INDIANAPOLIS | The Star Plaza Theatre in Merrillville is among 10 sites being considered for a proposed series of fall debates between Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels and Democratic challenger Jill Long Thompson.

The Indiana Debate Commission, a coalition of a dozen journalism and good government groups formed last fall, is inspecting the sites. Venues have until May 31 to apply for consideration.

"Not only do the candidates for governor have a variety of quality venues for public debates, these locations are spread around the state and provide locations that are easily accessed by Indiana voters," said Dennis Ryerson, vice president of the commission and editor of The Indianapolis Star.

The commission wants to host at least three regional debates. The commission principals banded together to avoid media infighting over who will host the candidates.

Venues that have applied to host a fall debate include:

-- Emens Auditorium, Ball State University, Muncie

-- Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

-- Jasper Arts Center, Vincennes University Jasper

-- Rotary Club of Indianapolis, Scottish Rite Cathedral, Indianapolis

-- Indiana University Auditorium, Bloomington

-- Our Lady of Providence Junior-Senior High School, Clarksville

-- Star Plaza Theatre, Merrillville

-- Grand Wayne Center, Fort Wayne

-- Indiana State University, Terre Haute

-- Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne