Noon Edition

Last week, the Monroe County Commissioners again approved a purchase agreement to buy the North Park site for a new jail.The commissioners are trying to stay ahead of a deadline to make progress on building a new jail as outlined in a 2009 lawsuit settlement with the American Civil Liberties Union.It says that if the Monroe County Council doesn’t approve the new purchase agreement by May 29, the county could face another lawsuit from the ACLU.Read more: County commissioners and ACLU reach last ditch agreementThe last time the commissioners agreed to purchase the land in the fall, the council refused to fund it, citing concerns about costs and a desire to keep the jail within city limits.The Bloomington City Council has also come out in opposition to North Park as the site for a new jail.Read more: Monroe County Council refuses $8M to buy new jail propertyAfter years of legal extensions and deteriorating conditions in the jail, Commissioner Jody Madeira says the county needs to find a workable solution now.“We stumble if we continuously look back over our shoulders,” Madeira said. “The 17-year history of this must be a hand on the back that shoves us forward and not a grip on our shoulder that holds us back.”On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the latest on a new jail between the county commissioners and the county council and if they can avoid a potential lawsuit.GuestsJulie Thomas, President, Monroe County CommissionersTrent Deckard, Monroe County Council, At-largeSeth Mutchler, Care Not Cages

Indiana University has been the backbone of the Bloomington economy for some time, helping the community avoid the hardships other cities have faced. But due to funding cuts at the state and federal levels and changes to the property tax laws in the state, that is no longer the case. Layoffs at Indiana University have continued into 2026. And Novo Nordisk, the pharmaceutical giant in town, recently announced 400 layoffs. Add in the high cost of living in the city and Bloomington’s economic outlook looks a little bleak. Read more: Private businesses will bolster Bloomington after IU cuts Last year, wages in Bloomington fell by 6.2 percent. Statewide, they grew by 5.6 percent. And in its 2026 Futurecast, the Indiana Business Research Center at IU predicted a less than 1 percent growth for Bloomington and the surrounding area this year. A market research survey ranked Bloomington below Lafayette and South Bend in “salary and income, job market strength, quality of life and amenities, and industry presence.” Read more: Bloomington at a crossroads, with urgent need to grow the economy Former Bloomington mayor John Fernandez, now the CEO of Amplify Bloomington, said the city needs to lean into its quality of life and amenities. But, he said, the city needs to invest in attracting and retaining the 25- to 50-year-old workforce. On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll be discussing issues impacting Bloomington’s economic outlook and what can be done to ensure a healthy, growing economic forecast going forward.  Guests  John Fernandez, CEO, Amplify Bloomington Carol Rogers, Director, Indiana Business Research Center Eric Spoonmore, Executive Director, Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce 

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the men’s Little 500 bicycle race at Indiana University. Billed as “The World’s Greatest College Weekend,” more than 25,000 people pour into Bloomington for the numerous events leading up to Saturday’s 200-lap, 50-mile men’s race at Bill Armstrong Stadium. Little 500 is also synonymous with the 1979 movie “Breaking Away,” a coming-of-age tale of four Bloomington “cutters” trying to find their place after high school graduation in a college town. They end up competing in – and winning – the Little 500.   The movie was written by Indiana University grad Steve Tesich, a member of the winning 1962 Phi Kappa Psi team the film is loosely based on. “Breaking Away” was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, with Tesich taking home the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. READ MORE: ‘Breaking Away’ celebrates 40th anniversary Dennis Christopher starred in the lead as Dave Stohler, a cycling enthusiast obsessed with Italian racers. That character was based on Dave Blase, who was on the bike for more than half the 1962 race for Phi Kappa Psi. The character’s name was a combination of Blase and team manager Bob Stohler. Tesich died in 1996 at the age of 53, but his little film about the biggest college weekend in Bloomington remains a must-see. On this week’s Noon Edition, we'll talk with members of the 1962 Phi Kappa Psi team that was the inspiration behind the Oscar-winning movie, Breaking Away. Guests Dave Blase, member, 1962 Phi Kappa Psi team John Odusch, member, 1962 Phi Kappa Psi team Rich Burns, member, 1962 Phi Kappa Psi team Bob Stohler, manager, 1962 Phi Kappa Psi team 

It’s been almost 56 years since the founding of both the Environmental Protection Agency and the first Earth Day in response to public outrage about pollution.A lot's changed since then, with several pieces of landmark legislation passed to protect the water, land, and air of the USA.Over the past year, big changes have been made at the federal and state level to weaken or eliminate existing environmental regulations.On this week’s Noon Edition, we talked with environmental policy experts about the key environmental issues facing Indiana and the United States, from data centers to water pollution, and what environmental deregulation means for Hoosiers.Guests:  Kerwin Olson, Executive Director of the Citizens Action CoalitionChristian Freitag, Executive Director of Conservation Law CenterDavid Van Gilder, Senior Policy and Legal Director of the Hoosier Environmental CouncilJanet McCabe, Former deputy administrator of the United States Environmental Protection Agency

Last week, a reorganization committee comprised of members of the town of Ellettsville and Richland Township presented a draft plan on how to merge the two governing bodies into one entity.The two governments began exploring the merger last November. The goals are to help avoid stringent Monroe County zoning codes, give residents a bigger voice in local government and mitigate lost property taxes due to changes in the last state budget.Read more: Draft plan complete for Ellettsville-Richland reorganizationThe draft could receive some pushback from the Town Council, where two members were critical of the selection process for the reorganization committee.Ultimately, the plan will be voted on by residents in November when it will be a referendum on the ballot.Read more: Reorganization subcommittee reportsOn this week’s Noon Edition, we'll talk with Ellettsville and Richland Township leaders about the proposal to merge the two governing bodies into one entity and what it would mean for residents of the town and county.GuestsWilliam Ellis, Ellettsville Town Council, Ward 2Mike Farmer, Ellettsville Town ManagerKevin Farris, Richland Township representative, Reorganization CommitteeJill Thurman, Director, Greater Ellettsville Chamber of Commerce

April is National Donate Life Month, a time to raise awareness of – and encourage people to sign up for – organ donation.It’s also the 40th anniversary of the opening of the Children’s Organ Transplant Association in Bloomington.COTA’s mission is to “help children and young adults who need a life-saving transplant by providing fundraising assistance and family support.”It’s raised more than $160 million since opening in 1986. Last year, COTA paid out more than $4 million to help with transplant expenses.According to Donate Life Indiana, “more than 1,000 Hoosiers are among more than 100,000 Americans waiting for lifesaving organ transplants. In the U.S., another person is added to the transplant waiting list every eight minutes. Each day, 16 people die because a donated organ wasn’t available in time.”On this week's Noon Edition, we’ll talk about the history of the Children’s Organ Transplant Association, its mission, and what it’s like to be the family of a donor and a recipient.GuestsRick Lofgren, CEO and president, COTASuzanne Seiders, Board member, COTA and parent of child recipientLisa Vanderkleed, Parent of child donor

Friday is the first day of spring, which means Hoosiers will begin spending time on their lawns and in their gardens.And while there’s still likely to be overnight freezes and the ground may not be quite ready, now is the time to prepare for questions such as: When is the best time to plant? What grows well in shade and what needs full sun? How do I prepare the soil, and how much should I mulch? What should I be doing this time of year, and how do I even get started?On this week's Noon Edition, we’ll talk with lawn and garden experts about what grows best in Indiana, when is the best time to plant and what it takes to maintain that perfect lawn and garden.GuestsRamsay Harik, Deep Roots Landscape DesignDorothy Kiser, Monroe County Master GardenersMeagan McKim, Bloomington Valley Nurs

The Indiana general assembly wrapped up a shortened session at the end of last month.It may be remembered more for what didn’t get passed than what did.The session was called into order early in December with governor Mike Braun – at the behest of President Trump - urging lawmakers to redraw the state’s U.S. House district maps in order to gain a 9-0 advantage for the GOP.A new map easily passed in the House, but failed by a large margin in the Senate.Read more: Backlash intensifies after Senate kills redistricting pushBraun did get several bills passed that were priorities for Republicans. Among them were ones that mandated local government cooperation with federal immigration detainer requests; criminalized street homelessness; banned cell phones in schools; and required poorly performing townships to merge.There were also a number of lesser bills that flew under the radar and made it to the governor’s desk to be signed into law.Read more: Cheers to these less heralded billsOn this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss this year’s general assembly session, bills that made it – and didn’t make it – to the governor’s desk and what’s in store for next year’s session.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email. GuestsNiki Kelly, Editor, Indiana Capital ChronicleLaura Merrifield Wilson, Associate Professor of Political Science, University of IndianapolisKaitlin Lange, Government and politics editor, Indianapolis Star

The U.S. and Israel’s war with Iran is less than a week old and has enveloped multiple countries in the Middle East.And while the U.S. said it has decimated Iran’s air force and navy, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth cautioned the war was still in its “early” days.Why the U.S. attacked Iran has been open-ended question. After originally touting an imminent threat of attack from Iran and regime change, the White House Tuesday said its reasons for the campaign were: destroying Iran's missile capabilities; annihilating Iran's navy; preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons; and ensuring the regime can't continue to arm, fund or direct "terrorist armies" outside its borders.While acknowledging Iran was a bad actor on the national stage, Democrats have called the U.S.’s attack illegal, saying only Congress can declare war. They’ve also said they’ve seen no justification for the military action. Sen. Mark Waren of Virginia, the top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee, told CNN, “This is still a war of choice that has been acknowledged by others was dictated by Israel's goals and timelines.”On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the on-going conflict in the Middle East, what a post-war Iran could look like, the U.S.’s standing in the region and the impact of the war on Iranians here in the U.S.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email. GuestsHussein Banai, Associate Professor of International Studies, Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies, Indiana UniversityBabak Seradjeh, Professor, Department of Physics, Indiana UniversityLadan Shojaei, Ph.D. Student in Mathematics Education, Indiana University

Recovery efforts continue on the west side of Bloomington from last week’s EF2 tornado that damaged several homes and businesses, uprooted trees and downed power lines.The tornado touched down just west of the Monroe County Airport and was on the ground for nearly four miles before dissipating before crossing I-69.Among the businesses hit was the Monroe County Humane Association, which provides veterinary care and shelter for pets of people experiencing financial hardships. A week after the storm, they remain unable to provide services.Read more: Humane Association recovering from tornado damageRecovery from tornados can be a long process.The People and Animal Learning Services organization west of Bloomington that was damaged in last May’s tornado has begun offering limited services but is still working to rebuilt its outdoor learning facility and barn.Read more: Bloomington equine facility rebuilding after tornadoThat May tornado also devastated homes in the Clear Creek area on Bloomington’s south side. Then-Perry Township trustee Dan “Carp” Combs, who died last month, and journalist Steven Higgs interviewed residents and officials for a debrief on their recovery experiences and what can be learned from such disasters. They compiled a 67-page report calls “The Canary in the Coal Mine” critical of the county and state’s lack of preparedness for environmental disasters.Read more: The Canary in the Coal MineOn this week’s Noon Edition, we'll discuss recovery efforts from last week's tornado, where people can go for help and what we learned from last year's tornado in May that devastated the Clear Creek area.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email. GuestsSteven Higgs, Journalist, AuthorAndrew Krebbs, Executive Director, Monroe County Humane AssociationDavid Henry, (D) Monroe County Council, At-Large

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the first celebration of Black history in the U.S.Now celebrated the entire month of February, it was launched by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926 as Negro History Week. It was expanded to a month-long celebration in 1976 and was officially recognized by Congress in 1986. February was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglas.The theme of this year’s celebration is "A Century of Black History Commemorations." Several events are scheduled in Bloomington and on the Indiana University campus.Read more: Bloomington announces 2026 Black History Month eventsBut this year’s Black History Month comes at a time when the federal government has been removing Black history markers and content from sites ran by the National Parks Service.Read more: Slavery displays removed from Philadelphia historical site after Trump directiveThe president also eliminated Martin Luther King Day and Juneteenth as free days at national parks.In Indiana, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives across state government and public universities were targeted for elimination by Governor Mike Braun to align with federal directives.Read more: Following government orders, IU eliminates DEI programsOn this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the history of Black History Month, the importance of celebrating black history, if that's become more difficult as DEI programs have come under fire and what is being done to further black causes.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email. GuestsJim Sims, President, Monroe County Branch NAACPCarolyn Calloway-Thomas, Professor, Department of African American and African Diaspora StudiesJakobi Williams, Ruth N. Halls Associate Professor and Chair, Department of African American and African Diaspora Studies

Minneapolis has been the focal point of the federal government’s push to deport illegal immigrants from the country.Around 3,000 Immigration and Custom Enforcement officials and border patrol agents have been sent to the city, leading to almost daily clashes with protestors and two U.S. citizens being killed by federal agents.Immigration enforcement tactics and rhetoric about undocumented people in the country has become another politically divisive issue between red and blue states, especially around how much local communities are required to cooperate with federal officials.In Indiana, lawmakers are advancing bills to expand cooperation with federal agencies such as ICE and border patrol. It passed in the Senate, with all democrats voting against it.Read more: Immigration enforcement bill clears Indiana Senate amid national ICE controversyAnother bill that passed in the House would empower the governor to send a “military police force” made up of Indiana National Guard members throughout the state. They would be allowed to conduct searches, make arrests and exercise other police powers.Critics of the bill worry it could result in the governor targeting Democratic-ran cities akin to President Trump’s “Operation Metro Surge” in Minneapolis.Read more: Indiana National Guard ‘military police’ bill passes HouseThose opposing the deployment of ICE and border patrol agents across the county say that they have been violating first, second and fourth amendment rights.Protests have sprung up nation-wide against the tactics being used by ICE and immigration enforcement officials.On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the bills moving through the Indiana general assembly, the debate surrounding immigration enforcement and if peoples’ rights are being violated.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email. GuestsVanessa Cruz Nichols, Assistant Professor, IU Department of Political ScienceChristie Popp, immigration attorney; Adjunct, IU Maurer School of LawSen. Shelli Yoder, (D) Bloomington

The Chicago Bears are looking for a new home, and, if Indiana gets its way, the original NFL franchise could end up in Gary.The Indiana senate voted Wednesday to establish a state-run stadium authority that would finance and build a stadium for the Bears in northwest Indiana.“Indiana is open for business, and the Chicago Bears have taken notice,” Indiana governor Mike Braun said in a statement. “The Senate’s passage of SB 27 to establish a Northwest Indiana stadium authority is the next critical step in the right direction to bring the Chicago Bears to the Hoosier state and to grow Indiana’s economy.”If the bill becomes law, it would create the Northwest Indiana Stadium Authority. It would acquire land, issue bonds and finance the building of the stadium.The state would own the stadium and lease it to the Bears for a minimum of 35 years.It’s pretty much the arrangement the Bears want to get out of now with the city of Chicago. The Chicago Parks Department owns the stadium and surrounding area, which limits the amount of money the team can bring in.The Bears are also negotiating with the state of Illinois for a stadium complex in Arlington Heights, north of the city. The Bears have said they will pay for the stadium but are looking for the state to pay for infrastructure around it.On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss what kind of financial commitment it would take from the state to lure the Bears, what it would mean for the region, how realistic is it that it could happen, and how often franchises make these threats to move to secure new stadium deals at home. And what does it mean for the fan?Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email.  Guests Kyle Anderson, Clinical Assistant Professor of Business Economics, Kelley School of Business, Indiana University-IndianapolisMichael Gallenberger, Reporter, WVPEGeoffrey Propheter, Associate Professor, School of Public Affairs, University of Colorado-Denver

President Donald Trump announced Wednesday he and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte had “formed the framework of a future deal with respect to Greenland and, in fact, the entire Arctic Region.” What that means is unclear, but the president said he will no longer impose tariffs on European countries who balked at his talk of taking over the country. Trump also said he was ruling out using the military to take over Greenland. Read more: Trump hails 'framework of a future deal' on Greenland It comes after weeks of rhetoric about the U.S.’s need to own Greenland for national security purpose.Trump has also used national security as his reasoning behind the incursion into Venezuela earlier this month to arrest Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro. The U.S. military has also been attacking what they call drug boats and seizing tankers carrying Venezuelan oil. Read more: Trump wants U.S. oil companies in VenezuelaThe president last week also threatened action against Iran over its crackdown on protests against the regime.  Read more: Iran warns Trump not to take action against Khamenei The U.S. and Israel also bombed three nuclear sites in Iran last summer, tied to the continuing war in Gaza. And, Thursday, Trump announced the creation of a “Board of Peace,” which is meant to oversee the ceasefire and reconstruction in Gaza – and more. On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the U.S.’s foreign policy moves in Europe, the Middle East and the Western Hemisphere, how they are impacting relations with allies and adversaries and the future world order. Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected]. Guests Feisal al-Istrabadi, Founding Director, IU Center for the Study of the Middle East Leandro Aristeguieta, PhD history candidate, focused on U.S.-Venezuelan relationships 

The Indiana football team is playing for the national championship Monday night against the Miami Hurricanes.It would be the first NCAA title in football for the Hoosiers, but the Hurricanes have been here before – winning five times, the last in 2001.The top-ranked Hoosiers have rolled in their two playoff games – beating Alabama, 38-3, in the Rose Bowl, and Oregon, 56-22, in the Peach Bowl.With the support of the nation’s largest living alumni base, Hoosier fans dominated the crowd at both bowl games. But doing so at Hard Rock Stadium Monday night may be difficult, because it’s the home stadium for the Hurricanes.On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the Hoosiers’ run to the national championship, how it effects the psyche of fans, the importance of the largest alumni base in the nation and what it means for the university.Guests Edward Hirt, Professor of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana UniversityAndy Graham, former Herald-Times reporterWayne Winston, Emeritus Professor, Kelley School of Business, Indiana University

During the first Trump administration, the government resumed federal executions after a 17-year lull.Between July 2020 and January 2021, 13 people on federal death row at the U.S. Penitentiary in Terre Haute were put to death.But in July 2021, under the Biden administration, a moratorium on federal executions was announced by attorney general Merrick Garland.Then, shortly before leaving office, Biden commuted the death sentences of 37 of the 40 prisoners on the federal death row, leaving only Tree of Life Synagogue shooter Robert Bowers, Mother Emanuel AME Church shooter Dylann Roof and Boston Marathon bomber Dzhokhar Tsarnaev the only people eligible for execution. All three remain in Terre Haute.LISTEN: Rush to Kill podcastBut once back in office, President Trump announced his intention to resume federal executions and to forcefully pursue the death penalty in future cases.And, the administration is in the process of sending the remaining 37 prisoners on death row to ADX Florence, dubbed the Alcatraz of the Rockies. It’s the U.S.’s lone super-maximum security prison and where its most dangerous criminals are held.LISTEN: Biden stopped the executions of 37 men. Trump's DOJ wants to punish themThe move is designed to punish the prisoners whose sentences were commuted by Biden.Attorney General Pam Bondi posted on X: “We have begun transferring the monsters Biden commuted to Supermax prisons, where they will spend the rest of their lives in conditions that match their egregious crimes.”On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the federal government moving death row prisoners from Terre Haute to ADX Florence, its desire to resume executions and the state of the prisoners remaining on death row.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected] Breeden, Spiritual Advisor to Death Row InmateChiara Eisner, Correspondent, NPR's Investigations UnitGeorge Hale, Reporter, WFIU News

We officially said good-bye to 2025 Wednesday night, but it was a year filled with big news that impacted Hoosiers across the state.One of the biggest was Senate Enrolled Act 1, which provides property tax relief for residents and businesses but led to cuts in revenue for local communities and public education institutions.The general assembly also gave Gov. Mike Braun control of the three alumni picks to Indiana University’s Board of Trustees. He immediately replaced those positions with his picks.But, in a surprise move last month, the Indiana Senate overwhelmingly shot down an effort led by Gov. Braun, at the request of President Trump, to redistrict the state’s U.S. House district maps in an effort to pick up two Republican seats in this year’s mid-term elections.Indiana University came under fire for its free speech policies – or lack thereof. It was rated last among public institutions in free speech by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression.And, in Bloomington, the county council nixed a plan for a new jail site at the 11th hour, reigniting an effort to seek a new location. But construction finally began on the Bloomington Convention Center expansion project after nearly a decade in the making.The city also continues to try to cope with its population of unhoused persons.On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll look back at some of the top stories from 2025 that impacted Hoosiers on a local and state level.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email. GuestsMark Alesia, News Editor, WFIU/WTIU NewsJoe Hren, Reporter, WFIU/WTIU NewsNiki Kelly, Editor, Indiana Capital ChronicleEthan Sandweiss, Reporter, WFIU/WTIU News

Chronic pain is described as pain that lasts for more than three months. It may be constant or just flare up from time to time, but its persistence is what is important.Treatment for chronic pain is usually a combination of medications, physical therapy, interventional procedures, psychological approaches and lifestyle changes.Chronic pain can lead to depression, anxiety and an increase of co-morbidities from the toll it takes on the body. Addiction to opiates is also a looming danger.On this week’s Noon Edition, we’re talking about chronic pain, what causes it, the effects on the mind and body, how to treat it and the dangers of addiction that can come with prescription drugs.This show was pre-recorded, so there will be no live calls or questions online.Guests: Dr. James Archer, primary care provider, IU Health BloomingtonZack Chestnut, personal coach, Trident Fitness Nutrition and Recovery Dr. Matthew Bair, professor, IU School of Medicine in Indianapolis

If you’re looking for holiday gifts, books are always a great idea.So, on this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll be coming to you from Morgenstern Books, where our panel of experts will discuss their favorite books, what titles have been popular in 2025, book trends and gift ideas.Noon Edition host Bob Zaltsberg will be joined by New York Times best-selling author Michael Koryta, Morgenstern Books general manager Jenna Bowman, and Sam Ott, the Teen Services Manager at the Monroe County Public Library.Doors for the free event will open at 11:30 a.m.Noon Edition will take questions from the audience in attendance, as well as through email at [email protected] can also record your questions and send them in through email.  Guests  Jenna Bowman, General Manager, Morganstern BooksMichael Koryta, New York Times bestselling authorSam Ott, Teen Services Manager, Monroe County Public Library

The holiday season is a time for gathering with family, giving gifts and spreading joy. But many Hoosiers are struggling to put food on the table and don’t have the resources for getting their loved ones gifts. And, this year, having SNAP benefits delayed due to the government shutdown only exacerbated the need for assistance. More than 600,000 Hoosiers receive SNAP benefits. A little more than 12 percent of the state’s population lives below the federal poverty line. A 2025 reports shows another 26 percent of Hoosier households are "Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed." There are a number of organizations whose mission is to help those in need – food banks such as Pantry 279, Hoosier Hills Food Bank and Gleaners Food Bank, the United Way of South Central Indiana, and the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program. But federal funding cuts and the impact of the shutdown are affecting those organizations as well.  On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the needs of Hoosier families and how you can help not only during the holiday season but year-round. Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0812 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email.  Guests Erin Finnigan, Development Director, United Way of South Central Indiana Cindy Chavez, Executive Director, Pantry 279Staff Sargent Saint Henderson, Volunteer Coordinator, Marine Corps Toys for Tots  

Indiana University traditionally has propped up Bloomington, Monroe County and the surrounding area during tough economic times. But now, due to cuts in state and federal funding and a number of layoffs, uncertainty at the university is dragging down the local economy. “Folks, the news is rough,” said Phil Powell, executive director of the Indiana Business Research Center at Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business. He said that at the IBRC’s presentation of its 2026 Futurecast, its annual economic forecast, in Bloomington last week.  Read more: Private businesses will bolster Bloomington after IU cuts, economic experts say  Powell said Bloomington is having a rough year, and next year’s growth might not be much better. “If we're lucky to have 1 percent here in the region, it will have been a good year for Bloomington,” Powell said. “I'm thinking more zero to 0.5.”  The state, however, is faring batter. While wages in Bloomington fell by 6.2 percent this year, they grew by 5.6 in the state. Indiana University is one of the main reasons. It accounts for about 20 percent of the economy in Monroe and surrounding counties. Powell said the university will likely continue to cut jobs and wages in 2026. “If you're feeling some economic pain in your markets and your customers, it's happening right here, folks,” Powell said. “It's driven by what’s happened in higher ed.”  On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the findings of the Indiana Business Research Center’s 2026 Futurecast and what it means economically for Bloomington, Monroe County and the state. Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email.  Guests Phillip Powell, Executive Director, Indiana Business Research Center Andrew Butters, Associate Professor, IU Kelley School of Business Jennifer Pearl, President, Bloomington Economic Development Corporation 

After the Monroe County Council voted unanimously last week to reject spending $8 million to purchase land for a new jail and justice center at North Park, the big question is, what’s next?The council had agreed to buy the land off Ind. 46 between Bloomington and Ellettsville last fall and had plans for the project, which included a 400-bed jail, courts and other offices. The total cost was around $225 million.But since then, the Indiana legislature passed Senate Bill 1, which significantly changed how counties can raise revenue for projects such as the justice center complex.Read more: Monroe County Council refuses $8M to buy new jail property“As it stands right now, we can't afford it,” County Council president Jennifer Crossley said before the vote. “It's just real tone deaf to keep acting like we're going to continue to move forward in this when we don't have a concept of a fix, and neither does the Statehouse right now.”Officials have been working for years to build a new jail as part of a settlement with the American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana, which sued the county in 2009 alleging conditions at the current jail are unconstitutional.Read more: ACLU attorney calls on Monroe County to establish new jailJulie Thomas, president of the Monroe County Commissioners, was critical of the council’s actions, saying it was wrong to vote down the agreed upon site while offering no alternatives. The commissioners agreed to the North Park purchase last October.“This was unexpected,” Thomas said. “And I think the troubling aspect for us as a board is that all along, we've had collaboration, and it's not just the council, it's the sheriff's department and the board of judges and the prosecutor and the public defender and the clerk and all of these entities.”Everyone seems to agree that renovating the current site downtown is not an option, so the next step will likely be trying to find a new property site or revisit one of the sites that had been dismissed.Read more: Consultant recommends 450-500 beds for new Monroe County JailOn this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss what the options are going forward for a new Monroe County jail after the North Park site was voted down.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email. GuestsJennifer Crossley, President, Monroe County CouncilEric Spoonmore, President, Bloomington Chamber of CommerceJulie Thomas, President, Monroe County Commissioners

Millions of people across the country – and more the 600,000 Hoosiers – will not receive their SNAP benefits next month if the federal government remains shut down.  The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides food assistance to low- and no-income individuals and families living in the U.S. The federal aid program administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which says “the well has run dry.” To qualify for SNAP benefits, applicants must meet certain financial and non-financial requirements, including citizenship/alien status, work registration and a gross income of no more than 130 percent of the federal poverty line. Republicans and Democrats are blaming each other for the shut down – and the loss of benefits that comes with it. Read more: Democratic AGs and governors sue USDA for suspending SNAP benefits The secretary of Indiana's Family and Social Services Administration, which distributes SNAP benefits in the state said: “The surest way to protect Hoosiers from a disruption in their SNAP benefits is for Senate Democrats to quickly pass the Clean Continuing Resolution. Until then, families across Indiana are left in limbo — their ability to put food on the table tied up in political gridlock." Democrats say they are voting no to re-opening the government to protect millions of people who could lose their healthcare through the Affordable Care Act. Read more: Here’s why the shutdown has put food stamp benefits at risk Stuck in the middle are the 42 million Americans who rely on SNAP benefits to survive. Food banks, which are also facing funding cuts, say they are bracing for increased demands. “Really at this point, because our government funding and government food streams are also somewhat in flux because of the shutdown, we really have to rely on private support in order to be able to continue doing what we're doing,” said Julio Alonso, the executive director of the Hoosier Hills Food Bank. On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the potential impact on Hoosiers of lost benefits and the impact a loss of state and federal funds will have on local food banks. Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email.  Guests Julio Alonso, Executive Director, Hoosier Hills Food Bank Emily Weikert Bryant, Executive Director, Feeding Indiana’s HungryDan Combs, Perry Township Trustee 

On this week’s special Noon Edition from the Unitarian Universalist Church in Bloomington, we discuss the rise in Christian nationalism in the U.S., its embrace by conservative politicians and how it’s shaping policy.  Guests Daniel O. Conkle, Professor of Law Emeritus, IU Maurer School of Law Rep. Matt Pierce, (D) BloomingtonBob Whitaker, Senior Pastor, Christ Community Church 

The Indiana University Media School fired Director of Student Media Jim Rodenbush Tuesday.It comes one week after Rodenbush says he was ordered by administrators to remove news from the Indiana Daily Student print edition.Editors at the IDS said Rodenbush refused, telling Media School Leaders he would not censor the student paper.Media School Dean David Tolchinsky told Rodenbush in a letter published by the IDS that he was being fired for his “lack of leadership” and unwillingness to stick to the Student Media Plan.Read more: IU announces student media merger, cuts newspaperThe Media School created the Student Media Plan after the university paid off nearly $1 million in debt for the IDS last year. The plan ended weekly printing to curb its deficit. The IDS is still permitted to publish special themed editions, which have included news. Rodenbush told editors in an email that administrators expected “that edition should contain nothing but information about homecoming — no other news at all, and particularly no traditional front page news coverage.”An exception could be made for copies of the IDS distributed off campus, he said.IDS editors described the order on print in an editorial Tuesday as censorship and denounced his firing. Students at campus radio station WIUX and television station IUSTV also criticized the Media School, as did IU Student Government.On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the firing, the Student Media Plan, the direction of the IDS and the Media School.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email. GuestsJim Rodenbush, former Director of Student Media, Indiana University Media SchoolSuzannah Evans Comfort, Associate Professor, Indiana University Media School

One in 31 Americans have been diagnosed with autism, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s latest data, from 2022.The numbers have grown significantly from the 1990s, when the autism rate was one in 10,000. Even in 2000, the rate was one in 150.Scientists say in the past, only kids with severe problems were diagnosed with autism. Now that they know autism spectrum disorder encompasses a wide range of traits and symptoms, the numbers have jumped.They also say as services grew, more parents began seeking diagnoses for their children.But recent comments and recommendations on autism by President Donald Trump and his administration have stirred controversy on the issue. Trump said there is “something artificial” about the rising autism rate and suggested women not take Tylenol, which includes the drug acetaminophen, during pregnancy unless medically necessary.Read more: Trump links autism and Tylenol: is there any truth to it?Parents of autistic children and doctors say the president is blaming mothers and vilifying autism.“There’s this kind of narrative that you have to be careful of absolutely everything you do in pregnancy, and if you eat the wrong thing or do the wrong thing, you’re going to irreparably harm your baby,” said Dr. Noa Sterling, an OB-GYN. “So, the Tylenol just plays directly into this fear that, ‘I’ve taken something that has caused this condition in my child.’”Last month, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the U.S. Secretary of Human and Health Services, announced actions the administration will take to “confront the nation’s autism spectrum disorder epidemic.” Those include new treatments and what he calls groundbreaking research.The renewed focus on ASD is welcomed by some, but others decry what they see as pushing ideas not grounded in science.On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss autism spectrum disorders, behavior analysis and support, living with autism and the federal government’s new approach to autism. Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email. GuestsDr. Cathy Pratt, former director, Indiana Resource Center for AutismAdria Nassim, research assistant, Indiana Institute on Disability and CommunityAshley Lehman, president, Monroe County Autism Foundation

Indiana is slashing available seats in state-funded preschool programs next year and reducing reimbursement for preschools.The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration announced the cuts in June and said the state was narrowing eligibility for these programs.Read more: Indiana slashes number of children in state preschool programThe programs were funded by about $1 billion in pandemic money that ran out this year and isn’t being replaced by the legislature.Although Indiana Gov. Mike Braun pushed for increased funding, lawmakers ended up passing a smaller budget due to weak revenue forecasts.According to a survey conducted last month, about 11 percent of the state’s early childcare providers report that they may close in the next year as a result of the cuts.Read more: Indiana child carers already closing as cuts hitOn this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss how the cuts are affecting childcare providers, parents trying to get care, and early learning costs and benefits.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0812 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected]. You can also record your questions and send them in through email. GuestsTony Felts, Chief Engagement Officer, Early Learning IndianaJennifer Myers, Director, Monroe Smart StartHanan Osman, Executive Director, Indiana Association for the Education of Young Children

Pet ownership has risen by about 10 percent over the last three decades, with three-fourths of those surveyed saying they acquired a pet during the pandemic.

On this Noon Edition, we’ll be talking with three guests about how beauty standards have changed over the years and how the selfie generation is turning to procedures in hopes of achieving the perfect look.

On this Noon Edition, we talk with medical experts about the need for vaccines and the fallout from the Trump administration’s vaccine stance and shake up at the top of the Center for Disease Control. 

Labor Day traditionally marks the unofficial end to summer.But true meaning behind the holiday is to honor the contributions of American workers to society.Growing out of the labor movement of the 1880s, the first Labor Day parade was held in New York City in 1882. Labor Day became a federal holiday in 1894.Leading the labor movement in Indiana was Terre Haute’s Eugene V. Debs. As Grand Secretary of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen, he led a 10-month strike in 1888 against CB&Q Railroad.He was also instrumental in the founding of the American Railway Union, one of the nation's first industrial unions, and went on to serve in the Indiana House of Representatives. Debs also ran for president five times as a socialist, the last time in 1920 from jail.One of the first major pro-labor laws came in 1914. The Clayton Act said "the labor of a human being is not a commodity or article of commerce." It legalized strikes and boycotts. Workers earned the right to unionize in via the Wagner Act in 1935.Union membership peaked in 1954 with 35 percent of the workforce represented by a union.But union membership began to decline and by 1983, union membership was down to 21 percent nationwide. Indiana was above the national average then with 25 percent. But by 2004, that number was down to 12 percent and last year dipped below 10 percent.Contributing to the decline was Indiana’s Right to Work legislation, which was signed into law in 2012. It prohibits unions from requiring union membership as a condition of employment.But union membership is making a comeback, with companies such as Starbucks and Amazon seeing organized labor movements. And at Indiana University, the Indiana Graduate Workers Coalition has been seeking formal recognition from IU for its more than 1,700 members.On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the history behind the labor movement in the U.S., Indiana’s role in unions, where unions stand today and why it’s important to recognize laborers.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected] Cronin, president of UAW Local 440Allison Duerk, Director of the Eugene Debs MuseumJerry Torr, former Indiana state representative from Carmel, co-author Indiana’s Right to Work lawJoseph Varga, professor in the Labor Studies Department at Indiana University

On this week’s Noon Edition, we discuss the excitement surrounding the Indiana football program, how NIL money is impacting college football and the return of the bison.

Gov. Mike Braun has remained uncommitted to redistricting Indiana, waiting to see what Texas does and what the GOP legislators in the state want to do.

Five years ago, the city of Bloomington unveiled the Hopewell Master Plan to lay the groundwork for a new neighborhood on the former site of the IU Health Bloomington Hospital.The city purchased the property for $6.5 million with the hopes of a new neighborhood that included “homes for all, intentional design, green space, and a true sense of belonging.”But the development, which will be built in three phases (South, East and West) is taking time.A new city park – Hopewell Commons – was opened in April. The one-acre park “features swing-style seating, picnic tables, a log scramble play structure, artificial turf, a performance stage, temporary pickleball courts, and built-in ping pong tables.”And work has begun turning the historic Kohr Administrative Building on the south side of the neighborhood into 38 low-income housing units.Read more: Construction begins on Kohr Building low-income housing next monthBut while plats have been approved that divided the property into lots and set up easements, public rights-of-way, and street names, no houses have yet been constructed.In June, the Bloomington Redevelopment Commission rejected all bids for the development and voted unanimously to begin working with development firm Flintlock LAB, “which has years of experience creating pre-approved home designs with reduced costs that are acceptable to local city development code.”Read more: Bloomington shifts direction on Hopewell SouthThe goal is to cut down on developer risks and streamline city approvals.“Development has been very slow in Bloomington,” mayor Kerry Thomson said at the time. “It takes a long time to get a permit, and that costs money not just to the developer, but that end cost gets ultimately passed on to the person who lives in the unit.”The city says the next steps include: site design concepts and architectural renderings; housing breakdowns by type and affordability; community input opportunities and engagement sessions; and construction timelines.On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss where the Hopewell neighborhood project stands, issues that have arisen and how Hopewell could be a model for other neighborhoods going forward.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected]. You can also record your questions and send them in through email.GuestsJason Bell, Executive Director, Building Association of South Central IndianaAnna Killion-Hanson, Director, Department of Housing and Neighborhood Development

The Taste of Bloomington is making its return Saturday.The popular food and drink festival was last held in 2019 in the Showers complex. But the pandemic, then rising food and beverage costs, made the event unsustainable.But this year, led by Food Truck Friday organizer Jordan Davis, the Taste will return with a new look and location.The festival will take place from 3 to 10 p.m., all along Kirkwood Avenue, with more than three dozen restaurants, a dozen food trucks and eight alcohol establishments lining the street from Indiana Avenue to Walnut.There’ll also be two stages with live music playing during the event. Performers include Clayton Anderson, DIZGO, Peyton Womack, WIND and Busman’s Holiday.One major change is the event will be free to enter. Each venue’s servings will cost no more than $5.On this week’s special Noon Edition from the café at the Graduate Hotel on Kirkwood, we’ll discuss what it took to get the Taste of Bloomington restarted, changes to the event and what food and drink will be available.Join us live at the Graduate Hotel or on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected] Davis, Organizer, Taste of Bloomington.Mike McAfee, Executive Director, Visit BloomingtonAmber Racoma, Owner, Mama Dukes Hawaiian Barbeque

Families in the United States – and around the world – are having fewer children for the first time in history.And it’s not because of the usual suspects - war, famine and pandemics. Now, it’s more economic and societal reasons that are causing people to have fewer or no children at all.According to a U.N. report, people in the U.S. and most countries around the world are not having enough children to maintain a stable population. In many cases, populations are already declining.Every major country in the Americas is below the replacement rate of 2.1. The U.S. is currently at 1.63.“A silent demographic shift is underway, and its consequences will be felt across generations,” said Jesús Fernández-Villaverde, a University of Pennsylvania macroeconomist who studies how poor countries develop.Watch: Fernández-Villaverde’s keynote address: “The Demographic Future of Humanity.”The Trump administration has been pushing efforts to boost fertility rates as communities deal with the realities of declining populations. Those can lead to school closures and fewer youth in the workforce.But the decision to not have children can be empowering, leading to greater freedom – both economically and societally – for young couples.On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the impact declining birth rates can have on society, why fewer people are choosing to have children and how communities are planning for a smaller workforce.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0812 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected]. You can also record your questions and send them in through email.GuestsJennifer Barber, Professor of Sociology, IU College of Arts and SciencesJustin Garcia, Executive Director, The Kinsey InstituteMatt Kinghorn, Senior Demographic Analyst, Indiana Business Research Center

In April, Indiana Gov. Mike Braun signed an executive order saying the state would no longer participate in its climate action plan. It comes after the federal government announced it was eliminating programs to combat climate change.Braun said the state’s climate plan was filled with policies that result in "worse economic and environmental outcomes for Hoosiers."Read more: Indiana will no longer move forward with its plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissionsClimate advocates said the plan would improve Hoosiers’ quality of life, create jobs and add more clean energy to the state’s power grid.The loss of state and federal support for climate action plans means the role of adjusting to climate change falls on local municipalities in Indiana.In April 2021, the City of Bloomington adopted its Climate Action Plan. The goal was to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25% (below 2018 emissions levels) by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the decision by the federal and state governments to end their support for climate plans, what it means for Hoosiers in the long run, and how local governments are picking up the slack.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected] Anderson, Director of Advocacy at Earth Charter IndianaTherese Dorau, Assistant Director for Climate Policy & Implementation, Environmental Resilience InstituteShawn Miya, Assistant Director of Sustainability for the City of Bloomington

It’s summer, which means travel time for millions of Americans.Deloitte’s travel survey for this summer found that, despite a declining confidence in the economy, more than 53 percent of Americans planned vacations this summer, up from 48 percent in 2024.However, surveys say that Americans are being more frugal with their vacation budgets, traveling domestically instead of internationally, opting for cheaper hotels and driving instead of flying.And while airline travel is often iffy with delays and connecting flights, travelers are getting a break from the Transportation Safety Administration. Just this week, the TSA announced it would no longer require airline passengers to remove their shoes during the screening process.But the large numbers of travelers are leading to issues with over-tourism, where overcrowding and congestion are negatively impacting vacation destinations. It’s forced some national parks in the U.S. to require timed entry passes, cities not allowing massive cruise ships to talk and overt resentment by locals against tourists.On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the busy summer travel season, expenses, issues on the road and in the skies and what you should look for when booking your vacation.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected] can also record your questions and send them in through email.GuestsMark Cramer, Owner, Blue Mind TravelChristina Griffiths, Manager of Public Affairs, AAA Hoosier Motor ClubDavid Smiley, Senior Lecture, IU School of Public Health - Bloomingtonhttps://www.ipm.org/show/noon-edition/2025-07-09/how-to-make-the-most-out-of-summer-travel

Deloitte’s travel survey for this summer found that, despite a declining confidence in the economy, more than 53 percent of Americans planned vacations this summer, up from 48 percent in 2024.

Summer arrives this weekend, and Hoosiers will be spending time in their gardens trying to make sure vegetables and flowers are flourishing. Grasses are growing and weeds are kept at bay. Questions about gardening are popular on Noon Edition: When is the best time to plant? What grows well in shade and what needs full sun? How do I prepare the soil, and how much should I mulch? What should I be doing this time of year, and how do I even get started? If you're wondering about your roses, your tomato plants, or your oak leaf hydrangea, you've come to the right place. On this week's Noon Edition, we have three experts lined up to talk about gardening in Indiana, and to answer your specific questions.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected] Cusack is a master gardener and the Communications Director for the Monroe County Master Gardeners Association.John Orick is the Purdue Master Gardener State Program Coordinator. He has a decade of experience in the golf course maintenance industry and holds two degrees in Turfgrass Science.Jo Ellen Meyers Sharp is a master gardener, recently inducted into the Garden Communicators Hall of Fame. She is also a former garden columnist for the IndyStar.

The U.S. Supreme Court is expected to release a flurry of decisions as the 2024-25 term comes to an end this month. A number of the cases reflect the societal battles playing out across the country and affect millions of Americans. The court will be weighing in on whether gender-affirming health care for children under 18 is protected by the equal protection clause of the Constitution or if states are free to ban care for youth diagnosed with gender dysphoria. Read more: Supreme Court case could impact transgender health care in the Midwest Birthright citizenship, which the court in the past has said is guaranteed under the 14th amendment, is back in front of the court. It’s part of a wider case about the legality of national injunctions after 22 states sued to block President Trump’s executive order banning birthright citizenship. Another key decision revolves around states’ ability to bar Medicaid funds from being used at Planned Parenthood and its affiliates. The case stems from an executive order signed by the governor of South Carolina. A Planned Parenthood patient sued, saying the order violated her right to choose medical care. Read more: Trump administration cuts Title X funding to Planned Parenthood The court will also issue decisions on cases involving racial gerrymandering, online age-verification and whether parents can opt their children out of school lessons that include LBGTQ+ topics.  On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the possible impacts of these decisions and the role of the Supreme Court in today’s political climate.  Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email.   Guests Yvette Butler, Associate Professor of Law, IU’s Maurer School of Law Steve Sanders, Professor of Law, IU’s Maurer School of Law 

Earlier this week, Indiana Governor Mike Braun fired the three alumni-elected members of Indiana University’s Board of Trustees and installed three of his own picks.In a last-minute amendment to the state budget this session, Braun was granted control of all nine of IU’s trustees by the general assembly. Previously, six were named by the governor and three were selected by alumni.One of the fired trustees, Vivian Winston, had just one month left in her term.Read more: Braun defends move on IU trustees while terminated members speak outThe move was more of what critics see as government overreach of the university.Last month, IU and other state schools closed their offices of diversity, equity and inclusion after being threatened with a loss of funding. And, due to cuts at the federal and state level, IU is looking to cut $100 million from next year’s budget, while also freezing in-state tuition for the next two years.Read more: As threats to DEI grow, students, community members fear what could be lostIndiana University isn’t alone among schools facing pressure from the government to eliminate anything related to DEI, curb antisemitism on campuses and protect free speech. The Trump administration threatened to pull $400 million from Columbia University and most recently has had an on-going feud with Harvard.Read more: Harvard Sues Trump Administration Over ‘Improper Government Intrusion’On this week's Noon Edition, we will discuss moves by the state and federal governments to regulate higher education institutions and their responses – and lack of – to it.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected]. You can also record your questions and send them in through email.GUESTSSarah Brown, News Editor, The Chronicle for Higher EducationMichael O’Brien, Managing Partner, 1816 Public Affairs GroupRuss Skiba, Professor Emeritus, Indiana University School of Education

Thousands of graduating high school seniors are getting ready to take their next steps into young adulthood.Most of them were in middle school when a public health emergency was declared because of COVID-19 in Indiana, closing schools, restaurants, and public gatherings.The 2025 cohort saw President Donald Trump elected to office in 2016, when they would have been about 9 years old. Some of them voting age now, saw the nation re-elect him this year.The 2025 high school graduating class, born in 2006 and 2007, is seeing increased discussion around AI use, concerns of a coming recession, and progress in gene therapy treatments.Renewable energy is rapidly on the rise, and renewable energy generation surpassed coal for the first time just a couple years ago.The Harvard Youth poll notes shifting priorities for younger generations: fewer say they want to have children. And about 19 percent trust the federal government to do the right thing most of the time.This week we’ll talk with graduating high school seniors about their plans and expectations.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email. Guests  Gage Shrader, Columbus East High SchoolFallyn Conway, Martinsville High SchoolSara Carmona, Bloomington High School SouthKarter Kikendall, Columbus East High School

Indiana will once again be the center of the auto racing world this weekend. The Indianapolis 500 is a sellout, which means nearly 400,000 people will be in the stands and the infield for what’s called the ‘Greatest Spectacle in Racing.’Motor sports are a big business in Indiana. A recent study shows the Indianapolis motor Speedway alone generates more than one billion dollars in economic activity and supports more than 8,500 jobs.This is not a one-race, May-only deal. There are about 50 racetracks in the state that host races every weekend in the summer.Read: Race fans hit the gas as new owners of Bloomington SpeedwayOn this week's Noon Edition, we will kick off Memorial Day Weekend with a look at the traditions, culture and economic impact of motor sports in Indiana.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email.   Guests  Andy Baker, director of the IU Motorsports Studies ProgramCurt Cavin, Senior Manager, Editorial IndyCarGerry Dick, president of Inside INdiana BusinessPat Sullivan, Bloomington Speedway announcer

The papal conclave took less than two days last week to do something it had never done before – select a pope born in the United States. Formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost from Chicago, Pope Leo XIV has been the head of the Catholic church for a little more than a week. Read more: Who is Robert Prevost, the new Pope Leo XIV? The 69-year-old pope spent much of his career as a missionary in South America. He served as a bishop in Peru. Most recently, he led the Vatican office for bishop appointments and is expected to build on Pope Francis’ reforms. However, some Catholics, especially in the U.S., viewed Pope Francis’ reign as too liberal, because of his support for issues like LGBTQ+ rights and immigration. Read more: Indiana religious experts reflect on legacy of Pope Francis It’s unclear what Pope Leo’s views on LGBTQ+ rights are, but groups such as the College of Cardinals have said he is likely to be less supportive than Pope Francis. However, before becoming pope, Cardinal Prevost spoke out critically about the Trump administration’s deportation of immigrants and treatment of the poor. He also took exception with an interview by Vice President J.D. Vance that suggested a hierarchy of God’s love. Read more: IU expert says international background will help first US pope On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the election of an American pope, what that means for Catholics here and abroad, how he will influence direction of the church and how religion has become so intertwined with politics.  Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email.  Guests  Father Patrick Hyde, priest at St. Paul’s Catholic Center Constance Furey, Professor of Religious Studies, Indiana University David Lantigua, Associate Professor of Theology and Co-Director of Cushwa Center for the Study of American Catholicism at Notre Dame

Federal and state support for higher education and university policies has come under attack during the second Trump Administration. And for Indiana University students who are participating in the Civic Leaders program, the political landscape is much different now from when they entered college. Watch: How Trump’s college crackdown is raising concerns about academic freedom | PBS News HourUniversities and research institutions have had their funding cut or threatened and what is being taught and who is being enrolled have come under scrutiny.At IU, the state barred the university from providing any state funds to support the prestigious Kinsey Institute, which researches sexual behavior.Even how members of IU’s Board of Trustees are selected has changed during their time in college. Previously, three of the nine trustees were selected by alumni voting and six were chosen by the governor.Now, because of an amendment to the state budget, the governor has been given control of all nine seats. The ACLU of Indiana has sued to block the takeover of the board, but IU has already canceled an election next month to fill a vacated seat. It’s among a number of lawsuits that have been brought against the state and federal governments this year. Most have been against the Trump executive orders or actions by DOGE, which have affected long-standing departments and agencies. Read more: New lawsuit argues Trump and DOGE's government overhaul is unconstitutional On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss how the political and economic landscape has shifted and how college students are planning to tackle an uncertain future. Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email.   Guests Joshua Brinkman, a senior from Carmel studying Law and Public Policy through O'Neill SPEA Paola Vega Yudico, a third-year student in the Kelley School of Business Sophia Grace Hottois, a former White House Intern and Career Services Peer Educator at the O’Neill School  

The CANDLES museum in Terre Haute celebrates its 30th anniversary this week.Founded by Holocaust survivor Eva Mozes Kor, CANDLES, or Children of Auschwitz Nazi Deadly Lab Experiments Survivors, “strives to be a premier institution seeking progress in the creation of a world free from prejudice, hatred, and genocide.” Kor and her twin sister, Miriam Zeiger, endured medical experiments by Dr. Joseph Mengele, the infamous “Angel of Death, as children at the Auschwitz concentration camp in 1944. Their parents and older sister died there."Within 30 minutes, my whole family was ripped apart and all died, except for Miriam and me, who were used as human guinea pigs by Dr. Mengele," Kor said in 2017.Read more: Eva Kor’s storyKor went on to champion forgiveness for those who carried out the Holocaust atrocities. And beginning in the 1970s, she began dedicating her life to educating people about the Holocaust and sharing survivor stories. And in 1995, she founded the CANDLES Holocaust Museum and Education Center.For more than two decades, she lectured about her experiences and guided tours at the museum. She returned to Auschwitz on numerous occasions, leading groups that could share what they had learned with their students and future generations. CANDLES continues these trips to Auschwitz each year in honor of Kor, who died in July 2019 during atrip to Poland for the museum.Read more: Holocaust Survivor, CANDLES Founder Eva Kor Dies At 85Kor’s husband, Rachmiel “Mickey” Kor, was also a Holocaust survivor, spending four years in Nazi labor camps, including Buchenwald. He died in 2021.Their son, Dr. Alex Kor, is carrying on their legacy as a member of the board of directors at CANDLES. He recently authored the book, “A Blessing, Not a Burden,” which details the experiences of his parents.Read more: Anti-Jewish harassment and vandalism on the rise, say community leadersLearn about her powerful story of survival, resilience, and forgiveness during a live broadcast of WFIU's Noon Edition with CANDLES executive director Troy Fears and Dr. Alex Kor, son of Eva Kor.On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll host a discussion from the CANDLES Holocaust Museum and Education Center in Terre Haute. This event is free and open to the public. Guests should arrive by 11:30 a.m. for the live hour-long radio broadcast beginning at noon.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email. GuestsDr. Alex Kor, son of Eva and Mickey Kor, and author of author of the book “A Blessing, Not a Burden” which documents his parents’ story.Troy Fears, Executive Director, CANDLES Museum

The CANDLES museum in Terre Haute celebrates its 30th anniversary this week.Founded by Holocaust survivor Eva Kor, CANDLES, or Children of Auschwitz Nazi Deadly Lab Experiments Survivors, “strives to be a premier institution seeking progress in the creation of a world free from prejudice, hatred, and genocide.” Kor and her twin sister, Miriam Zeiger, endured medical experiments by Dr. Joseph Mengele, the infamous “Angel of Death, as children at the Auschwitz concentration camp in 1944, where their parents and older sister died. "Within 30 minutes my whole family was ripped apart and all died, except for Miriam and me, who were used as human guinea pigs by Dr. Mengele," Kor said in 2017.Read more: Eva Kor’s storyKor went on to champion forgiveness for those who carried out the Holocaust atrocities. And beginning in the 1970s, she began dedicating her life to education people about the Holocaust and sharing survivors’ stories. And in 1995, she founded the CANDLES Holocaust Museum and Education Center.For more than two decades, she lectured about her experiences and guided tours at the museum. She returned to Auschwitz on numerous occasions, leading groups that could share what they had learned with their students and future generations. CANDLES still continues these trips to Auschwitz each year in honor of Kor, who died in July 2019 during an overseas trip to Poland for the museum.Read more: Holocaust Survivor, CANDLES Founder Eva Kor Dies At 85Kor’s husband, Rachmiel “Mickey” Kor, was also a Holocaust survivor, spending four years in Nazi labor camps, including Buchenwald. He died in 2021.Their son, Dr. Alex Kor, is carrying on their legacy as a member of the board of directors at CANDLES. He recently authored the book, “A Blessing, Not a Burdan,” which details the experiences of his parents. On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss Eva Kor’s role in sharing the stories of Holocaust survivors and founding the CANDLES museum, the importance of remembering the Holocaust, the rise of anti-semitism and more.Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email. GuestsDr. Alex Kor, son of Eva and Mickey Kor, and author of author of the book “A Blessing, Not a Burden” which documents his parents’ story.Troy Fears, Executive Director, CANDLES Museum

Property tax reform has been a priority of Governor Mike Braun's administration from Day 1 of this year's General Assembly session.  Senate Bill 1 limits the property tax revenue Indiana counties receive by providing relief on property tax assessments. And while homeowners and businesses will see some relief, local governments are preparing for potential staff and service cuts due to the loss of revenue from the state.  Monroe County alone is projected to earn about $37 million less in revenue over the next three years, according to the state’s latest fiscal analysis. Read more: County says it cannot do more with less City and county officials said the bill puts the onus on local municipalities to make up the deficit. “Because the state legislators who supported SB1 were too cowardly — and yes, I choose that word purposefully — to do their jobs, local governments are going to have to raise local income taxes to make up deficits. We’re not going to have a choice,” said Monroe County Commissioner Jody Madeira. The uncertainty with the loss of funding loss is already having an effect. Monroe County Council Member Peter Iversen said the council does not want to make a financial promise that it cannot fulfill in five or 10 months. And that could mean hiring freezes and stagnant salaries. Read more: Salary request discussion leads to tense exchange at county council meeting The property tax bill will also affect the amount of money going to public schools. On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll discuss the property tax law and the impact it will have on local communities. Join us on the air by calling 812-855-0811 or toll-free at 1-877-285-9348. You can also send questions for the show to [email protected].  You can also record your questions and send them in through email.  Guests Jody Madeira, Monroe County Commissioner, District 3Hopi Stosberg, Bloomington City Council Member, District 3 Anton Neff, Owen County Council Member, District 2 

During President Donald Trump’s first months in office, he signed more than 120 executive orders. The Financial Times reports that more than 100 legal challenges have been filed against these, including by federal judges.Former president Joe Biden signed 162 orders during his 4-year term. During Trump’s term from 2017 to 2021, he signed 220 orders.In eight years, Barack Obama signed 277 and George W. Bush signed 291.Tensions between the executive and judicial branches have come as the executive orders extend presidential power, including in cases involving deportation without due process, freedom of speech, state’s rights, elections, federal aid, governmental operations, and federal governmental regulation.Some of Trump’s orders– like firing of federal workers based on recommendations of the Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency– have been upheld by the US Supreme Court.Others, like altering birthright citizenship and banning transgender people in the military, have been blocked by multiple federal judges.It’s not unusual for the judicial branch to prevent oversteps in executive power. A Supreme Court vote blocked former President Barack Obama’s executive orders to grant legal status to four million immigrants who had lived in the US for more than five years in 2016.But legal experts say the number of orders issued, their scope, and the number that have been challenged are unusual.Different political analysts and court experts have issued opinions about whether the United States is in a constitutional crisis. Google Trends indicates public interest in the issue has increased since January.This week, we’ll ask legal experts for their analysis on the balance of governmental powers and the impact of recent executive actions on constitutional rights.On this week’s Noon Edition, we’ll host a discussion about the perceived threats to the Constitution and civil liberties by the Trump administration and the state of Indiana.This Noon Edition will be held at the Indiana University Maurer School of Law. This event is free and open to the public. Guests should arrive to Room 121 by 11:30am for the live hour-long radio broadcast beginning at noon.Call-in questions will not be available during this episode, but we'll take questions from the audience in attendance as well as through email at [email protected] Sanders, Professor of Law at Indiana University and constitutional scholarChristopher Daley, executive director of the ACLU of IndianaDaniel O. Conkle, Robert H. McKinney Professor of Law Emeritus at Indiana University