86th St., 317-824-1231, oakleysbistro.com V $$$

Our Table

CONTEMPORARY The location is suitably cozy and out of the way for Bargersville’s newest fine dining destination. Chef and owner Joe Miller focuses on gorgeous, rustic plates of steak, seafood, and Old World lasagna made with fresh pasta and generous layers of beef Bolognese, mozzarella, and creamy ricotta. The brioche sliders (containing buttermilk fried chicken or beef tenderloin with crispy onions and horseradish creme fraiche) are little bites of heaven. 5080 State Rd. 135, Bargersville, 317-847-4920, ourtablerestaurant.com V $$$

Revery

CONTEMPORARY This Old Greenwood bistro inside an 1800s-era drugstore offers approachable fine dining, with a more casual bar on the historic building’s back end. Small plates have included beets with whipped goat cheese and wasabi, while entrees are seasonal and skew toward seafood, with lobster, halibut, and mussels on recent menus. Whiskey drinks get priority on the cocktail menu, and their old fashioned feels fresh and new. 299 W. Main St., Greenwood, 317-2154164, reveryrestaurantgroup.com V $$$

Richard’s Brick Oven Pizza

PIZZA When husband-and-wife team Richard Goss and Meg Jones first fired up their restaurant’s massive brick oven in 2009, chain pizza ruled the Central Indiana landscape,

SMALL BITE

either delivered within 30 minutes or served in a cavernous room with a singing, mechanical rodent. Franklin was a risky place to launch their vision of high-quality Neapolitan pizza made with fresh, often local ingredients— but the gamble paid off, and 15 years later, it’s become a destination for diners. Pastas, custom calzoni, and lasagna round out the menu. 229 S. Main St., Franklin, 317-738-3300, richardskitchen.com V $$$

Rusted Silo

BARBECUE Nestled between I-74 and the railroad tracks in Lizton, you’ll find this barbecue joint with only six indoor tables and a line out the door. Pitmaster Robert Ecker smokes, cooks, and even bakes some of the best Southern-style pit barbecue, sides, and desserts in Indiana. Grab a beer from one of the floor-to-ceiling coolers just inside the door and get ready to make your way down the menu. If you can’t decide between the perfectly seasoned, pink-tinged shredded pork butt or a slice of the fork-tender brisket, go ahead and get both and try them with one (or all) of the four house-made sauces on deck. On the side? The ranch beans are creamy and wellseasoned, and the three-cheese mac is made from scratch. The cheese grits may be the star, though; sourced in Kentucky and ground at Weisenberger Mill, it leaves other restaurants’ grits in the dust. Where other barbecue joints might phone in their desserts with frozen pies and canned fruit, Rusted Silo dishes up homemade bourbon pecan pie, peach cobbler, and a notably rich banana pudding. 411 N. State St., Lizton, 317-9946145, rustedsilobrewhouse.com $$

St. Elmo Steak House

with two styles of pepperoni, kicky Italian sausage, dollops of ricotta, and a drizzle of spicy honey. Slightly thinner and larger Sicilian pies occasionally appear on the menu, so snag one if you can, especially the sausage-topped High Plains Drifter that garnered second place at Las Vegas’ Pizza Expo. Cheesy garlic bread made with Miner’s pizza dough and garlic knots slathered in butter are also available, but it’s best to save room for the main attraction. Carryout is available, but dining in is always a good time. 2829 E. 10th St., samssquarepie.com V $$$

Shadow Lounge

WINDERMERE WONDER

SOUL FOOD After a major renovation, the former Marco’s Restaurant and Lounge has been transformed into a rollicking dining destination. Chef Tia Wilson, late of wing spot Chicken Scratch, is in the kitchen, serving Southern and soul-infused dishes such as lamb lollipops, Cajun penne, and garlic-parmesan wings. The cocktails are strong, the music is loud, and while dinner is delightful, brunch is the real scene. 2380 E. 54th St., 317-974-9288, shadowloungeindy.com

Nestled inside Windermere Center, Hannah’s Bar N’ Grill has been attracting attention for its Indian breakfast menu, affordable lunch buffet, and huge menu of dinner options (including a list of flavored naan). Heat lovers should check out the Peri Peri menu of dishes made with the tangy Southern Africa pepper.

BR 2024 STEAKHOUSE Since 1902, this stately house of red meat has served as the unofficial ambassador of downtown Indianapolis—the walls carry decades’ worth of celebrity photos, the burnished bar hearkens to an earlier era, and the servers remain starched and bow-tied. The drill remains the same, as well: a generous martini or bottle from its vast and lauded wine list, a shrimp cocktail with that notoriously hot cocktail sauce, the bean soup or tomato juice, the wedge, and one of the well-aged, gorgeously marbled and completely legendary steaks. 127 S. Illinois St., 317-635-0636, stelmos.com

$$$

Sam’s Square Pie

BR 2024 PIZZA Detroit-style pizza obsessive Jeff Miner’s pop-up pie shop now has a permanent home on Indy’s near east side, giving followers and newcomers easy access to his square-cut pizzas. Just don’t expect a long list of available toppings or side options like salads and wings. This spot is a single-minded homage to pan-baked pizzas with a signature crown of well-browned cheese around the edges of the chewy, sturdy crust. Topping combos include the signature El Jefe

$$$

Shapiro’s Delicatessen DELI Slide your tray along and take your pick of kosher comfort foods at this familyowned downtown institution. Hot pastrami and corned beef sandwiches on rye have drawn long lines for more than a century. The Reuben is a contender for the city’s best, and heartier fare such as potato pancakes, stuffed cabbage, and matzo ball soup are perennially satisfying standbys. If you don’t load up on a massive slice of cheesecake or pie, you haven’t really had the proper Shapiro’s experience. 808 S. Meridian St., 317-631-4041, shapiros.com $$

Shiba Pho

VIETNAMESE Deep bowls of the namesake aromatic noodle soup get top billing at this no-frills Brownsburg spot, which also makes a special vegetarian broth for the plant-based. Starters such as spring rolls and dumplings set the tone, while deep-fried wings (served with three sauces) are standouts even in our chickenrich region. Don’t miss the Chef’s Specials or the sensibly stuffed banh mi sandwiches, served on fresh baguettes. 578 W. Northfield Dr., Brownsburg, 317-286-7018, shibapho.net $$

Siam Square

THAI Soothing red and green curries—redolent of coconut milk, Thai chili paste, and fresh veggies—play strictly by the book. The same goes for the fresh shrimp-and-chicken spring rolls packed inside a filament of rice paper, as well as the refreshing Som Tum salad, which is big enough for two. Made with crisp papaya and peanuts, then funkified with a generous pour of fish sauce, it’s the ideal start to any meal. 936 Virginia Ave., 317-636-8424, siamsquareindy.com V $$

Sidedoor Bagel

BRUNCH Appropriately dense and chewy with that required crackly sheen, the hand-rolled sourdough rings at Josh and Emily Greeson’s walk-up bagel shop are the stars of the show. Flaky salt, everything, sesame, and poppy are all solid standbys. Order yours sliced and schmeared at the counter, then score an outdoor table or head back home (it’s carryout only). 1103 E. 10th St., sidedoorbagel.com V $$

Tinker Street

BR 2024 NEW AMERICAN Diners are in for a delightful treat at this cozy, detailoriented restaurant where the open kitchen almost feels like part of the dining room. The menu changes with the seasons, but the soup is always something lush and vegan, the Duck & Dumplings (featuring duck confit and truffled dumplings) sells out fast, and the person who orders the pork chop will be the most envied diner at the table. The cocktails are delicate, the wine list well-curated, and its bar staff ready to offer mocktails. Don’t skip dessert, especially if it involves a scoop of ice cream. While Tinker Street sets aside some tables for walk-in diners, reservations are available online and are a good idea Thursday through Sunday. 402 E. 16th St., 317-925-5000, tinkerstreetrestaurant.com V $$$

Vicino

BR 2024 ITALIAN More than filling Mass Ave’s pasta needs, this modern, colorful trattoria from the owners of The Oakmont measures up to some of the best Italian spots anywhere in the city. Pastas are rotating and seasonal, as is a menu of substantial mains. A solid wine and craft cocktail list rounds the experience out nicely. 350 Massachusetts Ave., 317-798-2492, vicinoindy.com V $$

Wisanggeni Pawon

BR 2024 INDONESIAN The talents of chefs Bambang Wisanggeni and Putri Pratiwi make dining at Wisanggeni Pawon a superb experience. The husband-andwife duo presents the complex, spice-forward dishes of their homeland, as well as some hibachi favorites drawn from their experience at nearby Japanese restaurants. Split a platter of martabak telor, a hearty beef omelet encased in crispy wonton skin, or share some steamed Indonesian dumplings with a rich peanut sauce. The signature beef rendang also stands out. Save room for the ube spring rolls dessert. 2450 E. 71st St., 317-756-9477, wpawon.com V $$

INDIANAPOLIS MONTHLY (ISSN 0899-0328) is published monthly ($24 for 12 issues) at 8909 Purdue Rd., Suite 130, Indianapolis, IN 46268. Copyright © 2025 Cincinnati Media, LLC, a subsidiary of Hour Media, LLC, 5750 New King Dr., Ste. 100, Troy, MI 48098. The Indianapolis Magazine. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph, or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Opinions in the magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent management views. The magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. For subscription orders, address changes or renewals, write to INDIANAPOLIS MONTHLY, 1965 E. Avis Dr., Madison Heights, MI 48071, or call 1-888-6606847. Periodicals postage paid at Indianapolis, Indiana, and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Please send forms 3579 to INDIANAPOLIS MONTHLY, 1965 E. Avis Dr., Madison Heights, MI 48071. If the Postal Service alerts us that your magazine is undeliverable, we have no further obligation unless we receive a corrected address within one year.

SMALL BITE

Crown Hill Waiting Station

FOR DECADES, A UNIQUE EDIFICE SERVED AS A WELCOMING SPOT TO PAUSE BEFORE PROCEEDING TO A LOVED ONE’S FINAL RESTING PLACE. BY CHRISTINA VERCELLETTO

THE LIMESTONE South Gothic Gate dominates Crown Hill Cemetery’s 34th Street entrance, but if you look to the right, you’ll see a stone-trimmed brick structure with a bell tower. It was designed by Indianapolis architect Adolf Scherrer as the gatekeeper’s residence and office. A superb example of high Victorian Gothic style, it was finished just in time for the funeral cortege of Vice President Thomas Hendricks on November 30, 1885. The interior is rich in intricately carved oak and cherry woodwork. Pictured is the “ladies waiting room.” Its wooden Venetian blinds were among the first installed in the country, and it is believed the windows were placed high by design to afford grieving women privacy. The fireplace, like the other four in the building, has a Rookwood ceramic tile surround handmade in Cincinnati. The portraits of Ezra Reed Butler and his wife Rebecca, buried less than a year apart in Section 1, were painted by George Peter

Alexander Healey in 1868. In a time when automobiles were rare, people took a streetcar to the cemetery, walking along a tree-lined lane known as Westfield Gravel Road (now Illinois Street) to the entrance. They often waited in the office for funeral processions to arrive, especially in poor weather, where they warmed or dried themselves by a crackling fire. Long before Find a Grave, visitors also had to wait while plot locations were looked up so they could be escorted to the site. As Crown Hill’s reputation for its beauty and its roster of notables interred grew, the office became a rendezvous point for folks from all over the country. Hence, the name “waiting station” took hold. After a new administration building was dedicated in 1969, talk swirled of demolishing the waiting station. The fledgling Indiana Landmarks, a nonprofit started by Eli Lilly, saved it, completing an extensive restoration in 1971. Today, it’s the home of the Crown Hill Foundation.