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Voters have important reasons to cast ballot

By
Staff Reports
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Registered voters have important decisions to make at all levels of government this election season, and in five days their collective voice will be heard when results are tabulated.

Voters will choose a set of leaders — some new, others re-elected — to represent their interests nationally, statewide and locally.

The acrimonious presidential race has dominated headlines, as expected, and races for Indiana governor and an Indiana seat in the U.S. Senate have been in the spotlight, too. But other races just as significant in the lives of Bartholomew County residents will be decided, too.

For example, residents will be electing three at-large members of the county council, which oversees the county’s purse strings. That’s important because the county has been dealing with tight budgets and has been debating whether now is the right time to enact a new revenue stream to provide sufficient funding to meet its responsibilities and obligations.

One county commissioner race is contested, so voters will decide whether the incumbent or the challenger will serve as a member of the executive branch of county government.

Also, the three races for Bartholomew Consolidated School Corp. School board are contested. Those selected to the board will help shape the school district’s policies and approve its budget. Those are races parents and taxpayers are likely to care about, or should.

One of the best choices voters have is when and where to vote. They’re not restricted to a single precinct on Election Day as they once were. The county’s use of vote centers and expanded early voting makes it much more convenient to cast a ballot.

The county will utilize 18 vote centers on Tuesday — Election Day — and voters can cast a ballot at the one of their choosing. Additionally, four satellite locations (county courthouse, Donner Center, west-side MainSource Bank and Flintwood Wesleyan Church) are in use this week for early voting, and will be open through Saturday to accommodate voters who want to exercise their right to vote before Election Day.

There are many important reasons to cast a ballot. Don’t miss your chance.

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To learn where the county’s vote centers are located, go online at: bartholomew.in.gov/clerk.html#vote-centers

To learn which candidates are on your ballot, go online at: bartholomew.in.gov/clerk.html#election-information

For more information, call the county voter registration office at 812-379-1604

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County’s historic courthouse worth keeping preserved

By
Staff Reports
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THERE’S no question about the magnetism of Columbus’ contemporary architecture for thousands of visitors who have never lived in the community.

I suspect, though, that for many who have lived here for all or a good share of their lives, none of the city’s contemporary structures measure up to an edifice that has close to 100 years on most of them: the Bartholomew County Courthouse.

I don’t think anyone has conducted a survey on the most photographed building in Columbus, but my money would be on the courthouse. It’s been around since 1874, and although some changes have been made over the years — livestock no longer munch on the lawn, the ugly jails that were once the building’s immediate neighbors have been demolished and the roof is no longer dotted with at least eight chimneys — it still looks pretty much as it did in the beginning.

That’s because its caretakers over the years have been committed to its restoration and, for the most part, have resisted efforts to take shortcuts in maintaining it. Considering that the courthouse is coming up on its 142nd birthday, it not only looks good but is in reasonably good shape.

But keeping it that way into the immediate future is dependent on the willingness of government officials to pony up an estimated $1 million for repairs to the limestone foundation and brickwork below vents on the lower part of the magnificent clock tower.

Considering the importance of the building and the significant investments that have been committed to preserving it over the past century and almost a half, that would seem to be a no-brainer.

It hasn’t been in some other Indiana counties where government officials have elected to put up new buildings while letting older structures continue to deteriorate. That’s not to say that past Bartholomew County officials haven’t been tempted over the years.

Through its first 80 or so years, the courthouse looked pretty much as it did when it was first dedicated in December 1874. The animals that grazed on its lawn in the late 19th century were long gone by the 1950s, but the building exterior still bore many of the trademarks it had had from the beginning.

For instance, there were still eight out-of-use chimneys on the slate-covered roof, symbols of the method by which individual rooms were heated. There was also intricate grillwork on the towers.

Much of that skyscape was changed in 1953 when county officials authorized a new roof made of copper, replacing the original tiles. While doing that, workers also removed the chimneys and grillwork.

I don’t think anyone missed the chimneys, but there sure was an attachment for the grillwork. One of those who were especially drawn to the beauty of the rooftop fencing was Elsie Sweeney, who mounted a one-woman crusade to have it replaced.

She was a determined woman, and although county officials had agreed to replace the grillwork when the new roof was in place, it took 17 years to get the job done. Ironically, Elsie, an aunt to community benefactor J. Irwin Miller, took matters into her own hands and paid for the project herself. The grillwork was put in place in 1970.

The county officials in place in the 1950s can’t exactly be described as champions of preservation.

In 1950 the Bartholomew County Council was informed that parts of the courthouse tower were in dire need of expensive repairs. County Auditor James Albright told the council that the tower was not only in poor condition but also did not provide any usable space. A suggestion was made that the top part of the tower be lopped off.

Ridiculous as the idea might seem today, it was taken seriously. On Sept. 7, 1950, an item appeared in the Around Town column of The Evening Republican. “In the courthouse remodeling the commissioners are contemplating the removal of the 39-foot tower. It is difficult to imagine Columbus without a courthouse tower, but it may happen in the not too distant future.”

It didn’t, thanks in large part to an immediate outcry from the community as witnessed by a subsequent story in The Evening Republican of Sept. 10, 1951. “Last year there was talk of lowering the roof by taking off the upper section of the building. This brought objections from a number of persons.”

A million dollars is a lot to invest in a building that’s been around for close to 150 years. On the other hand, this particular building is so important in so many ways that not to take this next step would seem as ridiculous as suggesting that the courthouse tower is expendable.

We all know how that idea turned out.

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

Go Guide – November 3

By
Staff Reports
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Educational

November

CIVIL WAR BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP, 7 p.m. Nov. 3, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. “The Fall of the House of Dixie: The Civil War and the Social Revolution That Transformed the South” by Bruce Levine will be discussed. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

WRITER GATHERINGS: NATIONAL NOVEL WRITING MONTH (NaNoWriMo), 6 to 8 p.m. Nov. 7 and 14, Bartholomew County Public Library, main floor east, 536 Fifth St. Join local writers and write the first draft of your novel. Local organizer is Kimberly Free. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

GIFT WRAPPING & BOW TYING, 6 p.m. Nov. 8, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Register at mybcpl.org under Events, or by calling 812-379-1266. Participants must supply two small- to medium-size rectangular gifts or empty boxes. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

COLUMBUS AREA MULTI ETHNIC ASSOCIATION (CAMEO) MONTHLY MEETING, 6 p.m. Nov. 9, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. The host association will provide snacks representative of their country. Information: 812-379-1266, mybcpl.org and columbuscameo.org.

COLUMBUS YOUNG PROFESSIONALS WORKSHOP, “CONFLICT RESOLUTION: DEALING WITH DIFFICULT PEOPLE IN THE WORKPLACE,” 5:15 to 6:30 p.m. Nov. 9, Columbus Area Visitors Center, 506 Fifth St. Presenters Nancy Stiegmeyer and Jackie Delagrange will discuss how to effectively deal with challenging coworkers and colleagues and dealing with conflict in the workplace. Free and open to the public. Information: columbusyp.org, 812-379-4457 and cyp@columbusareachamber.com.

AN EVENING WITH WINSTON CHURCHILL, 6:30 p.m. Nov. 10, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Actor and scholar Kevin Radaker will portray Sir Winston Churchill during a visit to the Waldorf Astoria in New York City, less than a year after the end of World War II. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

“LANDFILL HARMONIC” DOCUMENTARY FILM, shown in conjunction with the Deja Vu Art and Fine Craft Show of re-purposed and recycled art, 6:30 p.m. Nov. 11, The Commons. Free and open to the public. The film tells how music improved the lives of poor children in Paraguay and how playing recycled instruments gave them hope for a better future. Film trailer available at vimeo.com/122542602.

POPULATING HOOSIERLAND, 10 a.m. Nov. 12, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Presenter Ron Darrah will talk about how and when our ancestors arrived in the state and what footprints they left behind. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

ONE STROKE PAINTING, white flowers, holly berries and pine needles on a red bucket, 1 p.m. Nov. 12, Bartholomew County Public Library conference room, 536 Fifth St. Fee: $25, covers all supplies. Register at 812-379-1266 or mybcpl.org.

MEET WITH A PUBLISHER & AUTHORS DAY, 1 p.m. Nov. 12, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Debi Stanton and authors from Pen It! Publications will speak with potential authors. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

SONGS FROM THE MOVIES, 2 p.m. Nov. 13, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Lalith Guy Paranavitana will sing songs from films including “West Side Story,” “The Sound of Music,” “My Fair Lady” and others. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

TOPICS IN PERMACULTURE: SMALL LIVESTOCK IN A PERMACULTURE SYSTEM, 6:30 p.m. Nov. 14, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Third in a five-part series. Presenters are Rhonda Baird and Cheryl Carter Jones. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org. Presenters are Rhonda Baird and Cheryl Carter Jones.

BLUEGRASS ITALIAN STYLE, 1:15 p.m. Nov. 15 at Parkside Court, 3660 Central Ave., and 6:30 p.m. Nov. 15, Bartholomew County Public Library Red Room, 536 Fifth St. Paolo Ercoli from Italy will talk about how he became interested in Bluegrass music and, along with Roger Banister, play tunes illustrating different styles and techniques used in playing the dobro/reso-phonic guitar. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

WHAT IS NETFLIX AND HOW TO I USE IT? 6 p.m. Nov. 15, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Patric “Mr. Noobie” Welch will detail what you need to watch Netflix, how much it costs and how it can replace or complement cable/satellite service. Register at 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

JOURNALING TO FACILITATE HEALING, 6 p.m. Nov. 16, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Presenter Suzy Milhoan, author of “The Healing Game: A Story of Loss and Renewal,” will discuss the basics of journaling and how to use it to release pain from loss or trauma. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

3-D DESIGN BASICS USING TINKERCAD, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Nov. 16, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. For ages 10 and older. Basic computer skills required. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

HOPE BOOK DISCUSSION, 1 p.m. Nov. 17, Hope Branch Library. “The Lake House” by Kate Morton. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

TOPICS IN PERMACULTURE: ENERGY IN A PERMACULTURE SYSTEM, 6:30 p.m. Nov. 17, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Presented by Peter Bane, designer, teacher, consultant, editor and publisher of Permaculture Activist magazine. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

ESSENTIAL OILS AND AGING, 6:30 p.m. Nov. 17, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. General information on essential oils with emphasis on the aging process. With Carissa Rusin. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

YOUR LAZY WAY TO GREAT SHAPE, 6 p.m. Nov. 21, Bartholomew County Public Library Red Room, 536 Fifth St. Jim Everroad, author and 2016 Master’s National Platform Diving Champion, will discuss and demonstrate low intensity and easy movements to incorporate into daily life to enhance health and productivity. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE, 2 to 6 p.m. Nov. 21, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Register at redcrossblood.org, Give Blood-Find a Blood Drive. Donors will receive a free book from the library’s ongoing book sale. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

ART HOUSE IN THE RED ROOM FILM SERIES, 6 p.m. Nov. 22, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Host Kyle Willey will show the 1950 Japanese film “Rashomon,” which marked the entrance of Japanese film onto the world stage. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

Food

November

EIGHTH ANNUAL WINE-A-REE wine and beer tasting festival (including a silent auction), noon to 6 p.m. Nov. 5, at The Commons, 300 Washington St. in Columbus. Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door. Unlimited tastings and a commemorative wine or beer glass are included in the price of the ticket. Tickets are available at the Viewpoint Bookstore in Columbus, Jackson County Visitors Center and This Old Guitar Store in Seymour, Village Lights Bookstore in Madison, and Levenstein’s in Greensburg, as well as on the hoosiertrailsbsa.org Web site. Proceeds will benefit Hoosier Trails Council, Boy Scouts of America.

49TH ANNUAL TURKEY SUPPER, 5 to 8 p.m. Nov. 4 and 5, Petersville United Methodist Church, 2781 N. County Road 500E, Columbus. Traditional baked turkey and dressing, gravy, noodles, green beans, cranberry relish or applesauce, roll, dessert and drink. Tickets: $10 adults, $5 ages 5 to 12. Children 4 and younger may eat free. Carry-outs will be available in the annex. Information: 812-372-3575 or 812-603-8378.

VETERANS DAY LUNCHEON, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., or until the food is gone, Nov. 11, Yellow Trail Museum on the Hope Town Square. Free luncheon for veterans and their guests. Any veteran who would like to share a story or two of his military experience is welcome to tape a segment that day. Information: 812-371-7969.

Fitness

November

HOOSIER TRIALS 5K RUN/WALK, 10 a.m. Nov. 12, Ceraland Park cross-country course, 3989 S. County Road 525E. Registration fee: $20 including a commemorative patch. Proceeds will benefit Hoosier Trails Council, Boy Scouts of America, to promote physical fitness, high adventure and community involvement. Open to the public. Prizes awarded to the top three male and female finishers. Registration and prepayment or for further information: hoosiertrails5k.org.

HILLY HALF MARATHON fundraiser for Brown County YMCA, Nov. 12, Brown County State Park, including a 5K walk and run and a 10K run. Packet pick up and late registration from 7 to 8 a.m., start of all races at 8:30 a.m., 5K awards at 9:45 a.m. and 10K awards at 10:20 a.m. Half marathon timing will end at noon followed by awards at 12:30 p.m. Children’s race, prerace pasta dinner and late registration on Nov. 11, with times to be announced. Information: Brown County YMCA, 812-988-9622.

Kids

November

AMERICAN GIRL CLUB: “KIT,” 3 p.m. Nov. 5, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. For ages 5-10. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

DIY: TEXTING GLOVES, 3 p.m. Nov. 7, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. For grades 7-12. All supplies provided to make gloves that can be used on a touch screen. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

FAMILY NIGHT MOVIES, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. All films start at 6 p.m. Scheduled: “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” Nov. 9; “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets,” Nov. 16; and “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban,” Nov. 30. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org

READING TIME WITH LOTTIE THE GREAT DANE, 10 to 11 a.m. or 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Nov. 12, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Ages 5 and older can practice reading to Lottie for 15 minutes. First-come, first-served. Tickets available at the Children’s Desk. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

TEEN BOOK CLUB 4 to 5:15 p.m. Nov. 14, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” and the upcoming movie will be discussed and teens will create their own beast in the digital media lab. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

JUST FOR BABIES STORY TIME, 11 a.m. Nov. 17, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Rhymes, songs, books and fund for babies through 13 months. Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

AFTER SCHOOL MOVIE: YOU DECIDE, 3:30 p.m. Nov. 17, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Choose what will be shown by voting at the Teen Desk for “Max” or “Allegiant.” Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

SCRATCH CODING, Nov. 19, 9 a.m. for grades 3-6, 2:30 p.m. for grades 7-12, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Learn how to program interactive stories, games and animation using Scratch. With instructor Deb Gaff. For Information: 812-379-1266 and mybcpl.org.

FAMILY BINGO FOR BOOKS, 4 p.m. Nov. 19, Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Book prizes for kids and adults. All ages are welcome. 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. 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.

Ongoing

AT BARTHOLOMEW COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY, 536 Fifth St., Columbus, through Nov. 30, make an ornament to honor a veteran and place it on one of the Heroes Trees located at the main entrance and in the children’s department; displays of paintings by Gus Potthoff, military uniforms, medals, artifacts and other items, located on the library’s main floor; science fiction and fantasy book sale, buy one, get two free, in the ongoing book sale area of the library.

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

“CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF” (dinner theater), presented by Actors’ Studio of Hope, 6 p.m. Nov. 4, 5, 11 and 12 and 1 p.m. Nov. 6 and 13, Willow Leaves of Hope, 326 Jackson St., Hope. Information: 812-546-0640 and Facebook at Actors’ Studio of Hope or Willow Leaves of Hope.

“THE KINGDOM BEHIND THE CURTAIN,” presented by Fairy Tale Musical Theater, 2:30 p.m. Nov. 20, The Pixy Theater, Edinburgh. Original fairy tale written by director Cecile Beavin for all ages. Audience participation is encouraged. Reception to meet cast members and have homemade desserts after the performance.

Music

November

THE HEARTFELT TRIO, Janniece Jaffe, Curtis Cantwell Jackson and Michael Beck, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 4, The Harlequin Theater at FairOaks Mall on 25th Street. Cash bar available. Tickets: $20 at the door; $15 in advance at the mall office, Viewpoint Books downtown and the theater box office. Information, reservations and “will call” tickets: 812-343-4597.

COLUMBUS BLUEGRASS JAMBOREE, Nov. 5, Donner Center. Open jam sessions begin at 4 p.m. (you must bring your own instrument) followed by group performances at 5 p.m. Admission is free. Free-will donations will be accepted. Information: 812-379-2408.

FORTY YEARS OF COLLEGE, Nov. 19, Brown County Playhouse,70 S. Van Buren St., Nashville. Tickets, $17.50 and $16.50, available at 812-988-6555 and browncountyplayhouse.org.

COLUMBUS INDIANA PHILHARMONIC 30TH SEASON, Concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. at Columbus North High School, Erne Auditorium, unless otherwise noted. Scheduled: Organist Dan McKinley, Columbus Indiana Children’s Choir and the Philharmonic Chorus, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 19, at First Christian Church.

Misc.

November

WEINLAND CLUBHOUSE BAKE SALE, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 4, in the atrium at Centerstone, 720 Marr Road. All proceeds benefit the Weinland Clubhouse recovery based program for adults with mental illness.

ST. AGNES CHRISTMAS BAZAAR, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Nov. 4 and 5, St. Agnes Catholic Church, 1008 McLary Road, Nashville. Crafts, Christmas items, gift items, paper creations, homemade goodies, outside vendors, sharpening service for knives, scissors and had tools, raffle of a king-sized quilt.

CHRISTMAS MARKET, 3 to 8 p.m. Nov. 5, Clarion Hotel on Jonathan Moore Pike. Over 50 vendors, artisans, crafters and small businesses from which to shop. Prizes, raffles, cookies, candy, hot cocoa and photos with Santa.

HOOSIER PRO WRESTLING 18TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW AND 12TH ANNUAL FIREMEN’S CHEER FUND TOY DRIVE, 7:45 p.m. Nov. 5, Bartholomew County Fairgrounds. Doors open at 7 p.m. Admission: $15. Kids 4 and under free. Raffle to benefit the Cheer Fund. New or gently used toys will be collected for donation to the Cheer Fund.

COMEDIAN HEYWOOD BANKS, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 5, Brown County Playhouse, 70 S. Van Buren St., Nashville. Tickets: $27.50, available at 812-988-6555 and broncounty playhouse.org.

NINTH ANNUAL WOOD CARVING SHOW, presented by Columbus Hoosier Carvers, Franklin Chipmates and Indianapolis Circle City Carvers, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 5, Franklin Cultural Arts and Recreation Center, 396 Branigin Blvd., Franklin. Admission is free. Door prizes awarded throughout the day. Information: 812-372-1956 or 317-736-3689.

COMEDY SHOW TO BENEFIT REINS TO RECOVERY THERAPEUTIC RIDING CENTER, 7:30 to 9 p.m. Nov. 11, Celebrations event center in Seymour. With opening act Robert Hay-Smith and headliner Jeff Bodart. Tickets sold at the door: $15 per person, $25 per couple. Doors open at 7 p.m. Light snacks, beer and wine available for purchase.

NATIONAL FAMILY WEEK ACTIVITIES, Scheduled: “Columbus Families Got Talent,” 7 to 8:30 p.m. Nov. 3, Cal Brand Room, City Hall, 123 Washington St.; Family of the Year recognition, 7 to 8 p.m. Nov. 17, Cal Brand Room, City Hall, with entertainment by “A Joyful Sound,” fourth and fifth graders from St. Peter’s Lutheran School; 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.

Galleries, museums & exhibits

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

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. Information: columbusmad@gmail.com.

IVY TECH GALLERY OF FINE ART & DESIGN, 4475 Central Ave. Gallery hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays 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. Mondays through Fridays. Information: 812-247-0502.

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. Wednesdays through Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays. Information: tsartisans.com.

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

SOUTHERN INDIANA CENTER FOR THE ARTS, 2001 N. Ewing St., Seymour. Noon to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays. Information: 812-522-1178.

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. Mondays through Saturdays 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.

Jenny’s Picks – November 3

By
Jenny Elig
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Just in case you haven’t heard, She Magazine’s annual Mingle-N-Jingle event is 5 to 8 p.m. Nov. 3 at the Hilton Garden Inn, 12210 N. Executive Drive, Edinburgh. More than 30 vendors of fashion, hair, nail and gift ideas will participate. Donate a new toy to the Cheer Fund for a chance to win an overnight stay at the Hilton and a gift card from the outlet. Wine available at a cash bar.

It never hurts to learn how to manage your money, so head to “Make the Most of Your Income,” 6:30 p.m. Nov. 3 at the Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St. Presenter Lisa Piercefield of Apprisen will help participants identify financial goals, develop a plan to reach those goals, create a spending plan and find ways to save money. Information: 812-379-1266; mybcpl.org.

Indian Association’s Diwali event slated

By
Brian Blair
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Past and present. Traditional and modern.

Eleven-year-old Ronit Jha and four of his young friends aim to blend those elements in a dance performance as one of nearly 30 cultural acts at the Indian Association of Columbus’ annual Diwali celebration. The festive, cultural event is slated from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday at Columbus North High School’s Judson Erne Auditorium, including a traditional Indian meal served at the school.

“You don’t have to be shy when there are so many other people who will be performing,” said the youngster, adding that he loves to highlight Indian culture.

The event is the association’s largest on a calendar that includes Summer Fest entertainment at Mill Race Park, cricket competitions and a range of other sports and activities.

About 100 tickets remain for the gathering that in recent years has attracted a full house of nearly 1,100 people.

Diwali technically refers to the Hindu festival of lights. But the local gathering excludes the religious link in favor of a more broad, cultural interpretation.

“It’s way of bringing together everyone,” said Prem Jha, event chairman for the second straight year.

Everyone means India natives, locals and anyone else interested, according to the coordinator.

Norbert Nusterer, president for Cummins Inc. Power Systems, and Srikanth Padmanabhan, president for Cummins Engine Business, will be special guests.

Diwali has grown locally over the years.

It began as a small celebration at Parkside Elementary School. It moved to the auditorium at Southside Elementary School, then to the auditorium at Columbus East High School, and finally to North.

Prem Jha mentioned that although organizers would like to see the event continue to grow, they wouldn’t want to offer two performances or two meals since part of the concept is togetherness of the Indian community and guests.

“It really gives us a sense of home,” said Krishna Rampalli, association president.

The meal will include biryani, an Indian mixed rice dish, and an Indian oven-baked flatbread known as naan.

Athough the event builds cultural awareness and friendships, it also builds a sense of maturity especially in the young performers, Rampalli said.

“It gives them a wonderful opportunity to show their talent in front of hundreds or more people,” Rampalli said. “And really, it helps motivate them to grow up and mature.”

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What: The Indian Association of Columbus’ annual celebration of Diwali, the festival of lights. The gathering includes traditional and modern cultural performances (music, dance and more), and also a traditional Indian meal.

When: 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday.

Where: Judson Erne Auditorium, 1400 15th St. in Columbus.

Admission:

  • Tickets are available at the Facebook page of Indian Association of Columbus
  • Adults (12 and older): Performance and dinner, $20. Performance only, $13.
  • Children (5 to 11): Performance and dinner, $15. Performance only, $10.
  • Children younger than age 5 are admitted free.

Information: Facebook page at Indian Association of Columbus and at the website, iac-columbus.org.

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One-man Christmas show returns to Hope

By
Brian Blair
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You know the holidays are coming when you hear that Hope actor Pete Law will reprise his frenetic, one-man presentation of “A Christmas Carol: the Radio Show,” from Actors’ Studio of Hope. Catch it at 5:30 and 7 p.m. Nov. 18 at Willow Leaves of Hope, 326 Jackson St. in Hope. The story revolves around what happens when all the actors get snowed in and can’t make it to the radio performance. Dinner and desserts available. Information: 812-546-0640 and Facebook at Actors’ Studio of Hope.

Brian’s picks – November 3

By
Brian Blair
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Wistful nostalgia flowed right along with the rhythm of classic rock tunes last year when Yacht Rock Revue provided the musical groove for Columbus Regional Health Foundation’s 21st annual Reverse Raffle fundraiser for VIMCare, treating those with no insurance. The band with Columbus members Nick Niespodziani and Peter Olson returns for the event at 6 p.m. Nov. 11 at The Clarion Hotel, 2480 Jonathan Moore Pike. Tickets are $170 for one dinner seat and one raffle ticket. Information: crh.org.

The 70-voice Indianapolis Men’s Chorus brings a touch of Indiana’s bicentennial to Columbus 7:30 p.m. Nov. 4 at the free Fridays at First series at First United Methodist Church, 618 Eighth St. The volunteer choir will perform a collection of timeless Hoosier favorites and selections from legendary Indiana musicians. Kevin Butler has used the series to highlight a range of varied groups and artists, including those with local connections. Information: 812-372-2851; fumccolumbus.org.

Artist returns from Thailand to show his many faces

By
Brian Blair
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He has not shown his face in local arts venues in nearly three years.

But now Columbus native Paul Neufelder, recently returned from living in Pattaya, Thailand, is showing people the many faces of himself. Well, technically, they’re the abstract, acrylic-squiggled faces of others.

They’re part of the artist’s newest exhibit, “It’s a Face; No, It’s Not a Face” running until year’s end at WellConnect, 237 Washington St. in Columbus.

He completed the pieces before he left for Thailand in 2013, but he found little time to book a show. So now the creations represent the latest expression of his efforts.

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“I am not exactly sure where they came from,” he said of the patterns he labels as “drip (paint) face.”

“Of course, anytime you start sling- ing paint, it’s a little bit similar to the style of (abstract expressionist) Jackson Pollock.”

Neufelder began his art career by learning to paint with a brush held in his mouth a few years after a 1978 diving accident left him paralyzed from the chest down. Although he planned to paint in Thailand, medical challenges there siphoned money he had set aside for art.

He returned to his local studio only recently. He recalled drip-face efforts he first executed some 25 years ago.

“But they were so bad you couldn’t really see the face in any of them,” he said. “They are rendered a lot more realistically today. They’re a lot more open.”

Open is also one way the artist describes the people of Thailand.

He mixed easily with eclectic groups, from Muslims to Buddhist monks. The monks quickly found common ground with him when they asked him to find the Bee Gees’ music online so they could listen to disco with him.

“I’m sure that some of my experiences will be integrated into my work over maybe the next 10 years,” he said.

He loves being back in Columbus, living and working out of what was his home for years on Chestnut Street. But he is a new man, married two years ago to Nat Kub Jay Thanapree, whom he simply calls “Jay.” They are raising 8-year-old daughter, Jenny, together.

“When I landed, I truly felt like I was home,” Neufelder said. “It was weird, but it was a feeling very deep down inside.”

Today, he finds equal measures of comfort and inspiration painting with fellow local artist Steven Newlin.

Newlin, who first met Neufelder in the 1990s, has been teaming with him on pieces ranging from watercolor to ink. He said he is frequently amazed by Neufelder’s determined work ethic and definitely enjoys his latest creations.

“I think it’s fascinating,” Newlin said. “But it’s one of those things that takes you a moment.

“I like watching other people look at them for the first time. There’s a real moment of realization (of a face).”

Neufelder is uncertain what comes next. But he seems content to allow the face of the future to form in slow, deliberate fashion.

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What: Columbus artist Paul Neufelder’s latest exhibit, “It’s a Face: No, It’s Not a Face,” featuring abstract patterns that form a face.

When: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays through year’s end.

Where: WellConnect, 237 Washington St. in Columbus.

Admission: Free.

Information: Paul Neufelder’s Facebook page.

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Toy drive accepting new, gently used items

By
Kaitlyn Evener
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Mattress Firm, located at 1920 N. National Road, has started its holiday Toy Drive to benefit foster children.

The store will be accepting new and gently used toys through Dec. 18. Toys can be dropped off at the store between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and from noon to 6 p.m. Sundays.

The drive is part of the Mattress Firm Foster Kids Ticket to Dream Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit foundation.

Leadership event being streamed at Ivy Tech

By
Kaitlyn Evener
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Community members and all Ivy Tech students, staff and faculty are invited to a live broadcast event, sponsored by Ivy Tech Community College’s chapter of The National Society of Leadership and Success.

The event, which will feature Andy Cohen, Emmy Award-winning television executive and author, will begin at 7 p.m. Wednesday in the Columbus Learning Center auditorium, 4555 Central Avenue. It will be streamed live and hosted by New Jersey City University.

Cohen will share advice for following your passions to land that dream job and taking calculated risks.

Viewers are invited to submit questions via Facebook and Twitter. Questions will be answered live during the broadcast.

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