The rich aroma of Foundation Coffee’s dirty chai, the clanking of beer mugs at Half Liter, the mix of music and laughter at Bike Party — these are some of my favorite things (cue Julie Andrews). But really, I miss the local eateries and unique-to-Indy events during this time. I am a communicator by trade. If I never have to use the words “unprecedented,” “flatten the curve” or “social distancing” again, I will be a happy person.
Through all of this, I have observed many things about humanity and Indianapolis. As tribute to the great David Letterman, here is my top 11 (3+1+7) list of things I’ve learned during quarantine.
11. When you hear the Governor is mandating stay-at-home orders, run to the nearest library and stock up for the long haul. BTW – Did you know curbside service is now available at select Indianapolis Public Library branches?
10. If you didn’t make it to the library in time, check out this Quarantine Time Top Seller list from Indy Reads Books and place an order.
9. The need to support local businesses is greater than ever before. Order a puzzle from Silver in the City or request a custom candle from Penn & Beech.
8. Purchasing locally sourced food is critical. Instead of grabbing a meal from a mainstream restaurant, why not search for a local option? I guarantee the food quality is superior!
7. Even though we can’t volunteer for our favorite causes in-person right now, there is an overwhelming amount of virtual give-back opportunities to stay involved and make an impact. Explore socially distanced opportunities with the United Way of Central Indiana, draft letters to Young Women in Leadership with Girls Inc. or help the Patachou Foundation create Lunchbox Letters for underserved kids.
6. In order to survive the pandemic, arts and culture organizations need our help. It’s no secret – #IndyKeepsCreating. Consider making a donation to your favorite creative nonprofit or donate your tickets back if a show or performance was canceled.
5. Hoosier hospitality has taken on a whole new meaning. From leaving sanitizer for the mailman (or woman) to purchasing groceries for neighbors, Hoosiers have stepped up to help one another. Yes, even giving the second to last roll of toilet paper to a friend in need.
4. Indianapolis is filled with everyday heroes that make sacrifices when duty calls. Consider sponsoring a meal for frontline health workers through Sahm’s!
3. Even though the Indy 500 may be in August this year, the racing spirit is still alive and well. I enjoy seeing checkered flags on numerous stoops in my neighborhood and socially distanced porch parties galore. Postponing the greatest spectacle in racing doesn’t stop Hoosiers from celebrating May!
2. Neighborhood pride couldn’t be stronger. I have spotted more teddy bear and rainbow scavenger hunts than the average preschool teacher. From Forest Hills to Fountain Square, neighbors are coming together to keep kids busy and create visible signs of hope and joy. Did I mention socially distanced porch parties?
1. We’re all #INThisTogether
So, what have you learned during this time of quarantine?
Meet Kelsey: Kelsey Hobbs is a Site Communications Consultant for Roche Diagnostics. She enjoys reading the latest memoirs, biking Indy’s great trails and checking out the latest breweries. When she’s not giving back with one of her favorite nonprofits or at an IndyHub event, you can find her snuggled up with a good book and her feline, Winston. @kelseyjones1988
