Zionsville Monthly-May 2024

18 COVER STORY

Bronte Burkart: A Force On and Off the Ice

Zionsville Monthly is proud to feature women’s hockey phenomenon Bronte Burkart on our latest cover. Burkart’s extraordinary talent on the ice and her inspiring journey off it makes her a true force to be reckoned with. As a rising star in the world of women’s hockey and currently ranked third in North America, having scored 70 total points this past season, Burkart exemplifies dedication, skill and resilience. We are thrilled to share her story with our readers.

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Cover photo // Laura Arick

ZIONSVILLE MONTHLY

PUBLISHER / Neil Lucas neil@collectivepub.com / 317-460-0803

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / Neil Lucas neil@collectivepub.com / 317-460-0803

PUBLISHER / Lena Lucas lena@collectivepub.com / 317-501-0418

DIRECTOR OF SALES / Lena Lucas lena@collectivepub.com / 317-501-0418

HEAD WRITER / Janelle Morrison janelle@collectivepub.com / 317-250-7298

Debuts Ukrainian

REVIVAL Collection

Robert Goodman Jewelers is excited to announce the debut of its Revival collection. The Zionsville-based jeweler is the only brick-and-mortar retailer in the U.S. selling pieces of this extraordinary collection.

This collection, in collaboration with ARTICLE22, further demonstrates Robert “Bob” and Rose-Marie Goodman’s dedication to ethical practices in every aspect of their business. Customers can feel confident knowing their purchases support responsible craftsmanship, environmental stewardship and humanitarian efforts.

TRANSFORMATION STORY OF NEGATIVE INTO POSITIVE

The story and impact of ARTICLE22’s stunning jewelry are timeless—this brand is affecting tangible, transformative change in the lives of its artisans. Drawing inspiration from local craftsmen in Laos and now Ukraine, ARTICLE22 crafts jewelry from scrap metal and shrapnel that carries a message of peace and hope.

REVIVAL is a beautiful and poignant collection designed and created by Stanislav Drokin, an acclaimed contemporary artist who makes one-of-a-kind fine jewelry pieces. Based in Kharkiv, Ukraine, Drokin uses existing and invented methods to create jewelry, including detonated shrapnel pieces from around the region of his hometown.

The Goodmans met ARTICLE22’s founder Elizabeth Suda and general manager Kendall Silwonuk at the NY NOW wholesale marketplace in NYC, where they found their business models to be compatible. Inspired by Drokin’s story and impressed by the exquisite pieces, the Goodmans purchased five of the first 12 pieces created.

“Rose-Marie and I met Elizabeth [Suda] and she told us about this collection that they were getting ready to introduce,” Bob Goodman shared. “She told us about Revival and a little bit about Drokin and how she found him. There was an article in The New York Times about a year and a half ago about four goldsmith designers in Ukraine. I did more research on him, and Drokin is a significant player and force in Europe in terms of fine jewelry.”

Goodman continued, “This [Revival] collection is tactile, and it’s very visceral. They are made from iron shrapnel that Drokin has collected, and where he lives,

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Courtesy of Article22 and submitted

there’s no shortage of this stuff—it’s getting replenished almost every night. This collection resonates with us, and [the upcoming Revival show at our store] is an opportunity to make donations from the sale of the Revival pieces on June 22, 2024, to MAG [Mines Advisory Group] and Indiana Supports Ukraine. The portion going to MAG will go toward clearing Ukraine, and the portion going to Indiana Supports Ukraine will go toward helping Ukrainians who are rebuilding their lives here in our state. Our answer to why we purchased this collection is because it fits our morals and ethics.”

Our work with Stanislav draws a parallel between two distinct places, time periods and culture[s], but which share a war legacy and many examples of human resilience. The people who are most affected by the problem are doing something about it. Their stories live on through the jewelry our community wears and shares across

What is sure is that we share the same sky—moon, sun and constellations. And our jewelry, whether from Laos or Ukraine, tells an intimate story of the past, present and future—a future that is not fated. A future that celebrates diversity in our environment and our varied cultures, but which also relies on our unity around shared ideals that allow individuals to come together across borders.

Mark your calendars for a unique and rare opportunity to see and purchase pieces from the Revival Collection in person on June 22 at Robert Goodman Jewelers in Zionsville, Indiana. For more details, visit robertgoodmanjewelers.com.

CREATING PEACE, ONE SHRAPNEL PIECE AT A TIME

Zionsville Monthly had the honor of interviewing ARTICLE22’s founder Elizabeth Suda and the remarkable Stanislav Drokin, who felt it was crucial to share his message as the war continues to threaten his existence in Kharkiv.

mission of ARTICLE22, and how does it guide your work?

Elizabeth Suda: The mission is inspired by the Lao artisans we met who first started melting American war shrapnel and other scrap into soup spoons to rebuild their lives and community. The jewelry represents their resourcefulness and resilience and hints at our human ability to adapt and transform despite challenges. ARTICLE22’s work is an evolving collection of pieces that celebrate the human spirit and the milestones that guide our lives, including a new wedding collection that our customers have requested for many years.

Can you talk about the path that led you to becoming a jewelry designer and how your experiences influenced your

Stanislav Drokin: Since childhood, I loved creativity—drawing and doing something with my own hands. I loved to observe nature, its flora and fauna, and was fond of philately. At the age of 15, I went to work in a factory, became an apprentice engraver, and continued to study at night school. This was the beginning of my love for engraving and jewelry—the beginning of my creative and life path. Later, I studied at gemological centers in Ukraine, Germany and Poland, [then] graduated from the Kharkiv Academy of Design and Arts with a master’s degree in design.

For many years of creative work, I constantly experimented, which led me to creating jewelry without sketches. Working on models in wax [and] using its plasticity and its ability to be in different states—liquid, soft, hard—I got carried away with improvisation, which gave unpredictable results! It’s like jazz—jewelry jazz! Exploring the results and continuing to experiment, I came to the author’s method of sequential casting [casting by trace], double, hybrid casting, [which is] similar, as I later found out, to the ancient Indian Ganga-Jamna method. The result of

my experiments opened a new type of jewelry, [giving] unique results and a product that cannot be repeated and created using modern technologies! The Revival collection uses exactly this: my author’s steel casting method, which has its own names associated with the use of different metals—Fercupium, Ferargium, Feraurium.

JM: When did you start creating designs for the Revival collection?

SD: The Revival collection is one-of-a-kind pieces that have no analogues. The collection has been created since 2023 for Article22 in frontline Kharkiv using fragments of Russian shells, bronze, precious metals and precious stones. Its goal is to transform the negative energy of destruction into the positive energy of creation.

JM: How do you hope the Revival collection will resonate with Americans, and what impact do you aim to achieve through your efforts?

SD: In the world—especially in the American market, saturated with supply and demand—it is difficult to surprise the consumer with something unusual. But the modern world is changing rapidly, and priorities and values are changing. Titanium and bronze are replacing gold in jewelry design. Jewelry from famous classical jewelry houses is becoming less interesting to the younger generation than contemporary jewelry art. The reason is the desire of modern man for individuality and for the content of the work—its “history” and function, not only as jewelry to be worn. My priorities in art are harmony, emotions and uniqueness! I hope that jewelry from the Revival collection will not leave Americans indifferent, will find its place in the collections of museums and galleries, and will become a symbol of peace and harmony, preserving memories for future generations.

JM: In light of recent events, what message would you like to share with those supporting Ukraine? And how can individuals contribute to positive change in the region?

SD: My creative efforts are aimed at supporting Ukraine [and] its people [and] calling for the unification of the entire civilized and democratic world against wars, dictatorships, the past, for the future life of all humanity. I am grateful to Elizabeth Suda for her cooperation and the opportunity to join Article22’s social mission to clear mine-contaminated areas. Each American purchasing an item from the Revival collection makes an invaluable contribution to cleaning the Ukrainian land and saving human lives from unexploded mines, and contributes to the preservation, development and popularization of original contemporary art, for which there are no borders.

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Creating Unmatched Moments, One Show at a Time at Feinstein’s!

7/ 5

7/6

7/12 & 7/13

7/19

7/20

7/21

7/25 7/26

7/27

INDY NIGHTS WITH RYAN AHLWARDT & FRIENDS | Sold Out

CHROME HORSE: THE BOB DYLAN TRIBUTE | Six Decades of Top Hits

CELEBRATING CELINE: STARING JENENE CARAMIELO | Celine Dion Tribute

DUELING PIANOS | Live Jukebox Experience

SWEET CAROLINE: THE LIFE & MUSIC OF NEIL DIAMOND | Don Farrell

DRAG ME TO BRUNCH HOSTED BY PAT YO’ WEAVE | 11 am Show 21+ Only

DECEPTION | An Evening of Magic & Lies with David Ranalli

THE AHLWARDT’S PRESENTS: HUMAN JUKEBOX EXPERIENCE | You Pick, We Play!

ERIC BAKER & FRIENDS PRESENTS: SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA IN THE 70'S

White Barn Antiques

OFFERS QUALITY ANTIQUE AND VINTAGE HOME FURNISHINGS

White Barn Antiques in Cloverdale, Indiana, is a mustvisit destination for antique lovers and those looking to experience the charm of a small-town treasure hunt.

Afamily venture owned by Doug and Abby Harrough, White Barn Antiques, LLC, brings a passionate and extensive knowledge of antique and vintage furnishings with a commitment to providing quality furnishings and superb customer service to its customers.

A PASSION FOR ANTIQUES AND PRESERVATION

White Barn Antiques offers an extensive collection of vintage and antique items. Housed in a picturesque white barn, the shop features an array of antique furniture, home décor, collectibles and unique pieces that evoke nostalgia and charm.

Passing down family antiques holds significant emotional, cultural and practical value. Antiques link us to our past, preserving family history and enriching the family narrative with stories and memories.

Collecting antiques can also be a smart investment; many pieces appreciate [in value] over time, providing aesthetic pleasure and financial returns. Additionally, antiques contribute to sustainable living by repurposing and preserving existing items, reducing the demand for new resources.

According to industry experts and reputable antique dealers, antiques are defined as an item, or items, at least or

KEEP GRANDMA’S ANTIQUE HUTCH AND GRANDPA’S READING CHAIR!

By thoughtfully blending antiques with modern décor, you can create a unique and personalized space that reflects both timeless elegance and contemporary style. Mix and match styles and pair antique pieces with modern furniture to create a dynamic contrast.

over 100 years old. While there is no official expert consensus on what qualifies as “vintage,” experts agree that an item should be 20-99 years old.

Doug and Abby established and opened White Barn Antiques in November of 2023 as retirement from their preexisting careers neared.

“We love the hunt,” Doug shared. “Abby and I are always finding ourselves in antique stores, estate sales and auctions. We started picking things up that are quality, in good shape and lend themselves to having real beauty.”

Doug added, “We had started to think about retirement, and Abby and I were asking ourselves what we [wanted] to do. We moved to the country for a variety of reasons and have been blessed with a plot of land along with a white house and a white barn. We love antiques, and I have always had a passion for furniture … I love its craftsmanship and design [aspect]. So, this is where the passion has led us. Frankly, our financial advisor told us that we need to retire to something and not from something. So, we are retiring to the passion that is White Barn Antiques.”

For example, an ornate antique mirror can be placed above a sleek, minimalist console table. Create focal points and use antiques as statement pieces in your décor. A vintage chandelier in a modern dining room or an antique armchair in a minimalist living room can draw attention and serve as conversation starters. Balance proportions and scale to ensure that the size and scale of your antiques complement the modern pieces in the room. A large antique cabinet can anchor a space, while smaller vintage accessories, like lamps or vases, can add subtle touches of history.

Give antiques a new life by repurposing them in contemporary ways. An old trunk can become a coffee table, or a vintage ladder can be used as a unique bookshelf. Updating upholstery or refinishing wood can also help antiques fit better within a modern context while preserving their character. Be sure to layer with modern art and accessories. Surround antiques with modern art, lighting and accessories to create a balanced look. This layering technique helps integrate the old with the new, making the transition between styles seamless and cohesive.

“I believe that people will lean into what they’re attracted to and add it to their home,” Doug said. “We have [in our home] very modern pieces, and we have an 18th-century breakfront that is an anchor, if you will, to our living room, and yet we have a very modern custom sofa and pieces from Ethan Allen … you mix and match. I

think rooms should be layered with what you like and what brings you joy.”

In an era of IKEA and throwaway furnishings, Doug and Abby emphasized the importance of appreciating and preserving antiques as you would any piece of valuable art.

“It’s really about the craftsmanship,” Doug said. “The artistry is taken for granted, and when you think about the time and energy it takes to make a beautiful piece of furniture, you realize the artistry and talent that goes into creating that. These pieces are made to last and are made to be functional as well as beautiful.”

Doug spoke about the importance of maintaining and caring for antiques while emphasizing that your pieces should be used and enjoyed, not stored away out of sight.

“I’m not an appraiser, but there are many qualified appraisers around Indiana and I do believe that people should have their pieces appraised

and insured for their value,”

Doug said. “In terms of caring for them, [give] them a good dusting, and for raw wood, you’ll want to make sure it’s not dried out. You’ll want to use an oil to moisten the wood and breathe some life back into it. For finished pieces, I would recommend more of a paste wax instead of a spray wax like Pledge and only do it sparingly … maybe once or twice a year. Keep things out of direct sunlight because that will bleach out the finish and dry out the wood. It’s not going to have a perfect finish, and frankly, I think even the spots and the stains and things like that tell a story. They let you know that they’ve been around for a while, and that’s okay.”

Doug continued, “I think you can overdo an antique piece. I understand that people want things to look new and shiny, and that’s great, but I also think you take away some of its pride and dignity when you do that to an antique piece. Other than

that, if you buy something from us, please use it! It’s not a monument, and it’s not going with you at the end, so use it now and let others use it.”

DISCOVERING CLOVERDALE’S CHARM

After exploring the treasures at White Barn Antiques, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the quaint charm of Cloverdale for a day or weekend getaway, you can board your pets at Kuddles Kennels should you have need. Indulge in classic American comfort food at Lou’s Diner, where you can savor tenderloins as big as your head in a nostalgic setting, or Cloverdale’s new coffee shop, Sweet Clover Coffee, and new café, Four Leaf on Main—both are located on the west side of Main Street in downtown Cloverdale.

With its unique antique finds, delightful local amenities and stunning natural surroundings, Cloverdale offers the perfect setting for a relaxing and enjoyable weekend escape. Enjoy the

A wonderful assortment of well-preserved antique furnishings and accessories, tastefully displayed in a gorgeous, well-lit store. There are hand-selected antiques, tables, secretaries and chairs one to two-and-a-half centuries old. The proprietors are friendly, knowledgeable, helpful and interested in your antique interests. White Barn’s inventory makes me want three or four extra rooms in my house to furnish! A must-stop for serious collectors and people looking for that one special piece to build a room around.

beach, boating, fishing and hiking at Lieber State Recreation Area near Cagles Mill Lake.

“It’s a quiet little rural farm town, and it’s a lovely day trip,” Doug said. “We love Cloverdale because it’s quaint and quiet. We’ve been out here for six years. My wife is originally from Franklin [Indiana] and I’m from Bloomington [Indiana]. I’m hoping that our [antique] shop brings more people out here. It is quintessential rural Indiana.

Be sure to follow White Barn Antiques on Facebook @White Barn Antiques and on Instagram @wbantiques. For more information, visit the website at whitebarnantiques.net.

White Barn Antiques

2192 East County Road 1100S Cloverdale, IN 46120

Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. or by appointment.

JR. CIVIC AND YAP PROGRAMS FOSTER

COMMUNITY AND CREATIVITY

For over eight decades, the Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre has cultivated young talent and built community through its youth programming. Civic’s Anne Beck and Brent Marty shared some highlights of the upcoming summer shows, emphasizing the purpose behind the Youth Artists Program (YAP) and Jr. Civic.

These programs are designed to provide young performers with valuable training and performance opportunities, fostering not only their artistic skills but also a sense of community and collaboration. Through engaging productions and comprehensive educational experiences, Civic Theatre continues to nurture the next generation of artists while strengthening the cultural fabric of the community.

REVUE! AND CATS

Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre’s Young Artists Program (YAP) presents “REVUE!” High school students from across Central Indiana will present a showcase of scenes, dance, solo, trios, and small group numbers for an evening full of fun, cabaret-style entertainment!

In addition, YAP is pleased to present the all-singing, all-dancing Tony-winning musical spectacular, “CATS”!

“CATS” takes place in a larger-thanlife junkyard playground filled with purr-fect felines like Rum Tum Tugger, Mr. Mistoffelees, Macavity, Jennyanydots, Old Deuteronomy, Skimbleshanks and Grizabella. On the special night of

the Jellicle Ball, the Jellicle Cats come out to play and tell their stories to Old Deuteronomy, their wise leader, who will choose one cat to ascend to The Heaviside Layer and be reborn into a new Jellicle life.

YAP coordinator, director and choreographer Anne Beck shared her thoughts on the two YAP performances coming up this summer.

“YAP does ‘REVUE!’ every year, which is a cabaret, and it’s one night only on June 24, and ‘CATS’ will be at the end of July,” Beck said. “I feel like we had a big surge in all these kids wanting to come through this program. It is unlike the other [programs] in that they get classes for an hour before the rehearsals. So, it’s become a conservatory while performing shows at the same time. We put our feelers out in the area on what show the kids wanted to do this year, and ‘CATS’ just kept coming up. I think it has a lot

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Courtesy of Civic

to do with the imaginative storytellers that these high schoolers are. We had about 86 kids audition, and we ended up taking 30 from 14 different high schools. Brent [Marty] loves the music as much as I do, and he is our music supervisor, and Jennie Kistner [from Zionsville] is vocal directing. Our team is very excited!”

For those who may not know, Beck’s national tour performing credits include “CATS.” She performed with Ken Page in NYC, the original “Old Deuteronomy,” and she worked with director Jacob Brent, who was “Mr. Mistoffelees” in the video production of “CATS,” filmed in 1998.

“I learned all of the ins and outs of the story, [which is] based on T.S. Eliot’s book of poems, from them [Page and Brent],” Beck stated. “The through line is kind of minimal. Sometimes, people think of it as a storytelling of all these cats. There’s this overlying theme of acceptance, and you’re allowed to make mistakes, and you can move on from that. That’s more of the positive, whole-theme story I’m

trying to push with our high school program this summer.”

FINDING NEMO JR.

Director of Music & Education Brent Marty shared his excitement for the upcoming Jr. Civic show, “FINDING NEMO JR.”

“I’ve got 40 kids, and we’re doing minimal costuming on this one and using a projection package for the scenery,” Marty said. “This is my 24th [Jr. Civic] production. I’ve done it every year since I started. ‘Finding Nemo’ is a popular title … people know it. It’s not a musical, so

they’ve taken this movie, and it’s actually a musical at the Disney World theme park and that’s what the script is based on. It’s been fleshed out more for this [Civic] Jr. version, but it’s the same characters you know and love. It’s also blended with some elements of ‘Finding Dory.’”

Marty continued, “It’s dealing with a lot of heavy themes when you think about it: first day of school, getting acclimated and finding new friends, Dory’s memory loss, the single parent who’s incredibly concerned about his kid because he has a little fin, and how it all plays into the adventure that they all go on. Things that you might not think of when you’re thinking of ‘Finding Nemo,’ but they’re there and we’re addressing them. So, you’re not only going to enjoy the show, but you’ll have a little education and an empathetic hour at the theater.”

For more information on YAP and Jr. Civic and to buy tickets to one or all of these shows, visit civictheatre.org.

LET’S TALK ABOUT GARAGE STORAGE

shelving & racks • cabinets • overhead storage

ANNOUNCING THE 2024-25 SEASON: A YEAR OF SPECTACULAR PERFORMANCES AT THE CENTER

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Courtesy of the Center

APRIL 17

audience is going to be enthusiastic and appreciative … and all of those things help put us [the Center] on the map.”

IT TAKES A COMMUNITY

McDermott spoke about the importance of garnering and retaining partnerships throughout the community.

The upcoming season for the Center for the Performing Arts is a testament to the campus’s reputation as a premier destination for the arts and arts education in Indiana. Showcasing an impressive array of performances and events, this season underscores the Center’s commitment to fostering artistic excellence and cultural enrichment.

ith a diverse lineup that appeals to a wide range of audiences, the Center continues to solidify its status as a mecca for the arts, attracting both local talent and renowned artists from across the nation.

AN IMPRESSIVE LINEUP OUT OF THE GATE

“We’ve got over 60 performances [booked], and I suspect we’ll add five to eight more during the season,” Jeff McDermott, CEO/President of the Center for the Performing Arts, stated. “We purposely leave spots open because some artists decide to go on tour after we’ve announced our season, and we leave openings so that we’re in the running to add some great artists after the fact.”

A STELLAR REPUTATION ACROSS THE NATION

“We hear with some regularity from the artists that they are treated well here,” McDermott shared. “The artists love the venue, the production and programming teams, and if they’re going to be near this area … this is the place they want to be.”

When asked about his feelings on witnessing the Center’s growing reputation and success, McDermott replied, “It makes me feel like a proud father. We were trying to find our way and make a name for ourselves, and now we’ve got these great artists telling us this is where they want to play. It’s an experience for the artist and their team, just as it’s an experience for our patrons. The artists know they’re going to be treated well, they know they’re going to sound great, and they know the

“I always tell people that with any business—we’re a nonprofit, but we’re definitely operating as a business—if you want to be successful, it always starts with your product,” McDermott explained. “Our product is our performances and educational programs. The better the performances we book, the more world-class artists we can bring in here, and the greater variety means more patrons will come here to enjoy the experience. The more patrons that we have, the more donors we will have, and the more attractive we’re going to be to corporate sponsors and great donors so that we can continue to expand what we’re doing with our product. The more we expand our product, the more the artists want to come and be a part of it.”

McDermott continued, “We know that when Carmel is named the best place to live, retire or raise a family, the Center for the Performing Arts is always mentioned as a contributing amenity, and we’re constantly raising the bar on ourselves. Where else can you go to enjoy pop, rock, country, songbook, classical, jazz, international and family performances, all in one campus? This season, we have worldclass, iconic performers from so many different genres that will attract many different enthusiasts for their music. We’re a very inclusive venue, and there is something for everyone here.”

ITZHAK PERLMAN

OCTOBER 10 NOVEMBER 24 NOVEMBER 2

The Center is proud to offer schools transportation grants and opportunities to visit its campus and participate in outreach programs.

“We’re excited to offer four free student matinees this year and transportation grants,” McDermott shared. “Transportation costs are one of the barriers for schools to be able to come here. We take our responsibilities here in the community very seriously, and we’re doing things that we’re very proud of and that other venues don’t do.”

LEADERS IN LIGHT AND SOUND TECHNOLOGY

NOVEMBER 23

“The new lighting system is largely installed, and the new sound system will be installed in June … in time for the new season,” McDermott continued. “When the hall was built, it had state-ofthe-art, world-class lighting and sound, but we’ve reached a point where both needed to be updated.”

McDermott concluded, “We are appreciative of the City [of Carmel] and the Carmel Redevelopment Commission for

helping to make this possible. As people come into the hall, as perfect as our sound and lighting have been, they are going to hear and see an even bigger difference in terms of the audio and lighting. We’re already getting great reviews from patrons who have already seen the new things we’re able to do … giving this place an even cooler look and feel, and a venue like this really demands that.”

Don’t miss a minute of the musical magic this season! Purchase your series packages at thecenterpresents.org.

REDEFINING DENTAL Excellence

Dr. Villanueva Dr. Soldatelli

CANADIAN BRASS

BEN FOLDS

DIONNE WARWICK BONEY JAMES

SONGBOOK ACADEMY IN CONCERT

SAT, JUL 20 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM

AVERAGE WHITE BAND:

A FUNK FINALE

SAT, AUG 10 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

JEROME COLLINS: REWIND–

A JOURNEY TO MOTOWN & BEYOND

FRI, SEPT 13 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON

VERONICA SWIFT

SAT, SEPT 14 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON

CENTER CELEBRATION 2024

FEATURING CHRIS BOTTI

SAT, SEPT 21 AT 5PM | THE PALLADIUM

NICK CARTER: WHO I AM TOUR

THURS, SEPT 26 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM

LEONID & FRIENDS:

THE MUSIC OF CHICAGO AND MORE

FRI, SEPT 27 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

DAMIEN ESCOBAR: VICTORY LAP TOUR

SAT, SEPT 28 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

BEN FOLDS: PAPER AIRPLANE REQUEST TOUR

THURS, OCT 10 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM

#IMOMSOHARD: LADIES’ NIGHT!

FRI, OCT 11 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

RENÉE ELISE GOLDSBERRY

SAT, OCT 12 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

AUSTRALIAN CHAMBER ORCHESTRA SUN, OCT 13 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM

GRAND FUNK RAILROAD

SAT, OCT 19 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

SPACE ODDITY: THE QUINTESSENTIAL

DAVID BOWIE TRIBUTE EXPERIENCE

SAT, OCT 26 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

DANA & GREG NEWKIRK’S

HAUNTED OBJECTS LIVE

SUN, OCT 27 AT 7PM | THE TARKINGTON

VITAMIN STRING QUARTET: THE MUSIC OF TAYLOR SWIFT, BRIDGERTON AND BEYOND SUN, OCT 27 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM

ZAKIR HUSSAIN & RAHUL SHARMA FRI, NOV 1 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

BONEY JAMES SAT, NOV 2 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

THE MAGIC OF MICHAEL GRANDINETTI–

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC SAT, NOV 2 AT 2PM & 8PM | THE TARKINGTON

GRUPO NICHE FRI, NOV 8 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

THE PIANO GUYS SAT, NOV 9 AT 4PM & 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

BUCKETS N BOARDS

SUN, NOV 17 AT 5PM | THE PALLADIUM

AN EVENING WITH LESLIE ODOM JR. FRI, NOV 22 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

CANADIAN BRASS SAT, NOV 23 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

DIONNE WARWICK

SUN, NOV 24 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM

CHERRY POPPIN’ DADDIES: WWII TIKI XMAS CANTEEN

THURS, DEC 5 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM

THE FOUR PHANTOMS: HOLIDAY SHOW FRI, DEC 6 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

JANE LYNCH’S A SWINGIN’ LITTLE CHRISTMAS SAT, DEC 7 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS

CHRISTMAS TOUR 2024 FRI, DEC 13 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

JON MCLAUGHLIN & FRIENDS

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS SAT, DEC 14 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

MAC MCANALLY FRI, JAN 10 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM YESTERDAY AND TODAY: THE INTERACTIVE BEATLES EXPERIENCE SAT, JAN 18 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

THE EVOLUTION OF JONI MITCHELL STARRING LAUREN FOX FRI, JAN 24 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON

HEART OF AFGHANISTAN FEATURING THE FANOOS ENSEMBLE SAT, JAN 25 AT 8PM || THE TARKINGTON

JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER ORCHESTRA WITH WYNTON MARSALIS SUN, JAN 26 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM

THE KINGS OF QUEEN SAT, FEB 1 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

PETER SAGAL: HOST OF NPR’S WAIT WAIT...DON’T TELL ME! FRI, FEB 7 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

FOLSOM PRISON EXPERIENCE: LEGENDARY 1968 JOHNNY CASH CONCERT SAT, FEB 15 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH STEVE WARINER FRI, FEB 21 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

KALANI PE’A: GRAMMY-WINNING SINGER, SONGWRITER SAT, FEB 22 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

DON WAS & THE PAN DETROIT ENSEMBLE FRI, FEB 28 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

THE STEPCREW FRI, MAR 7 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

BROOKLYN CHARMERS: A STEELY DAN TRIBUTE FRI, MAR 7 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON

WELCOME BACK: THE RETURN OF EMERSON, LAKE & PALMER FRI, MAR 21 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

DUSTBOWL REVIVAL: A LAUREL CANYON RETROSPECTIVE FRI, MAR 21 AT 8PM | THE TARKINGTON

THE RED HOT CHILLI PIPERS SUN, MAR 23 AT 7PM | THE TARKINGTON

GRIMMZ FAIRY TALES SUN, MAR 23 AT 5PM | THE PALLADIUM

LANG LANG FRI, MAR 28 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

PURE PRAIRIE LEAGUE SAT, APR 5 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

UNITED STATES ARMY FIELD BAND & SOLDIERS’ CHORUS WEDS, APR 9 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM

UKULELE ORCHESTRA OF GREAT BRITAIN SAT, APR 12 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

BACHELORS OF BROADWAY: GENTLEMEN OF THE THEATRE SUN, APR 13 AT 7PM | THE PALLADIUM

ITZHAK PERLMAN IN RECITAL THURS, APR 17 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM

MICKY DOLENZ OF THE MONKEES: AN EVENING OF SONGS & STORIES FRI, APR 25 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

BLACK VIOLIN SAT, APR 26 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM

OUR PLANET LIVE: A NETFLIX ORIGINAL DOCUMENTARY SERIES WITH DAN TAPSTER TUES, APR 29 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM

MARTY STUART AND HIS FABULOUS SUPERLATIVES THURS, MAY 1 AT 7:30PM | THE PALLADIUM

CELEBRATE THE SONGBOOK: MICHAEL FEINSTEIN WITH THE INDIANAPOLIS CHAMBER ORCHESTRA SAT, MAY 10 AT 8PM | THE PALLADIUM iLUMINATE SUN, MAY 11 AT 4PM | THE PALLADIUM

RENEE ELISE GOLDSBERRY

NICK CARTER

LESLIE ODOM JR.

LANG LANG

MARTY STUART

GRUPO NICHE

BRONTE BURKART

A Force On and Off the Ice

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Laura Arick and submitted

Zionsville Monthly is proud to feature women’s hockey phenomenon Bronte Burkart on our latest cover. Burkart’s extraordinary talent on the ice and her inspiring journey off it makes her a true force to be reckoned with. As a rising star in the world of women’s hockey and currently ranked third in North America, having scored 70 total points this past season, Burkart exemplifies dedication, skill and resilience. We are thrilled to share her story with our readers.

BLAZING THE ICE FOR FEMALE HOCKEY PLAYERS

Burkart hails from Michigan and grew up playing for local youth hockey teams when it was uncommon for girls to participate in the sport. Despite the challenges of her gender and the lack of proper locker facilities, Burkart consistently demonstrated her skills and passion for hockey.

Over the years, she earned the respect of her coaches and teammates, proving herself a formidable player on the ice. Burkart moved to Indiana when she was nine years old, and expanded her hockey acumen throughout her youth and high

school athletic career playing for great coaches and teams such as Indiana Youth Hockey Association (IYHA), Indiana Elite 14U, Indy Fusion U16/U19, Zionsville Hockey Club and Culver Military Academy.

Zionsville Hockey Club Head Coach

Ben Highsmith praised Burkart’s skills and contributions as the club’s first female player. During her freshman year, the club was the 3A state runner-up. Although Burkart is no longer with the club, they won the 4A State Championship this year, showing their growth and increasing popularity. Highsmith credits Burkart with contributing to the club’s reputation and paving the way for future female hockey players.

“Bronte’s a great player and a great kid,” Highsmith said. “Tactically, as a player on the ice, she’s always been ahead of the curve as far as her understanding of the game. Her hockey IQ is really high. She’s a student of the game, and that, along with her love of the game, are her biggest attributes. Ranked with the boys, she was one of the better shots on the team. She’s always team first and wants what’s best for the team.”

Highsmith added, “I think Bronte really paved the way for other future female

FROM THE MOMENT

I STARTED

PLAYING,

I’VE WANTED TO BE IN THE OLYMPICS. IT’S BEEN ‘GO BIG OR STAY HOME.’

athletes who understand that there is a path and it can be done. We’ve had three females on the team since Bronte and have experienced really great success with them. Bronte cared not just about this team and about making a name for herself; she cared about bettering the program she was coming from.”

WORKING TOWARDS A LIFELONG DREAM

Burkart, the youngest of four children, knew from a young age that she wanted to play hockey and aim for the highest level, dreaming of making it to the Olympics one day. Upon moving to Indiana, Burkart and her parents sought out the best and highest-level youth hockey teams. She played for the Indianapolis Racers U12 and was the only girl on the team.

“It’s funny because I have a lot of memories where I would go to the concessions and be like, ‘Do you have a girls’ locker room?’ and they’d say no, but they gave me a chair in a bathroom,” Burkart recalled. “We have pictures of me getting ready next to a toilet because there were no girls’ locker rooms.”

Making the most of the opportunities and rising above any logistical challenges, Burkart shared how playing on predominantly all-boys teams invigorated her competitive side and challenged her to bring her best when on the ice, playing against the boys.

Burkart added, “I had the mindset that it was just making me better, and I wanted to make the best of it. I was super blessed in that I had early coaches who were proud of me and took me under their wings. It would’ve been harder if I had felt like my coaches didn’t believe in me because I am a girl and didn’t want me on their teams. I was blessed in that sense because I had a lot of support.”

Burkart knew she wanted to play forward when she was quite young, as she loves being in the center of the offensive action.

“Defense never really intrigued me,” Burkart said. “I would say that I’ve developed my shot and my hockey IQ a lot over the past few years. Hockey is such a dynamic sport. You’re on the ice, you’re stick handling, you’re blocking shots … there’s just so much going on, and I love being a forward because I’m always in all

that craziness. Playing at Culver Academy, where I played on the girls’ team, I learned that I could slow it down and take more time with the puck. Now, playing in Michigan [for Belle Tire Girls 19U AAA], I’m not afraid of any girl because I played with boys, and I’m confident that I can possess the puck and have my head up.”

Burkart continued, “From the moment I started playing, I’ve wanted to be in the Olympics. It’s been ‘go big or stay home.’ Every team was the next step and the next level. This past year, I decided to make the switch from Culver to Michigan, and it was a hard decision because Culver’s facilities are amazing. I had to make the best decision for myself and in furthering my hockey career. I knew Belle Tire was able to give me that opportunity and phenomenal coaches who see the best in me and pull that out. My goals have always been to make it to the Olympics and to go pro, and the best next step

eternally grateful for the experiences I had this year. I’m really excited for this next year, and for the opportunities to get stronger and faster and to focus on my weaknesses and strengths.”

Burkart expressed her gratitude for the unwavering support of her family, who reside in Zionsville, and her supporters.

“No matter if I play the best or worst game ever, my parents still love me and are proud of me,” Burkart shared. “If I win or lose, I’m no less of a person. I’m extremely blessed with the people that surround me.”

Pictured: (back center) Bronte Burkart along with her Zionsville Hockey Club teammates.

Coach Drudge

Join us in welcoming Coach Jennifer Drudge, who has stepped into the head coach position to lead the ZCHS Girls Basketball team into its next chapter. Drudge succeeds Andy Maguire, who announced his retirement earlier this year after 40 years of coaching.

AN IMPRESSIVE ATHLETIC RESUME OF HER OWN

Drudge was inducted into the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame in 2023. She was a 1995 Indiana All-Star at Rushville High School and played at Butler University. Her coaching career includes serving as an assistant coach at Carmel High from 2000-2001 before becoming

the head coach there for three seasons. She returned as an assistant coach at Carmel from 2009-2013 and again this past season under first-year head coach Rick Risinger.

Additionally, Drudge coached her niece Annika Marlow’s travel AAU team for several years; Marlow is a 2022 Rushville graduate. Drudge finished her 24th year

We don’t want kids to miss out on the impact and importance of participating in high school sports”

at Carmel Clay Schools as a chemistry teacher and will transition to teaching geometry and algebra I at ZCHS.

“I grew up in Rush County, and girls’ basketball was a big deal before it was a [big] deal in a lot of other communities,” Drudge said. “One of the reasons girls’ basketball was so supported was because of Coach Cinda Brown. She was a fantastic leader of young ladies and of all kids. She really brought our community together, and when I was going through elementary school, I couldn’t wait to be a Lady Lion.”

GIRLS’ AND WOMEN’S BASKETBALL GAINING POPULARITY

Drudge shared her thoughts on how girls’ and women’s basketball continues to gain popularity and community support.

“What an amazing and exciting time for women’s basketball,” Drudge expressed. “The WNBA has been around for over 25 years, and while they’ve established themselves, it’s only been in the last few years that [women’s] basketball has become a national game that has gained popularity among men, women, girls and boys.”

While Drudge supports any student-athletes dreaming of going pro, she emphasizes the value of playing at the high school level.

“We don’t want kids to miss out on the impact and importance of participating in high school sports,” Drudge said. “We want

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Submitted

the kids to realize that playing for your high school and representing your community is a lifelong pleasure for them.”

As a former female student-athlete, Drudge recalled how playing for Butler University back in the day looked quite different than it does today.

“My experience at Butler was fantastic, but even college basketball has changed drastically in the last 25 years and when I was playing at Butler,” Drudge shared. “We didn’t get the great crowds at our women’s games. I went to a game this last season, and people were standing in line outside of Hinkle [Fieldhouse], and it was such a cool experience. It’s been really cool to see the men’s and the women’s [basketball] programs grow so much in the last 25 years.”

A RETURN TO COURTSIDE … JUST IN A DIFFERENT COUNTY

“Even while I was at Butler, there was a little part of me that considered going

into college coaching, but I’ve known since the first grade that I wanted to be a high school teacher,” Drudge said. “What I’ve grown to understand while teaching for 24 years is that coaching is teaching. We meet kids where they are, figure out what their strong suits are, and give them opportunities to grow and improve their game.”

When asked what she is excited about as far as coaching and teaching in Zionsville, Drudge shared, “I am incredibly excited to be in Zionsville and learn about their culture and traditions. I’ve been so impressed with everyone in Zionsville, from school administration to players and parents. I think it’s going to be an exciting season for us.”

Drudge added, “I want to create the culture that Coach Brown created at Rushville and make an impact on these kids the way that [Brown] did [on] me and my teammates. The timing of being able to come to Zionsville—a fantastic

school corporation and community— with a program that Coach McGuire has established and has had a ton of success with, it is just perfect timing for me.”

Drudge emphasized that her primary goal is to get acclimated and to build strong relationships with her team and the coaching staff.

“The first thing is getting to know the kids really well this summer,” Drudge stated. “They say that kids don’t care what you know until they know that you care, and I think that’s important—not just in the classroom but also in coaching. So, this summer will be dedicated to getting to know the kids, them getting to know me, and figuring out what our strengths are. We will build our offense and defense around the strengths of our team. We’ll have a young team on the court next season, but I think by the end of the [season], we’ll look like a veteran team.”

Continues to Build Upon Wild Air Farm’s Legacy

Once upon a time, there was a magnificent and prestigious horse show in Zionsville, Indiana—Traders Point Hunt Charity Horse Show (TPHCHS), located on 250 acres of tranquil countryside known to the equine community as “Wild Air Farm.”

The “South” farm, as Wild Air Farm is known to those with ties to the property, is located south of Oak Street at 7550 Hunt Club Road. The “North” farm, located north of Oak Street, was once the residence of the patriarch and matriarch of the Johnson family. Now, those 260 acres are being developed into a multi-faceted residential community.

I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Chad and Krista Hughes, who own and operate H&H Stables, LLC, at Wild Air Farm. H&H operates and manages barns and horse shows at the farm.

They shared insights into their operations and their vision for the property’s

future, which they are working on bringing to fruition in collaboration with the current owner Zachary “Zach” Johnson.

AN EXTRAORDINARY LEGACY

Established by Sylvester and Elizabeth “Liz” Johnson decades ago, Wild Air Farm has remained a cornerstone of equestrian excellence. Besides their contributions to the equine community, the Johnsons were instrumental in hosting numerous philanthropic events that have benefited local organizations and the town of Zionsville over the years.

A passionate equestrian, Liz Johnson devoted her life to the sport and made significant philanthropic contributions,

especially to Riley Hospital for Children. Johnson founded the TPHCHS in 1977, growing it into one of the top horse shows in America, recognized by the American Horse Show Association and attended by over 10,000 spectators at its peak.

I have a personal affinity for the Johnson family and Wild Air Farm. I had the honor of volunteering for the Johnson family, serving as the publicity chair for the TPHCHS in its final years. This nationally renowned event, which ran for nearly four decades, generated well over $1 million for charities.

The incomparable Liz Johnson passed away on April 30, 2022, at 94, and her son, John “Johnny” Johnson, passed away on

Writer // Janelle Morrison • Photography // Courtesy of H&H Stables

May 17, 2021. Johnny’s son Zach inherited not only the property, but assumed the responsibility of stewarding his family’s extraordinary legacy as well.

USING THE LAND FOR ITS INTENDED PURPOSE

Today, Chad and Krista Hughes and their daughter Kelli, in collaboration with Zach Johnson, are revitalizing the farm to reclaim its status as central Indiana’s premier destination for horse shows, lessons and boarding facilities.

Chad Hughes is the president of H&H Stables, and, with the help of his daughter Kelli [Hughes], Nathan Rabensteine and Jim Farmer, the organization has completed three successful show seasons. He is a captain of the Carmel Fire Department and is in his 30th year with CFD. Hughes has been in fire service since 1989. Hughes and his wife Krista have been married for 25 years. The Hugheses have diverse backgrounds that include owning H&H Realty Group and owning/managing Airbnbs on the White River in Noblesville.

“We have recently resigned our longterm lease with Zach, so we’re going to be

out here [Wild Air Farm] for many years to come,” Hughes shared. “The property is unlike anything else in the area. When you’re out here, you can’t believe you’re in Zionsville. It’s really amazing what potential the property holds, and our future is bright out here.”

Hughes continued, “We are affiliated with the Indiana Hunter Jumper Association (IHJA)—they are local schooling shows. Our show bill and schedule are

posted on H&H Stables on Facebook, and our Instagram presence is growing. What we do really well is horse management from shows, boarding and care, and just being a good steward in the equine community. Kelli operates the boarding and lesson program at the barn with the assistance of Nathan Rabensteine, and Jim Farmer is our show manager. He’s been at the farm since 1964. They have helped tremendously [with] taking [H&H] to another level this year.”

The Hugheses shared that the farm has aging infrastructure, so they envision increasing funding opportunities while maximizing Wild Air Farm’s potential. To achieve this, they are developing a nonprofit organization, enabling them to apply for grants and accept donations to secure the future of both current and upcoming initiatives.

“The integration of our nonprofit is going to [be] vital to the long-term success of the farm,” Hughes explained. “Krista is the CEO of Community Farm, Inc., our nonprofit. We’ve talked with Zach about it, and he’s excited about the doors that can open for us and the success and sustainability of the farm. The property is underutilized, and we want to maximize the opportunities [at the farm] in a measured and conservative manner in which we are good stewards of the property and can expose the property to the community in a responsible manner.”

Hughes emphasized his desire to invite the public to come out to Wild Air Farm and experience the farm’s beauty and grandeur by attending any of the upcoming horse shows.

“Come out and see it for yourselves,” Hughes said. “Admission is free, and the shows generally run [from] 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends. There’s a food vendor if you want to grab something to eat and drink. So, come out and enjoy the show and competition at a local level with local riders—some of [whom] might be neighbors and friends!”

For more information on H&H Stables and its lessons, boarding and horse shows, contact Kelli Hughes at 317-945-7250 or via Facebook. Be sure to follow H&H Stables on Facebook @H&H Stables LLC and on Instagram @hhstablesllc.