Last Updated on December 9, 2016 by cassnetwork
Indianapolis, Ind. – December 11 marks Indiana’s 200th birthday and the end of the Bicentennial year. To honor its 200 years of history, and the promise of the future, the final Bicentennial event will take place on Statehood Day, Dec. 11. This free, family event will be held at the Indiana Farmers Coliseum at the Indiana State Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. to noon.
“Ignite the Future is meant to inspire Hoosiers as well as celebrate the many facets of the Bicentennial year,” said Becky Skillman, Indiana Bicentennial Commission Co-Chair. “Since 2011 the Commission has worked to make this year special for everyone in the state. It’s hard to believe the year is almost through, but Ignite the Future will leave Hoosiers with wonderful memories of this time in Indiana history.”
The two-hour program will include speakers as well as music, dance and more. Entertainment includes The Hunter Smith Band –Smith will also serve as emcee – as well as the Indianapolis Children’s Choir, Voices of Unity Youth Choir and several others.
“I think it is always exciting any time an individual or organization can participate in a once-in-a-lifetime event,” said Paula Bridges of Fort Wayne, mother of three Voices of Unity students. “My children have grown up in Indiana and participation in this celebration offers them the opportunity to hear and learn more about the history of their state and what makes it great. It is also an absolute honor to be involved with an organization like Voices of Unity and be asked to perform and represent a part of the state of Indiana!”
A variety of speakers from diverse backgrounds will provide inspiration throughout the program. Speakers include Rabbi Sandy Sasso, KP Singh, Ala’a Wafa, Matthew Myer Boulton and others.
“Over the 22 years that I have been part of this city, I have seen so much positive change and I believe that we have become a more diverse and welcoming city,” said Dr. Aarti Shah, senior vice president and CIO at Eli Lilly and Company, who will deliver the invocation at Ignite the Future. “I am thrilled to be part of this event as we come together from all walks of life to truly make each other better!”
Indiana’s Bicentennial year kicked off on December 11, 2015. Hundreds of 4th grade students from around the state gathered at the Indiana Statehouse to take part in the festivities. Now, one year later the year will end with one last event, one last chance to celebrate this milestone in Indiana history.
SOURCE: News release from Indiana Bicentennial Commission