Regionally Speaking Podcast: Recent Episodes
Chris Nolte
Addressing the most important local issues facing the Region during a daily hour of stimulating conversation with local news-makers.
Transformational leadership in a diverse 21st Century culture. The PACT Act application deadlines. 'Brain drain' in Indiana.
Book authors Alex Mar and Joshua Page detail their latest books. The 2023 Kids Count Data book reveals child well-being in Indiana. June 23, 2023 is International Widows Day.
Lakeshore Public Media host Dotson features topics on the 2023 legislative session as well as tips for investing in a down market.
Juneteenth celebrations in the Region hosted by Indiana University Northwest Office of Diversity, Equity and Multicultural Affairs. Aquinas Catholic Community School ribbon cutting ceremony to celebration $3 million expansion.
Methodist Hospitals will celebrate 100 years of healthcare service in the Region. June recognizes Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month as well as Pride Month.
The Prevent Child Abuse Lake County is a nonprofit organization formed to raise awareness about child abuse in Northwest Indiana. Tuesday, May 2, 2023 was Primary Election Day in the Hoosier State, We bring back conversations with some of the victors of the election from Lake, Porter and LaPorte counties.
April is Financial Literacy Month. We hear from financial experts from PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. as well as local financial advisor Greg Hammer.
Seventy Times Seven A True Story of Murder and Mercy" about the 1980’s homicide of Ruth Pelke in Gary, Indiana.The 2023 Kids Count Data Book reports the kids are not alright.
We are facing an education crisis in America. The NWI Food Council will host film screenings to raise awareness about food insecurity in the Region.
Planned Parenthood Great Northwest recently launched vasectomy services in the Region. Economic development opportunities around stations along the NICTD Westlake commuter rail corridor and the South Shore Line double-track project bring promise to transform neighborhoods. Recognizing the the achievements of African Americans in honor of Black History Month, Chuck Hughes joins Lakeshore Public Radio's Dee Dotson to talk about the life and legacy of former Gary Mayor Richard Gordon Hatcher.
Lakeshore Public Media's new president and CEO Chuck Roberts.Indiana's role in the Underground Railroad.
Hollywood actor Bill Johnson returns to the Region to host an annual film festival that bears his name. Means Manor was once dubbed "the showplace of Gary".
The first few days of the 2023 Indiana General Assembly, the PACT Act and getting your 2023 finances back on track!
Gun rights as well as gun control advocates are keeping an eye on the 2023 Indiana Legislative session.
he Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority along with partner agencies across the state are seeking volunteers to conduct the one night Point-in-Time count of the homeless population on Wednesday, January 25, 2023. ndiana University Northwest Assistant Professor of Economics Micah Pollak, Ph.D. is the author of the new blog The Region Economist.
A recent poll in Highland finds that support for national health insurance is universal, cross-partisan and higher than in national polls.
What's behind Indiana's 'brain drain'? And what is top of mind for youth advocates for the 2023 Indiana Legislative Session?
Dubbed "The showplace of Gary" a Means Manor community activist is dedicated to preserving the honor of a historic brick home before it's too late.
November is National Family Caregivers Month, National Hospice and Palliative Care Month as well as National Alzheimer's Awareness Month. Hear from the experts on how to care for yourselves as well as your loved ones.
The 2022 midterm election is around the corner but what do voters need to know? Also, inspiring the next generation of skilled laborers with a fun and imaginative book.
Lakeshore Public Radio's Dee Dotson speaks with three-time breast cancer survivor Dr. Peggy Winston-Prichett about her health journey.
The Whitney Reynold's Show will premiere Season 4 of the nationally syndicated show on Lakeshore PBS Monday, October 17, 2022. Also, what will redistricting look like for the City of Valparaiso?
National Coming Out Day is a day to honor LGBTQ+ and aimed to raise awareness of both the LGBTQ community and civil rights movement as well as to advocate for a person’s mental health and identity.
Indiana University Northwest recently hosted the Chancellor’s Commission for Community Engagement in the John W. Anderson Library Conference Center. The theme for the meeting was Identifying Barriers to Economic Redevelopment: University-Community Collaboration.”
The 12th Annual Gary International Black Film Festival kicks this weekend and the Gary Transportation Corp has an announcement for it's ridership.
Home heating costs are expect to rise...but there are resources available to help manage costs.
The Indiana Dunes National Park will receive $16 M for much needed park repairs, two local nonprofit organizations will receive funding to host humanities projects and the 12th Annual Gary International Black Film Festival kicks off this week.
Interest rates continue to climb, the 2022 Kids Count Data Book and the "Trump Effect" on the 2022 Midterm election.
Two local organizations received grants from Indiana Humanities to provide public humanities programs in northwest Indiana.
Why are energy costs so high in the US and even higher in the UK? Valparaiso University Associate Professor of Accounting Dr. Anton Lewis explains why. And employees that left their jobs at the height of the Great Resignation are now having regret.
Will the Region's manufacturing employment make a comeback? The Department of Veterans Affairs is rolling out a new life insurance program and a youth advocate shares tips on how we can all unite to promote suicide prevention. .
Suicide can affect anyone no matter your age, race, your tax bracket or even the neighborhood you reside. September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month and we hear at Lakeshore Public Radio wanted to spend the hour speaking with clinicians as well as community members that have been affected by suicide. It’s a time to educate, discuss, as well as a reminder to check in with loved ones.
Is shopping at the mall a thing of the past? And what about factory jobs? Will there be an increase in the number of jobs available even during this time of rising inflation?
The ACLU of Indiana and Planned Parenthood have filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of Indiana's near-total ban on abortions. Lakeshore Public Radio's Dee Dotson speaks with Indiana Dunes National Park Volunteer Manager Jim Whitenack about a national recognition for one of the park's volunteers.
The Indiana Dunes National Park received $16 million for deferred maintenance projects through the Great American Outdoors Act. And environmental advocacy groups filed suit against the EPA to close close a regulatory loophole that left about half of the coal ash waste in the U.S. exempt from federal health protections. Representatives from NIPSCO and JustTransition NWI are on Regionally Speaking to discuss coal ash removal at the Michigan City Generating Station.
What is the housing forecast for the remainder of 2022? We hear from GNIAR about home sales in the Region. The Department of Veterans Affairs is encouraging veterans to apply for a VA home loan.
Indiana passed a near-total abortion ban earlier this month. Supporters of abortion rights said the measure was too restrictive while anti-abortion groups said it didn’t go far enough. We' hear from advocates from both sides of the debate.
A concern about everything from COVID to curriculum is fueling an exodus from public education.
Soaring interests rates are leading to higher housing costs. The MAAC Foundation will recognize first responders with a special event and Indiana hit peak manufacturing production earlier than you think.
The Bail Project discusses the charitable bail system and how it serves community members that would otherwise remain behind bars awaiting their trial. As activists and healthcare professionals react to Indiana’s new abortion law we bring back our conversation with Dr. Camuel Wright as she discussed maternal mortality rates in the state. But up first northwest Indiana financial advisor Greg Hammer joins us to talk about resignation regret. All of that and more on this edition of Regionally Speaking…
One year after the fall of Kabul, many refugees around the country including in Indiana still have needs for basic essentials.
The MAAC Foundation is hosting a First Responders Appreciation Day event, small business owners are lobbying for support on Capitol Hill and Planned Parenthood Great Northwest, Hawaii, Alaska, Indiana, Kentucky will not close clinics in Indiana following the newly signed abortion law.
As children prepare to return to school Lakeshore Public Radio's Dee Dotson and Tom Maloney spoke with youth advocates as well as health care industry leaders about helping children navigate the school year.
For many students, the end of summer is near but with a national teacher shortage will districts have to increase classroom sizes? Dr. Paige McNulty with the Gary Community School Corp. and GlenEva Dunham, the president of AFT Indiana joined Lakeshore Public Radio's Dee Dotson and Tom Maloney to discuss the state of K-12 education.
The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission will hold a public comment field hearing in Michigan City to hear from the public regarding NIPSCO’s proposal to raise rates. Lakeshore Public Radio's Dee Dotson and Tom Maloney spoke with a representative with Just Transition Northwest Indiana about a rally and press conference the organization is hosting before the hearing. Today’s housing market is highly competitive and pricing many out of buying a home and setting rental rates to new highs around the nation and right here in northwest Indiana.
The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission will host a public comment hearing Monday, August 1st in Michigan City on NIPSCO’s plan to pay for the estimated $40 million clean-up at the Michigan City Generation Station with a rate increase. The hearing at Michigan City City Hall is set to begin at 6 p.m. And we bring back our conversation with immigration attorney Alfredo Estrada.
A fresh wave of the latest subvariant of Omicron has COVID-19 infections cases on the rise. We'll hear from industry experts on health safety and prevention methods.
Indiana Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch was in the Region earlier this summer touring local businesses. CareSource Indiana shares tips to help get kids prepared for back to school. And Victor Garcia, President and CEO of the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana. addresses the issue of food insecurity as prices continues to rise.
The MAAC Foundation, Inc. is hosting a First Responders Appreciation Day August 27, 2022. NWI Financial Advisor Greg Hammer is back to discuss retiring in a bear market. And as the Indiana Legislature convenes a special legislative session consider a ban on abortions we bring back our conversation with Dr. Tracey Wilkinson with Indiana University Health to discuss a new survey of Hoosier abortion seekers and physicians.
Purdue University Assistant Professor of Physics and Astronomy Danny Milisavljevic shares what all of the excitement is about the all new $10 billion James Webb Space Telescope. And speaking of another world, we brought back our conversation with NPR TV and film critic Deggans to discuss why Hollywood loves the Midwest for their settings.
Inflation in the U.S. is at a 40-year high with food and gas prices surging. Rapidly rising rents and an end to federal COVID-19 relief have also taken a financial toll. Food banks across the country have been struggling to meet the need and the Food Bank of NWI is no different. Partisan politics are the breaking news story daily and kids are listening in as conversations heat up around the dinner table. Indiana Youth Institute President and CEO Tami Silverman discusses civic engagement for youth.
Representatives from Prosperity Indiana and Northwest Indiana Reinvestment Alliance answer the question on everyone's mind right now...how can renters find relieve as rental rates continue to skyrocket. PNC Financial Services Group Assistant Vice President and Senior Economist Abbey Omodunbi offers the July economic outlook. Abbey advises us to not panic!
Health officials are sounding the alarm as they begin reporting that Omicron BA.5 has become the dominant strain in the US and abroad. Dr. Chandana Vavilala, the health officer with the Lake County Department of Health shares what this means locally. Micah Pollak joined us to discuss the economic impacts of testing positive for COVID -19. And we bring back our conversation with Ken Falk, the Indiana ACLU Legal Director about the organizations reaction to the overturning of Roe v. Wade.
Ahead of a special legislative session is set to begin Dr. Tracey Wilkinson MD, MPH Indiana University shares the results of a new survey of Hoosier abortion seekers and physicians. NWI financial advisor Greg Hammer shares tips and tools to prepare for retirement savings. And we revisit a conversation with Dave Benjamin with the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project about how to keep safe at Indiana beaches following two drownings at area beaches. All of that on this edition of Regionally Speaking.
Today on Regionally Speaking, we hear from Alfredo Estrada, immigration attorney, about Title 42's implication on immigration and migration, as well as comments on the recently discovered abandoned semi-truck in San Antonio, and the role that immigrants play in labor for Indiana.Then, we'll hear from NPR TV and Film Critic Eric Deggans about Stranger Things, Hawkins, IN and the role that the Hoosier state plays in Hollywood.
Today on Regionally Speaking we hear from Frank Colucci, Associate Professor of Political Science at Purdue University Northwest, about the impact that the U.S. Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade will have on future cases and political decisions, both nationally and here in Indiana. Then, Congressman Frank J. Mrvan (D - District 1) joins us to discuss the impact of federal dollars on Northwest Indiana including along the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, and into downtown Michigan City. Mrvan also discusses the latest on Roe v. Wade and what Capitol Hill Democrats will plan to do next.
On this edition of "Regionally Speaking," we hear from Ken Falk, ACLU Legal Director for the State of Indiana, on the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling to overturn Roe v. Wade and what impact it has on Indiana. Then, Dr. Camueal Wright from CareSource, discusses healthcare options for pregnant women of color, and the dangers pregnancy can have for them. And we'll hear from Greg Hammer about the F.I.R.E. savings and retirement programs.
Today on "Regionally Speaking," hosts Dee Dotson and Tom Maloney talk with Valparaiso University Associate Professor Anton Lews, Ph.D in Critical Race Theory in Accounting, about the impacts of COVID-19, crypto-currencies, and red-lining and what they've done to Black generational wealth.
Today on "Regionally Speaking," we'll get the latest on the January 6th hearings with IUPUI Senior Lecturer Pierre Atlas. Then, we'll revisit a conversation with Jerry King, President of Hoosiers Concerned About Gun Violence (HCAGV).
Today on "Regionally Speaking," we talk with Andy Downs about the state's latest round of statewide slated elections. We hear from newly selected Crown Point Mayor Pete Land, and we learn about Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch's visit to Northwest Indiana.
On this edition of "Regionally Speaking," we'll hear from the NFIB on how small businesses are weathering the perfect storm of a pandemic, supply chain issues, staffing issues, and a possible recession. Then, Joe Pete, of the NWI Times, discusses the latest happenings with White Lodging "checking out," USW contract talks are set to start in July, and the White Sox in Whiting.
On this edition of "Regionally Speaking," we discuss Juneteenth, from it's early beginnings as an annual Texas celebration to a now Federal holiday.
On this edition of "Regionally Speaking," host Tom Maloney talks with Pierre Atlas, Senior Lecturer with the Paul H. O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs at IUPUI, about gun control legislation. Then, it's the first "Meet the Mayor," conversation with Portage Mayor Sue Lynch.
Today on "Regionally Speaking," we talk roadways, highways, and byways... From the current pain at the gas pumps and traffic pains, to the future of transportation and roadways in Northwest Indiana.
On "Regionally Speaking," Tom Maloney talks with Jerry King, President of the Hoosiers Concerned About Gun Violence. Then, Tom talks with David Benjamin of the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project about water safety this summer. Dee Dotson talks with of the Troy Stevenson, Senior Campaign Manager for the Trevor Project, to discuss suicide among the LGBTQ+ community.
Today on "Regionally Speaking," Tom Maloney talks with Micah Pollak, Associate Professor of Economics at IUN, about the current state of COVID-19 in Northwest Indiana. Then, it's a discussion with Lisa Daughtery and John Brant about the future of work in NWI.
Summer time, and the living is easy, with these summer staycation ideas for Northwest Indiana.
It’s June 6th, 2022, the 78th Anniversary of D-Day, in which allied forces landed on the beaches of occupied France, in Normandy. I’m Tom Maloney… today, on Regionally Speaking, we’ll talk with Mitch Barloga about the new location and plans for the World Wars I and II and Holocaust Memorial in Crown Point, as well as the impact World War II had on Indiana’s economy with Indiana University Professor Jim Madison, and we’ll hear how Northwest Indiana companies are adjusting to their employees working from home.
Today: Alfred "Chip" Cooke, the Agent In Charge for northern Indiana for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, is on "Regionally Speaking" to discuss the latest provisional report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention which shows that in Indiana, the number of overdose deaths hit a record high for a second year in a row to an estimated 2,755. Eighty-five percent of those Hoosier OD deaths were due to fentanyl. He emphasizes once again the dangers of fentanyl, especially the illegally-created version which is being mixed into other substances. "Times" chief political reporter Dan Carden is back to talk about the stories he's put out lately in print and online, most of them stories centering around a possible General Assembly special session if the U.S. Supreme Court authorizes states to further restrict or ban abortions.
Today: Professor Gabe Filippelli, executive director of the I.U. Environmental Resilience Institute, is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about past studies into ozone levels in northwest Indiana and from where they originate. He thinks a lot of the ozone we encounter locally comes from vehicles, especially the heavy truck traffic that crosses the Region. Donna Catalano with the Legacy Foundation and LaTanya Woodson and Larry Brewer with Edgewater Health talk about the summertime series of Healthy Harvest Farmers Markets now underway in Gary. It's an effort to help combat the community's food insecurity and food desert problems.
Today: Peter Novak, CEO of the Greater Northwest Indiana Association of Realtors, is on "Regionally Speaking" with the latest report of home sales and prices in the seven counties the GNIAR represents. He also looks ahead to the rest of 2022 and compares the regional housing market to the reports he sees from other regions of the country. Aetna Manor Revitalization Program leader Penelope Love talks about the recent volunteer effort to get more residences in the eastside Gary neighborhood equipped with smoke detectors, and of other improvements planned for the future — along with what she sees as the positive impact that the South Shore Line's "Double Track" project will have on Aetna residents.
Today: Porter County Sheriff David Reynolds is on "Regionally Speaking" to discuss the topic of mental health as this National Mental Health Awareness Month comes to an end. He says mental health is one of the key issues at the County Jail, along with addiction. The topic came up at a recent law enforcement memorial program in Valparaiso. The Porter County Commissioners recently hired an outside consultant to conduct a community assessment on suicide awareness and prevention. We revisit our conversation with a former Illinois police officer who almost took his own life because of the stresses of his job and a misdiagnosis during an initial mental health treatment.
Today: Former state Senator Karen Tallian and current Senator Rodney Pol, Jr. are on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about a summer General Assembly study committee which will look into the potential health benefits of THC products, including marijuana, Delta 8 and Delta 9. It is not known, however, if they will examine decriminalizing marijuana. Both Tallian and Pol discuss that point, since legislative leaders sent the issue to a study committee on public health, behavorial health and human services. The study committee recommendations are advisory only, but those recommendations are considered serious enough from which to create bills which could come up next session. We also have local reaction and commentary to the Uvalde, Texas school shooting from Laura Wynn, who founded Indiana Parenting Institute. She offers some tips for parents to help their youngsters deal with the issue of feeling safe in school.
Today: Krystal Gibson with the I.U. Public Policy Institute is on "Regionally Speaking" as the lead author of a report which outlines the disparities of the Hoosier State’s bail bond system. She talks about the issue in Hoosier counties and the potential impact of Indiana House Enrolled Act 1300 — set to take effect July 1st, 2022 — which will further reduce options for defendants trying to get out of jail. Mitch Barloga with "Rebuilding Together of South Lake County" talks about their annual "Christmas in September" volunteer home rehabilitation event to help seniors, disabled or disadvantaged homeowners, this year in Merrillville. And Indiana Public Broadcastng's Dylan Peers McCoy reports on a busload of Gary residents upset with the Gary Community Schools management and their meeting with lawmakers at the Statehouse.
Today: Patrick De Haan, the head of petroleum analysis for GasBuddy is on "Regionally Speaking" to bring us the latest on gasoline prices in the Midwest and the nation, as the Memorial Day holiday travel period draws near and as the nation’s average gas price has gone up, for the fifth straight week. Todd Zeiger, Indiana Landmarks northern Indiana director, also talks about the renovation work taken on by some local high school students on a section of the historic “House of Tomorrow” along Beverly Shores, currently closed up and awaiting someone to buy it, renovate it and live in it.
Today: The Interfaith Action Network, a group of northwest Indiana churches, held a community meeting on Sunday in Gary’s Miller neighborhood to tell citizens more about what are called “mobile mental health teams, “ which can supplement the work of police officers, by either answering non-violent calls independently or working alongside them, to access and de-escalate situations. Mary Stewart-Pelligrini is one of the members of the steering committee which set up the meeting. She is on "Regionally Speaking" to speak about the issue and how the Network hopes that a pilot project will be created soon, using funds from the American Rescue Plan and the City of Gary. We also have another Mental Health Awareness Month conversation, this week with Chandra Lyle of Community Healthcare System. And we talk to St. Joseph's College Chancellor Dr. Chad Pulver about how the Rensselaer college is recovering from past problems and restoring itself to a model Catholic liberal arts institution for the 21st Century.
Today: Indiana House District 15 Representative Hal Slager (R-Schererville) is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about the measure which he authored and was co-sponsored by fellow Rep. Mike Andrade (D-Munster) to increase the rate which EMS providers are reimbursed for the costs of transporting patients covered by Indiana Medicaid. We also hear from "Meals On Wheels Northwest Indiana" volunteer director Charlie Misoyve — and Abbey Omodunbi, assistant vice president and chief economist with PNC Financial Services, joins us for an update on the regional and national economic scenes.
Today: Dezimon Alicea, a prevention assistant at Geminus Prevention Services, is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about "SAFE In Lake County" and how the organization helps residents in the fight against substance use, abuse and misuse. He also describes a program available to the public which uses a scientifically-proven product to render drugs useless and safe to dispose. "Times of Northwest Indiana" reporter and author Joseph Pete talks about his latest book "Secret Northwest Indiana: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and Obscure." And we find out more about an organization called "We Are The Village, Inc." and its accompanying podcast to help parents who have autistic children.
Today: "Regionally Speaking" explores the baby formula supply issue, with conversations with Purdue University human development and family studies professor Kameron Moding, who focuses on infant and child nutrition in her research, and Indiana Public Broadcasting's Darian Benson, who spoke with Jenna Streit, the advancement director with The Milk Bank – a nonprofit breastmilk bank in Indianapolis. A house in West Lafayette designed by Frank Lloyd Wright is being renovated to better preserve the landmark for the future. Samara House curator Linda Eales talks about the historic house and of the renovation work now underway.
Today: Lake County Democratic Party chairman Jim Weiser is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about the process of selecting a successor to Crown Point Mayor David Uran, who is leaving public office on June 2nd to become the president and CEO of the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority. NIPSCO reopened its Gary Business Office and NiSource executive Jennifer Montague has the details of the post-COVID reopening. And northwest Indiana financial advisor Greg Hammer sheds some insight on what to look for in a financial advisor, if you don't have one already.
The Lake County Prosecutor's Office has been awarded a $25,000 grant from Indiana University Office of Research Administration to conduct a bias study for traffic and misdemeanor cases. Indiana University Northwest School of Public and Environmental Affairs (SPEA) associate professor Monica Solinas-Saunders is on “Regionally Speaking” to discuss the multi-year study of bias for traffic and misdemeanor cases. Later we hear from Lake County Prosecutor Bernard Carter as he discusses how his office will collect data on pretrial justice to study prosecutorial discretion at charging, bail, diversion, plea negotiations and sentencing for traffic and misdemeanor cases and share the information with Indiana University. Chris Sautter directed and produced the film “The King of Steeltown: Hardball Politics in the Heartland”. He joins us to discuss the movie about Robert Pastrick, a key figure in East Chicago politics for three decades.
On this "Reporters Roundtable Friday," where we ask northwest Indiana reporters about the stories they've put out in print and online. We speak today with "Post-Tribune" government reporter Alexandra Kukulka as well as "Post-Tribune" education and health reporter Meredith Colias-Pete. We also caught up with “The Times of NWI" education reporter Annie Mattea. Alexandra's stories include recently released data reflecting the lowest voter turnout in Lake County since 2008. Anna’s stories focus on school referendums: in both Griffith and Valparaiso voters approved the measures that will go to support teacher pay, security, managing class sizes and more. Meredith shared the latest on an already approved deal that calls for Cleveland-Cliffs to pay a $3 million fine to the federal and state government.
Today: Planned Parenthood Federation of America and its Action Fund are very concerned about this week's "leak" of a draft of a majority opinion from the U.S. Supreme Court which -- if it would become official -- would strike down federal abortion protections. Jennifer Allen is the CEO of Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocate Great Northwest and is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about the implications of a high-court decision along with any abortion restrictions which may be made by the Indiana General Assembly. "Post-Tribune" freelance reporter Carole Carlson is also on the program with the stories she put out in print and online, including news of a meeting coming up May 18th in Gary called by the state agency which turned control of the Gary Community Schools over to a management firm.
Today: We have two conversations about highway projects around northwest Indiana this construction season. Indiana Department of Transportation LaPorte District spokesperson Cassy Bajek reviews the area's transportation projects and Porter County highway superintendent Jim Polarek looks at the local projects. Indiana Dunes Hiking’s Ron Seman tells us about the first of (what the group hopes) will be more "veterans' hikes," this weekend at Indiana Dunes State Park. PTSD affects many veterans, and the disorder can lead to anxiety and even to attempts of suicide. So Seman says getting veterans, their family, their friends, and all veterans group supporters outdoors will make a difference.
Today: On this Day After the Election, Andy Downs with the Mike Downs Center for Indiana Politics at Purdue Ft. Wayne is on "Regionally Speaking" with a look at the primary election, the voter turnout, the candidates and a look ahead to the November 8th general election. One of the winners in the primary, Republican Jennifer-Ruth Green, talks about her victory for the GOP First District Congressional nomination and will compete with Congressman Frank Mrvan for the position. And Purdue Northwest political science professor Frank Colucci talks about the controversial leaking of a first-draft of what could be a U.S. Supreme Court decision striking down federal abortion protections.
Today: Ed Feigenbaum, the creator of "Indiana Gaming Insight" and several other newsletters published by Hannah News Service is on "Regionally Speaking" to bring the latest on court cases involving executives or others connected with the state's gaming industry, along with recent casino and sports wagering revenue figures and the impact of the newest casino — Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana in Gary — on the gaming business. May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, and we have an overview of the month from NAMI Indiana executive Barbara Thompson. She is the first in a series of conversations which you'll hear on Mondays throughout the month.
Today: Two members of Valparaiso citizens' groups opposing the Valparaiso Community Schools' ballot question asking for extending the 2015 operating referendum are on "Regionally Speaking" to explain who they represent and their reasons for wanting voters to "vote No... for now." Side Effects Public Media reporter Natalie Krebs has a story about the growth of the home health care aide industry. Carthage College political economist Arthur Cyr wrote an "op-ed" piece about Russia's continuing infrstructure and military buildup in the Arctic Ocean. He comes back to "Regionally Speaking" to talk about it and why the world should be as concerned about it, as well as to the conflict in Ukraine.
Today: Representatives of "Gary Advocates for Responsible Development," or GARD, Carolyn McCready, Lori Latham and Lin Kaatz Chary are on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about the proposed Fulcrum BioEnergy trash-to-fuel conversion plant at Buffington Harbor. They are concerned about the project's environmental impact to an already-impacted community. April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, and we have a conversation about raising awareness on the importance of preventing child abuse and neglect.
Today: Valparaiso Community Schools superintendent Jim McCall is on "Regionally Speaking" to speak about the question which is on the May 3rd primary election ballot, where residents in Center Twp. will be asked to extend the school district's 2015 operating referendum for another eight years. We have another conversation from the "Welcome Project" at Valparaiso University, and today's "INside Indiana Business" report. And Kacie Ensign with Opportunity Enterprises in Porter County has an update on the organization's new Respite House, for which ground will be broken next month.
Today: Three of the candidates running for U.S. Representative in Indiana's First District in the May 3rd primary elections are on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about their candidacies and the issues which they see as important to northwest Indiana residents. Incumbent Congressman Frank Mrvan, Jr. and two Republican Party primary challengers, Jennifer-Ruth Green and Blair Milo, spoke with us recently and we bring back those conversations.
Today: Workforce innovator-speaker-author Sophie Wade, the keynote speaker for a breakfast meeting today, is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about the shift in the workforce paradigm in America. Wade spoke at the initial event of a series of conversations sponsored by the Center for Workforce Innovations and the Northwest Indiana Workforce Board.
Today: Ivy Tech Community College Valparaiso campus Chancellor Aco Sikoski is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about the recent announcement that the community college is partnering with Purdue University Northwest in a dual-admissions partnership to offer students a guaranteed path to a four-year college degree. The Chancellor also talks about a sexual assault awareness campaign and other programs on which it is partnering with PNW and other universities to help students. We have another "INside Indiana Business" report and we talk with Patricia Mota, the president and CEO of the Hispanic Alliance for Career Enhancement. HACE hosts a 40th anniversary meeting Thursday and Friday and will honor 54 regional Latino professionals.
Today: Andy Downs, executive director of the Mike Downs Center for IN Politics, at Purdue Ft Wayne, is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about the May 3rd primary elections and the residency rules for the candidates, including U.S. House of Representatives. We have another conversation from the Welcome Project at Valparaiso University and Purdue Northwest school of technology Dean Niaz Latif talks about the new B.S. in Cybersecurity which is coming to the University beginning this fall. The Purdue University Board of Trustees voted April 8th to offer the degree, subject to approval from the Indiana Commission for Higher Education.
Today: Valparaiso University professors Tiffany Bell and Anton Lewis are both on "Regionally Speaking" with new conversations: Bell talks about what it means to be "self-aware" or to become one's "authentic self" when it comes to interpersonal conversations. She has several examples in her comments. And professor Lewis offers an overview of automation in the workplace and how it is linked to intersectionality in the workplace.
Today: Gary native and award-winning filmmaker Jessica Renslow is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about her 12-minute-long satirical short which is on the film festival circuit. "Method: A Voice Actor Prepares" just ran to good attendance and reviews at a New Orleans festival. It features many big names in animation voice acting, including an Emmy award winner. And Northwest Indiana financial advisor Greg Hammer revisits his tips implementing the best tax planning strategies within an ever-changing tax system, as Americans end one tax season by filing their latest returns and begin another.
Valparaiso University professor Thomas Albert Howard returns to "Regionally Speaking" with his conversation about the “VU On The Brink” initiative underway on campus. “Valpo on the Brink” seeks to rethink how the University approaches the complex cultural challenges of the modern day, including interfaith relations, pluralism and secularism. Kevin Nuppnau, assistant director, Valpo Parks, will talk about the April 22nd re-launching of the city’s BikeShare program at Central Park Plaza in the city's downtown district. It returns after a two-year hiatus.
Today: Craig Zandstra, special programs coordinator with Lake County Parks, is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about the work on a concept plan for potential parks which include obtaining land for one in Schererville and the area around Meyer’s Castle in Dyer. He says these are in areas close to the state line which could provide more green space and recreation opportunities for residents where few, or no county parks currently exist.
Today: Valparaiso University professor Elizabeth Gingerich is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about the impact of rising oil and natural gas prices because of the Ukranian crisis and how the discussion is rapidly changing the transition from combustion-based vehicles to electric vehicles and from fossil-fueled energy sources to renewable energy. We have another conversation from the Welcome Project at Valparaiso University, about the erasure of a Latin-X community following a 1960’s revitalization. And northwest Indiana financial advisor Greg Hammer has a special retirement planning conversation for GenXers: the "forgotten generation."
Today: U.S. Congressman Frank Mrvan (D-1) is on "Regionally Speaking" with another conversation in our series of conversations with 2022 primary election candidates. His name will appear on the Democratic Party ballots during early-voting and the May 3rd primary itself. He talks about the issues already brought up while a member of Congress and when he would do if re-elected.
Today: This is our first "Reporters Roundtable Friday," where we ask northwest Indiana reporters about the stories they've put out in print and online. We speak today with "Times" business reporter Joseph Pete and "Post-Tribune" reporter Alex Kukukla about their stories. And PNC Financial Services Group assistant vice president and senior economist Abbey Omodunbi joins us with his monthly "take" on the regional and national economies.
Today: Anthony Swinger with the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Councelor is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about next Tuesday’s public hearing by the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission at Boone Grove High School on the Community Utilities of Indiana (CUII) water & sewer rate hike case which is before the IURC. Valparaiso University chemistry professor Paul Smith also talks about Saturday's annual environmental symposium which, this year, focuses on solar energy.
Today: Purdue University Northwest interim executive director of undergraduate admissions Julie Wiejak is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about the dual-admissions partnership between Purdue Northwest and Ivy Tech Community College to guarantee a path for students between an associate's degree and a batchelor's degree. It is available for review right now at a Purdue Northwest web page.
Today: Dan Klein and Julie McElmurry with the Shared Ethics Advisory Commission are on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about the Ethics Pledge sent out to candidates in the May 3rd primary election, which the Commission asked them to sign and return no later than April 8th. The Pledge commits candidates to support actions and policies which promote ethical behavior among public employees. Those policies include whistleblower protection for employees who report ethical violations.
Today: Lisa Daugherty, the president and CEO of the Center for Workforce Innovations, is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about the WorkPlace Innovation Series, which begins on April 21st at Avalon Manor in Merrillville. The series focuses on speakers who discuss the future of work after the pandemic, and the first event is a breakfast with Sophie Wade, a work futurist, international speaker, author, and authority on future-of-work issues.
Today: On this "Reporters' Roundtable" Thursday, Indiana state Senator Rodney Pol, Jr. (D-Chesterton) is on "Regionally Speaking" to give his assessment of the 2022 General Assembly session and about the bills he sponsored or co-sponsored this past session. Some of the measures will be coming up in summer study sessions. "Post-Tribune" reporter Carole Carlson is also on the program to talk about stories she put out in print and online recently, some of them centered around the Gary Community Schools.
Today: The Rotary Clubs of northern Indiana holds its Annual World Affairs Conference on April 14th at Ivy Tech Community College in Valparaiso. This year’s event topic is “Human Trafficking In Plain Sight – What Can You Do About It?" The keynote speaker, Shaana Robrock with the Phoenix Alliance, is on "Regionally Speaking" to discuss this serious subject. The day-long conference includes a number of speakers on human trafficking.
Today: Scott Pelath, executive director of the Kankakee River Basin and Yellow River Basin Development Commission, is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about the organization based in Portage and what is planned for 2022 – “a lot going on this year.” The Commission is responsible for water resource planning and development on the rivers in eight counties, including Lake, Porter, Newton, Jasper and LaPorte Counties. Much of the work involves finding solutions to flooding issues along both rivers, since they flow west into Illinois.
Today: Jen Bussey, executive director of the Hammond Development Corp., is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about this week's ribbon cutting ceremony for its Food Entrepreneur Program in renovated kitchen space along Hohman Avenue. The program will work with start-up food businesses by providing educational classes along with professional kitchen space and, eventually, a place to debut and sell products.
Pierre Atlas, Ph.D. at the O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs at IUPUI returns with his updated look at the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Chicago Urban League president and former Gary mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson talks about the confirmation hearing for U.S. Supreme Court Justice nominee Ketanji Brown Jackson and Indiana State Rep. Michael Andrade (D-12) has a brief review of the 2022 General Assembly session.
Today: Racial justice educator and author Debby Irving is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about her book “Waking Up White,” and about her March 24th virtual visit to Indiana University Northwest. Her presentation is called “I’m A Good Person, Isn’t That Enough?” She’s devoting her life to exploring the impact that white skin can have on perception, and how individuals can help themselves and others change misconceptions and attitudes.
Today: Northwest Indiana financial advisor Greg Hammer talks about how we can better handle our money, while dealing with periods of high inflation. Economists now say that the Russia-Ukraine conflict would trigger even higher global inflation and that could affect investments, especially ones that include commodities like grains and crude oil.
Today: "Indiana Gaming Insight," "Indiana Legislative Insight" and "Indiana Education Insight" newsletters creator/editor Ed Feigenbaum is on "Regionally Speaking" to review what the 2022 General Assembly session did on bills related to the state's gaming industry, the issues surrounding administrative agencies like the Gaming Commission and the state's public education system.
"Times" chief political reporter Dan Carden is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about his stories on the end of the 2022 General Assembly session. A city councilmember from South Bend was the only northern Indiana city official to participate in the National League of Cities "Congressional City Conference" in Washington, D.C. and we'll learn more from Lori Hamman about the details of the American Rescue Plan Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law — funds which are coming back into communities to help recover from the pandemic. And we'll hear from a former TV news anchor who is living with epilepsy and is helping others these days.
Today: Indiana University Northwest School of Arts programming & engagement director Lauren Pacheco is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about about the public arts space being proposed in a former jewelers’ store space in Southlake Mall in Hobart. The planned opening date for the space on the Mall's second floor is April 4th.
Today: Andy Downs, the executive director of the Mike Downs Center for Indiana Politics at Purdue University Fort Wayne, is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about the just-completed General Assembly session. We have another conversation from the Welcome Project at Valparaiso University and Jennifer Olson, director of clinical education with Franciscan Health, talks about the healthcare group's Nurse Internship program which joins with regional school partners like Ivy Tech Community College to help reduce the shortage of nursing professionals.
Today: Valparaiso University will host a 90-minute-long conference addressing the issues of isolation in contemporary society called "Loneliness and Solitude," and event organizer Professor Thomas Howard is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about it. Cedar Lake Historical Association executive director Julie Zasada also talks about an interactive exhibit which is coming to the lakefront Museum at Lassen's Resort next month.
Today: On this "Reporters' Roundtable Thursday," "Post-Tribune" reporter Alex Kukulka talks about the stories from the Statehouse and elsewhere that she's put out in print and online recently, including the action in the final days of the 2022 General Assembly session. And "Times" contributor and amateur Gary historian Korry Shepard talks about his recent columns about Lake Sandy Jo in the Gary area — its creation, use, misuse and the final steps toward reuse as a place for the city's future industrial expansion.
Today: Tim Maloney, Senior Policy Director, Hoosier Environmental Council , is on "Regionally Speaking" with an "end of session" scorecard. The gavel has come down on the 2022 Indiana General Assembly. Maloney says the brisk session was consequential from an environmental and energy perspective.
Today: Amanda Morrison, the Manager of Prevention Services and an executive with Geminus-supported SAFE (Supporting Addiction Free Environments) of Lake County, is on "Regionally Speaking" to explain the organization's mission in the battle against substance abuse and misuse among adults and adolescents. It has a similar role to the Porter County Substance Abuse Council.
Today: Republican Congressional District 1 candidate Jennifer-Ruth Green of Crown Point is the first candidate who is on the May 3rd primary election ballot to be on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about the issues and her stand on them, should she be chosen by voters to face Democrat incumbent Congressman Frank Mrvan in the November general election.
Today: IUPUI professor and senior lecturer Pierre Atlas is back on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about the latest events in the Russian invasion of Ukraine and its impact in human lives and in political and economic terms. PNC Financial Services senior economist Abbey Omodunbi also gives us his view on the financial impact of the conflict on the global economy.
Today: Indiana University Northwest associate professor of economics Micah Pollak is back on "Regionally Speaking" with an update on his data on COVID-19's impact on northwest Indiana and the rest of the Hoosier State. He has some good news to report this time, perhaps some of the best in many months of the pandemic.
Today: Professor Pierre Atlas, a senior lecturer with the O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, is on "Regionally Speaking" with his thoughts on the ongoing invasion of Ukraine by troops from the Russian Federation.
Today: NIPSCO President Michael Hooper is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about his assuming the leadership of the Merrillville-based utility company which is part of NiSource, what NIPSCO is doing these days to head toward sustainable energy generation and how the utility helps customers who cannot afford to pay their winter heating bills.
Today: Ty Warner, the executive director of the Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission, is on "Regionally Speaking" to review the organization's 2021 annual report, which includes some major transportation projects like the 109th Street corridor between Crown Point and Winfield, environmental projects like continued "brownfield" rehabilitation in Hammond and Gary and the ongoing effort to complete the Marquette Greenway.
Today: Valparaiso University humanities & Christian ethics professor Thomas Howard is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about the new initiative: “Valpo on the Brink: Rethinking Mission, History and Identity at a Lutheran University.” He is the leader of the six-member group which is conducting the studies within the initiative. Their final reports are planned to be completed by March 1st, 2024.
Today: Valparaiso University professor Elizabeth Gingerich is on "Regionally Speaking," in our initial conversation about business law issues and their impact nationally and in northwest Indiana. "William L. Johnson Black Film Festival" director Dr. Vernon Smith talks about the three-day event which begins with a student screening of student films on Friday and continues with independent films on Saturday and two features on Sunday.
Today: Adam Forrer, policy director for climate, Audubon Great Lakes, is on "Regionally Speaking" to talk about the findings from a new statewide poll that shows overwhelming support from Indiana voters – across all party lines – for more renewable energy in the state.
Today: “Indiana Gaming Insight / Indiana Legislative Insight” creator-editor Ed Feigenbaum is on "Regionally Speaking" for our regular review of the revenues reported by Hoosier casinos. including those in northwest Indiana, to the Indiana Gaming Commission and the latest news on the gaming industry in the state, including the Hoosier Lottery and the new Terre Haute casino.
Today: On this Reporters Roundtable, "Post-Tribune" reporter Alex Kukulka shares on "Regionally Speaking" her recent stories out in print and online, including the halfway point of the 2022 Indiana General Assembly session. She and her colleague Michelle Quinn have a story on the last of the candidate filing period for the May 3rd primary elections and who is running for what political office that day.
Valparaiso University professor Anton Lewis is on “Regionally Speaking” to talk first about why things are so expensive these days, and then he covers his latest podcast on critical racial theory, and about the 1619 Project.
Today: Northwest Indiana financial advisor Greg Hammer is back on “Regionally Speaking” to present his latest and most effective tax planning strategies to deal with the ever-changing tax system. There may be ones which you may want to consider this year, and he also offers some insight into the potential tax law changes we may see in 2022.
Today: Purdue Extension community development regional educator Tamara Ogle, who specializes in local government, is on “Regionally Speaking” to talk about some of the bills and issues related to the 2022 General Assembly session.
Today: We revisit our conversation with Dianne Halsey with the South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority about the recent inductees to the Wall of Legends which included a surprise inductee: the man who created the Wall itself.
Today: We talk with another candidate on the May 2022 primary election ballot: Valparaiso Police Chief Jeff Balon, who is running as a Republican for Porter County Sheriff.
Today: The 2022 Indiana General Assembly session begins on Tuesday in Indianapolis, so we bring back our conversation of late last month with Indiana political analyst Andy Downs about what topics will likely come up.
Today: Indiana gaming industry expert and “Indiana Gaming Insight” newsletter creator and editor Ed Feigenbaum is on “Regionally Speaking” to give the latest on Hoosier casinos – local and statewide – including the latest on a western Indiana casino project.
In this “Reporters Roundtable Thursday,” we look back at 2021’s major news stories and ask the reporters who wrote most of them to talk about them.
Andy Downs, the executive director of the Mike Downs Center for Indiana Politics in Fort Wayne, is on “Regionally Speaking” to offer his “take” on the upcoming General Assembly session in Indianapolis, where lawmakers may decide on tax cuts and some way to maintain the state’s rainy day fund.
Northwest Indiana financial advisor Greg Hammer is on “Regionally Speaking” to talk about the hot topic of the day: “The Great Resignation,” where workers are leaving their jobs during the pandemic. More than 4 million Americans left their jobs in September, a record-breaking “quits” rate. But – Greg asks, is it the right move for you?
Today: Valparaiso University accounting professor Anton Lewis is on “Regionally Speaking” to talk about, among other topics, the Great Resignation and its effect on small business and large firms in northwest Indiana and elsewhere and racial and gender microaggressions in the workplace, and more.