Arts Council names longtime marketing exec as new CEO
Julie Goodman will take the job March 4, replacing Dave Lawrence, who stepped down in August after 19 years with the organization, including the past nine as president and CEO.
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IRT raises curtain on $18.5M fundraising campaign
The campaign already has collected $17 million in commitments from donors, officials said. About two-thirds of the ultimate goal is earmarked for beefing up the theater company’s endowment.
White River plan envisions ideas for more accessibility in Hamilton, Marion counties
A firm charged with drafting a plan to revitalize and activate the river in the two counties has unveiled a series of concepts that include both passive and active nature experiences.
Sports wagering, casino bill clears first legislative hurdle
Senate Bill 552, authored by Jasper Republican Mark Messmer and Terre Haute Republican Jon Ford, would allow the casinos in Gary to relocate, accelerate when horse-track casinos could begin offering live table games and legalize sports gambling.
Carmel holiday market attendance more than doubles in second year
In its sophomore year, Carmel’s Christkindlmarkt drew 328,000 people to Carmel’s Center Green. Sales revenue also jumped significantly.
Q&A with Steve Sanner, Jiffy Lube franchisee and advocate for murals
After a conversation with a local arts group, Sanner realized the walls of his stores were a perfect “canvas”—so why not add murals to as many stores as possible?
Visit Indy reports seventh straight year of rising visitor spending
A record 28.8 million people visited the Indianapolis in 2017, generating a $5.4 billion economic impact, according to figures released Wednesday afternoon by Visit Indy as part of its State of Tourism event.
Gambling bill would allow Terre Haute casino, accelerates timeline for live games at racinos
The bill, filed by Republican Sens. Mark Messmer and Jon Ford, covers a wide range of gambling issues expected to be debated this year.
Bill would boost CIB funding, require new 25-year deal with Pacers
A bill filed by Senate Appropriations Chairman Ryan Mishler would extend the life of multiple tourism- and entertainment-related taxes that help fund the Capital Improvement Board and expand the footprint of what’s known as the Professional Sports Development Area to capture even more tax revenue for the CIB. But there’s a catch.
Justice Department opinion could threaten online gambling
Several states—but not Indiana—moved to authorize online gambling after an Obama administration decision appeared to allow it. Now, the Justice Department is reversing that opinion.
Footlite Musicals takes a walk on the homicide side with steamy ‘Murder Ballad’
Since 1956, Footlite Musicals has built a reputation as a theater for all with volunteer productions of classic musicals. But while Footlite’s bread and butter might be works by the likes of Rodgers & Hammerstein, it has also introduced audiences to many shows unlikely to be seen on other area stages. “Priscilla Queen of the […]
State may revamp tourism department, create quasi-governmental agency
Several lawmakers, lobbyists and state officials are pushing for sweeping changes to the state’s tourism bureau.
State lawmaker expects Indianapolis to be considered for casino
The Indiana General Assembly is likely to consider a proposal that would allow Gary’s two casino licenses to be relocated this year—one would stay in Gary, while the other could move to another city in the state.
IBJ Podcast: Will Indiana lawmakers bet big on sports gambling?
IBJ reporter Lindsey Erdody talks with host Mason King about the sports gambling legislation that will be considered in the Indiana House and Senate this year, including the many details that could complicate passage.
Lawmakers to tangle over sports wagering, Gary casinos
Hate-crimes legislation and increasing teacher pay might be the big talking points at the Indiana Statehouse this session, but it’s a safe bet that gambling will stir up a few debates, too.
$9.2M Riverside Park amphitheater could be a ‘game-changer’
A towering limestone monument to a long-ago Indianapolis mayor will be transformed into a performance venue at Riverside Park, thanks in part to a Lilly Endowment Inc. grant.
Area attractions appeal to winter adventurers
Several temporary outdoor ice rinks return to central Indiana this winter, and communities are making changes to improve the experience for visitors.
Sports betting unlikely to be home run for state budgets
Returns in states that have already approved of sports betting have been modest so far. And experts say revenue is likely to be diluted overall as more and more states jump into the game.
Animal advocates: Fatal zoo mauling of Hoosier shows need for crackdown
Twenty-two-year-old Alexandra Black of New Palestine was attacked Sunday while cleaning an animal enclosure at the Conservators Center near Raleigh, North Carolina.
Colts unveil changes to cheerleader uniforms, programming
Nearly 65 years after introducing the NFL’s first pep squad, the Indianapolis Colts are making several changes to their cheerleading program amid the backdrop of the #MeToo movement.