• Very exciting news coming out of King-Kennedy Park, where the city has pledged $5 million to make big changes to the park, transforming it into the Kennedy-King Commemorative Site. Using funds raised from a City bond, they are planning an eternal flame, new pavilions, expanded parking, and a celebration and event plaza. Improvements will reshape the area of the park and the area around it.
• The Indianapolis Public Library Board has named Anita J. Harden as a new and temporary contractual Chief Administrative Officer. Eastsiders may recall she was the President of Community Hospital East for a time, and is well known in the community for her service to many nonprofits. She is being hired to guide the library through the selection process of finding a new CEO. There will be a Board meeting open to the public on Monday, Jan. 23 at 6:30 p.m. at the Library Services Center, room 226. The center is located at 2450 N. Meridian St.
• The City of Lawrence recently installed billboards throughout the area showing their civic pride in their diversity and strong sense of community. Check them out at 56th and 465 near Central High School and on Pendelton Pike and 56th St.
• While this event takes place outside our distribution area, it may be a cool (pardon the pun) event to attend. The 2023 Festival of Ice will be held Jan. 20-22 at The Ice at Carter Green in Carmel, 10 Carter Green. On Friday from 4-7 p.m., professional ice carvers will be there in the Arts & Design District. On Saturday from 10-5, there will be a Big Block carving competition, and the Carmel Fire Dept. will have a chili cook-off from 11-1. On Sunday from 10-2, there will be a carve-off on stage, skating to a live DJ and lots more. Call 317-402-1309 for ticket prices and availability.
• Indianapolis Animal Care Services is at capacity in their shelter. If you have considered getting a pet this year, now is the time to visit. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and most days adoptions are free, and include spay/neuter, vaccinations, and a microchip. Visit www.indy.gov/agency/animal-care-services for more information and links to photos and information about adoptable animals.
• The Polar Bear Pedal will be held Saturday, Jan. 28 at 9 a.m. beginning at the Bottleworks, 850 Mass Ave. The ride departs at 10 a.m. after check in and registration (register online at indianapolis-department-of-public-works.forms.fm or arrive early to claim a spot. The route will go on the B & O Trail to Speedway. It is free to register. Wear weather-appropriate clothing.
• Want to find out if the seeds you didn’t get around to planting last year are still viable? Most gardeners are getting the planting itch. The Warren Library will host a program about how to test your seeds to see if they are worth planting on Tuesday, Feb. 7 from 6-7 p.m. Register online at indypl.org for this free program. The Warren branch is located at 9701 E. 21st St.