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Shadow Lounge & Restaurant: Indy’s beloved hangout

Noral Parham
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.

Minority Business Highlight: Hop River Brewing Company 

Hanna Rauworth
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Minority Business Highlight: Hop River Brewing Company 

At Hop River Brewing Company, crafting beer is about more than the hops—it’s about fostering community and celebrating connection. 

Located in Fort Wayne, Hop River Brewing Company combines a passion for brewing with a mission to bring people together. Founded on the principles of inclusivity and sustainability, the brewery offers a welcoming space for neighbors, families and friends to enjoy locally made beer. With a focus on creating a positive impact both environmentally and socially, Hop River has become a gathering place for meaningful moments and great drinks. 

(Photo/Hop River Brewing Company)

The brewery offers a wide selection of handcrafted beers, from crisp lagers to bold IPAs, brewed on-site with quality ingredients. Their cozy taproom and spacious beer garden create the perfect setting for gatherings, events or a laid-back evening with friends and family. 

(Photo/Hop River Brewing Company)

The vision for Hop River began with Paris McFarthing and Ben Jackson, who shared a passion for brewing and a desire to build something meaningful in their community. What started as a dream evolved into a reality when Hop River opened its doors in 2018. Their mission was clear: create exceptional beer while fostering an environment where people from all walks of life could connect. 

Hop River Brewing Company is a minority-owned brewery in Fort Wayne. (Photo/Hop River Brewing Company)

In addition to beer, Hop River offers a menu of locally sourced snacks and small plates to complement the drinks. They also host trivia nights, live music and seasonal events. Visitors can stop by the brewery to enjoy a pint, grab a growler or cans to-go. 

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. 

To read more like this, click here.

Blaizing Academy & InnoPower launch AI training initiative to empower 1,000 Hoosiers

STAFF
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Blaizing Academy & InnoPower launch AI training initiative to empower 1,000 Hoosiers

A major AI training movement is taking off in Indianapolis, set to equip 1,000 Hoosiers with essential AI skills by July 2025.

Blaizing Academy, in partnership with InnoPower LLC (InnoPower Indy), IWU National & Global, and key community organizations, is launching a program that goes beyond just learning AI; it’s about creating economic opportunities and preparing the workforce for the future.

A message from the Blaizing Academy & InnoPower teams

At Blaizing Academy and InnoPower, we believe AI should be accessible to everyone, not just tech insiders. That’s why we’re leading this initiative, ensuring that 1,000 people gain real, hands-on AI skills that immediately impact careers, businesses, and communities.

This program isn’t about theory; it’s about practical AI knowledge that creates real-world results for Indiana. As AI continues to reshape industries, we want to make sure everyone has a chance to thrive in this new era. Through strategic partnerships and community-driven education, we’re not just talking about change; the team you see below is taking massive action to move Indiana forward.

A community-driven AI initiative

This initiative isn’t just about learning AI, it’s about teaching it forward. We’re training 50 master trainers, who will each educate 20 people, ensuring that by July 31, 2025, 1,000 Hoosiers will have the AI skills needed to compete, innovate, and grow.

These trainers are receiving a $500 stipend, supporting their efforts to expand AI education within their communities. By empowering local educators and leaders, we’re building a sustainable movement that will continue long after the initial training is complete.

Why AI? Why now?

AI is already changing how businesses operate, how professionals work, and how industries evolve. Tasks that once required days of effort can now be completed in minutes. The challenge is that many communities, especially Black entrepreneurs and professionals, are left out of the conversation.

This program ensures that everyone has a chance to succeed in an AI-driven world. Whether they are a small business owner, a creative entrepreneur, a community leader, or someone looking to advance their career, this initiative is designed to equip them with the knowledge to stay ahead.

The power of partnerships

This initiative wouldn’t be possible without the collaborative efforts of organizations dedicated to education, workforce development, and economic empowerment.

Key partners include:

A milestone for Black History Month

Launching this initiative during Black History Month is significant. It represents a commitment to economic empowerment, innovation, and ensuring that AI benefits everyone. This isn’t just about technology; it’s about building a more inclusive future where everyone has access to the skills and opportunities of tomorrow.

Looking ahead

With AI transforming industries faster than ever, the question isn’t if people should learn AI; it’s how fast they can get up to speed. By July 31, 2025, 1,000 Hoosiers will be AI-ready.

Indianapolis isn’t just adopting AI; it’s leading the way!

Minority Business Highlight: GasDash

CHLOE McGOWAN
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Minority Business Highlight: GasDash

Created by Gerald Spivey, GasDash offers Hoosiers a convenient, safe and fast fuel delivery Whether they are at home, at work or on the go.

The new, Black-owned, residential delivery service operates within a 25-mile radius of the Indianapolis metropolitan area. Spivey, also known as “Rusty,” launched his business in October 2024 after identifying a unique need within his community — everything could be delivered except for gas, according to the website.

GasDash works no differently than other delivery services, such as DoorDash and Uber Eats. Spivey employs trained “Dashers,” who have full insurance coverage and U.S. Department of Transportation certifications, to deliver fuel to customers around the city.

Dashers are able to deliver up to 20 gallons of regular 87 unleaded and premium 91 unleaded fuel, as well as up to 100 gallons of diesel fuel to homes, offices and roadside locations.

Clients are able to book appointments through the website up to four hours in advance for standard deliveries. Emergency deliveries can be booked within two hours. After selecting fuel type, delivery time and location, clients can track their dasher through the website from the time the gas is picked up and the delivery is on the way.

“With a commitment to exceptional service, safety and customer satisfaction, we strive to keep our community moving without the hassle of traditional gas stations,” the website states. “We envision a future where convenience, safety, and sustainability in fuel delivery are standard, allowing individuals and businesses to refuel with ease, wherever they are.”

GasDash operates within the Indianapolis Metropolitan area from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week. To book a delivery or apply for the weekly fill-up subscription, visit gogasdash.com or call 317-909-2300.

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.

A legacy of leadership: Lorenzo Esters steps down from Indianapolis Foundation to support family

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A legacy of leadership: Lorenzo Esters steps down from Indianapolis Foundation to support family

Lorenzo Esters has stepped down as president of the Indianapolis Foundation (IF) to continue supporting his mother as she manages a medical matter. Esters had recently taken a leave of absence before making this difficult decision.

Esters, who joined IF in June 2023, led a dynamic strategic planning process that resulted in the introduction of Equity Imperative 2030 at a public event last fall.

“We are sad to lose Lorenzo as part of our team, but we understand the importance of focusing on his family,” said Kathy Davis, chair of the Indianapolis Foundation Board of Directors. “We sincerely appreciate all that he accomplished for The Indianapolis Foundation. Lorenzo’s time at IF was one of the significant transitions for the foundation with new leaders, staff, strategic plans, and initiatives – not to mention our city, state, and nation going through tremendous change. We are grateful for Lorenzo’s vision and leadership.”

“It has been my honor to serve as President of The Indianapolis Foundation and to work alongside the community, Board and the staff in support of its mission,” Esters said.

A poster for the four elements of the Indianapolis Foundation's five-year plan
The Indianapolis Foundation’s philanthropic plan includes a dedication to housing, economic, health and environmental equity. (Photo/The Indianapolis Foundation)

Equity Imperative 2030 will continue to guide IF as we seek our next leader. At the board’s request, Dr. Michael R. Twyman, who was serving as acting president during Esters’ leave of absence, will now serve as IF’s interim president.

Twyman joined IF as Chief Equity & Innovation Officer in 2024 after serving as managing principal of InExcelsis Consulting, a professional services firm focused on organizational effectiveness. He is the founding Indiana grants director for Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust and also served as the executive director of the UALR Institute on Race & Ethnicity. 

IF extends heartfelt gratitude to Esters for his impact at the foundation. IF thanks the community for its invaluable support and work toward the foundation’s commitment to mobilizing people, ideas, and investments to make this a community where all have equitable access to opportunity — no matter race, place, or identity.

For more information, visit https://indianapolis-foundation.org.

Black and Baroque: The story of She Shoots 317 photography

Noral Parham
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Black and Baroque: The story of She Shoots 317 photography

For Mia Moore, owner of She Shoots 317, often stylized as SheShoots317, photography is more than a business; it is hereditary. 

“When I was younger, I remember my grandfather having an extensive camera collection,” Moore told the Indiana Minority Business Magazine. 

It was like the universe bestowed the skills of understanding lighting, shutters and aperture specifically upon Moore. 

“I come from a long line of photographers,” Moore said. “I learned a lot before I even started.”

Mia Moore of She Shoots Photography sitting in a chair.
Mia Moore, owner of She Shoots 317 Photography. (Photo via official website)

Founded in 2018, She Shoots is Moore’s photography company based in Indianapolis.

She is also a graduate of Kentucky State University, a Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU). 

Additionally, Moore holds a master of science in media arts from IUPUI, adding another layer to her keen vision in multi-media work. 

Before founding her business, the fabrics of the universe naturally wove her into photography. 

“I got into photography almost a decade ago but started taking it seriously five years ago,” Moore said. “I am primarily self-taught except for taking an elective in grad school on photography lighting. I’ve learned a lot from local photographers and filmmakers in Indy.” 

Moore shared more on the foundation of her business. 

“I remember shooting an event for my friends and they thought the photos were pretty good,” Moore told the Indiana Minority Business Magazine. “After that, I (basically) jumped right in.” 

Since founding She Shoots, Moore has done photography and videography for many events, locally and nationally. 

She Shoots photography during the I Made Rock 'N Roll Festival.
Mia Moore during the I Made Rock ‘N Roll Festival. (Photo provided/Moore)

Having an artsy lineage, Moore knew where she wanted to be with her business. 

“I come from a family that loves and is directly involved in the arts,” Moore said. “It (the arts) have always interested me.” 

Ironically, Moore has shot BUTTER, one of the country’s most prominent art fairs, the last few years. 

“I have had the opportunity to work with GANGGANG covering BUTTER,” Moore said. “It has been an amazing experience.” 

Moore was also pivotal in the shots generated at the I Made Rock ‘N Roll Tour, another local festival regarded on a national scale. 

However, her beginnings were not without controversy.  

“In the past, there were a few events I had to sneak my camera and equipment in to get some of those shots,” Moore said. 

The shots would ultimately be loved and shared by artists such as Ashanti, B2K, Bobby Valentino, Keri Hilson and many others. 

When asked about her favorite experiences, Moore said she loves working with Nicki Minaj and Toni Braxton. 

“I’m forever grateful for the opportunity to shoot for the living legend Toni Braxton during her Love & Laughter Las Vegas residency,” Moore said. “It is amazing show full of surprises.” 

(Photo provided/She Shoots 317 Photography)

Braxton would even cosign Moore on her social media, sending Moore appreciation for photos that Braxton will cherish forever. 

When asked about her favorite part of the job, Moore said she enjoys theatrical lighting. 

“I love dramatic lighting,” Moore said. “I try to refrain from the normal bright lights and white backgrounds.” 

No event is too big or too small; She Shoots covers meet and greets, weddings, baby showers, anniversaries, concerts, tours, graduations and everything in between. 

“I do it all,” Moore said. 

Those interested in learning ‘Moore’ about She Shoots can visit her website at sheshoots317.com. 

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

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