5 QUALITY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP Porter Roofing and Restoration Is Built on Trust
9 STROKE OF IMAGINATION
Create Art Studio Helps to Foster the Artistic Process for All Ages
13 REACHING NEW HEIGHTS
North Mass Boulder’s Queer Trans Climb Night Celebrates Inclusivity
PUBLISHERS
MICHAEL & LINDSAY DURR michael@townepost.com (630) 853-1142
KEY CONTRIBUTORS
DEVON DEAN
TRAVIS HINKLE
TOWNE POST LAUNCHES NEW HYPERLOCAL COMMUNITY EVENTS
CALENDAR
20 FAIR GAME
The Complete Guide to the Indiana State Fair
24 QUALITY CATERING
The Team at Sahm’s Hospitality Group Gears up for New Catering Space
28 SEE, DO, EAT
SARAH BROWNING RENEE LARR
ALESHA MCCARTY
LARA PASOTTI
JUSTIN SICKING ELY AYERS
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
Have a story idea or suggestion for the magazine?
Photographer / Travis Hinkle
This is Michael Durr, the publisher of North Indy, a Towne Post Network publication. I wanted to take a moment and communicate with you directly to fill you in on some new things we have available to you, and the importance of your engagement.
First off, the value of a locally distributed monthly publication cannot be overstated. As a resident myself, I love having a dedicated source of
information that highlights unique stories about the people, places and events in and around our community. North Indy has the ability to focus on content and tell stories that you can’t find anywhere else. We aim to keep you informed, entertain, and serve as a beacon of positivity in our community. This helps to foster a stronger sense of connection among all of us.
Supporting our local publication is crucial. North Indy is free to its recipients and we rely on the support of advertisers and sponsors to not only utilize this publication to promote their businesses, but also to support production and allow us to tell stories that might not otherwise be told. When we as a community support and engage with this publication, we ensure its continued operation. My team and I are committed to providing you with a tool that will allow you to engage deeper with our community and, in turn, create a more vibrant and connected collection of neighborhoods.
North Indy also plays a vital role in preserving our culture and identity. It celebrates local achievements and traditions, and also provides us with a snapshot of ourselves. This not only creates a sense of pride, but also ensures that the voices of our local writers, photographers, artists
and content creators are heard. All of our Towne Post Network publications provide a platform for diverse perspectives and talents, enriching the communities in which they serve.
In addition to the printed publication, you can also engage with us via the North Indy Podcast, our Instagram @thisisnorthindy, and our recently launched local calendar. The calendar is the perfect place to learn about what is happening locally, and even allows you to post and share your own events.
The true value of our locally distributed content lies in our ability to connect and inform you. Your support is essential for its survival and success, ensuring that it continues to be a reliable source of local culture and information.
We invite you to engage with us. Read this publication. Follow us @thisisnorthindy. Listen to our podcast. View our calendar. We do this for you.
If you would like to learn more about our publication and how you can support us, or how we can support you, please reach out to me.
Sincerely, Michael
Durr
townepost.com
@thisisnorthindy michael@townepost.com
QUALITY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP
PORTER ROOFING AND RESTORATION IS BUILT ON TRUST
Writer / Renee Larr
Photographer / Justin Sicking
The team at Porter Roofing knows that putting a roof over your head is more intricate than just choosing what material to use. The familyowned business prides itself on offering high-quality service, an outstanding selection of superior products and a hometown appeal. Owner Jesse Porter grew up passionate about entrepreneurship, and knew he always wanted to own his own company. He combined his business acumen and previous experience in the roofing and construction industry to open Porter Roofing and Restoration in 2019, with the help of his wife, Maria, and family.
“Having worked in the roofing industry for several years, I witnessed both the great and not-so-great aspects of the business,” Jesse shares. “This experience fueled my desire to create a company where the customer and the employees are the true focus. We strive to make our employees feel secure and supported, knowing that this will inspire them to deliver exceptional service to our clients.”
Porter Roofing offers a wide range of services including residential roofing, siding and gutter installation, as well as ancillary services such as copper installation for accents, attic insulation for energy efficiency, and roof skylights for
natural light. Jesse says there isn’t a roof Porter Roofing can’t do. They offer roof styles such as asphalt, wood shake, concrete tile, slate, and rubber roofing systems. Customer representatives work with the client to determine the best type of roof for their needs and their home’s aesthetic.
“I grew up in the Meridian-Kessler/Butler Tarkington area of Indianapolis,” Maria says. “We decided this is where we wanted to raise our children because of the rich history and beauty of the area. Porter Roofing works on many homes in the same area, including large, lavish homes and small homes full of charm. We love working to keep those homes to their character with our clients.”
The quality of Porter Roofing’s products is of the utmost importance to the team. They work with high-end products like the James Hardie siding collection. Jesse says they want to give their clients a luxury, high-end feel for their home while being affordable. They also partner with local mainstay Reese Wholesale,
since 1937 and has been
material wholesale since 1952.
“We’re a preferred contractor with Owens Corning,” Jesse says. “Normally it takes about two years for a company to hit the amount of volume they have to do to become a preferred contractor. We blew away that number in our first year. It’s a huge achievement to have preferred status with a brand like Owens Corning.”
Jesse says one company area he’s most proud of is copper work on homes. Copper accents add a splash of curb appeal to any home for generations to come. Jesse says their copper contractor is nothing short of an artist, meticulously crafting each piece to enhance the home’s aesthetic. The Porters’ commitment to their customers is also present in dealing with pesky insurance claims.
“Most clients are only going to have to deal with an insurance claim in regards to their roof maybe once in their lifetime,” Jesse says. “We do it daily, so we try to handle
every aspect we can for them. I have two employees on my team whose only job is to deal with insurance claims.”
Jesse and Maria know that keeping the lines of communication open throughout any job is of the utmost importance to customers. They ensure the client knows exactly what to expect throughout the entire job, from the initial consultation to the final cleanup. Maria says they know large home projects can be daunting, but they have developed a streamlined process that minimizes disruption and ensures a seamless experience for their customers. “We are deeply committed to our community,” Maria says. “We believe in giving back as much as we can, whether
it’s through supporting local sports teams, participating in community festivals or sponsoring events. This commitment is a testament to our dedication to the people and the homes we serve.”
Porter Roofing and Restoration helps homeowners maintain the integrity of their homes, while providing high-end products and five-star customer service. It is located at 5225 Emco Drive in Indianapolis. For more information, call 317-350-ROOF or visit porterroof.com.
The Polklore Micro-Museum celebrates the story of the Polk Dairy and its neighbors and engages the public in a conversation about cultural preservation. The museum employs four approaches: neighbor co-creation, art assemblage, immersive experiences through technology, and a residency experience for artists and entrepreneurs.
Stories are the heart of Polklore. Neighbors chose the stories and artifacts to be preserved. They then worked with a diverse team of artists to collect oral histories, assemble artifacts into an art installation, develop audio and video experiences, and leverage augmented reality technology. Long-term stakeholders, new residents, and visitors are all invited to engage in the neighborhood’s story.
Scan here to learn more!
Visit the Polklore Micro-Museum on the ground level of COhatch Polk Stables located at 1533 Lewis Street in Indianapolis.
HARRISON CENTER FIRST FRIDAYS
Walk through the historic Harrison Center and feast your eyes on incredible artwork, chat with artists and enjoy drinks and snacks. This monthly event is an incredible way to support the artists that have a residence at the Harrison Center.
Learn more about this month by visiting harrisoncenter.org/first-fridays
STROKE OF IMAGINATION
During a family trip to Bend, Oregon, Alissa Moody and her daughter popped into a local art studio. The studio sold art supplies, highlighted local artists and their work, and provided art classes. Moody thought the idea was so cool and fun that it needed to be brought to Indianapolis. Moody worked as an inpatient physical therapist at Riley Hospital for Children, and while she loved all things art, she didn’t have any real-world experience teaching art to others. So, she enlisted the help of her longtime dear friend, Chrissy Sweigart.
With over 20 years of experience in teaching
CREATE ART STUDIO HELPS TO FOSTER THE ARTISTIC PROCESS FOR ALL AGES
Writer / Renee Larr Photographer / Michael Durr
art, Sweigart is a seasoned professional. Her diverse background includes teaching in parochial, private and public schools in both Indianapolis and Chicago. She has also organized art camps, contributed to the Indianapolis Children’s Museum Guild, and taught at Sycamore School in Indianapolis. In October 2023, she and Moody, a passionate art lover, opened Create Art Studio in the heart of Broad Ripple.
“When Alissa called me to discuss this idea, it was very serendipitous because I had wanted to open my own art space for a very long time,” Sweigart says. “So we decided to
join forces and make it happen.”
Create Art Studio offers process art classes for artists of all types and ages. Sweigart says
Chrissy Sweigart Co-Founder and Art Teacher
Alissa Moody Co-Founder and Art Enthusiast
several different images from, let’s say, Australia,” Moody says. “Our students pick one that speaks to them. Rather than try to emulate it and make it a perfect match, they’re interpreting it. They’re just enjoying learning how to paint and create, rather than the outcome.”
Classes are broken down by age. Mini Maker classes are drop-off classes that allow your young artist to engage in an array of materials, mediums and processes, for children 1.5 to 4 years old. Art Explorer classes are drop-off classes for kids 4 to 6 years old. These incorporate artistic play and project work. Studio Explorer classes are suited for students 6 to 9 years old, and explore drawing, painting, sculpting, printing and more. Art Lab classes cater to young artists aged 10 to 17 who want to further their art education.
Finally, Creatives art classes are for those aged 18 and up with any art ability. Students can choose from various classes including workshops, happy hours and pop-ups.
At Create Art Studio everyone is welcome, regardless of their artistic abilities or skill levels. Moody emphasizes the inclusivity of the studio, saying “the multigenerational classes are a lot of fun. There is always a theme of some sort, and the classes vary. They’re not all fine-art related. Sometimes
photography or calligraphy classes. Guests
love to adorn the walls with art from local artists who are brought in to teach classes. Sweigart says it allows them to share their passion with others and highlight artists who might not be showcased elsewhere.
“I think people are looking for fun things
offer. It’s fun to do with friends or a group
AirBNB located above the art studio
The structure that houses Create Art Studio was previously a home, and has been renovated to house various businesses since 1983. The upstairs area now serves as a onebedroom Airbnb studio rental. Moody says the space is great for artists they bring in to teach classes, but also for anyone looking for an intimate space to create and get away, while also being close to the vibrant art scene of Broad Ripple and downtown Indianapolis.
Sweigart says classes are already booking up for the fall. The Fall 1 session runs from September 9 through October 11, and the Fall 2 sessions run from October 21 through November 29. Create Art Studio is also a unique location to host a private event. Guests can rent the studio, hold a private party or create a private event.
Create Art Studio is located at 6511 Ferguson Street in Indianapolis. For more information, visit createartstudioindy.com.
Reaching New Heights
NORTH MASS BOULDER’S QUEER TRANS CLIMB NIGHT CELEBRATES INCLUSIVITY
Writer / Ely Ayers
Photographer / Travis Hinkle
Born out of an idea of inclusion, the vibrant climbing community at North Mass Boulder (NMB) has evolved into a space that transcends mere recreation for its participants. Queer Trans Climb Night (QTCN), conceived by Cael Lee and co-host Khristopher, has rapidly grown into a pivotal gathering for queer and trans individuals seeking not just physical activity, but also a sanctuary to socialize, build connections and celebrate their identities in an inclusive environment.
“Climbing is traditionally male dominated, so creating space for women and femmes was crucial,” says Lee. “I wondered aloud if NMB would extend this inclusivity to the queer and trans community, given the often unwelcoming nature of gyms for LGBTQ+ individuals. Toxic gym culture, with its emphasis on cis-heteronormative ideals and historical harassment in locker rooms, underscores the need for safe spaces.”
Encouraged by NMB’s ethos of diversity and inclusion, Lee approached management with a proposal for an event that would welcome queer and trans climbers. The response was overwhelmingly positive, leading to the launch of QTCN in March 2022 - a watershed moment in making climbing more accessible and affirming.
On a typical QTCN night, NMB transforms into more than just a climbing gym. The evening commences with introductions and icebreakers, fostering a warm atmosphere where participants share pronouns and connect over shared experiences. Moving to the bouldering gym, climbers of all skill levels support one another, creating an environment that encourages growth and camaraderie. The night culminates upstairs in the cafe and bar area, where conversations flow freely in a relaxed, alcohol-free setting, reinforcing the bonds forged on the climbing mats earlier.
“If you’re new, expect a warm welcome,” says Lee. “There’s no
pressure to climb; the night is about inclusivity and support. While some enjoy a drink at the cafe, many don’t, reflecting our focus on creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable.”
QTCN has swiftly become a cornerstone of Indianapolis’s queer and trans community, addressing a critical need for sober, physically engaging social spaces. Participants often leave with new friends and a sense of belonging rarely found in conventional gym settings.
Inclusivity lies at the heart of QTCN’s mission, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of identity or experience, feel welcome. “We don’t check queer IDs at the door,” quips Lee, underscoring the event’s commitment to inclusivity. “Whether you’re exploring your identity or seeking community, QTCN is for you.”
Advocating for pay-what-you-can nights further minimizes financial
“I AM HUMBLED TO GET TO HELP ORGANIZE THIS EVENT. QTCN HAS NOT ONLY BROUGHT ME FRIENDSHIPS THAT I FEEL WILL BE LIFELONG, IT HAS ALSO INCREASED MY COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS TO OTHER QUEER AND TRANS ORGANIZATIONS.”
- CAEL LEE
requires great strength or athleticism,” says Lee, dispelling myths. “Bouldering accommodates all body types and abilities. At QTCN, you’ll find a diverse range
their first routes to seasoned climbers pushing their limits. Spectators are just as
welcome, reflecting our commitment to accessibility.”
Engaging with QTCN is straightforward through NMB’s events page, listing upcoming sessions. Beyond climbing, QTCN fosters partnerships with queerand trans-affirming organizations, amplifying its impact beyond the gym. Participants advocate for greater inclusivity and visibility in sports and recreational spaces by attending and promoting QTCN events. Registration details are available on NMB’s events page. Whether a seasoned climber or a first-time participant, QTCN invites all to join in and experience the transformative impact of community, affirming the belief that climbing is not just about scaling walls, but also about building bridges and embracing diversity.
“I am humbled to get to help organize this event,” says Lee. “QTCN has not only brought me friendships that I feel will be lifelong, it has also increased my community connections to other queer and trans organizations.”
For Lee, QTCN has been transformative, reinforcing the necessity of queeraffirming spaces and fostering deeper engagement within Indianapolis’s queer and trans community. Beyond personal connections, QTCN embodies the power of collective support and advocacy, empowering participants to ascend to new heights of inclusivity and camaraderie, one climb at a time.
eCommunity.com/cancer
TOWNE POST LAUNCHES NEW HYPERLOCAL COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR
Writer / Devon Dean
The Towne Post Network of publications is proud to announce the launch of a new, hyperlocal community events calendar - online.
Using an aggregating software partner, the Towne Post Events Calendar includes information from more than 200 sources across the regions the company serves. This includes LiveNation, VisitIndy.com, various chamber of commerce websites, and a wealth of other community calendars to give a complete rundown of fun things to do in your area.
As a user, you can filter by date, time, city, proximity, and even by event type. If you are hosting a local event, this is a free service with additional paid opportunities for expanded visibility starting at just $2 a day. As the Towne Post Events Calendar expands, an email will go out every Thursday to give subscribers the scoop on what’s going on around town each weekend.
“Summer is a busy time and it’s hard to keep track of everything that is happening,” says Towne Post CEO and Founder Tom Britt. “Our goal is to create another point of connection between people and the communities they live in by highlighting all the great local events coming up.”
See what’s happening at townepost.com/calendar. To subscribe for weekly emails, subscribe at TownePost.com and click the “Email Newsletters” button at the top of the website.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2024 11:30 A.M. – 1:00 P.M.
502 EAST EVENT CENTRE 502 E Carmel Dr, Carmel, IN 46032 doverecoveryhouse.org/luncheon
The Celebration Luncheon and Dessert Dash is Dove House’s annual fundraising event. Celebrate Dove House, dash for desserts, and help transform the lives of women in recovery from substance use disorder. If you have questions or would like to become a sponsor or in-kind donor, please contact Director of Development Amy Magan at amagan@doverecoveryhouse.org.
FAIR GAME
THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO THE INDIANA STATE FAIR
Writer / Devon Dean
Gird your loins, grab your sunblock, antacid, and a few friends and head to the Indiana State Fair August 2-18. While there’s plenty to explore, the food competition is always a huge attraction.
This year, the “Taste of the Fair” offers a literal smorgasbord of food and drinks to try out. Definitely bring an empty stomach and an open mind. Fairgoers are encouraged to vote for their favorite new food items by visiting any of the information booths around campus or by scanning the QR code that will be available at the concession stands.
The annual competition is for more than just bragging rights. The winning food stand will receive a $2,500 cash prize, followed by the second place receiving $1,000, and third place receiving $500. In addition, for the first time our partners at the World Food Championships will award the top three winners a Golden Ticket entry to the World Food Championships event taking place in Indianapolis this fall for the first time in history at the State Fairgrounds.
FAIRGOERS CAN HIT UP TO 43 DIFFERENT STOPS ON THEIR TOUR DE EATING. THE EXPANSIVE MENU INCLUDES:
• A Bloody Mary topped with a mini corn on the cob, cheeseburger slider, fried mac and cheese, fried pickles, waffle fries, hotdog slider, and a mini apple pie
• Cinnamon Toast Crunch funnel cake
• Strawberry cheesecake funnel cake
• Pickle-flavored pale ale
• Deep fried golden Oreos
• Amish peanut butter pretzels topped with a peanut butter and marshmallow spread
• Dill pickle Dr. Pepper
• Dill pickle lemon shake-ups
• Peanut butter & jelly chicken wings
• Ultimate steak nachos
Yes, pickles and fried delights once again are playing a large role in this year’s competition.
OTHER STATE FAIR ATTRACTIONS
The State Fair is always held during what is traditionally one of the hottest months of the summer. To offer a respite, the MHS Family Fun Park will include an all-new splash pad for folks of all ages to cool off.
The Olympic Games in Paris are happening at the same time as the State Fair. WTHR will host the Olympic Zone to celebrate the Hoosiers competing for Team USA. This experience promises to capture the spirit of the games even from a continent away.
The Fair is also celebrating a historic moment - 60 years ago, a small group from Liverpool called The Beatles played at Pepsi Coliseum. Fair officials are celebrating the Fab Four’s legendary stop in the Circle City on August 3 with Beatles-
themed entertainment all day, including a performance by tribute band A Hard Day’s Night and a celebration of the music of Paul McCartney.
If you’re on a budget, you’re in luck. Not only is $2 Tuesday back on the schedule, but the $5 value menu offers a variety of options for everyone in the family.
Finally, the concert line-up for the fair is a mix of all genres of music. Gladys Knight, Buddy Guy, Bell Biv Devoe, Lita Ford, and Dogstar are just a few of the artists playing the Hoosier
Lottery Free Stage.
If you are not familiar, Dogstar’s bassist is best known for his role as John Wick.
Discounted tickets and the complete schedule are available at IndianaStateFair. com. Don’t forget - the fair folk need their rest too and are closed on Mondays.
If you hit up the Indiana State Fair, be sure to share your photos on the Towne Post social media Facebook pages.
Designing for flexibility, designing for the future of healthcare.
While hosting a group of healthcare executives at our Healing MINDSET pop-up showroom, I couldn't help reflecting on how the world of healthcare has transformed since Business Furniture first began creating healthcare solutions 30 years ago Our Healing MINDSET healthcare studio gave our team a working lab to deepen our understanding of what is needed in healthcare spaces of the future It also served as a hub for open dialogue, where healthcare planners and our team uncovered solutions benefitting everyone, including patients, caregivers, and healthcare workers
Thank you to everyone who made this success possible. We would love to continue the journey with you and your team We are committed to supporting the healing hearts in healthcare, moving forward to create places where we can all heal better
Mary Beth Oakes
First Impressions Matter
Waiting areas set the tone for care Modern designs focus on privacy, caregiver workspaces, and a welcoming environment ditching the auditorium-style rows for cozy, living room-like settings while still leveraging fabrics and finishes that are appropriate and practical for healthcare environments
Attracting & Retaining Healthcare Workers
With the industry's focus on attracting and retaining the best people, healthcare organizations are investing in secure and safe workspaces, as well as spaces for team bonding and easy collaboration Healthcare professionals need spaces for respite By better supporting the needs of their team, healthcare leaders enable better patient care
Flexibility is Key
2020 taught us the importance of agility Healthcare spaces must be modular, with furniture serving multiple roles and rooms ready to adapt quickly to changing needs and purposes
Hospitable Hospitals
Enhanced wayfinding and dedicated staff now guide patients and visitors, easing the anxiety we sometimes feel in a hospital Thoughtful design includes multilingual and accessible information and balancing welcoming environments with staff safety.
Despite budget tensions, healthcare leaders are dedicated to creating healing spaces, attracting top talent in research and patient care, and delivering the best patient outcomes Their passion is inspiring and drives our commitment to designing innovative healthcare solutions
QUA LITY
Writer / Alesha McCarty
Photographer / Sarah Browning
Ed Sahm (left) and Eddie Sahm (right)
Photo by Sarah Browning
Many locals are familiar with the Sahm family restaurant empire. However, some may not know that a large part of their business comes from catering. They are a family operation; Ed Sahm is the founder and CEO, and his children, including Eddie, vice president and director of operations, Adrienne, head of beverage operations, and their sister, Molly, all have a part. Eddie says their success can be attributed to their activity in their restaurants. They work and live at each establishment.
Their catering menu started with pasta, steak and sides, but has evolved to add barbecue (also available at Half Liter) or fried chicken (also available at Big Lug). Their most popular catering service includes barbecue or fried chicken, salad, veggies, fresh-baked bread, and homemade desserts like their famous coffee cake.
Sahm’s catering can accommodate five to 5,000 people. If you’re feeling overwhelmed
for the week, the family meals from Half Liter, which feed four to 10 people, are perfect to stock your fridge. The mac and cheese, and Brussels sprouts, are also available.
For birthdays, reunions, weddings, school functions, large charity events like their famous golf outings, or fundraisers, Sahm’s Catering can accommodate you. You’ll also see them around the city at events like Rock the Ruins or IU Health’s Rev. They are a dependable spot for fresh, well-made food.
Their new space is located at 2502 East 52nd Street in Indy. The previous MVP catering kitchen has undergone a big renovation. The interiors are now vibrantly sparkling and ready for work. The space, for now, will serve as a catering kitchen and will not be open to the public. However, Ed and Eddie hope to revitalize this building and the grounds surrounding it, for those on the Nickel Plate Trail heading into South Broad Ripple.
The kitchen is also just four minutes from the Monon Trail, and the beautification will be welcome to passing traffic. The Sahms all live within 10 minutes of the catering kitchen and Eddie even rides his bike there. It is easily accessible to both the northside and downtown parts of the city. Ed and his partner in crime, a rescue pup named Arnie, are excited to make this space home.
The building will also be getting new Sahm’s signage.
* * *
The family called Indianapolis home far before the restaurants began to populate. Ed reminisces about his grandmother, Grace Coffing, who he says “was an amazing cook.” He has fond memories of her cooking and credits his love of food to her. Ed grew up right in the heart of midtown at 44th and Delaware. His first job was at what he describes as a “legendary
neighborhood establishment”called Knobby’s, which closed in 2001. The space at 53rd and Keystone was converted to a BP gas station.
Ed decided to pursue hospitality, focusing on restaurant management - a defining point in the history of the Sahm’s hospitality brand. He helped Harry’s Chocolate Shop establish their pub. In 1986 the first of the Sahm’s restaurants opened at 116th and Allisonville, and so began their empire of bakeries, breweries, catering businesses and several diverse eateries throughout central Indiana. The catering company started in 1987 along with the addition of Eddie, Ed’s oldest child.
Eddie was born into the industry, and restaurants were home to him. He has fond childhood memories of fresh-baked bread and the warm, rich, nutty smell of roasting pecans. Eddie was raised around mentors like Chris Eley (owner of Smoking Goose) and Mike Cunningham (founder of
Cunningham Restaurant Group). He may have been born into the industry, but his commitment to going above and beyond underscores that this is what he was meant to do.
In 1989 the famous Sahm coffee cake was developed, just in time to welcome the eldest daughter, Adrienne, in 1990. Soon after, Molly joined the family in 1992.
The Sahm empire moved downtown in 2019, as the team opened up in the One America building until 2020, when doubling rents motivated them to seek other options. They moved the catering business to the Cathedral athletic campus. Catering had always been a big part of the Sahm’s business, and a dependable aspect of their success. Eddie says they use “real, fresh food; nothing is ever heated from frozen, or reheated multiple times for service.”
“Food is a conduit for connecting people and communities,” he adds. “It’s as simple as that.”
The Sahms team has perfected a smooth service, and also prides itself on paying special attention to allergies and accommodating dietary needs. “No one’s leaving hungry,” Ed adds.
“It’s a great feeling to bring the business back home to midtown,” he adds, referring to just miles from where he grew up.
“Indy is home, and we hope to keep building here and pouring back into the community that built us,” Eddie says.
For more info, go to sahmscateringcompany.com or call 317-536-1305.
SEE, DO, EAT
Summer is flying by (doesn’t it always?) and now is the time to get out and enjoy the long, sunny days while they’re still around. Here’s what to see, do and eat around north Indy right now.
Presented by Content Creator Lara Pasotti @see_do_eat Photographer / Michael Durr
S EE:
Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park
This expansive park at Newfields is free to visit and features a looping lakeside trail that takes just about 30 minutes to hike (OK, it’s basically just a walk). Leashed dogs are welcome and the sculpture park is great for active kiddos. Visitors won’t be able to miss the newly endowed Hawryluk Sculpture Green featuring a series of exciting outdoor art installations, including the new, interactive “Home Again” exhibition. Wear comfortable shoes, pack a picnic, and prepare to immerse yourself in public art and nature simultaneously. 1850 W. 38th Street discovernewfields.org @newfieldstoday
Indianapolis Art Center Walkable from most Broad Ripple eateries,
the Indy Art Center’s outdoor ARTSPARK features interactive, open-air sculptures practically begging for you to walk off your meal and explore. Don’t miss the longstanding and peculiar Twisted House by artist John McNaughton. Inside, the galleries are always free and open to the public as well. With events and classes for youths and adults, anyone can dive deeper and unleash their artistic side.
820 E. 67th Street indyartcenter.org @indyartcenter
Golden Hour Books
This new bookstore, instantly adored for its intentional curation, opened in midtown in 2023. Here, visitors can expect to find literary hidden gems sharing shelves with bestsellers. With nonfiction, poetry, smallpress fiction and more, the store beckons readers to discover unique titles that open the door to personal adventures. Don’t miss the thoughtfully designed children’s section or the bookstore’s monthly events like Musical Storytime and First Friday Writers’ Mixers.
5208 N. College Avenue
goldenhourbooks.net
@goldenhourbooksindy
DO:
Broad Ripple Farmers Market
During warmer months, this market transforms an otherwise empty parking lot near Rural Street and Kessler Boulevard into a mecca of local groceries, flowers, and an impressive array of ready-to-eat items. Vendors gather, rain or shine, every Saturday for an 8 a.m. opening (9 a.m. in October). Shop like a pro and arrive early for the best selection. Bring cash and don’t forget a reusable tote.
6001 N. Rural Street
broadrippleindy.org
@brfarmersmarket
Frank’s Paddlesports Livery
Frank’s is offering outdoor lovers and adventure seekers a fun activity in the heart of north Indy. This new business, launched in 2023, strives to see the White River utilized to its full potential, and offers rentals of kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards for use on the White River. While you can rent by the hour, you can also take a downriver cruise. The Frank’s crew shuttles you to your put-in location so your cruise ends back at your vehicle.
3001 N. White River Parkway Drive West frankslivery.com @franks_livery
Indiana State Fair
The State Fair returns August 2 through 18 with familiar attractions like the midway, free concerts, animals, and assorted exhibits. This year’s theme is “The Art & Nature of Fun” in partnership with Newfields, and one new feature is a splash pad to help families stay cool. When it comes to the food, visitors can’t go wrong with tried-and-true favorites: a classic corn dog, melt-in-your-mouth elephant ear and refreshing lemon shake-up. Want to try it all? Plan to visit on $2 Tuesdays when admission, rides and concessions are offered for $2; just be prepared for crowds! 1202 E. 38th Street indianastatefair.com @indystatefair
EAT:
Lick
For delectably crafted ice cream with unique and seasonal flavors, Lick is the spot!
Every scoop is locally produced in small batches. Found right along the Monon Trail in SoBro, their little blue house is the perfect walking or biking destination on summer nights. Don’t miss summer favorites like key lime pie and blueberry sweet corn cookie. For bonus points, take a pint home to satisfy your sweet tooth.
1049 E. 54th Street
lickindy.com
@lickindy
Big Lug Canteen
Big Lug is well-known and well-loved around north Indy as a top dining destination, thanks to brewed-in-house beers, scratch-made food, and live music at their bustling patio along the Monon Trail in Nora. This family-friendly spot has ample parking whether you arrive
by bike or car, and rotating weekly specials sure to tempt the taste buds. Try the popular Willie’s Special salad topped with guacamole and Frito salt, and order some poutine for the table too.
1435 E. 86th Street
biglugcanteen.com
@biglugcanteen
Nicey Treat
Indy’s coolest treat spot recently moved into a new Broad Ripple shop, but it’s only a block from the original spot, on Westfield Boulevard. Here, customers will find all of the same locally crafted ice pops they’ve come to love, in flavors like watermelon and cookie butter; dip the latter in decadent dark chocolate for only $1 more.
833 E. Westfield Boulevard niceytreat.com @niceytreat
Public Greens
Farm season is in full swing and Public Greens is taking advantage, with a new seasonal menu bursting with summer flavors. To take a break along the Monon Trail in Broad Ripple, diners can grab a seat on this modern cafeteria’s
picturesque patio and order a fresh cocktail garnished with local produce. Enjoy topnotch people-watching (and dog-watching!), as well as views of the microfarm that likely grew portions of your meal. Don’t miss their farm stand every Thursday from 4 p.m to 7 p.m. through August 22, with proceeds benefiting The Patachou Foundation.
902 E. 64th Street publicgreensurbankitchen.com @publicgreens
Tea’s Me Cafe
Hydration should be top-of-mind on hot summer days. What better way to quench your thirst than with a large, freshly brewed iced tea? The Moroccan mint flavor is especially refreshing. Bring your appetite too, because Tea’s Me has an affordable and delicious food menu for both breakfast and lunch. The cafe’s community-focused programming makes it a win-win for tea lovers.
140 E. 22nd Street, Suite B teasmeindy.com @teasmeindy
SHY BUT ULTIMATELY HOPPY IPA
We are Friends of the White River. Since 1985, we’ve advocated for the preservation of the river as Central Indiana’s most precious natural resource. We represent the people who use the river for outdoor recreation, those who live near its banks, and all citizens who benefit from the river.
FOWR would like to invite you to come Paddle with Us this summer. Our River School program turns an urban corridor of White River into an environmental classroom for students, civic leaders and selected partner programs. Enroute, our guides discuss history, shoreline and aquatic wildlife, riparian flora, environmental science and water quality, all while engaging people in a first-hand look at Central Indiana’s most valuable natural resource.
We’re always recruiting volunteers to help with programs. Experienced paddlers can join the River School program as Raft Guides and use their skills on our White River Canoe Cleanups. You can also volunteer for a shore-based cleanup, or join Habitat Healers to restore streambanks. Check out the Events page
Memberships and sponsorship opportunities are available on our website. These donations are usually tax-deductible and provide an amazing opportunity to make a positive impact on Central Indiana’s most precious natural resource.
Photo: Butler University Holcomb Observatory & Planetarium / Visit Indy
