Thursday, September 30, 2010

IUPUI hosts public events for national No Impact Week Oct. 4-8

Campus explores the Impact of No Impact Week with community swap meet, workshops, documentaries and tips for everyday life

Indianapolis - As part of its two-year Common Theme initiative to consider healthier, greener and more sustainable communities, IUPUI is participating in national No Impact Week October 4-8. Many public events have been planned on-campus, and the university is suggesting that people personally make changes, too, to become more aware of their effect on the environment.

"If we can get more people to make even small changes in their habits, we can have a significant impact on the health of our planet," said Lorrie A. Brown, chair of the No Impact Week Task Force. "That is the Impact of No Impact Week. I use reusable containers instead of plastic bags, and I try to remember to turn off the lights when I leave a room, but I look forward to learning what more I can do."

Among the week's events and activities, which are open to the public, are:


Monday, October 4: Trash/Consumption Day

· Free swap market. 11 a.m.-1 p.m., UC Courtyard

· The Story of Stuff, free screening and discussion led by IUPUI professors Jasper Sumner and Paul Mullins. Noon-1 p.m., Democracy Plaza


Tuesday, October 5: Transportation Day

· Demystifying Indy's Public Transportation System, panel discussion featuring Bryan Luellen from IndyGo, Anita Beverly from Central Indiana Commuter Services and IUPUI's own Mona Kheiry and Sarah Lang.12:15-1:15 p.m., Campus Center, room 309

· Free Bicycle Checkupby Bike Line in Broad Ripple.10 a.m.-2 p.m., Democracy Plaza

· Group commute, meet at Mo'Joe Coffeehouse to bike or walk to campus. 7:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m., 222 W. Michigan St., RSVP: katykaes@iupui.edu.


Wednesday, October 6: Food Day

· Take the Red Line from IUPUI to City's Market's Farmer's Market, free with an S-Pass, or tickets available. Meet at the Red Line stop outside the Campus Center on University Blvd., to leave with a group at either 10 a.m. or 11:30 a.m.

· Smoothies Demonstration sponsored by the Student Wellness Coalition; raw food chef Audrey Barron will show how to prepare fruit and vegetable smoothies and provide free samples and recipes. Noon-1:30 p.m., Campus Center, room 305

· Garden work day with IUPUI Urban Garden and Developing IUPUI's Gardens Sustainably (DIGS). 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at the new community garden, located behind the Science Building (off Michigan and Blackford). RSVP: katykaes@iupui.edu.


Thursday, October 7: Energy Day

· Renewable Energy Demonstrations featuring the Richard G. Lugar Center for Renewable Energy and the Energy Club at IUPUI. Time to be announced, UC Courtyard

· IUPUI community Earth Hour featuring John Kamman from Campus Facility Services, speaking on responsible energy use on IUPUI's campus. Noon-1 p.m., Campus Center, room 308


Friday, October 8: Water Day

· Addicted to Plastic, free screening and discussion. 1-3 p.m., Lilly Auditorium

· Water-related service project. 1-4 p.m., White River State Park, RSVP: katykaes@iupui.edu.

Monday, September 27, 2010

INRC 16th Annual Meeting

Monday, September 27

Please plan to join us at INRC's 16th Annual Meeting: Monday, September 27, 6:00p.m. at the American Red Cross, 441 East 10th Street.

INRC's Annual Meeting will kick off and celebrate National Good Neighbor Day with a tailgate party including music, food and good company. INRC's newly elected Board of Directors will be introduced.

Show neighborhood pride by voting for your favorite pennant in the Neighborhood Spirit Pennant contest. The winner will be announced at the end of the evening. The neighborhood who submits the mote votes will be awarded a neighborhood picnic, supplied by All-American Picnic Company, valued up to $500.

Paul Cieselski, Chief of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, will serve as keynote speaker.

Celebrate the recipient of the 5th Annual "Collaborative Spirit" Award! This annual award celebrates a project between neighborhood-based partners and its impact upon the community. This award has led to national recognition for previous awardees.

INRC thanks National Bank of Indianapolis for their support of this event.

Friday, September 24, 2010

CROSSWALK Volunteers Needed

The CROSSWALK program, sponsored by the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office and Indiana Project Safe Neighborhoods, provides monitoring for children of Indianapolis and Marion County as they wait at bus stops in the early morning hours. CROSSWALK is looking for additional volunteers.

Please consider volunteering to help keep our children safe. It will only take approximately ½ hour of your time each morning and the children truly value your support. Most pick-ups are between the hours of 6:00am and 7:00am. The commitment would be for 10 weeks/one day per week. IMPD will be adding extra patrols in the selected areas to ensure the safety of the volunteers. Other volunteers include members from the faith-based community.

Upon prior supervisor approval, volunteers who arrive at work early because of their volunteer shift may leave early that same day or within the same time card period.


To volunteer, please send an email to: crosswalk@indy.gov

Mayor Signs Executive Order Prohibiting Open Burning

Mayor Greg Ballard today signed an Executive Order prohibiting open burning in Indianapolis and Marion County. This measure was taken as a result of the extreme dry climate in Central Indiana.

“The recent dry weather conditions pose an imminent threat to our grass, crops, leaves and other vegetation, and as a result it is imperative that we take measures to ensure environmental safety and fire prevention throughout our neighborhoods,” said Mayor Ballard.

The Executive Order contains the following provisions:

· All open burning at any time and at any place within the Consolidated City of Indianapolis and Marion County is hereby prohibited.

· All fire, police, and code enforcement personnel are hereby directed to use vigilance in enforcing the provisions of this Executive Order No. 2, 2010, until such time as it is rescinded.

· This Executive Order No. 2, 2010, shall continue until further notice as dictated by public safety concerns and weather and environmental conditions.



To read the Executive Order in its entirety visit: http://www.indy.gov/eGov/Mayor/Executive/Documents/Open%20Burning.pdf

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT TO HELP CLEAN GRAVE MARKERS AT CENTRAL STATE CEMETERY

Volunteers are currently being sought to assist in the cleanup of a cemetery on the grounds of the former Central State Hospital. Last month a partnership between the City and Indiana Downs resulted in the major cleanup of downed trees, brush and trash on the grounds. The next step to clean up the property includes the cleaning of approximately 500 in-ground grave markers.

The cleanup will occur on Saturday September 25th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the cemetery located on Tibbs Avenue about a block north of Washington Street. Volunteers will be required to sign a waiver to enter the property. Those under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and also sign a waiver.

Keep Indianapolis Beautiful will supply gloves and trash bags. Work will proceed rain or shine. In the event of severe weather, the cleanup will take place on Sunday September 26th. Participants can park at the state highway Tibbs Avenue maintenance garage which is just south of the cemetery on the west side of Tibbs.

For more information on how you can volunteer please contact John Bartholomew at (317) 327-6709

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

City of Indianapolis, Homeless Outreach Training

This training is designed to be used by any person or program involved in reaching out to people experiencing homelessness and particularly to those individuals for whom homelessness is not a transitory experience, but has become a fixed condition. These individuals wander our city streets, live in wooded areas, dwell under bridges, and otherwise inhabit the edges of the landscape of our lives. They experience severely disabling conditions and face seemingly impervious structural barriers in moving from the street to stability. Outreach is central to the approach to care for people experiencing homelessness. As outreach work has become increasingly recognized for its importance, there has also been an acknowledgment of the need for workers to be trained regarding the core values, knowledge, and practices involved in effective outreach. This training emphasizes a multi-disciplinary approach to delivering care to individuals experiencing homelessness, combining aggressive street outreach with integrated systems of primary care, mental health and substance abuse services, case management, and client advocacy.

This training is scheduled for October 5, 6 and 7. It will be held at the Training Academy, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department / Department of Public Safety, 901 North Post Road. The sessions start at 9:00 each day.

The training is free. Seating will be limited to 70 participants.

Additional sessions for this training will be scheduled during 2011.

To register click here: https://app.etapestry.com/cart/CoalitionforHomlessnessInte/cart2/index.php

If you have any questions regarding the training, please contact Pastor Jim Thurston, The Indy Dream Center, at impact751@aol.com or (317) 898-5673.

Landlord Training Program

KEEPING ILLEGAL ACTIVITY OUT OF RENTAL PROPERTY

A Practical Seminar for Landlords and Property Managers

Wednesday September 29, 2010 (South side location)

Wednesday October 27, 2010 (North side location)

Time: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM*

*Sign -in begins at 8:00 AM. Course starts at 8:30.

The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office, in partnership with Weed and Seed & Drug Free Marion County, is sponsoring a training course to help landlords enhance the quality of life for residents of their properties and their neighbors by keeping illegal activity out of their rental properties. This program was originated by Campbell-DeLong Resources, Inc, of Portland, Oregon, with funding provided by the Department of Justice. The training helps landlords and property managers improve management skills and contribute more effectively to the health and safety of communities. Over 550 jurisdictions, from 47 states and 3 nations, have received permission to adapt the program materials to suit their local circumstances.

The course includes information on applicant screening, rental agreements, warning signs of drug and gang activity, crisis resolution, and the CPTED (Crime Prevention through Environmental Design) method of property and grounds maintenance to reduce and prevent crime.

This free 1-day course provides practical tips on how to reduce the likelihood of nuisance violations and drug, gang and illegal activity occurring in and around rental property and what to do if it happens.

For registration information, contact

Charles Wheeler at (317) 327-1406 or

Charles.Wheeler2@indy.gov

Locations:

September 29, 2010 @ La Quinta Inn 465 and S Emerson Av.

Or

October 27, 2010 @ 3120 E 30th street IMPD North District.

Mayor Ballard, Project Leaders Give Update on 2012 Super Bowl Housing Legacy Project

REALTOR Foundation Providing 32 Residences for Renovation for Homeless Families

Mayor Greg Ballard today was joined by representatives of the REALTOR Foundation and the 2012 Super Bowl Host Committee in previewing one of 32 residences that will become homes for homeless families as part of the 2012 Super Bowl Housing Legacy Project.

The REALTOR Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Metropolitan Indianapolis Board of REALTORS (MIBOR), has pledged $500,000 to help revive the St. Clair Place neighborhood as part of the Legacy Project. With its “Building a Living Legacy Project,” the REALTOR Foundation is providing 32 residences on the Near Eastside for renovation and construction. Project leaders demonstrated today how the funding is being put to work at the house undergoing renovations at 822/824 N. Tacoma Ave.

“The REALTOR Foundation’s commitment to funding the renovation and construction of 32 properties on the Near Eastside will make a tremendous impact on the lives of families who will soon call these residences home,” said Mayor Ballard. “The 2012 Super Bowl Housing Legacy Project is moving forward on a path of revitalizing the St. Clair Place neighborhood and beyond to improve the quality of life for our citizens and create a vibrant place for families to grow and to secure a successful future.”

Mark Miles, chairman of the 2012 Super Bowl Host Committee, Regina Jones, REALTOR Foundation president, and James Taylor, chief executive officer of the John H. Boner Community Center, joined Mayor Ballard today at the site of a formerly abandoned duplex. The property is being gutted and renovated, and later this year will be home to two homeless families.

The REALTOR Foundation’s financial support helped the John H. Boner Community Center and Indy-east Asset Development (I-AD) purchase homes and lots, which will include the projected renovation of 21 residences and the construction of 11 homes. All will be rented to homeless families or families at-risk of being homeless who will receive support services coordinated by the nearby Boner Center to help them become self-sufficient.

“Our goal is to give homeless families a second lease on life by not only providing affordable housing, but ensuring they have services they need to become successful and provide for their families,” said Jones, a Carpenter REALTOR.

The REALTOR Foundation’s effort to provide homes for the homeless is part of the larger 2012 Super Bowl Housing Legacy Project, which aspires to build, repair, or renovate 150 to 200 homes and units of affordable housing on the Near Eastside. The Super Bowl Housing Legacy Project funding comes from a variety of sources, including the federal Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP), the City of Indianapolis and State of Indiana Neighborhood Stabilization Program, United Way of Central Indiana and the REALTOR Foundation. Congressman AndrĂ© Carson secured NSP funding for the Legacy Project in 2008 as part of a bill that awarded $29 million to the City of Indianapolis.

Monday, September 20, 2010

IndyGo Modifies Route Schedules to Benefit Riders

On October 10, IndyGo will institute timing and/or routing changes to 12 of its 29 local service lines. These revenue neutral adjustments will improve efficiency and increase the predictability of the bus schedules, resulting in better service for IndyGo riders without increasing or decreasing the company’s operating budget.

Route 8 – Washington Street

Route 8, one of the busiest IndyGo lines, will incorporate time adjustments to support new five-minute layovers at Ohio Street and Capitol Avenue heading eastbound and Ohio and Meridian Streets heading westbound, seven days a week. These changes give riders from other routes more time to transfer in the downtown loop without having to rush through pedestrian and car traffic or having to wait 30 to 60 minutes for the next bus. Route 8 runs service to the Indianapolis Airport, Indianapolis Zoo, Washington Square Mall, White River State Park, Victory Field and Meijer at East Washington Street as well as connects with the John H. Boner Community Center’s Near Eastside Orbiter bus route.

Route 10 – 10th Street

Route 10, one of the busiest IndyGo lines, will incorporate time adjustments to support a new five-minute layover at Pennsylvania and Ohio Streets heading westbound, Monday through Friday. This change gives riders from other routes more time to transfer in the downtown loop without having to rush through pedestrian and car traffic or having to wait 30 to 60 minutes for the next bus. Route 10 runs service to Ben Davis High School, Speedway Shopping Center, Veteran’s Hospital, Riley Hospital, Wishard Hospital, Community Hospital East and Washington Square Mall as well as connects with the John H. Boner Community Center’s Near Eastside Orbiter bus route.

Route 11 – East 16th Street

Route 11 will incorporate a new time point* at Washington and New Jersey Streets, benefiting riders who transfer to Routes 8, 12, 13, 14, 22 and 55. Route 11 runs service to Brookside Park, Scecina High School, Community Hospital East, Western Select and Crossroads as well as connects with the John H. Boner Community Center’s Near Eastside Orbiter bus route.

Route 12 – Beechcrest

Route 12 will split into two routes: Route 12 via Minnesota and Route 13 via Raymond. There will be no change in service; this adjustment is intended to lessen the confusion among riders. Route 12 will adopt new routing, no longer using Virginia Avenue from South Street to Delaware Street. The “new” Routes 12 and 13 will use East Street to Washington Street to Delaware Street. A new time point* will also go into effect at Washington and New Jersey Streets, benefiting riders who transfer to Routes 8, 14, 22 and 55. Routes 12 and 13 run service to Fountain Square, Garfield Park, Beechcrest Shopping Center and St. Francis Hospital in Beech Grove.

Route 14 – Prospect

Route 14 will incorporate new inbound routing, no longer using Virginia Avenue from South Street to Delaware Street. It will use East Street to Washington Street to Delaware Street. A new time point* will also go into effect at Washington and New Jersey Streets, benefiting riders who transfer to Routes 8, 12, 13, 22 and 55. Route 14 runs service to Fountain Square.

Route 17 – College

Route 17 will incorporate minor time adjustments, affecting the time point* at Broad Ripple Avenue and Compton Street heading outbound, Monday through Friday. Route 17 runs service to the Murat Centre, Mass Avenue Arts District, Broad Ripple Village, Broad Ripple Park, Broad Ripple High School, Bishop Chatard High School and Glendale Town Center as well as connects with the John H. Boner Community Center’s Near Eastside Orbiter bus route.

Route 22 – Shelby

Route 22 will incorporate new routing, no longer using Delaware Street from South Street inbound and Pennsylvania Street from Maryland Street to South Street outbound. It will use South Street to East Street to Washington Street to Delaware Street inbound and Maryland Street to Washington Street to East Street outbound. A new time point* will also go into effect at Washington and New Jersey Streets, benefiting riders who transfer to Routes 8 12, 13, 14 and 55. Route 22 runs service to Fountain Square, Garfield Park, University of Indianapolis, Southern Plaza and Community Hospital South as well as connects with Access Johnson County’s Greenwood Connector bus service.

Route 26 – Keystone Crosstown

Route 26 will incorporate minor time adjustments, affecting the time points* at Keystone Avenue and Prospect Street, Keystone and Troy Avenues and Kmart at Emerson Avenue and Thompson Road heading southbound, Monday through Friday. Route 26 runs service to Keystone at the Crossing, Glendale Town Center, Wal-Mart at Keystone and Kmart at Emerson Avenue and Thompson Road as well as connects with Janus Developmental Services’s Hamilton County Express bus shuttle.

Route 31 – Greenwood

Route 31 adds one new inbound trip at 4:38 p.m. from Greenwood Park Mall to Downtown. Route 31 runs service to Eli Lilly, Manual High School and the city of Greenwood as well as connects with Access Johnson County’s Greenwood Connector bus service.

Route 34 – Michigan Road

Route 34 will adopt a new name “Dr. ML King/Michigan Rd.” and incorporate time adjustments to support a new five-minute layover at Pennsylvania and Ohio Streets heading outbound, Monday though Saturday. This change gives riders from other routes more time to transfer in the downtown loop without having to rush through pedestrian and car traffic or having to wait 30 to 60 minutes for the next bus. Route 34 runs service to Crown Hill Cemetery, Indianapolis Museum of Art, Westlane Shopping Center, College Park, Pyramids and St. Vincent Hospital as well as connects with Janus Developmental Services’s Hamilton County Express bus shuttle.

Route 37 – Park 100

Route 37 will incorporate time adjustments to support a five-minute layover at Pennsylvania and Ohio Streets heading outbound, Monday through Friday. This change gives riders from other routes more time to transfer in the downtown loop without having to rush through pedestrian and car traffic or having to wait 30 to 60 minutes for the next bus. Route 37 runs service to IUPUI, Eagledale Plaza, Lafayette Square Mall, Park 100, Traders Point and Intech Park as well as connects with Janus Developmental Services’s Hamilton County Express bus shuttle.

Route 55 – English

Route 55 will incorporate time adjustments as well as a new time point* at Washington and New Jersey Streets, benefiting riders who transfer to Routes 8, 12, 13, 14 and 22. Route 55 runs service to Redcats USA, Christian Park and Eastgate as well as connects with the John H. Boner Community Center’s Near Eastside Orbiter bus route.

The new route schedules reflecting these adjustments are now available online at IndyGo.net. The new printed schedules will be available on the buses and through the IndyGo Customer Service Center before October 10. Questions regarding these updates should be directed to IndyGo Customer Service at 317.635.3344 or via the online customer comment form at www.indygo.net/feedback.asp.

*A time point is represented by an intersection or a landmark. It is essentially a reference point that lets riders know what time the bus is scheduled to arrive at a particular location. It is important to note that not all bus stops for a particular route are included on its bus schedule.

Monday, September 13, 2010

Laurel from Prospect to Fletcher

Due to the forward thinking of the Mayor, and this administration’s understanding of the needs of its residents, we are about to see a whole lot of shovels hitting the pavement.

The next set of streets to be repaved by April 2011 has been announced and can be found here: http://www.indy.gov/eGov/Mayor/Documents/$55%20Million%20Investment%20List.pdf



Some of these will be done this fall, with the remainder completed by next Spring. If you don’t see a street on here that you have a concern for, please let me know and I’ll see what I can do to get it into the next bid round. I’ll need the name of the street and the cross streets at either end.


Lisa Laflin

Neighborhood Liaison/South Center Region

lisa.laflin@indy.gov P: 317-327-5595

Friday, September 10, 2010

MAYOR TAKING APPLICATIONS FOR 10th ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF DIVERSITY AWARDS

Deadline for applications is October 21, 2010

The office of Mayor Greg Ballard is currently accepting applications for the 10TH Annual Mayor’s Celebration of Diversity Awards (MCOD). The awards will be presented to businesses and organizations throughout Marion County that embrace, celebrate, and apply holistic inclusion and participation of a diverse people, making the workplace a better environment in which to work and the community a better place in which to live, work and raise a family.

Recognition will be given for outstanding performance, in one or all of the following four (4) categories:

Community Relations - Activities that encourage and support diversity in the community; Development - Opportunities for diversity strategies within the organization; Leadership – Vision develops and supports diversity strategies throughout the organization; Workforce Diversity – Diversity representation in the workplace.

Also, the top award given is the special Sam H. Jones Award, named in honor of the first president of the Indianapolis Urban League, who was a tireless advocate for peace, justice and racial understanding. It recognizes a business or organization with exemplary performance in all four categories, the “Best of the Best”.

Nomination forms are available online at: http://www.indy.gov/eGov/Mayor/Diversity/Diversity_Award/Pages/home.aspx or by calling 317-327-5091. Nominations may be submitted online or postmarked by Thursday, October 21, 2010 at 4:00 P.M.

The 2011 MCOD Award winners will be honored and recognized at this year’s 10th Anniversary Celebration of Diversity Awards Luncheon that will be held Friday, January 21, 2011 at the Marriott-Downtown.

The United Nations has designated the first Monday in October as annual World Habitat Day.

On Oct. 4, 2010, in recognition of World Habitat Day, Habitat for Humanity will raise awareness of the need for improved shelter and highlight Habitat’s priorities: the worldwide connection between human health and housing, and, in the United States, neighborhood revitalization. These themes echo the United Nations’ chosen theme for 2010 for events in the host city of Shanghai, China and the rest of the world: “Better City, Better Life.”

Every week, more than a million people are born in, or move to, cities in the developing world. As a result, the urban population of developing countries will double from 2 billion to 4 billion in the next 30 years. (Kissick, et al: 2006)

By the year 2030, an additional 3 billion people, about 40 percent of the world’s population, will need access to housing. This translates into a demand for 96,150 new affordable units every day and 4,000 every hour. (UN-HABITAT: 2005)

Habitat for Humanity hopes that by raising awareness and advocating for universal decent housing we can dismantle and alter the systems that allow for poverty housing and make an affordable, decent place to live a reality for all.

Indianapolis To Receive $8 Million in Neighborhood Stabilization Plan Funds

The City of Indianapolis will receive $8 million from the third round of Neighborhood Stabilization Plan (NSP) money issued by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The funding is part of a total $1 billion distributed to states around the country announced by HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. The money will provide targeted emergency assistance to state and local governments to acquire, redevelop or demolish foreclosed properties.

“This funding will build on the original NSP dollars we received in 2008 and further our efforts to create a more livable, sustainable city,” said Mayor Greg Ballard. “As we work to rehabilitate our neighborhoods and improve quality of life throughout all of Indianapolis, these funds are certainly welcomed and will be used in the most efficient way possible to build neighborhoods in which our citizens can be proud to live.”



State and local governments can use their neighborhood stabilization grants to acquire land and property; to demolish or rehabilitate abandoned properties; and/or to offer down payment and closing cost assistance to low- to moderate-income homebuyers (household incomes not to exceed 120 percent of area median income). In addition, these grantees can create land banks to assemble, temporarily manage and dispose of vacant land for the purpose of stabilizing neighborhoods and encouraging re-use or redevelopment of urban property. Indianapolis established its land bank in 2007.

"We have so many communities making great strides, but they still face significant hurdles in tackling foreclosed properties, which lower the quality of life and become magnets for crime and blight,” said Congressman AndrĂ© Carson. “This funding will be another much-needed shot in the arm for Indianapolis and other communities struggling with high rates of foreclosure."



HUD will issue a guidance notice in the next few weeks to assist grantees in designing their programs and applying for funds. This will assist the Community Economic Development Division in determining how to spend the funds.

The NSP funding is provided under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. To date, there have been two other rounds of NSP funding – the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 (HERA) provided $3.92 billion, and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act) appropriated an additional $2 billion. Today, 95 cents of every dollar from the first round of NSP funding is obligated and in use by communities purchasing and renovating homes and creating jobs.

NSP seeks to prevent future foreclosures by requiring housing counseling for families receiving homebuyer assistance. HUD seeks to protect future homebuyers by requiring states and local grantees to ensure that new homebuyers under NSP receive homeownership counseling and obtain a mortgage loan from a lender who agrees to comply with sound lending practices.

HOORAY FOR PLAY! INDIANAPOLIS NAMED PLAYFUL CITY, USA FOR SECOND TIME

Turn off the television, silence the cell phone and head to a park. It's playtime in Indianapolis! For the second year, Indianapolis is honored as a Playful City USA community by KaBOOM!, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing play into children's lives. Join Mayor Greg Ballard September 18 for the Indy Play Celebration announcement and proclamation reading at Wilbur Shaw Memorial Soap Box Derby Hill, 3001 Cold Spring Road, at 10:30 a.m.

Indianapolis is one of 118 communities across 35 states recognized for our commitment, mission and willingness to make play important. Research shows a strong connection between play and the development of social, emotional, cognitive and intellectual skills.

Plan to play together at an Indy Park or Greenway Trail, a church or school playground, a museum, the zoo or cultural center, or even your own backyard. Don't stop after September 18 - Plan a family play date every week to continue to nurture the health and well-being of yourself and your child!

Here are some other helpful ways to get started on September 18:

Douglass Park -Making the Band - The Dorman Street Band sings gospel, urban and old school tunes. Stretch your vocal cords or bring your own instrument to start jammin'. 12-4 p.m. FREE

Krannert, Indy Island, Thatcher, La Shonna Bates and George Washington Community School - Indoor Swimming - Call 327-PARK for times and fees or visit aquatics.indyparks.org

Garfield Park's Conservatory and Sunken Garden - Fruit and Candy Tour - Find out where some of your favorite yummy treats come from with a family-friendly tour of the conservatory and the tasty food it produces. 11-12 p.m. $3 per person

Garfield Park - Arts for All - You've heard of petting zoos with animals? What about with instruments? The Arts for All theme in September gives kids hands-on fun with horns and strings at the "Instrument Petting Zoo." 12 - 5 p.m. FREE

Eagle Creek Park- Nature Discovery Program - Learn about the wonders of nature with guided tours to discover native plants, weird bugs, live animals and how you can help the environment. 1:30 p.m., FREE with park admission

Eagle Creek Park's Ornithology Center - Avian Adventure - Meet a raptor, explore a backyard habitat and take a guided bird hike. Free with park admission. Call 327-BIRD for times.

Check out Indy Parks Fall Fun Guide to start playing the day away! Go to www.indyparks.org or call (317)327-PARK.

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Citizen's Academy

Police - Fire - Homeland Security - Animal Care and Control

The next session of the IMPD Citizen’s Academy will occur every Monday starting October 4th and end on December 13th.

*The application Process Ends September 24*

The purpose of the Citizens' Academy is to increase the public's understanding of law enforcement duties and responsibilities in order to foster cooperative problem solving between the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department and the community. We need this now more than ever! There is no charge for the classes which are designed to give citizens information relating to the training police officers are provided.

Let’s do all we can to promote this event. If you know a responsible citizens on SWD that may be interested in participating, refer them to the link below or any of the IMPD district offices.


http://www.indy.gov/eGov/City/DPS/IMPD/Involved/Pages/citizen.aspx

Marion County Prosecutor's Office - Burglary Prevention Forum

By way of introduction, my name is Jayson McGrath, and I am a Deputy Prosecutor in Indianapolis. Our office has formed a new division specifically to combat the ever-increasing threat of burglary in our city – this division is called the Burglary Enforcement Strategy Team (BEST). Our primary goal is to see reduction of burglary through two methods: prosecution of multiple offenders and educating the community about burglary prevention techniques through public forums.

Our office is conducting such a forum at the Community Alliance of the Far Eastside (CAFE), 8902 E. 38th Street (38th & Post area) on September 21, 2010 from 5:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M. The flyer for the event is attached (in English and Spanish). Some refreshments will be provided, and certain selected security companies will be on-hand to provide information about their products and possibly a door prize to participating residents. The purpose of this email is to request your assistance in keeping our citizens informed about this opportunity. Would each of you be willing to forward this message and flyer to your constituents and/or contacts? Our office would most appreciate that, as I’m sure the citizenry will receive a great benefit from this program. Thank you for any assistance you can provide. I’ve also CC’d Ms. Yvonne Smith, CAFE Neighborhood Coordinator, for any questions you may have about the facility.

Again, I greatly appreciate your willingness to assist. Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.

Thank you.

Sincerely,

Jayson W. McGrath

Deputy Prosecuting Attorney
Marion County Prosecutor's Office
251 E. Ohio Street, Suite 160
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Phone: 317.656.1622
FAX: 317.327.6918
REPLY TO: Jayson.McGrath@indy.gov

Indianapolis Participates in First Nationwide DEA Prescription Drug Take-Back Day

On Saturday, Sept. 25, the Drug Enforcement Administration is holding its first national prescription-drug "Take-Back" initiative, and several drop-off locations are located in and near Indianapolis.

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on that day, participating sites will collect expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs, which will be properly disposed of. The service is free and anonymous; no questions will be asked.



Area Take-Back drop-off sites include:

* St. Monica Catholic Church, 6131 N. Michigan Road, Indianapolis

* Capital City Baptist Church, 1002 W. Edgewood Ave., Indianapolis

* Indiana State Police Post, 8620 E. 21st St., Indianapolis

* Beech Grove Police Department, 340 E. Churchman Ave., Beech Grove

* Cumberland Police Department, 11501 E. Washington St., Cumberland

* Pittsboro United Methodist Church, 227 E. Main St., Pittsboro


Medications for both human and veterinary purposes will be accepted. Some facilities might have the ability to accommodate injectable drugs; call ahead for more information. Those bringing prescription drugs are asked to remove any personal information from bottles and other containers. All prescription containers will be burned along with the medications they contain.

"We are aggressively reaching out to individuals to encourage them to rid their households of unused prescription drugs that pose a safety hazard and can contribute to prescription-drug abuse," said the nation's acting deputy attorney general Gary G. Grindler.

According to the director of National Drug Control Policy, Gil Kerlikowske, prescription-drug abuse is the fastest-growing drug problem in the United States, with a corresponding increase in the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to such drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, many people do not know how to properly dispose of unused medication. Flushing drugs down the toilet or simply tossing them in the trash both present potential health and safety hazards.

In Indiana, a 2009 report from the Indiana University Center for Health Policy found that 7.6 percent of Hoosiers reported abusing prescription drugs in the past year, higher than the national rate of 6.2 percent. And a national study by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration released this year showed a 400 percent increase in substance abuse treatment admissions for prescription pain relievers between 1998 and 2008.

"Take-back events like this one are an indispensable tool for reducing the threat that the diversion and abuse of these drugs pose to public health," Kerlikowske said.

For more information on the Indianapolis-area Take-Back program, contact Dennis Wichern, DEA assistant special agent in charge, at 317-226-7981.

For more information on prescription-drug abuse or general information on local issues involving alcohol, tobacco and other drugs, contact Drug Free Marion County at 317-254-2815 or visit www.drugfreemc.org.

Drug Free Marion County -- a not-for-profit organization -- plans, promotes, implements and coordinates community efforts to prevent and reduce the abuse of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs among youth and adults.

Mayor, Hospital Leaders Announce The New Wishard On Time, Under Budget

Mayor Greg Ballard joined Wishard leaders today at City Market to announce The New Wishard Report to our Community, a new informational campaign for Wishard to report the efficient progress of the new hospital project to the community that, with an overwhelming vote on Nov. 3, 2009, made a new Wishard possible. During Wishard’s Health Fair at City Market, leaders announced that The New Wishard project is on time and under budget, and Wishard shared detailed renderings and a model of the new hospital, which Wishard designed in part using input from patients, physicians and staff.

“Last fall, the Indianapolis community showed tremendous compassion and a spirit of cooperation in supporting a new safety net hospital, and since then Wishard has worked quickly, responsibly and efficiently to achieve the goals we set,” said Mayor Ballard. “With this project, Wishard is creating and supporting thousands of jobs and improving the sustainability of our city by making this one of the nation’s foremost new hospitals in environmental design and energy efficiency. The new hospital will create a home where Wishard can continue to provide the top quality care and public health programs upon which our community relies. Wishard is a tremendous steward of public support and a resource for health and safety.”

City-County Councillor Barbara Malone, Wishard CEO and Medical Director Dr. Lisa Harris, and Health and Hospital Corporation CEO Matthew Gutwein joined Mayor Ballard in speaking at the Report to Our Community event. The project is achieving savings through contracting and bond financing, and Wishard is ahead of goals for minority-, women- and veteran-owned business participation.

“Wishard is executing this project well, showing itself to be as financially responsible and adept at planning as it is proficient in delivering excellent quality health care,” said Councillor Malone, chairperson of the Municipal Corporations Committee. “I am proud to see good stewardship of public funds, proud that Wishard has upheld its commitment not to raise property taxes, and I am proud to see Wishard exceeding participation levels for minority-, women- and veteran-owned businesses. I look forward to seeing Wishard’s continued progress, job creation and commitment to diversity as much as I look forward to seeing this new hospital in three years.”

The New Wishard, opening at the end of 2013, will feature a 327-bed inpatient hospital. Wishard project leaders registered the 1.2 million square foot campus to achieve United States Green Building Council (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver certification that will make it the first newly built hospital in Indiana and one of ten in America certified LEED Silver or higher.

“We are proud of The New Wishard, which we’ve designed, with the input of our physicians, our nurses and our patients, to provide the best and most comforting quality care,” said Dr. Harris. “The new hospital will be a welcoming and accessible place that enhances quality of life for our patients, our staff and our community.”

Wishard is exceeding contract goals for minority-, women- and veteran-owned business enterprise (M/W/VBE) participation. While aiming to achieve the City’s goals of 15 percent MBE, 8 percent WBE and 3 percent VBE, Wishard has achieved so far 16.4 percent MBE, 10.4 WBE and 4.1 percent VBE, with nearly 31 percent of all commitments going to M/W/VBEs.

“We are achieving the goals we set out to attain,” said CEO Gutwein. “We are under budget. We achieved an excellent rate on our bonds, saving hundreds of millions against our worst-case projections over the life of the bonds. We are contracting with minority-, women- and veteran-owned businesses, and we are contracting with predominantly local businesses. We are proud to report this progress to the community and to the many individuals and organizations that supported a new Wishard one year ago.”

Wishard’s Report to Our Community will continue through the fall. Wishard supplements the campaign with a 16-page report as well as a revamped Web site at TheNewWishard.org. The refreshed site features an interactive 3-D rendering, new video content and enhanced interactivity and social networking features. Wishard officials will conduct a series of community meetings and presentations over the next few months to report on the project’s progres.

Wishard has approved more than $113 million in construction contracts and plans to complete all bid awards for the hospital and ambulatory care building by the end of the year. The New Wishard project will create 4,400 jobs, and the new hospital will support the more than 4,000 Wishard staff positions as well as a new venue for the more than 1,000 physicians who practice at Wishard.

The renderings feature an 11-story hospital tower adjoining a 200-room ambulatory care building, a 90-bed treatment room emergency department with a 20-bed clinical decision unit and Wishard’s Adult Level I Trauma Center, a faculty and administration building, and a more than 2,700-car parking garage on the 37-acre campus at the western end of the IUPUI campus.

The project to construct a new Wishard will transform the landscape of health care in Indianapolis. Marion County voters approved construction of a new Wishard in the Nov. 3, 2009 election, with 85 percent support for the measure, and Wishard began work immediately. Wishard plans to complete the new facility at the end of 2013. To learn more about the construction project, visit www.TheNewWishard.org. For more information about Wishard Health Services, visit www.Wishard.edu.

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

GARFIELD SHAKESPEARE COMPANY PERFORMS SHAKESPEARE'S "MACBETH"

Presented outdoors at the beautiful and historic MacAllister Amphitheater

INDIANAPOLIS - (September 3, 2010) Shakespeare's "Macbeth" comes to life at the historic MacAllister Amphitheatre with multiple performances by the local troupe, Garfield Shakespeare Company. Traditionally set in Medieval Scotland, this production of one of Shakespeare's best-known tragedies, directed by Thomas Cardwell, will transpose the action to a Colonial American setting. You are sure to enjoy this timeless tale. All performances are FREE and open to the public. Picnics, blankets and chairs are welcome. Reservations not necessary.

WHO: Garfield Shakespeare Company

WHAT: Shakespeare's Macbeth

WHEN: September 10, 11, 17, 18
All performances are at 8 p.m.

WHERE: MacAllister Center for the Performing Arts
2524 Conservatory Drive
Located in the heart of Garfield Park adjacent to the Arts Center

Mayor Ballard Announces Internal IMPD Reforms

Mayor Greg Ballard today announced reforms aimed at strengthening accountability and restoring public trust in the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department.

“When I took the oath of office as your mayor, I pledged to make public safety job one. For public safety to be job one, we must have the confidence of the public,” Mayor Ballard said. “It is clear—loud and clear—this trust has been badly shaken by recent events. I am committed to restoring your trust in IMPD. I do not tolerate police misconduct, the use of excessive force, or corruption. I will dismiss those officers and commanders who do not share my priorities and concerns.”

Mayor Ballard announced the following reforms:

* At the scene of vehicle accidents involving a police officer that result in bodily injury or property damage, breathalyzers will be administered to the officer involved.
* Purchase of alcohol in uniform is prohibited. While officers are prohibited from purchasing alcohol in uniform now, the current policy is being amended to ban them from transporting alcohol in police vehicles, marked or unmarked.
* No alcohol consumption permitted within eight hours of the beginning of a shift. A Department of Public Safety (DPS)-wide zero tolerance policy for alcohol in an officer’s system will be adopted.
* It will be the stated duty of every officer to report suspected substance abuse or other conditions that could endanger the public or impair an officer’s ability to do the job.
* DPS will make a renewed commitment to make every officer aware of help available to them to deal with stress and substance abuse. Should current resources be found inadequate after an internal review process, new programs will be implemented.

Ongoing reforms include establishment of a professional standards division within DPS to aggressively root out misconduct and criminal behavior and to ensure objectivity and fairness in reviews of all criminal or administrative complaints. This division will develop an early warning tool to identify employees who are in need of special attention to prevent misconduct from occurring. Working with the Police Executive Research Forum, DPS will revise IMPD’s general orders beginning with the most critical and sensitive police practices, such as search and seizure, use of force, pursuits, police-action shootings, and accidents. Additionally, a civilian has been hired to lead IMPD training to ensure the training meets our city’s challenges.

“We are reforming IMPD in a deliberate and thoughtful manner,” Mayor Ballard said. “In addition to the reforms that are currently under way, my administration continues to implement reforms to root out misconduct, excessive use of force and corruption.”

Reforms instituted during the course of this administration include:

* Upgrades to use computerized statistics and crime maps to hold every commander accountable for the crime occurring in their districts.
* Introduction of procedures for collecting and inventorying contraband and money to prevent mishandling of evidence.
* Creation of the career and leadership development program to strengthen IMPD’s recruiting, employee evaluations, supervisory appraisals, and career planning.
* Establishment of the youth-police initiative to improve the relationship between our young people and our police officers.
* Deployment of 135 police officers and detectives to crime hot spots in the east, north and northwest districts.

As a result of these reforms, the uptick in homicides has been reversed and crime reductions have been achieved in each district. Specifically, this June, July, and August, Indianapolis saw the lowest number of homicides in the past 20 years. Rapes, robberies, and residential burglaries are down significantly. Violent crime overall is down more than 13 percent.

Mayor Ballard welcomes input from the public and pledged today to work with anyone offering constructive ideas.

“We are taking decisive action to reform IMPD, to restore public confidence in our police force, and to continue our fight against crime. We cannot have a strong Indianapolis without a strong police force,” Mayor Ballard said. "Protecting you, your neighbors, and your families is the highest responsibility I bear as your mayor. I accept this responsibility, and I am committed to restoring the public’s trust in our officers and reforming this department.”

Friday, September 3, 2010

DEA Prescription Drug Drop Off event

Please pass the information along, on Sept 25th the Drug Enforcement Agency along with Indiana State Police, IMPD, Beech Grove Police Dept, Cumberland Police Dept. St Monica’s Catholic Church, Capitol City Baptist Church a prescription drug drop off at five locations across town. See table below for locations.

They are accepting all human and veterinary drugs except needles, those are dependent on the location and its ability to collect sharps.

Drop offs will be accepted from 10:00am until 2:00pm. Please remove any personal information, however, the DEA plans on incinerating any pill bottles dropped off along with the medications.

For more information check the DEA.GOV web site.



Locations

ST Monica’s Catholic Church
6131 N. MICHIGAN St.
46228

INDIANA STATE POLICE
8620 E. 21ST STREET
46219

Capitol City Baptist Church
1002 W. Edgewood
46217

Beech Grove Police Dept
340 E. Churchman St.
46107

Cumberland Police Dept
11501 E. Washington St
46229

Trash Collection Schedule Adjusted for Labor Day

Curbside recycling and trash collection delayed one day

The Indianapolis Department of Public Works would like to remind residents that there will be no residential trash, heavy trash, or curbside recycling service on Monday, September 6 in observance of Labor Day. All residential trash, heavy trash, and curbside recycling routes will run one day behind for the entire week, with Friday routes being serviced on Saturday, September 11.

All services will return to normal schedules on Monday, September 13.

Residents can find information about their trash schedules at www.indy.gov/dpw.