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Everything Broad Ripple HomearrowRandom Ripplings Homearrow2016 04 01arrowColumn

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Converted from paper version of the Broad Ripple Gazette (v13n07)
Right in my Own Backyard - The Creep is On - by Brandt Carter
posted: Apr. 01, 2016

Right in my Own Backyard header

The Creep is On

Broad Ripple has been a force in my life since I was young. In my early years, we went to Broad Ripple for groceries (A&P), bakery (Roselyn), doctor (Dr. Young), orthodontist, variety store (Murphy's), theater (Vogue), and the park. It was the center of the neighboring suburbs being developed in the '50s. I also witnessed its declines in the late 60s as a retail center, and its vital reemergence as a hot spot for night life and dining. So today it is fun to see the area creeping out of its boundaries.
An excerpt from Wikipedia.org:
Broad Ripple's position as a cornerstone of Indianapolis' youth culture and nightlife is a result of its thriving bar scene and the near presence of Butler University. Staying true to the neighborhood motto "we're open if you are," numerous Broad Ripple bars and restaurants remain open as late as 3am - often on weekdays as well as weekends. The neighborhood is home to many of Indianapolis' premier locally owned restaurants, independent art galleries, private boutiques and specialty shops, and the popular Monon Trail. Within just a few city blocks one can find a wide variety of food, including Chinese, Indian, Mexican, Mediterranean, Italian, Cajun, Middle Eastern, French, English, and Japanese as well as traditional American fare and four independent microbreweries. Entertainment offerings include Indianapolis's preeminent professional comedy club and multiple venues for live music, showcasing both local artists and nationally touring acts in genres such as rock, hip hop, country, and jazz (at the Vogue). In 2004 a free biweekly newspaper, The Broad Ripple Gazette, was created by Broad Ripple native Alan Hague.[4]

Those who want to claim Broad Ripple's mystique are now calling themselves SoBro or on the edge of Broad Ripple. The creep has begun: spreading south to 49th street and as far east as Glendale, north to the White River around 71st street and west almost including 52nd and Illinois. The movement outward is a testament to the success of the Broad Ripple persona. There are destinations like Agrarian, Marco's, Pawn Shop Pub, 54th Street shops, 49th Street businesses all the way to Patachou on Pennsylvania, the Meridian and shops on the canal and Illinois, and moving east to Luciana Mexican Restaurant, Boogie Burger, Vintage Vogue, and Bark Tudor dog school. Thank heavens we get stopped on the north by the White River or I think we would move north and conquer Nora!
As shopkeepers, residents, and visitors to the area, we have a lot to be proud of: vibrancy, diversity, fun, an identity, and one of six designated cultural centers of Indianapolis. We've come a long way since 1922 when Broad Ripple became officially part of Indianapolis. We will be seeing as many changes in the future. People will want more and different housing, they will have different transportation needs (BlueIndy, rent-a-bikes and public transportation upgrades), their entertainment, shopping, and dining desires will also morph. Who knows what Broad Ripple will look like in 2025 or 2050? All I know is that change is inevitable. Let's all hang on and go with the flow. Let keep creating a great place to live and do business.

This historic (pre-1922) Town of Broad Ripple boundaries, from www.broadripplehistory.org
This historic (pre-1922) Town of Broad Ripple boundaries, from www.broadripplehistory.org
Quan





Brandt Carter, artist, herbalist, and naturalist, owns Backyard Birds at 2374 E. 54th Street. Visit her web site www.feedbackyardbirds.com. Email your bird questions to Brandt@BroadRippleGazette.com




brandt@broadripplegazette.com
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