Juanita Albright has officially filed paperwork with the Hamilton County Election Office to seek the District 31 seat in the Indiana Senate, which represents Fishers and portions of north Indianapolis.

Albright previously announced her intention to run for the seat. She currently serves on the Hamilton Southeastern School Board, works as a local physician, and has been a resident of Fishers for the past 20 years.

Albright is, so far, the only formally announced Republican candidate in the race. Fishers City Councilor Tiffanie Ditlevson has established an exploratory committee and is considering a run for the seat, which will be open following Sen. Kyle Walker’s announcement that he will not seek another term in the Indiana Senate.

On the Democratic side, several candidates have already announced plans to compete in the May 5 primary election.

One person was killed early this morning in a fiery crash on Interstate 69 that shut down traffic in both directions for several hours.

According to the Indiana State Police, emergency crews were dispatched just before 3 a.m. Wednesday to a serious crash in the southbound lanes of I-69 near the 212 mile marker. First responders arrived to find two heavily damaged vehicles engulfed in flames, with debris scattered across the interstate.

A preliminary investigation determined that a southbound SUV rear-ended a heavy-duty utility truck that was traveling at highway speeds and carrying welding supplies. The impact ignited tanks containing oxygen and acetylene, causing a large fire.

The driver of the SUV was trapped in the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the utility truck was transported to a local hospital for evaluation and was released a short time later. Police emphasized that the utility truck was not stopped at the time of the crash.

The Hamilton County Coroner’s Office recovered the remains of the deceased driver and is working to confirm the person’s identity.

Due to the crash debris, vehicle fires and a significant fuel spill, both southbound and northbound lanes of I-69 were closed. Southbound lanes remained closed for nearly six hours while investigators worked the scene and crews removed wreckage. Northbound lanes were closed for almost four hours and required heavy equipment to clear debris and fuel that covered all three lanes for approximately 50 yards.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and no additional information was released.

Community Health Network will not continue providing school-based behavioral health services to Hamilton Southeastern (HSE) Schools after the end of the current school year, prompting district officials to begin reviewing alternative options.

HSE spokesperson Emily Abbotts said the decision is part of a broader shift by Community Health Network and is not specific to the district.

“Community Health is ending all its school-based behavioral health contracts,” Abbotts told LarryInFishers.

District officials are evaluating available options and plan to provide an update once next steps are finalized. Abbotts emphasized that other partnerships between HSE and Community Health Network will remain in place.

“This change does not impact our existing partnerships with Community Health related to school nursing, sports medicine, or clinic services,” she said.

In 2023, HSE was awarded a $5.7 million grant to expand mental health services across the district. While the funding allowed for the addition of district-employed social workers and counselors, the initiative initially drew concern from some school board members who questioned the district’s role in providing mental health services. The expansion ultimately supplemented internal staff while continuing to rely on external therapists contracted through Community Health Network.

In July 2024, the school board approved a Behavioral Health Services Letter Agreement with Community Health Network, requiring the district to pay $33,333 per month for school-based mental health services. At the time, board members designated the agreement as a year-to-year decision.

The City of Fishers is inviting residents to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through service and community involvement as part of its 2026 MLK Jr. Day observance, highlighted by a citywide food drive and several volunteer opportunities.

With local food pantries facing increased demand and reduced supplies following the holidays, Fishers will host a community-wide food drive on Monday, Jan. 19, Martin Luther King Jr. Day. City officials say the effort is designed to reflect Dr. King’s message of kindness and service while addressing a growing local need. Last year, Fishers residents donated approximately 30,000 pounds of food, and organizers hope to surpass that total this year.

Residents are encouraged to donate food or volunteer their time during the drive. Volunteer shifts are available at Kroger locations in Fishers on Jan. 19, including from 10 a.m. to noon and from noon to 2 p.m. at Kroger stores located at 7272 Fishers Crossing Drive and 11700 Olio Road.

Food donations will be accepted in advance from Monday, Jan. 5, through Friday, Jan. 16, at several locations, including Fishers City Hall, the Fishers YMCA, and the Fishers Community Center. On MLK Day itself, donations will be collected from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Kroger stores at 9799 E. 116th Street, 11700 Olio Road, and 7272 Fishers Crossing Drive.

For those unable to donate in person, the city is also offering online giving options through Amazon and Walmart wish lists. Requested items include nonperishable foods such as canned beans, fruits, meats and soups, boxed pasta, peanut butter, cereal, meal cups, snack bars, and breakfast items. Glass containers are not accepted.

In addition to the food drive, Fishers residents can participate in other service-oriented activities connected to the MLK holiday. On Saturday, Jan. 17, volunteers can help plant onion seeds at the Fishers AgriPark, Strengthened by IU Health. The planting will take place from 9:30 to 11 a.m. inside the heated AgriPark barn, with space limited.

Fishers Parks is also offering a creative way to honor Dr. King through its annual “I Have a Dream” yard sign activity. Residents can stop by the Fishers Parks headquarters to create a free, customized yard sign using provided materials. The drop-in activity does not require registration, and signs will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Details and hours are available at FishersParks.com.

The City of Fishers thanked its community partners, including Good Samaritan Network, Memory Ventures, and Kroger, for supporting this year’s MLK Jr. Day activities.

The Republican primary ballot for sheriff is expected to be composed of a number of hopefuls, now that incumbent Dennis Quakenbush is term-limited and not able to run for another term.

John Lowes, chief deputy of the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, has filed to run for Hamilton County sheriff in the upcoming Republican primary. Lowes, a career law enforcement officer with more than 28 years of experience, is seeking the office as Quakenbush prepares to conclude his second term in 2026.

Lowes currently oversees the day-to-day operations of the Sheriff’s Office and working with deputies and command staff on public safety efforts across the county. During his career, Lowes has held a variety of roles, including patrol, investigations, field training and administrative assignments.

In a statement announcing his candidacy, Lowes said he is running to provide experienced leadership and maintain public safety in Hamilton County.

“I am running for Sheriff because I believe Hamilton County deserves experienced conservative leadership that will protect our families, uphold the Constitution, and enforce the law fairly and firmly,” Lowes said. “Public safety requires vigilance, accountability, and a commitment to conservative principles that put the rule of law first.”

Lowes will appear on the Republican primary ballot in May.

Quakenbush has endorsed Lowes’ candidacy. In announcing his support, the sheriff cited Lowes’ experience and leadership within the department.

“John Lowes has served our community with integrity for more than two decades and has proven himself to be a capable and trusted leader,” Quakenbush said. “As Chief Deputy, he has played a central role in leading our department and ensuring we remain focused on transparency, accountability, and keeping Hamilton County safe.”

Lowes said he is grateful for the endorsement and emphasized continuity within the Sheriff’s Office.

“Dennis Quakenbush has led this department with professionalism and a clear focus on public safety,” Lowes said. “I am honored by his support and committed to building on the strong foundation that has been established to keep Hamilton County safe.”

Hamilton Southeastern Schools announced record graduation outcomes for the Class of 2025, with nearly all seniors earning diplomas and the district posting its highest graduation rate to date.

According to district data, 98.8 percent of students in the Class of 2025 graduated, marking the strongest overall performance in HSE Schools history.

At Fishers High School, 878 of 880 seniors earned diplomas, resulting in a 99.66 percent graduation rate. Hamilton Southeastern High School reported a 97.99 percent graduation rate, with 879 of 897 seniors completing their high school requirements.

District officials said the results place both high schools well above Indiana’s overall graduation rate and among the top-performing schools in Central Indiana.

“Graduation is a milestone that reflects years of effort, support, and growth,” Superintendent Patrick Mapes said in a statement. “These outcomes speak to the commitment of our students and the work of our educators to ensure students are supported and prepared for what comes next.”

HSE Schools reported strong graduation outcomes across all student groups, including English Language Learners, Exceptional Learners, and students who qualify for free and reduced-price meals.

District leaders attributed the record-setting graduation rate to a combination of academic programming, student support services, and an emphasis on postsecondary planning. Officials said the district continues to focus on preparing students for a range of pathways, including college, career training, military service, and direct entry into the workforce.

The Hamilton County Democratic Party has completed its fifth consecutive year participating in the “Adopt a Family” holiday giving program, providing gifts and support to families in need during the holiday season.

This year, the party partnered with Firefly Children and Family Alliance through its Hope for the Holidays program. The effort resulted in sponsorship of seven children from Indianapolis and surrounding counties. According to the party, volunteers and donors fulfilled every item on each child’s wish list and provided additional gifts.

Molly Pearcy, who has coordinated the program for the past five years, said the annual effort continues to draw broad participation from Democrats across Hamilton County.

“This effort truly reflects the heart of our party,” Pearcy said.

Hamilton County Democratic Party Chair Josh Lowry said the need for assistance has increased this year, citing economic pressures facing many families.

“Families are struggling more than ever this year due to delays in SNAP benefits and the rising cost of living impacting Hoosiers across our state,” Lowry said. “At a time when too many households are being stretched to the breaking point, it’s more important than ever that we show up for one another and make sure children can still experience joy during the holidays.”

The Hamilton County Democratic Party thanked volunteers and donors for their participation, noting that the Adopt a Family program has become an annual tradition focused on community service and support for local families.

Thompson Thrift announced this week that Cunningham Restaurant Group and Flower Child have signed leases at The Union at Fishers District, adding two more dining options to the growing mixed-use development.

According to the developer, the new leases further strengthen The Union’s position as a dining, retail and lifestyle destination within the Fishers District.

Cunningham Restaurant Group (CRG), an Indianapolis-based hospitality company with a portfolio that includes Rize, BRU Burger Bar, Provision, Livery and Vida, has leased a two-story building at the site. Plans call for approximately 5,700 square feet of fine dining on the second floor and a 2,400-square-foot bar on the ground level offering small plates. The concept is still being finalized and is expected to be unique to the Fishers market and to CRG’s portfolio. The restaurant will become the newest addition to CRG’s more than 20 concepts operating in Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky.

Flower Child will open its second Indianapolis-area location at The Union after securing a 3,500-square-foot freestanding building. The restaurant is known for its customizable menu featuring bowls, wraps, salads, vegetables, grains, fruits and proteins designed to accommodate a variety of dietary preferences. The Fishers location will add to Flower Child’s expanding national footprint.

Thompson Thrift said it has also recently signed leases with Dot Sugar, a specialty desserts and beverages shop, and The Oakmont, a restaurant and bar. Previously announced tenants at The Union include Piedra, Kitchen Social, Niku Sushi, Everbowl, Racha Thai, Renova Aesthetics, Sweathouz, Unplug Soy Candles and a jewelry store.

Several spaces remain available within the development, including two retail or restaurant spaces scheduled for third-quarter delivery, approximately 1,300 square feet at the base of the new Cunningham Restaurant Group building, about 4,800 divisible square feet at the base of the 250-unit Union Flats apartment community, and roughly 70,000 square feet of Class A office space.

The Union is located near Interstate 69 and 116th Street and is one of five developments within the master-planned Fishers District. The project includes retail and restaurant space, Class A office space, a 135-room AC Hotels by Marriott, a luxury multifamily community and structured parking.

Thompson Thrift began work on the Fishers District in 2015. When completed, the $750 million, 123-acre development will feature multifamily housing, townhomes, hotels, office space, dining, shopping and entertainment connected by pedestrian-friendly walkways.

Chef Kelsey Murphy is moving quickly to launch her new restaurant concept in the former Fishers Test Kitchen space at Fishers District.

In a video posted to Facebook, Murphy announced plans to begin serving meals at the location on January 2. The space, which previously housed the Fishers Test Kitchen, featured three kitchen pods with rotating chefs and menus. Murphy said she plans to start with a limited menu while beginning what she described as a “clumsy transition,” with construction taking place as the space is gradually converted into a single restaurant operation.

The new restaurant will be called Clutch Kitchen and will be located inside the Sun King Brewery space at Fishers District, the restaurant and entertainment area near IKEA.

Murphy said the initial menu will be intentionally limited, featuring smash burgers, a Cuban sandwich, wings, and a “massive” nacho platter designed for sharing. Additional menu items will be added gradually as renovations progress.

“Once we are through renovations, the menu is going to be amazing,” Murphy said in the video.

Murphy, a Fishers resident, gained national recognition after winning MasterChef: Legends in 2021. The Fishers Redevelopment Commission recently approved a new lease for the space, following the city’s decision to terminate the Test Kitchen lease and move in a new operator.

Construction at the site is expected to continue for several months, though Murphy emphasized her desire to begin serving customers as soon as possible while the transformation is underway.

With the holidays now in the rearview mirror, many Fishers residents are returning to their regular routines. For those who took time off for Christmas and New Year’s, Monday, Jan. 5 marks a return to work. It is also the day classes resume for students and teaching staff in the Hamilton Southeastern School District.

The holiday season offered a welcome opportunity to slow down and reconnect. Many in the community spent time with friends and family, a tradition that remains one of the most meaningful parts of the year.

While 2025 was a quieter year on the election front, it was far from quiet for local news. Indiana typically sees no elections in the year following a presidential contest, and 2025 followed that pattern. Even so, interest in local coverage remained strong.

LarryInFishers.com recorded more than 100,000 unique visitors over the course of the year, a tally that underscores the community’s ongoing appetite for local news and information.

That relative calm will not continue into 2026.

Several important races are on the ballot this year, including four of the seven seats on the Hamilton Southeastern School Board. All school board candidates will run within their respective district boundaries. In addition, voters will decide races for countywide and local offices, including sheriff, county council and township positions.

The primary election is scheduled for May 5, with the general election set for Nov. 3.

The 2026 school board election will also look different from past years. Following action by the Indiana General Assembly in 2025, school board candidates may now identify with a political party or choose to run with no party affiliation. Previously, school board races were strictly nonpartisan. Despite the change, there will be no school board primary; all candidates will appear on the general election ballot.

With schools back in session, work routines resuming and a significant election year ahead, 2026 is shaping up to be a busy one for Fishers. The hope, as always, is that it will also be a good year for the community.