Mike Wolanin | The Republic An exterior view of the Crump Theatre in Columbus, Ind., Aug. 11, 2023. The marquee bears the message that the theater is open for business after receiving their entertainment permit.
A local student is using his senior project to benefit a local landmark and provide free haircuts to veterans.
Columbus East High School student Seth Lankey is partnering with local barbershop OVLKD to sponsor a haircut drive and barber contest at the Crump Theatre on Saturday. Proceeds from the event will go to the Crump’s restoration process, said OVLKD owner and local veteran Nick Albertson.
Doors open at 11:30 a.m., with free haircuts offered from noon to 2 p.m. These will be limited to basic cuts and trims. General admission is $5; veterans and students will get in free with ID.
“Vets get first priority, with it being Veterans Day weekend,” Albertson said.
The barber competition will be from 2-5 p.m. Contests include best fade, freestyle design, braid design, fastest fade and a beard competition.
There will also be refreshments and vendors at the event.
Lankey’s project was motivated by his passion for honoring veterans and preserving history.
“Inspired by his grandfather, who served in the military, Seth decided to give back to his community this year,” organizers said. “He strongly believes that our past and present heroes deserve recognition and respect. Moreover, he advocates for the preservation of historical landmarks, as they are an integral part of our nation and community heritage.”
Albertson has been Lankey’s go-to hair stylist for several years and has also served as a mentor to the student.
If you go
What: Haircut drive and barber contest
When: Saturday. Doors open at 11:30, with free haircuts offered from noon to 2 p.m. The barber competition will run from 2-5 p.m.
Where: The Crump Theatre, 425 Third St., Columbus.
Cost: General admission is $5. Veterans and students will get in free with ID, with veterans getting first priority for haircuts.
Additional information: For more information and to buy tickets in advance, visit the Facebook event page “Veterans Day Haircut Drive at The Crump Theatre.” Tickets will also be available on the day of the event, but those with advance tickets will be granted early entry and a “red carpet experience.”
