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Tom Bostic

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Staff Reports
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29th Street

Leland Thomas “Tom” Bostic, 79, of 29th Street, died at 12 p.m. November 22, 2016, at his home.

Tom was born August 21, 1937, in Decatur County, the son of Delta Grant and Thelma Irene Beach Bostic. He married Linda Fay Fountain November 21, 1958.

Tom graduated from Greensburg High School where he played basketball, baseball and football. He started work at Cummins Engine Company immediately after graduating high school, working in publications, distribution and services for 29 years until his retirement in 1987. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, where he also played basketball.

He was a longtime member of First Christian Church where he was baptized in 1964. He was an avid IU fan and loved spending time with his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed coaching his children’s sports teams and leading their Boy Scout troops. Tom also officiated high school basketball and football games and was an avid softball player and bowler.

The funeral will be at 10 a.m. Monday, November 28, 2016, at Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home with Justin White officiating. Calling hours will be from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home and one hour prior to the service Monday. Military honors will be provided by Bartholomew County Veterans Honor Guard.

Memorials may be made to First Christian Church through the funeral home.

Survivors include his wife, Linda; sons, Thomas Alan (Laura) Bostic of Orleans, Indiana, Stacey Grant (Sherry) Bostic of Bloomington and Richard Jay Bostic of Columbus; a brother, Robert Lee (Melissa) Bostic of Montgomery, Alabama; grandchildren, Katie, Kyle (Stefany), Jacob, Ashleigh (Matthew), David, Chelcey, Hunter (Ezequiel), Madeline, Braden and Sydney; and great-grandchildren, Selana, Maya, John and Benjamin.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Lester D. Bostic and Theron James Bostic.

You are invited to view his video tribute after 2 p.m. Sunday, light a virtual candle and send a message to the family via the internet.

www.jewellrittman.com

Letter: Students’ program proof of shining light in darkness

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From: Tony McClendon

Director of multicultural diversity

Bartholomew Consolidated School Corp.

I attended a program at Columbus Signature Academy – New Tech High School on Nov. 16. I thought this program was fantastic. A student group, under the supervision of their instructors and administrators, sponsored an interfaith discussion. The program included invited panelists, representing the religious faiths of Buddhism, Christianity, Islam and Judaism. This was not a religious program. There was no proselytizing. This program was an educational exercise that afforded CSA New Tech students an opportunity to ask questions about each faith in a positive learning environment. It is through education that better understanding is achieved, and programs like this one promote this assertion.

In this time of hate speech, inappropriate behavior directed at certain groups of students and people, in this period of racial and religious interposition, it is refreshing and encouraging to see positive programs, like this one, take place. I was further encouraged when I saw CSA New Tech students, at the conclusion of the program, come up to the panelists, shaking the hands of each panelist and thanking the panelists for their participation. Principal Mike Reed and counselor Megan Shaff and all of the New Tech instructors involved in this program are to be praised. CSA New Tech students involved in the planning and execution of this program deserve congratulations on a job well done.

These programs need to be reported to the media. Far too often, only the adverse things that happen in our schools and with our youths are the items that make the evening news. It is programs like these that demonstrate that there is a positive light shining in all of this foreboding darkness.

Sign of the times: New business will keep piece of city’s past

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Staff Reports
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For a quick lunch, a leisurely dinner, or an afternoon snack, why not stop at Frisch’s along with Suellen Grady and Sherry Zink. Republic archives
For a quick lunch, a leisurely dinner, or an afternoon snack, why not stop at Frisch’s along with Suellen Grady and Sherry Zink. Republic archives

For several months now I’ve followed progress on the clearing of a nondescript property at 25th and Cherry streets. The one-story building in the middle of the property had been vacated several years ago, and it was demolished earlier this year.

For months the land was vacant save for a forlorn structure just off 25th Street, an outsized sign that had no words. I kept wondering when that, too, would be added to the Bartholomew County landfill, until construction began for what will be a Ricker’s gas station. The sign is still there, and there it will stay.

It’ll bear the Ricker’s logo, but a lot of people with memories of an older Columbus will look at it and remember the image of a smiling boy holding aloft a loaded hamburger over the name of the business — Frisch’s Big Boy. There was a second sign just under the symbol of the happy waiter, one that usually advertised the special of the day or displayed a congratulatory message to some group or team, usually from the nearby Columbus High School.

The sign and the drive-in restaurant had special meaning to several generations of Columbus High School students. It was the center of action for a rite of passage — the cruising phenomenon of the mid-20th century.

Its horseshoe parking lot was an ideal setting for cruising. Sometimes some of the cruisers would even pull into one of the slots set aside for ordering meals and having them delivered by carhops, but for the most part it was used so that young drivers could parade their rides past admiring peers, exit back onto 25th Street bound for another cruising station and then return for another showing later in the day or night.

The site was so popular that Columbus police had to periodically assign officers to manage traffic going into and out of the business.

There is a twofold reason why the sign will become a part of the new Ricker’s store. One is a practical application of recycling. The other is pure nostalgia.

The notion of keeping the sign came to Travis Smith, director of real estate for the Ricker’s chain, earlier this year as he drove past it on 25th Street.

“As soon as I saw its shape I immediately thought of a Frisch’s Big Boy sign on property up in Anderson,” he said. “The restaurant is still functioning, and it’s a familiar place for a lot of us on the Ricker’s staff, especially the company founder, Jay Ricker.”

Smith took his idea to Ricker and proposed that the shape be retained for the new location. Ricker, somewhat of a nostalgia buff himself, agreed.

Apparently, Ricker’s personnel aren’t the only ones with a whimsical sense of nostalgia. The sign was larger than that mandated by Columbus’ sign ordinance, but the city’s Board of Zoning Appeals granted a variance, allowing it to stay in place.

Although the smiling carhop won’t be part of the Ricker’s logo, I suspect that a lot of older drivers on 25th Street will be reassured by the retention of the familiar shape. In some respects, attachment to signs like the old Frisch’s Big Boy is a Columbus thing. Some of those that have helped draw customers to local businesses have achieved iconic status.

One of the most memorable would have to be the old waving clown that beckoned hungry customers to the Dairy Queen on 25th Street. Equipped with an arm that went up and down, the sign, named Sammy, proved to be a magnet, especially for young children out with their parents on drives around town. Over the years I’ve heard many accounts from parents who were forced to repeatedly drive past the sign so that their young passengers could wave back.

Several years ago, Dairy Queen decided to drop the waving clown as a logo and sent out messages to franchise holders across the country to scrap their signs. The late Frances Olinger, co-owner of the local franchise, stood her ground on keeping the clown, and Dairy Queen officials decided not to press the matter.

Unfortunately Sammy stopped waving when the 25th Street Dairy Queen was closed. It was put into storage by co-owner Bob Franke.

Just as iconic was the large hammer sign that drew customers into the Gross Hardware Store on State Street. It was pretty much a landmark in East Columbus, people unfamiliar with the area being told where to go based on how far their site was from the big hammer.

Adding to the special aspect of the hardware sign is that it was made in Columbus in the mid-20th century. After the store closed, its owner, Beth Gross Dilley, tried to find a place for it in Columbus where it could still be admired. That effort didn’t yield any positive results, but eventually a new home was found for it in Cincinnati, headquarters of the American Sign Museum.

I realize that the Ricker’s sign on 25th Street won’t be quite the same as it once was, but for several generations of cruisers just its outline will serve as a reminder of their youth.

Harry McCawley is the former associate editor of The Republic. He can be reached at harry@therepublic.com.

Thanksgiving meal efforts important, fill big need

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Staff Reports
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This is the time of year when we give thanks for our blessings, such as family, friends, shelter and jobs. We also can be thankful for important community resources that make a difference in the lives of residents.

Several in Columbus do that by providing free Thanksgiving meals.

The America and Roby Anderson Community Center, 421 McClure Road, served as one such meal sites on Saturday.

That was great to see considering that the former Eastside Community Center closed last fall and was unable to maintain its more-than-30-year tradition of hosting a Thanksgiving season meal. The State Street Association spearheaded the return of the annual meal, which is a welcome part of the center’s rebirth.

Today, both First Christian Church and Columbus Baptist Church will again host their annual Thanksgiving dinners for the community. Combined, they typically serve or deliver more than 1,300 free meals.

Organizers have heard from some of the meal recipients that if it wasn’t for the free deliveries that they wouldn’t have seen another person that day. Others who partake in the meals are just down on their luck and need a helping hand.

These programs fill an important need for nutrition and holiday companionship, making sure no one who would enjoy company needs to miss out on such an opportunity.

That is something for which we can all be thankful.

Go Guide – November 24

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Staff Reports
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Educational

November

TOPICS IN PERMACULTURE: REPORT FROM WISCONSIN’S DRIFTLESS REGION, 6:30 p.m. Nov. 28, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Presenter Kris Medic with the Purdue Extension will feature two permaculture farms in Wisconsin’s Driftles region.  Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

GENERAL GRANT: THE MAN BEHIND THE UNIFORM, 6:30 p.m. Nov. 29, Bartholomew County Public Library Red Room, 536 Fifth St. Curt Fields will portray Ulysses S. Grant prior to the Civil War.  Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

SMART CHOICES: HEALTH INSURANCE, 11:30 a.m. Nov. 30, Bartholomew County Public Library Red Room, 536 Fifth St. Health care navigator Leah Boas and Harriet Armstrong of the Purdue Extension office will explain the process of applying for health insurance using the Health Insurance Marketplace. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

DIGITAL PRIVACY AND SECURITY FOR EVERYONE, 6:30p.m. Nov. 30, Bartholomew County Public Library Red Room, 536 Fifth St. Andy Higginbotham will talk about the dangers of the digital world and offer simple steps to protect privacy and prevent identity theft. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

December

ARTS FOR AIDS, 5 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 1, Columbus Learning Center, 4555 Central Ave. Bryan Jones of Cleveland will give a dramatic presentation of his story of living with HIV-AIDS in American; Asante Children’s Theatre group of Indianapolis will perform, Global Gifts Bazaar, African music by the Batesville Xylophones, appetizers by C4 and Chef Carrie.  Tickets: $20 adults, $10 students. Children 12 and under admitted free with purchase of an adult ticket. Tickets available at artsforaids.org, at Viewpoint Books and by calling Deana Bode, 812-343-4949.

STARTING A SMALL BUSINESS, 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. Dec 1, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Basic steps and decisions a new owner should consider, presented by SCORE, a local not-for-profit volunteer organization. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP, 6:30 p.m. Dec. 1, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. “The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao” by Junot Diaz will be discussed. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

WEAVE A MANGER, 10 a.m. Dec. 3, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Ruth and Kathy Shroyer will lead participants in creating a manger complete with the holy family, sheep, grass and greenery. For ages 10 and older. Cost: $17 for supplies. Registration required: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org under Events.

WHAT KIND OF LEGACY ARE YOU LEAVING, with Vicki Cooper, author of “Recipes That STOLL My Heart,” 6:30 p.m. Dec. 5, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

A LINCOLN CHRISTMAS, 6:30 p.m. Dec. 6, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Visit with Abraham and Mary Lincoln, portrayed by Dean Dorrell and  Donna McCreary, as they celebrate Christmas Eve in 1864. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Dec. 6, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

MEDITATION, for ages 6 and older, 6:30 p.m. Dec. 6, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Presented by Pyramid Meditation Center. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

“ENTER BY THE NARROW GATE,” with author David Carlson, a professor at Franklin College, 6:30 p.m. Dec. 7, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

STETHOSCOPE SERIES: AM I SAFE FROM HAVING A HEART ATTACK? with Dr. Soo Park of Franciscan Health Indiana Heart Physicians, 7 p.m. Dec. 7, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

BREAKING THE RULES OF THE GAME: CHANGING THE NARRATIVE OF SYLVIA PLATH AND ASSIA WEVILL, 10:30 a.m. Dec. 8, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. A study of literature by Plath, Wevill and Ted Hughes led by IUPUI students. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

BARTHOLOMEW COUNTY WRITERS GROUP, 6 p.m. Dec. 8, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Meet and share ideas with other writers in the county. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

ONE STROKE PAINTING, clear Christmas ornaments, 10 a.m. Dec. 10, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. For ages 13 and older. Cost: $25, including all supplies. Registration required: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

J. IRWIN AND XENIA S. MILLER PRIZE COMPETITION, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Dec. 10, Columbus City Hall, Cal Brand Meeting Room, 123 Washington St. The 10 finalists will present their concepts for temporary installations that will transform Fifth Street during Exhibit Columbus in 2017. Admission is free. Information: facebook.com/landmarkcolumbus.

SMART CHOICES: HEALTH INSURANCE, 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 12, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Workshop designed for those using the Health Insurance Marketplace, with navigator Leah Boas and Harriet Armstrong from the Purdue Extension. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

CRAFT NIGHT: CLAY POT SNOWMAN CANDY DISH, 6 p.m. Dec. 13, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Information and registration: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org under Events. Presented by library staff member Jessica Hendry. Supplies provided. Limited to 12 people.

AYURVEDA, YOGA & HEALTH, 6:30 p.m. Dec. 13, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Presenter Nisha Bansal will cover the fundamentals of Ayurveda and how it is related to Yoga.  Information: 812-379-1366 and mybcpl.org.

THE BIBLE AND ESSENTIAL OILS, 6:30 p.m. Dec. 15, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Carissa Rusin will discuss the 12 main essential oils mentioned throughout scripture, why they were used and how they can be utilized today. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

ART HOUSE IN THE RED ROOM FILM SERIES, 6 p.m. Dec. 27, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. The 1978 English animated film, “Watership Down” will be shown. The movie includes several violent scenes and is not recommended for children. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

Fitness

November

TURKEY TROT 5K RUN/WALK, 9 a.m. Nov. 24, Hamilton Community Center & Ice Arena, 2501 Lincoln Park Drive, Columbus. No entry fee but donations will be accepted for the Chuck Wilt Youth Scholarship Fund. Register at Hamilton Center or by calling 812-376-2686.

SEVENTH ANNUAL TURKEY TROT 8K RUN AND 5K WALK, 7:30 a.m. Nov. 24, Girls Inc., 956 N. O’Brien St., Seymour. Cost: $15 plus five non-perishable food items through Nov. 10 (deduct $5 if you don’t want a shirt); $35 after Nov. 10; $15 for ages 10 and under. Proceeds benefit Girls Inc. of Jackson County. Registration forms available at Girls Inc., at indianatiming.com and at signmeup.com/112558.

3 ON 3 HOCKEY TOURNAMENT, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 25, Hamilton Community Center & Ice Arena, 2501 Lincoln Park Drive, Columbus. Cost: $15 per individual, $55 per adult team. Register at Hamilton Center or by calling 812-376-2686.

December

COLUMBUS MERIDIAN KIWANIS SANTA 5K WALK/RUN FOR RILEY HOSPITAL FOR CHILDREN, Dec. 3, First United Methodist Church, Eighth Street and Lafayette Avenue. Registration,  9 a.m., run/walk, 10 a.m. Entry fee, $10; Santa suit, $10. All proceeds go to Riley Hospital for Children.  Register online at kducks.com.

Kids and Teens

November

SKATE WITH SANTA, noon to 4 p.m. Nov. 26, Hamilton Center Ice Arena, 2501 Lincoln Park Drive, Columbus. Admission: $7.50, includes skates, crafts, photo ops and making food for Santa’s reindeer. Information: 812-376-2686.

FAMILY NIGHT MOVIES, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Scheduled:  “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban,” 6 p.m. Nov. 30. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org

FOUNDATION FOR YOUTH BOYS & GIRLS CLUB, 405 Hope Ave. The Boys & Girls Club is open to children ages 5 through 18. Information: 812-372-7867.

KIDSCOMMONS, 309 Washington St. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays. Weekly activities free with paid museum admission include Little Explorers at 11 a.m. Tuesdays and 1:30 p.m. Fridays; Art Time, 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays; Wacky Science, 3:30 p.m. Thursdays. November programs: Thanksgiving-themed activities through Nov. 25; closed Thanksgiving Day. Information: 812-378-3046.

FREE STORY TIME WITH POLLY VERBANIC, 10 a.m. the first, third and fifth (if there is one) Wednesdays of each month, Viewpoint Books, 548 Washington St. Information: 812-376-0778.

December

FIRST FRIDAYS FOR FAMILIES, free performances geared to children in kindergarten through third grade, 6 p.m. the first Friday of the month, December through May, at The Commons. Scheduled: “A Christmas Carol,” Dec. 2; “Monkey See, Monkey Do,” Jan. 6; Aesop’s Fables, Feb. 3; Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun, March 3; “Alice in Wonderland,” April 7; Juggler Matt Jergens, May 5.

AMERICAN GIRL CLUB, 3 to 3:30 p.m. Dec. 3, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St., Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

DIY: PAINT YOUR OWN TREE ORNAMENT FOR TEENS, 3 to 5  p.m. Dec. 5, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

FAN ART FOR TEENS, 4 to 5 p.m. Dec. 7, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Use digital media software and/or art supplies to create fan art for any fandom you choose. Examples will be available. All supplies provided. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

AFTER SCHOOL MOVIE: YOU DECIDE, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Dec. 8, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Vote for “Pan” (2015, PG), or “The Seventh Son” (2015, PG-13) at the Teen Desk to decide which movie is shown. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

JUST FOR BABIES STORY TIME, for ages up to 13 months, 11 a.m. Dec. 8, 15 and 22, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Rhymes, songs, books and fun just for babies. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

TEEN BOOK CLUB: “FANGIRL” by Rainbow Rowell, 4 to 5:15 p.m. Dec. 12, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Read the book ahead of time and discuss your favorite and least favorite parts and look at other examples of fan fiction, including “Carry On,” also by Rowell. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

12 DAYS OF STORIES, 11:30 a.m. Dec. 8-23, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. A Christmas story and craft designed for ages 2-5. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

SANTA’S WORKSHOP, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Dec. 9, Donner Center. Cost: $1 per person. Hands-on Christmas crafts, games, prizes and snacks. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Information: 812-376-2680.

EAT CHEAP FOR TEENS: REINDEER CHOW, aka Muddy Buddies or Puppy Chow, 4 to 4:45 p.m. Dec. 15, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Allergy warning: Reindeer Chow contains peanut butter. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

READING TIME WITH LOTTIE THE GREAT DANE, for ages 5 and older, 10 a.m. or 2:30 p.m. Dec. 17, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

CODER DOJO CLUB, ages 7-17, 4 p.m. Dec. 21, computer lab, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Learn how to code, build a Web site, create an application or game and explor technology. Registration and information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org under Events.

WHOVILLE SKATE,  1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 23, Hamilton Community Center & Ice Arena, 2501 Lincoln Park Drive, Columbus. Skating and crafts with a “Grinchmas” theme. Cost: $4 children, $4.50 adults, $2 skate rental and skooter rental. Information: 812-376-2686.

Ongoing

COLUMBUS CHESS CLUB, 5 to 8 p.m. Thursdays, Mill Race Center, 900 Lindsey St. Most games 10 minutes in length, equipment is furnished. Open to chess players 18 and older. Information: 812-603-3893.

COLUMBUS GOLDEN K KIWANIS, 10 to 11 a.m. Mondays, Mill Race Center, 900 Lindsey St. Always an interesting and informative program. All are welcome. Information: 812-342-6944.

COLUMBUS AREA RAILROAD CLUB OPEN HOUSE, with four operating layouts running, noon to 4 p.m. the third Saturday of the month at the Johnson County Park headquarters building at Camp Atterbury. Information: Greg Harter, 812-350-8636; columbusarearailroadclub.com; or info@columbusarearailroadclub.com.

Theater

“A CHRISTMAS CAROL,” THE RADIO SHOW, starring Robert Hay-Smith and Tim Staggs, 7 p.m. Dec. 9, 10, 16 and 17 and 3 p.m. Dec. 11 and 18, The Harlequin Theatre at FairOaks Mall. Tickets: $15 advance, $20 at the door. Children 12 and under $5. Advance tickets available at the mall office, Viewpoint Books on Washington Street and the theater box office. Information, reservations and “will call” tickets: 812-343-4597. Cash bar available.

JACKSON COUNTY COMMUNITY THEATRE, Royal Off-the-Square Theatre, 121 W. Walnut St., Brownstown. Scheduled: “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2, 3, 9 and 10 and 2:30 p.m. Dec. 4 and 11; “Little Shop of Horrors” dinner theater at The Pines Restaurant in Seymour, Feb. 17, 18, 24 and 25, 2017; and “Romeo and Juliet,” April 28 and 29 and May 5 and 6. Further information: jcct.org, 812-358-5228 and mail@jcct.org.

Music

November

BELIEVE: A BROWN COUNTY CHRISTMAS, 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays Nov. 25 through Dec. 18, Brown County Playhouse, 70 Van Buren Street, Nashville. Tickets: $20.50 and $19.50. Ages 10 and under free with paid adult. Information and tickets: 812-988-6555 and browncountyplayhouse.org.

COLUMBUS CITY BAND 2016-17 CONCERTS, 2 p.m. at The Commons. Admission is free. Classic and contemporary concert, symphonic and military band music performed by more than 50 volunteer musicians, directed by Steve McGrew. Scheduled: Winter Concert, Feb. 12; Spring Concert, April 9.

COLUMBUS INDIANA PHILHARMONIC 30TH SEASON. Concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. at Columbus North High School, Erne Auditorium, unless otherwise noted. Scheduled: Mendelssohn’s “Elijah,” featuring the Philharmonic Chorus, April 1; pianist Elliot Wuu, April 29; “Salute!” free patriotic concert, 7 p.m. May 26, on the grounds of Bartholomew County Veterans Memorial. Single concert tickets: $15 to $55, adults; $10 to $50, seniors; $5 to $35, students. Season tickets and Phil’s Family Fun Passes available. Information: 812-376-2638 and tickets@thecip.org.

COLUMBUS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA’S “ADVENTURES IN GREAT MUSIC” SEASON. Advance tickets: $10 adults, $5 students and seniors. Tickets at the door: $15 adults, $10 students and seniors. Ages 12 and under are always free. Scheduled: “Hometown Talent,” 3:30 p.m. March 5, The Commons; “Music Americana,” 3:30 p.m. April 30, Columbus North High School Auditorium; and “Hail to the Heroes,” 7:30 p.m. June 11, Mill Race Park.

December

LITTLE HOPE OPRY OF WILLOW LEAVES, traditional and classic country music, 7 to 10 p.m. the first Saturday of the month, Willow Leaves of Hope, 326 Jackson St., Hope.  Scheduled: Willow Leaves house band and guests Denise Kocur and Jim Young, Dec. 3; and singer/songwriter Andy Ruff of Bloomington, Jan. 7. Tickets: $10. Concessions available. Family atmosphere. No smoking or alcohol allowed. Tickets and reservations: 812-546-0640.

ADVENTURES IN CHRISTMAS WORSHIP, 6 p.m. Dec. 4, First Christian Church, 531 Fifth St. Free and open to the public. Featuring performances by Kingdom Kidz, FCC orchestra, worship band and worship choir, Alive Worship Team, and the Aeolian-Skinner organ. Information: fccoc.org.

SECOND ANNUAL COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CAROL SING,  7:30 p.m. Dec. 8, First United Methodist Church, 618 Eighth St. Featuring a brass quartet, IU Jacobs School of Music soloists, keyboardist Nikolay Verevkin and the church’s Chancel Ringers and Chancel Choir in many songs of the season as well as a sing-a-long of many favorite Christmas carols. Free and open to the public. Doors will open at 7 p.m. Information: Kevin Butler, 812-372-2851.

“MADE IN INDIANA” WITH KRISTA DETOR, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 16, Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 7850 W. Goeller Blvd. Annual holiday benefit concert for CJAM, featuring holiday songs and stories from the Hoosier state. Also appearing, fellow musician Tim Grimm and authors Scott Russell Sanders and Phil Gulley. Tickets available at web.ovationtix.com/trs/pe.c/10125379.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT AT ST. PAUL LUTHERAN, featuring the Second Presbyterian Church Beecher Singers & Orchestra, 7 p.m. Dec. 18, St. Paul Lutheran Church, 6045 E. State St. A pre-concert harp recital will begin at 6:40 p.m. Admission is free.

COLUMBUS EAST BAND EXTRAVAGANZA AND SILENT AUCTION, 6 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 20, Columbus East High School, 230 S. Marr Road. Desserts served in the cafeteria from 6 to 7:30 p.m. when bands will begin performing in the auditorium. Cost is $5 for two desserts and the concert. Additional desserts may be purchased for $2 each. Tickets sold at the door or may be purchased in advance at the East Performing Arts Department, 812-376-4369. Proceeds from ticket sales and silent auction will benefit East bands.

Misc.

November

NATIONAL FAMILY WEEK ACTIVITIES. Scheduled:  Family roller skating, 1 to 4 and 7 to 10 p.m. Nov. 26, Columbus Skateland, free for families bringing a family picture (rent or bring skates). Information: 812-342-1552.

THE SEASONS HOLIDAY ART AND CRAFT SHOW, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 25 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 26, The Seasons Lodge and Conference Center, 560 State Road 46E, Nashville. Free admission. Juried show of metals, baskets, knitted clothing, primitive paintings, stained glass, jewelry, weaving, wooden toys, quilts and comforters, ceramics and many other handmade items. Fresh pine wreaths and swags sold by Brown County 4-H members. Food available for purchase.

TRINITY LUTHERAN HIGH SCHOOL HOLIDAY CRAFT SHOW, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 26, 7120 N. County Road 875E, Seymour. Information: 812-445-3357.

HOOSIER HEARTLAND ALPACAS CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE, Nov. 26, 2500 N. County Road 1000W, Seymour. Information: 812-445-7874 or hoosierheartlandalpacas.com.

December

YELLOW TRAIL MUSEUM CHRISTMAS HOMES TOUR, 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 2. Self-guided tour of five homes and a business decorated for Christmas. Tickets: $10, available on tour evening at Yellow Trail Museum, on the Hope Town Square, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Information or to reserve tickets: 812-371-7969.

HOLIDAY MARKET, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 3, Unitarian Universalist Church, 7850 W. Goeller Blvd. Breakfast sweets available from 9 to 10 a.m., hot soup lunch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., unique handcrafted and gourmet items by local artisans and chefs.

CHRISTMAS VILLAGE,  1 to 5 p.m. Dec. 3, The Commons. Live musical performance, holiday market offering locally handcrafted items, children’s activities. Information: 812-376-2680.

26TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS CHRISTMAS PARADE, featuring floats, animal units, walking groups created by local corporations, businesses and community groups and the arrival  of Santa Claus, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 3, downtown Columbus, followed by QMIX musical Christmas fireworks.

HOLIDAY BALLROOM DANCE, 7 to 10 p.m. Dec. 10, The Commons. Social time from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Music by DJ Billy Crase. Light appetizers included. Cash bar available. Admission: $20 per person. Tickets available at the door or by email at danceindiana@gmail.com.

Galleries, museums & exhibits

COLUMBUS VISITORS CENTER, corner of Fifth and Franklin streets. Visitors Center hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sundays (closed Sundays in December, January, February and March). Information: 812-378-2622.

COLUMBUS LEARNING CENTER, 4555 Central Ave. Gallery hours: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays. Closed Sundays. Admission is free to the public. Information: 812-314-8509.

ATTERBURY-BAKALAR AIR MUSEUM at Columbus Municipal Airport. The museum preserves the history of the former Atterbury Army Air Field, later named Bakalar Air Force Base, and is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and closed Sundays and Mondays. Museum displays include a World War II era air base barracks building section showing barracks living at the former air base, and a WWII Army Air Corps operating rotating beacon and tower. View the pictorial air base timeline 10-panel presentation, Noblitt-Sparks (Arvin) WWII military products, WWII Tuskegee Airman and 71st Special Operations Squadron-Vietnam display kiosks. See the WWII Home Front display plus other interesting artifacts and historical air base displays including many large model aircraft of that era. Visit the museum’s Ernie Schorr Memorial Library. The John C. Walter conference room features a wall-sized mural of a Bakalar Air Force Base AC-119G Gunship aircraft. The museum’s mission is to preserve the history of the former air base and honor those who served. Tours for school or other groups are available. Information: 812-372-4356 or atterburybakalarairmuseum.org.

BARTHOLOMEW COUNTY HISTORY CENTER, 524 Third St., Columbus. Information: 812-372-3541 or bartholomew history.org.

THE COMMONS GALLERY, second floor, 300 Washington St. Free and open to the public during normal operating hours at The Commons. Featured through Jan. 30, “In Union,” unique vessels and utensils of clay, wood and thread created by ceramic artist Ellen Kleckner. Information: cmadart.org  or columbusmad@gmail.com.

Information: columbusmad@gmail.com.

INDIANA UNIVERSITY CENTER FOR ART + DESIGN, 310 Jackson St. Regular gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and 1 to 5 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Exhibits are free and open to the public.  Information: IUCA+Design, 812-375-7550 or iucadmai@indiana.edu.

IVY TECH GALLERY OF FINE ART & DESIGN, 4475 Central Ave. Gallery hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fridays. Information: 812-374-5139 or rbrooks12@ivytech.edu.

WELLCONNECT, 237 Washington St.Featured through December: Work by local artist Paul Neufelder, his first show since his return from living in Thailand. Gallery hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Information: 812-247-0502.

TRE BICCHIERI, 425 Washington St. Artwork by nine local artists including Gail Plattner, Jeff Jackson, Stephen Whittaker, John Strickland, Susie Gregory, Rebecca Campbell, Cathy Schooler and Robert Baker. All artwork is for sale. Hours: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 5 to 10 p.m. Saturdays.

TRI-STATE ARTISANS, 422 Washington St. Handmade retail gallery representing more than 60 local artisans. Unique gifts, fine art, art classes for youth and adults, youth art programs, art parties and home parties. Gallery hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays. Information: tsartisans.com.

HOTEL INDIGO GALLERY, 400 Brown St. Exhibits presented by Columbus Museum of Art & Design. Featured through Feb. 3, “This is all that was left” by visual artist Paige Mostowy. Information: cmadart.org.

ART GUILD OF HOPE GALLERY, featuring fine art by guild members, 645 Harrison St., Hope. Gallery hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. General, membership and sponsorship information: 812-764-6417 and hopeartguild.com.

YELLOW TRAIL MUSEUM, on the west side of Hope Town Square at 644 Main St. Thousands of items donated by members of the community to tell the story of Hope’s unique heritage. Military display, tools, housewares, clothing, pictures, doctor’s office, grocery items, hardware, barber shop, agriculture and Moravian history. Open Saturdays 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sundays 1 to 4 p.m., during special events in town and by appointment by calling 812-371-7969.

FREEMAN ARMY AIR FIELD MUSEUM, 1035 A Avenue, Freeman Field, Seymour, across from the airport hangars. Open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, excepting holidays, and by appointment throughout the week. Exhibits include recovered artifacts from the base’s time as a foreign aircraft evaluation center, including buried parts of German, British and other planes; a fully restored World War II-era fire truck; artifacts honoring those who trained at the Field, including the Tuskegee Airmen and WAFS/WACS. New exhibits include an edged weapons display. Groups (school, service, home school, corporate and other) are welcome; both historic museum buildings are accessible to the handicapped. Information and appointments: 812-522-2031 and freemanarmyairfieldmuseum.org.

SOUTHERN INDIANA CENTER FOR THE ARTS, 2001 N. Ewing St., Seymour. Featured through Dec. 22: The Edward Jones/Seymour Offices Art Show of work in acrylic, oil, watercolor, pastels, pencil and photography. Hours: Noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. Information: 812-522-1178.

BROWN COUNTY ART GUILD, 48 S. Van Buren St., Nashville. Information: 812-988-6185 or browncountyartguild.org.

HOOSIER ARTIST GALLERY, 45 S. Jefferson St., Nashville. Featured through November: Photography by John Sodrel and landscapes and abstracts in oil, acrylics and mixed media by Paula Bates. Information: 269-375-3234.

B3 GALLERY, 125 S. Van Buren St., Nashville, on the second floor of the Artist Colony Shops. Information: 812-988-6675.

BROWN COUNTY ART GALLERY, Artist Drive and Main Street, Nashville. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. Information: browncountyartgallery.org or 812-988-4609.

JENNINGS COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND MUSEUM, 335 Brown St., Vernon. Information: 812-346-8989 and jenningscounty.org.

Group to match funds for shelter

By
Mark Webber
-

A Columbus-based philanthropic organization is asking local residents to work with them to help some of the community’s most vulnerable this holiday season.

The Haddad Foundation has agreed to match all gifts up to $25,000 in the new “Make Our House a Home” campaign to benefit Turning Point Domestic Violence Services.

“We are really appreciative because it helps people to know their money is going to be doubled when they give,” said Kelly Geckler, a marketing and development specialist for the 41-year-old nonprofit organization.

All tax-deductible donations received by the end of the year through Giving Tuesday donations will be utilized to repair and upgrade the exterior of Turning Point’s 25-bed emergency shelter. That includes intricate brickwork to the 88-year-old, two-story building, Geckler said.

In addition, interior work is necessary to create a more welcoming, collaborative and confidential space for clients and staff to interact, Geckler said.

If the $50,000 goal can be raised by Dec. 31, the renovations will likely begin next year as soon as the weather allows, she said.

Turning Point works to prevent and stop domestic and dating violence. Emergency shelter is provided for adults and their children who are victims of domestic violence or sexual assault. The agency also provides intervention services for victims and assists them with filing protective order petitions and other legal issues. The agency also offers educational programs about domestic violence prevention.

Originating from the private charitable giving of Columbus Container Inc. owner Bob Haddad and his wife, Helen, the Haddad Foundation was founded in Columbus in 2002.

Over the past 14 years, the foundation has annually provided an average of $250,000 to almost 80 organizations, foundation president Bob Haddad Jr. said.

“We believe everyone should be treated with dignity,” Haddad Jr. said. “Unfortunately, some are not in today’s society, so it becomes necessary to step in and help.”

The foundation headed by Haddad Jr. and his three sisters — Tammy Burton, Tracy Haddad and Hayden Bishop — is perhaps best known for its contributions to education and the arts.  For example, the family donated the building at 315 Franklin St. in downtown Columbus to the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic earlier this year.

However, the foundation is also involved in causes that supports families and social justice, Haddad Jr. said.

It was the four siblings who control the foundation that initially approached Turning Point to ask how they might help, Geckler said.

“It’s an honor and a privilege to help them,” Haddad Jr. said. “Turning Point values human dignity, keeping families together and kids’ rights by assisting people who are marginalized.”

Through October, Turning Point had assisted 175 adults and 120 children, which is an overall increase of 22 percent over last year at the same time, Geckler said.

That includes providing 4,772 shelter nights, which is a 15 percent increase from the same time in 2015, she said.

Occurring this year on Nov. 29, Giving Tuesday is held each year just after Thanksgiving and the widely recognized shopping events of Black Friday and Cyber Monday as part of the kick-off to the holiday giving season.

Organizers describe Giving Tuesday, which began in 2012, as a global day of giving that harnesses the collective power of individuals, communities and organizations to encourage philanthropy and to celebrate generosity worldwide.

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Contributions to Turning Point’s “Make our House a Home” campaign may be made either online or by mail.

  • ONLINE: Go to turningpointdv.org and click on the #GivingTuesday button at the top of the webpage.
  • MAILING ADDRESS: Turning Point, P.O. Box 103, Columbus, IN 47202. Attn: Make our House a Home.

All donations must be received by Dec. 31 and are fully tax deductible as allowed by law.

For more information, visit the Turning Point Domestic Violence Services page on Facebook.

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Originally founded as the Columbus Women’s Center, Columbus-based Turning Point Domestic Violence Services has been assisting victims of domestic violence since 1975.

During its first five years of operations, clients were housed at the local Woodlawn Motel. But after Turning Point was incorporated on Aug. 6, 1980, the emergency shelter was opened in what had been a residence converted into apartments.

The 25-bed secure shelter now serves a seven-county area including Bartholomew, Brown, Decatur, Jackson, Jennings, Johnson, and Shelby counties.

Information: Visit turningpointdv.org

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Jenny’s Picks – November 24

By
Jenny Elig
-

Some of you know that I’m a little crazy about animals and cats in particular. The Whiskers and Paws Holiday Fundraiser for the Bartholomew County Humane Society seems like the perfect benefit for local animal lovers to attend, and its set for 7 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 2 at Mill Race Center, 900 Lindsey St. It is in a dinner theater format with an appetizer/dessert buffet. Christmas-themed entertainment provided by the Lasting Impressions singing group, a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle and a cash bar. Tickets are $25 for buffet and entertainment, available at Athens Animal Clinic, Bartholomew County Humane Society and Mill Race Center.

Mini things are having something of a surge in popularity, with Instragram accounts — such as Daily Mini — featuring a wide range of tiny objects. Join the Columbus Indiana Architectural Archives’ guest and Museum of Modern Art conservator Roger Griffith for a discussion on the Conservation and Care of Architectural Models at the Museum of Modern Art, 7 p.m. Dec. 8, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. The event is free and open to the public. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

Holiday calendar offers plenty to light your way through the season

By
Brian Blair
-

You can find the sights, signs and sounds of the season nearly everywhere in the area through December.

While events and gatherings hardly can be quite as plentiful as Christmas lights, there is indeed plenty to light your way and lighten your day in a time of illumination and joy.

Whether your tastes run toward the silly or sublime, the local calendar includes a gift or two for you — and some are either free or modestly priced.

So Santa’s watching your back — and your wallet.

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MUSIC

  • Columbus City Band Christmas concert, “Songs of the Season and Christmas Classics,” 2 p.m. Nov. 27, The Commons, 300 Washington St. in Columbus. A special note: concerts in recent years have attracted 600-plus people, so hastily pack your sleigh and don’t delay when it comes to your arrival time. Free.
  • Columbus Symphony Orchestra Christmas concert, “A CSO Holiday,” 3:30 p.m. Dec. 4 at The Commons, 300 Washington St. in Columbus. Will include Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s classic, “Nutcracker Suite.” Free. Information: csoindiana.org.
  • Westside Community Church Christmas cantata, “In His Presence,” 7 p.m. Dec. 4, at the church, Indiana 46 West and Tipton Lakes Boulevard in Columbus. Free.
  • Adventures In Christmas Worship, First Christian Church, 6 p.m. Dec. 4, featuring the church orchestra, worship band, ALIVE Worship Team, Worship Choir and the church organ, 531 Fifth St. in Columbus.
  • Second Annual Community Christmas Carol Sing, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 8, First United Methodist Church, 618 Eighth St. in Columbus. Featuring a brass quartet, Indiana University Jacobs School of Music soloists, keyboardist Nikolay Verevkin and the church’s Chancel Ringers and Chancel Choir in many songs of the season as well as a sing-a-long of many favorite Christmas carols. Free. Information: Kevin Butler, 812-372-2851.
  • Columbus Indiana Philharmonic’s Christmas concerts, “Philharmonic Holidays” featuring the popular Wright Brothers group, 3 and 7 p.m. Dec. 11 at Judson Erne Auditorium, 1400 25th St. in Columbus. Tickets: $5 to $35 at 812-376-2638 or thecip.org.
  • “Made in Indiana” with Krista Detor, 7:30 p.m. Dec. 16, Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Columbus, 7850 W. Goeller Boulevard. Annual holiday benefit concert for the Community Justice and Meditation Center in Bloomington, featuring holiday songs and stories from the Hoosier state. Also appearing, fellow musician Tim Grimm and authors Scott Russell Sanders and Phil Gulley. Tickets available at web.ovationtix.com/trs/pe.c/10125379.
  • Free Christmas concert at St. Paul Lutheran, featuring the Second Presbyterian Church Beecher Singers & Orchestra, 7 p.m. Dec. 18, St. Paul Lutheran Church, 6045 E. State St. south of Columbus. A preconcert harp recital will begin at 6:40 p.m.

DANCE

  • Holiday Ballroom Dance, 7 to 10 p.m. Dec. 10, The Commons. Social time from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Music by DJ Billy Crase. Light appetizers included. Cash bar available. Admission: $20 per person. Tickets available at the door or by email at danceindiana@gmail.com.
  • Dancers Studio Inc.’s presentation of “The Nutcracker,” 7 p.m. Dec. 17 and 2:30 p.m. Dec. 18, Judson Erne Auditorium, 1400 25th St. in Columbus. Tickets: $15 in advance for adults, and $10 in advance for students. Information: 812-376-8080 or dancers-studio.org.

FAMILY

  • National Family Week roller skating outing, 1 to 4 and 7 to 10 p.m. Nov. 26, Columbus Skateland, free for families bringing a family picture (rent or bring skates). Information: 812-342-1552.
  • Holiday at the Farm, 5 to 7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays Nov. 26 through Jan. 1, Shireman Homestead, 7060 W. County Road 200N, Columbus. Visit with Santa, watch a trick horse show, get a treat at the Treat House, take a wagon ride, stroll along a winter wonderland, pet a range of animals up close, and more. Admission: $10. Information: shiremanhomestead.com.
  • Old National Bank’s First Fridays For Families, presented by the Columbus Area Arts Council, free performances by ArtReach: The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati geared to children in kindergarten through third grade, 6 p.m. Dec. 2, live presentation of the holiday classic “A Christmas Carol” at The Commons, 300 Washington St. Columbus. Information: 812-376-2539 or artsincolumbus.org.
  • Fourth Annual Festival of Lights Christmas Village, 1 to 5 p.m. Dec. 3, The Commons, 300 Washington St. in Columbus. Children’s games, electric train displays, live music, 20 local vendors selling handmade holiday wares from jewelry to furniture to treats, a magic show and other activities. Free. Information: 812-376-2681.
  • Annual Festival of Lights Christmas Parade, 6 p.m. Dec. 3, downtown, with the main thoroughfare being Washington Street north from Third to Eighth streets. Normally features about 100 entries. This year will include Columbus native and retiring NASCAR competitor Tony Stewart.
  • QMIX Christmas Musical Fireworks, about 7:15 p.m. downtown near City Hall at Second and Washington streets. Fireworks synchronized to 20 to 25 minutes of holiday tunes broadcast on QMIX Radio 107.3 FM. Information: qmix.com.

DRAMA

  • “A Christmas Carol: The Radio Play,” 7 p.m. Dec. 9 and 10 and Dec. 16 and 17; and 3 p.m. Dec. 11 and Dec. 18, the Harlequin Theatre inside FairOaks Mall, 2380 25th St. in Columbus. A fast-paced, comic twist on the holiday classic. Tickets are $15 in advance at the mall or $20 at the door. Information: 812-343-4597 or theharlequintheatre.com.

HOME TOUR

  • Yellow Trail Museum Christmas Homes Tour, 6 to 9 p.m. Dec. 2. Self-guided tour of five homes and a business decorated for Christmas. Tickets: $10, available on tour evening at Yellow Trail Museum, on the Hope Town Square, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Information or to reserve tickets: 812-371-7969.

SPIRITUAL

  • St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church’s live nativity, 6 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 2, at the church at 11750 W. County Road 930S. For the sake of realism, its scene has featured an actual camel, sheep, donkeys, llamas, alpacas and ponies. Cookies, cocoa and coffee will be served in the parish hall. The event has attracted 600-plus people in the past.

Brian’s picks – November 24

By
Brian Blair
-

Live nativities, though far less prevalent today than years ago when I wrote about houses of worship, still stop me in my tracks at Christmas. And really, I guess that’s the idea — to stop the madness for a moment and, in the hush, reflect on the spiritual season. So indulge me while I suggest St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church’s Living Nativity from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 2 on County Road 930 South in Waymansville. If you have children or grandchildren, all the better, since the kid-friendly gathering that attracts 600 or more people features King James the camel and a few of his critter peers. Plus, refreshments are served in the parish hall, where the children’s handbell group will play.

Cheryl Shireman need not remember what it’s like to be a kid at Christmas. She still is one, and nowhere is that more evident than at Holiday at the Farm, where she lights up like an elaborately bedecked tree. She and husband, Matt, and their friends offer horse-drawn wagon rides, winter wonderland walks, trick horse shows, a petting zoo, visits with Santa and other activities. Open 5 to 7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Jan. 1, Shireman Homestead is located at 7060 W. County Road 200N, Columbus. Admission is $10. Information: shiremanhomestead.com.

Plan for laughs on New Year’s Eve

By
Brian Blair
-

So you figure it’s only Thanksgiving and it seems a bit early to think of New Year’s Eve? Not if you’re considering a night of local comedy. That’s because Yes Comedy Showcase is bringing back favorite standup performer Mike Armstrong for shows at 7 and 9:30 p.m. Dec. 31 at YES Cinema downtown. In the past few years, both shows have sold out almost before the holiday doorbuster sales finish. Tickets are $20 in advance at 812-379-1630 or $25 at the door. Information: yescinema.org.

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