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“We need Remain in Mexico for a secure border” – Senator Braun on end of Remain in Mexico policy

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WASHINGTON – Senator Mike Braun released the following statement following the Supreme Court’s ruling that President Biden can end the Remain in Mexico policy, clearing the way for the White House to fully end the program which reduced the surge at the southern border.

Under Biden, the southern border has devolved into a humanitarian and national security crisis never seen before in our nation’s history, which continues to get worse. Just last month, Border Patrol reported 234,088 illegal crossings, more than quadruple the average monthly crossings from 2018 through 2020.

“President Trump’s Remain in Mexico policy worked to reduce the surge at the southern border, especially from countries like El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. From day one, President Biden has tried to remove every tool we have to stop this chaos, hanging a ‘WELCOME’ sign on our southern border. The result is more illegal border crossings, more deadly fentanyl on our streets, and more horrible humanitarian tragedies like the 50 migrants who died being smuggled across the border in a semi. We need Remain in Mexico for a secure border.” – Senator Mike Braun

Attorney General Rokita Announces Gun Owners’ Bill Of Rights

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Attorney General Todd Rokita today announced the publication of the Gun Owners’ Bill of Rights — a document created to help ensure that Indiana citizens understand the constitutional provisions and other laws that safeguard their Second Amendment liberties.

“America’s founders understood the God-given rights of free people to protect themselves against intruders, violent attackers and even an overreaching government,” Attorney General Rokita said. “Although often misconstrued, this right was not established to ensure opportunities for hunting or target practice.”

The U.S. Supreme Court recently reaffirmed the constitutional right of law-abiding citizens to carry firearms without government interference.

The drafters of Indiana’s 1851 constitution produced an even stronger expression of the right to gun ownership for personal protection than the guarantee contained in the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. They wrote, “The people shall have a right to bear arms, for the defense of themselves and the State.”

To clarify legal rights and responsibilities, the Gun Owners’ Bill of Rights includes answers to commonly asked questions, such as whether a license to carry a handgun is required in Indiana, whether “open carry” is legal in Indiana, whether there are restrictions on where Hoosiers may carry firearms, and whether a private business may prohibit an individual from carrying a firearm. It was written to coincide with Indiana’s implementation of “constitutional carry” on July 1.

The full text of the Gun Owners’ Bill of Rights is attached and available online.

  • Gun-Owners-Bill-of-Rights.pdf

Sen. Braun Joins Bill To Stop Biden’s Mass Debt “Cancellation” At Taxpayers’ Expense

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mike braun
mike Braun

WASHINGTON – Today, Senator Mike Braun, joined Senators Rick Scott, Cynthia Lummis, and John Barrasso in introducing legislation to prevent the Biden administration from enacting an overreaching, fiscally irresponsible blanket cancellation of student loans. The Debt Cancellation Accountability Act will require the U.S. Department of Education to obtain an express appropriation from Congress to pay for any federal student loan debts the Department proposes to waive, discharge, or otherwise reduce whenever granted to two or more borrowers in an amount greater than $1,000,000, rather than on a case-by-case basis.

“The Biden administration’s plan to ‘cancel’ millions in student loans will shift the debt of disproportionally higher-earning borrowers onto every American. This blatant wealth redistribution will only make inflation worse at a time when millions of Americans are already feeling the burden of record-high inflation. I’m glad to join Senator Scott on the Debt Cancellation Accountability Act to prevent the Biden administration from this executive overreach.”—Senator Mike Braun

“The Biden administration’s latest move to cancel millions of dollars in student loans is yet another example of how far it will go to appease the radical left. The reality is, a blanket forgiveness of student loans only benefits a small percentage of the population at the expense of millions of other hardworking Americans. Those who have saved to pay for the education they chose to get, or have no debt at all because they chose a valuable career that doesn’t require a college degree, shouldn’t be on the hook to bail out folks that voluntarily took on debt and now want someone else to pay for it. That’s not how the real world works. Our legislation, the Debt Cancellation Accountability Act, will hold this administration accountable to American taxpayers by requiring Congressional approval for any mass cancellation of student debt. When I was governor of Florida, we focused on solving the real problem behind massive student loan debt: the rising cost of higher education. Biden should do the same.”—Senator Rick Scott

“Not only is the United States drowning in more than $30 trillion of debt, but the Biden Administration keeps coming up with ideas to put us further in the hole. A bailout of student loan debt would make skyrocketing inflation worse while only helping mostly upper-middle class Americans instead of lower income earners like progressives claim. I appreciate Senator Rick Scott’s dedication to calling out this reckless plan, and I am happy to join him in advocating for fiscally sound decisions.”—Senator Cynthia Lummis

“President Biden’s attempts to unilaterally waive millions of dollars in student loans is another appeal to the radical left wing of his party. This move undercuts Americans who have worked hard to responsibly pay off their student debt. At a time when families are feeling the pain of high prices, the president’s proposal will only make inflation worse. Our bill will hold the administration accountable and make sure taxpayers are not stuck paying other people’s student loan debt.”—Senator John Barrasso

 

University of Evansville Named a 2022-2023 College of Distinction

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u of E

EVANSVILLE, IN (06/29/2022) The University of Evansville (UE) has been recognized for its commitment to helping undergraduate students learn, grow, and succeed by Colleges of Distinction, a unique guide for college-bound students. UE has been named a 2022-2023 College of Distinction and an Indiana College of Distinction, and it also received recognition for a multitude of academic programs and campus departments.

Colleges of Distinction uses a selection process not only of in-depth research but also detailed interviews with the schools, accepting only those that adhere to the “Four Distinctions.” This includes criteria of engaged students, great teaching, vibrant community, and successful outcomes. Combined, these principles ensure that students have a fulfilling and individualized college experience both inside and outside the classroom.

“At our university, we are deeply committed to providing a well-rounded, transformative education that has a lasting impact on our students for years to come,” said Christopher M. Pietruszkiewicz, president of UE. “This recognition from Colleges of Distinction speaks to our mission and the individual experiences of each of our students.”

Aside from overall undergraduate recognitions, Colleges of Distinction also awards recognition in individual areas. UE earned recognition in the academic areas of business, education, engineering, and nursing. Colleges of Distinction also recognized the University’s career development, equity and inclusion, and military support.

“The success of our academic programs and campus departments speaks to the endless efforts of our staff, faculty, and administration,” said Michael Austin, PhD, provost and executive vice president of academic affairs. “We are proud to deliver high-quality courses for our students while also providing academic quality, personal support, and career counseling throughout their journey at this university.”

Todd Rokita Invites Hoosiers To Visit IndianaUnclaimed

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Attorney General Todd Rokita invites Hoosiers to visit IndianaUnclaimed.gov today in honor of Independence Day to discover any unclaimed money that could light up their holiday weekend.

“I’m inviting all Hoosiers to take a moment during this holiday weekend to search for unclaimed property and money. Amidst fireworks and cookouts, it’s a great time for Hoosiers to recover what is rightfully theirs,” Attorney General Rokita said.

In 2021, Attorney General Rokita’s office returned over $48 million in unclaimed property to its rightful owners. This year alone, the Office has returned over $26 million.

Recovering your unclaimed property is safe, secure, and simple. Search for your name at the IndianaUnclaimed.gov database — which, by the way, includes some Hoosiers who have some pretty patriotic names such as Red, White, Blue, Stars and Stripes.

Indiana is the only state where the Attorney General oversees unclaimed property, and Attorney General Rokita recommends Hoosiers follow these tips to keep track of their assets:

  • Keep a record of all bank accounts.
  • Indicate your interest in and awareness of all accounts by contacting the holder at least once every three years.
  • Record all stock certificates and be sure to cash all dividends received.
  • Record all utility deposits, including telephone, cable, and electricity deposits.
  • Cash all checks promptly no matter how small.
  • Update your address with all businesses when you move.
  • Talk to loved ones about any safe deposit boxes you own.

Once unclaimed property is in its custody, the Unclaimed Property Division at Attorney General Rokita’s office conducts outreach efforts to locate the rightful owners or heirs.

Individuals and/or businesses have 25 years to claim money once it is reported to the Unclaimed Property Division.

Over $700 million remains to be claimed, so find what you may be missing at IndianaUnclaimed.gov or text CLAIM to 46220 to search your name, family, or business. 

 

You can also contact the Unclaimed Property Division at 1-866-462-5246 or updmail@atg.in.gov. 

 

June 26 – July 2 The Week In Indiana History

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train

1859     Heavy rains caused the collapse of a railroad bridge near South Bend. The Night Express train traveling from Chicago to Toledo plunged into the water. Of the 150 people aboard, approximately 60 were killed and many more injured. Citizens of South Bend and Mishawaka were alerted to the accident by church bells rung in the middle of the night and many came to help in the disaster.


Foster1892     John W. Foster was appointed United States Secretary of State by President Benjamin Harrison.  Foster was born in Petersburg, Indiana, and attended Indiana University and Harvard Law School.  His son-in-law, Robert Lansing, served as Secretary of State under Woodrow Wilson, and his grandson, John Foster Dulles, was Secretary of State under Dwight D. Eisenhower.

headline

1933     Indiana voted to ratify the 21st amendment which repealed the 18th amendment and ended national prohibition.  Indiana became the seventh state to vote in favor of the 21st when the 329 delegates met at the Statehouse.  246 of them voted for ratification. The 18th amendment was officially repealed by the United States Congress in December of 1933.  (Pictured:  Headline from the Logansport Pharos-Tribune)


Earhart1937     The last radio contact was made by Amelia Earhart, who was flying a twin engine Lockheed Electra owned by Purdue University.  She was over the Pacific Ocean during her attempt to become to become the first woman to circumnavigate the globe. She had served as a Purdue career counselor and adviser to the school’s Department of Aeronautics.

Roy1947     Cowboy movie star Roy Rogers called on Governor Ralph Gates at the Indiana Statehouse.  The governor stepped outside to meet the cowboy’s famous horse Trigger, who entertained the chief executive with a few of the tricks he often performed on the silver screen.  The western star was in town with his Thrill Circus, which was appearing at Victory Field.

map

50 Years Ago

1972     Governor Edgar D. Whitcomb joined over 1000 others for the official opening of the final link of Interstate 65.  The 30-mile section opened at Taylorsville.  It became the longest stretch of interstate highway in Indiana, extending 266 miles from Gary to Jeffersonville.  Many city officials attended the ceremony, including those from Franklin, New Albany, Clarksville, Scottsburg, Seymour, Madison, and Greenwood.  The last leg of the interstate was finished three months ahead of schedule at a cost of about $1.2 million per mile, 90% of which was covered by federal funds.


Follow this link to subscribe to Hoosier History Highlights and to view archived editions

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Indiana Statehouse Tour Office

Indiana Department of Administration

Visitors are welcome at the Indiana Statehouse Monday through Saturday.  For more information, please contact the tour office.

(317) 233-5293
touroffice@idoa.in.gov


INDIANA QUICK QUIZ

1.  What is the largest lake in Indiana?  a/ Patoka Lake     b/ Lake Monroe    c/ Lake Wawasee  d/ Lake Lemon

2.  Which of the following is not the name of an Indiana county?   a/ Brown   b/ Orange    c/ White    d/ Blue

3.  In what city is the Levi Coffin house?   a/ Muncie   b/ Crawfordsville   c/ Fountain City  d/ Evansville

4.  In what year did Indiana become the 19th state?   a/ 1816   b/ 1819    c/ 1826   d/ 1835


HGW

Fryar

     Born in Franklin, Indiana, he was host of a children’s television program.  He even starred in a “Three Stooges” movie. Can you name this popular Hoosier, who died five years ago at the age of 90?

(Answer below)


Hoosier Quote of the Week

quote

     “‘Girl-writer’ is honestly what they called me. This was because comedy shows for people like Bob Hope and Jack Benny were usually written by groups of men who were known as ‘The Boys.’”

– – -  Madelyn Pugh Davis (1921 – 2011)

     A graduate of Shortridge High School and Indiana University, Madelyn Pugh Davis was a comedy writer most famous for her work on the “I Love Lucy” television show.


Statehouse Virtual Tour


Answers:  1. b  2. d  3. c  4. a

Answer to “Hoosier Guess Who:”   Hal Fryar, as Harlow Hickenlooper, hosted his own TV show, which included the Three Stooges, slapstick comedy, and corny jokes.  Known for his unusual singing of “Happy Birthday,” he was often hit with a pie in the face.  In 2008, he was inducted into the Indiana Broadcast Pioneers Hall of Fame.

Summer at Vincennes University Means Camps For All Ages And Interests

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VINCENNES, Ind., June 29, 2022 - The summer program season at Vincennes University is in full swing and bustling with activities. From robotics to music production to a healthcare escape room to hydroponic agriculture to writer studios, youth of all ages and backgrounds are coming together for a summer of unforgettable experiences.

VU offers a unique environment for engaged and creative learning through its summer pre-college programs, sports camps, STEM academies, and more. 

A number of educational opportunities are available at no cost to youths and their families,

thanks to many generous supporters including Lilly Endowment Inc.

VU is reaching underserved populations, providing them access to rich learning atmospheres, and bringing students to campus for immersive experiences. They make new connections with peers and participate daily in fun social activities.

Carissa Brown of Princeton, Indiana, still has a year of high school remaining, but this summer, she is living the life of a college student. Brown is a participant in VU’s six-week Upward Bound summer program.

She is experiencing dorm life and taking courses on the Vincennes Campus. She is excited about the friendships she is building with students from different high schools.

“This is more than what I would normally do in the summer,” Brown said. “We do so many cool things, and we are having so much fun.”

Brown and her fellow Upward Bound students take high-school level English, math, laboratory science, and foreign language classes in the morning. In the afternoon, they engage in enrichment classes such as Lego engineering, financial planning, theater, and film literature. They also participate in social activities like escape rooms, bowling, kickball, and other fun entertainment.

“This program helps build character,” Brown said. “I hope to leave here better prepared for the upcoming school year and to make sure that I am fully committed to what I want to do with my life.”

​On a recent morning, you could find Jose Boyzo of Indianapolis sitting in front of a computer in VU’s Shircliff Humanities Center, wearing headphones, and using specialized devices and software to create and edit original music as part of an accelerated music production course. 

The Ben Davis University High School student was among hundreds of students from across Indiana on the Vincennes Campus for the residential XMester and Techmester programs. Students engaged in a wide range of hands-on academic experiences and projects such as crime scene analysis, graphic design, horticulture, and automotive technology. The highlight of the week was a showcase held on the last day. Students put their final projects on display and showed off all they learned.

For Boyzo, it was a memorable week as he experienced eating meals in a college dining hall, having roommates, and being away from his family.

“This is great,” he said. “I have the freedom to go to my dorm or be outside on campus. In my free time, I have played volleyball, football, and soccer. You can walk around campus, and there is always something to do. I’m leaving here more comfortable with college and the concept of college. When people go to look at colleges, I understand now because before, I didn’t. Now I know what to look for.”

​Rising sophomore Hannah Thomas of Florence, Indiana, immediately knew she wanted to participate in the first-time STEM Academy on the VU Jasper Campus. 

She is greatly interested in STEM, particularly the engineering and medical fields. From learning to program a collaborative robot or ‘cobot’ to grab and stack Starburst candies to practicing medical procedures on a simulation manikin, she was blown away by all of the hands-on learning.

“I am having a blast,” Thomas said. “I would totally do it all over again if I had the chance. I had so much fun with the collaborative robots. That was crazy how you could tell it what to do, and it did it. I didn’t really know that STEM had to do with medical stuff. I got here, and I’m like this is right up my alley.”

VU is hosting an array of sports camps for youth from 6 to 18 years old. Trailblazer coaches offer camps for baseball, basketball, volleyball, and more at the University’s top-notch facilities.

Several of the academies, programs, and camps VU offers include,

  • STEM Academies on the Vincennes Campus and Jasper Campus are new intensive summer experiences for junior high and high school students who learn about career paths in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics while experiencing campus life. Students engage in hands-on STEM activities and labs such as bat identification, electrofishing, coding, circuitry, and programming a collaborative robot. They will also interact with STEM employers and VU alumni working in STEM fields. Participants at the weeklong Vincennes Campus will stay in residence halls and earn two college credits. 
  • Upward Bound offers a six-week summer residential program on the Vincennes Campus that serves first-generation and/or income-eligible students from 12 high schools throughout southwest Indiana. Students take high-school classes in the morning, and enjoy enrichment classes and social activities for the remainder of the day.
  • Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) Summer Academy is a weeklong leadership development and college preparation residential camp on the Vincennes Campus for high school students across Indiana. Students participate in academic coursework, learn college success strategies, and have an opportunity to earn free college credit to help prepare them for academic, personal, and career success. They also experience teambuilding activities, a service-learning project, and enriching group events like visiting a theme park.
  • Upward Bound Olympiad is a two-day event that brings students to the Vincennes Campus for academic and sports competitions. Students will stay in a residence hall, tour camps, and participate in social activities.
  • XMester is a residential experience that gives Early College students and other high school students a head start in preparing for success in college and their intended careers. Students take accelerated courses in liberal arts, business, law, and more plus earn college credit.
  • Techmester is a new and exciting multi-day program on the Vincennes Campus for Early College students and high school students from all parts of Indiana interested in career and technical education. They engage in project-based activities related to advanced manufacturing, automotive technology, and other industries while earning college credit and staying in residence halls.
  • Surveying Technology Camp is a unique and first-time residential experience for high school students on the Vincennes Campus. Campers explore land surveying as a profession by learning surveying basics and operating equipment, network with industry professionals, and enjoy exciting social activities.

For more about VU’s summer academies, programs, and camps or hosting a camp at VU, explore https://www.vinu.edu/summer-camps.

FIRST WEST NILE VIRUS CASE OF 2022 REPORTED IN LAKE COUNTY RESIDENT

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