• IMPD has released its preliminary crime statistics for 2025. There were 133 murders, and 371 non-fatal shootings, down from 2021 by 20%. Robberies were down 18.5% from 2021, from 1,743 in 2021 to 1,006 in 2025. Violent crimes and property crimes were also down significantly.
• We are very sorry to learn that Manley’s Irish Mutt, which has been a go-to spot on the east side for nearly 15 years, has closed its doors. The Manley family put their heart and soul into making the Mutt a great place to hang out, and we wish them well in their future endeavors. They will be missed.
• Jan Defebrache is an amazing woman, and she could use some help and donations for the 60 seniors that she distributes food to every week. If you can, swing by the Magick Candle with non-perishable foods appropriate for seniors, such as low sodium, low fat, and low sugar items. Also, she could use gift certificates to Aldi and Kroger for fresh items.
• The Indianapolis Public Library branches will close at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 31, and remain closed until Friday, Jan. 2, 2026. Trash services will also be on a sliding schedule, so if your trash is usually picked up on Thursday, the crews will be around Friday, and Friday pickups will be on Saturday. All federal, state, and local government offices will be closed on Jan. 1.
• Craving some fresh produce and goodies? The Fort Ben Winter Market will be open Thursday, Jan. 8 at 7 p.m. at Lawrence Community Park, 5301 N. Franklin Rd.
• Principal of New Palestine Elementary School Kayleigh Fosnow was recently awarded the prestigious Milken Educator Award, which comes with a $25,000 prize. Students at her school achieved a pass rate of nearly 96% on the IREAD assessment in 2025.
• The City of Lawrence Fire Dept. Station 39 at 4751 N. Richardt has reopened after being closed since August for mold remediation and building repairs. Crews have already moved back into the station.
• Sign up for the Ellenberger Park Snowball Fight in the Rink on Saturday, Jan. 10 from 2:30-4:30 p.m. This all ages artificial snowball fight will offer hundreds of “snowballs,” hot chocolate, and music. It’s $5 to register. Call 317-327-7275 to register. Walk-ins will be welcome. The park is located at 5301 E. St. Clair St. The rink is not temperature controlled, so dress accordingly.
• First Friday will be celebrated Friday, Jan. 2 from 6-9 p.m. at several galleries across the city. The Harrison Center will be open, with several studios opening their doors and a large-scale public installation in the Courtyard. The Harrison is at 1505 N. Delaware. The Factory Arts District at 1125 E. Brookside Ave. will be open with an eclectic mix of art. Let’s support our creative and artistic communities in the new year!