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Vanderburgh County Recent Booking Records

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IS IT TRUE? Monday February 24, 2025

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IS IT TRUE that the Mayor has asked the Evansville City Council to vote on a $175,000 appropriation of funds to develop a new city website? …that the money will come from $2.5 million interest income earned from the American Rescue Plan Act Funds received by the city? …that at least one council member is raising concerns about spending money on a new website at a time when people in our community are struggling to pay utility bills and other essentials? …that 2nd Ward Council Member Missy Mosby believes that the funds can be put to better use?

IS IT TRUE that Mayor Stephanie Terry recently led a press conference that warned of dire consequences if the state legislature passes the property tax cut proposal made by the governor? …that it was implied that essential services could be cut if the property tax caps are passed? …that we are perplexed by speaking about tax cuts causing cuts in essential services while proposing spending $175,000 on non-essentials?

IS IT TRUE that the average cost for the city to fill a pothole is between $150-$500 in some major cities? …that $175,000 could fill 1,166 potholes?

IS IT TRUE that there is a DODGE movement building in Evansville? …that the most effective way to get local spending under control is for citizens to be heard? …that government is able to spend our money freely unless we the people are calling council members and attending city council meetings?

IS IT TRUE that the Evansville Vanderburgh County School Corporation is considering selling 64 acres of land? …that the land at 10350 Petersburgh Road was formerly the Eagle Valley Golf Course? …that EVSC bought the property in 2019 for $3,377,500? …that the board will discuss and hear objections to the potential sale at the board meeting tonight? …that some residents may be working together to buy the property to block future development?

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Riley Gaines to Speak in Evansville on March 20

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Right to Life of Southwest Indiana Hosts, “Gender and Truth: A Night with Riley Gaines”
by RIGHT TO RIGHT STAFF
FEBRUARY 24, 2025
 

Evansville, IN – NCAA All-American swimmer, Riley Gaines will speak at

Mater Dei High School on March 20, 2025, for an event called, “Gender and Truth: A Night with Riley Gaines.”
Gaines tied with transgender swimmer Lia Thomas at the 2022 NCAA championships. After witnessing the unfairness of men competing in women’s sports, Riley has become a vocal advocate for protecting female athletes. Her advocacy concerning the biblical truth of how God created humans distinctly and uniquely male and female, remained influential in recent developments as President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order, “…to protect opportunities for women and girls to compete in safe and fair sports…”
This event is designed to inspire students from the Tri-State to remain truth-tellers in their generation and to mobilize concerned parents about the dangerous narrative concerning sexuality confronting this generation.
Following Riley Gaines’ presentation, there will be a Q&A session along with a meet and greet where attendees will have the opportunity to meet Riley.
The event is sponsored by Right to Life of Southwest Indiana and USI Students for Life.  School groups, church groups, sports teams and families are encouraged to attend this highly anticipated event. Doors open at 6pm and the event will begin at 6:30pm. Tickets are $10 for students, $20 for adults, or $50 for reserved seating and can be purchased at www.rtlswin.org or by calling Right to Life of Southwest Indiana directly at 812-474-3195.

Joe Wallace: Unraveling the Threads of Unity and Division in American Politics

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Unraveling the Threads of Unity and Division in American Politics

February 24, 2025

The toxicity of today’s political discourse has a way of amplifying our differences, yet beneath the clamor lie common bonds that unite us. As the nation grapples with contentious debates, it’s worth reflecting on what most Americans agree on, where sharp divides persist, and how certain trivial obsessions are being weaponized to further polarize our society.

Things That Most Americans Agree On

BY JOE WALLACE

FEBRUARY 24, 2025

Across the diverse political spectrum, many core values resonate with the majority of Americans. At the heart of our shared beliefs is a commitment to fundamental principles: the desire for personal freedom, the protection of individual rights, and the pursuit of a safe and prosperous life. Whether in small-town communities or sprawling urban centers, citizens express common aspirations such as:

  • Family and Community Well-Being: Nearly everyone values the importance of strong families, safe neighborhoods, and quality education. These concerns drive community efforts—from local volunteer groups to school board meetings—demonstrating a collective investment in a better future for our children.
  • Justice and Fairness: There is widespread support for the rule of law and the idea that every individual, regardless of background, deserves fair treatment. This shared ideal underscores calls for justice reforms and equal opportunity.
  • Patriotism and Respect for Traditions: While expressions of patriotism can vary, there is a general consensus on honoring those who have served the country and upholding certain national traditions. This respect often manifests in community celebrations, remembrance events, and bipartisan support for veterans.

These unifying themes remind us that even amid fierce debates, a significant part of the national conversation is rooted in values that most Americans hold dear.

Things That Most Americans Do Not Agree On

Despite these shared ideals, Americans remain divided on many pressing issues. The debates are not simply about differing opinions; they reflect contrasting visions for the nation’s future. Key areas of contention include:

  • Healthcare and Economic Policy: Disagreements over the role of government in providing healthcare, regulating taxes, and addressing economic inequality have created enduring partisan divides. While some advocate for expansive social programs and wealth redistribution, others champion free-market solutions and minimal state intervention.
  • Social Issues: Topics such as immigration, gun control, and environmental policies reveal profound ideological rifts. These debates are often charged with emotion and shaped by differing historical experiences and cultural narratives.
  • Government and Individual Rights: Divergent views on the balance between national security and personal freedoms, or the extent of government oversight in daily life, further illustrate the polarization. For many, these debates are not merely policy discussions but battles over identity, authority, and the nature of progress.

These disagreements illustrate that while the foundation of American values is shared, the methods and policies to achieve a common good remain highly contested.

Divisions Fueled by Trivial Obsessions

In today’s media landscape, certain issues—often of minor importance—have been amplified into battlegrounds of cultural warfare. These controversies, though seemingly trivial, have become potent symbols in the fight for political dominance:

  • Symbolic Controversies: From debates over the placement of statues to disputes over the interpretation of historical symbols, these issues often serve as stand-ins for larger ideological conflicts. The focus on such symbolic gestures can distract from substantive policy discussions.
  • Sensationalism in the Digital Age: Social media platforms and 24-hour news cycles thrive on controversy. This environment encourages the elevation of sensational issues—such as minor missteps by public figures or fleeting cultural trends—that, while emotionally charged, do little to address long-term challenges like infrastructure or education reform.
  • The Weaponization of Distraction: Political actors sometimes deliberately spotlight inconsequential matters to rally their base or to divert attention from more consequential debates. This strategic focus on peripheral issues intensifies divisions and stokes a toxic rhetoric that undermines constructive dialogue.

By fixating on these less critical matters, the political narrative shifts away from actionable policies and the essential work of uniting a diverse populace around common goals.

Moving Forward

Recognizing both our shared values and our differences is a crucial step toward healing the political divide. While disputes over policy and ideology are inevitable in any democracy, the disproportionate focus on trivial matters only deepens the fractures within our society. The challenge lies in reclaiming the space for meaningful conversation—a dialogue that acknowledges our common humanity and channels our collective energy into solving the real issues that affect our daily lives.

In a time when toxic rhetoric too often overshadows genuine engagement, it is vital to remind ourselves of the values that bind us. By embracing our shared aspirations for family, fairness, and freedom, we can begin to bridge the divides and work together toward a future where differences are discussed, not weaponized, and where every American has the opportunity to thrive.

Republican Assembly Makes Endorsements in Vanderburgh GOP Chairman Race

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At a weekend gathering, members of the Republican Assembly Indiana South (RAINS) heard from the candidates who want to be the leadership committee members for the GOP for the next four years.

After hearing from all of the candidates for the positions of County Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer, the group voted to determine who they would endorse. RAINS members support candidates who are conservative Christians.

The group’s endorsement went to the following:

  • County Chair: Frank Peterlin
  • Vice Chair: Lauren Bell
  • Secretary: Brian Pease
  • Treasurer: Walter Valiant

Members of the Vanderburgh County Republican Party will vote on the new leadership on Saturday, March 1, at 10 AM at Faithway Baptist Church.

Legislative update from Alex Burton

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Rep. Burton’s Update for District 77

Dear neighbors,

The first half of this session is over, and we have already done so much! From standing up for tenant rights to holding utility companies accountable, I could not have done this important work in the Statehouse without all of you.

If you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions for future newsletters, please don’t hesitate to contact my office at h77@iga.in.gov. Your input is always welcome.

In service,

Rep. Alex Burton

Indiana School Board Association Conference
Rep. Burton with Evansville School Corporation School Board President Karen Ragland at the 2025 ISBA Statehouse Day Conference in Indianapolis, IN.

On Feb. 18, I attended the Indiana School Board Association (ISBA) Statehouse Day Conference in Indianapolis. I was able to visit with our very own Evansville School Corporation School Board President Karen Ragland. I’m so grateful for her leadership and guidance! Keep doing the good work!

St. John’s East – The Trailblazer Black History Program

On Feb. 16, I had the honor of attending The Trailblazer Black History Program at St. John’s East United Church of Christ. The event was a powerful celebration of Black history, culture and contributions to our community. It was incredible to engage in meaningful conversations with so many members of the community, exchanging stories and insights.

I was able to share my experiences and the work I’m doing in the Statehouse, discussing the challenges and triumphs of being a Black legislator in Indiana. It was also a wonderful opportunity to connect with others who are passionate about making a difference and lifting up our communities. The program highlighted the importance of preserving our history, amplifying Black voices and continuing to push for progress. I left feeling inspired and even more committed to fighting for equity and justice for all.

Mom’s Demand Action – IN Moms Demand Action

On Feb. 10, I had the privilege of meeting with the IN Moms Demand Action – Indianapolis Demand Action group. It was an inspiring day as leaders and students came together to advocate at the Statehouse for common-sense gun reform through Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America.

I had the opportunity to connect with Angela Ferrell-Zabala, the Executive Director, and others who are committed to creating safer communities. Their dedication to making change through grassroots activism was truly motivating, and it was great to see so many passionate individuals pushing for a future where we prioritize public safety and responsible gun laws. I’m grateful for the chance to stand with them in support of this important cause.

Knight and Pigeon Townships at the Statehouse

On Feb. 11, I had the pleasure of seeing Evansville’s own Kathryn Martin, Knight Township Trustee, and Ruby McGlown, Pigeon Township Trustee, at the Statehouse, along with two dedicated individuals, Doug and Tony, who assist the township trustees in their important work.

It’s always inspiring to connect with these dedicated leaders who work tirelessly on behalf of our communities. Their commitment to improving the lives of Evansville residents is unwavering, and it was great to see them advocating for our shared priorities at the Statehouse.

Meet Your Legislators – League of Women Voters of Southwestern Indiana

On Feb. 8, I had the pleasure of attending the “Meet Your Legislator” event, hosted by the League of Women Voters of Southwestern Indiana. Moderated by Joshua Claybourn, I had the opportunity to join fellow lawmakers Senator Jim Tomes and Rep. Cindy Ledbetter to discuss the key legislation currently making its way through the Statehouse.

I’m truly grateful to everyone who attended, shared their concerns and raised vital issues impacting our community. Your voices inspire me and reinforce my commitment to advocating for Evansville at the state level. Thank you for engaging with me and for giving me a clear sense of purpose in my work as your legislator.

Rep. Burton’s Amendment to House Bill 1459

My amendment to House Bill 1459 requires wastewater utilities to report information about consent decrees (agreements they’ve made with the government) and federal mandates to the Indiana Finance Authority. This is a crucial step in ensuring that the state remains informed about the status and financial obligations of all utilities across Indiana. By making this information accessible, we can better understand the challenges utilities face and proactively address them.

It’s important that the costs associated with updating aging infrastructure aren’t solely shouldered by already overburdened taxpayers. Utilities have essential responsibilities to maintain safe and reliable services, but the financial burden of necessary upgrades and compliance with federal mandates should not be disproportionately placed on local communities.

The goal of this amendment is to provide some relief for residents by ensuring that state resources are available to help offset these costs. With this data in hand, the state will be better equipped to allocate resources where they are most needed and assist in funding critical infrastructure projects. Ultimately, this amendment helps ensure that utilities can modernize their systems without putting an unfair strain on taxpayers while also providing long-term benefits for the public’s health and safety.

PRESS RELEASE: Burton’s utility accountability amendment added to HB1459

Rideout Public Affairs and Evansville Regional Economic Partnership

On Feb. 5, I had the pleasure of seeing Evansville’s strong presence at the Statehouse! A big thank you to Rideout Public Affairs and the Evansville Regional Economic Partnership for hosting a great gathering to discuss local issues and the legislation moving through the Indiana General Assembly. It was a fantastic opportunity to reaffirm my commitment to supporting economic development and small businesses in Evansville. #evv

CLICK TO VIEW RECENT NEWS FROM REP. ALEX BURTON

‘We demand our country back’: Evansville residents protest Trump administration actions

Gov. Mike Braun reverses Holcomb-era autism therapy cut, orders review of soaring costs

Enforcement of federal immigration laws is addressed in HB 1531 discussed in hearing

Public, officials gather for 2025’s first ‘Meet Your Legislators’

 

In service, 

State Rep. Alex Burton

Latest Legislative Update from Wendy McNamara

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Bill to improve Indiana’s juvenile court system moves to Senate

Our juvenile court system is vital, working through difficult cases to find the best way forward for Indiana’s youth.

To support these courts, a bill I authored, which was voted unanimously out of the House, would require specific juvenile programs receiving grants to work with key stakeholders on how to invest the funding to better address the needs of at-risk youth.

By encouraging this collaboration, both at the local and regional levels, we can better allocate important resources to best meet the needs of our youth.

My bill would also require the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute to consider all recommendations in adopting a funding formula for the Juvenile Diversion Grant Program, the Juvenile Community Alternatives Grant Program and Juvenile Behavioral Health Competitive Grant Program.

These changes to the funding formula would help determine where resources are most needed, including in Indiana’s rural communities.
Learn More
Click here to follow House Bill 1403 as it moves to the Indiana Senate.

DRAFT AGENDA- Vanderburgh County Board of Commissioners

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DRAFT AGENDA

Vanderburgh County Board of Commissioners

February 25, 2025 – 9:30 a.m.

Room 301, Civic Center Complex

1. Call to Order

2. Attendance

3. Pledge of Allegiance

4. Action Items

A. Engineer

1. 2. 3. Open Quotes: VC25-02-02 “Oglesby Drive Pipe Replacement”

Open Quotes: VC25-02-03 “Guardrail Repairs”

Award VC25-01-01 “Vanderburgh County Bridge #1131 Rehabilitation – Kleitz

Road Over Branch of Locust Creek” to Blankenberger Brothers, Inc.

4. 5. Award VC25-01-02 “Replacement of Adler Road Bridge #100” to Ragle, Inc.

Supplemental Agreement #2 to Beam, Longest, and Neff, LLC Consulting

Contract for Replacement of Wimberg Road Bridge #2430 Over Locust Creek

6. 7. Change Order #5: Oak Hill Road Project Contract No. R-41778

Resolution No. CO.R-02-25-003: Resolution of the Board of Commissioners of

Vanderburgh County, Indiana Concerning Authorization for Execution of INDOT

Agreements

B. Veterans Memorial Coliseum

1. Request for Electric Distribution Line Easement – Southern Indiana Gas and

Electric Company d/b/a CenterPoint Energy Indiana South

C. Burdette Park

1. Agreement with Wedding Wire

2. Service Agreement with Vestis

D. Computer Services

1. Alpha Laser and Imaging Individual Lease Agreement: Treasurer

i. 1202pp

E. Treasurer

1. The Master’s Touch, LLC Pricing Proposal

F. Worker’s Compensation Claim Settlement

G. Evansville Regional Economic Partnership (E-REP) 2025 Service Agreement and Semi-

Annual Report

5. Department Head Reports

6. New Business

A. Safety Audit presented by Glenn Henderson

7. Old Business

8. 9. Read Quotes: VC25-02-02 “Oglesby Drive Pipe Replacement”

Read Quotes: VC25-02-03 “Guardrail Repairs”

10. Consent Items

A. Approval of February 11, 2025, Board of Commissioners Meeting Minutes

B. Employment Changes

Drainage Board Immediately Following

EPD DAILY ACTIVITY REPORT

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EPD

EPD DAILY ACTIVITY REPORT

FOOTNOTE: EPD DAILY ACTIVITY REPORT information was provided by the EPD and posted by the City-County-County Observer without opinion, bias, or editing.

Women’s S&D makes 115-point improvement at 2025 Summit Champs, placing sixth

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IOWA CITY, IA.- University of Southern Indiana Women’s Swimming and Diving finishes in sixth place at the 2025 Summit League Championships, totaling 272 points.

The Screaming Eagles continue to move in the right direction in year three, improving by 115 points from their 2024 total. After failing to record an A-Finalist or medalist in the 2023 and 2024 season, USI made significant achievements with five A-Finalists, 13 B-Finalists, one bronze medal, and one silver medal.

University of Denver earned its 12th straight conference title, totaling 885 points. University of South Dakota came in second for the fourth straight year (712). The following order included University of Nebraska-Omaha (568.5), University of St. Thomas (395), South Dakota State University (325.5), USI (272), and Eastern Illinois University (184).

Wednesday
Day one featured the women’s one-meter, 200 medley relays, and 800 freestyle relays. USI found success, breaking three school records. The meet started with diving prelims as all three Eagles qualified for finals and contributed points.

Sophomore Maranda Uttke snuck into the B-Finals placing 13th in prelims, while freshman Gabbie Meier also qualified for B-Finals, sneaking into the final slot. Meier stepped up, capturing four points with a fifth-place finish in the B-Finals, while Uttke grabbed one point.

Freshman Anna Bunnell became the first women’s diver to reach an A finals, following her fourth-place prelim performance (238.80 pts). The Evansville native returned for the night cap, placing fifth in the A-Finals and earning 14 hard-earned points.

The USI relay teams were strong, starting with the 200 medley team of freshman Elizabeth Ketcham, sophomore Hayden Shurtz, junior Sarah-Catherine Dawson, and freshman Simone Green. The squad broke the previous record by a full second at 1:45.16.

The 800 freestyle team of sophomore Caiya Cooper, junior Mattilynn Smith, sophomore Reagan Holmes, and freshman Ailyn Zurliene broke another school best at 7:40.49. Cooper’s relay lead off shattered her own 200 freestyle record at 1:52.95.

The Eagles finished day one in fourth place with 69 points, marking their highest position ever at the Summit League Champs.

Thursday
Day two featured the 500 freestyle, 200 IM, 50 freestyle, and team diving springboard events. The Eagles continued to improve by setting four school records and earning a bronze diving medal.

The diving trio of Bunnell, Meier, and Uttke secured third place in the team springboard event, rotating dives to earn a bronze medal with 243.15 points.

Three different Eagles advanced to B-Finals events on the swimming side. Cooper reset her own 500 freestyle school record with a blazing prelim time (5:03.37). The sophomore finished 13th overall. Smith also qualified for the B-Finals and finished right behind Cooper at 14th overall, stepping up her game in the final heat (5:04.91).

Freshman Emma Gabhart improved her best time by three seconds in the 200 IM, capturing the school record in the B-Finals. The blazing time (2:07.05) slotted her into 13th overall. After day two, USI moved to fifth at 138 points with two days left.

Friday
Day three brought multiple standout performances from the Eagles, featuring the 100 butterfly, 400 IM, 200 freestyle, 100 backstroke, 100 breaststroke, three-meter dive, and 400 medley relay events. USI finished day three with four new school records, five A-Finalists, and a silver diving medal.

The diving squad excelled in the three-meter with a historic day. Bunnell finished prelims with the top score among the field at 277.40 pts. This mark dismantled her previous school record of 253.00 pts, shocking the competition and qualifying for the nightcap. Meier also advanced into the A-Finals, snatching the final spot with a score of 229.60 pts. Uttke qualified for B-Finals and contributed six big points with a score of 224.00 pts. The duo of Bunnell and Meier became the first Screaming Eagle duo to compete in the A-Finals together.

Fast forward to the nightcap finals, Meier stepped up her performance with a fifth-place finish at 239.35 pts. Bunnell delivered another clutch performance, finishing second and becoming the first individual to earn a silver medal in the program’s existence. The freshman’s score of 273.55 pts was only 0.80 pts shy of the gold medal. However, Bunnell will continue to be a problem for the rest of the league after earning the highest place in the program’s history as just a freshman.

Ketcham led the Eagles swimmers, dazzling in the 100 butterfly prelims, recording a new school record (56.05) and finishing eighth in the A-Finals. The freshman continued her monsterous day in the 100 backstroke event with another school record (57.33). The 100 backstroke record marked a huge accomplishment for Ketcham, breaking a record dating back to 2023.

Shurtz picked her first career A-Finals qualification in the 100 backstroke (104.06). The sophomore leader picked up 11 points for the squad. The USI relay team of freshman Alivia Scott, Cooper, Shurtz, and Ketcham snatched the school record in the 400 medley relay (3:56.86). USI finished the third day in fifth place at 226 points as they looked to empty the tank on Saturday.

Saturday
The final day included the 200 backstroke, 100 freestyle, 200 breaststroke, and 200 butterfly events. Sophomore Naomi Weaver earned a personal best in the 200 butterfly (2:13.51), qualifying for B-Finals. The sophomore earned 14th overall with an even better finals time (2:12.60). Gabhart and Shurtz qualified for the B Finals in the 200 breaststroke, placing 12th and 14th.

The 400 freestyle relay squad of Holmes, Ketcham, Green, and Cooper smashed the school record to close the night (3:30.86). Holmes crossed a huge milestone, surpassing her 100 freestyle record to start the relay (52.12).

What’s Next
The Screaming Eagles finish 2025 with strong improvements in year three. USI finished with a head-to-head meet record of 5-4 with big wins over Northern Kentucky University, Valparaiso University, Eastern Illinois, University of Evansville (twice), and numerous school records and personal bests along the way. The Eagles look forward to season four with plenty to feel confident about.

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