This Sunday, the city of Lancaster will host a special benefit concert aimed at supporting refugees and immigrants. The event, held at Tellus360, aims to raise funds for Church World Service (CWS), a faith-based organization dedicated to alleviating hunger and poverty while assisting those seeking refuge or immigration. Co-owner of Tellus360, Bill Speakman, expressed gratitude for the strong community response, noting the significant number of tickets already sold. This initiative comes at a crucial time as recent funding cuts have affected CWS staff and reduced financial support for refugees and immigrants. Musician Corty Byron spearheaded the organization of this year’s event, ensuring all proceeds go directly to CWS to continue their vital work.
The decision to organize this benefit concert stems from the challenges faced by CWS following administrative changes that led to staff furloughs and decreased financial assistance for refugees and immigrants. Corty Byron, moved by these circumstances, took it upon himself to mobilize the community through music. The concert serves not only as a fundraising effort but also as a symbol of solidarity and support for those in need. By bringing together local artists and supporters, the event highlights the importance of collective action in addressing social issues.
Bill Speakman emphasized the significance of community involvement in making such events successful. He noted that the outpouring of support has been heartening, reflecting the compassionate nature of Lancaster's residents. The concert promises to be an afternoon filled with uplifting performances and a shared commitment to helping others. Through ticket sales and donations, attendees can contribute directly to the ongoing efforts of CWS, enabling them to sustain their programs and services.
The upcoming concert exemplifies the power of community engagement in responding to pressing social needs. As people come together for this cause, they demonstrate the value of mutual aid and cooperation. The funds raised will play a crucial role in supporting CWS's mission, ensuring that essential services for refugees and immigrants can continue uninterrupted. Attendees can look forward to an inspiring afternoon of music and unity, all while making a meaningful difference in the lives of many.
In a heartwarming initiative, the inaugural Children’s Charity Classic, organized by United Way of Marion County and Horses in the Sun, has brought together equestrian enthusiasts to support local children and families. This event, held at the picturesque HITS Post-Time Farm in Ocala, aims to raise funds for various charitable causes. Ten teams, comprising professional, amateur, and junior riders, competed in an exhilarating contest, with the proceeds benefiting children’s charities in the region. The event underscores the community’s commitment to addressing critical needs in health, education, and financial stability.
Details of the Equine Fundraising Extravaganza
During the golden hues of autumn, the HITS Post-Time Farm in Ocala transformed into a vibrant hub of philanthropy as it hosted the inaugural Children’s Charity Classic. This unique equestrian competition gathered ten teams of riders from diverse backgrounds, all united by a common goal: to support children’s charities in Marion County. Each team’s performance determined the amount of funding their chosen charity would receive, ranging from a minimum of $5,000 to a grand prize of $30,000. The total purse for the non-profit agencies was an impressive $100,000. Robert Haight, President and CEO of United Way of Marion County, emphasized the significance of this event in providing essential resources to those in need.
The organizations involved extend vital assistance to residents of Marion County, focusing on improving health outcomes, enhancing educational opportunities, and promoting financial stability. Through this event, the community has come together to make a tangible difference in the lives of many.
From a journalist's perspective, the Children’s Charity Classic exemplifies the power of community-driven initiatives. It showcases how collective efforts can create meaningful change and provide much-needed support to vulnerable populations. This event not only raises funds but also fosters a spirit of unity and compassion, reminding us that even small contributions can have a profound impact on the well-being of our neighbors.
Indian-based engineering firm Axiscades, Inc. has been declared in default by the Columbus City Council for failing to meet its commitments under a 2020 agreement. The company was required to establish its North American headquarters in Columbus and fulfill specific job creation and retention targets. However, Axiscades fell short of these obligations, leading the council to unanimously pass a resolution demanding the return of $50,000 in economic development funds.
The council's decision followed a thorough review of Axiscades' performance over the past few years. Despite receiving financial incentives from the city, the company failed to maintain a physical presence in Columbus or meet employment benchmarks. In 2020, Axiscades initially met the job creation goals but subsequently saw a significant decline in employee numbers. By March 2024, the company had only 1.9 full-time equivalent positions, far below the agreed-upon target of 10 employees. Additionally, Axiscades no longer operated at its designated location on Brown Street and did not have an active business license in Indiana.
Moving forward, the city will take steps to recover the $50,000 provided to Axiscades. While some council members expressed willingness to grant an extension for the company to improve its performance, others argued that sufficient time and opportunities had already been given. The council emphasized the importance of accountability and fair treatment for all businesses, highlighting that small local enterprises facing similar issues were not granted extensions. This decision underscores the city's commitment to upholding agreements and supporting responsible business practices, ensuring that economic incentives are used effectively to benefit the community.