Indiana turned 197 years old today, as it was admitted to the Union on December 11, 1816.  Though we often think of something or someone having a birthday, this occasion is called Statehood Day.  Governor Pence hosted a day of events and speeches at the Old State Capitol and birthday cake at the old governor’s headquarters in Corydon yesterday.

The Old State Capitol program included historical impersonators portraying debating delegates to Indiana’s first constitutional convention, as well as Elizabeth Pennington, the wife of convention delegate and future state Senate leader Dennis Pennington.  Pennington wrote the resolution which moved Indiana’s territorial capital to Corydon from Vincennes in 1813. It remained the capital for the first nine years of statehood.

Today, Governor Pence will host a program at the State Capital in Indianapolis.  Fourth-graders will also gather for Statehood Day observances in Indianapolis at the statehouse, Indiana State Museum, Indiana State Library and Indiana Historical Society.  Click here for today’s agenda of events.

The state museum and the state bicentennial commission are already working with Harrison County tourism officials on plans for the state’s 200th birthday in 2016. Convention and Visitors Bureau interim president Jeremy Yackle says subcommittees are floating ideas for arts, education, and agricultural observances, as well as a bicentennial ball or other community celebration.

As for all birthdays…at least as an adult…it becomes a day of reflection…where you’ve been, where you are today and where you are going.  So here are a few things about where we are today:

Credit Rating:  Governor Mike Pence announced on December 5 that Indiana has maintained its AAA credit ratings from all three bond agencies: Standard and Poor’s, Moody’s, and Fitch Ratings. Indiana has held AAA ratings with all three agencies since April of 2010.

From the press release:  “Fiscal discipline is the foundation of our prosperity,” said Governor Pence. “Today’s news is a testament to the hard work and discipline of State employees at every level and the fiscal leadership of the Indiana General Assembly. In the years ahead, our administration remains committed to maintaining a fiscally stable environment within our state for the betterment of both Hoosier families and businesses.”

And what about Hoosier jobs?  From a November 22, 2013 release:  Indiana’s unemployment rate is more than one percentage point below where it was in January, which is definitely significant” said Scott B. Sanders, Commissioner of the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. “The steady private sector job growth the Hoosier State has been experiencing for some time now is finally beginning to be reflected in the unemployment rate, which many businesses and individuals rely on to make important economic decisions.”

With the Pacers win over the Miami Heat last night…and of course, the IU win over Oakland…kinda feels good to be a Hoosier.  Happy Birthday Indiana…

Vicki Reed