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Euthanizing Dogs is Not Acceptable
I have to be honest; I was appalled by the news last week that Evansville Animal Care and Control (ACC) was full, and the staff was faced with the agonizing decision to possibly euthanize dogs. What an agonizing thought for the ACC staff, it’s an option that nobody wants to use. Fortunately, several local shelters were able to find room to take in some of the dogs from ACC.
“Euthanize” is just the polite way to say “killing dogs”
Nobody wants to admit it, but killing these beautiful animals is sometimes seen as the answer to overcrowding at Animal Care and Control. It’s a lousy way of addressing the problem, and it is the absolute last resort, but it still happens.
The death sentence for the dog is not because of anything that the canine did; it is a crisis of human making. People neglect to spay or neuter their pets, which leads to overpopulation. People adopt a pet and, for a variety of reasons, find themselves unable to care for them anymore. In worst-case scenarios, people neglect or abuse the animals, forcing ACC to take them. Yet we punish the animal for the sins of man.
Saving animal lives
The Evansville area has a network of no-kill shelters that do all they can with limited resources to save lives. These nonprofit shelters rely on donations to house and care for the animals that need shelter.
Each of the shelters has volunteers who not only help at the shelter but also open their hearts to provide a short-term foster home. Caring for dogs, cats, and other pets at the shelter or in a foster home is not the goal. The real goal is to have a loving family decide that one of these animals would be a good fit in their home.
Every Friday, Friends of Evansville Animal Control posts pictures of dogs that are in ACC and an alert about how close to full the center is. City-County Observer recently started reposting the pictures on Saturday mornings in hopes that as you scroll through the photos, you will see a dog that you can fall in love with.
We’re going a step further by helping fund adoptions or reclaimed pet fees.
On Wednesday night (1/15) the mayor will host a Town Hall meeting on the subject. The Town Hall meeting will take place at the CK Newsome Center from 5:30-6:30. During the meeting, a panel of representatives from Animal Care & Control, the Vanderburgh Humane Society, PAAWS, Project ARF, and It Takes a Village will speak about how Evansville is addressing the national issue of overcrowded animal shelters and how their organizations are partnering to do so. Lynn Miller Pease, executive director of Leadership Everyone, will serve as facilitator for the discussion.
After their discussion, they will take questions from the public.
Our rescue story
About three years ago, Jill and I decided that our neurotic little poodle needed some companionship. Jill went to a local no-kill shelter and called me when she found “the one.” When I arrived at the shelter, I was informed that the dog was very standoffish with men, and they weren’t sure how long she wandered the streets before being brought in. She was about four times the size of our little poodle. As soon as I walked in, she went to the far side of the room and pressed as close to the wall as possible. She had no desire to interact with me and we sat in the room for the next thirty minutes trying to convince her that I’m not such a bad guy.
After Ellie came home with us, she gradually 
decreased the amount of space she needed to have between her and me. Now, Ellie is an amazing, loving pet. Despite her size, she sees herself as a lap dog and frequently jumps up on my lap, pushing the computer out of her way and rolls on her back to beg for a belly rub.
Jill and I couldn’t imagine our lives without Ellie staring at us with her almost human eyes. That trip to the shelter was life-changing.
I highly encourage you to visit ACC or one of the shelters below. Bring some four-legged joy into your home.
It Takes a Village No-Kill Rescue
Evansville Animal Care and Control
815 E Uhlhorn Street Evansville
10am to 5pm
Monday through Saturday
2025 Legislature: What Bills Written And Co-Sponsored by Representative Tim O’Brien
Here are the 2025 bills written And Co-Sponsored by Rep, Tim O.Brien.
House Bill 1451Evansville professional sports development area.
Authored by: Rep. Timothy O’Brien.
Co-Authored by: Rep. Wendy McNamara, Rep. Matt Hostettler, Rep. Alex Burton.
Increases the maximum amount of covered taxes that may be captured in the Evansville professional sports and convention development area from $10 per resident to $5,000,000.
House Bill 1453 Pediatric cancer research and treatment grant.
Authored by: Rep. Timothy O’Brien.
Co-Authored by: Rep. Ryan Lauer, Rep. Robb Greene.
Establishes the pediatric cancer research and treatment grant program (grant program) to be administered by the Indiana department of health (state department). Establishes the pediatric cancer research and treatment fund. Sets forth requirements for an entity to receive a grant. Requires the state department to develop criteria, policies, procedures, and a plan concerning awarding of the grants. Prioritizes use of the funds to be on innovative research and treatments with the potential of resulting in novel therapies for pediatric cancer. Requires the state department to submit an annual report to the governor and legislative council concerning the grant program and publish the report on the state department’s website. View less
House Bill 1452 Audits of township governments.
Authored by: Rep. Timothy O’Brien.
Co-Authored by: Rep. Doug Miller.
Requires the state board of accounts to conduct examinations of townships not less than once every two years (rather than not less than once every four years under current law).
House Bill 1454 Emergency ambulance services.
Authored by: Rep. Timothy O’Brien.
Co-Authored by: Rep. Brad Barrett, Rep. Doug Miller, Rep. Steve Bartels.
Specifies that emergency medical services, including emergency ambulance services, are essential services in Indiana. Specifies that the provision of emergency medical services is an essential purpose of political subdivisions. Requires the county commissioners of each county to: (1) identify areas that are unserved by emergency ambulance services; and (2) provide emergency ambulance services to the areas by establishing a county emergency ambulance service, contracting with a public, private, or nonprofit provider of emergency ambulance services, or by any other available means.
House Bill 1489 Indiana-Ireland Trade Commission.
Authored by: Rep. Timothy O’Brien.
Co-Authored by: Rep. Beau Baird, Rep. Timothy Wesco, Rep. Edward DeLaney.
Establishes the Indiana-Ireland trade commission (commission) to advance bilateral trade and investment between Indiana and Ireland and other related matters. Specifies the membership of the commission. Requires the commission to provide an annual report of its activities. Provides for the expiration of the commission.
House Bill 1005 Housing and building matters.
Authored by: Rep. Doug Miller.
Co-Authored by: Rep. Dave Hall, Rep. Timothy O’Brien.
Requires (rather than allows) a city, town, or county (unit) that requires a building permit for construction of a Class 2 structure to allow the inspection to be provided by qualified individuals in addition to the unit’s inspectors. Creates deadlines and a process for a unit to approve any of the following if required by the unit: (1) A building permit. (2) A plan review. (3) An inspection. Requires the state to give political subdivisions that enact certain land use policies first priority in receiving loans from the residential housing infrastructure assistance revolving fund (fund). Appropriates $25,000,000 from the state general fund to the fund for the biennium beginning July 1, 2025, and ending June 30, 2027, to provide loans for housing infrastructure benefiting political subdivisions.
House Bill 1111 Indiana National Guard.
Authored by: Rep. Steve Bartels.
Co-Authored by: Rep. Timothy O’Brien, Rep. Ethan Lawson, Rep. Chuck Moseley.
Increases, from $8,800 to $20,000, the amount that shall be paid by the state if a member of the Indiana National Guard dies in the active service of the state. Provides that a spouse or dependent of a member of the Indiana National Guard is eligible for a state employee death benefit if the member dies while serving on state active duty. Provides that the adjutant general may procure a medical insurance plan for members of the Indiana National Guard who are ordered to state active duty. Adds awards and decorations that may be awarded by the Indiana National Guard. Provides that members of the Indiana National Guard, while serving on state active duty, shall be considered state employees for purposes of receiving worker’s compensation. Provides that a scholarship applicant of the National Guard tuition supplement program may use the scholarship for a credential-certifying program, licensing program, trade certification program, or apprenticeship program for an in-demand occupation as identified by the adjutant general and the department of workforce development, in consultation with the commission for higher education. Provides that if a scholarship applicant of the National Guard tuition supplement program receives a twenty-first century scholars program scholarship, the scholarship applicant may use a National Guard tuition supplement program scholarship awarded to pay for room and board for two years. Makes technical corrections. View less
House Bill 1113 Fire protection districts.
Authored by: Rep. Alex Zimmerman.
Co-Authored by: Rep. Timothy O’Brien, Rep. Steve Bartels.
Expands the purposes for which a fire protection district may be established.
House Bill 1132 Stadium and convention building authority.
Authored by: Rep. Doug Miller.
Co-Authored by: Rep. Timothy O’Brien, Rep. Steve Bartels.
Provides that the Indiana finance authority is required to provide staff support for the Indiana stadium and convention building authority board. (Current law provides that the Indiana stadium and convention building authority is required to provide staff support.)
House Bill 1136 School corporation reorganization.
Authored by: Rep. Jake Teshka. Co-Authored by: Rep. Jeffrey Thompson,
Rep. Timothy O’Brien.
Provides that, if more than 50% of students who have legal settlement in a school corporation were enrolled in a school that is not operated by the school corporation on the 2024 fall average daily membership count date, the school corporation must be dissolved and all public schools of the school corporation must be transitioned to operating as charter schools. Establishes a new governing board, requirements, and procedures regarding the dissolution and reorganization of the applicable school corporations.
House Bill 1346 Maintenance of U.
Authored by: Rep. Matt Hostettler.
Co-Authored by: Rep. Cindy Ledbetter, Rep. Wendy McNamara, Rep. Timothy O’Brien,
41 right-of-way. Appropriates $500,000 from the state general fund to the Indiana department of transportation (department) to be used by the department for the purpose of providing roadside mowing on U.S. 41 from the Vanderburgh County – Gibson County line to the Knox County – Sullivan County line.
House Bill 1347 Real estate matters.
Authored by: Rep. Edward Clere.
Co-Authored by: Rep. Timothy O’Brien, Rep. Wendy Dant Chesser.
Requires a broker company to deposit funds belonging to others into a trust account that the broker company maintains. Requires that residential real estate sales disclosure forms include disclosures by an owner that a property is located within a locally designated historic district or is listed on or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. Requires that residential real estate sales disclosure forms include disclosures by an owner of any restrictive covenants or other deed restrictions. Makes a technical correction.
House Bill 1450 False or fraudulent deeds and affidavits.
Authored by: Rep. Peggy Mayfield.
Co-Authored by: Rep. Timothy O’Brien, Rep. Edward Clere.
Provides that it is a deceptive act enforceable by the attorney general for a person to: (1) convey or attempt to convey; or (2) conspire to convey or attempt to convey; title to real property by recording a false or fraudulent deed or affidavit.
Free Tree Debris Drop Off Available This Weekend
Vanderburgh County Residents Can Drop Off Winter Storm Debris at County Fairgrounds
Evansville, IN – January 14, 2025 – The Vanderburgh County Board of Commissioners announces that residents can dispose of winter storm debris at the Vanderburgh County 4H Fairgrounds on the following dates:
• Friday, January 17, January 24 & January 31, 2025: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Saturday, January 18, January 25 & February 1, 2025: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Accepted materials include:
• Trees
• Tree limbs
• Woody shrubs
Please note: The site will not accept leaves, grass, regular garden yard waste, or trash.
Proof of Residency Required
This service is available exclusively to residents of Vanderburgh County. Residents must bring proof of residency, such as a driver’s license, to access the drop-off site.
Location:
Vanderburgh County Fairgrounds
201 E. Boonville-New Harmony Road
Evansville, IN 47725
This debris drop-off provides residents with a convenient and environmentally responsible way to manage storm-related cleanup.
For more information, please contact Laura Tomes at lvtomes@vanderburghgov.org or by phone at 812-435-5241.
We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to these guidelines to ensure smooth operations at the drop-off site.
Legislative Breakfast Planned for January 17
Ivy Tech Evansville will host a Southwest Indiana legislative breakfast on Friday, Jan. 17, beginning at 9 a.m. It is free and open to the public.
The event will be on Ivy Tech Evansville’s Main Campus, 3501 N. First Avenue, in Vectren Auditorium (Room 147). Enter through Entrance C off Colonial Avenue. Check in and networking begins at 8:30 a.m.
The breakfast will include discussion with elected officials representing the 10-county Ivy Tech Evansville Campus Service Area. This region includes Vanderburgh, Posey, Warrick, Perry, Spencer, Gibson, Daviess, Pike, Knox and Dubois counties. This bipartisan event will provide insights on current challenges and opportunities facing Southwest Indiana, as well as an opportunity for networking.
Ivy Tech Evansville will host a Southwest Indiana legislative breakfast on Friday, Jan. 17, beginning at 9 a.m. It is free and open to the public.
The event will be on Ivy Tech Evansville’s Main Campus, 3501 N. First Avenue, in Vectren Auditorium (Room 147). Enter through Entrance C off Colonial Avenue. Check in and networking begins at 8:30 a.m.
The breakfast will include discussion with elected officials representing the 10-county Ivy Tech Evansville Campus Service Area. This region includes Vanderburgh, Posey, Warrick, Perry, Spencer, Gibson, Daviess, Pike, Knox and Dubois counties. This bipartisan event will provide insights on current challenges and opportunities facing Southwest Indiana, as well as an opportunity for networking.
2025 USI Law Day Celebration happening January 16
2025 USI Law Day Celebration happening January 16
The University of Southern Indiana is proud to present the 2025 annual Law Day and Alumni Celebration. This event will start at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, January 16 in University Center West.
Law Day features several events open to USI students, local high schools and the Evansville community. While each Law Day is different, the program typically consists of a live oral argument heard by the Indiana Court of Appeals as part of its Appeals on Wheels program, networking opportunities with legal professionals and a keynote presentation. Past events have included moot court demonstrations and expert panels of local lawyers and judges.
Law Day at USI offers local students and members of the community a great opportunity to learn about USI’s Pre-Law program, meet members of the local legal community and watch the Indiana government in action.
Schedule:
10:30 a.m. – Indiana Court of Appeals Oral Argument and Q&A
* This event is free and open to the public.
11:30 a.m. – Networking Social
* This event is for current USI students, alumni and area legal professionals.
12:30 p.m. – Luncheon
* By invitation only. Seating is limited.
5 and 7:30 p.m. – USI Women’s and Men’s Basketball Game vs. Lindenwood University
* Free tickets available for the first 25 alumni who register!
RSVPs are required. To register to attend, use this form. For questions, contact Megan Doyle by email at mldoyle1@usi.edu.
University of Evansville Pioneers Cybersecurity Education
University of Evansville Pioneers Cybersecurity Education with First-of-Its-Kind Degree in the Tri-State
EVANSVILLE, IND. (01/09/2025) As the digital world expands, the need for skilled cybersecurity professionals has never been greater. The University of Evansville (UE) is stepping up to meet this critical demand with the launch of its Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program, starting in Fall 2025. This groundbreaking program-the first in the Tri-State region-positions UE as a leader in Southern Indiana for computer science, programming, software development, and cybersecurity education.
The Cybersecurity program, housed in UE’s School of Engineering and Computer Science, will offer students hands-on training in critical areas such as ethical hacking, network security, and cyber forensics. Students will gain hands-on experience through real-world projects, preparing them for successful careers in this dynamic field.
With a focus on experiential learning, and small class sizes, the program is designed to prepare graduates for impactful careers in one of the fastest-growing fields of the 21st century. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 32% increase in cybersecurity jobs from 2022 to 2032, which is substantially higher than the 3% average growth rate for all U.S. jobs.
“We are excited to introduce the B.S. in Cybersecurity degree program, which reflects our commitment to providing cutting-edge education that meets the needs of today’s job market. Through this innovative program, UE is changing lives and changing the world by equipping students with the skills to protect digital infrastructures, combat cyber threats, and contribute to global security,” said Dr. Suresh Immanuel, Associate Dean for the School of Engineering and Computer Science. “Cybersecurity is no longer a luxury-it is a necessity in today’s interconnected world. With this program, UE is equipping students to lead the charge and ensure they are ready to lead in an evolving and essential field. Our graduates will be well-prepared to tackle the challenges of cybersecurity and make significant contributions to the protection of digital assets”
For more information about the Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity program or to learn how to apply, please visit evansville.edu/cybersecurity.
The University of Evansville is a private, comprehensive university with a solid foundation in the arts and sciences and professional schools in business, engineering, education, and health sciences. Established in 1854, UE is recognized across the globe for its rich tradition of innovative, academic excellence and dynamic campus community of #Changemakers.
Home of the Purple Aces, UE is located in the southwestern region of Indiana and offers over 75 majors, 17 Division I sports, and a unique study abroad experience at Harlaxton, the University’s very own Victorian manor located in the countryside of England. For more information, please visit evansville.edu.
Indiana State Museum Spring Break Camps Are Open for Registration!
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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.
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