LAFAYETTE, Ind. — A new business and 600 new jobs are coming to Greater Lafayette. The announcement was made at a news conference earlier today (May 27) at the Holiday Inn City Centre.

Chino, California-headquartered Alorica Inc., a customer service management firm serving Fortune 500 clients in electronics, wireless services and other consumer industries, is investing $3 million to remodel and equip a 49,000-square-foot facility it will lease on eight acres at 181 Sagamore Parkway South in Lafayette. The site was formerly occupied by Silent Thunder.

Alorica customer service representatives take calls in the Topeka, KS call center. (Photo courtesy Topeka Capitol-Journal)

The Lafayette contact center is opening to serve a telecommunications industry client. Remodeling is underway, and the center will open as soon as construction is complete.

“When Greater Lafayette Commerce began working with Alorica last October, we quickly realized that this is a company we wanted in our community,” said Jody Hamilton, director of economic development.

“In its 10-year history, Alorica has landed key business with communications industry giants and grown rapidly. Its own business success, however, isn’t its only focus,” Hamilton said. “Alorica realizes that its premier customer service-delivered by well-trained, motivated and loyal employees-is its secret to success. We eagerly welcome a company known for treating its employees well and becoming a true part of the communities where it operates.”

West Lafayette’s KJG Architecture designed the facility renovations; Alorica is working with local contractors and suppliers as much as possible, she said.

Welcoming Alorica to Lafayette, Mayor Tony Roswarski said, “Bringing a major new employer to town is great news, especially when it’s a well-established, growing company known for first-rate service, cutting-edge operations and a focus on providing employees with paid training, fair wages, good benefits and long-term security. The name of the game is ‘jobs,’ and in today’s challenging times, posting a big win like this on Lafayette’s employment scoreboard is a just reward for the hard-working folks here,” Roswarski said.

The City of Lafayette and Tippecanoe County are providing training funds.

Local assistance also includes tax-increment-financing and economic development income tax monies to assist in purchasing a generator from Caterpillar, fiber, cabling, electrical work and parking lot improvements.

“Tippecanoe County government believes that helping to provide training is an investment that will pay a great return,” said John Knochel, president of the Tippecanoe County Commission. “Local residents will master new skills in technology, learn important customer service techniques, and take home both earnings and benefits. It’s a door of opportunity and we’re helping to open it for hundreds of people in our county.”

The State of Indiana is providing performance-based tax credits, training assistance and funding for some infrastructure improvements.

Mike Gibson, chairman of the Greater Lafayette Commerce board of directors, said, “We call our community ‘The Place of Choice,’ and Alorica’s decision to invest $3 million in capital expenditures for its contact center and put some 600 people to work here certainly demonstrates that, indeed, we are the place of choice. Our workforce is eager to master and use new skills.
Alorica is ready to grow. And we’re proud to partner with them as they continue their skyrocketing success.”

How to Apply for Alorica Jobs
Applicants for Alorica Inc. contact center jobs must have a high school diploma or GED and basic typing skills; sales and customer experience are important. Alorica also will hire management and support staff. Paid benefits will include health insurance, retirement, vacation, sick time, holiday pay and tuition reimbursement.

Those interested must register and submit a resume online at www.indianacareerconnect.com. Computers are available for free use at local libraries or WorkOne, 820 Park East Blvd., Lafayette. That may be done now.
Applicants should check back at the website after June 1, when Alorica is expected to be listed as an employer option, and indicate their interest in that company.

LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Eric Robert Inman, 38, Lafayette, Indiana, passed away Friday, May 22, 2009, in Lafayette. A memorial service is tentatively set for 3:00p on Sunday, May 31, 2009 in Fisher-Loy Funeral Chapel, in Downtown Lafayette.

Born November 28, 1970 in Urbana, Illinois, he was the son of Carole (Walker) Inman and Joseph Inman, formerly of Hillsboro, Indiana, now residing in Lyles, Tennessee.

Eric Robert Inman

Inman was a 1988 graduate of Fountain Central High School in Veedersburg, Indiana

Family and friends say music was his life. He was a musician/guitar instructor, songwriter, and band member who sang vocals and played guitar for the Lafayette-based rock group Fast Forward.

Also surviving are one daughter, Elizabeth Rose Carpenter and her husband, Ryan, and their 7-month old baby, Camden, living in Clinton, Indiana;two sisters: Kimberlee Norwood of Celina, Texas and Carrie Kerns of Hohenwald, Tennessee; a brother, Joshua Inman of Indianapolis, Indiana; and two nieces and a nephew.

Funeral Information
A memorial service is TENTATIVELY set for 3 p.m. Sunday, May 31, 2009 in Fisher-Loy Funeral Chapel, Lafayette. Additional details will be posted at http://www.fisherfuneralchapel.com/obits/obituaries.php/obitID/816526 as they become available. A gathering of friends and family will be held prior to the service. Celebrant Patricia Fisher will officiate.

Inman was comfortable in blue jeans and the family requests that those in attendance dress casually as they come and share their memories of Eric with them.

Donations Information
Memorial contributions may be made to the Eric R. Inman Memorial Fund in care of Fisher-Loy Funeral Chapel, 914 Columbia St., Lafayette, IN 47901.

INDIANA — The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will conduct a free online business workshop. The on-line workshop will be take place on Wednesday, June 16th, from 1:30pm-2:30pm (EDT).

The on-line business workshop will provide guidance to prepare small business owners for meeting with a lender. Business owners will learn how SBA is involved in the loan process, what documents to take to the lender, and how to make a good first impression with the lender. Business plans and other strategies needed to help businesses be successful will also be discussed. The Internet session will provide an overview of SBA guaranty loan programs and services that can help an entrepreneur start or grow a business.

By logging on one will see how:

• Improve business cash flow
• Refinancing existing debt
• Eliminate balloon payments
• How to use special programs for Veteran and women owned businesses
• Financing options available to construct or buy a building

Log on to the session from any computer anywhere. For the presentation log on to http://www.readytalk.com and for the audio portion call (866) 740-1260 the access code for both is 3056201#. To register, contact (317) 226-7272 x115 or vernice.mathis@sba.gov. The U.S. Small Business Administration is an agency of the Federal government.

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Purdue Convocations’ 2009-10 season will feature 22 performances, including a variety of Broadway musicals, plays and concerts. Highlights of the season include Broadway musicals such as “Mamma Mia!” “Avenue Q” and “Jesus Christ Superstar” starring Ted Neeley, as well as performances in Elliott Hall of Music of “Metropolis” and the Martha Graham Dance Company.

This season features a diverse range in programming, including a partnership with Lafayette’s Long Center Theatre Organ Society presenting the silent film classic “Metropolis,” starring Clark Wilson; the Kronos Quartet performing the Midwest premiere of “Music from Fences,” a work co-commissioned by the Sydney Opera House and Purdue Convocations; and Henrik Ibsen’s “An Enemy of the People” by Aquila Theatre.

“‘An Enemy of the People’ has as much social currency today as it did when it was written 127 years ago, raising the age-old question of whether art imitates life or the reverse,” said Todd Wetzel, director of Purdue Convocations.

Other highlights of the season include special engagements leading up to the 25th anniversary of the Friends of Convocations, the organization’s donor group. Performances include an appearance by acclaimed jazz musician Dave Brubeck and the Martha Graham Dance Company.

The Friends of Convocations are a key part of Purdue Convocations, said Kendall Purpura, director of development for Convocations.

Avenue Q, the Broadway musical is coming to the Elliott Hall of Music, April 29, 2010

“Convocations appreciates the support that we receive through tickets sales,” Purpura said. “However, ticket sales only provide 60 percent of the costs of presenting performances. Contributions from Friends of Convocations make it all possible, and we are looking forward to celebrating 25 years of support from this devoted group.”

Friends of Convocations will receive priority seating if their orders are received by June 12. All other orders are then processed as received. To join the Friends of Convocations or learn more about membership benefits, contact Convocations at 765-494-9712.

In addition to scheduled public performances, thousands of students from preschool to high school also will be treated to a series of matinees and artist-in-residence activities that will be brought to schools during the 2009-10 season. These events are open to all schools, and a complete list can be found at http://www.convocations.org

Advance tickets are now on sale for all performances and may be purchased as single tickets or the flexible Pick 5 package. Discounted tickets also are available for groups of 10 or more.

Ticket order forms, complete ticket pricing information and details on all performances are available at http://www.convocations.org, in the 2009-10 Convocations brochure or by calling 765-494-9712. Tickets also can be ordered at the campus box offices or by phone at 765-494-3933.

The Purdue Convocations 2009-10 season schedule includes:

• “Metropolis,” directed by Fritz Lang and starring Clark Wilson on the Elliott Hall of Music theater organ. Presented by Purdue Convocations and the Long Center Theatre Organ Society. 8 p.m. Sept. 18. Elliott Hall of Music. Tickets are $15 for the general public and $10 for students.
• Hanggai with special guest Mamer. 8 p.m. Sept. 25. Loeb Playhouse. Tickets are $18 for the general public and $15 for students.
• Andrew Clements’ “Frindle,” presented by Griffin Theatre Company. 7 p.m. Oct. 1. Loeb Playhouse. Tickets are $14 for the general public and $10 for students.
• The Classical Theatre of Harlem’s production of Samuel Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot,” directed by Christopher McElroen. 7:30 p.m. Oct. 7 and 8. Loeb Playhouse. Tickets are $28 for the general public and $20 for students.
• “Mamma Mia!” 7:30 p.m. Oct. 21 and Oct. 22. Elliott Hall of Music. Tickets are $20-$48 for the general public and $20-$35 for students.
• Jeremy Denk on the piano. 3 p.m. Oct. 25. Loeb Playhouse. Tickets are $26 for the general public and $16 for students.
• Afiara String Quartet. 7:30 p.m. Nov. 5. Loeb Playhouse. Tickets are $12.
• Dave Brubeck Quartet. 8 p.m. Nov. 7. Loeb Playhouse. Tickets are $35-$85 for the general public and $25-$45 for students.
• Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet. 8 p.m. Nov. 13. Loeb Playhouse. Tickets are $26 for the general public and $19 for students.
• “Strega Nona” by Tomie dePaola. Presented by Maximum Entertainment in association with Active Arts Theatre for Young Audiences. 3 p.m. Nov. 22. Loeb Playhouse. Tickets are $14 for the general public and $10 for students.
• Fauré Quartett. 8 p.m. Jan. 15. Loeb Playhouse. Tickets are $26 for the general public and $16 for students.
• “The Adventures of Harold and the Purple Crayon” by Crockett Johnson. Presented by the Enchantment Theatre Company. 3 p.m. Jan. 17. Loeb Playhouse. Tickets are $14 for the general public and $10 for students.
• Dave Holland Quintet. 8 p.m. Jan. 22. Loeb Playhouse. Tickets are $30 for the general public and $22 for students.
• “The Opera Show.” 8 p.m. Jan. 30. Loeb Playhouse. Tickets are $35-$45 for the general public and $25-$30 for students.
• Kronos Quartet, “Music Without Borders,” featuring a Purdue Convocations co-commission. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 4. Loeb Playhouse. Tickets are $26 for the general public and $16 for students.
• “Jesus Christ Superstar” starring Ted Neeley. 8 p.m. Feb. 12. Elliott Hall of Music. Tickets are $20-$45 for the general public and $20-$32 for students.
• “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien. Presented by the Théâtre Sans Fil. 1:30 p.m. Feb. 20. Loeb Playhouse. Tickets are $18 for the general public and $12 for students.
• “An Enemy of the People” by Henrik Ibsen. Presented by Aquila Theatre Company. 7:30 p.m. Feb. 25. Loeb Playhouse. Tickets are $28 for the general public and $20 for students.
• Martha Graham Dance Company. 8 p.m. Feb. 27. Elliott Hall of Music. Tickets are $20-$38 for the general public and $15-$26 for students.
• Chaconne Klaverenga on the guitar. 3 p.m. March 28. Loeb Playhouse. Tickets are $12.
• Miguel Zenón’s “Esta Plena.” 8 p.m. April 9. Loeb Playhouse. Tickets are $26 for the general public and $19 for students.
• “Avenue Q,” the Broadway musical. 7:30 p.m. April 29. Elliott Hall of Music. Tickets are $20-$45 for the general public and $20-$32 for students.

LAFAYETTE, Ind. — On Saturday, May 30, Subaru of Indiana Automotive (SIA) will host the first-ever SIA Auto Safety Fair from noon until 3:00 PM at the SIA Recreation Center. Several local, regional and national organizations specializing in auto safety are coming together to provide the community with demonstrations, workshops and the latest information and technology to help promote safe driving.

Trisha Hessinger, former race car driver and national TV show host will be conducting mini car care workshops to help drivers learn how to maintain their vehicles for improved safety and performance.

These workshops are geared for drivers who are less experienced with auto maintenance. There will also be a special section focusing on proper tire tread and air pressure.

Parents of teen drivers can get information about the latest technology in teen driver safety including sensors that monitor and report dangerous driving habits to parents via email or text messages and in vehicle cameras that turn on when a teen driver exhibits dangerous driving habits. Several organizations will be available to discuss teen driver safety, driver education courses and roadside assistance programs geared for teens and their parents.

Drivers can safely experience the dangers of impaired driving first-hand by attempting to maneuver the drunk driving simulation course or trying the texting-while-driving game. The latest technology and resources to help prevent drunk driving and texting while driving will be featured.

Certified car seat technicians will be on hand to educate drivers about proper car seat installation and drivers 18 years and older can try the “Seat Belt Convincer”, a crash simulator that lets you experience the power of a low speed impact and understand the importance of seat belts. Drivers can get information about how to lower their risks of injury when involved in an accident and how to avoid
common hazards on the road.

Drivers can also obtain important information about current laws, including proper accident procedures and recent changes to teen driving laws; while the Lafayette Police Department D.A.R.E. officer will takes kids for a ride on the Public Accessibility Cart.

BMV2YOU, the mobile BMV branch will provide a convenient, on-site office where drivers can get new ID cards, titles and voters registrations or renew licenses and registrations.

Participating organizations and prize sponsors include; Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc., Bob Rohrman Subaru, AAA, AB Drivers Training, Allstate Auto Insurance, American Family Insurance, Blevins Insurance, BMV2You, Bridgestone Car Care Academy, Cellular Express, Clarian Arnett Health, DriveRite, Farm Bureau Insurance, Firestone Complete Auto Care, IIHS, Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, Lafayette Police Department, Liberty Mutual, MADD, SADD, State Farm Insurance, Teensurance.

Drivers of all ages and experience levels as well as parents of teen drivers are encourage to attend this free, community-wide event. The indoor/outdoor event will take place rain or shine. For more information about the SIA Auto Safety Fair, log onto www.subaru-sia.com or contact Jennifer McGarvey at 765-449-6269 or jennifer.mcgarvey@subaru-sia.com

LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Volunteers are currently being sought to assist with the 2009 Taste of Tippecanoe festival scheduled for Saturday, June 20th in Downtown Lafayette.

The Taste of Tippecanoe is a one day, multi-stage festival that draws more than 50,000 people and features a smorgasbord of local restaurants, live music, and ends with a spectacular fireworks show for kids of all ages.

The Taste is looking for people for various duties to work 2-hour shifts on June 20th between 4 pm and midnight. Volunteers are needed to help with various duties. All volunteers will receive free entry to the Taste and a t-shirt marking the occasion.

Aspiring volunteers can sign-up in any of three ways: visit www.tasteoftippecanoe.org and click on the “Volunteer” link; call (765) 423-2787; or stop by TAF at the Wells Cultural Community Center at 638 North Street.

The 2009 Comcast Taste of Tippecanoe is the primary fundraising event for the Tippecanoe Arts Federation and supports over one hundred arts and education programs in a fourteen county area. One hundred percent of the proceeds go to TAF. Activities of the Tippecanoe Arts Federation are provided, in part, with support from the Indiana Arts Commission, a state agency, with funds from the Indiana General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts.