Buzzing about architecture
The buzz that’s been generated regarding Columbus architecture has been fun to see. Local residents and visitors have been flocking to the city’s celebrated architectural sites because of Exhibit Columbus and the recently released movie, “Columbus.”
Exhibit Columbus — an inaugural celebration of architecture, art and design — features 18 temporary installations around downtown, including the five Miller Prize winners. The works are eye-catching because of their colors and designs, and interactive in that they encourage people to touch them, and even stand in or on them to fully experience the works.
“Columbus” weaves the city’s renowned architectural gems into the fabric of the movie and lets the audience see and understand them the way the main characters do.
Columbus has a lot to be proud of because of its architecture. Exhibit Columbus and the movie are reminding local residents of that.
Important assistance
The Columbus City Council recently approved giving Bartholomew Consolidated School Corp. $750,000 in tax increment financing (TIF) funds to support school programs for the second year in a row. One of those programs is iGrad, which helps at-risk students in Grades 8-12 get on track to graduate.
That support is important as local education, business and community stakeholders work to increase the local graduation rate and education attainment level. The impact iGrad, which started in 2012, has had is apparent. It has contributed to the dropout rate in Bartholomew County decreasing 59 percent since 2011, with 46 dropouts last year compared to 112 in 2011.
While TIF funds are important in fostering economic development and infrastructure, there also is an impact on funding for BCSC. It’s good to see the city council help ensure that the important local iGrad program has the financial support it needs to continue and help students that will be part of the community’s next generation workforce. That’s a wise investment.
Supporting worthy cause
Columbus Signature Academy — New Tech High School students, along with teacher Matt Baker, organized the Patriot Day 5K race, conducted Monday evening in Mill Race Park and along the People Trail on Jonathan Moore Pike. It was organized to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project and tie in with the National Day of Service and Remembrance.
The Sept. 11 event had 46 participants, raised $810 and generated a lot of energy, Baker said. The Wounded Warrior Project is a worthy one to support. Soldiers who sacrifice for the U.S. and return home with injuries need support — medically and emotionally.
The money raised with the Patriot Day 5K was a great idea by the students and their teacher, and a great way to serve soldiers who selflessly serve their country.
