Monthly Archives: March 2025

Big change coming to 141st, SR 37 construction

Motorists should be aware of a major change to the traffic pattern on 141st Street at the construction site on State Road 37.  As work continues on that interchange roundabout, the right-n right-out on the west side of 141st St. at SR 37 will remain closed as of Monday, March 10 , with closures nearby. The city does not say how long this closure will last.

For more details on that, and other road construction projects in and around the Fishers area, read the weekly update, as provided by the City of Fishers:

Continue reading Big change coming to 141st, SR 37 construction

Fuel lose shootout nail-biter 2-1

Tempers flare in Period 2

In a contest that included plenty of defense, goaltending skill and physicality, the Indy Fuel battled the Fort Wayne Komets to a 1-1 home tie in regulation Friday night.  The Komets’ Justin Taylor notched a 6th-round shootout goal for the win.

Indy picked up the first goal when Kyle Maksimovich found the back of the net nearly 8 minutes into the First Period.  The Komets countered 9 minutes into Period 2 with a goal by Jack Dugan.

To say this game got physical is an understatement.  There were plenty of penalties and shoving matches throughout the game.

The Fuel had 48 shots on goal to Fort Wayne’s 30, but could only manage one goal.

The Fuel has a lot riding on every game with the tight competition for the final Central Division playoff spot.  Indy does tally one point in this shootout loss.

The Wichita Thunder come to the Fishers Event Center for a Saturday 7pm match, then those two teams play each other again at the Event Center Sunday for a 4pm faceoff.

5,935 fans watched a good and exciting game, even though the home team came out on the short end Friday night.

Ascension St. Vincent Recognized for Excellence in Infant and Maternal Health

Ascension St. Vincent has been honored by the Indiana Hospital Association (IHA) for its dedication to infant and maternal health, earning the prestigious INspire Hospital of Distinction recognition. The accolade, awarded in partnership with State Health Commissioner Lindsay Weaver, M.D., FACEP, highlights the hospital system’s commitment to best practices in maternal care.

The INspire program, funded by the Indiana Department of Health’s Safety PIN grant, is designed to promote and implement best practice care for mothers and newborns throughout Indiana. It recognizes hospitals that excel in addressing key factors influencing infant and maternal health.

Several Ascension St. Vincent facilities received this distinction, including a location in Fishers and others throughout the state. These hospitals were acknowledged for their successful implementation of best practices in critical areas such as infant safe sleep, breastfeeding, perinatal substance use, social drivers of health, obstetric hemorrhage, and maternal hypertension.

“We are incredibly proud to receive this award from the Indiana Hospital Association,” said Kevin Speer, JD, Senior Vice President of Ascension and Chief Executive Officer of Ascension St. Vincent Indiana. “As a vital community resource, this hospital further expresses our commitment to the health and well-being of our communities and responding to the needs of individuals. This recognition highlights the dedication and hard work of our entire team in implementing best practices and providing exceptional care to all we serve.”

State Health Commissioner Dr. Lindsay Weaver emphasized the importance of collaboration in improving health outcomes. “The Indiana Department of Health remains focused on working with healthcare providers to improve outcomes for Hoosier moms and babies,” she stated. “We are grateful to have hospitals across the state support initiatives, such as the Indiana Perinatal Levels of Care and obstetrical emergencies training, that have contributed to improvements in both maternal and infant health.”

The Indiana Hospital Association, which represents more than 170 acute care, critical access, behavioral health, and specialized hospitals in Indiana, continues to recognize healthcare providers making a significant impact in maternal and infant health care through the INspire program.

 

Humane Society for Hamilton County Promotes Pit Bull Education Month with Discounted Adoptions

The Humane Society for Hamilton County (HSHC) is once again shining a light on Pit Bulls and bully breeds by hosting its annual Pit Bull Education Month this March. As part of the campaign, adoption fees for all Pit Bulls and Pittie mixes will be reduced to just $25 for the entire month.

The initiative aligns with HSHC’s core mission: saving lives, educating communities, and completing families. Pit Bulls and bully breeds often face discrimination, and they represent the largest number of cruelty and neglect cases that arrive at HSHC.

“We are proud to be a shelter that does not discriminate against Pit Bulls, or any other breed,” said Lily Darling, Community Engagement Manager at HSHC. “We can’t change hearts and minds without help from our community. This is your chance to give back to a breed that has already been through so much.”

All eligible dogs will be spayed/neutered, microchipped, and up-to-date on vaccinations. Adoptions also come with a starter bag of food and a complimentary wellness exam with a participating veterinarian.

How to Adopt:
Those interested in adopting a Pit Bull or Pittie mix during Pit Bull Education Month can complete an application online at hamiltonhumane.com/application to expedite the process.

By opening their hearts and homes, community members can help rewrite the narrative for these often-misunderstood dogs.

City issues reminder of Webinar Town Hall Monday, noon, on Rental Registration & Permitting

The City of Fishers has issued a reminder that officials will be hosting a Webinar Town Hall Monday, March 10, at noon.  You can register at this link.  Questions can be submitted as part of the registration process.

Jordin Alexander, Chief of Staff for Mayor Scott Fadness, and Ross Hilleary, Director of Planning & Zoning, will be on hand for the event to make a presentation and answer questions.  A video recording of the Webinar will be made available on the city’s YouTube account.

HOA leaders, residents, and interested parties are encouraged to attend the webinar to learn more about the proposed proposal directly from city officials as part of the city’s public outreach plan for the ordinance.  The Fishers HOA Alliance will be meeting with city officials Wednesday night.

In the news release, Fishers confirms the second reading and public comment period on this ordinance will be held at the April City Council meeting on Monday, April 21, 7 p.m. at Fishers Municipal Center.

RESOURCES:

 

 

 

 

Ignite Studio to Host Second Annual Make-Off at Fishers Library

Ignite Studio at the Fishers Library is set to host its second annual Make-Off, a live art competition showcasing the creative potential of the makerspace. The event will take place on Saturday, March 29, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Ignite Studio, offering attendees the chance to watch artists at work, engage in hands-on activities, and even participate in a public maker challenge.

Ten selected artists will compete in a six-hour challenge to create original artwork using Ignite’s equipment, kits, and in-house materials. Their creations will be judged for monetary prizes, and all pieces will be displayed in the Fishers Library Lobby Gallery from April 5 to May 16.

This year’s theme is “Abstract Art: Using the Building Blocks of Art,” emphasizing fundamental artistic elements such as dot, line, shape, form, color, value, space, and texture. Instead of focusing on realistic depictions, competitors will explore how these elements can evoke emotion and meaning.

“Ignite Studio is excited to hold its second annual Make-Off,” said Ignite Studio Arts Engagement Coordinator Kris Hurst. “The Make-Off is a great opportunity for patrons to see local artists at work and get inspiration for their own creative art-making endeavors using equipment and supplies found in Ignite Studio.”

Beyond the competition, visitors can take part in various art activities, and the first 50 attendees will receive free art kits. The judging panel will include past winner Craig Helming, adding an experienced eye to the selection process.

This free, all-ages event invites the community to immerse themselves in the creative process and discover the diverse artistic possibilities within Ignite Studio. For more details, visit this link.

Stevanato Group Reports Solid Growth in Q4 and Fiscal Year 2024, Sets Strong Outlook for 2025

Stevanato Group, a leading global provider of drug containment, drug delivery, and diagnostic solutions, with a major facility here in Fishers, has announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and full fiscal year 2024, reporting steady growth and a positive outlook for the year ahead.

Q4 and Full-Year 2024 Financial Performance

Stevanato Group’s revenue for the fourth quarter of 2024 increased by 3% year-over-year, reaching €330.6 million. The company’s high-value solutions segment accounted for 40% of total revenue, aligning with prior expectations.

For the full fiscal year 2024, revenue rose by 2% to €1,104 million, with high-value solutions representing 38% of total revenue. Diluted EPS for the year was €0.43, while adjusted diluted EPS was €0.48. (€ stands for Euros)

Strong 2025 Outlook

Looking ahead, Stevanato Group has set ambitious financial guidance for fiscal year 2025. The company anticipates revenue to be in the range of €1,160 million to €1,190 million.

Stevanato Group remains focused on expanding its high-value solutions portfolio and enhancing operational efficiencies as it continues to serve the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and life sciences industries. The company’s consistent financial performance and strong guidance signal confidence in sustained growth and innovation for the coming year.

Fishers to receive $1.5 million in Community Crossings matching grants

The state announced today that money will be handed out to local communities for local infrastructure as part of the Community Crossings matching grant program.  Fishers is set to receive $1.5 million.

This money can be used for road and bridge projects.  Most bridges are the responsibility of county government in Indiana.

“I know that this funding will be put to good use maintaining our current infrastructure and executing new projects where possible,” says Victoria Garcia Wilburn, a member of the Indiana House representing the west area of Fishers, Carmel and a portion of Marion County.  “I will continue to support infrastructure funding for our district’s communities so we can continue growing and attracting families and businesses.”

Hamilton County and Noblesville will both also receive $1.5 million each in Community Crossings grants.  Carmel is set to receive slightly less, $1.17 million.

“Improving and maintaining roads and bridges at all levels is crucial for enhancing quality of life and public safety for Hoosiers,” said Gov. Mike Braun. “Communities across the state need investment in their local infrastructure and we are pleased to partner with them to make necessary improvements.”

Representative Garcia Wilburn also touted House passage last month of  House Bill 1461 which she says would provide tools for local governments to provide road maintenance.  The measure is now in the Indiana Senate.

 

Howard Stevenson re-elected Fishers Plan Commission President

Howard Stevenson presides over the Plan Commission meeting

There will be no changes in the leadership of the Fishers Plan Commission for 2025.  In the Commission’s first meeting of 2025, Howard Stevenson was re-elected President for another year.  Fisher City Council President Pete Peterson will serve once again as Commission Vice President.  The law firm of Krieg DeVault will remain legal counsel for the Plan Commission.

Only two items were on the agenda for Wednesday night’s session, and both were approved unanimously.  A rezone of 5.66 acres at 116601 Southeastern Parkway , allowing single family homes, received a favorable recommendation.  Also, the annual update to the Fishers 2040 Comprehensive Plan will move to a City Council vote with a favorable recommendation from the Commission.

 

Debate over Fishers rental home caps is heating up – Webinar is scheduled by the city

On March 4th, I recorded and posted a podcast with Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness and his Chief of Staff, Jordin Alexander.  They both made the case supporting a proposed ordinance limiting the number of rental homes available in any individual Fishers subdivision at 10% of the homes located in that neighborhood.  Listen to the podcast at this link.

IndyStar opinion editor and columnist James Briggs has weighed-in on this issue, and let’s just say he is not supportive of the city’s proposed ordinance.    You can read the Briggs piece at this link. (The Star does have a paywall but sometimes makes exceptions for opinion pieces, so you are welcome to try the link if you are not a Star subscriber)

Mayor Fadness argues that residents of these neighborhoods did not buy their homes expecting 30-40% of the residences to be rental properties.  He views the proposed ordinance as a way of addressing that.

Briggs brings a completely different perspective to the issue.  He says all this ordinance will do is cutoff families that cannot obtain mortgages, due to tighter lending standards, from living in a single-family home.  As to the argument that out-of-town investors and Wall Street hedge funds are buying up homes, Briggs asserts the solution is holding landlords accountable for the condition of their properties.  He also cites NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) thinking as one reason Fishers is proposing this idea.

If you want to know more about the city’s plans for this ordinance, Jordin Alexander will be hosting a Webinar at noon, Monday, March 10.  You can register and submit questions at this link.

Also, a group describing themselves as Fishers citizens plan to conduct a Town Hall later that same day, Monday, March 10, 6pm, at the Hamilton East Library Center Stage/Meeting Room.  This group appears to oppose the city’s rental cap ordinance.

Based on comments made during the May 4th podcast by the mayor and Ms. Alexander, it is not likely the City Council will take up the rental cap ordinance in March, and is more likely to vote on this proposal in April.