Friday, April 25, 2025
Home Blog Page 4

Southside USCT Coalition hosts resource fair

Noral Parham
-
0
Southside USCT Coalition hosts resource fair

The Southside United States Colored Troops (USCT) Coalition will host a Community Resource Fair on March 15, offering various services and resources to residents of Southeast Indianapolis. 

The event, which runs from 10 a.m-2 p.m., connects community members with essential resources, including expungement services, eviction assistance, employment opportunities and youth and health programs. 

The fair features various vendors, including Indy Parks Department, Workforce Development Resources, Rethink Indy and IndyCLT.  

Food trucks, raffles and other activities will also be available. 

Sourthside reource fair graphic.
(Photo/Getty Images)

The event is part of the coalition’s efforts to support the six African American neighborhoods in Southeast Indianapolis that the United States Colored Troops established during the Reconstruction Period (1865-1877.) 

The Southside USCT Coalition has a long history of advocating for the neighborhoods it represents, focusing on initiatives that impact education, housing and economic development. The Resource Fairs are just one of many efforts the coalition undertakes to strengthen the community and provide residents with the resources they need to succeed. 

Those unable to attend the resource fair on March 15 can attend the summer edition on Sept. 20. 

The event occurs at Southeast Community Services, at 901 South Shelby St. 

For more information about the upcoming Resource Fair or the Southside USCT Coalition, contact them via phone at 317-236-7400.  

Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3Noral. For more news, click here.

Huse Culinary launches 1933 Lounge in Carmel

Noral Parham
-
0
Huse Culinary launches 1933 Lounge in Carmel

Carmel’s dining scene is about to become even more luxurious with the addition of the newest 1933 Lounge by St. Elmo.

Set to open April 1, the upscale cocktail lounge and restaurant will be the third location from Huse Culinary.

CEO of Huse Culinary Craig Huse spoke on the company’s newest location.

“Bringing the 1933 Lounge to Carmel has long been our vision, as the city embodies a deep appreciation for exceptional dining and craftsmanship,” Huse said.  

Known for its signature handcrafted cocktails, premium steaks and fresh seafood, 1933 Lounge offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere designed to enchant guests to the elegance of the post-Prohibition era.

The Carmel location features the same tailored menu as its companion in Fishers, catering exclusively to guests aged 21 and older.

The 8,200-square-foot lounge will accommodate 200 indoor guests, with an additional 70 seats available on a covered patio overlooking Rangeline Road. The space evokes a sense of timeless regality, featuring bold hues, theatrical textures and layered design elements. A gold dome over the bar, dimmed steel accents and a double-sided fireplace contribute to the warm yet opulent ambiance.

The restaurant offers eight private and semi-private dining spaces for events, housing groups from seven to 58 patrons.  

Features like live-edge wood tables, abundant natural light and a convertible sunroom enhance the intimate and upscale dining experience. The covered patio, designed for a year-round experience, includes fire pits, lounge seating, heated floors, overhead heating and fans. 

“Every detail of this space, from rich textures to inviting ambiance, was designed to offer a sophisticated yet comfortable gathering place for the community,” Huse said. 

The Carmel location brings 125-150 new jobs to the community.  

Wendy VanVelzen, formerly the general manager of 1933 Lounge Fishers, leads the new location. Jason Chesky, former executive chef at Harry & Izzy’s Northside, oversees the kitchen. 

“As we continue to grow with intention, our priority remains delivering an elevated experience while fostering strong connections within the communities we serve,” Huse said. “Beyond the menu and ambiance, we’re excited to create career opportunities, invest in local talent and provide a place where guests can celebrate everyday moments and special occasions.” 

The 1933 Lounge by St. Elmo in Carmel will accept walk-in guests starting April 1, with reservations available beginning April 14.  

“This expansion reflects our commitment to excellence — not just in the food and cocktails we serve but in the atmosphere we create,” Huse said. 

The restaurant, located at 175 South Rangeline Road, operates from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday , from 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and from noon until 9 p.m. Sunday. Reservations can be made online or by calling 317-751-1933. For more information, visit 1933Lounge.com. 

Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3Noral. For more news, click here.

Minority Business Highlight: J’Adore Pastry 

Hanna Rauworth
-
0
Minority Business Highlight: J’Adore Pastry 

In the heart of Indianapolis, J’Adore Pastry has emerged as a beacon of culinary artistry, blending rich cultural heritage with innovative pastry creations.  

Founded by Moroccan-born pastry chef Youssef Boudarine, J’Adore Pastry has quickly become a cherished name among local dessert enthusiasts. 

Ariel and Youssef created J’Adore to be a celebration of food and community. (Photo/J’Adore)

Boudarine’s journey began in Berber, a small town in Morocco, where his passion for baking was ignited while assisting his mother in the kitchen. This early exposure to traditional baking laid the foundation for his future endeavors. 

J’Adore’s pastry creations. (Photos/J’Adore)

Pursuing his passion, Boudarine earned a hospitality degree in Casablanca and honed his skills under renowned pastry chef Pierre Hermé in France. His career flourished at the prestigious Ladurée, where he contributed to numerous restaurant openings over five years.  

Relocating to Indianapolis, Boudarine played a pivotal role in developing pastry programs at esteemed establishments like Anthony’s Chophouse and Bluebeard. His innovative approach to desserts, characterized by vibrant colors and architectural designs, captivated the local culinary scene. In his spare time, Boudarine works closely with the Junior Chef Academy to prep students for the World Food Championship, returning to Indy in October. 

Boudarine’s extensive experiences culminated in the inception of J’Adore Pastry in 2022, a venture co-founded with Ariel Hendrickson, celebrating food, culture, art and community.  

J’Adore Pastry operates primarily through pop-up events across the city, making high-quality pastries accessible to a broader audience. These events not only offer delectable treats but also foster community engagement, aligning with Boudarine’s goal of inspiring conversation through his desserts. 

Looking ahead, Boudarine envisions establishing a permanent storefront for J’Adore Pastry. Until then, he continues to delight patrons with his pop-up appearances, each event a testament to his dedication to culinary excellence and community connection.  

To stay up to date with Boudarine and J’Adore, follow them on Instagram at @jadorepastry. 

Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here. 

Minority Business Highlight: Mobile Billboard Indiana

CHLOE McGOWAN
-
0
Minority Business Highlight: Mobile Billboard Indiana

Founded in 2022, Mobile Billboard Indiana aims to “change the narrative” of advertising.

The Black-owned company specializes in digital billboard trucks with high-resolution LED screens and vibrant displays for on-the-go marketing. The billboard trucks are versatile and designed to promote a variety of events or other custom branding needs, such as business promotions, grand openings, concerts, conferences and more.

Mobile Billboard Indiana trucks come with a 7×14 ft. driver and passenger screen, a 7×7 ft. rear screen, an HD video screen, exterior speakers and the ability to rotate static images and video content in JPEG or MP4 format.

Mobile Billboard Indiana offers advertising opportunities to businesses and organizations in and around Indianapolis, as well as other areas in Indiana and surrounding states — including Fort Wayne, South Bend, Evansville, Muncie, Lafayette, Chicago, Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, Lexington, Louisville and more.

With Mobile Billboard Indiana, advertisers can customize a message based on location, time of day and target audience. Digital billboard trucks are unique from traditional advertising as they can accommodate high-visibility displays for real-time updates and content changes.

Advertisers can also measure the effectiveness of ads and campaigns through real-time tracking and analytics tools, according to the website.

For more information or to book with Mobile Billboard Indiana, visit mobilebillboardindiana.com. To get in contact, email info@mobilebillboardindiana.com or call 317-992-5070.

Contact Arts & Culture Reporter Chloe McGowan at 317-762-7848. Follow her on X @chloe_mcgowanxx. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.

Scholarship spotlight: 12 leaders awarded spring leadership diversity cohort 

Hanna Rauworth
-
0
Scholarship spotlight: 12 leaders awarded spring leadership diversity cohort 

ADVISA, a leadership consultancy in Carmel, announced the award of 12 Leadership Diversity Scholarships for spring 2025. 

The Leadership Diversity Scholarship is designed for leaders from under-represented groups who want to grow their skills and encourage positive influence on their organizations. A minimum of two fully funded scholarships are awarded each year for each cohort. 

The 2025 recipients represent a wide range of organizations across multiple sectors including education, nonprofits, construction, health care and more. 

(Photo/ADVISA)

Each scholarship receives full tuition to one on ADVISA’s leadership journey programs: 

1. Emerging Leader Series (a $2,700 value): Tailored to the unique needs of early career high performers who are ready to take on their first formal leadership role.  

2. Leadership Fundamentals (a $6,600 value): For frontline supervisors and mid-level managers who are ready to make the shift from overseeing tasks to coaching performance and developing others.  

3. Leadership Academy (a $8,800 value): For established leaders and managers of managers who seek to create competitive advantage for their organization through people and culture. 

“When people with diverse backgrounds and identities have access to leadership programs, it creates a positive ripple effect for entire departments, organizations, and communities,” said Kate Fagan Shuck, vice president of delivery at ADVISA. 

Over 50 Leadership Diversity Scholarships have been awarded since ADVISA launched the program in 2021. To learn more, visit advisa.com/scholarship. 

Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth. 

Shadow Lounge & Restaurant: Indy’s beloved hangout

Noral Parham
-
0
Shadow Lounge & Restaurant: Indy’s beloved hangout

Shadow Lounge & Restaurant, a new Black-owned establishment, recently opened its doors on Indianapolis’ near east side. 

Located at 2380 East 54th Street, this venue offers a hybrid of dining and entertainment, creating a space where art and soul collide. 

The ambiance of Shadow Lounge exudes urban sophistication. Dim lighting and shady contours set the stage for an intimate atmosphere. The decor combines elegance with urban components, creating an environment where all patrons can feel comfortable. 

The establishment’s management team brings a substantial amount of experience to Shadow Lounge. Manager and longtime music promoter Fred “Dookie” Leachman partnered with investor Stephen Pettigrew to oversee a yearlong renovation of the venue. 

The lounge serves as a sanctum for live music, spoken word and comedy performances, furthering inclusivity while ensuring every guest feels appreciated.  

Getty Image decoratively used for Shadow Lounge & Restaurant
(Photo/Getty Images)

The culinary offerings at the louge cater to diverse palates. The menu features a variety of dishes. From the house salad and fried cauliflower to lamp lollipops and shrimp ‘n grits, Shadow Lounge has a dish for everyone. 

The bar complements the dining adventure with signature cocktails, each crafted to elevate the night. The mixologists create exciting drinks that elevate taste buds and enhance the overall experience.  

Additionally, Shadow Lounge highlights forming a space filled with positive energy and good vibes. The venue hosts various events, including karaoke nights (currently held on Mondays), sports viewing, board games, trivia and much more. 

Contact Shadow Lounge at 317-974-9288. For more information such as upcoming events, menu items and more, visit their website at shadowloungeindy.com. 

Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3Noral. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here. 

Connor Painting’s 45 years of impact earns vendor of the month spotlight 

Hanna Rauworth
-
0
Connor Painting’s 45 years of impact earns vendor of the month spotlight 

The Office of Minority and Women Business Development (OMWBD) director David Fredricks recognized Connor Painting, a minority and women-owned business as the Certified Vendor of the Month for March 2025. 

“Connor Painting extends our sincere gratitude to the City of Indianapolis and the Office of Minority and Women Business Development for their unwavering support of small businesses like ours”, said Janmarie Connor, president, CEO and co-founder of Connor Painting. “Their commitment goes beyond providing invaluable executive tools, coaching, and business opportunity awareness — they have fostered a collaborative ecosystem where best practices are shared and meaningful connections are forged.” 

The painting company has been serving the Indianapolis community’s painting needs since its founding in 1979. Connor has been a leader in the field and has championed for minority and women-owned businesses, safety and sustainability in the trades and a people-first approach to her work. 

Connor Painting receiving the OMWBD Vendor of the Month for March 2025. (Photos provided/OMWBD)

“Connor Painting exemplifies the spirit of Indianapolis — hardworking, community-driven, and dedicated to excellence,” said Dan Boots, City-County Counciler (District 13). “The company’s commitment to safety, sustainability and uplifting others makes them a model for businesses in our city. I congratulate Janmarie Connor and her team on this well-deserved recognition.” 

The company has completed over 50,000 projects across the city. Customer service is a pillar of their business, and they have invested in the safety of their employees, earning the business several Zero Injury Awards from the Coalition for Construction Safety.  

“Connor Painting has always embodied the values that drive our office’s work through its unwavering commitment to uplifting employees and the communities they inhabit through development, service and education”, Fredricks said.

To read more like this, click here. 

Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth. 

Building Black generational wealth? Don’t forget about investing

STAFF
-
0
Building Black generational wealth? Don’t forget about investing

by TERRANCE BOGAN

Seventy-two percent of Black investors surveyed said that building generational wealth was a main reason they started investing, according to J.P. Morgan Wealth Management’s latest Diverse Investor Study. I’m so encouraged to see more people in our community taking charge of their finances and investing not only in their future but the futures of those who come after them.

What do we mean when we say, “generational wealth?” And where does investing come in?

What is generational wealth?

Many of us have probably thought about the legacy we want to leave behind for our children, grandchildren and beyond. Put simply, generational wealth is the assets you pass on to the next generation. This can include family members or close friends. The idea is to help put the generations after you in a better position than where you started.

This is particularly significant in the Black community. For many Black families, historical racial inequalities have put a strain on building multigenerational wealth. According to the Federal Reserve in 2022, the typical Black family has $15 for every $100 of wealth held by the typical white family.

How investing can help

If you’re looking to build wealth in the long run, saving alone probably isn’t enough. Investing, or putting some of your money to work in the market, is an important component of a wealth-building strategy. By investing, you’re able to take advantage of a principle called compounding. This is where your money earns interest on top of the interest you’ve already accrued. As a result, the new amount has the potential to grow at a faster pace.

You won’t always earn gains on your investments. But if you start investing early, you’re giving your money more time to potentially grow in the long term. This also means your money has more time to ride out the bumps of market volatility. Time in the market — not timing the market — is key. The sooner you can get started, the better.

Tips for getting started

If you’re new to investing, here are a few tips to consider as you begin your wealth-building journey:

Have a plan — You probably have a lot of different goals for your money. Some may be short term, like taking a big vacation in the next year. Others might be more long term, like your children’s future college costs or your eventual retirement. The specific goals and their timelines will look different for every individual. This is why it’s so important to have a plan in place that is customized to your unique situation and priorities. A well-built plan can help you stay on track and work towards your various goals at the same time. Our study also found that respondents with a plan for their goals are more likely to rate their financial health highly, say their financial situation has improved in recent years and talk to their children about money.

Be consistent — When it comes to investing, consistency is key. It’s a common misconception that you need a lot of money to get started. This isn’t true — you can start small with an amount that works for you. However, it is important to be consistent with your investments. This can help you stay on track in the long run.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help — Remember, you don’t have to approach it alone. Everyone has their own preference for managing their money. For some people, working with a professional can be helpful. A financial advisor can act as your partner throughout your investing journey. They can help you map out your different goals, create a custom-tailored plan for those goals and support you along the way.

Terrance Bogan is a Market Director at J.P. Morgan Wealth Management in Indianapolis. He manages a team of financial advisors who help people work towards their financial goals, based in Chase branches in Indianapolis.

J.P. Morgan Wealth Management is a business of JPMorgan Chase & Co., which offers investment products and services through J.P. Morgan Securities LLC (JPMS), a registered broker-dealer and investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC.

Minority Business Highlight: Lux Beauty Spa 

Hanna Rauworth
-
0
Minority Business Highlight: Lux Beauty Spa 

In the heart of downtown Indianapolis, Lux Beauty Spa stands as a beacon of inclusivity and community care.  

Suzanne Michael. (Photo via/Lux Beauty Spa website)

Founded by Suzanne Michael, a seasoned expert with over a decade of experience in skincare and holistic wellness, the spa offers a diverse range of services — from haircuts and styling to facials to makeup applications — catering to clients of all backgrounds. Michael is passionate about helping clients achieve healthy skin, combining personalized care with the latest techniques to help every client feel confident and refreshed. 

A client of Lux Beauty Spa. (Photo via/Lux Beauty Spa website)

Lux Beauty Spa’s mission is to break down barriers in the beauty industry by providing accessible, high-quality services tailored to every individual’s unique needs. 

Recognizing that many salons fail to address multicultural requirements, Michael and her team ensure that every client feels seen, cared for and empowered.  

Lux Beauty Spa offers a wide array of services, including: 

  • Haircuts 
  • Hair coloring 
  • Styling 
  • Braids 
  • Extensions 
  • Manicures 
  • Pedicures 
  • Facials 
  • Waxing 
  • Skin treatments 
  • Brow services 
  • Lash services 
  • Makeup services 

Beyond its comprehensive service offerings, the spa is deeply committed to community engagement. It provides free and discounted services to those in need and actively participates in local initiatives to spread confidence and positivity.  

A client of Lux Beauty Spa. (Photo via/Lux Beauty Spa website)

To book an appointment, visit luxbeautyindy.com.  

Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here. 

Dream Alive hosts inaugural luncheon, secures $100,000 from Jim Irsay 

Noral Parham
-
0
Dream Alive hosts inaugural luncheon, secures $100,000 from Jim Irsay 

Dream Alive, a nonprofit empowering at-risk youth, held its inaugural Dream Makers Luncheon at Victory Field in downtown Indianapolis on Feb. 26.  

The event brought together dozens of community leaders, educators and philanthropists, celebrating the organization’s impact and investing in its future. 

One of the most significant moments of the luncheon came when Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay announced he would match donations made during the event up to $100,000. 

Contextually, $100,000 would allow Dream Alive to work with 200 mentees for the entire year. 

Founded in 2001, Dream Alive provides mentorship and character development programs to Indianapolis youth, equipping them with the skills and opportunities necessary for academic and professional success. The organization has grown significantly in recent years, with 2450 students, 871 students graduating in 2024, an increase of 27% from the previous year.  

The nonprofit has sites at many inner-city schools, including Arlington Middle School, Arsenal Tech High School, Howe High School, Northwest High School, Shortridge High School and others. 

Dream Alive’s commitment to youth development yields impressive results. The nonprofit boasts a 99% high school graduation rate for its mentees, demonstrating the effectiveness of its long-term mentorship model. 

Moreover, its mentees experience 91% fewer suspensions and 98% fewer expulsions, highlighting the program’s positive influence on school engagement and behavior. 

Co-founder of Dream Alive and former Indianapolis Colts player Tarik Glenn believes that the organization provides the missing keys to success for Indianapolis youth. 

“Most of the children that grow up in the inner city may not have the same opportunities that others have,” Glenn said. “Are you reinforcing the lessons that they are learning? Are you helping them connect the dots? Do they have the proper ecosystem around them to support them that leads to success in life? And what we realized at Dream Alive is that those are the missing pieces.” 

Dream Alive’s triumph would not be possible without strong community partnerships. With 130 partners across Indianapolis, the organization connects students with career exposure, networking opportunities and mentorship that extend beyond the classroom. In 2024 alone, Dream Alive facilitated 19,774 program hours, emphasizing its commitment to hands-on, experiential learning. 

During the luncheon, several scholars shared personal stories of how Dream Alive has shaped their lives, from overcoming academic struggles to securing internships with major companies. 

Jasmine Barlow, a Dream Alive program alum, shared how integral the nonprofit has been to her growth.  

“I started in Dream Alive in middle school, high school and then went on to become an intern,” Barlow said. “They helped prepare me for the workforce, they gave me the tools, helped me get to college. They gave me everything I needed. They helped me get there, and now it is my turn to come back and help the next group.” 

Glenn used the philosophy of football and teamwork to champion philanthropists and volunteers at the luncheon. 

“If you don’t know football, it requires all eleven guys to be in sync and understand their role,” Glenn said. “That is a great reflection of how community has to go.” 

The Dream Maker Luncheon not only celebrated past achievements but also set the stage for continued growth. With the increased financial support from donors and partners, Dream Alive aims to expand its reach and enhance its programming in the coming years. 

For Glenn and the Dream Alive team, the event was more than a fundraiser — it was a call to action for the entire Indianapolis community to support and uplift the next generation of leaders. 

“When you mentor, it is not a one-way street,” Glenn said. “I felt like I learned more than what I was teaching. That is the power of mentorship. I got just as much out of it as I taught.” 

For more information on Dream Alive and how you can get involved, visit dreamaliveinc.org

Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3Noral. For more news, click here. If you would like your business featured in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.

1...345...97Page 4 of 97

© Copyright 2023 Indiana Minority Business Magazine

Contact us: newsroom@indyrecorder.com

Website Created By: KI NuMedia

Translate »
Skip to content