By Mark Ambrogi
Michael Luse had a hidden talent.
The Zionsville Community High School senior took a chance and put it on display, and his reward was being named Mr. Zionsville at the annual competition on Jan. 22.
“[Art] is one thing I’ve loved that not a lot of people have known that I’m good at it or enjoy,” Luse said. “When I do art, it’s just kind of time to myself. It was an opportunity for me to share my art with others.”
During the four-minute talent portion on stage, Luse painted a blackboard with rubber cement. In the last 30 seconds, he took sand and threw it all over the board. The result was a portrait of Marilyn Monroe, much to the delight of the crowd of 1,100 at Zionsville Performing Arts Center.
During the interview portion of the competition, Luse portrayed swimmer Michael Phelps. All 10 of the contestants took part in the opening dance routine.
“I would say it was the best experience I’ve had throughout high school,” Luse said. “All 10 of the guys really bonded. There wasn’t a single person that was disappointed in the performance and we all just had a great time together.”
Other Mr. Zionsville awards went to Joe Knue, Mr. Spirit, and Jeff Ting, Mr. Talent.
Asked if he was confident he could win, Luse said it depended on the stage of preparation.
“At the very beginning it was very hard,” Luse said. “The art wasn’t turning out like I was planning on it. As I got more and more comfortable with lots and lots of practice, my confidence was raised.”
Luse, a middle linebacker, served as captain of the football team this past season. He is also involved in Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
“I’m heavily involved in Traders Point Church, I lead a life group of seventh-grade boys,” said
Luse, who plans to major study building and construction management at Purdue University.
Mr. Zionsville serves as a major fundraiser for the school prom.
