Dear Indy,
Franklin Township residents are celebrating, albeit cautiously, after a state agency halted a plan that would have destroyed southside wetlands.
In January, Mirror Indy first told you how a 200-acre development was drawing opposition from residents. They also crowded a school gymnasium in April to voice their concerns.
Well, this week the Indiana Department of Environmental Management denied an application for multiple reasons, including that the developers hadn’t shown whether they considered alternatives to destroying the wetlands.
The developers now have the option to appeal the decision or submit a new plan.
Meanwhile, residents are cheering the outcome.
“I was elated that the community’s voice was heard,” said Robin Heldman, who lives next to the proposed development site.
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In other news
- People on both sides of Indy’s soccer divide had their first chance Tuesday to share their concerns publicly with city-county councilors. What emerged over the course of a nearly three hour meeting, though, was pretty clear: There are two visions for the future of soccer in Indy, and the view of one side appears to be growing more politically perilous.
- Neon Black, Indy’s first Black dance festival, is happening next weekend. Audiences will be treated to several kinds of dance such as Reggaeton, hip hop, contemporary, West African and Latin. The festival also contains workshops. Get all the details here.
- IPS students can get free lunches throughout the summer. Meals will be provided at some schools and at Bus Stop Cafe food bus visits. Get the details here.
What’s going on around the city
- Tomorrow, May 31: The Indianapolis Cultural Trail and the Indianapolis Department of Metropolitan Development will have Viernes Cultural: Latin Night at Lugar Plaza, 200 E. Washington St., from 7-10 p.m. The event includes live music from Son de Esquina and a beginner cumbia lesson by Latin Expressions. Free.
- Saturday, June 1: Driving Wind Farm, 6410 Michigan Road, kicks off strawberry season with a Strawberry Shortcake Bash. From 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., guests can grab homemade strawberry shortcake made with berries fresh from the farm, along with other strawberry-themed snacks and drinks.
- Sunday, June 2: For its second year, Axle’s Blues and Brews is back at the Garage Food Hall, 811 E. 10th St. Starting at 4 p.m., the Indianapolis-based Tommy Baldwin Trio takes the stage on the patio. Free.
— Breanna Cooper, arts and culture reporter
Looking for other things to do? Check out Mirror Indy’s events calendar.
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What else we’re reading today
- Axios Indianapolis: The Indy Arts Council awarded nearly $1.5 million to 91 arts and culture organizations.
- WFYI: Fentanyl test strips save lives, but whether they are legal in Indiana isn’t clear. Rep. Victoria Garcia Wilburn, D-Fishers, tried to clarify the legality during the last legislative session. While her bipartisan bill sailed through the House, it was one of two bills that did not receive a hearing in the Senate Corrections and Criminal Law Committee, which is chaired by Sen. Aaron Freeman, R-Indianapolis.
Notes from our Documenters
Summer is here, and so is Melanin in May.
We sent local photographer Azia Ellis-Singleton to capture the annual eastside festival Saturday, which highlights Black musicians, chefs and small businesses. See the photos here.
A reflection from Azia:
“Melanin in May was so wonderful to see because the far east side doesn’t always get recognition for being community focused, but there is such a need for events that feel close to my home.
I loved not having to drive more than 15 minutes to spend the day outside with strangers, friends and family! So many businesses, artists and food vendors were present and the shopping experience felt genuine and kind. Can’t wait for this time next year after I launch my secret project!”
— Jenna Watson, art director
Want to explore more of our city’s vibrancy? Find more arts and culture coverage here.
Reflections
A few of my colleagues will be speaking at CreativeMornings tomorrow morning at the AMP at 16 Tech. Get the details and register here.
See you tomorrow.
Ryan
P.S. If you liked something about today’s newsletter, or didn’t, let me know at ryan.martin@mirrorindy.org. It helps us serve you better.
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