• Governor Holcomb has asked that flags be lowered to half-staff until sunset Jan. 28 in tribute to former President Jimmy Carter. He also requests businesses and residents lower their flags.
• The new year is here, and with it some sad announcements. Scarlet Lane Brewing in McCordsville has closed its doors after 10 years in business, citing inflation costs and health changes. They closed other locations earlier, including the Beech Grove and Irvington sites. Tim Harmon has also closed Tim & Avi’s Salvage Store on E. 10th St. and is selling the building. However, the Teeny Statue of Liberty Museum, which is an interesting, unique museum started by Tim, will continue in a new space just up the road in the Factory Arts Building in April!
• Thank you to the many folks who attended the Luminaria in Irvington on Dec. 22. The weather cooperated, and there was singing, and cycling, and just a lovely turnout. The Big Red Box Project received quite a bit in donations, which will help them feed the underserved in our community. A big thank-you goes out to the organizers and volunteers. What a great event!
• The Fort Ben Winter Market in Lawrence has a new location. The market will be held on Thursdays from 4-7 p.m. at the Lawrence Government Center, 9001 E. 59th St. There are lots of local vendors, fresh goods, and much more.
• Seems that illegal dumping is getting worse after the holidays. Instead of properly disposing of old toys, clothes, and whatnot to make way for the new gifts, folks are just dumping it in alleys or street corners. Please call in illegal dumping at the Mayor’s Action Center at 317-327-4622 or visit the Web site request.indy.gov
• Indiana Dept. of Transportation will begin worksite speed control on I-465 and I-69 construction zone on the northeast side. Signs will be posted notifying drivers that they are being monitored by an automated system, and if you are going 11 mph above the limit, the system will capture an image of the license plate. Violations of the speed limit for the first 30 days (until Feb. 1) will receive a warning. After the grace period, fines will be $75, and a fine of $150 per violation thereafter.
• Greenfield residents are encouraged to help the city grow by sharing ideas about their new Comprehensive Plan, including updated zoning ordinances, and an official zone map. If you are interested, sign up for Greenfield in Gear at GreenfieldinGear.com.
• On Saturday, Feb. 1 from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Second Helpings will host Souper Bowls, where top local chefs compete for top honors with unique soup creations. Guests enjoy unlimited soup tastings, and get to vote for their favorite. They can also purchase their favorite soups to go that day. Tickets are $15 and sell out quickly. Visit secondhelpings.org/souperbowls to get in. The event will take place at Second Helpings headquarters, 1121 Southeastern Ave. Proceeds go to support their programs, which include food rescue, hunger relief, and culinary job training.