7 SABER SKILLS Indy Lightsaber Academy Blends Martial Arts & Star Wars Inspiration
13 HEART OF SERVICE
Sycamore Services Helps Cory Fuller Thrive At Panera Bread
18 APRIL CROSSWORD 19 WELCOME TO THE HIDEOUT Local Space Offers Connection, Play & Support For Families 24 APRIL EVENTS 27 VOICES OF TOMORROW
Avon High School Students Launch TEDx Youth Event At Hendricks Live!
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SABER SKILLS
INDY LIGHTSABER ACADEMY BLENDS MARTIAL ARTS & STAR WARS INSPIRATION
Writer / Melissa Gibson
More than a decade ago, Michael Tucker was working as a stage combat instructor and planning choreography for plays throughout the Midwest.
He’d always been interested in Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA), a practice dating back to the Late Middle Ages, Renaissance and early modern period that uses classic fighting methods ranging from gladiator combat to fencing.
So when his future wife found a job listing for a sword fighter or someone with combat experience, Tucker quickly reached out.
“I met with Doug Trefun and he brought a lightsaber with him. He said he’d promised the library in Fishers that
he would present a family-friendly performance on May 4 and was up a creek with no experience in martial arts,” Tucker says.
Of course, Tucker was up for the challenge and a kid-friendly class was created.
The presentation they put together had visitors fascinated and parents asking for more information. It was so successful that Tucker and Trefun came up with the idea of creating the Indy Lightsaber Academy.
“It was actually Doug’s idea and I thought it was crazy but went with it anyway. I spent the next several months developing different systems and lightsaber forms —
the same ones we use today — and a few months later we opened our first school in a small space in Irvington,” Tucker says.
They shed the padded sabers used with the children in exchange for the real version.
Tucker designed his own lightsaber with polycarbonate tubing and reflective foil with a mirror at the top, attached to a multicolored flashlight. Participants treat it just like a sword or any other weapon used in martial arts.
Believe it or not, there are a set number of rules to lightsaber fighting, established even before Tucker came on board.
There are two types of fighting: one that
requires a helmet and one that does not. The objective is to strike your opponent in the torso — or head if playing with helmets — for points within the allotted time frame. The person with the most points wins.
At Indy Lightsaber Academy, there are seven levels built similarly to the martial arts belt structure. Everyone starts at Level 1 and works their way through each level.
During a class, participants do a warmup and then split off with instructors as they work on Levels 1, 2 or 3. Higher-level students work with Tucker or help teach other students.
They’ve also added a sparring class to continue those skills at a competitive level.
As the classes grew and interest deepened, the Indy Lightsaber Academy moved from
venue to venue and town to town, most recently hosting classes at the Richard A. Carlucci Recreation and Aquatic Center in Plainfield.
Instead of opening a brick-and-mortar location, it’s always been important to him to keep costs low and affordable. So far, he’s worked with parks departments and gymnasiums available to rent for classes.
The lightsaber fighting sport has boomed. After all, who doesn’t want to channel Luke Skywalker and learn the moves so many have watched on the big screen for decades?
Over the years, as the Star Wars films were released and popularity grew, others began asking to partner with Tucker — Trefun had moved on to other endeavors — or have help getting their own group started both in the U.S. and internationally.
Competitions and opportunities grew along with the interest.
“As new groups were formed, we were traveling to 10 regional and national tournaments a year and saw hundreds of students all over the Indy area. We even traveled to Paris once per year for a competition and began hosting our own international competition at the Irsay Family YMCA,” Tucker says.
He says the popularity of the sport has risen and fallen — and risen again — in the U.S., mainly with changes and iterations in the martial arts world.
For example, some began using body armor or protection, while Tucker and most international organizations use little to limited body protection.
“Internationally, they focus on no armor
so their popularity continues to grow. I think at one point, myself and one other organization in the U.S. were the only two doing no armor. It’s just a cultural difference and personally, I align with the international rules,” Tucker says.
For some, it’s a dream turned reality. For others, it’s a great way to meet friends and get a fun workout in. Regardless of the reason, Tucker says there are many positives to getting involved.
Lightsaber fighting is open to anyone 15 years and older, but Tucker says the demographic typically ranges between mid-20s and mid-50s.
“We’ve always targeted nontraditional gym members. Martial arts are a very empowering feeling and I think it helps people feel in control of their body and themselves. There’s a fitness and wellness component to the class because I care about their longevity and I want everyone to have fun,” Tucker says.
There’s a social aspect too.
“We have dinner together. We’ve traveled the world together. I’ve seen couples who met through the academy who are now married. Over the years, we’ve created lifelong friendships,” Tucker says.
Looking forward, the Indy Lightsaber Academy is undergoing some transitions at the moment. They’re in the market for a new location in Indianapolis and surrounding areas.
They are also in the process of rebuilding the website and soon Tucker will pass the baton to current instructors, all previous students at Indy Lightsaber Academy.
“It’s really cool to see the second generation of the academy become upand-coming leaders,” Tucker says. “I’ve trained them and they’re ready to take on the next generation.”
more information, visit Indy Lightsaber Academy on Facebook or email indylightsaberacademy@gmail.com.
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HEART OF SERVICE
SYCAMORE SERVICES HELPS CORY FULLER
THRIVE AT PANERA BREAD
Writer / Melissa Gibson
Cory Fuller has been working at Panera Bread in Avon for 18 years now, a job he was able to get with the help of Sycamore Services, whose mission in Hendricks County is to make a difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities.
They offer services for children through adults, ranging from ABA therapy to residential assistance to transportation.
Another way they serve their members is to partner with local businesses and connect them to meaningful jobs in the community through the employment services program.
For Fuller, he began working at Panera Bread in high school and has never stopped.
“I wash dishes, wipe down tables, take out the trash and wipe down the windows,” Fuller says. “My favorite part is wiping down the tables because you get to interact with people. I love to help people.”
His least favorite part of the job is taking out the trash, and who could blame him, but Fuller does it with a smile on his face and a positive attitude.
It’s a welcome sight for Bryce Hayden, general manager at Panera Bread.
“I started at this location in October of 2024 and Cory, of course, was here on the first day. He’s been here a long time and was really one of the first people I got
to know,” Hayden says. “He’s been great to have on staff because we didn’t have anyone that was doing what he does at my old store. Having someone that is so naturally good at coming out and talking with people is nice. A lot of the younger employees don’t like talking to people, but Cory is great at that and it’s awesome.”
Not only is it important for people like Cory to have a chance to learn responsibility and teamwork, but they also have an opportunity to showcase their skills in unique ways.
It’s a win-win for members of Sycamore Services as well as their company partners.
Hayden says plenty of businesses are focused on the bottom line. How many people do we need on staff for the least amount of money spent?
However, what Cory brings to the table goes above and beyond the bottom line.
“I think everybody deserves their place in society. Cory is just really good about doing these tasks and is a real delight to customers. It’s a bridge between stopping in and getting food and communication and creating a nice, warm environment, and Cory is amazing at doing that. When you have amazing people, it draws customers to your business and they’ll gladly spend their money with you,” Hayden says.
It’s important to Fuller to be a helpful member of the team and he’s glad to have
the support of Hayden and others on staff.
“Teamwork makes the dream work and the dream doesn’t work unless the team works together,” Fuller says. “My coworkers are nice and Lee [Wilhite], my job coach, comes in once a week. We get along really well. If I have questions, he can help me.”
A job coach with Sycamore Services visits the employee and helps managers and employees navigate the business environment. Perhaps additional training is needed or simply helping the employees learn how to communicate their needs to staff and management. A support system is in place to make the partnership and the opportunity seamless.
“They do really good work at Sycamore. It’s a great communication bridge to have Lee help Cory with anything he needs and vice versa,” Hayden says.
LENNAR
When he’s not working and chatting it up with customers, Fuller enjoys going out into the community — another service offered by Sycamore Services — to go to the movies, the gym and walk at the mall. He plays video games and hangs out with his brother Zack.
He also has his favorite dish at Panera.
“I like to order the Ginger Chicken Grain Bowl, especially after my workouts,” Fuller says.
When asked what he would do if he didn’t work at Panera, Fuller says he doesn’t know. Panera has been home for 18 years and he plans to never leave.
“It’s really important for businesses to have staff that are nice and friendly and Cory does a great job,” Hayden says. “This is the perfect job for him and we’re happy to have him on the team.”
35. Is in the past?
36. Conned 38. Knuckleheads 39. Dentist’s request 41. Part of a schedule 42. Sight-related 45. Muslim legal adviser 47. Dear companion? 48. Vapor 49. Mariner’s direction 52. Nurse’s offering
Club choice 54. Bossy bellow 55. Archer of myth
56. Hardly Mr. Cool
Fix the rent?
DOWN
1. Three Gorges project 2. Good looker?
3. Fund-raising events
4. Bullet on an agenda 5. Bona ___ (credentials) 6. Plays footsie, perhaps 7. “Are we there ___?” 8. Focus of debate
9. All alternative 10. Congeal 11. Wields an ax 19. After the deadline 20. Wood nymph 21. Put aboard 22. “Jaws” craft 24. Bit for a stable diet?
LOCAL SPACE OFFERS CONNECTION, PLAY & SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES
Writer / Ashley Watters Photographer / American Marketing & Publishing
Finding things to keep little ones occupied can be a challenge. Caregivers are always on the lookout for ways to connect with little ones in meaningful ways, a tall order at times. For families in the Brownsburg area, the solution to that conundrum comes by way of The Hideout.
Located at 554 Pit Road, Door 2, The Hideout
was previously The Well Community Church and Center, a foundational space catered to families. Unfortunately, the church made the difficult decision to separate from the center. But fortunately for families, the Trietschs weren’t willing to see this important space disappear from the community. Together, along with their two daughters, the Trietschs converted the space to offer open play
and community space to the residents of Brownsburg.
Specifically designed with families in mind, The Hideout is a play space with tons of options to keep little minds and bodies active. True to its motto, “Active minds. Playful hearts. Endless exploration,” The Hideout offers a variety of enrichment options for young kids.
“As
parents ourselves, we understand the ups and downs of raising kids. There are beautiful moments, and there are really hard ones. We wanted to create a space that feels safe, welcoming and supportive — where kids can play freely and caregivers can connect with others who understand the season they’re in.”
- Ashley Trietsch
Currently, families can take advantage of open play times, along with enrichment classes that include Shine Out Kids Yoga classes, Little Notes with Nana (a mom-and-me music class) and Tiny Tumblers and Ninjas class.
“We felt called to take what they started and grow it into something even more expansive for families. From the beginning, we knew we didn’t want to be just an indoor play space. We love being a flexible space that can adapt to what families actually need. In many ways, October 2025 wasn’t just an opening date. It was the beginning of a new chapter for a space that already meant something to this community,” says Ashley Trietsch.
In addition to these classes, The Hideout is a great spot for private rentals, birthday parties, family gatherings, homeschool meetups and small celebrations. Ashley truly wants to be a destination and supportive place for families and caregivers. Free open play hours are offered Monday-Wednesday every week from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“As parents ourselves, we understand the ups and downs of raising kids. There are beautiful moments, and there are really hard ones. We wanted to create a space that feels safe, welcoming and supportive — where kids can play freely and caregivers can connect with others who understand the season they’re in,” she says.
And The Hideout isn’t just a business venture — it’s a family one too.
The Trietschs’ 6-year-old daughter Everleigh is the sole creative mind behind The Hideout Sensory Shop, a dedicated space where kids can create their own sensory play dough with little Everleigh leading the charge. The
Trietschs have embraced this opportunity to teach Everleigh and 10-year-old daughter Adalynn about the advantages of creativity, entrepreneurship and community.
The Hideout is also a versatile space that allows families and professionals to connect in a safe, comfortable area. Private hangouts are available for groups up to 25 people in a space designed to be quiet and free from distraction. The private space comes furnished with tables, chairs, reliable Wi-Fi access, along with an interactive flat panel and large whiteboard to encourage collaboration.
“What makes The Hideout special is that it was built for people in community. From the beginning, we never wanted this to be just about a play structure or a business model. It’s about relationships. It’s about knowing names, seeing families week after week and creating a place where people feel known. Show up as yourself and lean on others in our community who can meet you exactly where you are, offering friendship, support, a listening ear or advice from moms who have been exactly where you are,” Ashley says.
If you’re looking for a place to connect, grow, learn or create new friendships, come check out The Hideout.
To learn more about The Hideout and its options, visit hendrickshideout.com/play.
3-6
NCAA MEN’S FINAL FOUR FAN FEST
Indianapolis Convention Center, 100 S Capitol Ave.
4, 6
2026 NCAA MEN’S FINAL FOUR
Lucas Oil Stadium, 500 South Capitol Avenue.
TBD
2026 NCAA Men’s Final Four April 4 & 6, 2026
2026 NCAA Men’s Final Four Tip-Off!
2026 NCAA Men’s
Final Four – April 4 & 6 We Got Next!
7-12, 18-19, 24-26, 29-30
COME FROM AWAY
Indiana Repertory Theatre, 140 W.
Washington Street.
Times Vary
REGIONAL PREMIERE a remarkable true story of resilience co-presented by Glick Philanthropies and Allen Whitehill Clowes Charitable Foundation.
7
INDIANAPOLIS INDIANS VS. LOUISVILLE BATS
Victory Field, 501 West Maryland Street.
8
SOUL ASYLUM
Hendricks Live, 206 W Main St. 7:30 p.m.
SOUL ASYLUM (ACOUSTIC)
Hendricks Live!, 200 W Main St. 7:30 - 11 p.m.
10
CARRIE NEWCOMER
Hendricks Live, 206 W Main St. 8 p.m.
INDIANA PACERS VS. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
Bankers Life
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WALK MS INDIANAPOLIS
White River State Park, 801 W Washington St. 6:15 p.m.
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17-19
AMERICAN SOUND: DANCE KALEIDOSCOPE + INDIANAPOLIS CHAMBER ORCHESTRA
Schrott Center for the Arts, 610 W. 46th St..
7 - 9 p.m. (April 17 & 18), 2 - 4 p.m. (April 19)
A Christel DeHaan Legacy Concert
The Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra and Dance Kaleidoscope return to the Schrott Center for the Arts for a thrilling collaboration that brings together bold music.
27 AN EVENING WITH DAVID SEDARIS Clowes Memorial Hall of Butler University, 4602 Sunset Avenue. 7:30 p.m.
VOICES OF TOMORROW
AVON HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS LAUNCH TEDX YOUTH EVENT AT HENDRICKS LIVE!
Writer / Ashley Watters
TED Talks are wonderful sources of information. Bite-sized snippets of fascinating facts and research, TED Talks have become popular for their approachable nature and engaging topics. Avon High School junior Jay Desai has always been fascinated by the platform and its possibilities. A current member of the debate team, Desai wanted to explore options for public speaking outside of a competitive forum. That journey led him to TEDx.
The TEDx Youth program, meant to showcase the voices of students and youth in the community alongside other leaders, follows the same mission and format of TED Talks and is intended to spark new
discussion. It seemed to align with Desai’s goals and interests so he began researching the program with hopes of implementing it in the 2025-26 school year.
“I wanted a non-competitive platform where other people could join in. My real hope is that it would be more of a community and engagement opportunity, but also more open and constructive, and with more variability than the rules of speech and debate allow,” Desai says.
An ambitious undertaking, the process
of approval required a teacher sponsor, which Desai found in his speech coach, Linda Langford. Together, along with friend and fellow club member Maxwell Hunter, they began the process of approval in May 2025. The club now has
20 members and has been planning for a panel event that will take place April 15, 2026.
The TEDx event will be hosted at the new Hendricks Live! center, located at 200 E. Main St. in Plainfield. The panel of speakers will consist of five adult
community members and four students.
The list includes names such as Dr. Michelle Fenoughty, president and CEO of Hendricks Regional Health; Lori Ferzandi, associate director and HR business partner at Eli Lilly & Co.; Dean Westman, performing arts department
chair and director of orchestras at Avon High School; Dr. Randy Brutkiewicz, professor of microbiology and immunology at Indiana University School of Medicine; and Jennifer Floyd, Olympian rower at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and owner of Plainfield Commons Fit Body Boot Camp.
Organizing an event of this size has been no small feat. The group has certainly had their work cut out for them. Outside of the licensing process, Desai and Hunter have dedicated countless hours to the business and marketing sides of putting on such an event, along with prep work for speaking and gathering sponsorships.
“I work more on the student side of things to help students build up to their speeches. I love seeing what each person brings to their topic. It’s been really cool to see how people’s interests have transformed since October and how they’re better able to communicate what they’re passionate about,” Hunter says.
Of course, the two students needed a supportive adult to help guide them through the obstacles and potential pitfalls of such a large project. Desai’s steadfast debate coach couldn’t turn down the opportunity.
“They’re very independent so I haven’t needed to help much. They’ve done so much this past year. As the debate coach, I’m always encouraging students to use their voice and spread awareness in the community. When Jay came to me about TEDx, I couldn’t say no,” Langford says.
The students are in the final stages of preparing for their speeches and the event itself. A significant amount of fundraising was required to secure Hendricks Live!, the signage and the tremendous amount of marketing that has been needed to generate interest in their event.
“I’ve learned so much about the business
side of putting together an event of this scale. We needed money for a sign, the venue and so much more to make this an actual, polished event. We’re just so grateful to all of the businesses and organizations who have helped us along the way,” Desai says.
They’d like to thank the sponsors who have generously been a part of making this event become a reality. Special thanks to Hendricks County Community Fund, Hendricks Live!, Avon Greek’s Pizzeria, Avon La Hacienda, S&N Homecare, Avon Cash for Gold, Kim Woodward, Li Ruivo and Donna Curtis.
The event is free to attend, but you must have a ticket for entrance. You can obtain a ticket at purchase.hendrickslive.org/ EventAvailability?EventId=8401.
DARREN BOSTON DARREN@TOWNEPOST.COM (317) 716-8812
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