• Congratulations to our very own Al Hunter, who recently hosted the Travel Channel’s “Ghost Adventures” team in Irvington, discussing the H.H. Holmes connection to the neighborhood. Jeff Mudgett, Holmes’ great-grandson was also on hand. This is the third time in recent memory that Al has attracted national TV attention to the fascinating stories of Irvington. All of us at the Weekly View are so proud of his work, and appreciate all he does for us, and the neighborhood. We will keep everyone updated on when the episode will air on the Travel Channel.
• The Irvington Farmer’s Market begins its season on Sunday, June 9 from noon-3 p.m. at Ellenberger Park, 5301 E. St. Clair. Dozens of vendors selling produce, dairy, bakery items, plants, and artisanal goods will be on hand. Arts and crafts vendors will also be there with a selection of their wares. Expect a band, lots of neighbors and old friends (and their dogs) at this farmer’s market.
• Indianapolis EMS (IEMS) recently announced Dan O’Donnell, M.D. as the new chief. He replaces Charles Miramonti, M.D. who stepped down after nine years of service in the role. Dr. O’Donnell has been the IEMS chief medical director since 2014.
• Congratulations to Cathedral High School graduate Rachel Kent, who is a Dartmouth College sophomore and was recently selected as a Dartmouth Stamp Scholar. She will use the scholarship to travel to small-scale, agroecological farms and apply a framework of geographies of care to explore how care is played out on the farm between the producer, the consumer, and the land.
• Volunteers for the IACS Freedom For a Day program will get an additional perk for participating. Anyone who takes a dog out for the program can get a pass to get into Eagle Creek Park for free. The Freedom For a Day program launched in March, giving dogs who have been at the shelter for more than 30 days an opportunity to get out of the shelter for a day. Since the launch, dozens of dogs have been adopted thanks to the attention they receive while outside the shelter. To volunteer, visit the shelter located at 2600 S. Harding and fill out the volunteer paperwork.
• After a decade of leading the Indiana Writers Center, Barbara Shoup will step down in June from her leadership role to become the IWC’s first writer-in-residence. Rachel Sahaidachny, programs manager, will become the new executive director. The change will take place July 1.
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana has moved into new digs at 1433 N. Meridian St. The organization’s move will increase visibility and attract more volunteers to their important mission to help at-risk children find mentors and emotional support.
• The Near Eastside Quality of Life Plan canvassing day will be on Saturday, June 8 from 1:30-4:30 p.m. at the John H. Boner Neighborhood Center. If you want to help canvass for change, RSVP on their Facebook page. Volunteers will be entered into a raffle for prizes and snacks will be provided. For more information, e-mail Alicia Baker at abaker@jbncenters.org or call 317-633-8210 ext. 2336.