Monthly Archives: January 2025

“Nina Simone: Four Women” at the IRT Feb. 4-March 2

January 30, 2025 | by Weekly View

INDIANAPOLIS — Using music, song, and powerful storytelling, the Indiana Repertory Theatre brings to life how artist and activist Nina Simone gave voice to a movement in Nina Simone: Four Women. Directed by Austene Van with Music Director Morgan E. Stevenson, the dynamic play by Christina Ham runs Feb. 4 … Read More

“Where Everybody Knows Your Name”

January 30, 2025 | by Steven R. Barnett

While many New Year’s Eve revelers celebrated at glitzy downtown Indy hotel ballrooms and trendy Broad Ripple and Mass Avenue bars and lounges, the end of our earthly home’s revolution of the sun and the commencement of another spin through the blackness of space guided by the stars, others chose … Read More

100 Years Ago: Jan. 31-Feb. 6

January 30, 2025 | by Steven R. Barnett

From The Indianapolis News, Wednesday, February 4, 1925: Mayor Lew Shank yesterday appointed Lelia Kern Taylor, the wife of Dr. James H. Taylor, the first woman member of the Indianapolis plan commission. Long active in civic affairs, Mrs. Taylor said of her appointment, “I do not know what problems the … Read More

“PeeWee the Piccolo” born in Indianapolis

January 30, 2025 | by Al Hunter

Okay all you Irvington audiophiles, quick, name the first song ever released on a 45 record. If you said it was the “Texarkana Baby” by Eddy Arnold, pat yourself on the back for remembering that lost gem. But you’re wrong. The first commercial 45rpm was “PeeWee the Piccolo” by Russ … Read More

Honorific

January 30, 2025 | by CJ Woods III

“Noun. A title, phrase, or grammatical form conveying respect, used especially when addressing a social superior.” The American Heritage Dictionary, Second College Edition. Several years ago, my then-new neighbor met my youngest granddaughter. Karen was walking her dogs and Myah, as is her wont, wanted to “pet that dog.” I … Read More