Today I had the pleasure of attending the 2010 “Making Herstory” Touchstone Awards, the annual Girls Inc. luncheon.

Congratulations are due to the four outstanding women who are this year’s Touchstone Honorees: Juana O. Watson, Ed.D., founder of Friends of Hidalgo and Badges Without Borders; Fay H. Williams J.D., attorney, private practice; the honorable Becky Skillman, Lt. Governor, State of Indiana – and our own Myra Borshoff Cook, founding principal of Borshoff.

Before the ceremony, Myra took a few minutes to chat with one of the terrific young girls who participate in Girls Inc. programming. Hear what Myra learned from Makala, who wants to be a clinical psychologist when she grows up.

They say your 20s are the years of many crossroads. I’ve found this to be true, and exciting!

This is a BIG summer for me. I just started a new job here at Borshoff, moved to Greenfield and soon I’ll be married! 16 days and counting…I can’t wait!

There are a lot of changes occurring in my life, and though they each carry a certain level of stress – I couldn’t be happier. I feel like I’ve met my match in more ways than one – I’ve found my soul mate in my soon-to-be hubby and joined the incredible team at Borshoff, an agency that shares many of my personal values.

Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve wanted to work for an advertising agency.  I remember watching Bewitched and hoping I’d have a job like Darrin Stephens someday. As a kid, I’d hear and see commercials and make up my own little jingles or draw my own ads.

In high school, I took marketing classes and served as the editor for the yearbook staff. I took art classes and ripped out ads I saw in magazines to save them for future inspiration. I wanted to write, create and be the mind behind the message. I wanted to motivate people to act.

In college, I discovered I was not only interested in creating.  I enjoyed writing, editing and seeing projects through from start to finish. I realized I had a passion for communications as a whole and became particularly interested in integrated communications as I learned how powerful marketing, advertising and public relations could be together. I majored in journalism at Butler University with a concentration in integrated communications. I packed my college experience with great opportunities – from networking to service opportunities to starting Butler’s first advertising club, Adrenaline.

Now, two years out of school with some excellent educational, work and service experience under my belt, here I am – happily employed at one of the largest communications firms in Indianapolis. My 8-year old self is beaming!

Last week I attended Opportunity Indianapolis, presented by the Lacy Leadership Association. Opportunity Indianapolis is a leadership program designed to give participants an exclusive, behind-the-scenes exploration of our city and significant community issues. I learned almost as much about my city in two days as I have in the 20 years I’ve lived here.

One of the community issues that had a lasting impact on me was the focus on education—we need to make it a number one priority in our city and that needs to happen right now. Mass transit is another issue that the city of Indianapolis needs to solve to serve its growing population and be considered a vibrant city of the future.

The overall message of Opportunity Indianapolis is to get involved. We all need to identify issues we are passionate about and let our voices be heard. Last week got me energized about making a difference in my city, and it also made me realize that I have a lot of work to do.

Following recommendations from the experts, we loaded up on carbohydrates with a variety of pastas. According to the Mayo Clinic, carb loading helps maximize energy storage and boost athletic performance, and athletes should increase their carb intake to 70 percent of their daily calories three to four days before a high-intensity, high-endurance event. (Employees not participating in the Mini will simply use the extra carbs to more energetically support their coworkers.)

During the luncheon, we cheered on our mini-marathoners with a short pep rally involving cheering and…well, eating.

In general, the Borshoff Wellness Initiative supports our employees’ health through education and activities, such as office yoga, focused on fitness and nutrition. The program aims to improve employees’ well-being and reduce stress, ultimately increasing workplace productivity. According to the Mayo Clinic, exercise bumps up the production of your brain’s “feel-good neurotransmitters,” or endorphins. And, it generally puts you in a better mood because it boosts your confidence and lowers symptoms associated with depression and anxiety.

A healthy and happy staff leads to more productive work habits – and better results for our clients. With the Mini-Marathon just two days away, it’s the perfect time to enjoy energy-producing food and encouraging cheers. Off to the races!

“Who let the dogs out? (woof, woof, woof, woof…)” As my Borshoff colleagues and I stepped away from the Butler University National Championship Game Pep Rally on Monument Circle here in Indianapolis today, the familiar and singable Baha Men’s tune was blaring from the loudspeakers. No doubt about it – B.U. mania has hit epic proportions leading into tonight’s 2010 NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship game at Lucas Oil Stadium.

It’s not hard to love the Bulldogs. “The Butler Way” has provided the script for this sensational story that has not only inspired a team, but an entire university, city, state and beyond. But what makes it truly amazing is that the dance we’ve been preparing for as promoters for months is a dance at which we never imagined being guests. And THAT, my friends, is what has made this Big Dance one for the ages.

When our host city prepared to stage and promote a Final Four, we never knew who we’d be hosting. We worked hard for months to get our house in order, polished the silver and prepared to raise the roof – no matter who our guests of honor would be. Then, in one shining moment, the basketball gods smiled on a small, private institution in our own backyard and shazaam! WE become the belle of the ball (or in this case – the beau of the ball.) And what has resulted is electricity that defies explanation and contagious enthusiasm that energizes the soul – which makes the long hours of organizing and the stressful moments of detail attention all worth the while as promoters and marketers.

It has truly been an honor for Borshoff to be partners with IMG and the NCAA in staging and promoting the many fan events enjoyed by thousands these past few days. For tonight, we’re not only the hosts, we are also the guests. And oh, how I love the song they’re playing. Thanks, NCAA! And may I have this dance? (woof, woof, woof, woof…)

“Man – you’ve got a cool job!” said my son yesterday morning – as I was on my way to Lucas Oil Stadium to help coordinate the Final Four kick-off press conference with Mayor Ballard, NCAA brass and local civic leaders. “Just doing my job, Owen,” I said back – grinning inside because I knew what was ahead for this week; and partially wincing, because I knew what was ahead for this week.

There’s no doubt that I’m thrilled to be assisting the NCAA with local, grassroots marketing and publicity around all the fan events surrounding collegiate basketball’s showcase weekend – and with yesterday’s press conference, the good times have started to roll here in Indianapolis.

We last hosted this “dance” back in 2006,  and if this year is anything like last time, be ready to buckle up and party down. Here in 2010, the excitement at Monday’s press conference was already contagious as those planning these good times proclaimed that Indy’s more-than-ready – all the signage is up and THE floor is down. Teams start arriving on Wednesday; fans start swarming on Thursday; partiers come by the masses on Friday. And, for the 6th time since 1980, Indianapolis will again be diagnosed with Final Four Fever.

Yes – the week is finally here. See you at Bracket Town, or wait, how about the Big Dance music fest at White River State Park? Or how about those free practice sessions on Friday at Lucas Oil Stadium? Or maybe the slam dunk/3-point competition in the Convention Center? Just bring it all on!

No matter if you have a ticket or not, check out all the action at www.ncaa.com/finalfour.

Watching U.S. skier Lindsey Vonn win gold in the downhill, or Apolo Anton Ohno become the most decorated Winter Olympic athlete with three new medals in short track skating, or seeing the incredible performance of Canadian Joannie Rochette win bronze in women’s figure skating only days after her mother died of a heart attack – all of it lifts my spirit.

It’s incredible that we can almost feel the grit and determination of these exceptional athletes – doing things that few can do, and even fewer can imagine doing.

It reminds me how fortunate we are here in Indianapolis to be the beneficiary of sporting events that attract some of the best athletes in the world. Here we can watch these athletes in real time, in real life, and not via the pixels of a big screen TV. You have to give the City and State a 10 for that!

The next chance for Hoosiers and our Big Ten neighbors is the 2010 Big Ten Basketball Tournaments. The women’s event starts this week, March 4-7, and the men’s tournament is March 11-14.

I hope you’ll join the thousands of fans descending upon downtown Indianapolis to enjoy some of the best basketball teams in the country duke it out for a Big Ten trophy.

For tickets, go to the Conseco Fieldhouse box office, or online at www.ticketmaster.com or call (800) 745-3000.

And if you’re not into basketball, as hard as that is to believe in Indiana, do the Big Ten Hoops Day 5K or enjoy some of the other events surrounding Indianapolis’ not-to-be-missed Big Ten celebration. More info is available at www.indianasportscorp.com/events/bigten.

I was elated when I learned that the Indianapolis Cultural Trail will receive a $20.5 million TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) grant from the federal Department of Transportation. This means the Trail, which will be an eight-and-a-half-mile urban bike and pedestrian path connecting various downtown cultural venues, can now be completed in the next two years.

It is thrilling to know the full dream will become reality, thanks to the government recognizing a project that is truly transforming the city. It’s the Year of the TIGER in Indy!

I attended the Greater Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce Schmooza Palooza event last week at Conseco Fieldhouse. The social event featured entertainment, refreshments, networking opportunities – and lots of exhibitor booths.

The best booths were the ones that engaged the attendees. Offering a branded giveaway drew people in to talk with the organization’s representative. I received a coaster from a staffing company and microwave popcorn from a mortgage lender.

Some exhibitors engaged the crowd with games and activities. Cornhole or bean bag toss was popular with a few exhibitors. Ruth’s Chris featured a spinning wheel similar to Wheel of Fortune, and there was a line of people waiting to spin.

The exhibitors who offered food samples were a hit, too. I appreciated the restaurants that offered a treat and a coupon, like Paradise Bakery & Café. Offering a coupon is a great idea for two reasons. First, the recipient has an incentive to patronize the business. Second, the organization can monitor its marketing and advertising investment by marking the coupon and tracking when it is redeemed.

The number one “must have” for exhibitors: outgoing and knowledgeable representatives.  The giveaways, games and food can draw a crowd to the booth, but once people are there, the exhibitor must engage them with useful information.

It’s amazing how things can change in a few months. I had always considered Indiana flyover country, and didn’t think the city had anything to offer me. Now, not only have I moved to Indy from Seattle for a job opportunity, but for as much as I tout the praises of living here, I could probably work for the Chamber. My first six months here have been non-stop, from starting an exciting new job to exploring the many facets of the city I now call home.

The first thing I noticed is  “Hoosier Hospitality.” People here are incredibly friendly. I grew up in Kansas and lived in southern Virginia before moving out to Seattle. All very nice places with nice people, but there’s something different here. It’s hard to put my finger on it, but if I were to describe it, I’d say that people here exude an aura of kindness.

Downtown is vibrant and lively. There are constantly people walking the streets, heading to and from meetings and events. Festivals and other gatherings at Monument Circle are a regular draw. (Strawberries … mmmm.) It’s spectacular how this metropolitan city can have such a tight-knit community feel.

The number of things to do here feels limitless. Here’s a quick run-down of just a few of the things that I’ve experienced since March:

• Indianapolis Zoo
• NCAA Men’s Basketball Midwest Regional Tournament
• Indianapolis 500
• Paddle boat ride down the canal
• Symphony on the Prairie
• Indiana Black Expo Summer Celebration
• Indianapolis Indians baseball game
• USGA Senior Open
• Walks along the Monon Trail
• Restaurants and shops downtown and in Broad Ripple
• Penrod Art Fair

Here’s the best part. I’ve already had a couple of friends from the East and West coasts come visit me – and they’re hooked on Indy too. I smile, thinking of their friends’ reactions when they go back talking about how much fun they had in Indianapolis and what a great city it is. But it’s all true.

It’s that time of year again when the smells of spicy shrimp cocktail, table-side made guacamole and dry-aged Kona crusted sirloin fill the air downtown. Today starts two weeks of culinary bliss known affectionately to Indianapolis residents and visitors as Devour Downtown. The event starts today and runs through Aug. 23.

More than 30 restaurants are offering three-course meals for just $30 per person. This is a great way to experience some of the best eats Indianapolis has to offer – on a budget!

The program started in 2005 as an annual, week-long event called Indy Restaurant Week created by the Indianapolis Downtown Restaurant & Hospitality Association. The event was such a success, it expanded from one week to two and once a year to twice a year, prompting the name change to Devour Downtown.

In honor of this year’s event, Borshoff employees voted for their top 5 Devour Downtown restaurants. Perhaps it’s no coincidence that four of the five are within easy walking distance from the Borshoff offices.

Borshoff’s top 5 list follows – along with my personal comments. Drum roll please…

1. Palomino
   This is my go-to restaurant when I’m hosting guests from out of town. The ambience is upbeat and stylish and the lobster ravioli is to die for! On the Devour Downtown menu- you have to try the asiago-crusted sea scallops – pairs perfectly with a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio.  Also, Palomino has a great patio – perfect for people watching!
2. Santorini Greek Kitchen
   Opa! This Devour Downtown special is served family-style, so bring a group of friends to sample everything from baba ganoush to homemade spanokopita. Don’t forget to try the baklava. I made this for the first time recently and it’s much harder than it looks, but so worth the effort!
3. St. Elmo Steak House
   St. Elmo’s is an Indianapolis tradition. Their world-famous spicy cocktail sauce will blow your mind! Just think of it this way – when else can you grab a shrimp cocktail, filet mignon and dessert at Indianapolis’ most famous restaurant for only $30? The shrimp cocktail itself is usually $15!
4. Capital Grille
   For me, Capital Grille is typically saved for special occasions; birthdays, anniversaries, etc. Now for only $30, you can celebrate “just because.” Located in the Conrad hotel, Capital Grille is the place to see and be seen. Who knows who you might run into…
5. Adobo Grill
   This restaurant just opened last summer. If you haven’t had the chance to stop in yet, now’s the perfect time. The guacamole is made table-side with fresh cilantro and avocado, and their menu is filled with delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine. Even if it’s not part of the $30 deal, who can pass up one of their famous margaritas? Or two…or three…

Last Tuesday evening my wife, son and I attended a special Borshoff night at Victory Field to watch the Indianapolis Indians play the Durham Bulls. I say special because it was more like a party… with baseball on the side. We were seated in the private third base terrace area with my co-workers from Borshoff and their family members. There were hot dogs, hamburgers, drinks and a nice view of the field. The weather even cooperated for a perfect evening out.

The terrace area was a great place to watch the game. I told everyone around me that I was going to catch a foul tip. They all laughed and said the angle is wrong, it won’t reach up here. The very first batter fouled a ball one section to our right, then one section to our left. I was vindicated. The rest of the evening I paid close attention when a left-handed batter was up, but nothing ever did come into our section.

Everything was great. The food, the conversations, the location, and — if you stayed till the bottom of the ninth inning — the outcome.

I really like this ballpark, and I can’t wait to go to another game.

I recently enjoyed two milestones pertaining to my time living in Indianapolis—my fifth year living here and a two-day invitation to explore the city and meet its present and future leaders through a program called Opportunity Indianapolis (OI), coordinated by the Lacy Leadership Association. Those milestones seemed a bit contradictory at their surface, but OI actually debunked a few myths that may come to mind as you get more comfortable with your surroundings.

• Myth #1: Indianapolis is a ‘small’ city. As a public relations professional, I am fortunate to have many opportunities to network and often see familiar faces at events. I suspected OI may be similar in that regard, but was pleasantly surprised. With the exception of my two Borshoff colleagues who participated—Ryan Noel and Bob Schultz, who did a fantastic job moderating the event— I didn’t know a single attendee. Better yet, I was delighted by the diversity of the organizations they represented—The Mind Trust, Jewish Community Center, U.S. Synchronized Swimming and the list goes on. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know more than 50 OI ‘classmates,’ as well as the exciting professional and community missions they support.
• Myth #2: The Super Bowl is the biggest thing ahead for Indianapolis. Hosting the 2012 Super Bowl will no doubt give Indianapolis a global stage and raise the city’s profile, as Allison Melangton of the Super Bowl Host Committee shared, yet the OI class had the privilege of hearing from other city leaders about the many more amazing things to come. To name just a few, Brian Payne of Central Indiana Community Foundation talked about the Cultural Trail and other urban developments that are putting Indianapolis on the map; David Harris of The Mind Trust and Dr. Eugene White of Indianapolis Public Schools discussed ideas and initiatives that will address the public education challenges we face; and Anne Shane of BioCrossroads, Mark Miles of Central Indiana Corporate Partnership, and Ron Gifford of Indy Partnership assessed the city’s economic outlook and leading entrepreneurial endeavors.
• Myth #3: I’ve been to marquee Indianapolis arts and sporting events, so I’ve seen the sights. Another primary benefit of OI was that nearly every session was held at a different venue. I was once again introduced to new things, places I’ve passed countless times but never visited—from the Skyline Club and Obsidian Conference and Catering Center, offering amazing views of the city, to Arsenal Technical High School and Ivy Tech Community College, showcasing Indy’s diverse educational offerings. In particular, I had the most memorable experiences at the Indiana War Memorial and IndyFringe, proving that both elaborate and humble surroundings can offer rich cultural experiences.

As my colleague and fellow OI classmate Ryan Noel said, OI was chance to ‘deepen our roots’ for those who have lived in Indy, and I think it’s an unbeatable way to introduce the new residents to the city. I’m proud that Borshoff sponsored this year’s event and hope Hoosier companies and residents will continue to support Opportunity Indianapolis and the Lacy Leadership Association.

The 2009 Opportunity Indianapolis class