Indiana Libertarian to Appear in Three-Way Debate Tonight

Official Website of the Libertarian National Committee:

"Libertarian Dr. Eric Schansberg, who is running for Indiana's 9th Congressional District will appear in a three-way debate against Democrat Baron Hill and Republican incumbent Mike Sodrel.

The debate will be broadcasted live at 8:00pm tonight, August 31st on WTIU, Indiana University's public television station."

Journal Gazette | 08/31/2006 | No bomb tests at Indiana quarry

Journal Gazette | 08/31/2006 | No bomb tests at Indiana quarry:

"A southern Indiana limestone quarry will not be used by the U.S. military as the testing site for a powerful new bomb intended to penetrate solid rock formations, a congressman and the site’s owner said.

Rogers Group’s Mitchell Quarry, 30 miles south of Bloomington, had been mentioned as a possible site for a test, named “Divine Strake,” that would involve detonating 700 tons of explosives.

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency has declined to say whether the site was under consideration for the test, but Greg Gould, a vice president of Nashville, Tenn.-based Rogers Group, said no immense military bomb blasts would take place there."

WNDU-TV: News Story: Indiana State Police step up patrols for Labor Day weekend - August 31, 2006

WNDU-TV: News Story: Indiana State Police step up patrols for Labor Day weekend - August 31, 2006:

"If you plan to hit the roads this holiday weekend, be careful.

Indiana State Police are stepping up patrols to keep you safe.

Beginning Friday, there will be 150 extra troopers out on the roads, looking for motorists who are drinking and driving, speeding or driving aggressively."

Mayor: Dogfighting is city 'scourge' | IndyStar.com

Mayor: Dogfighting is city 'scourge' | IndyStar.com:

"City officials hope an ad campaign will curb dog fighting by prodding the public to call in tips about suspicious activity.

Mayor Bart Peterson joined enforcement officers from the city's Animal Care and Control Division in a press conference today to re-launch a program called Canine Crimestoppers. The officers credited the awareness initiative with boosting the number of investigations from six to 51 after it began in 2004."

WISH-TV - Indianapolis News and Weather - Citizens Not Interested in Indianapolis City-County Council Budget

WISH-TV - Indianapolis News and Weather - Citizens Not Interested in Indianapolis City-County Council Budget:

"The Indianapolis City-County Council is getting ready to make a multi-million dollar decision involving your money. Monday night, it asked for public opinion on the proposed budget, but it appears the public was more interested in the council's ceremonial duties.

The council passed several special resolutions to honor special individuals and groups at this meeting, but when the main event came, most of the audience went.

'It's very important to us that when budgets are passed, that the money that is appropriated for the different departments goes to those departments,' said one citizen at the meeting."

Indy Tax Dollars: Bad news and more bad news...

Indy Tax Dollars: Bad news and more bad news...:

"With an additional $54 million planned for public safety spending, we're told, the recent murder spree demands another $12 million for 'new public safety initiatives.' After two weeks the mayor has yet to find the cash.

Further property tax increases are a no-no because of other factors involved. We're already borrowing to cover current expenses. Tentative solutions mentioned are less reliance on the property tax itself, and, of course, consolidation of all public safety operations in the county.

The recently adopted increase in the county-option income tax brought in 8% more revenues last year, but funds dedicated to use by the city fell by 4%. Part of the blame for the property tax mess is handed off to the assessors with late valuations."

Indiana, Ohio try to lure suppliers for planned Honda plant

WWMT - Digital Channel 3:

"Indiana won the fight with Ohio for a new Honda auto plant. Now the two states are gearing up for battle again.

The two states are vying to attract suppliers that would make parts for the plant southeast of Indianapolis. It will employ two-thousand workers and eventually produce 200,000 vehicles a year."

WISH-TV - Indianapolis News and Weather - Indiana Task Force One Heads to Florida for Ernesto

WISH-TV - Indianapolis News and Weather - Indiana Task Force One Heads to Florida for Ernesto:

"Dozens of central Indiana firefighters are on their way to Florida, ready to help if Ernesto strikes the Atlantic coast. The group is taking search and rescue dogs, heavy equipment and some of the lessons it learned last year from Hurricane Katrina. As they got ready to board their buses around 10 Monday morning, members of Indiana Task Force One weren't sure what was ahead.

'We're hearing with the weather reports that we're getting, it's up and down,' said Jim Curseaden of Indiana Task Force One.

But this group, and others like it from as far away as Boston and Seattle, are preparing for the worst."

AP Wire | 08/28/2006 | Long-unclaimed stock a windfall for Indiana businesswoman

AP Wire | 08/28/2006 | Long-unclaimed stock a windfall for Indiana businesswoman:

"A woman who invested in a wig-making company during the 1960s but believed it had gone out of business recently learned she was wrong - and that her $800 investment had grown far larger.

Carol Lee Woods received a check last week for $116,429 from Indiana Attorney General Steve Carter, whose office's Unclaimed Property Division received the stock because Woods' shares had no activity for at least five years.

'I was absolutely amazed. It's better than winning the lottery,' said Woods, whose name was listed on the unclaimed-property database kept by Carter's office."

Schwab Foundation headed back to Fort Wayne

News-Sentinel | 08/25/2006 | Schwab Foundation headed back to Fort Wayne:

"The process to officially return the nonprofit Olin B. & Desta Schwab Foundation – an organization created to help high-school students choose a career -- to its Midwest roots has begun, according to Attorney General Steve Carter.

His office filed Articles of Incorporation with the Indiana Secretary of State on Friday to move the foundation from Nevada to Fort Wayne.

In December, Carter’s office froze more than $7 million in foundation assets, and accused its then-president, Richard H. Blaich, of illegally moving the foundation’s headquarters from Fort Wayne to Nevada."

Some Katrina evacuees celebrate a year in Indiana

WTHR - Indianapolis News and Weather - Some Katrina evacuees celebrate a year in Indiana:

"Twelve months since their life changed, the Thomas family has endured what so families across the country have endured. The memories of what was, of days gone by, are never far from their minds.

'Our childhood memories and all that is gone,' said Joyce Williams Nadir of Indianapolis. 'Because my mom had all of that. And it's all washed away. We went back to try to get some things and there wasn't nothing to get,' she said.

'A lot of streets we'd normally walk down. And friends. And family members. And stuff. We normally was just able to go and just locate. It's not the same no more,' said Vernon Thomas, Junior, of Indianapolis."

Judge Detains Five Over Ringing Phones

Judge Detains Five Over Ringing Phones:

"A judge detained and questioned a row of spectators when a cell phone rang for a third time in her courtroom, later ordering two people to serve community service for contempt of court.

When no one admitted having the ringing phones Wednesday, Lake County Criminal Court Judge Diane Boswell told all five people in the row to sit in chairs reserved for jail inmates. They stayed there for more than an hour until the morning court call ended.

Boswell found three people in contempt of court because they initially refused to say who had the ringing phones."

via Neal Boortz -

Indy Air Show 2006

Indy Air Show 2006:

"This year, at The Indianapolis Air Show, the spectator and aviation enthusiast will have, as is always the case at Mt. Comfort, a variety of both top notch flying and static attractions to keep him/her occupied during the entire day.

A good, well balanced air show is like a 3 legged stool, which without any particular leg, falls and cannot serve its function. The three legs of a well balanced air show include the right combination of civilian aerobatics, military demonstration teams, and warbirds. As is always the case these three elements have all been chosen to entertain the air show spectator with both the highest quality and variety while at the Mt. Comfort Airport. There is no other event in the state of Indiana that can give one almost five hours of first class military demonstrations, aerobatic routines, and warbird fly-bys to enjoy than at The Indianapolis Air Show!"

R. Lee Ermey, known to all of us as “The Gunny” from the History Channel’s hit TV show “Mail Call”, is scheduled to appear at the Indianapolis Air Show on both Saturday and Sunday. “The Gunny” will be signing autographs, taking pictures with you and your family, and no doubt passing on verbal information on military technology from his show.

128 Indiana Students Suspended On First Day Of School

WBBM 780 - Chicago's #1 source for local news, traffic and weather - 128 Indiana Students Suspended On First Day Of School:

"Fed up with inappropriate outfits, the principal at a high school suspended 128 students on the first day of school as part of a crackdown on dress code violators.

Wednesday's one-day suspensions came minutes after doors opened at northwestern Indiana's Morton High School and affected more than 10 percent of the 1,200 students.

The offending attire -- including baggy pants, low-cut shirts, tank tops and graphic T-shirts -- are banned from classrooms. Students were also cited for cell phone use. "

Two men accused in cab driver's unsolved 1992 killing

AP Wire | 08/25/2006 | Two men accused in cab driver's unsolved 1992 killing:

"An Indiana man and an alleged accomplice behind bars in California have been charged with murder in a cab driver's unsolved 1992 slaying.

William L. Allsup, 33, of West Terre Haute, and Lamar D. Perry, 32, face murder and robbery charges in the death of Jerry Need, who was shot in his taxi cab on Dec. 23, 1992.

Allsup, who was arrested Wednesday, was being held without bond Friday at the Vigo County Jail, pending a Sept. 5 court appearance.

Perry, his alleged accomplice, is serving a 50-year sentence at the Kern Valley State Prison in Delano, Calif., said Vigo County Sheriff Jon Marvel. Authorities are making arrangements to bring Perry, who was convicted of aggravated robbery last year, to Indiana to face the charges."

Public-Private Hybrid School Opens In Indiana

Channel4000.com - Education - Public-Private Hybrid School Opens In Indiana:

"Indianapolis' new liberal arts high school opened on Wednesday with a visit from Mayor Bart Peterson highlighting the day.

Herron High School is a charter school and a hybrid between a public and private institution.

Students choose to go to Herron, but they don't pay tuition because it's a public school that gets money from state and private sources."

Fire Destroys Historic Madison IN Building

Fire Destroys Historic Madison IN Building:

"A massive fire in a small Indiana town destroyed a building with more than 100 years of history and also damaged five others.

The Elks Lodge in Madison, Indiana caught fire shortly after 6 a.m. and spread to other buildings in that area.

The lodge is at 420 West Street, about four blocks from the Ohio River. It was built in 1902 and currently housed a restaurant and meeting space."

Rising Health Care Costs are mostly the fault of our Government

Fort Wayne Libertarian Mike Sylvester: Rising Health Care Costs are mostly the fault of our Government:

"Ron Paul is a Representative from Texas. He is a member of The Libertarian Party and The Republican Party. He is a small government type and a fiscal conservative. Ron Paul makes a lot of sense.

He has written a piece about the rising costs of healthcare. He talks about how much of the problem was caused by Congress and he lists solutions to these problems."

Libertarian Activity Everywhere Across the State

State Chairman's Report: Libertarian Activity Everywhere Across the State:

"From the southern part of Indiana, Central Committee member Greg Hertzsch reports that yesterday 'Melanie Hughes dropped by after she spent all day doing her own OPH outreach at Indiana University Southeast. She had around 100 quiz takers at IUS all in one day and obtained some new contacts for the IUS College Libertarians.' Greg was conducting his own OPH (Operation Politically Homeless) booth yesterday at Sellersberg Celebrates."

Better Brighter Beech Grove: Projects

Better Brighter Beech Grove:

"This website showcases eight exciting, new, integrated projects which are evidence that Beech Grove is growing – both economically, and as a community. When implemented, each of these projects will increase the value of our homes, improve our quality of life and once again make Beech Grove an attraction for new businesses, new jobs and new development."

There are currently eight major project initiatives under development by the city of Beech Grove. I am a resident of the city, though a relative newcomer to the community. I am excited and encouraged by the agressive and strategic planning invloved. When I first moved here, I admit that my first impressions of the city were not very favorable. Today there is a marked difference in the direction the city has taken and I can see nothing but tremendous growth and opportunity in the days ahead.

Colts' Mungro to miss season with knee injury

CBC Sports: Colts' Mungro to miss season with knee injury:

"Indianapolis Colts running back James Mungro will miss the entire NFL season after being placed on the injured reserve list Wednesday with a torn knee ligament.

Mungro tore his anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee Sunday during a pre-season game against the Seattle Seahawks.

Mungro, a short-yardage specialist, scored 13 touchdowns during his four-year career with the Colts."

Judge scolds charities for Lilly lawsuit

Judge scolds charities for Lilly lawsuit:

"Two charities bickering over the trust money of an heiress to the Eli Lilly and Co. pharmaceutical fortune were scolded by a judge over a lawsuit claiming a bank reduced the value of their donations because of delayed stock transactions.

The Chicago-based Poetry Foundation and Americans for the Arts in Washington, D.C., have been named as two beneficiaries of 91-year-old Ruth Lilly's trust after her death.

Lilly, the only surviving great-grandchild of Eli Lilly, who founded the Indianapolis-based pharmaceutical company, had a wealth valued at more than $1 billion in 2002."

Switch failure blamed for bizarre downtown light show

WTHR - Indianapolis News and Weather - Switch failure blamed for bizarre downtown light show:

"Downtown Indianapolis was treated to a bizarre, strobing light show early Thursday morning. Streetlights flashed rhythmically and constantly inside a square-mile of downtown.

Pedestrians complained about a horrible electrical smell. 'I've never seen anything before like this,' said one. 'Kind of weird,' said another.

'Makes it hard to read the paper,' commented one man at the bus stop, where there was talk and speculation about the eerie light show."

“We love you guys….looking forward to the next meeting.”

BillCaskey::

"How many times have you heard this? You’re wrapping up a meeting with a prospect and it’s time to determine next steps. The meeting went well and you were able to uncover some prospect pain. In fact, the prospect even spent some time selling you on why they need your services.

Before you leave you ask to schedule the second appointment. Your prospect explains that they can’t because they either don’t have their schedule with them, or they don’t know the availability of another person that they would like to include. They tell you to call or email them tomorrow with some available times."

All About Acupuncture: Acupuncture treatment

All About Acupuncture: Acupuncture treatment:

"A growing number of people have become interested in alternative medicine to treat illnesses. Alternative medicine as a practice has created a significant amount of controversy both inside and outside the traditional medical field. Alternative medicine refers to a treatment or substance that is unproven under the application or accepted scientific standards. The most common types of alternative medicine include herbs, supplements, therapies and activities that are outside traditional medical practice. Some of these raise questions about their safety and effectiveness. Acupuncture, massage, meditation, herbal tea, and plant extracts are popular among devotees of alternative medicine, but many traditional doctors believe these treatments are ineffective or even dangerous."

Rehnquist to lead Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana

Rehnquist to lead Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana : Local News : Evansville Courier Press:

"George Rehnquist, a Princeton, Ind., attorney, has been named the interim executive director of the Economic Development Coalition of Southwest Indiana.

“The Coalition has continued to build momentum since inception and we needed someone to steer the ship,” said Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel, Coalition Board of Directors co-chair. “George is the right man for the job right now, and we look forward to him beginning his duties to coordinate economic development on a regional scale.”"

Gary, Indiana, teachers walk picket lines on first day of school

KTRE-TV - Lufkin/Nacogdoches, TX - Gary, Indiana, teachers walk picket lines on first day of school:

"A spokesman for the schools in Gary, Indiana, says it's 'business as usual' despite a strike by teachers on the first day of school.
Unionized school bus drivers refused to cross the picket lines set up by teachers who walked out for the first time in 22 years.

Teachers carrying signs reading 'No Contract, No Work' picketed all three entrances to the district's largest high school. The teachers have been working without a contract since December of 2004."

Nestlé breaks ground

The Herald Bulletin - Nestlé breaks ground:

"The Nestlé bunny cheered on Nestlé executives and state and local officials as they turned the first dirt at the future site of a $359 million, 880,000-square-foot Nestlé factory and distribution center.

“Nestle, thanks a million. Well, thanks many millions,” Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels told the crowd of more than 200 assembled at the site."

BMV Causing More Problems? Rumors Abound About FSSA Welfare Cross-Checks

taking down words: BMV Causing More Problems? Rumors Abound About FSSA Welfare Cross-Checks:

"It must be a 'Rumor Has It' kind of day. TDW is hearing that the employees over at the Family and Social Services Administration who are in charge of checking applicants for welfare eligibility are running into problems with the -- wait for it, wait for it -- Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

Apparently, they use BMV data to check, for example, how many cars an applicant owns as a way of screening for fraud and determining eligibility."

Fair Train Hits Young Man Driving Truck

AtFishers Fishers, Indiana - TownePost:

"What’s the saying, “the first one is a blessing' . . . or did I just make that up? Well, the first Fair Train accident this year in Fishers was a blessing because no one was hurt. Around 7:00 this evening, a 20 something year old from South Carolina was driving his truck northbound on Hague Road off of 96th Street. (Just north of Margaritaville) He stopped at the stop sign and slowly pulled forward when he suddenly realized the train was coming right at him."

The Midwest Music Summit

Torpor Indy: The Midwest Music Summit:

"A few years ago, arguably the undisputed champion of the live music scene was a band by the name of Push Down & Turn. Their live shows had enough energy to run a small city, their music was catchy, and the band was very well organized. They had merchandizing down to a science and had great success during their run. They were on the HORDE fest after winning a regional battle of the bands in Chicago, their song made it onto a national CD put out by Abercrombe & Fitch, they were on the main stage one year at X-Fest, and they routinely packed every venue they played. "

Indiana tries out cameras in courtrooms

Indiana tries out cameras in courtrooms | ZDNet Government Blog | ZDNet.com:

"One of the hallmarks of the modern age of journalism has been the courtroom illustrator. He may soon be tossed in the dustbin of history as state courts are increasingly allowing cameras into court. While the Supreme Court has cast serious doubt as to whether it will ever allow cameras in federal courts, states like Indiana are experimenting with the idea, the Indianapolis Star reports.

A few of the benefits: lawyers are on better behavior and are better prepared; there has been little showboating; and cameras are not disrupting procedures. On the other hand, one attorney complained it was hard to enter court because of the media and the cameras do make a clicking sound. One fix is to use a digital camera with a muffler attachment. Under the rules set up for the experiment, the trial court and parties must agree; only one video camera, one still camera and three audio recorders are allowed; and there's no photography of minors, undercover agents and police informants."

Newly renovated Governor's Residence opens for tours

WTHR - Indianapolis News and Weather - Newly renovated Governor's Residence opens for tours:

"The renovations on the Governor's Residence are now complete and beginning this Thursday you will have a four-day opportunity to tour it.

After a year and half, the $1.2 million renovation of the Governor's North Meridian Street residence is now complete. One of the designers said they fulfilled the first lady's charge to make the home 'timeless; elegant but comfortable,' said Tay Ruthenburg, Evaline Karges Interiors.

The formal living room complete with donated grand piano maintains its elegance. The expanded dining room includes a hand-painted mural of the Wabash River but the new kitchen is where the renovation is most noticeable. All you have to do is remember the tin foil knobs on the old stove and you can see what a difference $100,000 can make."

Indianapolis Most Affordable Housing Market

AXcessNews.com - Indianapolis Most Affordable Housing Market:

"Indianapolis maintained its standing as the most affordable major U.S. housing market for a fourth consecutive time in the second quarter of 2006, according to the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Opportunity Index (HOI), released today.

Meanwhile, nationwide housing affordability edged slightly downward as the median price of all homes sold in the period remained unchanged and a slight uptick was registered in the average mortgage rate.

'Today's HOI reading indicates that 40.6 percent of new and existing homes that were sold during the second quarter were affordable to families earning the national median income of $59,600,' said NAHB President David Pressly, a home builder from Statesville, N.C. 'This is just below the 41.3 percent of homes that were affordable to median-income earners in the first quarter and tied to the somewhat higher mortgage rates that prevailed in the April - June period.'"

I Choose Indy! » Blog Archive » I Choose Indy for the Neighbors

I Choose Indy! » Blog Archive » I Choose Indy for the Neighbors:

"That was the primary reason I chose Indy, but the reasons I continue to choose it are many and varied. Having started my own company in 1998, I’ve found Indy to be a great place for business. In many ways, we’re spoiled here: We get all the advantages of living in a large city while still being surrounded by people who exude Midwestern charm and integrity. And now that I have four young children, I love the resources that are readily available: the world’s best children’s museum, a dynamic zoo, a growing parks system, educational venues like Conner Prairie sprinkled throughout the metro area, a thriving church and faith-based community, and great schools."

Hat Tip to The Cotas

Indiana Barrister: Nice To Be Back

Indiana Barrister:

"And then I rediscovered my past.

I saw friends from high school who I haven't seen in nearly 20 years. None of them were surprised I was in talk radio. I ran into the man who taught me everything I know about covering government and after coffee and an hour worth of talking considered me an equal. I ran into statewide elected officials I used to cover back in Illinois who told me that the coverage hasn't been the same since I focused on Indianapolis instead of Springfield. But I guess most importantly, a conversation with the woman I almost married (and to show you how smart she is, she didn't) reminded me why I got in this business in the first place and how I wouldn't be happy doing anything else.

And the more I thought about it, she was right."

We're glad to have you back too, Abdul.

Indiana slowly ponders Great Lakes pact

South Bend Tribune:

"Administration officials will not seek legislative approval until 2008 for a Great Lakes compact signed last year by Gov. Mitch Daniels and under active consideration by other Great Lakes lawmakers.

Kyle Hupfer, director of the Department of Natural Resources, said the delay will give Indiana lawmakers and stakeholders time to massage the compact and to craft companion legislation that guides the compact's implementation.

The compact essentially bans water diversions from the Great Lakes basin to other parts of the world, including the non-basin portions of Great Lakes states and Canadian provinces."

Indiana declared nation's center of terror

Pasadena Star-News - Molly Ivins: Indiana declared nation's center of terror:

"THE most cunning refinement yet in the administration's plot to scare the liver, lights and onions out of us with Tales of Terror Plots is the Department of Homeland Security's brilliant move to declare Indiana the national center of terrorism, with 8,591 potential targets.

Many citizens have questioned the Indiana move - some claiming it is a waste of money trying to stop attacks on the Wabash Cannonball. The Statue of Liberty and the Washington Monument might merit a little more attention.

This is precisely why it is better to have Michael Chertoff and Karl Rove making Homeland Security decisions, rather than Osama bin Laden."

Organizers: 150th Indiana State Fair a Big Success

WISH-TV - Indianapolis News and Weather - Organizers: 150th Indiana State Fair a Big Success:

"The 150th annual Indiana State Fair has wrapped up, and organizers are calling it a big success.

Clean-up got underway Sunday night. More than 860,000 people visited the fairgrounds during the 12 days of the fair, about 40,000 more than last year.

Rap star Kanye West was Sunday's headliner at the grandstand, drawing in huge crowds as expected."

Indiana Jurors Getting Younger

News::Indiana Jurors Getting Younger:

"More young people -- including high school seniors -- are being called to jury duty in Indiana.

It's part of a statewide effort to create larger, more diverse jury pools.

The new procedures cull the names of potential jurors from rolls of registered voters, licensed drivers and tax records. Automatic jury exemptions have also been eliminated.
"

State Fair Midway Accident

TheIndyChannel.com - Local News - Woman Injured In Fall From State Fair Ride:

"A woman's day of fun at the Indiana State Fair ended with a trip to the hospital after an accident on one of the rides.

Officials said a 23-year-old woman was riding the Mad Mouse rollercoaster at about 1:30 p.m. Saturday when she somehow fell from a coaster car while the ride was running."

Contest Winners Tie Knot at State Fair

News::Indiana State Fair Wedding:

"Wedding bells at the Indiana State Fair on Friday. Andrea Graves and Kenneth Gallagher got married amid the food, rides and animals.

The Indianapolis couple won this year's 'Marriage on the Midway' contest. Unfortunately the weather outside didn't cooperate, so they moved it inside.

The couple beat out nine other couples to get hitched there. The gown, flowers, cake, pictures, tux and admission... all free."

Petoskey Plastics Coming to Hartford City

Recycling Today Magazine :: News :: Plastics Company Opening Plant in Indiana:

"Petoskey Plastics announced plans to open a manufacturing facility in Hartford City, Indiana. Petoskey is a plastic bag manufacturing and recycling company.

The facility will be around 200,000 square feet. The company designs and manufactures industrial and retail HDPE film products for customers in North America, Europe and Asia. Its products include automotive supplies, compactor and carryout bags, and private label trash bags.

'The Hartford City, Indiana location will be instrumental in growing our business. We chose Indiana because the state is strategically located for distribution activities and provides ready access to a quality workforce-both of which are important for our strategic growth,' said Paul Keiswetter, Petoskey Plastics’ president."

Showdown Brewing at State House

South Bend Tribune:

"Maybe it's not exactly Our Man Pat vs. Their Man Mitch. But it now seems that way, or the reverse, in a tale of two areas.

As state Rep. B. Patrick Bauer left a downtown South Bend restaurant after lunch one day last week, a woman hurried over because 'I just wanted to thank you.'

The woman, involved with administration in the nearby Penn-Harris-Madison school district, denounced Gov. Mitch Daniels for what she described as harmful cuts in the district, in personnel and in summer programs in particular, and for worse problems ahead."

IU East - "Kick Your Butts"

Palladium-Item - www.pal-item.com - Richmond, Ind.:

"For Wendy Wareham and other smokers at Indiana University East, Monday's switch to a smoke-free campus might prove a difficult transition.

As of Monday, smoking anywhere on IU East's main campus property, as well as its Danielson Learning Center in New Castle and Connersville Center, will be prohibited. This includes all grounds, buildings, university vehicles and private vehicles on campus."

Newest Teachers in Charter Schools

Charter schools draw the most rookie teachers | IndyStar.com:

"Most charter schools draw less-experienced teachers because they can't offer the pay or union protection that traditional districts offer. Supporters also say charter schools demand longer hours and more work from educators.
New teachers are credited with energy and open minds, but widespread inexperience is a potential liability for schools. Rookie teachers aren't as effective because they're still learning their jobs, research shows. There are piles of paperwork to sort through, lesson plans to create and strategies to master for handling difficult students.
Green teachers also can hinder the kind of progress the public expects from charter schools, which are billed as an alternative to failing traditional public schools."

Meander Through Indiana

Northwest Indiana News: nwitimes.com:

"For those who like to wander the back roads of Indiana, Earl Conn, dean emeritus at the College of Communications, Information and Media at Ball State University, has put together a delightful book chronicling his meanderings throughout the state.

'My Indiana: 101 Places to See' (Indiana Historical Society Press, 2006) is a compilation of writings that Conn has written for his 'Traveling Indiana' column which appears in several newspapers including the Muncie Star Press."

Indiana arts commission grants

Journal Gazette | 08/20/2006 | Indiana arts commission grants:

"Arts United of Greater Fort Wayne recently announced the approval of $144,877 in Indiana Arts Commission grants to 35 organizations in northeast Indiana.

The awards will be used for a variety of area arts activities. The grants were made possible through the Regional Arts Partnership of the Indiana Arts Commission, Indiana’s state arts agency, with the assistance from the Indiana General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts.

An awards ceremony will be this fall. Arts United is northeast Indiana’s granting agent for the Indiana Arts Commission. As one of the arts commission’s 12 Regional Partners, Arts United provides services to 10 counties: Allen, DeKalb, Huntington, LaGrange, Miami, Noble, Steuben, Wabash, Wells and Whitley."

Order shows personal items of nun who'll be canonized | IndyStar.com

Order shows personal items of nun who'll be canonized | IndyStar.com:

"Personal possessions that once belonged to an Indiana nun who will be canonized a saint this fall have been put on display by the religious order she founded.

Mother Theodore Guerin, a 19th-century French nun who founded the Sisters of Providence community near Terre Haute, will be elevated to sainthood on Oct. 15 by Pope Benedict XVI during a ceremony in Vatican City.
Guerin's artifacts have been placed on display indefinitely at the Heritage Museum at St. Mary-of-the-Woods, said Sister Mary Ryan, the congregation's archivist."

Democrats Pandering To Voters With Naive Policy That Is Bad For The Country

Democrats Pandering To Voters With Naive Policy That Is Bad For The Country:

"Sen. Evan Bayh of Indiana, former head of the supposedly moderate Democratic Leadership Council and another presidential aspirant, is also a basher. 'Wal-Mart,' he said, 'has become emblematic of the anxiety around the country, and the middle-class squeeze.'


This is all part of a recent trend among Democratic politicians using Wal-Mart as a foil to ingratiate themselves with middle-class voters. This may be good politics. We don't know. But those who participate in such Wal-Mart-bashing reveal themselves to be economic illiterates of the most dangerous sort."

The Wabash Plain Dealer Online

The Wabash Plain Dealer Online:

"Comparatively speaking, there's good news on the economy in Wabash County: The numbers indicate that after four years of decline, the economy seems to be stabilizing.

That's how Richard Harshbarger reads the latest numbers on economic activity. Harshbarger, professor emeritus of economics at Manchester College, has been monitoring the ebb and flow of economic activity in Wabash County since 1985.

In his latest report, Harshbarger wrote:

“Wabash County's economic environment stabilized during the first six months of 2006. The Economic Index of Wabash County was at 115.7 (1985=100) in June, as compared with 115.9 in December 2005."

News-Sentinel | 08/19/2006 | Public-school book fees add up

News-Sentinel | 08/19/2006 | Public-school book fees add up:

"Every child in the United States is guaranteed the right to a free public education, but for many Indiana students, an education is anything but free.

From gym shoes to glue, textbooks to notebooks and everything in between, parents privately fund their children’s public education.

“The federal government says school is supposed to be free,” said Ingrie Wilder, whose daughter will be a junior at Woodlan Junior-Senior High School when school starts Monday. “That means free pens, free pencils, free textbooks. Indiana stinks when it comes to that."

State GOP, House Dems Quarrel Over Campaign Mailers

State GOP, House Dems Quarrel Over Campaign Mailers:

"The state GOP chairman accused two House Democrats of taking credit for accomplishments by the Daniels' administration and the Republican-controlled Legislature.

Murray Clark says Democrats are insinuating they're responsible for recent economic successes in Indiana.

Instead, he says Democrats have tried to block progress sought by Daniels and Republican legislators."

3 more vehicles reported shot in NW Indiana | Chicago Tribune

3 more vehicles reported shot in NW Indiana | Chicago Tribune:

"Authorities believe they have a description of the person responsible for a wave of vehicle shootings along Lake County highways after three more damage reports were made Friday.

No injuries were reported, and the sheriff said he now believed a pellet gun was the weapon which damaged or shattered vehicle windows in the 13 attacks reported since July 25.

A motorist who saw one of Friday's midday shootings along Indiana 912 north of Interstate 80/94 gave authorities a description of the shooter and a pickup truck being driven."

TheIndyBlog: Community Focus - Beech Grove

In recent months there has been a blur of activity around the city of Beech Grove. As the city prepares to mark it 100th Anniversary on November 12, 2006 there are several projects underway in an ambitious redevelopment initiative.

A new web site has been created to keep the community informed and updated on these sorely needed improvements. Aptly named, BetterBrighterBeechGrove.com serves as a web portal to mark the progress of the various undertaking in the city.

Perhaps the largest project to date is the Emerson Avenue project. Web visitors can view a 360 degree view of the project progress.

This map, from the BBBG website shows the areas where projects are either underway or planned for future development. Check the website for more detail info about these major redevelopment projects and subscribe to the free e-mail newsletter.

TheIndyBlog will be reporting more about the Beech Grove Centennial in future posts.

Job Fair for French Lick casino

Evansville Courier Press -

French Lick Casino and Resort to hold second job fair this weekend
Officials from the state of Indiana and the French Lick Resort Casino will conduct a second job fair at the West Baden Springs Hotel atrium at West Baden, Ind., this weekend to fill the remaining 300 jobs at the resort and casino.

The positions are primarily hourly front line and supervisory positions.

Employment candidates are asked to bring their Social Security cards and photo IDs with them to the fair.
(continued ...)

National Association of Black Journalists Host Al Sharpton

WISH-TV -

Al Sharpton in Indianapolis Discussing Leadership in Black America
Former presidential candidate Al Sharpton was in town Thursday for the National Association of Black Journalists Convention. He entertained a downtown audience with some provocative discussion on whether black America needs a new leader.

"He says things that other people are uncomfortable saying," said attendant Lynne Adrine.

Reverend Sharpton joined the Vice-chair of the DNC, and City-County Councillor Ike Randolph to explore the question is black America searching for a leader?
(more...)

ACT Results

Decatur Daily Democrat -

Indiana ACT scores stagnant
High school students posted the biggest score increase on the ACT college entrance exam in two decades this year, but average ACT scores in Indiana remained stagnant although higher than the national average.

The average score for Indiana's high school class of 2006 was 21.7 on a 36-point scale, the same as last year, according to scores released Wednesday.

Meanwhile, nationwide average scores rose from 20.9 last year to 21.1 this year on the exam, which measures students' readiness for college-level work.

‘‘We're pleased to see that our students are still performing above the national average, but we'd like to see that upward climb continue,'' said Jason Bearce, a spokesman for the Indiana Department of Education.
(contiued ...)

At first I thought this story was another negative report about the woefull state of Indiana's public education system. Whew. I was wrong. I am so relieved to learn that recent ACT scores are still above the national average.
If my sarcasm isn't fairly obvious, I hardly think being 0.6 points better than the national average is something to hang our hats on. Typical poli-speak.

Relief for Fax Machines in Indiana

Fort Wayne Journal-Gazette -

Fax blaster shut down in Indiana
Attorney General Steve Carter announced Thursday that a California company known for blasting hundreds of thousands of faxes to Indiana numbers has ceased operation and was ordered to pay the state $6.6 million.

While he doesn’t expect to see much of the money – the state has only received $30,000 so far – Carter said the case sends a message to other companies that Indiana will not tolerate the practice of sending unsolicited faxes.

“The big news is we’ve shut them down,” Carter said. “We do have a judgment, but it’s very uncertain whether we can collect it.”

Indiana joined a federal suit filed by the California attorney general against Fax.com in 2004. The company violated federal statutes outlawing blast faxes and has been permanently banned from sending unwanted faxes under an agreement with the two states and the U.S. Department of Justice.
(more...)

WideOpenWest Expands In MidWest

Evansville Courier & Press -

WOW acquires Sigecom
Sigecom will be acquired by WideOpenWest (WOW), a Midwestern provider of cable television, high-speed Internet and telephone service, the companies announced Monday.

Bruce Jones, president and CEO of Sigecom, said the purchase would give Sigecom access to more personnel resources and purchasing clout.

Executives from both companies called the acquisition a good fit. "The two companies share a really similar approach and philosophy," said Cathy Kuo, senior vice president of marketing and sales of WOW. She said both companies focus on customer service and competitive products.
(continue ...)

Outside Gangs Linked to Homicides

TheIndyChannel -

Police: Outsiders Contributing To Indy's Crime-Rate Spike
Police say gangs from outside central Indiana are trying to establish a hold on illegal drug sales in Indianapolis and are contributing to a spike in the city's crime rate, police said.

Authorities also believe some recent homicides in the city involved outsider gang members killing Indianapolis-area drug dealers, 6News' Jack Rinehart reported Tuesday.

"I think they're the ones doing the dying," said Mark Hess, of the U.S. Marshals Service. "I don’t think they're used to that type of violence. I know we're not used to it. But (dealers from) Gary and Chicago, it's nothing for them to just start popping rounds off."
(more ...)

"Hoosier Homegrown Energy"

New Albany Tribune -

Local leaders weigh in on state energy plan
The governor’s energy plan is beneficial in the long-run, but short-term relief still needs addressed. At least that’s the feeling as local leaders weigh in on the strategy.

The plan — labeled Hoosier Homegrown Energy — seeks to utilize and grow jobs upon the state’s own energy assets.

“I absolutely applaud the governor on his long-term energy plan,” said state Sen. Connie Sipes, of New Albany. “I think it’s excellent. I’m very pleased.” (continue reading ...)

Soooiiieee!

State Chairman's Report -

The Stampede Has Begun Towards the Government Pig Trough In Indianapolis
As usual, politicians, bureaucrats and the organizations that leech off of the taxpayer are using the recent murders in Indianapolis to open the spigot of money for their "solutions" to the problem. The latest is from several ministers of the Indianapolis clergy that are calling for more money to be thrown into proven ineffective programs.
(continue reading ...)

Colgate Country Showdown at Indiana State Fair

Paris Beacon News -

Area band to compete at Indiana State Fair
The local country band “Jackie Lawson and her Hillbilly Rockstars” has earned a spot in the competition for a state title at the Indiana State Fair.

The group includes two Paris musicians - Darren Elmore, guitar and vocalist, and Dennis Rowell, bass, both of Paris, as well as Jackie Lawson and Tad Freezeland of Charleston and Darrell Wilson of Mattoon.

The band earned first place at the Terre Haute local-level Colgate Country Showdown music competition on Memorial Day, and now advances to the state competition.

Winners of the national Colgate Country Showdown are awarded $100,000 and the title. The competition begins each spring with more than 450 local shows, sponsored by local radio stations.

Elmore said lead singer Lawson is a national recording artist, who they met through mutual friends. The other four have played music together for about four years. They have an “alternate ego” band, “Black-n-Blues”, which plays classic rock and blues, he said.
(more here ...)

Highway Fatalities Highest on Toll Road

Fort Wayne News-Sentinel -

Report: Toll road ranks 1st in Indiana in deaths per mile
Millions of drivers use the Indiana Toll Road each year, but high speeds and traffic can make for dangerous travel as the highway ranks first in the state in deaths per mile, a newspaper found.

The South Bend Tribune reported this week that 19 people were killed on the toll road in 2005, and 11 have died this year on the 157-mile corridor that the state recently leased to a private Spanish-Australian company to operate. The numbers show the road is first in deaths per mile compared to other interstates, according to the newspaper's analysis of data provided by the Indiana Department of Transportation.

Earlier this month, a semi plowed into a line of vehicles stopped in a construction zone, killing the truck driver and four members of one family riding in a van, state police said.
(continue ...)

Well....On The Other Hand

WNDU-TV -

Time zone changes requested for six Indiana counties
Some Indiana counties already think it's time for another time zone switch.

Governor Daniels is supporting requests by six counties to be moved back to the Eastern Time Zone

It comes less than five months after they moved to the Central Time Zone.

Daniels is sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation supporting the petitions by Davies, Dubois, Knox, Martin and Pike counties in southwestern Indiana.
(more ...)

Luring Wayward Hoosiers

IndyStar -

Back home again
They bolted Indiana for the bright lights and big cities. They were among the droves of Indiana college graduates who left the state for bigger adventures.

But unlike most, they came back.

Hoosier employers and Gov. Mitch Daniels hope many more are like them.
Instead of gaining fresh college grads with no experience, with these returnees the state gets workers with years at high-profile companies in major cities.
(continues ...)

"Rhythm. Reborn."

Also from the IndyStar -

Goin' back to Indiana
There's a Madam C.J. Walker quote -- "Perseverance is my motto" -- that resonates today on Indiana Avenue.

As a black woman, Walker beat long odds by making and selling hair-care products nationwide in the early 1900s.
Walker became a matriarch to Indiana Avenue, one of six areas designated as local cultural districts three years ago. She moved her business to Indianapolis in 1910 and later planned a movie palace that became a centerpiece amid more than 30 restaurants and nightclubs on the crowded avenue.

The Madame Walker Theatre Center still stands as the centerpiece there, but it stands virtually alone.
(more ...)

Thoughts About Indiana's College Drop Out Rate

Here's an editorial from the IndyStar -

What's behind Indiana's college dropout rate?
The successful completion of a college education in America has great benefits. On average, college graduates will earn twice the amount throughout their lives as their non-college graduate counterparts. However, recent research shows that only about one in five Hoosiers who enter high school obtain a bachelor's degree within six years of high school graduation or an associate degree within three years.

Using data for 1998 to 2004, we learn that in Indiana nearly 30 percent of the 14-year-old children entering high school never graduate. Of those who do, roughly 40 percent do not go right on to college, meaning only 43 percent of the relevant age population actually enters college, at least immediately. Perhaps the most unfortunate and remarkable attrition is during college itself, where more than half of those students entering college do not receive a degree in a timely manner.
(continue reading ...)

TheIndyBlog: Indiana State Fair 2006

This is the first weekend of the Indiana State Fair. Here are a collection of related links and articles about the fair to assist you with planning your activities.


Indiana State Fair Website -

STATE FAIR FUN
2006 is a Blue Ribbon Celebration each and every day!

As you join us at the Fair year after year, you'll soon discover that there is always something new to see and experience. Of course you'll find your regular attractions, such as the animals, the food and the midway rides, but we enjoy the element of surprise.

Healthy Lifestyles Pavilion – This building, formerly the Senior Citizens’ building, has had an overhaul in programming and decor. It consists of booths full of information and exhibits for Hoosiers looking to lead healthier and more active lives.

Mr. McFeely – The famous “Speedy Delivery” postman from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood will be in the Old National Bank Grand Hall to greet visitors and reminisce about the popular children’s program throughout the day on August 10.

Preview Night Celebration Concert: The Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and Indiana native Sandi Patty perform a free concert Tuesday, Aug. 8 at 6:30 pm, followed by our Hot Air Balloon Night Glow!

Indiana Department of Natural Resources Fishin’ Pond and Amphitheatre presented by Veolia Water is a 312,000 gallon pond for visitors to learn the lure of fishing in a “Catch and Release “program and workshops for Hoosier kids!
(click to view all new attractions ...)

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Tradtional Arts Indiana -

Traditional Arts Indiana at the 2006 Indiana State Fair!

This year will be the eighth year that TAI has partnered with the Indiana State Fair to bring traditional artists and musicians to the fairground. The main events are as follows:

The Traditional Arts Indiana State Fair Fiddle Contest
Saturday, August 12, 2006, 10am to 3:00pm on the WFMS Free Stage
For registration information, please call (317) 927-7524

TAI Day at the Fair
Thursday, August 17, 2006, 10am to 6pm
Performers to be announced.
(click here for more info ...)

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Purdue University

2006 Indiana State Fair
August 9th - 20th
The 2006 Indiana State Fair is from August 9th through August 20th. The State Fair team has worked very hard again this year to put together a fantastic exhibit for the Our Land Pavilion! Don't forget Purdue Day at the Indiana State Fair on Wednesday, August 16th.
(click here to learn more ...)

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For current news and events from the IndyStar, click HERE.

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To order tickets for the Indiana State Fair online, click HERE to visit Ticketmaster.

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About the Indiana State Fair via Wikipedia -

The Indiana State Fair is held in Indianapolis, the state capital, usually in August. It is one of the largest of such fairs, which are held in many U.S. states in the summer or fall, usually to highlight aspects of the state's agriculture and history.

In 2004, a record 900,000 people attended the state fair; attendance dropped to approximately 810,000 in 2005 due to less-than-ideal weather conditions. The 150th Indiana State Fair will be held August 9-20 in 2006. The state fair buildings and grounds are used for a variety of other shows while the fair is not being held. The fair grounds are on 38th Street and Fall Creek Parkway. The midway continues to attract pre-kindergartners through college kids every year.

One of the most popular features of the State Fair is the Marching Band Competition.

The largest building at the fairgrounds is the Pepsi Coliseum, formerly known as the Indiana State Fair Coliseum.

Identify The Cause, Not The Effect

Resist -

Steam Heat
On a totally unrelated note but tied to my mood is the current terrorist situation. So now I cannot carry my ipod, water, a book, a snack, the boy's PSP, a cell phone, chapstick, contact solution, etc, etc, etc, etc on a plane because some followers of the religion of peace tried to blow up some airplanes again....
(continue reading...)

I was reminded recently of a statement made by an Israeli Security officer regarding measures to prevent terrorist attacks. To paraphrase,
If you want to find terrorists, then you need to screen for terrorists, not weapons.

Bryan, I understand your frustration, as I am sure, so do many other Americans.

Indiana Schools - Downward Spiral

Chicago Sun-Times -

70% of Indiana's high schools in trouble
More than 70 percent of the state's public high schools and 140 school districts are on academic watch or academic probation, according to new classifications the Indiana Board of Education approved Wednesday.

The state, for the first time, put each of Indiana's schools and districts in one of five categories: exemplary progress, commendable progress, academic progress, academic watch and academic probation. (more bad news...)

Fighting Terrorism - Fusion Center

WISH-TV -

Indiana Intelligence Fusion Center Proactively Fights Terror
There is a new program designed to fight terrorism in Indiana. It's called the Indiana Intelligence Fusion Center and it's a brand new office under Indiana Homeland Security that will fight terrorism like that in London by gathering intelligence before terror strikes.

"It mirrors efforts that are going on in about 38 states in our country right now," said executive director Monte McKee.

"We'll have them working very closely together so anything happens in the state, I want to make sure we've got an intelligence operation that helps feed us information that's needed to make decisions," said J. Eric Dietz of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security. (more...)

Inmates Forced To Stay In Jail

CBS 2 Chicago -

Skin Disease Puts NW Indiana Jail Under Quarantine
The Lake County, Indiana, Jail was under a two-day quarantine Friday to stop an infectious skin disease from spreading.

CBS 2 news partner the Post-Tribune reported the quarantine began Thursday, and all 1,111 inmates were to be held inside the jail for at least 48 hours. (more...)

Gov. Announces Indiana Will Get Gas

Evansville Courier & Press -

Daniels announces largest ethanol plant in Indiana to be built in Mount Vernon
The largest ethanol plant in Indiana will be constructed on a 100-acre tract in the Port of Indiana at Mount Vernon.

A joint venture between Aventine Renewable Energy, an Illinois company, and Consolidated Grain and Barge of Mount Vernon, Ind., the plant is slated to produce 222 million gallons of ethanol annually.


Construction of the $400 million plant is scheduled to begin in April 2007 and to be in production by September 2008. (more ...)

Indiana Water Treatment Rated Among Best

NewsBlaze -

EPA names three northwest Indiana wastewater treatment plants
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5 named three northwest Indiana wastewater treatment plants among the best-operated in the Great Lakes states for 2006. They are the J.B. Gifford Treatment facility in Michigan City, the Portage Water Reclamation facility and the Wanatah wastewater treatment plant. They are among seven plants to receive regional Operations and Maintenance Excellence Awards for 2006. EPA Region 5 covers Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin.
(more...)

Zoo Animals Killed In Transport Accident

Fort Worth Star-Telegram -

Truck spills penguins, octopus onto East Texas highway
A truck transporting zoo animals from Indiana to Galveston overturned Tuesday, spilling about two dozen penguins, tropical fish and an octopus onto an East Texas highway, authorities said.

"We had a penguin wreck," Department of Public Safety trooper Richard Buchanan said. "They were thrown out into a ditch and in the roadway."

Two employees from the Indianapolis Zoo were transporting the animals to Moody Gardens in Galveston when the accident occurred on U.S. Highway 59 at about 4:30 a.m., Buchanan said.
(more ...)

Poor Marks For Indiana Schools

Fort Wayne Journal Gazette -

4 of 9 schools fail to meet Indiana academic achievement requirements
Nearly half the schools in northeast Indiana failed to meet the academic achievement required under the state’s accountability law according to information released today by the state Department of Education.

Forty-four percent of schools in northeast Indiana were placed in the state’s two lowest categories – Watch and Probation – in the ranking system, which is being used for the first time this year. The system is part of the state’s accountability law, known as PL 221, which was adopted in 1999.
(more ...)

Indiana State Fair Kicks Off Wednesday

WTHR -

State Fair celebrates 150th year
For the first time in Indiana State Fair history, there is a fishing pond right behind the state's Department of Natural Resources building. Ten-year-old Alyssa Souters caught a bluegill. "It's a lot of fish in here," she said.

"The kids can come out here and learn to fish - it's an outstanding thing - while they're enjoying the rest of the fair," said Andy Klotz, fair spokesman.

There will also be a display of live butterflies native to Indiana in front of DNR's building. A new permanent art sculpture graces the outside of the grounds. (more ...)

N.E.S.T.L.E.S Brings It's Best To Anderson

Material Handling Management -

Nestle to Build New Factory, DC In Indiana
Nestle USA (Glendale, Calif.) will build a $359 million, 880,000 sq.-ft. factory and distribution center in Anderson, Ind. About 40 miles northeast of Indianapolis, the facility will produce Nesquik Ready-To-Drink And Nestle Coffee-Mate Liquid products. With construction beginning early next year, when the combined facilities open they will employ nearly 300 employees. (more ...)

Heightened Security

WISH-TV -

New Security Measures at Indiana Statehouse
Security changes are evident throughout the state government campus. They include new parking restrictions, security cameras inside and out, limited access to the main parking lot and starting Tuesday there are new building hours. The doors lock at 5:30 p.m. instead of 6:00 p.m. during the week and the building will be open just four hours a day on the weekend.

A plan to close completely on the weekends changed so that weddings and tours can still take place, but there are objections.

"Its a public space and I think it should be open to the citizens of Indiana whenever," said Lamar Richcreek, Indiana resident. (more...)

Indiana Internship Awards

Inside Indiana Business -

Indiana INTERNnet Launches Awards Program
Indiana INTERNnet, a free online system that connects Hoosier college students with in-state employers for internship opportunities, announces the creation of its new recognition program, the IMPACT Awards, honoring achievement in internships and mentoring. An outstanding intern, career services professional and employer of the year will be named.

Individuals are invited to submit more than one nomination in any or all of the three award categories. Award considerations are as follows:

Outstanding Intern: contribution to employer’s business; demonstrated leadership skills during internship; and professionalism.

Outstanding Career Services Professional: assistance to students with internship opportunities; communication with students/employers; and coaching students on internship professionalism and career development. (more...)

Surcharge Helped Fund Wireless 9-1-1

WTHR -

Indiana at the forefront of wireless 911 technology
Indiana is at the forefront of a national push to integrate technology between cell phones and emergency dispatch centers.
Since 1999, Indiana has taken a 65-cent 911 surcharge that is added to cell phone bills and reimbursed emergency dispatch agencies and wireless companies for the cost of the upgrades.

That's helped fund nearly $90 million in upgrades to emergency dispatch centers in 90 counties. (more ...)

Back in the Day

Barking Moonbat Early Warning System -

The year is 1906.
One hundred years ago.
What a difference a century makes!
Here are some of the U.S. statistics for the Year 1906:

The average life expectancy in the U.S. was 47 years.

Only 14 percent of the homes in the U.S. had a bathtub.

Only 8 percent of the homes had a telephone.

A three-minute call from Denver to New York City
cost eleven dollars.

There were only 8,000 cars in the U.S., and only 144 miles
of paved roads.
(continued...)

Message From The Afterlife

Some people really have their priorities all messed up.

ISU Sycamores Play Brickyard Gig

WTWO -

ISU Marching Band to Play the Brickyard
Past, present, and future members of Indiana State University`s Marching Sycamore Band will play prior to the start of the Allstate 400 at the Brickyard.

The ISU Marching Sycamores have played every year NASCAR has hosted the event, formally known as the Brickyard 400, dating back to 1994. (more..)

Indiana State Fair - Entertainment and Education

The Courier-Journal -

Innovation keeps state fair fresh for 150 years
Admission to the first Indiana State Fair in 1852 was a mere 20 cents, and the 30,000 people who showed up for the three-day event were mostly farmers hoping to learn about the latest agricultural technology and machinery.

This month's state fair — the 150th — will likely draw more than 800,000 visitors who will pay $6 to enter the Indiana State Fairgrounds on Indianapolis' north side.

Most of them won't be farmers. But the 12-day event still will celebrate the state's agricultural history, giving urban and suburban families an up-close look at the hogs, sheep and cattle raised by their rural counterparts and at the tractors and machinery used to grow corn, soybeans and other crops. (more...)

Buses Collide on I-94

CBS2 Chicago -

Charter Bus Crash Sends Dozens To Area Hospitals
Two charter buses collided with an SUV Friday evening in Northwest Indiana. The crash happened right at the Illinois border on Interstate 80/94, just east of Calumet Avenue in the eastbound lane.

Traffic at one point was backed up all the way to Gary.

CBS 2’s Northwest Indiana Bureau Chief Pamela Jones reports up to 109 people may have been affected. Original reports said 70 people were hospitalized, but the correct number turned out to be 48.
(more...)

War Zone in The Circle City

Indiana Barrister -

What you say if I asked you to name a capital where people are shot dead everyday and the government can't quite seem to get a handle on things? What you say? Baghdad? No, the answer is Indianapolis.

There have been six murders in the past 24 hours. And 10 total murders in the past four days. Indy could go through August 10 without another murder and still have a murder for everyday of the month.

City officials remain determined to win the war on crime, but I wonder if this one of those times when the best hope is containment not victory. Back in May I wrote about the disturbing trend in rising crime. I saw stats that showed crime rising in January and February. I was scary because if there were two months where homicides should have dropped, were those two. I figured if crime was going to be that bad in the winter, God only knows how bad it was going to be this summer. Now we know.
(more...)

Indiana State Fair - 150 Years of Tradition

IndyStar -

Traditions live at State Fair
In an era in which some Hoosier traditions are fading, the Indiana State Fair keeps alive experiences that residents have shared for generations. People from all over the state get together and for 12 days see and enjoy Indiana agriculture, industry, food, arts and crafts, and entertainment.

The first fair of 1852, held in what is now Military Park Downtown, featured samples of the best livestock and summer crops in the state, agricultural implements and machinery, exhibitions of horses, and horse racing. No amusement stands or sideshows were permitted on the fairgrounds, but lined the streets outside.

Visitors at the 150th State Fair this year will find many of the same activities, updated over time and joined by many additional traditions. Agriculture is still at the core of the fair, and today's farmers and their children continue to compete for prize ribbons awarded for dairy and beef cattle, draft and saddle horses, swine, sheep, poultry, rabbits, and mules. (more...)

Higher Tax on Smokers

This is why cigarettes will never becoming a banned substance - governments will lose their cash cow.

The Courier-Journal -

Daniels will seek higher cigarette tax
Gov. Mitch Daniels said yesterday that he would seek an increase in cigarette taxes — though he didn't say how much — during next year's legislative session.

At the same time, he continued to resist calls from a key Democrat that he suspend the sales tax on gasoline.

Daniels, a Republican, had urged lawmakers to increase the cigarette tax by 25 cents a pack in this year's legislative session, saying it would discourage people from smoking. But his proposal to raise the tax, now 55.5 cents per pack, went nowhere.

The governor said it should come as no surprise that he would push for another increase when lawmakers convene in January. He said good ideas are worth pursuing even if they initially fail. (more...)

Same-sex Adoption To Stand

365gay -

Indiana High Court Allows Pro-Gay Adoption Ruling To Stand
The Indiana Supreme Court on Friday declined to hear an appeal of a lower court ruling that allows same-sex parents to adopt each other's children.

The court's 4-1 decision allows the lower court ruling to stand.

The case involved Becki Hamilton and Kim Brennan, a lesbian couple who live in Morgan County and have been in a committed relationship for more than a decade. The infant was a foster child in their care.

Last year they applied to probate court in nearby Marion County where the state adoption agency is located, to adopt the child.

The adoption was approved but a judge in Morgan County ordered the adoption halted and the couple appealed. (more...)

Cops May Have Located Grassy Knoll

Chicago Sun-Times -

Sniper's possible shooting spot found by police
Investigators have found a spot someone might have used to fire objects at passing vehicles on a busy northwestern Indiana street.

Police found crushed grass, a pulled-back fence and a couple of cloth cushions in an area about 15 yards from where a motorist said his vehicle was struck Thursday, said Lake County Detective Pat Tracy.

"It looked like it could have been a place for sitting down and waiting," Tracy told The Chicago Tribune. (more...)

Showdown in Motown

Detroit Free Press -

DETROIT 70, INDIANA 66: Shock's 19th win matches '03 feat
The last time the Shock reached 19 wins at this point in the regular season was in 2003, the season it captured the WNBA championship.

Could history repeat itself?

The Shock took another step in that direction when it held on for a 70-66 win over the Indiana Fever on Tuesday night at the Palace, giving the team a 19-8 record that matches the 2003 squad at this point.
(more ...)

Gambling Petition Called Cheap Stunt

The Courier-Journal -

Democrat blasts gambling petition
The head of the Indiana Democratic Party yesterday condemned what he termed efforts by Republicans to put a gambling question on the Nov. 7 ballot in Clark County.

Democratic Chairman Dan Parker called the move a waste of taxpayer-funded resources and a "cheap stunt" to lure conservative voters to the polls.
(more ...)

IU Plans for "Red Hot" State Fair

Indiana University Media Relations -

IU Day at Indiana State Fair to include music, activities and pep rallies
The forecast at the Indiana State Fair will be "Red Hot" next Thursday (Aug. 10), when Indiana University takes center stage at the 150th edition of this treasured Hoosier tradition. More than 50 interactive exhibits, health information from the IU School of Medicine and other IU schools and departments, and three pep rallies will highlight IU Day.

IU's Moveable Feast of the Arts program, which has showcased university cultural resources across the state, is supporting many of the 25 performances by 200 faculty, students, staff and alumni from across the university. Performers will include those from the acclaimed IU Jacobs School of Music and the theatre departments at IU's Bloomington and Kokomo campuses.

The university is inviting the more than 240,000 IU alumni living in Indiana to wear cream and crimson on IU Day and participate in a parade beginning at 6:30 p.m. Activities will be continuous from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and most will take place on IU Boulevard, located next to the Farm Bureau Building by the Gate 12 entrance.
(more ...)

More Nut-Jobs

CBS2 Chicago -

Another Sniper Shooting Reported In NW Indiana
For the eighth time in recent days, a driver got quite a scare in Northwest Indiana.
Each time, a window has been blown out, possibly by gunfire.
CBS 2 Northwest Indiana Bureau Chief Pamela Jones reports police may have found a key clue today.
The Lake County Sheriff’s Department is analyzing several pieces of evidence they took from the scene and the car in this latest case.
(more ...)

Gas Relief?

WNDU-TV -

Indiana voters ask Governor Daniels to suspend sales tax on gas
Indiana’s governor has been asked to suspend the state sales tax on gasoline.

Indiana is one of only seven states in the nation that includes gas on the list of things subject to sales tax.

At $3 dollars a gallon, the six percent sales tax amounts to about 18 cents a gallon.

The state also imposes a separate excise tax on gas, that is currently set at 18 cents a gallon.

The oil companies aren't the only ones who apparently make more money, as pump prices rise. To a certain extent, the state does as well, as prices go up, so do sales tax collections.
(more ...)