INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Special Olympic Pickleball Tournament
known as the “Greatest Spectacle in Pickleball,” is set to take place at 24-7 Dink in Fishers
featuring the new Indy 5 Unified Division for players with intellectual or developmental disabilities
has grown from 200 to 600 players over five years and aims to be inclusive
welcoming participants from diverse backgrounds
which will include players from the Washington Township Special Olympics group
“We’ve been playing Pickleball with Special Olympics in the Washington Township Special Olympics group for three years,” Lisa Farley
started the pickleball tournament five years ago as a fundraising event while serving as an executive director at a different nonprofit
a volunteer who has been named grand marshal
expressed excitement about participating in the tournament this year
highlighting the fun and community aspect of pickleball
The tournament will be held at 24-7 Dink in Fishers
a venue that has become popular for pickleball events
The inclusion of the Indy 5 Unified Division marks a significant step towards inclusivity in sports events in Indiana
The “Greatest Spectacle in Pickleball” continues to grow
promoting inclusivity and community engagement through sports
With the support of Citizens Energy Group and new sponsor Win2Trade
the tournament is poised to make a positive impact in the Indianapolis area
INDIANAPOLIS — Court documents released following a fatal shooting on Indy's west side over the weekend detail the events that led to the death of Sapanna Harris-Williams
officers from the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department received reports of a shooting
with one caller indicating that a man had shot his girlfriend in the head
Officers located Harris-Williams in the passenger seat of a vehicle parked in the 7500 block of W St
Witnesses told officers that a male suspect fled the scene on foot
Officers apprehended the suspect using a taser when he approached them without showing his hands and reportedly urged them to shoot him
court documents reveal that detectives interviewed Harris-Williams' mother
who revealed that the suspect had sent a text to her husband earlier that day
which raised her suspicions about Harris-Williams' safety
She also mentioned that an ex-girlfriend of the suspect
known only as "T," had been sending messages taunting family members about the shooting
Detective Hoover obtained a search warrant for the Pontiac
leading to the discovery of a shotgun in plain view on the backseat
Further investigation included audio recordings of the 911 calls related to the incident
“I blew her brains out,” while claiming that the suspect had killed someone and was not leaving the scene
Gunshots could be heard in the background of the call
the 911 caller described how the suspect drove up in a gray Pontiac
The witness noted that the suspect was intoxicated
boasting about the shooting and saying phrases such as
“I shot that b***h,” and “I blew her brains out.”
Detectives created a photo array for the suspect
which was shown to the witness and Harris-Williams' mother
both of whom positively identified him as the shooter
Detectives noted small scratches on the suspect's face and right hand
The investigation is ongoing as authorities continue to piece together the events leading to the incident
IMPD encourages anyone with information about the incident to contact Det. Kristina Friel at the IMPD Homicide Office at 317.327.3475, or e-mail her at Kristina.Friel@indy.gov.
A child was sent to the hospital Friday after being injured in a shooting on Interstate 465 near the Emerson Avenue exit in the southeast Indianapolis metro area
The child was taken to Riley Children’s Hospital
The shooting was believed to have happened about 1:30 p.m
when a vehicle traveling on I-465 westbound near the Emerson Avenue exit fired at the vehicle containing the child
Indiana State Police public information officer
A few moments later, the vehicle containing the child crashed near the South Emerson Avenue and Elmwood Avenue intersection in Beech Grove
When police arrived, they located the two children: a young boy had been shot and a baby who appeared uninjured, according to Fox59
The two children were quickly transported to Riley Children’s Hospital by medical personnel
Two other individuals involved in the crash were also taken to a hospital
A person of interest in the shooting had been detained and taken into custody
Beech Grove Mayor James Coffman shared his appreciation that the children were able to make it to the hospital safely and urged people not to resort to violence
"Our city sits at the intersection of a busy interstate system
and make sure everyone gets to their destination safely
No one ever wins in a road rage incident," said Coffman
“I’m grateful for Beech Grove’s Police Department and Beech Grove Emergency Medical Services for professionalism and defusing the situation
while helping State Police with the continued investigation."
Contact IndyStar reporter Noe Padilla at npadilla@indystar.com, follow him on X @1NoePadilla or on Bluesky @noepadilla.bsky.social
INDIANAPOLIS — It took the Indianapolis Fire Department 25 minutes to get a fire under control at an apartment on the north side of Indy Friday night
IFD arrived at the scene and witnessed heavy fire and an injured man standing outside
The fire killed three animals and displaced seven adults and one child
IFD officials said they are working with the apartment manager to find shelter for the displaced individuals
The cause of the fire is unknown at this time and under investigation
and offers other local governments tools to expand their road budgets
To receive the money, Indianapolis must match any dollars the state provides, meaning the city could see up to $100 million more a year for roads by 2027. But an amendment by State Sen
requires the city to match the state with new funding outside of its transportation and public safety budgets
which are two of the city's largest annual expenses
The 2025 city-county budget was more than $1.6 billion
with nearly $1 billion devoted to public safety services including the Indianapolis police and fire departments
the Marion County sheriff's and prosecutor's offices
The city allotted nearly $200 million to roads
The amendment also prevents Indianapolis from using the state's $50 million for five purposes: "reducing the capacity of existing roads and streets; greenways; bike lanes; bike trails; and sidewalks."
Some pedestrian advocates say that provision creates an incentive for the city to maintain larger roads instead of reducing lane counts
which could decrease maintenance costs and improve overall traffic safety
city leaders are praising this bill for giving Indianapolis a larger share of state dollars
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett called the legislation "the most significant new investment from the state of Indiana into Indianapolis road infrastructure in decades."
sending the same amount of money to a two-lane road in a rural county and a six-lane road in Indianapolis
More: How to report potholes to the city of Indianapolis
City officials will work in upcoming budgeting sessions to figure out how Indianapolis can shift money around to make the most of the state’s contributions
Department of Public Works Director Todd Wilson said in a statement
The legislation allows the city to raise money by tripling wheel taxes on large commercial vehicles and excise taxes on smaller personal vehicles
but city leaders have not signaled whether they intend to do so
The bill raises the city’s wheel tax limit from $80 to $240 and the excise tax limit from $50 to $150
Indianapolis and Marion County still leave a combined $67 million in potential revenue on the table by charging less than the maximum allowed
"I don’t see the need for us to raise our wheel tax to come up with that $50 million when we have a $1.65 billion budget
probably going up to $1.7 (billion) this next year," Republican Indianapolis City-County Councilor Joshua Bain said during an April 17 public works meeting
we also know we have some cuts coming due to the property tax bill," Evans said in the same meeting
"I don’t think it’s going to be an easy thing to achieve."
Indianapolis City-County Council President Vop Osili said he expects the city to benefit from the full $100 million available each year under the new law
limited funding has prevented us from addressing the full scope of our city’s infrastructure needs," Osili said
and more residents will experience a higher quality of life."
More: These are the most dangerous intersections in Indy, and what could fix them
a policy requiring city planners to design streets with all travelers in mind
upholds a status quo that Indianapolis can’t afford to maintain
"If I was a city leader with deferred maintenance of thousands of lane miles that I couldn't pay for," Tompkins said
"I think that maybe it would be a better idea to get rid of some of those lane miles that aren’t serving my population."
executive director of Bike Indianapolis and the Central Indiana Bicycling Association
criticized Freeman in an emailed statement for "state-level meddling in local design details" that would enhance road safety for motorists
arguing it shouldn't reduce lanes for car traffic on Washington Street
said he voted in favor of the bill despite Freeman's amendment because Indianapolis can’t afford to miss out on $50 million in state money after decades of underfunding
"I’m excited for any piece of legislation that helps us address the backlog of roads and streets that need to be repaved and reconstructed
especially residential roads," Qaddoura told IndyStar
Email IndyStar Reporter Jordan Smith at JTsmith@gannett.com. Follow him on X: @jordantsmith09
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as it's the first luxury hotel to open in Indiana's capital in nearly two decades
This opening, along with the recent $89 million renovation of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, the WNBA All-Star Game this July and the 100th anniversary of the Children's Museum of Indianapolis, also earned Indy a spot on TPG's list of the best places to travel in 2025
Previous slideNext slide1 of 4LYNDSEY MATTHEWS/THE POINTS GUY0123The building's 1920s origins are most evident in the heavily gilded elevator bank you enter at street level
But once the elevators open to the second-floor lobby
you immediately notice the hotel's transformation into a 21st-century property
Contemporary art commissioned from local artists hangs front and center (don't miss the portrait of Indiana-native David Letterman that Taylor Smith made from floppy discs)
Other modern details include a reception desk made from laser-cut aluminum fins and a hand-blown glass chandelier
The marble bar at the lobby's restaurant Serliana serves as the hotel's hub
The InterContinental brand evolution is evident here: The property caters to business travelers with beautifully designed meeting rooms off the lobby
but a buzzy rooftop bar draws in locals and travelers alike
The pop-art feel of the art collection gives the property an upscale yet unpretentious vibe
The InterContinental Indianapolis has 170 guest rooms and suites across six categories
including classic rooms that start at 307 square feet and slightly larger premium rooms (both of which come with one king or two queen beds)
Suites range from 1 King Studio Suites (1 King Studio Suites with mobility accessible roll-in showers are also available) to one-bedroom luxury suites with a separate bedroom and living room to the 1,545-square-foot penthouse suite with floor-to-ceiling views of Monument Circle and a private elevator
All rooms are decorated in shades of cream and dusty blue with gold accents that emulate a luxurious and calm mood
Though the patterned carpet that appears wall-to-wall in most guest rooms and hallways detracts from the property's upscale vibe
I didn't hear a single other guest outside or above my room
which had one and a half bathrooms and a king-size bedroom with views of the Indiana Statehouse
The separate spacious living room had a wet bar
Both the bedroom and living room had privacy and blackout shades that lowered with the touch of a button
Previous slideNext slide1 of 4LYNDSEY MATTHEWS/THE POINTS GUY0123The en-suite bathroom was massive enough to fit a walk-in shower
The half bath off the living room included a toilet and a single sink
Other room categories — except for the penthouse suite — come with just one bathroom with only walk-in showers
but all rooms have Byredo Bal D'Afrique bath amenities
Previous slideNext slide1 of 2LYNDSEY MATTHEWS/THE POINTS GUY01The wet bar had a Nespresso coffee machine
and the minibar refrigerator had space to store leftovers in addition to the sodas
beer and other alcoholic beverages for sale
potato chips were also available to purchase in the minibar
The InterContinental Indianapolis has two restaurants and bars that are open to the public
is the hotel's all-day restaurant open daily from 6:30 a.m
It serves classics like steak frites ($38)
burgers ($19) and tuna nicoise salads ($19) for lunch and dinner
You can even try its version of the Indiana classic pork tenderloin sandwich ($17)
I ordered the hearty mushroom toast ($17) served on semolina country bread with tulip tree nettle cheese and scrambled eggs
Previous slideNext slide1 of 5LYNDSEY MATTHEWS/THE POINTS GUY01234The hotel's crown jewel is Astrea
It offers prime views of the Soldiers and Sailors Monument as well as the chance to get up close to original architectural details like the building's gold terra cotta cornice
Astrea's food menu is limited to snacks and shareable dishes
but I made a dinner of the jumbo shrimp cocktail ($22) and Indiana charcuterie board ($24) that came with three local cured meats
I had the strong and spicy Monocular Findings ($16) made with tequila
The vibe was energetic with pop music playing on a Tuesday night
DJs take it up another notch on the weekends
Room service is available 24 hours and offers a limited menu at night with chicken club wraps ($14) and power bowls ($17)
I enjoyed an order of beignets ($9) and a carafe of coffee ($10)
You can call to order or scan a QR code in the room and order on your phone
It is one block from the Indiana Statehouse and three blocks from the Indiana Convention Center
From Indianapolis International Airport (IND)
it is about a 25-minute drive to the hotel
(The hotel doesn't offer an airport shuttle.) Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are available and cost about $23 between the hotel and the airport
A public bus route operates between downtown and the airport
I rented a car during my visit so I could explore beyond downtown
When booking the InterContinental Indianapolis, you'll want to use one of the credit cards that earn the most points for IHG stays, as well as one that possibly offers automatic IHG One Rewards elite status for value-added benefits. These include:
The InterContinental Indianapolis has four Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant guest rooms that are wheelchair accessible and feature accessible door locks, roll-in showers with handrails and built-in transfer shower seats. Tall toilets with grab bars are also available.
The hotel's public areas were also renovated and designed with accessibility in mind. These include all entrances and doorways, elevators, the registration desk, restaurant, public restrooms and fitness center.
With an energetic rooftop bar and seriously cool contemporary art collection featuring local talent, the InterContinental Indianapolis will subvert your expectations of a nearly 80-year-old hotel brand inside a 100-year-old building.
Whether you're in town for a conference, basketball game or to enjoy Indy's world-class museums beyond downtown, this new hotel provides a luxurious, centrally located home base from which to explore this Midwestern capital.
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Both will be day one starters and will drastically improve one of the team's most significant weaknesses from last season
and they could find the solution in a player who was already with the team last year.
The Colts should bring safety Julian Blackmon back for another year Grace Hollars/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The Colts drafted Julian Blackmon in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft
He spent the last five years with the Colts and appeared in 66 games
He's been one of the top players in a Colts secondary that didn't have much going for it over the past few years
the Colts' signing Bynum seemed to point towards them not needing Blackmon anymore
but the longer he sits on the free agency market
the more it makes sense for the team to bring him back into the fold. Blackmon has played both FS and SS for the Colts over the past five years
And though FS has been his most prominent role
his best season with the team came while playing SS in 2023
The team's lack of options to play single high moved him back to FS in 2024
This would move Nick Cross into the third safety role with the team
which some may argue is the best fit for his skill set
Even if the Colts would rather start Cross
they won't find a better player than Blackmon to elevate their defense
He could very well be the final touch on their new look secondary
that on paper already looks poised to be the best the team has had in a decade or longer.
In the latest edition of "Colts Qs," readers wanted to know all about the quarterback competition between Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones
and what our expectations for the Colts' 2025 season should be
"If the Colts had the 4th pick instead of the 14th
would have they selected Tyler Warren anyways?" -- @ccaarrlooss
TwitterI doubt the Colts had many players ranked above Warren at all
Will Campbell or Armand Membou would've made a lot of sense for them if they picked fourth
I think they may have tried to trade back from the fourth pick to still try and grab Warren
"Do we really believe this is a make-it-or-break-it year for Chris Ballard
I wonder what they have to do for him to keep his job
I believe this team's ceiling is just making the playoffs." -- @dweath42.bsky.social
Bluesky"Do you see a future at the end of this next season Ballard gets fired but Shane Steichen keeps his job and gets to help pick the next GM?" -- @blake14jeffers
Twitter"Where do you think the Colts finish in the AFC South this year
Twitter"What are the expectations for the season?" -- @chabar84
TwitterI don't want to say that the Colts have to outright make the playoffs in order for Ballard to keep his job
because crazy things happen at the end of the season all the time
they need to be playing for a spot in Week 18
and vibes around the team have to be optimistic that the arrow is pointing up
They can't have any more of these no-show games where they get blown out by bad teams
while Steichen is retained after the season
I've been under the impression that Ballard and Steichen are kind of a package deal
but this organization can do some pretty unpredictable things
I think player and consultant input would have to play a big role in order for the Colts to part with one but not the other.The division got better this offseason
but the Colts need to be competing for its title regardless
but they just keep finding a way to make it work
The Jaguars get a healthy Trevor Lawrence back
the Colts should be around that 9-8 mark and competing for the division crown in the final week of the season
"Who are some potential in-house off-season extensions?" -- @chicagolp.bsky.social
Bluesky"Do you think we see Bernhard Raimann and/or Alec Pierce extensions before the season starts?" -- @Steve17bScuba
Twitter"When will Raimann and/or Pierce lock in new contracts
and what do you think those projected extensions will look like?" -- @hovaldt_trevor
TwitterRaimann and Nick Cross are the most likely extensions
but if AD Mitchell begins to look like the guy they hoped he'd be
then there's only so much room for guys who need to get the ball
and Samson Enukam may already have their replacements on the roster.If I were the Colts
I wouldn't be waiting long to extend Raimann
There are 15 tackles in the NFL making at least $20 million per year
and that's only going to keep going up
The Colts may have his replacement already in Mitchell
and as a somewhat niche (albeit impactful) player
Pierce may not command a huge payday elsewhere
"Let’s say Anthony Richardson throws it 25 times a game
how do those targets get distributed?" -- @miralem1.bsky.social
only because I felt I needed room for about two-or-so more when projecting this
I'd say you give Josh Downs and Warren about seven each
and about five between Pierce and Mitchell
That doesn't leave any room for miscellaneous targets for guys like Mo Alie-Cox
but I think those are good general weekly averages
"If AR takes that step that he needs to
do you see us being able to compete for the division?" -- Hunter Reed
FacebookAbsolutely; quarterback is the ultimate X-factor for the Colts
If Richardson actually proves to be the guy
and a defense that looks to be about average at worst
"How much does AR’s completion percentage need to improve in order for him to keep his starting job?" -- @Isaac23178765
TwitterIt's unrealistic to say he's going to be a 60-plus guy right away
but if he can get it closer to 55% this year
A huge factor in his completion percentage is the routes he targets
checkdown options should increase his percentage
"Is there any part of you that fears Daniel Jones wins the QB job?" -- @JustinRTBColts
TwitterI wouldn't say "fears," but I do think it would be disappointing if Richardson couldn't show enough growth to retain the job
then it probably means the Colts will have an offense somewhat reminiscent of 2023 with Gardner Minshew
Jones likely wouldn't be showing that he's the future of the franchise
which means the Colts would have to figure out the quarterback position once again for the eighth straight year
"Would league-average QB play get the Colts to the playoffs with this roster
If yes…what percent chance would you give AR or DJ (or more likely the combination of the two) providing at least league-average QB play?" -- @SeafordFootDoc
TwitterI do think the Colts would be capable of getting into the postseason with somewhat steady quarterback play
I won't make some big proclamation that one of them will definitely take a big jump
but I'll give each the benefit of the doubt and say that they'll both at least be a little better than they were last year
Let's say 55% chance that at least one of them looks like a reasonable starter
is Tanor Bortolini being listed as a guard on the Colts website a real thing for this year?" -- Rich Wheeler
FacebookI wouldn't look too much into that
The Colts do feel Bortolini could play center or guard
but he should be considered the front-runner for the center position
There is a world where the Colts make Danny Pinter the center and Bortolini the right guard
What happens next for the Colts? Don't miss out on any news and analysis! Take a second and sign up for our free newsletter and get breaking Colts news delivered to your inbox daily!
"Since we have a couple young options for Swing Tackle
should Braden Smith be moved inside to Right Gaurd and develop Goncalves at Right Tackle?" -- Rick Shaffer
Facebook"Likely that Matt Goncalves plays RG?" -- @drphilgood68
TwitterSmith's going to stay put at right tackle
with it feeling likely that one of the younger players (Goncalves or Jalen Travis) takes over there in 2026
I believe the vision is that Bortolini and Pinter battle for center (with Bortolini winning)
Goncalves at right guard (dark horse battle between Bortolini and Dalton Tucker)
with Travis competing with Blake Freeland for the swing tackle role
"3rd-and-Goal from the 2 - can you see a scenario where Jalen Travis comes in as the eligible 6th lineman in a jumbo package for the ultimate play-action pass to the big man (a la Dan Skipper)
Did he ever catch a pass in high school or college?" -- BlueskyI couldn't find any record of Travis previously catching passes
as he was still an offensive lineman in high school
so he's likely athletic enough for the Colts to tinker with the idea of using him as a trick-play target
It seems like a lot to try that with a rookie so early in their career
"Do you believe Justin Walley will be the 3-4th corner in the depth chart due to his speed & attack at the catch?" -- @Sn8ke3y3s13
TwitterI see Walley as the fourth corner initially behind Charvarius Ward
and he was handpicked for this new defense
but it's difficult for me to envision the Colts ripping Jones from the lineup for a third-round rookie right off the bat
That's not to say Walley couldn't win the job later in the season
"If Germaine Pratt becomes a June 1 cut
would he be a #1 priority signing?" -- David Whiteley
FacebookI look at it this way: if Pratt previously had nothing to do with Lou Anarumo
would he be as big a topic of conversation
Coupling Pratt with Zaire Franklin is too much like having two of the same guy on the field for me
I'd rather see what Jaylon Carlies can do with an extended look as the starting WILL linebacker
"Do you think we should pursue Trey Hendrickson for a 2nd round pick?" -- @kodac120
TwitterIt feels less likely all the time that the Bengals even trade Hendrickson
let alone deal him specifically to the Colts
The Colts already have their eyes toward the future at defensive end with Laiatu Latu and JT Tuimoloau
Not that it would be a bad move for the Colts to trade for Hendrickson
but I no longer see the obvious path since the draft
and I don't know that the Colts are ready to handle that situation right now
"How excited are you about Riley Leonard being the franchise QB for this team?" -- @millerai
I don't mind the idea of Leonard being the Colts' backup for the foreseeable future
and the Colts have a ton of conviction in him as a person
"Will we finally break the Jacksonville curse this year?" -- @CheeZsteve
TwitterI can't pick the Colts to win on the road against Jacksonville until I actually see it happen
Was the price of getting to transition from Peyton Manning to Andrew Luck that they never get to win in Jacksonville again
"What are the plans for JuJu Brents - safety
TwitterI've never heard Brents mentioned as a potential safety
so I'm not sure that's in the cards for the Colts
I think he'll get the chance to compete for a spot in this cornerback room
but the desire to keep him around because of his second-round status may soon be gone with the addition of Walley
"Which sophomore player has more pressure on them to have success: Matt Goncalves or Jaylon Carlies?" -- @ZBee2306
He's on a bit more of an island than Goncalves since it'll primarily just be him and Franklin on the field at once
The Colts neglected to address the linebacker position with any impactful moves because they had Carlies already
but he would have to play quite poorly for it to be very noticeable
"Do you anticipate more opposing teams' fans filling up Lucas Oil Stadium again this year?" -- @LarryMooshaker
TwitterSome fan bases just travel better than others
but the Colts also have to give home fans a reason to show up
In covering the team from the press box at Lucas Oil Stadium since 2018
I've never seen so many opposing fans throughout the season or empty seats late in the year
the Colts hosted an odd number of elite-level fan bases last year (Bears
so it probably won't be as noticeable in 2025
"Will everyone apologize to Anthony Richardson or Chris Ballard after we win the Super Bowl this year?" -- @Justinsmic
"Who would win in a fight: Colts' 90-man roster or a gorilla?" -- @fili86.bsky.social
so I'll take one Grover Stewart versus one gorilla
JAKE ARTHURJake Arthur has covered the NFL and the Indianapolis Colts for a decade. He is a member of the Professional Football Writers of America (PFWA) and FantasyPros' expert panel. He has also contributed to multiple NFL Draft guides.
The content on this site is for entertainment and educational purposes only
Betting and gambling content is intended for individuals 21+ and is based on individual commentators' opinions and not that of Sports Illustrated or its affiliates
All picks and predictions are suggestions only and not a guarantee of success or profit
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem
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Home / Sports / Iowa Hawkeyes Sports / Iowa Basketball
Former Daily Iowan sports editor Chloe Peterson didn’t miss an Indiana Fever game last season while covering one of the nation’s top sports stories for the Indianapolis Star
The Gazette offers audio versions of articles using Instaread
It was like following a sports Beatlemania around the country
“It was a cultural phenomenon,” Chloe Peterson said about covering Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever last year for the Indianapolis Star newspaper
Daily Iowan sports editor Peterson took a job on the sports staff of the Star
She had covered Iowa women’s basketball for three years at the DI
culminating with the Hawkeyes’ appearance in the 2023 national title game in Dallas
Off she went to Indianapolis to cover an assortment of things
the seventh-straight year they missed the playoffs
“Not easy to do when eight of the 12 teams qualify,” Peterson said last week
Indiana got the first pick in the WNBA draft lottery
1 selection in the history of pro sports drafts
the star player got reacquainted with the young woman who covered her for print and hosted her on podcasts for the DI
“Nice to see you again,” Clark told her
They spent most of the next five months bouncing around America as excited sellout crowds were the norm wherever the Fever played
“Wherever you’d go there were Fever fans
Caitlin fans specifically,” Peterson said
“In Los Angeles there were five sailors in uniforms who all got their hats signed by Caitlin
“Women’s sports were getting more and more mainstream before Caitlin came into the league
but she was a big catalyst for getting the WNBA consistently talked about.”
Indiana’s average attendance in 2023 was 4,067
Gainbridge Fieldhouse curtained off the upper deck for Fever games before last season
a reminder of what Carver-Hawkeye Arena did for Iowa women’s games before the Clark Effect put an end to that
Clark and the Fever will be at Carver to play a preseason game against Brazil’s national team
As opposed to getting her feet wet in pro ball last year with a team that rallied in the second half of the season to finish 20-20 before going out in the first round of the playoffs
she now is on a team with high aspirations
hiring Stephanie White away from the Connecticut Sun
White’s two-year record with the Sun was 55-25
The team added veterans with pedigrees in forwards Natasha Howard and DeWanna Bonner and guard Sophie Cunningham
The Fever’s free agent additions total more than 1,100 games of WNBA experience
Only five players from last year’s roster are back
but the big three of Clark (19.2 points per game)
Kelsey Mitchell (19.2) and Aliyah Boston (14.0) are among them
“I think the expectations are to win a championship,” Peterson said
“They talked about it a lot at (last week’s) Media Day
It’s realistic they can compete with the (2024 champion New York) Liberty and (Minnesota) Lynx.”
Clark had a warning for her teammates at Media Day
“At Media Day she was telling everyone there’s no air conditioning at Carver and there will be 15,000 fans there,” Peterson said
“She told them how hot it was in there for her graduation.”
but cut her teeth on covering that big women’s basketball story at Iowa
By traveling to all of Clark’s games for the Star
she is flying in the face of her industry’s trend of reducing coverage and the accompanying travel expenses
“My editor essentially said it pays for itself from how well the stories are read and the interest in general.”
Indianapolis and the 11 other WNBA cities know there is someone who is good for the U.S
Iowa City-Coralville gets one more pot of gold from Clark today
Comments: (319) 398-8440; mike.hlas@thegazette.com
I am the sports columnist and Iowa men’s basketball beat writer for The Gazette. Join our Weekly Hawkeye Newsletter
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which includes five months of free interactive programming along the Indianapolis Cultural Trail: A Legacy of Gene and Marilyn Glick.
Kicking off in May and running through September
the summer programming is designed to be accessible and enjoyed by Hoosiers and visitors of all ages and abilities
The Cultural Trail will feature events and activities — such as Latin Night at Lugar Plaza
bike rides on the Cultural Trail and fitness classes — each night of the week.
our summer offerings are free and designed to be accessible and inclusive for all ages and abilities,” Kären Haley
Indianapolis Cultural Trail Executive Director
“These experiences invite everyone to explore the Cultural Trail
and be part of a connected and welcoming downtown community.”
Bike & Bootcamp and Roast Ride are set to return as part of the Cultural Trail’s free summer programming
new this year is a Bikes & Bakeries group ride and a new HIIT class.
READ MORE: Community Arts Calendar: Free and low-cost things to do with family this May
Most programs will occur regularly, from May through September, but guests are encouraged to check the Indianapolis Cultural Trail website for updates
Though all programming is free and open to the public
registration is encouraged and even required for some programs
The diverse program offerings are supported by a partnership with the City of Indianapolis Department of Metropolitan Development (Indy DMD) and the community organizations and local businesses that help lead programming.
“Cultural opportunities and community-building events are the heart of a vibrant and connected city like Indianapolis,” Mayor Joe Hogsett said in a statement
“The City is thrilled to once again partner with the Indianapolis Cultural Trail to create these opportunities for residents to enjoy downtown during the summer months.”
For more information, visit indyculturaltrail.org.
Contact Arts & Culture Reporter Chloe McGowan at 317-762-7848
Chloe McGowan is the Arts & Culture Reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper
Chloe graduated with a degree in journalism from The Ohio State University
and her previous work includes freelancing for Indy Maven
Assistant Arts & Life Editor for The Lantern
and editorial assistant at CityScene Media Group
Chloe enjoys covering all things arts and culture — from local music
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Pro Football Focus hopped in the time machine and went back to the 2006 NFL draft and redrafted the entire first round. So, who did the Indianapolis Colts come away with
and Max Chadwick used the benefit of hindsight and PFF's grading system to evaluate the careers of the 2006 draft class and used that as their barometer in this redraft
Originally with the 30th overall pick, the Colts drafted LSU running back Joseph Addai. Over his six-year career
Addai made one Pro Bowl and was a key contributor on the Colts' Super Bowl team
which included rushing for over 1,000 yards that season
after eclipsing 1,000 yards in each of his first two years
Addai never reached that mark again and missed time with injuries over his final four years
PFF had the Colts still selecting a running back
who was originally taken at 27th overall by Carolina
"The Colts drafted Joseph Addai here originally
but Williams replaces him here," wrote PFF
"The Memphis product earned a 75.7 PFF overall grade through his first five seasons of play
one second-team All-Pro nod and a 1,500-yard and 18-touchdown season in 2008."
Williams would have an 11-year career, spending most of his time with Carolina and the final two seasons with Pittsburgh. He was a one-time Pro Bowler and led the NFL in rushing touchdowns twice
He had two seasons where he went over 1,100 yards
Williams had 717 rushing yards that year at 5.0 yards per attempt
but he did not technically start any games like Addai did for Indianapolis
The top five picks in this redraft ended up being Andrew Whitworth to Houston, Jahri Evans to New Orleans, Brandon Marshall to Tennessee, Haloti Ngata to the New York Jets
(This article was updated to provide additional information.)
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Irish airline Aer Lingus‘ inaugural flight to Dublin, Ireland, lifted off Saturday evening from the Indianapolis International Airport
It was a festive evening at Gate A4 in the Indianapolis International Airport (IND), as Aer Lingus landed its new nonstop transatlantic flight from Dublin. The plane arrived early Saturday evening in Indianapolis with passengers from Dublin Airport
with a plane full of Hoosier passengers headed to the Emerald Isle
IND hosted a combined welcome and send-off gate event that included an Ireland preview centered around Irish culture
The event was filled with traditional music and dance from local Irish artists
Saturday’s celebration of the new Dublin nonstop flight included an Aer Lingus appearance at Indiana University Health Foundation’s Rev event
where guests walked the green carpet and posed for Aer Lingus-themed photo opportunities
The Aer Lingus Dublin flight gives Hoosiers and global businesses access not just to Ireland
but also major cities in Europe and the United Kingdom
Dublin Airport is one of only two airports in Europe that provides preclearance for U.S.-bound travelers
Those traveling on nonstop flights to the United States will complete immigration and customs procedures in Dublin prior to their departure
and are treated as domestic passengers after arriving to IND
Data shows an average of 545 people travel from the Indianapolis area to European destinations daily. By attracting Indiana’s new year-round transatlantic flight, the Indianapolis Airport Authority estimates that this new air service could have a more than $50 million annual impact on Indiana’s economy
Indiana is home to 52 Ireland-based businesses
“This is a big day for our team here at the Indy airport
Our air service team worked diligently over the past five years to secure this opportunity
pursuing crucial industry conversations and transforming those into a full-scale community effort to connect Indy nonstop to Ireland and 20 other European cities.”
executive director for the Indianapolis Airport Authority
“Rolling out the green carpet for Rev at the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway with Aer Lingus is the perfect way to celebrate this historic launch in the city
This nonstop flight brings Indy closer to the heart of Europe
and we’re thrilled to see our city take its place on the global runway.”
senior director of public affairs for the Indianapolis Airport Authority
our mission is to strengthen connectivity between North America and Europe
This new direct flight between Indianapolis and Dublin is a significant milestone for our airline
bringing the number of transatlantic routes we fly to a total of 24
Indianapolis is one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States and a vibrant hub for business
Aer Lingus will offer the only direct flight connecting Indianapolis to Europe
“This new connection between our capital city and Ireland opens up new pathways for Indiana businesses and residents alike while creating countless opportunities for our economy
There is no better time than May – a month that welcomes race enthusiasts from across the world for one of the most iconic sporting events – to celebrate this new flight and showcase the incredible culture and vibrant future of our state.”
LOOKING FOR A new spectator sport close to home? You may be in luck. The World Fitness Project
an international fitness competition created by athletes for athletes
has chosen the Indianapolis area as the first stop on its world tour
Pulling professional athletes from the fitness, CrossFit, and functional fitness worlds, the WFP features the best of the best in the sport of fitness, which is comprised of all aspects of the practice: strength, endurance, gymnastics, and a variety of high-intensity movements combined into a series of workouts.
The WFP is the first fitness competition that contracts professional athletes
“We’ve created a system that is built on consistency and provides more opportunities,” says Will Moorad
“Not only for athletes but for the fans to engage with the sport.”
The official competitive season consists of three stops: Carmel
“We chose Indianapolis because it’s a very sport-focused community with a rich history in sports,” says Jackson Terry
“It’s a really unique opportunity to take the best athletes in the world and showcase them here.”
The event takes place at the Grand Park Sports Campus in Carmel May 9–11
Forty athletes will compete against each other in the Professional division
and athletes who qualified for the Challenger division will compete to try to secure a spot as a Professional for the 2026 season
While presenting professional-level athletes is a large part of the WFP
the organization’s core mission is to empower athletes of all skill levels
“We want people to feel that they’re cared for
that everyone is welcome to be a part of this
and to enjoy what fitness can bring into every aspect of life,” says Terry
The competition features divisions open to anyone interested in testing their skills, and there are monetary prizes for the winners. The general public can sign up to compete in the Team (teams of four
If you’d rather get a sweat in without competing
just hop into one of the spectator workouts taking place throughout the weekend
“If you’re someone who isn’t a professional athlete but likes to go running or work out casually
it’s the perfect spot for you,” says Terry
“Come watch people do some crazy fitness stuff and then get a workout in.”
the WFP is partnering with local businesses and will host Q&As
and other activations around the city of Carmel where the community can connect with the professional athletes who are competing
we are excited for you to join us,” says Moorad
“You never know when the best athletes in the world are going to come back to your city.”
Indianapolis-area businesses interested in partnering with the WFP for this event can contact brands@worldfitnessproject.com
CONCORD, N.C. - With practices, qualifying sessions and driver appearances scattered over 13 calendar days, few sporting events come with the buzz that the Indianapolis 500 does.
it can be a little difficult to keep track of.
Well, worry not faithful reader. As Kyle Larson inches ever nearer to his second attempt at the #H1100 we present to you a detailed calendar of events leading up to the 109th running of the Indianapolis 500
set for May 25 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Don't forget! You can watch Larson participate in Carb Day right here with us during Fan Fest on Friday, May 23. For more details, click here
RELATED: Check out the car Kyle Larson will run in the Indy 500!
RELATED: A look at the paint scheme Kyle Larson will run in the Coca-Cola 600!
This story explores suicide. If you are at risk, please stop here and contact 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for support
INDIANAPOLIS — Courtney Smith hung up the phone
a realization she’d dreaded becoming clear
Braden Smith, her husband and the Colts' right tackle
was fighting a losing battle against his own mind
a war of obsession he believed was for his soul
The day before Thanksgiving, he’d driven to the team facility, sat down to breakfast, then abruptly got up and returned home to take a nap. Sleep had become the only place he could keep his growing religious scrupulosity
Michael Perrett, Smith’s agent, called Courtney after talking to the Colts
it’s bigger than football,” Courtney remembers Perrett saying
“He’s not there,” Courtney remembers thinking
they’d somehow kept Smith on the field for 12 starts and 731 snaps
playing excellent football even though he was in a desperate fight for his mind
Smith was there for his teammates while the war raged inside his brain
but the repetitive nature of the NFL week had also created a vicious cycle
his compulsions getting worse the closer he got to game time
relying on medication and daily therapy sessions for temporary relief
or he could leave the Colts and check into an intensive mental health facility
Then Courtney told her husband she was changing the combination to the safe where the family keeps their guns
but I was nowhere to be found,” Smith said in an exclusive interview with IndyStar
explaining for the first time the nature of the personal reasons that caused him to miss the Colts' final five games
I didn’t care about hanging out with my family
… I (felt like) was a month away from putting a bullet through my brain.”
but he’d committed fully to his Christian faith
and an obsessive-compulsive disorder began to warp his faith into something sinister
it looked like Smith was diving deep into his faith
He prayed constantly and started listening to Christian music exclusively
a disorder Smith didn’t realize he had was twisting the words
and the OCD god is this condemning (deity)
it’s like smacking the ruler against his hand
‘Another bad move like that and you’re out of here.’”
even though it was out of step with the grace he’d been taught as a Methodist
“There was only one person that was ever perfect
“When you’re trying to live up to that standard
Smith felt he had to repent perfectly for every single sin
then started questioning his motivations or his delivery for his repentance
then find five or six other believers to offer more reassurance about the same thing
“The people that weren’t living with him thought he was getting better because he was reaching out less,” Courtney said
“But he was really just finding more people to try to get reassurance (from).”
The couple decided to get baptized together in May
symbolizing a death of the believer's old life and rebirth in a new life in Christ
Unlike commonly known OCD markers such as repetitive hand washing or counting objects
either through a compulsive prayer or internal statement of devotion
“I’ll latch onto certain pieces of the Bible
talking about blasphemy of the Holy Spirit,” Smith said
I’m going to hell.' Selling my soul to the devil-type stuff
The term for Smith’s particular type of OCD is religious scrupulosity
Smith read about scrupulosity and suspected he’d found an answer early
A member of the Colts' practice squad convinced Smith he was on the right track
the teammate asked Smith if he could pray for an injury; Smith responded by asking for prayers for his mind
The two started talking and the teammate revealed he’d overcome his own battle with religious scrupulosity
The way his teammate talked sounded a lot like the thoughts running through Smith’s head
Frustrated by a knee injury that forced him to undergo surgery in the 2024 offseason
Smith was set on playing as many games as possible for the Colts last season
anchoring the right side of the offensive line like he’d done since 2018
The rhythm and pressure of the NFL season intensified Smith’s mental battle
“My OCD latches onto critical moments,” Smith said
I'm not going to be able to do my compulsions
Smith’s OCD also preyed on moments of isolation
Smith wasn’t even able to sit through meetings because in a dark room without a chance to talk
his mind started wandering to even darker places
After the Colts beat the Bears in September to get their first win of the season
Smith said something that set off warning bells
“He told me he was going to retire,” Courtney said
I'm retiring after this year.' And I was like
'This is not good,' because I know that he loves to play football
… It was kind of that night that I started to freak out.”
and his obsessive-compulsive disorder was diagnosed almost immediately
Smith’s doctor told Courtney that he could trace her husband’s OCD back to the third grade
But they were not so easy to see at the time
The daughter of a former Auburn football player
playing catcher for excellent Auburn softball teams for four seasons
and a lot of the signs felt like Smith’s devotion to his craft
there was no compromising his routine,” Courtney said
I have a scheduling issue and I have to get this done at this time or else it's not gonna work.’ It was not that
It was an unwillingness to compromise at all
otherwise I'm not going to be successful,’ which is going back to the perfectionistic part of the OCD that he was living with — we just didn't realize that's what it was.”
The morning that the Colts were scheduled to fly to New York to play the Jets
telling Thornton he’d be on the team plane but could not go through the morning practice
He hadn’t been on medication to that point
The Smiths try to live a holistic life; Smith does not even like to take Advil
but he was placed on an antidepressant and a mood booster
“We were all on the phone at the same time
trying to figure out how we can get him OK
he didn't want to not play,” Courtney said
“But the pharmaceuticals didn't make him feel like himself
I didn't want him going out there and playing when he didn't feel like himself
You don't want to be trying to wrestle 300-pound men if you don't feel all with it."
The Colts tried to help in any way they could
The team made space for Smith’s therapy sessions
worked with Smith to make sure he had the preparation he needed even when he couldn’t sit in meetings
The problem was nothing seemed to turn the tide
“It's like I'm getting hit with a sledgehammer
with all these different things going on.”
Courtney could see her husband doing compulsions on the field
There were times she couldn’t leave Smith at home alone with their 10-month-old son
Courtney worried Smith would get lost in a debilitating cycle of compulsions
becoming too distracted to keep track of a crawling baby when danger can happen in an instant
Checking Smith into an intensive mental health facility was supposed to be the final fix
They chose a place in Colorado that does not specialize in OCD
partly because a lot of the other options were hospital-style settings without a chance to spend much time outside and Smith has always been an outdoorsman
The Smiths declined to reveal the facility's name
The couple believe there are people who have found healing there
The initial plan was to be in Colorado for four weeks beginning Dec
ketamine therapy and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
a technique that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain
“For the first couple of weeks we were there
“We'd do dinner together and he would not be able to function during dinner
and you can't even be happy playing with your kid on the floor.'”
Smith finally told his wife he needed to stay longer
mostly from learning about how his OCD worked — he was officially diagnosed with religious scrupulosity for the first time — but it felt like there was a block in his mind
a wall he couldn’t get past to apply what he was learning
Wyatt’s first birthday party was the week he came back from Colorado
warning them that Smith was still doing compulsions
The Smiths felt like they’d tried everything
Smith scored 28 out of 40 on the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale
“It’s a very hopeless feeling,” Smith said
“And that’s kind of where the ibogaine comes in
This was like the last-ditch effort for me.”
Ibogaine is a psychoactive alkaloid compound derived from the iboga plant
It is classified as a Schedule I drug in the United States
but there has been an increasing push to study its use for treating opioid addiction
post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury
A Stanford University study published in Nature Medicine last year found that ibogaine reduces PTSD
and improves function in veterans with TBI
There have been bills introduced in Texas and Arizona to fund research into the use of ibogaine
there have been veterans crossing the border to Mexico to get ibogaine treatment
Courtney first heard about the drug from her father
who heard of it on an episode of “The Joe Rogan Experience.” At the same time
Smith was given a firsthand description of ibogaine from another patient at the Colorado mental health facility
Initially hesitant to go to Mexico to try a psychedelic
Smith became convinced it was his last option
“I had a consultation call with one of the facilities that's mentioned in that podcast,” Courtney said
“And then Braden met this guy the same day.”
Smith was initially scheduled to undergo ibogaine treatment in April
The next day he was driven to Tijuana with six other men for a five-day stay
The first day was time spent in a sweat lodge
The second day was “ibogaine day.” Smith ate breakfast
being given a magnesium drip to regulate the heart and being hooked up to an EKG to monitor his heart
spaced out over intervals ranging from 30 to 45 minutes
… They say that ibogaine gives you what you need
we just don't know what it is at the moment.”
The intensity of the psychedelic effects has little to do with the drug’s efficacy
Smith was in Mexico to get past the mental block he hadn’t been able to overcome in Colorado
it legitimately resets your brain,” Smith said
from all these trails that you're going on
and they keep getting deeper and deeper and deeper
it's not going to be possible to create a new trail
In one of several stories on ibogaine
the New York Times wrote: "Many believe ibogaine fosters the creation of new neurons and neuroplasticity
a rewiring of the brain that gives patients fresh perspectives on self-destructive behavior and the unresolved trauma that sustains it.”
The third day is what Smith called the “gray day,” a day where he admitted he felt hopeless
another naturally occurring psychedelic that is produced in plants and the venom of certain toads
although Smith took a synthetic version of the drug
Smith remembers more of the 5-MeO-DMT experience
A feeling of love coursing through his body
except for me and God were intimately just one,” Smith said
please forgive me for everything.' I shot up
and it seemed like I was being exorcised of demons out of me
Smith felt like he’d been back in touch with the real God
rather than the OCD god he felt had been controlling his life
the effects did not wear off after an hour or a day
Smith has only gotten better since those five days in Mexico
A patient can repeat the regimen if needed down the line
but it is not something that needs to be taken constantly
“You don’t want to do ibogaine recreationally because you feel miserable on that gray day
that would be nothing I’d ever want to do on my own
I’m definitely not advocating someone do this unless it’s in a setting of healing
because this is not something to be messed around with.”
he met his wife and son in her hometown of Mountain Brook
Courtney heard a difference in her husband’s voice after he’d completed his treatment in Mexico
but there was a part of her that wondered if it would be like the other treatments they tried: temporary
“I didn’t want him to come home and just be sitting on the couch,” Courtney said
that’s when I started noticing things getting better.”
“I don’t do compulsive prayers at all anymore,” Smith said
“I don’t do the replacing the good with the bad
I’ll just move on with my day and don’t let it affect me
I used to spend like 3 to 5 hours a day in my head
… I don’t even know if I do compulsions anymore.”
A week or two after finishing intensive therapy
Smith was tested on the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale again
but it doesn’t have a hold over me,” Smith said
Indianapolis asked Smith to restructure his contract from $16.75 million in salary to $8 million with a chance to make up to $11 million with incentives
and in the process lower his cap figure from $19.75 million to $10.4 million
The Colts could have gotten bigger cap savings by releasing Smith outright
They wanted the big right tackle on the team
and he’s in a great spot,” Colts general manager Chris Ballard said
“I think people forget how good Braden is.”
Another player might have accepted a release in order to seek a bigger payday elsewhere
to show his teammates what it’s like when the big right tackle can play for the pure joy of the game
something he’s not sure he’s ever fully experienced
and I want the people around me to experience that
because I do feel like I do have something to offer the people around me.”
The people who helped them to get to this point
The Smiths are deeply grateful for the support system they had around them
for an agent and financial adviser who cared
for the team that treated Smith with understanding and compassion as he went through something that was difficult to comprehend
an organization devoted to the Irsay family’s Kicking the Stigma initiative aimed at mental health issues
did not have to make room for a struggling Smith last season
did not have to pay Smith while he was on the non-football injury list at the end of the season
did not have to provide all of the help the franchise provided
A mental health emergency falls between the cracks of the NFL’s collective bargaining agreement; a player dealing with something like Smith did cannot be placed on injured reserve
and a team can decide to withhold salary from a player on the non-football injury list
A team is not bound to treat a mental health emergency the way the Colts did
From the stories Smith heard from other football players while he was in treatment in Colorado
not every player dealing with mental issues has been treated the way he was in Indianapolis
Courtney wonders what a rookie would do in Smith’s situation
living in an unfamiliar city and playing on a rookie contract
the NFL would have a roster designation available for players going through mental health issues
a way to protect a player who needs the kind of help her husband needed
Any new roster designation would have to be collectively bargained with the NFL Players’ Association
but the Smiths believe it’s a move that needs to be made
wanting to show up and wanting to do his job well,” Courtney said
“I don't know where he would have been if he hadn't worked so hard when we could afford to do all the things that we've done
because a lot of the stuff that we've done has been outside of insurance
The Smiths plan to be part of the support system for other players now
For players dealing with mental health issues
who don’t want to admit that something’s wrong because they’re trying to avoid being a burden
and for the families who can see their loved one struggling and desperately want help them find answers
“Getting help is the least burdensome thing
because they know that ultimately there’s gonna be healing.”
But he no longer feels the depression and anxiety the OCD produced last fall
He’s focused on being a husband to his wife and a father to his adorable 14 month old
and he can pursue God out of a desire to know Him better
rather than a desire to constantly prove himself
This is a very intentional version of Braden that he’s never really been before
I think this is exactly who he’s meant to be
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Celebrity Chef Juszina Maria showcased her culinary skills
preparing Creole-style fish sliders and Creole corn in a cup for race day at the Indy 500
CEO of Juszina Maria’s Catering Studio LLC
demonstrated how to make Creole fish sliders using swai fish
She emphasized the use of grapeseed oil for its high burn content
These sliders are designed as convenient finger foods for events like the Indy 500
where attendees can enjoy them alongside a drink
“I love the idea of doing them in slider form because sometimes
you don’t want to eat a whole fish sandwich that’s like massive,” Chef Juszina Maria explained
Chef Juszina Maria also prepares Creole corn in a cup
a dish suitable for events like Cinco de Mayo and race day at the Indy 500
Heavy cream is used to achieve a creamy consistency
Chef Juszina Maria offers workshops and classes
including appearances at the Marion County Fair and the Covered Bridge Festival
Chef Juszina Maria plans to open a Creole Cajun restaurant in Indianapolis
aiming to bring authentic Creole flavors to the city
She has been successful in catering events such as March Madness and Big Ten
and her involvement with the Pacers guest show highlights her growing popularity
Chef Juszina Maria’s dedication to bringing Creole cuisine to Indianapolis is evident through her catering services
INDIANAPOLIS — The heart of college rugby beats loud in Indianapolis this weekend as the 2025 College Rugby Association of America (CRAA) Championship Weekend came to the Circle City
Dozens of games were played at Kuntz Memorial Stadium
“This weekend was the Women’s Sevens Premier National Championship and the Men’s Division One A
and Division Two National Championships,” said Paul Keeler
and the most important event in college rugby."
This landmark event features a full slate of premier national championships and bowl matchups:
Kuntz stadium is hosting the event for the next two years and is undergoing $45 million dollars in renovations
The stadium will see improvements to locker rooms
WRTV talked to one family who traveled hundreds of miles to watch the University of San Diego play
"I’m here to watch my younger brother play in the rugby national championships," said Ryann Leff
"We’re a big sports family and we love showing up to support each other."
INDIANAPOLIS —Downtown Indianapolis buzzed with excitement as tens of thousands participated in the IU Health 500 Festival Mini-Marathon Saturday
The event kicked off with the Delta Dental 5K
claimed victory in the men’s division with a swift time of 13:31.93
triumphed as the male winner with a remarkable 1:04:39.45
For full results from the races, click here
Excitement is already building for next year's race. You register for the 50th Running of the Mini-Marathon on May 2, 2026 by clicking here.
Before you start making tacos for Cinco de Mayo
An Indianapolis tomato distributor announced it's recalling packaged tomatoes that could be contaminated with salmonella
Ray & Mascari Inc. recalled clamshell containers of 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes
Here's how to check your tomatoes for the recall
According to Ray & Mascari's announcement on the FDA website
the tomatoes were in Gordon Food Services stores in 10 states: Illinois
Tomato recalls nationwide: Tomatoes sold in 14 states recalled over salmonella risk
recalled 4 Count Vine Ripe Tomatoes in 20 oz
clamshell containers have the following information:
UPC# 7 96553 20062 1Master case label with Lot# RM250424 15250B or RM250427 15250B.Why were tomatoes recalled?Hanshaw & Capling Farms in Florida initiated the recall "due to the possible presence of Salmonella in their facility," according to the recall announcement
No one has gotten sick yet, but people can get salmonella infection from swallowing the bacteria, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
That can happen from eating contaminated food or water
According to the CDC, most people with the infection experience diarrhea and stomach cramps. Other possible symptoms include headache
The CDC suggests contacting a doctor if any of these symptoms occur:
Ray & Mascari urged customers to discard the products and not to consume them
Anyone who has questions or wants to report an illness from the tomatoes can call 317-637-0234
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — A woman was killed Saturday in a shooting on the city’s west side
Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers responded to the intersection of Chadbourne Drive and West Saint Claire Street on a report of a person shot
That is just south of the Chapel Hill Shopping Center in Wayne Township
Officers arrived to the scene and found a woman inside a vehicle suffering from gunshot wound injuries
The woman was initially listed in critical condition
She was later pronounced dead at the scene
She was identified by the Marion County Coroner’s Office as 42-year-old Sapanna Harris-Williams
A male person of interest was detained within a block of the crime scene
The person of interest was tasered after he was allegedly uncooperative with officers
Investigators said the incident began as a domestic disturbance and there is no threat to the community at this time
Investigators did not immediately provide any additional information
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INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Overnight lane and ramp closures on I-65 in Indianapolis are scheduled this week due to shoulder strengthening work near the I-465 interchange and Keystone Avenue on the south side of Indianapolis
the Indiana Department of Transportation said in a news release issued Monday
The work involves milling and repaving the outside shoulders to maintain traffic flow during construction
the right lane of northbound I-65 at the I-465 interchange will be closed overnight
the ramp from Keystone Avenue to southbound I-65 will also be closed
Further closures include the right lane of southbound I-65 approaching Keystone Avenue and the ramp from southbound I-65 to Keystone Avenue (Exit 107) on Wednesday and Thursday
the ramp from Keystone Avenue to northbound I-65
and the right lane of northbound I-65 from Keystone to Troy Avenue will be closed
The planned closings are weather-dependent
and drivers are encouraged to plan ahead and use alternate routes when possible
Crews will use part of the outside shoulder to maintain two travel lanes while building new lanes using the inside shoulder this year
The work will shift to widening the outside lanes in 2026
so they opted to bring in higher-level competition than what the previous backup
They did this by signing former New York Giants starting QB Daniel Jones to a one-year
$14 million deal to compete with Richardson for the privilege of commanding Shane Steichen's offense in the head coach's third year leading Indy
But Indianapolis also lost third-string signal-caller Sam Ehlinger to the Denver Broncos
opening up another void to fill on the depth chart
While it might not seem like much of a need on paper
if the starting quarterback (Richardson or Jones) were to miss any time
there would be a need to sign a backup anyway
While the franchise certainly hopes that former No
4 pick Anthony Richardson can turn the corner and take command of the starting quarterback job
and then selected yet another player with a similar skillset in Notre Dame's Riley Leonard."
"Leonard doesn't have the arm talent of Richardson or Jones
but he's a sound decisionmaker and instinctual playmaker with the ball in his hands
He certainly won't have the upside of Richardson
but his steady hand makes him an ideal backup for the type of offense that coach Shane Steichen wants to run in Indianapolis."
USA; Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard (QB08) during the 2025 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium
Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images / Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesLeonard has the caliber of a career backup in the NFL
but showed his promise in 2024 with Notre Dame while leading them to a National Championship appearance against Ohio State
-269/403 passing / 2,861 passing yards / 21 touchdowns / 8 interceptions
-184 rushes / 906 rushing yards / 4.9 average per carry / 17 touchdowns
Leonard had a fantastic 38 all-purpose scores and showed an ability to lead an offense in the most pressure-filled and crucial game situations
which likely helped general manager Chris Ballard in drafting him
Leonard has a skill set that fits Shane Steichen's offense well
which likely helped general manager Chris Ballard select him
Leonard might not have the pure talent that Richardson possesses
but he can still get the job done if he ever needs to suit up the pads under center
The Notre Dame product will help Indianapolis' defense prepare for Sunday contests while learning valuable information on being a professional field general from Richardson and Jones
don't expect Leonard to leap over either Richardson or Jones for valuable playing time during the regular season
DRAKE WALLYDrake Wally covers the Indianapolis Colts at Horseshoe Huddle and co-hosts the Horseshoe Huddle Podcast.
Before the reporter could even get the question out, Formula 1 series points leader Oscar Piastri left no doubt
"Not for me," he said of running in the Indy 500
which the reporter then finished her question
who has a 10-point lead (99 points) on McLaren teammate Lando Norris (89) and a dozen on F1's top driver four years running in Red Bull's Max Verstappen
you've got to put a lot of trust in the people around you," Piastri said
"Crashing an F1 car at the speeds we go hurts
they're going basically 20 mph quicker as an average speed than our top speed
it's a matter of how much it's going to hurt."
IndyCar to F1? Could top drivers resist F1 temptation? New Cadillac team could test that
His McLaren team hopes to add to its 77-point lead on Mercedes with a strong qualifying at 4 p.m
is in his third season with McLaren and finished fourth in the driver's championship last season
while he's off to a great start with three wins and another podium in five races
my kind of dream and goal has always been to race in F1
so I'm very happy with where I am," Piastri said
and I'm very happy to be watching the Indy 500."
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Brent Sobleski of Bleacher Report highlighted the Colts' selection of Giddens as one of the best value selections throughout the entire 2025 NFL Draft
The Indianapolis Colts' 2025 NFL draft was all about building around developmental quarterback Anthony Richardson. In doing so, more offensive pieces were added, with fifth-round running back DJ Giddens being a fascinating addition...In Giddens' case
Indianapolis now has a second running back with legitimate big-play potential—the position won't necessarily experience a massive downshift once Jonathan Taylor leaves the field to take a breather.Considering the scheme is built around Taylor's capabilities
another explosive runner with 4.43-second 40-yard dash speed (at 212 pounds) to slash through opposing defenses won't make the offense as predictable when he's not on the field
The 21-year-old back ran for 2,569 combined yards over the last two seasons
Giddens has a high-quality size and athletic profile for the running back position
212 and running a 4.43 in the 40-yard dash
with a 39.5" vertical and 10'10" broad jump during the Scouting Combine
Although his size would indicate he might be a physical back
which has led to some drawing comparisons to former Colts running back Marlon Mack
"We think he's pretty talented," Ballard told reporters after the draft
It's a very similar kind of draft where some guys kind of fell
and I think he's going to – he's got a chance to help us in a lot of different ways."
rushing for 3,087 yards and 23 touchdowns over the last three years
pulling in 58 receptions for 679 yards and another four scores
We'll see what size of a role awaits Giddens in year one
as Pro Bowl starter Jonathan Taylor and free-agent newcomer Khalil Herbert also obviously factor in
Giddens has the potential to carry a backfield as a true three-down player
Indy had no choice but to add competition to press their fourth-overall investment Richardson into being better than his landslide 2024 campaign
which saw immense regression from his rookie season
CBS Sports slams the Colts for their quarterback conundrum with Richardson and Jones
Garrett Podell broke it down in his critique
the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft
became just the fourth quarterback since the 1970 AFL/NFL merger to lead the NFL in yards per completion (14.4) while ranking dead last in completion percentage (47.7%) in 2024," Poddell wrote
"He's the ultimate boom or bust quarterback in the NFL today: he has a cannon
but he desperately needs to become more accurate."
Poddell ranks the Colts as the second-worst quarterback room (now including Notre Dame's Riley Leonard) behind only the Pittsburgh Steelers
The former Florida Gators field general had a completion percentage of 47.7 and threw 12 picks to only eight scores
While Richardson is more than capable on the ground as a running asset
that's not what makes a quarterback successful in the pros
it's all about getting that completion percentage closer to 60 percent (or higher) while taking better care of the football
Jones isn't far behind Richardson as far as performance
The former New York Giants signal-caller may be more accurate
but he won a measly three games over 2023 and 2024 while losing 13
Jones didn't have the most support in the Meadowlands
but also played awful football at times while under center despite a lack of offensive line help and competent weapons for most of his tenure in the NFC
the Colts brought in Jones with confidence he can push Richardson to be his best
but the brass are holding out hope that their draft investment from 2023 pans out
it's a complete lost cause that continues what has been a quarterback purgatory-type situation for Chris Ballard since Andrew Luck's abrupt retirement in 2019
This is Richardson's last chance to claim the starting position before the Colts may hang it up on this experiment with the athletic quarterback
If the former Giant can't attain the starting role then he could be in store for a career-backup role
Everything rides on Richardson's success
things become incredibly murky for the entire Colts franchise moving forward
Can Richardson bounce back from a brutal second season in year three
That is the paramount question with zenith-level importance that holds much weight for the organization
crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER.