• Thank you to all the generous spirits who donated to our annual toy/food/clothing drive for Gaia Works! Jan, Executive Director of Gaia Works, was very appreciative of all the good things people donated. Over 60 children at Coburn Place will have a brighter Christmas, and many more seniors and people experiencing homelessness will have something warm to wear and food in their bellies.
• Sad news for Irvington: 10 Johnson Avenue coffeehouse will close Dec. 20. The owners made the hard decision, and many fans of their coffee and gluten-free menu (not to mention music nights and game nights) will be disappointed. However, they hinted in their social media post that something will move into the space in the near future.
• On a happier note for Irvington, the vacant building that housed Cheer King will have a new tenant — Chicago Beef and Dogs. The menu will include hot dogs, Philly Cheesesteaks, and fresh cut fries. If all goes according to plan, they should be open in mid-January. Add this to the Wine Shop that opened recently in the former Bittersweet location, and Bittersweet opening up again for limited hours and menu in the back of their old location. Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza, IXCA Mexican Kitchen, The Butler Inn, Los Cuates, The Legend, The Mug, Black Acre, Lincoln Square, Bonna Station, . . . boy, we eastsiders are going to have to invest in stretchy pants soon!
• Our Lady of Lourdes will host their annual Christmas Day Dinner from noon-2 p.m. in Bernadette Hall, 5333 E. Washington St. There is no charge for this home-cooked dinner. Please RSVP to the Parish Office at 317-356-7291.
• The Irvington Lodge, 5515 E. Washington St., is hosting the first Black & White New Year’s Eve Bash with champagne, a cash bar, and much more. Wear your black and white finest and celebrate! Tickets are $30 each or $50 per couple (reservations only). Tickets are available on Eventbrite.com
• The Cumberland First Baptist Church will hold a Winter Solstice labyrinth walk on Dec. 21 from 6 – 8 p.m. at the church property, 116 S. Muessing. The path is lighted and is ideal for those who need a break from the holiday season to meditate/reflect on the good things in life. Winter Solstice is on Friday, Dec. 21 at 5:23 p.m. and marks the longest night of the year.
• Congratulations to the 64 men and women who were recently sworn in as members of the IMPD 18th Recruit Class. These individuals chose a difficult, sometimes dangerous, job serving our community. They will complete their training and receive assignments in our community.
