WBOI Artcentric: Recent Episodes
WBOI
WBOI's Julia Meek has contributed to 89.1 WBOI on- and off-air for over thirty years. Now, her arts and culture reporting can be heard for the first time as a podcast available wherever podcasts are found. Look for WBOI Artcentric.
Fort Wayne’s South Side High School is celebrating its 100th Anniversary with a special multigenerational production of Meredith Wilson’s play, The Music Man, which opens this Friday evening. Drawing on his own memories of the school’s focus on the fine arts, theater teacher Kirby Volz (South Side graduating class of 1976) wanted to find, “as many people who could participate in the show as possible.” To that end, he connected with other alumni and recruited younger students from the system’s feeder schools, to fill the nearly 70 positions on stage, back stage and in the orchestra pit. Here WBOI’s Julia Meek speaks with Volz, and Gaby Gonzalez, a sophomore student playing the role of Marian “The Librarian” Paroo, about the shape their presentation of this iconic story will take and the spirit it carries with it. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Creative Women of the World is celebrating Women’s History Month with a special photo exhibit called “Women Are…” The body of work features 39 portraits of women and their stories, showcasing their challenges, passion and achievements plus the diversity they bring to the community. WBOI’s Julia Meek spoke with project photographer, Jenni Vorderman, and Mary Encabo-Bischoff, an educator and one of the featured subjects, about the scope and message of the exhibit and how it reflects the organization's mission to empower and transform lives. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne Philharmonic violinist & Associate Concertmaster, Yana Bourkova-Morunov, and pianist Alexander Klepach share a special friendship and deep musical passion through their Russian and Ukrainian roots. For their reflections on the brewing situation in their motherlands and the special concerts they are preparing to perform that feature the music of Sergei Prokofiev, a Russian composer, born in Ukraine, WBOI’s Julia Meek talks with them about how this powerful connection provides hope for all in these troubled times. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Tamar Tyler has brought his superhero comic book character, HQ, to life by way of an animated series called Swaggatrons. His fascination with comics began when he was young, Tamar admits, and has grown into a multi-media passion that has taken on a life of its own. WBOI’s Julia Meek talks with Tyler about the process, and what to expect in the Augmented Reality “multiverse” of Swaggville. You can connect with HQ the producer at the Swaggatrons website. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
As social advocate and activist Foundation One continues to engage with his community on the city’s south side, his base of operations has moved down the block. From his unique platform at the Unity Barber Shop, a six-chair business at 921 E. Pontiac Street, Foundation brought a barber’s pole, a single chair and his well-known message of hope and peace to a small space in the nearby Penta C.S. Group Minority Entrepreneurial Center located at 2531 South Calhoun Street. WBOI’s Julia Meek talks with him about the neighborhood he continues to serve, his passion for his work and the new connections this affords his mission. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Ten years have passed since local creatives launched the Fort Wayne 1X1 Community Photo Project. The purpose, explained by two of the project’s coordinators, Cara Lee Wade and Teresa Stephens, was to document our fair city, one square at a time. And now it’s time to see how things have changed. To that end, individuals are invited to join in the photographing of the same randomly picked squares, using their preferred photographic style and medium between now and September. WBOI’s Julia Meek spoke with Wade and Stephens about the history, scope and focus of this momentous initiative, the shape their end game will take and how the community can become involved. The project is open to all Fort Wayne area photographers, ages 16 and up. For complete information visit the Fort Wayne 1x1:10 Facebook page. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Love is in the air world round, this Valentine’s Day weekend, and for many, it's the perfect time to brush off those special songs, dinners and romantic movies that have come to be known as “our favorite.” In the celebratory spirit of the holiday, Arts & Culture reporter Julia Meek sat down with Rob Martinez, host of WBOI’s Movie Music Spotlight to discuss the perennial popularity of the Romance film, the evolution of the genre and its future in the movie industry. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
With one week on the job completed, WBOI’s new GM, Terra Brantley, is fast building momentum and strengthening community connections. Bringing along an agenda that promises more of a focus on local coverage and engagement, she has produced a series of 30-second vignettes that will air on WBOI at various times daily throughout February in honor of Black History Month. Here WBOI’s Julia Meek discusses this project with Terra, her passion for public radio and what’s in store for the future. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Northeast Indiana’s HUB260 Day Weekend is happening this Saturday and Sunday, February 5th & 6th, across Northeast Indiana. Like the area code it represents, this family friendly, self-guided event encompasses many small businesses and arts organizations in Fort Wayne and Allen County, and surrounding communities from Angola and Auburn to Huntington and Wabash. This grassroots initiative is designed to encourage and strengthen the sense of place that makes the region special and unique to its members. WBOI’s Julia Meek discusses the event’s origins and offerings with its Ambassador, Fort Wayne’s Councilwoman at large, Michelle Chambers. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Greater Fort Wayne Inc. has unveiled an aggressive 10-year economic development action plan for the entire community. Called “Allen County Together,” the plan challenges us to build a community that’s more high-growth, innovative and inclusive. Each of these characteristics is underpinned by three “bold projects” with high yield goals and initiatives. As the Number One fastest growing metro area in the Great Lakes region, Fort Wayne is ranked in the top 25% of metros nationally. WBOI’s Julia Meek discusses how the plan will impact the area’s long-term growth and what directions this will take with John Urbahns, Greater Fort Wayne’s CEO & Visit Fort Wayne’s Marketing Director, Kristen Guthrie. For more information and to get involved, visit the Greater Fort Wayne Inc. website. WBOI’s Julia Meek spoke with Susan Mendenhall & Dan Ross of Arts United. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne’s art scene flourished nicely in 2021 as it continued to reinvent and energize itself amid continuing Covid-related challenges. The community welcomed the return of live, in-person seasons and programs as well as an explosion of public art. Cultural District designations were awarded by both the City Council and the State of Indiana while plans for the Arts United Center are being firmed up to make it fully accessible, technologically equipped and functional for the 21st century. For highlights of these decidedly artcentric accomplishments, WBOI’s Julia Meek spoke with Susan Mendenhall & Dan Ross of Arts United. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
The Garrett Museum of Art is getting ready to host a monumental exhibit of historic work by American photographer Edward Curtis. The collection, on loan from a private collection in California, features over 70 of his original photos of the native American people in their surroundings. In 1900, Curtis, then 32, gave up his portrait photography business to pursue what he called his “Great Idea,” which was to capture on film the very last of Native American ways & customs before their lifestyle was destroyed. Here WBOI’s Julia Meek talks with the museum’s director, Jim Gabbard about the collection’s scope and impact. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne’s Unity Performing Arts Foundation is celebrating its 20th season this coming year as it develops plans to go forward with former students now in key leadership positions. What began as a dream for its founder & CEO, Marshall White, in the early 1990’s became a platform for area youth who were underexposed to the arts to be able to enjoy the music of their time. This quickly evolved, he explains, “into a full blown character and leadership development concept, connecting them to one another, as well as the arts, creating bonds, fellowships & friendships for life.” WBOI’s Julia Meek discussed the legacy and its evolution with White and early alumni Aspen Hill & Jordan Applegate. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
The East Wayne Street Center has focused on providing self-sufficiency for underserved populations in Fort Wayne for 56 years. The Center focuses on improving the overall living conditions of impoverished households by stabilizing the home environment, addressing the environmental impediments, and paving the pathway to self-sufficiency with education. BrightPoint Head Start, the city’s 1st head start facility is also housed at the Center, along with the EWSC Food Bank. WBOI’s Julia Meek met with the organization’s Executive Director, Reppard Horne, to discuss its focus and mission, as well as the critical role it plays in our community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Purdue Fort Wayne is addressing the increase in music therapy needs and uses as well as populations being served with impactful community-focused projects and a new masters of music therapy program. With forty years in the profession, PFW’s clinical instructor, Eileen Garwood is quick to point out that projects designed to promote healing of all sorts, including recovery from addiction, will support those in need as well as their families and impart hope and acceptance along the journey. For a glimmer of what this sounds like, WBOI’s Julia Meek discusses the possibilities this affords with Garwood and her student, Charlene Delaney. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne Youth Theatre is ready to spread the holiday cheer with its premiere of the classic movie-turned-musical, Elf Junior, which opens this Friday at First Pres Theatre. The engaging production boasts a cast of forty young talents, the company’s largest musical cast to date, and as the latest addition to its permanent repertoire, promises to make new Christmas memories for the whole family, according to director Christopher Murphy. For a sneak peek at what’s in store, WBOI’S Julia Meek talked with Murphy and the show’s lead actor, Josiah Beights, about the intricacies of bringing such an iconic tale to life. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne trial attorney Mark Paul Smith has published a new autobiographical novel, this time chronicling his life as a young reporter at the Journal Gazette in the 1970's. His book, aptly called "The Reporter," provides a walk down memory lane for Boomers, and an entertaining insight into that era for younger generations and non-native residents. So much of the action takes place in the iconic downtown restaurant, Henry's, that Mark considers it to be a main character in the story. For insight on that slice of local history, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Smith to talk about his adventures on that city beat. You can connect with the author and his books at www.markpaulsmith.com WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne native Cassie Beer has been busy directing the city's newly formed Women's Fund since August. From this position, Beer has been excited to tackle the major endeavors unearthed in an eighteen month, county-wide comprehensive study. For an update on the organization's ongoing plans and progress, WBOI's Julia Meek invited Cassie into the studio to discuss the major initiatives underway, the connections being formed and what that means for the entire community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
If you're in the mood for a live theatrical performance that's decidedly not holiday fare, Shakespearemachine's Macbeth opens, promising a new and creative take on one of the Bard's most popular tragedies. For a sneak peek at what's in store for theater goers, WBOI's Julia Meek talked with artistic director, Nick Tash, and Chance Parker, the play's lead actor, about the niche the company is filling in the community, this particular choice of offerings, and the fine points of their production. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
With Halloween on the near horizon, there's nothing like an iconic scary movie to spooktacularly enhance that holiday mood. But since cinematic offerings, even horror titles, come in all shapes and sizes and span more than a century of development, it may be frightfully difficult to separate the tricks from the treats when deciding just how terrorific one's film picks should be. For some offbeat suggestions, Arts reporter Julia Meek sat down with the hosts of the Storytelling Breakdown podcast, Caleb Meyer, Stephen Stachofsky and WBOI's own Ben Clemmer, to discuss the advantages of that social platform as a means of promoting the genre from their uniquely pop culture perspective. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Summit City Songwriter Showcase, now known as Trubble Troubadours, was founded a little less than three years ago by Fort Wayne musician, Adam Baker, to provide support and a performance platform for local and regional songwriters. To learn how this adventure has taken shape, and where it's heading next, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Baker to discuss the groups purpose, its dedicated venue, and the community connections being made along the way. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne native Juan Williams, a barber with purpose and a strong dedication to his community, has combined forces with seventeen other shop owners to provide hope for at risk members of the population through an organization he founded and heads up aptly called We Fam. Besides the grooming services, which are distributed in the form of unique vouchers, the group hosts regular meetings for its young members called Barbershop Conversations. For insight on his beliefs and the scope of his commitment to the cause, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Williams to learn his motivation for establishing the program, how it works and what it means to those being served. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne's St. Nicholas Orthodox Church will be celebrating Christmas in an especially meaningful way this year, thanks to the completion of phase one of its new icon project. For a first-hand look at the results, WBOI's Julia Meek visited the church and talked with parish priest, Father Andrew Jarmus, about the scope of the artwork, the meaning behind it, and its impact on the congregation. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
EmpowerYou Podcast founder and host, Kibwe Cooper takes his title of "Podcast Guru" quite seriously, and will be presenting the city's first ever boot camp class for individuals and nonprofit organizations looking to gain introductory skills in podcasting Saturday, October 16th. Venue host for the all day session, Come As You Are Community Church on South Anthony Boulevard, is led by Pastor Anthony Payton, who has been a key supporter of Cooper's project since its inception, and is proud to host the community's 1st bootcamp of this kind. For a sneak peek at what's in store, WBOI's Julia Meek invited Cooper into the studio to discuss the importance of storytelling and his passion for his craft as well as for sharing it with the community he serves. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
2018 proved to be another arts-driven year for Fort Wayne, and according to Arts United's president, Susan Mendenhall, the city's cultural skyline has never been more vibrant. The wide range of activity comes from every corner of the arts community, and seemingly, no medium, organization or area of interest is left behind. With the New Year rapidly approaching, WBOI's Julia Meek invited Mendenhall, and vice president of Community Development, Dan Ross into the studio to reflect on some of the notable events that contributed to this distinction. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Artlink's inaugural Art Auction begins Thursday, October 14th with a celebratory "Bash," a ticketed event that includes a preview of the work and "buy now" options. Artlink exists to support artists through exhibition, education and community engagement and the opening Bash will kick-off a three day online bidding period, running from Friday, October 15th through midnight on Sunday, October 17th. The exhibition, with more than seventy pieces of original art on display, represents longtime members, including former director, Betty Fishman, and young, emerging local artists alike. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Lynette Scott and Ellen Mensch, Artlink's Executive Director and Exhibition Coordinator, respectively, to learn the significance of the endeavor,what it will look like and how the organization continues to engage the community in artcentric conversation. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
As the First Presbyterian Theater heads toward its fiftieth anniversary celebration in April, this season’s line up is a strong one, and the group is kicking off the new year in a particularly thoughtful way with a big-little play about faith, called The Christians. Meanwhile, theater fans and friends can enjoy blasts from the past fifty years of productions, thanks to the Digital Archive Project now underway. Still photographs from all of the plays are being gathered, sorted and electronically reproduced, and may be viewed on the First Presbyterian Theater Facebook page. With all of this dramatic activity underway, WBOI's Julia Meek caught up with director, Thom Hofrichter over the holidays, to talk about the impact and message of the upcoming presentation, the photo archive project, and his own reflections on the meaning of this auspicious anniversary. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne journalist Sara Fiedelholtz is realizing two long-time professional goals this fall with a Happiness Exhibit at the Allen County Public Library's Jeffrey R. Krull Gallery and the launch of HUB 260, a weekly multimedia property focused on the Fort Wayne area. Known for her weekly television show and podcast/radio program, "And Good Company," Sara is proud of her ability to see things a little differently, while uncovering stories that need to be told in our community and voices that need to be heard. For a preview of what to expect from her latest endeavors, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Fiedelholtz to discuss the development of both projects and what drives the passion behind them. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne resident, Lili Carroll, is a multi-lingual counselor who draws from her own experiences to offer others support through difficult life transitions and the grief, anxiety, and depression that can follow. Lili's energy in these endeavors is tireless, and an international upbringing, as well as a familiarity with being an immigrant in her own teen years, provides a range of understanding that is unique and invaluable in both her private and group practices. As she notes, "It's all about trust." For a look at the scope of Lili's work, and a bit of timely advice on grief management, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with her to talk about the nature of loss, the forms it can take, and the passion Lili has for her profession. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
If you're in the mood for a particularly seasonal celebration, Fort Wayne's 46th annual Johnny Appleseed Festival may be what you're looking for. After a year's delay due to COVID-19, this family friendly event will take place Saturday and Sunday, September 18th & 19th at Johnny Appleseed/Archer Park. For a look at the staying power of this beloved festival, WBOI's Julia Meek invited JAF committee member John O'Rourke into the studio to discuss the myriad traditional activities it offers, its namesake, John Chapman and the place it has made for itself in the hearts of the community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne area artist, Joel Fremion, has more than three hundred major "paintings" to his credit, and his medium of choice for all of them is fabric. This very tactile artwork is an intricate blend of fabric and leather that is further enhanced with painted details. The result is a cleverly complex image, sometimes mistaken for paint at first sight, that intrigues and pleases art lovers and artists alike. For a close-up look at the artist and his off-beat methods, WBOI's Julia Meek joined up with him to talk about how this technique evolved, his local artist series, and the satisfaction he derives from this passion-turned-profession. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Friends of the Rivers, a local conservation organization, is challenging the entire community to be River SmART (W/ ART!) The project, called Clean Drains Fort Wayne, a collaborative effort between the group and Fort Wayne City Utilities, is a three year initiative that officially begins today with a series of storm drain street-art mural installations throughout the city that will be completed by September 19th. Neighborhoods and schools are also being enlisted to join the movement and create chalk drawings and install awareness medallions at nearby drain sites, in preparation for Clean Drain Fort Wayne Fest on World Rivers Day, Sunday, September 26th, in Promenade Park. For a behind the scenes look at what this means to all involved, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Nancy Stewart and Pam Holocher, project co-chair and committee member respectively, to discuss the initiative's scope and purpose as well as its official city-wide celebration. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne author, Mary Ann Cain, has written a new book devoted to the life of Chicago artist and activist Margaret Burroughs. The saga, which traces Margaret's cultural contributions within her beloved southside Bronzeville neighborhood, also documents the history of the cultural renaissance Chicago enjoyed in the 20th century, which as Cain notes, "followed directly on the heels of the Harlem Renaissance." The work will be launched and celebrated locally on February 8th, with a multimedia celebration at the United Arts Center. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with the author to learn the lasting impact Burroughs has made on her community, what Margaret's friendship meant to Cain, and how the story is being unfolded. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Meihkai Bowers, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Multimedia creative Darren Hunt has just written, produced and directed his first film, a dramatic work called Paper Angel. Though Hunt's intentions were to work with seasoned filmmakers once the screenplay was completed to his liking, his ten year journey with the project would come to include doing all of the casting, production and sets for the movie himself. Besides the attention paid to all of the visual components of the story, he then went on to collaborate with local musicians and flesh out a riveting musical score of their gritty originals that they all felt would complement the "vibe of the film" he was building. It's local premiere is at Indiana Tech's Magee Theatre. For Darren's reflections on this grass roots cinematic adventure, WBOI's Julia Meek invited him into the studio to discuss its origin and evolution, the passion for the craft he developed along the way and why the "purely Fort Wayne" flavor of the piece resonates so deeply with his art centricity. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
James and the Drifters is a four piece rock band with a smooth sound, a positive message and a curious name. This band of brotherhood, as the group likes to call itself, which began in Huntington, Indiana, back in 2010, now calls Fort Wayne its home, and the JATD fan base continues to build throughout the midwest, as does their touring circuit. Kyle Jackson, one of the founding members, is pleased with the band's evolution, and ongoing musical journey, being quick to point out, "I'm more excited now than I've ever been." With their newest album, The Glow, ready to be released on February 1st, WBOI's Julia Meek decided to sit down with Jackson and his bandmate, Andy Scheer, earlier this week, to get the inside story on their name, signature sound, and musical staying power. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
The Bradley is a new local enterprise in downtown Fort Wayne, located at the gateway of the city's waterfront revitalization zone. Born of Midwestern charm and modern design sensibilities, the flavor of the arts-forward boutique hotel resonates with locals and travelers alike from its west Main street address, evoking a sense of warmth from an inviting front lobby all the way up to the dramatic skyline view to be found from its popular rooftop bar. For a look behind the scenes and into the heart of this unique operation, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with its founder, Barbara Bradley Baakgaard and Carmen McGee, general manager of its restaurants, Birdie's and Arbor, to discuss what it's bringing to the community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
While most everyone is avoiding the frigid outdoor temperatures, a brave bunch of area residents are gearing up for the 2019 Special Olympics Polar Plunge, which takes place a week from this Saturday at Metea County Park. Plungers are seeking donations to benefit Special Olympics athletes around the state, and ensure continued opportunity for participation at all levels of activity. For a sneak Peek at what this celebration means to both state and county Olympic organizations, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with event chair, Jake Pickett, and Olympian, Alise Hazelett, to learn about the cause, plunge day's festivities, and the satisfaction to be found in "freezin' for a reason." WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
The Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association's semi-annual Festival in Kendallville is finally back on track this Labor Day weekend after a year and a half hiatus due to COVID-19 restrictions. The four day celebration begins at the Noble County 4-H Fairground and welcomes both walk-in visitors and camping enthusiasts to its spacious grounds. The group, which was formed in 1976 by a group of musicians from the Fort Wayne area who shared a passion for the genre and an affinity for homemade music, has hosted these festivals at the Fairground during Memorial and Labor Day weekends since 1990. The stage show, with its large and prestigious variety of bluegrass talent features eleven bands, twenty-one sets and nearly non-stop informal jamming in the side yard throughout the event. Among this year's headliner acts is Fort Wayne's own Debutants newgrass band. For a look behind the scenes at the community of bluegrass enthusiasts that has grown along with the organization, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with its top officers, Jim Winger and Joe Steiner, to discuss how this year's event is taking shape and where the organization, as well as the genre it promotes, is headed. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne Youtheatre has been going strong for eighty-five years now, and this season is off to a great start, thanks to its new Executive Artistic Director, Todd Espeland. For a look at Todd's philosophy, and what he's bringing to the youngest members of our local theater scene, WBOI's Julia Meek invited him into the studio to share his insights on the craft, and its place in our community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
After switching to a virtual celebration last year due to COVID restrictions, Fort Wayne is getting ready to enjoy its 13th annual Taste of the Arts Festival in person. With an emphasis on CDC guidelines and local health agency guidelines, the event's greatly expanded footprint will allow festival goers to self select and choose their own adventure, giving everyone the chance to celebrate the special day in their own way. For a look at the new shape things are taking as the event holds true to its cultural legacy, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with festival marketing chair, Rachel Reinking, and committee chair, Thad Tegtmeyer, to talk about the vast network of community connections that plays into it. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Andrew Paul Davis is a native Floridian, now living in Indiana, who made this state the setting for his first full length movie, after honing his craft while attending Upland's Taylor University. The film, called Palace, presents a cross-generational portrait of life involving a stubborn auto mechanic, a retired widower, and a college student as they interact at a bar in rural Indiana. An official Heartland Film Festival selection this past fall, in Indianapolis, Palace has enjoyed enthusiastic reviews at screenings across the country, and will be shown at Fort Wayne's Cinema Center. For a look at the path taken by both the film, and its maker, WBOI's Julia Meek invited Davis, and one lead actor, Joe Martyn Ricke, into the studio to talk about the process, and the many connections they have enjoyed along the way. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
As of last Wednesday morning, a vibrant new mural by Brazil's internationally acclaimed street artist Arlin Graff occupies the south and east walls of Shindigz Place in downtown Fort Wayne. The massive work, titled River Otter, is part of the the city's Art This Way program, managed by Alex Hall. Animals are the celebrated muralist's principal theme, executed in his distinctively creative style that pairs whimsically colorful representations of the animal kingdom with elements of the modern technological world. Before the final coat of paint was dry, WBOI's Julia Meek ushered Graff and Hall into the studio to talk about the dramatic new piece, the procedure and Graff's passion for his craft. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
The 2013 winner of the Northeast Indiana Playwright Festival, The Wedding Gift, by Nancy Carlson Dodd, is making a triumphant return to the Civic Theatre. It's also enjoying a 2nd world premiere, since Dodd was able to realize her original vision of the play as a musical this time around, which wasn't permitted in the playwright contest qualifications. Dodd's collaborator on the music and orchestration for this project has been her niece, Dori Erwin Collins, with the added advantage of working in Collins' own theatrical milieu of Chicago. For a behind the scenes look at how the production has taken shape, WBOI"s Julia Meek talked with Nancy, and director Phillip Colglazier about the play's perennial charm, and the playwright's passion. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
When Riley Fitzharris, age 14, and Cohen McCreery, age 12, were challenged by their teacher at Oak Farm Montessori School in Avilla to "make a difference in the world" last fall, they ended up deciding to host a fundraiser to help the homeless. After deciding that a hands-on approach best suited their interests and combined skill sets, they organized their thoughts, rolled up their sleeves and began a nine month quest to build a detailed campaign that would eventually involve their families, friends and the entire Oak Farm community. The results? A Family Friendly Sports Challenge, which takes place on Sunday, August 22nd, on the grounds of the Concordia Theological Seminary. With the event now on the near horizon, WBOI's Julia Meek invited the young organizers into the studio to learn how it's all coming together and what they've learned along the way. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Sayaka Ganz is a Fort Wayne sculptor, born in Japan, who is internationally known for her large scale animal figures made from reclaimed plastic objects. Her latest local installation opens on Friday, February 22nd, at Artlink, and WBOI's Julia Meek decided to invite Ganz into the studio to discuss its complexities, as well as the motivation for this medium she embraces. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
When COVID-19 forced local author & social activist Ketu Oladuwa to halt his public jazz and poetry performance projects he switched gears, regrouped his energy and made a long term commitment to write and publish his own work instead. With a goal of producing three poetry chapter books in 2021, Oladua has just released the 2nd volume, entitled intimatez panoramic i. A reading from and discussion of the book will be presented at Wunderkammer Company on Wednesday, August 18th. To learn where this journey has led him WBOI's Julia Meek invited Ketu into the studio to discuss how the pandemic helped him to shape and re-state his identity. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Fun Home, one of the most celebrated Broadway musicals of the decade, made its groundbreaking debut in 2015 as the first musical in history to feature a lesbian protagonist. Thanks to Three Rivers Music Theatre, the play is making its regional premiere right here in Fort Wayne, at Wunderkammer Company. Based on Alison Bechdel's best-selling graphic memoir of the same name, the story, which unfolds at the family's funeral home business, concerns the author's coming of age, and uncovering a family secret. For a sneak preview of what's in store, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with director, Andy Planck, and lead actor, Kat Hickey, to learn how the production is taking shape, and how they hope it will impact their audiences. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
The Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory will kick off its 15th annual Botanical Roots Concert Series this Friday, August 6th. Nicknamed "Concerts al fresco" by the facility's dedicated staff, this year's lineup of national touring acts and local opening bands is expected to fill the backyard Terrace with area music lovers of all ages every Friday throughout this month. For a sneak peek at what's in store, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with the Conservatory's Program Coordinator Missy A'Hearn to discuss the original roots of the series--and the rhythm it continues to enjoy as a summer music staple in downtown Fort Wayne. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Mariah Roberts, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
The Rotary Club of Fort Wayne takes its tag line, "Dream big about service," very seriously, and this year, it is making a big splash on the downtown Riverfront scene with a Water Jet Fountain, which will be constructed adjacent to the Compass Pavilion in the heart of Promenade Park. The group is hoping to raise most of the rest of the necessary funds for the project with its annual Big Easy Mardi Gras Feast. WBOI's Julia Meek met with president, Dave Bennett, and Barb Wachtman, past president and event committee member, to talk about the club's rich legacy, and learn how this and other projects fit the club's mission as it begins its second century of service. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Mariah Roberts, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
The AVOW organization was founded a little over two years ago with the purpose of giving women here in Fort Wayne a voice in public life. Under the leadership of founders, Patti Hays, Rachel Tobin-Smith, Marilyn Moran-Townsend and Faith Van Gilder, AVOW is growing in numbers, gaining momentum, and finding its voice in a number of platforms. The mission of the organization is to advance the voices of women in public life, the community square and civil conversations. Appealing to women of all backgrounds, ages and political affiliations, what unifies the group's effort is a common passion to inspire and train women for public life. Adding support to that endeavor is former Mayor of Fort Wayne, Paul Helmke. The Journal Gazette is also endorsing AVOW, and encouraging its participation in weekly guest columns and opinion pieces. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with two of its founders, Pati Hays and Rachel Tobin-Smith, to discuss the group's mission and scope, and the impact it hopes to make on the community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Mariah Roberts, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
3 Rivers Yoga Foundation will be hosting its second annual Fill the Field "Yoga-in" at Parkview Field. Besides a farmer's market style shopping experience, live music, kid's activities and other festive amenities, the event features a one hour, all-levels yoga class taught by Dan Nevins in the outfield. Nevins, a military Veteran who lost his lower legs in Iraq in 2004, is a world renowned speaker whose story and passion for yoga inspire audiences with his message of perseverance and resilience. For a rundown on what's in store and the organization's mission, WBOI's Julia Meek invited its founder and president, Sarah Evans, into the studio to discuss how yoga can build community as well as total wellness for every body. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Mariah Roberts, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Christopher Murphy is back in the Arena Theatre director's chair again, this time ready to locally premiere Ken Ludwig's latest farce, A Comedy of Tenors. For a peek behind the curtain, and into the heart of what drives Murphy's passion, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with him to talk about the production, the philosophy of community theater, and his place in Fort Wayne's performing arts scene. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Mariah Roberts, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
After taking a year off due to COVID-19 restrictions, the city's Pride Festival is back and bigger than ever, now a two-day event at Headwaters Park. While the event's footprint has expanded to include both sides of the park, in the interest of public safety, there will not be a Pride March in 2021. For a sneak preview of what's in store and a look back at the group's accomplishments, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Fort Wayne Pride Director, Nikki Fultz, to discuss how the celebration and the organization have evolved over the past twenty plus years, along with the local LGBTQ population. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Mariah Roberts, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
The Fort Wayne Männerchor Damenchor is getting ready to kick off its 150th anniversary year with a song in their hearts and a number of special events to celebrate the love of German music and culture that continues to drive the organization. First among these festive gatherings will be its Fruelingsfest, a traditional Spring Festival, which takes place at the end of March. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with its president, Chad Trouten, to learn about the club's rich musical history, as well as the present place it holds in the community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Mariah Roberts, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
After graduating from Canterbury High School in 2015, Jacob Rockey embarked on an unconventional journey that would eventually lead him to a career in public radio in the town of Marfa, west Texas, population 1,531. When WBOI’s Julia Meek learned that Rockey was heading back this way for a visit, she invited him into the studio to discuss how his passion has driven his profession, as well as his lifestyle, and what he’s learned along the way. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Mariah Roberts, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Northeast Indiana Water Trails is gearing up for its 6th annual Pedal, Paddle, Play! Scavenger Hunt, this Saturday, July 17th at Promenade Park. Once the "hunters" return, by bike or river trail, the annual afterparty begins, which is free for the public to attend as well, featuring live music provided by local tribute legends, Pink Droyd, beverage service from Trubble Riverfront. Representatives from nine different environmental and recreation groups will also be on hand to talk with participants about the importance of maintaining water trails. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with principal Programs Manager, Kyle Quandt, to learn the mission and scope of the organization, and how this community-wide event will benefit the area. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Mariah Roberts, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Since its formation, Fort Wayne's Public Art Commission has been working hard to engage the community and develop a master plan. Its first public event takes place Tuesday evening at the Arts United Center, offering residents a chance to get a feel for what's in store, and learn what the plan's tagline, "Art for All," can mean to the local arts scene. For a look at the organization's mission, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with its administrator, Dan Baisden, and vice-chair, Pam Holocher, to learn about this event, the Commission's future plans and the role public art plays in our community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Mariah Roberts, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne filmmaker Kelly Lynch has focused on the mid 20th century decline of the railroad industry to produce a screenplay for a limited television series called The Century Builders. "If the 20th Century was the railroad's Golden Age," Lynch reflects, "The Century Builders is about its end--and the towns, jobs, cultures, dreams and people that vanished with it." His own fascination with the Iron Horse and its colorful past is driven by the many stories shared with him by relatives in the Lynch family tree, a tradition enjoyed by many American families. Conceived as an eight part mini-series, the story will unfold primarily within an expansive railroad yard, a traditional roundhouse along the company's route, and in the homes and businesses of local residents. While the pilot continues to advance in festivals and competitions, gathering momentum as it is shared throughout the country, WBOI's Julia Meek invited Kelly into the studio to discuss his motivation for the project and the era it portrays. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Mariah Roberts, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
With National Poetry Month just around the corner, spoken word is getting ready to take the spotlight. And tomorrow evening, Fort Wayne creatives Chanelle Barnes and Daniel Church are combining this medium with visual art in a special collaboration event at 816 Pint & Slice they call "Picture This." The wide variety of two and three dimensional artwork being displayed complements the poetry that was contributed by an equally varied assortment of wordsmiths, from emerging writers to seasoned author performers. This project, according to Barnes and Church, is an effort to combine forces between two mediums that are often left to the imagination. Much like putting a face to a name, they are intent on bringing words to color. For a look at the concept, WBOI's Julia Meek caught up with the pair to learn how the mediums and the collaborators will be bringing everything into focus. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Mariah Roberts, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
ACRES Land Trust launched a 200 year Ecological Reflections project in 2017 to honor and study its Wing Haven Nature Preserve in Steuben County. Wing Haven has a rich diversity of plants, birds, mammals and aquatic species in three major ecosystems, and includes about two miles of trails. Each year an artist is chosen to create a work inspired by the site. To date, this has included a poem by Kevin McKelvey, a painting by Gwen Gutwein, a Digital Map of the area by Adam Johnson, a mixed media piece by Hannah Burnworth, and most recently, an original composition for classical guitar by Ken Jehle. The snapshot the organization hopes to create will focus on all forms of fine arts, the humanities and science, to create a better understanding of how a particular place changes through time. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with ACRES Advancement Director, Heather Barth, to gain insight on the project's scope and this year's commissioned work. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Mariah Roberts, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
First Presbyterian Theater is formally celebrating its 50th anniversary with a special evening of activities. Besides a dinner and silent auction, guests will be able to share in a look back at some of the theater's "best of the best" moments, and a remembrance of those now departed, who helped establish the group's foundation over the decades. For a behind the scenes look at the event and what it symbolizes, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with John Tolley and Thom Hofrichter, past and present managing artistic directors, respectively, to talk about the theater's rich legacy, its staying factor, and place in Fort Wayne's community theater scene. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistant is Olivia Fletter. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, Kyle Norbeck, Mariah Roberts, Diahmynd Thomas, Mikaela Veltum, and Sydney Wagner.
The Utopian Community Grocery on Oxford Street and it's on-premise eatery is bringing nutritious and affordable food to the neighborhood and beyond, thanks to its founder, Ty Simmons, and his dedicated team. The area, identified as a food desert for its lack of available "good food choices," provides a perfect testing grounds for what Simmons thinks of as an incubator for this sort of enterprise. He also notes that UCG's backers have bigger plans, and the grocery is just the beginning. For a look at how things are shaping up, WBOI's Julia Meek caught up with Ty by Zoom, right in the store, to discuss the scope of the project and the hope this venture can provide to residents on the city's southeast side. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
L.I.F.E. Adult Day Academy students are making a community connection and a big splash on the local arts scene with a beach-themed choral and dance program this coming Tuesday, April 9th, at the Arts United ArtsLab. A school where learning is adapted to an individual's unique skills, the academy's mission is to create an ideal place to learn, socialize, and find acceptance. WBOI's Julia Meek invited Academy program coordinator, Jeannette Iglesias and choral director, Heather Palmer, into the studio to discuss the school's mission, the project's impetus, and what impact a program like this can make. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
A group of rising South Side High School students will be part of the new Peacemaker Academy here in Fort Wayne that focuses on nonviolence training and conflict resolution. The project, spearheaded by Reverend Angelo Mante, Executive Director of Alive Community Outreach, is in partnership with the Rotary Club of Fort Wayne. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Mante and Rotary Club president elect Lynne Gilmore to learn what the program looks like, what they hope to accomplish and how this might impact the cultivation of peace in our community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
After winning a lifelong battle with food addiction and losing one hundred pounds in about a year, Fort Wayne resident Emily Boller has chronicled that journey in a new book titled Starved to Obesity. Admitting that the road to wellness is not easy, especially at the beginning, the author points out that her own artwork was one effective tool in this process, and helped in affecting the change. For insight on Boller's transformation, WBOI's Julia Meek invited her into the studio to talk about the nature of the problem, the connections that were made along the way, and the method she used to combat the illness. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
With Juneteenth on the horizon, a holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, Fort Wayne is gearing up for its 18th annual local celebration with a community-wide collaborative effort that will showcase a week long series of special events. The collaboration, called Freedom Day Juneteenth FW2021, begins Sunday, June 13th with an Elders Jubilee and ends on Saturday, June 19th, the officially observed date, with a Promenade to McMillen Park for an afternoon and evening of entertainment . For a look at what's in store, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with project director, Adrian Curry and committee member, Chief Condra Ridley, to discuss the scope of the planned festivities, the significance of this collaboration and how it will live up to its tagline, "Unity in the Community." WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne attorney Mark Smith is becoming known for writing humorous, larger-than-life fiction, and he's done it again with his 3rd novel. Rock & Roll Voodoo. Set in the 1970's, the story reflects on the music, spirit and pop culture sensibilities of the baby boomer generation as seen through the author's eyes, while delivering a timeless message of self awareness. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Smith to discuss why the technique he utilized for telling this new story suits his purposes, and what he learned along the way. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Longtime friends John Jehl, Ethan Sternke and Alex Shinn have channeled their extreme passion for games into creating one--a Spy Thriller card game called INTEL. Invented on a whim during a long road trip before John's senior year at the University of Saint Francis, he was able to use the game as his Senior Project while all three partners participated in honing and perfecting the details. An overwhelming response to its Kickstarter campaign has made their dream a reality. For a behind the scenes look at the operation, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with two of the team, Jehl and Sternke, to discuss the motivation for their creativity and how the whole project is playing out. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne native John Hartman is a seasoned videographer who formed his own company about six months ago on the city's south side, aptly named Zero Seven Films. His own passion for the craft was influenced by the music videos that captivated him as a kid, and along with the wide variety of clients he has amassed, he continues to indulge in his love of music with an ongoing project that showcases local musicians he calls "Fancy Sessions." For a look into Hartman's passion, WBOI's Julia Meek recently sat down with him to talk about how and why his tag line, "making videos, making new friends" works. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Across America, Food Truck Parks are becoming permanent year round attractions, and thanks to a Fort Wayne Soup Grant, local entrepreneur TK Kelly is hoping to be able to add our city to that list. Funding for the park's first of three phases has already been secured, which is enough to get the park open. Kelly continues to enjoy support and input from other parks throughout the country, and is basing his own enterprise's footprint on those layouts, including facilities in Dallas, Traverse City, Detroit, Cleveland and Greenville, South Carolina. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Kelly to discuss his motivation for the project, its anticipated time frame and what it could mean to the community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
CreativeMornings is a national breakfast lecture series with local chapters that host free, monthly meetups with revolving themes, speakers and venues. And thanks to resident Olivia Lehman, Fort Wayne became an official part of the network this past January. The concept is deceptively simple. One Friday a month, attendees are invited to gather to enjoy fresh coffee, friendly people, and an international array of breakfast foods, while learning about a new and thought provoking topic. Always ready to find out what the local creatives are up to, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Lehman to discuss this concept's scope and popularity, as well as her personal motivation for sharing it with the community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
As fans around the world get set to enjoy the Indianapolis 500 this Sunday, David Humphrey, a native Hoosier, has just published a book that chronicles Indiana's passion for oval track racing in all forms. Though many racetracks remain in operation throughout the state, Indiana's Lost Speedways and Legendary Drivers showcases a large assortment of photographs of those that have fallen by the wayside over the last century. Favorite tracks that are showcased include Armscamp Speedway, Richmond Midget Stadium, Sun Valley Speedway and Jungle Park. A look at some of the state's beloved "homegrown" drivers who thrilled fans at those now defunct tracks completes David's look at the glory days of the sport. WBOI's Julia Meek caught up with Humphrey by Zoom in the fourth turn to discuss the sport's appeal and the rich history he has uncovered. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne resident Kevan Chandler and his friends have literally been blazing trails, despite Chandler's lifelong battle with spinal muscular atrophy, since they decided to trade his wheelchair for a backpack a few years ago. Once they devised the necessary gear, and formulated travel plans, nothing has stopped them from seeing the world, one exciting trek at a time, and now, the remarkable story has been chronicled in Chandler's latest book, We Carry Kevan. For an update on the adventurers, and their mission to redefine accessibility as a cooperative effort, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Kevan earlier this week to talk about what the team is learning, as well as sharing, as they move forward on this journey. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Local bicycling enthusiasts Kathi Weiss, age 73 and Cathie Rowand, 64, hit the trail full speed on May 14th for a 16-day ride to Washington DC. Their 30 plus years of biking together includes velo-tours through much of the Midwest and on both coasts, but this is their longest trip, racking up 753 miles. And they’re raising funds for the Fort Wayne Trail system as they go with a Facebook event called “Kathies’ Big Adventure”. For a first-hand report on how things are going, WBOI’s Julia Meek caught up with the duo by Zoom in Steubenville, Ohio, their half-way point, to discuss the experience as well as the passion that fuels it. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
The Parkview Community Greenhouse and Learning Kitchen, a hub for accessing healthy food and resources, is humming with activity and will open its doors this coming week. The facility, located at 1716 Beacon Street, near Parkview Behavioral Health, was specifically established there because 46805 is one of five Fort Wayne zip codes considered to be a food desert. For a look at the project's goals, WBOI's Julia Meek invited greenhouse farmer Camille Schuelke and community outreach dietitian Kathy Wehrle into the studio to talk about the problems being addressed with this program and the impact it will have on the overall health of the community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne native Albert Brownlee is partnering with the Embassy Theatre to honor the one year anniversary of the death of George Floyd with a regional premiere of Christopher Demos-Brown's award winning Broadway play, American Son. The show, which opens this Friday, will run on Saturday evening and again, on Tuesday, May 25th to memorialize the tragic event. A special musical performance by Mikki White, Fatima Washinton , Melanin Soulest and pianist Tommy Saul will accompany the performances. Post-show discussions with city officials, members of law enforcement and community organizers will be conducted nightly. For a behind the scenes look at the fine points of the production, WBOI's Julia Meek spoke with Brownlee about its message, the collaboration and the community impact he hopes it will make. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Young's Greenhouse and Flower Shop is a family owned and operated, full service florist, greenhouse and garden business that opened its doors here in Fort Wayne back in 1873. To learn the secret of the operation's staying power, WBOI's Julia Meek coaxed Sandy Young and her son Blake away from the shop and into our studio to talk about the passion they've cultivated through their craft, and how "saying it with flowers" speaks to them. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
When local ceramicist Michael Minick died of cancer in 2018 he left behind more than one hundred unfinished pieces of major proportions. Thanks to his wife Janie and area creative Steve Smith, the "best of the best" of the work, now finished, will be on display at the Castle Gallery. To gain a perspective on the legendary artist and his legacy WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Minick and Smith to discuss the impact and scope of this project. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Local authors Laura Weston and Keith Elchert share an interest in regional history and good food that has resulted in their third collaboration, a brand new book called Classic Restaurants of Fort Wayne. Both were born in Ohio, and their first book, Tiffin, is a history of Keith's home town. They credit their second title, Honest Eats: Celebrating the Rich Food History of Indiana's Historic Lincoln Highway, for whetting their appetites to embark on this latest project. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Weston and Elchert to learn what drives their passion for both topics, and what our local eateries can tell us about our city, as well as ourselves. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Alex Castonzo, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
When the 98th annual Scholastic Art & Writing Awards winners were announced this spring, Carroll High School senior Alyvia Luong was one of sixteen students in the nation to receive this year's top honor. The award goes to eight writers and eight artists. Luong's nationally recognized photography portfolio, The Sin(ner) I Cannot Forgive is a series of self portraits that chronologically depicts the moments that make up a life-changing event for the artist and her journey towards healing. For a behind the scenes look at the young creative and her journey WBOI's Julia Meek invited Alyvia into the studio to discuss this portfolio and its message as well as her other award winning collection and what she hopes her future holds in store. Please note that this interview does include discussion about sexual assault that may be upsetting to some listeners.WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Since Huntington University's Jack Heller began the Shakespeare at Pendleton program in 2015, there's been, well, a lot of drama. As inmates come and go through the system, the group maintains a solid core of around twenty two members, and will be presenting its 4th show, a selection of Monologues and Scenes, at the end of this month. Each of the productions gets two performances, one for the Pendleton inmates and one for outside guests which the public is encouraged to attend. To learn how things are shaping up since she spoke with Heller just before "Coriolanus" debuted, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with him to talk about the program's development, effectiveness and long term impact. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
As the world continues to absorb the impact of the Derrick Chauvin trial and verdict, initial reactions are being shared and dialogues gain momentum even as new questions about turning points, change making and next steps to be taken arise. For a local reflection on this landmark decision and thoughts on accountability of law enforcement, WBOI's Julia Meek contacted civil rights activist, educator and host of WBOI's Gospel Flight, Dee McKinley, by Zoom to discuss and measure the possibility of "justice for all." WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
The festival season is upon us here in Fort Wayne. It's time to celebrate the city and its rich cultural diversity with a taste of Arab Fest. The organization's president, Rema Addrayie, is excited to welcome the community to this year's festival, and promises a full two days of family friendly activity in its Headwaters Park West location, including a return of the Dabkah dancing performances this year, and the ever-popular camel rides. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Addrayie, to learn how the event has grown since it got its start five years ago, and what else the festival goers can look forward to this year. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
After more than a year of Covid-related delays, postponements and reschedules Fort Wayne Youtheatre's production of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis is finally set to open on Saturday, May 1st, on the stage of the Embassy Theatre. Its director, Christopher Murphy, credits the success of the play to the dedication and commitment of the twenty-five young actors who have been tirelessly working on the program throughout the pandemic. Pictured below is one of the lead actors, Margaret Gaughan, getting into character as Tumnus, who she describes as "a funny little goat man who is nervous all the time." WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne creative, Adrian Curry, recipient of this year's Emerging Leader award from Arts United, embraces the artistic passions that drive his community involvement, and he's giving school kids a chance to develop their own skills through his Art Leadership Center on the city's south side. Centered around the arts and focused on establishing healthy habits and relationships, the ALC looks to develop leaders of character with a global conscience that serve underdeveloped and underrepresented communities locally, nationally and internationally. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Thanks to Suzi Hanzel and Dorothy Kittaka, foodies everywhere will be able to enjoy a world of good recipes thanks to the brand new Taste of Sister Cities Cookbook. And although this year's annual Sister Cities Gala will be held virtually on Saturday, April 24th to comply with safety guidelines, precluding the opportunity to enjoy the event's popular buffet of foods from all of Fort Wayne's Sister Cities, participants will receive a copy of the book as part of the online package. For those unable to attend the virtual event, it will be available for purchase locally as well as online. Besides featuring more than 125 recipes, the cookbook also highlights pictures and stories about each of the cities, their recipes and the contributors themselves. For a sneak peek at what Hanzel and Kittaka have got cooking and why, WBOI's Julia Meek invited the committee co-chair team into the studio to share their story of how food and friendship go hand in hand. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Boston-based saxophonist Willie Sordillo's music has taken him around the world, and it's bringing him to Fort Wayne to present his Ballad Project for the Big Apple Jazz Series at Wunderkammer Company. Sordillo's longtime friend and musical partner in the project, bassist Doug Rich, will be joining him for the show, along with another of their musician friends, vocalist Zoë Krohne. Local keyboard player, Jim Steele, and Fort Wayne Dance Collective's Liz Monnier have been invited to complete the artistic mix. WBOI's Julia Meek talked with Sordillo by phone to learn how music has shaped his world, and what concert goers can expect. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Junior Kennedy, a senior at Wayne High School, spent the first seven years of his life in a Thai refugee camp before settling with his family in Fort Wayne. Besides learning to embrace his own cultural heritage in those early years from his Burmese mother and Karen father, Kennedy also began to understand the importance of art as a tool in maintaining his culture and sharing his story. Once in high school, it was photography and videography that set him on a mission to embody the voices of the many refugee kids who have similar stories, but no opportunity to share it. To learn how this whole experience has shaped Junior's identity and forged that passion for film directing and videography into a powerful tool for the young creative, WBOI's Julia Meek invited him into the studio to talk about his journey. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Thanks to Fort Wayne's Art This Way program, there's a new mural on the downtown arts scene by Hamburg's internationally acclaimed muralist known as 1010. Known for his enigmatic, portal-like street art illusions, which he calls "holes on the walls," 1010's works can be found around the world in Berlin, Madrid, Paris, Warsaw, Varese, Panama City, Delhi, Miami, Detroit and more. His most recent work was installed over a three day period on the north wall of 918 South Calhoun Street, with the help of Josef Zimmerman, Adjunct Curator at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, and is the 10th installation within the Downtown Improvement District's Alleyway Activation Project network. As the last coat of paint on 1010's mural was drying, WBOI's Julia meek ushered him, and program coordinator, Alex Hall, into the studio to talk about what the piece he's leaving with us means to our community and 1010's passion for his craft. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
The Mark Minnick family's group of local businesses, ranging from death-care supply to precast concrete manufacturing, was deemed essential by the CDC throughout the pandemic. In order to keep all operations safe for employees and smoothly doing business as usual, mother and daughter, Alice and Grace, increased their hours and workloads dramatically over a year ago and continue to run at that pace.For a look at what just what this entailed and how everyone has fared, WBOI's Julia Meek invited the pair into the studio to discuss the experience. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
The Mayor's Arts Council in Angola has been working overtime since its formation last fall, and its Sculptures Angola Project is set to be unveiled and celebrated on the public square in the city's historic commercial. For a look at how things are taking shape on Angola's arts scene, as well as how the residents are taking to these new developments, last week WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Mayor Richard Hickman, and downtown services coordinator, Maria Davis, to talk about the project's scope, the council's plans for the future, and how this arts-forward activity it is already impacting the community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
After Forward Indiana co-founders Sarah Thompson and Carlos Marcano spent their Sundays throughout the spring and summer months serving up free meals in the park to the city's hungry, they have developed a Community Pantry initiative to better address the problem. By now, these self contained cupboards are popping up all over the city and beyond, each one a work of public art as well as public spirit.” "It's a way to bring the community together to help one another," says Thompson. "Take what you need and give what you can.” "It's solidarity not charity, and that means that we stand with everybody that comes here and it's for everybody." To learn the scope of the project and who all is being served, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with the couple to discuss the motivation behind the momentum that is quickly building on the horizon. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne's Electro-Funk duo, Love Hustler, is presenting a Boogaloo Dance Battle at the Philmore on Broadway, in support of the charity organization, Hungry for Music. To Matt Cashdollar and Adam Rudolph, the men behind the music and the event, it's all about the music...and the dance, and putting smiles on everyone's face while raising funds to put instruments in the hands of kids who otherwise couldn't afford them. For a look at the cause, the contest, and the music itself, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with the duo last week to talk about the various passions at play, and the importance of community support. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOIs very own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Thanks to Fort Wayne musician and educator, Kyle Haller, young folks wanting the chance to play music are being matched up with otherwise-forgotten instruments in a new project he calls Keyboards for Kids. Citing the pressing financial needs families increasingly face as a big deterrent to adding a musical instrument to the household, Kyle is grateful to have fallen into this business, which he describes as "meant to be." To learn what the project looks and sounds like, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Haller to discuss how it came about during the bleak winter months of COVID restrictions, the response so far and what it means to all involved. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
The Firefly Coffee House on the city's north side has been a neighborhood gathering place for twenty years, which it will be celebrating this Saturday with an International Street Food Party. Owners Paul and Cyndi Demaree believe in their community and see this venue, located at 3523 North Anthony Boulevard, as an all-ages social hub where friends and neighbors, musicians, artists and coffee lovers can gather and connect. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with the Demarees to talk about the passion they share for their products as well as their community, and what they plan to have brewing. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne creative DJ E-Clyps has gained national attention for his photo documentation of the local George Floyd protests last summer, which is currently on display at Artlink. The show, called Voices, lives up to its name with a compelling collection of bold images that speak to the need for change with an end goal of social justice for all. For insight on the exhibit as well as the journey E-Clyps has mapped out for himself, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with him to discuss the collection, his mission and the impact of the story being told. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Huntington's Damian Mason, businessman, farm owner, blogger and professional speaker, has added author to his list of accomplishments with his book, Do Business Better. Based on his own years of experience, Mason delivers straight talk and practical information in his signature, quick-witted style to folks who are ready to, as he puts it, "create a life and business by choice." WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Damian to talk about what drives his passion for helping others learn how to achieve success, and the entertaining package he presents. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne’s Embassy Theatre is celebrating its return to live concerts and the city’s rich musical culture with Down the Line 15: Soul Legends by Locals. With a line up that features the Ty Causey Band performing Stevie Wonder, Todd Harrold performing Bill Withers, the Institute for the Musically Insane performing Isaac Hays and Fatima Washington performing the Supremes, program manager Micheal Brett feels that the show presents a fitting tribute to the genre while speaking to the resiliency of the Embassy as well as the community it serves. For a preview of the show itself and the safety protocols the theatre has adapted, WBOI’s Julia Meek sat down with Brett and participating artist, Fatima Washington to discuss the spirit that makes it all work. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
The Boys & Girls Club of Fort Wayne has served school aged children and teens for thirty years, and now its brand new facility at the corner of Pontiac and Fairfield is open and welcomes hundreds of members each day. After school and all day during the summer, kids participate in impactful programs focused on Academic Success, Good Character & Citizenship and Healthy Lifestyles. Rudy Mahara, the local chapter founder, brought the idea to Fort Wayne in 1989, after moving here from Lafayette, Indiana, where he saw firsthand the value of the organization. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Delois "Dee" McKinley, host of WBOI's Sunday Morning Gospel Flight, is a civil rights activist known for her life of community involvement through a number of local platforms, including Fort Wayne's Urban League, Metropolitan Human Relations Commission and Public School System. Her dedication to achieving social justice for all, McKinley maintains, comes from her own upbringing in Alabama during the protest marches of the 1960's. As a final reflection on Black History Month, WBOI's Julia Meek invited Dee into the studio to discuss the changes she's seen, the biggest problems she feels still need to be solved and why the journey must continue. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne author Carol Butler has a new book out for young readers that shares her own family memories and recipes, called Mama Joe's Kitchen. This slice of life narration, set in rural Georgia in the early 1950's, invites readers of all ages to walk through a friendly and open door and into, as Carol calls it, "a safe and loving place where everyone is welcome." Charming illustrations by Swedish artist Karin Sköld bring the story and the kitchen to life, and the book also features complete recipes for some of Mama Joe's family favorites. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Butler to talk about this ongoing journey, her motivation for choosing this perspective, and the modern day importance of storytelling. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
In May of 2020 Arts United and the Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne joined forces to create the city's first ever Artist Relief Fund, designed to combat the financial pressures on independent artists & creatives suddenly without income because of shutdowns and closures caused by the corona virus pandemic. With COVID restrictions still hindering many from returning to work, a second phase has been launched. Like its predecessor, this user-friendly program is carefully devised to offer immediate assistance, and eligibility includes musicians, visual artists, actors, filmmakers, photographers and dancers who work and teach among gatherings of people. For a rundown on the new features Phase Two offers, WBOI's Julia Meek spoke with Arts United's Director of Arts and Grants, Heather Closson and Christine Meek, the Community Foundations Vice President of Nonprofit Excellence via Zoom to learn how the project is going and what it means to the entire community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Thanks to Matt Baker and Eli Doehrmann, Northwest Ohio's first "farm to festival" event, Tomato Fest is a free, family-friendly celebration which offers a large assortment of organic foods, music, arts & crafts and many other activities to its attendees, and primitive camping is available on a first come, first serve basis. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with the pair of festival founders and planners to learn how they came together for this project, the last minute obstacle that threatened to stop the event before it began, and what they'll be serving up. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
As court executive for Allen Superior Court, John McGauley is able to satisfy his love of sharing details as well as his passion for photography. It all goes back to a lifelong dedication to storytelling, he explains, as well as his love of Fort Wayne, his "adopted hometown." And becoming a certified drone operator provided a bird's-eye view of things that proved to be irresistible. To learn how it all fits together, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with John to discuss his point and perspective from every angle of activity, and just what the tag, "Pure Hoosier Photography," means to him. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
The Club Room at the Clyde is hosting Summer Jazz Sessions every Wednesday evening. As a complement to the Clyde Theatre, a large venue on the city's south side designed to feature national touring acts, its new Club Room offers the community a chance to enjoy local musicians in an intimate setting, complete with signature cocktails and a unique dining menu. WBOI's Julia Meek invited its executive manager, Gregg Coyle, and Alicia Pyle, series curator, into the studio to discuss this new music space within the Clyde complex and what it's adding to the local music scene. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Snider High School's 30th annual Nicholas Invitational Jazz Festival will take place on Saturday, though due to Covid-19 restrictions, things will look a little different this year. The festival is named after Carl Nicholas, the school's choir director from 1977 to 1990. Upon his retirement, the idea of bringing northeast Indiana middle and high school student bands together to continue his legacy was made a reality. For a rundown on the changes that were added this year, as well as a new special event "within the event," WBOI's Julia Meek spoke with Snider's band director Kevin Klee over Zoom to learn what's in store. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Since its doors first opened in 2014, Chad and Heather Seewald's multi-faceted confectionary, Sweets So Geek, has grown sweeter by the year, so much so that it's finally outgrowing that original location on North Anthony Boulevard. Deeming the last five years their Sweets 1.0 and 2.0 phases, the Seewald's are ready to embark on the Sweets 3.0 phase, and have been working hard for the past two months to get the replacement location in Georgetown Square up and running, despite obstacles and delays at seemingly every turn. Those doors will definitely be opening this Saturday, so earlier this week, WBOI's Julia Meek coaxed the couple away from the construction site and into the studio to talk about the adventure, the joys of maintaining a family-friendly mom & pop sweet shop, and how these community connections continue to shape their inner geek. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
The C2G Music Hall behind Parkview Field in downtown Fort Wayne has been a big part of the local music scene for nearly 20 years. Now its mission and purpose are taking on new dimensions with a major expansion and renovation, as well as the new name of Baker Street Centre. The end result, according to its founder and Executive Director, Mark Minnick, will provide the organization with opportunities for even more community connection and engagement. For a sneak peek at the progress, WBOI's Julia Meek caught up with Minnick by Zoom to discuss some of the details of its bright new look and how it will enhance the city's cultural skyline. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
The city of Decatur, Indiana continues to focus on the arts and culture scene in a big way since launching its Sculpture Project in 2012, most recently partnering with the Biggs Group to build a Creative Engagement Center and living spaces in the heart of downtown. Sixteen residential units, called the 2nd Street Lofts are built above the city owned, multi-purpose community art space in the historic building known to residents as the Music House. For a close up perspective on the scope of this undertaking, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Gus Gutierrez Rojas, Marketing and Communications Director for Biggs Group, and Decatur's Community Development Director, Melissa Norby, to learn how everything is taking shape and where the new connections being made may lead. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Local journalist Corey McMaken delivers his fashion statements one step at a time, you might say, with an impressive sock collection that seemingly just won’t quit. Besides a sense of individuality and creativity, he maintains that having chosen sock collecting as "his thing" has connected him to a network of like-minded enthusiasts, and a host of supporters who can't wait to see what his daily whimsy will be. In honor of January's designation of National Hobby Month, WBOI’s Julia Meek caught up with McMaken via Zoom, to discuss how this curious sense of fashion drives his passion, as well as his spirited good humor. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Although International Harvester's last Scout rolled off the assembly line here in Fort Wayne in the early 1980's, its memory is still alive and well, and ready to be celebrated. From its early days in farm equipment production, through its decades of world class truck manufacturing, IH, which it became known to employees and consumers alike, was famous for its innovative designs in every area of transportation.Being part of the Harvester family was a point of pride to many generations of area residents, which makes this homecoming celebration all the more significant. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with project spear headers Ryan DuVall and Jerry Bettley to discuss the Scout's lasting appeal, the company's rich history and the impact both continue to make on the community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Though the legendary Australian-born animator, Ron Campbell, died on January 20th of this year, his legacy will live on in the hearts of millions for the dozens of legendary cartoons he introduced to the world during his fifty year career. Best known for his work on The Beatles television series in the 1960's, as well as the animated feature film, Yellow Submarine, his iconic characters range from Krazy Cat and Popeye to Rugrats, Scooby Doo and Ed, Edd & Eddy. In honor of the man, his impressive body of work and the impact he has made on the animation industry, here's the conversation WBOI's Julia Meek had with Campbell about those adventure back in July, 2019, as he was headed from his home in Phoenix, Arizona to Fort Wayne as part of a national tour to present a pop-up show of pop art paintings of those beloved personalities at the Rhapsody Art Gallery. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
You may not remember this far back, but transitioning from crib to a "big kid bed" can be a scary proposition, so Hamilton, Indiana author, Jessie Strock and Fort Wayne artist, Alex Hall have combined forces to publish a brand new children's book on that topic called The Zookeeper. Strock sights her own grandchildren's experiences as inspiration for the story line, and admits that she sought Hall to work with her because she knew Alex's creative style of animal illustration would provide the perfect accent for the telling of it. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with the pair to talk about the story's practical purpose as well as intentional whimsy and the pleasure this collaboration has afforded them. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne's always vibrant skyline is enjoying a bright new facet, thanks to MKM Architecture & Design's completion of the Columbia Street Landing project. The project's lead architect, Zach Benedict, has dedicated his career to understanding the connection between people and places, so much so that he is considered one of the leading voices in the "Lifetime Community" movement, focusing on the socio-economic benefits of age-friendly neighborhoods. For insight on the thought behind the build as well as the philosophy behind the man, WBOI's Julia Meek spoke with Benedict via Zoom to learn how sense of place drives his passion for civic spaces and connected communities. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Famer David Crosby, who's in the midst of what many of his fans call "the brilliant third act of his career," has just begun a major nationwide tour. WBOI's Julia Meek managed to catch him between shows for a few minutes by phone, just long enough to discuss his musical frame of mind, the brand new documentary film about his life, Remember My Name and that golden age of music he helped define. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
The Fort Wayne arts scene saw a lot of activity in 2020, despite COVID restrictions. The year's events have been wildly unprecedented, but the city is determined to live up to this year's Arts United theme, Arts Unite Us, and is understandably proud of its motto, "Arts United We Stand." For a look back at the year's highlights, WBOI's Julia Meek contacted Arts United's president, Susan Mendenhall, by Zoom to discuss some of those achievements, what lies ahead for our area and the deep motivation behind the organization's current theme, "Art Unites Us." WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
After three medical mission assignments in Haiti, local photojournalist and writer Ellie Bogue is showing a selection of that work. A little over two decades after her first trip, Bogue looks forward to returning to Haiti this spring with the University of Saint Francis' group of nursing and pre med students who, along with professional medical alumni, continue to help out at an orphanage and local rural hospital there. WBOI's Julia Meek invited Ellie into the studio to talk about the motivation for these trips, the scope of the collection and what it represents to the community, as well as her own life's work. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Jeopardy fans around the world are watching the final episode hosted by Alex Trebek this month. Trebek, whose run lasted for thirty-seven seasons since the program's revival in 1984, died in November after a nearly two year battle with pancreatic cancer. His last set of shows was taped on October 29th. For a look at the man and his legacy, WBOI's Julia Meek spoke with two former contestants from Fort Wayne, Steve Garbacz and Wayne Erxleben, via Zoom to learn how this iconic host made the whole Jeopardy experience unforgettable. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
The Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne is teaming up with Purdue Fort Wayne's Community Research Institute on a project to establish a Women's Fund. The last report on the status of women locally was released in 1974 to guide the development of what became the Fort Wayne Women's Bureau. In August 2019, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Alison Gerardot, the Foundation's Vice President of Philanthropic Services and Rachel Blackman, director of the Community Research Institute, to talk about the scope of the project, its time frame, and the impact it could make on the community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Rock vocalist and former Fort Wayne resident Kat Bowser has just written a fantasy novel for all ages with Ricky Tims, called Lizzy Albright and the Attic Window. Part fairytale, part fable, part extreme adventure, this engaging story is set in the nostalgic days of the 1960's and takes place in Cordelia, Kansas. The excitement all begins on Lizzy's birthday, which is also Christmas Eve, at her grandmother's mansion. When an antique quilt in her bedroom there sets off a dream of such fantastical proportions a girl and her dog can hardly imagine, Lizzy and Mr. McDougle take off on an action packed race to save a cursed kingdom from an old promise and live happily ever after. The whole experience is designed to connect generations with this charming Lizzy character, and hopefully build a new generation interested in learning the old fashioned art of quilting. For a behind the scenes look at the project, WBOI's Julia Meek contacted Bowser by Zoom to discuss the point of their adventure, the various passions at play and how it all has come together. This interview originally aired on 89.1 WBOI on December 30, 2020. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Tanya Zabinski, a traveling artist from New York, is making her debut as author illustrator with Peace, Love, Action!: Everyday Acts of Goodness. The book is an offshoot of Zabinski's inspirational designs that she and her husband hand print on eco-friendly apparel and sell under the name of Planet Love. For a look at the project's scope and philosophy, WBOI's Julia Meek caught the author by phone during the Wheatland Music Festival to discuss the experience, and what Tanya calls "a guide to building a peaceful world." This interview originally aired on 89.1 WBOI on September 10, 2019. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Since the Fort Wayne Children's Choir has been unable to perform this season due to COVID-19 restrictions, it turned its focus to recording a brand new holiday album called Sing! Choirs of Angels. The collection includes a performance of Robert Shaw's "The Many Moods of Christmas," accompanied by a full orchestra. Other seasonal pieces listeners will connect with are "This Little Babe" from Benjamin Britten's "A Ceremony of Carols," and "Lightsongs," by Fort Wayne Philharmonic bassist, Adrian Mann. "Music is something that helps bring people together," says Jonathan Busarow, the choir's Executive Artistic Director, "and after a time where we have been so far apart, and away from one another, it's great when we can come together, and to make music." For a look at the project's scope and purpose, WBOI's Julia Meek talked with the Busarow via zoom to learn what impact the experience has made on everyone involved. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
As Creative Women of the World continues to flourish in its second decade of operation, founder, Lorelei Verlee, is passing the directorship of its retail store in downtown Fort Wayne to local women's advocate, Lynne Gilmore. This new arrangement will allow Verlee to return to her first and biggest passion, which is training women around the world to create and manage successful businesses. And Gilmore, whose forte is organizing and networking, will be carrying the torch locally to expand the commercial business and develop local projects. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with them to discuss the reason for this shift, the additional programs and training it will generate and how it will affect the organization's home base as well as the global community it serves. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Keegan Lee. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
As tightening COVID-19 restrictions continue to diminish the prospects of work for freelance musicians in the coming months, Alicia Pyle has reactivated her Fort Wayne Freelance Musician Fundraiser project. This effort was originally initiated last March when the coronavirus pandemic forced the closing of music venues completely. After a summer of somewhat normal live music activity, Pyle feels that it's time to get ahead of the next wave and preserve the local music scene. To learn what this reboot looks and sounds like, WBOI's Julia Meek spoke with Alicia by Zoom about its purpose as well as the impact it is making on the entire community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter, Keegan Lee, and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Award winning author Lynn Cullen is a Fort Wayne native who draws heavily on her childhood memories to spin the plot of her latest novel, The Sisters of Summit Avenue. The tightly woven story, set in the era of the Great Depression, is driven by a host of that day's sociological issues, as well as its pop culture icon, Betty Crocker, and the impact her marketing campaign had on the nation. WBOI's Julia Meek spoke with Cullen by phone to learn what motivated this approach, and how the author regards her hometown, and those family dynamics and relationships, now that they have shaped the tale. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter, Keegan Lee, and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne's Downtown Improvement District has found a creative way to keep the community safe while preserving its yearly holiday shopping tradition. The reinvented celebration, called The Days of Holly Shopping," takes place every Saturday until Christmas. To see what 2020's festivities will look like, WBOI's Julia Meek contacted D.I.D. president, Mike Galbraith, by Zoom to discuss the importance of this event, and just what's in store this year for shoppers and shop owners alike. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo'' by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne native Eric Rhoads is an internationally recognized artist and career entrepreneur now living in Austin. Since graduating from Homestead High School nearly forty-five years ago, his accomplishments have included all aspects of business turnarounds, radio broadcasting and programming, publishing and marketing which he balances with a love for painting, and teaching others to do the same. When WBOI's Julia Meek learned that Rhoads was in town for a show at the Castle Gallery last month, she invited him into the studio to talk about his artistic passions and how insatiable curiosity continues to shape his world. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne resident Mike Durbin may spend his nights as webmaster and assistant systems manager at the Journal Gazette, but his off hours are devoted to photographing the world he lives in. Born in Kentucky, Durbin came to the area eighteen years ago to school, and decided to make it his home. To gain insight on what drives his passions and where all they lead him, WBOI's Julia Meek contacted Mike by Zoom to discuss how this type of storytelling, both on and off the clock, has shaped that world and defines his sense of place. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Purdue University Fort Wayne's Environmental Resources Center has a greatly expanded new home on the campus, located right along the St. Joseph River. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with the center's director, Biology Professor Bruce Kingsbury, to talk about this development, the opportunities it will afford the university and the impact it will have on the community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Despite COVID-19 restrictions, the Saint Mary's Soup Kitchen will be able to safely host its 42nd Thanksgiving Dinner this Thursday by turning it into a carryout only affair. The soup kitchen got its start in 1975 when Father Tom O'Connor began serving a few bowls of soup out the back door of the Rectory to those in need. During that year it grew to serving 75,000 meals and is now serving over 300,000 meals annually. The kitchen is just one of the church's ministries, along with the Ave Maria House And Miss Virginia's Food Pantry. Matthew 25 Health & Dental Clinic, now a freestanding organization, got its start with the church's help as well, in 1976. To learn the scope of the Soup Kitchen's citywide celebration and what this year's reinvention will look and taste like, WBOI's Julia Meek was able to reach its chairman, Pat McBride, by telephone during a lull in the turkey roasting operation to discuss the event's history, evolution and place in the community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Summit City Music Theatre is putting a creative spin on its latest production, The Little Shop of Horrors, by taking it out of the theatre and into the greenhouse. Besides a passion for sight-specific performance, SCMT members have a flair for the out of the ordinary and find this opportunity to combine music, comedy, dance and theatrics, as their tag-line attests, "deviously charming." For a look behind the scenes, WBOI's Julia Meek invited company co-founder, Christopher Spalding and lead actor, James Stover into the studio to talk about the unique aspects of the show, the group's philosophy and the importance of its community connections. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
PBS Fort Wayne has a new board-driven series showcasing agencies and organizations that have responded to the COVID-19 Pandemic in creative or reimagined ways. The series is called "Moving Forward." For a look at the project's scope, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with board president, Brian Engelhart and PBS Development Manager, Alena McKenzie, to discuss its point and purpose, and the extent of its community impact. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Artlink is getting ready to connect creatives across the Midwest with strategies, narrative tools and interactive opportunities to explore all forms of emerging tech. The event, Yellow Summit 2019, offers a full day of activities. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with executive director Matt McClure to talk about the advantages this assortment of offerings will provide and what it will net the entire community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Voting is the cornerstone of a democracy, and with this year's election being what some call "the most unprecedented election ever," the importance of casting that vote is on many minds, nation-wide. To gain a local perspective on that topic as well as a look at some of the most pressing issues at hand, WBOI's Julia Meek invited two community leaders into the studio, expressly chosen for their community connections and dedication to this cause. Delois "Dee" McKinley, currently an educator and case worker for Fort Wayne Community Schools embarked on her own mission back in her hometown of Bessemer, Alabama in the early 1960's. By March of 1963 she joined the ranks of students who were participating in demonstrations for Civil Rights in neighboring Alabama cities, following the examples of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., John Lewis and other leaders of that day, which led her to continue that work when she came to Fort Wayne in 1969. Reverend Angelo Mante has devoted his life to affecting change through relationships and education, embracing the Kingian philosophy of nonviolent demonstration. He is the pastor of Peace and Justice at Faith United Methodist Church in the city's southeast quadrant, and is also the founder and executive director of Alive Community Outreach. Along with its mission to cultivate a community of nonviolence, the organization offers direct support to co-victims of homicide and community education in Kingian nonviolence. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Mental Health America of Northeast Indiana is presenting an exhibit by artists who have experienced mental health challenges. Called The Art of Hope, the show opens this Thursday evening at Manchester University's Fort Wayne Campus and runs through January of 2020. Besides a wide assortment of two and three dimensional mediums on display, the opening celebration will include an interpretive performance by the Fort Wayne Dance Collective. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with MHANI's executive director, Lisa Smith and contributing artist, Cynthia Gabbard to talk about the power of this therapeutic process. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Creative Women of the World is celebrating Mexico's Day of the Dead with a special installation of ofrendas, or altars, an authentic and key tradition of the holiday. Two ofrendas, crafted by storyteller Emily Guerrero, founder of Mexica Arts, honor Frida Kahlo, Ruth Bader Ginsberg and the deceased loved ones of visitors to the store during the exhibition. To learn the significance of this custom and other important aspects of the holiday, WBOI's Julia Meek invited Guerrero and Irma Gonzalez, who grew up in Mexico and came to the United States to work as Legal Affairs Officer for the Consulate General, into the studio to share their personal Dia de los Muertos experiences, reflections and memories. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Fort Wayne musician Kurt Roembke has added another dimension to his technological skill set and his composing capabilities with the development of a free mobile app that turns physical locations into sonic environments to explore. It's called SoundWalk, and in essence, that is what the explorer can expect to enjoy as they make their way around town. The first site chosen to be represented in this manner was the Little Turtle Memorial at Lawton Place, in Fort Wayne. WBOI's Julia Meek got Roembke off of the trail and into the studio to talk about his emerging world of spatial audio and explain how the project evolved as well as how the system works. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
In spite of the damper COVID-19 restrictions have placed on much of our local communal activity, Fort Wayne's Public Art Scene has enjoyed unparalleled activity this year. While murals won out as preferred medium of this year, the featured works within that designation were as varied as their locations, sponsors and participating artists. And still to be added to the city's vibrant skyline in 2020 is an overhead sculpture designed by Fort Wayne-based architecture firm Kelty Tappy to decorate a 150-foot alley by the 100 block of West Berry and Wayne Streets. The installation will be called "77 Steps" and feature hundreds of programmable lights that will be suspended above the pedestrian pathway. To draw a perspective on the individual projects and what they mean to artists and art lovers alike, WBOI's Julia Meek invited Alex Hall, executive director of Art This Way, into the studio to discuss the scope and impact of 2020's various artcentric endeavors. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
November 1st is World Vegan Day, and officially kicks off a whole month devoted to plant based living. In celebration, vegan lifestyle coach Heather Dahman has organized Fort Wayne's first Vegan Restaurant Week, which begins on Monday, November 4th. WBOI's Julia Meek invited Dahman into the studio to discuss global development of the vegan movement, how our local sources for vegetarian and vegan fare stack up to other cities and countries and what this new, upcoming culinary adventure is all about. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship, Steve Mullaney, and Sydney Wagner.
Thanks to local freelance reporter Joshua Schipper, the city's rich heritage can be enjoyed block by block, in his new book called Crossroads of History: Paving through Fort Wayne's Streets. Citing his own curiosity as a youth growing up on the east side of town as the genesis for his adventure, Schipper readily admits that unearthing the transcription of a speech made by Angus C. McCoy in 1945 at the annual Quest Club meeting was the catalyst that would eventually give form to his own studies. For a glimpse at the exact route this adventure took, WBOI's Julia Meek invited Joshua into the studio to discuss his extensive research process as well as the format he embraced, and where he hopes that the resulting "journey through time" will lead its readers. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Auburn Presbyterian Church has played an active role in its community since it was founded in 1844. From its first meeting place in the old DeKalb County Courthouse, to its present day location on 12th Street, it continues to serve as a hub for gatherings and social activities, and provide a home for many programs. WBOI's Julia Meek invited two of its longtime members, Barb Olenyik Morrow and Rachel Roberts into the studio to talk about the church's rich history and the bonds it continues to form. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Thanks to Matt McClure and Laura Hilker, co-founders of 212 Creative Network, emerging artists can connect, collaborate and create, regardless of their geographic location, through a revolutionary new streaming platform called "Aha!" To learn how it works, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with McClure to discuss what 212 Creative Network is all about as well as the new platform's evolution and how it lives up to its name. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Community advocates Rasamen Oladuwa and her father Ketu are presenting the first in a series of talks on the impact of mass incarceration Thursday evening, November 21st at Wunderkammer Company. The event, called Let's Talk About It: The Hueman Stories, is the first in a series of projects to address this issue, and is hosted by the Death Row Shadows organization. WBOI's Julia Meek invited them into the studio to discuss the scope of this collaboration and where they hope this conversation will lead. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
An all-female cast is presenting the musical 1776 to salute the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, which gave women the right to vote. The show, a Civic Theatre production directed by Leslie Beauchamp, opens this Saturday at the Foellinger Outdoor Theatre. Besides being a grand venue equal to the grand story being told, Leslie explains, the spacious outdoor structure provides a very safe and socially distanced platform for cast and audience, all of whom will be masked. To get a sneak peek at what this will look and sound like, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Beauchamp and Amy Ross, who plays the role of John Adams, to discuss the many facets of the show's significance. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Fort Wayne filmmaker Kelly Lynch is celebrating the 60th anniversary of the television crime drama, The Untouchables, with an online retrospective. Lynch got hooked on this groundbreaking show thanks to his father, Dan, a nationally syndicated editorial cartoonist whose career included work for the Kansas City Times and the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Lynch to discuss the passion he inherited from his dad, their combined efforts in this project and where the journey continues to take him. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
The Northeast Indiana Local Food Network is celebrating local food culture and entrepreneurship in our region with its first-ever Local Food Week which begins on September 11th. The Network comprises an eleven county initiative: Adams, Allen, DeKalb, Huntington, Kosciusko, LaGrange, Nobel, Steuben, Wabash, Wells and Whitley. And this celebration of the local food from "Our Land to our Tables" is being hosted by nearly twenty different farms, markets and restaurants across our region. Each tour, event or dining experience is unique and is designed to fit the current COVID-19 social-distancing guidelines. For a taste of what's in store, WBOI's Julia Meek invited its Founding Director, Janet Katz, and participating urban farmer Marissa Renz into the studio to discuss the importance of eating local, what's available here in Northeast Indiana and the impact these connections make on our community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Fort Wayne Youtheatre will be presenting the local premiere of Frozen Jr., December 6th, at First Presbterian Theater. As one of the largest productions the group has undertaken in many years, it features 36 young actors from across northeast Indiana, as well as original puppet creations by Youtheatre's Executive Director, Todd Espeland. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with the play's director, Christopher Murphy and one of the lead actors, Emmy Conner, to discuss the particulars of putting together this production and the timeless appeal of the story itself. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Following a year and a half long study, the Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne has unveiled its Women's Fund to the public. Led by the belief that families and communities truly thrive when women are economically and physically secure, safe and healthy, the project, as its subtitle indicates is working to "move what matters." WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Greater Fort Wayne's Vice President of Philanthropic Services and project coordinator, Alison Gerardot, to discuss the fund's major points, how COVID drove its formulation and the impact it will have on the entire community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Cordelia Okpei is a public broadcasting producer and host in Nigeria. A recent exploration of our city's assets and opportunities led Okpei directly to the Allen County Public Library, and that led to an offer from the WELT radio team of her own show. And when she returns home to Nigeria, she plans to continue the show remotely. Meanwhile, when an unannounced visit to our station brought her together with WBOI's Julia Meek, Cordelia was invited back to "talk shop" in the studio about her insatiable passion for storytelling, and the adventures that craft has afforded her. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
When COVID restrictions threatened to cancel this year's Taste of the Arts Festival, its host organization, Arts United, got busy and virtually reinvented the entire celebration. Thanks to the generosity of Arcpoint Productions, the event's co-sponsor, many of the perennial activities were translated to concert-quality videos, including all of the music, dance and theater performances, which will take place on three virtual festival stages throughout the day. Restaurant Row, Artlink's Art Market and NIPSCO's STEAM Park are also making their products virtually available to festival goers. These will all be accessible from Arts United website, Facebook Live, and YouTube Live, with the ability to support participating artists directly. Meanwhile, several partner organizations have planned to host safe and socially distanced events on site in cooperation with Taste of the Arts to preserve the traditional festival flavor of the day. To learn what the event will look and sound like from this new online platform this weekend, WBOI's Julia Meek invited its technical director, Luke Holliger into the studio to discuss the scope of such a challenge, and what process his team devised to make it happen. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Olivia Fletter and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
The world's native languages are disappearing at an alarming rate, and Purdue Fort Wayne's Indigenous Language Center is working hard on a solution to this problem. As part of Unesco's International Year of Indigenous Languages celebration, PFW hosted the 2019: Perspectives Conference in November, which featured a variety of cultural activities and connections for participants from around the world. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with PFW faculty members Mary Encabo and Shannon Bischoff to discuss the situation, its cultural impact, and how our community can affect a change on a local as well as global platform. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Fort Wayne's professional conversationalist Sara Fiedelholtz has launched a weekly, multi-platform program through Access Fort Wayne featuring one on one, in-depth discussions with a wide variety of Northeast Indiana residents. The show, which is called & Good Company, features an equally varied assortment of topics and issues as well, including science, politics, art, business, technology, public service and more. For a look behind the scenes WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Fiedelholtz to discuss how the show is put together, the multi-platform advantage and what this different kind of experience will afford its listeners. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
As the city's cultural skyline continues to blossom, 2019 proved to be another busy year on the Fort Wayne arts scene. With a new year and a new decade on the horizon, WBOI's Julia Meek decided to take her annual look at the state of the city's arts with Mayor Tom Henry himself. For the occasion, she coaxed Mayor Henry away from his office and into the studio to reflect on the various forms of artistic expression the community enjoys, and how it affects our quality of life. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Representative John Lewis passed away last month at the age of eighty. Lewis was known for his work as a Civil Rights activist in the 1960's, and continued to champion issues of racial justice until the end of his life. Delois "Dee" McKinley, the host of W89.1 WBOI's Gospel Flight, was fifteen years old when she started volunteering for the Voters League in her home town of Bessemer, Alabama. By March of 1963 she joined the ranks of students who were participating in demonstrations for Civil Rights in neighboring Alabama cities, following the messages and examples of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., James Bevels and other leaders of that day. This momentum would lead McKinley to march with the young and determined activist John Lewis, and she continued to follow his example when she came to Fort Wayne in 1969. For an in-depth look at this remarkable journey, and the impact it would have on the dedicated change-maker as well as the community she served, WBOI'S Julia Meek invited Dee into the studio to discuss the path of social justice she set out on after learning it under, as she calls it, "the tutelage of John Lewis." This conversation all begins with McKinley's recollections of the historic demonstrations that began in 1963, leading up to the infamous Selma to Montgomery March in 1965, known as Bloody Sunday. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Claire Bates is an itinerant folksinger and social advocate heading to Fort Wayne to take part in The Friends of the Third World's Refugee Benefit Concert this Monday, January 6th, at the downtown public library. No stranger to communicating needs for change, Bates wants everyone to experience peace and dignity, and has spent the last six years assisting others in clarifying conflicts since becoming a social worker. WBOI's Julia Meek contacted Bates by phone to talk about the combined passions driving her creativity. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
The weekly online magazine Input Fort Wayne is literally hitting the street this week with a new two-month series called "On the Ground Southeast." From August through September of this year, Input will be seeking Southeast Fort Wayne-based writers and photographers to produce weekly stories that generate conversations around assets, challenges and opportunities in their neighborhoods, as determined by the residents themselves. On the eve of this week's launch date, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with its editors, Kara Hackett and Britney Breidenstein, to discuss the neighborhood being served and what this two month, community-led journalism project will look like. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
With her second young adult novel, Six Goodbyes We Never Said, Indiana native Candace Ganger has delivered a riveting story about two teenagers each dealing with the loss of their parents that will resonate with readers of all ages. Now living in Ohio, Ganger still connects with her Hoosier roots and will be in town later this month to participate in the Park Department's Sundays on the Riverfront program. The fictional town of Ivy Springs, Indiana is the setting for her novels. WBOI's Julia Meek met with Ganger to discuss the motivation for this compelling story of recovering from loss, and the author's connection to her audience. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Although COVID-19 forced Wellspring Interfaith Social Services to suspend all non-essential programs, the organization has been working non-stop to lend a hand to those in need and keep its population's food insecurity at bay. Located at 1316 Broadway in Fort Wayne's historic West Central Neighborhood, Wellspring has been actively providing assistance and support city-wide for 52 years. For a look at what this entails, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Wellspring's executive director, Melissa Rinehart, to discuss the rising needs this year's excessive challenges have created and the resulting community effort. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Fort Wayne is raising a glass to a new form of entertainment here in Indiana with the launch of Opera on Tap this Wednesday, January 22nd, at Hop River Brewing Company. This local chapter is part of the largest network of operatic artists in the US, and chapters are now opening in Europe as well. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with one of its co-founders, Elaina Robbins, to talk about the fine points of this immersive opera project. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Although most community celebrations had to be cancelled or put on hold this summer due to COVID-19, the Fort Wayne Museum of Art is partnering with Arts United to carry off its 20th annual Chalk Walk, normally a signature Three Rivers Festival event--virtually. For a close up perspective on the project, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with museum director Charles Shepard and Dan Ross from Arts United to discuss the importance of this decision and what the event is going to look like. She also took this opportunity to learn how the Museum fared during the worst of the COVID-19 stay-home restrictions, the role that #ArtStartsHere has played in the community since its formation in March and what new practices both organizations are developing as the year continues to unfold. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Despite the weather, there's no shortage of things to do on Fort Wayne's downtown riverfront, thanks to Promenade Park's new weeknight activity series. From now through February, the Park Foundation Pavillion will provide a warm and welcoming space for old fashioned family games, dance promenading and a variety of musical and spoken word entertainment. Meanwhile, the park will also be hosting a special Winter Cozy as part of this year's Winterval celebration. Earlier this week, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with the park's event coordinator, Jen Brown, to talk about the fun to be had in these cold and snowy winter months. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Governor Eric Holcomb issued a statewide mask order to curb the spread of COVID-19, taking effect on Monday. Here in Fort Wayne, a new platform championing that cause was launched on Facebook a few weeks ago by Linda Ann Shafer, Michelle Marqueling and Sarah Kleber, aptly named Mask Up Fort Wayne! Less than 48 hours before the Governor's announcement, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Kleber and Marqueling to discuss the point and purpose of their project and what the group hoped to accomplish. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
After a solid year of fact finding, research and community engagement, Fort Wayne's Public Art Master was officially revealed on Wednesday evening at the Arts United Center on the downtown Arts Campus. From neighborhood murals and topographic light displays to a wide variety of sculptures, downtown discovery walks and public art trails, seemingly every avenue of expression is being discussed. Yesterday WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with the city's Public Art Program Manager, Dan Baisden, to discuss how the plan, called Art for All, will live up to its name. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Community activists Kristin Giant and Ty Simmons have joined forces to champion business owners and entrepreneurs on the city's south side. The project, called Family & Friends Fund for the World, is set to launch this August. Its aim is to work within existing systems to redistribute power and wealth to unlock generational prosperity for Black communities, indigenous communities and any community of color. The spirit and solidarity of the movement is evident not only in its scope and targeted population, but in its fundraising efforts as well. Directly living up to its name, "family and friends," the organization's start-up campaign has been fueled by bake sales, lemonade stands and word of mouth donations solicited by individuals throughout the city. For a look at how things are coming together, WBOI's Julia Meek invited Giant and Simmons into the studio to discuss the mission, its grassroots foundation and and the impact it will have on the entire community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Fort Wayne Youtheatre is celebrating Black History Month with the world premiere of Building the Dream: MLK Jr this Friday evening, February 7th. The play, directed by Gregory Stieber, is another original production in Youtheatre's Young Heroes of Conscience Series, co-authored by Stieber and the group's executive director, Todd Espeland. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Espeland, and lead actor Ennis Brown to discuss the play's perspective and the impact it, as well as the other plays in the series have on our community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Reverend Angelo Mante, pastor of Peace and Justice at Faith United Methodist Church in the city's southeast quadrant, is also the founder and executive director of Alive Community Outreach. From that platform as well as the pulpit, Mante hopes to cultivate a community of nonviolence through relationships and education. To learn what this combined focus entails, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with him to discuss the motivations for his outreach work, the obstacles needing to be addressed and how this will impact the entire community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
96.3XKE's legendary Doc West has been rocking Fort Wayne's music scene since 1979 and promises never to stop. Though the industry and its platforms continue to change over the decades, the one thing that is certain, he maintains, is that everyone has a musical story to tell. His goal is to hear them all. For his take on how things have shaped up over the decades and what direction the scene is heading these days, WBOI's Julia Meek invited West into the studio to share his perspectives and the secret of his passion. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Face coverings are one of the most effective ways to contain the spread of COVID-19. While there is still no state-wide mandate on masking is place, several communities now require masks in public, including in Marion, St. Joseph, LaGrange, and Elkhart counties. 89.1 WBOI is about to launch a campaign called “Make Me A Mask” to encourage everyone to express their creativity and promote public health in the process. WBOI Programming Director Katy Anderson and Arts & Culture Reporter Julia Meek joined Ben Clemmer to discuss this project, it’s mission, and how to get involved. The Make Me A Mask Campaign runs from July 4 through September 7. More information can be found at wboi.org. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
If you're looking for an off-beat midwinter celebration, Sweets So Geek is partnering with some of its neighbors in Georgetown Square this weekend to present Fort Wayne's first annual A.T. Con. The two day festival will have attendees sharing in the festival fun at four core locations in this long-established shopping center on the city's east side, including the Georgetown Public Library, Books, Comics & Things and Georgetown Entertainment. Festivities are geared toward families and will live up to the reputation Sweets So Geek became well known at its original location on North Anthony Boulevard, says Seewald, offering up the promise of a shopping center-wide Scavenger Hunt as proof of that claim. The one connecting theme in the full assortment of planned activities being presented around the complex throughout the weekend is, quite literally, all things that make Fort Wayne a special cause for celebration. WBOI's Julia Meek invited Chad, the originator of the project, and Georgetown Entertainment's Ashley Holtzberg into the studio to discuss what this pop culture celebration represents in terms of a way to "lighten winter's sadness" and how it will bring the community together. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Fort Wayne Youtheatre has been getting creative with its virtual programming since the earliest days of COVID-19 restrictions and now it's getting ready to resume "in person" activities, summer camp-style. The group has partnered with the Fort Wayne Dance Collective to devise a safe and socially distanced four-day program with a focus on acting technique and characterization as well as movement fundamentals and musical theater choreography. For a behind the scenes look at how all of this has come together, WBOI's Julia Meek spoke with directors Todd Espeland and Christopher Murphy about the community aspects of its mission, the creative ways they are meeting the Coronavirus pandemic challenges and what lies ahead for the young theatrical troupe. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
If you're looking for a fresh new take on a theatrical pop culture classic, the iconic rock & roll musical Grease is making its debut tonight on Purdue Fort Wayne's Williams Theatre stage. It's not only the first time the show has been produced there, it's also the first time that either Craig Humphrey, head of PFW's Design Technology Program or assistant professor of Musical Theater, James Stover have tackled the piece. The plot thickens, you might say, as the two are passing the torch with this theatrical adventure--Craig is preparing to retire from teaching as James is making his directorial debut here. For the back stage perspective of it all, WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Humprhey and Stover to discuss the play itself as well as the collaboration they enjoyed during its production, and how they view the time they've enjoyed working together in the School's Department of Theater. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
While nearly all of the areas' spring and summer festivals have been cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions and health risks, New Haven, Indiana has managed to keep its citizens engaged and connected in a variety of socially distanced communal activities. And most recently, its new mayor, Steve McMichael, has responded to the community's need for a safe and responsible way to socialize by devising a brand new Independence Day celebration for its entire community. WBOI's Julia Meek spoke with Mayor McMichael by phone to learn how he is adapting to his new role in these unprecedented times, how the community is faring as it works toward getting back on track and what this new way of coming together will look like. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Three Rivers Music Theatre's show, The Wild Party, is a jazzy 1920's whodunit thriller that literally comes alive onstage at the Philmore on Broadway each Thursday through Saturday evening until March 14th. WBOI's Julia Meek got lead actors Jessica Butler and Andy Planck into the studio between performances to discuss their own passion for their profession, the company's place in the local theater scene and the immersive nature of this edgy, site specific production. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
The temporary "outdoor gallery' lining storefronts in downtown Fort Wayne and the attention it has attracted all stems from the first response by the Alyssum Montessori School to the vandalism of its building caused by protest marchers on the night of Friday, May 29th. Alyssum, located at 916 South Calhoun Street, is part of the Wildflower Schools network, and was founded by Suzy Ulmer and Sara Gensic in 2018. It embraces the philosophy that education is a natural process carried out by the child and is not acquired by listening to words but by experiences in the environment. For insight on how that mission translates into the message being shared with the community, WBOI's Julia Meek invited Ulmer into the studio to discuss the power of art and the universal language it speaks. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
If you find yourself stressing more and more over life's ups and downs, you're not alone. Statistics indicate that chronic stress is linked to the six leading causes of death and is affecting more lives than ever before. Thanks to Abby Greutman and Brianna Dailey, Fort Wayne's first rage room, appropriately called All the Rage, offers a fun and creative way to de-stress and continues to gain momentum in its 2nd year of operation. WBOI's Julia Meek invited them into the studio to discuss their operation’s point and purpose, how it works and just how satisfying this form of relief can be. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
First Wayne Street United Methodist Church sits at a crossroads, as its Senior Pastor, Cheryl Garbe explains, "a key location both geographically and historically," which she maintains, "is no accident." And finding new ways to maintain and strengthen its connections there in the heart of downtown Fort Wayne continues to be the priority, despite the challenges of the past few months. For a look at what that involves, WBOI's Julia Meek spoke with Reverend Garbe by phone to learn how the congregation is keeping the faith as it turns problems into possibilities. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
New Haven funeral director David Rousculp is taking his passion for theater to work with him at the Harper's Community Funeral Home on the days leading up to St. Patrick's Day with an on-premise production of Flanagan's Wake. Everyone is family here in the parlor, and guests are invited to join in the fun of the celebration as they warm up to the customs of the day and build the storyline that accompanies Flanagan's passing. WBOI's Julia Meek sat down with Rousculp and one of the play's lead actors, Scott McMeen, to discuss the reasons for celebrating in such a fashion, as well as the blarney and the blessings this interactive comedy will offer the community. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Fort Wayne's freelance arts and culture writer Steve Penhollow is keeping himself and his followers entertained these days with a Facebook group he started that's devoted solely to Lockdown Humor. It's intentionally officious title, Quartantribulational Sequestrophe 2020, as Penhollow explains, doesn't mean anything, but is designed to sound like it does--and it's attracting members from coast to coast. For a look at the project's purpose and somewhat unexpected popularity, WBOI's Julia Meek connected with Penhollow by phone to discuss why laughter just may be the best medicine in these challenging times. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Fort Wayne musician Hope Arthur, now based in Chicago, is currently performing with Mucca Pazza, a 30 or so piece, gender bending instrumental music group with street theater experience that will be performing at the Brass Rail on Saturday, March 14th. The mismatched marching band’s uniforms, silly dance routines and general circus atmosphere the group has become known for is backed by a dedicated musicianship and a serious repertoire that includes classical tunes and an impressive line up of original music, featuring a blend of styles from balkan pop to punk rock. But the musical opportunities don't stop there, and Hope is eagerly pursuing her love of the 1920's jazz styles, including "stride piano," as she continues to hone her own signature sound. For an inside look at the group's scope as well as Arthur's own musical persuasions, WBOI's Julia Meek invited her into the studio to discuss how this journey is taking shape, the vistas her new home provides and what her fans can expect from the upcoming concert. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Now that Stage 2 of the Governor's Back on Track Indiana plan is in effect, retail businesses are scurrying to meet new standards and retrain employees, and some local restaurants have already modified their operations and opened their doors. While larger venues and gathering spaces like the Clyde Theatre must remain closed until at least July 4th, The Club Room at the Clyde has been able to add dine-in service back into its newly perfected carryout and delivery business while the staff continues to make sure everything is "delivered with love." For a look at the scope of such an undertaking, WBOI's Julia Meek spoke with the Club Room at the Clyde's executive director, Gregg Coyle by phone to learn how this Coronavirus pandemic has impacted the team spirit and strengthened its community connections. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
As independent artists, musicians and creatives face another month of unemployment due to venue closings and restrictions, Arts United and the Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne have joined forces to launch an Artist Relief Fund. This user-friendly program is carefully devised to offer immediate assistance to individual artists who have lost work and income due to COVID-19 as well as information on resources and support for the future. Eligibility includes musicians, visual artists, actors, filmmakers, photographers and dancers who work and teach among gatherings of people. For a rundown on the scope of the project WBOI's Julia Meek spoke with Arts United's Dan Ross by phone to learn how it works and how it's working. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Now that the second stage of the governor's Back on Track Indiana plan has gone into effect and restrictions for gathering are being cautiously eased on this new schedule, the community grows more and more eager for the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo to open. As one of 230 zoos and aquariums across the country facing the same challenges to follow guidelines and establishing contingency plans, the Kid's Zoo, with its population of more than one thousand animals continuously ranks among the top in the U.S. Looking for an update on the iconic landmark and its denizens, WBOI's Julia Meek spoke with executive director Jim Anderson by phone to learn just how everyone in his "peaceable kingdom" is faring these days and how the season might take shape. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Through the Unity Barber Shop on the city's south side, its owner, Foundation One has provided a vital community connection for nearly thirty years. An understanding ear, sound advice and mentoring are among the list of staples this iconic business is known for providing to its regular customers, and most importantly, a voice is there to give folks who otherwise wouldn't have one. When his daily operations were temporarily halted by Coronavirus pandemic restrictions, this dedicated social advocate wasted no time finding ways to keep things in motion and accommodate the population he serves, in and out of the barber chair. WBOI's Julia Meek checked in with Foundation by phone to learn the depth of his outreach work these days and how he manages to carry on his mission despite the added challenges. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Fort Wayne author, textile artist and photographer Bonnie Tobey Manning is honing her creativity as well as her good humor during the COVID-19 stay-home order with a little exercise she simply calls "Framed." Since Manning's fiber arts show at The Friendly Fox is on hiatus, her macrame workshops have been put on hold and she's unable to continue with her high school yearbook portrait work, she sees this adventure as a lifesaver for these weeks of social distancing For the inside story of how it all came about, WBOI's Julia Meek connected with Bonnie by phone to learn just what the project entails and how it's coloring her world. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
For Fort Wayne's Community Liaison Palermo Galindo, there's plenty of work to be done around town these days, despite the Coronavirus restrictions, closings and directives. For a rundown on what's happening out in the field, WBOI's Julia Meek was able to connect with Galindo by phone to learn just what issues he's encountering and how he's managing to stay on top of things. WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Although the entire Allen County Public Library system is closed during the Coronavirus pandemic, its Access Fort Wayne division has plenty of work to do as it continues to keep area residents informed and entertained. No stranger to unexpected obstacles and contingency plans, its director, Norm Compton, is managing to stay ahead of the game with everything, while keeping himself and his team safely distanced. For a look at what all that includes, WBOI's Julia Meek caught up with Compton by telephone to discuss the variety of challenges that have surfaced, how they're being met and projects as well as new technology that the community has to look forward to once the restrictions are lifted.
WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
There's a lot happening at Saint Henry Catholic Church and Community Center on the city's south side these days despite Coronavirus restrictions, thanks to the resourcefulness of its property manager, Paul Gerardot. Always a hub for civic minded projects and worthy causes since it was formed in the 1950's, the parish continues to offer assistance to a vast assortment of people in northeast Indiana and northwest Ohio. For a look behind the scenes, WBOI's Julia Meek did a quick, socially distanced photo shoot on-site and then contacted Gerardot by phone to get a virtual tour of the facility as well as a glimpse into his personal philosophy.
WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Although social distancing keeps us out of our favorite restaurants these days, whatever you're hungry for, 2GoFW is a brand new public Facebook group designed to keep folks fed, safe and informed during the COVID-19 restrictions. Whether you're wanting to check the availability of your favorite local establishments or explore uncharted territory and cuisines, thousands of suggestions are rolling in and the momentum continues to build. For a look at the project, WBOI's Julia Meek connected by phone with its organizer, Mary Corinne Lowenstein, director of marketing for Hop River Brewing, to talk about the impact this tasty community resource is making.
WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Aging & In-home Services of Northeast Indiana is another organization that is working overtime on the frontline of healthcare this month. As the Coronalvirus pandemic restrictions continue to keep the especially at-risk members of the community even more isolated than normal, the company is exploring every area of creative caregiving at hand. For an update on the operation and the population it serves, WBOI's Julia Meek was able to talk with its president and CEO, Connie Benton Wolfe by phone about the range of needs being addressed. the policy changes being made as the crisis continues and the collective spirit that is at the heart of their close-knit network.
WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Fort Wayne pianist and music educator Alicia Pyle is working overtime to help out-of-work musicians raise funds during the Coronavirus restrictions on public gatherings. As independent contractors, many musicians juggle several small jobs on a regular basis, Pyle maintains, most of which have been put on hold until the bans are lifted. For a look at the current needs as well as the online operation Pyle has developed, WBOI's Julia Meek connected with her by telephone to discuss the project's scope and Alicia's personal thoughts on lending a hand.
WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
Benchmark Human Services is one of the organizations in our area that is working around the clock to provide care for Northeast Indiana's developmentally disabled population during this Coronavirus pandemic. For a look at the challenges involved as well as the community being served, WBOI's Julia Meek talked with its president, Doug Beebe, by phone about the mission Benchmark embraces and the complexities that task presents.
WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
As the Coronavirus pandemic continues to rule our lives, residents are looking for safe ways to connect and projects to champion, which includes the care and well being of Fort Wayne's arts scene. According to Arts United president, Susan Mendenhall, there are more than 18,500 creatives in the area who make their living at making art, and many of them are unable to work because of the current restrictions. For a look at how things are going artistically, WBOI's Julia Meek talked with Mendenhall by phone about the challenges that are rising, the ways folks are responding and what we can all do to help the cause.
WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.
89.1 presents the first episode of WBOI Artcentric, featuring WBOI’s Julia Meek interviewing Lynn Nicholson, co-founder of the local band Debutants. The group was one of the first bands to launch a livestream series due to the current venue closures. Known for their multi-instrumental range of genres and playing styles, especially of the Indiana Newgrass variety, the group holds the importance of music making in high regard and they have regularly been sharing their work over social media since this project was launched just about a year ago. For a look at the format's practicality as well as its appeal, WBOI's Julia Meek talked with band co-founder, Lynn Nicholson, to learn just what their Friday Night Quarantunes are all about.
WBOI Artcentric is brought to you by WBOI’s own Julia Meek and Ben Clemmer. Our theme music is “Me voy pal campo” by KelsiCote. Our administrative assistants are Keegan Lee and Brittany Smith. Our production assistants are Monica Blankenship and Mikaela Veltum.