Founded March 20 2012, at Zionsville, IN Vol. XIV, No. 11
Copyright 2023
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West Clay at 131st & Towne Rd
THANKS D D
Local doctors assist children in Africa
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
A Westfield couple recently returned from a 10-day trip to Africa to provide eye care for children at risk of being enslaved.
MISSION
Dr. Kennedy Neukam and Dr. Tyler Penny are optometrists who practice in Hamilton County. Neukam specializes in pediatric optometry at Little Eyes Pediatric Eye Care in Carmel and Fishers, while Penny practices at VisionWorks in Carmel. The couple embarked on a medical mission March 21-31 in Ghana.
Neukam met Christy Farhar, CEO and founder of the Micah 6:8 Project, during a church retreat in 2024. The Indiana-based nonprofit supports a vocational training center and primary school in Yeji, a rural and poverty-stricken area on Lake Volta known as a slave hub in central Ghana. The organization teaches trade skills to reduce the risk of child trafficking and help end child slavery. While speaking to Farhar, Neukam realized she and Penny could offer medical assistance to the children by way of eye exams.
“They do a medical mission every March, but they’ve never had anyone from optometry or ophthalmology go,” Neukam said. “While we were there, we saw around 400 children at the school.”
The trip — which included members of the organization and nurse practitioners — took several days. The group flew to Accra, the capital of Ghana on the Gulf of Guinea. From there it was a 14-hour bus ride north to Yeji, with occasional detours when the roads were too damaged for the bus.
Neukam said the Micah 6:8 Project provides an education for children who otherwise might be forced into slavery.
“They can go to school all day. They get meals. They get health care and they get vitamins, supplements, water, all things that they didn’t have access to before,” she said. “We collected about four suitcases full of glasses that people in the community had donated to us. When we got there, we took a little bit of effort to kind of set
things up — there’s not electricity all of the time and there’s not water all the time, so everything is a little slower.”
Teachers from the school flagged children with vision problems to be seen first.
“We checked their muscle tracking and checked their visual acuity,” Neukam said. “There’s a way to check prescription by just measuring it — I measure the length and shape of their eye. We didn’t have very sophisticated equipment. I just had a bunch of loose lenses that I was able to take on the flight.”
Neukam and Penny also dilated some of the children who had scars in their eyes from trauma or viruses. They were able to provide children who needed corrective lenses with glasses and medicated eye drops for those with infections.
Neukam said although rural areas of Ghana can be dangerous, she felt safe with their group, which was led by a Ghanan native. And, she said, it was worth it to help the children.
“They are full of joy even though they have nothing,” she said. “They don’t know me, they’ve never met me but they let me
put an eye drop in their eye. They’re just like ‘Okay I trust you and I need help from you.’ I would say something they wouldn’t understand so they just smile and say ‘yes’ or do a dance or sing or skip. Some of them walk over an hour in the morning just to go to school. They’re just so happy and they really wanted glasses — they were very excited to get glasses. It’s really cool, putting glasses on a kiddo who has probably gone their whole life and just not even realized it. It was really probably the most heartwarming thing just to know, there’s so many tough things in their lives and this will make one thing easier.”
Neukam said they would return if given the opportunity.
“It was 110 (degrees) and we had no fan because we had no electricity. Most of the time it’s stagnant. I had scabies. But just to see them happy and eager to come get their eyes checked, just to feel like you’re actually doing something with the skills that you have, I think it was totally worth it,” she said.
Learn more about the Micah 6:9 Project at micah68project.com.
Dr. Tyler Penny, left, and Dr. Kennedy Neukam with students from Ghana. (Photo courtesy of Dr. Kennedy Neukam)
Zionsville eyes hotel feasibility study
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
The Town of Zionsville has initiated steps to determine if building a hotel could become reality.
TOWN NEWS
Deputy Mayor Justin Hage told the Zionsville Redevelopment Commission recently that an economic summit held in February revealed a desire for hotels and meeting spaces in Zionsville.
“One thing that we’ve decided and that we’re looking at doing is to have a feasibility study conducted,” Hage said. “We’ve talked to five different entities (and) as we start to review some of those proposals, we may look for some input from members of the RDC.”
Hage said as the process moves forward, funding for a study would be sought from the RDC.
“There are a couple of parties that are interested in developing hotels that have also signaled a willingness to participate financially in supporting that study,” he said. The process is in the discussion stage. Hage said plans to launch a feasibility study will come to the RDC for a formal introduction in the near future.
DISPATCH
Donations requested for craft sale — Donations are being collected for a craft sale and swap at Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library. The swap takes place Aug. 23-24 at the Zionsville branch. Items needed include yarn, floss, fabric, patterns and supplies for all types of crafts. The sale and swap is sponsored by the Knit and Sew Club, which meets on the second Saturday each month at the Whitestown branch and the fourth Saturday each month at the Zionsville branch. To donate, contact Cindy Baker at sew_handy@yahoo. com or 317-733-0274.
Hage
New law strengthens protections for abuse victims
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
After three legislative sessions, Indiana District 25 State Rep. Becky Cash (R-Zionsville) said Indiana finally has a law that firms up protections for children who are the victims of abuse. But, she said, there’s still work to do.
LEGISLATURE
House Bill 1412, authored by Cash, was signed into law by Gov. Mike Braun May 1. The law allows police to determine if an institution, school, facility, organization or agency knew of alleged abuse of a child and failed to report it.
exploitation and possession of child sexual abuse material — spotlights the need for the law.
“It’s completely horrific, compounded by the fact that dating back as recent as April of 2024, the directors of the day care center admitted that parents had been reporting things to them, and they had basically said, ‘Well, we looked at cameras and we didn’t see anything,’ so they didn’t report to police and they didn’t report to DCS,” she said.
“When a report comes into the Department of Child Services, DCS’s job is to make sure that the child is safe,” Cash said. “But they don’t have the duty or the capability to go in and investigate whether somebody within that facility knew and didn’t report. And so, HB 1412 specifically directs that if a report comes into DCS and they substantiate it, they are then to report to law enforcement (and) if they determine that there was a failure to report, they are to then report that to the prosecutor.”
Cash said it will be up to the local prosecutor to seek charges for failure to report. She said a recent incident at a Brownsburg day care center — where an employee has been charged with several felony charges related to the children in his care, including child molestation, child
A component of the bill as filed was an increased penalty for failure to report. Although the penalty was removed from the bill in the Senate, Cash said she plans to reintroduce it in 2026.
The law also limits the way an individual can designate to another person when to make a report of child abuse or neglect.
“The Indiana code said that they could report to their designee, and they could delegate their responsibility to report,” she said. “Frequently, whoever was making the report had never even seen the child. And so, we were able to close that discrepancy and actually put into code that a member of the child’s actual care team who has seen the child has to make the report.”
Cash said the new law will help make sure details are not lost in reporting. She said the rule also will protect parents from any mistakes in reporting that could have consequences, like removing a child from a home.
Cash said the inspiration for the bill, which was first
“If the adults who have an obligation to protect children don’t make the reports, we’re never going to make a dent in child sexual abuse.”
– REP. BECKY CASH, DISTRICT 25
introduced in 2023, was several child sexual abuse cases that went through Boone County courts, including one involving a former Zionsville gymnastics coach who was convicted in 2022 of child molestation involving a former athlete. Cash said she hopes the bill will prevent something like the USA Gymnastics sexual abuse scandal from happening in Indiana.
“Unfortunately, abuse of children is systemic, and I really have come to believe that you’re never going to convince a perpetrator who abuses children to stop because they might get caught,” she said. “So, if the adults who have an obligation to protect children don’t make the reports, we’re never going to make a dent in child sexual abuse. The numbers are the same today, as they were when I was a child, and I’m 50. They’re exactly the same as they were when I was a child, and it’s really devastating.”
TENACITY. COMPASSION.
Hear what your neighbors are saying....
“Zoe is absolutely amazing at what she does. She combines a tremendous amount of local knowledge/skill with a sincere passion around getting to know her clients.”
“Zoe is absolutely amazing at what she does. She combines a tremendous amount of local knowledge/skill with a sincere passion around getting to know her clients.”
-Chad W.
“Zoe put our house on the market on a Tuesday and sold our house on Wednesday! Zoe is a dynamo.”
-Chad W.
-Elane J.
“Zoe put our house on the market on a Tuesday and sold our house on Wednesday! Zoe is a dynamo.”
-Elane J.
"Zoe was amazing! She got us way more for our house than we ever could have imagined."
"Zoe was amazing! She got us way more for our house than we ever could have imagined."
-Suzanne P.
“Zoe was amazing! From the first meeting, she was clearly motivated, organized, and practical. She sold our house ahead of schedule and took care of all the details. I would absolutely partner with her again!”
-Suzanne P.
-Bob S.
“Zoe was amazing! From the first meeting, she was clearly motivated, organized, and practical. She sold our house ahead of schedule and took care of all the details. I would absolutely partner with her again!”
-Bob S.
Cash
The Zionsville Pathways Committee recently recommended adding a connector from Oak Street to the Big-4 Rail Trail. (File photo)
Pathways Committee recommends trail connections
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
The Zionsville Pathways Committee recently made its annual recommendations to the Zionsville Town Council.
RECREATION
The seven-member committee is an advisory board to the council on pathway locations and routes. The committee also promotes pathways — sidewalks, greenways, trails and connectors — with public awareness and education campaigns.
Committee recommendations were previously presented at the end of the year but were moved to the second quarter of 2025 to fall in line with budget preparations for 2026.
Committee member Brad Gressel said the committee’s top recommendations and safety observations represent the effort to build, enhance and maintain key pedestrian corridors in Zionsville.
The committee bases recommendations on several criteria, including if the pathway fills gaps between existing paths; provides access to key destinations; services a significant number of people; or improves safety. The committee also considers construction needs for new pathways, land acquisition and future development that may affect pathways.
The committee made five recommendations to the council. Although some recommendations built on previous years’ ideas, a new recommendation this year is a connector to the Big-4 Rail Trail from Oak Street.
“Currently, the only access points directly to it are at Zionsville Town Hall or (Zionsville Christian Church), or if you go down into the neighborhood off of 9th Street,” Gressel said. “We’ve identified a great location for a direct short pathway on the north and south side (of Oak Street) to get users more access to the trail. It’s not a long distance, but it would make a big impact.”
The committee also recommended filling pathway gaps along Michigan Road near Holliday Farms; completion of a missing pathway section on Templin Road east of Willow Road; completing a 300-foot gap in the pathway in Royal Run on Ottinger Drive; and filling a 650-foot gap on Pleasant View Road.
The committee also suggested a partnership with Whitestown on a future pathway connection near Boone Meadow Elementary School and neighborhoods to the north.
Safety improvements for trails that are directly adjacent to roadways — like Mulberry Street and Pleasant View Road — were included in the recommendations. Those improvements would include adding physical barriers, like curbs or bollards, to differentiate between the road and the trail.
Besides pathway recommendations, the Zionsville Pathways Committee is responsible for maintaining Zionsville’s “Bike-Friendly Community” and “Walk-Friendly Community” designations.
The town’s website was updated over the past year to include an interactive map and contact form. Learn more at zionsville-in.gov/572/Pathways-Committee.
Speaker Series — Zionsville author Andrew Whitehead will be the guest speaker at 7 p.m. July 1 at Zionsville Christian Church as part of the ZCC Speaker Series. Whitehead, a Professor of Sociology and Executive Director of the Association of Religion Data Archives at the Center for the Study of Religion and American Culture at Indiana University Indianapolis, will discuss Christian Nationalism in the United States. ZCC will present a viewing of the film, ‘Bad Faith,’ a feature-length documentary examining the rise of Christian Nationalism, at 7 p.m. June 17
as a prelude to the speaker series. The ZCC Speaker Series features speakers who foster thought and action on equity, diversity, human rights, access to essential resources and opportunities, participation in decision-making processes that impact communities and environmental issues. The speaker series and the film are free to attend.
Farmers market in Zionsville — The Zionsville Farmers’ Market takes place from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Saturdays through Sept. 27 on Main Street in the Village. Market vendors offer a wide variety of
produce and goods from local vendors. The weekly market includes food trucks, activities, a community booth and live entertainment. Weekly vendor and entertainment lineups are available at zionsvillefarmersmarket.org.
Bottled water drive for the USO — St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church, 1870 W. Oak St. in Zionsville will conduct a bottled water drive June 14 and 15 to benefit the USO. Cases of bottled water can be dropped off to the marked trailer in the church parking lot. The initiative provides much-needed hydration and
support to the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces. Learn more at zionsvillecatholic.com.
Blood drive — Witham Health Services will host a blood drive from 11:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. June 18 at Witham Health Services North Pavilion, 2705 N. Lebanon St. in Lebanon. Individuals 17 and older who are in good health and not experiencing symptoms of cold or flu may donate blood. Donors who are 16 years old may donate but must have parent/ guardian permission. Sign up at tinyurl. com/374twmfb.
Whitestown man sentenced for sharing child pornography
CRIME news@youarecurrent.com
A Whitestown man has been sentenced to more than 12 years in federal prison for sharing child sexual abuse material, according to a news release from the U.S. Department of Justice.
Kyle Vincent Rogers, 32, pleaded guilty to distribution of child sexual abuse material between March 2023 and October 2023. According to the release, Rogers knowingly distributed and received child sexual abuse material using uTorrent, a peer-to-peer file-sharing software downloaded to his laptop. He was sentenced May 29.
Investigators found at least 600 images and videos of child sexual abuse on Rogers’ laptop in November 2023. According to the release, the images involved sadistic or masochistic conduct and sexual abuse of prepubescent minors, including toddlers and infants. Rogers’ collection included images of children being sexually abused and graphic videos of very young children forced to engage in sex acts with adults, including intercourse, bondage and bestiality, according to the release.
“The children in these images and videos will be revictimized for years to come because the defendant possessed and recirculated the material, allowing an unknown number of additional predators to gain unrestricted access,” stated John E. Chil-
dress, acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Our office is committed to leveraging law enforcement partnerships and tools to secure justice for the most vulnerable. Today’s sentence should send a clear message that there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.”
The case was investigated by the FBI and Rogers’ sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James P. Hanlon. Rogers must register as a sex offender upon release. The sentence will be followed by 10 years of supervised release. He also will pay $3,000 in restitution.
“This sentence sends a clear message that those who trade in the exploitation of children will face serious consequences. Behind every image and video is a real child who has endured unimaginable harm that will haunt them the rest of their lives,” FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Timothy O’Malley stated. “The FBI will continue to relentlessly work to identify and track down those who commit such heinous crimes and ensure they can never victimize another innocent child.”
The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Resources for victims of child exploitation can be found at justice.gov/usao-sdin/ project-safe-childhood.
DISPATCHES
Whitestown summer concert series —
Whitestown Parks and Recreation will host a free summer concert series at Main Street Park on Fridays through July 25, excluding July 4. Performances include DUDE! June 13; 90 Proof June 20; Midnight Red Eye June 27; Vinyl Escape July 11; The Big 80s July 18; and Stella Luna & the Satellites July 25. Food and beverage trucks also will be available. Gates open at 6 p.m and concerts begin at 7 p.m. Learn more at whitestown.in.gov/bands-and-vendors.
Whitestown Farmers Market — The Whitestown Farmers Market takes place at Main Street Park from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 28. Market vendors sell local produce, meat and artisan goods.
Each market will feature live music and all park amenities, including the splash pad. Learn more at whitestown.in.gov under the community/parks and recreation tab.
Career scholarship program available — Applications are now open for the Indiana Career Scholarship account program. The program is available to Hoosier students in grades 10-12 interested in internships, apprenticeships and work-based learning opportunities. CSAs provide $5,000 annually in scholarship funding to students enrolled in an approved program provider for the upcoming school year. The deadline to apply is Oct 1. The program is administered by the Indiana Treasurer of State. Learn more at in.gov/tos/csa.
Rogers
UNLOCK YOUR HOME’S EQUITY
DIVERSITY
More than 40 residents recently attended a presentation at Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library Whitestown branch spotlighting the results of a countywide language survey led by Community Foundation of Boone County CEO Julie Reagan.
‘The Language Landscape: Insights and Opportunities for Boone County’ included panelists discussing Boone County’s growing linguistic diversity. The language survey was used to identify existing language support resources and explore services that would enhance inclusion across the county. The survey was completed by 88 participants representing Boone County businesses, nonprofits, community partners, education institutions and health care facilities.
“As we all know, Boone County is changing fast, currently the fastest-growing county in the state,” Reagan stated. “With population growth comes opportunity, but also the responsibility to meet the needs of a diversifying community.”
According to the survey, Boone County’s growth rate over the past year was 3.4 percent, and the population has grown 26 percent since 2013. Projections estimate a 50 to 90 percent population increase by 2050.
The number of residents who speak a language other than English at home has doubled since 2013, with a 74 percent increase in foreign-born residents. The most common non-English languages spo-
ken in Boone County homes are Spanish, French and Haitian Creole. American Sign Language, German and Yoruba also are commonly spoken, according to the survey.
Respondents noted an increase in clients who need language services. Although Google Translate was listed as the most used translation tool, respondents noted it presents challenges in time-sensitive, confidential or complex communication.
The panel discussion and a group question and answer session focused on challenges and opportunities related to language access in Boone County. Participants said they would like to see more resources made available, like affordable translation services and ways to ensure consumers, clients and employees have access to various services equitably, including English-learning classes.
CFBC is partnering with the Boone County Health Department to translate the Boone County Resource Guide into Spanish, French and Haitian Creole. The foundation also is partnering with the IT company GUTS to install a translation widget onto community partners’ websites.
“It’s inspiring to witness how our community continues to grow — not just in numbers, but in spirit, collaboration and opportunity,” Reagan stated. “This momentum reflects the dedication of our residents, partners and leaders who believe in building a thriving future for everyone who calls Boone County home.”
Learn more about CFBC community resources at communityfoundationbc.org under the community programs tab.
Language Landscape panelists are, from left, Suzy Rich, Christina Arrom, Megan Lewis, Brian Stevenson, Karen Simon and Kaki Garard. (Photo courtesy of Community Foundation of Boone County)
New home construction permits were up in April, according to the Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis. (File photo)
New home permits increase in central Indiana
REAL ESTATE news@youarecurrent.com
The Builders Association of Greater Indianapolis recently reported a 12 percent year-over-year increase in new home construction permits in central Indiana for April 2025, indicating a rebound in residential building activity.
According to the BAGI home permit report, 1,043 permits were issued across the nine-county Indianapolis region in April 2025, compared to 933 permits in April 2024. According to BAGI, the uptick reflects strong demand. Builders have noted success in selling move-in ready inventory despite interest rate uncertainty and policy changes.
In Hamilton County, the City of Westfield so far issued the most new-home permits in 2025, with 95 issued in April and 495 issued since January.
In Boone County, the Town of Whitestown issued 90 new-home permits in April and 208 since the start of the year.
Permits issued from January through April include 152 in Noblesville; 144 in Fishers; 84 in Carmel; 67 in Zionsville; 28 in Lawrence; and 508 in Indianapolis.
“April’s permit growth highlights the resilience of central Indiana’s housing market,” stated Chris Hancock, CEO of BAGI. “Builders are strategically responding to economic signals and buyer needs, ensuring alignment with market trends. This region remains highly attractive, and we anticipate sustained demand through 2025.”
View the permit report at BAGI.com/ Permits.
Curbside recycling versus drop spots
Commentary by Jennifer Lawrence
ENVIRONMENT
Spoiler alert! The Boone County Solid Waste Management District will always advocate curbside recycling as the best option because it
is the most convenient and leads to the best quality of collected materials. When a resident pays for the service, learns the recycling pickup schedule and takes time to know what is accepted in the bin, there is a sense of skin in the game, and it leads to better recycling. In the world of recycling, quality materials will always be key.
But there are times when the cardboard you have collected is just too much to fit in your curbside bin. Also, not all areas are serviced with curbside recycling options. In those cases, local recycling drop spots are needed. But understanding what is accepted in the bin is of utmost importance as it prevents contamination and worse yet, illegal dumping.
It is always best to check the accepted materials list directly from your specific hauler or as it is posted on the side of the recycling drop spot bin. We can take comfort in knowing if we focus on containers that are sold to contain our food and drinks, we can be ahead of the game. For example, a glass root beer bottle is readily recyclable, but your old windowpane is not. Steel and aluminum cans that hold soup and soda are always accepted.
Plastics can be trickier. But focus on food/drink jugs and tubs. As always paper and cardboard are accepted. Clean, dry and loose help keep the materials valuable and the circular economy spinning. Give your materials a quick rinse, remove all liquids and never bag your recyclables.
The Boone County Solid Waste Management District opened a new recycling drop spot at the Whitestown Municipal Complex June 2, open 24/7. Learn more at boonecountysolidwaste.com.
Jennifer Lawrence is the executive director of Boone County Solid Waste Management District.
The Indiana Army National Guard 38th Infantry Division Band performs during qualifying at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in May. (Photo courtesy of the 38th Infantry Division Band)
Military band to perform at Zionsville Lions Park
EVENT news@youarecurrent.com
The Indiana Army National Guard 38th Infantry Division Band will perform a free concert at 7 p.m. July 8 at Zionsville Lions Park, 11053 Sycamore St.
The concert is one of eight scheduled across the Indianapolis area to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. Organized in 1917 and headquartered in Indianapolis, the 38th Infantry Division Band is the only military band in Indiana. Its mission is to provide soldier and family
support; recruiting and retention support; public diplomacy; community relations for community events; and support for both military and civic functions throughout Indiana.
Members of the 38th Infantry Division Band serve their country one weekend a month and 15 active-duty days throughout the year. The members include college students, teachers, college professors, pastors, police officers, business entrepreneurs and local musicians.
Learn more at facebook. com/38thDivisionBand.
JAZZERCISE EVENT TO BENEFIT ALZHEIMER’S RESEARCH
NWIndy Jazzercise at Pilgrim Church in Carmel, 3650 106th St., will host an Alzheimer’s Longest Day event to raise money for Alzheimer’s research and care at 8:30 a.m. June 14. Participants are asked to contribute a $10 donation for the class. The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading research organization dedicated to finding a cure for Alzheimer’s and dementia, by accelerating global research, driving early detection efforts and maximizing quality care and support. The Longest Day is an annual fundraiser that takes place near the summer solstice — the longest day of daylight of the year. The Longest Day participants fight the darkness of Alzheimer’s and dementia through fundraising activities that benefit the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association. Learn more at alz.org. (Photo courtesy of NWIndy Jazzercise)
Congratulations To The UNIVERSITY HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2025
Orly Alkaslassy
Saffanah Anwar
Eli Barnes
Guerin Barnhart Whitcomb
Eli Berger
Conor Bergeson-Dana
Milla Betley
Peter Biglan
Grace Blake
Alexander Blanch
Zien Bland
Cooper Burnett
Mikey Cardwell
Grace Cates
Bella Ciano
Brandon Clague
Kaela Crotchfelt
Casey Dahle
Eleanor Dillman
Brianna Dimond
Rielee Douglas-Jones
Lindsey Effland
Triston English
Lukas Fiur
Bridget Flanagan
Emily Ganter
Syed Hasan
Padric Hatton
Stella Henning
Khalea Hoggs
Hayden Hyde
Vick Kiger
Evie King
Bea Lacerda
Lauren Langer
Alice Li
Emma Louie
Wes Lucas
Max McComb
Brody McMurtray
Katy Morcos
Gabe Moshe
Noah Moshe
Jack Munneke
Polina Nix
Xander Odle
Tony Olson
Aidan Patel
Anisha Patel
Elgin Phillips
Luke Pierce
Dominic Poulter
Kelston Prieto
Cam Rady
Marti Ramirez
Bryce Redic
Ela Repetto
Vivi Reveal
Kayla Rosetti
Kate Rothwell
Lily Rothwell
Taylor Seay
Rayan Shah
Ahsas Sidhu
Annabel Simpson
Corbin Smith
Laine Spears
Malachi Spieth
Zach Sullivan
Mason Syrek
Sage Tracy
Kelley Trowbridge
Anyah Turley
Henry Wang
Sam Weaver
Phifer Whorley
Emerson Wilmore
Stacy Xu
Jack Zhang
Janny Zhang
Dozens of pairs of hand-painted sneakers were auctioned at the Color
Our World gala May 31 to benefit Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library. (Photos by Marney Simon)
Gala benefits Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library
news@youarecurrent.com
Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library, Whitestown branch, turned into an event space for more than 150 attendees May 31 for the “Color Our World” gala, a night of advocacy to raise funds for Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library following legislative funding cuts to Indiana libraries as part of the state’s property tax reform law.
FUNDRAISER
The library anticipates a loss of $200,000 to $300,000 in property tax funding over the next two years.
The inaugural gala was a celebration of the arts, featuring a silent auction of dozens of custom-painted shoes and sneakers and raising awareness of the need to preserve access to library services.
Zionsville artist Justin Patten created a live painting during the event and donated two pairs of hand-painted sneakers for the auction.
Besides the auction of sneakers and other fundraising items throughout the night, gala attendees also enjoyed dinner, dancing and a visit with Indiana Fever
Zionsville artist Justin Patten creates a painting during the “Color Our World” gala.
mascot Freddy Fever.
Proceeds from the gala directly support the library’s programming. As of press time, the total amount raised was not yet available.
“Color Our World” also is the theme of the Hussey-Mayfield Memorial Public Library summer reading program, which runs through July 31. Learn more at hmmpl.org.
DISPATCHES
Garden tour — SullivanMunce Cultural Center will present the Gardens of Zionsville tour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 21. Registration is $20 through June 18 and $25 after June 18. A kick-off party is from 6 to 8 p.m. June 20 at Sullivan Munce Cultural Center, 225 W. Hawthorne St. in Zionsville. Learn more and register at sullivanmunce. org.
Zionsville Street Dance — Tickets are on sale for the 2025 Zionsville Street Dance, 6 to 10 pm. Aug. 2 in the Village. The event includes a concert, beverages, food trucks and a kids’ area. The event draws up to 6,000 attendees annually. Sponsorship and vendor opportunities also are available. Learn more at zionsvillechamber.org.
Carmel High School grad top rookie for Michigan
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
Aaronson Mansberger received a wealth of accolades in his first season on the University of Michigan’s men’s gymnastics team.
ACHIEVEMENT
The 2024 Carmel High School graduate was named Big Ten Freshman of the Week three times. He also was named Michigan’s 2024-25 Rookie of the Year for men’s gymnastics and was named a College Gymnastics Association Regular Season All-American.
But those are not the accomplishments that meant the most to him.
“Helping the team win its fifth straight Big Ten Conference title and first NCAA title in over 10 years (April 19) brought me more joy than any individual title ever could,” Mansberger said. “It was a really special moment to look up at the home crowd at (Michigan’s) Crisler Arena and see all of our friends and supporters cheering us on after bringing home the championships.”
Next up for Mansberger is competing June 28 in the men’s national qualifier.
Aaronson Mansberger was named the 20242025 Rookie of the Year for men’s gymnastics at the University of Michigan. (Photo courtesy of Aaronson Mansberger)
“My goal is to qualify from that meet to the U.S. Championships in August, which serves as the selection competition for the U.S. Senior National Team and the 2025 World Championships Team,” he said.
“Looking ahead to next college season, my goal is to improve my dismount skill. I fell at the (Big Ten) pommel horse final and NCAA Championships and I want to increase the difficulty score in my routine while maintaining the high-execution scores I received last season.”
Mansberger’s season-high score of 14.7 in the Big Ten team competition qualified for second place for the pommel horse final. The next evening, he fell on his dismount and scored 13.575, which placed him sixth. In the NCAA Championships, he had
the third-highest score with 14.466 after qualifications. In the finals the next night, he again fell on his dismount and scored 13.4, which placed 17th.
Mansberger said his uncharacteristic falls on his dismount in the Big Ten and NCAA finals are why he knows there’s still work to do to improve his consistency.
“I showed very high potential by being in the top three of both the Big Ten and NCAA after qualifications, but I wasn’t able to finish strong in finals,” said Mansberger, who trained at Interactive Academy in Zionsville from the time he was 5 years old through high school.
Mansberger said the falls taught him that he still needs work on his mental and physical preparation.
“I didn’t have a perfect record, but I was able to prove myself as someone the team can rely on to anchor the pommel horse lineup,” he said. “In my club career before college, I struggled with performing under pressure. This year, I did a lot of mental training, and this helped me perform my routine more reliably. Knowing that my 24 teammates had my back no matter what gave me confidence.”
DISPATCHES
Catholic church pilgrimage to Italy — Verso Ministries and St. Alphonsus Liguori Catholic Church of Zionsville will lead a pilgrimage to Italy Oct. 20-29, 2025. The trip will visit Rome, Milan and Turin and will include a visit of iconic sites, culinary experiences and moments of spiritual renewal. St. Alphonsus Liguori pastor the Reverend Travis Stephens, who has been with the parish since 2020, will lead the pilgrimage. Verso Ministries specializes in creating transformative pilgrimage experiences, combining travel with spiritual enrichment. Learn more and reserve a spot at tinyurl.com/365637wb.
Mom Prom — The Zionsville Department of Parks & Recreation will host a 90s-themed “Mom Prom” from 7 to 9 p.m. July 25 at COhatch, 75 N. Main St. The 21 and over event features a DJ and dancing, signature mocktail, appetizers provided by The Savory Stagecoach, a candy bar featuring 90’s-themed candies, shopping, a photo booth and activities. Tickets are $40 per person. Register at zionsvillein.myrec.com.
COVER STORY
CREATIVE COLLECTIVE
By Marney Simon marney@youarecurrent.com
Art is everywhere in Indiana.
That’s the common thread among the 24 artists at Art IN Hand in Zionsville, a cooperative of artists who practice a variety of mediums and display their works at the Art IN Hand gallery in the Village. Artists display and sell original paintings, photography, pottery, glass, wood, fiber and jewelry.
Art IN Hand celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. Artists held their first show at a home in Zionsville in 1999. On April 15, 2000, they opened the co-op on north Main Street. One year later, they moved the gallery to 211 S. Main St., where they’ve been ever since.
“We all encourage each other and help each other grow as artists and bounce ideas off of each other,” Art IN Hand President Christine Davis said. “Everybody has a job, and we all pay a monthly fee to be here. You have a job, and you have to work here — we don’t hire anyone for anything. We all just take turns working and we show our work, and people are able to come in and talk to one of the artists. They really like that.”
Davis said the advantage of an artists’ co-op in Zionsville is having the artists meet personally with the public.
“A number of us sell things through other galleries, but there’s no face to that piece,” she said. “Here, they’ve got a face, or they’ve got a story, or they find out something about the artist. Monetarily, it’s better for us because typical galleries take 40 to 50 percent commission. We don’t do that here.”
Judy DeGan, a potter who works as the community liaison for Art IN Hand, said the co-op isn’t simply a place to display and sell artwork. It’s a community of artists who benefit from the creative atmosphere around them.
“I think everybody has continued to grow as an artist once they’ve been here,” she said. “It’s just really fun to watch people’s work change. I don’t know if it’s because of us, but some people have really grown a lot.”
Prospective members go through a selection process when there is an artist
opening at Art IN Hand. Submitted works are juried, and artists are admitted if they reach a 60 percent approval rate from the co-op.
Artists who have been part of the collective and moved on have found success on a larger scale, selling pieces and winning awards across the world. The organization members said they are proud to serve as a kind of steppingstone for artists who continue to grow.
“We still learn from each other,” said J.D. Nolan, a photographer and original member of Art IN Hand who is in charge of rotating the displays. “It doesn’t even have to be in whatever your art form is. You learn from other people. I remember when we were first in here, I said (to the other artists), ‘I really admire you people, because you either paint or you throw
pots or whatever. You started out with something that’s all blank, but you have the ability to think in your mind, what can I do with this, and then you do it. I’m a photographer, and I just walk around and look at things.’ And someone said, ‘We can walk past the same things you are and not notice anything, but you notice them.’
So, you get a little encouragement for what you’re doing. That’s the kind of thing that a group like this does.”
The artists said those who come to the gallery range from casual visitors to art collectors, who come to see the art and engage with the artists. And, they said, it’s never too late to embrace art.
“I was 54 before I took my first lesson in photography,” Nolan said. “I was always going to art shows and galleries, and I started concentrating on black and white
photography. I would see a picture that was taken, and something would be tack sharp and all the other things would be somewhat blurry. You knew what they were, but you’ve really paid attention to this one thing in the center. And I wanted to learn how they did it. So, I took a class (and) I started doing it before I retired. I was doing it full time and doing art shows. So, I believe everybody can do something, but they have to have something that they really have a passion for.”
The artists said community support has been strong for the past 25 years.
“I think people come into the store and they like the idea of having something local. I think they feel good about buying from the community, as opposed to putting something on the wall with no ownership to it,” DeGan said. “I do think the fact that we have so many Indiana artisans really speaks to the quality of the art that we have, that we’ve been recognized in other ways.”
The 24 artists of the Zionsville-based cooperative Art IN Hand will participate in Main Street Zionsville’s inaugural Summer Art Walk from 4 to 9 p.m. June 27.
Residents and visitors are invited to explore the Village while enjoying fine art, live demonstrations and creative
local culture. Artists from the cooperative will be available to meet with collectors during the event.
Restaurants and shops in the Village will host local artisans who will display their works for visitors. Learn more at mainstreetzionsville. org.
Art IN Hand is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Learn more at artinhandgallery.com
Art IN Hand celebrates 25 years in Zionsville
ON THE COVER: The Art IN Hand gallery includes the works of 24 local artists. (Photo by Marney Simon)
ART WALK IN ZIONSVILLE
Artwork by 24 Art IN Hand artists is on sale at the gallery on Main Street. (Photos by Marney Simon)
Artists at Art IN Hand create in several mediums, including painting.
Blueprint for Improvement: Carmel bath gets complete makeover
Commentary by Larry Greene
This Carmel primary bathroom transformation shows how strategic design choices can create a stunning, spa-like retreat.
THE BLUEPRINT
• The renovation replaced outdated beige walls with crisp white cabinetry and elegant Cambria quartz countertops.
• A spacious zero-threshold glass shower with geometric tile work became the centerpiece, while dual vanities with black-framed mirrors added sophistication.
• Glazed porcelain flooring extends seamlessly into the shower for a cohesive look.
• Modern lighting fixtures and sleek hardware complete the contemporary aesthetic, transforming this master suite into a hotel-worthy sanctuary.
Larry Greene is the owner of Worthington Design & Remodeling (formerly Case). You may email him at lgreene@worthingtonindy.com or visit worthingtonindy.com for more remodeling inspiration and advice.
After
Before
The naked truth about locking myself out
Commentary by Dick Wolfsie
This happened many years ago. I’m revisiting it this week because once again, I locked myself out of the house. This time, it was in broad daylight, and I had all my clothes on, a distinct improvement from 20 years ago. It’s worth retelling the story.
HUMOR
I had just arrived home from a dinner, pulled into the garage about 11 p.m. and entered the house through the door inside the garage. My wife Mary Ellen was asleep upstairs. I quietly went into the bedroom and undressed, but before putting on my sleeping shorts, I decided to run downstairs and grab a small bottle of fruit juice from the garage fridge. I retrieved the drink and turned the knob to reenter the house. The knob refused to budge. “No way,” I said to myself. And no clothes, either. I was locked out. Buck naked.
I banged on the door with both fists, bellowing Mary Ellen’s name. No response. The bedroom door was probably closed and the ceiling fan was whirring. On a scale from 1 to 10 to be heard, I would need to make a disturbance that was a seven on the Richter scale. Mary Ellen can sleep through anything. Except for my snoring.
“I remembered that sometimes I leave the back door of the house unlocked. All I had to do was sneak around and go through the entrance on the deck. Still without a stitch.”
– DICK WOLFSIE
sideration to my wardrobe. But what was appropriate for this occasion? I had two choices: A lovely 40-gallon black garbage bag or the 34-gallon clear plastic bags. I look terrible in black, but the other option seemed, well, redundant. Instead, I just opened the garage door and made my way along the side of the house. Then, as I neared the backyard, I bolted toward the deck, up the steps and into the living room.
The next morning, I decided not to tell Mary Ellen what happened. I wasn’t in the mood to be made fun of. But I had forgotten about that voicemail. She called me from work later that day.
Embracing the paradox
Commentary by Terry Anker
I called Mary Ellen’s cellphone. It went to voicemail. Out of habit, I left a message: “Hello, Mary Ellen. If you get this, I’m in the garage with no clothes on. When you have a moment, could you come downstairs and let me in?”
I didn’t imagine she would check for messages at 11:30 p.m. Now, what was I going to do? I remembered that sometimes I leave the back door of the house unlocked. All I had to do was sneak around and go through the entrance on the deck. Still without a stitch.
I now needed to give some serious con-
“Dick, I just listened to the oddest message. Last night, about the time you were supposed to get home, there was a naked man in our garage. Now, who in heaven’s name could that have possibly been?”
“I haven’t the slightest idea, Mary Ellen.”
I figured she’d never find out. I didn’t leave my name on that voicemail.
Dick Wolfsie is an author, columnist and speaker. Contact him at wolfsie@aol.com.
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ESSAY
Famed Ohioan Jennifer Crusie once opined, “if you can’t be a good example, then be a terrible warning.” Aside from her exceptional work in advancing strong female protagonists in her books, she framed the reality of most of our lives. Whether we choose to acknowledge it or not, we are either modeling good behavior or demonstrating bad. The standard is binary. We cannot claim to hold neutrality because it does not exist. There is no point of zero.
Others are always watching. Many have specific expectations and biases to confirm, or disprove, with every communication, verbal or otherwise. We don’t choose by whom, when or what context we are being observed. Politicians, celebrities and religious leaders work hard to curate what we, the public, are allowed to see. Most hire professional manipulators at marketing and public relations firms, in their words, to “control the narrative” of our thought.
Then-NBA star Charles Barkley cashed
Terry Anker is an associate editor of Current Publishing, LLC. You may email him at terry@youarecurrent. com. in on the tension that we want to be watched without being judged in his 1993 Nike commercial where he chastised us with, “I am not a role model. I’m not paid to be a role model.” So what? Does this make him less culpable for his actions? Likewise, Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, notoriously demands privacy while pandering for attention, so much so that the television comedy “South Park” dedicated a special to satirizing him and his American wife.
We can follow those exemplars, or we can learn from the flaws of those who are not. And in our own lives, do we see ourselves as only one or the other? If we can be both a “good example” and a “terrible warning” on any given day, how do we reconcile our weaknesses? Barkley and the Duke deny them. Crusie embraces the paradox.
Get Ready with Girl Scouts!
Girls entering kindergarten or rst grade can join Girl Scouts through this limited-time offer! You’ll get:
• A summer Girl Scout experience, PLUS next year’s troop experience
• An opportunity to meet new friends before school starts
• Free activity books and Girl Scout Daisy patch
Register by 6/30! Financial assistance is available.
Carmel resident Ephraim Owens views the opportunity to play Jesus as a dream role for a great cause.
Owens sings the role of Jesus of Nazareth as Civic in Concert presents “Jesus Christ Superstar” at 7 p.m. June 14 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center in Carmel. A resident company of Allied Solutions Center, this is Civic Theatre’s debut performance in the Palladium, which opened in 2011.
“I’m excited about being able to do a fantastic show and doing it with fantastic people is always a plus,” Owens said. “But the huge aspect of this is it is a fundraiser to give back and build the programming and opportunities for all the educational sides of Civic Theatre. So, to be able to do something local in the town that I live in that gets to contribute back to the arts is always going to be a win and a major win.”
Civic Theatre Executive Artistic Director Michael J. Lasley is directing the concert and playing the part of Caiaphas.
But for Owens, the Civic concert is an even bigger thrill.
“Since the show doesn’t have any dialogue, we are singing the entire show,” Lasley said. “It’s not choreographed and for the most part not staged. There will be light staging (but) no scenery.”
The rock opera was created by composer Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Tim Rice.
“We’re presenting the score as you would have listening in your living room in 1971,” said Brent E. Marty, the musical director.
Owens drew attention with his appearance as a contestant on “The Voice” on NBC in 2023.
Owens did double duty May 25 by performing “America The Beautiful” at the Indianapolis 500 and the national anthem at the Indiana Pacers home playoff game.
“Ted Neeley’s (original) version and John Legend’s version (on a TV special) are very different,” he said. “One is very focused on the music primarily (and) one is very theatrical. Ted Neeley’s version is a monster vocally, but his angle and approach is very much as an actor. So, that opportunity is not something that I get to do as often as I would like.”
Ephraim Owens, who sings the role of Jesus in “Jesus Christ Superstar” at Civic Theatre June 14, performs the national anthem at the May 25 Indiana Pacers playoff game. (Photo courtesy of Civic Theatre)
There are 36 performers in the concert. Marty portrays King Herrod and conducts.
“This is a dream,” Marty said. “I’ve always wanted to do this role. Herrod only has one song, so that works out for me to conduct the rest of the show.”
Lasley said except for productions during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, this is the first time he has performed since acting in the role of Caiaphas in Bobdirex’s 2015 production of “Jesus Christ Superstar.”
The role fits Lasley’s bass voice.
Owens said his songs as Jesus show a wide range.
“I love that, because it pushes me on both sides,’ said Owens, who had Legend as his coach on “The Voice.”
Owens said the song “Gethsemane (I Only Want to Say)” is dynamic and shows the emotional journey.
“If you could take one song to describe what the whole production is about, it is that song,” the Lawrence Central High School graduate said. “My desire is to draw more from (the) Ted Neeley (version) and do it well so that someone can close their eyes and put themselves in those same emotions. That’s when I felt like we would have killed it.”
“It’s a role I’ve dreamed of since I was a child,” he said.
Lasley said he didn’t realize when he heard the album for the first time as a child that it was written by a Jewish composer.
“He doesn’t acknowledge there is a resurrection,” he said. “This show isn’t about the deity of Christ. It’s about the humanity of Christ.”
The production features a full orchestra.
“The idea is to make this an annual fundraiser and putting a big Broadway musical on stage in a concert format,” Marty said.
For tickets, visit civictheatre.org.
‘THE LITTLE MERMAID’
“The Little Mermaid” runs through July 13 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards.com.
FEINSTEIN’S CABARET
John Lloyd Young will perform June 12-13, and the Magic of David Ranalli is set for June 14 at Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. All three performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.
CARMEL PLAYERS
Carmel Players’ Rising Star production of “This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing” runs June 13-22 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. For more, visit carmelplayers.org.
CIVIC IN CONCERT
Civic in Concert: “Jesus Christ Superstar” is at 7 p.m. June 14 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts. For more, visit civictheatre.org.
‘LEADING LADIES’
Red Barn Summer Theatre will present “Leading Ladies” June 11-15 and 18-22 at the Frankfort venue. For more, visit redbarntheatre.net.
RICK SPRINGFIELD
Rick Springfield headlines “I Want My ‘80s Tour” at 7:30 p.m. June 17 at Fishers Event Center. The tour includes Wang Chung, Paul Young and John Waite. For more, visit fisherseventcenter.com.
DISPATCH
The Wallflowers open Rock the Ruins season — The Rock the Ruins season opens with The Wallflowers at 7 p.m. June 14 at Holliday Park in Indianapolis. The Wallflowers are fronted by Jakob Dylan, son of Bob Dylan, who is the band’s singer, songwriter and guitarist. The Wild Flowers are the opening act. Gates open at 5 p.m. For more, visit rocktheruins.com.
MUSIC
Lasley
Marty
ISO returns to Palladium
By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com
As the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra’s vice president of artistic operations, Edward Parsons knows the organization has many patrons who live in the northern suburbs, including Carmel.
CONCERT
“Maybe there are some who haven’t visited us at Hilbert Circle Theatre (in Indianapolis), and this is a way to bring us to them,” he said.
should be at the Palladium for one of our most popular programs.”
The ISO has not performed a show at the Palladium since before the COVID-19 pandemic began in March 2020. It will return to the Palladium Oct. 30 with Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons Rediscovered” with conductor Jeannette Sorrell.
“We’re looking to see what we want to bring there in future seasons for annual visits besides the ‘Messiah,’” Parsons said.
The ISO will present “Peace on Earth: Beethoven’s 9th Symphony” at 3 p.m. June 22 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center in Carmel. There also will be performances at 7 p.m. June 20 and 5:30 p.m. June 21 at Hilbert Circle Theatre.
The ISO has been presenting Handel’s “Messiah” around Christmas at the Palladium annually while the “Yuletide Celebration” is at Hilbert Circle Theatre.
“Years ago, we had a series at the Palladium, and that went away,” Parsons said. “I’ve had the idea that once a year we
Parsons said the ISO wanted to celebrate the culmination of Jun Märkl’s inaugural season as music director with one of the most popular pieces of orchestral music, “Beethoven’s 9th Symphony.”
Parsons said since Ludwig van Beethoven’s piece is 65 minutes long, it’s always a challenge for programmers to find a piece to pair with it, but he said the ISO has found a good fit. The Indianapolis Symphonic Choir opens the program with Arnold Schoenberg’s plea for world harmony, “Peace on Earth.”
For more, visit thecenterpresents.org and indianapolissymphony.org.
Five CHS students get Songbook Academy invite
Forty of the nation’s most talented high school vocalists, representing 13 states and 31 cities, including 12 from Indiana, have been chosen to participate in the 2025 season of The Songbook Academy. The annual weeklong summer intensive, which starts July 12, immerses young performers in America’s musical heritage and helps them develop as artists under the guidance of Broadway stars, entertainment professionals and music educators.
This year’s group of vocalists will be joined by a lineup of special guests including Broadway star Nikki Renée Daniels and Michael Feinstein, founder of the Great American Songbook Foundation and fivetime Grammy nominee.
Five Carmel High School students are among the 12 selected from Indiana. They are Sadie Cohen, Aarthi Eswaran, Grady Griffin, Isaiah Henderson and Krishaa Motycka.
There are two from Zionsville Community High School, Claire Kauffman and Phoebe Sidebottom, and two from Noblesville, Soren McLaughlin (Noblesville High School) and Thomas Whitten (homeschooled).
Park Tudor School’s Mia Rettig and Westfield High School’s Journee Woodley also are participating.
The 2025 Songbook Academy will take place July 12-19 at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. The program includes workshops, masterclasses, and performance opportunities.
Tickets for two of the public performances at the Payne & Mencias Palladium are already on sale. The first is a Songbook Showcase at 7 p.m. July 17. All 40 participants will perform solos. The evening also includes special performances by Feinstein and Daniels.
That is followed by the Songbook Academy in Concert at 7 p.m. July 19.
Tickets are available at TheSongbook. org, by phone at 317-843-3800 or toll free at 877-909-2787.
JuNe 20 & 21
Parsons
Lume celebrates Indigenous Australian art
By Leila Kheiry leila@youarecurrent.com
A kaleidoscope of images and music transports visitors to The Lume at Newfields to the world and culture of Indigenous Australians through the museum’s new immersive exhibit, “Connection: Land, Water, Sky,” featuring work by contemporary visual and audio artists who celebrate their history, but with a modern take.
EXHIBIT
Entering The Lume can be a dizzying experience, especially at first. Images shift on large screens on the floor and walls throughout the large space, providing the immersive sensory experience that it’s known for.
The exhibit opened mid-May and remains on display through February 2026. Belinda Tate, the Melvin & Bren Simon director of the Indianapolis Museum of Art, noted that Indigenous Australian cultures are the oldest continuous civilizations.
“These cultures date their history back 65,000 years, and that is really reflected in their stories, their way of life, their approach to being and the way that they can interact with each other and the world,” she said. “‘Connection’ explores the concept of country, revealing the deep ties between land, water, sky.”
Kate Constantine, one of the artists featured in the exhibit, was on hand for its opening weekend. In addition to contributing to the main exhibit, Constantine helped design the adjacent interactive activity space, in which children — and the young at heart — can color pictures of native Australian animals — kookaburras, platypuses and kangaroos — and then scan the images
into a digital animation that plays on large screens in the room.
The backdrop for the animation display features the three elements — land, water and sky — that Constantine said are key to the Indigenous cultures of Australia. It’s all connected, she said.
“It’s about reciprocity and it’s about living in a circular fashion,” she said. “Traditionally, we don’t believe in linear time. We don’t believe in the past, the present and the future. We believe in everywhere … What this does is it gives us a reciprocal relationship with our kin, with our families, and means that we are constantly responsible for ourselves and each other. So, respect doesn’t finish when you die and the respect is as great for an ancestor as it is for a newborn baby. It’s a really different philosophy to a Western society, which is why a lot of First Nations cultures are generally quite misunderstood.”
The exhibit also includes some Indigenous Australian artwork from Newfield’s collection that hasn’t previously been displayed.
For more, visit discovernewfields.org/ lume.
Visitors to Newfields experience The Lume’s new immersive exhibit, “Connection: Land, Water, Sky.” (Photo by Leila Kheiry)
LIFESTYLE
1. Indiana Senate student “staffer”
5. “___ and Circumstance”
9. Texter’s “Just sayin’”
13. Bushy ‘do
14. Underway, to Sherlock
16. Salmon variety
17. Cayuga event with 4-H
projects and livestock shows
19. Hoosier cornfield bird
20. Before, poetically
21. Braying beast
22. Neither’s partner
24. Vinyl albums, for short
25. “Take it easy!”
27. Go to
29. North Judson event with a pet parade and cooking demos
34. Sore
37. “Dear ___ or Madam”
38. Indy Zoo horned beast
39. Nashville-based awards org.
40. Draw upon
43. USN rank
44. Indiana flag feature
46. IV measures
47. Sharp blow
48. Eiteljorg Museum event with art, music and dance
52. Promised Land, in the Bible
53. Occupy the throne
57. Sellout inits.
59. Green prefix
60. Frequently, in verse
62. Book jacket bit
63. Like permed hair
65. Connersville event with music and tie-dye T-shirts
68. District
69. Wicker material
70. Back muscles, briefly
71. Exec’s benefit
72. Rx items
73. Playground comeback Down
1. Tyrese Haliburton, e.g.
2. Previously, previously
3. Food for Oliver Twist
4. Ages and ages
5. Ponies up
6. Slays, mob-style
7. Kiwi’s extinct cousin
8. Ballet Studio of Carmel position on tiptoe
9. WRTV monitor
10. Global perception of society
11. Fishers breakfast chain
12. Amazes
15. Hoosier Park gaits
18. Uber alternative
23. Old, but new again
26. Notre Dame grad on the US Supreme Court: ___ Coney Barrett
27. Egyptian or Ethiopian
28. Medical research org.
30. 45-Down kin
31. Helpful hint
32. Tolstoy’s Karenina
33. Misplaced
34. Start of a Main Street Productions play 35. “Let’s go!” 36. Book type 40. Macbeth, for one
Big name in ATMs 42. Chiding sound 45. See 30-Down
47. Sault ___ Marie
49. Victory Field concessions bite
50. “Little Red Book” ideology
51. Art Deco artist
54. Letter-shaped girder
55. Main points
56. Words of denial
57. Trade
58. St. Elmo steak order
60. Current think piece
61. Some Christmas trees
64. Chatter
66. MCL dessert option
67. State where the Colts go to play the Jaguars (Abbr.) Answers on Page 23
Property Clean Outs FULLY INSURED
Text or Call Jay 574-398-2135 shidelerjay@gmail.com www.jayspersonalservices.com
