The Federal Trade Commission will require casino operator Eldorado Resorts, Inc. to divest casino-related assets in the South Lake Tahoe area of Nevada, and the Bossier City-Shreveport area of Louisiana, to settle charges that Eldorado’s $17.3 billion agreement to acquire Caesars Entertainment Corporation likely would be anticompetitive in those markets.

The Commission also will prevent competitive harm in Kansas City, Missouri, where both companies currently operate casinos; the settlement gives the Commission the option to require an additional divestiture if a pending independent sale of one casino does not close timely.

The complaint alleges that the proposed acquisition would harm competition for casino services in the South Lake Tahoe, Bossier City-Shreveport, and Kansas City local markets. The combination thus would increase the likelihood that Eldorado would unilaterally exercise market power, leading to higher prices and reduced quality for consumers of casino services.

The terms of the settlement require Eldorado to divest the assets described below. The parties must maintain the viability, marketability, and competitiveness of the assets until the divestitures are complete. The proposed consent order appoints a monitor to ensure the parties’ compliance with the order to maintain assets, the consent order, and the divestiture agreements.

• In the South Lake Tahoe area, Eldorado must divest its only casino, the MontBleu Resort Casino and Spa, to Twin River Worldwide Holdings, Inc.
• In the Bossier City-Shreveport area, Eldorado is also required to divest its only casino, the Eldorado Casino Resort, to Twin River.

Independent from its proposed acquisition of Caesars:

• In Kansas City, Missouri, Eldorado is selling its Isle of Capri casino. Under the proposed settlement, if the Isle of Capri sale is not complete within 60 days after the proposed acquisition of Caesars closes, the Commission may, at its discretion, require Eldorado to divest the casino to a Commission-approved buyer within 12 months.

As detailed in the analysis to aid public comment, new entry or expansion is unlikely to deter or counteract the anticompetitive effects of the proposed acquisition in any of the affected markets. Casinos are highly regulated, with lengthy approval processes for licensure and a limited number of licenses granted in some states, such as Louisiana and Missouri.

The Commission vote to issue the complaint and accept the proposed consent order for public comment was 3-1-1, with Commissioner Rebecca Kelly Slaughter not participating, and Commissioner Rohit Chopra voted no and issued a dissenting statement. The FTC will publish the consent agreement package in the Federal Register shortly. Instructions for filing comments appear in the published notice. Comments must be received 30 days after publication in the Federal Register. Once processed, comments will be posted on Regulations.gov.

The Indiana Department of Transportation will close two bridges along I-74 on the Southeast side of Indianapolis.

Two bridge decks will be closed, the Post Road bridge and the London Road bridge over I-74.

Contractors will be constructing a new bridge deck overlay on both bridges. They will also be doing additional bridge work on the Post Road bridge.

During the bridge deck closures, all ramps will be open, but the public will not be able to cross the bridge. If you need to turn to get across a bridge once you exit the interstate, official detour routes are provided below. The public is welcome to find their own local routes around the closure as well.

All of this work is weather dependent, please follow @INDOTEast on Twitter and INDOT East Central on Facebook for updates.

Post Road Closure over I-74

• CLOSED: July 6 to September 21 
• All ramps from I-74 EB & WB to Post Rd will remain open
• DETOURS:
  • I-74 WB to Post Rd SB: Turn right onto Post Rd to US 52. Turn left on US 52 and get on I-465 SB to I-74 EB. Take I-74 EB to Post Rd and turn right to go SB on Post Rd. 
  • I-74 EB to Post Rd NB: Continue on I-74 EB until Acton Rd (Exit 99) turn around and take I-74 WB to Post Rd and turn right.

London Road Closure over I-74

• CLOSED: July 15 to July 21
• All ramps from I-74 EB & WB to London Road will remain open
• DETOURS: 
  • I-74 WB to London Rd SB: Continue on I-74 WB to Acton Rd (Exit 99.) Turn around and take I-74 EB to London Road and turn right.
  • I-74 EB to London Rd NB: Continue on I-74 EB to Fairland Rd (Exit 109.) Turn around and take I-74 WB to London Rd and turn right.

A fugitive from Johnson County was hitching a ride in a semi when it was pulled over on a Pennsylvania interstate on Monday.

When the driver got out, but the 48-year-old man from Whiteland, Indiana, got into the driver's seat and drove off.  Police chased the man until the semi got stuck in the grass in Hazelton.

The man then fired a gun at police. Police shot back and the man was killed, said the Times of Northwest Indiana.

The man, who's name hasn't be released, was wanted for violating his probation, said police.

The smoking age in Indiana goes up this week.

The minimum age to buy cigarettes and other nicotine products will jump from 18 to 21 on Wednesday. The new rules also ban anyone under 21 from buying e-cigarettes and e-liquids.

The new law doubles fines for businesses caught selling to underage smokers.

Drivers are being reminded that beginning Wednesday, Indiana law will prohibit drivers holding mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, in their hands while driving to reduce distracted driving.

The effort was approved by the Indiana General Assembly with overwhelming bipartisan support.

Once the law takes effect, drivers on Indiana roads will be prohibited from having a mobile device in their hands while their vehicles are moving, with the exception of dialing 911 in an emergency. The law permits the use of voice-operated or hands-free technology such as speakerphone, Bluetooth or headset.

Sgt. John Perrine with Indiana State Police.

And, Perrine reminds, don’t text.

Across the United States, serious traffic crashes and fatalities have sharply increased in recent years due in large part to distracted driving. In 2019, Indiana Criminal Justice Institute reported that distracted driving from mobile devices was a factor in at least 1,263 crashes and three fatal crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, states that have passed hands-free driving laws have seen a nearly 20 percent decrease in traffic deaths in the two years after passing the law.

During the first few months with the Hands Free While Driving law in effect, Indiana State Police will focus on educating drivers on the new law and safety benefits of going hands free. However, following the initial education campaign, drivers found in violation of the hands free while driving law can be subject to fine.

Beginning in July 2021, drivers may also have points assessed against their driver’s licenses for violating the law.

The Northwestern Consolidated School District of Shelby County is finalizing reopening plans for Triton Central schools.

Superintendent Chris Hoke says it’s time to get kids back to school.

The superintendent says the close of the final school year amidst the coronavirus pandemic showed online learning isn’t the best tool for learning.

Hoke says masks, in most instances, will be an option, not a madate.

Final details will be assembled by the task force and school board.  More details should be released later this week.  Hoke says they will be "flexible and nimble" .

Just before 8:30 am Saturday, theBartholomew County Sheriff’s Office and Hope Police Department were dispatched to the 2000 block of Neal Drive in Hope in regards to a reported shooting.  Central Dispatch advised a female, later identified as Linda Venable, 68, of Hope, had been shot by her husband, Thomas Venable, 70, of Hope, in the chest with a small caliber firearm.

A short time later, officers arrived on scene where the victim of the shooting was alert and talking with officers and medics and was transported by Lifeline to a University of Louisville Hospital in Louisville, KY. She is reported to be stable at this time, but is going to be admitted to the hospital for her injuries.

The suspect, Thomas Venable, was taken into custody without incident. He was transported to Columbus Regional Hospital for jail clearance and later taken to Bartholomew County Jail and booked for the following charges: Attempted Murder, Level I Felony.

“This is an unfortunate event that occurred here in a peaceful neighborhood. I’m very proud of our Sheriff’s Office, local law enforcement and all emergency responders for the quick response to this incident,” said Major Chris Lane.

The Bartholomew County Sheriff's Office  is investigating a shooting that occurred in Hope Saturday morning. The victim was transported by helicopter to the hospital.

Police have a suspect in custody.

No further information was given on the victim in a social media post by the sheriff.

Bartholomew County Sheriff Matthew A. Myers says more information will be released later today.

Most of Indiana could see thunderstorms Friday afternoon and Friday night, but the threat of severe weather gets stronger the more north you go.

Indianapolis and other parts of central Indiana are under a "marginal" risk of severe weather, which is the lowest level on the National Weather Service's scale. Areas like Lafayette, Kokomo and Fort Wayne under a "slight" chance, which is Level 2 of 5. The far northern part of Indiana, like Valparaiso and South Bend, are in an "enhanced" risk of severe weather, which is Level 3.

"Only general thunderstorms are expected for the southern half of the state, and once you go more north, the more severe threat there is," says Michael Skipper, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Northern Indiana.

He says that means heavy rain, strong winds, hail, and even a tornado are possible.

"We're thinking about, probably, between 6-8 p.m., starting in northwest Indiana," Skipper said.

Areas north of U.S. 30 have the strongest chance of severe weather, including Valparaiso, South Bend and Angola.

Skipper added that another round of rain and thunderstorms are expected for the entire state on Saturday and into Sunday.

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Southwestern Consolidated Schools are readying a reopening plan for the upcoming school year.  It’s a plan that gives the option, but does not mandate wearing of masks.

Incoming Superintendent Curt Chase says a survey made it clear.  Parents want their child back in school.

Another majority in the survey….no masks.

Southwestern had implemented remote learning recently but had pulled back with limited participation.  Chase says there wasn’t much call to resume it just for for COVID-19.

So, it will be back to school for Southwestern students, on-time this fall.

Chase says there's no intention to send students home if a sibling is found to have COVID - 19.

Southwestern has no calendar changes.

Just after 9:00 pm Wednesday Bartholomew County Sheriff’s deputies and Hope Police officers served arrest warrants on Matthew E. Brossman, 38, Hope. 

Brossman was transported to the Bartholomew County Jail on preliminary charges of: 

Two counts of Burglary, Level 4 felony

Intimidation, Class A misdemeanor.

Brossman remains in the Bartholomew County Jail in lieu of a $110,000 bond.

Dust from the Sahara Desert in Africa will be impacting the air here in North America in several ways this weekend.

WISH-TV Meteorologist Tara Hastings says the U.S. is regularly impacted by clouds of dust from the Sahara once or twice a year. But, she says the cloud of dust that is heading this way this year is a little more intense than in year's past.

"We're tracking the Saharan dust that is traveling across the Atlantic," Hastings said. "Right now it's in the Gulf (of Mexico) and we expect it to travel a little further north into this weekend."

Far enough north to reach Indiana where Hastings expects poor air quality and advises anyone with respiratory problems or issues to be advised and plan accordingly.

We're going to be seeing a milky looking sky," said Hastings. "It's going to look a little hazy at times. Similar to what you might see when there is a lot of smoke or haze in the atmosphere."

Though that is a negative impact of the dust, Hastings says there are several positives.

"One cool thing we are going to be seeing are vibrant sunsets and sunrises," she added. "The dust particles in the atmosphere, they're going to scatter that light and we should be seeing some cool sunrises and sunsets."

Hastings also said the dust is a welcome sign for those living on the eastern seaboard and in the Gulf of Mexico. She said the dry air from the dust "inhibits tropical development", meaning the dust stalls the atmosphere's ability to produce thunderstorms, tropical storms, and hurricanes.

As long as the dust is in the atmosphere around North America that means there is less of a chance for powerful storms such as these to hit the U.S.

The Shelbyville Central School Board approved a reopening plan for its schools for the 2020-2021 school year.

Shelbyville Central Schools Superintendent Mary Harper says, for just one example, masks and face coverings could be debated in many ways.  But they’ve decided to make them an individual choice in the classroom.  They will be mandated during transient periods – in hallways and on school transportation.

Harper also notes they will seek more information from the health department about use of all types of face coverings.

The school corporation will provide some masks.  They’re developing plans for how to do so and how many.

If a student should be diagnosed with COVID – 19 it will mean they, along with any siblings in the school system, will have to go home.  Other contacts the student may have had involving other students will be investigated.

A virtual learning option will be made available to students not comfortable with returning to the brick and mortar classroom.  It will not be a pass / fail or like what was offered in the spring.

She says some lessons learned from the spring will help them to implement a virtual program now.

There is a major note to be understood.  If you take the virtual learning decision there is no extracurricular activity, such as athletics.

The reopening plan has taken input from many.

And decisions made as the school year advances are in conjunction with the health department.

The current 17 page plan approved by the school board in special session Wednesday will need editing and revision.  It’s hoped to be posted to the corporation website by the end of this week.

Aldi is recalling bagged salad mix because it might make people sick.

Aldi said its Little Salad Bar Garden Salad could be contaminated with Cyclospora, a parasite that causes nausea, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and fatigue.

The salad mix was sold in 12-ounce bags and the bags have Best If Used By Dates of May 1 through June 29.  The salad was distributed throughout the Midwest by Aldi, Hy-Vee, and Jewel-Osco stores.

As of June 22, the salad mix has sickened 122 people in seven states, according to the CDC.

If you own any of the recalled salad, you should not eat it. You should throw it away or return it to the store for a refund.

Two Shelby County people were injured in a Sunday one-car crash.

About 9:30 pm Sunday the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department says Maycie Abrams, 20, of Fairland, was driving a 2013 Chevy Malibu northbound on Frontage Road near 600 West.  The driver lost control as the car spun, left the west side of the road and came to rest inverted.

Abrams and a passenger, Collette Wright, 20, of Shelbyville, were taken by ground transport for medical treatment.

Brian Baker with Shelbyville's Builders Lumber & Hardware says people staying home during this coronavirus pandemic has been good for business with so many doing home projects.  However, it's also led to another supply train issue - treated lumber - especially deck boards.

Baker spoke to GIANT fm News about how the store has handled the pandemic and the latest treated lumber shortage with so many decks and others projects.

• UPDATES FROM INCIDENT COMMAND:

• We have only had 12 employees test positive for COVID since inception.  Currently, no MHP employees are off work due to COVID-related illness. 
• Due to the decreasing volumes and our handle on the current situation, we are continuing to decrease the frequency in which Incident Command will meet and provide updates.  If we see a surge of positive cases or the situations changes, we will immediate resume more frequent meetings and updates.   

• MHP TESTING STATUS:
  • Number of MHP patients tested: 2,616
  • Number of pending results: 30
  • Number of positive results: 248 (increase of 4 since 6/16)

• MHP INPATIENT STATUS:
  • Current number of 3^rd floor inpatients:  28
  • Current number of patients with respiratory related diagnoses: 8
    • Number of available 3^rd floor beds: 12
  • Currently, we have 0 inpatients that tested positive and 10 inpatients have pending results on the 3^rd floor. 
  • Number of inpatients in the 1^st floor ACC unit: 3 with 19 beds available and none of these are patients that have positive or suspected COVID.   

• MHP EMERGENCY DEPT STATUS:
  • Number of ER patients in last 24 hours: 65
  • Number of ER patients with respiratory signs/symptoms: 7 (representing 11%)

• VENT STATUS:
  • Number of vents currently in use and number of vents available:
    • We have 1 ventilators are in use and 4 BiPAP in use and 1 trilogy is in use.  This leaves us with 17 ventilation units available. 
    • We also have 10 disaster vents available and 6 home Cpap units (not included in the above totals).   

• MHP PATIENTS TREATED AT OUR RESPIRATORY CLINIC LOCATIONS:
  • Priority Care: Priority Care treated 11 patients yesterday with respiratory signs/symptoms over the weekend. 

• TESTING STATUS:  
  • Number of available swabs/media for testing: 257 for the IU lab and/or State lab (plus an additional 200+ GuideMed tests through Priority Care).
  • Abbott rapid testing availability:  We expect to receive 46 of these per week.  We will be able to provide in-house testing using the Abbott supplies within two weeks. 

A Shelbyville man is among even people in jail after a drug bust in Columbus on Friday.

The Columbus Police Department had been investigating the ongoing sale of illegal drugs in Columbus and around Bartholomew County. Just after midnight, officers from the Columbus Police Department SWAT team busted in to a home at 91 Reo Street.  Several people were inside the house, including a five year old child. Officers searched and found meth, marijuana, prescription pills, and counterfeit money.

Seven people were arrested and taken to the Bartholomew County Jail:

Stefan Hartford, 30, of Shelbyville

-Two counts of possession of meth

-Possession of marijuana

-Possession of Fentanyl

-Possession of a schedule substance

-Possession of drug paraphernalia

-Possession of counterfeit currency

-Maintaining a common nuisance

Reggie Booker, 48, of Columbus

-Possession of meth

-Possession of a schedule substances

-Maintaining a common nuisance

-Possession of drug paraphernalia

Danielle Allen, 30, of Elizabethtown

-Possession of meth

-Possession of marijuana

-Possession of Fentanyl

-Possession of counterfeit currency

-Possession of a scheduled substance

-Maintaining a common nuisance

Jennifer Nichols, 46, of Columbus

-Maintaining a common nuisance

Janeta Kimball, 59, of Columbus

-Forgery

-Outstanding arrest warrant

Dale Harris, 56, of Columbus

-Visiting a common nuisance

Keith Stevenson Jr, 49, of Columbus

-Visiting a common nuisance

Off and on showers and thunderstorms will be a part of the weather forecast throughout much of the week.

The National Weather Service in Indianapolis says a few strong to severe storms are possible Monday night and Tuesday.

“We’ve got some chances for severe storms. They’re really isolated strong to severe storms with damaging winds, heavy rain, and lightning being the main threats from those,” says Crystal Petit, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Indianapolis.

Petit says cities and towns west of Indianapolis could see some severe weather, but the threat of severe weather is only marginal between 5 pm and midnight.

“Tomorrow (Tuesday) we’re looking at low chances for rain, showers, and maybe a few thunderstorms in the afternoon for Tuesday,” says Petit.

A cold front will move through with these storms.

“That will usher in some cooler, dryer weather. By cooler, I mean highs only in the upper 70s to lower 80s. Another system is coming in Friday,” says Petit.

On and off showers and thunderstorms are likely through the weekend. In case the storms become severe in your area, the National Weather Service recommends you know where to take shelter.

Mass resignations have left the Knightstown Police Department with just a handful of officers.

Kerry O’Haver is a former KPD reserve officer who resigned after the town council chose a less experienced officer for interim chief, instead of current Chief Chris Newkirk's recommendation.

O'Haver told WISH-TV,  "I would gladly come back, in an instant, if the town council would grow up."

The department now has just one full time officer, two part timers, three reserve officers, and interim chief Frank Beatrice.

47 states, including Indiana, and the nation’s capital Washington D.C., observe Juneteenth (June 19) or have it as a state holiday.

President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation that legally declared all slaves were free. But, at that time some slave owners did not agree with the proclamation.

More than two years later, on June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger, from the Union Army, rode to Galveston, Texas and announced slavery and the Civil War were over.

“I think, you know, commemorations such as Juneteenth are the kind that we continuously need to keep us aware and focused on the idea that freedom is a constant struggle,” said Leslie Etienne, director of Africana Studies at IUPUI, to WISH TV.

The Congressional Research Service said Indiana has recognized Juneteenth since 2010. But, that’s not the case in the Dakotas or Hawaii, for those states still do not observe it.

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said Juneteenth comes at an important time in the history of Indianapolis and the country.

"This year, Juneteenth arrives during a season of protest, one of the largest in the history of American civil rights. This movement has led not only to a greater focus on generations of racism and systemic injustice, but has further highlighted the need for policy change at the local, state, and federal level," says Hogsett.

The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) plans to hold virtual events starting June 19th. They released the following statement:

To provide the Indianapolis community the opportunity to commemorate Juneteenth, the long history of bravery and resilience in the African American community, and to discuss new methods and models of freedom in the current moment. We believe that Juneteenth is not just a historic holiday, but that it is an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate justice-seeking and liberatory practices in our contemporary communities. This is our initial dialogue addressing systemic racism in the United States and Indianapolis, and we are committed to maintaining these conversations in order to address and ultimately erase the long-standing impact of racism and white supremacy on the Black citizens of the United States. Please stay in touch with ASALH for more educational events as well as opportunities to engage in crucial conversations about African and African American history and the goal of transforming our society into a fairer and more just place for all of its citizens.

Governor Holcomb issued a proclamation celebrating Juneteenth. He called it an "opportunity to reflect, rejoice, and plan for a brighter future."

In an interview with WISH-TV, Susan Hall Dotson, the coordinator of African American History at the Indiana Historical Society, says the history of what has made Juneteenth significant in Indiana should never be forgotten.

"Although Indiana was not a slave state, it did have slaves at one time. The emancipation of slaves were for southern states, but Indiana did not fall into line with making African Americans because they weren't even considered Americans at that point. There were laws that disenfranchised black people right here in Indiana," says Dotson.

Dotson says the fight against systemic racism is far from over.

"Because we're still not free. We're still under siege. We're still taking hits from police brutality and other systemic issues that keep black people from getting ahead and having full rights and privileges in this country," says Dotson.

Shelbyville Mayor Tom DeBaun has been working with the Diversity Team which is a part of the Healthy Shelby County effort.  The mayor has submitted information regarding the steps the group has taken to address racial concerns in this op-ed to GIANT fm News and the Shelby County Post.

A volunteer firefighter is accused of setting several fires in Johnson County Wednesday morning.

Jake Dougherty, 18, of Needham, is facing three counts of arson, one count of OWI, possession of paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, and one count of consumption of alcohol by a minor.

Dougherty is a volunteer firefighter with the Whiteland Fire Department. He has been suspended by the department, but the department is considering termination.

The Franklin Police Department says they pulled over a red Dodge Avenger that was driving erratically on U.S. 31 and discovered that Dougherty was the driver. They say he had dark-colored soot all over his skin and clothing while driving impaired in the Avenger. They believe Dougherty is responsible for setting multiple fires at homes under construction. Those include the following:

-Intersection of Campus Lane and Shirk Way Street, Greenwood, Ind. around 2:44 a.m.

-200 Block of Darrough Drive, Greenwood, Ind. around 4:24 a.m.

-Cul-de-sac of Wild Turkey Run, Whiteland, Ind. around 7:31 a.m.

Police say another fire happened at a home that was under construction in the 2000 block of Byerly Place in Greenwood. They believe that happened just before 8 a.m., but they don’t think Dougherty is responsible for that fire.

One neighbor, who has chosen to remain anonymous, said her back window was damaged from one of the fires.

“We had the hay and stuff down in the backyard. Had the wind been blowing in the right direction, it could have caught our structure on fire. What are the odds that you have four different sites? And why?,” she said.

Dougherty has been a volunteer firefighter with the Whiteland Fire Department since February 1, 2020.

A newly updated set of renderings of the Shelbyville Public Square has been released. 

The Public Square itself will become a focus of Shelbyville's downtown renovation in 2021.

Director of Building and Planning Adam Rude.

Rude explains what's new and different from previous renderings.

The current construction around the Public Square remains on schedule.

Three jockeys, Agustin Gomez, Albin Jimenez and Joe Ramos,  were involved in a racing incident just after the start of the fourth race at Indiana Grand Wednesday, June 17. As a result, Jimenez and Gomez were each transported to IU Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis with non-life-threatening injuries for further evaluation. Ramos walked back to the jockey’s quarters following inspection by on-track medical personnel.

Lichita, ridden by Agustin Gomez, fell after clipping heels along the inside rail, unseating Gomez. The incident caused a chain reaction with Ramos being unseated from Five Pics Please and Jimenez being unseated aboard Prettyhappy. Both Five Pics Please and Prettyhappy galloped out. Lichita walked onto the horse transport and was taken to the receiving barn for further care and inspection by track veterinarians.

Indiana Horse Racing Commission Board of Stewards will continue to review the incident.

Live racing continues through Wednesday, Nov. 18 on a Monday through Thursday schedule. First post is 2:20 p.m. 

A Johnson County traffic stop resulted in the arrest of an arson suspect.

Around 6:30 am Wednesday Franklin Police Department officers responded to a traffic investigation involving a red Dodge Avenger driving erratically on US 31. An officer identified the vehicle in question and conducted a traffic stop. Through the course of the officer’s investigation the driver was determined to be impaired.

The suspect was identified as Jake Dougherty, 18, of Needham.  Dougherty was transported to Johnson Memorial Hospital for further examination. During this time officers noticed the odor of gasoline coming from Dougherty. Dougherty also had dark colored soot all over his skin and clothing. Due to recent events involving structural fires in the area, officers contacted the Franklin Police Department Investigations division for further investigation.  During the course of the investigation and interviews, detectives determined there were in fact four structure fires in total that morning, including:

Intersection of Campus Lane & Shirk Way Street – Greenwood, around 2:44 am

200 Block of Darrough Drive – Greenwood, around 4:24 am

Cul-de-sac of Wild Turkey Run - Whiteland, around 7:31 am

2000 Block of Byerly Place - Greenwood, 7:59 am

The Byerly Place fire proved to not be connected to this investigation.

Franklin PD Detectives later responded to Johnson Memorial Hospital and transported Dougherty to the Franklin Police Department to be interviewed.  During the interview detectives developed probable cause to believe that Dougherty was in fact the suspect involved in setting the structure fires to at least three of the four known locations.

Dougherty was placed under arrest and remanded over to the Johnson County Sherriff’s Office on counts of:

OWI – A Misdemeanor

Possession of Paraphernalia – C Misdemeanor

Possession of Marijuana – B Misdemeanor

Consumption of Alcohol by a Minor under 21 – C Misdemeanor

Arson x 3 – Level 4 Felony

This investigation and ensuing arrest were the result of investigation and interviews by the following agencies: The City of Franklin Police Department, The Greenwood Fire Department, The Greenwood Police Department, The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, The Whiteland Fire Department, The Indiana State Fire Marshall’s Office and the ATF.

The deceased was identified as Mark Raub, 72, of Nashville, Indiana.

Investigators are still looking for anyone who may have dash camera footage of the crash or may have been driving in the area and could have captured the white Chevrolet Cobalt on camera. Please call the Indiana State Police at 317-899-8577 with information. 

Original Release 

Edinburgh, IN - Monday evening, just after 8:00 , emergency crews were dispatched to the scene of a serious crash on I-65 southbound at the 82.2 mile marker in Johnson County. Upon arrival, first responders discovered Samaritans had pulled the driver of the pick-up from the wreckage and were performing CPR. Despite life saving efforts the driver of the pick-up was pronounced deceased at the scene. The other vehicle involved in the collision was a semi tractor-trailer, that driver was not injured. 

Investigators believe a white Chevrolet Cobalt with either Illinois or Kentucky license plates was driving recklessly, speeding, weaving in a and out of traffic, braking suddenly in front of vehicles and giving hand gestures to other drivers. The driver of the white Cobalt allegedly pulled in front of the pick-up truck and suddenly braked. The pick-up then swerved to the right to avoid collision and was struck by the semi. The impact of the collision caused the pick-up to strike a guardrail and overturn. Alcohol or impairment is not suspected in either the driver of the pick-up or the semi. 

We area asking for the public's assistance: Anyone who may have been traveling in the area of I-65 between Indianapolis and Columbus Indiana between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 8:45 p.m., who has a vehicle equipped with a dash camera, is asked to review their footage for a white Chevrolet Cobalt with Illinois or Kentucky License plates. 

Investigators are still on scene and I-65 is restricted southbound at the 82.2 mile marker.

The Indiana State Police is looking for the public’s help in an investigation of a fatal interstate accident.

On Tuesday, just after 6:00 pm, emergency crews were dispatched to the scene of a crash on I-65 southbound at the 82.2 mile marker in Johnson County. First responders discovered witnesses had pulled the driver of the pick-up from the wreckage and were performing CPR. Despite life saving efforts the driver of the pick-up was pronounced deceased at the scene. The other vehicle involved in the collision was a semi tractor-trailer, that driver was not injured. 

Investigators believe a white Chevrolet Cobalt with either Illinois or Kentucky license plates was driving recklessly, speeding, weaving in a and out of traffic, braking suddenly in front of vehicles and giving hand gestures to other drivers. The driver of the Cobalt allegedly pulled in front of the pick-up truck and suddenly braked. The pick-up then swerved to the right to avoid collision and was struck by the semi. The impact of the collision caused the pick-up to strike a guardrail and overturn. Alcohol or impairment is not suspected in either the driver of the pick-up or the semi. 

ISP are asking for the public's assistance: Anyone who may have been traveling in the area of I-65 between Indianapolis and Columbus between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 8:45 p.m., who has a vehicle equipped with a dash camera, is asked to review their footage for a white Chevrolet Cobalt with Illinois or Kentucky License plates. 

In honor of June being National Dairy Month, MHP has partnered with Prairie Farms for the “Milk Gallon Giveaway.”  The giveaway will be Friday, June 19 from 11:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. located at the MHP Medical Center Entrance #3.

The USDA contacted Prairie Farms to hand out 600,000 gallons of milk in the 22 states the company serves throughout June. MHP has been challenged to hand out over 4,000 gallons of 2% milk in one day.

The giveaway will be a drive-thru, so you do not even have to get out of your car! Each car will be given the option to take up to 5 gallons of milk.

For more information, please contact Christy Neisler at 317-421-1915 or visit the MHP Facebook page at www.facebook.com/majorhp. 

A Columbus man was subdued and arrested in the Bartholomew County Jail after attempting to harm Sheriff Matthew Myers.

About 10:00 am Monday, a man entered the lobby of the Bartholomew County Jail and indicated to front desk staff that he was going to commit serious bodily harm to Sheriff Matthew A. Myers.  The man, identified as Justin C. Eddelman, 32, Columbus, left the front lobby and proceeded upstairs to the administrative area where he met Sheriff Myers and engaged in a physical confrontation with him.  Sheriff Myers was able to subdue the man and placed him in handcuffs. 

Eddelman was transported to Columbus Regional Hospital for evaluation.

Sheriff Myers injured his knee during the altercation. 

Upon release from CRH, Eddelman was transported to the Bartholomew County Jail on the following preliminary charges:

Intimidation on a police officer

Resisting arrest

Battery on a police officer

Disorderly conduct

A Connersville man was injured Monday morning when he was struck by a police vehicle as he fled from his vehicle on foot. 

The events started around 6 a.m. when a Rush County deputy clocked an eastbound Jeep Cherokee in the 3000 block of east SR 44, in Rush County, at 72 M.P.H. in the 55 M.P.H. zone.

The deputy activated his lights and turned around on the vehicle, but the Jeep Cherokee refused to stop.  The pursuit wound around northbound on numerous county roads and was joined by a second Rush County deputy. The pursuit ended up eastbound into Fayette County onto CR 600 N., which is a gravel road.  Shortly after crossing Fayette County Road 450 W., the Jeep became disabled in the middle of the dusty gravel road.

The preliminary investigation shows that the first pursuing deputy was able to swerve at the last second in the heavy dust to avoid hitting the Jeep. The suspect, who exited his vehicle and began to flee north, was in the roadway when the second pursuing deputy came upon the vehicle in the heavy dust and swerved to miss it.  As the deputy’s SUV swerved left to avoid the vehicle he struck the suspect, who was in the roadway. The deputies performed first aid and EMS was summoned to the scene.

The suspect, Brandon Van Blair, 34, of Connersville, who was found to have a suspended license, was flown from the scene by medical helicopter to a hospital in Indianapolis with what is believed to be non-life threatening injuries.  The Indiana State Police were requested by the Rush County Sheriff’s Office to investigate the crash. The crash was investigated by Senior Trooper Doug Snyder, who was assisted by ISP Reconstruction Investigators Master Trooper Michael Bradbury and Master Trooper Coley McCutcheon.

Troopers were assisted at the scene by Fayette County Sheriff’s Department, Fayette County EMS, Connersville Police Department and Bentonville Fire Department.

The Shelby County Sheriff's Department and Shelby County Prosecutor are looking for information on who has been placing explosive devices in mailboxes in Shelby County (one Thursday evening and one Friday night). One is from northwestern Shelby County. The other is from southwestern Shelby County.

It appears that the person(s) responsible are using consumer-grade fireworks. Prosecutor Brad Landwerlen says he is working with two federal Postal Inspectors (one of whom specializes in these investigations), as well as with the Shelby County Sheriff's Department.

Note that one of these incidents started a small fire, which burned out. If caught, the person(s) responsible would face federal felony charges and 5-10 years in federal prison, so long as nobody is injured or killed. If anyone is injured or killed, the person(s) responsible could face north of 30 years in federal prison.

Landwerlen says they have collected parts sufficient to possibly yield DNA from one scene. He further notes a lady he spoke with was concerned because her kids sometimes go to get the mail - what if the kids found it? The primary concern is that this stop before anyone does get hurt.

Anyone with information on these crimes should contact the Shelby County Sheriff's Department at 317-398-6661.

Scott Gabbard with Shelby County's Purdue Extension details the efforts to create a virtual fair for the county's 4H 2020 event due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Columbus Police need help finding a man they say is "armed and dangerous."

Philip Brantley, 55, is wanted for battery with a deadly weapon, intimidation, and battery. He was last seen Thursday afternoon in the area of 6691 W. State Road 46, west of ABC Stewart School.

Brantley is black, six-foot-three, 275 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. He has a tattoo on his right arm. He may appear lost and ask for a cell phone charger, reports WCSI.

If you have any information about Brantley's whereabouts, call Columbus Police at 812-376-2600.

Harrah’s Hoosier Park Racing & Casino and Indiana Grand Racing & Casino will officially resume casino gaming operations at 6:00 a.m. on Monday, June 15 in accordance with directives from the Indiana Gaming Commission and the Indiana State Department of Health. Additionally, both properties announced earlier that the Indiana Horse Racing Commission approved the start of live racing at both properties with Indiana Grand’s first card to begin on Monday, June 15 and Harrah’s Hoosier Park’s first card to begin on Tuesday, June 16. Both racing programs will be held in a spectator-free manner until further notice.

Harrah’s Hoosier Park and Indiana Grand will operate casino gaming at reduced capacity, in accordance with the Phase One Casino Reopening Guidelines issued by the Indiana Gaming Commission. Slot machine banks will be arranged to allow for social distancing, table games will be offered as non-smoking and with limited seating, and guests will be required to wear masks while participating in table games. Certain amenities including the sports books, buffets, and VIP lounges will remain closed until further notice, and are expected to reopen in phases that are in-line with consumer demand and pursuant to guidance provided by public health authorities.

Harrah’s Hoosier Park and Indiana Grand will implement Caesars Entertainment Corporation’s (“Caesars Entertainment”) new health and safety protocols, which enhance existing plans and practices in these areas. Both properties are focused on the well-being of team members, guests and their communities, and are working to create environments with enhanced standards of sanitization and physical distancing practices.

Among the enhanced health and safety protocols are more frequent cleaning and sanitization. Team member temperature checks and screenings will be conducted daily, and team members will be required to wear masks. Guests will have their temperatures checked by a thermal imaging unit at each entrance and will be strongly encouraged to wear masks which will be provided to them.

For live racing updates and a full list of all the amenities that will be available, please visit www.harrahshoosierpark.com or www.IndianaGrand.com.

As health indicators remain positive, Governor Eric J. Holcomb announced all 92 counties in the state can advance to Stage 4 of the Back On Track Indiana plan on Friday, June 12.

Indiana Back On Track has five stages. Local governments may impose more restrictive guidelines.

“I’m grateful to Hoosiers who have helped maintain our momentum and slow the spread of COVID-19 by exercising caution and following health guidance,” Gov. Holcomb said. “As we advance to Stage 4 and further reopen Indiana for business, we’ll continue to monitor our progress and make data-informed decisions.”

Gov. Holcomb has used data to drive decisions since the state’s first case of the novel coronavirus in early March and he will continue to do so as the state continues a sector-by-sector reset. The state will move to reopen while continuing to monitor and respond to these four guiding principles:

• The number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients statewide has decreased for 14 days
• The state retains its surge capacity for critical care beds and ventilators
• The state retains its ability to test all Hoosiers who are COVID-19 symptomatic as well as health care workers, first responders, and frontline employees
• Health officials have systems in place to contact all individuals who test positive for COVID-19 and expand contact tracing

As the state lifts restrictions and more people return to work, visit a store or restaurant, and participate in more activities, the number of COVID-19 cases will increase. If these principles cannot be met, all or portions of the state may need to pause on moving forward or may need to return to an earlier phase of the governor’s Back On Track roadmap.

In Stage 4, Hoosiers 65 and over and those with high-risk health conditions – who are the most vulnerable to the coronavirus – should remain at home as much as possible. Face coverings in public places are recommended.

Social gatherings of up to 250 people will be permitted following the CDC’s social distancing guidelines.

Outdoor visitation may take place at assisted living facilities and nursing homes. Hospital visitations with precautions are encouraged.

Retail, commercial businesses and malls may open at full capacity.

Dining room food service may open at up to 75 percent capacity as long as social distancing is observed. Bar seating in restaurants may open at 50 percent capacity. Bars and nightclubs may open at 50 percent capacity as long as they adhere to social distancing guidelines.

Cultural, entertainment and tourism sites may open at 50 percent capacity.

Movie theaters, bowling alleys and similar facilities may open at 50 percent capacity.

Amusement parks, water parks and similar facilities may open at 50 percent capacity. Reservations are encouraged to limit the number of customers at any one time. Playgrounds may reopen.

Community recreational non-contact sports practices, games and tournaments may resume. Contact sports, such as football, basketball, rugby or wrestling, can conduct conditioning and non-contact drills. Contact sports may resume games or tournaments beginning Friday, June 19. Before any games or tournaments, the host must make publicly available a COVID response plan outlining the steps being taken to ensure social distancing, increased sanitation and overall protection of competitors, coaches, staff, and spectators.

Raceways may open at 50 percent grandstand capacity.

Pari-mutuel horse racing may begin with no spectators at Hoosier Park and Indiana Grand facilities. Charity gaming and casinos may open Monday, June 15 with the approval of the Indiana Gaming Commission.

Conventions, fairs, festivals, parades and similar events remain closed.

If health indicators remain positive, the state will move to Stage 5 in early July. To learn more about the different stages and the associated dates to get a better understanding about where we’re going as a state, click here to see the full plan: BackOnTrack.in.gov

The Governor has signed an executive order implementing Stage 4 of the Back on Track Indiana roadmap. The executive order can be found here: https://www.in.gov/gov/2384.htm

The Critical Industries Hotline continues to be available from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday to respond to business and industry questions about whether a business is considered essential. The center may be reached by calling 877-820-0890 or by emailing covidresponse@iedc.in.gov

Indiana Grand Racing & Casino will open to the public on Monday.

The following announcement made via the racino's Facebook page:

Indiana Grand Racing & Casino will open to the public at 6am on Monday, June 15!

We will be operating according to Indiana Gaming Commission regulations and with social distancing in place. Select restaurants will be open with limited seating as well as carryout options. Other amenities will also open in phases as determined by the state and local guidelines. Among the enhanced health and safety protocols are more frequent cleaning and sanitization. Team Member health checks are conducted daily, and Team Members are required to wear masks. Guests will undergo temperature checks before entering the casinos and are also encouraged to wear masks. The casino table games will temporarily be non-smoking.

We will post more information as it comes available.

When you're ready, know that our doors will be open. We look forward to welcoming you back!

It's not canceled.  However, Morristown's Derby Days has been postponed from its usual July weekend to a date later in the fall.

The organization posted the following information on its Facebook page following a meeting Wednesday night:

After a long, tough meeting.. it has been officially announced that Derby Days of 2020 will be postponed.  The new date will be September 19, 2020 with a rain date of September 26, 2020.

We hate that it has come to this, but with COVID-19, CDC Restrictions, and limited time and availability our hands are tied.

We hope to have a great turnout in the Fall!

The central and northeastern portions of Indiana face the highest risk of severe weather today, says the National Weather Service.

Those areas are either under an enhanced risk or a moderate risk. An enhanced risk means numerous severe storms are possible. They can be more widespread or consistent. A moderate risk means widespread severe storms are likely to happen. They are also most likely “long-lived and intense,” according to the Storm Prediction Center.

“It looks like some storms will pop off beginning in the early afternoon and we’re mainly concerned about a damaging wind threat with these storms,” says Kyle Brown, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Northern Indiana.

Brown says the storms will move through anywhere between noon and 8 pm. He says the threat of a tornado is “small” and looks to be “isolated in nature.”

“Not everyone is going to see a tornado, but we are definitely more concerned about the damaging wind gusts to about 60 mph, which can certainly bring down some trees and even some power lines,” says Brown.

The storms will be “juiced once again”, so heavy downpours will also be a concern, says Brown. The threat of severe weather decreases the further south you go.

“The rest of the state could see a few passing showers and thunderstorms. This cold front still has some moisture to work with, so we could still see those showers and thunderstorms,” says Brown.

Once the storms move out, Brown says much of the state will see mostly sunny and clear skies for the next few days with high temperatures ranging from the upper to 70s to low 80s.

Superintendents of school districts in Shelby County will meet with the county health department next week as they begin to devise plans for re-opening schools this fall.

Shelbyville Central Superintendent Mary Harper.

Harper told the Shelbyville Central school board Tuesday night she hopes to present the protocol for re-opening at a special meeting after that in June.  The board could then formally adopt that plan at its July meeting.

Harper says the goal, right now, is to open, on schedule, August 5.

The Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) released 2020-2021 school year COVID-19 reentry considerations. Indiana’s Considerations for Learning and Safe Schools (IN-CLASS) was developed in partnership with the Governor’s office, the Indiana State Department of Health, the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration, the Indiana High School Athletic Association, and IDOE’s Reentry Advisory Group, comprised of practitioners and professional organizations.

The Shelbyville superintendent acknowledges that schools cannot abide by everything in those guidelines from the state.

A survey is expected to go out to Shelbyville Central parents soon.  It will offer three questions:  are you OK with 100% participation at schools…..do you prefer 50% on site and 50% virtual….or all virtual.

Shelbyville Central does intend to have a virtual option to school should families feel they’re not ready to send kids to the buildings due to COVID-19 concerns.

A suspected Columbus bank robber has been found and arrested in Franklin.

On February 4, 2019, Bartholomew County Sheriff’s detectives responded to Centra Credit Union, N US 31, in reference to a reported robbery.  Video footage showed a suspect leaving the bank and getting into a tan or gold Pontiac.  Approximately 10-minutes after the robbery occurred, a citizen reported a vehicle, matching the description of the vehicle seen in the video footage, on fire in the area of Tannehill Road and 280 W. 

The vehicle had been reported stolen to the Beech Grove Police Department on February 2, 2019. 

The investigation led to Jeremy A. Weed, 33, Indianapolis, who was located in a hotel in Franklin.  Weed was taken into custody without incident on an unrelated charge and is currently serving time in DOC (Department of Corrections).

Based on information obtained during the investigation, a warrant for the arrest of Jeremy A. Weed was issued June, 2020, on the following preliminary charges:

Robbery – Level 5 felony

Auto theft – Level 6 felony

Theft – Level 6 felony

The swimmer recovered from the water at White Rock Park Monday has been identified as Lucius Chitty, 19, of Georgia.

Chitty was pronounced deceased at the hospital, and family notification has been made.

An autopsy is scheduled for today to determine cause of death.  

Original release - Monday, June 8

Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating an incident that occurred this evening where a swimmer went missing in the water at White Rock Park.

At approximately 6:03 p.m., authorities were contacted in reference to a male swimmer reported missing in the water for at least 5 minutes.

Conservation Officers, Indiana State Police, Shelby County Sheriff’s Department and Shelbyville Fire Department arrived on scene and quickly began a search and rescue operation.

At approximately 7:12 p.m., an Indiana State Police diver located the swimmer near the docks in 17 feet of water.

The male was transported to Major Health Partners Hospital in Shelbyville in critical condition. His identification is being withheld at this time.

Torrential rain, strong winds, and isolated tornadoes are all severe weather threats that could reach Indiana Tuesday because of Tropical Depression Cristobal, says the National Weather Service in Indianapolis.

"Basically anywhere from noon until 10 pm would be our most likely threat. We're going to be keeping a close eye on things during the afternoon and evening hours Tuesday," says Joe Nield, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Indianapolis.

Nield says every part of Indiana needs to be ready.

"Pretty much all of central Indiana will be affected. The western half of Indiana will be in the highest threat area, but eastern Indiana is still going to have a threat as well. You're going to want to have your plan in place to take action in case a warning is issued on Tuesday," says Nield.

All of western Indiana is under a slight risk for severe weather. Cities and towns east of Indianapolis are under a marginal risk.

A slight risk means scattered powerful thunderstorms are expected. While storms may be short-lived, they can be intense. A marginal risk means isolated thunderstorms are possible.

Cristobal was a Tropical Storm before dropping to a Depression. A tropical depression is a tropical cyclone that has maximum sustained surface winds (one-minute average) of 38 mph or less. Nield says the ever-changing nature of Cristobal has him concerned.

"What has been changing is the degree of expected instability as we get into Tuesday. That has increased our threat. The low-level shear that is already in place is kind of setting the stage for what could be a severe weather outbreak across the area," says Nield.

Nield says the thunderstorm threat decreases overnight Tuesday into Wednesday morning.

"We're not expecting a severe weather threat on Wednesday, just some continued breezy conditions and precipitation exiting the area," says Nield.

Indiana Conservation Officers are investigating an incident that occurred this evening where a swimmer went missing in the water at White Rock Park.

At approximately 6:03 p.m., authorities were contacted in reference to a male swimmer reported missing in the water for at least 5 minutes.

Conservation Officers, Indiana State Police, Shelby County Sheriff’s Department and Shelbyville Fire Department arrived on scene and quickly began a search and rescue operation.

At approximately 7:12 p.m., an Indiana State Police diver located the swimmer near the docks in 17 feet of water.

The male was transported to Major Health Partners Hospital in Shelbyville in critical condition. His identification is being withheld at this time.

Indiana schools can reopen for the fall semester, with lengthy guidelines from the state for when they do.

The Indiana Department of Education says schools should plan on a full 180-day school year, but says school boards can decide to do some or all of it through e-learning. A 33-page list of recommendations suggests thinking about shorter or longer breaks in the semester.

Governor Holcomb says schools "can and should" reopen safely under the plan.

Family and Social Services Secretary Jennifer Sullivan adds that as research increasingly suggests kids are less vulnerable to the virus, the risks of resuming school are outweighed by the mental health benefits of letting kids see each other again, and giving low-income students access to school lunches they may rely on.

The plan acknowledges schools probably don't have the resources to conduct temperature screenings. But it recommends masks, and orders schools to follow up on the reasons for absences, and immediately report any coronavirus cases to the department and the county health department. Anyone with symptoms, even without a positive test, must stay home for 10 days, and at least three days after a fever breaks.

Box says the common thread in the guidelines is avoiding large-scale intermingling of students, from cafeterias to playgrounds to gym class.

The guidelines urge schools to either close the cafeteria and playground, or stagger the times students are there -- the department recommends boxed lunches in classrooms. It also urges schools to break up large classes like choir, band and gym, and hold class outside when possible. And it calls on schools to budget time during the school day for hand-washing and for disinfecting classrooms.

The plan discourages schools from giving out awards or incentives for attendance.

The department says students should have assigned seats, not only in class but on buses. State Health Commissioner Kris Box says if a student does get sick, that'll make it easier to trace whom he had contact with.

The guidelines advise school boards to budget conservatively, in recognition of the possibility of funding cuts. And the department says schools should think about families' budgets too, and try to keep limits on lists of required supplies.

To view the IN-CLASS reentry considerations, go to the Indiana DOE website.

The Ingalls Police Department is investigating the disappearance of Grace Hammonds, a 15 year old white female, 5 feet 6 inches, 160 pounds, brown hair with blue eyes. 

Grace was last seen wearing black shorts with a white stripe, black flip flops, and an unknown shirt.

Grace is missing from Ingalls, Indiana which is 27 miles northeast of Indianapolis and was last seen on Friday, June 5, 2020 at 10:35 pm.  Grace is believed to be in danger.

If you have any information on Grace Hammonds, contact the Ingalls Police Department at 765-642-0221 or 911.

The Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) today released 2020-2021 school year COVID-19 reentry considerations. Indiana’s Considerations for Learning and Safe Schools (IN-CLASS) was developed in partnership with the Governor’s office, the Indiana State Department of Health, the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration, the Indiana High School Athletic Association, and IDOE’s Reentry Advisory Group, comprised of practitioners and professional organizations.

“The health and safety of Hoosier students, school staff, and communities is priority one. Providing students with a quality education is critical and therefore it is crucial we offer considerations focused on getting students back in the classroom in a safe manner,” said State Superintendent Dr. Jennifer McCormick. “Considering the many unknowns associated with COVID-19, we also recognize the importance of alternative learning opportunities. We appreciate the thoughtful and collaborative spirit in which IN-CLASS was developed.”

To view the IN-CLASS reentry considerations, please visit: www.doe.in.gov/sites/default/files/news/june-5-class-document.pdf.

For more information on IDOE’s commitment to schools during the COVID-19 pandemic, including up-to-date resources, please visit: www.doe.in.gov/covid-19.

Brittany Andolz and Deja Holly appeared on the Morning Show Friday to discuss Saturday's planned Standing Together in Solidarity protest in Shelbyville.

The following information is on the Standing Together in Solidarity Facebook page:

TIME: Saturday, June 6th @ 10 am
PLACE: Public sidewalks of the Shelby County Courthouse

This is a peaceful protest in support of the Black Lives Matter movement.

Join us on the sidewalk in front of the courthouse on Saturday morning. Bring your signs to show support for this movement to end racism, violence against black people, and racial injustice in America. #BlackLivesMatter

Let’s stand together in solidarity for our brothers and sisters.

Reminders:
Wear a mask.
Practice social distancing.
Walking or riding your bike to the event is encouraged.
Poster boards and markers are available to make signs.

Please be safe and civil as we peacefully protest together.

Silence = Compliance

Two people were seriously injured when the vehicle they are in left a Shelby County roadway and overturned.

The Shelby County Sheriff's Department says Sarah Carlton, 20, of Fairland, was the driver of the 2005 Pontiacin the 7900 block of North Frontage Road Thursday morning.  The vehicle left the road, Calrton overcorrected and lost control.

Carlton and a passenger, McKane Sutton, 21, of Fairland, were ejected in the crash.  They were transported to Indianapolis for treatment of what were described as non-life threatening injuries.

The following announcement was placed on the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center Facebook page.

Today the Indiana State Fair Commission and the Indiana State Fair Board announced a modified State Fair 4-H Livestock Show with additional activities that will be held on the State Fairgrounds in August. This year’s traditional Indiana State Fair will not take place. Ultimately, the difficult decision was driven by the impact of COVID-19.

“Unfortunately, key elements including vendors and partners of the Fair began falling off and so we pivoted, and found a way to still serve our communities,” said Brad Chambers, Indiana State Fair Commission Chairman.

“Safety is our number one priority. We’ve spent months working through options that would allow us to host the Fair,’ said Cindy Hoye, Executive Director of the Indiana State Fair Commission. “Agriculture and youth are the foundation of our mission and the heartbeat of the Indiana State Fair, so we are determined and proud to honor our 4-H members with a version of that State Fair experience that allows Indiana’s youth to be recognized for their dedication and hard work.”

The Indiana State Fair is an annual celebration of all things Indiana, showcasing youth and agriculture along with great food, animals, entertainment, and exhibits. It is a complex event that requires years of planning by the staff, partners and vendors. In 2019, nearly 879,000 people attended the Indiana State Fair.

Hoye said “We are grateful for the support of our State Fair Family; each one of you who makes the iconic event possible every summer. To our beloved fans, staff, sponsors, exhibitors, 4-H & FFA members, vendors, volunteers and entertainers – we look forward to being back at full strength in August 2021.”

This is not the first time the Indiana State Fair was modified or did not take place. During the Civil War and WWII the Fairgrounds was needed to support the war effort.
For more information on the State Fair 4-H Livestock Show, 4-H projects, and an updated FAQ resource, visit IndianaStateFair.com

Flooding is a concern across Indiana because of the recent rainfall and more rain is on the way, says the National Weather Service in Indianapolis.  Rain and storms will likely arrive around 4 pm.

“We’re mainly concerned about areas of Linton to the Noblesville line. There’s a marginal risk of severe weather where they could see isolated damaging winds and isolated large hail. We could see localized flooding as well,” says Mike Koch, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Indianapolis. “But whatever area gets under the heaviest thunderstorms could see some localized flooding.”

The Storm Prediction Center says a marginal risk means isolated severe storms are possible, with the threat of isolated damaging winds, small hail, and maybe a tornado. Storms in a marginal risk are typically limited in organization, longevity, coverage and/or intensity.

“It’s a marginal risk, so yes it’s a small risk, but it’s still possible,” says Koch.

ndianapolis or south of there, Koch says you need to be keeping an eye on the weather tonight.

“They’ll start seeing storms develop after 4 pm. They could see damaging winds and large hail, but it’s only a marginal risk. They could see flooding. In the northern part of the state, there is a little bit less of a chance of severe storms. But they could still see some localized flooding as well,” says Koch.

He also advises you to be on the lookout for lightning.

“The warmer it gets, the more you tend to get the cloud to ground lightning. We certainly saw a lot of that Wednesday night and we could see more of that today,” says Koch.

Storms clear out by the weekend, but then by early next week, Koch says Indiana will be seeing some rain from Tropical Storm Cristobal. Forecasters are predicting Cristobal could turn north and start heading for Louisiana as soon as tomorrow.

Governor Eric J. Holcomb today signed Executive Order 20-30 to extend the public health emergency for an additional 30 days to July 4.

The Governor also signed Executive Order 20-31 which allows older youth to remain in foster care beyond the age of 18 for the duration of the public health emergency. This will allow them to continue to receive education, workforce training and health benefits.

Executive Order 20-31 also extends the time period to renew professional licenses, certificates or permits to June 30.

Due to the current restrictions on in-person dining in restaurants, the executive order reduces the amount of food sales a restaurant must report to maintain its alcoholic beverage permit.

Additionally, deadlines for the calculation of local taxes were also extended by the executive order.

Click here to see the executive order: https://www.in.gov/gov/2384.htm

Shelby County United Fund and Blue River Community Foundation are pleased to announce that they have been approved to receive a $275,000 COVID-19 Economic Relief Initiative Grant, made possible through a partnership between Lilly Endowment, Inc. and Indiana United Ways, the state professional association of which SCUFFY is a member.  These special funds will be used to boost the efforts of selected area human and social service nonprofits on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“SCUFFY has been a key convener and coordinator of our community’s response to meet human needs for decades. Even before this crisis, we knew that20% of families in Shelby County were not able to make ends meet - despite working. Without arobustlocal nonprofit safety net, those needsare bound to become even more dire.Thanks to generous support from the Lilly Endowment, Inc., weare now more strongly positioned to help our community’s nonprofits deal with the immediate impacts of COVID-19,” said Alecia Gross, Executive Director of SCUFFY.

“The Blue River Community Foundation connects resources with our community’s greatest challenges or opportunities,” said Amy Haacker, Executive Director of BRCF. “In this case, the COVID-19 crisis is unique and especially challenging, as it affects so many in different ways.  This support from Lilly Endowment, Inc, and other caring donors in our community who have been giving generously to support human needs, will enable us to provide much needed relief to those affected most, recover, and then ultimately build resiliency against future catastrophes.”

The COVID-19 Economic Relief Initiative Grantcalls for agencies that receive funding to leverage partnerships and relationships to better meet COVID-related essential and basic needs. Shelby County has established a cross-sector group of community leaders to determine distribution of these funds.

Our local Salvation Army, American Red Cross, Human Services, Shelby County Health Department, Department of Child Services, Major Health Partners, Shelbyville Central Schools, St. Vincent DePaul, Shelby County Early Learning Coalition, Catholic Charities, The Children's Bureau, Pantry Pals (representing all local food pantries), Work Force One, Shelby Senior Services, local government, Turning Point Domestic Violence Services, and the Shelbyville / Shelby County Animal Shelter have committed to serve as members of this coalition.

Some of the top unmet needs identified include: rent assistance, utility assistance and child care availability/assistance. In the coming weeks, the coalition will gather to begin the process of awarding grant funding.

Damaging winds, heavy rain, and large hail are all threats to be ready for Wednesday afternoon and evening, says the National Weather Service in Indianapolis.

Central Indiana is under a slight risk for severe weather. That means scattered powerful thunderstorms are expected and while they may be short-lived, they can be intense.

"It looks like the best time to see storms will be between 4 pm and midnight," says Mike Koch, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Indianapolis. "When thunder roars, go indoors. We could see some localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas and along streams."

Koch does not expect there to be any tornadoes.

"We're expecting the storms to come in from northwest to southeast late this afternoon. North of the Indy metro, the rain will probably arrive around 4 pm. In Indianapolis, it will be closer to 6 pm. Down south, they will likely get rain after 6 pm," says Koch.

As for temperatures, most cities in and towns will see highs in the upper 80s Wednesday. Lows will drop to the 60s overnight.

On Thursday, Koch says there could be storms south of Bloomington, but they aren't likely to be severe.