February 24, 2026 — Current in Brownsburg

About us

Founded Oct. 14, 2025, at Brownsburg, IN Vol. I, No. 20 Copyright 2025 Current Publishing, LLC

All Rights Reserved. 525 North End Dr. Ste. 175 Carmel, IN 46032

317.489.4444

Contact the editor

Have a news tip, calendar item or photo to share?

Contact Managing Editor Alicia Kelly at alicia@ youarecurrent.com or call 317.489.4444. You also may submit information at youarecurrent. com. Our print deadline is eight days prior to publication. Submissions for online accepted daily.

Share your thoughts

Letters to the editor may be sent for consideration to letters@youarecurrent. com. Letters have a maximum word count of 300 words. Please include your city of residence and a contact phone number for verification. Current Publishing may refuse letters.

Advertise your business

If you’re interested in reaching the Brownsburg market (10,405 households), you may obtain more information by emailing ads@youarecurrent.com (subject: Brownsburg advertising) or by calling 317.418.1279.

Obituaries obits@youarecurrent.com

Legal advertising legals@youarecurrent.com

Delivery questions

circulation@youarecurrent.com

Join our community facebook.com/youarecurrent x.com/youarecurrent instagram.com/youarecurrent

Opinions

The views of the columnists in Current in Brownsburg are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of this newspaper.

FEBRUARY & MARCH DINE IN DEALS!

20% off total bill | TUES: 1/2 price bottles of wine SAT: FREE kids meal, dessert or appetizer when you spend $25 or more

Runners prepare for 50th Mini-Marathon

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

Eugene Lausch is set to compete in his 50th 500 Festival Mini-Marathon.

His streak was in serious jeopardy, however, in 2019, when he was struck by a car in late January 2019 while walking downtown

“The accident broke my femur,” he said. “That year the Mini organizers allowed me to be pushed in a cart for a portion of the race. I walked 7.1 miles and was pushed for six 1-mile segments by a granddaughter, my son and students who I had coached in track at St. Richard’s Episcopal School. The Mini was held on a cold, rainy day but I will always remember and be grateful for the wonderful support I received from, first, the 500 Festival staff, and, more importantly, many other runners. The feeling I had at the end of the Mini that year was not triumph, but gratitude. I think that year I figured out what the Mini is really all about. It is not about winning, although that is nice. It is about accepting your condition and, disregarding frailty or impediments, pushing through to do the best you can.”

but walk virtually every day. I have a long history as a runner. I lettered in cross country and track in high school (Northwestern, near Kokomo) and lettered in both sports in college (Indiana Central, now UIndy).”

Such, a 71-year-old Indianapolis resident, said he had the desire to get healthier after graduating from IUPUI (now IU Indianapolis).

Such ran his first Mini on his 23rd birthday and it remains his most memorable.

“A school friend who ran track talked me into entering, and my father encouraged it, though he thought we were a little crazy,” Such said. “I had never run more than a mile before that May, yet suddenly I was preparing for 13. My family served as our support crew, meeting us at key locations with water, snacks and cameras. On Monument Circle before the start, we were in awe of the 800 runners, the prerace excitement, the local dignitaries and even spotting (distance running legend) Frank Shorter.”

Then in 2015, Such was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, which has affected his mechanics and slowed his race time.

“My doctor credits my running as some of the best medicine for fighting the disease. And honestly, the raceday atmosphere makes it easy to keep going.”

- AL SUCH, INDIANAPOLIS

Bates said he had never run more than a mile in his life, but he tried to run 5 miles in high-top basketball shoes two days before the race.

“I didn’t make a mile before I started getting cramps in my calves,” he said. “I bought my first running shoes and went out the night before the race. Then you could sign up the day of the race. I’ll always remember the first race that made it addictive to me right then and there. Back then, they had police escorts on motorcycles guiding the buses downtown, and it was just exhilarating.”

The 87-year-old Indianapolis resident is one of five participants who have been in all the Mini Marathons and plan to participate May 2 in the 50th running of the 500 Festival Mini-Marathon The others are Jerry Bates, Clemmons, N.C.; Al Such, Indianapolis; Michael Vollmer, Indianapolis; and John Hostetter, Independence, Ky.

“The Mini is a way to promote athletic fitness and a way to celebrate civic life in Indianapolis,” Lausch said. “For the last 25 years or so, participation in the Mini has become for me an expression of discipline and tenacity, values I appreciate. Since 2019, I no longer run

“Even so, my doctor credits my running as some of the best medicine for fighting the disease,” Such said. “And honestly, the race-day atmosphere makes it easy to keep going. The volunteers, the 13 miles of entertainment and the spectators lining the course create an energy that’s impossible to resist.”

Bates, 73, played football, basketball and baseball at Thorntown High School but had never run long distances.

“When the Mini was first announced, I tried to get my younger brother to go with me and I couldn’t get any of my friends to participate in it,” he said. “So, I took this upon myself. I just thought this is something I ought to do.”

Bates, who lives near Winston-Salem, N.C., said he ran that first race without walking in just under 2 hours. During his career, he has won 11 marathons, including the Chicago Marathon six times.

“It’s kind of become a family event,” he said of the Mini.

Bates and his wife, Brenda, two daughters and son have all run in the Mini. Bates’ brother and sister and their families also have participated.

In 2023, Bates had to limp during the race. He found out he needed a partial knee replacement in 2024. He only trained four times before the Mini but was healthy for the 2025 race.

For more, visit indymini.com/ mini-marathon/.

Council reviews proposed multifamily development

Project north of Meijer includes 272 apartments and commercial space

By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com

The Brownsburg Town Council received a first look at a proposed multifamily development north of the new Meijer store during its Feb. 12 meeting, although no formal action was taken.

The 25-acre property, between North C. R. 900 East and Ronald Reagan Parkway, would feature 272 one- and two-bedroom apartments, according to a presentation by John Lassaux, director of development for CRG Residential in Carmel. The project also includes a 5,400-square-foot commercial building intended for uses such as medical offices, coffee shops or fitness facilities.

“This project provides premium housing with amenities that complement the Brownsburg community,” Lassaux said, highlighting features such as a saltwater pool, pickleball courts, outdoor grilling areas and walking trails.

Lassaux said units would start at roughly $1,500 for one-bedrooms and $2,000 for two-bedrooms, targeting young professionals and empty nesters.

The development, which is not part of a TIF district, would be annexed into the town and is being presented for potential Planned Unit Development zoning. CRG has reduced the project density by 30 units compared to an August 2024 proposal. The plan includes 496 parking spaces, combining attached covered and surface parking.

Council members raised questions about traffic, particularly with the sole entrance on 900 E. Council Member Glenn Adams noted the potential congestion near Meijer, suggesting that additional access points may be necessary. Lassaux said a traffic study would be conducted to evaluate the situation.

Council President Ben Lacey confirmed that the project would not be in a TIF district.

Citizens also weighed in. Brownsburg resident Nancy Stinson raised concerns

“We need to attract higher income earners to the Town of Brownsburg and higher paying jobs.”

- TRAVIS TSCHAENN

about affordability, noting that the required income to afford the apartments exceeds the median renter income in the area by $7,000 to $10,000 annually.

Council Member Travis Tschaenn responded, emphasizing the need to attract higher-income residents to the community.

“We need to attract higher income earners to the town of Brownsburg and higher paying jobs,” Tschaenn said.

Lacey added, “Which we’ve done over the last couple years, so that’s good stuff, and there’s more to come.”

Lassaux noted the project would complement other nearby developments, including Meijer, HarperCollins and Labcorp, which combined are expected to bring more than 2,000 jobs to the area. He said CRG aims to deliver high-quality finishes and amenities both inside the units and throughout the site, similar to other projects the firm has completed in other Indiana communities.

The proposal will next go before the Advisory Plan Commission for review and public hearings. Council members stressed that the current presentation was purely informational and no decisions were required at this time.

HENDRICKS POWER commitment to community

SCHOLARSHIPS

HENDRICKS POWER CONTINUOUSLY LOOKS FOR WAYS TO SUPPORT OUR COMMUNITY.

That’s why we award scholarships to graduating seniors each year to assist our young members in their pursuit of higher education.

HOW TO APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP

Scan the QR code or visit hendrickspower.com/scholarships to download an application and learn more. Submit your application by March 6, 2026.

Brownsburg High School’s show choir group Spotlight Singers & Company perform during the 2026 Cabaret preview concert Feb. 13 in the

High school show choirs dazzle in Cabaret preview

By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com

Brownsburg High School’s show choirs took the stage Feb. 13 for their annual Cabaret preview, offering a first glimpse of the music, choreography and storytelling that will define their competitive season.

The event, held in the school auditorium, featured all four choirs — Bella Voce, Dog Pound, Spotlight Singers & Company, and Starlight Voices — performing a mix of classic and contemporary hits, including “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen, “Hotel California” by the Eagles, and “The Winner Takes It All”

THURSDAY, MARCH 5 AT 2PM

Chad Strasser, the school’s show choir director, described the 2026 season as one of energy and growth.

“The kids are really excited about what they’re capable of, and they really do like their shows,” he said. “Our goal is that every day they get better and have fun. In performing arts, you can’t control the opinion of others, but you can control your personal best, and that ultimately is what matters most.”

Rehearsals this year focus on blending vocal technique, choreography and storytelling to ensure each performance feels distinct. Strasser noted the mixed show transitions from a ’90s hiphop number to an early ’80s pop tune, highlighting the importance of style

Strasser also emphasized the personal growth students experience.

“My favorite thing this year is the growth as a team,” he said. “They’re really supportive of each other, and there’s a strong connection in the groups this year. You can see it in their

faces — they’ve bought into it and are enjoying performing together.”

The Cabaret also showcased the program’s emphasis on teamwork and discipline, which students said extends beyond the stage. Junior Cole Weesner said show choir teaches collaboration.

“It taught me about teamwork, and that everyone is in it together. We’re one team working for the same goal,” Weesner said.

Senior Bridget Walsh added that the experience strengthens resilience.

“Show choir has taught me that although everyone in the whole group has a purpose and even if one person makes a mistake, everyone has to step up and work together to fix it,” Walsh said.” We’re all in this together, and we can only make corrections and changes if we all put in the same work ethic.”

Strasser said the repertoire is designed to engage audiences through storytelling.

“We want the audience to feel the highs and lows and the different elements that unfold from start to finish,” Strasser said. “We want to keep them engaged throughout the whole 15 minutes of music.”

The Cabaret also serves as a springboard for the competitive season, which will include shows in Indiana, Ohio and Nashville. Students said performing in front of an audience for the first time each year brings excitement and nerves alike.

Strasser reflected on the broader impact of the program, noting that show choir fosters confidence, leadership and community among students.

“It teaches teamwork, how to accept others and work toward a unified goal,” Strasser said.

COMMUNITY

Visit Hendricks County debuts ‘For Real’ brand

By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com

Visit Hendricks County has introduced a new brand identity built around a single word: “Real.”

Leaders revealed the updated messaging Feb. 12 during a public gathering at Hendricks Live!, outlining a yearlong effort that included interviews, surveys and discussions with residents, business owners and local officials.

The result is a community-informed brand centered on the phrase “For Real,” meant to capture what organizers describe as the county’s straightforward character and authentic experiences.

“We’re proud to have developed a brand that genuinely reflects the voices and aligns with the values of our community,” said Jaime Bohler Smith, executive director and CEO of Visit Hendricks County. “This isn’t just a campaign. It’s a long-term commitment shaped by listening to the people who live and work here. We are confident in the real experiences that Hendricks

County offers — because they’re the ones our community lives every day together,”

Six qualities, according to the organization, surfaced repeatedly during community conversations: authenticity, sincerity, honesty, directness, humility and a down-to-earth spirit. Officials said those themes will guide marketing efforts aimed at both visitors and residents.

The branding initiative grew out of the group’s 2024 strategic planning process, known as Destination Defined, which focuses on aligning tourism efforts with community priorities.

The refreshed look, developed with marketing firm Madden Media, keeps the Visit Hendricks County name while introducing an updated logo and refined navy and orange color palette. Alternate marks, including an “HCo” emblem with a rising-sun design, will appear across promotional materials.

For more, visit VisitHendricksCounty.com/Real.

Foust files for prosecutor

news@youarecurrent.com

Philip Foust, who is the elected clerk-treasurer for Speedway, announced his Republican candidacy for Marion County Prosecutor Feb. 5.

In his announcement, Foust — a Harvard Law School graduate and former prosecuting attorney — called “for an end to the failed policies that have left Indianapolis less safe.”

Foust previously served as a Marion County deputy prosecutor, where he handled cases ranging from juvenile offenses to murder. He worked under two Democrat prosecutors, including incumbent Ryan Mears, who is running for reelection.

“This job isn’t political to me, but the current approach absolutely is,” Foust stated. “I’ve worked for Democrat prosecutors because public safety shouldn’t be partisan. What is unacceptable is that Ryan Mears and city leadership prioritize ideology over enforcement, excuses over accountability, and offenders over victims.”

Republican Philip Foust is running for Marion County Prosecutor.

(Photo courtesy of Philip Foust)

Born in northern Indiana, Philip was raised in Pike Township by his single mother. He graduated from IUPUI while working at the Indiana School for the Blind. He earned his law degree from Harvard Law School before launching his career in Chicago. He later served as a Marion County deputy prosecutor.

In January 2023, Foust was selected by Republican precinct committee members to complete the term of Speedway clerk-treasurer and later that year Speedway voters elected him to a full term.

For more, visit philipfoust.com.

Sheriff’s office to lease vehicles, citing savings

By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com

The Hendricks County Sheriff’s Office will move forward with leasing patrol vehicles after county commissioners unanimously approved a contract with Enterprise Fleet Management on Feb. 10.

Sheriff Jack Sadler presented the proposal during the county commissioners’ meeting, outlining projected long-term savings and operational benefits. He said the office has researched the option extensively.

“We’re paying for the use of the vehicle, and not paying for the entire vehicle,” he said, adding that the strategy should allow the county to update vehicles more often while reducing maintenance costs.

“Lt. Jeff Hughes has dug into this quite deeply for me, and obviously, I believe it’s a move in the right direction for us,” Sadler said.

Under the agreement, the department would lease vehicles rather than purchase them outright. Sadler said the move allows the department to refresh its fleet more frequently.

He also informed commissioners the lease plan includes a 10-year financial projection and demonstrates potential savings to taxpayers.

Leasing newer vehicles can mean fewer repairs, less downtime and warranty coverage during much of the lease term. At the end of each lease, vehicles are returned, eliminating the need to manage resale of high-mileage patrol units. Municipal lease agreements can also offer lower, tax-exempt interest rates compared to traditional financing.

Commissioner Dennis Dawes asked whether the proposal marked the start of a phased plan. Sadler confirmed the department would proceed and continue refining equipment pricing details. He said he plans to provide an update during a joint session meeting next week.

The approval authorizes the sheriff’s office to begin leasing vehicles through Enterprise as part of its future fleet management strategy.

DISPATCHES

 Flavor Fest returns — Hendricks County Flavor Fest returns Tuesday with 46 locally owned businesses offering new menu items through March 17. The four-week event encourages diners to “Dine, Check-In & Win” by scanning a QR code at participating locations for a chance to win $50 gift cards. Weekly winners will be notified during the campaign. Restaurants include Rusted Silo Southern BBQ, Oasis Diner and Boulder Creek Dining Company. A full list is available at VisitHendricksCounty. com/Flavor-Fest.

Airport surpasses record — The Indianapolis International Airport ended 2025 with another year of record-setting passenger traffic. Airport officials announced that the facility welcomed more than 10.6 million passengers during the year, about 100,000 more than in 2024.

 AARP grants application open — AARP Indiana is accepting applications through March 4 from local nonprofits and governments for its 2026 AARP Community Challenge grant program. Grant amounts range from $2,500 to $25,000 and fund projects that make communities more livable. Projects will be considered if they serve the needs of people 50 and older, improve public places, transportation, walkability and pedestrian safety, among other criteria. For more information, visit https://www. aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/.

COMMUNITY

FROM COMBAT TO CRAFTWORK

Veteran builds Brownsburg business and nonprofit with purpose

By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com

In a workshop tucked inside his Brownsburg home, Ricardo Seucharan fine-tunes a laser over a leather patch, watching as a logo burns cleanly into place.

For Seucharan, owner of O2 Creations, precision is more than a business standard — it’s a mindset shaped by military service, aviation logistics and an entrepreneurial leap during uncertain times.

“Anything can be achieved with constant focus,” he said.

Seucharan launched O2 Creations in November 2021, turning a longtime passion for building and tinkering into a full-time business. The veteran-owned company specializes in laser engraving and custom products, including hat patches, engraved drinkware, acrylic tokens, awards and layered bathymetric lake maps.

Every item is designed and crafted in-house.

“I make everything at my house,” Seucharan said. “My shop is at my house. My desk is my design studio.”

Before entrepreneurship, Seucharan served four years in the U.S. Army as an E4 specialist with the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Vicenza, Italy, from 2003 to 2007. A combat engineer and airborne-qualified soldier, he deployed to Afghanistan in 2005-06, serving as a gunner and working in route clearance.

The experience, he said, instilled discipline and persistence.

After the military, he worked about a decade in aviation, including as a corporate aircraft dispatcher for Republic Airways, before launching a drone services company that documented construction projects. When that work slowed during the pandemic, he shifted focus to engraving and customization — a skill he honed at a makerspace in Fishers before purchasing his own equipment.

Today, O2 Creations operates full time, with Seucharan increasingly focusing on business-to-business partnerships. He has worked with organi-

zations such as Steel Dynamics in Pittsboro and provided custom hats for Visit Hendricks County. He also partnered with the Brownsburg High School football booster club, creating commemorative items following the team’s state championship wins.

Among his most popular items are custom patch hats and detailed, layered lake maps that depict underwater topography. The maps, often purchased by lake homeowners and fishing enthusiasts, can be personalized to mark family homes or favorite fishing spots.

Although O2 Creations serves a broad customer base, Seucharan said his background naturally draws veterans to his booth at community events, where conversations often turn to shared experiences.

That connection inspired his next venture.

Earlier in February, Seucharan filed paperwork with the Indiana Secretary of State to begin forming a nonprofit called Operation NextGen. He is in the process of applying for federal tax-exempt status.

be customized to highlight homes or favorite fishing spots. (Photo provided by O2 Creations)

The mission: Provide counseling support for children of military veterans, particularly those affected by post-traumatic stress disorder.

“The VA doesn’t really focus on it,” Seucharan said of children’s counseling. “Right now, I want to focus on the veterans, their kids and PTSD.”

He said children in military households may struggle with anger management or coping skills, especially if a parent is navigating trauma.

“I have my tendencies to blow up or get mad for no reason,” he said. “Raising them in that household…I can see them needing help sometimes.”

Proceeds from designated O2 Creations products will help fund the nonprofit’s efforts. The framework is still taking shape, but Seucharan said he felt compelled to act now.

“Why not now?” he said.

Seucharan and his wife moved to Brownsburg in 2010, seeking a slower pace than South Florida, where they previously lived. They are raising two children and have watched the town grow.

“We love being part of the commu-

community are inseparable. His company slogan — “Signage that builds a community” — reflects that philosophy. Whether engraving a corporate order of hats, crafting a lake map destined for a family cottage or handing a custom plaque to a racing legend at a car show, Seucharan sees each piece as personal. It’s a long way from military convoys and flight dispatch centers, but the throughline remains the same: focus, service and pride in the work.

And in a Brownsburg garage, under the steady glow of a laser, that focus continues to take shape.

AT A GLANCE: O2 CREATIONS

Owner: Ricardo Seucharan

Founded: 2021

Location: Brownsburg (home-based business)

Specialties: Custom hat patches, engraved drinkware, acrylic tokens, awards, layered bathymetric lake maps

Business focus: Veteran-owned, handcrafted products made in-house New venture: Operation NextGen nonprofit supporting counseling for children of military veterans Website: o2creations.com

Hendricks Civic Theatre presents ‘Puffs’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

For director Jamie Williams, the biggest challenge to presenting the comedic play “Puffs” is the speed of the show with a youth cast.

Hendricks Civic Theatre’s production of “Puffs” runs Feb 27 to March 1 and March 6-8 at Plainfield’s Hendricks Live!. The play parodies the “Harry Potter” series from the perspective of Hufflepuff house.

“This is a super-fast-paced show with a lot of character changes during scenes,” Williams said. “Very little blackouts or set changes (are made), so (there is) hardly any time between scenes. Even though the show is at Hendricks Live!, we have had to have all but one rehearsal at Longstreet Playhouse. The stage at Hendricks Live! is over twice the size of Longstreet, along with the smallness of the wings and backstage. Not to mention that the set building and costuming (are) sharing the space with us. It is an effort to get 46 kids in the right place, out of each other’s way, and to keep the noise down off stage. This is the happiest and biggest group of friends I have ever been around in a show.

“This show is absolutely hilarious and entertaining, with action besides the laughs, and some good values addressed. With this being such a fun show, and the cast really loving to be together, this might be the most fun I have had with a show.”

Hendricks Civic Theatre presents six shows a year, with an annual youth show for actors younger than 20.  Williams, a Brownsburg resident, has directed one show

per year the last few years. Amanda Williams, his wife, is the co-director for “Puffs.”

“We are having a blast,” Williams said. “I have also produced seven shows, and Amanda has produced four shows. HCT generally has a different director for each show.”

Avon Middle School student Chris Hicks, 14, plays Wayne Hopkins.

“I really like the jokes and subtle references of the show, but I also enjoy everyone in the cast.” said Hicks, who is appearing in his ninth HCT show. “I’ve made some new friends and they’re super cool. I like how relatable and similar to my own self Wayne is. He’s also pretty silly.”

Isla McGinnis, a 14-year-old homeschool student from Lagoda, plays Mr. Voldy

“This is my first role with a wheezing voice and that is difficult,” McGinnis said. “It’s also my first villain (role).”

Traejen Asher, a 14-year-old from Mooresville, plays Cedric Diggory.

“Not my biggest role but it is still awesome,” Asher said. “I love this role. I have acted in many shows, although this is my first with HCT.”

IF YOU GO

What: Hendricks Civic Theatre presents ‘Puffs’ When: Feb. 27–March 1 and March 6–8

Where: Hendricks Live!, 200 W. Main St., Plainfield Cost: Ticket prices vary More info: hendrickslive.org

‘PRETTY WOMAN’

“Pretty Woman” runs through April 4 at Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre in Indianapolis. For more, visit beefandboards. com.

FEINSTEIN’S CABARET

Feinstein’s cabaret presents “Now That’s Funny, Andy Beningo” Feb. 26, followed by “Indy Nights Ryan Ahlwardt & Friends” Feb. 27, and “Nathan Chester & the Old Souls Motown” Feb. 28 at Hotel Carmichael in Carmel. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. For more, visit feinsteinshc.com.

‘PETE THE CAT’

Civic Theatre presents “Pete the Cat” at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Feb. 28 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

THE PEKING ACROBATS

The Peking Acrobats are set to perform at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 26 at the Payne & Mencias Palladium at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. For more, visit civictheatre.org.

 Best of Fest set for March 6-7 –“The Best of Fest: Heartland Film Festival Edition,” presented by Heartland Film and The Historic Artcraft Theatre in Franklin, returns March 6 and 7. The mini movie series re-showcases four fan-favorite films from the 2025 Heartland Film Festival. The schedule includes the festival’s Overall Narrative Audience Choice Award winner, “Nuremberg,” and the Indiana Spotlight Audience Choice Award winner, “The Tenderness Tour.” Filmmakers from “25 Cats of Qatar” and “The Tenderness Tour” will be available after their respective screenings for audience questions. “Best of Fest” tickets are $8. For more, visit heartlandfilm.org.

ENTERTAINMENT

Hendricks Live! adds two spring concerts

news@youarecurrent.com

Hendricks Live! has announced two additional spring performances as part of its 2026 season in downtown Plainfield.

Christian pop singer-songwriter Jordan Feliz will take the stage April 17, bringing his blend of folk-rock and

soul-inspired worship music. Disco tribute act Disco Circus follows May 29 with a show celebrating 1970s dance hits through a high-energy, theatrical performance. The venue’s spring lineup also includes a mix of music and theater designed to appeal to a wide audience. Local and regional productions, from

PUZZLE ANSWERS

acoustic rock and bluegrass concerts to symphony performances, are featured alongside national touring acts. Organizers say the diversity of the season reflects Hendricks Live!’s mission to provide year-round cultural programming for Hendricks County and surrounding communities.

The newly announced shows join several previously scheduled spring events, including an acoustic performance by Soul Asylum April 8 and bluegrass favorites Steep Canyon Rangers May 7. Additional programming includes theatrical productions and symphony performances presented by local arts organizations throughout the season.

Located at 200 W. Main St., the 600seat theater opened in 2024 and has hosted a variety of touring musicians and community arts events. Venue officials said more performances will be announced as the 2026 season continues.

Hendricks Live! is supported by Hendricks County Bank and Trust and Hendricks Regional Health.

Public ticket sales for the two newly announced concerts began Feb. 20 and can be purchased at hendrickslive.org.

begins April 6

Players Born from 2021-2008 **Register before March 1 and get an early registration discount**

For more details and registration info, scan the QR Code or go to:

Vocalist Collins set for ‘Motown and Beyond’

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

For Jerome Collins, his upcoming concert is a return to his childhood.

“This is basically you coming into my living room,” Collins said. “This is basically a story of how I grew up. My parents raised me on such great music, like Motown. These songs bring back memories of me growing up, like watching ‘Soul Train’ on Saturday. My parents would do their dancing and would be singing these songs. It’s so nostalgic.”

Collins will perform his “Rewind A Journey to Motown and Beyond” concert at 8 p.m. March 7 at The Tarkington at Allied Solutions Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel. Collins is a founding member of the a cappella group Straight No Chaser, which started at Indiana University. The opening act is Small Town City, which features Straight No Chaser’s Mike Luginbill and Ryan Ahlwardt, a former Straight No Chaser member who lives in Fishers.

“Straight No Chaser is my main thing, but I’m spreading my little wings, and doing something different is good for the soul,” Collins said.

The music spans from the 1960s to 1990s, including Motown and songs by performers such as Luther Vandross, Chaka Khan and Tina Turner.

“I’m going to be 50 in April, and this music is something that stuck to my soul,” he said. “The story needs to be how this music not only inspired myself but a generation.”

Collins said he likes to share stories with the audience.

“I let you in,” he said. “I’m not singing at you. I’m singing with you. It’s just an inviting, heartfelt story, and you are going to want to dance. I very doubt your feet and hands won’t clap or stomp at some point.”

Collins said the setlist will be different from last year’s performance in Carmel.

“I’ve added a Prince medley I didn’t have last year,” he said.

Small Town City opened for Collins at The Tarkington in 2024.

“It was a blast,” Ahlwardt said. “Jerome is a world-class showman and longtime friend of ours from our time together in Straight No Chaser. Opening for him felt less like a gig and more

like a family reunion.”

Small Town City recently finished a new single, “Snowy Daze,” which Ahlwardt said leans into nostalgia and has a more cinematic sound.

“We’re excited to release it digitally and bring it to the stage this year,” he said.

Ahlwardt said he doesn’t get to perform with Luginbill, a fellow 1999 Hamilton Southeastern High School graduate, as often as they would like since they live in different cities, along with juggling family life and other projects. Luginbill lives in Nashville, Tenn.

“When we do share a stage, it’s intentional and energized,” Ahlwardt said. “That built-in distance keeps it fresh for us and makes each show feel like an event. We’re excited to share a blend of fan favorites, new material and the stories behind the songs. We want the audience to feel like they’ve been invited into something personal, joyful and distinctly Hoosier when they hear our music.”

For more, visit thecenterpresents. org.

PUZZLES

21. Venue for exercise

23. Big name in tractors

. ___ Lauder

. High points

. Make the grade

. Attention getter

. Tuna type

. Harsh

. Arcadia high school

. Hi-fi 44. Victory Field ump’s call 45. Dalai ___

. Provide

. Leading the Hoosier Crossroads Conference

. Miller or McGinnis, e.g. 53. Current edition 55. Things grown during in vitro fertilization 57. Exhausted 62. Spanish house

. Carmel high school

. Picnic pests

. Passover feast

. Baseball Hall of Famer Musial

. Church area

. Youngsters

. “Tall” story

1. Really punch 2. Taboo 3. Fishers N/S road

. Online journal

. Luxurious fur

6. Singer DiFranco

. Classic British sports

. Superman: “Faster than a speeding ___!”

. On the briny

. Packs down

. Dolt

. White River transport

. “Say cheese!”

. Silent agreements

. Lab dish

. Cry...cry again?

. Catastrophic

. Oohs and ___

. Casual talk

. Bit of viral online humor

30. Mideast bigwig

. Skeptic’s scoff

. “This weighs ___!”

. Wrinkled fruit

. “___ she blows!

. Night owls’ cash sources 39. Future attorney’s exam, briefly

. Apprehensive

. Colorations 47. Mickey Mouse’s creator

48. Part of FOMO 49. MCL pie choice

50. Appliance brand

51. WTTV affiliation

52. Backspace, on a PC

54. Tech-support callers

56. Evict

58. Attention getter

59. Peto’s Greek bread

60. Footnote abbr.

61. Unit of force, in physics

64. Texter’s “Beats me” 65. Geese formation ANSWERS ON PAGE 9

126,990 Households One Guide.

Infinite Opportunities.

This March 31, we’re delivering the premier home project resource to mailboxes in Boone, Hamilton, Hendricks and Northern Marion counties.

• The Reach: Coverage in Brownsburg, Carmel, Fishers, Geist, Noblesville, North Indy, Westfield and Zionsville.

• The Delivery: Direct to 126,990 homes via U.S. Mail.

• The Result: Your business in front of homeowners ready to start their next project.

Claim your spot today and help our audience bring their visions to life.

’s

(DBT)

CENTER STAGE

Summer training for Indy’s aspiring musicians and actors / P4

Specialized support meets classic summer fun for local youth / P16

M OVI E S IN T HE P L A Z A

May 27, June 10, June 24, July 22, August 15

Movies begin at 7:30 p.m.

Grand Junction Plaza 225 S. Union Street

CREEK STOMPS

May 28 –July 30 (Thursdays) 10 –11 a.m.

Grand Junction Plaza 225 S. Union Street

KIDS SUMMER SERIES

June 2–July 28 (Tuesdays) 9:30 –11 a.m.

Grand Junction Plaza

225 S. Union Street

Indianapolis music camps build choral, rock skills

By Megan Dial news@youarecurrent.com

Music summer camps offered throughout Indianapolis are allowing children to gain musical skills, confidence and teamwork through intensive performance-based training.

The Indianapolis Children’s Choir offers an intensive summer camp where students learn and memorize six to eight pieces of music in one week, after which they perform a concert for the community.

“The summer camp is a wonderful time for singers in our community to get to see a taste of what the Indianapolis Children’s Choir is about. It’s a great way to come and experience the teachers and the teaching and a great week of music making,” ICC Executive Director Joshua Pedde said.

(Above) Members of the Indianapolis Children’s Choir perform during a previous summer intensive program. (Left) Children rehearse a song during a summer camp session at the School of Rock.

Summer starts NOW

For many participants, the camp marks their first time performing with a children’s choir. Pedde noted that each session includes a premiere of a new piece written specifically for the camp.

“They get to premiere something brand new that no one else has ever heard before,” Pedde said.

Because some of the music is memorized in other languages, the curriculum also provides cultural exposure.

“English might be their primary language, so this exposes them to different cultures and different ideas,” Pedde said.

This year, the ICC is celebrating 40 years of operation. The organization actually began as a summer camp, which is how it first involved young singers. One of the featured songs for the upcoming season is “Magical Kingdom.”

The ICC is hosting its “Magical Moments” camps June 8-11 and July 20-

23. For more information, visit icchoir. org/camp/.

Elsewhere in the city, the School of Rock utilizes summer camps as a platform for its belief that the stage is the ultimate teacher. Its weeklong sessions culminate in a performance of five to 10 rock songs featuring guitar, bass, drums, keys or vocals.

“Sometimes, kids are very scared until they get through their first song, at least,” School of Rock Music Director David Lawson said. “Then, they start to believe in themselves more and it gets easier to keep going.”

Students participate in group instruction and private lessons daily. They are encouraged to try different instruments and roles to spread the difficulty across the various positions in the band.

School of Rock hosts camps throughout June and July in Fishers, Carmel and Zionsville. For more, visit schoolofrock.com/music-camps.

Soccer Summer

Soccer Summer

Local camps offer training for aspiring young actors

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

For children and teens, the stage provides a space to inhabit new characters and overcome performance anxiety. This summer, Hamilton County theater academies will offer chances for students of all ages to learn to perform.

The Point Theater, a children’s theater at 1950 E. Greyhound Pass in Carmel, offers four summer camp options for children ages 4-18.

Theater’s founder and artistic director. “It is focused on giving children an introduction to theater.”

Musical in a Week, for ages 11-18, is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 8-12 and June 22-26. This year, the musical is “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.”

“Children send in a video audition — they just have to sing a little song — and we cast the show before they show up,” Baltz said. “The hope is that they’ll show up knowing their role and lines, and by Friday they do a full show. This camp is much more intensive, and they learn a lot of skills like how to memorize lines and choreography.”

CAMPS

CAMPS OFFERED

STRIKER / FINISHING GOALKEEPER

STRIKER / FINISHING GOALKEEPER

This year’s Musical Theater Camp, which is “Wicked” themed, will be held June 8-12, June 15-19 and June 22-26. There are morning and afternoon options for ages 4-6 from either 9 a.m. to noon or noon to 3 p.m., and ages 7-10 attend from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

BEGINNER SKILLS

BEGINNER SKILLS

RAY GADDIS SKILLS

RAY GADDIS SKILLS

BALLMASTERY / 1 V 1

BALLMASTERY / 1 V 1

“They run through different stations each day — dance, acting, vocal and the backstage component of theater — and there’s games throughout the day,” said Laura Baltz, The Point

The Point Theater also offers Improv Camp July 6-10. Children aged 11-13 attend from 9 a.m. to noon and children aged 14-18 attend from 1 to 4 p.m. The camp focuses on improvisational theater to help children learn to think on their feet, develop

Continued on Page 5

Continued from Page 4

comedic timing and build confidence through improv games.

There also is a Play in a Day camp beginning at 9:30 a.m. June 17 for ages 11-18. This year’s play is “The Audition.”

“They send in an audition, and we cast it ahead of time,” Baltz said. “We rehearse all day, and then parents come in at 4 p.m. and watch the performance. So again, it’s a really intensive day, participants learn a lot about characterization and blocking, how to build a role quickly and working with other people on stage.”

For more, visit thepointtheater.org/ camps.

Civic Theatre at 3 Carter Green also offers a variety of summer camps for all ages.

Little Stages Camp, for ages 4-5, engages students in creative activities based around the 2026 Jr. Civic presentation of “SHREK The Musical.” The camp is from 10 to 11:30 a.m. June 1518 and is $225. A final presentation will be held at 11 a.m. June 18.

Musical Theatre Mini-Camp, for ages 6-7, is from 12:30 to 3 p.m. June

15-18, with a final presentation at 2:30 p.m. June 18. The camp, which is $275, delivers the same elements as the Musical Theatre Camp for older students in a compact package for aspiring actors, singers and dancers.

Jr. Civic Musical Theatre Camp, a $500 camp for ages 8-14, is held from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. July 6-10 or July 13-17. The camp will immerse students in a high energy learning experience consisting of instruction in acting, singing and dancing, culminating in a performance at the end of each week.

Jr. Civic Musical Theatre Intensive Camp is for experienced students ages 10-14. It is $450 and will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 9-12.

Using a curriculum designed to enhance existing skills and accelerate technique, campers will be challenged in the three core disciplines of musical theatre — acting, singing and dancing.

Students must submit an application to enroll in this camp. Applications will be accepted through Feb. 28, and applicants will be notified by March 13.

For more, visit civictheatre.org.

Kick out of soccer camps

By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com

Young athletes across central Indiana will have several opportunities to sharpen their soccer skills this summer through camps offered by USA of Indiana.

The organization’s summer programming will focus on skill development rather than competition, with specialized camps for strikers, goalkeepers, ball mastery and 1-on-1 play, as well as a beginner skills camp for newcomers to the sport.

Mariana Mesa, club administrator for USA of Indiana, said the camps are open to players ages 7 to 18 and will run in three- to four-week sessions, meeting for about an hour per session. While the organization also serves younger “tots” in other programming, the summer camps will focus on older youth.

Mesa said the goal is to help players grow, whether they are just starting out or have years of experience.

“These camps are designed to allow

kids to hone their skills and learn a little bit more,” she said. “Even if they’re on the recreational side, just starting out, never played, or even if they have been playing for a while, they can still get all the skills built up.”

Sessions will be held primarily at the Mary & John Geisse Soccer Complex on East 56th Street, near the Indianapolis Colts’ practice facility, and will serve families in both Pike Township and Hendricks County areas.

Unlike the organization’s seasonal leagues, the camps will not include games. Instead, coaches will lead structured drills and skill-building exercises in a supervised environment.

“For our camps, we provide a safe environment, a fun environment for them to learn soccer as well as have qualified soccer coaches to teach the kids the fundamentals,” Mesa said. “Our aim is to help them get better, not just in soccer, but in life as well, because our motto is, ‘we teach more than just a game’.”

For more, visit usaofindiana.org.

More than just summer fun, camp is where kids celebrate achievements and discover a place they can truly belong.

Swimming, sports, and outdoor play

Creative art and STEM projects

Field trips

And so much more!

YMCA gives summer camp a model venue

By Todd Golden todd@youarecurrent.com

Ascension St. Vincent Westfield YMCA is the newest in the Indianapolis area, having opened in January 2025, and offers a wide variety of summer camps.

YMCA facilities offer traditional and discovery camps. The Westfield YMCA hosts traditional camps.

“What I do love the most when we open a new facility like this is the feeling of ownership, that feeling of kids getting a chance to come there every day,” said Desiree Brandon Gouveia, the YMCA’s director of Camps & Family Programs. “You can see when they feel at home

Locally, discovery camps are offered at the Fishers YMCA. Traditional and discovery camps usually incorporate aspects of STEAM learning.

The Westfield YMCA has facilities

that enhance traditional camp experiences, such as fenced-in outdoor space and large studios for indoor activities. Its Olympic-size Westfield Washington Aquatic Center also is one of the best facilities of hits kind in the Greater Indianapolis area.

“One of the big assets is that (campers) get to swim, and they also have enrichment clinics that are available,” Brandon-Gouveia said. “We also have swim lessons that families can tap into and be able to have their kid learn how to swim and become a better swimmer while they’re at our camp.”

Brandon-Gouveia said enrichment clinics are offered on- and off-site.

“That is really awesome about our camps at Westfield,” Brandon-Gouveia said. “We have the ability for families to add on a piece to their

Continued on Page 7

Continued from Page 6

child’s day. And so, enrichments are generally three to four hours in a day, and we have varying different enrichments that are available out in all of our camps.”

Brandon-Gouveia said enrichments include visiting park area parks and playing miniature golf, laser tag and organized water games in the YMCA pool. She said some STEAM activities are offered at the traditional camp.

“If (parents) are looking for fun STEAM but also have a chance for their kids to experience other things, Westfield traditional camp really would be a great spot for them to be in,” Brandon-Gouveia said. “They’re still going to get some STEAM activities. It’s just not the complete focus of the camp.”

Brandon-Gouveia said the YMCA is proud to give children a place where they can expand their horizons.

“It is the chance for kids to learn more about themselves,” Brandon-Gouveia said. “We have kids who come in and have great days and kids who are dealing with the world on their shoulders. I think that’s one of the reasons why this fits into what the YMCA is trying to do. We try to give a place where people belong, where we love and serve and care for our com -

munity, and kids are a part of that as well.”

Cost for traditional camp is $198 for members and $257 for nonmembers per week. Discover camps are for ages 5-12 and take place June 1-July 24. Cost is $176 per week for members and $234 per week for nonmembers.

For more, visit indymca.org/ landing_pages/summer-camp/.

14950 Greyhound, Suite 4 Carmel, IN 2026 Summer Dance Camps & Classes

FOR AGES 3-6

June 1 - 5

June 22 - 26

July 6 - 10

July 13 - 17

July 20 - 24

July 27 - 31

FOR AGES 6-9 FOR ALL AGES

July 6 - 10

Under the Sea Party

Moana and Maui’s Island Luau

Bluey and Bingo‘s Summer Adventures

Royal Princess and Prince Ball

Frozen Prince & Princess Party

Fairytale Princesses and Princes

Youth Summer Ballet Intensive

Open Classes - Two 3 Week Sessions (June 8 - 26 & July 13 - 30)

For the most up to date information and scheduling visit CIAODANCE.COM or call 317-581-2423

JUNE 1 - JULY 31, 2026

Types of Camps: Full Day Half Day Enrichment

NEW This Year:

Extended Full Day Camp hours

Half Day Camps available for ages 3-5

Enrichment Camp options (bowling, cooking, Hoosier Heights, Urban Air, & more)

Camp locations throughout Fishers, including the new Fishers Community Center, Strengthened by IU Health

DISCIPLINE AND DREAMS

Dance academies offer summer camp experiences

By Jessica Todd jessica@youarecurrent.com

Several Hamilton County dance academies will host summer camps this year. Whether a child is taking introductory classes or training at high, intensive levels, summer camps can offer a rigorous yet rewarding experience.

CENTRAL INDIANA ACADEMY OF DANCE

Central Indiana Academy of Dance at 14950 Greyhound Ct. in Carmel offers themed camps in addition to summer intensives.

For children ages 2 1/2 through 6, each week of camp features a theme like “Frozen” from 9 a.m. to noon. The camp, held on several days through -

out June and July, is $155 per week. Ashley Jacobs, co-owner and director of Central Indiana Academy of Dance, said it is a good introduction to dance.

“The campers get to do a little mini performance at the end of the week with themed songs,” Jacobs said. “They get to do crafts and have snacks every day, and it’s a good introduction to movement and rhythm in general.”

The academy’s Youth Ballet Summer Intensive is from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 6-10. Dancers will participate in ballet, jazz, contemporary and modern classes, among other styles. A showcase will commence at the end of camp.

The intensive is for any dancer with one or more years of ballet training or any current academy student in levels 1 through 3A. Jacobs said it helps students immerse themselves

Continued on Page 9

Continued from Page 8

in ballet technique while branching out to other styles. Cost is $340, and registration closes June 5.

Registration also is open for Central Indiana Dance Ensemble’s Summer Intensive June 8-18. Central Indiana Dance Ensemble is the academy’s preprofessional ballet company.

The two-week intensive, which features guest teachers, is for children 10 and older or Central Indiana Academy of Dance students in levels 3B-9.

“A lot of our dancers take it to improve their technique and learn from new instructors, and there’s a performance with that as well,” Jacobs said. “We also will have seminars discussing nutrition and injury prevention to help them learn about taking care of their bodies in the dance world.”

Registration for the Central Indiana Dance Ensemble’s Summer Intensive closes May 8.

For more, visit ciaodance.com.

INDIANA BALLET CONSERVATORY

Indiana Ballet Conservatory at 849 W. Carmel Dr. offers three camp options — a Summer Intensive for ages 9 and older, a Young Dancers Intensive for ages 6-9 and Fairytale Camp for ages 3-5.

Fairytale Camp, a $125 camp held from 9 a.m. to noon June 1-5, June 8-12 and June 15-19, gives students the same ballet education offered in the summer intensive, with consideration for age-appropriate time and class content.

Business Operations Manager Chris Lingner said it is an introduction to ballet and creativity.

“They will use movement and fairytale storytelling to learn how movement tells a story,” Lingner said. “They also will do arts and crafts, and at the end of each week, they will do a showcase of everything they’ve learned.”

The Young Dancers Intensive, held from 9 a.m. to noon June 1-5, June 8-12 and June 15-19 gives students

Indiana Ballet Conservatory’s Young Dancers Intensive gives students indepth training in ballet technique. (Photo courtesy of Indiana Ballet Conservatory)

in-depth training in ballet technique, pre-pointe and conditioning. Students learn and familiarize themselves with various styles of dance and participate in seminars about nutrition, costume history, injury prevention and stage makeup.

Linger said the camp, which is $200 a week, is designed with more discipline than the Fairytale Camp.

“It’s designed to give the more serious student preparations for our pre-professional division,” Lingner said. “They’ll do some jazz and contemporary in addition to ballet, and they start conditioning, which is a big part of what we do. We start teaching that early to protect them from injury.”

The Summer Intensive has various date options available from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in June and July, with the opportunity to participate for two or three weeks for $500 or five weeks for $2,000. Students must audition to participate.

“We bring in world class guest faculty to supplement our own faculty,” Lingner said. “The camp is for a serious dancer that really wants to take their skills to the next level. They get the conditioning. They get proper ballet class, point work and contemporary. At the end, there is a showcase that we do at Carmel Middle School that’s absolutely free and open to the public. It tends to be a favorite amongst the community.”

For more, visit indianaballetconservatory.org.

Local schools become multifunctional hubs

By David Jacobs david@youarecurrent.com

From Minecraft and LEGO to cross country and pickleball, local summer camps cater to a variety of interests for kids in kindergarten through eighth grade.

With spring break approaching and the academic year ending in a few months, private schools across the area are preparing for summer camps hosted on their campuses.

Camp Cathedral at Cathedral High School, Summer U at University High School and The Summer Experience at Park Tudor will host camps with prices ranging from $20 to nearly $400.

Half-day and full-day options are available at each camp. Summer U also has a few full-day options.

“A lot of people like to do the halfday sessions, so they’ll be over in the sports camp, have lunch and then

Students test their robots on a challenge course during a STEM session at Camp Cathedral. (Photo courtesy of Cathedral High School)

they’ll come over and might do a STEM camp,” said Meredith Van Rooy, University High School’s summer program coordinator. “They’re weeklong,

Continued on Page 11

Continued from Page 10

so in one week, every morning would be sports and then every afternoon would be Minecraft.”

Camp Cathedral follows a weeklong schedule for its nearly 80 offerings.

“We try to keep our enrichment small and have limits on the number of kids that can sign up for each camp,” camp director Anthony Ernst said. “The hands-on opportunity they get to interact with a teacher and Cathedral students is much more beneficial when there are only 10 to 15 kids in that camp versus 45.”

Van Rooy is entering her third year at Summer U, where her focus on learning is the priority when curating curricula.

“We’ve tried to grow our variety over the past few years,” she said. “I’m aware we’re still used as a day care, but I think it’s important that enrichment is happening within these camps. That’s one of the goals we have. We want them to have fun, and we want this to be a good experience for them.”

Camps are open to anyone within the age range, regardless of the

school they attend during the year.

Spots are filling up fast for both Summer U and Camp Cathedral, but Park Tudor does not begin registration until March.

“Traditionally, families seek out when our registration is going to open, and it fills very quickly,” Ernst said. “This year’s camps are looking very good. We’ve had several camps sell out already, but waitlists do exist. If the camps are going to sell out, they’re going to sell out in February

SUMMER CAMP

Campers play outdoor sports activity during Summer U at University High School. The program offers half-day and full-day sessions, allowing students to pair a morning sports camp with an afternoon enrichment session like STEM or Minecraft. (Photo courtesy of University High School)

and March. We still have room in several of our camps, and our sports camps are wide open.”

Summer U does not expect to sell out until the end of March or April.

For more, visit the following websites:

• Camp Cathedral: gocathedral. com/admissions/camp-cathedral

• Summer U: universityhighschool. org/academics/summer

• The Summer Experience at Park Tudor: parktudor.org/summer

SUMMER AT ISI

Summer camps offer STEAM innovation

Redstone circuits to light up lamps and trigger mechanisms like traps, automatic doors and repeaters.”

Summer at ISI offers students engaging, hands-on camps that foster learning, confidence, and friendships. Programs include Lower School language camps (French, Mandarin, Spanish, and Arabic), Amazing Athletes, and enrichment camps, as well as Upper School athletic programs and the Inspirit AI Program in partnership with Stanford and MIT gradu

Local programs use Minecraft, video games and forensic science to teach engineering

By Megan Dial news@youarecurrent.com

Numerous science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics — or STEAM — summer camps throughout Indianapolis are preparing children for their future through engaging, educational projects.

Indy STEM Camps utilize Minecraft to teach children engineering concepts.

“There are numerous features within Minecraft that model engineering concepts,” said Matt Mulholland, Indy STEM Camps director and founder. “One example is a material called Redstone that operates like electricity. Campers can build functioning

Children also learn soft skills such as teamwork and creativity.

“Minecraft is the ultimate sandbox game. This means that the activities, adventures and in-game lessons presented to campers are far more open-ended than the standards-based and structured curriculum that students experience during the school year,” Mulholland said.

“Because our camps emphasize social interactions, it is absolutely necessary for campers to learn to work together to solve problems. This introduces conflict resolution and team building in a way that directly mirrors the real world. As we like to say at Indy STEM Camps, the best kind of learning occurs when you don’t even realize you are learning something.

Continued on Page 13

Continued from Page 12

Playing Minecraft creates just this type of experience for children.”

Indy STEM Camps are offered in Zionsville, Westfield, Indianapolis and Fishers between June 1 and July 24. For more, visit indystemcamps.com.

At iCode Fishers, children learn about coding through gaming experiences.

“Students aren’t just writing code— they’re creating games, animations and programs they care about,” said Lauren Gehle, iCode Fishers’ marketing manager. “Our instructors break concepts into manageable steps and celebrate progress along the way, so campers feel capable and motivated from Day 1. We have a variety of levels of coding, customizable for a wide range of students’ comfortability and compatibility.”

Campers combine coding skills with creativity.

“They learn by doing and being, which makes concepts stick and builds genuine excitement around STEM,” Gehle said. “One of the most exciting moments is when campers design and build their own video

game from scratch. They create characters, design levels and program how everything works. By the end of camp, they have a finished game they can share with friends and family, which is incredibly rewarding.”

iCode summer camps are offered weekly between May 25 and Aug. 8. For more, visit icodeschool.com/ fishers.

The National Inventors Hall of Fame hosts Camp Invention, where children can practice becoming creators, innovators and entrepreneurs.

“Camp Invention has just the right

Camp Invention encourages creativity and teamwork.

(Photo courtesy of Camp Inventiont)

balance of structure and freedom,” said Corey Nielsen, Camp Invention’s marketing coordinator. “There’s a clear framework, but within that, kids are encouraged to be creative and explore their own ideas.”

“This summer’s program is called Spark, and it’s packed with four experiences that campers work on throughout the week,” Nielsen said. Modules include:

• Fur-ensics: Campers team up with a robotic capybara to investigate mischievous animal pranks, exploring fingerprints,

DNA and forensic science.

• Make Waves: Campers explore entrepreneurship through physics experiments, prototype pitching and creative marketing as they turn ideas into market-ready inventions.

• The Infringers: Campers learn how to protect their ideas by exploring cryptography, security technology and intellectual property.

• Space Morphers: Campers design and transform a new planet by building rockets, racing rovers and creating inventions to survive extreme environments.

“Each module is tailored to the various age groups. Campers work on each of the four modules each day and build gradually. We’ve found that approach helps them retain what they’re learning. It also ensures that if a camper misses a day, they don’t miss an entire experience,” Nielsen said.

Camp Invention is offered in Zionsville, Indianapolis and Fishers at various points in June and July. For more, visit invent.org/programs/ camp-invention.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Westfield, Zionsville offers diverse summer programming lineup course, music.

By Spencer Durham spencer@youarecurrent.com

Westfield’s Grand Junction Plaza was the place to be in the evenings and on weekends when it first opened. But there wasn’t much happening during the day, especially in the summer for families with children.

Enter the Kids Summer Series. The first iterations featured interactive concerts and musicians for children.

“That was really born out of feedback from the community,” said Kayla Arnold, communications director for the City of Westfield.

Today, the free summer programming features a wide variety, including magicians, exotic animals, and of

SUMMER CAMPS

June 8 - 12 | College Park Ministry Center, Carmel

June 15 - 19 | Carmel United Methodist Church

June 22 - 26 | St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, Zionsville

New afternoon option for Half-Day Campers

Half Day | Ages 4-6 | 9 a.m.-noon OR noon-3p.m. Full Day | Ages 7-10 | 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

June 8 - 12 and June 22 - 26 Ages 11-18 | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. University High School Theater, Carmel

Kids Summer Series is 9:30-11 a.m. on Tuesdays starting June 2.

Creek Stomps also return this summer as kids explore the Grassy Branch Creek.

Armed with a net and bucket, children can learn what lives in the creek.

The Thursday morning sessions begin May 28 and run through July 30. Each one is from 10 to 11 a.m. Cost is $5 per week.

The program is also accessible to those who cannot walk down to the creek.

To register, visit https:// in-westfield.civicplus.com/231/ Programming.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

The Boys & Girls Club of Boone County will again offer its summer day camps at all locations and specialty camps.

For regular summer campers, they’ll have access to all spaces at the Boys & Girls Club units. There are also weekly field trips like the movies, splash pads and parks.

These camps are open to all children ages 5-18, regardless of residence. Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Specialty camps offer the opportunity for children to travel outside the area.

by Don Zolidis

July 6 -10 Ages 11-13 | 9 a.m.-noon Ages 14-18 | 1-4 p.m. CrossRoads Church. Westfield Ages 11-18 | 9:30 a.m. | 4 p.m. Show Marian University Theater

For example, a two-week travel camp features trips to Columbian Park Zoo and Malibu Jacks in Lafayette, Urban Air trampoline park and the Indianapolis Zoo.

Eric Richards, the club’s CEO, said the specialty camps are popular.

“My litmus test is my kids (who are in the club),” he said. “They love them.”

A two-week water park camp features trips to five different water parks including ones in West Lafayette, Plainfield, Marion and Kokomo.

“That’s the whole goal; they travel out of Central Indiana,” Richards said.

Camps range between $200 and $400 depending on membership. Scholarships are available to those who qualify.

For more, visit bgcboone.org/ programs/camps/.

SULLIVANMUNCE

SullivanMunce Cultural Center will offer a variety of youth and teen art camps throughout June and July.

There are three different youth drama/art camps, themes include fairy tales, create- your-own monsters and mythical quests. Camps are June 8-12, June 15-19 and July 13-17. There are full- and half-day options for each.

Drama camps give kids the opportunity to create their own props and perform for their parents at the end of the week.

“They have more leeway in their creative expression,” said Cynthia

Continued on Page 15

Continued from Page 14

Young, executive director of SullivanMunce.

There’s also an all-day youth art camp, June 22-26, where artists use different mediums.

The Teeny Tiny Art camp, set for July 27-31, brings the opportunity of making small art to kids. The camp is inspired by last year’s popular Teeny Tiny Art Market.

The all-day camp will have kids work with multiple mediums to create pieces no larger than 6 x 6 inches.

All youth camps are for kids ages 7-11.

SullivanMunce will offer a variety of art camps for both youth and teens throughout June and July. (Photos courtesy of SullivanMunce)

Our summer programs are open to all Central Indiana students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12, and offer a great introduction to the extraordinary opportunities available at Park Tudor.

From Cub Camp for 3 & 4 year-olds to options for high school students, Park Tudor summer programs offer something for everyone – arts & crafts, sports, performing arts, science, literature, chess & gaming, and more!

For teens, there is a ceramics camp — July 6-10 or 20-24 — a mixed media camp — July 6-10 — and a fiber arts camp from July 20-24. Camps are half days.

Teen camps are open to kids ages 12-17.

To register, visit sullivanmunce.org, call 317-873-4900 or email info@sullivanmunce.org.

ZIONSVILLE EAGLE RECREATION & ENRICHMENT

Zionsville Eagle Recreation & Enrichment will offer more than 100 different camps for kids of all ages.

Camps include art, nature, sports, engineering, Minecraft, robotics and

Registration starts March 2 for summer camps through Zionsville Eagle Recreation & Enrichment, which will offer more than 100 camps. (Photo courtesy of Zionsville Eagle Recreation & Enrichment)

foreign language.

Ann Hall, manager for Eagle Recreation, said 5,000 attended camps last year.

“Because Zionsville doesn’t have a community center, we’re known as the community resource for summer camps … and enrichment classes,” she said.

Registration opens March 2 for all Eagle Enrichment camps. Visit zionsvilleeaglerec.com/.

Camps run June 8 through July 24 during the day.

Camps pair resources with outdoor fun

By Alicia Kelly alicia@youarecurrent.com

On any given summer day, campers in Indianapolis can be found scaling a rock wall, paddling across a lake or sounding out syllables with a tutor — all in the name of confidence.

Two local programs, Jameson Camp and Camp Delafield, operated by the Dyslexia Institute of Indiana, are blending traditional camp experiences with special ized support designed to help children thrive academically and socially.

For nearly 100 years, Jameson Camp has offered overnight sessions on its wooded cam pus at 2001 Bridge port Road. The camp serves youth ages 7 to 17 in six-day, five-night sessions running Sunday through Friday. About 525 campers attended last year, with roughly 90 children participating each week.

The nonprofit operates with a 1-to5 counselor-to-camper ratio and includes behavioral specialists on staff to assist children with ADHD, anxiety, depression and other diagnoses.

“About half of our kids that come to camp have a diagnosis like that, half of our kids that come to camp don’t,” said Zach White, the camp’s development director. “We operate camp with all of those kids having a shared experience, but with some additional support in place.”

Campers stay in air-conditioned cabins with attached bathrooms and spend their days choosing activities such as archery, fishing and rock climbing. The camp is technology-free, a feature White said builds independence.

Across town, Camp Delafield takes a different — but complementary — approach to summer growth.

The monthlong day camp is for children 7 to 12 at Colonial Hills

School in Indianapolis. The program runs June 1 through July 2, Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Fridays until noon.

Mornings are devoted to academics, including daily one-on-one Orton-Gillingham tutoring and small group instruction in reading comprehension, written expression and math. Afternoons feature swimming, outdoor play, art and STEM activities.

Katie Eynon, a tutor with the institute, said the balance is intentional.

“We have the academic mornings, and then the fun, play-filled afternoons,” Eynon said. “So, the kids get a reward for all their efforts.”

Camp Delafield maintains roughly a 5-to-1 camper-to-teacher ratio in small groups, with each child receiving an hour of individualized tutoring daily. Enrollment typically ranges from 60 to 65 campers.