Quick takes – July 30

Welcome gesture

Columbus Police Department’s officers are sworn to protect and serve, but they also have a sense of compassion. In the wake of the fatal shootings of five Dallas police officers on July 7, and three Baton Rouge officers on July 17, several local officers traveled to those communities to show unity and support by attending and participating in funerals for slain officers.

Lt. Matt Harris and Officer Eric Kapczynski went to Dallas for the funerals of two slain police officers, and officers Angie Owens and Julie Quesenbery returned earlier this week from Baton Rouge after attending funerals of two officers. Owens and Quesenbery assisted with casket guard and escort duties.

Columbus Police Chief Jon Rohde said it was important for the department to lend a hand. The support provided was a kind and welcome gesture, and surely was appreciated by the Dallas and Baton Rouge police departments during difficult and emotional times.

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Support appreciated

Putting together a community event or festival takes a substantial commitment of time and effort — and financial support. That’s certainly the case of the Johnson Witkemper Biggest Block Party Ever.

The latest edition of the annual summertime event in downtown Columbus was July 23. It offered live music, tasty food and games and crafts for children and adults. This year also offered sizzling temperatures — just another example of something organizers must deal with.

The Columbus Area Arts Council’s ongoing efforts in organizing the block party, and Johnson-Witkemper Insurance’s continued sponsorship of it are appreciated because the block party is something everyone can enjoy.

Nice touch

When the new Kroger Marketplace opens at 3060 National Road later this year, it will feature a nice touch of Columbus. Local artist Allison Horner was commissioned to create a piece of art that will be showcased in the café area of the grocery chain’s local store.

Horner, the adjunct instructor at Ivy Tech Community College Columbus chosen by a panel, is creating an oversized acrylic image called “Columbus: The Community of Thoughtful Play” that highlights elements of the area’s architecture.

The artwork will be nice local touch to help celebrate city’s heritage and connect the store to the community a bit more.