• The 8th Annual Arts and Rummage fundraiser sale for KidsPlay, Inc. will be held on Saturday, Feb. 22 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Hancock Co. Fairgrounds, 620 N. Apple St. Admission is $1, and there will be lots of vendors in attendance, including artisan and unique items, resale bargains, and original work. The funds raised cover the cost of costumes, sets, and production for KidsPlay performances.
• Good News Ministries is celebrating its 75th Anniversary on Saturday, Feb. 22 with an open house from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The faith-based non-profit is dedicated to helping people experiencing homelessness, and the underprivileged in Indianapolis. Visitors to the facility at 2716 E. Washington St. can find out more about their good works and tour the building. For more information, visit www.goodnewsministry.com
• Non-profits On-Stage LIVE! and the Murat Shrine of Indiana have joined forces to create Downtown Dinner Theatre at the Murat Shrine Center in the Arabian Room. Lunch and Brunch shows will also be offered. It is expected to open in May, with six shows during the 2025 season. Tickets will be $80 for adults dinner and brunch, $70 for seniors. Tickets are available online at www.downtowndt.com or by calling the box office at 317-635-2433, extension 190.
• The Benton House is collecting gently used books for its annual book sale in July. If you are decluttering your house, bring the books over to the Benton House, 312 S. Downey Ave. There is a covered box by the back door where you can put your donations. Please do no leave them out in the elements.
• Get ready for the Garfield Park Spring Bulb Show, which will run Feb. 28-March 7. Always a welcome reminder that spring is just around the corner, the Garfield Park Conservatory has a stunning display of tulips and other spring blooms. Hours are Tues.-Sat. from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m. Admission is $6 per person, or $14 per family. After the show, bulbs will be for sale on March 8 at 10 a.m. The Conservatory is located at 2505 Conservatory Dr. on the southeast side.
• On Saturday, March 1 beginning at 5 p.m. The Liederkranz will hold its annual Bock Beer Festival. The event features beer (obviously) and authentic German food. Music will be by Polkamotion. Bock beer is typically sold in the winter and early spring. Admission is free for members, and $5 for the public. The building is at 1417 E. Washington St. Park in the FOP lot on S. McKimm and in the TWG parking lot south of the FOP lot.
• Good to see Garcia’s Hot Dogs new truck on his corner at 16th and Emerson. The health department had told him that his stand, which he operated for many years, would not meet new health codes, so he got funding for a truck and got it fixed up. The lines have been down the sidewalk since he opened! The east side loves Mr. Garcia — he’s an institution! Look for him during good weather in the Family Dollar parking lot.