Teddy Bear Toss Night Draws Sellout Crowd as Indy Fuel Fall 4-1 to Cincinnati

The Indy Fuel skated in front of a sellout crowd Saturday night at the Fishers Event Center, hosting the Cincinnati Cyclones for the team’s annual Teddy Bear Toss game. While the Fuel came up short on the scoreboard in a 4-1 loss, fans still flooded the ice with teddy bears for charity following Indy’s lone goal of the night.

The opening period was marked by frequent special teams action, with both squads combining for several penalties in the first 20 minutes. Indy controlled much of the early play and outshot Cincinnati 8-5 in the period, but the Cyclones capitalized on a shorthanded opportunity late in the frame. John Jaworski scored at 18:56 to give Cincinnati a 1-0 lead heading into the first intermission.

Cincinnati added to its lead in the second period during another stretch of penalty-filled play. After the Fuel successfully killed off several penalties, Jaworski struck again with just four seconds remaining on a high-sticking minor to make it 2-0. Through two periods, Indy held a slim 18-17 edge in shots on goal.

The Cyclones extended their advantage in the third period. Ryan Kirwan scored at 9:57 to push the lead to 3-0, and Zack Trott followed with a power-play goal at 12:09 after an Indy boarding penalty, making it 4-0.

The long-awaited Teddy Bear Toss moment came late in the game. Terry Broadhurst, who recently rejoined the Fuel after spending three seasons playing in Europe, scored just two seconds into a power play at 18:01 to break the shutout. Jadon Joseph assisted on the goal, prompting fans to shower the ice with teddy bears destined for local charities.

The Cyclones and Fuel finished even in shots on goal, 25-25, but Cincinnati’s special teams proved to be the difference on a night that blended holiday tradition with high-energy hockey.

Winter Storm Warning Issued for Fishers; 4–6 Inches of Snow and Dangerous Cold Expected

The National Weather Service office in Indianapolis has upgraded its forecast for central Indiana, issuing a Winter Storm Warning as snowfall expectations increase across the region.

Forecasters now say 4 to 6 inches of snow are likely in the Fishers area and much of central Indiana, with isolated locations possibly receiving higher amounts. The Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 11 a.m. Saturday through midnight.

The snow is expected to create slippery and hazardous travel conditions throughout the day and evening. Officials warn that road conditions could worsen quickly as temperatures fall after the snow ends.

Compounding the situation, a Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect from midnight Saturday through 1 p.m. Sunday. Wind chills are forecast to drop as low as 23 to 25 degrees below zero, creating dangerous conditions for anyone outdoors for extended periods.

The extreme cold will also make snow and ice removal more difficult for road crews, as treated surfaces can quickly refreeze once temperatures plunge.

The National Weather Service cautions that frostbite on exposed skin could occur in as little as 30 minutes under these conditions, and prolonged exposure could lead to hypothermia.

Drivers are urged to use caution if travel is necessary and to keep emergency supplies such as food, water and a flashlight in their vehicles. Residents heading outside are advised to wear layered clothing, hats and gloves to protect against the bitter cold.

Up-to-date road conditions across Indiana are available by calling 511.

Fuel Fall 6-3 at Bloomington Despite Outshooting Bison

The Indy Fuel dropped a 6-3 decision to the Bloomington Bison on Friday night, despite outshooting them and cutting an early deficit to one goal late in the game.

Bloomington jumped out to a fast start, scoring three times in the first 10 minutes. Brenden Datema opened the scoring at 4:36, followed by a goal from captain Eddie Matsushima at 7:08. Ayden MacDonald added a power-play goal at 9:23 to make it 3-0.

Indy responded before the end of the first period when Kevin Lombardi scored at 16:04, with Tyson Feist and Harrison Israels picking up assists.

The Fuel continued to push in the second period, killing off an early penalty before Lombardi struck again at 5:34 to cut the deficit to 3-2. The same trio of Lombardi, Feist and Israels combined on the goal. Bloomington answered later in the period with a goal from Zakary Karpa to regain a two-goal advantage.

Matsushima extended the Bison lead to 5-2 with a power-play goal early in the third period. Israels pulled Indy back within two at 9:06, assisted by Lombardi and Feist, giving all three players three points on the night.

Indy pressed late and pulled its goaltender for an extra attacker, but Lou-Félix Denis sealed the game with an empty-net goal at 17:47.

The Fuel outshot Bloomington 38-27 and return home Saturday night to host the Cincinnati Cyclones in their annual Teddy Bear Toss game.

Garcia Wilburn Hosts Sandy Hook Remembrance Event, Calls for Stronger Gun Safety Laws

Rep. Victoria Garcia Wilburn speaks at the Statehouse event (Photo provided)

State Rep. Victoria Garcia Wilburn (D-Fishers) hosted a Sandy Hook Remembrance Day event at the Indiana Statehouse on Friday to honor victims of school shootings and to call for stronger gun safety laws aimed at protecting children.

The event was held ahead of the 13th anniversary of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, which took place Dec. 14, 2012, and claimed the lives of 20 children and six educators. Lawmakers, gun violence prevention advocates, faith leaders and community members attended the gathering, which focused on remembrance and prevention.

Garcia Wilburn said the event served both as a memorial and a call to action, noting that gun violence involving children has continued in the years since Sandy Hook. She criticized recent changes in Indiana law that eliminated permit requirements to carry handguns, arguing that the policy has increased the risk of firearms falling into the wrong hands.

The program included remarks from elected officials and advocates, musical performances, and multi-faith prayers. Attendees were also able to connect with gun violence prevention organizations. In addition, the event featured a children’s shoe drive benefiting Grace Care Center, held in memory of children who have died as a result of gun violence.

Statistics from the gun safety organization Everytown for Gun Safety were cited during the event, indicating that more than 4.6 million children nationwide live in homes with at least one loaded and unlocked firearm. The organization also reports that nearly 360 children unintentionally shoot themselves or another person each year.

Advocates at the event pointed to research showing that safe storage laws, which require firearms to be secured and kept inaccessible to children, can significantly reduce unintentional shootings, youth suicides and school shootings.

Garcia Wilburn said she believes Indiana can uphold Second Amendment rights while also adopting policies that improve public safety, and urged lawmakers to pursue what she described as common-sense gun legislation to help prevent future tragedies.

More Winter Weather Headed for Fishers: Snow Saturday, Dangerous Cold to Follow

 

The Fishers area is bracing for another round of winter weather this weekend, with additional snowfall followed by dangerously cold wind chills.

The National Weather Service (NWS) office in Indianapolis has issued a Winter Weather Advisory calling for 2 to 5 inches of snow to fall Saturday, followed by a Cold Weather Advisory beginning late Saturday night.

According to forecasters, snow is expected to develop late Saturday morning and continue through the evening. The Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. to midnight Saturday, with accumulations of 2 to 6 inches possible across central Indiana, including the Fishers area. Drivers should be prepared for slippery road conditions as the snow moves through the region.

Once the snowfall ends around midnight, bitterly cold air will move in. The NWS has issued a Cold Weather Advisory from midnight Saturday night through 1 p.m. Sunday. Wind chill values could drop as low as 19 degrees below zero.

Forecasters warn that exposure to these conditions could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes, and hypothermia is also a serious risk. Residents are urged to limit time outdoors and dress appropriately, including wearing a heavy coat, hat, and gloves if they must be outside.

The latest advisories come after a surprise freezing drizzle Thursday morning created hazardous road conditions across the area. The icy precipitation was not forecast, resulting in delays as road crews worked to treat slick surfaces.

The National Weather Service advises motorists to slow down, use caution while traveling, and check current road conditions by dialing 511.

Warriors in Nature Project Receives Support at Latest Fishers Century Club Meeting

Century Club gathering for the quarterly meeting

The Fishers Century Club gathered Tuesday evening at The Club Coworking for its quarterly meeting, drawing a strong turnout as members continued their mission of supporting local nonprofit organizations.

The session opened with an update from Rock Steady Boxing, the September award recipient. The organization reported that its earlier contribution from the club went toward scholarship assistance for participants who depend on its non-contact, boxing-based fitness programs but face financial barriers.

Three charities then presented to members for consideration. Marcus Zimmerman introduced The Progress House, describing its work as one of Indiana’s longest-operating residential recovery programs. Returning member Klynt Brummett spoke on behalf of Josiah White’s, outlining its services for youth and families.

The evening’s winning presentation came from new club member and Marine veteran Justin McDonald, who highlighted the Warriors in Nature Project. The 501(c)(3) nonprofit focuses on helping veterans reconnect with the outdoors and reduce the stress of post-service life. Members voted overwhelmingly to direct their collective support to the organization.

According to McDonald, the project offers veterans opportunities for connection, reflection, and healing in outdoor settings. Club Founder Adam Kallick said members were moved by the group’s mission and by McDonald’s personal commitment to it.

With contributions still being submitted by members who were unable to attend in person, support for the Warriors in Nature Project has surpassed $3,000, with additional donations expected.

The latest award brings the Fishers Century Club’s total giving to nearly $70,000 over 19 meetings. The organization meets quarterly, featuring presentations from up to three nonprofits before members vote to select one to receive direct funding that same evening.

The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. New members are invited to attend.

For more information on the Century Club, go to www.fisherscenturyclub.com

Hamilton County Community Foundation Receives $6 Million Lilly Endowment Grant

The Hamilton County Community Foundation (HCCF) has secured a $6 million Community Support Grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. as part of the ninth phase of the Giving Indiana Funds for Tomorrow (GIFT IX) initiative.

HCCF is among 92 community foundations statewide receiving grants intended to strengthen local philanthropic efforts and improve quality of life in the communities they serve. The Community Support Grant provides flexible funding that foundations may use over a three-year period to address urgent or emerging needs identified within their counties.

HCCF President Danielle Stiles-Polk said the funding will allow the organization to respond more quickly to concerns raised by residents and nonprofit leaders. She said the grant will help support the work of nonprofits as they manage changing budgets and increasing community needs.

The foundation plans to spend the first quarter of 2026 creating a regranting strategy to guide how the dollars will be distributed. That strategy will be based on HCCF’s recent community needs assessment and strategic plan, with input from local stakeholders throughout the process.

Lilly Endowment launched the GIFT initiative in 1990 to help Indiana communities build philanthropic capacity and collaborate on local challenges. Through GIFT IX, the Endowment has made up to $271.5 million available to community foundations across the state.

HSE High School ENL Students Lead Language-Learning Lesson at New Britton Elementary

HSE High School ENL students and New Britton Elementary learners with a cross-grade level project focused on communication and connection.

Hamilton Southeastern High School students enrolled in the English as a New Language (ENL) program recently brought their classroom learning into an elementary setting, leading an interactive language lesson for younger students at New Britton Elementary.

The visit was part of the culminating assessment for the Speech and Ethnic Literature course, a yearlong class co-taught by ENL Department Chair Becky Schroeder and English teacher Kelsey Habig. Throughout the fall semester, juniors in the course have worked to build confidence in their speaking skills. For the final project, they partnered with New Britton ENL teacher Kelly Darragh to design and deliver a lesson on “voice” to kindergarten through third-grade students, many of whom are also English learners.

The high school class includes students representing nine languages—Arabic, Japanese, Spanish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Vietnamese, Shona, Karen, and Indonesian. The elementary collaboration offered them opportunities to practice public speaking, leadership, and cross-age mentoring while modeling effective language-learning strategies for younger peers.

The HSE School Board highlighted this program at this week’s meeting.

This is the second year for the co-taught course at HSE High School, but the first time it has incorporated an elementary-level partnership.

View a video on this program at this link.

Other Board Action

In other business Wednesday night:

  • Interim Principal Named: The board appointed Brent Farrell as interim principal of Riverside Intermediate School. His contract will run through June 18, 2026.

  • Summer School and Course Approvals: Board members gave final approval to new course offerings and plans for the 2026 summer school program. Due to the district losing money on physical education courses offered during summer school in 2025, the fee for that class will rise from $180 to $220 for 2026.   For more on the new course offerings, check out this link.   For more details on summer school, use this link.