🎙️ On this episode of Inside Richmond: The City’s Pulse, host Lindsay Darnell welcomed Kristi Cruise, Community Recreation Coordinator, and Stephany Plantz, Special Projects and Community Engagement Coordinator, to share all the exciting things happening at Richmond Parks and Recreation.

🌳 Green spaces aren’t just places we visit – they’re where community happens. Richmond Parks and Recreation nurtures over 20 parks, trails, gardens, and community centers that serve as gathering places for everyone in our city. Nearly all events are completely free, removing financial barriers so families can enjoy quality time together.

🍂 Fall is packed with activities – from the 200+ member Walking Club and the Industrial Softball League tournament, to “Fall in Love with Middlefork” on September 27th (a free DNR fishing day with kayaking, yoga, and more). October brings Halloween fun with the Howloween Pet Costume Contest (Oct 11) and Trick-or-Treat in the Park (Oct 25), complete with a sensory-friendly hour.

🥕 The Richmond Farmers Market continues at Elstro Plaza through October before moving indoors to the historic Starr-Gennett Building for winter. Plus, special events like Market in the Moonlight at Glen Miller Park add even more ways to connect with local vendors. With doubled SNAP benefits, matched WIC benefits, and the Farm to Pantry program, the market also plays a vital role in food security for our community.

💡 Beyond events, our parks provide daily spaces for exercise, relaxation, and connection with nature – free resources that strengthen community wellbeing year-round.

👉 Learn more and get involved:

• Visit: https://www.richmondindiana.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation
  
  
• Follow on Facebook: Richmond Parks and Recreation & Richmond Farmers Market

Come experience the difference parks make in building a stronger, more connected Richmond!

Richmond is transforming before our eyes, and Mayor Ron Oler joined host Lindsay Darnell to give an exclusive look at the exciting changes reshaping our community’s future. The centerpiece of this transformation? A comprehensive new city brand that goes far beyond just a logo – it’s a strategic platform for decision-making and economic development that will position Richmond to compete for residents, businesses, and visitors for decades to come.

The brand, rooted in Richmond’s 2019 comprehensive plan, targets four key audiences: longtime residents who value strong services; emerging professionals from our five colleges seeking vibrant cultural scenes; small business owners looking for streamlined government processes; and creative individuals needing affordable spaces to showcase their talents. As Mayor Oler explains, “Richmond is a place where art meets industry” – a tagline that beautifully captures our unique identity.

Together, Lindsay and Mayor Oler dive deep into Richmond’s distinct advantages, from our strategic location at “the crossroads of connectivity and accessibility” to our growing downtown revival. The Six Main project has already broken ground, bringing 100 new apartments to the heart of our city, while the ambitious $35 million Gorge Activation project promises to transform the White River corridor with canoe launches, zip lines, and a new music amphitheater.

Perhaps most moving is Mayor Oler’s reflection on what truly defines Richmond: “Kindness and community spirit define our daily life. Giving back through volunteerism, generosity, and genuine support is woven into the fabric of the city.” This spirit will be essential as Richmond continues its journey of revitalization.

Ready to be part of Richmond’s transformation? Follow the city on social media, attend government meetings, and share your feedback about ongoing projects. This is your community – join us in making it even better!

The skyline of Richmond, Indiana is undergoing a powerful transformation thanks to a $100 million investment that's reshaping the heart of our city—and the story behind it is just as inspiring as the impact.

On this episode of Inside Richmond: The City’s Pulse, Dakota Collins of Earlham College and Roxie Deer of Richmond Neighborhood Restoration joined host Lindsay Darnell for a compelling conversation about the Revitalize Richmond initiative—a bold and collaborative effort breathing new life into our historic downtown.

What began with a $25 million Lilly Endowment grant has grown into a sweeping revitalization plan backed by more than $83 million in community partnerships. At the heart of this transformation is AP Development, leading the restoration of five iconic downtown buildings—the Knollenberg, Hittle, Jenkins, Odd Fellows, and the uniquely patterned “Cheese Grater” BMO Harris building—into vibrant mixed-use spaces featuring approximately 100 new apartments. Rather than demolishing these historic structures, AP Development is letting the buildings “tell them” what they want to become, honoring their legacy while building for Richmond’s future.

Meanwhile, Richmond Neighborhood Restoration has already breathed new life into key properties like the Secret Ingredient Building and the Readmore, with even more projects on the horizon—continuing their mission to revitalize downtown one building at a time.

The initiative revolves around three pillars:

• Activate: energizing downtown through projects like the Gorge Activation Plan and a community makerspace
• Build: restoring historic structures and creating modern residential and commercial space
• Connect: improving transportation links between Earlham College and downtown

Perhaps most exciting is the human element—a new director of small business success is helping entrepreneurs launch and grow, and Roxie Deer shares her personal journey of transforming grief into purpose through restoration work, especially on projects like the Readmore building. That project now stands as a symbol of hope and community healing.

🎟️ Want to experience it firsthand? Don’t miss the Readmore Open House—grab your tickets here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/readmore-open-house-tickets-1450147753969?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwY2xjawL8wx9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFNR3YweXBlMlowT21MUkh5AR5InYCrWjdbwTBpxK0SL08SE2IY4B0SSpf8SLyDoY7AzRU-BiTz1lAtcBEsCg_aem__4lTtAeHsyu5KM6ufe7_Ng

To learn more, visit:
 🔗 Revitalize Richmond: https://earlham.edu/revitalize-richmond/
🔗 Richmond Neighborhood Restoration: https://www.rnrinc.org/

Be sure to follow Revitalize Richmond and Richmond Neighborhood Restoration on social media to stay connected—and don’t forget to subscribe to Inside Richmond: The City’s Pulse to stay informed about the people and projects shaping our community’s future.

"The One Constant in a Child’s Life" – A Conversation with Natalie Natusch from Wayne-Union CASA

When a child enters the foster care system due to abuse or neglect, their world is turned upside down. In an instant, they’re surrounded by unfamiliar faces—caseworkers, attorneys, foster parents, therapists—all trying to help, but all stretched thin. Amid this whirlwind of change, what if one adult focused solely on the child’s best interests? One person who showed up consistently, listened, and stood by them every step of the way?

That’s where CASA steps in.

In this moving episode, Natalie Natusch from Wayne-Union CASA joins host Lindsay Darnell to share the incredible impact of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). These trained volunteers aren’t social workers or lawyers—they’re everyday people from all walks of life who serve as a steady presence for children navigating one of the most traumatic times in their lives. And the impact they have is life-changing.

Natalie explains how CASA volunteers become the eyes, ears, and voice of the child in court. While most professionals in the system are juggling multiple cases—sometimes dozens—a CASA volunteer is typically assigned to just one child or sibling group at a time. That focus allows for a deep, personal relationship, and ensures the child doesn’t fall through the cracks of an overburdened system.

The results speak volumes. Research shows that children with CASA advocates are:

• More likely to succeed in school
• Less likely to re-enter foster care
• More likely to find a permanent, stable home

Natalie shares powerful stories, including one about six siblings who experienced severe abuse and trafficking. Thanks to the unwavering support of a CASA volunteer, they were not only kept together but eventually reunited with their rehabilitated parents—proof that healing and hope are possible, even in the most difficult situations.

But the need is still great. As of now, 109 children in Wayne and Union counties are waiting for someone to be their advocate. Becoming a CASA volunteer requires commitment—30 hours of initial training, monthly visits with the assigned child, and ongoing communication with professionals in the case. But the most important qualification isn’t legal knowledge or social work experience—it’s simply a heart for children.

If you’ve ever wondered how to make a real difference in your community, this is your moment.

You can learn more about CASA and how to get involved by visiting www.wayneunioncasa.org. Join their next informational session on July 30th at Morrison Reeves Library, or stop by their booth at upcoming community events like Archway Days to meet the team and ask questions.

One volunteer. One child. One life forever changed. You could be the person a child in foster care is waiting for.

Ever wonder what secret document guides practically every decision in Richmond’s growth? Mayor Ron Oler, Planning Director Dustin Purvis, and host Lindsay Darnell pull back the curtain on the Comprehensive Plan—the city’s essential roadmap that’s used every day, not something collecting dust on a shelf.

This insightful conversation explores how the plan influences everything from downtown revitalization to tackling multi-generational homelessness. As Richmond updates this critical guide, your voice is needed to shape decisions about which neighborhoods get investment, where new housing will go, and how our community connects through transportation.

The city’s priorities are evolving—moving beyond just market-rate apartments downtown (already in the works) toward affordable housing and quality-of-place improvements. Did you know many people now choose where to live based on community amenities first and then look for jobs? That’s why Richmond is enhancing the Whitewater Gorge with kayak launches, extending multimodal trails to Earlham College, and reimagining public spaces.

Perhaps most surprising: 12,000 people commute into Richmond every day without living here. That’s a huge opportunity to grow our residential base by creating a community where workers want to stay. The updated Comprehensive Plan will help drive that transformation through smart land use, transportation upgrades, and economic development strategies.

Join the conversation and help guide Richmond’s next five years!
Public Workshop
📅 Thursday, July 31st
🕠 5:30 – 6:30 PM
📍 Starr Gennett Building, 101 S. 1st St, Richmond, IN

A short 15-minute presentation will share an overview of the plan updates, followed by an open house for questions and input. As Mayor Oler says: “If it’s not in our plan, we won’t pay attention to it.”

Questions? Reach out to Lindsay Darnell at [email protected].

Come share your ideas for the future of Richmond!

Guests Eric Helms and Jeremy Scarrette join host Lindsay Darnell on Inside Richmond: The City's Pulse for a powerful look behind the scenes of one of Richmond’s most cherished traditions.

Each Independence Day, Glen Miller Park lights up with a dazzling fireworks display—but surprisingly, it's not hosted by the city. For 81 years and counting, American Legion Post 65 has been the driving force behind this beloved community event.

For many, it’s more than just fireworks. It’s a rare chance to unplug and be present with family. As Eric Helms from the American Legion puts it, “It’s a time where you can get your family together all at once and enjoy an evening together, because it doesn’t happen a lot. Phones are down… Nobody’s looking at their phones.”

But the magic doesn’t happen overnight. It takes months of planning, technical precision, and serious fundraising. Jeremy Scarrette of Scarrette Pyrotechnics calls Richmond’s show “the most difficult shoot we do” out of the 30–35 shows they handle annually. What makes it unique is its thoughtful design for viewers on Roosevelt Hill—combining high-flying bursts with low-level effects in a seamless, rhythmic experience.

The cost of creating that magic? Between $25,000–$30,000—covered entirely through community donations. Some shells cost as much as $750 for just a few moments of brilliance. And this year, the American Legion is still working hard to fill the funding gap ahead of the July 5th show.

The festivities kick off at 2:00 PM on Friday, July 5th, at Glen Miller Park, with food trucks, community fun, and live music from G-101-3 starting at 3:00 PM. Jeremy also teases a brand-new surprise element never before seen at Richmond’s show.

Want to keep the tradition going? Donations can be made directly to American Legion Post 65 at 109 North 6th Street.

As one grateful resident told Jeremy, “You saved my family.” A powerful reminder shared on Inside Richmond: The City's Pulse of how shared moments of wonder can bring our community closer—year after year.

Discover the heartbeat of Richmond’s local food scene in this engaging conversation hosted by Lindsay Darnell, Community Development Coordinator, as she sits down with Hannah Snoddy, Coordinator of the Richmond Farmer’s Market. What began 50 years ago as a handful of farmers on a street corner has grown into a thriving community hub featuring over 40 vendors every Saturday at Jack Elstro Plaza.

Hannah shares insights into the market’s producer-only policy, which guarantees that everything you buy is made or grown by the person selling it. Many vendors prioritize sustainable practices, demonstrating a shared commitment to environmental care and future generations. Lindsay and Hannah also explore impactful programs like SNAP Double Dollars, which doubles the value of EBT benefits, and the upcoming Farm to Pantry initiative, which will transform excess produce into meaningful food support for local families.

Go behind the scenes as Hannah describes the unique challenge of vendor selection—what she calls “human Tetris”—and how the team works to maintain a balance between farm-fresh goods and artisan offerings. Upcoming events include Kids Farmers Market Day on June 7th and the Tuesday Twilight Markets beginning in July, featuring live music, food trucks, and a relaxed summer vibe.

What shines most in this episode is the sense of connection the market fosters. Shoppers build real relationships with vendors who remember their names, their stories, and their favorites. It’s a kind of commerce rooted in community—a far cry from the big-box store experience.

Whether you’re a loyal visitor or a curious first-timer, Hannah’s passion for local food and community building is sure to inspire. Join us every Saturday from 9 AM to noon at Jack Elstro Plaza or on Tuesday evenings this summer from 4–7 PM. As Lindsay reminds us, just showing up makes a difference—because every visit is an investment in the people who make Richmond special.

To learn more about our Parks & Recreation Department and the Richmond Farmers Market, visit:
👉 https://www.richmondindiana.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation

Join host Lindsay Darnell as she welcomes Mayor Ron Oler and Public Operations Director Matthew Keller to share Richmond’s exciting progress and community transformation.

Spring has arrived, bringing monthly park cleanup days where neighbors can make a real difference at sites like Middle Fork Cove. “The parks are only as good as everybody who takes care of them,” says Mayor Oler, encouraging residents to get involved.

Last week’s Earth Day event saw 200 sixth graders planting trees they’ll watch grow for decades — a powerful symbol of Richmond’s long-term vision.

Lindsay also highlights the city’s unique partnership with IU East students, whose analysis revealed a 50% surge in Richmond’s median household income over the past decade, outpacing cities like Terre Haute and Muncie.

Mark your calendar for May 23rd! The Depot District Summer Kickoff Party will celebrate the near-completion of Loop Phase 2 and debut Richmond’s new Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area, where you can stroll with a beverage and explore local businesses. The first 100 kids get free bicycle helmets — don’t miss it!

Matthew Keller shares the success of code enforcement teams, who have already removed 27 tons of trash, 315 tires, and over 150 shopping carts in just three months. Meanwhile, the airport terminal project is gaining momentum, with potential grant funding covering up to 95% of construction costs.

From an eighth grader serving as “Mayor for a Day” through the National Civics Bee, to long-range planning shaping the city’s future, Richmond is thriving through community-driven progress.

Interested in joining the team? Visit www.richmondindiana.gov to explore employment opportunities and be part of the city’s exciting future!

Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at your local government? Guest Karen Chasteen, Richmond's City Clerk for the past 22 years, joined host Lindsay Darnell on Inside Richmond: The City’s Pulse to pull back the curtain on one of the most vital yet often misunderstood municipal offices.

Far from just taking meeting notes, the City Clerk’s office serves as the beating heart of local government operations. “We have 200 years of history in my vault,” Chasteen shares, highlighting how her team has worked to transform those historical archives into accessible digital records that citizens can browse from home. This commitment to transparency is just one aspect of the office’s wide-reaching role in supporting Richmond’s governance.

From preparing materials for City Council, Board of Works, and Richmond Power and Light meetings to processing the resulting documents, the Clerk's office ensures smooth and efficient government operations while keeping the public informed.

What truly sets the office apart is its daily connection with residents across all walks of life. Need a bus pass, parking permit, or to register your pet? The Clerk’s office handles it. They also collect ordinance violation payments and help connect those in need with social services. One unexpected duty? Chasteen has officiated over 2,000 weddings during her tenure.

With modest fee updates after 25 years and a small but dedicated three-person team maintaining constant availability, the City Clerk’s office continues to serve with heart and history. Visit them on the second floor of the City Building, call 765-983-7232, or explore their services online at richmondindiana.gov/departments/clerk.

Ever wondered how cities like Richmond find the money to fund essential projects—without asking taxpayers to pay more? The secret often lies in strategic grant funding. In this episode, Audrey Shake, Grant Administrator for the City of Richmond, joins host Lindsay Darnell, Community Development Coordinator, to pull back the curtain on how it all works.

Audrey takes us behind the scenes of the city’s grant process—from digging into research and identifying opportunities, to writing compelling proposals that align with both community needs and grant priorities. Her work touches nearly every department and fuels projects that make a lasting impact across the city.

Audrey shares the data-driven strategies Richmond uses to stand out in the competitive world of grant funding, especially when advocating for disadvantaged communities. Her passion for improving Richmond shines through in stories of recent wins—like a $159,789 grant to inventory city trees and plant 100 new ones in underserved neighborhoods. This initiative not only beautifies the community but also brings environmental benefits like shade for pedestrians, cooler homes, and more walkable neighborhoods.

You’ll also hear about Richmond’s innovative Transitional Housing Support Grant—an initiative that provided $120,000 to three local organizations helping individuals recovering from substance abuse find safe, stable housing.

Whether you're interested in local government, community development, or just want to understand how impactful projects get funded, this episode offers valuable insights into the thoughtful planning and partnerships that power Richmond forward.