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Do what you love

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Do what you love

By Shannon Williams

One of the most fulfilling things to have is a career or an enterprise that you love. We know that we have chosen the right job or selected the right type of business to open when we actually enjoy the work that we do. It doesn’t seem like work!

According to a recent Gallup poll, Americans who are employed full time work an average of 47 hours a week, which equates to six days a week. With so much time invested in employment and entrepreneurship, doing what we love is obviously important to our overall wellness.

Most of us can agree with what Langston Hughes once wrote, “Life for me ain’t been no crystal stair.” Fortunately, however, I can say that I have been blessed to do what I love for a living. Being a journalist and directing impactful publications has been a greater honor than I ever imagined. Not only has this career provided an opportunity to equip many people with news and helpful information, but it has also enhanced my growth as an individual.

In this issue of IMBM, we highlight several people and media companies who share my joy and passion for transforming communities through journalism. We present minorities and women in Indiana who have set the tone for excellence in media, from living legend Dorothy Leavell, chair of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) and editor/publisher of the Gary Crusader newspaper, to Deon Levingston, general manager of Radio One Indianapolis.

From El Puente newspaper in Goshen to WRTV-Channel 6 in Central Indiana, we also celebrate the print, radio and television enterprises that have offered minorities in media an engaging vehicle to share our gifts and talents. As a bonus, we share a rare inside view of Indiana’s growing film industry. We hope you have as much fun reading about that as we did covering it.

When someone enters any area of the media, weather it is print journalism, television reporting, radio broadcasting or blogs and social media, the decision is usually based on a calling. This is not the type of career field people choose to be wealthy or to have an easy day. It is not for those who are driven primarily by self-ambition.

However, a career in media is perfect for those who are called to serve causes that are greater than their own interests. People who are motivated to make a positive difference in their community by making sure their readers, listeners and viewers have the information they need to solve problems and reach their highest potential.

Each of the media and film professionals profiled in this issue of IMBM demonstrate that they are committed to those goals. They are doing what they love, and it shows. Also, they understand that the work that we do is ultimately not about us, it is about telling life’s stories with captivating accuracy. It is about getting to the essence of the people that we interview. It is about serving as a strong and balanced voice for justice and truth.

We absolutely believe the famous statement by author Edward Bulwer-Lytton that “the pen is mightier than the sword” when it comes to ushering in positive changes and progress.

Although the number of minorities in the media profession is steadily growing, there is still plenty of room for diversity and growth in this field. We hope that this issue will encourage those who seek an exciting and rewarding career to join our ranks. At the very least, we hope that it will inspire you to reach higher and to have an even greater impact through your own calling.

What is essential is living a life where we are doing what we love and what motivates us.

We are thankful for having Indiana Minority Business Magazine as part of the Recorder Media Group family for over a decade. Happy New Year to everyone who has supported this publication and we look forward to a year of maximized opportunities for us all.

On the scene

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On the scene

A focus on film

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A focus on film

Indiana home to flourishing film industry, talented moviemakers

By Keshia McEntire

When a filmmaker visits a location to shoot their latest project, they bring economic growth with them. In Indiana alone, the film industry provides 7,018 jobs and $241 million in wages — a lofty sum, but significantly less than our neighbors Ohio (11,660 jobs and $459 million in wages) and Illinois (19,984 jobs and over $1 billion in wages). Fortunately, the ways in which individuals produce and consume media are rapidly changing, and Indiana’s opportunity to play a role in the film industry is increasing as more Hoosiers recognize the value of film.

Indiana’s impact

There was a time when those who wanted to work in the film industry knew that to have a shot at making it big, they’d have to pack their bags and move to a large city, such as Hollywood, New York or Atlanta. In today’s global society, that is no longer the case. Many passionate and successful filmmakers call Indiana home. Hoosiers have started successful production companies, filmed productions that have found their way to television and Netflix and have created web-based media networks. In addition, our state is working hard to promote its resources and locations to large out-of-state production companies.

Two years ago, the Indiana Office of Tourism Development took over Film Indiana, an initiative that promotes the state’s assets to filmmakers. Since the takeover, they have put together an online location database and production service directory for the industry.

Amy Howell, who oversees Film Indiana, says despite dozens of Hoosier production companies putting out quality work and many well-known films being shot in full or in part in state, getting large production companies to shoot in Indiana has been challenging. For example, local author John Green’s novel “The Fault In Our Stars” was set in Indianapolis, yet producers chose to shoot the film adaptation in Pittsburgh.

Howell says part of the problem stems from the fact that, unlike over 30 other U.S. states, Indiana doesn’t offer incentives such as tax credits, rebates and grants to film producers. Pennsylvania, for example, offers a 25 percent tax incentive, plus 5 percent for projects intended for a national audience and filmed at qualified facilities.

“I do think tax incentives would be a good starting point. If you look to see what Georgia has been doing, it’s a good model. Georgia has basically built a soundstage in all major cities and has invited filmmakers to come. If they don’t have the landscape the filmmakers need, they build it for them. In addition, both the state and city have a tax incentive, so they are basically offering three incentives,” said Howell.

Tax break or not, Howell says Indiana is an affordable state to shoot in, citing a Tax Foundation report that explained why Indiana has the best business tax climate in the Midwest and ninth best overall in the nation. In addition, Howell explained, money goes further in Indiana. In California, $100 has an equivalent value of roughly $88. In Indiana, that same $100 is worth $110.

Affordability aside, Indiana has a variety of diverse settings to choose from, including forests, lakes and large cities. In addition, Howell says Indiana is home to incredibly passionate filmmakers.

Our filmmakers’ passion for film

There is an organization that aims to unite all of the passionate creatives in Indiana while giving them the tools needed to grow, and its impact is felt on every corner of the state. On a cold Tuesday night in November, dozens gathered inside a movie theater in Noblesville to hear a local filmmaker share tips on promoting and merchandizing productions. The gathering was organized by the Indiana Filmmakers Network, a local nonprofit that helps Hoosiers turn their creative visions into reality.

With hubs across the state of Indiana including Terre Haute, Evansville, Fort Wayne, Indianapolis and Lafayette, the Indiana Filmmakers network offers free monthly meetings to the community, allowing both aspiring and seasoned filmmakers to learn from others who share their passion.

“It’s a place that creatives can go to be amongst other people with the same desire. They can learn and grow and be inspired monthly. We have chapters all over the state, so they can build a network between communities. I have friends in Evansville who met new people and are now working with people in Fort Wayne,” said Nathan Bechtold, president of the Indiana Filmmakers Network. “I think everybody has a story to share — no matter if they have done one film or 100 films, there is more information that people can learn. (In Indiana) we get a lot of horror and zombie movies, and a lot of Christian films, too. I have noticed a lot of more drama, a lot more depth and more character-driven stories.”

Bechtold says the purpose of the network is to allow individuals to build connections so that they are able to learn from and grow with each other.

“People stick with the people they know. In Hollywood, you are not going to work with the same people every time. When you watch (credits at) the end of a movie, it’s an army of people who make the product happen,” said Bechtold. “If you are an actor, and you only go to the meetings about acting, you are not meeting the filmmakers and the writers. Some writers might like you enough to write a character around you. I have seen it happen, and I’ve had it happen to me.”

To inspire individuals to branch out, Bechtold is organizing a conference called The Same Page Summit, where recording studios, art houses, acting studios, maker spaces and co-working spaces can share their needs and resources with each other. After hosting the summit near Indianapolis, he hopes to expand the concept to other parts of the state.

The film business

While many local moviemakers create films as a hobby, some filmmakers have found ways to turn their passion into a full-time business by creating videos for corporate purposes. Video marketing has emerged as a leading way for companies to influence their target audience, and according to a 2017 video in Business Benchmark Report, the average American business publishes 18 videos each month.

Julie Scher is the president and creative director of Midwest Film Factory, an organization that creates videos to help business clients sell products and services; ​win bids; attract, train and retain staff and more. Midwest Film Factory takes on an average of five to 10 projects each month. In addition, Scher rents out her studio to allow businesses, filmmakers and Youtubers to create their own vision with the equipment provided.

“We have a four-person staff, plus freelancers. I tell the staff we do all this business work to fund our fun stuff,” said Scher. “We did the history of a local economic development cooperation, we did a piece about a town and talked about what was special about it; one of the most powerful things we have done is a homeless shelter video that tells the stories of the people who use their services.”

Scher says she hopes her business will play a part in keeping talented, creative people in Indiana.

“Some people, when they leave college, they stay here and work with us rather than moving away,” Scher explained. “The big trend in Indiana is to create new industries here. Luckily the internet allows people to do video production and editing anywhere and share it, so we are taking advantage of that.”

Part of the game

Filmmaker Andie Redwine with By The Glass Productions has a similar vision. Her company, located on a farm in southern Indiana, has worked with corporate clients including Cummins and PBS. Redwine also creates feature films and documentaries, which she says is her true passion.

Despite the state’s lack of incentives, Redwine says she wouldn’t want to work anywhere else.

“I know a lot of people are saying things like, ‘Well, we don’t have tax credits,’ and yes, it would be really great to have tax incentives to do feature films here, but the cost of doing business here is still relatively low,” explained Redwine. “Our studio is on a farm, and I’m looking at beautiful rolling hills; its gorgeous here. A lot of writers want to make it big and retire to places like southern Indiana; I just mixed up the order. You can bloom where you are planted, and opportunity is something you can create for yourself.”

Howell with Film Indiana agrees.

“There are dozens and dozens and dozens of production companies in Indiana. The Indiana filmmakers network has so many hubs. They are very passionate,” said Howell. “There has become more of a voice out there. I know I am hearing of it. This is a true, creative art that I would like to see more support of, because Indiana wants to be a part of the game.”

Amy Howell

Four-time Emmy Award-winning producer Amy Howell serves as the director of Film Indiana, an initiative within the Indiana Office of Tourism and Development that endorses the state’s assets to moviemakers near and far. Howell has 20 years of television production experience under her belt and has previously been employed by WANE-TV in Fort Wayne and WISH-TV in Indianapolis. Since becoming director of Film Indiana, Howell has created and maintained an online location database and production services directory to help filmmakers easily find assets they need. She also organizes networking events, advises local filmmakers and promotes the state’s many film festivals to the industry.

Same old song

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Same old song

Broadcasting still lacks diversity despite changing landscape

By Ebony Marie Chappel

From the introduction of FM to the emergence of streaming over traditional airwaves, the radio industry has experienced many changes over the decades.

“When I first got started there were a lot of small owners, a lot of ma and pa’s. There were eight or nine people that owned stations in Indy; now there are five major groups and still a few small owners. I think the biggest change is that it’s become more of a corporate business over the years,” said Deon Levingston, regional vice president and general manager of Radio One Indianapolis.

“It’s helped in some industries but hurts in others. It gives you more tonnage, assets and resources. It hurts though because some companies are not as local or as focused as they were when they were smaller companies, which is kind of taking away from the product which made a huge difference as having a local sound.”

Levingston remarked that diversity has been another concern within the industry.

According to data compiled by Free Press, an independent media advocacy organization, women comprise over 51 percent of the U.S. population but hold less than 7 percent of all TV and radio station licenses. Additionally, people of color make up over 36 percent of the U.S. population but hold just over 7 percent of radio licenses and 3 percent of TV licenses.

This lack of diversity in ownership is due in no small part to the FCC’s historically rigid media ownership rules. Last October, Commissioner Michael O’Reilly penned a letter on the commission’s plans to modernize the regulations:

“Many of the Commission’s media ownership rules, written from a bygone era, are not serving the public interest, but frustrating it. The competitive and diverse atmosphere we find ourselves in today warrants less regulation, not more,” wrote O’Reilly.

The letter came after reforms in September 2017 that updated technical requirements for AM radio, cable and satellite providers.

“There was a time where there was a lot more diversity as far as ownership especially among African-Americans, so now you’re seeing larger companies owned and fewer owners that are African-American, which has led to less diversity in our industry,” said Levingston. “When I first got in the industry there were very few female general managers, and though the numbers aren’t what they should be, they have increased tremendously over the years and hopefully we can get more diversity … and we can reverse some of those trends.”

Maintaining the community voice

While many major radio corporations have employed voice-tracking (also referred to as cyber jocking), a practice where instead of having radio talent live in studio, personalities host broadcasts from remote locations, Radio One has maintained a core community voice on the air.

“Having an understanding of the community it serves and super serving that community is a core part of who they are, so that stays with them so they’re a little different,” said Levingston.

Urban One, which owns TV One, Radio One, Interactive One and Reach Media, produces syndicated radio shows — featuring hosts such as Tom Joyner, Rickey Smiley and Erica Campbell — that are broadcast nationwide each day across the more than 50 stations the company owns in addition to locally produced programming.

“I’m a big believer in local product and local broadcasting, but I’m a big believer that in this day and age of media, people only care about the best product and if you have a local show on that’s not as good as DL Hughley, it’s gonna lose. You can say local as much as you want, but people really don’t care about that if the product is not good,” said Levingston. “Its very  important to have a good product. Some of these stations wouldn’t make enough money to stay on the air if they didn’t have some syndicated products on, because they’re not generating enough cash flow to pay everyone’s salary. You’ve got to think about the business and if you don’t you can’t do all that other stuff.”

Leveraging the digital space

Unlike terrestrial stations, the digital sphere has allowed independent radio purveyors to share content without many of the restrictive policies and economic boundaries traditional ownership entails. The accessibility of the digital space has opened the door for a new crop of disruptors to add their voice.

Harold Bell, a serial entrepreneur and nonprofit leader from Indianapolis, runs online radio platform Radio Next.

Radio Next, which can be accessed via the TuneIn app or online at RadioNext.TV, broadcasts 14 live shows produced by Indianapolis residents on various subjects, like sickle cell disease and domestic violence awareness, local news and events of interest.

“I just thought it would be something we could convey messaging to the community using this platform,” said Bell.

He began Radio Next in May of 2008 with his own talk show “JumboLove.” The first broadcast he had just 39 listeners; a few months later, he had hundreds of people tuning in.

“I’m not trying to do anything other than, how can we find solutions to the problems that we can fix in our community and that’s different than just putting news out. … I’m just all solutions. That’s my passion.”

Bell says the relatively low overhead costs and less restrictive nature of the online radio business has been attractive to organizations like churches, nonprofits and small businesses with limited budgets who still want to promote their message. “This is major for them,” he said.

Terri Cope-Walton

Terri Cope-Walton is news director of WRTV-6, an ABC affiliate station in Indianapolis. Cope-Walton was previously assistant news director at RTV6 before taking over as interim news director in November 2012.

She has served in many roles and worked with many departments since joining the RTV6 staff in 1998, including leading the station’s community affairs efforts and being lead producer for “Good Morning Indiana.”

Before coming to RTV6, Cope-Walton worked as a producer for WHIO-TV in Dayton, Ohio, a producer/reporter for WHIO-AM in Dayton, Ohio, and an English teacher for Dayton Public Schools in Dayton, Ohio.

She is a graduate of Central State University with a B.A. in English Literature.

Cope-Walton is the only African-American woman to hold a TV news director role in the state of Indiana.

Nationally, the percentage of African-American news directors hit an all-time high in 2016 at 5.5 percent, according to the “Women and Minorities in the Newsroom” report from Radio Television Digital News Association and Hofstra University. The same report shows that 33 percent of TV news directors across the country are women. Intersectional statistics about news director who are both women and racial/ethnic minorities are not included in the report.

Deon Levingston

Deon Levingston has more than two decades of management, brand development and marketing expertise gained while leading some of the largest and most iconic media brands in the world, and he has been a part of four successful broadcast station turnarounds.

Currently, Levingston is general manager of Radio One in Indianapolis and regional vice president of Radio One operations in Detroit and St. Louis, roles he has held since February 2016 when he returned to Indianapolis after a stint working in New York.

Levingston worked with Emmis Communications as senior vice president and market manager for the greater New York City area for almost two years. Before that, he led YMF Media as vice president and general manager before taking over as president.

Prior to heading east, Levingston was in Indianapolis at Radio One, first as director of sales (2001–2002) then as vice president/market manager (2002–2004).

Levingston has a bachelor’s degree in legal communications from Howard University.

According to the “Women and Minorities in the Newsroom” report from Radio Television Digital News Association and Hofstra University, Levingston, an African-American man, is bucking trends in his position with Radio One — in 2016, only 3.6 percent of radio GMs in the U.S. were racial/ethnic minorities, and non-white radio GMs were least likely to be found in the Midwest.

Sister storytellers

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Sister storytellers

Many paths to success in filmmaking

By Keshia McEntire

 

Despite reports of gender inequality in the film industry, these local ladies are bringing much-needed girl power to a male-dominated field. With years of experience under their belts, these pros with Indiana ties share their secrets to success.

Meet the experts

Kate Chaplin
Amy Pauszek
Rasheda Randle

After writing a story and realizing no one would be better at bringing it to life than her, Kate Chaplin’s passion for film production was ignited. She worked on projects that have aired on CMT, the Discovery Channel and VH1, before her recent retirement from the industry.

After starring in a commercial with Jay Leno at the age of 15, Amy Pauszek caught the acting bug. She currently works as a scouting and casting associate for Talent Fusion, an agency in Indianapolis, and she writes a popular arts and entertainment column for Current Weekly Publications.

Rasheda Randle has worked on the sets of well-known titles including “The Real World,” “Bad Girls Club” and “Deal or no Deal.” She has written, produced and acted in many interesting independent titles.

 

IMBM: How did you gain an interest in film? 

Chaplin: When I was 10 years old, I saw a Charlie Chaplin movie. There was a scene where he starts eating his own shoe, and my 10-year-old brain wanted to know how they faked that. I learned all about Charlie Chaplin, the film industry and movie tricks. I learned the shoe was made from licorice, and he almost went into a diabetic coma from doing so many takes.

Pauszek: I’ve always had a love and fascination for cinema since I was a kid, so when a local filmmaker asked me to be in one of her independent films as an extra, I figured I’d give it a whirl. After acting in a few films, my interests started to lean toward producing, and that’s where my passion for making independent films began.

Randle: I grew up in the ’90s, and ’90s music is still my favorite. I would visualize videos to the songs, so that sparked my initial interest in the film industry. Initially, I wanted to direct music videos.

 

Did you go to school for filmmaking and/or have any type of mentors to help you learn new skills? 

Chaplin: I did go to school — UCLA, in fact — until I couldn’t afford it. I never finished that degree, but I took classes and found mentors. I just decided to make my own projects. I went the indie route and worked with and learned from the best people I could find.

Pauszek: I have a degree in fine arts and theater from Ball State University and studied in London. Volunteering at renowned film festivals such as The Heartland Film Festival, Indy Film Fest and Sundance has given me the opportunity to meet amazing directors, producers and actors who have encouraged and motivated me to pursue my dreams.

Randle: I went to Indiana State and majored in radio, television and film. I worked with the campus news station, and I would do videos for campus artists, rappers and whatnot. I graduated, moved to New York and interned at BET, then I kind of fell out of love with music videos. I have always been a writer, writing short stories, so I started to get the filmmaking bug.

 

How can aspiring producers get their foot in the door with bigger production companies?

Chaplin: There are a lot of networking databases out there; Production Hub is one of them. I got a VH1 job through that.

Randle: This business is all about who you know and who is willing to help you. There are jobs that I received, for example “The Real World” and the “Bad Girls Club,” that are produced by the same company. Make a good first impression; they will continue to keep calling you back.

 

Can you tell me about starting a production company?

Pauszek: I started Wonder Woman Productions LLC with my business partner Julie Easton, who lives in Atlanta. We realized there was a need to help market and document film festivals so we started attending festivals trying to capture the important moments and successes of filmmakers from all over the world through photography and personal interviews. The best part of our jobs is the one-on-one friendships that we make with these filmmakers, and many have gone on to become famous.

 

What advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers who want to know where to start?

Chaplin: Look at the resources you have. You can make a quality movie on your smartphone nowadays. You learn so much more by doing, and if you have an interesting story, people care more about that than the production value. Just make as many as you can, even if you do not show them to anybody; you will learn what you are good at and what you are not. Then team up with people who are stronger where you are weaker.

Pauszek: I would tell aspiring filmmakers to get involved with films that you personally believe in, love and have a strong passion for, because when you surround yourself with positive people with the same goal and (work on) stories that excite you … your work will always shine. I live by the words and mission of Wonder Woman Productions — Grab your capes, find your story and see you at the movies!

Randle: Research; don’t just jump toward the first modeling agency that comes to the mall and claims they will put you on the Disney Channel. Invest in yourself, and do the work.

Growth from change

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Growth from change

Minority press adapts in the digital age

By Brandon A. Perry

More people are getting their news on  computers and smartphones with arrival of the digital age. However, newspapers and magazines have not only survived, but are also preparing to thrive well into the future.

Through it all, minority-owned media outlets have been ready to equip their readers with knowledge, a powerful weapon for justice and progress.

“We are fast adapting to this new age and increasing our digital presence every day. I think that you will find most of our newspapers are doing that these days,” said Dorothy R. Leavell, chairman of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), which has a combined readership of more than 15 million readers. She is also publisher of the Chicago Crusader and Gary (Indiana) Crusader newspapers.

Leavell noted that the strategy being used by most print media companies is to view the arrival of digital technology and social media as an opportunity instead of a challenge.

“It presents us with a great opportunity to reach more people and faster,” Leavell said.

Newspapers and magazines have simply incorporated the digital approach into their product offerings.

For example, The Gary Crusader offers its traditional print edition, a website and Pulse, a new online source that provides breaking news and daily digital updates.

Another NNPA-affiliated company, the Recorder Media Group, has utilized digital technology as a tool to expand its readership and provide useful information as news occurs. Headquartered in Indianapolis, the Recorder Media Group publishes both the Indianapolis Recorder, a weekly newspaper founded in 1895, as well as Indiana Minority Business Magazine (IMBM).

“We view our role in the media, especially the Black press, as both an honor and a sacred responsibility,” said Shannon Williams, president of the Recorder Media Group. “Our survival over the last century has been due to the support of our readers, but also to the fact that we have always evolved with changes in technology to meet their need for information in the best possible way.”

The Recorder Media Group took a leading step in that direction by not only having a strong social media presence and adopting apps like other NNPA newspapers, but also by working with IUPUI’s University Library to make historic Indianapolis Recorder articles published between 1899 and 2001 available in an online archive.

“We have been very excited about the project, and many people have enjoyed having that kind of access to history,” Williams said.

Print media outlets representing other cultures in Indiana have also made a comfortable transition to the digital age as they seek to continue to uplift their communities.

El Puente, a Hispanic-owned newspaper based in Goshen, quickly realized the importance of using digital technology when it picked up a new generation of readers.

“We are able to reach the younger generation that is more used to that type of technology,” said Zulma Prieto, founder and publisher of El Puente.

Like the African-American-owned newspapers in the NNPA, Asian and Hispanic publications have also noticed that an increasing number of their advertising clients are requesting that ads be published in both print and digital formats to keep up with the latest marketing trends.

Based in Indianapolis, Asian American Today is a Chinese-language publication that is available in print and online editions with news from around the state and across the world.

“We know that there is a need for information exchange,” Lee said. “Also, we thought that we need to better understand American culture and national interests, while also learning about what is going on in the other parts of the world.”

Shannon Williams

Shannon Williams has shown visionary leadership as President of Recorder Media Group, which includes the Indianapolis Recorder newspaper and Indiana Minority Business Magazine.

Williams graduated from Jackson State University with a bachelor’s degree in mass communications. She began her tenure with the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper in 2000 and worked her way up through its ranks with hard work and innovative excellence. Under her leadership, the newspaper’s readership reached its all-time high of 111,000 and the magazine distributes more than 35,000 issues each quarter.

Throughout her career, Williams has received many awards and honors for her outstanding contributions to journalism and communications.

She has been involved with several community organizations and served on a variety of non-profit boards. Williams made history in 2011 when she became the first African American to serve on the board of the Hoosier State Press Association, and is currently on the executive board of the National Newspaper Publishers Association.

Williams has been a passionate advocate for criminal justice reform, equality and the elimination of racism and sexism. According to the American Society of Newspaper Editors, minorities comprise 17 percent of employees at daily newspapers and 23 percent at online-only sites.

Embracing equality

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Embracing equality

IMBM celebrates 13 Champions of Diversity

By Abby Westcott

There is a group of Hoosier companies, entrepreneurs and professionals that not only understand what it takes to succeed, but also go beyond the call of duty to tap into the human element of business, making inclusion a priority.

We call them Champions of Diversity. The Indiana Minority Business Magazine (IMBM) believes a true Champion of Diversity exhibits qualities that transcend barriers related to race, ethnicity, sex, ability and sexuality; exemplifies the epitome of diversity through outreach and programs; and serves as a defender of inclusiveness. Champions make an effort to increase their diversity in the boardroom or in personal endeavors, among other noble qualities.

This year, IMBM celebrates 13 honorees for their achievements, three of which are being recognized for superior accomplishments reminiscent of some of history’s most distinguished champions.

SPIRIT OF ENTREPREURSHIP

Apex Infinite Solutions (AIS) was chosen to receive the William G. Mays Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award. The minority-owned and led IT company helps organizations of all sizes — from small companies like the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper to major sports teams like the Indianapolis Indians — accomplish their goals using cutting-edge technology.

Steve Summerville, vice president–business development, says the company is staying true to its goal of serving small businesses by offering enterprise-level services to the small and medium markets. In addition, AIS works with a number of nonprofit organizations as a way to give back to the community.

“We are a for-profit business, but we don’t walk away from clients who need help,” says Summerville.

He believes a more diverse Indiana looks more like them as a business.

“Right now we are in an environment that not many organizations of color or diverse organizations exist,” says Summerville.

AIS fosters diversity and inclusiveness by giving opportunities to people of color. They’re not so set on that mission that they overlook other good candidates though, says Summerville.

“We recently employed a veteran. If a woman came to the business and wanted to work, we don’t discriminate against anyone. We’re about making an opportunity for who has a passion for IT.”

Summerville says he looked up to Mays as a mentor and is excited to be part of a team receiving the award bearing his name.

“We support the spirit of entrepreneurship that he portrayed. He was a very generous and caring individual as he grew his business. That’s one of the reasons we’re excited. We have the same entrepreneurial spirit,” he says.

EQUALITY FOR ALL

Salesforce, a cloud computing company that helps corporations and customers connect, was chosen as recipient of the Rosa Parks Trailblazer Award for its commitment to equality.

“We are honored to be recognized as a Champion of Diversity, but we know there is much more work to be done at Salesforce,” said Molly Q. Ford, Salesforce’s head of global equality programs.

Salesforce strives to reflect the communities it serves and ensure everyone feels valued, heard and included.

“This high purpose is best expressed in our drive to establish equality for all,” said Ford, “which means working together to create a world where everyone has equal rights, equal pay for equal work, equal access and equal opportunities for success.”

Salesforce feels it is important to focus on equality beyond their four walls.

“Equal access to a quality education and training is critical to set up the next generation for success in the future workforce. We engage with our local communities by adopting schools, volunteering in classrooms, promoting STEM education, and creating job-training programs. In Indianapolis, we recently announced a pilot for the Pathfinder workforce development program, designed to address the skills gap by providing participants from diverse backgrounds with the technical and business training they need to obtain jobs in the Salesforce ecosystem.”

Salesforce’s Office of Equality spearheads inclusivity programs such as Ohana Groups — employee resource groups created to provide a community for underrepresented groups and their allies, offer professional development and mentoring opportunities, and empower employees to be responsive equality leaders in their community. Ford said one in three Salesforce employees participates in at least one Ohana Group.

“We also created an ally campaign to help employees stand up as allies by asking, listening, showing up and speaking up,” said Ford.

Salesforce has voluntary self-identification options for all U.S. employees, including gender identity and gender pronouns, to create a more inclusive work environment.

For the past two years, the company has conducted an equal pay assessment, which resulted in the company spending approximately $6 million to address unexplained differences in pay. Company leaders have also begun reporting and reviewing equality data monthly, which Ford says helps keep equality top of mind.

BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS

The Indiana Undocumented Youth Alliance (IUYA) has been chosen to receive the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Freedom Award for its efforts to support undocumented immigrant youth as they navigate the education system and other common roadblocks.

IUYA is a youth-led organization that seeks to empower young immigrants to achieve higher education and engage in the community to demand more just and humane policies that affect undocumented families. IUYA believes it can build power by organizing at the local and statewide levels, all while providing resources to support undocumented students and their families and creating meaningful alliances with other advocacy organizations. The network is made up of undocumented and documented youth, allies and affiliate organizations.

 

Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF)

CICF stands as central Indiana’s premier provider of philanthropic services to local philanthropists. CICF connects donors with causes they care about.

Citizens Energy Group

Citizens Energy Group is a public utility company providing natural gas, thermal energy, water and wastewater services to about 800,000 customers in Indianapolis.

Antoine (Tony) Ezell, Eli Lilly, Elanco

Tony Ezell serves as the chief marketing officer and vice president at Elanco US Inc., Eli Lilly’s animal-health business.

Financial Health Federal Credit Union

FHCU is a credit union that serves 8,000 Indianapolis customers. Their goal is to assist members in their quest to save more, improve their credit scores and manage their money well.

 

Judge Geoffrey Gaither

Judge Geoffrey Gaither is a magistrate of the Juvenile Division of Marion County Superior Court. He has been on the bench for 20 years — the longest of any magistrate or judge in the division.

Danette Garza 

Danette Garza is owner of Jack Gray Transport, a minority- and woman-owned and operated business serving as the premier dump truck transportation company for Chicago and northwest Indiana.

Indiana Grand Racing and Casino Indiana

Indiana Grand Racing and Casino is a Las Vegas-style gaming establishment that offers non-stop gaming action, award-winning dining venues and a wide array of entertainment options.

Peace Learning Center

Peace Learning Center educates, inspires and empowers people to live peacefully, promoting peace-building and conflict resolution with programs replicated in eight U.S. cities and five countries.

Dawn R. Rosemond 

Dawn R. Rosemond is a partner in Barnes & Thornburg’s Fort Wayne, Indiana, office and serves as the firm-wide director of diversity, professional development and inclusion.

Dr. Nichole Wilson

Dr. Nichole Wilson is vice president of retail health services at Community Health Network, where she is responsible for a wide range of retail patient services including outpatient services for rehabilitation, physical therapy, sports medicine, imaging, telehealth and employer health.

A City by the River

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A City by the River

Evansville features fun, relaxation for all

Compiled by Abby Westcott

The City of Evansville, Indiana, was founded in 1812 on a scenic bend in the Ohio River. With a population of nearly 121,000 people in the city limits and more than 300,000 people in the metropolitan area, Evansville is the third largest city in Indiana. Evansville is the social and economic hub for the region that includes Southwest Indiana, Southeast Illinois and Northwest Kentucky.

LODGING

Cool Breeze State Bed & Breakfast

1240 Southeast Second St.

Evansville, IN 47713

812-422-9635

coolbreezebb.net

Located in the heart of Evansville’s Historic District, Cool Breeze Bed & Breakfast offers travelers a unique place for comfort, beauty and privacy. Cool Breeze is within 15 minutes of Evansville Regional Airport, five minutes from The Old National Events Plaza and the Ford Center, as well as quality downtown restaurants. Their mission is to provide all the luxuries of home. Their library of books and movies allows travelers to slow down from the stresses of life, and fine linens on a queen-sized bed allow you to sleep easy. And let’s not forget the homemade hot breakfast!

 

Le Merigot Boutique Hotel

615 Riverside Drive

Evansville, IN 47708

812-433-4700

tropevansville.com/hotels/le-merigot-hotel

Le Merigot promises the finest hotel experience in the region, where every detail has been designed to create a coolly sophisticated, intimate and pampered getaway. The 100-room hotel offers imported Italian bed linens and goose down duvets on the luxury beds. On the upper floor, five suites offer stunning river views in the spacious living/dining room area, master bedroom and an oversized bathroom, complete with an effervescent soaking tub.

 

Tropicana Evansville Hotel

421 Northwest Riverside Drive

Evansville, IN 47708

812-433-4000

topevansville.com

The 243-room hotel on Evansville’s downtown riverfront is connected to a 24-hour riverboat casino and conference center. This entertainment destination features a variety of dining options and live music nightly.

 

Burdette Park Chalets 

5301 Nurrenbern Road

Evansville, IN 47712

812-435-5602

burdettepark.org

Two- and three-bedroom chalets offer rustic charm with modern conveniences tucked in wooded setting. Primitive camping and full-service RV sites are available. Chalets are available for overnight rentals and are completely furnished.

 

DINING

The Log Inn

12491 County Road 200 East

Haubstadt, IN 47639

812-867-3216

theloginn.net

The Log Inn was built in 1825, 12 miles north of Evansville, as a Noon Day Stage Coach Stop and Trading Post. It has been officially recognized as the oldest restaurant in Indiana. While visiting the Log Inn, patrons can dine in the same original log room that Abraham Lincoln visited in 1844.

 

Gerst Bavarian Haus

2100 W. Franklin St.

Evansville, IN 47712

812-424-1420

gersthausevansville.com

Since 1999, the Gerst Haus has been an Evansville favorite, providing the best German food in an authentic beer hall atmosphere. The menu includes a variety of German and American food. Their signature dishes include wiener schnitzel, bratwurst and corned beef and cabbage. They offer giant frozen fishbowls of their Gerst Amber beer, as well as 49 draughts and a large selection of imported beers.

 

Cavanaugh’s

421 Riverside Drive

Evansville, IN 47713

812-433-4333

tropevansville.com/dining/cavanaughs

Flawless steaks, fresh seafood, impeccable service. Cavanaugh’s has fine cuisine paired with sweeping river views. The casual upscale atmosphere of the Piano Bar at Cavanaugh’s is the ideal place to meet friends or clients. Enjoy signature martinis, delicious appetizers or indulge in the fuller dinner menu.

 

ATTRACTIONS

Bosse Field

23 Don Mattingly Way

Evansville, IN 47711

812-435-8686

evansvilleotters.com/splash

Home to the Evansville Otters of the Independent Frontier League, Bosse Field opened in 1915 and was the first municipally owned sports facility in the United States. Only Boston’s Fenway Park (1912) and Chicago’s Wrigley Field (1914) are older than Evansville’s Bosse Field. It is the site for the filming of “A League of Their Own” in 1992. Whether you’re a sports fan or a history buff, this 100-year-old structure for America’s favorite pastime is a must see.

 

Evansville Museum of Arts, History and Science

411 S.E. Riverside Drive

Evansville, IN 47713

812-425-2406

evansvillemuseum.org

The Evansville Museum of Arts, History and Science is one of Southwestern Indiana’s most established cultural institutions. This general museum maintains a permanent collection of more than 30,000 objects, including fine and decorative arts and historic, anthropological and natural history artifacts. More than 20 temporary exhibitions are displayed every year in four changing galleries. Shows range from regional to internationally traveling exhibitions.

 

Evansville African American Museum

579 Lincoln Ave.

Evansville, IN 47713

812-423-5188

evansvilleaamuseum.wordpress.com

The Evansville African American Museum is located in one of the nation’s first housing projects — Lincoln Gardens — built in 1938 under President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal Program. The community was known then as Baptisttown, an independent, thriving community with Black doctors, lawyers and educators. The EAAM celebrates the struggles, successes and experiences of the African-American culture in Evansville throughout the last 70 years.

 

Koch Family Children’s Museum of Evansville

22 E. 5th St.

Evansville, IN 47708

812-464-2663

cmoekids.org

The Koch Family Children’s Museum has been the favorite interactive learning zone in Evansville for almost 10 years. Housed in a historic building on 5th Street downtown, “cMoe” features three floors of permanent and traveling exhibits geared toward play-based learning. Kids can have a ball in the Quack Factory, produce their own plays and films in Speak Loud, and build their dreams in Work Smart. Live Well, the newest gallery, gives kids a chance to play “Operation,” plant a garden and conduct a newscast.

Hoosier made

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Hoosier made

Five products to make you proud to be a Hoosier

By Kelly Patrick Slone

Bee Coffee Roasters in Indianapolis aims to elevate every cup of joe into culinary art. The company roasts and crafts coffee in small batches using beans sourced from El Salvador, Guatemala, Brazil and more. Among many offerings, Bee sells unique barrel-roasted coffees made from beans that have rested in a barrel that previously held an adult beverage. All orders are roasted to order. For the indecisive shopper, Bee offers the Roasters choice — a sample pack of sorts that comes with four half-pound bags. Learn more at beecoffeeroasters.com.

After exploring how commercial flour is processed, Hoosier Leigh Rowan set out to try something different. Since purchasing her first electric mill in 2004, Rowan’s Fort Wayne-based company Big Brick House Bakery & Pasta has steadily grown. In addition to the expected bakery offerings — breads, cakes and pies — Big Brick House offers an extensive selection of whole-grain pastas in some unexpected varieties: spinach, red pepper, garlic, chipotle, carrot and even chocolate. All Big Brick House offerings are made from scratch using real vegetables (as opposed to powdered varieties) and small batches of grain ground daily on a stone mill. Find Big Brick House items in stores across the state, at Ft. Wayne’s Farmers Market or at bigbrickhousebakery.com.

When Kim Harvey wanted the ability to make right-sized, equally browned and moist hamburgers in her microwave oven, she set to work experimenting. Today, the patented, dishwasher-safe Burger Blaster — which is manufactured in Indianapolis — is the star of the lineup at Microwave Magic. Other offerings include the Hot Dogger, Hot Potato, Bun Warmer and Bacon Blaster. Each order of the seven-piece set includes a cookbook with recipes for a complete meal. Find out more at microwavemagicinc.com.

For custom gifts to express your most heartfelt sentiments, look no further than Stellar Creations on Main in Frankfort, Indiana. Let the ladies of Stellar Creations turn your cherished memories into quilts, scrapbooks, pillows, kitchen towels and more. Other offerings include upcycled items, lamps, furniture and candles in more than 150 different scents. Visit facebook.com/stellarcreationsonmain to see more of the store’s special wares.

Bloomington-based Vigilant Eats makes healthy food options for health-conscious, busy people. The company’s line of vegan, gluten-free and organic Superfood Cereals combines a variety of flavors with family farm-grown oats into portable, wholesome snacks. Even the spoon is included; just add water or milk. Cacao Banana Crunch, Coconut Chai and other recent additions join the Vigilant Eats menu alongside Espresso Maca Mulberry, Sweet Potato Pie, Coconut Maple Vanilla and many other hearty flavors. Learn more at vigilant-eats.com. I

Glam on the go

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Glam on the go

Building girls’ self-esteem one party at a time

By Brittany King

The idea for Lil Girls Glam came to owner Jenise Stowers-Dunn unexpectedly. She was sitting at home one afternoon watching the Tyra Banks show. Banks was interviewing a business owner who owned a dance company and party business in Maryland. Stowers-Dunn loved the idea, so she went to work on creating her own.

In April 2015, Lil Girls Glam, a full-service spa party bus for girls ages 4–14, was born. The business is the first of its kind in Indianapolis. In less than three years, the company has been invited to the Black Business Owners Block Party, Kids Takeover Broad Ripple weekend and, most recently, the Midwest Natural Beauty Barber & Health Expo.

We sat down with Stowers-Dunn to learn more about the company, what she’s learned since starting it and where she’s headed next.

IMBM: How did this business first start?

Stowers-Dunn: I started doing parties for my daughter and her friends. I’d invite them over and charge their parents for the things I needed to purchase for the party. Then, I’d market it using social media. I did all types of parties: tea parties, spa parties and parties at summer camps.

What has the reaction been?

The girls really enjoy it. When they see the pink bus coming they’re screaming and jumping up and down with excitement! From the time we pull up until the time they leave they’re getting pampered. All the things you’d enjoy having at a spa, we’ve recreated that on this bus.

Why is it important for these girls to get pampered? 

It’s important for them to know how to take care of themselves, think positively and have good self-esteem. One of my favorite things is telling them how pretty they are, letting them know their skin is beautiful, so that they know how great they really are.

What’s inside the bus?

We have a nail station, a station where the makeup is done, and a wardrobe closet so the girls can dress up in different clothes. We’ve also got a TV, and a karaoke machine for when they’re all glammed up.

Why is this business important to you?

I genuinely have a love for children. Before doing this business I always had children at my house. Everyone knew they could come over and spend the night and they’d be taken care of. I enjoy inspiring the girls and making them feel important. But at the end of the day, I want to establish Indy Glam Girls well enough to pass down to my 9-year-old daughter.

What advice would you give to new business owners or people looking to start a business? 

Do something that you’re passionate about so you won’t get tired of it. Also, get with other business owners to network and support each other and create an awareness about your business.

What have you learned through this process of starting your business?

Don’t change your process; whatever your process is, leave it at that. I have also learned that each girl is different; not all girls like makeup or having their nails done. It is our job to make these girls feel just as special as all of the other girls.

The Indy Glam Girls Party Bus runs year-round and serves the greater Indianapolis area. For more information, visit lilgirlsglam.com.

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