“Hoops and Heroes” Charity Basketball Game, Oct. 1, 2016

2015 “Hoops and Heroes” competitors at Marian University.
Photo provided by the event organizers and used with written permission.

By Christy Glesing
On behalf of the Julian Center

INDIANAPOLIS (Aug. 25, 2016) – The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department will once again take on the Indianapolis Fire Department in a Hoops & Heroes basketball showdown at 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, 2016 at Marian University to kick off Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Proceeds from the event will support the safety, stability, and self-sufficiency programs at The Julian Center.

Big Goals This Year
IMPD won the game last year, 65 to 60 in front of 700 attendees, and leads the annual series 2 to 1. The event raised $82,000 for the nonprofit that provides shelter and hope to survivors of domestic and sexual violence and their families. Organizers hope to fill 1,000 seats and raise $100,000 in 2016.

“While all for a good cause, the officers and firefighters take this game very seriously,” said Catherine O’Connor, president and CEO, The Julian Center. “Bragging rights are on the line—and the competition is intense. We are forever grateful to these brave men and women who work so tirelessly to keep us safe from abuse and other harm.”

“Dr. Dunk” Youth Basketball Clinic, Other Fun
Prior to tip-off, Darnell “Dr. Dunk” Hillman will host a Jr. Pacers/Jr. Fever basketball clinic for kids age 12 and under. Kids can also explore a police car and fire engine, take the free throw challenge, and enjoy a special halftime show, balloon animals, face painting, and giveaways. Concession stands will be open.

WHAT:
Hoops & Heroes Charity Basketball Game

WHEN:
Saturday, Oct. 1, 2016 | Doors open 4 p.m. | Tip-off 6 p.m.

WHERE:
Marian University Physical Education Center
3200 Cold Springs Rd. | Indianapolis, IN 46222

WHO:
Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department | Indianapolis Fire Department | The Julian Center | Indiana Pacers Fan Van | Boomer | Freddy Fever | Crispus Attucks Cheerleaders | Marion University Women’s Basketball | 93.9 The Beat’s DJ Zakk

TICKETS:
$5 adults; Age 12 and under are FREE
Purchase on The Julian Center Facebook page, www.juliancenter.org/HOOPS, and at the door.

Community Support
Hoops & Heroes is made possible by support from Kroger, Hoosiers Work for Health, CNO Financial, Katz, Sapper & Miller, Spectrum Technology, and State Auto Insurance. Additional sponsorships are available. Contact Faren Jones at 317.941.2206 for more information.

Fall Fun in Downtown Indy, September 2016

Bike Riding in White River State Park in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana.
AroundIndy.com staff photo, (c) 2016, all rights reserved.

By Jennifer Hanson
Downtown Indy, Inc.

Indians: Craft Beer for a Cause

Support Downtown Indy, Inc. by purchasing tickets to the Indianapolis Indians game Sept. 1.2016. DII is excited to partner with the Indianapolis Indians and Sun King Brewing for Craft Beer for a Cause. A portion of every ticket purchased ($5 for Box and Reserved Seats and $4 for Lawn) will be donated to the Downtown Indy, Inc. Beautification Fund. Get tickets (and save) using promo code downtownindy.

INspired Beauty on Monument Circle

Downtown Indianapolis is one of the most beautiful and clean downtowns in the nation – and not by accident. We are celebrating our Downtown with the second annual INspired Beauty, a fundraiser to benefit the Downtown Indy, Inc. Beautification Fund, Thursday, Sept. 15 from 5 – 7 p.m. on Monument Circle. Enjoy live music, tasty tapas, Sun King beer and Southern Wine and Spirits, great company and incredible views in the heart of our Downtown. Professional gardeners and landscapers will compete “Iron Chef” style as they each assemble container gardens on location in a competition, which will be raffled off at the conclusion of the event. Tickets can be purchased online for $25 or at the door for $30. Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more.

Fall into the festivities

The arrival of September brings a diverse lineup of fall festivals to Downtown Indianapolis, celebrating culture, art, food, sports and more. As the weather starts to cool, it’s the perfect time to bring the family to one or more of these unique events.

· Sept.3: Indy Labor Fest, from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., is a three-block festival on Georgia Street featuring music from Yacht Rock Revue, food, drinks and a kid’s zone.

· Sept. 9 – 27: White River Festival, a 19-day celebration of the White River, includes art exhibits and performances, family activities, river clean ups and more.

· Sept. 10: Penrod Arts Fair, from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. on the grounds of the Indianapolis Museum of Art, showcases more than 300 artists, six stages and a special children’s area. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door.

· Sept. 10: Sun King CANvitational, from 1 – 5 p.m. on Georgia Street, showcases more than 45 craft breweries, local eats from food trucks and live music. General admission is $40; general admission with early entry at noon is $75 and designated driver tickets are $10.

· Sept. 15 – 18: 21st annual Indy Irish Fest takes over Military Park with live music, dancing, food, sporting events, shopping and a kid’s craft tent and game area. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 day of; $10 for students; $5 for children 5 – 13 and military and FREE for children 4 and under.

· Sept. 15 – 24: Indy Jazz Fest, at various times and locations around Indianapolis, features some of the most popular jazz and blues artists celebrating GRAMMY Award-winner Wes Montgomery. Downtown venues include Madame Walker Theatre, Indiana Landmarks, IUPUI, Cabaret at The Columbia Club and Central Library.

· Sept. 16: Monument Circle Oktoberfest, from 7 – 11 p.m., boasts an authentic German Biergarten, traditional German fare and Polka Boy live. FREE admission.

· Sept. 17: Fiesta Indianapolis, from noon – 10 p.m. at American Legion Mall, is one of the longest-running ethnic festivals in the state, bringing together 15,000+ people each year. The festival features Latino music, dance, art, food and children’s activities. FREE admission.

· Sept. 17: Rooftop Garden Oktoberfest takes place noon – 6 p.m at Fountain Square Theatre featuring Bratwurst and Knackwurst from Claus’ German Sausage & Meats, as well as German Beer from Sun King on tap to wash down other Oktoberfest favorites.

· Sept. 18: Hispanic Heritage Fiesta, noon – 4 p.m. at the Indianapolis Zoo, celebrates the culture and traditions of Latin America with decorations, family activities and Latin-inspired food. FREE for Zoo members.

· Sept. 24: Herron-Morton Oktoberfest, from 2 – 9 p.m. at Herron Morton Place Park, includes live music, plus local beer and food trucks. Admission is $10 and FREE for kids 13 and under.

· Sept. 24: Indianapolis Chinese Festival, from noon – 6 p.m. at IUPUI Wood Plaza, honors the Chinese Moon Festival through traditional art and performances, tai chi and martial arts demonstrations, Chinese games and authentic Chinese food. Admission is FREE.

33rd annual Circle City Classic

Circle City Classic weekend returns to Downtown Indy, showcasing the spirit, energy and tradition of America’s historically black colleges and universities. The Classic draws an average of 175,000 people from across the country annually to be a part of an energized weekend that includes a parade, pep rally, musical performances, well-known celebrities, a battle of the bands and two historically black college football teams colliding head-to-head at Lucas Oil Stadium. This year’s game takes place Sept. 24.

September sports: the Colts are back

Celebrate the return of football with the FREE Colts Kickoff Concert on Georgia Street Sept. 10 from 5 – 10 p.m. Enjoy music from Clayton Anderson, Southern Country and headliner Eli Young Band, plus giveaways, appearances by the Colts cheerleaders and Blue, a beer garden and food from the Kilroy’s Bar n’ Grill. The Indianapolis Colts play the Detroit Lions to kick off the season at home Sept. 11 at 4:25 p.m. Head to the Bud Light Tailgate on Georgia Street before home games.

Indy Eleven plays at IUPUI’s Michael A. Carroll Stadium Sept. 3 against Tama Bay, Sept. 17 against Miami FC and Sept. 24 against New York. Purchase tickets here and use code downtown and ticket proceeds will benefit Downtown beautification.

Performing arts are ready to amaze

The Indiana Repertory Theatre opens the new season with The Three Musketeers, running Sept. 20 – Oct. 15. Follow the legendary tale of danger, royalty and romance on stage.

For a touch of the classical, don’t miss the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s Opening Night Gala Sept. 24. Grab a date for Happy Hour at the Symphony Sept. 15, the ISO and The Doo Wop Project Sept. 16 & 17, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone in concert Sept. 23 & 25 and Andre Watts plays Beethoven Sept. 29 – Oct. 1.

Downtown Indy, Inc.’s Circle of Lights® presented by IBEW #481 Auditions

Showcase your talents for a chance to perform at Downtown Indy, Inc.’s Circle of Lights® presented by IBEW #481. Talented singers, dancers and entertainers alike can audition Saturday, Oct. 1 or Tuesday, Oct. 4. Selected entertainers will appear in front of thousands of people at the Circle of Lights Friday, Nov. 25 on Monument Circle and on WTHR-13. No registration is required.

Get fit!

September weather is perfect to get outside and walk or run around Downtown Indianapolis while supporting any number of causes. Check out the Glo Run Sept. 3 in White River State Park and come pack Sept. 10 for the Indianapolis Heart Walk. Cheer on runners/walkers for the Indy Women’s Half Marathon & 5K Sept. 17, stepping off at Monument Circle. The Torch Relay Everyday Heroes 5K Fun Run/Walk also takes place Sept. 17 at the Indiana State Museum.

The Teal Ribbon Ovarian Cancer Run/Walk starts at City Market Sept. 24, while the Walk to Defeat ALS takes place at White River State Park. Don’t miss the IUPUI Regatta on the Downtown Indy Canal Walk Sept. 24, as well.

For more information, call 317-237-2222.

Conner Prairie Apple Store Opens Sept. 1, 2016

Conner Prairie Interactive History Park in Fishers, Indiana.
AroundIndy.com staff photo, (c) 2016, all rights reserved.

By Duane Brodt
Conner Prairie

FISHERS, Indiana. – August is a busy month for some 100 women who volunteer at Conner Prairie. Not as busy as September and October are. But pretty busy. And stressful.

That’s because they’re preparing to open the Apple Store at Conner Prairie for its 31st year. There’s a lot to do.

About 12 members of the Conner Prairie Alliance, an all-volunteer woman’s group that includes more than 100 members focused on creative fundraising for the museum year-round, will spend a day or two cleaning every inch of the store. All members will undergo a week of training that will teach them everything from overall store management to specific shift work. There are deliveries arriving daily that need to be coordinated.

And soon, about 50 members will take a week to actually set up the store, stock shelves and make sure everything – and every person – is set for opening day.

“There is really no adequate way to recognize how hard our members work,” said Alliance President Barbie Millington. The group was founded in 1982 and opened the Apple Store in 1985. “And we love our dedicated customers. They are so anxious each year for that first hand-dipped apple or cider slushie.”

The store opens at 11 a.m. Sept. 1, offering on its first day only a 15 percent discount on all items. The store will be open 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays through Oct. 31. During October’s Headless Horseman, hours will be extended until 9 p.m. Its doors will be open on both Labor Day and Halloween.

In honor of Indiana’s 200th birthday, the store will feature a Bicentennial Gourmet Apple, which will be available all season, and Bicentennial Hand-Dipped Chocolate Caramels. Also new this season is the Chocolate Caramel Toffee Crunch. “Think of an apple wrapped in a Heath bar,” Millington said.

Popular products returning this season include hand-dipped caramel apples, gourmet caramel apples, cider slushies, fresh popcorn, apple pies, gifts, candy and various treats. Other long-time favorites returning are caramel apples dipped in dark chocolate and dusted with sea salt and Annie’s Apples – fresh-cut apples drizzled with caramel and served in a bowl. Special discounts and promotions will be offered throughout the season on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Last year, the Apple Store sold:

• 7,224 cider slushies

• 5,082 nutty caramel apples

• 5,502 plain caramel apples

• 3,480 specialty items, including fall gift items

• 3,201 pounds of apples

• 1,257 cups of hot cider

• 1,241 gallons of cider

• 816 bags of freshly popped popcorn

• 562 slices of pie

• 547 gourmet apples

• 264 whole frozen pies

In 2015, sales from the store raised $85,000 to support the construction of Treetop Outpost, a new nature experience that opened in July, and the museum’s agriculture and textile programs.

Since its inception, the Conner Prairie Alliance has raised more than $1 million to support initiatives at the museum.

Spanning 800 wooded acres in central Indiana, Conner Prairie welcomes nearly 390,000 visitors of all ages annually. As Indiana’s first Smithsonian Institute affiliate, Conner Prairie offers various outdoor, historically themed destinations and indoor experiential learning spaces that combine history and art with science, technology, engineering and math to offer an authentic look into history that shapes society today.

Free Admission Sundays for College Students at the Children’s Museum

Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.
AroundIndy.com staff photo, (c) 2015, all rights reserved.

By Leslie Olsen
Children’s Museum of Indianapolis

Fun for Free!

Calling All College Students!

Take a Study Break, Reboot, Enjoy Free Admission on Sundays!

WHO:
Students enrolled in Indiana colleges, universities or online.

WHAT:
Free admission on Sundays from September 4-December 18, 2016.

WHERE:
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, 3000 N. Meridian Street, Indianapolis, Indiana

WHEN:
Sundays from September 4-December 18, 2016, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

WHY:
Why not? The Children’s Museum features famous props from feature films, real space equipment used by astronauts, pieces by famous artists, and more! Put down the book and experience something extraordinary! (Selfies encouraged.)

DETAILS:
All full-time and part-time students enrolled in Indiana colleges or universities are eligible for free admission with a valid college photo ID. Limit one adult per ID please. Online students who do not have student ID’s may bring a copy of the current class schedule as proof of enrollment.

About The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis is a nonprofit institution committed to creating extraordinary learning experiences across the arts, sciences, and humanities that have the power to transform the lives of children and families. For more information about The Children’s Museum, visit www.childrensmuseum.org, follow us on Twitter @TCMIndy, Instagram @childrensmuseum, Facebook.com/childrensmuseum, and YouTube.com/IndyTCM

Indy Fuel Preseason Games, Oct. 7-8, 2016

Indy Fuel Ice Hockey at Indiana Farmers Coliseum in Indianapolis, Indiana.
AroundIndy.com staff photo, (c) 2016, all rights reserved.

By Brent Hollerud
Indy Fuel ECHL Ice Hockey

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indy Fuel, proud ECHL affiliate of the NHL’s Chicago Blackhawks and the AHL’s Rockford IceHogs, announced their 2016 preseason schedule Thursday. The Fuel will meet the Fort Wayne Komets in a home-and-home exhibition doubleheader; starting on Friday, October 7, 2016, at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, before shifting to Indiana Farmers Coliseum in Indianapolis on Saturday, October 8. Friday’s game in Fort Wayne is scheduled for an 8 p.m. puck drop, while Saturday’s contest in Indy is slated for 6 p.m. ET.

All in attendance at Saturday’s game between the two in-state rivals will receive a 2016-17 Fuel magnet schedule. Indy’s preseason finale will be capped off with a post-game autograph session in the Indiana Farmers Coliseum lobby with the entire team. Tickets for the exhibition showdown are included in all Full-Season, Half-Season, and 9-Game Ticket Plans, and will be just $10 for the general public.

Announcements will be made in the coming weeks with more information regarding preseason and 2016-17 single game tickets, as well as the Fuel’s full promotional schedule for their third season at Indiana Farmers Coliseum.

The organization also announced Thursday the addition of Terry Ficorelli as the club’s new Director of Media Relations. A familiar voice to Indiana hockey fans, Ficorelli brings over 30 years and 3,500 games of play-by-play experience to the Fuel broadcast booth. The Detroit native spent the last six seasons in Evansville – serving as the Vice President of Communications, Broadcasting and Marketing for the CHL and ECHL IceMen from 2010-2014, before holding the same position with the NA3HL’s Evansville Thunderbolts in 2015-16.

Prior to arriving in Indiana, Ficorelli spent 15 years in Muskegon, Mich. manning the microphone for the UHL Fury and the IHL Lumberjacks, providing the call for four Fury championships in a six-year span from 1999-2005. In addition to the team success during his time in Muskegon, “Fic” became the first person to win both UHL Broadcaster of the Year and Public Relations Director of the Year honors twice.

Opening Night of the 2016-17 Fuel season is coming Friday, October 14 and Season Ticket Plans are now on sale! Join the team for year three at Indiana Farmers Coliseum by visiting IndyFuelHockey.com or calling 317-925-FUEL. Full and Half-Season packages are available, as well as 9-Game Plans and Group Ticket options. Stay up to date throughout the offseason by following the Fuel on Twitter and Instagram (@IndyFuel) and don’t forget to ‘Like’ the Fuel on Facebook.