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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
We meet to improve the world one child & one community at a time. Have lunch with other professionals - 2nd & 4th Tuesdays at 11:30 at The Fraternal Order of Eagles (5556 E US 40). Contact us at kiwanis@plainfieldkiwanis.org
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 mid20s 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 up-and-coming leaders,” Tucker says. “I’ve trained them and they’re ready to take on the next generation.”
For more information, visit Indy Lightsaber Academy on Facebook or email indylightsaberacademy@gmail.com.
CONDITIONS
Sprains
Strains
Fractures
Suspected
TRANSITIONING TO SENIOR LIVING?
LET’S TALK ABOUT IT.
Our life paths are lined with many milestones — from saying our first words to being called “Grandma” and “Grandpa.” While some life changes are exciting, they can also be hard. Moving into senior living can be particularly daunting to older loved ones, as it can bring up a myriad of emotions.
The smoothness of this transition often lies in the initial approach to it. Here are some tips on how to broach the sensitive subject of senior living.
Start the conversation early: Of course, it’s helpful to stay mindful of age-related changes, such as home isolation, memory issues, injuries, etc. Ideally, though, moving into a senior living community should be an act of prevention rather than an emergency response. So, talk to your loved ones sooner rather than later — preferably in person for a more comforting discussion than digital communication can provide.
Bring up the topic organically: Gently plant seeds so the idea of senior living grows positively in their mind. If they’re cooking dinner, for example, mention the dining room and socialization they could enjoy at the nearby senior living community. Talking over time will make the conversation feel less like an intervention and more like a natural, supportive dialogue.
Lead with empathy: If we’re not careful, talking to loved ones about moving may make them feel like we’re judging their current lifestyle. Remind them that you understand their needs and concerns. While moving can be overwhelming, you can help them realize the worries they’ll be able to let go of in the process.
Listen in a loving manner: This helps your loved one feel like they’re not just following you but walking hand in hand with you toward a new way of life. You’re a team.
Reframe senior living as alternative independence: It’s important to emphasize that this move isn’t a matter of closing one door but rather opening another one. For instance, instead of doing household chores, your loved one could devote more time to a hobby. Instead of driving across town for a hair appointment, they could find a salon just down the hall. Remind them how their choices are expanding and their level of independence is increasing.
For more information, check out the CarDon Senior Resource Hub at www.CarDon.us or scan the QR code, where you will find in-depth video discussions featuring industry experts speaking on a variety of age-related topics, including senior living options, financial aid, memory care and more.
ACROSS
1. Mac alternatives
4. Clinches
8. From the same tree?
12. “You’ve Got Mail” company
13. It may come to light
14. ___ fide
15. NY engineering sch.
16. Infuriating
18. Whet the appetite
20. Fitting
21. Hardship’s opposite
24. Little run-ins
28. Speech problems
32. Coin in the Trevi Fountain, once
33. One with a beat
34. Baylor of basketball fame
36. Stocking stuffer?
37. Bug-eyed, perhaps
39. Envisions
41. Far from original
43. Certain hardwood
44. Promgoer’s woe
46. Salon supply
50. To one’s liking
55. Test the patience of
56. Social slight
57. Cub raiser
58. Business apparel
59. Big sport in Japan?
60. Abates, as a tide
61. Plant
DOWN
1. Actor’s goal 2. Get along 3. Common cowboy nickname 4. Mirror
5. Opposing
6. List letters
7. Hangar, e.g. 8. Rappel
9. Ornamental carp 10. What a keeper may keep 11. Ride, and then some 17. Brazil, e.g.
19. Favorite project
22. Narcissist’s obsession
23. Grain disease
25. Record holder
26. Priceless?
27. Doesn’t hold up well
28. Healing sign
29. Robe for Caesar
30. “Once ___ a time”
31. Arab’s father
35. Picks up
38. Park structure
40. Make tracks?
42. Blip on a polygraph
45. Saga
47. Lousy deposits?
48. Many a jazz combo
49. Bias
50. Pack animal
51. African grazer
52. Buccaneer’s drink
53. It’s served with lobster
54. High ball
3-6
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Indianapolis Convention Center, 100 S Capitol Ave.
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2026 NCAA MEN’S FINAL FOUR
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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
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
17-19
AMERICAN SOUND: DANCE KALEIDOSCOPE + INDIANAPOLIS CHAMBER ORCHESTRA Schrott Center for the Arts, 610 W. 46th St..
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.
CARRIE NEWCOMER
Hendricks Live, 206 W Main St. 8 p.m.
INDIANA PACERS VS. PHILADELPHIA 76ERS
Bankers Life Fieldhouse, 125 S Pennsylvania St. 7:30 p.m.
Sale Dates and Times: Public Onsale : Thu, 14 Aug 2025 at 03:15 PM
11
WALK MS INDIANAPOLIS
White River State Park, 801 W Washington St. 6:15 p.m.
Volunteers make Walk MS happen, and are the foundation of why Walk MS is the largest walking fundraising event in the country. Thank you for your consideration in volunteering to help end MS forever.
The Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra and Dance Kaleidoscope return to the Schrott Center for the Arts for a thrilling collaboration that brings together bold music.
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.
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A CENTURY SERVING
PLAINFIELD LIONS CLUB CELEBRATES 100 YEARS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE
Writer / Ashley Watters
On a spring evening marking the first of April in 1926, the Plainfield Lions Club was chartered. The club gained momentum when local men and Mooresville Lions Club members sat before 16 business houses of Plainfield and pitched the idea of doing good within their community.
Now, 100 years after that April night, the Plainfield Lions Club continues to flourish and remain active within the Plainfield community.
A group dedicated to community service, the 17 sitting Lions members work each year to help support causes throughout
Plainfield. One of their key initiatives involves providing free age-appropriate books to preschoolers to promote literacy in young children, a continuation of the work that was begun a century ago.
“One of the first service projects was advancing the Kindergarten plan, opening the first kindergarten in the Plainfield education system. In the mid-1970s, the Lions copyrighted the new school mascot when Quaker Oats threatened legal action for using their mascot. The club’s pin, The Fighting Quaker, commemorates this effort,” says Tom Iles, club president.
After that, the community recognized the potential for community engagement and support made possible through the Lions Club, with local newspapers touting that each club meeting led to more enthusiasm and goodwill. Fast forward a century and the Lions Club of Plainfield is still hitting the pavement.
True to their motto “We Serve!” the Lions Club contributes in many ways in the community. They provide free eye screenings to preschool-aged children to help identify preventable causes of blindness and further fund assistance for vision exams, eyeglasses, ocular surgeries and hearing aids. The Plainfield Lions Club is particularly active with initiatives that help end blindness in honor of a 1925 challenge by Helen Keller, in which she urged the Lions at the Lions Club International Convention to become “knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness.”
Postsecondary education scholarships are awarded to high school seniors to continue their education, and partial scholarships are also awarded to middle school and high school-aged students to help them explore potential careers in law enforcement through attendance at Indiana State Police Law and Career Summer Camps. Diabetes prevention is also a large part of their work due to its correlation with blindness.
Screening a child’s eyes at the Plainfield United Methodist Church preschool
The Plainfield Lions distribute signed holiday cards to senior living facilities for Christmas, as well as handmade Valentines crafted by Plainfield elementary students.
Over the past 100 years, the Plainfield Lions are proud to have supported causes such as community sponsorships, flood relief campaigns, donations to health-based initiatives like Hope Healthcare Services, food drives, Meals on Wheels, community trash pickup and volunteering at local nursing homes, among others.
Every who gets their eyes screened receives an age appropriate book
Lion member and Town Council President Robin Brandgard receiving a W.P. Woods Fellowship
Officer Rob Prichard with K9 Officer Jocko who just became an honorary member
Making a donation to Hope Healthcare
The group maintains support for other Indiana State Lions projects, including the Lions Cancer Control Fund of Indiana Inc., VisionFirst — Indiana Lions Eye Bank, Indiana Lions Speech and Hearing Inc., Indiana Lions School for the Blind and Visually Impaired and Indiana Lions for Leader Dog Inc.
The Lions are also gearing up for their fifth-annual craft fair, held in partnership with the Hendricks County Rib-Fest and BBQ. Open to the public, this event serves as their most important fundraiser and will be held Saturday, June 27, 2026.
Iles encourages anyone looking to make a difference to consider membership in the Lions Club.
“Lions are groups of service-minded men and women who are interested in improving their communities. We are young people, families and Baby Boomers alike. To become a Lion is to become an active volunteer, a member of a respected international organization, a leader in your community and a friend to people in need. We are seeking new members with innovative ideas and diverse perspectives to enhance our community,” he says.
If this sounds like you, visit the Plainfield-Guilford Township Public Library on the first Monday of each month or check out plainfieldlionsindiana.weebly.com and facebook.com/ PlainfieldLions for more information.
DARREN BOSTON DARREN@TOWNEPOST.COM
(317) 716-8812
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