The Southsider Voice - Top Stories

The Decatur Township Library has a special area devoted to gardners and the seeds they can check out and take home.
(SOUTHSIDER VOICE PHOTOS BY STEVE PAGE)

By Steve Page
Correspondent

There once was a time when people went to a library to check out books, because books were what libraries offered.

Then came video cassettes, then DVDs to watch.

Now, there’s even more.

For patrons of the Decatur Township Library, the seeds of change have been sown.
Figuratively and literally.

The library, located just off Ind. 67 adjacent to Decatur Central High School, is in its third year of being a seed library.

Simply put, the seed library is a program that allows patrons to check out and take home a large variety of free vegetable, herb and flower seeds.

“A couple of the branches – Spades Park and Glendale – started it,” noted Decatur Branch Manager Doriene Smither. “We decided it was a good thing. It just kept growing.
“This is our third summer doing it. Since the program took it over, it’s more publicized. It’s really picking up as we go.”

The seed packets can be found in the Decatur Branch to the left of the entrance counter, in a well-lit side of the room. There’s a large container, with rows of pull-out shelves. Shelves have the seed names on them. Open a shelf, and find small packets of seeds ready for the taking.

“A lot of patrons don’t know that they can use their IndyPL library card to check out free seeds and try growing their own food,” Melissa Wooton, IndyPL’s adult services manager, said on the library’s website. “The seed collection varies a bit by location, but our core collection will be available at any branch you visit while supplies last.”

Wooton helped launch the first seed library at the Glendale Branch in 2014. Today, the program has expanded to 17 locations with dozens of options, including flowers, herbs and vegetables.

Smither said the demand for seeds has changed.

“This year, they’re focused more on edible plants,” she said. “It used to be flowers. Now, there are herbs and vegetables that go with a community garden, so people can grow their own healthy meals.”

The IndyPL’s Seed Library Core Collection is plentiful:
Flowers
Coneflowers, Marigold (Brocade Mix), Milkweed (Nasturtium), Sunflower and Sunseed.

Herbs
Basil (Genovese and Thai), Cilantro (Calypso), Dill (Dukat) Garlic Chives, Chinese Leeks, Oregano and Sage.

Vegetables
Green Beans (Bush Provider and Pole), Carrots (Scarlet Nantes), Collard Greens, Cucumber (General Lee), Lettuce (Leaf, Allstar Gourmet), Kale (Red Russian), Pea (Bistro), Peas (Oregon Sugar Pod), Peppers (Jalapeno, Traveler Strain), Peppers (Sweet Bell, California Wonder), Pumpkin (New England Pie), Radish (French Breakfast), Spinach (American), Squash (Butternut, Waltham), Squash, (Zucchini, Dunja), Swiss Chard, Tomato, (Heirloom, Matt’s Wild Cherry).

According to the IPL website, converting seeds from bulk orders to small seed packets couldn’t have been completed without the assistance of over 155 community volunteers from corporations such as Corteva, Salesforce, Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance, and Clif Bar Baking Company, civic groups like Downtown Indy Rotary Club, Butler Alpha Phi Omega, and AmeriCorps RSVP, and an army of Master Gardeners from Purdue Extension.

Then there are those books, for so long the staple of libraries.

Here are some of the gardening offerings:
Botanical and Herb Garden Creations, Eating the Season, Edible Flowers, Flower Gardening in Indiana, Flower Gardening with a Plan, Free Gardening Docs from Purdue, Garden Photography, Gardening e-Books, Gardening in an Apartment (or other small space!), Growing Fruit in the City, and Indoor Kitchen Gardens.
There are also gardening books for children, including Gardening for Kids, How Does Your Garden Grow, Let it Grow! Springtime Flowers and Gardens; Little Indoor Gardens for Kids - Terrariums & the Hydrologic Cycle; Plants for Kids - Experiments and Activities for Backyard Botanists; Seeds and Sprouts, and Seeds to Grow.
“People really like the program,” Smither said. “They start coming here in March, asking when we’re going to have those seeds.”

For more information, go to https://www.indypl.org/services/seed-library.

The Decatur Township library offers seeds and helpful signs aplenty in the area reserved for gardeners.

Slide open a drawer in the seed area of the library, and seed packets come into view, ready for the taking.

Decatur Township students join Decatur Central Principal Dr. Matt Prusieck, School Board President Judy Collins and others as they celebrate with their awards after earning perfect 650 scores for the Indiana Reading Evaluation and Determination assessment, known as IREAD-3.
(SUBMITTED PHOTOS)

In March, Decatur Township district schools completed the spring window for the Indiana Reading Evaluation and Determination assessment, known as IREAD-3.

This assessment was developed in accordance with state legislation to measure the proficiency of foundational reading skills in Vocabulary, Non-Fiction and Literature by the end of third grade.

Assistant Superintendent Dr. Stephanie Hofer recognized and commended 18 students from across the district, each of whom achieved a perfect score of 650 points, the highest score possible on the assessment.
“What an amazing academic accomplishment!” exclaimed Hofer.

The following students earned perfect scores on IREAD-3:
Blue Academy: Lucas Burgan, Malia Sela Gilbert, Ke’Shawn House and Deenah Shodiende.
Decatur High Ability Academy: Kevin Gomez, Logan Giffin-Pierce, Graham Williams, Eva Leffler, Noah McFarland and Elodie Lenz.

Gold Academy: Addelyn Clark.

Stephen Decatur: Ariya Hale, Tanner Hooker, Carter Hudson and Adalynn Pettit.

West Newton: Oladipupo Joseph, Kolesyn Mould and Romoluwa Ogunmoyero.

Amanda Harrison, Director of DC’s Innovation Academy, joins Choir Director Scott Archer in front of the Hawks’ trophy case.

Decatur Central High School’s Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Stephanie Hofer recognized the DCHS Expressions Show Choir at the MSD Decatur Township School Board Meeting on April 11. They are (from left), Judy Collins, School Board President; Mrs. Amanda Harrison, Director of DCHS Innovation Academy; Ms. Jennifer Pollard, DCHS Choir Accompanist/Assistant, student leaders Kyleigh Brown, Co-President; Julie Arteaga, Head Dance Captain; Gabriella Molina, Assistant Dance Captain; Josephine Guerrero, Assistant Dance Captain and Dr. Matt Prusiecki, Superintendent. Not pictured: Scott Archer, DCHS Choir Director.

By Steve Page
Correspondent

For Decatur Central High School’s show choir Expressions, the music is reflected in the group’s comeback.
That rally took it all the way to the Indiana State School Music Association state finals.

For the first time.

The Hawks had not ascended to such a lofty status until this season.

“We’ve been coming back ever since Covid,” explained DCHS Choir Director Scott Archer. “It especially hit choir hard. Marion County didn’t want students singing closely. The rule for a while was 10 feet apart. Those were abnormally hard years. We lost a few kids, because they couldn’t sing.

“That’s where this push came from. Just getting kids back into that was a big part of it.”

It was indeed.

Show choirs compete in various contests from October until March. Judges compile team scores as the season progresses. Then, the top nine scoring teams in each division qualify for state.

This was the first time Decatur Central had compiled enough points to reach state.

The Hawks accomplished that with the performance entitled “Stronger.”

“The show this year was about growing, overcoming hard times, becoming stronger than yesterday,” Archer said. “Times are hard. But we grow.

“We sing ‘Destiny’s Child.’ Then we go to ‘Change It,’ a Dolly Parton song. We don’t like where we are, so we do something about it.

“Then we sing ‘Skyscraper.’ That says ‘I’ve built myself up so tall that I’m a skyscraper. It’s empowering.
“Then we finish with ‘Boss.’ Things were hard, but I’m in charge now.”

It’s so much more than just standing there singing.

Show choirs also dance.

“It’s how show choir works,” Archer continued. “Our show is about 15 minutes long. We start in October, and the competitive season ends in March. So they can sing and dance better as they go.

“It’s hard when it’s a side thing. It takes a lot of skill building, a lot of technique. They put it all together in this core show that we can take to competitions.”

Just competing is an exercise unto itself.

“The competitions can be very, very long days,” Archer noted. “There are times we arrive at school at 4 a.m. We pack up the truck with set pieces, costumes and equipment. Once we get to the site of the competition, they get dressed and ready. They have a 25-minute warmup. Then they perform the show before a panel of judges. Then we wait for the awards ceremony.

“Shows have 10 to 15 schools competing – sometimes 40. They take the top scorers and put them in the night show.

“Expressions did a great job. Every time they did their job, took the feedback from the judges, then improved for the night show. Sometimes, that takes up to 11 o’clock. Those can be 20-hour days for these kids. That’s a lot of time.”

Archer does not do this by himself.

Jennifer Pollard is the DCHS Choir Accompanist/Assistant. Amanda Harrison, Director of DC’s Innovation Academy, oversees the band and choir shows.

“Something like this takes a village,” explained Harrison, who moved to Decatur from Ben Davis, where she was the director of choirs. “Now, as an administrator, I’m helping however I can.

“We have great parent support and the students who are the crew – roadies. The payout is just so high.
“The musicianship and the skills we teach, like perseverance, pushing through to the end and becoming stronger. Scott’s done a great job, allowing the students to lead from within. That infrastructure has been instrumental – pun intended – in their success.”

DC Principal Tom Wachnicki is more than appreciative.

“People don’t realize what it takes when it comes to competitive music,” he said.

He cites as an example soccer around the world, noting that soccer in this country is at one level, soccer in Germany is at a higher level and soccer in England is at the top.

“Indiana,” he said, “happens to be the England of competitive music.”

Expressions choir members salute their cheering fans at the conclusion of a performance.
(Photos courtsey Scott Archer)

Members of Decatur Central’s Expressions show choir work their way through a colorful routine.

By Steve Page
Correspondent

On May 12 and 13, the Decatur Central High School show choir Expressions will celebrate its state-qualifying season with a show entitled “Springabration.”

“It’s a celebration of spring,” noted Choir Director Scott Archer. “We bring back things like competition and group things that we’ve done.”

One concert will be held May 12 at 7 p.m. and the other at 1 p.m. May 13 in the school’s auditorium.

Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for students – cash or card. Tickets will be available at the door and online. Go to dchschoirs.square.site to order tickets.

This is the completion of a busy year not only of competition, but building the DC choirs.

“We hold auditions,” Archer explained. “A lot of them come before spring break, but we take them as the year goes.

“Some dancers are not so sure about singing. We try to find a place for them somewhere, get different students involved.”

There are also different levels.

“We have a JV show choir,” Archer said. “They can dip their feet into it before joining a group like Expressions.

“We have two varsity show choirs that have 40 to 45 students. The JV choir has 35. We have some students come on from there. Show Choir is also a class. It’s not just after school.”

“For the Show group, they’re showing potential in these areas. They may not be superstar dancers or singers. The ones with the most potential advance to the big show.”

That big show also has a 17-person backup band, 11 of whom are students. They all advanced to the state finals.

“The leadership of this group stepped up, helped everyone to be what they could be,” Archer said.

“Whatever I don’t see, they can pick it up, help them and get back to me. They do a good job with constant reminders and reinforcement. That helped them get to state this year.”

As overseer of band and choir shows, Amanda Harrison has observed that growth.

“Our numbers are increasing year to year, which is great for the program and great for the kids,” she said.

The student buy-in is huge. Scott’s incredibly influential. They go the extra mile.”

FARMERS MARKET NOW OPEN
Farmers market at 525 N. Madison Ave. in Greenwood Is now open each Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon. Local growers have a variety of vegetables, fruits, and herbs for sale plus flowers, baked goods, and more. The market is in the spacious parking lot of Greenwood United Methodist Church.

GREENWOOD SENIOR EXPO
The 24th annual Senior Expo unfolds Thursday, May 11, 9 a.m. to noon, at the Greenwood Community Center, 100 Surina Way. Health and living information for the public plus free health screenings. The Social of Greenwood is the event host. Admission is free. Info: thesocialofgreenwood.org.

CAREER CENTER AT GARFIELD PARK LIBRARY
Adults needing help with a resume, searching for a job or career online or filling out an online job application can participate in a career center at the Garfield Park branch library Thursday, May 11, 10 a.m. to noon. Free one-on-one assistance available. The library is at 2502 Shelby St. Info: indypl.org.

DECATUR LIBRARY GRAFITTI ART
A unique workshop featuring the genre of graffiti is for teens and adults Thursday, May 11, 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Decatur branch library, 5301 Kentucky Ave. Labeled Street Art 101, the workshop includes different fonts and the use of stencils, pencils, sharpies, cardboard, fabrics, and spray paint. Ess McKee guides participants in their own “street art” creation. Registration required. Info: indypl.org.

BG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LUNCHEON
Beech Grove City Schools Supt. Laura Hammack will be the speaker at the Greater Beech Grove Chamber of Commerce luncheon Thursday, May 11, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hornet Park Community Center. Luncheon cost is $15 per person. Hammack will present information about Beech Grove schools, including Hornet Park Early Education Center, Central and Hornet Park elementary schools, South Grove Intermediate School, middle school, and high school. Info: beechgrovechamber.org.

LADIES NIGHT: OH, WHAT A NIGHT
Ladies Night at Hornet Park Community Center in Beech Grove features the film, Jersey Boys, the story of the Four Seasons, Friday, May 12, 6:30 p.m. Ladies are urged to dress in ‘60’s attire for the dinner and movie. $5 per person. Register online or by email at: ladiesnight@beechgrove.com.

BEECH GROVE CDFC FUN DAY
The Beech Grove Community Drug Free Coalition (CDCF) and the Beech Grove branch library are having a community-wide youth fun day Saturday, May 13, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the library, 1102 Main St. Youths can enjoy arts and crafts, painting, exotic animals and more. Also youths can learn about the risk of harm in using drugs and what to do to prevent substance use. Mayor Dennis Buckley also will proclaim National Prevention Week. Info: beechgrovecdfc.org.

BG PAPER SHREDDING
The next paper shredding, appliance recycling, and medicine disposal in Beech Grove is Saturday, May 13, 9 a.m. to noon behind City Hall, 806 Main Street. This event also includes syringe disposal and eyeglasses drop-off and is sponsored by Waste Management and Hanna’s Wrecker Service. Info: beechgrove.com.

FUN WITH REAL TRUCKS
Kids can have fun with real trucks at the Greenwood Department of Public Works parking lot Saturday, May 13, 9 a.m. to noon. Vehicles from the city’s array of trucks, fire safety to construction, will be on display for youngsters to enjoy. The facility is at 367 S. Washington St., Greenwood. Info: www.greenwood.in.gov.

A WALK THROUGH THE PARK
Patrons can join a park naturalist on a walk through Garfield Park in search of a variety of birds and wildlife Saturday, May 13 at 8:30 a.m. Registration required. Participants are urged to bring comfortable walking shoes and binoculars. Meet at the Garfield Park Conservatory and Gardens. Cost $5 per person. Info: garfieldgardensconservatory.org.

VINTAGE MOVIE NIGHT
Barbed Wire (1927), an American silent film about romance in World War I is the next film to be shown during Vintage Movie Night, Saturday, May 13, 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Garfield Park Arts Center. Admission $5 at the door. Info: gpacarts.org.

GARFIELD PARK NEIGHBORS MEETING
The next Garfield Park neighborhood meeting will be Tuesday, May 16, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m, at Tube Factory artspace, 1125 Cruft St. Neighbors can obtain information about upcoming events and discuss neighborhood topics. Info: visit Facebook page of Garfield Park Neighbors Association.

CULTIVATION GARDEN CLUB
The garden club meets Thursday, May 18, 6 p.m., at St. John’s Church, U.S. 31 and Southport Road. Department of Natural Resources representative Brad Westrich speaks on managing pests in the garden. Info: call 317-889-2540.

GREENWOOD SHRED DAY
The Greenwood Library, 310 S. Meridian St., is the site of a community shredding day Saturday, May 20, 9 a.m. to noon. The public may bring papers that need to be shredded.

OIL PAINTINGS AT SALI
Former radio TV personality Leigh DeNoon Littiken has her oil paintings on display until May 27 at the Southside Art League’s Off Broadway Gallery, 299 E. Broadway Ave., Greenwood. She specializes in painting scenes of nature and the outdoors. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday, closed Sunday through Tuesday. Info: southsideartleague.org.

FRA Branch 130 is having its annual picnic Saturday, May 13, noon, at Southport City Park, 6901 Derbyshire Road. Dan Lee of Franklin and Hank Jacoby of Greenwood man the grill at a previous picnic. The U.S.S. Indianapolis Memorial Branch is for veterans of the sea services of the Navy, Marines, and Coast Guard. Members may bring a guest to the picnic. Veterans of the sea services are urged to attend. The branch meets regularly on the first Monday of the month at 6 p.m. at the Greenwood VFW and for breakfast on the second Tuesday at 9 a.m. at Denny’s at I-65 and Main Street. Info: https://www.fra130indy.org.
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Beech Grove City Schools Supt. Laura Hammack emphasizes the success of the schools during remarks at a recent Greater Beech Grove Chamber of Commerce luncheon.
(SOUTHSIDER VOICE PHOTO BY AL STILLEY)

By Al Stilley
Editor

Beech Grove City Schools Supt. Laura Hammack linked the city and the schools together as one during her remarks at a recent Greater Beech Grove Chamber of Commerce luncheon May 11 at Hornet Park Community Center.

She emphasized, “Beech Grove is one in the same – without the city, there is no school; without the schools, the city loses its sizzle.”

Hammack, who is finishing her second school year at the helm, cited the city’s increase in full housing, its activity on Main Street, additional city walking trails, and the new police station under construction as assets.
She also emphasized the motto “love when you learn” by stating, “We are unapologetic in using the word ‘love’-if love comes first; then the rest comes together.”

Hammack, who earned her doctorate at Indiana State University, also listed a Top Ten list of what makes Beech Grove City Schools special: diversity, devoted educators (20 percent of teachers and staff previously attended Beech Grove schools), academic excellence, arts, athletics, building leaders, community, facilities, safety, and fun.

She particularly acknowledged Bruce Bye as the “godfather of the FFA (Future Farmers of America)” at BGHS and for founding the agricultural education program. The FFA at its recent banquet made her an honorary FFA member. And she made special mention of taking part in a high school art class the morning of the luncheon.

A major change ahead for high school students will be the offering of “core content” classes in the first two years and an academic emphasis on the students’ special interests for various pathways during their junior and senior years.

“We have created a culture of learning for all,” Hammack stated.

After her formal remarks, Hammack took questions from attendees and was asked for her “wishes” in education.

Her “dreamy wish” would be for all students who come to school feeling safe, valued, respected, and loved and that would also be the experience in the home of every student served.

Her other wish would be to find a remedy to the inequities of school funding for a more equitable way for operational (non-teaching) funding.

“This is a tough job,” she concluded, “But it’s the best job in the world.”

Hammack had served in an administrative role with Beech Grove City Schools before serving as superintendent of Brown County Schools through the 2020-2021 school year.

Beech Grove City Schools consists of Hornet Park Early Learning Center, Central and Hornet Park elementary schools, South Grove intermediate school, and the middle and high schools.

The City of Greenwood’s popular Summer Concert Series is set to return on June 3 and will continue into August.

Following the final concert, the Fall Concert Series will kick off just a few weeks later and continue through mid-October.

Nearly every Saturday between June and August, and again from late September through mid-October, the Greenwood Amphitheater will come alive with music. The performances, which cover a variety of musical genres ranging from country to pop and rock, attract streams of Greenwood residents, families and visitors, many of whom bring lawn chairs, blankets and snack-filled coolers to create a fun, lively and welcoming atmosphere.

In 2022, Greenwood’s Parks and Recreation Department welcomed approximately 12,000 attendees to the amphitheater for the summer series and approximately 4,000 attendees for the fall series that resumes this year.

“The annual concert series is a cornerstone of the summer and fall months here in Greenwood as it provides residents and visitors the chance to come together outdoors and enjoy the community,” said Greenwood Mayor Mark W. Myers. “The success of the inaugural Fall Concert Series in 2022 is a testament to the demand for these quality-of-place centric events.”

Myers also praised the city parks department team that puts together the series for the community.
The amphitheater itself is connected to the community through a vast trail network spanning over 50 miles. The venue, which can accommodate up to 3,000 per concert, features enhanced natural landscaping and native plants.

Toy Factory will kick off the Summer Concert Series on June 3. The summer series ends Aug. 12, with a performance by My Yellow Rickshaw.

Select food trucks will be present at each concert, including Mo Bowl, Johnsons Barbecue, Happy Tacos, Chompz, Bearded Burger, Smokehouse BBQ, Marco’s Pizza and/or Brozinni Pizza, along with Jones Kettle Corn and Kona Ice.

The full Summer Concert Series schedule, presented by Johnson Memorial Health: June 3, Toy Factory; June 10, The Woomblies; June 17, The Big 80s; July 8, Living Proof; July 15, Blue River Band; July 22, Tastes Like Chicken; July 29, Nauti Yachty’s; Aug. 5, Sounds of Summer; Aug. 12, My Yellow Rickshaw.

Info: www.greenwood.in.gov.

Kate Hill-Johnson, left, and Selena Tinoco are amongst the shelves of food for Southsiders to help in the fight against hunger at the Fresh Start Market in Greenwood. Hill-Johnson is the Franciscan Health administrative director of community health improvement and Tinico is a Franciscan Health community health specialist. The market is in the Franciscan Health Sierra Building, 1040 Sierra Drive with access off Emerson Avenue in Greenwood and is open Thursdays, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
(SUBMITTED PHOTOS)

Published in the Wednesday, June 21, 2023 edition

Opened in late April, the dedication and blessing of the Fresh Start Market that serves southern Marion County and Greenwood area residents was conducted earlier this month.

The Fresh Start Market is a partnership with the Community Health and Wellness Fund of the Franciscan Health Foundation and Gleaners Food Bank of Indiana and supported by a $10,000 grant from the Hoover Foundation.

Notables at the dedication ceremony included Franciscan Alliance administrative director for community health improvement Kate Hill-Johnson, Franciscan Health Foundation executive director Greg Williamson, and Franciscan Alliance mission services coordinator Sr. Mary Joseph.

With its Franciscan Health alliance, the Fresh Start Market addresses hunger with the availability of healthy food items, free of charge, particularly with Southsiders with health issues that require special diets. No prior registration is needed.

The new food pantry features foods that doctors have recommended for healthy diets, including low sugar and low sodium and less processed foods.

The Fresh Start Market is in the Franciscan Health Sierra Building, 1040 Sierra Drive, with access off Emerson Avenue.

It is open Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Patrons also can meet with staff members to discuss health needs and other education and community resources.

The blessing at the dedication was given by Fr. James Barrand of Franciscan Health spiritual care services.
Hill-Johnson explained that this is the third market in the statewide Franciscan Health network with other sites in Hammond and Crown Point.

She also emphasized that hunger needs and health needs go hand in hand; the Fresh Start Market is a step in encouraging improved health on the Southside.

Info: franciscanalliance.org.

Fr. James Barrand, Franciscan Health spiritual care services, blesses the new Greenwood Fresh Start Market Food Pantry that serves needy Southsiders with free food items for healthy diets.

Representatives of Dreyer & Reinbold and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) visited the Franciscan Health Cancer Center recently with 200 blankets to be distributed to patients and 50 art activity kits for children whose parents are undergoing bone marrow and stem cell transplants. The blankets and kits, part of Subaru’s “Loves to Care” program, presentation included, from left, Annabeth Stem of LLS, quality manager Mandy Kalway, program coordinator Michelle Nees, Andy Thimlar of Dreyer & Reinbold Subaru, Hilary Abbott RN, nursing manager Natalie Wissel, and Kayli Dermond RN. The blankets will go to patients undergoing treatment at the Franciscan Health Indiana Blood & Marrow Transplation (IBMT) unit, 8111 S. Emerson Ave. Dreyer & Reinbold Subaru is at 1301 US 31, Greenwood.
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Historic Greenwood Fire Department fire truck is a crowd pleaser at the festive parade.
(SOUTHSIDER VOICE PHOTOS BY AL STILLEY)

The Greenwood Freedom Festival Parade featured plenty of Red, White, and Blue, including the Statue of Liberty and Uncle Sam.

Greenwood Mayor Mark Myers rides in parade Saturday on 1.5-mile route from 525 N. Madison Avenue to Surina Way to Meridian Street and ending at Isom Central Elementary School.

Dave & Busters adds orange and blue colors to annual parade.

Greenwood Fire Department rescue unit and fire truck conclude the gala parade Saturday.

These ladies in Red, White, and Blue twirl and march down Madison Avenue.

No parade is complete without the popular Oscar Meyer Weinermobile.

Greenwood Parks and Recreation vehicle wears added colors for parade.

Twirling their replica rifles high in the air, the Greenwood High School Irish Guard followed by the Drum Line thrill residents who lined the parade route.

Greenwood Police Department and VFW Color Guards lead gala parade Saturday afternoon.

This modern-day Uncle Sam rides a scooter instead of walking the parade route.

Several Corvettes join the parade including this black beauty complete with Minnie and Mickey Mouse along for the ride.

The Madison Township Fire Department has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1955.
(SUBMITTED PHOTOS)

By Steve Page
Correspondent

The Madison Township Fire Department may be on to something.

When threats of tumultuous weather Friday night forced the department to postpone its Freedom Celebration and Car Show, all was not lost.

In fact, moving the day- (and night-) long event to July 22 may have an advantage of sorts. The show is a fundraiser for the department’s community outreach.

“It will be a complete mirror of today; just on the 22nd,” Anthony McClure, the department’s new chief, said Friday afternoon. He noted that the department just went under a severe thunderstorm watch. “Attendance could decrease, but today, we are competing with lot of other holiday events around us. People will still come to our event on July 22.

“Our event is pretty popular: 1,500 to 2,500 people show up for it. It’s a Madison Township thing, but we get a lot of people from Decatur Township. They know we put on a good show. Hopefully, we’ll have the same good attendance.”

The show again will be held adjacent to MTFD Station 32, 7047 E. Landersdale Road in Camby. It will feature the same everything – food trucks, bounce houses, a car show from 2 to 5 p.m. and fireworks at dark.

McClure, whose promotion from deputy chief to head chief came on June 22, has plans for improvements. He will be assisted by new deputy chief Mike Beisel.

“He’s a paramedic, so he knows the ALS (Advanced Life Support) business,” McClure noted. “I’m an EMT, so his addition to the department is very good. It’s a good opportunity for him to be able to make things stronger and better.”

That, says McClure, is the general idea.

“I was Deputy Chief when, in early 2023, we developed a strategic plan for the department,” he said in a recent blog. “As we have been operationalizing that plan, I still believe it is a strong plan that I intend to execute and adapt as we learn and grow.

“That said, there are a number of priorities I intend to focus on immediately. These include staff recruitment and retention, team building, our EMS system, and community outreach programs. I believe that the inclusion of others in the development and execution of plans will be key to our success. As such, I intend to work with full transparency and inclusion of people with a diversity of perspectives.

“Value Driven – Mission Focused” is my determination to succeed.”

McClure joined the MTFD in May 1995 – serving as a paid standby member of the department. Shortly thereafter, he and his family relocated to Madison Township and he became a volunteer for the department. During his tenure at MTFD, he has served in many different roles.

Tony and his wife Denise, have five children and have lived in Madison Township since 2007.

The MTFD itself started in 1955 when local citizens realized that they needed fire protection. Founded by Floyd Mason and Russ Lambert, the first station was housed in a borrowed garage at what is now Taylor’s Market at S.R. 144 and Kitchen Road.

Now there are two stations, with the other, Station 31, located at 10023 N. Kitchen Road in Mooresville.
When requested, the MTFD will also assist departments in Decatur Township and Mooresville.

There’s more

“One of things I pride myself on, going back to the late ‘90’s, is our ISO rating,” McClure said. “They (members of the Insurance Service Organization) come out and rate your fire department, with No. 1 being the best. Our ISO rating currently is a 3. That tells me how prepared we are to respond to and mitigate situations.
“We’re just a few points off. So we could be an ISO 2. There are very few Class 1 fire departments in the nation. There are a lot of Class 2’s, 3’s and 4’s. We’re working on getting that 2. We won’t be a 1, because everything south in our district is non-hydrated (no water hydrants). A Class 1 would have fire hydrants every 500 feet.”
Of potentially getting the Class 2 listing, McClure said, “That’s one that really sticks out. That’s an achievement.
“Right now, we have three engines, one quint, which can do both, and it has a 75-foot ladder. We have a grass truck, bed trucks and staff vehicles, with a 2,000-gallon tanker, which comes handy in non-hydrated areas. It’s a small fleet.
“We have a roster of 40 people. It’s a combination full time and part-time dedicated. We border the 12th-largest city in the United States. It’s a tall order for a small staff. But we do all we can do.”

To the rescue:

Madison Township Fire Department firefighters are always ready to chase fires in Camby, Mooresville and surrounding communities. Two weeks ago, they went well beyond that. Someone called the department,
relating that a group of baby ducklings had fallen through a grate and into a drainage tunnel.

The firefighters on this “non-emergency” call responded. They pulled the grate away from the drain, and firefighter J. Jackomis dived in and grabbed all the ducklings. The firefighters then reunited the ducklings with their relieved momma duck.

New Madison Township Fire Chief Anthony McClure.

A Madison Township Fire Department pumper truck rests outside the station on Landersdale Road.

This is a photograph of “The Last Supper” quilt that is in full view inside the sanctuary of Mount Olive Lutheran Church.
(SOUTHSIDER VOICE PHOTOS BY AL STILLEY)

By Al Stilley
Editor

A project that began two years ago has culminated into a quilt that is the envy of the craft in the sanctuary of Mount Olive Lutheran Church in the far southwest-side of Greenwood.

Within the 15-feet-by-5-feet panel is a quilted image of one of the world’s most revered artworks in history, Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper.” The quilted depiction of Jesus and the 12 Apostles rests above the sanctuary in full view of all who enter.

The quilt was unveiled in a special presentation and viewing late last month. From beginning to completion, the expansive artwork was meticulously quilted and pieced together by the Mount Olive Quilt Ministry that also has an international reach.

“This (ministry) is a meaningful way for our church to serve and to share God’s love,” senior pastor Jeff Alexander said.

“The Last Supper” quilt had its beginnings when two quilt ministry members saw a wall hanging of a replica painting in a shop in northern Indiana. Deanna Richason and Linda Humbles searched and found a counted cross-stitch pattern and bought it to show the ministry.

Jane Loudermilk of the quilt ministry explained the painstaking but inspirational path of the quilt from start to finish. At the presentation, she said there are 52 different colors, nearly 48,000 one-inch squares, and grid-numbered backing fabric to piece together in small sections to create the final piece. A frame was built by church board members and the quilt was stretched, taking seven members to hang the quilt onto the wall.

Loudermilk recalled, “We had no idea what we were doing when we started out; it was a huge learning curve. Our one-inch squares were packaged with each color in its own bag. Our completed sections were 17 inches by 44 inches and then the separate sections were sewn together. We really had no clue what it would look like because we were doing sections.

“It was challenging, but there were no disagreements; just a matter of how long it would take us to finish it,” she concluded.

Quilt team members who took part in the project included Loudermilk, Richason, Humbles, Melissa Bade, Sandy Drapper, Roseann Gary, and Phyllis Shutters.

The symbolism of “The Last Supper” painting was explained by Alexander, who emphasized the facial expressions depicted of the Apostles.

Finished mission, comfort, and banner quilts were draped over all pews during the official presentation and viewing of “The Last Supper” quilt in the church at 5171 W. Smokey Row Road.

Members have made more than 400 quilts for the Calvary India Mission that are sent to Ambur, a village in South India; 115 comfort quilts for those suffering from terminal illnesses and hurricane victims through Zion Lutheran Church in Fort Myers, Florida; and 100 quilts and 150 pillowcases to local charities.

“I love the fact that the talent we have here is displayed in our sanctuary,” office administrator and quilt team member Janine Owen said. “I didn’t grasp in my mind the impact that the finished quilt would have on our congregation. It reminds all of us of the center of our faith – Jesus Christ.”

Info: www.moconnect.org.

Janine Owen, office administrator and quilt ministry team member, talks about the history of quilting at the church.

Quilt ministry team member Jane Loudermilk holds a sample of the backing used on “The Last Supper” quilt.

FACTS ABOUT THE CREATION OF THE LAST SUPPER QUILT

*1 full coverage cross stitch pattern.
*52 DMC embroidery thread colors matched to factory inventory.
*1” squares of cut fabric, finished at ½”.
*47,752 squares of fabric used.
*3 rolls of 20-foot 1” gridded fusible interface used.
*376 rows wide by 127 rows tall (188” x 63 ½”).
*6 panels used and sewn together to create the whole piece.
*Size 60W thread used for sewing rows.
*Brother Model SQ9285 sewing machine used.
*Black fabric markers used to add definition to some features.
*2 teams of 2 members pressed squares to the interfacing.
*1 member dedicated to pressing seams.
*1 member dedicated to bobbin winding.
*3 members worked on sewing the rows.
*All members offered support and encouragement.
-Courtesy of Mt. Olive Quilt Ministry Team.

These quilts were among the numerous quilts crafted by the quilt ministry team that were draped on the pews recently during the public presentation and viewing of “The Last Supper” quilt.

During a reception at Mount Olive Lutheran Church, Deeanna Richason, left, and Melissa Bade, behind table, explain some of the techniques that quilters used in crafting the massive quilt.

Gregory Schaub, far right, the Grand Marshal of the Southport Independence Day Parade, gathers with wife Peggy, family members and employees of E.M. Company in staging area at Southport Elementary School. Earlier this year, Schaub was honored by family and employees for his 50 years with E.M. Company in Southport. Schaub is the C.E.O. of E.M. Company, a Southport landmark company.
(SOUTHSIDER VOICE PHOTOS BY AL STILLEY)

Dale Singer, right, and Alice Langreck, the king and queen of Perry Senior Services, stand in front of banner behind truck that they rode in during the sunny Fourth of July parade in Southport. The parade was held under sunny skies on the Fourth of July after being postponed from July 1 due to storms that caused some power outages on the Southside.

Marion County Fair Queen Sara Zink, middle, top row, a student at Ball State University, is with her county fair court consisting of, from left, front, Jaden Crockett, Franklin Central High School; Madison Jordan, Perry Meridian High School, Lacie Ferguson, Franklin Central; top row, Averie Hinton, Butler University; Zink; and Trinity Lee, IUPUI. The county fair ended its annual run Sunday.

The Southport Police Department mascot was among the first marchers in the parade route from Southport Elementary School on Walnut Street to Southport Road and to Derbyshire Road at the Southport Park where residents enjoyed a free picnic and plenty of sunshine on the Fourth of July.

Parade Grand Marshal and E.M. Company CEO Gregory Schaub waves to parade viewers who lined Walnut Street.

Southport Mayor Jim Cooney enjoys the ride on Walnut Street.

This Ford hot rod has a cardboard special guest.

No parade on the Southside is complete without Corvettes, and these Corvettes did not disappoint.

These dancers followed the GOP parade vehicle in the Southport parade.

The American flag and troop flags are carried by members of Boy Scout Troop 499 of Southport.

Red-white-and-blue, the colors of the day, adorn the Southport Flag Project Jeep.

Kids scramble for candy that was tossed by dignitaries in the parade after the vehicles had passed on Walnut Street near South Street in Southport.

Veteran Figure-8 competitor Matt Smith completes his victory lap Saturday after winning the Mike Greig Sr. Memorial 75-lap Figure-8 race for late models. Smith paid tribute to his crew and to fellow competitor Ben Tunny for using his backup motor. Smith edged runnerup Tim Logue with Steve Durham, Cory Harmon, and R.J. Norton Jr. rounding out the top five. Greig’s son, Doug Greig, won the Dash4Cash trophy dash. Smith’s local sponsors include the 5th Ave. Grill and Bar in Beech Grove and Hutchinson Signs. The night of racing was capped by the Speedrome’s annual ground and aerial fireworks displays.
(SUBMITTED PHOTO)

Deputy John N. Durm

Our prayers and condolences go out to the family and all members of the Marion County Sheriff’s Department in memory of John N. Durm, 61, who was killed in the line of duty at the new Criminal Justice Center on the near-eastside of Indianapolis.

Durm was committed to a law enforcement career for 38 years. He also was a devoted husband and father and served his community well.

He is the second area law enforcement officer to be killed in the line of duty in less than two weeks when Indiana State Police Trooper Aaron N. Smith, 33, a Whiteland High School graduate and former student-athlete, was killed in the line of duty June 28. Trooper Smith’s burial was July 7 at Crown Hill Cemetery.

Durm was with an inmate inside the adult detention center on July 10 who attacked him, allegedly stole the transport van, crashed, and was apprehended.

Marion County Sheriff Kerry Forestal called the incident “an intentional act of homicide.” The suspect was later charged with two counts of murder and two more charges.

Forestall also acknowledged that Durm’s ex-wife Ramona also has worked at the sheriff’s department for several decades.

Durm was praised for his devotion to service, the community, and his four sons who enjoyed playing sports like their father. He also enjoyed fishing and hunting. Family and friends enjoyed his kindness and sense of humor.

His colleagues praised him as a “mentor,” “icon,” “genuine,” “courteous,” and “irreplaceable.”
He is survived by four sons, his parents, two stepbrothers, and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation was Sunday at the Scottish Rite Cathedral. Funeral service was conducted Monday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Marion Circuit and Superior Courts, County Probation Office, and the County Clerk’s Office at the Criminal Justice Center were closed Monday in Durm’s honor.

Contributions in John Durm’s honor may be made to: Central Indiana Police Foundation, 1525 S. Shelby St., Indianapolis, IN 46203, or online at cipf.foundation / the-deputy-john-durm-memorial-fund/
Expressions of sympathy may be shared for the Durm family at: www.crownhill.org.

While we praise Durm for his law enforcement and community service, we must encourage everyone to show respect for all law enforcement officers and to honor their presence.

We must do our part to encourage everyone to obey the law and continue to honor those who serve.

Football players at Mission TDI camp in Catalunya, Spain huddle for prayer after a day of American football practice.
(PHOTOS COURTESY OF MISSION TDI)

By Al Stilley
Editor

Nine years ago, Andre Dobson placed his passion for missions and football into an undetermined future.

With prayer and about two months later, Dobson, who is entering his second year as football founder and coach at Greenwood Christian Academy (GCA), received his answer in a phone call from, of all places, Spain.

That’s when Dobson founded Mission Touchdown International (TDI).

“Nine years ago, throughout my teaching career and going on mission and educational trips, I asked the Lord to please open the door and mix my two biggest loves, football and missions, together,” Dobson recalled Thursday.

Dobson recalled his path with TDI just four days after arriving back in Greenwood from his eighth mission in Spain where youngsters through high school-age continue to learn about American football.

Practically all school-age sports internationally are played through town clubs instead of schools. It’s the same way throughout Spain and Europe. Soccer is the No. 1 sport in Spain and followed in popularity by basketball, volleyball, and handball – all played in clubs and professionally. Tennis is mostly through private clubs.

As the head of TDI, Dobson handles the logistics and organization of two camps annually during the summer in the heart of Barcelona through the Catalunya Football Club. The first mission begins with a massive one-day promotional event that attracts kids of all ages from northeastern Spain and then follows later with a week-long football camp. Elementary school aged youngsters play flag football while older players play in a full contact camp.

Through the years, former and current National Football League and college players have helped with the camps, including Greg Romeus and Pat Leece of the Packers, Demetrius Bronson of the Seahawks, Rick Griffith of the Patriots, and Cory Proctor of the Cowboys, University of Central Florida quarterback Marquel Neasmean, and veteran Missouri coaches Sam Knopik and Greg Smith and ex-college coach Scott Metcalf among other notables.

“It is so enjoyable bringing so many people together to be with the players over there,” Dobson said. “I continue to pray about everything we can do with the organization. We’ve been invited to 12 other countries and I’m trying to figure out how to get them all in.”

Although his main focus is Spain, Dobson would like to see TDI do three trips to different countries each year. Future countries could include Egypt, Brazil, UAE, Singapore, China, Uruguay, Israel, Greece, and Uganda.

Each summer that Dobson arrives in Catalunya, he is greeted like Santa Claus because he brings new and auxiliary football equipment with him for the campers who treasure their new gloves, helmet visors, backplates, and mouthpieces.

“The equipment they have usually is not new because it is so hard to get and expensive,” Dobson said. “I have no idea how they get some of their equipment. They go nuts over any new equipment.”

Dobson, who has 25 years of coaching experience, has witnessed firsthand the impact of American football internationally.

“With the growth of social media, everyone is able to see American football,” Dobson observed. “It’s interesting because each country that is interested in developing football uses the spread offense because that’s all they see, and what they see, they do.”

With his experiences in Spain, Dobson added, “All across the world, American football is the fastest growing sport, so the opportunities to go over and help educate and grow the game are huge.”

Dobson, the son of missionary parents, pointed out that American football in Spain has grown since the 1990s with NFL Europe and the Barcelona Dragons and that the attraction of American football is more and more generational overseas.

“Spain absolutely loves the game,” he concluded.

He grew up in Calcutta and Cairo and is a graduate of Bellingham (Washington) High School, and Evangel University in Missouri.

Dobson contends that some of the obstacles faced during his early TDI sessions in Spain helped him adapt in launching GCA’s first-ever football program in 2022 with a small band of 21 players and plenty of improvising with only a 60-yard field and no home field.

“I really feel like God helped set me up for these situations,” Dobson said. “We started from zero last year, doing the best we had with what we got. We were late receiving pads and helmets. We used garbage cans for some positions on defense when we ran our offense.”

Dobson is married. He and his wife Brianne, a physician’s assistant, have a daughter, Mya, a student at IUPUI; son Trey, a student-athlete at GCA; and son Drew, a “100 percent” soccer player according to his dad.

Dobson made it clear when he came to GCA that he would not waste time in building a winning program. The Cougars won two of four varsity games last season with only 21 players. The callout for this year’s team resulted in 31 players.

“Kids rise up to the challenges you present to them,” Dobson said. “I’ve already seen that with our team and our program at our school. When you set the expectations high, the kids will grow to it.”

His philosophy is a mission that he carries worldwide with his faith.

Info: http://www.missiontdi.com

Mission TDI coaches who were overseas earlier this month pose in front of castle in Besalu, Spain. American football is growing in Spain where the top league is the Spanish Federation of American Football.

Greenwood Christian Academy sophomore quarterback Trey Dobson, second from left, is among new friends at recent football camp earlier this month in Spain.

Mission TDI founder and organizer and second-year Greenwood Christian Academy coach Andre Dobson is with high school-age players at camp in Spain.

Recent family photo includes Andre Dobson, second from left, and wife Brianne, left, daughter Mya, and sons Trey and Drew. They moved from Florida last year when Dobson was hired as the first-ever football coach at Greenwood Christian Academy.

After greatly increasing the size and scope of the Decatur Township Community Day for 2023 and with the weather threatening, Kelly Ivey (left) and Jess Sandvold moved the event from the middle school parking lot into the spacious Armstrong Pavilion on the campus of Decatur Central High School.
(SOUTHSIDER VOICE PHOTOS BY STEVE PAGE)

By Steve Page
Correspondent

The plan was to expand and grow the Decatur Township Community Day by moving the event from the small middle school parking lot to Devere Fair Stadium.

But when weather threatened the daytime happening, organizers opted to move it into the spacious confines of Armstrong Pavilion on the Decatur Central High School campus.

“We wanted to bring more people into the event,” explained Kelly Ivey, Executive Director for the Decatur Township Drug-Free Coalition. “This day was meant to connect people with resources.”

More people, more resources.

Kelly and Jess Sandvold, Coalition Coordinator, began the event in 2019, but it was wiped out by Covid 19. Last year, they resurrected the event.

This year, they grew it, thanks in part to a grant.

“The opioid settlement grant follows more on the township with adult instruction,” Ivey noted. “That’s just the thing to save lives. That’s what it’s all about.

“We’ve had a lot of people connected with lots of giveaways. This year, we wanted to focus on young entrepreneurs. We wanted to challenge those kids to come out, be a part of Community Day.”

One of them is Noel Baker, owner of Camby-based Crochet Creations. She had a table-full of her crochet productions.

“I’ve done this since I was 10 years old,” Baker said. “I love it; I love doing it for all these people.
“The turnout today has been pretty decent – not too bad.”

There’s more, noted Ivey.

“There are a lot of cheerleaders and athletes who can give back to the community that supports them,” she said. Nearby, DC cheerleaders provided entertainment by dancing to music and other athletes provided help where needed.

“We had one food truck last year,” Ivey said. “We needed more, and we have (3) more. The Taco Truck is from Decatur Township.”

The exhibitors themselves seemed to come from all over.
Creating one stir were the people from the plan to create the “Southwestway Park Greenway” with a Decatur Corridor Plan. They want, among other things, to focus on modern village infrastructure and a new town center.

“We need housing diversity, they say. “We have limited amenities.”

That’s all fine and dandy, as long as it fits the neighborhood, says Pat Andrews of the Decatur Township Civic Council and the Decatur Township Alliance of Neighborhood Associations.

“We must be realistic about what the Greenway proposed in the Draft Corridor Plan could be,” she said. “We must require that, if it is built, it be far more attractive and a far better asset than the Southern Dunes Greenway example. There must be standards in place in this corridor plan that would give substantial protection to our community.

That was just one of the many options provided to fairgoers.

Taking a step
There was a large area, just inside the pavilion’s south doors, devoted to “Changing Footprints,” a non-for-profit organization that collects used shoes and provides them to the needy. It also provides food.

“We reach out all over the world with our community centers,” said Scott Splichal of Helping Our Own People, Inc. (HOOP).

“We started making food for people in need, working with the police department and the sheriffs.”

Building trust
Decatur Township Trustee Jason Holliday was there, explaining to people just what a trustee does and how helpful his office can be.

“The trustee does several things: fire protection, emergency medical for the township,” said Holliday, whose office is in the Decatur Township Fire Department building.

“We’re also assisting utilities and rent. We provide corporation assistance as well. We’re also maintaining cemeteries in townships; Decatur has two of them. We have an assistance program to help pay utility bills. We work with the state department of insurance.

“We’re here to remind the community that we’re here to help.”

Spectators also came upon a display that had a model of a deceased young girl on the floor, surrounded by barriers and police tape. She was there as the exhibit for the Marion County Coroner’s Office.

“People like Molly,” said Chief Assistant Leteefah Birks. “They like to think about things like this. Some people find death fascinating.”

As well as life.

“We’re here to help people with overdoses,” Birks said. “Overdose is the leading cause of death in Marion County.”

The top of the Changing Footprints brochure says it all about giving shoes to the needy.

Noel Baker’s Crochet Creations table inside the Decatur Central Pavilion was full of her loving labors.

This rendering shows a portion of what the proposed Decatur Greenway could look like.

Decatur Township Trustee Jason Holliday was on hand in the DC Pavilion to explain to residents how his office serves the community.

(SPEEDROME PHOTOS BY KYLIE ANNE PHOTOGRAPHY)
The annual Indianapolis Speedrome Hall of Fame Night featured the traditional 100-lap Sonny Thompson Memorial Figure-8 race and induction of an honoree into the track’s hall of fame. Standing next to the memorial race winner’s trophy for drivers in the Late Model Figure-8 division, Ben Tunny celebrates on the frontstretch with Medessa Kirby. Tunny was trailed by Troy Hughes Jr., Tim Logue, Jesse Tunny, and John Conner Jr. among the top five finishers. Tunny is a three-time World Figure-8 champion. Marilyn Hargraves, a longtime fan and former track employee who registered drivers and crewmembers in the pit office for many years is the 2023 inductee into the Hall of Fame, also in a frontstretch ceremony. Holding her Hall of Fame plaque, Hargraves is with daughters Pam Thurman, left, and Missy Etter and son Johnny Hargraves, Jr. She has been associated with the southeast-side track for more than five decades. The special night took place July 29. Figure-8 action resumes Saturday night with a Late Model 50-lap chase on the Figure-8, Factory FWDs, Junior Faskarts, Fords on the oval and Figure-8 plus bicycle races for ages 8-10 years old. The Speedrome is at Brookville Road and Kitley Avenue. Info: speedrome.com

Beech Grove

(SOUTHSIDER VOICE PHOTOS BY AL STILLEY)
Face painting was popular with kids visiting Don Challis Park, site of the Beech Grove Police Night Out. Artist Debra Rolands paints the face of Addison Fanelli, 5.

Police Night Out attendees could look over weapons utilized by the Beech Grove Police Department.

Greenwood

Nitro, the official mascot of the Indy Fuel minor league ice hockey team, takes advantage of a photo opportunity with representatives of the Trahan Realty Group, from left, Shamberly Smock, Whitney Christy, Melissa Trahan, and Tiffany Fishburn.

Greenwood police tent featured some police equipment, including a protective vest, and pencils, paper and other school supplies for young students.

Indianapolis Indians mascot Rowdie mingles with the crowd during Greenwood Police Night Out.

Southport

(SUBMITTED PHOTOS)
City of Southport Officer R. Glassburn serves dinner to guests.

Visitors to Southport’s National Night Out could eat and relax indoors at the community center next to Southport Park where outdoor activities took place.

Need seeds to plant? The library has them

Youthful Decatur students reach perfection

Hawks sing and dance to new heights

May concerts cap a season of building

BULLETIN BOARDS

FRA BRANCH PICNIC AT SOUTHPORT PARK

Hammack links success of city and schools together

Greenwood slates 2023 Summer Concert Series

Franciscan Health opens Fresh Start Market to help needy Southsiders

Local auto dealer assists in comforting patients

FREEDOM FESTIVAL PARADE LAUNCHES USA CELEBRATION

MTFD postpones fireworks due to weather, looks ahead

The Last Supper quilt draws reverence and awe from viewers at Mt. Olive Lutheran

City of Southport parade on Fourth of July brings out residents for patriotic celebration

SMITH CLAIMS MIKE GREIG SR. MEMORIAL FIGURE-8 AT SPEEDROME

In memory of Deputy John N. Durm

GCA coach Dobson’s passion for missions and football takes him worldwide

DT Community Day keeps growing

SPEEDROME HALL OF FAME NIGHT FIGURE-8WINNER, INDUCTEE

National Night Out

Beech Grove

Greenwood

Southport