Deputy Mayor Praises LSAC For Work

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Mary Chalmers received recognition of her grant writing efforts from LSAC President Mary Clark.
Deputy Mayor Olgen Williams

Photos by Linda Karn

(posted Jan 30)

Lafayette Square Area Coalition (LSAC) members are still thriving on the excitement of the Wal-Mart's Grand Opening and Goodwill Store's relocation on the Lafayette Road corridor. Indianapolis Deputy Mayor Olgen Williams delivered a quick speech at its January 29th meeting, praising and recognizing their work to help change the area.

He complimented the group for their ability to work together to make changes. Often times people don't come together until its too late. "It takes excitement and passion for the work that you do. That is how you get others excited," he said.
Williams shared his philosophy of believing in neighborhood empowerment with the mayor's office available for technical assistance.

The excitement of grand openings is still not over. LSAC President Mary Clark said Garden Ridge is planning to open February 28. The building is currently being remodeled from its former Builders Square image into Garden Ridge.

Judy Donner of the LSAC said the group is continuing to work on negating its image of a high crime area by developing a public relations partnership with the Pacers.

IMPD Major Paul Cieslieski said it has been a year since the merger between the Sheriff's and Police Department that placed him in charge of the northwest district. He said the district's 166 officers made 8,000 arrests last year. The department received 85,000 911 calls.

Members also reviewed its November program called Taste the Difference, that provided an opportunity to for ethnic restaurants to showcase their cuisines in a week long event. The coalition is planning for an April event this year. Mary Chalmers was honored for writing the Imagine grant that helped fund the program. The coalition also received a $15,000 donation from Wal-Mart during its the grand opening that will be used to fund Taste the Difference and the Youth Vision Committee.