• There have been several reports of coyotes, or possibly coydogs in Indianapolis — a few reports from the east side near Pogue’s Run and Pleasant Run. On the southwest side, a coywolf (coyote-wolf hybrid) has been reported. According to the Indiana DNR, coyote sightings may increase this time of year as they mate in February (they pair for life), and make their dens in a river bank or other burrow to have their pups. They will eat pretty much anything, including garbage, cat food left out for ferals and strays, squirrels, rodents, roadkill, and potentially small pets. They avoid humans. You can frighten them from your property by making loud noises, banging on pots, or throwing rocks. Please bring your pets inside at night, or make sure they are in a secure enclosure like a fence or pen. Keep an eye out for coyotes around your chickens, ducks, geese, or whatever other kind of domestic fowl you are keeping in your yard.
• There was a report of an attempted arson at Wyliepalooza on East Washington St. Jan. 27. Please contact IMPD with any information that would help catch the young males who were seen fleeing the area.
• Beech Grove’s next Town Hall meeting is scheduled for Tues., Feb. 6th at the Hornet Park Community Center at 7 p.m. The city will be giving updates on the demolition of the old St. Francis hospital, plus updated schedules for paving and sewer work in 2018.
• Warren student musicians from Creston, Raymond Park, and Warren Central will be competing in the ISSMA District Vocal/Piano Solo and Ensemble Contest at Doe Creek Middle School in New Palestine Feb. 3.
• A little late getting a calendar for 2018? How about buying the 2018 Birds of Indiana calendar, where 100 percent of proceeds go to the City of Greenfield Parks and Recreation Dept. to support the Greenfield Birders Group and other local projects. Visit www.nikonbirdhunter.com/calendars for purchase information.
• A recent announcement from train company CSX noted that they have gained approval to operate up to 34 trains per day on the rail line between Indianapolis and Sidney, Ohio, up from 20. Shortly after the announcement, residents who are regularly trapped on New York and Michigan streets by slow (or no) moving trains registered their complaints that increased train traffic on CSX lines will make traffic conditions even worse. The company noted that it was not expecting any operational changes for the time being.
• The City-County Council approved $55 million for the beginning phase of construction on the new Justice Center that will be built on the grounds of the former Citizens Gas Coke Plant in the Twin Aire neighborhood. The money is part of the estimated $570 million needed to complete the complex, which will include a new jail to replace the three overcrowded facilities now in use, plus an intervention center for mental health and addictions, and a new courthouse.