Andrade invites veterans and their families to Annual Veteran Turkey Giveaway

On Friday, Nov. 22, State Rep. Mike Andrade (D-Munster), in partnership with U.R.W. Recycling and the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana (NWI), will be giving away free turkeys and a bag of groceries to veterans and their families on from 10 A.M. to 12 P.M. CST at the American Legion Post 180 (2703 Jewett Ave., Highland, IN 46322). Turkeys will be available while supplies last!

Andrade released the following statement leading up to the event:

“The Annual Veterans Turkey Giveaway event is a way for us to show our unwavering support and appreciation for the individuals who dedicate themselves to serving and protecting our communities. To our active-duty members and veterans - thank you for your courage, dedication and the sacrifices you’ve made to protect our freedoms. We are deeply grateful for your service, and we hope this gesture brings comfort and joy to you and your loved ones during the holiday season.”

Andrade celebrates INDOT community crossing matching grants to improve District 12 roads and bridges

On Nov. 7, Gov. Eric Holcomb and the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) announced the recipients of the Fall 2024 Community Crossings Matching Grant Program. Nearly $140 million was awarded through the program, which is funded by the state’s local road and bridge matching fund.

Several communities in House District 12 will receive Community Crossings grants for Fall 2024. These funds can be used to build and improve local infrastructure projects, including roads and bridges.

The matching grant winners and amounts include:

Griffith: $325,000.00

Munster: $660,442.49

Schererville: $1,048,124.52

State Rep. Mike Andrade (D-Munster) issued the following statement celebrating the funding awardees:

“I am excited to share that House District 12 will receive almost $4 million in state funding for crucial community infrastructure improvements. This investment will go towards repairing roads and bridges, as well as initiating new projects to enhance our community. I am dedicated to securing the resources needed to strengthen our infrastructure and provide communities with the support necessary to drive transformative projects.”

Andrade disappointed in the closure of Griffith BMV Branch

Today, Sept. 5, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (IBMV) announced the closure of the Griffith BMV Branch. This decision follows the public hearing the BMV hosted on Aug. 14 where community feedback on the proposed closure was collected. After reviewing the responses, the IBMV Commissioner has decided to move forward with closing the Griffith location.

State Rep. Mike Andrade released the following statement regarding the decision:

“I want to thank the community members who shared their input at last month’s public hearing. BMV branches play a vital role in connecting residents with state resources and often represent their primary interaction with government services. With the Griffith BMV Branch closing, residents will now need to travel outside their community to access these essential services.

“I am deeply disappointed by the IBMV’s decision and will work to ensure that a Connect Kiosk, which offers many common BMV transactions, remains available for the Griffith community.”