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Fright Academy Haunted House is back at The Children’s Museum starting Oct. 9! Join other monsters and villains in training at this fabled institution where potions, charms, shadow shifting, spellcasting, and other eerie subjects make up your course load.

Inventors, designers, makers and imaginers can explore new creative opportunities during Tinkerfest, the Indiana State Museum’s beloved makers’ fair. From 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sept. 19, this seventh-annual event will feature interactive experiences, engaging demonstrations and family-friendly activities designed to inspire the curiosity of tinkerers of all ages and ability levels. As part of the year-long celebration of America’s 250th birthday,

There have been several celebrity deaths lately, but none have affected me like the loss of actress Shelley Fabares on August 22, 2026. Like so many of us who grew up in the ’60s, Shelley Fabares (pronounced Fa-bah-RAY) was part of our childhood and teen years as Mary Stone on “The Donna Reed Show.” (Her aunt, actress Nanette Fabray, Americanized the spelling and pronunciation.) Her acting career included three Elvis movies and many other movie and TV roles, including

What if one of the world's rarest and most valuable books was hiding right here in Indiana? Barney Wood takes you inside the IU Lilly Library to see an authentic Gutenberg Bible—one of history's greatest treasures.

What happens when a murder investigation unfolds against the backdrop of one of the most turbulent periods in American history? Film critic Patty Spitler spotlighted “By Any Means,” a new Paramount Pictures film that takes viewers to Mississippi in 1966, during the height of the civil rights movement.

American Senior Communities’ 2026 Chef Showdown is a competition between nine chefs each representing a different region. Each chef gets four random ingredients to see how creative they can get within the constraints. And the residents of these senior communities can have delicious food! Barney Wood covers this competition. ASCcare.com

American Senior Communities’ 2026 Chef Showdown is a competition between nine chefs each representing a different region. Each chef gets four random ingredients to see how creative they can get within the constraints. And the residents of these senior communities can have delicious food! Barney Wood covers this competition. The Blue Gate Theatre in Shipshewana, Indiana, has opened their new 1500-seat, $4 million theater space at the Blue Gate Performing Arts Center. The venue

After decades of being flattened by anvils, blasted by rockets and sent tumbling off cliffs, Wile E. Coyote is finally fighting back. This time, the desert-dwelling cartoon character isn’t chasing the Road Runner. He’s taking Acme to court. Film critic Patty Spitler takes a look at “Coyote vs. Acme,” a comedy that puts the determined Looney Tunes character in a courtroom after years of Acme products backfiring with painful consequences. Wile E. Coyote, first introduced i

On the latest “Great Day TV,” host Patty Spitler joined News 8’s Kaitlyn Kendall, along with Kelsey Burton, the executive director of Mid-North Food Pantry. The Mid-North Food Pantry, described as a longtime resource for families facing hardship, is expanding its services to meet growing demand as financial challenges weigh heavily on families in Indianapolis. Burton shares with Patty how the pantry has recently served families, especially in the aftermath of Indiana’s

Country music Dolly Parton has died at age 80 after a brief battle with cancer. She was hospitalized for four days before her passing, which was announced by her family. Though cancer was confirmed as the cause, the specific type was not disclosed. Patty Spitler, who interviewed Parton multiple times, remembers a woman who made everyone feel instantly at ease. “She wouldn’t let you be nervous,” Patty said. “She was just so warm.”

Tim Curry, the English actor and singer who played Dr. Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, has passed away at age 80. Curry studied drama at the University of Birmingham before making his professional splash in the London production of Hair (1968). He immortalized the "sweet transvestite" Dr. Frank-N-Furter on stage in 1973 and in the 1975 film adaptation, creating an enduring symbol of queer cinema and midnight-movie culture. Beyond "Rocky Horror," Curry captiva

Country music legend Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80, leaving behind a remarkable legacy as a singer, songwriter, actress, businesswoman and philanthropist. Her death Tuesday in Nashville was confirmed by her family and publicist. Pet Pals TV's Patty Spitler interviewed Dolly in 2016 about her career and love of pets. Watch below: "I am so upset, shocked and saddened. .... Dolly Parton has passed away at age 80. I interviewed her several times for movies and, of course

Film reviewer Patty Spitler returns with another edition of “Patty’s Picks,” this time reviewing “Mutiny,” the latest action film starring Jason Statham. Patty says the movie delivers plenty of violence but falls short when it comes to keeping viewers engaged. “Does this picture pack a powerful punch?” Spitler asked during her review. Her verdict? “Not quite.”

Every week, “Great Day TV” shares information, entertainment, and news you can use. On the most recent edition of “Great Day TV,” host Patty Spitler sat down with News 8’s Gina Glaros and Dennis Raney, the director of culinary services at American Senior Communities, to talk about their Chef Showdown. Chef Showdown is a competition between nine chefs each representing a different region, according to Raney. He says that each representative has already won a competition in

“Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie” draws on more than a decade of brand loyalty. It was launched roughly 13 years ago as a television series on Nickelodeon before growing into a wide-ranging franchise that includes toys, games and home video releases. Film critic Patty Spitler says the latest film leans into that foundation, pairing the series’ signature canine heroes with the crowd-pleasing appeal of dinosaurs.

Hearing loss doesn’t care about income. But access to services does — at least, it does without the right support in place. Hear Indiana’s reduced fee program exists to close that gap. Families who qualify can access our services on a sliding scale based on income — ensuring that cost alone is never the reason a child misses critical early intervention.

Todd-Dickey Nursing and Rehabilitation of Leavenworth, Indiana, a member of American Senior Communities, has been recognized as a 2026 recipient of the Gold – Excellence in Quality Award by the American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL). The Gold award is the final step in three progressive levels through the AHCA/NCAL National Quality Award Program, which recognizes providers achieving the highest standards of performance excell

American Sign Museum The American Sign Museum is the premier institution for preserving historic signs and promoting the contributions the sign industry makes to commerce, culture, and the American landscape. Barney Wood heads to Cincinnati, Ohio, to check it out!

Film critic Patty Spitler reviewed the new movie “One Night Only” during her “Patty’s Picks” segment. The film stars Callum Turner and Monica Barbaro as strangers in New York City who meet during the one night each year when unmarried couples are allowed to pursue romantic relationships. The story explores government control over personal relationships, raising questions about freedom and outside influences on love.

“Great Day TV” host Patty Spitler and WISH-TV anchor Gina Glaros were joined by Randy Ollis, a former WISH-TV meteorologist, to talk about Randy's recent accident and how it will affect his travel plans. Randy talked about how he recently injured his knee in a biking accident and said that the injury was not serious enough to require surgery.

As president of the Indiana Broadcast Pioneers and a huge admirer of her impactful career, it saddens me to report that Janie Hodge, of WTTV’S “Popeye and Janie” show, has passed away. Janie is beloved by several generations of Indiana children who watched her shows on WTTV over the years. I grew up in Chicago but know from my many interactions with her fans — and she has a great many — that Janie shaped many young lives, and for the better.

The Carmel Clay History Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history of Carmel, Indiana, from its Quaker roots to the arrival of the Monon Railway. The museum was inspired by efforts to save the local train depot back in 1975. Barney Wood has the story.

If you’re going to a Kroger store, look up and see a big American flag! Kroger spokesman Eric Halvorson talks to Patty about Operation Stars & Stripes, with flags in every store to celebrate our country’s 250th year. He says it means a lot to customers, especially veterans.

WISH-TV’S Cody Adams joins Patty for her review of “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” which opened in theaters Friday. It brings a new chapter in the long-running superhero saga — one that finds Peter Parker fighting crime in a world where many people have forgotten who he is. Rated PG-13 for action, adventure, sci-fi and violence, the film runs 2 hours and 25 minutes. The story follows Parker as his friends leave him behind and he faces a powerful, invisible villain threatening

Mike Ahern was the top Indianapolis TV news anchor when he retired from WISH-TV in 2004, after 37 years. In his first TV interview since retirement, he and Patty reminisce about being co-workers and catch up on what he is doing now. Join Mike as he reflects on his life with friends and fans. Patty Spitler presents Great Day TV, Saturday at 10:00 a.m. on WISH-TV and streaming here at GreatDayTV.com.

American Sign Museum The American Sign Museum is the premier institution for preserving historic signs and promoting the contributions the sign industry makes to commerce, culture, and the American landscape. Barney Wood heads to Cincinnati, Ohio, to check it out! Buying & Selling Homes What’s the latest buzz in the real estate market? Tony Ostler, of The Ostler Group, talks to Patty about future trends in buying and selling homes, and how it also affects rentals. Hearing L

The Indianapolis Woman’s Club was founded on Feb. 18, 1875, making it one of the oldest and longest-running clubs of its kind in the country. The purpose of the club was the exchange of ideas through presentation and discussion of papers written by members. Its founders were educated, progressive women who were interested in enriching their lives beyond the domestic sphere of home and family.

f you enjoy golf and supporting your community, Foundation Fest offers a distinctive local experience to benefit homeless people. This one-day event blends a festival atmosphere with a full day on the course, raising real money for people who need it most. Prime Plumbing & Drains is proud to sponsor this event.

Great Day TV's Patty Spitler's film review brought fresh buzz to the screen with her take on Christopher Nolan’s latest epic, “The Odyssey.” She talks to WISH-TV’s Pam Elliot about the film, which stars Matt Damon and Anne Hathaway in an adaptation of Homer’s 3,000-year-old epic poem about the enduring journey of Greek King Odysseus. Damon steps into the sandals of the travel-worn king, delivering a performance that captures the character’s resilience and complex spirit.

White River State Park attractions White River State Park has a lot to offer! Amy Howell of Visit Indiana talks to the park’s executive director, John Moton, about the family-friendly area that has museums, IndyZoo, NCAA headquarters, Indianapolis Indians baseball stadium, movie nights and more! A Seafood Boil Looking for a reason to gather the crew in the backyard this summer? Caplinger’s Fresh Catch has the answer! Owner Andrew Caplinger joins Patty to show off the restaura

If you’ve ever read a text from your teenage grandchild and wondered if you opened a message written in another language, or perhaps by a cat walking across a keyboard, you’re not alone. Today’s teens have developed a fast-moving, ever-evolving way of communicating that blends slang, emojis, abbreviations, and cultural references into something that can feel, well, foreign. But before you throw your phone across the room take heart: this communication gap isn’t new, it’s j

Hear Indiana’s annual The Run for Sound fundraiser is here — and this year our goal is big: $60,000 to give kids with hearing loss right here in Indiana the chance to access sound, speech, and a bright future. Run For Sound will be held Oct. 3 at Conner Prairie. After the run will be a Kids Carnival and Kids Run.

The Blue Gate Theatre in Shipshewana, Indiana, has opened their new 1500-seat, $4 million theater space at the Blue Gate Performing Arts Center. The new venue opens to a busy schedule of public concerts and private events. Visit Indiana’s Amy Howell has the story. VisitIndiana.com

Hear Indiana, a longtime advocate and resource for children with hearing loss, is expanding its services to include adults, the organization announced on Daybreak. Ellyn McCall, CEO of Hear Indiana, joined Patty Spitler and News 8’s Pam Elliot to discuss the importance of early detection and treatment for hearing loss.

Disney’s live-action remake of “Moana” is in theaters, drawing mixed reviews, including a 36% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Film critic Patty Spitler gave the PG-rated film two out of five stars. The adaptation follows Disney’s animated films released in 2016 and 2024. It tells the story of Moana, a young voyager who sets out to save her people with the help of the demigod Maui, played by Dwayne Johnson. Spitler said the film is entertaining but falls short

If you’re looking for a lighthearted outing filled with comedy, creativity, and a touch of monster mayhem, “Minions & Monsters” is worth the trip to the theater, says film critic Patty Spitler.

On the most recent edition of “Great Day TV,” host Patty Spitler and News 8’s Gina Glaros were joined by Shannon Cagle, the Weekend Gardener, to talk about resources to help people get more out of outdoor activities like gardening and birdwatching.

Unsung heroes are in the spotlight! Barney Wood attended the Glitter & Gratitude Gala, which recently honored nonprofit leaders across Johnson County. The event brought together more than 80 nonprofit organizations and is designed to recognize individuals who often work behind the scenes to serve their communities.

Kidscommons in Columbus, Indiana, is a learning hub that nurtures exploration, collaboration, and creativity for youngsters. Barney Wood visited this vibrant and educational place – and boy did he have fun!

Barney Wood visits a one-stop venue with double the fun! The PinLodge is a dedicated pinball arcade at the historic Irvington Masonic Lodge in Indianapolis, offering a rotating collection of approximately 108 pinball machines from a wide range of eras and manufacturers. In the same building is The 3rd Floor Gallery, featuring Indiana artists from a diverse array of backgrounds and artistic mediums.

Where is former WISH-TV meteorologist Randy Ollis traveling next? How about Australia and New Zealand? And you can come along! Patty talks to her former colleague about his travels and this new trip opportunity.

Patty Spitler presents Great Day TV, Saturday at 10:00 a.m. on WISH-TV and streaming here at GreatDayTV.com. More than ever, entire families – parents, children, and grandchildren – are traveling together. Cruises are a great way to do this, with modern cruise ships providing entertainment for people of all ages. John Cinnamon and Ann Craig-Cinnamon recently did this with their family on a cruise of the Mediterranean, starting with a few extra days in Rome. The Model T is gen

Active aging is a goal for older adults in the Indianapolis area. There are many exciting and interesting places to explore within the downtown hub. The places and activities I’m going to tell you about will provide countywide social engagement, cultural enrichment, and physical wellness for aging adults. Most seniors will find something to engage their interest for little or no expense.

Stephanie Daily, owner of Send A Friend Lasagna, is serving up more than just meals with her homemade, fresh lasagnas delivered across Indianapolis and nearby communities. What began seven years ago as a simple gesture of comfort for a grieving friend has blossomed into a beloved local business known for hearty flavors and heartfelt service.

“Toy Story 5,” the fifth installment in the animated adventure series, has premiered with a PG rating and a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. Film critic Patty Spitler spotlights Taylor Swift’s fresh track, “I Knew It, I Knew You,” adding extra buzz to the franchise’s return. The family-oriented series explores contemporary themes, including technological influences that disrupt playtime. Spitler, a film critic, recalled the origins of the franchise, noting she covered the

Barney Wood visits a one-stop venue with double the fun! The PinLodge is a dedicated pinball arcade at the historic Irvington Masonic Lodge in Indianapolis, offering a rotating collection of approximately 108 pinball machines from a wide range of eras and manufacturers. In the same building is The 3rd Floor Gallery, featuring Indiana artists from a diverse array of backgrounds and artistic mediums. Where is former WISH-TV meteorologist Randy Ollis traveling next? How about A

The Riley Children’s Health Sports Legend Experience at the Indianapolis Children’s Museum is invigorating, enticing, adrenaline-pumping, and legendary -- with every single step. With 12 outside sports experiences and three indoor exhibits encompassing physical fitness and awe-inspiring sports history, you won’t want to miss this new model of health and fitness.

At Caplinger's Fresh Catch, locals line up at the no-frills counter, order the famous shrimp po’boy or the seafood Philly loaded with crab and lobster, and happily eat at simple metal tables. Nothing fancy, just impossibly fresh fish flown in regularly and cooked with care. The quality rivals coastal shacks, making you forget you are in the Midwest.

Film critic Patty Spitler says Steven Spielberg revisits one of his signature themes, the possibility that humans are not alone in the universe, in his new sci-fi thriller, “Disclosure Day.” The film continues Spielberg’s exploration of extraterrestrial life, a subject he previously examined in films such as “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” and “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.” It also touches on theories involving potential government secrecy surrounding alien encounters.