Hamilton County Groups Split $500,000 in Grants

Inside INdiana Business:

"Ten local non-profit organizations will receive a total of $500,000 in grants from the Hamilton County Convention and Visitors Bureau in 2008 as award recipients from the Destination: Hamilton County Community Development Fund, the bureau announced.

Nineteen organizations originally requested funds, and eleven county organizations were invited to apply for Destination: Hamilton County funds. Ten awards have been made in the highly competitive grant process. Grants were chosen by a committee that included tourism professionals, board and community representatives and, county council members, in a lengthy review process.

The Destination Hamilton County program is designed to encourage, support, and assist in the development or creation of projects to further the development of tourism in Hamilton County and to strengthen community."

Congresswoman Julia Carson dies

IndyStar.com:

"Congresswoman Julia Carson died this morning at the age of 69.

Carson’s death comes just weeks after she announced she was dying of lung cancer and would not seek re-election to a seventh term in 2008.
Two days later, she said she would not seek re-election, saying her time away from Congress would be “a time to weep and a time to laugh,” and she added, “a time to heal.”"

Swearing In Ceremony

The Other Side of Beech Grove:

"You are cordially invited to attend the upcoming City of Beech Grove Swearing-in Ceremony of newly elected City officials on Saturday, December 29 from 2-4 p.m. at the Hornet Park Community Center.

Our new clerk-treasurer, first-ever city judge, seven council members and myself will be sworn-in at this public ceremony, which will include a program led by Master of Ceremonies West Point Cadet and Beech Grove native Eddie Mobley."

Child-alert system will start in days

IndyStar.com:

"The system expected to debut in Marion County next week would tell police whether they are heading to an address under scrutiny by the Department of Child Services.

The plan to improve the sharing of information between law enforcement and child welfare agencies came out of a meeting Monday called by Marion County juvenile court Judge Marilyn Moores to discuss communications gaps revealed by the death of TaJanay Bailey. The 3-year-old died Nov. 27 as a result, prosecutors say, of abuse and neglect at the hands of her mother, Charity Bailey, and the woman's boyfriend, Lawrence Green."

Indianapolis Firefighters Rescue Two Children from Blaze

Firehouse.com News:

"Two children were taken to a hospital in serious condition after firefighters rescued them from a burning home on the city's west side Monday night, officials said.

A man who escaped from the fire in the 3500 block of West 12th Street suffered minor injuries, officials said.

When firefighters arrived, the man, who was in the front yard, told them that the children still were inside the home. Firefighters found the children in a back bedroom, officials said."

Panel Plots 27 Steps To Fix Indiana

Journal and Courier Online:

"A bipartisan panel on local government reform has suggested sweeping changes for Indiana: no township trustees, no elected sheriffs and no tiny school districts.

The commission wants one elected county chief executive who would oversee county government and appoint other county offices, including sheriff, assessor, coroner and auditor.

Township governments would be eliminated, with their duties shifted to the county executive. Small school districts would be reorganized to have at least 2,000 students."

High-Tech Company Investing in Former Indianapolis Mall

Inside INdiana Business with Gerry Dick:

"Mayor Bart Peterson today joined community and business leaders to announce a multi-million dollar investment that will transform the former Eastgate Consumer Mall on the city’s Eastside into a high-tech data hub and office center.

Lifeline Data Centers, LLC, a local high-tech company specializing in securely hosting and maintaining data and applications for businesses and government clients, will purchase the Eastgate property and invest nearly $23 million to transform the site into a state-of-the art facility to house it’s expanding business.

“Together, the City of Indianapolis and Eastside community leaders have made tremendous progress in bringing business and investment back to the East Washington Street corridor,” Mayor Peterson said. “Eastgate has always been a challenge in this vision for a revitalized Eastside, but this major commitment by Lifeline will open the floodgates for more investment and even greater progress.”"

Property tax foes join forces Alliance will lobby legislators not just to cut levy but repeal it

Hoosiers For Fair Taxation:

"John Price, a lawyer who represented taxpayers in a lawsuit claiming the property-tax system was unconstitutional, said yesterday that the legislative tax debate is missing a serious discussion of the elimination of property taxes, despite the idea's popularity.

That's why 10 taxpayer groups have decided to create the Indiana Property Tax Repeal Alliance. Price, the alliance's chairman, said many of the members helped Republican Greg Ballard win the mayor's race in Indianapolis, where property taxes emerged as a key issue. 'The purpose of the alliance is to ensure the taxpayers who were heard in this election very soundly will be heard in this chamber and the chamber across the hall,' Price said, standing in front of the Indiana House."

Mike Dunleavy Jr. Has Been Reborn in Indiana

HOOPSWORLD:

"So when Dunleavy was traded last season to the Indiana Pacers, he viewed it as a chance to wipe the slate clean. Chapter two of Dunleavy's career has proved to be his most prosperous as he's averaging over five points above his career average in his new home city of Indianapolis. He's also shooting over 41% from beyond the arc, which is seven percentage points higher than his career-average. After catching up with Dunleavy earlier this week in Los Angeles, the broad smile on his face told the entire story about just how happy he is now to be playing for head coach Jim O'Brien and the Indiana Pacers."

Effort begins on bid to get Super Bowl here in 2012

IndyStar.com:

"Work is under way on a bid to lure the Super Bowl to Indianapolis in 2012, the president of the city's convention and visitors association said Friday.

Indianapolis is the first city to publicly express its interest, though New Orleans, Phoenix and Tampa, Fla., are likely contenders.

The city faces an April 1 deadline to submit its bid. NFL team owners are expected to decide at their annual meeting in June in Atlanta where the 2012 Super Bowl will be held.

Bob Bedell, the president and CEO of the Indianapolis Convention & Visitors Association, said Indianapolis should have an easier time preparing this bid based on its experience in vying for the 2011 Super Bowl. That game went to Dallas."

Lugar Leadership Center To Open at University of Indianapolis

WISH TV 8:

"Developing new leaders for Indiana, the nation and the world is the reason for a new center at the University of Indianapolis and Indiana senator Richard Lugar is at the heart of it.

The Richard G. Lugar Center for Tomorrow's leaders will be a permanent home for an annual symposium that gathers Indiana's top high school juniors for discussions on public issues and world events. Senator Lugar started the symposium back in 1977 and it's been held at the University of Indianapolis every year.

'The idea is that there is a sense in which p[eople can give back, but they need to prepare for that. Think about that as a career choice to have opportunities to see it in action and those are the kinds of things we want to do with the center,' said University of Indianapolis President Dr. Beverly Pitts."

ISO tunes up for the holidays

IndyStar.com:

"For the first time, the 22nd annual production will feature the African Children's Choir, composed of children from east Africa whose performances raise money for youth education. Grammy Award-winning vocalist Sandi Patty will return to host the extravaganza, which features more than 20 singers and dozens of dancers. Portraits of angels by Hoosier artist Nancy Noel will adorn the stage during the performance of 'Star of Bethlehem.'

The ISO and Duke Energy will conduct a warm-clothing drive through the 'Yuletide Stocking' program throughout December. The public is encouraged to bring new or slightly used items of warm winter clothing to the Hilbert Circle Theatre."

Is The Competition Faltering?

Scout.com:

"So what's wrong with the Colts?

Nothing that getting some rest and a few injured players back in the starting lineup can't fix.

Indianapolis won't have much time to get that much-needed rest this week as the team will play at Atlanta on Thursday night in a nationally televised game. That means a day off on Monday, a full practice on Tuesday and most likely a short workout Wednesday before heading south to face the Falcons. The good news, however, is that after the Atlanta game, the Colts will have 10 days to recuperate before a Dec. 2 home rematch with AFC South rival Jacksonville."

Indiana SWAT Teams Raids Wrong Home

FOXNews.com :

"Convinced the fugitive they were looking for was inside, a SWAT team raided the wrong apartment and left a single mother of two homeless, WLWT is reporting.

The SWAT team reportedly surrounded the apartment building and spent hours ordering the suspect to surrender, but when he didn't, they forced themselves into the apartment and sprayed tear gas, the station is reporting.

'It looked like my apartment was on fire,' Kayla Irwin told WLWT. 'The smoke was just blowing out of my windows.'"

Property tax debate begins as legislative session opens

WTHR :

"Indiana lawmakers are beginning the hard job of finding a solution to skyrocketing property taxes.

Organizational Day at the Statehouse is normally an opportunity to set the agenda for the session, but this year, it marks the beginning of the property tax debate, one the entire state will be watching.

The debate can be broken down into a tale of two cities. Representative David Orentlicher believes he has a solution that will equalize property taxes in Hamilton and Marion Counties."

Assessors Crunch Reassessment Numbers as Deadline Looms

WISH TV 8:

"Hundreds of thousands of Marion County property owners are anxiously waiting for the reassessment ordered by Governor Daniels. The deadline to get it done is now just over two months away.

Four new staff members and an outside vendor are working at the Marion County Assessors Office, crunching the numbers that will eventually give taxpayers an updated assessment.

The assessor needs to turn over numbers to the state for 330,000 residential and 23,000 commercial and industrial properties by February 1st. Marion County Assessor Greg Bowes says the assessment is ahead of schedule on the residential side, finding problems in only two of nine townships. "

Sheriff says vote should decide who leads IMPD

IndyStar.com:

"The Marion County sheriff wants a public vote on whether he or the mayor of Indianapolis should oversee the consolidated Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department.

But a referendum is not possible in Indiana unless the General Assembly passes a law to allow one. And before that vote could be set up, the City-County Council may have already acted to give Mayor-elect Greg Ballard the control he wants.
"It would take at least a year to go to a ballot, but the council has the power to (put the mayor in charge right away), and I think that's going to happen," said Bob Cockrum, the new leader of Republicans on the council. He is expected to be elected council president in January."

Small fire closes NCAA headquarters, museum

SI.com :

"The NCAA museum and headquarters closed for the day because of a small fire, and some exhibits at the NCAA Hall of Champions sustained water damage from sprinklers.

The fire was reported Wednesday morning and apparently was caused by an electrical problem, Indianapolis fire Capt. Gregg Harris said.

Damage was confined to part of the museum's second floor. The area included interactive, electronic exhibits and displays on tennis and volleyball."

Justices hear police oath dispute

IndyStar.com:

"The Indiana Supreme Court heard arguments this morning in the appeal of a Marion Superior Court judge's ruling that could throw into question nearly all arrests made by Indianapolis police this year.
Judge Reuben Hill dismissed a woman's drunken-driving charges in August, ruling her January arrest was invalid because the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officer in the case had not been sworn in again this year after the merger of county police agencies.

The former IPD and the Marion County Sheriff's Department became IMPD Jan. 1. The next day, some officers and top brass took part in a swearing-in ceremony, but attendance wasn't required."

Lt. Governor Skillman Announces New Foreclosure Initiative

Indiana Real Estate:

"Last spring, the Indiana State Legislature passed a bill authorizing IHCDA to establish a statewide program to provide free mortgage foreclosure counseling and education to at-risk homeowners. This bill outlines a multi-tiered solution that includes a targeted public awareness campaign, a telephone hotline available seven days a week, and a local network of qualified advisors. The toll-free number, 877-GET-HOPE, is available starting today.

“There are far too many Hoosier homeowners having trouble making ends meet. They need to know help is available,” said Lt. Governor Becky Skillman. “We want to encourage anyone who has fallen behind on their mortgage payments, or thinks they might, to call 877-GET-HOPE. The earlier homeowners reach out for help, the more options they have to avoid foreclosure.”"

Moochie opens Indianapolis store

Business First of Columbus::

"Moochie & Co. has reached the 10-store mark with a new location in Indiana's largest mall. The Columbus-based pet apparel and accessories retailer opened a 1,245-square-foot location in Indianapolis' Castleton Square Mall, a 1.26 million-square-foot mall whose anchors include Macy's and JCPenney."

Freeney could miss next game after ankle injury

IndyStar.com:

"The Indianapolis Colts’ ever-expanding injury report remains uncertain in the wake of Sunday night’s loss at San Diego, but it appears that one of their most important players, defensive end Dwight Freeney, could miss at least next weekend's game and possibly more.

Freeney, offensive linemen Ryan Diem and Charlie Johnson and defensive tackle Keyunta Dawson all left the game with injuries."

Ind. Car Wash Changer Pays Off Like Slot

The Associated Press:

"A car wash change machine paid off like a Las Vegas slot for one customer, but he turned over his booty to police. Eldon McCammack put a dollar in the change machine Saturday at the Trojan Car Wash in this city about 40 miles east of Indianapolis. In return, he got 1,042 quarters, or $260.50. McCammack, 71, said he first grabbed a top from a trash can to catch the coins. Another customer found a plastic container for the overflow."

Indiana Launches Foreclosure Hotline

The Truth About Mortgage:

"State officials in Indiana have launched a telephone hotline and accompanying website to aid homeowners who have fallen behind on their mortgage payments and may be facing foreclosure.

The “Indian Foreclosure Prevention Network”, or IFPN, “is a public-private partnership of community-based organizations, government agencies, lenders, realtors, and trade associations that has devised a multi-tiered solution to Indiana’s foreclosure problem.”

“This statewide initiative includes a targeted public awareness campaign, a telephone helpline, an educational website, and a network of local trusted advisors.”"

Medco to Build World's Largest, Most Advanced Automated Pharmacy in Central Indiana

CNN Money:

"Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels joined executives from Medco Health Solutions, Inc. today to announce the company's plans to build the world's largest and most advanced automated pharmacy in Central Indiana, filling a growing nationwide demand for lower-cost medicines. The new 318,000-square-foot pharmacy, slated to open early in 2009, will cover an area equivalent to six and a half football fields -- bringing approximately 1,300 jobs to the state by its anticipated peak operation in 2012.

Medco selected Central Indiana as the home of its new facility capping a year-long selection process that covered 48 states. Headquartered in Franklin Lakes, N.J, Medco will invest more than $140 million to develop a next- generation mail-order facility that will employ pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, engineering technology, pharmacy support and management positions to dispense more than one million prescriptions a week at peak operation. Using the most advanced technologies, the automated pharmacy will exceed Six- Sigma(R) accuracy levels, delivering the highest level of prescription drug dispensing accuracy in the pharmacy industry."

The Best Cities to Live Well & Affordably

Michelle Morris’s Indianapolis Real Estate Blog:

"What a pleasant surprise to see Indianapolis ranked as the number 2 top city to live well & affordably! According to Forbes Magazine, we have just the right mix of arts, leisure, and entertainment opportunities as well as a low cost of living, making Indianapolis a great place to live. Census figures were used to measure quality of schools and healthcare and guage crime and poverty rates."

CIVIL WAR!!!

Indiana Barrister:

"You guys have no idea about how long I have been waiting to write that headline with exclamation points. With respect to last week’s local election results that swept Republicans in Indianapolis into the Mayor’s office and control of the City-County Council, I figured if one party lost either slot there would be infighting and soul searching taking place. But with the GOP in, and Democrats out, a war is about to break out that will make the War of the Roses seem more like the Rose Bowl parade."

Indiana Death Row Inmate Found Dead In Cell

WISH TV 8:

"Prison guards found Indiana death row inmate Norman Timberlake dead in his cell, Saturday.

During the midnight head count, guards found Timberlake sitting upright with his television on.

When Timberlake didn't respond, guards called medical staff.

Initial reports indicate the 60-year old died of natural causes pending an autopsy."

Non-compete Agreements - The Medical Field

Indiana Civil & Business Lawyer:

"Are Indiana doctors restricted by a non-competition agreements?

I say 'no' with about as much certainty as lawyers can say anything for certain. Indiana lacks any bias favoring restrictive employment covenants in general, and using covenants not to compete with professionals raises some specific objections.

Take a look at Duneland Emergency Physician’s Med. Group, P.C. v. Brunk, 723 N.E.2d 963. (Ind. Ct. App. 2000) (Microsoft Word format). "

Alarming Rate Of Foreclosures Makes Indiana State Sit Up

Foreclosure1 Blog:

"Indiana is ranking third amongst the nation’s foreclosure offenders. The state government can no longer remain a spectator. With the implications of foreclosures touching each and every aspect of the socio-economic scenario it is to the interest of all – government, lenders as well as of course the borrowers to pitch in.

What makes the foreclosure tale more tragic is that winter and the merry season is just around the corner. Community non-profit groups have also joined hands with the state to find some solution to the inevitable foreclosure. The state has launched a new programme called the Indiana Foreclosure Prevention Network with high hopes. Importance is being placed on the vital role of the adviser. Arrangements are being made first to make the borrowers become aware of the necessity of the counselor and then to tell them that the advisers are only a phone call or a mouse click away."

Bush to visit New Albany on Tuesday

IndyStar.com:

"President Bush is traveling to New Albany, Ind., on Tuesday to talk about the federal budget, the White House announced today.

Bush has criticized the Democrat-controlled Congress for not sending him the annual spending bills on time. He has threatened to veto most of them. The president plans to speak at the Grand, a convention and banquet center, at 1:15 p.m. Tuesday.

No other details about his trip were immediately available."

Court Upholds Death Penalty For Man Who Killed Officer

WRTV :

"The Indiana Supreme Court has again upheld the death penalty for Benjamin Ritchie, who killed a Beech Grove police officer in 2000.

The high court on Thursday rejected Ritchie's claims that he received ineffective legal counsel and a claim that jurors should not have seen interviews he did with the media while he was shackled and wearing jail clothing.

Ritchie is on death row for the September 2000 shooting death of Officer William Toney."

Beech Grove backs past, future

IndyStar.com:

"Two years ago, Beech Grove Mayor Joe Wright launched his 'Better, Brighter, Beech Grove' initiative, staking his political future on eight economic development and quality of life projects.

As he narrowly defeated Democratic challenger Frank Mascari in Tuesday's general election, Wright remained committed to carrying out what he calls examples of 21st century democracy.

'Basically giving a message of hope and a message of accomplishment,'' Wright said of his key to victory."

20 percent cast votes in Hamilton County

IndyStar.com:

"To illustrate how much elections cost taxpayers, Richardson pointed to the primary in the six municipalities.

Carmel spent about $52,000, Noblesville $27,000, Fishers $26,000, Westfield $13,000, and Cicero and Sheridan $3,000 each. Costs for Tuesday's election have not been tallied.

The expenses, most of which are paid by the individual municipalities, cover the cost of poll workers, ballots, supplies, legal notices, postage for absentee ballots, meals, poll books and precinct change notices, Richardson said."

Indiana-based Remy to sell unit for $18.5 million

WTHI-TV:

"Anderson, Indiana-based Remy International Incorporated plans to sell its M&M Knopf Auto Parts unit back to its original owners for $18.5 million. Papers Remy filed yesterday in U.S. Bankruptcy Court say the business is not essential to Remy's reorganization. The unit remanufactures parts and deals in scrap metal. It would be sold to Heywood and Marshall Knopf. Remy filed for Chapter 11 protection last month with plans for a rapid debt reorganization."

Noisegate Solved In Indianapolis

Colts Gab:

"The New England Patriots won their game against the Colts Sunday. After the game, quarterback Tom Brady said the noise was so intense no one could hear anything. The NFL looked into claims the Colts piped in artificial crowd noise to confuse the Patriots, but that wasn’t the case. "

Eight-time Indy starter Freeland dies at 82

SI.com :

"Don Freeland, who drove in the Indianapolis 500 eight times and finished third in 1956, has died at age 82.

Freeland, of Torrance, Calif., died Nov. 2 in San Diego after a period of declining health, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway said Tuesday.

A U.S. Navy veteran of World War II, Freeland began racing roadsters shortly after the war and moved up to AAA and USAC competition in 1952. He had 36 top-10 finishes and was third in the 1956 USAC championship points."

The Indianapolis Colts Enhance New Social Networking Portal With Omniture Web Analytics

CNN Money:

"Omniture, Inc. (NASDAQ: OMTR), a leading provider of online business optimization software, today announced that the Indianapolis Colts -- Super Bowl XLI Champs and one of the most popular NFL teams of the last decade -- are using Omniture SiteCatalyst Web analytics to measure visitor activity across their recently launched social networking portal, MyColts.net. As one of the first NFL teams to create a site solely dedicated to fan interaction, the Colts are using Omniture to not only measure the effectiveness of blogs, videos, fan group forums and other social media, but they are also determining the impact MyColts.net has on driving increased traffic to the team's main site, Colts.com.

'MyColts.net represents a networking community for our fans -- an online environment where people can discuss ideas and form sports-based relationships by discussing similar interests,' said Pat Coyle, executive director of digital business for the Indianapolis Colts. 'Omniture allows us to ensure MyColts.net members are finding value in our highly interactive site and provides us with the information we need to meet our community's needs.'"

Entertainment Distribution Company Announces Management Changes

iWon Money & Investing:

"Entertainment Distribution Company (EDCI), a global and independent provider of supply chain services to the home entertainment market, today announced changes to its executive management team.

On November 5, 2007 Jim Caparro transitioned from the position of Chief Executive Officer to the newly created position of non-executive Chairman of the Company's subsidiary Entertainment Distribution Company, LLC ('EDC, LLC'). Mr. Caparro will remain in this role through March of 2008 during which time he will help manage the transition process, will play a key advisory role in the management of our customer relationships and will assist in our evaluation of strategic alternatives for EDC, LLC. Accordingly, Jim retains his seat on the EDC, LLC subsidiary Board of Directors and has given up his seat on the parent company Board of Directors, effective November 5, 2007.

Jordan M. Copland, the Company's Chief Financial Officer, will assume the additional role of Interim Chief Executive Officer."

Three suspected in counterfeit ticket ring

UPI.com:

"Indianapolis police have apprehended three men suspected of involvement in a nationwide ticket counterfeiting ring.

Police said the man were arrested Sunday after they were found with more than 190 falsified tickets to an Indianapolis Colts game and hundreds of fake tickets for other sporting events, the Indianapolis Star reported Monday.

Dwight Wilcox, Archie Blair and Eric North -- all from Atlanta -- were arrested on preliminary Class C felony charges of counterfeiting. "

Honeywell to acquire Muncie company

nwi.com :

"Honeywell has announced it will acquire Muncie-based Maxon Corp. for $185 million. Maxon, which manufactures combustion burners, gas valves, and engineered systems for industrial businesses, will become a part of Honeywell's Environmental and Combustion Controls business. The status of Maxon's Muncie headquarters and its employees is unclear. "

Strong turnout reported across the county

IndyStar.com:

"Marion County election officials reported all touch screen voting machines were up and running by mid-afternoon . At one time about 83 of the 529 touch screens weren't working. Officials believe the problem was related to low batteries or because a computer disc was inserted improperly and so prevented the machines from working. By noon, the number of defective machines had been reduced to 66 and by 4 p.m. all were operating again."

Indiana Driver's Licenses

Libertarian Party of Allen County:

"The Indiana BMV recently cross-checked information reported by Indiana Drivers with information on file by the Social Security Administration. They found that about 206,000 people had discrepancies. These discrepancies include name, gender, birthday, sex, and typo's."

Will This Election Run Smoothly?

Advance Indiana:

"Marion County Beth White tells reporters she is confident the problems of this year's May primary will not be repeated. As of noon, approximately 35 inspectors had not picked up election day materials. White told WTHR replacement workers would be contacted this afternoon to substitute if the materials weren't picked up. Walk-in absentee voting ended at noon today. Although WTHR reported absentee balloting would be up about 25% over four years ago, that number had already been reached by noon on Friday and walk-in voting occurred throughout the weekend. On Friday, White predicted absentee voting would increase by about 50%. That's remarkable, and it could suggest the low voter turnout predicted by WISH-TV's Jim Shella will be proven wrong."

New Study Gives Hovering College Parents Extra Credit

washingtonpost.com:

"'Compared with their counterparts, children of helicopter parents were more satisfied with every aspect of their college experience, gained more in such areas as writing and critical thinking, and were more likely to talk with faculty and peers about substantive topics,' said survey director George D. Kuh, an Indiana University professor.

The study found no evidence that helicopter parenting produces better grades. In fact, students with very-involved parents had lower grades than those whose parents were not so involved, but the authors suggest that 'perhaps the reason some parents intervened was to support a student who was having academic difficulties.'"

Pilot Lands Near Indiana Interstate

WNDU :

"An Indiana pilot was forced to make an emergency landing Sunday next to a busy interstate. Alan Gluff took off from Greenwood's airport today in his experimental plane. Minutes later, the oil light went off and the plane took a nosedive into a cornfield, next to Interstate 65. Though shaken, Gluff walked a way with only a scratch on his cheek."

Officials huddle over absentee ballots

IndyStar.com:

"Election officials in Hamilton County met for more than two hours Friday to clarify how to count ballots cast by absentee voters. The issue applied to voters who choose a straight-party ticket and then decide to choose a candidate from another party for a certain race. A provision in state election law that took effect in January could have voided a vote cast for that opposite party candidate. County officials said Friday if a voter chooses a straight-party ticket, then decides to vote for a candidate in the opposite party in a particular race, that vote will count instead of the straight party vote for that race."

Indiana coach satisfied with report

SFGate.com:

"Embroiled in the second investigation into improper telephone calls to recruits since his arrival at Indiana last year, coach Kelvin Sampson said Thursday that he is satisfied with a university report to the NCAA that has already led to the resignation of an assistant coach, the forfeiture of one scholarship and new restrictions on recruiting. Sampson, who also gave up a scheduled $500,000 pay raise, said he didn't know whether the self-imposed penalties would satisfy the NCAA in his first public comments since the resignation of assistant Rob Senderoff on Tuesday."

Indiana Call Center to Be Built

Houston Chronicle:

"A Florida company says it will spend more than $6 million to start a customer service center here and hire 750 people over the next year. Connextions Inc. will hire insurance agents to help sell and maintain individual policies for insurance companies. It also will hire registered nurses to provide health care advice to customers for some of those insurers. Connextions will fill other customer service and technical support jobs too. Outside the insurance industry, its clients include Sprint Nextel Corp., FedEx Corp., and Mercedes-Benz."

First Indiana Announces Special Shareholder Meeting

CNN Money:

"First Indiana has announced that it will hold a special shareholder meeting on Wednesday, December 19, 2007 to consider and vote upon the merger agreement between Marshall & Ilsley Corporation and First Indiana dated July 8, 2007. Shareholders of record as of October 17, 2007 are eligible to vote at the meeting. The exact time and location of the meeting are in the proxy materials for the meeting, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 5, 2007 and mailed to shareholders of record beginning on November 5, 2007. The merger is anticipated to close in early January 2008. First Indiana Corporation is a full-service financial services company offering comprehensive financial solutions to businesses and individuals. It is the holding company for First Indiana Bank, N.A., the largest commercial bank headquartered in Indianapolis. Founded in 1915, First Indiana Bank is a national bank with 32 offices in central Indiana. Information about First Indiana is available at (317) 269-1200, or at www.firstindiana.com, which is not a part of this news release."

Beech Grove is First in Nation to Use New DNA Technology

Inside INdiana Business:

"As the first city in the nation to serve as a pilot site to use a new method of “touch” DNA collection, the City of Beech Grove announced its partnership with Indianapolis-based Forensic ID today. The Beech Grove Police Department, will utilize Forensic ID’s new device in the collection of DNA evidence at crime scenes. The self-contained device gathers DNA left after someone touches an object or surface, leaving behind skin cells, oils or perspiration. In the case of use by narcotics agents, DNA can be collected from a plastic bag of confiscated drugs, for example. Kits will be available, allowing police/narcotics officers, who often are first on the scene, to swab the “touch” or “contact” DNA into a cylinder type device for later analysis. The innovative element of the Forensic ID device is that, unlike traditional DNA collection, it eliminates the drying process, thereby simplifying and expediting the analysis of evidence from a crime."

Indiana's property tax rebate check to average $240

IndyStar.com:

"Property tax rebate checks averaging $240 for Hoosier homeowners moved a step closer to reality Thursday, though it'll be months more before the money reaches them. In all, about 1.6 million Hoosiers with a homestead exemption, including roughly 100,000 homeowners in Marion County, will get a check, though the amounts from county to county will vary widely based on property values. The checks are part of a $300 million relief plan meant to offset anticipated increases in property tax bills. They were approved by the legislature earlier this year."

Town of Geist Takes Next Step to Form East and West Geist

WISH TV 8:

"The town of Geist takes the next step in its move to become incorporated into East and West Geist. The Fishers Advisory Plan Commission heard arguments both for and against the proposal Tuesday night. Some Geist residents thought the meeting was pointless. Many Geist residents felt the incorporation proposal fell on deaf ears because they were presenting to a Fishers Commission. But the commission says they're not biased but instead they were interested in hearing from both sides."

County looks for ways to handle airport's rapid growth

IndyStar.com:

"Growth at Hamilton County's airport in Boone County has exceeded expectations, and airport officials are scrambling to complete a master plan to accommodate it.

During a meeting this week with the Federal Aviation Authority, the Hamilton County Airport Authority board said it now has 105 airplanes based at Indianapolis Executive Airport on Ind. 32 about a half-mile west of the Hamilton-Boone county line.

The number of planes, mostly midsize corporate jets, exceeds a 2006 forecast that predicted 103 planes would be based at the airport by 2010."

Indianapolis City Market Welcomes Back Businesses

Inside INdiana Business:

"The Indianapolis City Market is pleased to announce that more merchants have opened for business in the last week. Jumbo's, under new ownership, and a 35 year favorite at the market, opened for business last week. Yesterday, Just Cookies, a merchant for the last 18 years opened for business. Additional merchants that are now operating in the newly renovated Market House include Cath Coffee, Inc. who added an internet cafe to its new digs. Jerry's Fudge also celebrated its first day on Tuesday featuring homemade fudge and goods."

Court hears arguments in property tax lawsuit

nwi.com :

"An attorney for several taxpayers challenging the constitutionality of Indiana's property tax system and steps taken by the governor asked the Indiana Tax Court on Wednesday to let the lawsuit proceed. Attorneys for the state, Marion County and Indianapolis argued primarily that the lawsuit should be dismissed because the taxpayers who sued had not exhausted administrative remedies. John Price, an attorney for the plaintiffs, said that seeking such remedies would be time-consuming and fruitless at a time when Indiana is facing numerous, pressing property tax problems that are hitting many taxpayers hard."

Indianapolis Colts raffling off Super Bowl rings for charity

The Canadian Press:

"Want to win an Indianapolis Colts Super Bowl ring? Here's your chance. During a pep rally for Sunday's game against New England, Colts owner Jim Irsay wore a giant blue top hat, large round blue sunglasses and a white showman's suit as he told hundreds of fans about the 'Quest for the Ring' raffle. 'I look like Willie Wonka Elton, a combination of Willie Wonka and Elton John,' Irsay joked before throwing open a gold treasure chest containing a small box with five shiny rings. Although some fans clearly hoped Irsay would toss the rings into the crowd, he explained the rings would be given away in a raffle he hopes will raise up to US$1 million for Indiana charities."

Analysis Finds 10 Indiana 'Dropout Factories'

WISH TV 8:

"A just realesed study says that six Indianapolis High Schools have some of the highest dropout rates in the state. In fact, they are so high that the schools are being called 'dropout factories.' Broad Ripple High School is just one IPS school that didn't make the grade. But administrators say they already have programs in place to improve the dropout rate. A new study of Indiana high schools by Johns Hopkins University doesn't paint a pretty picture of six Indianapolis schools. Broad Ripple High school along with Arsenal Technical High School, Manual High School, Arlington High School, Northwest High School and Perry Meridian High School were the Indianapolis schools mentioned in the study."

Indiana suing businesses for Do Not Fax violation

WTHR :

"The State of Indiana is suing eight companies for violating the Do Not Fax law put into effect at the beginning of the year. Those eight companies, the state says, did not stop faxing even after being told they were violating the law. Five other companies have already been cited for alleged violations and have paid penalties. If you feel you are getting faxes that violate the Do Not Fax law, you can file a complaint with the Attorney General's office. But Attorney General Steve Carter says there are a couple of things to keep in mind."

Buy Indiana Begins To Pay Off

TMNews.com :

"Keeping money in the state is the emphasis behind the Buy Indiana initiative that’s helping Hoosiers do business with military installations at Crane. The plan is working. Evidence of that was found at the 11th Annual Buy Indiana Expo, which took place this week at the French Lick Resort Casino and attracted 142 Hoosier vendors interested in forming business deals with Crane facilities. Among vendors who have found the annual expos worthwhile is Bedford Machine & Tool Co. Dale Anderson, sales manager with the company, said, “We do business with Crane, a lot. ... I think it has grown from the expos. ... We’re always looking to get more from them.”"

3-way battle is being fought in Beech Grove

IndyStar.com:

"After becoming Beech Grove's first Republican mayor in 48 years, Joe Wright set out to make a difference -- completing an overhaul of Emerson Avenue, pursuing a facelift of downtown's Main Street and a citywide wireless Internet system. But his projects have not come without some criticism in the city of 15,000 tucked into Indianapolis' Southeastside. Wright, 48, will face not one but two opponents Nov. 6 in his bid for a second term: Democrat Frank A. Mascari, 52, a jewelry store owner on Beech Grove's Main Street. Independent Ingle Harris III, 56, an insurance agent who is president pro tempore of the Beech Grove City Council, on which he has served 12 years as a Republican."

Tax plan may violate constitution

IndyStar.com:

"Without an amendment, the governor's plan to cap property taxes at different levels for homeowners, landlords and businesses could find itself on the losing end of a constitutional challenge, legal experts say. And because more than one powerful business interest has lined up against the plan, the politically difficult two-year task of amending the state constitution appears essential. At issue: whether the caps, welcomed by residential property owners but not by business interests, meet the constitutional requirement that taxes be assessed at a 'uniform and equal rate.'"

Desperate Peterson Resorts To Negative Push Polling

Advance Indiana:

"After a Star poll released on Thursday showed a dead heat in the race between Mayor Bart Peterson and Greg Ballard, Peterson's campaign manager Mike O'Connor said Peterson would not be changing his re-election strategy. He lied. Peterson's campaign is conducting negative push polling in the final days of the campaign to smear Ballard. Callers for Peterson's campaign are telling voters Ballard intends to eliminate basic city services like trash collection and sidewalk repairs if he's elected mayor. Relying on the old Democratic favorite of scaring senior citizens, the callers are telling people Ballard will end meals on wheels."

Indiana Chamber On Tax Plan

Indiana Chamber:

"Reaction from Indiana Chamber President Kevin Brinegar on Gov. Mitch Daniels’ property tax reform proposal, announced today: “We appreciate the governor’s comprehensive and thoughtful approach to tackling the state’s property tax dilemma. We are still examining the details of his plan and are looking forward to getting more numbers to see how the various elements would interact with each other and their impact not only on the business community but all Hoosiers. “Going forward into the 2008 legislative session, what the Indiana Chamber will remain adamant about is that an increased tax burden cannot be unfairly put on one segment or segments of taxpayers. Our state constitution dictates uniform and equal property assessments and taxation.”"

Some Indianapolis bridges in dire need of repair

WTHR :

"13 Investigates has learned that there are a number of bridges in Indianapolis which need to be replaced soon, bridges that school and city buses cross every day.

Gateway Drive could become a gateway to potential disaster. Every day an estimated 500 unsuspecting motorists cross the east-west corridor on the northwest side, unaware of the deep cracks, corrosion and compromised support beams below."

Nascar Fines Greg Biffle

Detroit News -

Greg Biffle was fined $5,000 and put on probation until Dec. 31 for skipping a press-box interview following his second-place finish in the Kroger 200 Busch Series race at O'Reilly Raceway Park last week.

Indiana Cities Eye Summer Curfew Law

Palladium-Item :

"With summer nearing, cities and towns across Indiana are looking at beefing up summertime curfews to keep youth off the streets and out of trouble late at night.

Until last year, when a new version of Indiana’s curfew law was adopted, it was no crime for teens to hang around in a public place at any hour.


Constitutional challenges have taken the state’s curfew law on and off the books three times since 2000, but Indiana’s latest law won’t be challenged by civil rights groups because it includes protections for youngsters’ First Amendment rights."

Senator Calls for Study of Crashes Caused by Semis

WANE-TV :

"Last August, a semi crashed into vehicles stopped in a construction zone on the Toll Road near Bristol, killing a truck driver and four members of one family, including two children.

Thursday's crash occurred in roughly the same area under similar construction conditions.

The crash has prompted Senator Tom Wyss of Fort Wayne to call for a study of commercial vehicle crashes in Indiana. On Thursday, Wyss said Indiana interstates were developing a reputation among truck drivers that 'once you cross the Ohio line, you've got a free ride.' Wyss doesn't believe that's the fault of the Indiana State Police who he believes are undermanned to cover the amount of truck traffic in the state."

Riot Breaks Out at Indiana Prison

iWon News:

"Inmates staged a two-hour riot at a medium-security men's prison Tuesday, injuring two staff members and setting fires in a courtyard.

Indiana Department of Correction spokeswoman Java Ahmed said more than one cell house was involved in the disturbance at the New Castle Correctional Facility, about 43 miles east of Indianapolis.

Corrections officials sent emergency squads and county and state police to the prison. New Castle Mayor Tom Nipp said the entire city police force was also activated."

Indiana: A 150-mile trail, 7 wineries

The Enquirer:

"Seven central Indiana wineries on the fledgling Indiana Wine Trail are finding their niche in America's multibillion-dollar wine industry.

Of course, not everyone on the trail is willing to struggle with Indiana's limitations. Charles R. Thomas, owner of Chateau Thomas near Plainfield, likes his wine 'fine.' He says that kind of taste is impossible to get from Indiana grapes.

'I applaud the people who try to grow grapes here, but it's no secret that I don't think Indiana is the place for it,' said Thomas, 75, and a retired gynecologist. He uses only old world grapes, such as chardonnay and merlot from the West Coast, in his wines. 'But to each his own. That's the strength of the wine trail - the diversity.'"

12 from southern Indiana charged with running caviar ring

AP Wire:

"State conservation officers believed they broke up an illegal caviar ring Monday by arresting 12 southern Indiana residents on accusations of running a network that generated as much as $400,000 for some fishermen.

Members of the ring caught paddlefish from Ohio River tributaries and then sold their eggs as caviar, according to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. One paddlefish can yield as much as $800 in eggs, and annual income for those who catch them can range from $100,000 to $400,000.

'It's easy money, it's just like picking cherries,' Sgt. Dean Shadley said. 'And I'm sure that was tax free. I can't imagine they reported it.'"

Indiana Lottery privatization on hold

Lottery Post:

"Gov. Mitch Daniels said Friday he is putting off but not giving up on his hopes of privatizing the Hoosier Lottery and wants a yearlong, statewide 'conversation' on how best to spend the $2 billion or more the lease could bring.

Daniels said 10 companies, mostly American firms, have submitted nonbinding bids to lease the Hoosier Lottery. Half of those, he said, 'are north of a billion and a half,' with two offers 'well over twice as big' as the $1 billion the state had estimated it could receive.

But Daniels acknowledged that his hopes of winning Indiana General Assembly approval before the legislative session ends April 29 are over.
The biggest reason: House Speaker B. Patrick Bauer, D-South Bend, has been adamantly opposed."

Supreme Court takes Indiana money-laundering case

Examiner.com:

"The Supreme Court agreed Monday to review a case from northwestern Indiana that could undercut the federal money-laundering law, an enforcement weapon the government considers vital in going after outlaw gamblers and drug traffickers.

The Justice Department wants the court to overturn a standard set by a federal appeals court that complicates the task of prosecutors in securing money-laundering convictions.

The law makes it a crime to conceal proceeds from illegal activity or to use them to promote the activity. The 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago says that in order to convict, the proceeds must be profits rather than gross receipts."

Lawsuit Claims 'In God We Trust' Indiana License Plates Are Unconstitutional

FOXNews.com :

"The 'In God We Trust' license plates that have quickly become a fixture on Indiana roads came under a legal attack Monday claiming the law authorizing them is unconstitutional for favoring that message over those on other plates.

The lawsuit filed in Marion Superior Court claims the state Bureau of Motor Vehicles gives preferential treatment to motorists wanting the plates, which also feature the American flag, because they don't have to pay the $15 administrative fee that the agency collects on sales of most other Indiana specialty plates.

The BMV charges the administrative fees in addition to other costs of up to $25 whose proceeds support the causes of the groups or universities promoted by other specialty plates."

First Subaru Camry rolls off the line in Indiana

Autoblog:

"No, we're not confused - Subaru's parent company, Fuji Heavy Industries, and Toyota cooked up a deal in 2006 that creates more production capacity for the Camry by having Subaru of Indiana Automotive begin building the country's best selling car. The deal was one of the first fruits born from Toyota's decision to snatch up the 8.7% stake in Subaru that GM dropped back in 2005.

The agreement nets Toyota the ability to produce 100,000 more of the vanilla sedans per year (Toyota sold an already impressive 448,445 Camrys in 2006) at Subaru's plant in Lafayette, Indiana. Subaru, meahwhile, snared a $230 million payment from Toyota to build even more of the best-seller, and 1,000 jobs have been added, as well, to nearly double the 120,000 Tribecas, Outbacks and Legacys the plant produced in 2006. The local community also netted a $60,000 donation to their zoo's owl exhibit in return for support of the deal."

VeraSun expanding in Indiana

Argus Leader Media:

"VeraSun Energy Corp., already the nation's second-largest ethanol producer, said Wednesday it will expand into Indiana with its sixth biorefinery, an addition that will boost its annual production capacity to 670 million gallons.

Energy powerhouse Archer Daniels Midland Co. is the nation's top ethanol producer.

Brookings-based VeraSun - which has three ethanol plants in operation and two more under construction - will start building the 110-million-gallon plant next month in Reynolds."

Kroger buying Indiana stores

The Enquirer:

"Cincinnati-based Kroger Co., the nation’s largest traditional grocery retailer, plans to buy 18 Scott’s Food & Pharmacy stores in northeast Indiana from Supervalu Inc.

The grocer, which owns and operates 2,468 supermarkets and multi-department stores in 31 states, will keep the Scott’s Food & Pharmacy brand.

The company operates two dozen local banners including Ralphs, Fred Meyer, Food 4 Less, King Soopers, Smith’s and Smith’s Marketplace, Fry’s and Fry’s Marketplace, Dillons, QFC and City Market."

Group ranks Indiana 45th among states for Medicaid

AP Wire:

"A consumer watchdog group's report on state Medicaid programs ranked Indiana last when it came to eligibility and 45th in its overall performance in the government health care plan for the needy.

The Public Citizen report, which gave extra emphasis to eligibility, criticized Indiana for excluding 'those made poor by extreme medical expenses.' Such people normally would not meet income requirements but are impoverished by medical expenses.

The state also received poor grades for 'very low cutoffs in terms of poverty level.'

Indiana ranked above average for quality of care at 16th. The report gave Indiana credit for nursing home care that exceeded many of its peers."

Farm Bureau Pushing for Property Tax Reform

Muncie Free Press:

"As this year's Indiana General Assembly enters its closing days, Indiana Farm Bureau is pushing for legislators to approve language that will result in meaningful property tax reform.

Among the provisions now under consideration by a House-Senate conference committee are:

* Removing the school general fund from the property tax rolls.
* Giving local units of government the option to increase income taxes.
* Creating a local review board to evaluate large public building projects."

Dead alligator found in Indiana drain

Seattle Post-Intelligencer:

"Surveyors looking for the source of a clogged drain in southern Adams County found a 7-foot dead alligator. 'At first they thought it was a turtle in there, but then they discovered an alligator,' Adams County sheriff's Deputy Larry Butler said.

He said the 120-pound alligator, which had been dead for about a week, was put inside the drain after it died. The sheriff's department and the Department of Natural Resources were looking for the owner of the reptile found Monday in Berne, about 30 miles south of Fort Wayne.

It is legal to own alligators in Indiana, but the state requires owners to apply for a permit with the DNR for alligators that are longer than 5 feet, said Greg McCollam, assistant director with the department's fish and wildlife division. There were no permits registered in Adams County, he said."

Activists Ask Army To Stop VX Waste Shipments

WRTV Indianapolis:

"The first shipments of chemical waste from deadly VX nerve agent being destroyed in Indiana arrived at a Port Arthur, Texas, plant on Tuesday, hours before two activist groups called on the Army to immediately halt further shipments.

Four tractor-trailers pulled into Veolia Environmental Services' plant about 12:40 a.m. Tuesday, each loaded with a reinforced tank filled with about 4,000 gallons of VX hydrolysate, said Daniel J. Duncan, Veolia's environmental health and safety manager.

That convoy left western Indiana's Newport Chemical Depot early Monday for the nearly 1,000-mile journey to Port Arthur as part of a $49 million contract Veolia recently signed with the Army to incinerate about 2 million gallons of the chemical waste."

Romney Makes Second Visit To Indiana

WRTV:

"Republican presidential hopeful Mitt Romney will be the featured speaker at the Indiana Republican Party Spring Dinner.

The dinner is Friday at the Fountains Banquet and Conference Center in Carmel.

The former Massachusetts governor will be introduced by Gov. Mitch Daniels, the GOP said.

Prices for the dinner range from $175 for one person to $3,000 for a table for 10 people and three photo opportunities, according to information posted on the Indiana Republican Party Web site."

Indiana's minimum wage bill on its way to governor's office

Evansville Courier Press:

"A bill that would tie Indiana's minimum wage to an expected increase in the federal minimum is on its way to the governor's office, now that the Indiana House has concurred on Senate changes to the bill.

The House by a vote of 75-22 approved the Senate's amendments to House Bill 1027, where it had passed 45-3.

The bill now would increase Indiana's state minimum wage from the current $5.15 to $7.25 an hour, if Congress also boosts the federal minimum by that amount."

Discount for Ind. drivers on Ill. Tollway in jeopardy

POST-TRIBUNE :

"Indiana officials say the rollout of new toll-tabulating transponders in June will make highway travel cheaper and easier for Indiana motorists, but their peers across the border in Illinois say private toll road operator ITR Concession Co. are making things harder.

Illinois Tollway officials say they will reconsider their longstanding practice of granting all users of Indiana's I-Zoom transponders an automatic 50 percent reduction in the tolls paid by drivers who pay cash, since ITR Concessions ann-ounced plans to give a 40 percent reduction solely to Indiana residents.

Illinois gives the 50 percent discount to the 90,000 Indiana residents who have I-Pass transponders, at an annual cost of $9 million."

Indiana’s health commissioner apologizes for state’s role in developing eugenics

BostonHerald.com:

"An Indiana official publicly apologized for the state’s role 100 years ago in pioneering state-authorized sterilization of ”imbeciles,” paupers and others it deemed undesirable.
Health Commissioner Dr. Judith Monroe expressed regret on behalf of the state Thursday for its passing of the first such eugenics law. She also unveiled a historic marker that will stand across from the Statehouse.
”It is one (law) that we do regret but we should not forget,” she said.
In 1907, then-Gov. J. Frank Hanly signed a state law widely regarded as the first in the world to permit sterilization in a misguided effort to improve the quality of the human race. "

Indiana News Tidbits

Indiana ranks second-highest in job loss in nation
Indiana lost more jobs in February than any other state except Ohio as its struggling manufacturing sector helped fuel the loss of 7,400 non-farm-related paychecks.

Figures released Friday by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics show that only Ohio lost more jobs, about 9,700, in February. New Jersey was third with some 6,200 job losses.

Indiana was one of only three states to report a decline in employment for the past year, shedding about 12,700 jobs. Most of those losses came from the state’s struggling manufacturing and construction sectors.

Indiana Factory To Close, Send Jobs To Mexico
Dura Automotive Systems Inc. will close its 114-employee factory in this southern Indiana community and stop production by the end of the year, the Michigan-based company announced Tuesday.

The factory makes spare tire carriers and toolkits, and production will move to Matamoros, Mexico. Brownstown sits about 62 miles south of Indianapolis in Jackson County.

The Brownstown site is one of four Dura plants slated to close as part of a restructuring. The others are in Bracebridge, Ontario; Hannibal, Mo.; and Selinsgrove, Pa. The Pennsylvania location will close in May and move its assembly line to Elkhart.

A Solution in Need of a Problem
Today the Indiana House Rules Committee will take up SJR-7, the amendment to the Indiana Constitution that would ban same-sex marriage. The language of the amendment reads as follows, marriage shall be between a man and a woman and nothing in Indiana law shall be construed to require the legal incidents of marriage to unmarried couples.

To be brutally honest with you, I really don't see what the big deal has been about this issue. I had no idea that gay marriage was such a threat to Indiana families. When a young, pregnant mother in Indianapolis was killed in her apartment by a stray bullet, I don't think it was a gay couple trying to get married who fired the gun that destroyed that family. I also don't think it's been gay couples trying to marry who have opposed progress in this state, keeping away badly needed jobs which can only strengthen families. And it's not gay couples trying to marry that are responsible for the high drop rate, obesity rate and brain drain, all things that go to harming families

Company seeks proposals for new wind farms, including in Indiana
The parent company of Appalachian Power said Wednesday it wants to buy up to 260 megawatts of wind power in West Virginia or Virginia.

Columbus, Ohio-based American Electric Power said it also wants to add 100 megawatts of wind-generated electricity for its Indiana Michigan Power subsidiary. AEP is seeking long-term wind power supply contracts for both subsidiaries and is considering sites in Virginia, West Virginia, Indiana and Michigan.

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New Plumbing

Two weeks ago tomorrow, I underwent open heart surgery at The Indiana Heart Hospital. I was having pain in my arm on Friday, Feb 16th and went to St Francis ER. I was transferred to the Heart Hospital, underwent a heart cath and it was determined that I would need bypass surgery, most likely a quint.

As it turned out, I had an 8-way bypass plus some value repair. I have been home for a week now and have been in the initial phases of rehab.

All told, I feel really good though I do get winded pretty easily. Obviously, I have some pain around the incision and the breastbone. But other than that, I am doing well.

Thanks to all the staff and docs at Indiana Heart.

The New Blogger

Switching to the new blogger system. Having slight trouble with my editor presently. Should have it working shortly, I hope.

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New Years Resolutions

Happy New Year! I am sure everyone has made at least ONE resolution for the coming year. As I was doing a little surfing, I found a couple Indiana bloggers making predications.

Advance Indiana has a pretty sizable list. I also like the post at Indiana Barrister. Bryan at Resist offers a recount of 2006 achievements.

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