Think Fishers - February 2019

FEBRUARY 2019

BAKERS GONNA BAKE Taylor’s serves up 100 years of treats page 5

HUB & SPOKE New makerspace coming to Fishers page 14

FUN THRIVES IN FISHERS, EVEN WHEN IT’S COLD OUT! page 18

IT’S EASY BEING GREEN Geist Greenway provides connectivity page 16

Think Fishers is the official magazine for the City of Fishers, Indiana and is produced in-house by the City’s Public Relations team. Additional copies are available at City Hall (1 Municipal Drive). For more information, visit fishers.in.us.

ON THE COVER: Families out sledding at Flat Fork Creek Park. Photo: Brian Brosmer

SOCIAL MEDIA Stay up to date by following Fishers on Facebook and Twitter: Fishers.Indiana

@FishersIN

NickelPlateDistrict

CITY RESOURCES MAYOR FADNESS

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FISHERS CITY HALL 1 Municipal Drive, Fishers | 46038 (317)595.3111 | fishers.in.us administration@fishers.in.us FISHERS CITY CLERK (317)595.3145

FEBRUARY LETTER TO RESIDENTS

ZONING CODE ENFORCEMENT (317)595.3120

We’re full steam ahead on our 2019 goals at City Hall and beyond as we begin another month.

PERMITTING & INSPECTIONS (317)595.3120

February is traditionally a restless month, when residents are craving warmer weather and sunshine while the season remains uncooperative. There are several opportunities featured throughout this month’s issue to seize the day.

Whether it’s our upcoming Heart Hikes, ideas for keeping your resolution, or simply getting out and about, Fishers has plenty of activities to choose from.

FISHERS CITY COURT (317)595.3130

As you’re out and about this month, don’t forget to tag #AroundFishers to share your adventures.

HSE SCHOOLS MAIN OFFICE 13485 Cumberland Road | 46038 (317)594.4100

FISHERS PARKS & RECREATION 11565 Brooks School Road | 46037 (317)595.3150 | playflshers.com parks@fishers.in.us

Yours in service,

HAMILTON COUNTY CLERK (317)776.9629

Scott A. Fadness

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE CENTER (317)776.4005

FISHERS POLICE DEPARTMENT CHIEF ED GEBHART 4 Municipal Drive | 46038 Administration: (317)595.3300 Dispatch: (317)773.1282 Anonymous Tip Line: (317)595.3305 FISHERS FIRE & EMERGENCY CHIEF STEVE ORUSA Non-Emergency: (317)595.3200 and (317)846.2525 FIRE STATION 91 2 Municipal Drive | 46038 FIRE STATION 92 11595 Brooks School Road | 46038 FIRE STATION 93 10501 Allisonville Road | 46038 FIRE STATION 94 10701 Cumberland Road | 46038 FIRE STATION 95 10870 East 131st Street | 46037 FIRE STATION 96 15300 East 104th Street | 46037 FIRE STATION 97 13000 East 136th Street | 46037

FEBRUARY 2019

CITY STAFF MAYOR Scott Fadness

DEPUTY MAYOR Leah McGrath

DEPUTY MAYOR OF ADMINISTRATION Elliott Hultgren

CITY JUDGE Daniel E. Henke

CITY CLERK Jennifer Kehl

CITY CONTROLLER Lisa Bradford

CITY ATTORNEY Chris Greisl

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS Eric Pethtel

DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES Ethan Lee

DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Megan Baumgartner

DIRECTOR OF PARKS & RECREATION Sarah Sandquist

DIRECTOR OF PLANNING & ZONING Tony Bagato

DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING Jeff Hill

DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS Tracy Gaynor Ashley Elrod

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF PR Stephanie Perry

MARKETING & PR MANAGER Kara Hall

BRAND COORDINATOR, DESIGN & LAYOUT Elizabeth Creakbaum

CITY COUNCIL RICHARD BLOCK, President, District at Large blockr@fishers.in.us Facebook: RichBlock

TODD ZIMMERMAN, District at Large zimmermant@fishers.in.us Twitter: @toddpzimmerman

PETE PETERSON, Southeast District petersonp@fishers.in.us Facebook: PetePeterson

ERIC MOELLER, Vice-President, North Central District DAVID GEORGE, Southwest District moellere@fishers.in.us george@fishers.in.us Twitter: @eecmoeller Twitter: @david_c_george

SELINA STOLLER, Northwest District stollers@fishers.in.us Facebook: StollerForCouncil

CECILIA COBLE, District at Large coblec@fishers.in.us Twitter: @CeciliaCoble

JOHN WEINGARDT, South Central District weingardt@fishers.in.us Facebook: JohnWeingardt

Cumberland Rd.

146th St.

NORTHEAST

NORTH CENTRAL

SOUTHEAST

le Rd

SOUTHWEST

onvil

SOUTH CENTRAL

116th St.

Allis

NORTHWEST

126th St. Florida Rd.

131st St.

Brooks School Rd.

141st St.

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City Council meetings are held on the third Monday of every month at 7 p.m. inside the City Hall Auditorium, located at 1 Municipal Drive.

Residents unable to attend are encouraged to view meeting minutes and watch the archived view, at fishers.in.us/CityCouncil.

BRAD DEREAMER, Northeast District dereamerb@fishers.in.us

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@FishersIN

Olio Rd.

106th St.

96th St.

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We want a glimpse into city life from your perspective, so each month we’ll feature your photos from around our community! To submit your photos, simply use the hashtag #AroundFishers on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram when you share photos of your favorite local spots and activities.

@lakishamjohnson

@knotty_hooks_and_chains

@12starsmedia

@bethanyashabraner

@pinkpineappletravel

4% Each month, we host an online poll on our Fishers Indiana Government social pages. Last month we asked residents which 2019 projects they were most looking forward to.

Check out the results!

Follow @FishersIN on Twitter to participate in next month’s survey and share your answer with Fishers!

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32%

@coreyalanphoto

7%

57%

57% THE YARD @FISHERSDISTRICT 32% NICKEL PLATE TRAIL 4% HUB & SPOKE DESIGN CENTER 7% FISHERS AGRIPARK

FEBRUARY 2019

TAYLOR’S BAKERY

Fishers Food in Review Looks at a Family Business Serving Up More Than 100 Years of Tradition

Family businesses aren’t rare, but ones with more than 100 years of history are harder to find. Founded in 1913, Taylor’s Bakery has long been a staple of the Indianapolis community.

And for the past 16 years, it’s been a staple in Fishers as well. At its location in Fishers Town Center, the bakery is bustling with customers hungry for the scratch recipes that have made Taylor’s a local favorite.

his daughter, Virginia Taylor Allen, whose son, John, eventually took over the business.

The bakery moved to its current location at 62nd Street and Allisonville Road in 1968 and opened its second location in Fishers in 2003.

The bakery has always been a second home for Matt, who fondly remembers helping there as a child, whether it was mixing together ingredients or holding doors for customers.

Co-owner Matt Allen calls that the “rock of When he graduated from Indiana University consistency” that has kept customers coming in 2002, Matt knew that he wanted to go into back throughout the years. the family business. Opening the Fishers store was a natural fit for the Allen family, who have “We’re using the exact same recipes to serve lived in Fishers since 1982. the same high-quality items that we always have,” said Matt.

Matt is proud of the tradition that Taylor’s has created within the community, and the Matt, along with his brother Drew, make up bakery’s attention to detail that makes it unique Taylor Bakery’s fourth generation. Together among competitors. they own and operate the business with their father, John, who is the grandson of the bakery’s “We really try to differentiate ourselves from original founder, Dennis Orville Taylor. other bakeries and try to offer something different,” said Matt. “We only require a Taylor’s Bakery was founded on February one-day notice for custom orders, and our 13, 1913 as both a grocery and bakery at the creativity really sets us apart.” intersection of 38th and Illinois in downtown Indianapolis. It found its sweet spot as a Taylor’s is dedicated to giving back to the bakery, and slowly transitioned out of the community that has supported it for so many grocery business. Taylor was later joined by years. Taylor’s proudly supports Second

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@FishersIN

Helpings, a local hunger relief organization that rescues unused food to prepare meals for those in need. Second Helpings visits the bakery almost daily to pick up items.

There’s truly something for everyone at Taylor’s, from donuts and danishes to ice cream and popcorn. One of the most popular items is the triple chocolate ganache cake, which Matt describes as “deadly.” His personal favorites are the cream cheese “alligator” coffee cake, butter flake rolls, and candies.

Taylor’s is popular for their seasonal treats, with Mardi Gras becoming their fastest growing holiday. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, Taylor’s is busy preparing pink and red cookies and treats including their Box of Roses Cake, resembling a dozen long stem roses.

Follow their Twitter for specials and deals!

VISIT TAYLOR’S BAKERY 8395 East 116th Street | Fishers, 46038

FIND THEM ONLINE taylorsbakery.com

FOLLOW THEM ON SOCIAL Twitter: @TaylorsBakery

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DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES CITY OF FISHERS’ DEPARTMENT SPOTLIGHT While the City of Fishers’ Department of Human Resources (HR) is comprised of only a few staff members, their team is truly made up of the more than 450 employees who work for “Team Fishers.”

From recruiting, hiring, and onboarding new employees, to administering timecards, organizing employee benefit packages, and hosting staff appreciation events, the HR department works to ensure that every employee has a positive experience at the City. It’s a responsibility that HR Director Ethan Lee doesn’t take lightly.

“We have a population of employees that are as talented and dedicated as any organization out there,” said Lee. “The roles we play are diverse; from the highly respected Police and Fire Departments that put their lives on the line, to the unsung heroes in the Department of Public Works who quietly ensure our water, roads, and parks are safe and beautiful, to all the other departments that are an integral piece of a whole. I’m so proud to work directly with all these people and can see how they make Fishers the greatest place to live.”

With more than 10 years in the department, Lee has seen Fishers transform in more ways than one: growing from a town to a city, bringing many new faces to the 14 departments across the City, and becoming an incubator for fresh and innovative ideas.

“I have always known the City to operate more like business than a government, in that things get done without a lot of bureaucracy or political posturing,” said Lee. “Since becoming a City, the work environment has evolved into an almost business startup mentality, where new and outside the box ideas are encouraged, inefficiencies are pursued, and ‘status quo’ is a bad word. The City and its employees do everything in their power to succeed, but are not afraid to fail in the name of progress. The dedicated employees that work here find great satisfaction in serving the community and being a part of something greater than themselves. There is excitement in being part of a fastgrowing city and employees find many intrinsic values in contributing to the smart, vibrant, and entrepreneurial spirit that has taken hold.”

It’s this attitude that attracted Whitney Mucha, Human Resources Coordinator, to the City last summer.

“There truly is a teamwork culture where new ideas are welcomed and embraced,” said Mucha. “It’s so refreshing to come to work each day and be surrounded by people who are happy to be here and work hard to efficiently and effectively provide superior service.”

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FEBRUARY 2019

Now, the department is gearing up for one of their busiest hiring seasons.

“Summer in the City of Fishers is a non-stop flurry of activities and events,” said Lee. “Camps, concerts, youth sports, farmers’ markets, and construction projects. With so much going on, our regular employees need the help of a hard-working seasonal staff.”

With a jam-packed summer camp schedule, Parks and Recreation is recruiting nearly 30 camp counselors to provide a safe and exciting environment for youth and preschool campers through games, songs, crafts, and other activities. The Department of Public Works is also recruiting seasonal laborers to help cut the grass, prepare ball fields, make repairs, and support big events throughout the summer.

While the City of Fishers hosts interns year-round, the summer is exceptionally busy. From Police, to Planning and Zoning, to Engineering, to Public Relations, internships provide a wide range of experiences and exposure to local government. Over the past few years, the City has ramped up the partnership with HSE Schools for high school internships.

“We have seen great success with helping talented students learn through hands on experience in local government. But it is a mutual benefit, as the students’ efforts contribute to the goals and objectives of the City in serving the community,” said Lee. Whether it’s a full-time position, or seasonal job or internship, the HR department ensures that every employee is taken care of.

“I am honored to work with incredibly devoted and enthusiastic people,” said Aimee Ector, Human Resources Assistant. “We really care about the citizens of Fishers and strive to ensure it is a great place to live and work.”

Interested in working for the City of Fishers? Check out the latest job postings at fishers.in.us/Jobs.

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HSE’S GAME DAY RETURNS HSE SCHOOLS FOUNDATION’S GAME DAY EVENT RETURNS TO CONNER PRAIRIE FEBRUARY 22

by Justin Hirnisey, Hamilton Southeastern Schools Foundation On Friday, February 22, at 6:30 p.m., the Hamilton Southeastern Schools Foundation (HSSF) will present its seventh annual Game Day. Grab your favorite sports gear and your dancing shoes to tip off an informal evening celebrating excellence in education.

arranger, and alumnus of the world-renowned a cappella singing group Straight No Chaser.

Last summer, Ahlwardt opened for Sugar Ray at the inaugural Spark! Fishers concert.

The event will also feature the popular Game Day auction, a way for the entire Fishers community to support local schools. The auction features over 300 unique items and experiences, including baskets from each of HSE’s schools and PTOs. The auction will be available online, and everyone can bid on items starting February 15. You can view the auction items in person by attending Game Day at Conner Prairie or follow the auction online until bidding closes at 9 p.m. February 22.

This HSSF fundraiser is a high-energy event held annually at Conner Prairie. Game Day offers exciting entertainment, delicious gameday food, and a robust silent auction. Game Day has quickly become one of the signature events in Fishers, successfully raising over $100,000 annually for all 21 Hamilton Southeastern schools and attracting a sellout crowd. Proceeds from the event will support innovative science, engineering, technology and math (STEM); literacy; mental health; and Plan to come as a single player or bring your wellness initiatives across all grade levels. whole team (age 21 and over). A limited number of event sponsorships and tickets are available New this year, Game Day will feature live now. Each ticket is a tax-deductible donation music from ’90s party band Mixtape. Leading used to inspire innovation in local education. this seven-piece group is Ryan Ahlwardt, a 1999 graduate of Hamilton Southeastern Love HSE Schools but can’t make it to Game High School. Ahlwardt is a singer-songwriter, Day? Take part from the sidelines by making 8

a donation, or plan to participate in the silent auction. Follow HSSF on social media and check out hsefoundation.org to order Game Day tickets and see event updates, auction item previews, and more.

CHECK IT OUT!

Here are just a few of the items you’ll find at the Game Day Auction: • Microsoft Surface laptop from Assured Partners • Lunch with HSE Superintendent Dr. Allen Bourff • A vacation experience in Jackson Hole, Wyoming • Half a beef cow • Meet and greet and garage tour with Indianapolis 500 winner Scott Dixon • Mallow Run wine tasting experience • Indiana University basketball tickets • Hard hat tour of the new Southeastern Elementary School • A Kentucky Bourbon Trail experience

HSE Schools Main Office: 13485 Cumberland Road | (317)594.4100

PREPARING STUDENTS TO BE SUCCESSFUL FOR LIFE HOW HSE SCHOOLS IS USING DATA TO CREATE MORE INDIVIDUALIZED LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

by Emily Pace Abbotts, Director of School & Community Relations, HSE Schools Ensuring students meet their educational needs and goals is the job of more than 1,200 teachers at Hamilton Southeastern Schools. It’s not an easy task, and it’s not done alone.

Last year, the Hamilton Southeastern Board of School Trustees set a goal to become a more data-centric educational system, using data in new ways to guide decisions about classroom instruction, staff development, operational efficiency, and funding.

“Our mission is two-fold,” said Dr. Susan Drumm, HSE’s new Chief Analytics Officer. “Bringing together multiple data systems that exist, and then adding new measures to provide a more holistic picture of each student’s strengths, needs, interests, and experiences.”

Drumm took charge of HSE’s new Analytics Team a few months ago. Her background as an educator and in instructional systems enables her to evaluate data needs from multiple perspectives. Working alongside Drumm is Eric Day, Data Integration Manager. With Day’s expertise in statistics, the two are able to form a unique team, offering support to schools and students.

“The software we are using lets us correlate data in new ways” said Day, “and to visualize the data on dashboards that are easily accessible and helpful for teachers and administrators.”

HSE’s goal is to have an integrated system of educational data that informs what we do every day. According to Drumm, “the HSE Analytics Team will gather data from educators, students, parents, and the community and use it to continue building a student-centered educational system that prepares our children for future success.”

THE HSE ANALYTICS TEAM VISION STATEMENT

The HSE Analytics Team leads HSE’s efforts in the collection, analysis, and application of data in order to help each HSE student thrive and to help HSE Schools move forward as a 21st century learning organization.

hse.k12.in.us

@HSESchools

@HSESchools

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MIND, BODY, & COMMUNITY RESOLVE FOR A HEALTHY 2019 Nearly 80 percent of New Year’s resolutions fail by February, according to U.S. News. But whether your goals are focused on giving back, getting healthier, or spending more quality time with family, directing your efforts toward community could increase the success of your resolution.

It’s easy to get involved in the Fishers community and statistics show investing in your city, local nonprofits, and engaging civically can boost your mood, lessen stress, and expand your network.

A few ways you can find your resolution solution in your own backyard:

RESOLUTION #1: GET INVOLVED City Government Academy Learn more about what makes your local government tick in this free, 10-week series hosted by Fishers Parks & Recreation. Go behind the scenes with Fishers Fire and Emergency Services Department, learn how integral the Department of Public Works is in our every day lives, and more. Visit fishers.in.us/CGA to find more information and apply for the next class.

Disability Awareness Month Learn more about friends, neighbors, and coworkers who are differently abled at events hosted throughout the month of March during Disability Awareness Month. This year’s theme is “Ask How” – inviting community members to ask questions, discuss challenges, and learn more about people with disabilities. Read more at fishers.in.us/ DisabilityAwareness and on page 12.

Freebirds A new social group for Fishers residents 50 and better, Freebirds members get together once a month for fellowship and programming. With special events throughout the year, residents have the opportunity to meet new friends and try new hobbies and activities. Learn about upcoming events and more at playfishers.com/Freebirds.

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FEBRUARY 2019

RESOLUTION #2: SELF CARE Ecotherapy A study by the University of Essex indicates that spending time in nature can drop rates of depression by nearly 71 percent and boost mood and mindfulness. There’s no doubt that quality time outdoors is an easy first step toward taking care of yourself. Fishers’ own 24 parks totaling 591 acres and 131 miles of nature and multi-use trails means the opportunity is in your own back yard. Check out playfishers.com/Map to find your closest park.

Go for a Walk or Run Ready to set new fitness goals for the year? Consider signing up for the Geist Half Marathon a 5k through the YMCA, or join a fitness group such as Fishers Running Club. Visit geisthalf.com, indymca.org, or fishersrunningclub.com to learn more about how they give back while giving residents opportunities for getting fit.

Stigma Free Fishers Resolve to share about your own mental health this year. Sharing your story is the first step toward supporting the city’s efforts to break down the stigma of mental illness. There are many ways the community is ready to support you: attend an event by Building a Refuge, a nonprofit dedicated to ending the epidemic of male suicide; pledge to be stigma free at stigmafreefishers.com; learn the five signs of emotional suffering: personality change, agitation, withdrawal, poor self-care, and hopelessness; check in on neighbors, children, and friends by simply talking with them or spending quality time. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 911 or (317)621-5700 for help.

RESOLUTION #3: GIVE BACK Local Nonprofit Volunteering Local nonprofits rely on community members for support. Whether you find your passion mentoring through Youth Mentoring Initiative, help with the Summer Lunch Program with Youth Assistance Program, lend a hand with the Good Samaritan Network, or connect with another nonprofit, you can make a difference this year. Learn more by when you visit fishers.in.us/Nonprofit.

Parks and Recreation Volunteering Fishers is a city of service, often beginning right in our own Parks and Recreation Department. Every year, residents volunteer thousands of hours directly toward the city through the clean up efforts during Keep Fishers Beautiful, supporting events like Mud Day or Father Daughter Dance, or assisting with the planning of large community events like Spark!Fishers. There’s an opportunity for everyone. For more information, visit playfishers.com/Volunteer.

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CELEBRATE DISABILITY AWARENESS MONTH THINK FISHERS TAKES A LOOK AHEAD AT THE EVENTS COMING NEXT MONTH March is National Disability Awareness Month, and for the third year the Fishers Advisory Committee on Disability and the City of Fishers will host a month-long celebration to bring awareness to what life is like for those with physical and intellectual disabilities. Guided by this year’s theme, Empowering Fishers: Ask How, events will empower the community to learn more about the accommodations for those with disabilities, share the value of those with physical and intellectual disabilities in the workplace, and celebrate the talents and contributions of those with disabilities.

optic neuropathy (LHON), which affects the optic nerve and takes away the central vision. Malone now splits his time between Hamilton Southeastern High School and the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, and he hasn’t let his condition slow him down on the track. He was recently selected as a 2018 U.S. Paralympics Track & Field High School All-American, where he was named Male Track Athlete of the Year. Malone hopes to win a gold medal in the 2020 Paralympics in Tokyo.

Dickey is a 25-year-old from Pendleton, Indiana, living with distal FISHERS 2019 DISABILITY spinal muscular atrophy. He is a senior data scientist at Statwax and AWARENESS MONTH KICK-OFF plays wheelchair soccer for RHI Sudden Impact, a club team based in FRIDAY, MARCH 1 | 8:30 - 10:30 AM the Fishers area. Dickey has played soccer for 15 years, competing for FISHERS CITY HALL AUDITORIUM both his club teams and the US National team. He has been a part of Paralympian athletes Noah Malone and Jordan Dickey share their two Team USA World Cup teams, winning a gold medal in 2011 in Paris, stories of challenges and triumph as keynote speakers at the kick-off France, and a silver medal in 2017 in Orlando, Florida. He is still playing event for 2019 Disability Awareness Month in Fishers. for Team USA and will travel to Brazil later this year to compete in the Copa America, a qualifying tournament before the 2021 World Cup in Malone, a 17-year-old sprinter on the Hamilton Southeastern Track Sydney, Australia. and Field Team, is one of the fastest sprinters in Indiana. In 2016, when he was 13-years-old, he was diagnosed with Leber’s hereditary This event is free and open to the public.

CHECK IT OUT!

Hamilton East Public Library will be offering a series of events and workshops for Disability Awareness Month. To learn more, visit fishers.in.us/DisabilityAwareness.

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FEBRUARY 2019

THINK DIFFERENTLY, SHIFTING THE PERSPECTIVE: AN INTERACTIVE CONVERSATION ABOUT FEAR, STIGMA, & ASSUMPTIONS

2019 HAMILTON COUNTY TRANSITION FAIR: A RESOURCE FAIR FOR LIFE’S TRANSITIONS AT ALL AGES

THURSDAY, MARCH 7 | 8:30 - 10:30 AM

THURSDAY, MARCH 14 | 6 - 7:30 PM

CONNER PRAIRIE INTERACTIVE HISTORY PARK

HAMILTON SOUTHEASTERN HIGH SCHOOL CAFETERIA (DOOR #1)

Employers are invited to join Kathy Bernhardt, Managing Director of Tangram Business Resourcing, for coffee and conversation around how employers can meet their employment needs by employing individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities. Bernhardt will focus on implicit bias and how it affects recruitment of people with disabilities in the workplace.

This annual resource fair features 80 representatives from various organizations that provide services and resources for those with physical and intellectual disabilities of all ages. Attendees can learn where to find mobile assistive equipment, social opportunities, employment, transportation, continuing education, and other services for people transitioning into the Hamilton County community.

Businesses and organizations throughout Fishers will share their This event is free and open to the public. stories on how they have employed people with disabilities and what resources and providers were available to assist in their hiring and CITY OF FISHERS ADAPTIVE SPORTS SHOWCASE: retention efforts. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with CELEBRATING ATHLETES & FRIENDSHIP Fishers businesses, many whom are members of the Disability Inclusion SATURDAY, MARCH 23 | 2 - 5 PM in the Workplace Business Networking Group.

FISHERS HIGH SCHOOL GYM (DOOR #6) Tour exhibitions by Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana (RHI) Indy Edge Check out fishers.in.us/DisabilityAwareness to register for this event Beep Baseball Team; Indy Premier TOPSoccer; Ball State University (registration is required).

Power Soccer Team, Unified Track from HSE and FHS; Special Olympics of Hamilton County Basketball and Cheerleaders; and high VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS RECEPTION: school athletic groups. Enjoy performances from FHS Electrum Choir, A CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS Deveau’s Showteam by Gymroots, and 31Svn Street Dance Academy. & COMMUNITY UNITY This event will also feature a raffle.

FRIDAY, MARCH 8 | 6 - 9 PM CONNER PRAIRIE INTERACTIVE HISTORY PARK

Nickel Plate Arts and Fishers Arts Council invite you to a visual arts reception featuring works of art provided by Opportunities for Positive Growth (OPG); Janus Developmental Services; Art Mix; Indiana School for the Deaf; Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired; clients from the Behavioral Analysis Center for Autism (BACA); clients from Outside the Box; Bosma Enterprises; VIPS – Visual Impaired Preschool Services; Best Buddies; Fortune Academy; and the Monon Community Center (Carmel-Clay Parks). Individual artists, including Jimmy Kiefel, Krista Darrow, Nick Mangos, Olivia Graham, and John Tran, will also display their work.

The showcase is free and open to the public. Donations will be accepted at the door. Proceeds will be divided among the various non-profit organizations involved in the event.

MOVIE SHOWING OF INTELLIGENT LIVES presented by the Ball State University Department of English Immersion Learning Course, Disability Representation in Children’s & Young Adult Literature TUESDAY, MARCH 26 | 6:30 PM FISHERS HIGH SCHOOL AUDITORIUM

Award-winning filmmaker, Dan Habib, follows the lives of three young adults with intellectual disabilities who challenge the perceptions of Fishers Music Works will bring the Fishers Community Chorus to share intelligence while navigating high school, college, and the workforce in songs inspiring story sharing, compassion, and community unity. the 70-minute documentary. A discussion will follow the film.

Some artwork will be available for purchase. Appetizers and This film is free and open to the public. Registration encouraged, but not refreshments will be provided. This event is free and open to the public. required. To sign up, head over to fishers.in.us/DisabilityAwareness.

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HUB & SPOKE

LOCAL DEVELOPER, BUSINESS OWNER PARTNER TO CHANGE THE FUTURE OF TRADE CAREERS, ACCESS TO CREATIVE INDUSTRY IN FISHERS

In the audience of Mayor Fadness’ 2018 State of the City Address sat Travis Tucker, a longtime Fishers resident and developer. As he listened to the Mayor share with the audience his intent to transform K-12 education in Fishers with a partnership with Hamilton Southeastern Schools and Conner Prairie to provide meaningful, real world learning opportunities for students, he had a lightbulb moment.

Hub & Spoke will grow awareness around career paths in the industry and provide students with a place to explore trades as a rewarding career. Students will have the opportunity to develop work-ready and employability skills as well as post-secondary readiness experience.

The Hub and Spoke project was announced in November 2018 and will include an 86,000 square foot one-of-a-kind Design Center with retail After connecting Mayor Fadness, HSE superintendant Dr. Allen Bourf, showrooms, coworking space, state of the art makerspace, training and local design and contstruction entrepreneur David Decker they facility, and event center all situated along the City’s Nickel Plate Trail discussed their vision of creating a place where innovators, creatives, on 106th Street. The $14 million investment will transform the way the and entrepreneurs will be challenged to learn and grow. As Indiana’s design industry serves it’s clients and fosters community interaction skilled trades workers continue to be in short supply and high demand, and development.

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FEBRUARY 2019

WHAT IS THE HUB & SPOKE?

The Hub and Spoke Design Center will be a unique destination where visitors, community members, and the design industry can come together in a welcoming and creative environment, which will feature: • TRAINING FACILITY

Hands-on experiential training and educational experience that takes learning beyond the walls of the classroom into the community. The Facility will provide curriculum support for both high school and secondary education institutions to expose students to real-world experiences.

• MAKER’S SPACE

The makerspace will be an intersection of design, construction, art, and technology. The makerspace will include an art studio and equipment such as 3D printers, laser cutters, wood- and metal-working tools, and CNC equipment.

• COMMUNITY CONNECT COWORKING

This interactive coworking area for students and members will include office space or shop space opportunities.

• EVENT SPACE

Leveraging the adjacent Nickel Plate Trail, the event space will be a destination for entertainment and recreation with a unique indoor/outdoor area, trail access, and art garden.

The Hub and Spoke Design Center is anticipated to break ground March 2019 with completion end of 2019. For more information and to follow along with the project, head over to hubandspoke.works.

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BLAZING NEW TRAILS IN GEIST GEIST GREENWAY LOOKS TO IMPROVE RECREATIONAL CONNECTIVITY IN EASTERN FISHERS

With so many great amenities around our city, from shops and restaurants to indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, connectivity in Fishers is becoming more important than ever. Through newly completed projects like the Conner Trail, and upcoming development of the Nickel Plate Trail, the City is working to give residents safe and easy access to the many outdoor, recreational amenities throughout Fishers.

having to acquire right of way. The easements already exists, and in some portions, there is already a trail, which we’ll be able to incorporate here.”

The City is working with civil engineering firm Butler Fairman Seufert (BF&S) on the project. Construction will be completed in two phases.

Phase 1 will begin in early 2020 and will include 126th Street south The new Geist Greenway, expected to open in 2021, is no different. to Florida Road. Phase 2, in 2020 and 2021, will include the AgriPark Stretching north and south from 96th Street to 131st Street in east south to 104th Street. Existing trails and sidewalks will be utilized for Fishers, the approximately five-mile pedestrian path will connect the other sections of the Greenway. The trail will be funded by federal numerous assets of the Geist District, including the Geist Reservoir and grants (80%) and local park impact fees (20%). the upcoming Geist Waterfront Park, Bee Camp Creek Trail, Fall Creek, Hamilton County’s Carl E Verble Memorial Geist Park, AgriPark, Flat Last fall, Hamilton County Commissioner Mark Heirbrandt announced Fort Creek Park, and Saxony Beach. the County’s new pedestrian bridge project for the Geist District: restoring and relocating the historic Bell Ford Covered Bridge.

Like the Nickel Plate Trail, the Greenway isn’t just another sidewalk Constructed in 1868, the bridge once spanned over the East Fork of the against a road. Instead, the Greenway will travel through parks and White River in Jackson County, near Seymour, Indiana. The design of neighborhoods in an existing Duke Energy easement. the covered bridge is unique, as it features a combination of wrought iron as the tensile members and timber as the compression members “The Geist Greenway will provide a unique experience in Fishers,” (typical truss bridges are comprised of all iron, or all timber). The said City of Fishers’ Deputy Mayor, Leah McGrath. “The trail will give recovered pieces of the Bell Ford Bridge are the last known remains of pedestrians an alternative way to travel around the east side of the a Combination Post Truss in existence. city, in a safe and beautiful setting, while promoting wellness and encouraging residents to get outdoors and explore their community.”

The historic bridge will relocate along the Geist Greenway to provide a safe crossing over Fall Creek, just west of Florida Road, and connect The Duke Energy easement—which is wider than a typical easement— the Geist Greenway to Hamilton County’s Carl E Verble Memorial Geist will house the 14-foot-wide paved trail, with two-foot shoulders on each Park. The bridge will consist of a single reconstructed span of the side. The path will allow for pedestrian and bicycle traffic heading both Bell Ford Bridge with two contemporary style approach spans. The north and south. reconstructed span will utilize a standing seam metal roof, proved to be extremely durable over time. The siding will be built with glass, “The Greenway was a natural fit for the existing landscape,” said fiberglass, or another similar clear material to reconstruct the bridge McGrath. “There are very few areas like this that you can utilize without to its original nature, protect the structural members, and provide

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public safety. Hamilton County will seek funding support from the “We’re being proactive with our planning to ensure that everything is local Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for the restoration connected in a natural and meaningful way,” said McGrath. project. The bridge would be a later addition to the Geist Greenway, after construction has completed.

The Geist Greenway is part of Fishers’ 2040 plan, a 25-year comprehensive plan to ensure future financial sustainability, while The Geist Greenway, along with projects like the Geist Waterfront Park, creating an environment that supports quality of life that meets the are part of the City’s initiative to strengthen the brand of the Geist vision for a smart, vibrant, entrepreneurial city. The Greenway is District, where outdoor recreation is central. expected to open in 2021.

Along with connecting existing assets of the District, the Geist Greenway will be designed in such a way that it can connect to future neighborhoods and amenities.

Fishers.Indiana

@FishersIN

Eager to learn more about the project? Find details and stay up to date by visiting playfishers.com/GeistGreenway.

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WINTER FUN IN FISHERS

FISHERS PARKS & RECREATION EVENTS SPOTLIGHT Cold weather have you down? Even during winters’ longest, chilliest days, Fishers Parks & Recreation has planned an abundance of fun events and activities to warm your heart and let you explore the beauty of the great outdoors. Grab your coat and head outside for our top winter activities:

CHECK IT OUT!

We love getting to see our residents enjoying Fishers’ many parks! While you’re out and about enjoying winter fun, don’t forget to share your photos of your adventures using #AroundFishers.

Fishers Parks & Recreation @FishersParks @NickelPlateDistrict

HEART HIKE Saturday, February 9 | 1 – 3 PM | All ages | Ritchey Woods | Free

Families and residents can hit the trails during the annual Heart Hike at Ritchey Woods. Hikers are encouraged to find the images of heart shapes found in nature that line the trail and guide the path as they explore the nature preserve. Learn more at playfishers.com/HeartHike. PRO-TIP: After your hike, visit the shelter and warm up by the campfire with activities and more!

FISHERS WINTER FARMERS’ MARKET Saturdays through March 16 | 9 AM - Noon | Holland Park | Free

Stop by the Winter Farmers’ Market every Saturday through March 16 to stock up on a variety of locally grown and sourced products, including greenhouse veggies, baked goods, and prepared foods from over 28 Indiana vendors. Learn more and check out the vendors at playfishers.com/FarmersMarket. PRO-TIP: Have a question about a product or want to learn more about a vendor? Our vendors love to answer questions and chat with customers during this indoor market.

ENJOY SOME ECOTHERAPY Sometimes, all you need is a little ecotherapy during those long, dreary days. While most people tend to hibernate indoors during the winter, there’s ample health benefits to enjoying nature during the colder months. From staying active and getting the blood flowing, to decreasing stress and the beating the winter blues, a hike in the brisk air or a trip to a park can do wonders for your mental, physical, emotional health. Head to playfishers.com to explore parks and trail maps and plan your next winter adventure. PRO-TIP: Danesa Stolz, Fishers Parks & Recreation’s Chief Naturalist, shares her favorite winter ecotherapy tip: “I love being out in the woods on a sunny day after a fresh fallen snow. My mind is energized with colors that are brilliant with amazing contrast, and my soul is renewed by the sounds of nature that are so vibrant, crisp, and peaceful.”

PRESIDENT’S DAY PERFECT NORTH SLOPES SKI TRIP Monday, February 18 | 7 AM - 5 PM | Ages 8 to 17 | $95 with rental, $75 without rental

This Presidents Day, kids can celebrate their day off school with a ski adventure to Perfect North Slopes in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. Whether you’re a first-time bunny-sloper or black diamond shredder, join Fishers Parks & Recreation for this bus trip and epic day of snowboarding, skiing, and frosty fun. Registration includes bus transportation to and from the ski lodge, a lift ticket, ski rental, and a $10 food token. Adult supervision is required for ages 8 to 12. Visit playfishers.com/SkiTrip to register. PRO-TIP: Looking for childcare during this day off school? Sign up for this trip early, as spots will fill up fast!

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FEBRUARY 2019

Calendar of Events

FEBRUARY ALL MONTH LONG

THE ART GALLERY AT CITY HALL 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday - Friday (excluding holidays)

SATURDAYS

FISHERS WINTER FARMERS’ MARKET 9 AM - Noon | Holland Park

2.02 - SATURDAY SIP & SAVOR 6 - 9 PM | Saxony Hall

2.09 - SATURDAY HEART HIKE 1 - 3 PM | Ritchey Woods

2.13 - WEDNESDAY

FATHER DAUGHTER DANCE 7 - 8:30 PM | Mill Top Noblesville

2.18 - MONDAY

SCHOOL’S OUT! PRESIDENTS DAY PERFECT NORTH SLOPES SKI TRIP 7 AM - 5 PM | Billericay Park

2.18 - MONDAY

CITY COUNCIL MEETING 7 PM | City Hall Auditorium

2.22 - FRIDAY

FREEBIRDS COFFEE WITH A CAUSE 10 - 11 AM | Saxony Hall

2.22 - FRIDAY

CLIMB TIME LOCK-IN 10 PM - 7 AM | Climb Time Indy

2.23 - SATURDAY

YMCA WORLD FAIR 10 AM - 2 PM | Fishers High School

2.26 - TUESDAY

CITY OF SERVICE AWARDS NIGHT 6 - 9 PM | Forum Conference Center Fishers.Indiana

@FishersIN

WANT TO DISPLAY YOUR ARTWORK IN CITY HALL? Fishers Arts Council is seeking artists to exhibit in The Art Gallery at City Hall (formerly Art In City Hall). If you are interested in exhibiting, please contact Fishers Arts Council at FishersArtsCouncil@gmail.com or (317)537-1670.

CITY GOVERNMENT ACADEMY The award-winning City Government Academy (CGA) gives residents an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at local government including Fire and Emergency, Economic Development, Wastewater Treatment, and more! The spring term kicks off February 13 and runs Tuesdays through April 16. Participation is free. Head to playfishers.com/CGA to register by February 7.

CITY OF SERVICE AWARDS We’re celebrating the community members who have gone above and beyond serving Fishers at our annual City of Service Awards night. Join us on February 26 from 6-9 p.m. for an evening of food and drink to honor these dedicated, local volunteers.

Register at playfishers.com/Volunteer.

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN FOR 2019 SUMMER CAMPS! With an endless array of full and half-day camp programs, Fishers Parks & Recreation’s summer camps offer vibrant and engaging camps for children of all ages. This year’s camps focus on art, STEM, fitness, and nature programming with sessions on nature exploration, cooking, conducting messy science experiments, and more. Explore this summer’s lineup of camps at playfishers.com/SummerCamp.

STORMWATER BILLS COMING SOON The annual stormwater bill will hit mailboxes this month. Questions about your bill? Visit fishers.in.us/Stormwater for more details.

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