Fishers Magazine July 2018

JULY 2018

MAGAZINE

Fishers Firefighters, Brandon Anderson & Thomas Crafton, Overcome Life-changing Injuries & Inspire Others

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TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. FISHERS MAGAZINE

29

PUBLISHER Tom Britt

Tom@TownePost.com / 317-496-3599

PRESIDENT Jeanne Britt

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ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Robert Turk

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CREATIVE DIRECTOR Austin Vance

ADVERTISING DESIGNER Valerie Randall

EDITORIAL MANAGER Josh Brown

Josh@TownePost.com

JULY WRITERS

NEVER QUIT: FISHERS FIREFIGHTERS, BRANDON ANDERSON & THOMAS CRAFTON, OVERCOME LIFECHANGING INJURIES & INSPIRE OTHERS

When tragedy strikes in life, one can either give in to feelings of despair and hopelessness or try to make something positive result from it. Brandon Anderson of the Fishers Fire Department chose the latter when tragedy occurred in his own life.

6 Jumping In: Local Couple Launches 29 Never Quit: Fishers Firefighters, Knockerball Fishers For All Ages

10 Keeping it Simple: The Roost

Has Been Serving Up Delicious Breakfast For More Than 20 Years

12 Built to Last: Fishers Do-It Center

Remains Customer-Focused & Community Driven 30 Years Later

Brandon Anderson & Thomas Crafton, Overcome Life-changing Injuries & Inspire Others

33 Investing In The Future: New Youth Mentoring Initiative Executive Director, Alison Gatz, Talks Goals, Impact of Mentorship

onner Prairie, Ritz Charles 16 Opportunities for Positive Growth: 35 CCommit $3M to Transform Chinese Local Organization Celebrates 20 Years of Service & Support

House Into Premier Events Space

18 Main Street Poké: Popular

39 Student In Action: FHS Club Is

22 5 Reasons to Head to

42 Arts Crawl Coming to Downtown

Hawaiian Cuisine Makes Its Way to the North Side Conner Prairie This Summer

Headed to National Competition In D.C.

Jocelyn Vare / Jon Shoulders Josh Brown / Julie Young / Matt Keating Seth Johnson / Shelly Bergman Suzanne Huntzinger

JULY PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brian Brosmer / Jamie Sangar Josh Brown / Holly Simmons at Holly Lea Photography / Mark Bell / Ron Wise

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHTS ARE SPONSORED CONTENT

The Fishers Magazine is published by Towne Post Network, Inc. and is written for and by Fishers area residents. Submit story ideas via email to the Publisher. Magazines are distributed via direct mail to more than 16,131 Fishers area homeowners and residents each month.

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC.

P.O. Box 36097, Indianapolis, IN 46236 Phone/Fax: 317-810-0011

Fishers July 13

25 Welcome Back: Colts Coach Frank 46 Fishers Events ReichTalksFaith,HoosierRoots&Grand Park Sports Campus

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atFishers.com TownePost.com

Owners, Dena and Eric Laverty.

Jumping In Local Couple Launches Knockerball Fishers For All Ages Writer / Jon Shoulders Photographer / Ron Wise

Last summer Dena Laverty took her daughters on a trip to Arkansas to visit Harding University, her alma mater, in hopes that they would benefit from a new, out-of-town experience. Much to her surprise, Laverty herself saw something new during the visit that inspired her to take a new career path.

One of the afternoon campus events for the children of visiting Harding alumni was a group activity called Knockerball, in which each individual puts on an inflated sphere with inner handles and shoulder straps that cover the head, upper body and a portion of the legs. Participants are then able to collide into each other harmlessly, as well as jump, flip, fall, roll and dive during structured games or simple knock-around sessions.

“My husband Eric and I had been looking for a small business that we could start up,” Laverty says. “I’d never seen anything like it, and found out that Knockerball has gotten popular in some areas around the country.

I showed him some pictures and told him that we needed to look into it.”

The Lavertys officially launched Knockerball Fishers late last summer after researching the concept upon Dena’s return from the trip to Arkansas and have since brought their product to children’s birthday parties, church groups and fall festivals. The verdict so far? Lots of laughs, and plenty of bouncing, bumping and boisterousness.

“I’d say at almost every event we’ve done people have a good time and they’re always laughing,” Laverty says. “It’s pretty funny to watch. Basically anyone who’s interested in having Knockerball for their event 6 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / JULY 2018 / atFishers.com

can contact us, and we come out to your event with the equipment and take care of everything.”

Laverty offers two inflatable ball sizes for participants – a smaller ball for five- to sixyear-olds and a larger size for anyone over approximately five feet tall. She hopes to expand next summer and offer mini-balls for two- to five-year-olds, for birthday parties and other special occasions.

“We like that it’s an active event, especially for kids because a lot of times kids like to sit around with video games and things like that,” she says. “It’s something that really gets people moving – they’re panting afterward and saying how much of a great time they had.”

Originally created in Norway and referred to as bubble football, the concept started

gaining traction in the U.S. four years ago.

Structured leagues have been forming throughout Europe, Australia, and Japan as well as the U.S., and the first bubble football World Cup will take place in England this May. Laverty says her Knockerball participants must sign waiver forms before suiting up for the fun, and she and Eric are always onsite to conduct games and make sure their Knockerball events are running safely and smoothly. Knockerball games include soccer as well as sumo wrestling and even bowling, where participants act as both the ball and the pins.

“It’s not all that structured, but if we do something like a private party then we will run some games,” she says. “We did a girls birthday party in December and did a rolling game which they liked, and we’ve done some soccer and different types of games that are hilarious to participate in and hilarious to watch. When we do a festival or

305 S. Main Street, Fortville, Indiana | (317) 747-4775 | www.305WineGarage.com atFishers.com / JULY 2018 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / 7

a fair it’s less structured, and folks just get suited up and see what it’s like, and run into each other.”

A Valparaiso native, Laverty currently focuses her professional energies on the Knockerball business full-time with help from Eric, who works as an engineer in Carmel. The couple hopes to increase their Knockerball presence in schools and for corporate and other private events in the coming year, both in Fishers and throughout Central Indiana.

“I’ve done some direct sales with Mary Kay in the past, and I’d say that background has helped me with launching this business,” Laverty says. “I get things booked and get things going, and my husband’s kind of the muscle – he moves the balls and inflates them for me, and then does the events with me. We’re having fun.”

Visit knockerballfishers.com for additional information, pricing, FAQs, videos and more.

8 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / JULY 2018 / atFishers.com

INTERNATIONAL INVESTIGATORS: ALL IN INVESTIGATIONS 7007 Graham Rd. Indianapolis, IN 46220 (317) 925-1496 iiiweb.net

Writer / Julie Young Photographer / Mark Bell

Geist resident Brenda McGinley says the field of private investigation looks nothing like it does on TV. There are no clandestine meetings with clients in dark seedy locations.

There are no questionable methodologies or techniques that could endanger her clients or the agents out in the field.

“I’m a finder of facts,” she says. “It is vital to provide our clients with verified and accurate information so they can make their own lifechanging decisions.”

As the CEO and Director of Operations for International Investigators, McGinley CEO, Brenda McGinley may be based in Indiana, but she has clients across the country and around the world. Her team works with top law firms, fortune 500 companies, high profile and private sector move on, McGinley stepped up to take over, clients who simply want to know the truth. merging it with a new investigative agency, All In Investigators in 2017.

Her firm offers a one-stop shop for all her clients’ investigative needs, whether it is “I have 20 years experience in management surveillance, asset searches, custody issues, and I joined International Investigators in domestic cases, technical countermeasure 1999 as an employee but was promoted sweeps (TSCM), spyware issues or computer to the director of operations in 2001,” she extractions to find any encrypted, hidden says. “We pride ourselves on incorporating or deleted data a client may need. The three the latest technologies into the investigative biggest questions we get are: Is my spouse process while preserving our ‘gumshoe’ faithful? Are our employees stealing? Is my reputation. That’s very important to me. As privacy secure? technology has evolved, as have our methods of investigation.”

Two former FBI agents began International Investigators in 1960 as a private, full-service McGinley says most of her clients are company staffed with trained sleuths and referred to her through their attorneys or researchers. In 1970, they sold the company other clients who have been pleased with which continued operations for the next her work. In fact, one of the more high47 years. When the owner was ready to profile cases she is currently working on atFishers.com / JULY 2018 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / 9

involves a sexual harassment allegation out of Hollywood. While she is not at liberty to give out any specifics about the case, she was quick to point out that it did not involve Harvey Weinstein.

“In most cases, we are hired to validate a claim or discredit it,” she says. “We do not leak information about a client or a case, and what is discussed in our office stays in our office. That has been the key to our success and how we have stayed in business for so long. We may not be the only investigative company around, but I do believe we are one of the best in the country.”

International Investigators is located at 7007 Graham Road Suite110 in Indianapolis. You can visit them online at iiiweb.net or call 317-925-1496.

KEEPING IT SIMPLE THE ROOST HAS BEEN SERVING UP DELICIOUS BREAKFAST FOR MORE THAN 20 YEARS Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Mark Bell

“Keep it simple.”

deciding to go eat. We want you to think of The Roost or any of the other Sahm’s Restaurants as one of the three or four places that pop in to your head when you are selecting a place to eat.”

That’s a motto that has led to several years of success for The Roost, located at 7371 East The Roost first opened in 1996, and Sahm 116th Street. says he still has customers who have been with him since the beginning.

“We offer good food that is consistent in its quality,” says Ed Sahm, CEO/president “We have really been able to get people who of Sahm’s Companies. “The Roost has would drive 20-30 miles to visit us at The remained popular because we keep things Roost,” Sahm says. “They would come as far easy and simple. We have a wide selection as Elwood and Anderson, Indiana, because of items to choose from, we have excellent they loved the food and the family feeling. service, and it’s all at a decent price.”

We have had a lot of regulars who have really Customers have responded to Sahm’s business philosophy.

“I just feed people,” Sahm says from his brand new restaurant at Sahm’s Ale House, 12819 New Market Street, West Clay Village, Carmel. “I don’t want you have to think too much about where you are

been loyal to us for decades. They keep coming back and tell us they will be with us for a long time. We also have people who like going to all of the Sahm’s locations.”

Sahm says that Sahm’s restaurants open in neighborhoods instead of hot spots where other dining establishments have already set up shop.

10 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / JULY 2018 / atFishers.com

“To me, it doesn’t make sense to open a restaurant in a place like Mass Avenue or another location where you have such a wide choice of places to eat,” Sahm says.

“We go to underserved areas. We open in residential neighborhoods where people don’t have to drive very far to get to us. We choose good local spots in Central Indiana, such as Fishers and Carmel that are really close to homes. We have had a long history of picking good locations.”

Sahm has several north side locations at Big Lug Country Pub in Pendleton, Sahm’s at Pendleton, Rockstone in Fishers, Sahm’s Restaurant in Fishers, Sahm’s Bar & Grill in Fishers and Sahm’s at Parkwood. The West Clay Village location opened in February.

Sahm’s also has multiple midtown and downtown locations.

“Guests have told us they like knowing what they are going to get,” Sahm says. “We offer local and fresh food that is popular among

the whole family. We make our breads, biscuits and soups from scratch each day.

Nothing is frozen. We really want people to know that. Our biscuits and gravy are really great, but that’s just one option. There are so many to choose from.”

The Roost’s house specialities are numerous. They include multiple choices of pancakes, including Peanut Butter Cup Pancakes with whipped butter cream, Hot Sweet Cinnamon Pancakes and Granola Pecan Crunch, among others.

A wide variety of omelettes, eggs and other breakfast items are served all day at The Roost. Lunch is served from 10:30-3 p.m.

The Roost’s “Smashin Burgers” include The Clint Eastwood with BBQ sauce, bacon, cheddar, mozzarella and fried onion rings and The Bomb with homemade meatloaf, mozzarella, shredded Romaine and cilantro chipotle sauce. Several different sandwiches, soups and salads are also available.

Sahm doesn’t have a particular favorite, but does love their steaks, chops and salads.

“I have a lot of regulars who keep coming back to order their favorites like the pork tenderloin, or the biscuits and gravy,” he says. “Some people love the waffles, or our club sandwiches, which are also popular. People respond to the freshness and to the fact that we keep everything at a reasonable price.”

Sahm is excited about the new Sahm’s Ale House in Carmel’s West Clay, which he coowns with his son, Eddie and Brewmaster Scott Ellis.

“We are once again getting into a great neighborhood setting,” Sahm says. “We are in the same spot where The Lit Moose used to be. We have made a lot of changes through remodeling, and we have added a lot more seating. I think the residents here are going to love it, and once again, we will keep it simple.”

The Roost is located at 7371 East 116th Street. You can give them a call at 317-842-3735 or visit them online at theroostfishers.com. atFishers.com / JULY 2018 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / 11

Co-owners Bert Cook and Gray Tweedy.

BUILT TO LAST FISHERS DO-IT CENTER REMAINS CUSTOMER-FOCUSED & COMMUNITY DRIVEN 30 YEARS LATER Writer / Suzanne Huntzinger Photography provided by Josh Brown & Fishers Do-It Center

You’re knee-deep in the middle of a home improvement project and you run out of nails. Driving 10 or 15 minutes to the nearest big box hardware store probably doesn’t sound too appealing. Thank goodness for your neighborhood Fishers Do-it Center.

Since 1989, Bert Cook, Gray Tweedy and their staff have been helping Fishers neighbors with do-it-yourself projects of all types and sizes. In the beginning, just Bert and Jack Tweedy, were holding down the fort. Jack’s son, Gray, left his banking job and joined the fun just a few months later.

Bert and Jack were connected via Do it Best.

Jack was the owner of the family lumber yard business in Knightstown and Carthage, looking to open a hardware store. Bert was hoping to pursue his dream of opening his own hardware store. Do it Best was looking for the perfect opportunity to open a prototype store in Fishers. When the Do it Best District Manager connected the two, Tweedy and Cook turned Fishers Do-it Center into an amazing partnership for each other and Fishers. The pair met for breakfast and forged the deal that marked the start of a perfect partnership that lasted all the way until just prior to Jack’s passing.

“We agreed to it with a handshake, as you would with family,” says Cook, co-owner of Fishers Do-it Center.

12 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / JULY 2018 / atFishers.com

When Tweedy and Cook opened the store, Fishers’ population was just under 6,000.

Just as Fishers grew, the Do-it Center grew with it.

“Sunblest had just been started. We watched it grow around us,” Cook says. “Most of the growth started in the western part of Fishers, and we were ushering in growth to the eastern part of Fishers. It really blossomed, and now Fishers has more than 90 thousand residents.”

After almost 30 years, Fishers Do-it Center is still doing business with the same philosophy. “We’re here to help people solve problems,” Cook says. “We want to give you the best service we can give and treat you like we’d want to be treated.”

Tweedy’s sister, Kim Young, is also a coowner of the store and has been a crucial part of the team since the beginning.

“Her involvement has grown as has her family,” Tweedy says. “As the kids have gotten older, her involvement has become full time, and she is equally as instrumental in our success and philosophy.”

That philosophy includes personalized customer service, which has always been Fishers Do-it Center’s drill to fastening a loyal customer base.

“Retail trends change every day and every week. We’ve learned to adapt,” Cook says.

“Big chain stores all sell the same stuff.

People can get it anywhere. But we’ve adapted to the competition by giving the same great service, offering great products at a fair price.”

To the staff at Fishers Do-it Center, great customer service doesn’t mean just being friendly and efficient. The real foundation, Cook says, is in the relationships.

“We’re just local people helping out our

friends and neighbors,” he says. “We get to know these people. We talk about their projects. Sure, the same people come back to us because they like us. But, mostly, they ask our advice because we’ve been in their same spot. We’ve done the projects they’re doing and lived through those challenges.”

Tweedy adds, “Helping our neighbors is my favorite part of being here. Getting to know them, building relationships and problem-solving for their projects is what we do.”

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atFishers.com / JULY 2018 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / 13

Cook loves helping people so much, he travels to Nicaragua every year on a mission helping people improve their houses, schools and more. “I want to help them any way I can,” he says.

Problem-solving and relationship building starts with great staff, many of whom have been with Bert and Gray since the beginning.

“They’re great people, like Lindy Miller who runs the paint department, among other things. She’s done a lot of painting jobs, so she knows what our customers need,” Cook says.

Lindy was the second person to come on board back in 1989 and has been a constant source of expertise since.

“She’s pretty much the renaissance woman, the queen of paint, plumbing, electrical and more,” Tweedy adds.

Experts just like Lindy manage the garden center, which will be buzzing soon. Bob and Nancy Curry joined the crew nearly three years ago, and they’re making great things happen for your yard.

“Nancy selects all the right plants, going out of her way to pick just the right thing,” Cook says. “If the plant isn’t large enough, pretty enough or has spots on it, she’ll send it back. Her care and attention to detail have made a big impact on our business.”

As if the best staff, friendliest service and the best selection weren’t enough, they’ve got a rental center for weekend warrior projects like tilling or pressure washing. The Fishers Do-it Center also has a repair room where you can bring items in for small repairs like a screen door. “We’ve also fixed windows and built a table for someone’s garage,” Cook says.

Stop in today to the Fishers Do-it Center at 11881 Lakeside Dr., Fishers, for help on your next project. You can visit them online at fishersdoit.com.

14 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / JULY 2018 / atFishers.com

FAMILY DENTISTRY FOR ALL AGES Personalized Care With A Gentle Touch

11959 Lakeside Drive | Fishers, Indiana 46038

317.577.1911 | Fax 317.576.8070

Kevin D. Ward, D.D.S.

Email: kwarddds@fishersdentalcare.com www.fishersdentalcare.com

atFishers.com / JULY 2018 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / 15

LOCAL ORGANIZATION CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF SERVICE & SUPPORT Writer / Jon Shoulders Photography provided by Opportunities for Positive Growth

Opportunities for Positive Growth, Inc. (OPG), a Fishers-headquartered organization devoted to helping children, adolescents and adults with disabilities, has been serving Hoosiers statewide for two decades. Talent Acquisition Manager Sierra Holmes says the reason for the company’s longevity is not necessarily due to the diversity of skill sets among staff, nor even the wide range of specific services it offers. Holmes says it simply comes down to its collective values and adherence to its mission.

“Opportunities for Positive Growth has always been a persons-first organization,” says Holmes, whose job includes recruiting new staff members. “We really care about the people we support, and we put their needs and their dreams at the top of our list in everything that we do. I think it’s really our values and our integrity that makes us effective.”

In 1998 Gail Kahl, a special education teacher at the time, saw a need in her local community for better support for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Working out of her basement, Kahl launched Consultation Services for Behavioral and Educational Growth, 16 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / JULY 2018 / atFishers.com

setting out in earnest to provide meaningful behavior management services for individuals throughout Central Indiana.

Kahl’s husband Dan came on board the following year as chief operating officer, and after a formal name change, OPG has grown to nearly 250 employees with offices in Indy, Kokomo and Lafayette, serving Hoosiers all over the state. Holmes says even after 20 years, each OPG employee approaches the company’s mission with the same passion Kahl felt while bringing her idea to fruition out of the meager confines of her basement.

The OPG staff breaks its services down into four key areas:

• Behavioral Support Services, geared toward those with intellectual disabilities that may lessen their capacity to flourish in a family or independent setting.

• Self-Directed Services, for which individuals design their own programs for residential and community rehabilitation and development of independent skills.

• Music Therapy, through which OPG staff members partner with local schools and hospitals to improve motor skills, cognition, social and emotional skills and communication.

• Employment Services, which assists developmentally and intellectually disabled persons in finding opportunities throughout the workforce.

In April of 2011, OPG obtained accreditation from The Council on Quality and Leadership (CQL), a national organization founded in 1969 for the improvement of quality of life for those with disabilities, mental disorders and substance abuse issues. Representatives from CQL work directly with their accredited entities to help ensure positive outcomes for clients.

“We were one of the first organizations in the world to get that accreditation,” Holmes says. “It’s really a seal of approval

saying we are working for the people and are dedicated to every individual we serve. It’s not an easy task to get that accreditation, and we’re very proud of it.

We’ll be going for it again in 2019.”

For eight of the last nine years, OPG has been recognized as one of the Indianapolis Star’s Top Workplaces, a distinction based on employee feedback surveys given jointly by the Indy Star and Pennsylvaniabased Energage.

Holmes says OPG is actively seeking

qualified direct support professionals, who she says provide front-line support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This includes focusing on goal development and dreams, transportation needs, following a behavioral support plan, developing social skills, personal care and advocating for clients’ rights.

Each fall OPG’s collective staff gathers for its Day of Greatness, during which the organization’s leaders celebrate the work each employee does in the community, including an awards ceremony for staff standouts. Holmes says this fall’s Day of Greatness will include a celebration of OPG’s 20 years of community service.

“We’ve maintained our commitment to putting people first for the past two decades, and that’s helped us to remain successful,” Holmes adds. “I think that’s why we currently have waiting lists for our services.

I’m really proud to work for an organization that I get to see, on a daily basis, really make a change in others’ lives. We can go to bed at night knowing we’re really making a difference every day.”

Opportunities for Positive Growth, Inc.’s central office is located at 10080 East 121st Street, Suite 112, in Fishers. Call 317-8131780 or visit opgrowth.com for more info including employment opportunity details.

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Main Street PokĂŠ Popular Hawaiian Cuisine Makes Its Way to the North Side Writer / Jon Shoulders . Photographer / Jamie Sangar

n

ow you don’t have to travel thousands of miles away if the desire for traditional Hawaiian cuisine suddenly strikes. Just head to Main Street Poké on the north side – its Carmel and Fishers locations both opened last year, and Carmel General Manager Ashley Ryan says both restaurants have been met with enthusiasm by locals.

“We’ve been received so well,” she says.

“We have a lot of people from Avon or Plainfield now that will drive all the way to the north side just to get some poke.”

In case you’re wondering, poke (pronounced POE-kay), which means to cut or slice in Hawaiian, refers to raw, diced fish, usually marinated and sometimes tossed in veggies and rice.

“It’s basically like an unrolled sushi wrap in a bowl,” Ryan adds. “Traditionally it’s small pieces of fish diced up, but we have other proteins as well at our restaurant like chicken and beef, and we also do tofu and complete vegetarian options. We even offer Spam, which is a big Hawaiian protein.”

Owner Dave Tang, a California resident who also owns the Vitality Bowls chain, found himself craving poke each time he visited Indiana on business throughout 2015 and 2016, and began discussing the possibility of opening the state’s first poke restaurant in Carmel with Vitality Bowls manager Brinna Voege.

“Poke restaurants are absolutely huge out in California – there are as many there as there are Starbucks here,” Ryan says. “The owners decided to add a Midwestern flair to the menu here to help ease people into the idea of poke, and we’re actually more of a California-style poke restaurant. I think because people can customize their own bowls, they’re able to ease into the idea of it.”

The restaurant’s interior is as bright and colorful as the dishes it offers, and diners typically start with a base of rice atFishers.com / JULY 2018 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / 19

or spring mix, and then pick from a variety of proteins, sauces and a range of toppings like pineapple, kimchi, sweet onions and wasabi. Ryan says house favorites at the Carmel location currently include a traditional tuna and salmon marinade, seaweed salad and edamame toppings and a spicy mayo sauce.

“We also just introduced some premade bowls, so if a customer feels a little overwhelmed by creating their own, we have four or five selections that are basically the staff and owners’ favorites,” she says.

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Tang officially opened the Carmel location in the heart of the Arts and Design District last May, and the Fishers opening followed in December.

Ryan says the owners hope to have at least two additional Central Indiana locations up and running by the end of this year.

“The Arts and Design District is a great place to be, and I think that area near IKEA and Top Golf in Fishers is an exciting place for the Fishers location right now also,” she says.

The key to the restaurant’s success thus far is due to more than just the novelty of being the first of its kind in the state, according to Ryan.

“That has certainly been a factor in why people have responded so well, but I also think that because our ingredients are so incredibly fresh and because we prep our fish every morning for that day, I believe people appreciate having such a fresh, colorful and healthy bowl,” she says. “And because we have such a variety, like gluten-free and vegan-friendly options, I think that makes people happy.”

Main Street Poké is located at 110 West Main Street, Suite 106, in Carmel, and at 8594 East 116th Street, Suite 30, in Fishers. Visit mainstreetpoke.com for additional info.

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5 Reasons to Head to Conner Prairie This Summer 1. MAKE A SPLASH: REIMAGINED RIVER CROSSING

Writer / Shelly Bergman Photography Provided by Conner Prairie

This summer Conner Prairie has added a few new attractions to their large list of fun! Here is the low down for what's opened for exploring this summer at Conner Prairie. Be sure to add Symphony on the Prairie to your summer bucket list. It's one of our family's favorite summertime traditions. Check out their Fun Guide online at connerprairie.org.

Make a splash at the revitalized River Crossing play area. The popular water playscape has been reimagined to take families on a river journey. Try your hand at the new fishing activity, then journey under a covered bridge that leads you outdoors to find the Alice Dean at the dock in town. Favorites like the trains, climbing structure and water play will remain with fun new activities and improvements. The new River Crossing experience also includes features to make visiting

22 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / JULY 2018 / atFishers.com

a breeze for families, like a more accessible entrance and large storage cubbies for bags and towels.

2. GET BACK TO NATURE

Experience the outdoors at Conner Prairie in their new nature experience areas. The River Lookout will provide an incredible view, and give you access to rarely seen sights at Conner Prairie. The lookout will not only be a place to visit nature’s beauty, but will also highlight the history and ecology of the waterway with interpretive signage. The Treetop Classroom will also be nestled in the woods near Treetop Outpost. This 50-seat site will feature a covered, raised stage for nature chats, performances and storytelling that highlight the richness of the natural world around us.

3. HAVE AN ADVENTURE WITH SUMMER DAY CAMPS

8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday $250 week non-member, $220 week member Early arrival and late departure options available for additional fee Reservations are required. Register online at connerprairie.org.

• Adventure Camp (ages 5–15) May 29–Aug. 3, weekly

4. TAKE FLIGHT WITH THURSDAY NIGHT BALLOON VOYAGES 5:30–10 p.m. Thursdays, June 7–August 23 $17 non-member, $13 member

Step into the gondola of the popular tethered balloon and see Conner Prairie from a new perspective! You’ll be lifted more than 370 feet into the air as the sun sets over the prairie and be treated to unique views of the 1,000 acres. You can also enjoy light refreshments or a glass of wine. A ticket provides access to 1859 Balloon Voyage only.

Weather permitting. Check connerprairie.org for balloon status.

5. ENJOY A CONCERT: KROGER SYMPHONY ON THE PRAIRIE

Select dates, June–September. Experience the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and many other musical guests each weekend at the Conner Prairie Amphitheatre. It’s the perfect place to meet friends, family and even large groups for a fun night out. Bring your own food and drinks or purchase concessions on site. Buy a table by the stage or bring your blanket for the lawn. You can even take flight in the 1859 Balloon Voyage and hear the amazing sounds of the symphony from more than 370 feet up in the air. atFishers.com / JULY 2018 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / 23

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Welcome Back

Colts Coach Frank Reich Talks Faith, Hoosier Roots & Grand Park Sports Campus Writer / Josh Brown . Photography provided by Brian Brosmer & Indianapolis Colts

rank Reich’s coaching career has truly come full circle, and he couldn’t be happier.

The new Head Coach of the Indianapolis Colts is right back where it all started for him. Reich began his career in 2006 with the Colts as an intern before working his way up to quarterbacks coach in 2009 alongside Colts legends Tony Dungy, Peyton Manning and Bill Polian.

Those relationships, coupled with a resume that now includes a Super Bowl ring as the Offensive Coordinator with the Philadelphia Eagles last year, have helped Reich land a job that he says is a dream come true.

In many ways, Reich is back home in Indianapolis.

“If I could have written up a plan of what would be the ideal scenario, the ideal team and place, this was it,” Reich says.

“Indianapolis is where I got my coaching start. I came into the organization and got to work with guys like Peyton Manning, Tony Dungy, Jeff Saturday the list goes on, but these are great men. To get a chance to come back here now is pretty special.”

The Reichs have ties to the Indy community, which has certainly made the reunion feel like a homecoming of sorts for the family. Two of Reich’s three daughters graduated high school in the area when he first started with the Colts in 2006 — his middle daughter from Hamilton Southeastern and his youngest daughter from Heritage Christian.

“The Hoosier hospitality has been unbelievable,” Reich says. “This is like home to us. We have family in this area and developed close friendships from my first time here. I’m thankful for the opportunity to be back.”

While Reich wasn’t the first choice for atFishers.com / JULY 2018 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / 25

the position, the Colts quickly realized he was the best fit. After the fallout with Josh McDaniels, several reports said Polian, Dungy and Manning personally reached out to Colts Owner Jim Irsay and General Manager Chris Ballard to endorse Reich for the head coaching position.

Reich watched from afar and, despite his interest, did not make the first move in having his agent reach out to the Colts.

Instead, he decided if it was meant to be that it would be.

Looking back now, Reich says the endorsement of those Colts legends is humbling.

“It really is humbling because those are some tremendous men, coaches and players,” Reich says. “In this business you just try to work hard and do your job. You work around a lot of great people and learn a lot from them. When people like that give you a vote of confidence, it means a lot.”

Faith & Football Reich has something on his resume that not too many NFL coaches have. After being drafted in 1985 by the Buffalo Bills and playing in the NFL for nine seasons, Reich took a break from football but knew he would want to return to coach one day.

Before the desire to coach in 2006, Reich actually felt called to ministry and went to seminary. He even served as pastor of a Presbyterian Church in Charlotte, North Carolina — living out his faith and serving the community.

Reich isn’t shy about his faith, either. He says it has played a vital role in his life and shaping him as a leader and a man.

“I wouldn’t change one day of being in ministry,” Reich says. “It has really shaped and formed me as a person. Going into ministry was something I really felt called to do. I didn’t know where it was going to take me, but I knew that I loved coaching people and encouraging people. I learned about myself as a teacher during that time.

To continue to develop those gifts and take them back into coaching in the NFL has been a lot of fun.”

Working Out In Westfield As the Colts gear up for their first season under Reich, they’ve found a new home for the summer — Grand Park in Westfield.

The huge, 400-acre sports complex will host the team from the end of July through August for training camp.

It is the first summer the Colts will work out at the facility in a deal the team announced back in September that will span 10 years.

The Colts will host an open camp and provide opportunities for fans to connect with the team and the players throughout the summer.

One of Reich’s first tasks after taking over as head coach was to visit Grand Park, and he has been nothing less than impressed by the facility.

Frank Reich returns to the Colts after serving as quarterbacks coach in 2009 with Peyton Manning and Tony Dungy.

26 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / JULY 2018 / atFishers.com

“The people here, the staff has been so accommodating,” Reich says.

“When you are going to host an NFL team for training camp, that is a pretty big deal. This place is so incredible that it can handle it, but it isn’t just about the facility. It is about the people. We’ve found that the people here are top notch and helping us do something that is exciting for our team and the City of Westfield.

“I remember the first time driving up,” Reich adds. “They told me a little about it, but as we are driving up you see all of these fields. Then you walk inside and there are three, full-size soccer fields. I’ve never seen a facility like it.”

Getting Back on Track With the season right around the corner, Reich’s focus is to get the Colts back on track. He is well aware of the fanbase and the team’s expectations.

Luck or no Luck, Reich’s goals remain the same — playing hard and being in a position to get back to the playoffs. The Colts have built the team and the draft that they wanted, and despite Andrew Luck’s status for the season, Reich is confident that the team can perform at a high level.

“It’s all about the people and the process,” Reich says. “We just have to build the team one player at a time and have the commitment and the work ethic. When that happens, it doesn’t take long. You can flip your record in a hurry in the NFL. I was just a part of it with Philadelphia.

But we all have to do it together, and it really has to be an organizational thing. The players and the coaches have to be tight, and there has to be a trust in one another and a willingness to commit to fighting for it every day no matter what.” atFishers.com / JULY 2018 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / 27

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Fishers Firefighters, Brandon Anderson & Thomas Crafton, Overcome Life-changing Injuries & Inspire Others

Brandon Anderson (left) and Thomas Crafton both became below-the-knee amputees after separate accidents in their lives.

Writer / Jon Shoulders Photographer / Brian Brosmer

When tragedy strikes in life, one can either give in to feelings of despair and hopelessness or try to make something positive result from it.

Brandon Anderson of the Fishers Fire Department chose the latter when tragedy

occurred in his own life.

On August 12, 2016, Anderson set out on a motorcycle ride with a group of longtime friends for a weekend getaway at Lake Cumberland. Within 45 minutes of leaving home, he was involved in an accident with a pickup truck that landed him in a trauma center for a month and resulted in the amputation of his right leg above the knee.

30 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / JULY 2018 / atFishers.com

“I've seen it on this side of the job for other people - you just never expect yourself to be on the other side of the coin,” says Anderson, who has served with the Fishers Fire Department for more than 16 years. “In the blink of an eye, I was on the other side of that coin. I was in need of help and that put me in a bad spot because I’m not the one to ask for help. I like to be on the other side and be able to help somebody else out.”

My mentality is not to just lay down if there's an obstacle. I may not get over it the first time, but I’m going to figure out a way to do it.

- Brandon Anderson Nevertheless, Anderson received support from not only his wife and two sons but also firefighters at his own station and throughout the county, which has, in turn, inspired him to begin sharing his story with others in a similar position. After just 10 months of therapy and hard work, he resumed firefighting duties with a nine-pound prosthetic leg on June 26, 2017, passing all of the necessary physical strength and endurance tests for full duty.

To his knowledge, Anderson is the only above-the-leg amputee in the country to return to full duty as a firefighter.

“Whether it is to come back to this job or whatever kind of job you have, it’s about overcoming that obstacle in front of you,” he says. “My mentality is not to just lay down if there's an obstacle. I may not get over it the first time, but I’m going to figure out a way to do it.”

At Conner Prairie, you can go wherever your imagination takes you.

With hundreds of acres to explore, including our newly reimagined River Crossing experience area, we’re igniting curiosity and inspiring guests to discover new lessons in the natural world that surrounds us.

Among those Anderson has inspired is fellow Fishers firefighter Thomas Crafton, who lost his leg at age eight in a farming accident. Crafton served as a paramedic after studying at IUPUI and considered firefighting upon learning Anderson’s story.

“I didn't even know that you could be a firefighter and have a prosthetic leg,” Crafton says. “There had been a lot of coverage about Brandon in the news, atFishers.com / JULY 2018 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / 31

which led me to look into things and find out that he’s not the only amputee that belongs in a fire department around the country. I saw hope there.”

Crafton began his firefighting career at Pike Township, eventually applying for a position within Hamilton County and completing the Fishers Fire Department’s grueling training process late last year.

“When I was going through the academy, Brandon talked me through it and got me in touch with his prosthetist, who was able to introduce new technology that enabled me to perform at a higher level physically,” Crafton says. “I shaved two minutes off of my mile-and-a-half runtime because of what Brandon introduced me to.”

As he approaches his one-year anniversary of returning to full duty in June, Anderson, an avid outdoorsman, has no plans to slow down, professionally or recreationally - he expects to spend family time this summer hiking with his wife and sons and getting back to what he calls “a little bit of normalcy.”

“I try to learn something new every day,” he says. “Nothing is ever just handed to you. It’s out there in front of you, and it’s up to you to make that choice to work hard and earn what’s out there.”

Crafton says that while technology certainly has aided in overcoming his many professional challenges, ultimately it’s his own courage and positive disposition - as well as inspiration from people like Anderson along the way - that has gotten him where he is today.

“Don’t let anyone set your limits you’re the one in control,” Crafton says.

“If you allow society to define who you are, then that’s what you become.

With technology today, you’re able to perform just as well as the next person.

Your mind can either be your chains or your wings.”

32 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / JULY 2018 / atFishers.com

Investing In the Future New Youth Mentoring Initiative Executive Director, Alison Gatz, Talks Goals, Impact of Mentorship Writer / Matt Keating Photographer / Holly Simmons at Holly Lea Photography

Alison Gatz, the new executive director of Youth Mentoring Initiative (YMI), Fishers loves her work and is looking forward to taking over an organization she adores. YMI provides mentoring for students by building and sustaining a mentoring community with the highest level of service, integrity, encouragement and empathy.

She was thrilled to be offered the job. Her history with YMI has been extremely positive.

“It goes back to when I was serving on a committee at the YMCA and given the task to come up with a community service project,” Gatz says. “I wanted to start an adult mentoring program because I was seeing so many adults that were doing the best they could every day, but they were feeling very discouraged. I knew YMI provided youth mentoring for students, so I

reached out to establish a partnership.”

During those discussions, they asked Gatz to help create the role of Parent Liaison to connect with, and serve, the YMI parents.

forces with to serve Fishers are amazing and inspiring.

Gatz’s goal is to simply keep improving YMI.

Gatz will primarily be responsible for fundraising, but along with that, she will work on marketing, community engagement and building relationships with local businesses and partner agencies.

“I want to get better at giving the kids we mentor the support they need in what matters most to them,” Gatz says. “I also want to get better at recruiting mentors who want to give back and make a difference and get better at our relationships in the community by being a solid contributor to the mental health initiative. I would love to see every student in Fishers have a mentor if they want one.”

Gatz noted she couldn’t have asked for a better staff to work with.

Plenty of great projects are planned for the year.

“Our mentors, staff, board of directors, school staff and volunteers have amazing hearts, and they truly love and believe in the mission of YMI,” she says.

“The community partners we get to join

“We added a campus coach at Fishers High School (FHS) this year, and that program really exploded,” Gatz says. “We plan to add a campus coach at Hamilton Southeastern High School (HSE) this fall

“While creating that role, I discovered ways to improve some of the systems,” Gatz says.

“One thing led to another, and here I am.”

atFishers.com / JULY 2018 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / 33

to get that program up and running and possibly a second coach at FHS.” Gatz is looking forward to developing a Corporate Mentoring program that would give YMI’s mentees the ability to go to a mentors’ place of employment rather than the mentor going to their school.

“This would really help with the challenge many of our male mentors have in scheduling time to get out of the office to go mentor, but also give our mentees the opportunity to learn about a job, skill or trade while being mentored. It’ Gatz gets plenty of positive feedback from the Fishers community.

“We hear all the time how much our mentees look forward to seeing their mentor each week during school hours, and we also hear from our mentors that meeting their mentee is the highlight of their week,”

she says. “When that relationship begins to camping, biking and hiking. I love to get my hands dirty in the yard, too.” flourish, the ripple effect to the friends and families that our mentees and mentors share Gatz wants parents to know that raising kids life with is powerful.” these days takes a village.

Gatz added that “the power of feeling “I know I am not the best parent all the supported and encouraged can take a time, and I cannot be everything to my mentee from just surviving to thriving. girls,” she says. “Sometimes they just need School gets better, they feel more engaged and they begin to have a vision for their life.” to hear another voice other than mine, because, after a while, they don’t hear me.

Having a mentor can just be that additional Gatz says she feels blessed that she had the voice telling them they matter, that they opportunity to stay at home with her girls are enough and they are loved. when they were little, but she also felt the desire to have a part-time job to interact “For the adults in our community, one hour with people. a week is all it takes to completely change the direction of a life,” Gatz adds. “We Gatz enjoys spending time with her can change the world, one hour at a husband Bryant and their three daughters time, one student at a time. If time is Bailey, 19, Sydney, 14 and Mia, 11. The family is often found enjoying the outdoors. not a resource you have available, we can always use financial support, no matter what amount. Get involved today “If it’s outside or being active, I’m in,” Gatz at ymionline.org.” says. “We love to be on the water and go

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Fishers Firefighters, Brandon Anderson & Thomas Crafton, Overcome Life-changing Injuries & Inspire Others

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C O N N E R P R A I R I E , R I T Z C H A R L E S C O M M I T $3M T O T R A N S F O R M C H I N E S E H O U S E I N T O P R E M I E R E V E N T S S PA C E Writer / Seth Johnson Photos Provided by Conner Prairie

For decades, Conner Prairie has provided generations of visitors with an experience unlike any other — one that’s full of exploration, imagination and wonder.

Now, in partnership with Ritz Charles, the historic Fishers organization hopes to continue doing more of the same with the renovation and expansion of Eli Lilly’s historic Chinese House, located on the grounds of Conner Prairie near 131st Street and Allisonville Road.

Originally built in 1907, the Chinese House was purchased by Eli Lilly in the late 1940s to use as a family retreat. Lilly decorated the home in the Chinese style, adding furniture and architectural elements to compliment its interior. In archived diaries, he even

wrote that the ceilings were painted “with gorgeous Chinese symbols.” Herein lies the significance of the home’s current name.

As part of a $3 million partnership, Conner Prairie and Ritz Charles are set to revamp the historic home, transforming it into a dazzling multi-purpose events space. Upon completion in early 2019, the restored Chinese House and a new pavilion – The Bluffs at Conner Prairie – will open as a breathtaking venue on the bluffs of the White River with 250-person occupancy available for wedding ceremonies and receptions, social galas, corporate events and holiday parties.

“The renovated Chinese House will provide guests a great connection to Conner Prairie’s past and a gateway to our future,” says Conner Prairie president and atFishers.com / JULY 2018 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / 35

CEO Norman Burns. “Visitors will get to experience Eli Lilly’s former retreat and his love for Chinese culture while having access to nature, views of the White River and a beautifully renovated space for their events.

Revenue generated from this partnership and new space will allow Conner Prairie to continue providing unique and innovative experiences for our members and guests for years to come.”

As part of the partnership, Ritz Charles will have exclusive operating rights to provide food and beverage services at the Chinese House and The Bluffs, with the majority of their funding supporting capital improvements and construction of The Bluffs – which will be enclosed with glass on three sides allowing for amazing views of the White River and old growth wooded grounds. The space will provide Ritz

Charles clients with another great event space option when it’s ready next year.

“We feel incredibly fortunate to partner with Conner Prairie on the renovation of Eli Lilly’s historic Chinese House,” says Ritz Charles co-owner Bill Nicholls.

“When you combine the natural beauty of the land, the compelling history of the house and the new renovations we have in store, the new Chinese House will be a truly unique event space for weddings, receptions, corporate meetings and other special events.”

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In addition to Ritz Charles’ commitment, support for the project includes a significant pledge from Jay and Nancy Ricker, the founders of Ricker Oil Company, Inc., a generous grant from the Lilly Endowment Inc. and several other private donations. All in all, Burns is elated about the partnership and how it will bring more people into the beautiful Chinese House.

“We were going to be restoring and using this facility whether or not we entered into a partnership with someone like Ritz Charles or not,” he says. “It just so happened that it was kind of an alignment of the planets, if you will, and what they were looking for as a community asset and what we needed to do was the perfect marriage. I think it’s a way for people to see how a nonprofit and a for-profit can come together and do something fabulous for the community.”

Conner Prairie is located at 13400 Allisonville Road in Fishers. For updates on the Chinese House and its renovation visit connerprairie.org or you can give them a call at 317-776-6000.

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Students In Action FHS Club Is Headed to National Competition In D.C. Writer / Matt Keating Photography Provided by FHS Students In Action

“Students In Action is a community service club run by students in which they create projects based on their passions and the needs of the community,” Torres says.

“Leadership, engagement and impact are the three pillars of Students in Action.”

The Fishers High School Students In Action Club recently won the Central Indiana Jefferson Awards Competition and will be heading to Washington D.C. for the national competition July 27-29.

The students have led 10 projects since they became a club in October 2016.

Eduardo Torres, an English teacher at Fishers High School, who is also the “On one of the projects, the kids teamed school’s sponsor for the Students in Action up with The Indy Dream Center (a program, says he couldn’t be prouder of the partnership of churches, hospitals and students he works with. civic organizations that cooperate together “It’s very rewarding,” Torres says. “It makes you feel good. You see what your students are capable of. The kids had positive goals, and they not only met them, they exceeded them. It’s very exciting.”

Last year, the FHS Students In Action group came in fourth place in the national competition, competing against other kids across the country.

in a common vision and mission to see communities transformed from the inside out) to help the homeless,” Torres says.

“They put together ‘Comfort Care Kits’ with food, toiletries and other items.

They delivered them to the homeless in downtown Indianapolis. A lot of different businesses donated a lot of items. I think it was good that the kids see that side of life with the homeless and understand there are people who need their help.” atFishers.com / JULY 2018 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / 39

The club also collected 5,300 cans of food for the hungry in Hamilton County.

“The amount of planning and work they put into these projects is truly amazing,” Torres says. “A lot of their collection projects have really taken off, and people in the community have supported them.”

FHS Students In Action also donated nearly 6,000 books to local schools in need and veterans and made 465 art kits for patients at Riley Hospital.

“They also raised $8,000 and collected 100 items as relief to the Hurricane Maria victims in Puerto Rico,” Torres says. “The group also has several projects that are ongoing, such as a soccer jersey collection, an opioid awareness club, and they also have ‘happiness message’ projects where they pass out positive message stickers to other kids to put on their laptops.”

Students In Action also collected soccer

equipment for kids in Honduras and Ecuador.

“They push me quite a bit to challenge myself and become a better educator,” Torres says. “They inspire me to solve real problems.”

Time Dedication The Fishers Students In Action club meets during the entire school year. In the fall, the club meets each Thursday to work on projects in addition to board meetings every Monday.

“They meet at 7 a.m. before school and also meet with me at lunch to talk about all the projects,” Torres says. “Their level of dedication is overwhelming.”

In the winter, Students In Action start getting ready for the National Jefferson Awards competition, a program started by the late First Lady Jackie Kennedy, Co-Founder Samuel Beard and former U.S. Senator Robert Taft Jr. in 1972. The program’s intention is to recognize outstanding community service within large corporations, communities and schools. Each year, a national ceremony is conducted in Washington D.C. that recognizes these winners, and the award is often referred to as The Nobel prize of community service.

In the spring, members of Students In Action write about 25 essays answering questions related to leadership, engagement and impact. They also put together a competition video.

In addition to the essay portion, there are also 34 survey questions and then a presentation. The students talk about their particular club and explain their service projects.

In the summer, members of Students In Action work on different projects, meet to come up with future projects and (as they are this year) head to The National Jefferson Awards in Washington D.C. 40 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / JULY 2018 / atFishers.com

The amount of planning and work they put into these projects is truly amazing.

Combatting Gun Violence Torres says that FHS Students In Action met near the end of the school year to start a project that would address solutions for schools to deal with gun violence in the wake of the Noblesville West Middle School shooting.

“They put together a podcast to talk about solutions,” Torres says. “They talked about school security and who should be criminally liable after a tragedy.

What the failures in the system are if kids don’t feel safe in schools. They are very passionate about they do and are sending their ideas to Senator Joe Donnelly.”

C.A.T.S Torres adds that Hamilton Southeastern School (HSE) students are also encouraging elementary schools to start their own service projects through another service group they created.

“There is the HSE C.A.T.S. (Creating Actions Through Service), a community service program whose aim is to teach students the values of challenging themselves in order to help others,” Torres says.

HSE C.A.T.S focuses on creating change through challenge, while motivating young people to change the world one project at a time.

“Everyday, I’m amazed and excited by the creative ideas the kids come up with to make things better for other people,” Torres says. “It’s very inspiring.” atFishers.com / JULY 2018 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / 41

ARTS CRAWL COMING TO DOWNTOWN FISHERS JULY 13 MORE THAN 30 ARTISTS WILL SHOWCASE WORK ALONG 116TH STREET More than 30 artists and performers will be stationed along 116th Street from Blue Peppermint Boutique to The Wine Guy Friday the 13th is a lucky day for art lovers wine shop in Municipal Plaza and down in Fishers. The annual Arts Crawl is a Maple Street. The square-mile area becomes celebration of local arts hosted by more than a bustling, family-friendly arts zone 20 businesses in the downtown Nickel Plate during the annual free event. Arts Crawl District. This year’s event will be Friday, July visitors will enjoy a wide variety of art and 13, from 6 p.m.-9 p.m., rain or shine. performances, presented by talented Fishers Writer / Jocelyn Vare Provided Photography

42 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / JULY 2018 / atFishers.com

and Central Indiana residents.

Patty Klunzinger, a glass artist, is participating in Arts Crawl again this year and she is a favorite of many. Klunzinger performs safe, interactive glassblowing demonstrations throughout the evening. Visitors can see blown glass baubles come to life before their eyes. Her hand-crafted, fused glass items such

as jewelry, plates, bowls and artwork are available for purchase.

Ann Craig-Cinnamon and John Cinnamon are a Fishers couple who will be presenting an exhibit of stunning travel photography for their first Arts Crawl. Their art captures their passion for travel and the 100 different countries they’ve experienced. Visitors will meet the people, landscapes and wildlife from Rwanda, Turkey, Bhutan, Cuba, Mount Everest and many more. The Cinnamons promise there will be more of the world to see as they will be back for a monthlong photo exhibit at Fishers’ Art in City Hall in September.

Members of the Hamilton County Artists Association will welcome visitors to City Hall as they showcase their artwork during Arts Crawl on July 13.

The HCAA is the only juried artists’ organization in Hamilton County and their Art in City Hall exhibit is a special opportunity for Fishers.

Rachel “SunRai” Sims is a Fishers author and photographer who will be debuting “When the Alien Tree People Came,” her new children’s book full of nature photographs of trees, bees and fungi.

During Arts Crawl, Sims will be reading from her book, a story about life on the planet Earth.

Anyone who has been on 116th Street in the Nickel Plate District recently may have noticed some new bright yellow flowers there. Thankfully, these daffodils will stay in bloom all year long. They have been designed and hand-painted on a sidewalk electrical box by artist Jen Byler to brighten up the downtown streetscape.

More of Byler’s colorful artwork, from her Gramma Indiana series, will be featured during Arts Crawl.

Craig Martin has also recently brightened up Fishers Nickel Plate District with art.

Martin designed and painted a large, vibrant mural on a brick wall near the corner of 116th Street and Maple Street.

Some say that his mural was placed in one of the most popular spots in the atFishers.com / JULY 2018 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / 43

whole city – where the line forms to purchase Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream & Yogurt. On July 13, Martin will display his smaller artwork for Arts Crawl visitors.

If you’ve been wondering about Ignite Studio, your wait will soon be over.

The new art maker space located in the lower level of Fishers library will be open to the public in just a few weeks.

At Arts Crawl, Ignite Studio will be open for a special sneak preview. Check out the space, make some art and imagine all of the creativity that will be ignited here while you listen to music from Fishers Music Works ensembles.

As a perfect pairing, The Rays will be appearing at Four Day Ray during Arts Crawl. This entertaining band drew a large crowd to Four Day Ray at last year’s Arts Crawl. They are planning on bringing the house down again with their 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, swing and country hits.

A new performer to Arts Crawl is the Highway 9 Blues Band. This electric blues band will treat visitors to cover tunes, blues standards and originals with both vintage and modern feels. They’ll be performing on Central Green, in the heart of the Nickel Plate District.

Arts Crawl visitors are encouraged to visit each spot on the self-guided circuit. However, there is so much to see, music to hear and art to purchase, that it is impossible to do it all. To help, Heartland Church has offered to provide two shuttles that will transport visitors through the Arts Crawl events, with stops at Blue Peppermint, City Hall and The Wine Guy. Arts Crawl is a true community partnership. The event joins artists, performers and businesses together for an evening of art and entertainment for all. We are lucky to have the City of Fishers, Fishers Arts Council, Nickel Plate Arts and the Nickel Plate District Business Council present this special event to our community each year.

44 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / JULY 2018 / atFishers.com

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atFishers.com / JULY 2018 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / 45

/ONTHETOWNE

FISHERS Events 3

INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION CONCERT & FIREWORKS

Blast into the holiday with Saxony’s Independence Celebration Concert & Fireworks Show on Tuesday, July 3. You’ll be moving and grooving the night away with your family and friends to the upbeat sounds of My Yellow Rickshaw. During the concert, be sure to check out all of the food truck options available at this event. Finally, raise your eyes to the sky at 10 p.m. to enjoy a spectacular fireworks show. This is an Independence Day celebration you won’t want to miss!

Witten Park in Saxony 7:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

4

6,20

FRIDAYS AT THE FORT

Arts for Lawrence is back for another year of their outdoors concert series - Fridays At the Fort. Join them for six FREE concerts, a beer tent, food trucks, kids zone, Pacers fan van and more. The July concerts will feature Jus’ta Band on July 6 and Mississippi Raglans & the River Dogs on July 20.

Lawrence Civic Plaza 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

13

FISHERS ARTS CRAWL

GEIST BLAST ON THE BRIDGE

Head out for the annual Geist Blast On the Bridge, celebrating the Fourth of July with a bang! Bridge closes at 8:00 p.m. with fireworks starting around 10. Wolfies at Geist will be hosting a deck viewing party all day for participants as well.

8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

3,4

The annual Arts Crawl returns on Friday, July 13 from 6 to 9 p.m., and invites residents and visitors to explore the walkable Nickel Plate District and enjoy local and regional artwork at participating businesses. The special evening concludes with an AMP After Dark concert featuring Jennie DeVoe at 9 p.m.

Nickel Plate District 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

7,14,21,28 FISHERS FARMERS MARKET

STAR-SPANGLED SYMPHONY

Pack your picnic and wear your red, white and blue for the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s annual celebration of America. The ISO will salute all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces each night. The summertime tradition features symphony favorites, including Tchaikovsky’s "1812 Overture" complete with real cannons and spectacular fireworks to cap off each concert. This is a premium-priced concert. Gates open at 4:30 p.m. each night.

Conner Prairie 8:00 p.m.

5,12,19,26

The award-winning summer Fishers Farmers’ Market presented by IU Health Saxony Hospital features your favorite local produce, baked goods, and prepared foods from more than 55 full and part-time vendors. The whole family will enjoy entertainment, children’s activities and cooking demonstrations while stocking up on fresh food from local farmers and producers.

Nickel Plate District Municipal Complex 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

19

THURSDAY NIGHT TRIVIA

THURSDAY NIGHT SUNSET BALLOON RIDES

Step into the gondola of our tethered balloon and see Conner Prairie from a new perspective! You’ll be lifted more than 370 feet into the air as the sun sets over the prairie and be treated to unique views of our 1,000 acres. Enjoy light refreshments or a glass of wine. Ticket provides access to 1859 Balloon Voyage only. The outdoor experience areas will not be open. Weather permitting. Tickets are $17 for non-members and $13 for members.

Conner Prairie 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Trivia Night at Daniel's Vineyard! Gather up some of your brainiest friends and join us for wine and trivia starting at 6:30 p.m. The topics will be about everything and anything. So come out enjoy a pizza from the wood stone pizza oven and test your knowledge. Prizes will be awarded to winning teams!

Daniel’s Vineyard 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

SIGN UP TO RECEIVE EVENT NOTIFICATIONS IN YOUR AREA AT TOWNEPOST.COM 46 / FISHERS MAGAZINE / JULY 2018 / atFishers.com

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