Tracking the Indiana Bicentennial Torch Relay: Days 19–23

It turned out to be a nasty weekend, but that never stopped the Torch from its travels. What’d you miss? Let’s recap!

Last week, Ball State students conducted face-to-face interviews over the Indiana Bicentennial with Karen Pence and Lieutenant Governor Eric Holcomb. There’s no word yet on when the student writers intend to release the article. Regardless, there’s no doubt this was a moment to remember for all Cardinals.

Despite sporadic rain and a chilly 60-degree temperature all day Friday, the folks of Wells County never let Mother Nature dim their spirits. These kids are ecstatic as they stretch for a passing high-five from a Wells County torchbearer. Fortunately, this is one of those times where standing up on the bus—and leaning out the window—is actually allowed.

The Torch is on such a tight schedule that there’s no time to stop and chat. In fact, don’t even leave your vehicle. Just toss the flame to the next DeKalb County torchbearer as you pass by, and continue on your way. All right, perhaps “toss” is a bit dramatic.

Here’s another mode of transportation to add to the list for future torch relays—a seaplane. Upcoming counties will be hard-pressed to top sending the Torch flying by seaplane from Pokagon State Park to end the day. On another note, switching out the flame for the kid-friendly fixture before taking off in the seaplane was an applaud-worthy decision.

The flame never sleeps, so why should its caravan? Normally, Mondays are considered rest days for the relay, as traveling an average 93 miles per day can become quite taxing. However, this past Monday the Torch made its way into LaGrange County. With the Blue Gate Theatre, Dutch Creek Farm Animal Park, Hostetler Hudson Auto Museum, and so much more, it’s no wonder LaGrange took up a whole day by itself. Looking for a place to spend your whole day? Shipshewana is your go-to spot. Check it out here!

Next Saturday, October 15, the Torch’s travels come to a halt. The Indiana Statehouse will host the final and largest Bicentennial celebration so far. Food trucks, exhibitions, music, and tours will all be waiting for you on October 15. Basically, anything and anyone associated with Indiana culture or history will be present at this bash. Speaking of important people, the Hunter Smith Band will perform for the festivities, including the official anthem of the Bicentennial celebration: “Indiana Moon.” With four Indianapolis-based musicians and a former Indy Colts player for a lead singer, we think it’s safe to say the Hunter Smith Band fits the Bicentennial bill. For more information about Hoosier Homecoming, click here.

Check out the official video of the Hunter Smith Band’s “Indiana Moon.”

A toast to Indiana dairy farmers! Well, a milk toast, that is. Day 23 in Elkhart County began at MyBrook dairy farm for the opening ceremony—and a milk fest, apparently. MyBrooks farm is considered one of the most vital dairy farms in Indiana, and is featured on the Northern Indiana Dairy Trail. The farm is currently milking 200 dairy cows—how convenient—and offered a tour of the dairy farm Tuesday morning after the flame had left.

Make sure to check back next week for an update as we approach the Hoosier Homecoming celebration, October 15!