• We’re very excited for the Benton House Book Sale Friday, July 17 from 5-8 p.m., Saturday, July 18 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and Sunday, July 19 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Benton House, 312 S. Downey in Irvington. Thousands of books will be ready for sale under the big tent in the parking lot. You’ll also have a chance to buy Christmas in July items from the Benton House at the sale. Sunday is $5 a bag book day!
• The Indy Shorts International Film Festival begins July 21 and runs through July 26. The festival will showcase short films from all over the world, and is an Academy Award-qualifying event. See the films online, or some of them on the big screen at Tibbs Drive-In. Visit heartlandfilm.org for more information about the films and to buy passes.
• On Monday, July 13, the IMPD 21st Recruit Class was sworn in. Recruits receive 28 weeks of classroom and scenario-based training, and 20 weeks of training in the field. There are 41 total new recruits in the class.
• Brenda Williams will headline musicians in a summertime concert series at IndyFringe Pocket Park (719 E. St. Clair) on July 18 from 7-9 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person. Tickets, pre-show drinks and dining are available pre-order only. Social distancing and face masks are required. To order tickets, visit indyfringe.org
• Martin University has partnered with Martindale Brightwood Community Development Corporation (MBCDC) to host the 8th Annual William A. “Bill” Crawford Charitable Golf Outing on September 2 at Eagle Creek Golf Course. Proceeds from the event will fund local workforce and housing development programs and services that focus on skills building, job readiness, career pathing, degrees completion, entrepreneurship and building social capital. Visit www.eventbrite.com/e/8th-annual-william-a-bill-crawford-charitable-golf-outing-tickets-98894172131 or call Amina Pierson at 317-924-8042 for more information.
• The Safe Summer programs are back at select locations through Aug. 14. Kids 13-18 years old have a safe space on Fridays at Bethel Park (2850 Bethel Ave.) and CAFE (8902 E. 38th St.). Times for activities vary, and include basketball games, talent shows, board games, and movie nights. Open 7-10 p.m. on Friday nights. Social distancing and face masks will be required.
• The Fort Ben Farmer’s Market is held at 9230 Memorial Park Dr. in Lawrence on Thursdays from 4-7 p.m. Social distancing is required, face masks are recommended, and no pets are permitted at this weekly market.
• The Fresh Wednesday Market is going strong every Wednesday from 4-7 p.m. next to the Irving Theatre, Johnson Ave. and East Washington St. Vendors include meat and cheese, produce, baked goods, and more. Get there early for best selection. Please practice social distancing, wear a face mask, and don’t bring pets to the market.