I am James Beard, a writer from Indiana who covers local news, history, and everyday life in the state. My work focuses on small-town events, state politics, and stories that matter to the people who live here.
Indiana has a long history, and I aim to document both its past and present. I write about everything from local government decisions to unusual roadside attractions. My goal is to keep people informed while sharing stories that make Indiana unique.
When I am not working on a story, I spend time in the community, talking to people and keeping up with what is happening. Indiana is my home, and I write to make sure its stories are told.
Indiana State Fair 2026, one of the biggest events in the country, promises to be an unforgettable celebration of community, culture, and summertime fun. Running from August 7 to 23 (closed Mondays), it will take place at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center in Indianapolis. Under the theme “TheContinue Reading
Indiana has long been called the cradle of basketball, producing some of the finest players to ever lace up their sneakers. Hoosiers grow up with the sport in their blood, and gyms across the state serve as breeding grounds for talent that eventually makes its way to the professional level.Continue Reading
Albanese Candy Factory has earned its place as a beloved Indiana institution, bringing smiles to families for decades. More than just a candy shop, it represents flavor innovation, community pride, and a warm atmosphere that locals cherish. Visitors often find themselves returning, not only for the candy but also forContinue Reading
French Lick, Indiana, is often described as a hidden treasure in Southern Indiana, perfect for a weekend escape, romantic retreat, or family adventure. Visitors are drawn to its balance of historical elegance and modern resort-style living. Once known for mineral springs and grand resorts, it now offers a combination ofContinue Reading
Hoosier folklore spans Indiana, featuring tales of strange creatures and eerie encounters that have left a lasting impression on local communities. Legends handed down through generations, stories captured in university folklore archives, and firsthand accounts from residents paint a vivid picture of the state’s rich tapestry of the unknown. StoriesContinue Reading
Few words stir as much curiosity and pride as “Hoosier.” For nearly two centuries, the nickname has defined Indiana, creating a sense of identity that reaches past state lines. People wear it as a badge of toughness, resilience, and hospitality, yet many still wonder where it truly began. Long-debated theoriesContinue Reading
When the leaves start turning and the air grows crisp, Indiana comes alive with fall festivals that celebrate everything we love about the season—pumpkins, parades, apple cider, live music, local crafts, and yes, plenty of fried food. From small-town charm to massive street parties, the Hoosier State offers some ofContinue Reading
Brown County, Indiana, captures hearts with its small-town spirit, natural beauty, and artistic heritage. Locals are proud to share it with visitors throughout the year, no matter the season It is a place that balances outdoor recreation with creative expression, while offering comforting food and community spaces that feel likeContinue Reading
Indiana might be better known for cornfields, college basketball, and limestone quarries, but underneath all that Americana is a quieter, darker thread. It’s a state that remembers, and in some corners, refuses to forget. Across small towns and old roads, the stories passed down aren’t just family lore. They’re experiencesContinue Reading
Indiana has become one of the most reliable states in the Midwest for bald eagle watching, with over 350 active eagle nests recorded as of 2024, according to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Once nearly extinct in the region due to DDT and habitat loss, bald eagles haveContinue Reading
Indiana isn’t usually the first place people think of for Hollywood backdrops, but it’s been the setting for some iconic films. The best-known is Hoosiers (1986), often called one of the greatest sports movies ever made. It was filmed almost entirely in small Indiana towns like New Richmond and Knightstown,Continue Reading