Merrillville Town Council Vice President Rhonda Neal stands with resident Candi Colvin (center). Colvin submitted the slogan suggestion of “The Heart of the Region.” (Photo provided by the Town of Merrillville)
Merrillville Town Council Vice President Rhonda Neal provides information about the new Merrillville slogan — “The Heart of the Region.” (Photo provided by the Town of Merrillville)
(Provided by Town of Merrillville)
In Merrillville, the town has adopted a new slogan which comes after a campaign that involved residents providing their suggestions. Candi Colvin of Merrillville submitted the slogan, “The Heart of the Region,” and was recognized by the town council this week. The slogan is on official town websites and social media and will appear on new signage and other promotional materials. “Our town is a dynamic blend of economic vitality, cultural diversity, and warm hospitality,” said Merrillville Town Council President Rick Bella. “The adoption of ‘The Heart of the Region’ as our slogan reflects our commitment to embracing this identity and welcoming all who come to experience the unique energy of Merrillville.”
The new slogan comes after a monthslong campaign that involved residents providing suggestions of potential slogans. “We wanted to see what the community thought about our town,” said Town Council Vice President Rhonda Neal. Merrillville received more than 40 entries. From that group, Town leaders narrowed it down to five possible options and let the community select their favorite.
“The Heart of the Region” was the overwhelming favorite, receiving close to 70% of the votes, a news release from the town said. “It was highly recognized by our community,” Neal said. Colvin submitted “The Heart of the Region” slogan suggestion, and she was recognized during the Tuesday, February 27, 2024, town council meeting. “I really appreciate that she participated in our slogan program because she’s making history in the town of Merrillville,” Neal said.
Colvin said “The Heart of the Region” immediately popped in her mind when she saw the town was accepting slogan ideas. She said the slogan captures the essence of Merrillville because the town is located in the middle of Lake County, and Merrillville plays a central role in driving the growth and vitality of Northwest Indiana. “We’re building new places to live, we’re building new places for people to work, we’re building new places for people to come and see us, and making it beautiful,” Colvin said. “We want people to come here and live and enjoy our town.”
After recognizing Colvin, the town council unanimously accepted “The Heart of the Region” as the official town slogan. The new slogan is already featured on Merrillville’s website – merrillville.in.gov – and on the town’s social media pages. The slogan also is expected to be included in new welcoming signage and other promotional materials.
