Gary is also showcasing its love of aviation by welcoming an airshow. The airshow, which is organized by the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority, was supposed to be held at Fair Oaks Farms in 2014, but it was rained out.
U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds
Now, Gary will bring the popular airshow back to the lakeshore this year, on July 11-12, 2015 in the skies over Marquette Park.
In past years, the airshow has included the precision acrobatics of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, and has lured crowds of 600,000 visitors to the Gary area.
Local businesses and restaurants, such as Miller Beach’s Market Place, Indie Indie Bang Bang, the 18th Street Brewery, Miller Bakery Cafe, Miller Pizza Station, Flamingo Pizza, and others are hoping their reputations and
bottom lines will soar along with the stunt planes.
The airshow at Gary will be financed by businesses at the Gary/Chicago International Airport and other private sponsors. The organizing committee will include employees from Gary’s special events team and airport representatives, said airport spokeswoman Chelsea Whittington.
Striking out on a new, adventurous path can prove to be daunting. The thought of playing it cool and recoiling into a more mundane approach may at first seem ideal when faced with the startling realities of uncertainty but as the saying goes, anything worth having is worth fighting for.
These sentiments can be applied to so many different aspects of daily life, they are quite relevant in the area of personal style. For years, women in corporate America had to carefully tailor their fashions to fit within the confines of what is considered appropriate. Does an animal print ensemble belong in the boardroom habitat? Can someone with my body type wear that? Is bold color ok? The answer to all of these questions is a resounding yes!
The Spring 2015 work trends will keep you looking fly and fearless; 70s era silhouettes, bold patterns and color, and chic yet classic separates with unusual modern details.
Angela Cain, Director of Community Affairs, Indianapolis International Airport
Add a little color to your spring wardrobe while still remaining professional by adding a jacket in your favorite color. Try a short blazer or a mid-length jacket for a new look. (Jacket, shirt, pants, K&G Fashions; accessories and shoes by way of Styles By M.E. LLC. personal collection)
Angela Cain and Holli Harrington, Director of Supplier Diversity, Indianapolis International Airport
Right:Be bold and test the waters with a fashionable jumpsuit. This jumpsuit can be worn to the office by wearing a blazer and your favorite jewelry. During cocktail hour, the jacket can be removed for an entire new look. (Jumpsuit, jacket, K&G Fashions; accessories and shoes by way of Styles By M.E. LLC. personal collection) Left: If you’re not into color or are still exploring the color spectrum, feel free to jazz up your solid business suits with a patterned pump, and jewelry in an eye-catching color. (Jacket, blouse, pants, K&G Fashions; accessories and shoes by way of Styles By M.E. LLC. personal collection)
Patterns and pastel colors are a big hit this spring and there is no reason you shouldn’t welcome them into the office. Add playful and bold blouses to solid jackets for a polished look. (Suit, K&G Fashions; accessories and shoes by way of Styles By M.E. LLC. personal collection)
Maria Wiley, Senior Director of Audit and Compliance, Indianapolis International Airport
Simple aspects of a solid garment can certainly make it unique, such as the lace work found on the top of this dress. (Dress, Profyle Boutique; accessories and shoes by way of Styles By M.E. LLC. personal collection)
Karen Caswelch, Former Indianapolis Airport Authority board member, Indianapolis International Airport
Flower patterned clothing never looked better in the spring time and now is the season to show off you best. Pair a solid bottom with a lightweight blouse will keep things cool in the office. (Blouse, pants, Profyle Boutique; accessories and shoes by way of Styles By M.E. LLC. personal collection)Students of Paul Mitchell the School Indianapolis
Enter Borel’s Cajun & Creole Cookery and you’ll feel like you’ve crossed into Louisiana. Splashes of purple, green and vibrant gold dominate the interior, trumpets and saxophones blare their funky jazz tunes over the loud speakers, traditional New Orleans delights are on the menu.
Borel’s Cajun & Creole Cookery
The new business launched in Indianapolis in November 2014. The owners, a family of four – husband and wife John and Becky and their daughters Tracy and Theresa, began offering their classic meals on Fat Tuesday hosted in their home.
“For about 10 years, we had Fat Tuesday at our house. We decorated the house just as you see,” said Becky who points out the decorations on the restaurant’s walls. “We wanted to bring New Orleans into our home for those who had never been or tried their food.”
She said once the buffet-style occasion began welcoming 50 people, she turned to her husband and suggested they open a restaurant.
“It was first come, first served,” laughed John. “People would fight for a plate.”
The now three-month-old eatery serves up menu items such as Seafood gumbo, Dirty Rice, Crawfish Ettouffee, Jambalaya, fried fish and a variety of desserts such as Bread Pudding with Rum Sauce.
The couple both has roots in the south, Becky in Georgia and John in New Orleans.
“This has all come from my family,” he said. “Borel is a Creaole name. All of my family is from New Orleans, which includes my great-grandfather, grandfather, my dad and others. They all of the lived on LaSalle Street which is right downtown in New Orleans.”
“I come in sometimes and just pinch myself because we are now a restaurant. The three months we’ve been open has been very positive,” noted Becky.
In fact, the food was in such a high demand on Fat Tuesday 2015, the owners we forced to tell customers they couldn’t accommodate the large volume of people. A lengthy line trailed around the corners of the restaurant and out of the door.
The building located at 2274 W. 86th Street began as an one-room vacant shed with white walls.
The owners wanted to incorporate the community in their design efforts and found teens from local Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School to create a wall mural. The family plans to add awnings to give the appearance of a true patio. Another wall is planned to feature facts about Creole culture and Mardi Gras traditions.
The Borel Family working together has been a worry-free experience.
“We’ve always been a close family,” stated John. “My daughter lives two doors down.”
The owners say their next goal is to expand out the patio during the warmer months. They will also begin menu specials . They say their goal is to stay small, and remain a one-location restaurant.
“We want people to come here and just relax,” said John. “Fortunately we have a beer and wine license so we ask customers to relax with a glass of wine. Some people sit here for four and five hours and that’s what we encourage.”
For more information about Borel’s Cajun & Creole Cookery, visit Borelscookery.com.
Home to about 70,000 residents, Muncie, Ind. is widely known as a small college town home to Ball State University students and the legendary Ball Brothers, who were from a local family famed for the creation of glass Ball jars used in canning food. Famous Ball State alumni include Late Show host David Letterman, Garfield the Cat cartoonist Jim Davis, and Apple Inc. executive Angela Ahrendts. Ball State is classified by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education as a high research activity university. It includes seven academic colleges: including the College of Architecture and Planning; the College of Communication, Information, and Media; Miller College of Business; the Teachers College; Burris Laboratory School; the Indiana Academy for Science, Mathematics, and Humanities; and the Center for Business and Economic Research. Muncie offers tons of local cafes, intimate accommodations and fun filled attractions to keep any family, business person, student or local resident eager to learn more about the historic community.
Attractions
Muncie Gras: Each year the city’s “biggest party,” Muncie Gras, brings in thousands of residents for music and fun. Learn more at: downtownmuncie.org/muncie-gras.
Cardinal Greenway: Enjoy 62 miles of walking, hiking and biking trail from Marion through Muncie to Richmond in East Central Indiana. Cardinal Greenways is a private, not-for-profit organization that hosts the longest running trail in Indiana.
Minnetrista
Minnetrista: Once the home site of F.C. Ball, a member of the Ball family, Minnetrista has devoted more than 10,000 square feet to the preservation of the artifacts and archival material which document the history of East Central Indiana. The center holds various activities throughout the year including its Black history month program, nature walks, and indoor farmer’s market and Family Adventure Day. For more information, see: minnetrista.net/
Muncie Children’s Museum: The Muncie Children’s Museum provides more than 37,000 square feet of entertainment for children. Little ones are invited to hop aboard The Big Rig, an indoor semi-truck, to see what it’s like in the big seat. The Five Senses outdoor garden, Make Believe Theater, Book Nook, Water Works and Marsh Mini Market are all attractions children are sure to enjoy. For more, visit the museum’s website at: munciemuseum.com.
David Owsley Museum of Art: Located in the Fine Arts building at Ball State University, this state-of-the-art museum displays a collection of art from not only the United States but Europe, Africa, Asia and the Pacific Islands. The museum hosts a variety of events throughout the year including free art tours, family days, Meditation at the Museum, and Art High at Noon Tours. For more information, cms.bsu.edu/web/museumofart
Muncie Civic Theatre: This not-for-profit organization, which began in 1931, provides diverse theatrical dedicated to artistic growth and community enrichment. This year productions such as Peter Pan, The Color Purple and The Wizard of Oz will entertain audiences throughout the community. For more, see munciecivic.org
Accommodations
While the city of Muncie offers more than a dozen hotel chains to choose from when enjoying an overnight stay, three bed and breakfasts have recently stolen the spotlight.
Grandview River House: Resting just 20 minutes outside of Muncie, Grandview River House rests on 50 acres of grounds and rolling farmland. The location includes a two-acre fishing lake and grand view of the White River. This bed and breakfast is also equipped with a large banquet room, wood-burning fireplace, a jetted tub and commercial gas grill. 13000 E. Stanley Rd., Selma, Ind. (765) 468-6099.
McDowell-Nearing Bed & Breakfast: The self-proclaimed “premiere bed and breakfast inn” is conveniently located close to Ball State University and Downtown Muncie. The location’s four guest rooms are designed with private in suite bathrooms, quality furnishings and linens, Wi-Fi, and cable TV. Single travelers, military veterans, senior citizens and Ball State and Taylor University parents receive discounts when making a reservation. 2005 N. Tillotson, Muncie, Ind. / (765) 282-7912.
River Gardens Bed & Breakfast
River Gardens Bed & Breakfast: River Gardens B&B is located along the White River on three landscaped acres that feature perennial and herb gardens, a prairie, an orchard, and raised beds for vegetable gardens. Breakfast is served each morning and can include, but not limited to eggs, turkey bacon or sausage, toast, pancakes; an assortment of fruit; cold cereals or oatmeal and an assortment of beverages. This accommodation includes a variety of shared spaces, a gazebo, flower garden, sunroom, laundry facility and two bedrooms to choose from. 4610 S Burlington Dr., Muncie, Ind. / (765) 284-2964.
Dining
New Corner Brewing Company: As the city’s local brewing company, this business handcrafts locally-brewed beer offered in 64 and 32 oz. Customers can arrange a brewery tour or attend special tasting events. 1900 W Mt Pleasant Blvd, Muncie, Ind. / (765) 730-4376.
12th Street Café: This small town café serves a variety of coffees and warm beverages as well as breakfast around the clock. From biscuits, sausage and gravy to buttermilk pancakes, steak-n-eggs to home fried potatoes, 12th Street Café has a wide selection of dishes to choose from. 1900 S. Mock Ave., Muncie / (765) 286-1901.
Amazing Joe’s Grill: Enjoy music from the 70s, 80s and 90s while enjoying hand-tossed sautés at Amazing Joe’s Grill. The 160-seat eatery offers an $8.99 menu Monday through Thursdays from 4-5 p.m. The traditional menu includes items such as The Onion Tower, Italian Chicken Nachos, Joe’s “Famous Fillet” Kabob, Country Fried Chicken and the Philly Cheese Burger. 909 N. Wheeling Ave., Downtown Muncie, Ind. / (765) 288-9470.
Berry Winkle Frozen Yogurt: Make-Your-Own Choose from more than 50 toppings to pile on 15 different flavors of frozen yogurt at Berry Winkle. Customers with a loyalty card who purchase more than nine cups of dessert priced at $3 or more, receive their 10th one for free. 115 S. Tillotson Ave., Muncie, Ind. / (765) 282-1699.
Concannon’s Bakery, Café & Coffee Bar
Concannon’s Bakery, Café & Coffee Bar: Not only does this bakery have traditional fresh baked goods, it has also become a popular spot to enjoy grab a soup, salad or sandwich. Choose from seven different wraps, seven different salads and a menu just for the kids. 4801 W. Baker Ln., Muncie, Ind. / (765) 288-9820.
Damask Café: Damask is the rich, elegant cloth used in clothing, tapestries and upholstery and as creative as the colors are, the food served at Damask Café reflects an “artful mixture of flavors.” The menu includes a combination of lean meats, vegetables, wraps and salads. 3201 W Bethel Ave, Muncie, Ind. (765) 273-7338.
This spring, visitors of the Conner Prairie Interactive History Park will have an opportunity to fly back in time. No, Conner Prairie’s newly improved balloon isn’t Marty McFly’s Delorean or Bill and Ted’s telephone booth time machine, but it is still super cool.
The 1859 Balloon Voyage, which began in 2009, has taken over 91,000 riders 377 feet in the air. The 140-foot helium-filled balloon, was created by Aerophile, a French company and cost $530,000 to create. Construction to create the new exhibit which accompanies the flight is estimated at $165,000. Reynolds Farm Equipment, a family-owned Hamilton county business, has pledged $75,000 annually for five years to be named the attraction’s presenting sponsor.
“This year we have replaced the envelope on the balloon and are reintroducing the exhibit to the public,” said director of exhibits Brian Mancuso. “It’s a great experience, you can see downtown Indy on a really clear day. If you’ve gone to Prairie Town and been to Conner Prairie, it’s a neat thing to see it all laid out beneath you. It’s a really fun flight; it’s not scary at all.”
The balloon voyage allows people to go back to Lafayette, Indiana in August of 1859 to re-experience the first ever recorded air mail flight in U.S. history with an adventurous gentleman by the name of John Wise; a renowned balloonist and pilot played by one of the actors employed at the living history museum. Wise, who hoped to fly his balloon Jupiter to “a great river of air which always blows from west to east,” known today as the jet stream, and deliver 123 letters to New York City, was derailed due to weather conditions and eventually landed due south in Crawfordsville.
Participants experience a detailed account of that day by first visiting a recently remodeled replica of Lafayette’s town square where a post office, general store, and photography studio are located. Here they learn about postal technology, and are also able to take photographs inside a balloon basket while donning fashions from the late 1800’s.
Visitors also learn about the scientific impact of Wise’s flight as they are led through experiments with lifting gases, and invited to step on a scale that measures how many party balloons it would take to lift them into the air. “It’s a really great flight and its very freeing to be up there,” said Mancuso. “Being able to tie that back to a historical event is really fun.
We’re really giving people the sense of why this was an important fascinating piece of Indiana history.” Conner Prairie’s 1859 Balloon Voyage opens March 26. The flight experience is open to museum visitors during regular business hours, weather permitting. The cost for Conner Prairie members is $12 and $15 for non-members in addition to museum admission. For more information, visit connerprairie.org.
Chicago-bound business travelers and celebrities can now choose to touchdown to luxury at the Gary/Chicago International Airport.
Surprised? While those unfamiliar with Indiana’s burgeoning aviation scene may not associate northwest Indiana with upscale travel, high fliers who routinely navigate to the Windy City know the expanding airport is offering increasing amenities, including the $9 million dollar B. Coleman Aviation hangar.
Named for the beautiful and daring African-American pilot Bessie Coleman, who soared to fame in air shows in the 1920s, the B. Coleman Hangar is the fruit of a project launched by Chicago real estate baron Elzie Higginbottom, a well-known Black entrepreneur.
During the ribbon-cutting last November, Gary Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson expressed appreciation to Higgenbottom, who is also known as a political fundraiser for former Chicago Mayor Richard Daley as well as President Barack Obama. Members from the Chicago DODO Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. presented the entrepreneur with a trophy for assisting the organization for African American military pilots of World War II.
“There are Pintos and there are Cadillacs, there are Chevettes and there are Tahoes,” said Freeman-Wilson. “But this is the Cadillac of hangars.”
Benjamin Toles, the hangar’s general manager, singled Coleman out for praise on opening day. “Let us not forget on whose shoulders we stand, because Bessie Coleman was a pioneer in aviation. Thank you to Bessie for the doors she opened,” said Toles. Representing Coleman’s family on the milestone day was Gigi Coleman, the aviator’s grand-niece.
The hangar boasts 32,000 square feet of enclosed space and 20,000 more under canopy, and offers charter flights, as well as refueling and other services. A second B. Coleman Aviation facility is based in Palm Beach, Fla.
B.R. Lane, Gary’s newly appointed deputy mayor, still has oversight duties with the airport, although its ‘day-to-day’ operations are now supervised by private contractor AvPorts, which won a 10-year contract about a year ago. However, Lane is still tasked with interacting with various agencies, the Regional Development Authority, and other stakeholders.
“The Bessie Coleman Hangar is awesome and beautiful,” said Lane, who recently completed a stint as the airport’s interim director. “You’ve got to come out here and get the tour. As a fixed-based operator, it really is designed to cater to the pilots. These folks come in and go wherever they’re going to go, work, do whatever. They want the pilots to be as entertained and delighted as possible.”
She described one typical scenario: “I’m rich, and I have a meeting in downtown Chicago with other rich people. Instead of flying into Midway, I’m flying into Gary. They’ll send a car for me. But my pilot will stay here, work out, shower and watch the television,” Lane explained.
Boeing long-standing tenant
Since 2003, Chicago-based Boeing has maintained its corporate jet fleet at the Gary airport. The move surprised some at the time, but Boeing representatives explained that they were attracted by the hangar space that Gary afforded. The switch gave Boeing office space, an executive lounge and full-service kitchen. In 2014, Boeing also recognized the Gary Jet Center as one of only 51 companies worldwide to win their “Supplier of the Year”award. At the time, Lane responded, “the airport is very proud of the Gary Jet Center for their outstanding recognition and distinguished honor. We commend the Gary Jet Center for being recognized as an intentional platform and thank them for continuing to shine a bright light on Gary.”
Boeing, as well as visiting tenants at the B. Coleman hangar, have recognized the value offered by the airport, the city of Gary, and the state of Indiana, Lane said. “Boeing has a better tax structure here in Indiana, fuel is cheaper here,” said Lane.
“We have an awesome lakefront, pretty much the same lakefront Chicago has, we’re on the other side,” she said. “We’re also considering how to continue to develop our transportation. We have three highways, 65, 80, 94. We have I.U. Northwest, we have a project underway in University Park, where the state is building a new facility that is both IU and Ivy Tech. We’re going to use those projects to anchor development,” said Lane.
“We’re the third airport in the Chicago airport system,” she pointed out. “We strongly need to focus on our strategic positioning. When we consider this from a system standpoint, how the system can best support us as well, our future may lie in general aviation, expanding our footprint, as Chicago continues to grow. We’re crafting a vision that is sustainable. Here’s what we know. Chicago is not going to move. We’ll always be the same proximity as we are right now. As they really make this push to bring back corporations back to Chicago, we’ll provide aviation services for those executives.”
Lane’s point is well-taken. The airport is located near the Port of Indiana-Burns Harbor, railroads, and is 25 miles from downtown Chicago, a short trip via the Chicago Skyway, the Dan Ryan Expressway, and Lake Shore Drive.
In past years, the Gary/Chicago International Airport offered service through airlines including Pan Am, Southeast Airlines, SkyValue Airlines, Skybus Airlines and Hooters Air. JetBlue Airways considered Gary before deciding to go with Chicago O’Hare in 2006. The airport is hoping to complete its ambitious runway expansion project in summer 2015, which could open doors to the return of commercial passenger service, city officials said. For more information on Gary’s B Coleman Aviation, visit B-coleman.com.
As part of a nationwide tour, President Barack Obama visited Indianapolis to discuss his plans for making higher education affordable.
Obama visited Ivy Tech Community College of Indiana North Meridian Campus to address students. There, he praised the benefits of Indiana’s statewide community college system and advocated for his proposal to make community college free for qualifying students.
Obama believes Americans need to have more knowledge and more skills to compete in the growing global economy. For example, by 2020, an estimated 35 percent of job openings will require at least a bachelor’s degree, and 30 percent will require some college or an associate’s degree.
He told students they should be able to obtain the knowledge and the skills they need without taking on decades’ worth of student debt.
Under his education plan, students seeking help would be required to attend community college at least half time, maintain a 2.5 GPA and make steady progress toward program completion.
In turn, the federal government would cover three-quarters of the average cost of community college. Participating states will be expected to contribute the remaining funds to eliminate the tuition for eligible students.
In this issue of Indiana Minority Business Magazine, we focus on Indiana’s proud contributions to the world of aviation and flight.
From the state’s premier airport in Indianapolis, to smaller, independent operations, such as Gary, we examine the aviation industry, and how state airports are meeting challenges in business, personnel and customer satisfaction.
Also in this issue, it seemed a great opportunity to pay homage to some of the Hoosier explorers and trailblazers who courageously paved the way for others, including the pioneer astronaut Gus Grissom.
Grissom, who grew up in Mitchell, Ind., was of course one of the original Project Mercury astronauts, a test pilot, and mechanical engineer.
We also consider individuals who were considered “less than” simply because of their race or gender, such as
Bessie Coleman and Amelia Earhart, who were nevertheless high fliers.
Coleman, who has ties to Gary, Ind. and Chicago, wrote her name in the sky, and in history, by becoming the first African American female pilot and the first African American to hold an international pilot’s license.
Earhart in turn set many records including becoming the first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.
The equal rights supporter also has Indiana ties as a former faculty member in Purdue University’s aviation department.
Coleman and Earhart’s confidence and determination to defy odds transcends their short lives and have contributed greatly to the women in all industries.
On a personal level, I have often reflected on the odysseys of these two women in my own quests, including the personal and professional.
It is during those incredibly uncertain times that I reminded myself of Coleman’s mantra, “I refused to take no for an answer.”
In a similar manner, Earhart’s declaration that “The most effective way to do it is to do it,” has motivated me personally and professionally over the years.
Coleman and Earhart’s affirmations serve as good metaphors for transforming your life and circumstances. Their words also breathe life into leadership and enable us all to blaze new trails without fear or repudiation.
That’s how B.R. Lane leads. You can learn more about Lane, the newly appointed Gary deputy mayor and recent manager of the Gary International Airport in this issue.
Who is she? A phenomenal woman of character and strength who challenged naysayers and refused to cower when her leadership and direction were questioned or even dismissed.
Lane did what others said couldn’t be done when she moved a railroad track in order to preserve the runway, and economic viability of Gary’s airport, which is set to increase economic development in the once struggling city significantly.
Lane’s motto is, “If you see a problem—fix it.”
Coleman, Earhart and Lane have all contributed significantly to aviation with relatively simple, yet motivating perspectives that have transformed the aviation industry. Each of these ladies led and in Lane’s case, continues to lead with purpose and vision.
Anchoring those two aspects as the premise of your personal and professional agendas ensures that you will not only succeed personally and professionally, but that you will also be fulfilled by living in your purpose.
Indiana, or “the land of the Indians” became the 19th U.S. state Dec. 11, 1816. Despite discrimination, today the Hoosier state’s heritage is still represented by the lives of its proud Native American residents.
Indiana’s strength as an economic and cultural leader arises from its civil rights history and diversity, with Hoosier citizens who claim Hispanic, African, Asian and European heritage, and hail from every nation on Earth.
Over the years, this midwestern state has defied stereotypes. For example, although Indiana has typically voted Republican, it supported Democratic candidates Woodrow Wilson in 1912; Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1932 and 1936; and then Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964. And in 2008, Democrat Barack Obama won the state over John McCain.
As represented by war memorials, particularly in its capital city, Indianapolis, Hoosiers have proudly served in the nation’s military. In 1861, when the union called for soldiers to fight the Civil War, so many Hoosiers volunteered for duty that thousands were turned away.
Yet along with its long tradition of military service, the state has also been represented by patriots of pacifism, in its historic Quaker churches and settlements, such as Plainfield.
Indiana has known shameful chapters, such as the rise of the Ku Klux Klan, which successfully comprised a shadow government during the 1920s. Yet, against the scandal, and aided by the press and judicial system, the Klan’s influence and its threat to Catholics, Jews, immigrants and African-American citizens was brought under control.
Indiana’s past also includes segregation. Crispus Attucks High School was constructed in Indianapolis for the education of African-American youth. Attucks’ graduates are known today for excellence and achievement in the business, medical, legal, and arts and entertainment fields.
Attucks graduate David Nathaniel Baker Jr., a famed jazz trombonist, was forced to learn another instrument after a car accident, and the denial of timely medical care from a white hospital. But Baker reinvented himself as a performer and composer, and today is the former chair of the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music Jazz Studies program.
Although the state long denied women the right to vote, generations of Catholic female students have been educated at Indiana’s historic St. Mary-of-the-Woods College, and one of Purdue University’s most famous professors remains none another than legendary pilot, Amelia Earhart.
Indiana’s diverse economy is reflected in its gross state product of $298 billion in 2012, with its pharmaceutical, manufacturing, agricultural, governmental and academic centers, as well as its proud lineup of numerous major sports teams and organizations, including the Indianapolis 500; Brickyard 400 motorsports; the NFL’s Indianapolis Colts, the NBA’s Indiana Pacers, the WNBA’s Indiana Fever.
Today, Indiana still faces challenges to ensure opportunity and civil rights for all, not only in the workplace, but in all spheres of life. Yet many believe the future for Indiana’s residents is brighter than ever, no matter their gender, sexual orientation, national origin, race, or religious views.
Welcoming Indianapolis, a project of the Immigrant Welcome Center, hosted its 2nd annual Welcoming Week. The event brings Indianapolis residents together to celebrate the city’s diverse cultures. Activities during the week included a service project on Indianapolis’ west side, a lunch and learn series taught by area immigrants, and an international picnic. 38th Annual International Festival
The 38th Annual Indy International Festival is central Indiana’s largest and oldest pan-ethnic celebration. Hosted by the Nationalities Council of Indiana, the International Festival showcased Indiana’s ethnic diversity, celebrated the state’s unique ethnic traditions, and encouraged cultural exchange. The fest also featured exhibits from over 50 ethnic groups represented in Central Indiana as they gathered to share their cultural histories and traditions. Highlights of the festival included authentic foods from more than 20 ethnic vendors; continuous music and dance by local and national performing groups; culture booths hosted by volunteers in traditional dress where people could connect with their own ethnic heritage; artisans demonstrating unique cultural crafts; a Naturalization Ceremony; and an International Marketplace offering gifts from around the world.
34th annual Christmas art exhibition
Artists and art lovers gathered at the Frankford Community Public Library for the 34th annual Christmas Art Exhibit entitled “The Magnetism of Nature.” The art show draws on the magnetic quality of nature represented in myriad forms of art. Nearly 100 artists working in a multitude of mediums exhibited paintings, photography, pottery, jewelry, fiber, sculpture and more. The Friends of the Frankford Public Library Inc hosted the exhibit.
Traditional pow-wow held at IU
Native Americans gathered at Indiana University Bloomington to share history, culture and arts during the Indiana University 4th Annual Traditional Pow-wow held in Alumni Hall at the Indiana Memorial Union. It also served as the lead event for IU Bloomington’s observance of Native American Heritage Month.
A major highlight of the special month was a visit by multi-instrumental musical performer Ed Kabotie, a member of the Hopi nation from Santa Clara Pueblo, N.M.
Each year, the IU Pow-wow has grown in size and scope, and participants come from across the country and even Canada.
Levi Coffin Interpretive Center groundbreaking
Hoosiers gathered in Fountain City, Indiana to break ground on the $3.1 million Levi Coffin Interpretive Center. The Center, funded with federal, state, local and private dollars, will provide visitors with information about the importance of Indiana on the Underground Railroad. Located adjacent to the Levi Coffin Historical Site, a home through which over 1,000 slaves passed seeking freedom, the center will help visitors learn about the history of African-Americans and their supporters who sought a simple though seemingly unattainable right: freedom.
Bush twins visit Evansville
The University of Evansville’s Patricia H. Snyder Concert and Lecture Series welcomed Barbara Pierce Bush and Jenna Hager as featured guest speakers during the “A Conversation with Barbara Pierce Bush and Jenna Hager” event.
United in their humanitarian missions and spirit of service – as well as through their close family bond – Barbara Pierce Bush and Jenna Hager have found a shared purpose in giving voice to the disadvantaged while bringing to light stories of hope. Coming from a unique vantage point as the only twins to grow up in the White House as both grandchildren and children, Barbara and Jenna were inspired to live lives of meaning at an early age. Stemming from their travels to impoverished areas in Africa and Latin America, they discussed their life’s calling to address the most pressing health, education and economic inequality issues of our time.
Cass Herrington, host and producer at WNIN Tri-State Public Media Inc., the area’s PBS and NPR affiliate, served as moderator.
