Storm recovery and power outages: Northwest Indiana residents say they’re still waiting on electricity more than a week after deadly storms, with some facing another week without power and food spoilage. Public safety and scams: Indiana AG Todd Rokita warns storm-damage scammers are targeting homeowners, urging people to verify contractors and avoid paying upfront. Local government funding: Indiana will distribute nearly $44M to local governments to replace lost revenue from Braun’s gas tax holiday. City policy: Indianapolis adopted a data center moratorium, pausing new projects through 2027 while officials draft stronger zoning guardrails. Courts and health care: Federal appeals court rulings keep Planned Parenthood able to refer out-of-state abortion patients, blocking Indiana’s teen-abortion-info limits. Community and business: Grillo’s Pickles opened a $54M Taylorsville facility expected to bring 150 jobs; Legacy Foundation launched a Lake County Disaster Relief Fund after storms. Sports: St. John’s added Indiana transfer Reed Bailey; Indiana Fever’s Kelsey Mitchell sat out late with an “overheated” diagnosis. Crime: Indiana State Police are investigating a fatal I-69 hit-and-run in Fishers.
AGP Executive Report
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Indiana Flood Recovery: Indy and other communities are still dealing with historic flooding and power outages, with residents urged to document damage for insurance and use state and local hotlines and shelters as recovery ramps up. Federal Emergency Aid: White County and other Indiana counties were included in a federal emergency declaration after severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding. Consumer Safety & Scams: Attorney General Todd Rokita is warning Hoosiers about storm-repair scams, including fake claims that “FEMA will pay for all of this.” Maternal and Child Health Funding: Indiana is putting $30 million of a Trump rural health grant into improving emergency room care for mothers and children to cut high maternal and infant mortality. Hoosier Lottery: Preliminary figures show the Hoosier Lottery will send about $350 million in surplus to state coffers. WNBA in the Spotlight: The Indiana Fever’s Canada trip continues to spark debate and headlines around Sophie Cunningham and transgender-athlete inclusion, alongside on-court results. Energy & Jobs: Waga Energy and Decatur Hills commissioned a renewable natural gas production unit in Indiana, turning landfill gas into grid-quality RNG.
Statehouse Leadership: Indiana Senate Republicans endorsed Sen. Chris Garten to serve as Senate Pro Tem, with Speaker Todd Huston praising the move and noting Garten’s support from the caucus. Local Roads & Safety: INDOT will add an all-way stop at SR 256 and Grange Hall Road in Jefferson County, starting on or after Sept. 8, to improve sight distance and safety. Storm Recovery Help: Hoosiers dealing with recent flooding and outages can request up to $5,000 from the State Disaster Relief Fund via Indiana DHS or by calling 211, and the state is also pushing SNAP food replacement for eligible residents. NW Indiana Power Frustration: In Hammond, residents say they’re still waiting on NIPSCO restoration and feel overlooked, while the city says it cleared debris fast and hired outside tree crews to speed access for utility workers. Public Safety Crackdown: Washington Police are stepping up DUI enforcement for Labor Day as part of a statewide overtime push tied to the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign. Community & Culture: New Albany’s Community Music Alliance is gearing up for its 10th anniversary, celebrating free music classes for kids and adults. Sports & Entertainment: The Indiana Fever open a key road matchup tonight against Toronto, while the WNBA faces fresh backlash after fans were told to cover XX-XY shirts. Tech & Privacy: Vandals damaged Flock license plate cameras in Adams and Wells counties, renewing debate over surveillance tech.
WNBA Spotlight: The Indiana Fever keep rolling into Tuesday’s matchup at Toronto Tempo (7 p.m. ET on ESPN), fresh off a 95-91 overtime win over Atlanta Dream and led by Caitlin Clark, Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston. Trans Sports Backlash: Sophie Cunningham’s name is being filtered on the r/WNBA subreddit after her comments about “biological males,” while a separate controversy flared when fans say they were told to cover “XX-XY” shirts at a Fever game. Colts Move: Indianapolis reportedly agreed to a one-year deal with six-time Pro Bowler Keenan Allen to bolster a thin receiver room. Local Weather & Travel: Fog and scattered showers are expected Tuesday, with a wetter, stormier Wednesday that could bring flash-flood concerns. Storm Recovery Watch: Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita warns Hoosiers about door-to-door storm repair scams, including fraudsters claiming FEMA will pay. Indiana Sports/College Football: No. 6 Indiana opens a new chapter after its title run, while preseason AP Top 25 buzz has Ohio State No. 1 and Oregon No. 2. Community & Safety: A 7-year-old boy is recovering after being run over by a golf cart, and flood waters are still expected to affect parts of southern Indiana into next week.
Severe Weather & Recovery: Indiana’s flood crisis is still dragging on, with the White River cresting near record levels and warnings continuing in parts of central/southern Indiana, while northwest Indiana residents report slow restoration and major frustration as NIPSCO says about 102,000 customers remain without power. Flood Damage & Safety: A flooded-vehicle warning is going out from Indiana’s AG and Carfax, urging Hoosiers to watch for “title washing” and hidden water damage. State Response: Gov. Braun and federal partners are pushing disaster aid after Trump approved an emergency declaration for Indiana. Local Impact: Gary residents say they’ve been living with outages since Aug. 11, and some communities still face downed lines and generator-only living. Sports & Community Aid: The Pacers and Colts are teaming up with the Indiana Red Cross, donating $250,000 to support flood relief. Health Care Access: A new virtual pediatric clinic, HeroHouse Pediatrics, is launching in Indiana to help families get faster care for common illnesses and behavioral health needs. Courts & AI: Indiana’s revised court rule raises the stakes for filings that cite fictitious legal authority, with sanctions aimed at AI-assisted mistakes and fabricated citations. Hoosier Sports: The Fever keep rolling after an overtime win over the Dream, and they’re set to visit the Toronto Tempo next.
Flood Recovery in Indiana: President Trump approved FEMA resources and a federal emergency declaration for Indiana after historic flooding killed at least seven people, with Gov. Braun saying up to $5 million could support response and recovery; Indianapolis flood gates reopened as the White River crested and Hamilton County hit a century record, while NIPSCO reported about 115,000 still without power and officials warn more river rises are possible. Local Help & Scams: Cities and nonprofits are coordinating shelters, volunteer efforts, and donation funds, and Attorney General Todd Rokita is warning residents to watch for storm-related scams as cleanup continues. Rural Health: Indiana is launching a $30 million, five-year initiative to improve maternal and pediatric emergency care in rural hospitals. Knox County Jobs: An Amazon fulfillment center in Vincennes could add about 170 workers, with a possible job fair planned. WNBA & Social Media: Sophie Cunningham’s 30th birthday sparked backlash after Reddit moderators filtered her name, and the Fever’s playoff push continues after a 95-91 OT win over Atlanta. Sports & Culture: Indiana’s fall concert season is heating up, and Tommy John—born in Terre Haute and whose surgery changed baseball—died at 83.
Historic Flooding: Indiana’s White River crested in Indianapolis as days of storms and record-setting flooding left at least 7 dead, with more rain still possible and emergency shelters staying open while crews clear debris and monitor flood-control gates. Federal Aid & Relief: President Trump approved an emergency declaration for Indiana, unlocking federal disaster assistance; the Colts, Pacers, Fever and Noblesville Boom pledged $125,000 each to the American Red Cross for flood relief. Local Impact: Carmel reported major infrastructure damage after floodwaters undermined a bridge approach, while Northwest Indiana residents continued dealing with widespread power outages and storm recovery. Public Safety: Indiana Homeland Security warned residents about scammers impersonating FEMA as officials urge people to stay out of fast-moving floodwaters. Community & Culture: A Daviess County museum is hosting a free Aug. 29 program on the Wabash and Erie Canal, and local race results highlighted Plainfield’s BENefit Mile and Indianapolis’s RUN(317) Mass Ave.
Historic Flooding in Indiana: At least six people are dead after days of severe storms dumped more than 11 inches of rain in parts of Indiana, with the White River surging to record levels and forcing evacuations and hundreds of rescues, especially along the river corridor from Hamilton County into the northern Indianapolis suburbs. Federal Aid Approved: President Trump approved an emergency declaration for Indiana, unlocking FEMA disaster assistance to cover 75% of eligible emergency response costs across dozens of counties. Local Evacuations & Warnings: Indianapolis officials urged residents near the river to evacuate as water rose; in one case, the city ordered immediate evacuation for River Road Apartments due to erosion threatening structures. What’s Next: Officials say flood danger remains as conditions shift rapidly, with more flooding possible in hard-hit areas. Indiana Sports—Fever Update: Away from the storm headlines, the Indiana Fever beat the Dallas Wings 98-87 as Caitlin Clark posted 29 points and 10 assists, keeping Indiana’s momentum in the WNBA race.
Severe Weather & Flooding: Indiana is tallying at least six storm-related deaths, with flooding and rescues continuing along the White River and other waterways; Gov. Mike Braun says Trump intends to approve a Presidential Emergency Declaration, which could unlock up to $5 million for response and recovery, while officials warn residents to stay away from floodwaters. Public Safety & Power: Northwest Indiana remains hard-hit by outages after the storms, and crews are still working to restore service and clear debris. Local Crime During Recovery: In Gary, a NIPSCO vehicle was struck by gunfire while crews restored power, prompting temporary pauses and added protection for workers. Sports—Pacers & Fever: Tyrese Haliburton says he was “shocked” his first game back from an Achilles injury won’t be nationally televised; meanwhile, the Fever keep rolling as Caitlin Clark’s status for the next game is updated and the team pushes toward playoff form. Agriculture: Indiana regained HPAI-free status after 28 days without new detections, a win for the state’s poultry industry.
WNBA Playoff Push: Caitlin Clark poured in 29 points with 10 assists as the Indiana Fever beat the Dallas Wings 98-87 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, with Aliyah Boston adding 10 points in the fourth and Kelsey Mitchell scoring 23; the win puts Indiana 22-12 and a half-game ahead for the No. 4 playoff spot. Star Power, Big Numbers: Clark’s performance included her 20th career game with 20+ points and 10+ assists—an Indiana Fever franchise and league-history kind of night—while Paige Bueckers matched 29 for Dallas. Coach in the Spotlight: After recent booing and backlash, Fever head coach Stephanie White was met with cheers and credited the locker room’s unity. Statehouse Tax Relief: Indiana expanded property tax relief for eligible disabled veterans and surviving spouses, including a shift to credits for more direct help starting with the 2026 assessment year. Severe Weather Aftermath: NIPSCO reported 172,000 customers still without power Friday night, with restoration targeted to be largely complete by Aug. 21. Local Outdoors: Squirrel hunting opens Aug. 15, kicking off Indiana’s fall season.
Historic Flooding & Storm Recovery: Gov. Mike Braun asked for a presidential emergency declaration to speed federal help for Indiana’s storm response and recovery after historic flooding and widespread outages. NW Indiana Power Crisis: Nearly 175,000 customers in Northwest Indiana were still without power Friday, with residents in Gary’s Miller Beach describing days of darkness and cleanup after 99 mph winds. Whitewater River Crest: The Whitewater River at Brookville hit “historic rises,” triggering flooding and rescues in Harrison and West Harrison, Ohio/Indiana. Local Heroism in Rush County: A farmer helped first responders reach a flooded home after a 2-year-old drowned in a basement; the child was airlifted. Public Safety: Two Indianapolis officers were shot while serving a narcotics warrant; conditions were reported stable and the suspect was taken into custody. FBI Ten Most Wanted: Gregory Henderson Jr., wanted for nearly three years, was arrested in Mississippi and is expected to be returned to Indiana. Education Wins: Indiana third-grade reading scores rose for a fifth straight year on IREAD, topping pre-pandemic levels. Community & Culture: Indianapolis preservationists halted demolition of a historic Martin University church after an emergency historic designation vote. Sports & Entertainment: Fort Wayne BMX hosted the USA BMX National Series for the first time in 20 years; the Gary Air Show was canceled due to storm damage.
Severe Storm Recovery: Indiana is still reeling after historic flooding and tornado damage, with evacuations continuing along the Whitewater River and NIPSCO reporting hundreds of thousands still without power in northwest Indiana; the Indiana National Guard is deployed for debris removal as crews work to restore service. State Health & Safety: Gov. Mike Braun announced a $30 million, five-year push—“OPEration Ready”—to upgrade rural maternal and pediatric emergency care with training and equipment. Local Governance & Environment: Eight Boone County residents were denied a public hearing tied to possible air pollutant changes at the Eli Lilly complex, as the company seeks permit modifications for new emergency generators and combustion units. Business & Jobs: Vulcraft plans a $59 million expansion in DeKalb County that could add up to 20 jobs by 2027. Sports (Hoosier Spotlight): The Indiana Fever host the Dallas Wings tonight at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, with Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell headlining for Indiana. Education & Community: Indiana’s cold-case law gets an update for advanced DNA testing, and Indiana authors with Bloomington ties are among 46 shortlisted for the 2026 Glick Indiana Authors Awards.
Severe Weather Aftermath: Gov. Mike Braun declared a statewide disaster emergency as historic flooding, tornado damage, and a derecho left communities dealing with evacuations, rescues, and widespread power outages; more rain is still expected. Road Disruptions: I-70 westbound in eastern Indiana is closed indefinitely after flood damage near the Centerville Road exit, with detours in place. Bears Stadium Watch: Chicago Bears leaders doubled down on “sole focus” for a Hammond, Indiana stadium, while insisting the team name won’t change to “Hammond” or “Indiana” Bears. Public Safety & Scams: Indiana AG Todd Rokita warned residents about storm-related scams targeting people after damage, urging careful contractor checks and written agreements. Local Government: A Jeffersonville homeless encampment clearing was postponed after a new state law took effect. Sports Spotlight: Indiana Fever players backed coach Stephanie White after boos at Tuesday’s home game, while the team prepares for Dallas. Sports & Community: Craig Sheehan won the Lake Max adult duathlon; and Terre Haute mourns Sandra (Sandy) Kelly, 83.
Severe Weather & Flooding: Catastrophic storms swept through Indiana and Ohio, triggering flash flooding, road collapses, and widespread power outages; Gov. Mike Braun urged Hoosiers to prep for more severe weather and warned drivers to avoid high water. Wildlife Recovery: Humane Wildlife Indiana and the DNR took in dozens of injured animals after the storms, and the rehab center is asking for donations to keep caring for more than 40 patients. State Response: Braun said a statewide emergency declaration is likely as state agencies coordinate storm recovery and support local communities. Transportation Updates: INDOT outlined Greene County road closures for chip-and-seal work starting Monday, and Pike County residents got a look at plans for a new, elevated S.R. 257 bridge to reduce flood-prone shutdowns. Health & Policy: Lawmakers pressed for transparency in Indiana Medicaid disability waiver denials tied to a new assessment tool, after denial rates jumped post-rollout. Business & Jobs: SK hynix will hold a groundbreaking Aug. 27 for a major Indiana advanced chip packaging plant. Sports & Culture: The Indiana State Fair brought back the Ben Davis Marching Giants after nearly 50 years, while Indiana Fever’s ongoing WNBA controversy continues to draw national attention.
Severe Weather & Flooding: Flash flood emergencies and tornado reports are driving widespread damage across Indiana, with Jennings County seeing multiple water rescues and school closures after heavy rain, while INDOT warns of washed-out roads in the southeast and the NWS keeps urging drivers to turn around in high water. Power Outages: Northwest Indiana residents are still dealing with massive outages—NIPSCO reported more than 270,000 customers without power—prompting long gas lines as people scramble for generator fuel. State Response: Gov. Mike Braun toured storm damage in northwest Indiana and says he expects to declare a statewide emergency to unlock recovery help, directing agencies to coordinate with local officials and utilities. Local Government: Sellersburg approved a one-year moratorium on data centers, solar farms, and battery storage after similar moves elsewhere. Education & Reading Gains: IREAD results show Indiana third-grade reading proficiency rising statewide, including improvements in several Northwest Indiana districts. Sports & Culture: The Indiana Fever’s ongoing controversy around coach Stephanie White and Sophie Cunningham continues to dominate sports talk, while the Pacers and Timberwolves announced a preseason game at Hilton Coliseum. Consumer Watch: BBB Scam Tracker data puts Kokomo among the higher-scoring Indiana cities for scam reports in June, underscoring ongoing fraud risk.
Severe Weather Aftermath: Destructive storms and possible tornadoes tore through the Midwest Tuesday, knocking out power for hundreds of thousands across Illinois and northwest Indiana; in Indiana, NIPSCO reported about 288,000 customers without power early Wednesday, with restoration expected to take days. Storm Deaths & Damage: A 4-year-old boy died in Jennings County after a tree fell on his home, and another death was reported in Portage after a suspected storm-related house explosion. WNBA—Fever Surge: The Indiana Fever kept rolling with a 106-92 win over the New York Liberty, led by Kelsey Mitchell’s 28 points and Caitlin Clark’s 22 and 10 assists, after a fiery pregame rant from coach Stephanie White. Tech & Jobs: SK hynix will hold a formal groundbreaking Aug. 27 for a $3.87 billion Indiana semiconductor packaging plant in West Lafayette. Policy Watch: Indiana’s Medicaid work mandate could affect 200,000 to 300,000 low-income Hoosiers, with key exemption and compliance details still being worked out. Public Safety: Indiana Center for Recovery is offering free naloxone and fentanyl test strips 24/7 with no questions asked. Local Governance: State Sen. Daryl Schmitt announced a series of town halls for District 48 residents starting later this month.
Severe Weather & Safety: Hurricane-force winds and heavy rain battered the Chicago area and northwest Indiana Tuesday, knocking out power for more than half a million people, grounding flights, and leaving widespread tree and roof damage. Portage Fire Investigation: In Portage, a person died in a north-side structure fire during the storms; police say an explosion is possible and emergency crews faced delays from debris and hazards. Portage Storm Aftermath: Portage officials urged residents to stay put as roads became impassable and the district canceled classes for Aug. 12. NW Indiana Home Explosion: A separate report says a home was leveled in northwest Indiana after a possible explosion during storms, with one death confirmed. Jennings County Tragedy: A 4-year-old died after a tree fell on a home in Geneva Township; police said no one else was injured. Election Update: The Indiana Recount Commission overturned a state Senate primary result in District 23, flipping the lead to Trump-backed Paula Copenhaver over incumbent Spencer Deery. Ballot Error: Vincennes Mayor Joe Yochum was removed from the November State Senate District 39 ballot due to a procedural filing error, leaving Republican Jeff Ellington without a major-party opponent. Education: Indiana’s IREAD results show third-grade reading gains for a fifth straight year, with nearly 89% reading at grade level. Housing Funding: Elkhart received a $10 million low-interest state loan to expand housing by redeveloping an abandoned mall into a mixed-use project. Sports & Local Culture: The WNBA’s Fever host the Liberty tonight in Indianapolis amid ongoing national debate around Sophie Cunningham; meanwhile, the Bulldog Chase 5K wrapped up the Southeast Indiana Racing Circuit in Batesville.
Politics & Taxes: Indiana’s tax-cut fallout is back in the spotlight as lawmakers weigh more changes, with critics warning property tax relief for families was too small while business cuts hit local services. Local Governance: Indianapolis vehicle tax hikes are moving forward after the City-County Council overrode Mayor Joe Hogsett’s veto, aiming to fund road repairs. Education: Indiana’s first truly partisan school board cycle is already causing eligibility confusion under the new cellphone-and-campaign rules. Public Safety & Weather: Central Indiana braces for severe storms Tuesday with damaging winds and flash flooding risk, plus a Palmyra water tower shutdown triggering a boil-water advisory. Health & Consumer Alerts: Taylor Farms recalled jalapeño products over possible Salmonella; separate recalls include ready-to-eat pastrami and corned beef over possible Listeria. Business & Industry: Samsung SDI will buy out GM’s stake in Indiana’s battery joint venture as EV demand cools, shifting the plant toward broader battery uses. Sports: Caitlin Clark is cleared to play the Fever’s Tuesday matchup after the WNBA rescinded a technical foul that threatened her availability.
Retail & Growth: Meijer will open a new 75,000-square-foot “Meijer Grocery” store in Fishers on Sept. 30, its second grocery-format location in Indiana, with fresh produce, bakery, meat/seafood/deli, pharmacy, and a nearby Meijer Express fuel station starting Sept. 2. Sports & Culture: Indiana volleyball starts 2026 ranked 16th in the AVCA preseason poll after a Sweet 16 run, while the Fever’s season stays in the spotlight after a Flagrant 2 ejection involving DiJonai Carrington and Sophie Cunningham sparked a “white privilege” backlash that Carrington now says she never claimed. Local Crime: A southern Indiana man pleaded guilty in Floyd County to child molestation and rape, with a 46-year plea deal; in Indianapolis, police say they recovered suspects after a $2M+ jewelry store robbery and chase. Statehouse & Health: FSSA says Medicaid is “back in black,” citing a 23% enrollment drop since Gov. Braun took office while spending fell only 2%. Weather & Roads: INDOT plans resurfacing on U.S. 12/20/41 near the Illinois line starting Aug. 17, and a First Alert Weather Day was issued for damaging storms Tuesday. Business & Jobs: NFIB’s July jobs report shows small-business hiring plans rebounding in Indiana.
School Funding Showdown: Hoosiers head into a historic November referendum year as 37 districts—three times the usual number—ask voters to approve operating referendums amid property-tax pressure. WNBA Fallout in Indiana: Chicago Sky guard DiJonai Carrington was ejected for a Flagrant 2 foul on Indiana Fever’s Sophie Cunningham, then posted “WHITE PRIVILEGE,” sparking backlash and fresh calls for league action. Public Safety & Power: Heavy Sunday storms left thousands without power across Indiana, with NIPSCO and Indiana Michigan Power reporting outages near Michigan City. Local Tech Debate: Indianapolis is paying for Flock Safety license-plate cameras through 2028, while questions grow about how many cameras are used and what data is shared. Health Watch: Indiana health officials reported West Nile virus in Henry County mosquito samples, urging residents to protect against bites. Sports—Colts Kicking Battle: Blake Grupe leads the Colts’ kicking competition early in camp, hitting 27 of 30 field goals.
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