AGP Executive Report

Storm Recovery in Indiana: Gov. Mike Braun says Indiana has activated its disaster relief fund, offering $5,000 grants to displaced families and pushing for a major FEMA disaster declaration that could unlock more help for uninsured and underinsured residents; the state is also issuing temporary housing vouchers and urging people to call 211 for assistance as damage assessments continue. Flood Toll: WRTV reports at least seven deaths across Indiana tied to storms and flooding, with victims ranging from a 4-year-old to an 86-year-old. Local Government & Community: Allen County is testing “Community Conversations,” with county officials and department leaders holding open, informal meetings across the county to hear resident concerns directly. Business & Jobs: Marmon Utility marked the opening of an 80,000-square-foot manufacturing wing for electric transmission products. Sports (Indiana): The Pacers finally signed Purdue guard Braden Smith to a two-way deal, and CEO Mel Raines was named to Forbes’ 50 Over 50 list. WNBA Controversy: The league acknowledged security asked a mother and daughter to cover “XX-XY” shirts during the Fever vs. Dream game, adding to the ongoing debate around Sophie Cunningham.

Flood Recovery in Indiana: After days of severe storms, Indiana is still tallying damage and deaths, with at least seven storm-related fatalities reported and major flooding forcing rescues and evacuations, while power outages left hundreds of thousands in the dark. Federal Help Update: FEMA has not yet approved individual assistance for flood victims because the disaster declaration stopped short of a major disaster; officials urge residents to document damage and work through insurance first, with guidance pending if FEMA upgrades aid. Statehouse Housing Push: Gov. Mike Braun broke ground in Flora on Carriage Estates, a $28.9M READI 2.0-supported project aimed at boosting workforce housing and homeownership, including 28 lots and eight energy-efficient homes. State Government Careers: The Indiana Senate Republican Caucus opened applications for paid 2027 spring internships at the Statehouse, offering a $900 biweekly stipend and professional development. Local Business & Utilities: In northwest Indiana, residents are using public spaces like Southlake Mall to cool off and charge devices during prolonged NIPSCO outages. Sports & Culture: The Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark was seen smiling after Angel Reese’s late miss in an overtime win, while WNBA-related controversy continues to swirl around Cunningham’s name and shirts.

Flood Disaster Update: Indiana officials say historic White River flooding has killed at least 7 people, with Hamilton County’s record-high river level, evacuations in Carmel and Noblesville, and widespread power outages affecting about 150,000 customers at one point. Federal Aid & Recovery: Gov. Mike Braun has declared a statewide emergency and is coordinating with President Trump for federal assistance as crews work through damage assessments. Politics & Rule of Law: A new editorial criticizes Braun’s gas tax holiday as potentially bypassing Indiana law and lawmakers. WNBA Spotlight (Indiana Fever): Caitlin Clark and the Fever beat the Atlanta Dream 95-91 in overtime, while Angel Reese’s missed game-winning layup became a viral talking point. Immigration Enforcement: ICE is expanding 287(g) agreements with Indiana state police to let troopers participate in federal immigration detentions during routine stops. Sports/Local Interest: Former Yankees pitcher Tommy John, the namesake of the surgery, died at 83.

Disaster Response: Indiana is still reeling after historic flooding tied to days of severe storms, with at least six deaths reported and major rescue efforts along the White River corridor from Hamilton County into the northern Indianapolis suburbs; officials say the White River surpassed the 1913 record, and Mayor Joe Hogsett urged evacuations as water reached homes and submerged cars. Federal Aid: Gov. Mike Braun says he spoke with President Donald Trump and that an expedited FEMA declaration is being processed, as the White House approved an emergency declaration to unlock storm and flood assistance. Public Safety: Authorities are urging residents to stay away from floodwaters and watch for scams targeting storm victims. Community Recovery: Local groups are stepping in with food and support, including Feed the Region distributing hundreds of free meals in the storm aftermath. Local Economy/Nonprofits: New IRS-based rankings show some Indiana nonprofits relying heavily on government grants, including Indiana Family To Family in Fishers and Workforce Development Services Inc in Gary.

Severe Weather & Flooding: Indiana is reeling after historic storms and White River flooding left at least six dead, with rescues and evacuations continuing as water levels shift; Indianapolis officials say it’s the worst flooding in 30+ years, and Trump has approved an emergency declaration unlocking FEMA disaster aid for dozens of counties. Federal Relief: FEMA says federal assistance is available to supplement state and local response efforts as cleanup and recovery ramp up. Local Infrastructure & Housing: Attica won a $1.7M Indiana Finance Authority award to expand housing lots, while Johnson County lawmakers highlighted READI 2.0 arts and culture funding for projects aimed at boosting quality of life and local economic development. Manufacturing Jobs: Vulcraft (Nucor) announced a $59M expansion in St. Joe, aiming to add up to 20 high-wage jobs by 2027. Sports Spotlight: Robert Griffin III put Caitlin Clark atop his WNBA MVP ballot, and Clark’s Fever kept rolling with a win over Dallas.

Severe Weather & Flooding: The White River has shattered the 1913 flood record, with Indianapolis bracing for a crest near 20 feet and officials urging evacuations in flood-prone areas as Gov. Braun requests federal help. Public Safety Alerts: Marion County issued a local disaster emergency and travel advisory, warning that even a few inches of water can be deadly and urging residents to follow emergency updates. Local Business/Industry: Nucor’s Vulcraft plans a $59 million expansion in St. Joe, aiming to add 20 jobs and boost steel grating output. Education & Health Careers: District 196 students earned top international honors at the HOSA Leadership Conference in Indianapolis, including a first-place finish in Epidemiology. Scam Watch: Hobart ranked tied for 55th among Indiana cities for July scam reports, with the BBB tracking fraud losses statewide. Sports Spotlight: The Indiana Fever’s Stephanie White drew a quick turnaround from boos to cheers after recent controversy, while WNBA debate over Sophie Cunningham continues to fuel national attention.

Flood Response: Gov. Mike Braun declared a statewide disaster emergency after historic Indiana flooding, requested FEMA help, and Indianapolis officials urged evacuations near the White River as flood walls and road impacts ramp up. Scam Warnings: Indiana AG officials warned storm victims about out-of-state scammers posing as contractors or FEMA workers, urging Hoosiers to slow down and verify. Energy & Courts: Indiana AG Todd Rokita moved to intervene in a federal case tied to a consent decree that could force early closure of Rockport Generating Station units totaling 2,600 megawatts. Business Relief: U-Haul is offering 30 days of free storage and U-Box container use at Indiana locations for flood-impacted residents. Local Economy: Vulcraft (Nucor) announced a $59M expansion in St. Joe that could add up to 20 jobs by 2027. Sports (Indy): Colts special teams coordinator Brian Mason is dealing with a serious knee injury after a preseason collision; the Colts and Patriots played to a 13-13 tie.

Flood Response: Catastrophic flooding in southeast Indiana led Gov. Mike Braun to declare a statewide disaster emergency after the Whitewater River overflowed, trapping residents and prompting tense nighttime rescues captured in dramatic drone video. State Politics: The Indiana Debate Commission says all four secretary of state candidates will debate Oct. 7 at WFYI in Indianapolis ahead of the November election. Local Parks & Honors: Indiana State University political science professor Nathan Schaumleffel was elected a Fellow of the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration. Education & Business: AACSB extended Indiana University of Pennsylvania’s business and accounting accreditation through 2031-32. Consumer & Fraud Watch: BBB Scam Tracker shows Indianapolis leads Indiana with 43 reports in July; several cities tied for 55th with one report. Agriculture & Community: The Indiana State Fair spotlights Indiana Grown products and 4-H Grand Drive champions, while Indiana Pork’s Ham Breakfast kicked off the fair season. Sports: Raiders’ No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza threw a TD in his preseason debut.

Severe Weather Response: Gov. Mike Braun declared a statewide disaster emergency and mobilized the Indiana National Guard as flash flooding hit east central Indiana, with Cambridge City issuing a temporary 8 p.m.-7 a.m. curfew through Aug. 20 to protect residents and aid recovery. Local Impact: Residents in Connersville and Cambridge City described fast-rising water that damaged homes and forced evacuations, while state agencies coordinated rescues, debris removal, and ongoing support. Sports & Community Tension: The Indiana Fever’s Sophie Cunningham controversy kept boiling over as coach Stephanie White faced boos, and Fever stars Aliyah Boston and Kelsey Mitchell backed her publicly. WNBA Eligibility Debate: The league’s transgender eligibility policy remains unresolved after meetings, with Indiana Fever-related comments driving national attention. Public Health: The FDA upgraded a nearly 1.6 million dozen egg recall tied to Salmonella to its most serious category, including Indiana-based Midwest Poultry Services. State Politics & Policy: A new law celebrated in Zionsville aims to reduce over-regulation for Hoosier farmers and small businesses. Business & Growth: Fort Wayne International Airport marked completion of its $145 million modernization project, touting a boost for regional travel and economic momentum. Sports Business: The Hambletonian harness race is leaving the Meadowlands after 46 years, moving to Hoosier Park in Anderson for 2027-2029.

Severe Weather & Flooding: Indiana braces for more damage after historic flash flooding; Gov. Mike Braun is expected to declare a statewide emergency, with I-70 westbound closed in Wayne County and crews searching for a missing boy in the Mississinewa River. Public Safety: Morgan County officials say they still can’t find the source of elevated carbon monoxide that shut down the county administration building for weeks. Local Government: Morgan County’s Election Board will hold a public test of voting equipment Sept. 29. Business & Industry: GM is selling its stake in Indiana’s EV battery plant to Samsung SDI, shifting the site to Samsung control; Vulcraft (Nucor) plans a $59M expansion in St. Joe. Food Safety: Whole Foods recalls jalapeño-containing salsas, dips and prepared foods tied to a Salmonella outbreak, including products distributed in Indiana. Sports & Culture: The WNBA says it has “no immediate eligibility matters” after a task force meeting on transgender athlete eligibility, following Sophie Cunningham’s comments; meanwhile, Caitlin Clark stars in a new Wilson ad shot at Mooresville’s Newby Dome. Energy & Costs: The national gas average is climbing again, back to $4.07.

WNBA & Indiana Fever: Fever coach Stephanie White doubled down after backlash tied to DiJonai Carrington’s flagrant foul on Sophie Cunningham, saying “hate and fearmongering” won’t hijack the league, while the WNBA says a task force met but found “no immediate eligibility matters” for transgender athletes. Food Safety: Whole Foods recalled jalapeño-containing salsas, guacamole, pico and prepared foods in 12 states including Indiana after a salmonella-linked supplier issue; no illnesses reported. Indiana Storm Recovery: Northwest Indiana residents in Hammond and beyond are still dealing with flooding and long power outages as Gov. Braun weighs a statewide emergency declaration. Consumer Fraud Watch: BBB Scam Tracker shows Elizabeth logged a scam report in July, part of a broader Indiana pattern with Indianapolis and Fort Wayne leading scam counts. Local Culture: Greencastle Music Fest returns Aug. 21–22 with two nights of live music, food and family events downtown. State Policy & Courts: Fired IURC regulator Andy Zay sued Gov. Braun over his removal, arguing interference with the commission’s duties.

Work Truck Week: NTEA says its big commercial-vehicle event is coming back to Indianapolis March 9–12, 2027, with a new Future Truck Summit on March 9. RV Industry & Local Politics: Congressman Rudy Yakym toured Forest River in Elkhart, highlighting tax changes affecting the RV sector, while InVision (Airxcel) previewed expanded RV appliance offerings for its Aug. 18–19 showcase. Severe Weather & Power: Deadly storms tore through the Midwest, including Indiana, with reports of tornadoes, flooding, and widespread outages—over 400,000 Hoosiers and neighbors still without power at last check. Public Safety: DHS/ICE announced an arrest of a Cuban illegal alien in Florida tied to an expired CDL, part of a broader push against fraudulent commercial licensing. Indiana Health: 53 Indiana hospitals were recognized by the American Heart Association for improving heart disease and stroke care. Education & Workforce: Indiana highlighted adult education results, saying graduates see wage gains and better job stability after earning credentials. Business: GM plans to sell its stake in its Indiana battery joint venture to Samsung SDI, moving toward a Samsung-led operation. Sports Politics: The Stephanie White/Sophie Cunningham/WNBA controversy continues to dominate national attention, with fresh calls for action and renewed debate over women’s sports.

WNBA in Indiana: Fever coach Stephanie White went on an emotional, no-nonsense rant Tuesday after backlash over how she handled a Saturday Flagrant 2 foul by Chicago’s DiJonai Carrington on Sophie Cunningham. White said “hate” and “fearmongering” won’t hijack the league, vowed she’ll always back her players, and told critics “everybody else can go to hell,” while Caitlin Clark said she was sickened by boos and promised the team will “ride for her.” Sports & community: Parkview hospitals in Fort Wayne/Allen County earned top stroke-care honors from the American Heart Association, with multiple “Gold Plus” ratings. Courts & crime: A former Marion County band director, Adam McRay, faces new Indiana sexual misconduct charges involving a minor, on top of Kentucky counts tied to alleged abuse of students. Law & business: The 7th Circuit ruled Indiana railroad easements don’t let rail companies charge telecoms for access to the air above or ground below easements—an issue tied to fiber cable installations. Weather: Severe storms across the Midwest knocked out power for more than 600,000 customers, including in Indiana.

WNBA Fallout in Indiana: Chicago Sky’s DiJonai Carrington says she never claimed her Flagrant 2 ejection for a hard foul on Fever’s Sophie Cunningham was “white privilege,” after posting the phrase online; the league and fans keep circling the incident as Indiana’s playoff race tightens. Indiana Politics: Fired IURC regulator Andy Zay sues Gov. Mike Braun over his dismissal, as the IURC weighs whether to reconsider a major AES Indiana rate hike. Statehouse & Local Housing: Elkhart won a $10M low-interest housing infrastructure loan, and Allen County received $9.9M, both aimed at expanding housing supply. Data Centers in Indianapolis: City-County Council advanced a pause on new data center approvals in Marion County through 2027, while exempting some already-approved projects. Early Education Safety Concerns: Proposed Head Start rule changes would cut about 1,400 regulations, raising alarms from Indiana providers about safety and access. Weather Watch: Severe thunderstorms and flood warnings stretch across the Midwest into Indiana and beyond.

WNBA Controversy: Chicago Sky’s DiJonai Carrington doubled down after her “WHITE PRIVILEGE” post following a Flagrant 2 ejection vs. Indiana Fever’s Sophie Cunningham, insisting she never meant the foul decision was about race. Local Government: Indianapolis City-County Council advanced a data center moratorium, but it’s not final yet; the measure still needs Metropolitan Development Commission approval. State Politics: A Trump-backed challenger won Indiana State Senate District 23 after a recount flipped the result to Paula Copenhaver. Public Safety & Justice: Boone County prosecutors plan to seek adult charges for an 18-year-old tied to an Israeli flag arson in Zionsville. Energy Costs: NIPSCO is asking regulators to let it recover coal “keep-online” costs from consumers, arguing the policy burden is driving higher bills. Sports & Indiana: Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett unveiled a nearly $1.9B 2027 budget focused on public safety and infrastructure. Community & Culture: Purdue’s board approved updates and expansions while continuing its search for a new president.

Indiana Utility Watch: The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission rejected NIPSCO’s $741M, five-year natural gas plan for LaGrange and Steuben, saying the company didn’t prove each improvement was cost-justified, and ordered monthly reporting and third-party monitoring. Fort Wayne Cleanup: The city is starting environmental remediation at the North River site, removing contaminated fill on a 29-acre former rail and scrap area, funded by about $3M from the EPA and Indiana’s Brownfields Program. Local Business Growth: American Technology Components (ATC) promoted Craig Shriver to COO, Chase Healey to chief sales officer, Kevin Silcox to director of sales, and Elena Marin to director of manufacturing. Tech & Jobs: Pinnacle Technology Solutions announced it’s acquiring Network Solutions to expand AI, cybersecurity, and managed services. Transportation: Gov. Mike Braun raised concerns about Kentucky’s plan to reduce the 2nd Street Bridge from four lanes to three, warning it could hurt traffic flow and safety in Jeffersonville. Community Calendar: Wayne County Networking is hosting a free monthly entrepreneur meet-up in Richmond on the last Thursday, with RSVP requested. Food Safety: Taylor Farms recalled jalapeno products sold at major retailers, including Kroger and Trader Joe’s, over possible salmonella contamination. Sports & Politics: The Indiana Fever’s weekend drama with Chicago Sky’s DiJonai Carrington—plus the fallout over “white privilege” comments—kept Indiana sports headlines in the national spotlight.