Nobody gets festive like Carmel

Some festivals are just too much fun for one day of the year, and that is how Carmel likes to roll. On both July 3 and 4, a large swath of downtown was set aside for an American birthday party 250 years in the making. Of the many highlights from the weekend, the parade showcased how much we all love this country, even if we cannot agree on what direction we want it to move. Thanks for setting politics aside and for one weekend and waving the flag together!

Reporter photos by Aida Karim

Duke Energy commits to community involvement

By AIDA KARIM
news@readthereporter.com

LaBarr

The Reporter spoke with Mark LaBarr, government and community relations manager for Duke Energy, about the importance of community sponsorship for events like CarmelFest.

According to LaBarr, Duke Energy decided to make a contribution considering the significance of CarmelFest and the country’s 250th anniversary. Sponsors ensure the event is sustainable for all community members to continue to enjoy.

“Duke Energy this year has been doing a series of grants, focusing on America 250, supporting organizations to assist with affordability,” he said.

LaBarr told The Reporter much of the contributions go toward food pantries, heat relief, and veteran support.

“It’s a very noteworthy time in our history, 250 years of independence,” he said. “We felt like it was an important time to make these community investments.”