Archived News Releases

School Is Cool Video Contest Announced

Posted November 26, 2019

Here is an exciting opportunity for School Is Cool! This year the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a video contest for 9-12th graders. The video needs to be 2-3 minutes long and promote great attendance (more details in attached flyer)! Videos need to be submitted by December 20th, 2019 to Roxie@wcareachamber.org. The videos will be posted on social media and voting will be based on the number of "likes" each video receives. The winning video will be shown at the Chamber's Annual Dinner on January 17th!

Graduate Programs in Education Offering New Online Class on Trauma-informed Classrooms

Posted December 19, 2019

A new online course offered by Earlham College's Graduate Programs in Education will provide new resources and strategies for K-12 teachers working with students who have experienced traumatic events in their life.

"Trauma Informed Classrooms and Social Emotional Learning: Respect for Persons in our Current Climate" will be offered during spring semester 2020. It is designed for Earlham alumni or educators familiar with Quaker values and approaches to learning. Enrollment, however, is open to any practicing teacher in the United States.

"The definition of trauma is changing in classrooms across the nation," says Becky Dimick Eastman, director of Earlham's Graduate Programs in Education. "Educators who participate in this new coursework will develop strategies based on Quaker principles for working with students reeling from violence, challenges at home, discrimination, and other impediments to learning."

A recent study by the National Survey on Children's Health underscores the need for such a course. The study found that nearly 47 percent of all children in the United States have experienced at least one adverse childhood experience, such as abuse or neglect, the death of a parent, or witnessing community violence in school or in the neighborhood. Nearly 22 percent of all children have experienced two adverse childhood experiences, the study says.

"We want to meet the needs of current teachers in a supportive way, where they live, and at the right time, as trauma-informed care has become a national conversation," Dimick Eastman says. "Thisprogram has the potential to connect Earlham alumni and others interested in sustaining our commitment to lifelong learning by engaging in discussions on cutting-edge topics that can make a difference in the lives of students."

Earlham is the only institution of higher education offering such a course that is based on Quaker principles and practices related to respect for persons, community, peace and justice, integrity, and simplicity. The three-credit course is taught by educators who have experience teaching adults.

In addition to this online coursework, Earlham's Graduate Programs in Education offers a Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) and a Master of Education (M.Ed.). The M.A.T. program prepares students to become licensed classroom teachers, while the M.Ed. program is for students interested in a variety of careers in education beyond the classroom, including outdoor leadership, educational technology, or coaching. Both programs can be completed in 11 months.

A distinctive 3+1 Education program is also available for undergraduates seeking to earn the Bachelor of Arts and the M.A.T. in nine semesters, to be completed in four years.

Dylan Gentilcore M.A.T. '17, a high school English and theatre teacher working in Carmel, Indiana, believes the new coursework will be a valuable resource for educators.

"Most educators can relate to the challenge of trying to get each of their students to complete the same work on the same deadline," Gentilcore says. "For students grappling with mental health issues or other situations they can't escape from, putting them in a normal timeframe might not be fair to them. It can be a very powerless situation for teachers, too. Working on how to address that and give teachers strategies for working with these students can be very useful."

Gentilcore said Earlham's strength is in producing educators who listen and develop rapport with their students.

"Earlham focuses on being empathetic toward students and understanding of the different backgrounds and experiences they have," Gentilcore says. "The coursework I completed as part of the M.A.T. program fundamentally addresses those issues.

"We have a tendency as adults to just react and dismiss what children are experiencing as normal," he says. "Earlham really helped me hone in on who the student is, and become a person they can trust."

Foundation Announces Lilly Endowment Community Scholars

Posted December 16, 2019

The Wayne County Foundation is pleased to announce the selection of two area high school seniors who will receive the prestigious Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship.

Alivia Dwire and Kassidy Oliger were chosen from a pool of 72 applicants from throughout Wayne County. Each recipient will receive a four-year, full-tuition scholarship and $900 annual stipend for required books and equipment to attend an accredited public or private nonprofit college or university in Indiana.

Alivia is a senior at Northeastern High School. At the end of her junior year she had a 4.05 GPA and plans to graduate with an Academic Honors diploma. Alivia has participated in National Honor Society, Student Council, Eastern Indiana Model Legislature, and Volleyball. She served in several leadership positions, including Secretary of Future Farmers of America and Junior Leaders 4-H Club, Vice President of Spanish Club, Captain of Cheerleading and Math Academic Teams. Alivia plans to attend Purdue University and study Animal Science with a concentration in Biosciences. She is the daughter of Danny and Amanda Brockman.

Kassidy, a senior at Hagerstown High School, completed her junior year with a 4.0 GPA and plans to graduate with an Academic Honors diploma. Kassidy has participated in 4-H, Business Professionals of America, Eastern Indiana Model Legislature, Epitome (Yearbook), Future Farmers of America, Academic Teams, and Prevention Using Student Help. She has held several leadership positions within these activities. Kassidy plans to attend Purdue University and major in Agriculture. She is the daughter of Chris and Amy Oliger.

"The Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship is an amazing opportunity for students to continue their education after high school, without incurring the debt most students experience," said Lisa Bates, the Foundation's program officer.

The primary purposes of the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program are 1) to help raise the level of educational attainment in Indiana; 2) to increase awareness of the beneficial roles Indiana community foundations can play in their communities; and 3) to encourage and support the efforts of current and past Lilly Endowment Community Scholars to engage with each other and with Indiana business, governmental, educational, nonprofit and civic leaders to improve the quality of life in Indiana generally and in local communities throughout the state.

Since 1998, 49 students have been awarded Lilly Endowment Community Scholarships through the Wayne County Foundation. This year's awardees will be recognized, at the Wayne County Foundation's Annual Report to the Community dinner in June, 2020.

Auxiliary donates record $300,000 to Reid Health Foundation

Posted December 16, 2019

Reid Health Auxiliary's recent contribution to Reid Health Foundation of $300,000 marks another record annual donation, thanks to successful fundraising by the Reid Health Auxiliary volunteers.

The Auxiliary raises funds year-round with special sales and through the Ginkgo Boutique, the hospital gift shop - which is wholly owned and operated by the Auxiliary. All proceeds from the gift shop and other activities are presented to the Foundation annually. "The Auxiliary always chooses to support things that help patients directly," said Miracle Baker, Retail Manager.

The Reid Health Auxiliary promotes the mission of Reid Health through volunteerism and projects for the benefit of patients, said Shara Short, Manager of Volunteer Services. "Our volunteers take great pride in the many ways they contribute to the Reid Health team," Short said.

With this year's donation, the Auxiliary has provided more than $3.872 million to the Foundation since its formation in 1948. The funds are used to support patient care at Reid Health, including funding technology and equipment needs supported by the Foundation. Past donations have funded, for example the green roof installed over a portion of the main campus, the grand piano in the atrium, pediatric therapy equipment, chemotherapy chairs and defibrillators.

"The dedication of our Auxiliary to the Reid Health mission is unwavering," said Randy Kirk, Reid Health Vice President/Foundation President. "Two years of record contributions to support patient care is amazing - the countless hours put in by our volunteer team remains priceless."

New officers for 2020 were also selected in the annual gathering at which the donation is celebrated. They include John Herig, president; Electa Berk, president-elect; David Garman, past president; Virginia Thompson, treasurer; Pat Shuck, assistant treasurer; Max Bennett, recording secretary; Becky Russell, assistant recording secretary; and Bev Tidrow, corresponding secretary.

Auxiliary volunteers donate time to departments across the health system. Approximately 300 volunteers are active in various departments.

For information about volunteering at Reid Health, visit: https://www.reidhealth.org/careers/volunteer-at-reid/

Study: Earlham Contributes $91M to Indiana's Economy

Posted December 16, 2019

Earlham College is a significant driver of economic growth across Indiana, according to a new study released by the Independent Colleges of Indiana (ICI).

With 400 employees and 1,100 students, the Earlham community contributed about $91 million to Indiana's economy and attracted 29,000 visitors to the state during the 2017-18 academic year.

"This study is an important reminder of the significant contributions that Indiana's independent colleges make not only in educating students, but also in contributing to the economic vibrancy of their community and region," says Earlham President Anne Houtman. "We are deeply committed to the success of Richmond and Wayne County and proud of the contributions we make, both directly and indirectly, to the entire state of Indiana."

Earlham is among Richmond's largest employers and serves as an important intellectual and cultural hub for the state. A not-for-profit college, Earlham is committed to advancing the social good through innovation, community engagement and service, often working side-by-side with organizations that deliver critical services for neighbors living in the region. Earlham's graduates also work in a number of Indiana industries, including healthcare, business, technology, government and civic affairs, education, social services, spiritual life and the arts.

The ICI's report also highlights Earlham's broader contributions to the state, which include:

• Purchasing $45.5 million in goods and services from Indiana businesses;
• Supporting more than nearly 900 jobs statewide;
• Generating $17.2 million in total taxes; and
• Constructing $23 million in capital projects.

Across the state, the ICI's 29 other affiliated institutions are having a similar impact.

ICI's 30 member institutions are educating about 88,355 students, ranking Indiana 13th nationwide in terms of enrollment in private colleges and universities.

ICI institutions, as a sector, represent the 7th largest employer in the state with more than 22,443 people working directly for those institutions, accounting for a total of 50,000 jobs affiliated with those schools.

Statewide, ICI schools directly purchase $2.8 billion in goods and services from Indiana businesses and attract 3.5 million visitors. Those transactions result in ripple effect throughout the Indiana economy, generating about $5.4 billion in total economic activity.

To learn more about Earlham's contributions to the state, or to explore the ICI's study, visit icindiana.org/economicimpact.

Summia Tora '20 Named Earlham's 2nd Rhodes Scholar in Three Years

Posted December 3, 2019

An Earlham College senior double majoring in Economics and Peace & Global Studies has earned the Rhodes Scholarship, one of the world's most prestigious academic awards. The Rhodes funds up to three years of graduate level coursework at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom, beginning in fall 2020.

Summia Tora, a native of Afghanistan, is just the latest global scholar to emerge from Earlham, building upon the College's reputation as a leader in the liberal arts and sciences for its commitment to peace, justice and global understanding. Tora is the first woman from Earlham and the first student from Afghanistan to be awarded the scholarship. She is the second Earlham student in three years to earn a Rhodes Scholarship.

"As soon as I learned that I was selected for this award, I messaged all of my professors and family because I truly believe that this has not just been awarded to me, but it's been awarded to everyone who has supported me," Tora says. "I don't think I would have been able to do it if I didn't get all of the support from my professors and my peers.

"I think what helped me stand out among other applicants is that we make time in the classroom to openly share what we are thinking about, but also critically think about a lot of issues we see in the world," she says. "It really taught me the importance of listening, but also being able to talk about things from multiple perspectives without getting comfortable with any one way of thinking."

Tora plans to pursue coursework in refugee studies, forced migration studies and social entrepreneurship while in Oxford. Her focus will be on scholarship related to internally displaced people in Afghanistan but also refugees in Pakistan and different parts of the world.

Tora's academic pursuits in Oxford will build upon her Earlham education and her own life's experiences. When she was a child, she fled to Pakistan with her family to escape violence and other economic factors threatening their safety. Most of her formal education was in Pakistan, but she received a scholarship to study at the United World College in Montezuma, New Mexico, for the final two years of high school. As a UWC student, she advocated for refugees seeking asylum in the United States by spreading awareness about the conditions of undocumented immigrants living in detention centers.

When she arrived at Earlham in 2016, her coursework and co-curricular pursuits helped her gain a more sophisticated understanding of the factors that contributed to forced migration in locations around the world.

In the summer of her first year, she earned funding from Earlham in support of an internship at Exodus Refugee Immigration in Indianapolis, and worked closely with Congolese and Afghan refugees seeking a new life in Indiana. During her third year at Earlham, she spent a semester abroad in Athens, Greece, and gained further experience providing translation services for Doctors of the World, an international human rights organization that provides emergency and long-term medical care to refugees and other vulnerable populations. Later on Earlham's campus, Tora and other Earlham students conducted a fundraiser for refugee families that she had met at a solidarity shelter during her time in Greece.

"It was a form of reliving my own experience, but also realizing that I had some form of privilege in the way that I was living my life as a refugee," Tora says of her internship and experiences in Greece. "I've wanted to give back, because I know what this hardship is like."

On Earlham's campus, Tora benefited from a liberal arts curriculum that exposed her to coursework beyond her two majors, resulting in mentorship from faculty in the departments of Economics, Peace & Global Studies, African & African American Studies, History, English and Global Management. Similarly, she worked extensively with interdisciplinary teams of students on a number of entrepreneurial projects that broadened the scope of her interest in refugee studies. She also worked more broadly with the entire student body as co-president of Earlham Student Government for the 2018-19 academic year.

"I was delighted when I heard of Summia's success," says Rajaram Krishnan, a professor of Economics at Earlham, and one of Tora's faculty mentors. "At Earlham, Summia has worked with focus and purpose both inside and outside the classroom, and the Rhodes is a fitting reward for her efforts. That it is Earlham's second Rhodes in three years suggests that we can make it a habit!"

Hashem Abu Sham'a, a 2017 Earlham graduate and the College's last Rhodes Scholar was one of the first two awardees from the State of Palestine as part of the inaugural Syria, Jordan, Lebanon and Palestine program. George E. Hamilton, Class of 1905, and Joseph Clyde Little, Class of 1917, also were Earlham Rhodes Scholars.

For Tora's Rhodes interview, four Peace & Global Studies students helped her by dressing up on a recent Saturday afternoon to simulate a "hard-hitting mock interview," according to Joanna Swanger the director of Earlham's Peace and Global Studies program.

"I never doubted her ability, as she has been a dedicated and conscientious student of Peace and Global Studies and of Economics, and she has already demonstrated her talents in peace-building and governance," Swanger says. "Both Summia and Hashem are bringing important questions of justice to bear on the work of peacebuilding and leadership, through directly confronting and challenging legacies of racism and colonialism. I congratulate Summia on this marvelous accomplishment."

Rhodes Scholars are chosen on the basis of exceptional intellect, character, leadership and commitment to service. It is one of the most prestigious academic awards in the English-speaking world, and one that broadened its reach in recent decades. At its founding in 1902, the award was only open to men from the British colonies, Germany and the United States. The program began including women in 1978 and, in recent years, has been extended even further to include students from around the world.

About 100 students are now chosen for Rhodes Scholars annually. Tora was one of just two Rhodes Scholars chosen in her region as part of the Global Scholars program, which debuted in 2018. About 600 students from 50 different countries participated in the application process, and students from 12 different countries were finalists, she says.

Now Tora is planning for her next steps as she prepares to join other Rhodes luminaries, a list that includes former Secretary of State Dean Rusk; South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg; former U.S. Sen. J. William Fulbright; philosopher Naomi Wolf; U.S. Sen. Cory Booker; and Marc Kielburger, co-founder of Feed The Children.

"I have been awarded a scholarship that is a reminder not only of this world's colonial past but also the social injustices," Tora says. "My hope is to use the education I gain at Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar to address such issues in our present world.

"I want to work with people on the ground and mobilize social movements by taking a grassroots approach and addressing real issues within communities, working side-by-side people and making them actual contributors in society that take positions and make a difference."

Singles Interaction Newsletter - December 2019

Posted November 18, 2019

If you are 21 years of age or better and single, divorced, widow or widower, Singles' Interaction invites you to join them on Friday nights. Come to the Eagles Lodge, 75 South 12th Street, Richmond (membership not required) and meet other single people in the Richmond area.

Come, socialize, dance, and enjoy yourself!

LifeStream Needs Your Help to Deliver Hope During the Holidays

Posted November 5, 2019

LifeStream is seeking support from the community to help them deliver hope to older adults who are isolated and alone during the holiday season with AngelWish. LifeStream's AngelWish program coordinates the delivery of gift bags filled with practical necessities to isolated older adults in Blackford, Delaware, Fayette, Franklin, Grant, Henry, Jay, Madison, Randolph, Rush, Union, and Wayne counties.

This bag is more than just material goods - it is hope for a better tomorrow.

For over 20 years, generous businesses, clubs, organizations, churches, and individuals have come together as a community to ensure the most vulnerable are not forgotten during the holidays. Below is how individuals and organizations can support the AngelWish program:

• Make a monetary donation: With just a $35 donation, a person will receive a gift bag. Donations can be made online at lifestreaminc.org/angelwish or mailed to 1701 Pilgrim Blvd. Yorktown, IN 47396. Please note AngelWish with your donation. Checks should be made payable to LifeStream Services.
• Donate canned soup: Each AngelWish recipient will receive a microwavable soup cup. Individuals and business can help LifeStream fill their cups by donating canned soups of all varieties. Donations can be dropped off at the LifeStream offices in Anderson, Richmond, or Yorktown. Pick up can be arranged in advance by calling 765-759-3372.
• Sign up to be a delivery elf: LifeStream expects to deliver 1,200 AngelWish gift bags between December 7 and December 24. Dependable volunteers are needed to help deliver gift bags to AngelWish recipients to ensure all bags are delivered by December 24.
• Become a sponsor: Sponsorships start at $100 and go up to $2,500. Benefits can include logo and name listed on print and online materials, name listed in Streamlines newsletter delivered to over 3,500 homes and businesses, as well as the opportunity to provide promotional materials.

Those interested in supporting the AngelWish program should contact Laura Bray, Volunteer Services Administrator, by calling 765-759-3372 or emailing lbray@lifestreaminc.org. You may also fill out the support form by visiting www.lifestreaminc.org/angelwish.

Special thank you to our current supporters including Signature Healthcare of Muncie, Hometown Home Healthcare, Deltec Solutions, Albany Health & Rehabilitation, Whitewater Eye Centers, Natco Credit Union, Heart to Heart Hospice, Essential Senior Health & Living, Stateline Medical Equipment, Caregiver Homes, AutoFarm Mobility, Applegate Livestock Equipment, Silver Birch of Muncie, FCN Bank, Arbor Trace, Becovic Management Group, Bethel Pointe Health & Rehabilitation, Oscar W. Larson, Reid Community Benefits, and more.

LifeStream is an Area Agency on Aging that works to improve the quality of life for people at risk of losing their independence. LifeStream serves over 23,000 seniors and people with disabilities throughout 12 counties in Indiana including Blackford, Delaware, Fayette, Franklin, Grant, Henry, Jay, Madison, Randolph, Rush, Union, and Wayne. Programs and services include care management, transportation, in-home care, Senior Cafes, home-delivered meals, guardianships, caregiver support, home modifications, information and assistance, volunteer opportunities and more. For more about the organization call (800) 589-1121 or visit online at www.lifestreaminc.org and follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lifestreamservices.

2019 Paul and Pat Lingle Scholars are Centerville High School Graduates

Posted November 26, 2019

Samuel Roberts, Centerville, Indiana, and Sidne Thompson, Richmond, Indiana, are the 2019 recipients of Paul and Pat Lingle Scholars Program. The scholarship award will continue throughout their pursuit of a four-year degree at Indiana University East.

Both are graduates of Centerville High School.

Roberts is a business administration major. "I chose business because I have always loved numbers and math as well as meeting new people and just being social.

Samuel Roberts

My experience so far has been amazing. I have felt very welcomed so far as well as very proud to be a part of such a great college," Roberts said.

Roberts is a member of the IU East men's golf team. He also works with the Office of Admissions as an Admissions Ambassador.

By receiving the scholarship, Roberts said he is able to pursue his degree without the stress of student loans, and he has the opportunity to continue his education whereas before he might not have been able to go on to college.

"I am very honored and grateful to be selected as a Lingle Scholar," Roberts said. "These students truly do go above and beyond and I am honored to be selected as one of those students and be recognized as such a student."

Roberts is one of 14 valedictorian or salutatorians to choose to attend IU East this fall as part of the incoming freshman class. "I chose IU East because everywhere that you go on campus, there is a family atmosphere. From the professors all the way to the chancellor, everyone wants you to succeed much like a family would," Roberts said.

One day he hopes to own or manage his own golf course.

"I love the game and I would love to expand the game, so managing my own course is my best option to not only expand the game but give back to the community through programs such as The First Tee," he said.

Sidne Thompson

Thompson is majoring in nursing and pursuing a minor in Spanish.

"Getting a Lingle scholarship was a relief off of my shoulders," Thompson said. "I always knew I would have to pay for college on my own. With this scholarship, I won't have all the student debt accumulated, and in particular that will be helpful as I go on to attend graduate school."

Thompson said she has always wanted to attend Indiana University and visited the Bloomington, Indianapolis and Richmond campuses.

"After I toured IU East in my junior year, I just knew IU East was the place for me," Thompson said. "Everyone was very welcoming, helpful and so interactive."

Thompson is also an Admissions Ambassador and she works for the Office of External Affairs. She is a member of Circle K, the National Student Nursing Association and Opening Minds Through Art (OMA), a program connecting IU East students with elders with dementia to foster communication, self-worth and social interaction through art projects.

"My first semester has been awesome. I dove in right off the bat to get involved. It's been the perfect amount of busy," Thompson said.

Once Thompson graduates with her undergraduate degree, she hopes to be either an anesthesiologist or a pediatric nurse.

To help encourage the brightest and best students in Wayne County to continue their education at IU East, Paul and Pat Lingle announced their plan to endow the Paul and Pat Lingle Scholars Program with a $100,000 gift in 2018. The program provides a four year scholarship to high-achieving area students pursuing a four-year degree at IU.

The four-year scholarship is awarded to two students who have been accepted to the IU East Honors Program, an academic program that provides an intellectually enriching curriculum for highly motivated students. Recipients receive a four-year scholarship, provided by the Lingles.

The Lingle Scholars program was established in 2005 and formerly endowed in 2018. The program has assisted 16 students achieve their goal of earning a bachelor's degree, including the most recent graduates from the program, Destiny Maitlen of Centerville and Mackenzie Spurrier of Richmond. This year Thompson and Roberts join Noah Fox of Richmond and Hope Peer of Fountain City as Paul & Pat Lingle Scholars at IU East.

Chamber and HYPE Join Forces

Posted November 19, 2019

The Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce and HYPE Richmond (Helping Young Professionals Engage) are pleased to announce the formal integration of the young professional group into Chamber organization beginning January 1, 2020. The boards of directors for both organizations formally approved this move in their most recent respective board meetings.

The Chamber of Commerce serves its members through their mission to Promote Lead Unite and Serve (PLUS). They specifically work in four areas: advocacy & awareness, professional development & training, networking & engagement and benefits & support.

"We see this as an opportunity to join forces in a couple of these areas," said Chamber President & CEO Melissa Vance. "We know that our business members are eager to develop young leaders and to engage them in our community. This is essential for long-term growth."

For HYPE Richmond board members, this is an opportunity for stability and sustainability said Mark Broeker of Reid Health. "Our organization has made great strides over the years, but with transitions in board leadership every few years and a fully volunteer team, it is difficult to maintain constant momentum," added Roxie Deer who plays dual roles as the Chamber Director of Programs & Events as well as the current HYPE Richmond President.

With the formal HYPE Richmond 501(c)3 organization dissolving, the Chamber will add a committee specifically for HYPE, but changing the name to include the entire service area – HYPE Wayne County. This change will result in an additional staff member for the Chamber of Commerce and some shuffling of responsibilities among existing staff. Roxie Deer will remain involved in the HYPE fold, taking on the staff role for this group as well as maintaining her efforts in education. A position will then be added for membership and events.

"While we have had a few young professionals on our board of directors over the past few years, we will be adding another specifically appointed by the HYPE Wayne County Committee each year," said Board President Sherrilyn Johnson of Hills Pet Nutrition. "It is important to have a diverse board which certainly includes age."

The Chamber encourages employers to urge those under 40 to become involved in HYPE Wayne County in the coming year. Continued efforts in professional development and social activities will be the initial focus for the group.

For more information about the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce, visit WCAreaChamber.org or call the office at (765) 962-1511.

IU East announces the Ginger Gray Spirit of Philanthropy Fund

Posted November 18, 2019

Ginger Gray, with her husband Cory Gray, is gifting $250,000 to Indiana University East.

The Ginger Gray Spirit of Philanthropy Fund will provide opportunities for students and student clubs to apply for funding that supports philanthropic efforts on and off campus.

The gift was announced by IU Board of Trustee member Donna Spears during the Chancellor's Medallion Dinner, and the campus' official Indiana University Bicentennial event, held Friday night in the Whitewater Hall Lobby. For more on the Chancellor's Medallion, read the news release.

Gray received a Chancellor's Medallion during the dinner along with Richard (Rick) E. Boston and Marvin (Tom) Thomas Williams. Each also received an IU Bicentennial Medal.

IU East Chancellor Kathy Cruz-Uribe said Gray is an inspiration.

"I was so delighted to present Ginger with a Chancellor's Medallion award," Cruz-Uribe said. "Ginger is a philanthropist in the truest sense of the word. She gives of her time, talent and treasure to support IU East and our students. Ginger is one of those rare individuals who inspires others by example through her hard work, enthusiasm, leadership and dedication to our community."

For Gray, being involved with local non-profit organizations is about helping others do their best and contribute to the community.

"Philanthropy means the love of humanity and for the public good," Gray said. "We just want the best for our community."

Gray is the owner of Ginger Gray Productions, and a philanthropist, planner and historic preservationist. Her husband is a radiologist at Reid Health.

The purpose of the gift is to provide students and student organizations with funding that will be used to create philanthropic efforts that will enhance the IU East campus or the Richmond community. Students or student organizations will apply for the funds - much like a grant process - to receive money that will fund their philanthropic ideas.

"I have witnessed first-hand the IU East commitment to our community and how the campus focuses on the quality of life within Richmond, Indiana. That is very important to me," Gray said. "IU East is not just focused on the campus, they want to impact the community around them. Whatever makes the community stronger, makes IU East stronger. I really admire that IU East wants to do the best for the community, as opposed to just what is good for the campus."

Gray said she hopes the gift will encourage students to think about their responsibilities to invest in the communities in which they live. The gift, she hopes, will help students be more involved in the community, learn about their own abilities, and find ways to support the organizations or interests that matter most to them.

"I hope this gift helps students to try and think outside of themselves, and that it helps them to see the power they have to make a difference," she said.

Gray said the philanthropic community has helped her grow into the person she is today.

Since the Grays first moved to Richmond in 1987 she has been involved with local philanthropy. As a new resident in the community Gray was recruited by Sandy Burner, Carol McKey and Jeanne Rush to be a part of the Festival of Trees, a fundraiser for the Richmond Symphony Orchestra (RSO).

"They got me involved and from there I saw first-hand the level of commitment that these women had for our community," Gray said.

She observed others and she learned how to best serve the community through philanthropy.

In 1992, Gray was asked by Burner to chair the dedication celebration for Hayes Hall. Burner was the vice chancellor for External Relations and Development at IU East, a position she had taken on a few years earlier in 1989. At the time, IU East was a much different campus, she said. Hayes Hall was the second building built on the 225-acre property.

Planning the Hayes Hall dedication was Gray's introduction to the campus.

"I had never done anything on that scale. We got it done, and it was amazing," Gray said. "That event gave me confidence. I've always been supported by a wonderful, strong group of successful women who have encouraged me. That's what I try to do for other women and for youth in our community."

The involvement led Gray to commit herself to improving the community, an effort that has had a vast impact. She has served on boards and in advisory capacities, donated professional services, set the standard for event-based fundraising, and mentored the next generation of event planners and leaders.

Since her first fundraising experience with RSO, Gray continues to work closely with IU East including Friday night's event, which was her 10th Chancellor's Medallion Dinner. She assisted with Chancellor Cruz-Uribe's Installation Ceremony in 2013, which saw the revitalization of the Historic Pennsylvania Railroad Depot.

Before her involvement with philanthropy and assisting non-profit organizations, Gray said she did not know of her creativity, a trait she is known for now.

"I never knew I could do anything before non-profits," Gray said. "Non-profits were my education, my training ground. I learned everything by just watching and observing, and trying to be the best person that I could be. I tried to be the first person there, and the last to leave, and to do whatever I could to improve, modify, or absorb. I was like an intern for Richmond, Indiana, for 30 years. Now I would like to give back."

Each year, Gray works with 10-14 non-profit organizations throughout Wayne County including the RSO, the Richmond Art Museum (RAM), Cope Environmental Center, Amigos and Girls Inc. She continues to work with IU East for events such as the Chancellor's Medallion, chancellor installations and fundraising events.

"Ginger's work in the community has had a tremendous ripple effect on so many people. This extends to non-profit leaders and the thousands of people who are served by those organizations," said Jason Troutwine, vice chancellor for External Affairs. "IU East is lucky to have been a beneficiary of her volunteerism and philanthropy. And on a personal level, Ginger has taught me a great deal and I appreciate her mentorship."

For her volunteer leadership, Gray received the RSO President's Award in 2016 and the Wayne County Foundation's Rodefeld Award in 2017.

Gray is a lifetime board member of the RSO and she has served on the board for the RAM and the Richmond Neighborhood Restoration. Gray is a founding member of Palette to Palate, a collaborative fundraising event between the RAM and IU East. She is also a founding member of the Women's Giving Circle of the Wayne County Foundation.

Her longstanding philanthropic and community service has helped secure nearly $4 million for the local non-profit community.

The journey from being welcomed by a group of women to participate in philanthropy to establishing her own business and giving legacy is not what Gray would have expected to happen when she first moved to Richmond. She is thankful that she has been involved.

"It's been a ride," Gray said. "I feel blessed to have these organizations around me. They fill me with joy and pride to be part of the community. It's a two-way street. I feel they give more to me than I do to them."

This gift will count toward the $3 billion, For All: The Indiana University Bicentennial Campaign. IU East's campaign goal is $7 million, which will help fund a variety of campus initiatives, student scholarships and strategic projects. Find out more about IU East and ways to assist the campus at iue.edu/development.

For All: The Indiana University Bicentennial Campaign is taking place on all IU-administered campuses including IU Bloomington, IUPUI, IU East, IU Kokomo, IU Northwest, IU South Bend, and IU Southeast. The campaign will conclude in June 2020 to coincide with IU's bicentennial year celebration in 2020. To learn more about the campaign, its impact and how to participate, please visit forall.iu.edu.

Founded in 1936, the Indiana University Foundation maximizes private support for Indiana University by fostering lifelong relationships with key stakeholders and providing advancement leadership and fundraising services for campuses and units across the university. Today, the IU Foundation oversees one of the largest public university endowments in the country, with a market value in excess of $2.3 billion.

IU East honors Chancellor's Medallion recipients, Alumni Hall of Fame Inductees

Posted November 18, 2019

Indiana University East honored three individuals for their service to the university and within the community during the Chancellor's Medallion Dinner held tonight (November 15) in the Whitewater Hall Lobby.

The Chancellor's Medallion Dinner is IU East's official Indiana University Bicentennial event.

As part of the formal dinner this year the event included the presentation of the Chancellor's Medallion, IU East Alumni Hall of Fame inductees, IU Bicentennial Medals and a major gift to IU East.

Due to unforeseen circumstances, IU President Michael A. McRobbie was unable to attend the event but extended his best wishes and gratitude to the honorees.

IU East Chancellor Kathryn Cruz-Uribe recognized honored guests, including John Applegate, IU executive vice president for University Academic Affairs; members of the IU East Board of Advisors; officers of the IU Alumni Association East Region board; IU Board of Trustee member Donna Spears of Richmond, Indiana; Senator Jeff Raatz; city of Richmond Mayor Dave Snow; and past recipients of the Chancellor's Medallion.

The Chancellor's Medallion was first awarded in 1992 and has since been given to 33 friends of the university. The medallion is the highest honor presented by the chancellor and recognizes individuals who have rendered distinguished service to IU East. The award is bestowed upon individuals who have given freely of their talents in the promotion of human welfare and community well-being; and who serve as exemplary role models for students and alumni through their integrity, leadership, and commitment.

"The Chancellor's Medallion Dinner is an occasion for celebration," Cruz-Uribe said. "The Chancellor's Medallion recognizes community leaders who have helped to shape our campus by going beyond the call of duty. They have helped create a culture of learning on our campus, inspired creativity, provided important advice and counsel, supported IU East through philanthropic investment and advocated on behalf of our students and alumni."

Chancellor's Medallion Recipients

Richard (Rick) E. Boston of Richmond, Indiana, is an attorney and partnering manager with Boston Bever Klinge Cross & Chidester (BBKCC) Attorneys. Boston, IU Bloomington B.S. '68 and J.D. '71, practices in the areas of wills, trusts and probate matters; business transactions; real estate and bankruptcy. Since 1979 he has been an appointed United States Bankruptcy Trustee by the Department of Justice for the Southern District of Indiana, Indianapolis Division.

He is a lifetime member of the Indiana University Alumni Association and a member of the President's Circle. He is a current board member of the IU East Board of Advisors, IU East Art Advisory Committee, and Richmond Art Museum (RAM). Previously, Boston was a past president of the IU Alumni Association of Wayne County, IUPUI Herron School of Art + Design - Friends of Herron Gallery Board of Directors, Richmond Symphony Orchestra (RS0) and the Wayne County Child Protection Team.

Ginger Gray of Richmond, Indiana, is a philanthropist, event planner and historic preservationist. She is a founding member of Palette to Palate, a collaborative fundraising event between RAM and IU East.

She is a lifetime board member of the RSO and she has served on the board for RAM and the Richmond Neighborhood Restoration. She is also a founding member of the Women's Giving Circle of the Wayne County Foundation. She assists in planning an average of 10 nonprofit events, including Cope Environmental Center, Amigos, Girls Inc. and IU East including events such as the Chancellor's Medallion, chancellor installations, and fundraising events. For her volunteer leadership, Gray received the RSO President's Award in 2016 and the Wayne County Foundation's Rodefeld Award in 2017.

Marvin (Tom) Thomas Williams of Richmond, Indiana, IU Bloomington '74, formerly worked as the employment manager at Reid Health. He is a member of Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church. He teaches Bible study, Vacation Bible School and is he an active member of the church's Men's Fellowship. Williams is an active member of the NAACP Richmond Chapter, serving as president for the past three years. He volunteers with the Richmond Youth Football League 5th and 6th grade Tackle Program.

Williams has worked to develop collaborative events between IU East, Ivy Tech and Richmond High School to help encourage more first-generation students and under-served students to seek secondary education opportunities. Williams was also instrumental in bringing the IU Soul Revue to campus in spring 2019.

IU East Alumni Association Hall of Fame Recipients

During the event, IU East Alumni Association inducted three special alumni into the IU East Alumni Association Hall of Fame. Lora K. Baldwin (September 1958-March 2019), Michael R. Day and James R. White were inducted in recognition and celebration as outstanding alumni of IU East.

The IU East Alumni Hall of Fame recognizes alumni who have typified the IU East tradition of excellence and brought credit to the campus through their personal accomplishments, professional achievement and leadership and humanitarian service and citizenship.

The Alumni Hall of Fame includes 25 members.

Terry Wiesehan, director of Alumni Affairs, said as the campus celebrates the university's bicentennial and the upcoming 50th anniversary of IU East, more alumni are joining the ranks from across the region, country and worldwide.

"Tonight's recipients can be considered our pioneer alumni. They were here in our early years and it is upon their shoulders so many of our current alumni stand," Wiesehan said. "Tonight's inductees truly exemplify the criteria of this award. But most noteworthy, all three have contributed to the next generations with their talents, knowledge and leadership in extraordinary ways."

IU East Hall of Fame Inductees

Lora K. Baldwin (September 1958-March 2019) received her associates and bachelor's degrees in business from IU East in 1982. She earned her Master's of Library and Information Science in 1985 and a M.S. in Educational Psychology 1989 from Indiana University Bloomington. Baldwin worked for IU East for over 35 years, first as a work-study student in the library and then as librarian/faculty member starting in 1985.

She was a founding charter secretary of the IU East Alumni Association and a lifetime member of the IU Alumni Association. Baldwin was the recipient of the IU Alumni Association President's Award in 1994 and an IU Bicentennial Medal as a posthumous award on September 6.

Michael R. Day received his B.S. in Education in 1995 from IU East. He teaches seventh and ninth grade social studies at Centerville Junior and Senior High School in Centerville, Indiana. He has coached junior and high school football for 23 years, and he has been the head coach for wrestling and girls track.

Day emphasizes an importance on learning about different cultures through his curriculum, giving, community service and he promotes literacy through the Silent Sustained Reading program at CHS. He sponsors Student Council and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He is a board member for Chrysalis (Emmaus) Community and worship team member for Fountain City Wesleyan Church.

James R. White received his Associate Degree in Criminal Justice in 1975 and his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from IU East in 1979. He earned his Masters of Education from Butler University. White retired as a clinical lecturer from the O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs at IUPUI in 2019. Previously, he was a public safety lecturer at the School of Public and Environmental Affairs at IUPUI. He served the U.S. Army and Indiana Army National Guard, the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Air Force Reserve.

White is a retired Indiana State Police lieutenant with over 20 years of service who commanded the Indianapolis District. Upon retiring White returned to active duty with the U.S. Army serving as a security planner for the 1993 World University Games, the 1994 World Cup Soccer Championships, and the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta. After Iraq he served as the deputy assistant commandant of the U.S. Army Field Artillery School at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He also served as the deputy director of the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy and then as the deputy director of the Marion County Emergency Management Agency.

IU Bicentennial Medal Recipients

The Bicentennial Medal honors distinguished and distinctive service, broadly defined, in support of Indiana University's mission as a public university, individuals who have enlarged the footprint of IU, or have helped to put IU on the map in unique ways. The medals themselves are unique, made from materials salvaged from the old bells which hung in the Student Building on the IU Bloomington campus, giving recipients a lasting piece of IU history. Those receiving the Bicentennial Medal should be seen as models for future students, faculty, alumni, and organizations to emulate as IU enters its Third Century.

IU Bicentennial Medals recipients:

• Richard Bodiker - 1992 Chancellor's Medallion recipient and an IU Honorary Degree in 2016.
• Rick Boston - 2019 Chancellor's Medallion recipient.
• Angie Dickman - 2017 Chancellor's Medallion recipient.
• Shaun Dingwerth - 2017 Chancellor's Medallion recipient.
• Ginger Gray - 2019 Chancellor's Medallion recipient.
• Garry Kleer - 2015 Chancellor's Medallion recipient.
• John McBride - 2015 Chancellor's Medallion recipient.
• IU Trustee Donna Spears - 2015 Chancellor's Medallion recipient. Spears already received her Bicentennial Medal from President McRobbie and was additionally recognized during the Chancellor's Medallion Dinner.
• Ashton Veramallay - 2014 Chancellor's Medallion recipient.
• Jane Vincent - 2014 Chancellor's Medallion recipient.
• Tom Williams - 2019 Chancellor's Medallion recipient.

Chancellor's Medallion Event

The Chancellor's Medallion welcomes guests to celebrate service to the campus and community.

As part of the formal program, IU East provided entertainment by pianist Haewon Yang and the Tin Cup.

Yang is a piano instructor at IU East. She performed "Reflets dans l'eau (reflections in the water)" by Claude Debussy and Earl Wild's Virtuoso Etude No. 6, based on George Gershwin's "I got rhythm."

As an avid performer and collaborative musician, Korean-Canadian pianist Yang is sought after for her flexibility across different genres and carefully studied interpretations. She has won top prizes in national competitions such as the Shean Piano Competition and the Canadian Music Competition, and her performances have taken her throughout North America. Yang is a candidate for the Doctor of Music in Piano Performance and Literature with a minor in music education from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music.

The Tin Cup is a trio includes Kierstan Barbre, advisor for the IU East School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Denny Howard, and Aaron Nell. Tin Cup played a selection of music prior to the start of the program.

Gift Announcement

The Chancellor's Medallion concluded with an exciting gift announcement that will provide opportunities for philanthropy for years to come.

Ginger Gray, with her husband Cory Gray, made a $250,000 gift to provide opportunities for students and student clubs to apply for funding that supports philanthropic efforts on and off campus.

The gift was announced by IU Board of Trustee member Donna Spears announced the gift.

For more information on Gray's gift and creation of the Ginger Gray Spirit of Philanthropy Fund, read the news release.

IU East exceeds For All: The Indiana University Bicentennial Campaign goal

During the event, Applegate announced that the campus has exceeded its For All: The Indiana University Bicentennial Campaign. IU East raised over $7.6 million by the end of October 2019, including funds to establish 21 new scholarships for students. The campaign closes June 30, 2020 to coincide with the IU Bicentennial year.

Vice Chancellor for External Affairs Jason Troutwine said the campus is ecstatic to surpass its goal.

"This is an exciting moment for our campus. IU East continues to benefit from the generous support of our community, campus and alumni - and, we are very grateful," Troutwine said. "While we are excited to exceed our campus goal, we are mindful that students continue to have needs and new opportunities. Encouraging philanthropic support to IU East will continue to be a priority."

For All: The Indiana University Bicentennial Campaign is taking place on all IU-administered campuses including IU Bloomington, IUPUI, IU East, IU Kokomo, IU Northwest, IU South Bend, and IU Southeast. The campaign will conclude in June 2020 to coincide with IU's bicentennial year celebration in 2020. To learn more about the campaign, its impact and how to participate, visit forall.iu.edu.

Founded in 1936, the Indiana University Foundation maximizes private support for Indiana University by fostering lifelong relationships with key stakeholders and providing advancement leadership and fundraising services for campuses and units across the university. Today, the IU Foundation oversees one of the largest public university endowments in the country, with a market value in excess of $2.3 billion.

LifeStream Services provides free Medicare consultations during Open Enrollment

Posted October 30, 2019

LifeStream Services is providing free Medicare consultations with trained State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) counselors during Medicare Open Enrollment.

The State Health Insurance Assistance Program provides free, impartial health insurance information for people with Medicare. SHIP can help answer questions regarding Medicare, Medicare Supplement Insurance, Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, long-term care insurance, prescription coverage, and low-income assistance.

One-on-one appointments can be scheduled through December 7 by calling LifeStream at 800-589- 1121. Those who are unable to travel, or prefer not to, can speak with a SHIP counselor on the phone who can assess their current coverage and make other recommendations.

LifeStream is an Area Agency on Aging that works to improve the quality of life for people at risk of losing their independence. LifeStream serves over 23,000 seniors and people with disabilities throughout 12 counties in Indiana including Blackford, Delaware, Fayette, Franklin, Grant, Henry, Jay, Madison, Randolph, Rush, Union, and Wayne. Programs and services include care management, transportation, in-home care, Senior Cafes, home-delivered meals, guardianships, caregiver support, home modifications, information and assistance, volunteer opportunities and more. For more about the organization call (800) 589-1121 or visit online at www.lifestreaminc.org and follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lifestreamservices .

Organized for Life

Posted November 13, 2019

Pursuing an organized lifestyle with professional organizer, Lori Firsdon

Learn how to make organizing part of your everyday life. Figuring out what's holding you back, will help you make the progress you desire.

Skills learned in Organized For Life include:

• Essentialism vs Minimalism. Which is right for you?
• Adopting habits of an organizer can make you feel more in control.
• How is your personal value system driving your decisions?
• Don't get stuck at the start.
• Give your brain a break. Use checklists!
• Learn to ask the right questions to make organizing easier.

In this problem solving seminar, gain time saving tips that teach you how to organize your home. Newly learned habits enable you to breeze through daily life in an organized fashion.

Free and open to the public. Come early for best seating.

Hear Lori at Morrisson-Reeves Library on Friday, December 6th from 11am to 12:30pm.

Public Invited to Christmas Service at Bethel A.M.E. Church

Posted December 4, 2019

An affirming and inclusive Christian community striving through worship, love and service to welcome all people just as God created you.

Join us for our annual Christmas Service, December 15th, 2019 at 6:00 p.m., Reverend Freddie Banks, Pastor.

Everyone is invited to the Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church Christmas Service on Sunday, December 15th from 6:00 p.m.

The service is designed to help us explore and understand the true meaning of the Christmas story.

In addition to the beloved carols and hymns, there will be a special performance by the area community choir, along with various Christmas readings and poetry.

A cookie receipt ion to share Christmas greetings will be held following the service.

Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church is located at 200 South 6th Street, Richmond, Indiana.

The Three Crooners, Tony, Frank and Dean

Posted November 26, 2019

A nationally touring act of master impressionist, singer and comedian, Dave Ehlert, presents a family-friendly program of The Three Crooners at Morrisson-Reeves Library on December 4th at 6:00pm.

Jeff will impersonate the classics from Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin live on stage at MRL. Jeff has toured the country with his master impersonations and comedy show and has the longest headlining live tribute show in Branson, Missouri. He is the first performer to be inducted into the Worldwide Elvis performers Hall of Fame.

This performance is free to attend and open to the public.

Wayne County Foundation Welcomes Rebecca Reising Gilliam As Its New Executive Director

Posted November 13, 2019

The Wayne County Foundation has selected Rebecca Reising Gilliam as its next Executive Director. The announcement follows a national search and selection process undertaken after current Executive Director, Steve Borchers, announced earlier this year his intention to retire after 14 years in the role.

Gilliam is expected to transition into the role next month, working alongside Borchers until the end of the calendar year.

"Ms. Gilliam showed the Search Committee that she will hit the ground running," said Amy Noe Dudas, Wayne County Foundation Board Chair. "Her energy and passion for nonprofit community service was apparent at the outset. We feel she will bring a fresh perspective to the role while honoring the successes of the Foundation's operations. Ms. Gilliam's long experience in collaborative fund development, operations management, and strategic planning will serve the Foundation well. We couldn't be more thrilled to welcome her home to Richmond."

A Richmond High School graduate, Gilliam has held the position of Vice President - Visitor Experiences at Minnetrista in Muncie, IN, since 2004, leading a talented team of professionals that create dynamic experiences for the East Central Indiana region. She has worked to cultivate relationships, create innovative programs that advance strategic goals, and participate in leadership activities that impact the regional community.

Gilliam began her professional career at the Children's Museum of Indianapolis as Environmental Educator and Manager of Richey Woods Environmental Education Center and continued working in the museum field at Hook's Discovery and Learning Center as Director of Education - successfully bringing science education to children and families.

"I am excited to join the team at the Foundation, and my family looks forward to moving back to Richmond," Gilliam says. "My husband, Chad, and daughter, Nellee, are up for the new adventure, and being close to family is an added bonus!"

Members of the community will have the opportunity to meet Gilliam at the Foundation's annual Holiday Open House on Wednesday, December 4, at the Foundation Building.

The Wayne County Foundation was established over forty years ago and currently has over $45 million in total assets under management. Its mission is to foster and encourage private philanthropic giving, to enhance the spirit of community and to improve the quality of life in Wayne County. The Foundation is spearheading the Forward Wayne County initiative, designed to better align community resources, foster a vibrant economy, and promote prosperity through a collective impact approach. In 2018, the Wayne County Foundation awarded over $2 million in grants, distributions, and scholarships throughout the community.

Senior Adult Ministry November Meeting

Posted November 12, 2019

The next meeting will be held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, November 26, at First United Methodist Church, 318 National Road West, Richmond, IN. We gather together for our annual pitch-in Thanksgiving dinner. Come and bring a friend.

Senior Adult Ministry is an active group of seniors over 50 years old open to all regardless of religious affiliation. The group is guided by Pastor Judi Marshall, Clara Bulmer and Beverly Kirby. These three women actively share their gifts of ministry, hospitality and creativity in planning and organizing the monthly meetings.

For further information, call 765-962-4357.

Singles Interaction Newsletter - November 2019

Posted October 16, 2019

If you are 21 years of age or better and single, divorced, widow or widower, Singles' Interaction invites you to join them on Friday nights. Come to the Eagles Lodge, 75 South 12th Street, Richmond (membership not required) and meet other single people in the Richmond area.

Come, socialize, dance, and enjoy yourself!

IU East dedicates IU Bicentennial, State Historical Markers

Posted November 5, 2019

Indiana University East unveiled an Indiana University Bicentennial Marker and a State Historical Marker today (November 5) during a dedication ceremony.

The markers are located in front of Whitewater Hall, IU East's first building on campus.

The dedication ceremony was led by IU East Chancellor Kathy Cruz-Uribe and platform guests Melissa Vance, CEO of the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce; Casey Pfeiffer, Historical Marker program director for the Indiana Historical Bureau Division of the Indiana State Library; James Capshew, University Historian for Indiana University; TJ Rivard, associate vice chancellor for Academic Affairs at IU East; Elizabeth George, IU East student and Student Government Association vice president; and Angie Dickman, vice president at Reid Health and chair of the IU East Board of Advisors.

The dedication ceremony is one of many events this week during IU East's 2019 Homecoming: Pack to the Future.

The IU Bicentennial Marker is located in the John W. and Patricia Ryan Rose Walkway in front of Whitewater Hall. John William Ryan (1929-2011) served as the 14th president of Indiana University from 1971-1987, during the time IU East was established as a regional campus.

IU is celebrating its Bicentennial this year. As a part of the celebrations, IU is adding historical markers at campuses across the state to commemorate significant people, places, events and organizations that have had an impact on IU, the state, the nation and the world. The State Historical Marker is located at the entrance to the right of the walkway.

Chancellor Cruz-Uribe said the markers signify the commitment and service the campus has provided to the region, especially as IU East prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary beginning July 1, 2020.

"All of Indiana University's regional campuses are proud to be part of such a fine institution with a long and distinguished history," Cruz-Uribe said. "It is exciting to be standing here, on the brink of IU's third century of outstanding scholarship and service to the state of Indiana."

On July 1, 1971, the IU Board of Trustees established Indiana University East. A group of community leaders raised funds by area citizens and the trustees purchased 225 acres of land in Richmond near the junction of U.S. 27 and Interstate 70. Construction of the first building, Whitewater Hall, was completed in 1974 and dedicated in January 1975.

"These markers will be landmarks on the IU East campus that will inspire future generations of students and scholars," Cruz-Uribe said. "I hope that all who pass by, or who pause to reflect here, will remember the origins of our campus and particularly our close ties to the community, which we are proud to serve in so many ways through our teaching, scholarly activities, and service."

Rivard said the markers represent the history and community connections, but also over 10,800 alumni.

"First, these markers honor the work of the faculty, staff, and community in establishing an institution of higher learning in Richmond, Indiana," Rivard said. "Second, they are also a reminder of what has made IU East relevant: the constructive relationships, conversations, and collaborative partnerships which allowed -- and continue to allow -- the educational mission to flourish. Finally, and more importantly, they are a tribute to the accomplishments of the students who have passed through the university and now contribute in important ways to their communities as a result."

Capshew said he was happy to attend today's event to dedicate the first IU Bicentennial marker on the IU East campus, and the first State Historical Marker on any IU campus.

"IU East has a great sense of history," Capshew said. "These markers commemorate and document the large role that Indiana University has played to provide higher education statewide. It is important to commemorate the buildings and places where students have learned, socialized, and connected with others. The markers are a way to relate the past with the present."

The State Historical Marker is the 13th marker installed in Wayne County.

The state marker examines IU East's establishment and the growth of the campus over the years. This is one of a series of markers dedicated to commemorate IU's regional campuses in 2019 and 2020.

Pfieffer said the State Historical Markers date back to 1946 and include over 670 markers across the state. She said historical markers provide an opportunity to return stories to the historical landscape in which they belong.

"By doing so, we're able to examine, commemorate, and reflect on the wide variety of topics that have had a significant impact in shaping the stat," Pfieffer said. "This new marker for IU East allows us to share the history of this campus and the larger history of IU's regional campuses. This is actually the first of several markers that will be commemorated this year and in 2020 for IU's regional campuses and we look forward to being part of those programs as well."

Today's ceremony is available to watch on Facebook at iue.edu/Facebook.

About the IU Bicentennial Marker

The IU Bicentennial Marker is modeled after the State of Indiana's historical marker program and many successful municipal programs, the Indiana University Historical Marker Program notes significant people, places, events, and organizations that have had an extraordinary impact on the university, state, nation, and world. The markers are visually appealing and are installed on campus and at off-campus heritage sites where appropriate.

IU East Chancellor Kathy Cruz-Uribe unveils the IU Bicentennial Marker during the dedication ceremony held November 5 in front of Whitewater Hall.

The IU Bicentennial Marker reads:

In 1971, the Trustees of Indiana University, with significant financial assistance from local residents, purchased land for a new campus in Richmond.[1] Breaking ground in 1972, the main building of Indiana University East was dedicated by IU President John Ryan in 1975.[2] This building, similar in function and style to first buildings on other regional campuses, served as a comprehensive academic center. It provided classrooms, laboratories, an auditorium, computer facilities, a library, a student center, and faculty and staff offices for the new campus.[3] In 1992, upon the construction of Hayes Hall, the campus' second building, it was christened Whitewater Hall, in honor of the east fork of the Whitewater River running through Richmond.[4] Remaining a vital center on an expanded campus, Whitewater Hall embodies the confluence of educational aspirations in the local community with the statewide presence of Indiana University.

For more information on the IU Bicentennial, visit 200.iu.edu.

About the State Historical Marker

State historical markers commemorate significant individuals, organizations, places, and events in Indiana history.

IU East also dedicated a State Historic Marker in front of Whitewater Hall on November 5. The State Historical Marker is the 13th placed in Wayne County. Chancellor Cruz-Uribe and Melissa Vance unveil the State Historic Marker with (from left to right) Angie Dickman, Elizabeth George, James Capshew, TJ Rivard and Casey Pfeiffer.

These markers help communities throughout the state promote, preserve, and present their history for the education and enjoyment of residents and tourists of all ages. For over 100 years, the Indiana Historical Bureau has been marking Indiana history. Since 1946, the marker format has been the large roadside marker, which has the familiar dark blue background with gold lettering and the outline of the state of Indiana at the top. Over 670 of these markers have been installed over the years.

The IU East marker is the 13th state historical marker installed in Wayne County. For a listing of other markers in the county, visit in.gov/history/markers/3819.htm#wayne.

The state marker reads:

In 1946, Indiana University joined Earlham College to form an extension center in Richmond to meet the region's educational needs. The center offered the first two years of college credit through evening classes held at the Earlham campus. In 1967, Purdue University and Ball State University partnered with the center to expand vocational and technical courses. By 1970, community members raised funds for a new campus and IU began assuming administrative responsibilities. In 1971, the center became Indiana University East, the sixth regional campus of IU. Construction of the first building, later Whitewater Hall, was completed in 1974. The new campus was dedicated in 1975 and first bachelor's degree awarded in 1977.

For more information about the Indiana Historical Marker Program and other resources about Indiana, visit the Indiana Historical Bureau's website at IN.gov/history.

IU East Announces 41st Annual Whitewater Valley Art Competition Awards, Entrants

Posted October 30, 2019

The annual Whitewater Valley Art Competition awards reception was held October 18 at Indiana University East. Originating in 1978 with open judging, the event has hosted prestigious artists and art experts of national acclaim for the jurying.

The exhibition includes 54 pieces from 46 artists across Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Ohio and Michigan.

Artwork was selected by this year's jurors Brian Harper, artist and associate professor of fine arts and ceramics area coordinator at IU Southeast; Emily Sheehan, an artist and assistant professor of fine arts at IU Southeast; and Minda Douglas, an artist and associate professor in fine arts and coordinator of the Fine Arts Program at IU Kokomo. The jurors determined the award winners.

The 41st Whitewater Valley Art exhibit is on display in The Gallery and Meijer Artway now through December 13. The regional competition accepts entries from artists ages 18 and over residing in Indiana and its neighboring states.

The exhibit is presented by First Bank Richmond.

About the Jurors

• Brian Harper is an artist and associate professor of fine arts and ceramics area coordinator at IU Southeast. He holds a B.F.A. from Northern Arizona University and an M.F.A. from the University of Iowa. His work has been exhibited in over 80 national and international exhibitions, including seven solo exhibitions. In addition to his studio practice and his teaching, Harper is the founder and executive director of Artaxis Organization, Inc., a nonprofit art organization that promotes the professional pursuits of artists in ceramics and sculpture. Artaxis.org hosts the work of over 450 contemporary artists and is one of the largest peer-reviewed collections of contemporary work in ceramics and sculpture online.
• Emily Sheehan is an assistant professor of fine arts at IU Southeast and has work in the collections of the Weisman Art Museum, the Target Corporation, and the College of St. Benedict. She received her M.F.A. from Minneapolis College of Art and Design with a focus on visual studies and earned her B.A. in studio arts from the College of St. Benedict in St. Joseph, Minnesota. She's exhibited her work in numerous solo and juried group exhibitions throughout the United States. In 2015 she served as an invited lecturer at the We All Draw: Interdisciplinary Symposium in London, England.
• Minda Douglas is an associate professor in fine arts and coordinator of the Fine Arts Program at IU Kokomo. She teaches courses in printmaking, drawing, two-dimensional design, painting and art history. She has an interest in overseas travel with students, and she has taken several groups to Italy and France as part of her courses. She exhibits her mixed media drawings, prints and installations locally, regionally and nationally. In 2011, Douglas exhibited her work in a one-person exhibition at the 924 Gallery in Indianapolis titled Change Is Nature. She was a recipient of the Creative Renewal Fellowship from the Indiana Arts Council in 2003, and she has won several top awards in juried exhibitions in Indiana and across the country.

IU East's 41st Annual Whitewater Valley Art Competition Top Entrants

First Place ($2,500 award)

• Steven C. Meyer, Porter, Indiana - "Marie...Marie...DU Est Le Fromage," Wood, paint, glass and wire

Second Place ($1,000 award)

• Wendi Smith, Corydon, Indiana - "Wishbone Reliquary," Acrylic, metal leaf on wood box and found natural objects

Third Place ($750 award)

• Kyle Surges, Lockport, Illinois - "Drinking Happy Bird," Oil on panel

Honorable Mention

• Susan Carlson, Cincinnati, Ohio ($250) - "Samaritan," Acrylic
• Sam Kelly, Dayton, Ohio ($250) - "Still Life IX," Oil, cold wax on paper
• Sylvia Harwood, Ellsworth, Michigan ($250) - "Madama Butterfly," Mosaic artwork oil

IU East School of Business and Economics Fall Speakers Series begins September 18

Posted September 24, 2019

Indiana University East's School of Business and Economics Fall Speaker Series will begin on September 18 with expert Ray Sylvester, Ph.D., associate professor of marketing and personal branding at Anderson University. Sylvester will present "It's Persona! B!Z!" Your 'Personal Brand V.A.L.U. E™' drives purpose and performance," at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, September 18, in Whitewater Hall Room 132. The series is free and open to the public. The Fall Speaker Series is sponsored by the Charles Koch Foundation and co-sponsored by Delta Mu Delta, the IU East Business and Economic Research Center, the IU East Center for Economic Education, School of Nursing and Health Sciences and the Department of Criminal Justice. Sylvester is a professor, coach, consultant, and speaker. He currently teaches at Anderson University. He works with individuals and companies in multiple sectors including technology, banking and finance, healthcare, energy, music and entertainment, elite and professional sport, and not-for-profit. Ray moved to the United States in 2016 with his wife and four children. He is a former British college champion, British Championship and international medalist in the Olympic sport of Judo. Later this fall, presentations by Anthony Gill, professor of political science at the University of Washington; Robert Lawson, Ph.D., professor of practice and Jerome M. Fullinwider Centennial Chair in Economic Freedom at the Southern Methodist University Cox School of Business; Punyamurtula Kishore, M.D., founder of Preventive Medicine Associates, Addiction Medicine Associates, and National Library of Addiction; and Jake Monaghan, assistant professor of philosophy at the University of New Orleans. Fall Speaker Series Presentations Ray Sylvester, Ph.D., Associate Professor at Anderson University Date/Time: Wednesday, September 18, 3:30 p.m. Location: Whitewater Hall Room 132. Topic: "It's Persona! B!Z!" Your 'Personal Brand V.A.L.U. E™' drives purpose and performance" Anthony Gill, Ph.D., Professor of Political Science at the University of Washington Date/Time: Wednesday, October 23, 2 p.m. Location: Whitewater Hall Room 132 Topic: "Tipping Points" An Economic Defense of Gratuities. Date/Time: Thursday, October 24, 12:30 p.m. Location: Springwood Hall Room 203 Topic: The Comparative Endurance and Efficiency of Religion Robert Lawson, Professor at Southern Methodist University Date/Time: Thursday, November 7, 12:30 p.m. Location: Springwood Hall Room 203 Topic: Socialism Sucks: Two Economists Drink Their Way Through the Unfree World. Punyamurtula Kishore, M.D. Founder of Preventive Medicine Associates, Addiction Medicine Associates, and National Library of Addiction, Co-sponsored by the School of Nursing and Health Sciences. Date/Time: Wednesday, November 13, 9:30 a.m. Location: Whitewater Hall Room 132 Topic: The Language of Addiction & Recovery Date/Time: Wednesday, November 13, 4:30 p.m. Location: Tom Raper Hall Room 124 Topic: Addiction and Its Effects on Families/the U.S. Population Jake Monaghan, Assistant Professor of Philosophy at the University of New Orleans Co-sponsored by the Department of Criminal Justice. Date/Time: Wednesday, November 13, 12:30 p.m. Location: Springwood Hall Rooms 203 and 211 Topic: Lessons from the Opioid Epidemic

Ray Sylvester Anthony Gill Robert Lawson Punyamurtula Kishore, M.D. Jake Monaghan

Old National Road Welcome Center to Host Richmond Racing Book Signing

Posted October 30, 2019

Richmond writers Bill Holder and Ronn Berry have captured the auto racing history of Richmond, Indiana with their latest book, Richmond Racing. The public is invited to meet the authors, Saturday, November 16th the Old National Road Welcome Center from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Richmond was once home to five race tracks including open wheel, stock car, drag, motorcycles, and roadracing which are all represented in their book along with vintage photos and newspaper clippings of the era. Throughout the book, the authors share stories of tracks dating back to the early 1900's and of the racers, many of whom, went on to become well known at the Indy 500, Eldora Speedway and Daytona 500 races.

During the book signing, there will be over a dozen vintage and current racecars on display and area drivers in attendance. An autograph page inside the book provides opportunities for attendees to collect autographs from drivers. Books are $20.00 and proceeds will be donated to the Dayton Auto Racing Fan Club's Injured Drivers Fund. Just in time for the holidays, this local book is a must have for any racing or local history enthusiast.

The Old National Road Welcome Center is located at 5701 National Road East, Richmond, Indiana. For more information call 765-935-8687 or VisitRichmond.org

IU's Kelley School of Business Outlook Tour to Visit Richmond on November 14

Posted October 30, 2019

Area business leaders and community members are invited to attend the Indiana University's Kelley School of Business 2020 Outlook Tour from 7:30-9 a.m. on Thursday, November 14, in McGuire Hall at the Richmond Art Museum, 380 Hub Etchison Parkway.

The tour is presented by the IU East Alumni Association and the IU East School of Business and Economics.

The event will begin with a continental breakfast at 7:30 a.m. followed by the panel presentations at 8 a.m. A public question-and-answer session will follow.

Register through Eventbrite.

At this event, panelists will discuss how the changing economic environment will affect business and public policy decisions in the coming year - globally, nationally, statewide and in Richmond. The IU Business Outlook Tour provides an opportunity to network with fellow community leaders and hear what several experts are projecting for 2020.

Since 1972, the Kelley School of Business has presented its national, state and local forecasts via a series of presentations in cities throughout Indiana. For more than 90 years, the Indiana Business Research Center has provided the crucial economic information needed by many Indiana businesses, government units and nonprofit organizations.

The starting point for the annual forecast is an econometric model of the United States, developed by IU's Center for Econometric Model Research, involving hundreds of statistical equations to develop a national forecast for the coming year.

A similar econometric model of Indiana provides a corresponding forecast for the state and its metro-area economies, based on the national forecast and data specific to Indiana. The Business Outlook Panel then adjusts the forecasts to reflect additional insights the panelists have on the economic situation.

At each presentation, the panel features faculty members from the Kelley School and IU, plus local panelists from other IU campuses and other universities, offering perspectives on the global, national, state and local economies and financial markets.

This year's panel includes:

• Sun Yoon, economic research analyst with the Indiana Business Research Center.
• Catherine Bonser-Neal, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Finance at the Kelley School of Business.
• Kyle Anderson, Clinical Assistant Professor of Business Economics at the Kelley School of Business in Indianapolis.
• Oi Lin Cheung, Associate professor of finance for the IU East School of Business and Economics

The event is free this year, and includes breakfast.

The tour is sponsored by IU's Kelley School of Business, the Kelley School of Business Alumni Association, the IU Alumni Association, IU campuses and numerous community organizations.

For more information, contact Terry Wiesehan, director of Alumni Relations and Campus Events, at (765) 973-8221 or twiesaha@iue.edu.

2019 Survey on the Economic Well-Being of Young Professionals in Wayne County

Posted November 5, 2019

Young professionals in Wayne County can help provide a better understanding of the local and regional economy.

The Business and Economic Research Center (BERC) of the School of Business and Economics at Indiana University East is partnering with the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) of Wayne County and the Helping Young Professionals Engage (HYPE) - Richmond in conducting the 2019 Survey on the Economic Well-Being of Young Professionals in Wayne County, Indiana. The survey will be open from Monday, November 4 to Friday, November 15.

This survey is the first through the partnership. Findings from the survey will also help to further the BERC's 2019 East-Central Indiana Business Survey being conducted this September-October to monitor the business sentiment and economic trend in the region and to assist local and regional economic studies. The survey was completed by business owners/managers in the Fayette, Franklin, Henry, Randolph, Rush, Union, and Wayne counties.

Results of this Young Professionals survey will help the business communities located in or outside of Wayne County understand the life of young professionals in the county, and help young professionals learn from their peers living and/or working in the county. In addition, the findings will assist further the local and regional economic studies conducted by the BERC. Survey results may aid Wayne County in planning the economic development efforts to bring new businesses into the county.

Responses to the 20-minute survey will be confidential.

Young professionals will be asked to provide some information about themselves regarding their employment and career, home and vehicle ownership, housing preference, financial burden, preparation for retirement and other aspects of life living and/or working in the county in addition to some demographic data. Surveys will be emailed to young professionals throughout Wayne County.

While the individual responses to the survey will not be shared, results of the research survey will be made public by the first quarter of 2020.

For more information, contact the Director of the Business and Economic Research Center and Associate Professor of Finance, Oi Lin (Irene) Cheung, Ph.D., at (765) 973-8497 or ocheung@iue.edu.

About the IU East Business and Economic Research Center

The BERC is sponsored by the School of Business and Economics at IU East. The center is designed to assist in capturing and creating economic data that will be useful in supporting the economic vitality of the Eastern Indiana and Western Ohio regions.

IU East to honor three Chancellor's Medallion recipients on November 15

Posted November 13, 2019

Indiana University East will honor three individuals for their service to the university and within the community during the Chancellor's Medallion Dinner to be held on Friday, November 15, in the Whitewater Hall Lobby.

The Chancellor's Medallion honors individuals who have rendered distinguished service to IU East. Honorees include Rick Boston, Ginger Gray and Tom Williams.

Chancellor's Medallion Honorees:

Richard (Rick) E. Boston of Richmond, Indiana, is an attorney and partnering manager with Boston Bever Klinge Cross & Chidester (BBKCC) Attorneys.

Boston, IU Bloomington B.S. '68 and J.D. '71, practices in the areas of wills, trusts and probate matters; business transactions; real estate and bankruptcy. Since 1979 he has been an appointed United States Bankruptcy Trustee by the Department of Justice for the Southern District of Indiana, Indianapolis Division. He is a lifetime member of the Indiana University Alumni Association and a member of the President's Circle. He is a current board member of the IU East Board of Advisors, IU East Art Committee, and Richmond Art Museum.

Previously, Boston was a past president of the IU Alumni Association of Wayne County, IUPUI Herron School of Art + Design - Friends of Herron Gallery Board of Directors, Richmond Symphony Orchestra (RS0) and the Wayne County Child Protection Team.

Ginger Gray of Richmond, Indiana, is a philanthropist, event planner and historic preservationist. She is a founding member of Palette to Palate, a collaborative fundraising event between the Richmond Art Museum and IU East.

Gray is a lifetime board member of the RSO and she has served on the board for the Richmond Art Museum and the Richmond Neighborhood Restoration. She is also a founding member of the Women's Giving Circle of the Wayne County Foundation. She assists in planning an average of 10 nonprofit events, including Cope Environmental Center, Amigos, Girls Inc. and IU East including events such as the Chancellor's Medallion, chancellor installations, and fundraising events.

For her volunteer leadership, Gray also received the RSO President's Award in 2016 and the Wayne County Foundation's Rodefeld Award in 2017.

Marvin (Tom) Thomas Williams of Richmond, Indiana, IU Bloomington '74, formerly worked as the employment manager at Reid Health.

Williams is a member of Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church. He teaches Bible study, Vacation Bible School and is he an active member of the church's Men's Fellowship.

He is also an active member of the NAACP Richmond Chapter, serving as president for the past three years. He volunteers with the Richmond Youth Football League 5th and 6th Grade Tackle Program.

During the event, IU East will also recognize three special alumni. Lora K. Baldwin (September 1958-March 2019), Michael R. Day and James R. White will be inducted in recognition and celebration as outstanding alumni of IU East.

Inductees to the Hall of Fame are alumni who have typified the IU East tradition of excellence and brought credit to the campus through their personal accomplishments, professional achievement and leadership and humanitarian service and citizenship. For a list of Alumni Hall of Fame, visit iue.edu/alumni/awards/dist_alumni.php.

RSVP is required for this event by November 8. Contact Marcia Foster at (765) 973-8419 or visit iue.edu/chancellor/medallion. Tickets are $75 per person.

Helpful Holiday Hints

Posted November 13, 2019

Organizing for the Holidays with professional organizer Lori Firsdon.

The holidays are one of the most stressful times of the year. These organizing hints will help make your holiday season merrier. Learn how to make realistic decisions about your keepsakes, while also getting tips on how to tame and store your holiday decorations.

• A Season for Change: Learn how to manage the holiday keepsakes you've been collecting and accumulating over the years.
• Make decoration set up and take down easy by finding them fast when you need them.
• Tips for safely storing your holiday treasures.
• Streamline your holiday gift giving with clutter-free gift ideas.

You don't have to let your holiday season get out of control. Do these simple steps now, and your celebrations will be festive for years to come.

Hear Lori at Morrisson-Reeves Library on November 15th from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

IU East's Regional Writers Series presents Poet, Novelist Amit Majmudar

Posted October 30, 2019

The Indiana University East School of Humanities and Social Sciences (HSS) will present the Regional Writers Series featuring poet and novelist Amit Majmudar on Thursday, November 7.

The HSS Regional Writers Series brings both established and emerging writers of significance to campus for workshops and public readings.

Majmudar will have two events while he is at IU East.

The first event is a Craft Talk from 3:30-4:45 p.m. in Whitewater Hall Room 213. This event is free and open to faculty, staff and students.

The second event is a reading from 7:30-8:30 p.m. in the Whitewater Hall First Bank Richmond Community Room. This event is free and open to the public.

Majmudar is the son of immigrants. He grew up in the Cleveland area. He earned a B.S. at the University of Akron and an M.D. at Northeast Ohio Medical University, completing his medical residency at the University Hospitals of Cleveland.

He is the author of the poetry collections 0º,0º (2009), which was a finalist for a Poetry Society of America's Norma Faber First Book Award, and Heaven and Earth (2011), which poet A.E.Stallingschose for a Donald Justice prize.

Majmudar has also published the novels Partitions (2011) and The Abundance (2013). His poetry has been featured in several anthologies, including Best of the Best American Poetry 1988-2012 (2013) and The Norton Introduction to Literature (2012). He has also contributed essays to the Kenyon Review blog, the New York Times, and the New York Review of Books. His newest poetry collection, Dothead, was chosen by Library Journal. The Regional Writers Series is funded by the School of Humanities and Social Sciences and Mindful Explorations.

Friends of Morrisson-Reeves Library to Host Book Sale November 7, 8 & 9

Posted October 30, 2019

More than 8,000 donated DVDs, CDs, videos, LPs, games, puzzles and magazines as well as fiction and non-fiction books for all ages will be replenished throughout the weekend. The Book Sale is free and open to the public.

Paperback books are 50 cents, and hardbacks are $1, with other items ranging from 10 cents to $2. Children and teens can receive a free book by showing their library card or just for being a kid!

Parking is available in the lots on both sides of the library, at Elstro Plaza across the street, and other nearby public spaces.

Money raised at the Friends' three annual book sales helps pay for library programs, such as free summer reading events, storytimes, children's events, concerts, book discussions and movie showings.

Shoppers with large orders or those who aren't able to carry their purchases to their vehicles can request carry out assistance. Volunteers will be offering curbside pickup for customers.

IU East's Homecoming 2019 begins November 1

Posted October 30, 2019

Indiana University East will host "Homecoming 2019: Pack to the Future" November 1-8. Alumni, friends and the campus community are invited to participate in activities and events throughout the week.

Homecoming events are sponsored by the IU East Office of Campus Life, First Bank Richmond, Reid Health, The Annex and G101.3.

Homecoming 2019 begins on Friday, November 1, with the women's basketball First Bank Richmond Classic held on Lingle Court in the Student Events Center (SEC). The Red Wolves play at 2 p.m. on Friday. The volleyball team will have a match in the SEC at 7 p.m.

The Classic continues on Saturday, November 2, with the Red Wolves playing at 4 p.m. At halftime, IU East Athletics will honor alumna Breanna "Bre" Nowak, the school's first NAIA golf All-American. Nowak, of Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, was a member of the women's golf team and received the honors in May 2018. Nowak's jersey will join Red Wolf All-Americans including Tyler Rigby '12; Lauren Crump, '13; Breezy Strete '13; Tyler Fangman '15; Mallory Livingston '15, Tia King '18, Lucas Huffman, '18 and Jacoby Claypool '18. The All-American jerseys are on display in the Nasser Paydar Classroom, located in the Student Events Center.

Red Wolves volleyball will host a match at noon on Lingle Court. The men's and women's soccer teams will play at Centerville High School, 507 Willow Grove Road, Centerville, Indiana. The women's game begins at 1 p.m. followed by the men's at 3:30 p.m. Admission is free.

Monday Madness is on Monday, November 4. This student event is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Springwood Hall Graf Center. Students will enjoy free food and receive their Homecoming t- shirt (while shirts last).

IU East will dedicate an IU Bicentennial Historic Marker and a State Historic Marker on Tuesday, November 5. The dedication ceremony will be from 10-11 a.m. in front of Whitewater Hall. The IU Bicentennial Marker will be placed in John & Patricia Ryan's Rose Walkway in front of Whitewater Hall, IU East's first building on campus. The State Historic Marker will also be located at the Whitewater Hall entrance to the right of the walkway. Parking will be available for visitors in the Whitewater Hall parking lot.

Also on Nov. 5, the men's and women's basketball teams will have games at the SEC. The women's game is at 5 p.m. and the men's game is at 7 p.m. During halftime, the Homecoming Court will be announced.

On Wednesday, November 6, it's Wear Wolf Wednesday. Faculty, staff, and students are encouraged to wear Red Wolves gear. Also that day, it's Pride in the Pack from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Whitewater Hall Lobby. Students, faculty and staff can enjoy free food, games and giveaways. The campus community is encouraged to gather at 12:15 p.m. for a group photo.

A blood drive will be held on campus from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, November 8, in the Springwood Hall Gym.

Later that night, the annual Bonfire will be held at 7 p.m. behind Hayes Hall. During the bonfire, IU East will crown the Homecoming Royalty. The Bonfire is a student event.

Homecoming will conclude with a Wolf Creek Habitat Visit from 6-9 p.m. in Brookville, Indiana. Students can watch the wolves for free. RSVP with Campus Life at camplife@iue.edu.

Admission for the women's basketball First Bank Richmond Classic is $7 per day. For the full First Bank Richmond Classic schedule, visit iueredwolves.com. Admission fee to volleyball matches is also $7. Admission to soccer games is free.

For more information about Homecoming, visit iue.edu/homecoming. For a list of all IU East events, visit iue.edu/events.

Schedule of Events

Friday, November 1

• First Bank Richmond Classic: Women's basketball vs. Madonna University, Lingle Court, Student Events Center, 2 p.m.
• Volleyball vs. West Virginia Institute of Technology, Lingle Court, Student Events Center, 7 p.m.

Saturday, November 2

• Volleyball vs. University of Rio Grande, Lingle Court, Student Events Center, noon. Senior Day.
• Women's soccer vs. West Virginia Institute of Technology, Centerville High School, 507 Willow Grove Road, Centerville, Indiana.1 p.m. Senior Day.
• Men's soccer vs. West Virginia Institute of Technology, Centerville High School, 3:30 p.m. Senior Day.
• First Bank Richmond Classic: Women's basketball vs. Aquinas College, Lingle Court, Student Events Center, 4 p.m.

Monday, November 4

• Monday Madness: Graf Center, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Student event. T- shirt giveaway and free food. Faculty and staff can pick up their Homecoming shirts from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Office of External Affairs, located in Springwood Hall Room 103.

Tuesday, November 5

• IU Bicentennial Marker and State Historical Marker Dedication, 10 a.m., Whitewater Hall, John and Patricia Ryan Rose Walkway. Community event.
• Women's basketball vs. Thomas More College, Lingle Court, Student Events Center, 5 p.m.
• Men's basketball vs. Huntington University, Lingle Court, Student Events Center, 7 p.m.
• Homecoming Royalty Court Announced at halftime of the men's basketball game.

Wednesday, November 6

• Wear Wolf Wednesday: Faculty, staff, and students wear their Red Wolves gear.
• Pride in the Pack: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Whitewater Hall Lobby. Free food, games and giveaways.
• Campus Community Group Photo: 12:15 p.m., Whitewater Hall Lobby.

Thursday, November 7

• Blood Drive: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Springwood Hall Gym.
• Bonfire, behind Hayes Hall, 7:30 p.m. Homecoming Royalty Crowning. Free food. Student event.

Friday, November 8

Wolf Creek Habitat Visit: 6-9 p.m., Free to watch the wolves, 3 p.m. RSVP to camplife@iue.edu.

LifeStream Needs Your Help to Deliver Hope During the Holidays

Posted October 9, 2019

LifeStream is seeking support from the community to help them deliver hope to older adults who are isolated and alone during the holiday season with AngelWish. LifeStream's AngelWish program coordinates the delivery of gift bags filled with practical necessities to isolated older adults in Blackford, Delaware, Fayette, Franklin, Grant, Henry, Jay, Madison, Randolph, Rush, Union, and Wayne counties. This bag is more than just material goods - it is hope for a better tomorrow.

For over 20 years, generous businesses, clubs, organizations, churches, and individuals have come together as a community to ensure the most vulnerable are not forgotten during the holidays. Below is how individuals and organizations can support the AngelWish program:

• Make a monetary donation: With just a $35 donation, a person will receive a gift bag. Donations can be made online at lifestreaminc.org/angelwish or mailed to 1701 Pilgrim Blvd. Yorktown, IN 47396. Please note AngelWish with your donation. Checks should be made payable to LifeStream Services.
• Donate canned soup: Each AngelWish recipient will receive a microwavable soup cup.
• Individuals and business can help LifeStream fill their cups by donating canned soups of all varieties. Donations can be dropped off at the LifeStream offices in Anderson, Richmond, or Yorktown. Pick up can be arranged in advance by calling 765-759-3372.
• Sign up to be a delivery elf: LifeStream expects to deliver 1,200 AngelWish gift bags between December 7 and December 24. Dependable volunteers are needed to help deliver gift bags to AngelWish recipients to ensure all bags are delivered by December 24.
• Become a sponsor: Sponsorships start at $100 and go up to $2,500. Benefits can include logo and name listed on print and online materials, name listed in Streamlines newsletter delivered to over 3,500 homes and businesses, as well as the opportunity to provide promotional materials.

Those interested in supporting the AngelWish program should contact Laura Bray, Volunteer Services Administrator, by calling 765-759-3372 or emailing lbray@lifestreaminc.org. You may also fill out the support form by visiting www.lifestreaminc.org/angelwish.

LifeStream is an Area Agency on Aging that works to improve the quality of life for people at risk of losing their independence. LifeStream serves over 23,000 seniors and people with disabilities throughout 12 counties in Indiana including Blackford, Delaware, Fayette, Franklin, Grant, Henry, Jay, Madison,

Hispanic Heritage Month Features Latin Jazz, Talk by Movie Director

Posted October 2, 2019

This year's Hispanic Heritage Month offers a special mix of music, movies and making community connections.

The annual event runs through early November.

One of this year's unique activities is a Night of Latin Jazz, which will be performed by the Richmond Jazz Orchestra at 6 p.m. Monday, September 29, in the Whitewater Hall Lobby.

"Jazz music has been transformed by the influences of Latin music, and Hispanic Heritage Month is the perfect time to celebrate that influence," said Jessica Raposo, assistant professor of music and music program coordinator at IU East. "We are so glad that the Richmond Jazz Orchestra is joining us as a part of the campus programming."

The orchestra is made up of amateur and professional musicians and music educators.

"Music is such a unifying force in the world, with the power to bring people together, and the IU East Music program is always seeking ways to bring music to our students and community," Raposo said.

Another special event brings Director Rosario Jiménez Gili to talk after the Chilean drama-romance movie "Camila's Awakening" is shown on October 10. The web site Letterboxd gave the following synopsis of the film: "Camila loves swimming and doesn't know failure. However the water, that has given her success in the recent past, now leads her to the biggest setback of her life: An accident will force Camila to reinvent herself with courage, humor and love."

Other Hispanic Heritage Month events include:

• Huevos verdes y jamón (bilingual storytelling): This seventh-annual venture between the library and literacy movements delivered books and packets to IU East students, who then read and spoke to classes at Fairview Elementary and Elizabeth Starr Academy in Richmond. Those schools have large populations of children who are designated ELL (English Language Learner). IU East students can choose to continue working on this project for course service learning requirements.
• The Day of the Dead Altar Building Competition is scheduled October 15. Spanish classes at IU East will create the altars and campus community members are also invited to contribute photos of loved ones. The classes will present their altars and speak about Day of the Dead via the Hispanicampus gallery project. A vote will be taken to select their favorite altar. The events and activities are offered by the World Languages and Cultures department and the School of Humanities and Social Sciences.
• IU East Spanish Film Festival: Jiménez Gili will take part in a question-and-answer session of the Chilean movie Camilia's Awakening (El Despertar de Camila) after a showing at 5 p.m. Thursday, October 10, in Room 124 of Tom Raper Hall. The 88-minute 2018 film will be shown in Spanish with English subtitles.

Two other movies are scheduled as part of the Hispanic Heritage Month events.

• Chinese Take-Away (Un Cuento Chino) will be shown at 5 p.m. on Thursday, October 24, in Tom Raper 124. Sebastian Borensztein directed the 2012 movie from Argentina. It is 98 minutes long and will be shown in Spanish with English subtitles.
• Eternal Amazon (Amazônia Eternal) will be shown at 5 p.m. on Monday, November 4, in Tom Raper Hall Room 124. A panel will discuss the film. On the panel will be Wazir Mohammed, associate professor of sociology, and Steven Aldrich, associate professor for Earth and Environmental Systems at Indiana State University. This event is Supported by funds from Mindful Explorations. Belisario Franca directed the 2013 release from Brazil. It is 88 minutes long and shown in Portuguese with English subtitles.

The Spanish Film Series is a collaboration with the World Languages and Cultures Department, IU East's School of Social Sciences and Humanities, the Diversity and Inclusion Committee, and Mindful Explorations Funds. The Spanish Film Club series was made possible with the support of Pragda, The Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports of Spain, and SPAIN arts & culture.

Previously, Promesa Indiana featured IU East Spanish Department faculty working with third-graders about Hispanic culture and the Spanish language as part of the Randolph County Promise "Walk Into My Future" event held on campus on September 13. IU East students earned credit for service learning during the event.

Wayne County Foundation Set to Award $257,500 in 2019 Challenge Match Program

Forty-Seven Organizations Selected to Participate

Posted September 23, 2019

The Wayne County Foundation announced today the organizations selected to participate in its 2019 Challenge Match Initiative. This year's award will be the largest in the program's eight year history.

Last year the Challenge Match generated over $1.6 million for 54 local non-profits, including $240,000 of match dollars made available by the Foundation and its Match Partners.

"Thanks to some very generous Match Partners we are able to support more organizations than ever before, "said Steve Borchers, the Foundation's Executive Director. "We wanted to keep the Challenge Match challenging," said Borchers, "and we wanted to inspire thoughtful, high-quality investments in the community."

Every one of the 54 applications was judged against a set of criteria that we announced earlier this year. The 47 participating organizations will have the opportunity to receive funding from the Foundation up to their Match Goal, based on the gifts they receive from the community in a designated period of time.

"We believe this is a good opportunity for many different organizations to raise significant operating dollars or money in support of selected programs that will benefit from broad-based community involvement," Borchers said.

The organizations selected to participate in the Foundation's 2019 Challenge Match and their match goals:

• 2nd Chance Animal Rescue of Richmond $2,500
• Achieva Resources Corporation, Inc $2,500
• Amigos Richmond Latino Center $5,000
• Animal Care Alliance $2,500
• Birth to Five $5,000
• Boys & Girls Clubs of Wayne County $10,000
• Brighter Path Inc. $2,500
• Cambridge City Main Street $2,500
• Center City Development $2,500
• Christian Charities $2,500
• Circle U Help Center, Inc. $10,000
• Communities In Schools of Wayne County $10,000
• Cope Environmental Center $10,000
• Every Child Can Read $5,000
• Friends of Morrisson Reeves Library $2,500
• Gateway Hunger Relief Center $2,500
• Genesis of Richmond $5,000
• Girls Inc. of Wayne County $10,000
• Golay Community Center Inc. $5,000
• Good News Habitat for Humanity $5,000
• Hand-in-Hand Adult Day Care of Richmond, Inc. $5,000
• Hayes Arboretum $10,000
• HELP the Animals $2,500
• Hope House $5,000
• Independent Living Center of Eastern Indiana $2,500
• JACY House $5,000
• Junior Achievement of Eastern Indiana $2,500
• Model T Ford Club of America $10,000
• Open Arms Ministries $5,000
• Richmond Art Museum $10,000
• Richmond Civic Theatre $5,000
• Richmond Community Orchestra $2,500
• Richmond Day Nursery $2,500
• Richmond Family YMCA $5,000
• Richmond Friends School $10,000
• Richmond Neighborhood Restoration $2,500
• Richmond Parks and Recreation $10,000
• Richmond Rose Garden $5,000
• Richmond Shakespeare Festival $10,000
• Richmond Symphony Orchestra $10,000
• Sunrise, Inc. Therapeutic Riding Center $2,500
• Wayne County Cardinal Greenway $10,000
• Wayne County Historical Museum $5,000
• Wayne County SWCD $2,500
• Western Wayne Dollars for Scholars $10,000
• Whitewater Valley Pro Bono Commission, Inc. $2,500
• Williamsburg Area Community Center, Inc. $2,500

The Challenge Match Program will kick off on Monday, November 4, and run for 9 days, through Tuesday, November 12. Qualifying contributions to the participating organizations in that period will trigger matching dollars from the Foundation, with respect to certain criteria. Contributions may also be made online through the Foundation's Website.

More information about specific details of qualifying gifts is available on the Foundation's Website. Additional information may also be obtained by contacting Lisa Bates at lisa@waynecountyfoundation.org or by calling 765-962-1638.

Active Aging Fairs: Health, Wellness and Medicare Info for the 60-Plus Crowd

Posted October 2, 2019

Lots of health, wellness and Medicare information for the 60-plus crowd will be available at two "Active Aging Fairs" being offered in Richmond Oct. 7 and in Connersville on Oct. 17.

Both events will include booths with information on Reid Health services, the Reid Health Alliance Medicare Advantage plans, wellness visits, health information and more.

"Our goal is to give people 60 and over as much information as we can about services and programs of interest to them," said Sharrie Harlin Davis, Reid Health Community Outreach Coordinator.

Richmond Oct. 7

The Richmond event will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 7, in Lingle Hall and Auditorium. The event will include short presentations in Lingle Auditorium. Information and demonstration booths, snacks and more will be available in Lingle Hall. Blood pressure and glucose screenings will also be offered.

The presentations include:

• Understanding Your Medicare Insurance Options - Morgan Gunder & Terra Mullins, Reid Health Alliance Medicare Advantage, 10 a.m. & 11 a.m.
• Protect Yourself from Fraud - Jeff Cappa, Reid Health Security Manager, 10:30 a.m.
• Medicare Wellness Visits - Rebekah Wood, Reid Health Clinical Documentation Improvement, 11:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.
• Arthritis & Robotic Surgery - Mario Lee, M.D., noon.
• Doctors Working with and for YOU! And Why Medicare Advantage? - Patrick Anderson, M.D., 12:30 p.m.
• Advance Directives - Tarah Richardson, Reid Health Hospice, 1 p.m.

Participating departments and groups include:

• Reid Health Alliance Medicare Advantage
• Physician Referral Line
• Rehab Services Medical Fitness
• Radiology
• Urgent Care
• Patient Financial Services
• Patient Continuum of Care
• Richmond Cardiology Associates
• Heart & Vascular Center
• Wellness
• Neighborhood Health Center
• Medicare Wellness
• ENT, Allergy, Audiology and Dermatology
• Sleep Disorders Center
• Lifestream
• Spiritual Care
• Vein Center
• Richmond Senior Center
• Diabetes & Nutrition Education
• Oncology Services
• Reid Wellness Department
• Reid Orthopedics
• Reid Geriatrics and Transitional Care
• Reid Health Lab
• Telehealth
• Pharmacy
• Hospice
• State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)

Connersville Oct. 17

The Connersville event will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17, in the Atrium, Reid Health - Connersville, 1941 Virginia Ave. Planned activities include an Auxiliary popcorn sale, a Rock Steady and Baby Boomer Fight Club demo, and information about Reid HealthWorks memberships and classes. Nearly 20 booths will be available.

Participating departments and groups also include:

• Reid Health Alliance Medicare Advantage
• Reid Gastroenterology
• Rehab Services
• Continuum of Care
• Telehealth
• Medicare Wellness
• Oncology Services
• Volunteer Services
• Patient Financial Services
• State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
• Radiology
• HealthWorks & Wellness Department
• Reid Orthopedics
• Richmond Cardiology Associates
• Diabetes & Nutrition Education

Both events will offer giveaways and various screenings.

Senior Adult Ministry October Meeting

Posted October 1, 2019

Centerstone's Amanda Corden will be the guest speaker at the October meeting of the Senior Adult Ministry. She will speak on the topic of "Infant Mortality" through an outreach program called "Healthy Start." A strange topic for a group of seniors; yet, what we learn, we can share with our families as today in the USA infant mortality rates are rising.

The meeting will be held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, October 29, at First United Methodist Church, 318 National Road West, Richmond, IN. Bring friends and snacks to share.

Senior Adult Ministry is an active group of seniors over 50 years old open to all regardless of religious affiliation. The group is guided by Pastor Judi Marshall, Clara Bulmer and Beverly Kirby. These three women actively share their gifts of ministry, hospitality and creativity in planning and organizing the monthly meetings.

For further information, call 765-962-4357.

Anthem decision puts two Reid Health Connersville locations out of network

Posted October 1, 2019

Craig Kinyon interview on The Point

Reid Health system officials say they are surprised by Anthem's decision to refuse to include two recently added Connersville facilities to existing contracts between Reid and the insurance provider -- leaving a number of commercially insured Anthem customers out-of-network for some Reid services in Connersville.

The situation affects the services Reid Health provides in two locations acquired as part of Reid's purchase of most of the assets of Fayette Regional Health System in July: the main campus at 1941 Virginia Avenue and Reid Health Care Pavilion on Erie Avenue. It does not affect Reid Health's longstanding locations on Highway 44 in Connersville or any recently added Reid Health Physician Associates offices.

"We are disappointed Anthem would not add all of the new locations to our existing contract, which we believe should allow us to add new sites of care," said Craig Kinyon, Reid Health President/CEO. "In our discussions with Anthem officials, they are so far unwilling to include these locations as part of the established reimbursement rates with previously existing locations in Connersville and in Richmond. We are only asking for reimbursement at the same rates they are paying at Reid's Richmond campus."

Kinyon noted that other insurers -- including Humana, United, Cofinity/Aetna, Encore, Health Span, HealthSCOPE Benefits, PHCS/Multiplan, Sagamore/Cigna, Health Alliance, MD Wise, MHS, CareSource and Corvel - have added the new locations to existing agreements.

Reid Health is reaching out to employers with Anthem as their employee benefits insurance, asking they inform employees they may need to choose to seek care for the affected services at Reid Health locations in Richmond.

Services received at Reid Health Physician Associates offices in Connersville are not affected, including at Reid Health Primary & Specialty Care - Virginia Avenue, and Outpatient Behavioral Health - Connersville on Park Road.

And according to Anthem's provider manual, emergency room care should be considered as in-network, though a final determination on coverage is up to Anthem.

Reid Health is continuing to provide services and billing at all locations consistent with CMS regulations. The out-of-network issue does not affect Anthem Medicare supplement plans.

Kinyon said questions about networks and specific coverage with Anthem should be addressed directly to Anthem. "In order to continue coverage for a market with few health care choices, we anticipated everyone to understand the importance of avoiding any disruptions or additional hardships on consumers. We believe Anthem could remedy this situation quickly, especially knowing the challenges of providing sustainable health care services to a community that has been historically hit hard by economic challenges."

What IS affected:

• Lab and radiology (1941 Virginia Avenue)
• Cardiopulmonary and outpatient rehab (1941 Virginia Avenue)
• Reid Health Care Pavilion (450 Erie Avenue)
• Anthem Healthy Indiana Plans (HIP)

What is NOT affected:

• Anthem Medicare supplement coverage
• Reid Health Primary & Specialty Care -- Virginia Avenue (2025 Virginia Avenue)
• Reid Health Outpatient Behavioral Health (1908 Park Road)
• Whitewater Valley Primary & Specialty Care (1473 E. State Road 44)
• Whitewater Valley Imaging (1475 E. State Road 44)
• Reid Health Urgent Care - Connersville (1475 E. State Road 44)

LifeStream & The Leland Legacy to host Pumpkin Patch Bash in Celebration of Caregivers

Event to provide a day of relaxation and creativity for caregivers in the community

Posted October 1, 2019

LifeStream invites caregivers to unwind and enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Pumpkin Patch Bash on October 23. Caregivers can enjoy lunch, and indulge in wine and dessert while decorating pumpkins to take home and display. Additionally, this event will feature information on tools and advice from organizations who work with caregivers.

Pumpkin Patch Bash will be held on October 23 from 11:00am to 2:00pm at The Leland Legacy located at 900 S. A St. Richmond, IN 47374. Those interested should turn in a registration form along with $5 to LifeStream Services no later than October 16. Registration is available to print or fill out online at lifestreaminc.org/pumpkinregistration. To register by phone/email or for more information on this event, please contact Micole Leverette, Community Services Assistant, at 765-405-1765 or mleverette@lifestreaminc.org.

Space is limited to the first 50 registered. Respite care is available upon request. This event is in celebration of National Caregivers Month celebrated in November and is made possible by the generous contributions of The Leland Legacy and other community partners. LifeStream is an Area Agency on Aging that works to improve the quality of life for people at risk of losing their independence. LifeStream serves over 19,000 seniors and people with disabilities throughout 12 counties in Indiana including Blackford, Delaware, Fayette, Franklin, Grant, Henry, Jay, Madison, Randolph, Rush, Union, and Wayne. Programs and services include care management, transportation, in-home care, Senior Cafes, home-delivered meals, guardianships, caregiver support, home modifications, information and assistance, volunteer opportunities and more. For more about the organization call (800) 589-1121 or visit online at www.lifestreaminc.org and follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lifestreamservices.

Crowdfunding Campaign for Community Orchard Enters Final Two Weeks "Mary Scott Community Orchard" Project

$17,500 goal to receive a matching grant through IHCDA's CreatINg Places initiative

Posted September 30, 2019

–The funding campaign for the orchard is entering the final two weeks, with plenty of room left for donations. The campaign is sponsored by the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) and offered through the crowdfunding platform developed by Patronicity. The campaign is led by Wood Block Press, a local non-profit.

If the campaign reaches its $17,500 goal by October 14, 2019 the "Mary Scott Orchard" project will receive a matching grant of $17,500 from IHCDA's CreatINg Places program.

"The goal of this orchard is to provide Richmond residents free and accessible fresh fruit throughout the growing seasons," said Dr. James Barbre. "Through a targeted educational partnership, Richmond students will participate in this process by learning, studying, and participating in the food production process." The project also involves service learning and working to ameliorate food shortages in the Richmond area. Working with the Wayne County Food Council, the goal is to maintain a community orchard where food stuffs are directed to those most in need. "This orchard represents a convergence for a number of community benefits for Richmond residents, from access to nutritional food to making a welcoming space for people to gather and enjoy the outdoors", Barbre added, "but this orchard is not a foregone conclusion; we need the help of the public to make it happen!"

The funding raised will help cover the costs of apple trees, fruit bushes, seating, lighting, shade and butterfly garden plants, and a drip irrigation system will be installed to maintain the site. Anyone interested in learning more or donating to this campaign can go to Facebook and look for "Mary Scott Community Orchard" and they will see the link to donate through Patronicity.com.

The CreatINg Places program began in 2016, projects have raised in excess of $1,980,000 in public funds and an additional $1,693,000 in matching IHCDA funds. The CreatINg Places program is available to projects located in Indiana communities. Non-profit entities (with 501c3 or 501c4 status) and Local Units of Government are eligible to apply.

Eligible projects must have a minimum total development cost of $10,000, where the recipient will receive $5,000 in IHCDA matching funds should they successfully raise $5,000 through Patronicity. IHCDA will provide matching grant funds up to $50,000 per project.

IHCDA, chaired by Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch, provides housing opportunities, promotes self-sufficiency and strengthens communities in order to build an Indiana with a sustainable quality of life for all Hoosiers in the community of their choice. For more information, visit www.ihcda.in.gov or www.in.gov/myihcda.

IU East's Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit Brings New Artwork to Campus

Posted September 24, 2019

Seven new sculptures are in place as part of Indiana University East's Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit.

The juried exhibit is now on its third installation. Each piece is on loan and will be on campus for two years, through August 2021. Artists from across the United States were invited to submit their work for consideration to be included in the Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit. There were 114 entries submitted for the juried exhibit.

Lauren McAdams Selden traveled more than 900 miles from Nacogdoches, Texas, to install her piece, "Charlie." She is a professor of art at Stephen F. Austin State University.

"As a Hoosier who has lived outside of the state for 20 years, it is an honor to be part of the IU East Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition," McAdams Selden said. "This exhibition has an excellent reputation in the sculpture community and I was impressed with the professional crew and beautiful spaces. I hope that my sculpture "Charlie" can make people smile on their daily walk to class or work." Jeremy Waak had a slightly shorter distance to travel from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, at just over 500 miles to Richmond. He responded to the open call on Café to submit his entry for the exhibit.

Waak, the chair of foundation and associate professor at the Pennsylvania College of Art and Design, said his piece, "AGVC3v1," is part of a series of sculptures to combine plant and machine characteristics. The sculpture in place was intended to be tabletop sized but an opportunity to have a large-scale sculpture last summer made this exhibit a good chance to revisit the experience, he added.

"At the most basic, I hope viewers see something new in my sculpture. AGVC3v2 is not the general large outdoor sculpture, very heavy and solid looking, it is instead airy and transparent," Waak said. "Maybe it can add to a viewer's ideas of what is possible, change their notion of what is normal and inspire them. I hope there is a feeling of the familiar, like a faint memory reminding one of something they can't quite remember. 'It almost looks like ...' My aspiration for my sculpture is to pull a viewer out of their daily grind, if even for a brief moment, and into a thought disconnected from their tasks and responsibilities. Freeing them for just a bit."

Each sculpture was carefully selected by jurors. IU East faculty Ann Kim, associate professor of fine arts; Carrie Longley, associate professor of fine arts; and Nate Kuznia, studio and gallery coordinator are the jurors. Longley said the artwork was selected based on the sculpture's appropriate size and proportion for the outdoor spaces, that it communicated a unique expression and use of material, and it could survive the extreme weather conditions of Richmond.

Additionally, works for the exhibit are chosen based on having a strong visual presence in the open and natural setting of the campus quad and because of dynamic designs from multiple vantage points.

"The outdoor sculpture exhibition has served as a wonderful teaching tool for our students and adds a great deal of intrigue and contrast to the natural setting of our campus," Longley said.

She added she enjoys hearing feed back from students, faculty and staff on the artwork selected for the exhibition.

"Everyone I talk to has their personal favorite and least favorite sculpture on campus. The sculptures even influence some to choose a different walking path each day," she said.

As the sculptures arrive on campus for installation, often people walking across the campus stop to watch as the artists arrange the pieces for installation. The IU East Office of Physical Facilities assists the artists with moving the artwork into place and securing each piece to a specially constructed cement pad.

Each artist receives a $2,500 award that may be used to offset costs to transport their piece to the campus.

"I am honored to be included in this exhibition and to have my work shown along side such amazing artists," Waak said. "Large outdoor sculpture is a new addition to my studio practice and having it accepted so promptly is inspiring. Much of my work up to this point has been hand-held sized or just a bit bigger. Translating that aesthetic into a large scale was a risk for me, but the experience has fed back into the smaller work. There is a fun dialog happening between the large and the small sculptures in my studio. Where this will go I'm excited to see."

McAdams Selden said it was exciting to be part of the installation.

"Thank you for supporting the arts and allowing outdoor sculpture to be part of the every day commute," she said.

An eighth outdoor sculpture reserved for student artwork is located on the patio of Whitewater Hall. Morgan Eamon's piece, "Botanic Bodies," was selected for the student sculpture. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts degree in May 2019.

Eamon said Longley helped her to formulate the idea. As a ceramics student, Eamon helped to throw bowls for IU East's Empty Bowls event. The sculpture is composed of the surplus bowls she made. She considers the piece to be a celebration of the success of the annual event on campus.

"Aesthetically, I wanted to make the floral heads of the sculpture at once equally beautiful and grotesque," Eamon said. "It was a very fun project to work on, and I learned a lot from the process as it was the largest scale artwork I had ever attempted. It is surreal having this piece on display to so many people, but I feel very honored to be able to share it."

Artists and Outdoor Sculptures

• Matthew Boonstra, Charleston, Illinois, "The Passing," located in front of Whitewater Hall.
• William Brown, Woodbury, Connecticut, "Spiral Voyage," located behind Whitewater Hall.
• Lauren McAdams Selden, Nacogdoches, Texas, "Charlie," located in front of Hayes Hall.
• John Parker, Glenside, Pennsylvania, "Said the Spider to the Fly," located on the quad.
• Chad Periman, Port St. Lucie, Florida, "Three Sentinels," located near the Whitewater Hall patio.
• Rebecca Tanda, Chicago, Illinois, "Build a scaffold for your desire," located near Tom Raper Hall.
• Jeremy Waak, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, "AGVC3v1," located near Springwood Hall.

"This exhibition exposes a very broad audience of viewers to a variety of expressions and unique uses of familiar materials," Longley said. "Viewers may be reminded of nautical structures when they view the work of William Brown, appreciate an innovative use of automotive parts and scrap metal with 'Three Sentinels' by Chad Periman, or find humor in the expression of Lauren McAdams Selden's, 'Charlie.' I look forward to hearing different interpretations of the sculptures as our campus and community has more time to view the exhibit."

The Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit is just one of several exhibits the campus hosts. IU East has the second largest art collection in the IU system. The campus also has two galleries, the Tom Thomas Gallery and the Meijer Artway. In October, will have the 41st Annual Whitewater Valley Art Competition, a well-known open juried compeition.

"I hope that viewers will be inspired to seek out the other art pieces on our campus," Longley said. "IU East has a permanent collection of over 250 pieces and two galleries with rotating exhibits every six weeks. The nature of the outdoor exhibition allows it to have the most exposure, however, there is so much engaging artwork in each one of our buildings on campus."

Reid Health Gains National 'Most Wired' Recognition

Posted September 24, 2019

The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) announced this week Reid Health and Reid Health Physician Associates have earned "2019 CHIME HealthCare's Most Wired" Special Recognition awards.

Reid Health was one of eight hospitals in Indiana recognized, and RHPA practices were one of only two ambulatory groups cited in the state.

The Most Wired program conducts an annual survey to assess how effectively healthcare organizations apply core and advanced technologies into their clinical and business programs to improve health and care in their communities. "Healthcare organizations across the globe are continually striving to raise the standard of care, pushing themselves and their peers to do better," said CHIME President and CEO Russ Branzell. "We designed Most Wired to identify and share those leading practices so everyone can benefit. It is an honor to be among those that perform at the highest levels, knowing that the excellence they achieve will impact patients for years to come."

Craig Kinyon, Reid Health President/CEO, said the 2019 recognition -- and similar awards in previous years -- illustrates the health system's ongoing and unwavering drive for the optimal use of information technology to improve patient safety and patient outcomes. "As an organization, we have always made technology a priority, providing the latest tools to our caregivers at the front lines of care. And this applies across our health system."

A total of 16,168 organizations were represented in the 2019 Most Wired program, which this year included three separate surveys: domestic, ambulatory and international. The surveys assessed the adoption, integration and impact of technologies in healthcare organizations at all stages of development, from early development to industry leading. Each participating organization received a customized benchmarking report, an overall score and scores for individual levels in eight segments: infrastructure; security; business/disaster recovery; administrative/supply chain; analytics/data management; interoperability/population health; patient engagement; and clinical quality/safety. Participants can use the report and scores to identify strengths and opportunities for improvement.

This is the second year that CHIME has conducted the survey and overseen the program. Last year CHIME made numerous improvements to the survey, governance and scoring methodology. This year CHIME added an ambulatory survey in addition to the domestic survey, expanded international outreach and incorporated an improved system that allows participating organizations to better benchmark their level of adoption and outcomes achieved. The system includes Most Wired certification at a level that reflects an organization's overall performance. CHIME also revised the customized benchmarking report for ease of use and will again publish a report based on Most Wired responses to identify industry trends in 2019.

About CHIME

The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) is an executive organization dedicated to serving chief information officers (CIOs), chief medical information officers (CMIOs), chief nursing information officers (CNIOs), chief innovation officers (CIOs), Chief Digital Officers (CDOs) and other senior healthcare IT leaders. With more than 2,900 members in 56 countries and over 150 healthcare IT business partners and professional services firms, CHIME provides a highly interactive, trusted environment enabling senior professional and industry leaders to collaborate; exchange best practices; address professional development needs; and advocate the effective use of information management to improve the health and care in the communities they serve. For more information, please visit chimecentral.org.

Hayes Arboretum Recognizes Belden with Award

Posted October 2, 2019

Belden has been recognized for its charitable work associated with Hayes Arboretum, receiving the Ronald L. McDaniel Award for Charitable Giving. Past recipients include Stamm-Koechlein Family Foundation, Reid Health Community Benefit, and Wayne County Foundation.

(Left to Right) Mr. Ronald McDaniel (Owner, Western-Cullen-Hayes Inc.), Mr. Doug Brenneke (Plant Manager, Richmond-Belden), Mr. Steve Hayes Jr. (Executive Director, Hayes Arboretum)

The Ronald L. McDaniel Award for Charitable Giving was established to recognize outstanding support related to philanthropic contributions to the Arboretum, supporting its mission of environmental education and stewardship. Mr. McDaniel, owner of Western-Cullen-Hayes Inc., grew up in the Richmond area. He is associated with five generations of the Hayes family, beginning with Stanley W. Hayes as an employee of the Hayes Track Appliance Company in 1957. Since 1998 Mr. McDaniel has served on the Stanley W. Hayes Research Foundation Board, giving generously with his time and financial resources.

Belden has long been a supporter of Hayes Arboretum. Belden was one of the first three Corporate Members of the Arboretum twenty-two years ago. Belden continues their support of the Arboretum today with a Corporate Sponsorship and opportunities for employees to contribute time and financial support. Through the Belden Cares program, Belden shows its commitment to corporate citizenship, rewarding volunteer efforts and matching the charitable donations of employees. Portions of the Arboretum's mountain bike trail system and meadows have been maintained with Belden volunteer support.

Arboretum Executive Director, Steve Hayes Jr. comments, "Belden sets a great corporate example of support which positively impacts the community where its employees live and work. Thank you to Belden and its employees for their continued commitment to environmental education and stewardship. Thank you to Mr. Doug Brenneke, Richmond Plant Manager, for receiving this award on behalf of Belden."

Radiology services to expand in move to Reid Health -- Connersville

Posted September 24, 2019

Reid Health will be moving the majority of its radiology services from its Highway 44 complex to the main Reid Health - Connersville location on Virginia Avenue, health system officials have announced.

"This move to larger space will allow us to expand services available in Connersville," said Gene DiTullio, Reid Health's Director of Radiology Services. He said CT, MRI and ultrasound outpatient services will be moved from the Whitewater Valley Imaging Center to the former hospital campus starting Oct. 7, when outpatient X-ray services will also become available.

DiTullio said X-ray services will continue to be offered at Whitewater Valley Imaging to support the needs of the urgent care center on that campus. He also notes that services will be added to the Reid Health- Connersville location to include CT exams with contrast and MRI exams with contrast, which could not be done at the previous location.

"Thanks to the additional space available, we will eventually also offer mammography and DEXA scanning, most likely by early next year," he said. The new space will also include enhanced and some newer technology.

Craig Kinyon, Reid Health President/CEO, said the changes and additional services are great news for the community. "As we have said since we announced our expanded presence in Connersville earlier this year, we have and will continue to assess additional and sustainable services we can provide to support the health care needs of the people we serve in the region. We are very pleased to expand these services for our patients in the Connersville area."

Reid Health finalized acquisition of most of the assets of the former Fayette Regional Health System in mid-July, pledging to maintain as many sustainable services as possible. The main location is Reid Health - Connersville, 1941 Virginia Ave., where services include a 24/7 emergency department, radiology, lab, cardiopulmonary rehab, outpatient physical therapy and a café.

The other Reid Health locations added along with its longtime medical center on Highway 44 include Reid Health Care Pavilion, Reid HealthWorks Fitness Center and two Reid Health Physician Associates Practices: Primary and Specialty Care - Virginia Avenue and Outpatient Behavioral Health - Connersville.

Reid Health also added two more ambulances to its ambulance service to help accommodate necessary transfers from the Connersville Emergency Department, bringing the total to five.

Reid Health's purchase and ability to continue services in the community also resulted in avoiding the loss of more than 300 jobs. Many former Fayette Regional employees joined the Reid Health team, including many who were able to continue working in Connersville locations. Reid Health Human Resources reports there are about 20 openings to fill at Reid's Connersville facilities.

2019 Rhoads Winner a 'Role Model' Known for Attention to Detail

Posted October 9, 2019

The 2019 Paul S. Rhoads Humanity in Medicine Award winner is known for her attention to detail and her ability to communicate and educate young patients.

Loretta Ryan, M.D., 2019 Rhoads Honoree

Loretta Ryan, M.D., with Reid Pediatric & Internal Medicine, was presented the recognition Friday evening at an annual medical staff appreciation and new physician reception in Richmond. Nominations for the award are solicited each year from patients, physicians and health care workers in honor of the late Paul S. Rhoads, M.D., who received the first award in 1983.

"Pediatricians have a really unique role in medicine that further expands their skills into parent education," said Craig Kinyon, Reid Health President/CEO, of Dr. Ryan's selection, noting that pediatricians often are treating patients who aren't old enough to speak for themselves. He also noted that for the same reason, the doctor is also dealing with more family members, including parents and grandparents, and they do a great deal of teaching to a small family group in their exams rooms. "Dr. Ryan is gifted with an ability to zero in on her patients and their needs, utilizing her great clinical skills and experience, while also serving as an advocate and educator on their behalf.

William Black, M.D., who has worked with Dr. Ryan since she came to Richmond in 1998, cited her attention to detail. "One of her best qualities is the attention to detail and the quality of care she provides for the more complicated health needs of some of the children we care for," Dr. Black said. "And a lot of what we do is like being a coach, and she brings that ability and great compassion with each child or teen in her care. She's a role model for consistency."

Paul Rider, M.D., also a longtime colleague of Dr. Ryan, said she's a sought out member of the Reid Health medical staff. "She is always available and someone you want to discuss a difficult case with. She's calm, someone you can always count on."

Tom Hilkert, Reid Health Board Chairman, said Dr. Ryan was a great choice for the 2019 Rhoads recognition. "She is a great example of how quality and compassion combine to provide excellence in care."

Dr. Ryan is a native of Marshall, Ill. She moved to Richmond to join Pediatric & Internal Medicine in 1998. She and her husband, Eric John Tuegel, Ph.D., have two children: Thomas Tuegel, Ph.D., who lives in Savoy, Ill.; and Erin Tuegel, Richmond. They have two granddaughters, Rosie, 23 months, and Maggie, three months.

Dr. Ryan said she was quite surprised by the recognition. "I have always known that I wanted to help people. And I wanted to work with children," she said, noting that when she was a child she believed she'd become a kindergarten teacher. When she interviewed in Richmond in a search for a more family-friendly position, she said she was impressed. "I really liked what Reid had to present."

Rohit Bawa, M.D., who chairs the RHPA Network Operations Council, said Dr. Ryan has been a "quiet leader" who has gained great respect among her peers.

The Humanity in Medicine award and celebration, authorized as an annual event by Reid's governing board in 1983, honors the memory of Dr. Rhoads for his service to patients and medicine. He was the founding director of Reid's Medical Education Department, helped organize the hospice program and the Wayne County adult clinic for the indigent.

LifeStream and Qsource to Host Living Well Events

Posted October 9, 2019

LifeStream and Qsource are partnering to host four Live Well with LifeStream events in October. The events will feature information on wellness, Medicare, frauds/scams, and more to help attendees be aware of the impact of their health and wellness choices. LifeStream staff will be offering free health screenings and CVS Pharmacy will provide flu shots courtesy of Qsource. Attendees will also have the opportunity to win door prizes and receive give-a-ways.

• Tuesday, October 22 at 10am to 11:30am – Centerville-Abington Senior Center located at 111 S. 2 nd St. Centerville, IN 47330
• Monday, October 28 at 1pm to 3pm – Longfellow Senior Housing located at 319 E. 12 th St. Anderson, IN 46016
• Tuesday, October 29 at 11am to 12:30pm – Southdale Towers located at 524 W. 53 rd Anderson, IN 46013
• Wednesdsay, October 30 at 11am to 12:30pm – New Castle Senior Center located at 108 S. Main St. New Castle, IN 47362

It is LifeStream's mission to improve the quality of life for people at risk of losing their independence. Live Well with LifeStream events will equip attendees with the knowledge to make mindful choices when it comes to healthcare and their well-being.

For more information, please contact Beth Evans, Director of Community Services, at 765-405-3001 or bevans@lifestreaminc.org.

LifeStream is an Area Agency on Aging that works to improve the quality of life for people at risk of losing their independence. LifeStream serves over 19,000 seniors and people with disabilities throughout 12 counties in Indiana including Blackford, Delaware, Fayette, Franklin, Grant, Henry, Jay, Madison, Randolph, Rush, Union, and Wayne. Programs and services include care management, transportation, in-home care, Senior Cafes, home-delivered meals, guardianships, caregiver support, home modifications, information and assistance, volunteer opportunities and more. For more about the organization call (800) 589-1121 or visit online at www.lifestreaminc.org and follow on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lifestreamservices.

Singles Interaction Newsletter - October 2019

Posted September 18, 2019

If you are 21 years of age or better and single, divorced, widow or widower, Singles' Interaction invites you to join them on Friday nights. Come to the Eagles Lodge, 75 South 12th Street, Richmond (membership not required) and meet other single people in the Richmond area.

Come, socialize, dance, and enjoy yourself!

Gifts from the Home

Posted October 16, 2019

The public is invited to "A Crafty Christmas," the theme for Gifts from the Home which is sponsored by the Wayne County Extension Homemakers. This year's event starts at 6 pm on Thursday, October 24, at the Kuhlman Center, located at 861 Salisbury Road North, Richmond IN.

Members of Wayne County E.H. submit recipes and crafts published in the Gifts from the Home booklet which can be purchased at a small cost. Samples of the recipes are available for tasting the night of the event; and members discuss how they created their crafts.

For more information, call 765-973-9281 or email Alicia at acriswel@purdue.edu or Debbie at dcates@purdue.edu. Sponsors for this event are the Domestic Engineers and Boston Township.

Union County Medical Center to Transition to New Ownership

Posted September 23, 2019

On October 29, 2019, Union County Medical Center will begin operating under the umbrella of Neighborhood Health Center, Inc, a not-for-profit corporation that operates as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC).

The center will continue to provide family medicine and behavioral health care with dental services to be added sometime in 2020. The office will continue to operate in its current location with similar hours.

Carrie Miles, Chief Executive Officer, shared "Our mission is to 'promote health and wellness through access and affordability for all members of our community, especially those who need us most'," Miles said. "The primary reason for transitioning the center is our ability as a FQHC to provide additional, essential services for members of the community who otherwise cannot afford services," Miles said.

Federally Qualified Health Center is a designation from the federal government that provides enhanced reimbursement from Medicare and Medicaid. As a FQHC, patients are cared for regardless of ability to pay and fees are based on family size and income.

Union County has over 13% of residents who are uninsured. Miles said the center plans to provide onsite eligibility services to help more residents obtain insurance coverage. "We look forward to working with all community partners to help meet the needs of our community and improve the overall health of Union County."

Union County Medical Center has been owned and operated by Reid Health since November 2010. The transition will allow a more focused approach to improve the health of low-income patients living in Union County. Neighborhood Health Center will offer on-site assistance with financial paperwork, transportation assistance and additional connections to community services. Statistics show that 36% of Union County residents are at or below 200% of federal poverty limits.

"This is great news for patients served by the Union County Medical Center," said Kelly Beall, Reid Health Vice President/Executive Director of Reid Health Physician Associates. "From the patient perspective, this change will be seamless and will increase their options for care."

The existing providers and staff will make the transition and continue to provide quality healthcare at the facility. Providers include Dr. Sang-Kyune Lee, Paulette Worcester, NP and Shannon Shuman, NP; Joanita Wesler, NP, and Christopher Crist, LCSW, will provide behavioral health services.

Worcester shared that "This is a significant step forward in ensuring residents have the care they need and want from birth through aging. The staff at Union County Medical Center are excited about this transition. We see it as an opportunity to provide more health services to the people we care very deeply about. We're looking forward to welcoming new patients to our care as we continue to grow."

The center is accepting new patients and will continue to be in network with most insurance plans and will add plans as the need arises. The center is governed by a board of directors made up of community members with a strong commitment for the health and well-being of the community and includes individuals who are served by the center.

For more information, contact Carrie Miles at carrie.miles@neighborhoodhc.org or by calling the Neighborhood Health Center at 765-965-4299.

Reid Health Urgent Care centers receive national accreditation

Posted September 19, 2019

Reid Health's urgent care centers in Indiana and Ohio have received National Urgent Care Center Accreditation (NUCCA).

The accreditation is a voluntary process in which urgent care centers are measured on quality and performance against nationally recognized standards. Reid Health centers include:

• Reid Health Urgent Care -- Richmond, 1501 Chester Boulevard
• Reid Health Urgent Care - Connersville, 1471 East State Road 44, Connersville
• Reid Health Urgent Care -- Eaton, 109B East Washington-Jackson Road, Eaton, OH

Reid urgent care centers treat injuries or illnesses requiring immediate care.

"The assurance that healthcare providers and facilities maintain adequate levels of quality is of vital importance to patients," says an announcement from NUCCA. "Accreditation demonstrates the highest level of commitment to providing quality medical care that is consistent with the highest ideals of the specialty."

Macy Sarno, M.D., with Reid Health Urgent Care, said seeking and obtaining the accreditation is part of dedication by Reid Health of being constantly focused on quality. "Our mission is to provide convenient, compassionate and high-quality care every day at every convenient location."

National Urgent Care Center Accreditation is an independent, non-profit organization that provides accreditation to properly qualified urgent care centers throughout the United States. The National Urgent Care Center Accreditation (NUCCA) Program accomplishes the accreditation of urgent care centers by setting standards, measuring performance, and providing consultation and education where needed.

Accreditation is ultimately awarded to those urgent care centers that are found to be in compliance with National Urgent Care Center Accreditation Program standards. The National Urgent Care Center Accreditation program is recognized by leading medical organizations to provide such accreditation.

Gaar House Museum Receives Funding for Structural Repairs

Posted September 18, 2019

$10,000.00 has been awarded to the Gaar House Museum in Richmond, Indiana from the Efroymson Family Fund. The funds are being used for much needed porch flooring and molding repairs on the west and south sides of the house.

These funds are contributing to the stabilization and future of this 1876 2nd Empire Victorian home that is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. The Gaar House Museum has served as a tourist attraction teaching and sharing the industrial, cultural and significance of one of the many families that contributed to the early development of Richmond and Wayne County.

**The Efroymson Family Fund, a donor-advised fund of the Central Indiana Community foundation, continues a long legacy of charitable commitment by the Efroymson family in central Indiana. The Efroymson Family Fund was established in 1998 by Dan and Lori Efroymson to promote the viability of communities and has awarded more than $115 million in grants in Central Indiana and beyond. For more information about the Efroymson Family Fund, visit efroymsonfamilyfund.org.

2019 Stamm Koechlein Family Foundation Grants Awarded to 27 Local Nonprofit Organizations and Schools

Posted September 18, 2019

Stamm Koechlein Family Foundation is pleased to announce awards of over $225,000 in recent grants to 27 local nonprofits and schools. The 2019 grant distributions bring the total investment in the Richmond community to well over $3 million dollars since the Foundation's inception in 2000. SKFF focuses funding attention on organizations whose programming supports the youth of the Richmond community.

"We are really pleased to be granting over $225,000 to local organizations this year! From youth leadership development to reward programs for student behavior, SKFF is working hard to support the incredible work of our youth-serving organizations. We are so proud to be their partner in creating a community that supports and celebrates our children," said SKFF President Monica Koechlein.

Nonprofits receiving operational support for current programming (and staff support) are: Amigos, Boys & Girls Club, Cardinal Greenway, JUKO (Richmond Parks Department), Stage One, Cope Environmental Center, Joseph Moore Museum, K-Ready (Every Child Can Read), Richmond Parks Department, Communities in Schools, Civic Hall, and Richmond Art Museum.

RCS schools including Test Intermediate, Charles Elementary, Crestdale Elementary, Fairview Elementary, Starr Elementary, Vaile Elementary and Westview will receive funding to help with a variety of programs that encourage healthy, positive behaviors, provide leadership development for students, and promote responsible decision-making.

Equipment grants and capital upgrades were awarded to Richmond Pickleball Project, Women's Workshop Richmond, and Hayes Arboretum.

New programs and staff positions are being supported at Wayne County Historical Museum and Richmond Symphony Orchestra while IU East will receive funding for program expansion.

STARTedUP will receive funding for creative problem solving/entrepreneurial awards and the Richmond Meltdown is receiving funding for support of this popular family festival!

"It is the deep family roots and ties to the Richmond community that make the Stamm Koechlein Family Foundation truly invested in providing significant opportunities to the citizens of our community. In particular, their dedication to our youth is unmatched and has been instrumental in improving the quality of life for many children," said Richmond Art Museum Executive Director Shaun Dingwerth.

The mission of Stamm Koechlein Family Foundation is to actively serve the communities of (SKFF) board members, especially Richmond, Indiana and the surrounding areas. SKFF supports non-profit community organizations that enhance the vitality of the community, especially for young people. For more information about the Foundation, please visit www.StammKoechlein.org or Facebook like the organization on Facebook.

Randolph County Promise, IU East celebrate first day of college for third-graders at "Walk into My Future"

Posted September 18, 2019

Randolph County brought 293 third-grade students to Indiana University East today (September 13) for the Randolph County Promise event, "Walk into My Future."

The program helps third-grade students and their parents open a College Choice 529 Direct Savings plan, which may be used to pay for education beyond high school.

When families enroll in the program, the Community Foundation of Randolph County deposits $25 into their account. If students add money to their account during Champion Week in October, they will be eligible to have their contributions matched by members of the community.

Additionally, every third-grade student received a $1,000 scholarship, provided by IU East, to go toward the costs of college. The scholarship will be available to Randolph County third-grade students who attend IU East as part of the incoming class of 2029.

IU East hosted "Walk into My Future," a day of interactive learning and hands-on discovery. The third-graders had a peek at what their future college experience could be like through their experiences. IU East Chancellor Kathy Cruz-Uribe said she is proud of IU East's involvement in the program.

"Today we get to celebrate the future as each of these students take the step toward a college education," Cruz-Uribe said. "This event is just one many ways IU East works to fulfill its mission in the region. We hope this event will inspire each of these students to think about what they can be when they grow up, and just as importantly, what they and their families can do now to prepare for that future." The six elementary schools in Randolph County participate in the "Walk into My Future" day at IU East including:

• Deerfield Elementary, Ridgeville
• Monroe Central Elementary, Parker City
• North Side Elementary, Union City
• Randolph Southern Elementary, Lynn
• Union Elementary, Modoc
• and Willard Elementary, Winchester

While at IU East, the third-graders explored college through a series of learning stations, toured the campus, and talked with university students, faculty and staff. Faculty led fun activities in the areas of science, nursing, humanities, business and education. Examples of activities are virtual reality demonstrations, astronomy, theater games, germ fighters, fingerprinting, an art hunt, making music, Spanish Bingo, math games and fun with reading.

Additionally, each student received an "I Did It" certificate and had their photo taken with Rufus the Red Wolf, IU East's mascot.

Lisa Jennings, executive director of the Community Foundation of Randolph County, said the event is a collaborative effort.

"Randolph County Promise is an inspiring opportunity for families to focus on their children's futures. It is a great way to show children that their family, friends and the Randolph County communities care and believe in them. We partner with IU East to strengthen the Promise with their innovation and to build hope for future careers for our students. We are so appreciative of these collaborative partnerships that will not only impact our youth, but our communities as well. Everyone involved has been amazing," Jennings said. The Promise program is supported by Promise Indiana through the Indiana Youth Institute, the Indiana Education Savings Authority, and Lilly Endowment, Inc., as a combined effort to Increase college and career readiness around the state.

Carol Mills, coordinator for Randolph County Promise, said the "Walk into My Future" event is an exciting day that provides several opportunities for children to explore, to meet college students and instructors, and to visit campus.

"The children are very excited because this is their first day of college," Mills said. "By the end of the day, they're talking about the different types of things that they could do and the careers they can purse. One little boy last year said he felt like he could do anything after being there, so it is a really exciting day."

Mills said the program has provided more than she could hope for, especially going through the event for the first time last year. She said there was a wide variety of stations available to the children so they could explore future careers in different areas including art, news broadcast, nursing, Spanish and more. "It was very involved and the students were very engaged," Mills said. "The excitement was just very contagious." One of the new incentives this year encourages families to register their third-grade student by September 1. Each of these students are eligible for a $100 deposit to their account from the Randolph County Foundation if their name is drawn. Each school had one name drawn today at IU East. The names not drawn were then combined with all of the schools, with one third-grader's name drawn for a $529 contribution to their account by the Community Foundation.

Later this year, third-graders will have another opportunity to add to their individual accounts through Randolph County Foundation incentives. In December and May, a new incentive will provide $10 for every hour a student completes for reading or service in the community - up to $100 - added to their account by the foundation.

"We want students to take some initiative and work toward their education," Mills said. "Of course we're going to help them as much as we can along the way."

According to the Promise program, students with a college savings account of $1-$499 are four and one-half times more likely to enroll in and complete college than those with no college savings accounts, yet only 11.7 percent of Indiana students have those accounts.

Cruz-Uribe said IU East is committed to helping third-graders across Randolph County achieve their dreams of one day attending college.

"I'm a big proponent of what Randolph County Promise is working to achieve," she said. "We hope to see many of these students years from now when they return to campus as part of our incoming class of 2029." "This is just the best thing to come to Randolph County students in my lifetime. I really encourage all Randolph County families to get their third-grader enrolled in the 529 plan if they haven't done that," Mills said.

Registration is available online for Randolph County third-graders at randolphcountyfoundation.org or email Carol Mills at cmills@randolphcountyfoundation.org.

Women's Leadership Conference

Posted September 5, 2019

It's time to register for the 12th annual Women's Leadership Conference, held on October 4, 2019! Below is this year's brochure outlining all the workshops and showing the timeline for the day.

Register and pay at waynecountyfoundation.org before September 29, 2019.

Singles Interaction Newsletter - September 2019

Posted August 19, 2019

If you are 21 years of age or better and single, divorced, widow or widower, Singles' Interaction invites you to join them on Friday nights. Come to the Eagles Lodge, 75 South 12th Street, Richmond (membership not required) and meet other single people in the Richmond area.

Come, socialize, dance, and enjoy yourself!

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