North Indy Magazine April 2026

PUBLISHERS

MICHAEL & LINDSAY DURR michael@townepost.com (630) 853-1142

KEY CONTRIBUTORS

RENÉE LARR BRADEN OCHS MARK ROBINSON ASHLEY WATTERS

WOVEN TOGETHER Oma Knits Textile Co. Connects Makers Through Yarn & Craft

FINDS The Source Showcases Unique Art & Gifts From Midwest Makers

LET’S GET FIRED UP! Indy Ignite Matches Are the Place to Be

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. FOUNDER, CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (317) 496-3599 PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER ERIN TURK

CREATIVE DIRECTORS VAL AUSTIN TONI EADS

EDITOR JOSH BROWN

DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER ERIC NEER

North Mass Boulder Expands Space For Fitness & Connection

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011 FOR FRANCHISE INFORMATION, VISIT FRANCHISING.TOWNEPOST.COM

CONTACT THE PUBLISHER Have a story idea or suggestion for the magazine?

Fashion of Jerry Lee Atwood

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SCRAP SOCIAL:

MONTHLY CRAFT NIGHT!

The Stutz, 1060 N Capitol Ave. 6-8 p.m.

Join Connection Club and Writings From Her Corner for the Scrap Social Series: a night to slow down, tap into your self-expression, and connect with others.

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CINEMANIA

The Crane Bay Event Center, 551 W Merrill St. 7-11 p.m.

Giddy up for Heartland Film’s signature fundraiser, Cinemania!

Cinemania presented by F.A. Wilhelm Construction Co. returns for a third year on April 17 at The Crane Bay Event Center.

17-19

POKEPALOOZA

Indiana State Fairgrounds, 1202 East 38th Street

Featuring Coop’s Collection and Beard Dad Cardz Over 500 dealer tables of all Pokemon trading cards, plushies, and merch!

18

DEATH

TO TAXES

Taxman Brewing Co. Bargersville, IN 46106, 13 South Baldwin Street.

12-4 p.m.

“...in this world, nothing can be said to be certain, except Death & Taxes.”

Celebrate the spirit of Indiana’s brewing scene at the Death and Taxes Day Beer Release & Tasting Festival.

22 BARNS COURTNEY UNPLUGGED SOLO SESSIONS

HI-FI Indy & HI-FI Annex, 1043 Virginia Ave UNIT 4. 8 p.m.

INDIANAPOLIS INDIANS VS. ST. PAUL SAINTS Victory Field, 501 West Maryland Street.

24 TECHPOINT: MIRA AWARDS

The Center for the Performing Arts, One Center Green. 8 p.m.

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TRIVIA NIGHT IN TOP OUT CAFE!

North Mass Boulder, 1411 Roosevelt Ave.

7:45-9:15 p.m.

Come play a fun round of Trivia with a group of up to 5 friends in the Top Out Cafe!

WOVEN TOGETHER

OMA KNITS TEXTILE CO. CONNECTS MAKERS THROUGH YARN & CRAFT

Writer / Renée Larr

/ Michael Durr

In the heart of Broad Ripple, where independent spirit and artistic energy have long defined the neighborhood, Oma Knits Textile Co. has quietly become a haven for makers. More than a yarn shop, it is a space where creativity is nurtured, confidence is built and community is woven together one stitch at a time.

Oma Knits Textile Co. was born from an unexpected change. Becky Jones, the owner and founder, began her journey

working at a small yarn store, dyeing yarn and pouring creativity into every skein. When the shop’s owner made the difficult decision to close for personal reasons, she suddenly found herself with shelves of hand-dyed yarn and nowhere to sell it. What could have been an ending became a beginning instead.

A family friend who runs a clothing alterations business offered Jones the opportunity to lease his storage area and set up a shop of her own. That leap of

faith on both sides became the foundation of Oma Knits Textile Co. Rather than stepping away from fiber arts, she fully stepped into her own vision.

Today, the shop focuses primarily on natural fibers, including wool, alpaca, silk, mohair and even yak. Yarns range from delicate lace weights to sturdy worsted, with special emphasis on versatile favorites like sock yarn and DK. Many selections are hand-dyed in small batches, either in-house or by local

and independent artists. The result is a carefully curated collection of colorways and textures that feel as beautiful in the hand as they look on the shelf.

Intentionality drives every decision. Each yarn is selected not just for appearance, but for how it inspires the creative process. The shop’s philosophy is simple: materials should elevate the experience of making.

Beyond yarn, Oma Knits Textile Co. carries an array of tools and thoughtful touches designed to support both project and person. Knitting needles, crochet hooks, stitch markers, needle felting supplies and project bags line the walls. But shoppers will also find lotion bars, scented candles and even yarn tarot cards

— reminders that making is as much about slowing down and savoring the process as it is about finishing a project.

Services at the shop are designed to remove barriers and make creativity feel approachable. A yarn winding service allows customers to cast on immediately without the frustration of untangling skeins. Sock tube cranking lets knitters see how a yarn looks worked up while significantly reducing the time needed to create a matching pair of socks. And for those moments when patterns feel overwhelming, or a mistake threatens to derail a project, troubleshooting help is always available.

“At the end of the day, we just want to remove crafting barriers,” Jones says. “We want the creative process to feel inviting.”

Education is another cornerstone of the shop. Oma Knits Textile Co. offers

beginning knitting and crochet classes, as well as specialized workshops in Tunisian crochet, needle felting and spinning yarn. Students range from brand-new makers to seasoned crafters eager to expand their skills.

Jones says what she enjoys most about teaching is what she calls the “lightbulb moment.” There is a visible shift, she says, when hesitation transforms into confidence. Watching someone realize they can create something with their own hands is one of the most rewarding aspects of her work.

Community extends beyond formal classes. Open Craft Nights and pop-up workshops invite people to gather, slow down and create together. In a room full

of makers, conversations flow naturally. Jokes are shared, problems are solved collectively and friendships begin to form. Over time, Oma Knits Textile Co. has become not just a shop, but a place where people feel connected.

The decision to open in Broad Ripple was intentional. The neighborhood had been without a yarn shop for several years, leaving a noticeable gap in the creative landscape. After spending time in the area, Jones felt drawn to its artsy vibe, friendly faces and independent spirit. She says it felt like home.

Oma Knits Textile Co. also embraces its role within a larger creative ecosystem. The shop participates in yarn crawls and fiber events, including the multi-state Heartland Yarn Adventure. It regularly features work from local makers such as Oink Pigments, Close Knit Fibers, Color Me Happy Fiber Arts Studio, Gravesco Pottery and art yarns by Marcia Stone, who teaches at the

Together,

Indianapolis Art Center. By showcasing local talent, the shop strengthens the bonds between artists and ensures that creativity continues to circulate within the community.

Looking ahead, Oma Knits Textile Co. plans to support the Heartland Film Festival in 2026 by donating hand-dyed yarn to its fundraiser auction, a small but meaningful way to connect fiber art with the broader creative scene.

What ultimately sets Oma Knits Textile Co. apart is not just its beautiful yarns or curated tools. It is the atmosphere of inclusion. The belief is that creativity belongs to everyone. And in a world that often feels rushed and transactional, it is a reminder that sometimes the most powerful thing you can make is a connection.

For more information, visit omaknitstextileco.com.

we find a way.

Spring rains remind us how precious Indiana’s wetlands are. These natural sponges absorb floodwaters, cleanse our rivers and nourish wildlife waking up for the season.

Discover how The Nature Conservancy is protecting and restoring these magical places across the state.

Explore our stories of hope at nature.org/indiana

HIDDEN FINDS

THE SOURCE SHOWCASES UNIQUE ART & GIFTS FROM MIDWEST MAKERS

If you’re one of those people who loves finding the truly rare, bespoke gifts that you don’t commonly find on the shelves of major retailers, then you may want to head over and check out The Source. A remarkable little shop situated in the heart of Broad Ripple, The Source is always adding new items from local makers, along with some from afar, and there is always something new and unique to be found.

Sophia Thomas, owner of The Source, has always had an eye for local artistry. With a master’s in history of design and curatorial studies, Thomas knew that art would be a driving force in her career. She just wasn’t sure exactly how that would manifest. After a brief career in

“At the beginning, The Source seemed very random, but once people knew we were accepting artists, it just exploded and now we have at least 100 artists on our roster. I started the store without a real plan and I didn’t really know where it would go, but I have always loved finding local art. I like to shop knowing my money is going to the community, not just a corporation,” Thomas says.

The Source recently moved locations in February 2026, opening its doors at 807 Broad Ripple Ave. A gift shop featuring items from local makers with a focus on Midwest artists, Thomas describes her spot as 90% Midwestern offerings, with a hearty focus on Indiana. Although

“The Source is a great place to find a gift, whether that’s for yourself or someone else. We carry something for everyone and hope our gifts can be an alternative to mainstream retailers that also help support local crafters,” Thomas says.

Some exceptional items currently for purchase include Above and Below terrariums adorned with crystals and butterflies that also function as a nightlight. Other options for purchase are Oak and Hive wellness items from Salem, Indiana, as well as custom-made face masks out of Chicago and artist-made T-shirts in a wide variety of sizes.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to make the trek into The Source, Thomas encourages attendance at any Third Thursday event, during which visitors can take part in artist pop-ups. The most recent pop-up featured a local artist specializing in floral displays and photography and showcased a live flower installation on the shop’s signage. In September, she will be showcasing local bakers, with a farmers market take on art and items for purchase. In addition to great art, visitors can also take advantage of the multiple specials and offerings provided by other stores along Broad Ripple Avenue, which she proposes can be a fullfledged date night while supporting local businesses.

Additionally, Thomas is always looking for new artists to showcase. She encourages anyone with a unique offering to stop in and start a conversation to ensure their art matches the vibe of her store.

“I say yes to every artist who wants to be in the store. I truly believe there’s an audience for every type of art and I want to add pieces that will contribute to the whimsical feel of the store,” Thomas says.

Thomas wants to stress that visitors are encouraged to drop in even if they don’t leave with a bag in hand. She wants anyone with a healthy sense of curiosity to stop in, share a chat and appreciate the art — no purchase necessary.

To learn more about The Source, visit thesourceindy.com or check them out on Instagram.

Be Kind and Respect the Ride with IndyGo’s NEW updated Rider Code of Conduct! Review rider expectations for good behavior on every bus ride. Grab your guide at the Julia M. Carson Transit Center (201 E. Washington St.) or read it online here:

Summer starts at the ruins.

When the sun sets over Holliday Park, something electric happens. The lawn fills with friends and families. The stage lights glow against the historic ruins. And as the first notes hit the air, thousands of music fans realize summer in Indianapolis has officially arrived.

What began as a bold vision to bring world-class live music to one of the city’s most beautiful parks has become one of Indianapolis’ most anticipated summer traditions. Each year, fans gather under open skies to see incredible artists in a setting unlike any other venue in the Midwest. It’s intimate. It’s vibrant. And it’s unmistakably Indianapolis.

“Indianapolis has always had incredible music fans,” Forty5 co-owner Eric Tobias explains. “We just wanted to create a place where artists and audiences could experience something unique together.”

From breakout indie acts to legendary performers, the Rock the Ruins lineup continues to grow bigger each season, drawing music lovers from across the region. But the magic goes beyond the music. It’s the sunset behind the ruins. The buzz of the crowd as the lights go down. The feeling that you’re part of something special. Rock the Ruins has become more than a concert series—it’s a place where the community gathers, where friends reconnect, and where new memories are made every single week of summer.

LET’S GET FIRED UP!

INDY IGNITE MATCHES ARE THE PLACE TO BE

Writer / Mark Robinson

It’s the hottest team in town with the hottest ticket in town. If you haven’t checked out the Indy Ignite yet at Fishers Event Center, get there fast! The 2026 season for Indiana’s only women’s professional volleyball team ends the first weekend in May.

The Ignite are among eight teams competing this season in Major League Volleyball, the premier pro league in the United States—and three more expansion teams in Minnesota, Northern California, and Washington, D.C. are set to join MLV for the 2027 season. Last year in the franchise’s inaugural season, the Ignite made it all the way to the championship finals. This year, they’re blazing their way toward another playoff berth, leading the league at the season’s midpoint. In addition to “lighting it up” on the court,

the team has already built a strong and loyal fan base that makes Fishers Event Center the place to be on game night. Led by the Ignite’s diva mascot, Pepper, and backed by multiple fan-friendly activities that take place during and around each match, the arena brims with excitement for every Indy home date. Longtime volleyball followers and newcomers alike enjoy watching the spectacular athleticism of the players on the court while savoring the fun atmosphere and goings-on surrounding the competition—and they can’t wait to come back for more.

“Having our fans behind us every game and just how loud and involved they are in every game,” says Ignite setter Ainise Havili. “It’s definitely a difference maker for us.”

Ignite middle blocker Blake Mohler played collegiately at Purdue University, so she was well acquainted with the fervor of the state’s volleyball fans when she returned to join the Ignite.

“From the beginning, I’ve said Indiana is a volleyball state,” Mohler says. “Going to Purdue and being around those fans for five years, I knew that the crowd here was going to be insane. And they get us through tough matches; they get us through the good matches. They support us 24-7, and we’re so thankful for them.”

Primary missions of the franchise are to empower women and serve the community. One way the Ignite does just that is by connecting with the enthusiastic Indiana volleyball community. From inviting area clubs to attend matches, to hosting camps for players of all ages and skill levels, to supporting high school volleyball by promoting a match of the week in the fall season, the Ignite are shining a light and paving the way for the next generation of women’s sports and inspiring

girls to pursue their passion – whether in volleyball or elsewhere – with relentless ambition.

There’s still time to check out the Ignite as they make their run toward the MLV playoffs. Home matches remain on April 12 (vs. Atlanta at 3 p.m. ET), April 19 (vs. Dallas, 6 p.m.), May 1 (vs. Columbus, 7 p.m.) and May 3 (vs. San Diego, 3 p.m.). For more information about the team and to purchase tickets, visit IndyIgniteVB.com.

REACHING HEIGHTS

NORTH MASS BOULDER EXPANDS SPACE FOR FITNESS & CONNECTION

After five years in the Indianapolis community, North Mass Boulder has completed its much-anticipated facility expansion. On top of its existing bouldering area, weight training section, group fitness and yoga studios and coworking café, it is adding 6,000 square feet for the community to enjoy.

According to North Mass Boulder Co-Founder and CEO Elliott Steward, the expansion includes an outdoor courtyard for events and socializing, a larger group fitness studio to fit up to 40 people comfortably, a new Tension Board 2 climbing board and a myriad of new strength training and cardio machines. Steward hopes this expansion will allow more members and guests to have a better experience and feel more included as they find space for their workout.

“We build the bones, but people really put the soul into the body of what this place is,” Steward says. “So getting them to actually get their hands on it, move equipment around, get their feedback on how they liked the space, how they would change it themselves, and dialing it in for how the community wants to use it. I think that’s a really exciting part of it.”

North Mass Boulder was started by three lifelong buddies — Elliott Steward, Zach Donovan and Colt Reichart — to ultimately bring people together through movement in Indianapolis. Steward came up with the idea in a Patagonia job interview after being asked what the best part of his day is. He immediately thought of the climbing gym he went to every day where he built all kinds of relationships with people around his

“That’s what really energizes me — some people I don’t even know their names,” Steward says. “I just know their faces and we know each other because we see each other, and we connect around the same thing. We connect through this form of movement.”

Steward lived in Seattle, Wash., at the time but grew up in Indianapolis

and asked why his community there didn’t have a place like his Seattle gym. So in 2016, he decided he would open a gym in Indianapolis and give the community what he wished he had growing up. He partnered with Donovan and Reichart to ultimately build North Mass Boulder.

More than fitness, North Mass Boulder has many other subcommunities as part of its fabric. It often hosts events like karaoke, knitting and bingo nights. Even more specific interests make an appearance, such as events for making lures for fly fishing or rolling stamps. Steward strongly encourages people to check out its Instagram page to see how they can connect in their own way and find their people. If people have a new way they want to connect or a different type of club or event they want to see, North Mass wants to hear about it.

“If we’re lucky, and we get to live a long life, hopefully we have four or five big passions in our lifetime that we get to flex into and lean into and get to really see a unique and new side of who we are through those passions and learn something about ourselves and hopefully make the people around us better in the process,” Steward says.

On April 11, North Mass is putting on one of its biggest events, “Grip Fest,” a day where people can come and demo close to 100 different types of climbing shoes from different vendors. It is also hosting Kilter Board and Tension Board 2 climbing wall competitions with prizes.

Even if people only come to climb, they can purchase $10 day passes available that day.

North Mass is also now offering its new “7-Day Pass.” For $20, new members get full access to the facility plus access to all classes offered for that week. The pass is for those who’ve never used the space before and for those who haven’t been a member in a while.

Steward encourages the Indianapolis community to try out the “7-Day Pass” or attend “Grip Fest” if they want to check out the newly expanded space, are interested in climbing or are looking to join a new community.

“A really heartfelt ask — if you like our place, tell your friends and your family to come check us out with you, and then also if you’ve never been in, now’s the time!” Steward says. “We’re a safe place for you to connect with moving your body. We love seeing new faces come in, so come check us out.”

North Mass Boulder is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. at 1411 Roosevelt Ave. in Indianapolis. For more information, visit northmassboulder.com. To stay updated on everything going on there, follow its Instagram page @northmassboulder.