Olivia West Brings Inspiration to the Basketball Court and the Community
4 HAPPY NEW YEAR!
5 IGNITING PASSION Indy Ignite Gearing Up for Inaugural Season
10 PURPOSE AND PASSION Olivia West Brings Inspiration to the Basketball Court and the Community
14 GET IT WHILE IT’S HOT World Famous HotBoys Gives Customers MouthWatering Fare in a Distinctive Atmosphere
18 THROUGH A LOCAL LENS Hoodox Streaming Platform Features Indiana-Focused Content
21 COURT’S IN SESSION
Check Out Indy’s New Picklr Facilities
PUBLISHERS
MICHAEL & LINDSAY DURR michael@townepost.com (630) 853-1142
KEY CONTRIBUTORS
ASHLEE BORUFF
RYAN GABBERT
RENÉE LARR
ASHLEY WATTERS
DANIEL WOODY
TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC.
FOUNDER, CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (317) 496-3599
PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011
PRODUCTION COORDINATOR ERIN TURK
CREATIVE DIRECTORS VAL AUSTIN TONI EADS
DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL SERVICES
DEVON DEAN
COPY EDITOR JON SHOULDERS
TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011 FOR FRANCHISE INFORMATION, VISIT FRANCHISING.TOWNEPOST.COM
CONTACT THE PUBLISHER
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Happy New Year!
As we start this new year, we wanted to inform you of an exciting new distribution plan for North Indy. To expose more of our community to our printed publication, we have decided to distribute our publication to three times as many people quarterly. Our expanded distribution list will be broken into three segments and each segment will receive a North Indy Magazine quarterly in rotation. The map below will illustrate how and where the printed publications will be distributed throughout the year.
The big benefit to this new plan is that North Indy Magazine will now be in the hands of over 30,000 residents and businesses every quarter. This is in tandem with our growing social media presence, @thisisnorthindy on Instagram, the monthly email newsletter, and the North Indy Podcast.
We will continue to deliver the same great content and visuals
every month, and hope this new distribution plan will get even more people excited about the people and places in our community.
We invite you to engage with us. Follow us on social media. Send us an email. Listen to our podcast. Every share, post and tag is a token of appreciation to the people building this publication every month.
If you are a North Indy super fan and want that tangible printed copy every month, no worries. We have set up distribution spots around the area at local shops and restaurants and copies can always be picked up at the Towne Post Network home office, located at 8800 North Street, Suite 117 in Fishers. You can also connect with our publisher directly via
email newsletter subscription. We would love for all of you to subscribe to the email newsletter so you will not miss a beat with the content we cover.
You can learn more about advertising under Advertise with Us, which will include our distribution map, ad prices and more. We do rely on ad support and community partners to keep the publication free to its recipients and to continue publishing great content all year long. This publication is made for the local community, by the local community.
We thank you all for reading this message and look forward to seeing you around town.
IGNITING PASSION
INDY IGNITE GEARING UP FOR INAUGURAL SEASON
Writer / Renée Larr
/ Michael Durr
The growth of women’s sports worldwide is not just a cultural milestone. It’s big business.
According to FIFA, the 2023 Women’s World Cup final attracted 13.21 million viewers in the United Kingdom alone. Stars like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese have propelled the popularity of women’s basketball. In a historic moment for U.S. women’s sports, Nebraska’s Division I women’s volleyball team shattered the world attendance record when 92,003 fans filled Memorial Stadium.
Closer to home, Munciana Volleyball, based in Yorktown, stands as one of the most successful clubs in the country. Known for producing multiple national champions and elite athletes, the club boasts a track record of players and coaches at collegiate and professional levels. One of those standout players is Yorktown native Kylie Murr. A four-season star at Ohio State, Murr became the all-time digs leader with 1,935 before transferring to Minnesota for her final collegiate season. Her journey culminated with a professional draft to the Vegas Thrill, part of the emerging Pro Volleyball Federation (PVF).
The PVF, which launched its inaugural season in 2024, began with seven teams featuring 14 players each. The league adopted a major-league format, playing games in prominent arenas across the U.S. Among its recent expansions is the Indy Ignite, based in Fishers - a move championed by Co-owners Jim Schumacher and Don Hutchinson, and made possible by the unwavering support of the local community.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Indy Ignite to our brandnew Fishers Event Center and contribute to the growth and momentum of women’s sports in our region,” Fadness says. “Having a professional sports team call
Photographer
Fishers home is a testament to how far we’ve come as a vibrant destination for sports, dining and entertainment in the region. I’m proud that we can provide a venue to showcase the incredible talent and determination of these women, and help to pave the way to inspire the next generation of female athletes.”
Murr will return to her Hoosier roots as a libero for Indy Ignite. Liberos, often called the defensive anchors of volleyball, specialize in back-row play, particularly in receiving and digging the opponent’s attacks. At 5 feet, 6 inches, Murr’s stature might be smaller than some on the court, but her grit, fearlessness and agility make her a standout athlete.
Murr shares her perspective on the transition from college to professional volleyball. She notes that the physicality of the sport is a significant difference.
“The girls who jump really high and hit the ball really hard are what people love to see when they’re watching volleyball,” Murr says. “I think the biggest difference between college and professional volleyball is just how physical all these women are on the team.”
Murr says she’s excited to be part of such a special team of female athletes. The team is a group of passionate, strong and independent women who hope to be role models to other young female athletes who love the sport of volleyball. Murr says Indy Ignite, with its unique blend of passion, strength and independence, has the advantage of being a newly formed team in the league, setting it apart from the rest.
“As an add-on team, we get to build this thing from the ground up and show everyone what Indiana volleyball is all about,” Murr says. “Everyone on the team has the same competitive mindset.
Founders Day Scrimmage at Fishers Event Center
We’re super focused and hard-working but also very lighthearted, making important connections with each other.”
For Murr, playing professional volleyball in her home state feels like a dream come full circle. Raised on Indiana’s high school volleyball culture, she says it’s humbling to compete at a professional level close to family and friends. She’s happy for the team to be based in a suburb of Indianapolis, because in Fishers they can stand out from other professional sports.
“I’m so excited to be back home where I have friends and family support,” Murr says. “I think it’s so impressive to have professional volleyball in Indiana.
I think it’s important to consider your location when determining where to place a professional team. Here in Indiana, there is such a young crowd that loves and is dedicated to volleyball. I think it’s going to be cool to see these younger girls come out and watch us play.”
Murr says if you love volleyball and want to get better at it, you should come check out a live Indy Ignite game. She says experiencing the game firsthand is very different from seeing it on TV.
“As a pro volleyball player, we’re very open to connecting with the community’s crowd,” Murr says. “Seeing the girls in action and even meeting them changes your perception of the game. There are a lot of
Pepper
Indy Ignite Mascot
Sydney Hilley Setter
Fishers Event Center 11000 Stockdale Street, Fishers, IN 46037
great athletes and role models, regardless of whether you like volleyball or not. Families can bring their kids and show them firsthand examples of what their future could look like.”
As the PVF and teams like Indy Ignite continue to expand, players like Murr are leading the way for women’s sports to reach unprecedented heights. Their success is a testament to the community’s vital role in supporting and nurturing the growth of women’s sports, proving that the future is bright globally and locally. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a significant movement in the world of sports.
The season, set to kick off on January 11 at the Fishers Event Center against the Orlando Valkyries, promises an exhilarating start. To secure your spot for the entire season or delve deeper into the team’s journey, visit provolleyball.com/ teams/indy-ignite.
Kylie Murr speaking with Olivia West on the court of the Fishers Event Center on Founders Day.
PURPOSE AND PASSION
OLIVIA WEST BRINGS INSPIRATION TO THE BASKETBALL COURT AND THE COMMUNITY
Writer / Ashley Watters
Photographer / Michael Durr
Inspiration. Some of us seek it, and others live it. Dynamic vision and drive can be hard to come by for many of us, but some people naturally have a knack for getting people enthused about their passions. If you’re looking for this kind of inspiration, you should meet Olivia West.
Not so long ago, West was a humble girl hailing from La Porte, Indiana, with her sights set on college success and planning for the future. With a full-ride scholarship to Purdue, West originally pursued agricultural economics with the hopes of becoming a helpful resource within her hometown. One fateful night at an Indiana Fever game set her on a different path, one that has her hyping and helping her community as host of the Indiana Pacers and Fever basketball teams.
“I came upon this opportunity in a nontraditional way,” says West. “I was sitting at a Fever game by myself and I was suddenly hit with this need to get involved. But I didn’t know anyone and I didn’t study media, so it was interesting to have this overwhelming feeling. I decided to just ask.”
After a bit of internet sleuthing, West discovered who was in charge of the Fever and Pacers entertainment, and decided to simply ask if she could be involved. After a few seasons, she was given her chance. Now, she spends her evenings hyping
crowds in Gainbridge Fieldhouse. And she is killing it.
“It’s a real blessing and privilege to serve as emcee and host for Indiana basketball,” she says. “Where I come from, basketball
is in our blood. “It’s been an invaluable way for me to spend time in our community, doing what I love, activating brands and fans, and enjoying and loving the game of basketball.”
West exudes a spark that is nearly magnetic, allowing her to pump up the crowds and boost the energy in the stadium. Whether she is roaming the crowds, promoting sponsors and community partners, or showcasing brands, West brings personality and positivity to every single game.
“Indiana is a very special place for basketball,” she says. “In 49 states it’s just basketball, but Indiana has a very rich history and amazing, legendary, bold story when it comes to basketball and how we continue to make statements in the sport. I’m honored to be a part of that story.”
But she also wants to go beyond the basketball court to bring her passion to other areas within her community. West has her sights firmly set on driving good wherever she goes, and connecting others with her storytelling gifts.
“I have this gift of gab and I didn’t realize that not everyone has this,” she says. “But for me, it’s about so much more than being on the basketball court. There are so many things that I want to do. I want to go so much farther and be a force for good in my community.”
She hopes to use her passion to help motivate others by speaking at community events, hosting ceremonies, emceeing fundraisers and delivering other
notable keynote speeches.
“I want to be someone who is valuable and goes deeper into these critical conversations to encourage people to bring their best every single day,” she says. “I want to use the power of community to truly impact people’s lives.”
Recently, she has felt called to help empower students to forge their own paths. West feels that sharing her own journey will help students to become leaders, entrepreneurs, change makers and innovators.
“We all have a gift and something to contribute to the bigger puzzle,” she says. “It’s about more than the hype. We have to find ways to be the most valuable we can be, and students don’t often know how to do that. I was there not too long ago myself. So I share my story in hopes that it will land on someone who needs to hear it.”
Next year she hopes to continue her work fostering the love of basketball around the world. She will be emceeing Athletes Unlimited Pro Basketball in Nashville, Tennessee, and hopes to participate in the NBA All-Star event taking place in San Francisco. Her larger goals involve partnering with Basketball Africa League, an affiliate of the NBA, to help grow the game of basketball throughout the African continent.
“We use basketball as a platform to help invest in people, and that’s what I want to do - help people be the best they can be,” she says.
If you want to see her in action, be sure to grab your Pacers or Fever tickets this season.
“I would not be here without the opportunity the Pacers and Fevers teams gave me,” she says. “But how can I reach those people who may not be coming to the games? I want to share my story and inspire those who aren’t in the arena.”
To learn more about West, visit oliviawestspeaks.com.
GET IT WHILE IT’S HOT
WORLD FAMOUS HOTBOYS GIVES CUSTOMERS MOUTH-WATERING FARE IN A DISTINCTIVE ATMOSPHERE
Writer / Ryan Gabbert
Photographer / Michael Durr
World Famous Hotboys Carmel
Carmel,
Few restaurants achieve the perfect balance of being well-known for their food and atmosphere, but World Famous HotBoys (WFHB) does just that. The vibrant decor, welcoming staff and extraordinary food give customers an experience they are not soon to forget.
WFHB is a family-owned and -operated restaurant that offers a unique take on Nashvillestyle hot fried chicken called Oakland hot chicken. The halal chicken is brined overnight before being fried and seasoned to perfection.
The chicken can be bone-in, tenders, wings or sandwiches, with seven different heat levels and customizable additions. The degree of spice ranges from Southern, which has no spice, to Hot-Hot.
One of the most popular items is the Classic Sando. This delectable sandwich consists of a fried and seasoned chicken thigh, creamy coleslaw, pickles, and an in-house sauce called Money Sauce for that extra zing, all sandwiched between a warm Martin’s potato roll.
The menu features much more than just chicken, and there is something for each customer and every appetite. WFHB also offers several options of loaded fries, chicken étouffée, bonuts (fried biscuit donuts), and more.
WFHB was originally established in Oakland, California, in 2019, and quickly began to expand throughout the state. WFHB now operates locations in Sacramento, Walnut Creek, Hayward, and Novato, California.
Cousins Aaron Tann and Kyle Roberts, both longtime Indiana residents, brought it to the Hoosier state with a vision to foster community growth through food and art.
“My cousins, Victor and Berk, are the two founders,” Tann says. “They live in California but they’re the founders of HotBoys. They came up with this idea a while ago and started developing recipes for hot chicken back in 2016 and 2017.”
Opening in May 2021, the Fountain Square location of WFHB took root in the community immediately.
“It’s been a crazy ride,” Tann says. “This Fountain Square community has really embraced us. We are a very community-driven restaurant down there. We are involved in all the arts, we do stuff with the Hi-Fi, stuff with all types of local artists, throwing parties, and serving hot chicken - the best chicken in the city. “
While the Fountain Square location was a success, the family saw an opportunity to expand even further. A few years later they brought their famous chicken to the
Aaron Tann / Owner
north side by opening a location in Carmel just off Michigan Road.
What makes WFHB stand apart from the competition, besides the mouth-watering menu, is its unique atmosphere. It feels more like a house party or an artist collective than a restaurant.
“When you take that first look, you open the door and you walk in and you’re just like,
‘What’s going on in here?’” Tann says. “There’s artwork, there’s music, there’s lights. I don’t think they know what to expect when they walk into HotBoys.“
The entire restaurant, from the tables to the bathroom, is vibrant and colorful. Everywhere you look there is graffiti art, flags, vintage toys and even classic arcade games. The bar area also has several TVs and an extensive selection of drinks, making it the perfect place to watch the big game.
WFHB also offers a variety of special promotions, such as Tuesday’s Kids Eat Free nights, and even a Secret Menu available upon request. It has even hosted stand-up comedy nights in the past.
Additionally, every Friday night at the Carmel location hosts what they call Flashback Fridays, where DJ Topspeed spins all kinds of old-school hits and an area is cleared for customers to dance the night away. Don’t worry, though; they are still serving food the whole time.
“We’re not a restaurant chain or a franchise,” Tann says. “It’s just cousins who got together and combined great food with art, music and community.”
While the outside world continues to grow increasingly complicated, WFHB keeps it simple. It remains committed to the same principles that it was founded with - great food and great vibes.
No matter what the future holds, Tann makes one thing abundantly clear: “The original HotBoys restaurants will always be family owned.”
A great meal is something never to be taken for granted. WFHB certainly excels at delivering that and more.
If you would like more information about World Famous HotBoys, visit worldfamoushotboys.com, follow on social media, or stop by one of the locations.
THROUGH A LOCAL LENS HOODOX STREAMING PLATFORM FEATURES
INDIANAFOCUSED CONTENT
Hoosiers know how to support local restaurants, shops and music venues all over the state. It’s time to support the arts as well. Welcome to Hoodox.
The Hoodox website is a place to watch and support Hoosier documentaries. This streaming service is 100% Indiana focused, with films being made in Indiana or about Indiana. The Hoosier state is at the forefront on this streaming site.
the artists who are putting the stories in your hands. Like the big-name streaming companies, Hoodox has a small subscription price of $10 per month or $100 per year. This subscription gets you instant streaming access to hard-to-find local content all in one place.
Entrepreneurs and filmmakers Rocky Walls and Zach Downs founded Hoodox in 2021 because they saw a need for a place storytellers could showcase their work and build an audience. The website started with 20 nonfiction titles and now boasts over 100 movies to choose from.
“Hoodox is a nonprofit organization with a mission to support and promote Indiana storytelling that helps Hoosiers stay connected, spark conversations and create positive change,” Walls said.
The site brings together local storytellers and gives back to the community to create positive change. Every subscription goes back to
“When I tell people about Hoodox, they are often surprised at how many incredible films are being made right here in Indiana,” Walls said. “I have to admit that I am still amazed by the breadth of stories represented on Hoodox. With over 100 titles available to our supporters for streaming, there are feature-length films, short films, student films, historical documentaries, stories about art and nature, and even stories about people and places from outside of Indiana told by Hoosier filmmakers.”
Not only can movie fans binge on films at watchhoodox.com, but local producers can also apply to have their own work on the site. Content on Hoodox is carefully curated, with all submissions going through an approval process through the programming committee. Hoodox welcomes applications from any nonfiction storytelling films or series.
Writer / Ashlee Boruff
“Hoodox had no seed funding, and we asked all of the filmmakers who licensed their films for streaming at the very beginning to allow us to license them at no cost, trusting that we would stay true to our mission and that financial support would come soon,” Walls said. “Since our founding, we’ve now given over $50,000 to filmmakers across Indiana and we’re aiming to grow that support even more in the coming years with the help of donors who support our mission.”
As Hoodox grows, the team has also partnered with several Indianapolis theaters, specifically Kan-Kan Cinema and Restaurant along with Heartland International Film Festival, to host their nowannual PitchDox documentary film competition.
“PitchDox is a documentary film competition that invites Hoosier filmmakers to submit their unfinished documentary projects - at any stage, from concept to post-production - for a chance to win a $10,000 financial award to support the production of their film,” Walls said. “The PitchDox main event is held during Heartland International Film Festival at the Kan-Kan Cinema and Restaurant. We’re fortunate to have both organizations as partners to help fulfill our mission.”
The 2024 PitchDox winner was the film “Bloom” produced by Malakai Tyne Bisel, Victoria Britton, and Derek Hockemeyer. “Bloom” tells the story of super gardener Alex Babich and his quest to grow America’s tallest sunflower, all while balancing the needs of his family and the challenges of nature.
“Making films isn’t easy, and Hoodox gives Indiana filmmakers a
platform to showcase their hard work,” Britton said. “There are endless stories waiting to be discovered and shared with audiences. Having a destination for these narratives, and an audience ready to support you, is a filmmaker’s dream come true.”
There are a lot of creative Hoosier filmmakers who have partnered with Hoodox to bring their films to you. Hoodox has bridged the
gap between artists and viewers so films are now easily accessed and supported. Film supporters can subscribe monthly or simply donate to keep Hoodox growing and giving back to the film community.
“I want to continue being a champion of Hoosier documentaries through Hoodox and our programs, and through our own films we produce at 12 Stars Media,” Walls said.
“The past few years have been by far the most exciting in my nearly 20-year career, and I have a feeling this is just the beginning.”
Stay up to date on new films and events by following @watchhoodox on social media. Be on the lookout for 2025 PitchDox details as well. Most importantly, sign up and stream on any device at watchhoodox.com.
COURT’S IN SESSION
CHECK OUT INDY’S NEW PICKLR FACILITIES
Writer / Ashley Watters
It’s been called the fastest-growing sport in the United States. Some estimates even have players totaling near the 50-million mark. Have you jumped on the bandwagon yet? If you haven’t, this may be your perfect opportunity. The Picklr has made its way to Indy.
The Picklr is an indoor pickleball facility with more than 250 locations across the country. With two facilities opening in Indianapolis, pickleball players can now access state-of-theart facilities and seamless playing in the north Indy and Noblesville areas.
Co-owners Dave Gilreath and Ron Brock wanted to up the ante to provide an all-new pickleball experience for players in Indiana. An avid tennis player for more than 20 years, Gilreath’s passion eventually steered him towards pickleball. He was immediately hooked, and in awe of how the game can be applied to any age and skill level, while also
fostering community and an inclusive social atmosphere. With such potential, he felt there needed to be a premier option for players harboring that same love.
“We recognized the opportunity to establish clubs in Indiana to attract other players,” says Gilreath. “We explored options and The Picklr immediately stood out as offering players a premier indoor pickleball experience. We’re excited to open Indiana’s first club.”
Recent grand-opening celebrations featured celebrity pickleball players, free open play, play with a pro, and lessons, along with raffles and special giveaways. Located at 3810 East 82nd Street in Indy and 9847 Cumberland Point Boulevard in Noblesville , both Picklr facilities are expected to provide pickleball players of all skill levels with a variety of fun and competitive options.
Members will have access to all-inclusive
amenities including court access, free league play, free tournaments, four monthly guest passes, four free monthly clinics, a ball machine, a pro shop, as well as private event areas and access to lockers rooms and showers. Members may also access any franchise location, a flexible choice for those with busy schedules. There are a multitude of membership options and nonmembers are encouraged to join on an à la carte basis. Those interested are encouraged to explore the trial membership of $30 for 30 days. The Picklr at Keystone Crossing opened its doors on December 21, 2024.
“The Picklr Keystone Crossing features 10 indoor courts in its 30,000-square-foot facility, a full pro shop, private event space, unlimited league play, tournaments, social and competitive events, and open play,” says Gilreath. “The facility also has spectator viewing areas, a beverage wall including wine, beer and nonalcoholic options, as well
as several grab-and-go food selections” says Gilreath.
The Picklr Noblesville followed suit shortly thereafter on January 18, 2025, as a joint venture between Pickle Indy and Drew Brees’ BV Pickleball Clubs LLC.
“The Picklr Noblesville will feature 19 indoor courts in 57,000-square-foot multiple event spaces, three championship-sized courts, permanent grandstands, and an upper-level viewing and lounge area,” says Gilreath. “Drew Brees serves as the national brand ambassador for The Picklr, and his firm is Midwest area developer for The Picklr, working to develop more than 30 clubs across Indiana, Ohio and Michigan.”
Players at all locations will have access to the best accommodations pickleball has to offer, with cutting-edge technology and clean, modern courts.
“The Picklr is a premium indoor pickleball facility providing an unparalleled pickleball experience for players,” says Gilreath. “All locations offer professional-grade outdoor surfacing, best-in-class technology, and access to free leagues, tournaments and clinics.”
Players of all skill levels and age groups are invited to join, and encouraged to engage in whatever level of play matches their comfort level. From beginners to pros, The Picklr has play options for everyone.
“The Picklr offers a variety of programming for all skill levels with either a social or competitive focus in mind,” says Gilreath. “With options including open play, round robins by skill, King’s Court, or Moneyball events and leagues, The Picklr has something for everyone.”
Those aspiring to become master players can take part in private lessons or adult programming led by highly skilled instructors. Junior memberships are also available for players between the ages of 8 and 18.
“Memberships provide a built-in pickleball academy, community and programming
for youth ages 8 to 18, which mirrors the adult membership at a discounted price with free junior clinics, junior-specific open play, tournaments, leagues, and court reservations,” says Gilreath.
Additionally, The Picklr offers a private event space where pickleball lovers can come together to celebrate their special days. The area is also well-suited to accommodate team-building activities.
“The Picklr is able to host a number of private events ranging from corporate teambuilding events and non-Picklr sponsored tournaments to birthday parties, reunions, bachelorette parties and more,” says Gilreath. “Our community room is available to rent by the hour and can accommodate all sizes of get-togethers.”
To learn more about Indy’s new Picklr locations, visit thepicklr.com.
