AGP Executive Report

WNBA Playoffs (Indiana Fever): A’ja Wilson poured in 38 points and 16 rebounds as the Las Vegas Aces routed the Indiana Fever 102-85 in Game 1, putting Indiana on the brink and setting up Game 2 Tuesday in Indianapolis; Clark graded the defense “an F” after a sloppy, turnover-heavy night. WNBA Discipline: Sophie Cunningham was fined after a Flagrant 1 call in the same loss, a decision that sparked fan backlash. Local Sports (IHSAA): The IHSAA released boys tennis and boys/girls soccer sectional pairings, mapping out early-round matchups across Indiana. Public Safety: A Gibson County deputy, Michael Bates, was honored for traffic-safety work, including DUI arrests. Business/Economy: Amazon plans to invest $100M in a Greenwood manufacturing facility to support its robotics and fulfillment network, with 300 jobs expected. Health/Industry: Eli Lilly broke ground on a $6.5B Houston plant to expand U.S. pharmaceutical manufacturing. Community/Crime: Police report an Indiana man died after falling from a golf cart; in Kentucky, an Indiana man was arrested after fleeing police and being found under the Natcher Bridge.

WNBA Playoffs (Indiana): Caitlin Clark is the AP Comeback Player of the Year after a bounce-back season, and she’s also on the AP All-WNBA First Team with Kelsey Mitchell as the Fever open the first-round series vs. the defending champion Las Vegas Aces today at 4 p.m. on ABC. Sports Betting/Viewing: Multiple guides note the best way to watch Game 1 for free varies by streaming trial, with Fever listed as +3.5 underdogs and Clark listed as probable with a back issue while Aliyah Boston is questionable. Local Government/Infrastructure: INDOT announced a road closure on U.S. 52 in Franklin County near Brookville starting around Oct. 5, between Ind. 244 and Ind. 1. Workforce/AI: Former Gov. Eric Holcomb is co-chairing RAISE US, a new nonprofit backed by $500M+ in commitments to help workers transition to an AI economy. Immigration Enforcement: A massive ICE operation in Indiana led to 426 arrests over five days, a development Jim Banks says should be codified into law. Public Health Policy: Indiana is among states moving away from self-attesting medical exemptions for Medicaid work requirements, requiring more proof starting in January. Business/Community: Cup & Kettle in Bloomington is rebuilding after flooding and construction, shifting from a cafe to a tea production-focused shop.

WNBA Playoffs: The Indiana Fever open the first round Sunday, Sept. 27 at 4 p.m. ET against the Las Vegas Aces at Michelob ULTRA Arena on ABC, with Indiana entering as the No. 6 seed. Injuries: Fever guard Tyasha Harris is out for the rest of the postseason after a season-ending broken left fibula, and Aliyah Boston is listed questionable with a right lower-leg issue—adding real uncertainty right before the series. Fever Focus: Caitlin Clark is pushing a playoff message after an 86-66 regular-season finale loss to Minnesota, warning Indiana can’t start slow again. College Football (Hoosiers): No. 5 Indiana survived Northwestern 29-23 in the Big Ten opener, with Lee Beebe Jr. rushing for 203 yards and scoring as the Hoosiers improved to 4-0. Local Safety: INDOT reminded Hoosiers to keep political and advertising signs off state roadways and to expect removal of unsafe signage. Elections: A guide to voting in Indiana’s 2026 General Election covers registration, ID rules, and early voting and mail options.

Big Ten Football: No. 5 Indiana survived a scare in its Big Ten opener, beating Northwestern 29-23 in Bloomington after Lee Beebe Jr. rushed for 203 yards and set up Josh Hoover’s late TD; the Hoosiers recovered an onside kick to seal it and improved to 4-0. WNBA Playoffs: The Indiana Fever open the postseason Sunday against the defending champion Las Vegas Aces, after a rough regular-season finale vs. Minnesota; Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell will need to bounce back quickly. Energy & Industry: Indiana is set to receive $175M in federal funding to modernize a regional electricity “choke point,” while Amazon plans a major Greenwood manufacturing investment and AEP is moving ahead with a large natural gas facility in Spencer County. Public Safety: A fatal I-94 crash near Chesterton killed a 19-year-old motorcyclist; police are asking for any video or witness info. Local Business: A southern Indiana “pumpkin concierge” delivers luxury pumpkins, sets them up, and removes them after the season. Space: Sen. Jim Banks is pushing Grissom Air Reserve Base as the new home for the U.S. Space Academy.

Big Ten Football: No. 5 Indiana survived a scare in its conference opener, beating Northwestern 29-23 in Bloomington after Lee Beebe Jr. rushed for a career-best 203 yards and a late TD; Turbo Richard left early with an injury, but Indiana recovered and held on after a final onside-kick attempt. Local Sports (High School): West Vigo was shut out 70-0 by South Putnam, while Jimtown fell 17-15 to Tippecanoe Valley as special teams mistakes proved costly. Community & Events: Indiana’s centennial corn husking competition in Flora is set to draw hundreds of contestants and spectators, celebrating 100 years since the first state event in 1926. Education Policy: Indiana lawmakers are pushing for a review of dual-credit and other early-college options to better align with the state’s new high school diploma seals. Public Safety/Health: Indiana schools report early wins from bell-to-bell cellphone bans, citing fewer disruptions and more classroom focus. WNBA: The Fever are set for the playoffs, with attention on their first-round matchup against the Las Vegas Aces.

Opportunity Zones & Growth: Gov. Mike Braun submitted 126 census-tract nominations for Opportunity Zone 2.0, aiming to spur private investment and wage growth across Indiana’s 15 regions. Energy & Defense: Indiana is set to receive $175 million from the federal government for electric grid upgrades, and Southern Indiana’s Naval Weapons Station Crane is slated to host the Navy’s first advanced nuclear microreactor—an on-site power boost for critical missions. School Safety Funding: Lake County schools received more than $2.1 million through Indiana’s Secured School Safety Grant Program for upgrades and added support. Disaster Relief Expansion: FEMA added Pike, Cass and Putnam counties to Indiana’s major disaster declaration, opening Individual Assistance for more residents. Local Business Convenience: Kroger is testing 24-hour shopping at select Indiana stores, including a Bloomington location. Sports (Hoosier Spotlight): Indiana opens Big Ten play Friday vs. Northwestern, while the Fever head into WNBA postseason action after a strong late-season run. Weather/Harvest: Indiana and Michigan corn and soybeans continue progressing toward harvest, with soybeans dropping leaves and corn denting advancing.

WNBA Playoffs Seeding: The Minnesota Lynx closed the regular season with an 86-66 rout of the Indiana Fever, dropping Indiana to the No. 6 seed and setting up a first-round matchup against the No. 3 seed. The loss also came with injury scares, including Aliyah Boston and Tyasha Harris exiting early. Fever Record Moment: Despite the defeat, Kelsey Mitchell set a new WNBA single-season 3-point record, hitting two long balls to reach 135 made triples. Big Ten Football: No. 5 Indiana opens Big Ten play Friday night at Memorial Stadium against unbeaten Northwestern, with the Hoosiers riding a strong start and consecutive shutouts. Utility Accountability: Indiana regulators launched a formal probe into NIPSCO’s handling of August storm outages after residents in Gary demanded answers at a town hall. Energy Grid Upgrade: Indiana is set to receive $175 million in federal funding to improve a key regional electricity “choke point,” aiming to reduce congestion and save ratepayers money. Local Power Lines: I&M is holding public input sessions on proposed 150+ miles of transmission line routes in Steuben County, with residents raising concerns about farmland, property values, and line proximity. Digital Government: Indiana earned an A-grade for the sixth straight year in the Digital States Survey, highlighting online service upgrades and an AI chatbot. College Sports: Indiana volleyball rebounded in its Big Ten opener, rallying past UCLA 3-0.

Broadband Expansion: Indiana Broadband Office awarded $133,943 in the 18th round of the Indiana Connectivity Program, funding service for 28 households across 15 counties, including eight in northern Whitley County. Public Safety & Health: Sharon police are investigating the homicide of 24-year-old Billy Colwell after a chest wound death; meanwhile, Adams County reported a second measles case, urging residents to check immunizations. Statehouse & Schools: Youth advocates rallied at the Indiana Statehouse pushing a proposed $2 tobacco tax increase; Boone County schools received over $275,000 in secured school safety grants. Local Infrastructure: INDOT plans to replace traffic signals at Third Street/U.S. 421 with overhead red flashers and stop signs on or after Oct. 13. Business & Jobs: Gov. Braun highlighted succession-planning tools for small businesses amid the “Silver Tsunami,” and Amazon announced a new robotics components plant in Indiana. Sports (Indiana): No. 5 Indiana opens Big Ten defense of its title Friday vs. unbeaten Northwestern, while the Fever’s playoff seeding remains in focus after a win over Minnesota.

WNBA Playoff Picture: Minnesota clinched the No. 1 seed, but the rest of the bracket is still up for grabs after results involving Golden State and Indiana’s late-season push. Public Health: Indiana confirmed measles cases in Adams County and other Northeast Indiana counties, with health officials urging residents to check MMR vaccination status. Courts & College Sports: An Indiana judge granted a preliminary injunction letting more student-athletes, including Iowa State’s Tamin Lipsey, return for a fifth year—an NCAA fight that could reshape rosters. Local Justice: Marion County prosecutors charged five Indianapolis officers over alleged misuse of Flock license-plate-reader cameras. Healthcare Costs: Indiana physicians and public defense officials are warning that access and funding problems are getting worse for Hoosiers. Sports & Community: Indiana Fever’s Sophie Cunningham hit 2,000 career points, while Indiana Wesleyan and other local teams keep rolling into conference play. Local Notes: The L.S. Ayres Tea Room at the Indiana State Museum is bringing back holiday lunches.

Cold Case: Court documents say David Heck, 50, of Brazil, Indiana, was arrested over a 2002 Pennsylvania murder, accused of kidnapping, raping and killing Sabrina Kahler at Fairview Gravel Pits near Lake Erie. Infrastructure: Gov. Mike Braun marks completion of Section 3 of the I-69 Ohio River Crossing in Evansville, an Indiana approach segment meant to support all-weather construction access for the future bridge. Sports—College Football: A Monroe County judge granted a preliminary injunction against the NCAA, clearing Indiana defenders Stephen Daley and Kellan Wyatt to play Friday vs. Northwestern; IU also lists cornerback A.J. Harris as doubtful on the injury report. Sports—WNBA: The Indiana Fever beat the Minnesota Lynx 96-77, but Minnesota still clinched the No. 1 seed; Caitlin Clark led the charge as the Fever push home-court hopes. Public Safety: Indiana State Police promoted Sgt. Ben Rector to lieutenant and named him Lafayette District commander; ISP also seeks recruits for Motor Carrier Inspectors. Health & Policy: Indiana begins enforcing Medicaid work rules in January 2027, but the “lookback” starts counting hours next fall. Business: A Wendy’s franchisee with 13 Indiana locations filed Chapter 11, raising questions about what happens to local restaurants.

Local Outdoors: Indiana DNR is inviting Hoosiers to celebrate National Public Lands Day and National Hunting and Fishing Day on Sept. 26, with volunteer cleanups and free fishing opportunities. Southern Indiana Health: Being for Others Health & Wellness Foundation launched county-based Health & Wellness Networks to connect local leaders and service providers across the region. Sports—WNBA: Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell powered the Indiana Fever to a 96-77 win over the Minnesota Lynx, with Olivia Miles scratched late due to a calf injury; the Fever kept playoff hopes alive and set up another big rematch. Sports—Men’s Soccer: No. 2 Indiana and No. 13 Wisconsin played to a 1-1 draw, with Michal Mroz anchoring the defense in Madison. Indiana Roads: INDOT announced short-term S.R. 59 closures in Clay County starting Oct. 5 for culvert replacements, with a detour in place. Public Safety: An East Chicago man faces charges after a high-speed chase from Hammond to the South Shore that ended in a crash in Chicago. State Health: Indiana’s child fatality report highlights injury as the No. 1 cause of death for kids, with recommendations focused on prevention like safe-sleep education. Entertainment/Local Pride: Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari in Santa Claus won major Golden Ticket Awards, including Best Water Park in the world for Splashin’ Safari.

Cold Case Justice: Indiana Attorney General Dave Sunday and Erie County prosecutors announced charges against David Heck, 50, in the 2002 kidnapping, rape and murder of Sabrina Kahler—after a statewide grand jury recommended murder charges; Heck was taken into custody in Indiana, but investigators say they still don’t know where Kahler’s body is. Public Safety & Roads: INDOT scheduled ramp and overnight lane closures at I-94 and US 421 in LaPorte County, with traffic reduced during late-night hours; separate paving work is set to begin Friday on US 41 in southern Knox County. Statehouse & Schools: Reps. Sweet and Snow urged students to apply for the 2027 Indiana House Republican Internship; Rep. Teshka was named Indiana Bankers Association Legislator of the Year for anti-crypto kiosk fraud work, and Rep. Lehman highlighted Secured School Safety grants totaling more than $123,000 for Adams County schools. Community & Health: Indiana Rail Safety Week returns Sept. 21-27 with expanded education and enforcement; and the “Meals with Muffet” food drive runs Sept. 29 for Hunger Action Day. Local Business: Greenwood approved plans for Buc-ee’s first Indiana location, expected to open by late 2028.

Delphi Delphi Murders Appeal: Richard Allen is asking Indiana’s Court of Appeals for a new trial, arguing his confessions came after solitary confinement left him in psychosis and that jurors were wrongly blocked from an alternative “pagan ritual” theory. Indiana Courts & Public Safety: Indiana’s recount effort hit an obstacle as the commission tried to overturn a close GOP state Senate primary result. WNBA in Indianapolis: The Washington Mystics beat the Indiana Fever 93-77, with coach Stephanie White disputing a key Aliyah Boston foul call that was upheld on challenge. Education & Community: Indiana’s bell-to-bell phone ban is getting early feedback from teachers on enforcement, while a new Indiana Landmarks Black history program leader, Eunice Trotter, is stepping down amid funding worries. Veterans & Local Aid: VA announced record grants to Indiana organizations helping prevent veteran homelessness. State Policy: INDOT reminded Hoosiers that campaign signs can’t be placed in state right-of-way. Health & Wellness: Being for Others launched county-based health and wellness networks across southern Indiana. Sports & Culture: Ke Huy Quan shared how a residual check from “Indiana Jones” changed his family’s life.

Delphi Justice: Richard Allen, convicted of the 2017 Delphi murders, appeared in court as Indiana’s appeals court prepares to hear arguments to overturn his 130-year sentence, including claims his confessions came during a mental health crisis and that jurors were wrongly blocked from presenting a pagan ritual theory. Local Safety Funding: Madison County schools are receiving more than $475,000 through Indiana’s Secured School Safety Grant Program for security upgrades. Emergency Preparedness: Indiana officials marked National Preparedness Month, urging families to review storm plans and build disaster kits after August’s damaging weather. Rail Safety: Indiana Rail Safety Week kicks off with expanded education and enforcement, warning that most train crashes happen at crossings with lights or gates. Energy & Costs: Diesel is averaging about $6.82 a gallon in Indiana—up sharply from last year—adding pressure on farmers during harvest. Tech & Power: Google asked Indiana regulators to approve 228 more emergency generators for its Fort Wayne data center. Sports: The Indiana Fever’s playoff seeding hopes took a hit after a 93-77 loss to the Washington Mystics.

Public Health: Indiana health officials say mosquito pools in Gibson County tested positive for West Nile virus, urging residents to cut standing water, use repellant, and limit time outdoors around dusk and dawn. Delphi Case: Richard Allen, serving 130 years for the 2017 murders of Abby Williams and Libby German, is asking the Indiana Court of Appeals for a new trial, arguing his confessions came during a psychological crisis and that jurors were improperly barred from presenting a pagan-ritual theory. WNBA: Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever fell 93-77 to the Washington Mystics, with Clark scoring 25 but Indiana shooting poorly; Clark avoided additional punishment after a late foul review. Local Sports & Campus: Purdue cross country opened its season at the John McNichols Invitational with strong men’s and women’s showings. Business/Tech: HanmiGlobal will manage construction of SK hynix’s West Lafayette AI memory packaging plant through 2028. Community/Arts: Carmel’s Allied Solutions Center will host a 40th anniversary “Hoosiers” screening Nov. 15 with cast Q&A and a photo stop with the film’s school bus.

Public Safety: Wells County Jail inmate Sue D. Stuchell, 66, was found unresponsive in her cell and later pronounced dead; Indiana State Police say she was alone and there’s no indication of foul play, with autopsy and toxicology pending. Roads & Local Government: INDOT plans a one-day closure on Ind. 7/Hanging Rock Hill in Madison for ditch cleaning and repair (8 a.m.-5 p.m. on/after Sept. 21). Housing Watch: Zillow reports Jasper County’s typical home value rose 3.8% to $304,343 in August 2026, while Clark County climbed 1.6% to $267,634. WNBA in Indiana: The Indiana Fever host the Washington Mystics at Gainbridge Fieldhouse Sunday (4 p.m., NBA TV) as Kelsey Mitchell chases more after breaking the WNBA single-season scoring record. Community & Faith: A candlelight vigil is planned in Decatur County for Sept. 30, and Northeast Indiana lists multiple religious gatherings this week. Agriculture & Taxes: Lake County Farm Bureau will hold a free meeting Sept. 30 on SEA 1 property tax changes.