More than a name
Columbus Police’s newest K-9 officer connects the department’s future and past.
Last week, nearly three dozen people gathered to be introduced to K-9 Cleon, a German Shepherd named after the late Cleon Sweeney.
Described as the embodiment of the term “protect and serve,” Sweeney served at CPD for 36 years. He died in July of 2015.
K-9 Cleon will be handled by officer John Busack. In late March, the two completed six weeks of intense training at the F.M. K9 training center in Berrien Center, Michigan.
Sweeney, who was also a Marine, was beloved by many in the community; and his family members said they were touched by the gesture.
CPD made a great call in memorializing the former officer in this manner.
Moving forward
Two major local construction projects that were put on hold are now back on schedule.
Last week, the city and CRH announced they’re resuming planning and work on reconfiguring FairOaks Mall into NexusPark, which will be a wellness and recreation center. A first reading on appropriations took place on Tuesday to pay for the architect and construction manager, and the second reading of appropriations is scheduled for June 15.
In addition, CRH officials said plans to turn the former Clarion hotel site on Columbus’ west side into a mixed-use development are now in motion, with construction now expected to begin later this year. CRH has signed an agreement with Clearpath Services of Bloomington to sell the site while still retaining a parcel of land within the mixed-use development for hospital programs and services.
No matter how you feel about the projects as a whole, it’s good to know that progress is being made after more than a year of delays due to the pandemic.
Honoring the lost
After a year when nearly all services were canceled due to COVID-19, Memorial Day events resumed across Bartholomew County this past weekend.
Despite soggy conditions, the annual SALUTE! concert put on by the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic saw a nice turnout in its return on Friday.
On Monday, under sunny skies, Columbus held its three annual services at the Robert N. Stewart, Garland Brook Cemetery, and the Bartholomew County Memorial of Veterans. In the final service at the memorial, around 200 people attended.
The annual service in Hope, which did not get canceled in 2020, was also held. Following a pilgrimage through several local cemeteries, the service concluded at the Hope Moravian Cemetery Veterans Memorial.
It’s important that these services continue to be held each year, and we’re glad that the public was able to participate together again after a year apart.
