Auburn gaming, BIRTH fund, SNAP advantages, election reactions, fairgrounds mission

A report from the Indiana Gaming Commission just lately recognized Auburn as one in all two potential places for a on line casino relocation throughout the state, in accordance with Rep. Ben Smaltz, R-Auburn.

From the press launch: “The report examined 4 potential places throughout Indiana and located a web site close to Interstate 69 and State Road 8 in Auburn ranked among the many high choices for a on line casino, with downtown Indianapolis recognized as essentially the most worthwhile choice. …

“Smaltz noted that Indiana is already the seventh largest gaming state in the nation, with a well-established and heavily regulated industry that generates hundreds of millions of dollars annually in state and local tax revenue that supports community programs. Casinos across Indiana are required to operate as responsible community partners, contributing millions of dollars each year to their host communities for public safety, infrastructure and other local priorities.”

Smaltz: “While this report has generated dialogue throughout the neighborhood, I need to be clear—I’m not conscious of any formal proposal or organized effort to find a on line casino in Auburn. If this have been one thing the neighborhood needed to pursue, an impartial evaluate needs to be carried out to evaluate potential social, site visitors and infrastructure impacts to the neighborhood. …

“Research has proven that expanded playing entry can result in larger charges of habit, monetary hardship, household pressure and, in some circumstances, public security issues.

“We must be cautious and thoughtful of our constituents before moving forward.”

The Bridge Project, in partnership with the City of Indianapolis, has introduced the launch of the BIRTH (Building Independent Resilient Thriving Homes) Fund in Indianapolis.

From the press launch: “Eligible residents could now apply through The Bridge Project’s web site to change into one of many 100 program individuals chosen for this unconditional money initiative, which goals to enhance the well being and stability of households in neighborhoods with the best toddler mortality charges.

“Funding for the funds is absolutely philanthropic, with native assist from the Indianapolis Foundation, Glick Philanthropies, Herbert Simon Family Foundation, Elevance Health, and personal donors. …

“Selected individuals will obtain direct money funds with no restrictions on use for 36 months together with:

“A $1,125 one-time upfront prenatal stipend,

“$750 per 30 days for the primary 15 months,

“$375 per 30 days for the next 21 months.

“Recipients may also have entry to complete helps together with healthcare interventions, neighborhood useful resource connections and grownup schooling alternatives. The initiative may also make the most of neighborhood well being employees to assist households perceive their advantages and entry important companies starting from transportation and childcare to secure sleep programs and dietary help.

“Eligibility necessities:

“18 and older,

“24 weeks pregnant or much less,

“Must reside in Indianapolis zip codes with the best toddler mortality challenges for Black households: 46241, 46222, 46237, 46219, 46218, 46201 and 46235,

“Have a family earnings of $39,000 or beneath. …

“Currently, there are 13 zip codes in Marion County that have rates of infant mortality that are 200% higher than the national average; 4 that are over 300% higher. That means every year, families in Marion County are losing parents and children at 2-3 times the national average. The data also shows those that suffer most from high rates of maternal morbidity and infant mortality are from Black, non-Hispanic, or A.L.I.C.E. (Asset Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed) households.”

Marianne Glick, chair of the Glick Family Foundation, a Glick Philanthropies initiative: “Every person should have the opportunity to meet their basic needs and reach their full potential. When those needs are met, pathways to economic mobility become accessible. Through the BIRTH Fund, new mothers will be supported in preparing and caring for themselves and their babies so, together, they can live their best lives.”

Suzanna Fritzberg, the Bridge Project’s government director: “Through the BIRTH Fund, we are not only providing critical financial resources at a pivotal moment, but also investing in the strength and potential of mothers and babies who have long been denied equitable access to security, opportunity and health. Our aim is to ensure every family has what they need to welcome their children in safety and with hope for a brighter future.”

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett: “It is important that we as a community take action to ensure the best health outcomes for our future generation and those bringing them into this world. The BIRTH Fund will help uplift some of the most vulnerable in our city, improving the quality of life for mothers and their infants. I am thankful for the philanthropic generosity that made this life changing pilot program possible.”

Prosperity Indiana, the statewide affiliation for neighborhood financial growth, has launched its 2026 Policy Agenda, centered on suggestions to handle the state’s affordability disaster, and invitations members of its statewide community to debate potential options at its upcoming Policy & Pizza regional legislator assembly collection.

From the press launch: “The new coverage agenda, titled Strengthening Indiana’s Communities and Supporting Those Who Serve Hoosiers, displays the outcomes of Prosperity Indiana’s survey of over 200 organizational members as ratified by the affiliation’s Policy Committee and Board of Directors. The 2026 agenda addresses problems with reasonably priced housing, neighborhood growth sources, asset-building, and shopper safety points, in addition to pressing & rising priorities that cross all coverage areas.

“A typical theme amongst members’ coverage survey responses is the rising actuality that Indiana has change into an unaffordable state, not just for Hoosier households whose incomes haven’t saved up with housing and different primary prices, but additionally for the neighborhood organizations who serve them and have been topic to state and federal cuts and rising administrative prices.

“Over the previous 12 months, greater than two-thirds of PI Policy Survey respondents report that price range and coverage modifications on the federal and state ranges have considerably or reasonably decreased the power of their group to serve Hoosiers and their neighborhood (0% say coverage modifications have elevated their potential to serve). As a results of coverage modifications, greater than 40% of respondents have: eradicated packages or companies; eradicated employees positions or are usually not filling roles; or have decreased the scope of shoppers they will serve—or are contemplating doing so.

“At the identical time, Prosperity Indiana’s most up-to-date analysis finds that 14 of the state’s 20 largest occupations not pay an earnings enough to fulfill the state’s housing wage of $22.18 per hour essential to afford a modest two-bedroom dwelling, up from 9 of the highest 20 occupations simply three years in the past.

“As a end result, PI’s 2026 Policy Agenda focuses on options to extend affordability for Hoosier households in addition to to strengthen the capability of the organizations who present housing and financial alternative for all Hoosiers. Our members’ priorities vary from growing the availability of secure, reasonably priced housing, to combatting wealth loss by means of home-owner restore, to lowering the advantages cliff for weak households. Newly trending priorities for 2026 embody growing sources for organizations who serve their communities whereas defending these organizations from assaults and cuts.

“To introduce the 2026 agenda and discuss issues of housing and economic opportunity with local policymakers, Prosperity Indiana invites its network and members of the public to its ‘Policy & Pizza’ regional legislator meeting series.”

Rep. Vernon G. Smith, D-Gary, has introduced that the Harvest Feast might be held at 7 p.m. Nov. 21 on the New Hope Church, 2307 Rhode Island St., in Gary.

From the press launch: “Dr. Smith organizes and hosts this occasion every year in reminiscence of his mom, the Rev. Julia E. Smith, and his aunt Magnolia Allen. The late Julia E. Smith was a former pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church.

“Each 12 months, a whole bunch of residents attend the occasion to rejoice Thanksgiving with a meal and church service that options stay music performances. The performers for the church service might be introduced at a later date. The feast is free to attend and open to all residents of the Greater Gary Community. …

“The Harvest Feast is a traditional Thanksgiving meal, featuring turkey, dressing, beef roast, macaroni and cheese, green beans, greens, mashed potatoes, and a variety of desserts.”

Smith: “This is the twenty ninth 12 months we now have held the Harvest Feast. It is a blessing to come back collectively as a neighborhood and present our gratitude for the presents God has given us. There’s one thing particular that takes place when individuals collect across the desk for a sizzling meal. Strangers flip into pals, and the bond between members of the family deepens. …

“This event is about more than a traditional meal. It’s about feeding the spirit through connection. We are living in a tumultuous, divisive time when many people feel disconnected from their neighbors. This feast is an opportunity to come together in communion and celebrate the holiday. The Harvest Feast embodies my belief that God’s greatest blessing is company with each other.”

Indiana Democratic Party Chair Karen Tallian launched the next assertion Tuesday in response to Democratic successes in Virginia and New Jersey elections:

“Congratulations to the people of Virginia and New Jersey! Tonight they made clear that Americans are sick of the devastating GOP policies. Here in Indiana, Hoosiers have told us that kitchen table issues are their number one priority, but all the Republican policies seem to make life harder and less affordable. Voters just showed that the Democrats are growing stronger, while the Republican party is plagued with internal divisions. Indiana Democrats will have the wind at our backs heading into 2026.”

Indiana Republican Party Chairwoman Lana Keesling, additionally responding to the election in a press launch: “Yesterday’s election outcomes show that AOC and Bernie Sanders’ lengthy march by means of the Democrat Party is now full. They have dragged their occasion thus far left that they elected an avowed communist as Mayor of New York, two far-left governors who overtly campaigned on shredding parental rights, and an legal professional basic who apparently fantasizes in regards to the kids of political opponents dying of their arms.

“The actual story of yesterday is Gavin Newsom’s Prop 50, clearing the trail for Democrats to proceed to gerrymander their manner again into energy. This comes on the heels of the Virginia legislature amending their state structure to redraw their very own congressional maps simply final week. Communism and gerrymandering have been on ballots yesterday, and Democrat voters in blue states overwhelmingly voted for each.

“Let’s be clear: Republicans didn’t begin this combat. For a long time, Democrats have wrung as many blue congressional seats out of their maps because the numbers would permit–counting illegals as residents and gaming the census of their favor. Democrats could put a well mannered face on their gerrymandering each ten years, however that doesn’t change the truth that they’ve systematically rigged the method on the expense of states like Indiana.

“Enough is enough. This fight has been brought to our doorstep, and I am proud of our Republican Leaders in the General Assembly who have answered the call from Governor Braun to convene a special session in December. I stand firmly behind President Trump, Vice President Vance, Governor Braun, our Hoosier delegation, and members of the legislature to pass fair maps that will protect the voice of Hoosiers in Congress.”

As the federal authorities shutdown enters its second month, “the distribution of food assistance benefits for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) remains in jeopardy,” in accordance with a press launch from the workplace of Rep Ed DeLaney, D-Indianapolis.

From the press launch: “The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) despatched a letter in October directing states to carry all SNAP profit distribution for the month of November. On Friday, Oct. 31, a choose dominated that the USDA should use their contingency fund for SNAP. However, this contingency fund accommodates about $4.65 billion, which doesn’t meet the total $8 billion that SNAP recipients obtain every month.

“During the Oct. 29 meeting of the State Budget Committee, State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) made a motion to help protect the health of Hoosiers. Rep. Porter recommended the allocation of $112 million to the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) to cover SNAP for all recipients and to provide an additional $10 million to Indiana’s food banks for each month of the government shutdown. All Republican members voted no, and the motion was defeated.”

DeLaney: “We all know that our federal authorities has failed us. But sadly, Republican state legislators and the governor’s consultant on the State Budget Committee refused to even ask the governor to assist these households.

“Almost 600,000 Hoosiers depend upon SNAP to be their dependable meals supply—one in eight of these individuals are kids. The incontrovertible fact that 600,000 Hoosiers are uncertain if they’re going to have the ability to put meals on the desk is a cataclysmic failure of presidency.

“Private residents throughout the state need to take issues into their very own palms by donating to meals banks and volunteering their time. While that is commendable and I encourage extra of it, it’s nonetheless not sufficient to fulfill the necessity.

“We are down to 1 final resort. Even if the USDA contingency fund is put to make use of, SNAP advantages is not going to be distributed in full or on time. I name on our one thousand township trustees to make use of their substantial reserve funds to supply meals help for SNAP eligible households. According to a memo from the Indiana Township Association, there’s a authorized foundation for township trustees to supply meals help in emergency circumstances, reminiscent of a disruption to federal advantages.

“Some township trustees have millions of dollars in their rainy day funds. If hundreds of thousands of Hoosiers facing food insecurity doesn’t constitute a storm, I don’t know what does. It is up to the trustees to make up for the inaction of the national government and our governor and support our communities, both rural and urban.”

This week, Mayor Joe Hogsett was joined by Cummins and IU Health, together with meals service suppliers, to element emergency efforts geared toward connecting Marion County residents with entry to wholesome, recent meals this November, as a part of a joint press convention with United Way of Central Indiana.

From the press launch: “The City and its company companions are offering greater than $200,000 in emergency funding to Gleaners Food Bank to subsidize the efforts of neighborhood meals pantries. Additionally, the Office of Public Health and Safety (OPHS) is increasing its beforehand introduced meals outreach plans by means of the month of November. These efforts are along with these of the United Way of Central Indiana, who is looking on the neighborhood to donate to its Central Indiana Food Relief Fund. …

“OPHS may also use the funding to extend capability at 10 distribution occasions deliberate all through the month. … The City can be working with Indianapolis Public Schools to make sure college students and households have wanted assist by means of a number of closed occasions. …

“Other accessible sources to attach residents with meals embody:

“Indy Parks- Indy Parks Meals Programs supply two meals pantries, places for youth after faculty meals, and the Drive and Dish Program, which permits residents to register, order groceries, and decide them up at a taking part parks location. The Drive and Dish Programs at Frederick Douglass Park and Washington Park are at present at capability and never in a position to settle for new residents. Details and places might be discovered on the Indy Parks Website.

“Brookside Park might be internet hosting a Food Drive from November 1-19. Residents can drop off nonperishable meals donations Monday to Friday from midday to 7:30 pm on the Brookside Park Family Center, 3500 Brookside Parkway S Dr. Free meals are additionally accessible on the park on Mondays to Fridays from 4-6 pm whereas provides final, because of a partnership with Second Helpings. Additional details about Second Helps packages at Indy Parks Locations might be shared on the Indy Parks Website.

“Community Compass- Community Compass is a free digital software by the Indy Hunger Network. Residents can use a easy search operate to search out meals help close to them. It might be downloaded from app shops or accessed at

“Food Resource Services Hub (FRSH)- The Indy Hunger Network launched the Food Resource Services Hub (FRSH) to assist people dealing with meals insecurity. A Food Resource Navigator helps guests entry and join with native meals sources. Visit

“More information and resources for residents in need of food assistance can be found on indy.gov. The site will continue to be updated as more resources become available.”

Hogsett: “More than 120,000 Marion County residents will lose their SNAP benefits on November 1st. These 120,000 people are our neighbors here in Indianapolis, and it is imperative that we all work together to prevent any neighbor of ours from going hungry. I want to thank Cummins and IU Health for amplifying the City’s efforts to provide food across the County, and I encourage other businesses and community members to donate and volunteer at their local food bank or through organizations like Gleaners and Second Helpings.”

Dr. Carlos Perkins, city-county councilor for District 6: “This is not simply a policy issue. This is a moral issue. Scripture reminds us that when we feed the hungry, we serve God Himself. To ensure that every child, every senior, and every family has access to healthy food—that is not optional. That is sacred duty. As a pastor, I pray. As a councilor, I act. And as a citizen of this great city, I stand with all who believe that no one in Indianapolis should go to bed hungry.”

In the spirit of neighborhood and pleasant competitors, the mayors and metropolis councilors of Carmel and Westfield have teamed as much as launch a charitable problem supporting Hamilton County Harvest (HCH) Food Bank.

From the press launch: “Inspired by the upcoming much-anticipated soccer matchup between the Carmel Greyhounds and the Westfield Shamrocks, the cities are going head-to-head to see who can elevate essentially the most funds to combat starvation.

“Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam and Westfield Mayor Scott Willis collectively created the ‘Tackling Hunger Together’ problem, inviting residents, companies and followers to indicate their workforce spirit not solely within the stands but additionally by means of generosity and compassion. Every greenback raised will go on to HCH Food Bank, serving to to supply nutritious meals for households in want throughout Hamilton County. …

“The Tackling Hunger Together Challenge runs through Sunday, Nov. 9, and every contribution, large or small, helps make a meaningful difference.”

Finkam: “This is about turning rivalry into unity. No matter which team wins on the field, both communities can be proud to stand together in the fight against hunger.”

Willis: “We all want bragging rights, but the real victory is making sure no one in our community goes hungry. Let’s prove that teamwork extends far beyond the game.”

Gov. Mike Braun “reiterated his commitment to affordable and reliable energy in Indiana” throughout a fireplace chat dialogue with Purdue President Mung Chiang on the Purdue Nuclear Energy Summit Wednesday.

From the press launch: “Governor Braun highlighted Indiana’s efforts to deliver down excessive power prices and meet growing demand. Governor Braun spoke about Indiana’s efforts to extend baseload manufacturing to fulfill calls for and maintain down costs, in addition to the legislative template to assist new power technology and the workforce pipeline from Purdue and different universities to assist new power technology tasks. …

“To advance his energy agenda, this year Governor Braun appointed Abby Gray as the new Utility Consumer Counselor Commissioner to protect ratepayers, directed an evaluation of utility profits and an exploration of cost-saving measures to lower the burden on ratepayers, and established a Strategic Energy Task Force to build a long term plan to ensure Indiana’s energy supply can meet demand reliably and affordably.”

Braun: “Indiana is uniquely positioned to be the national leader in energy generation. To ensure affordable prices for ratepayers, we must increase energy supply. I am taking bold steps to make sure Indiana can meet increased electricity demand reliably and affordably into the future.”

On Wednesday, Gov. Mike Braun joined INDOT, IndyAutomotive and Indianapolis Motor Speedway President Doug Boles, public officers and contracting companions for a ceremonial ribbon reducing to mark the opening of the newly constructed Clear Creek Welcome Center on eastbound I-70 close to the Indiana/Illinois state line.

From the press launch: “The new welcome heart replaces the earlier facility inbuilt 1992 and is impressed by Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indianapolis 500. Interactive reveals function a reproduction of the Borg-Warner Trophy, a scoring pylon, an precise IndyAutomotive, and racing helmets. IndyAutomotive driver Kyffin Simpson, who offered a retired helmet for an inside show, was additionally in attendance on the occasion and helped reduce the ribbon.

“Other facilities on the welcome heart embody an grownup recreation space, kids’s playground, strolling path, and canine park. Increased semi-truck parking may also be accessible, with 128 whole areas, a rise of 78 areas from the earlier welcome heart. Through INDOT’s long-term relaxation space and welcome heart enchancment plan, the company will add greater than 1,200 truck parking areas, almost doubling capability statewide. …

“INDOT’s plan includes more than $600 million in improvements at 20 rest areas, welcome centers, and truck parking sites to be complete by the end of Fiscal Year 2034. Construction of the Clear Creek welcome center began in spring of 2023 and was led by prime contractor, Hannig Construction, of Terre Haute.”

Braun: “The new Clear Creek welcome center showcases Indiana’s deep roots in racing and provides a warm welcome for travelers entering the Crossroads of America. This state-of-the-art facility is a destination for fellow Hoosiers and visitors alike.”

INDOT Commissioner Lyndsay Quist: “The goal of INDOT’s overall plan is to provide safe, informative locations for travelers to rest, relax, and recharge. In addition to Clear Creek, we’re looking forward to opening the Black River welcome center on I-64 in Posey County later this year.”

On Thursday, the Indiana State Fair Commission formally introduced plans for a multi-million greenback growth and renovation for its on-campus boutique amphitheater, the Hoosier Lottery Free Stage, set to be accomplished in time for the 2026 Indiana State Fair.

From the press launch: “The venue is positioned within the coronary heart of Indianapolis and has the infrastructure and accessibility of the Indiana State Fairgrounds full with ample parking and ranging capability configurations in a well-known and unmatched setting for all Hoosiers to get pleasure from.

“The enhancements for the Hoosier Lottery Stage will embody enhancements to all sides of the venue together with:

“New stage and growth – 60’x40’ principal stage with two 30’x40’ wings

“Added roof peak – 30’ from stage deck to backside of roof construction

“Total roof load capability improve – 92,000 lbs.

“Brand new twin 10’x18’ LED video partitions (flown stage left and proper)

“Flexible seating capability setups – 5,000-7,500 (relying on basic admission or reserved seated reveals or a mixture of each basic admission and reserved seating). …

“For years, the Hoosier Lottery Free Stage has been a serious a part of the annual Indiana State Fair the place it welcomes internationally identified artists of all genres. As the centerpiece of the State Fair’s leisure lineup, it has constructed a strong fame amongst artists and audiences alike as a must-play stage on the State Fair circuit. Past performers on the Hoosier Lottery Free Stage embody Babyface, Tyler Childers, STYX, The Beach Boys, Melissa Etheridge, Boyz II Men, The Fray, Chase Rice, Max McNown, Barenaked Ladies, Jesse McCartney, Josh Turner, Kansas, Casting Crowns, Patti LaBelle, for King & Country, Rick Springfield, Buddy Guy, Dogstar ft. Keanu Reeves and plenty of, many extra.

“The renovation might be designed and constructed to not solely improve the State Fair expertise, however to create a real live performance facility and occasion venue accessible three hundred and sixty five days a 12 months. …

“The State Fairgrounds also announced a partnership where Indiana-based concert promotions company, MOKB Presents will program and book the Hoosier Lottery Stage during non-State Fair dates.”

Anna Whelchel, chief advertising and income officer for the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center: “Enhancing the Hoosier Lottery Stage live performance space is a crucial funding for the way forward for the Indiana State Fairgrounds expertise. These enhancements permit us to higher serve our friends, appeal to top-tier leisure, and proceed offering unforgettable moments for Hoosiers every summer season, together with exterior of the Fair. …

“For us, the partnership with MOKB Presents is a strategic step forward—allowing us to maximize the potential of our facilities, expand our impact within the Indianapolis concert scene, and create more year-round opportunities for Hoosiers to connect and celebrate at this iconic institution.”