Positive impact
In his 35-year life, Columbus resident and singer Jamaal Combs made a huge impact on many different people from all walks of life. That was evident Aug. 19 as about 600 of them attended his visitation or funeral. Combs died a week earlier of a heart condition.
He was best known for winning the 2010 Columbus Idol Live competition, singing at the 2015 Bartholomew County Area Branch of the NAACP banquet and karaoke performances at local night spots. However, Combs also was known as a kind, generous person who brightened the lives of others.
His death at a young age is a loss for the community.
Tackling diabetes
Columbus East senior Harry Crider is best known for his work on the gridiron as a member of the Olympians football team, but he deserves kudos for his efforts to support awareness of diabetes off the field.
Crider, who has had Type 1 diabetes since age 10, used East’s season-opener Aug. 19 as a way to inform people about the disease that results in too much sugar in a person’s blood, and to raise funds on behalf of Riley Hospital for Children. Riley is where Crider was diagnosed for his diabetes. The athlete currently participates in clinical trials that allows specialists to learn more about the disease’s causes and history in an effort to discover new therapies.
While the fundraiser and awareness event was an essential part of Crider’s senior project, it also was a beneficial service to the community.
Entrepreneurial spirit
Small businesses are an integral part of communities, including Columbus. They’re created by entrepreneurs who have a vision and are driven to turn an idea into reality. The result is new businesses that provide goods and services that people want and employ local residents.
The Venture Awards, sponsored annually by the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce, are a great way to honor the entrepreneurial spirit locally. This year’s winners were announced during a luncheon Aug. 16 at the Clarion Hotel and Conference Center. They were:
- Entrepreneur of the Year: Simmons Winery/450 North Brewing Co.
- New and Emerging Business: YoMaMa Frozen Yogurt
- Small Business Advocate of the Year: SCORE.
The stories of the winners, and of the award finalists, provide valuable, positive examples for anyone who dreams of starting a business and having it succeed.
