INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — A public conversation will be held Wednesday to help area leaders in sports, culture, tourism, and education gather more insight to help Indianapolis grow.
NEXTGEN Indy is being put on by IUPUI’s Department of Tourism, Event, and Sport Management’s Industry Advisory Council in collaboration with Downtown Indy, Inc., the Indiana Restaurant and Lodging Association, Indiana Sports Corp, and Visit Indy.
At NEXTGEN Indy, attendees will hear the results of a study of 500 Gen Z residents throughout Indiana on their perceptions, interests, and values toward the city.
“The three things that will get them the most excited to see in Indianapolis: Number one, fully developing the River Walk experience along the White River which is something already underway. Number two, urban adventure experiences like climbing structures or ziplining through the city. And then, having a themed amusement park — think Navy Pier or something like that, similar to Chicago,” David Pierce, director of the IUPUI Sports Innovation Institute, said.
Most of the young adults surveyed say the city compares to Nashville, Tennessee, and said they love Indianapolis because of the great museums, must-see sports venues, and iconic attractions.
NEXTGEN Indy will begin at 3:30 p.m., with the study presented at 3:45 p.m., followed by a panel discussion and reception. The event will be held at the Hine Hall Tower on the IUPUI campus.
Visit the NEXTGEN Indy website to learn more.
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Friday is the 41st annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Indianapolis, so put on your best Irish garb — including kilts and leprechaun outfits — and head downtown.
The parade will start at 11:30 a.m. on North Street between Meridian and Pennsylvania Streets.
The family-friendly parade is made up of Irish-themed floats and helium balloons, marching bands, music, Irish dancers, catholic schools, Irish organizations, local companies, and non-profits with St. Patrick’s Day themes, according to event organizers, The Athletic Club Foundation.
There will also be plenty of opportunities to enjoy Irish food, music, and culture.
A tent party kicks off at 9:30 a.m. on North Street with live music, food trucks, and a beer truck. Grab a bite, a brew, and do a jig or two until 3 p.m.
There’s a free heated tent that is open to the public on North Street between Meridian and Pennsylvania. Adults can expect Irish music including “Highland Reign,” a Scots-American folk-rock band, along with U2 cover band, A Beautiful Day.
The event will move forward rain-or-shine unless there’s a major unexpected weather event that creates an unsafe environment such as high wind, organizers say.
More information is available here: Indianapolis Saint Patrick’s Day | The Athletic Club Foundation.
INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — It is Severe Weather Preparedness Week in Indiana, and the National Weather Service is reminding everyone to stay weather-prepared. “Tornadoes occur year-round but are most likely to occur from April to June,” explained senior meteorologist Jason Puma.
If a tornado hits, shelter in a study building away from windows on the lowest floor interior room or closet and cover your head with blankets or pillow. Residents that live in a mobile home should find a safer building long before the storm arrives. If you happen to be in a vehicle at the time of the storm, drive away or abandon the car as a last resort.
Standing water can also be problematic. If you live in a flood plain, investigate and decide the fastest route to higher ground. Make note of nearby roads that are likely to flood.
The NWS says while the rainfall frequency atlas analysis of this flash flood may make it seem like a rare occurrence, we are seeing such extreme rainfall on a more frequent basis across the country, including Indiana.
Experts suggest people prepare an emergency kit at home with three days of food and water, flashlights, batteries, radio, and a first aid kit. Experts also say to keep medication, cash, blankets, and other supplies handy when the storm strikes.
The National Weather Service is looking for more weather spotters to assist in their coverage. You can register online for free two-hour training in person or online.