Good idea
Since the beginning of 2014, Bartholomew Consolidated School Corp. and Columbus Police Department have had a relationship that enables two police officers to be present in the district’s schools on a daily basis. They are known as school resource officers, and beyond providing security they also help foster relationships and assist with mentoring and troubleshooting.
One of the two local resource officers, Julie Quesenbery, now has been selected to represent east central Indiana as an Indiana School Resource Officer regional representative. Her duties will include sharing information about school trends with about 50 officers in her region, and assist with officer training.
Sharing information and best practices are always beneficial, including when it comes to protecting and helping students.
Chance to help
Local residents can help support 49 nonprofit organizations during the holiday season by donating to the Grant A Wish program offered by the Heritage Fund: the Community Foundation of Bartholomew County. Donations fill needs of the nonprofits, which in turn benefit community residents — many of whom are clients of the organizations.
Grant A Wish runs through Dec. 19, so there’s still time to help. Some of the needs are small, other a bit larger, so people can contribute according to their ability.
To learn more about how to contribute, go online at heritagefundbc.org, click on the Grant A Wish logo, choose a wish to fulfill and complete the donation information.
Welcome home
Kudos to Columbus resident Tony Stewart for agreeing to return to his hometown to celebrate completion of his 18-year career as a NASCAR driver with an appearance as guest of honor in the city’s annual Festival of Lights Parade. The event will run through downtown Columbus the evening of Dec. 3.
His success — three times winning the series championship of stockcar racing’s top circuit — has put the city in the spotlight and meant a lot to many residents. Stewart’s planned appearance is welcome and appreciated, and will make the festivities all the more exciting.
