Articles

EDITORIAL: State can’t rely on gambling revenue

State and, to some extent, local government
has come to rely on gambling revenue. And now that neighboring states are launching a competitive
assault on Indiana casinos, it’s time to get back to the original intent before the revenue shrivels and leaves necessary
government services high and dry.

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First Financial gets sweet deal on Irwin Financial’s bank assets

It’s good to be among the favored few, those blessed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. to scoop up the remnants
of failed banks. Because it was on the FDIC list of approved buyers, Cincinnati-based First Financial Bancorp
was able to acquire Columbus, Ind.-based Irwin Financial Corp.’s banking operations under terms
that would make any deal-maker proud.

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New jobless claims rise more than expected

The number of newly laid-off workers filing claims for jobless benefits rose more than expected last week, as employers remain
reluctant to hire even as the economy shows signs of recovery.

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Drugs in our water

Researchers are finding a host of pharmaceutical residues in tributaries to the White River, from which Indianapolis and other
cities draw drinking water.

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Critics: Failed Indiana-IBM deal should warn others

Indiana said it was going to get outsourcing right when it turned welfare eligibility services over to a private contractor
in 2007. Now critics say the failed move is the latest warning that states should not allow for-profit companies to run social
services.

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Consultant: Indianapolis water utility lax in overseeing Veolia

The city too often relied on the Department of Waterworks’ board, on consultants and on the private
operator, Veolia Water, rather than on the department’s own staff “to ensure safe and efficient
operation, maintenance and management” of Indianapolis Water. That’s one of several critical
findings of a consultant hired by the department and filed as part of a 35-percent rate-hike request
pending before the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission.

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Tougher smoking ban passes committee

An ordinance that would prohibit lighting up in bars, bowling alleys and nightclubs, and nearby outdoor seating areas as well, was endorsed 4-2 by a City-County Council committee Wednesday night.

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