A report from the Indiana Gaming Commission recently identified Auburn as one of two potential locations for a casino relocation within the state, according to Rep. Ben Smaltz, R-Auburn.

From the press release: “The report examined four potential locations across Indiana and found a site near Interstate 69 and State Road 8 in Auburn ranked among the top options for a casino, with downtown Indianapolis identified as the most profitable option. …

“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 discussion across the community, I want to be clear—I am not aware of any formal proposal or organized effort to locate a casino in Auburn. If this were something the community wanted to pursue, an independent review should be conducted to assess potential social, traffic and infrastructure impacts to the community. …

“Research has shown that expanded gambling access can lead to higher rates of addiction, financial hardship, family strain and, in some cases, public safety concerns.

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

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

From the press release: “Eligible residents may now apply via The Bridge Project’s website to become one of the 100 program participants selected for this unconditional cash initiative, which aims to improve the health and stability of families in neighborhoods with the highest infant mortality rates.

“Funding for the payments is fully philanthropic, with local support from the Indianapolis Foundation, Glick Philanthropies, Herbert Simon Family Foundation, Elevance Health, and private donors. …

“Selected participants will receive direct cash payments with no restrictions on use for 36 months including:

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

“$750 per month for the first 15 months,

“$375 per month for the following 21 months.

“Recipients will also have access to comprehensive supports including healthcare interventions, community resource connections and adult education opportunities. The initiative will also utilize community health workers to help families understand their benefits and access essential services ranging from transportation and childcare to safe sleep courses and nutritional assistance.

“Eligibility requirements:

“18 and older,

“24 weeks pregnant or less,

“Must reside in Indianapolis zip codes with the highest infant mortality challenges for Black families: 46241, 46222, 46237, 46219, 46218, 46201 and 46235,

“Have a household income of $39,000 or below. …

“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 executive 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 association for community economic development, has released its 2026 Policy Agenda, focused on recommendations to address the state’s affordability crisis, and invites members of its statewide network to discuss potential solutions at its upcoming Policy & Pizza regional legislator meeting series.

From the press release: “The new policy agenda, titled Strengthening Indiana’s Communities and Supporting Those Who Serve Hoosiers, reflects the results of Prosperity Indiana’s survey of over 200 organizational members as ratified by the association’s Policy Committee and Board of Directors. The 2026 agenda addresses issues of affordable housing, community development resources, asset-building, and consumer protection issues, as well as urgent & emerging priorities that cross all policy areas.

“A common theme among members’ policy survey responses is the growing reality that Indiana has become an unaffordable state, not only for Hoosier households whose incomes have not kept up with housing and other basic costs, but also for the community organizations who serve them and have been subject to state and federal cuts and rising administrative costs.

“Over the past year, more than two-thirds of PI Policy Survey respondents report that budget and policy changes at the federal and state levels have significantly or moderately decreased the ability of their organization to serve Hoosiers and their community (0% say policy changes have increased their ability to serve). As a result of policy changes, more than 40% of respondents have: eliminated programs or services; eliminated staff positions or are not filling roles; or have reduced the scope of clients they can serve—or are considering doing so.

“At the same time, Prosperity Indiana’s most recent research finds that 14 of the state’s 20 largest occupations no longer pay an income sufficient to meet the state’s housing wage of $22.18 per hour necessary to afford a modest two-bedroom home, up from 9 of the top 20 occupations just three years ago.

“As a result, PI’s 2026 Policy Agenda focuses on solutions to increase affordability for Hoosier households as well as to strengthen the capacity of the organizations who provide housing and economic opportunity for all Hoosiers. Our members’ priorities range from increasing the supply of safe, affordable housing, to combatting wealth loss through homeowner repair, to reducing the benefits cliff for vulnerable families. Newly trending priorities for 2026 include increasing resources for organizations who serve their communities while defending those organizations from attacks 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 announced that the Harvest Feast will be held at 7 p.m. Nov. 21 at the New Hope Church, 2307 Rhode Island St., in Gary.

From the press release: “Dr. Smith organizes and hosts this event each year in memory of his mother, 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 year, hundreds of residents attend the event to celebrate Thanksgiving with a meal and church service that features live music performances. The performers for the church service will be announced 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 29th year we have held the Harvest Feast. It is a blessing to come together as a community and show our gratitude for the gifts God has given us. There’s something special that takes place when people gather around the table for a hot meal. Strangers turn into friends, and the bond between family members 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 released the following statement 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, also responding to the election in a press release: “Yesterday’s election results prove that AOC and Bernie Sanders’ long march through the Democrat Party is now complete. They have dragged their party so far left that they elected an avowed communist as Mayor of New York, two far-left governors who openly campaigned on shredding parental rights, and an attorney general who apparently fantasizes about the children of political opponents dying in their arms.

“The real story of yesterday is Gavin Newsom’s Prop 50, clearing the path for Democrats to continue to gerrymander their way back into power. This comes on the heels of the Virginia legislature amending their state constitution to redraw their own congressional maps just last week. Communism and gerrymandering were on ballots yesterday, and Democrat voters in blue states overwhelmingly voted for both.

“Let’s be clear: Republicans did not start this fight. For decades, Democrats have wrung as many blue congressional seats out of their maps as the numbers would allow–counting illegals as citizens and gaming the census in their favor. Democrats may put a polite face on their gerrymandering every ten years, but that does not change the fact that they have systematically rigged the process at 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 government shutdown enters its second month, “the distribution of food assistance benefits for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) remains in jeopardy,” according to a press release from the office of Rep Ed DeLaney, D-Indianapolis.

From the press release: “The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) sent a letter in October directing states to hold all SNAP benefit distribution for the month of November. On Friday, Oct. 31, a judge ruled that the USDA must use their contingency fund for SNAP. However, this contingency fund contains about $4.65 billion, which does not meet the full $8 billion that SNAP recipients receive each 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 government has failed us. But sadly, Republican state legislators and the governor’s representative on the State Budget Committee refused to even ask the governor to help these families.

“Almost 600,000 Hoosiers depend on SNAP to be their reliable food source—one in eight of those people are children. The fact that 600,000 Hoosiers are unsure if they are going to be able to put food on the table is a cataclysmic failure of government.

“Private citizens across the state have to take matters into their own hands by donating to food banks and volunteering their time. While this is commendable and I encourage more of it, it is still not enough to meet the need.

“We are down to one last resort. Even if the USDA contingency fund is put to use, SNAP benefits will not be distributed in full or on time. I call on our one thousand township trustees to use their substantial reserve funds to provide food assistance for SNAP eligible households. According to a memo from the Indiana Township Association, there is a legal basis for township trustees to provide food assistance in emergency conditions, such as a disruption to federal benefits.

“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, along with food service providers, to detail emergency efforts aimed at connecting Marion County residents with access to healthy, fresh food this November, as part of a joint press conference with United Way of Central Indiana.

From the press release: “The City and its corporate partners are providing more than $200,000 in emergency funding to Gleaners Food Bank to subsidize the efforts of neighborhood food pantries. Additionally, the Office of Public Health and Safety (OPHS) is expanding its previously announced food outreach plans through the month of November. These efforts are in addition to those of the United Way of Central Indiana, who is calling on the community to donate to its Central Indiana Food Relief Fund. …

“OPHS will also use the funding to increase capacity at 10 distribution events planned throughout the month. … The City is also working with Indianapolis Public Schools to ensure students and families have needed support through several closed events. …

“Other available resources to connect residents with food include:

“Indy Parks- Indy Parks Meals Programs offer two food pantries, locations for youth after school meals, and the Drive and Dish Program, which allows residents to register, order groceries, and pick them up at a participating parks location. The Drive and Dish Programs at Frederick Douglass Park and Washington Park are currently at capacity and not able to accept new residents. Details and locations can be found at the Indy Parks Website.

“Brookside Park will be hosting a Food Drive from November 1-19. Residents can drop off nonperishable food donations Monday to Friday from noon to 7:30 pm at the Brookside Park Family Center, 3500 Brookside Parkway S Dr. Free meals are also available at the park on Mondays to Fridays from 4-6 pm while supplies last, thanks to a partnership with Second Helpings. Additional information about Second Helps programs at Indy Parks Locations will be shared on the Indy Parks Website.

“Community Compass- Community Compass is a free digital tool by the Indy Hunger Network. Residents can use a simple search function to find food assistance near them. It can be downloaded from app stores or accessed at https://www.communitycompass.app/

“Food Resource Services Hub (FRSH)- The Indy Hunger Network launched the Food Resource Services Hub (FRSH) to support individuals facing food insecurity. A Food Resource Navigator helps visitors access and connect with local food resources. Visit https://indyfoodresourceshub.org/

“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 community and friendly competition, the mayors and city councilors of Carmel and Westfield have teamed up to launch a charitable challenge supporting Hamilton County Harvest (HCH) Food Bank.

From the press release: “Inspired by the upcoming much-anticipated football matchup between the Carmel Greyhounds and the Westfield Shamrocks, the cities are going head-to-head to see who can raise the most funds to fight hunger.

“Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam and Westfield Mayor Scott Willis jointly created the ‘Tackling Hunger Together’ challenge, inviting residents, businesses and fans to show their team spirit not only in the stands but also through generosity and compassion. Every dollar raised will go directly to HCH Food Bank, helping to provide nutritious meals for families in need across 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” during a fireside chat discussion with Purdue President Mung Chiang at the Purdue Nuclear Energy Summit Wednesday.

From the press release: “Governor Braun highlighted Indiana’s efforts to bring down high energy costs and meet increasing demand. Governor Braun spoke about Indiana’s efforts to increase baseload production to meet demands and hold down prices, as well as the legislative template to support new energy generation and the workforce pipeline from Purdue and other universities to support new energy generation projects. …

“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, IndyCar and Indianapolis Motor Speedway President Doug Boles, public officials and contracting partners for a ceremonial ribbon cutting to mark the opening of the newly constructed Clear Creek Welcome Center on eastbound I-70 near the Indiana/Illinois state line.

From the press release: “The new welcome center replaces the previous facility built in 1992 and is inspired by Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the Indianapolis 500. Interactive exhibits feature a replica of the Borg-Warner Trophy, a scoring pylon, an actual IndyCar, and racing helmets. IndyCar driver Kyffin Simpson, who provided a retired helmet for an interior display, was also in attendance at the event and helped cut the ribbon.

“Other amenities at the welcome center include an adult recreation area, children’s playground, walking path, and dog park. Increased semi-truck parking will also be available, with 128 total spaces, an increase of 78 spaces from the previous welcome center. Through INDOT’s long-term rest area and welcome center improvement plan, the agency will add more than 1,200 truck parking spaces, nearly doubling capacity 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 announced plans for a multi-million dollar expansion and renovation for its on-campus boutique amphitheater, the Hoosier Lottery Free Stage, set to be completed in time for the 2026 Indiana State Fair.

From the press release: “The venue is located in the heart of Indianapolis and has the infrastructure and accessibility of the Indiana State Fairgrounds complete with ample parking and varying capacity configurations in a familiar and unmatched setting for all Hoosiers to enjoy.

“The enhancements for the Hoosier Lottery Stage will include improvements to all facets of the venue including:

“New stage and expansion – 60’x40’ main stage with two 30’x40’ wings

“Added roof height – 30’ from stage deck to bottom of roof structure

“Total roof load capacity upgrade – 92,000 lbs.

“Brand new dual 10’x18’ LED video walls (flown stage left and right)

“Flexible seating capacity setups – 5,000-7,500 (depending on general admission or reserved seated shows or a mix of both general admission and reserved seating). …

“For years, the Hoosier Lottery Free Stage has been a major part of the annual Indiana State Fair where it welcomes internationally known artists of all genres. As the centerpiece of the State Fair’s entertainment lineup, it has built a powerful reputation among artists and audiences alike as a must-play stage on the State Fair circuit. Past performers on the Hoosier Lottery Free Stage include 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 many, many more.

“The renovation will be designed and built to not only enhance the State Fair experience, but to create a true concert facility and event venue accessible 365 days a year. …

“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 marketing and revenue officer for the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center: “Enhancing the Hoosier Lottery Stage concert area is an important investment for the future of the Indiana State Fairgrounds experience. These improvements allow us to better serve our guests, attract top-tier entertainment, and continue providing unforgettable moments for Hoosiers each summer, including outside 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.”