North Indy Magazine March 2024

happens this Fall.

4 BLOCK OUT

LEGO Fans Near and Far Have a Few Exciting Upcoming Events to Experience

12 GET A GOOD LOOK

White River State Park to Host LUNACY! Solar Eclipse Festival

16 ACCURATE PORTRAYAL

Circle City Ghostbusters Honor the Movie Franchise They Love, and the Community Around Them

20 MARKET FORCES

Community Hub Concept in the Works for Monon 30

KEY

TOWNE

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LEGO FANS NEAR AND FAR HAVE A FEW EXCITING UPCOMING EVENTS TO EXPERIENCE

Writer / Ryan Gabbert Photographer / Michael Durr

LEGO

, the worldwide phenomenon and cultural icon, has entertained both children and adults alike for generations. As it continues to grow in popularity, people are finding new ways to to experience it. LEGOs allow everyone to create new worlds,

“WE HAVE FANTASTIC PEOPLE WHO WILL GUIDE YOU THROUGH ANYTHING LEGO, AND THEY LOVE IT.”

—DOUG DAVIS

Opening his store, It’s A Block Party, in 2014, Davis turned his passion into a business. Whether you are looking to buy, sell or trade, it’s a one-stop shop for anything and everything related to LEGOs. The shop has something for everyone, from simple $5 sets for kids up to complex scale models of some of the world’s wonders, and there is truly something there for all.

One of the marquee items on display is the massive and fully functional Geonosis Droid Factory set, which even the casual “Star Wars” fans out there will recognize from “Episode II.” This set is highly prized by Davis and the staff, not just for its scale, complexity and moving parts, but also for the effect it has on customers. People are instantly drawn to it and inspired to create their own masterpieces.

For Davis, what makes It’s A Block Party unique is not the inventory, but the staff.

In the age of big-box stores and national chains, having a shop that is locally owned and operated is special. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and will do everything within their power to help find whatever LEGO-related item the customer needs.

For those looking to sell or trade, the staff will provide helpful and honest customer service to bring about a positive outcome. Even those tubs of mismatched LEGOs sitting in the basement can find a home here, as the team is always in need of additional spare parts.

“We have fantastic people who will guide you through anything LEGO, and they love it,” Davis said. “That’s the key thing. Nobody there hates their job. They all love their job.”

When Davis isn’t making someone’s LEGO dreams come true, he is often traveling the country attending shows for anything that is LEGO related. As much a fan as a businessman, he attends every convention or showcase he can.

While It’s A Block Party might be the best permanent LEGO option for Hoosiers, this spring there are two events guaranteed to thrill fans of all ages.

From January 20 to May 12, Towers of Tomorrow With LEGO

Museum, and is a must-see for all LEGO enthusiasts. It features 20 highly detailed and accurate models of some of the world’s most iconic skyscrapers, constructed by none other than Australia’s Ryan “The Brickman” McNaught. McNaught is one of only 21 LEGO Certified Professionals around the world, and his nickname is well-earned.

In addition to this, there are also multiple hands-on construction zones where attendees can create their own architectural marvels from over 200,000 loose LEGO

And there’s more. On March 16 and 17 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in the Blue Ribbon Pavilion, LEGO fans will have the opportunity to see more than 65,000 square feet of LEGO magic, all built by local LEGO masters including Davis and his friends from It’s A Block Party. Brickworld Indianapolis promises to be an outstanding event with fun for the whole family.

Attendees will have the opportunity to buy new sets, collectibles, mini figures and accessories, as well as participate in some interactive activities. There is even a graffiti

wall for those who are artistically inclined.

LEGO fans have a lot to be excited about over the next few months with these two events. Both Brickworld and Towers of Tomorrow With LEGO Bricks are set to be thrilling experiences for all LEGO enthusiasts. For Davis and the team at It’s A Block Party, the fun doesn’t stop there.

They are committed to being the ultimate destination for LEGO-loving Hoosiers for years to come, and are proud of the experience they give to every customer who walks through their doors.

If you want more information about It’s A Block Party, visit itsablockparty.com, call 317-494-5248, or visit the store at 2220

East Southport Road in Indianapolis. For more information on Towers of Tomorrow With LEGO Bricks, visit indianamuseum. org/experiences/towers-of-tomorrow-withlego-bricks.

For more information on Brickworld and a full list of vendors, check out brickworld. com/brickworld-indianapolis.

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GET A GOOD LOOK

WHITE RIVER STATE PARK TO HOST LUNACY! SOLAR ECLIPSE FESTIVAL

Writer / Renee Larr Photography Provided

On April 8 at 3:06 p.m. ET, North America will experience a total solar eclipse with Indianapolis in the path of totality - a rare occurrence that won’t happen again for Indianapolis until the year 2153. A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, completely blocking the sun and putting the sky in complete darkness. The once-in-a-lifetime event will be celebrated throughout the Circle City, with over 100,000 visitors anticipated to see the celestial event.

White River State Park is hosting LUNACY! Solar Eclipse Festival on April 8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and is the best place in Indy to view the eclipse.

“There is no better place in Indianapolis to view this historic event,” says Jake Oakman, White River State Park executive director. “I like to call White River State Park

Indianapolis’s backyard because if you look at the city, it is the largest area of green space. We have the largest area of cultural attractions and activities right here on our campus.”

The free event will include a convoy of over

20 food trucks on the old Washington Street Bridge serving food and drinks. Vendors will compete in a signature food competition. The flavorsome lineup of food trucks includes Arepas, Books Bourbon & Bacon, Bus Stop Bistro, Chef

Dan’s, Delectable Cuisine Catering and many more.

“Some of the food trucks are locally wellknown like Chef Dan’s and J’s Lobster Truck,” says Lizzie Nunn, director of events and visitor experience at White River State Park. “Many are creating a unique, signature dish specifically for the eclipse. Guests can vote on their favorite signature item.”

The National Institute for Fitness and Sport will be on hand to lead yoga and Tabata classes from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. in Celebration Plaza Amphitheater, to get your mind, body and soul ready for the astronomical events. Nunn says the classes are geared toward beginners so that anyone can participate.

“The eclipse is viewed as a time of reflection and renewal in various cultures worldwide,” Nunn says. “So we thought this would be a great way to take a moment out of the day to meditate and

contemplate before the eclipse.”

“WE WANT EVERYONE TO VIEW THE ECLIPSE SAFELY, SO WE WENT THE EXTRA STEP AND HAD ALL THE GLASSES APPROVED FOR USE BY THE IU SCHOOL OF OPTOMETRY.”

— LIZZIE NUNN

White River State Park is hosting an Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra brass quartet performance at 2:30 p.m. Frank’s Paddlesports Livery will be on hand for guests who want to view the eclipse from the water. They will be renting out canoes and kayaks, and leading river tours.

“A lot of people don’t know this, but White River State Park is in between two levees,” Nunn says. “You have Belmont Beach and the Chevy Dam just south of the Washington Street Bridge. It’s an area that isn’t very heavily kayaked currently. We’d like to highlight and showcase it as a great area for those water activities. Viewing the eclipse from the water will be a unique way to experience it.”

Viewing a total solar eclipse without protective eyewear can burn the retina of your eye. For the safety of visitors, free solar eclipse glasses will be provided by IU Indianapolis and can be picked up at the park’s visitor center. They are on a first-come, first-served basis, so early arrival is recommended.

“We want everyone to view the eclipse safely, so we went the extra step and had all the glasses approved for use by the IU

School of Optometry,” Nunn says.

“Also, the event is rain or shine, and we want to give everyone the best experience regardless of the weather that day.”

White River State Park knows visitors sometimes need a quiet respite from the all-day action, so they’ve created an area called Nap Town where people can lounge in hammocks, play games and cuddle up in lounge chairs. White River State Park is also partnering with the Indianapolis Public Library and the Indiana State Library to host a story walk.

“We found a wonderful book called ‘A Few Beautiful Minutes: Experiencing a Solar Eclipse’ by Kate Allen Fox,” Nunn says. “We take the book and place it on boards you can read while walking through a section of the park. It’s a great way for kids to learn about an eclipse while walking off some energy.”

White River State Park is a 250-acre campus, and the only urban state park in the United States. It’s also a collection of cultural attractions, including the Indianapolis Zoo, Victory Field, IMAX Theater, Everwise Amphitheater, Indiana State Museum, NCAA Hall of Champions, and Eiteljorg Museum.

“Upcoming spring and summer events include a full season

of concerts that we’re booking daily,” Oakman says. “We will also be hosting Zoobilation at the zoo. We have a great Juneteenth celebration, Indy Pride Festival and the Microbrewers Association events.”

White River State Park is located at 801 West Washington Street in Indianapolis. For more information, visit whiteriverstatepark.org.

EXPLORE AT THE SPEED OF INDY.

Photo: Butler University Holcomb Observatory & Planetarium / Visit Indy

Lizzie Nunn, director of events and visitor experience at White River State Park

CIRCLE CITY GHOSTBUSTERS HONOR THE MOVIE FRANCHISE THEY LOVE, AND THE COMMUNITY AROUND THEM

Writer / Ely Ayers Photographer / Michael Durr

Close to a decade after its fruition in 2014, a group of seemingly ordinary Hoosiers continue to celebrate both the movie franchise they love, and the city that embraces them - that group is the Circle City Ghostbusters.

These people, however, aren’t Hollywood actors or fulltime paranormal investigators; they are your neighbors, with everyday professions like medical supply reps, graphic designers and normal blue-collar jobs. What originally bound them together was their unwavering passion for the “Ghostbusters” movie franchise, as well as the recreation of movie sets, prop building, and joy of cosplaying their favorite characters from the “Ghostbusters” films.

Jacob Bartlett, the current president of the Circle City Ghostbusters, laid the groundwork by describing one of the hallmark pieces of every member’s collection: their own customized replica of the proton pack.

“The proton pack is the backpack-looking device that they use to emit streams and capture the ghosts,” Bartlett explained. “I probably spent more money than I should have on my own proton pack. I spent close to $2,500 over a three-year stretch while making it. Hasbro makes their own version and while it looks great and is a terrific starting point, it’s just not the same.”

While global entertainment giant Hasbro has offered its own version at $399.99 (before it promptly sold out everywhere), Bartlett says it is a unanimous feeling that the authenticity of creating one from scratch is incomparable. That goes for

more than just the proton pack, though. For members, the cost of prop building and set reconstruction is secondary to the joy and fulfillment derived from creating something individual to them. Bartlett said a key figure in the group’s creative endeavors is Nic Farnsworth, the quartermaster, who adds an individualistic touch to the recreation and construction of many of the movie sets, and the props that the group makes.

Contrary to popular belief, however, it isn’t the film or building props that group prioritizes. According to Bartlett, from the very start, the group’s priorities lie in the community around them.

“Charity work was a goal for our group from its inception,” he said. “We started small and have learned so much, and gotten better at it over the years. That led us to becoming a registered 501(c)(3) organization. Most folks who join want to do something more than just cosplay.”

The philanthropic efforts of the Circle City Ghostbusters have left

an indelible mark on Indianapolis. They have collaborated with, and helped repeatedly raise thousands of dollars for, a myriad of charities including the Dayspring Center, Boys & Girls Club of Indianapolis, Speedway Animal Rescue, and the Children’s Museum. Their most recent fundraiser for the Special Olympics of Indiana demonstrates their commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of people from all walks of life. It is the norm for them now.

“We make appearances at a lot of charity events, where we have a lot of prizes, knickknacks and candy donated by various places to us, which we then give away as prize for spinning a wheel for a dollar donation,” Bartlett explained.

Though all the charity work has been fulfilling, Bartlett identified a pivotal moment in the group’s tenure that brought a new level of meaning to the work the group was doing.

“Visiting the Dayspring Center with [“Ghostbusters” actor] Ernie

Hudson was undoubtedly the most pivotal and impactful moment for me personally,” he said. “It was a surreal experience to do good with one of my childhood heroes. Beyond that, it was incredibly humbling to visit the shelter and interact with the kids who were there that day. You don’t walk away from an experience like that the same.”

Though a local staple, the group has received praise on a national level. The recognition bestowed upon them by Ghost Corps, Inc., the co-production company overseeing the

“Ghostbusters” franchise, is a testament to their significance. Not only did Ghost Corps reach out to the group, sending them posters for the 2021 film, but they also invited five Circle City Ghostbusters members to the AMC Lincoln Square in Brooklyn, New York. This validation from the very creators of the “Ghostbusters” movies marks a pinnacle achievement for a group deeply immersed in the universe they hold dear.

The Circle City Ghostbusters exemplify the transformative power of shared passion.

“WE MAKE APPEARANCES AT A LOT OF CHARITY EVENTS, WHERE WE HAVE A LOT OF PRIZES, KNICKKNACKS AND CANDY DONATED BY VARIOUS PLACES TO US, WHICH WE THEN GIVE AWAY AS PRIZE FOR SPINNING A WHEEL FOR A DOLLAR DONATION.”

—JACOB BARTLETT

What began as a simple love for a cinematic franchise has evolved into a force for good, impacting lives and receiving recognition from the very entities that inspire them. The Circle City Ghostbusters are not just fans - they are the embodiment of community, creativity, and compassion.

There is profoundness in showing the world that it is not necessary to be a mega donor or corporation to make a difference.

“We’re dressing up as heroes, so we might as

well act like them,” Bartlett said.

The world has come to love the famous “Ghostbusters” quote, “Who you gonna call?” For the Indianapolis community, the Circle City Ghostbusters have made it clear they will always be the ones who answer.

Learn more at circlecityghostbusters.com.

MARKET FORCES

COMMUNITY HUB CONCEPT IN THE WORKS FOR MONON 30

Writer / Alesha McCarty Photographer / Michael Durr

Vicki Higuera is bringing something different to the table with Monon 30’s new concept.

The Monon Trail is a wonderful commuter trail. However, some pockets run through forgotten neighborhoods that have been underserved. Higuera intends to change that with the redevelopment of the third space at Monon 30.

It’s a unique mixed-use space, most noted by its stacks of pallets and shipping containers sitting on approximately an entire city block. The area has become a hit with First Friday events, live music and festivals. The space aims to meet the community on any level and welcomes everyone. Its proximity to Meridian Kessler, SoBro, Fall Creek, and Near Northside make it a perfect gateway for the community to find common ground.

Higuera recently formulated a plan to develop the space into a community hub. An Indy resident for 25 years and an industry gal herself, she knew what the community needed. She says every community needs three tiers of amenities: first, a post office, general store, and bank. Second, a diner or coffee shop. Third, a brewery or distillery. The Market at Monon 30 will help to solve the 38th Street to 10th Street neighborhood food desert issue.

The market will be a campus for farm-to-table shopping, wholefood nutrition and community support. “How can we make it exciting?” Higuera says. “How can we make it educational? How do we make something that will last and evolve, and serve the community within it?”

The market will provide fresh local produce, proteins and general goods, as well as educational programs, cooking classes, recipe inspiration, as well as food prep and storage classes, to ensure people get the most out of their produce.

They also hope to be involved with the Boys & Girls Club, offering kid cooking classes, especially for kids in junior high.

“My generation learned to cook from my parents and grandparents,” Higuera says.

Families often now have both parents working, living farther away, or are comprised of a single-parent family. She hopes to help a generation that missed the family knowledge passed

down in the kitchen. Nutrition and basic cooking skills can be life-changing.

There will also be classes for adults. The possibilities are endless for recipe creation, kitchen tips, food prep and home gardening. These programs will be funded partly by the sizable grant Monon 30 received as part of the Indianapolis Equitable Food Access Initiative.

Higuera is inspired by local farmers who put passion into what they grow and local vendors who create wholesome, honest products.

The Market at Monon 30 improvements will start outside with a Pacer’s bikeshare station, bike racks and stroller parking.

The Blue House, an early-1900s, 750-square-foot home with gorgeous details like the original fireplace, beautiful trim, and wood floors, will serve as the general store, coffee shop and test kitchen. The house has a bank vault added in the late 1900s, which will serve as a specialty food area.

Drip coffee will be available, with plans to establish an Eleyes Reeves’ Mug Club to pay tribute to a local civil rights activist. Rotating local pastries from bakeries like 4 Birds Bakery and

Vicki Higuera

Native Bread will be available. You can find pantry staples and bulk items in the general store - mustard, jam, pickles, grains and pasta.

The Black Warehouse will be an open market space. Fresh local produce, community-supported agriculture offerings, coolers, and freezers will fill up part of the space with local proteins, butter, cheese and more.

A back-of-house prep kitchen will provide grab-and-go snacks, sandwiches, soups and salads to nourish busy neighbors. A soda counter inside the building will be a treat for neighbors out and about. Their three-way license will allow them to serve grab-and-go libations like Ash & Elm Cider products, Hi &

Mighty canned cocktails, and local beer.

Three additional containers will create other spaces in the development. Container one will house a community garden, prepay produce, prepared foods, and juices. There will also be a heirloom seed garden space from Heritage Meadows Farm, a starter garden, and rolling planters.

The second container will serve as a rotating restaurant and commissary kitchen, and the third container will serve as a cookbook library. A courtyard in between, with space for families to relax, play and collaborate, will be extra cozy with various accommodating seating options, fairy lights and planters.

Monon 30 will host small-scale community events to allow people to connect and create an atmosphere where they feel welcome. “We aim to meet people where they’re at and grow with them when they are ready for more,” Higuera says.

Options will change and evolve, but they will always be sourced locally.

Stay tuned at the beginning of March for the social opening, and Higuera hopes it will be fully open to the public in May.

You can find more information and keep updated by following on Instagram @ monon30_indy or heading to monon30. com. The location is at 1118 East 30th Street in Indianapolis.

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