We’re going to take a partial break from our weekly bashing of politicians and government waste to share with you something we see as vitally (and equally, if not more) important. You may recall the horrific tragedy that struck the O’Malia family in July, when her ex-husband killed Shannon O’Malia Hall before he turned the gun on himself. Instantly, that left her sons, Connor and Danny, 10 and 8, respectively, adrift. Maternal grandparents Danny and Rita O’Malia raced into the breach to parent their grandsons, certainly with the help of a host of others, while managing their own grief. They say time heals all wounds. For some, it simply doesn’t, but we all have an opportunity to apply a virtual salve, and here’s how: Current Publishing, 3Ds’ Pub and Café in Carmel, Dwight Lightning and the Conch City All-Stars and Main Event Sound and Lighting are banding together in an effort to raise money for college-education funds for the boys. Operation Send Connor and Danny to College – 7 to 11 p.m. on Nov. 21 at 3Ds’ – will be a night of dancing, dining, thirst quenching and silent auctioning, all with the goal of raising a chunk of change for these innocent boys. It’s also a night when we band together to prove you win with people. Help us out, please! We need silent auction items. We need cash. We need YOU in attendance. So, please, put this important event in ink on your calendars, and bring as many friends as you’re able. For all the O’Malia family has given the northern suburban tier of Indianapolis down through the years, it’s a golden opportunity to pay forward, Join us, won’t you? For more information, write us at [email protected].

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Now, back to bashing. The Republican Party made a statement with huge, controlling gains on Election Day last week. This is good news, mostly because we’re banking on gridlock coming to Congress, and that means they won’t be able to spend your money or ours on yet another meaningless program.