USI earns road split in Kentucky after win at Murray State Tuesday

11/12/2024

Screenshot 2024-11-12 at 10.52.25 PM — Preston Leinenbach USI Athletic Communications

USI earns road split in Kentucky after win at Murray State Tuesday

MURRAY, Ky. – University of Southern Indiana Women’s Basketball picked up its first road win of the season Tuesday afternoon, capturing an 82-75 win at Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky.

The win Tuesday gave USI a road split in its two-game swing through Kentucky in the last five days and improved Southern Indiana’s record to 2-1 this season. Murray State moved to 1-1 with the loss.

Murray State grabbed a 4-0 lead before Southern Indiana answered with seven straight points. USI’s post-play contributed early with sophomore forward Amiyah Buchanan scoring two of USI’s first three baskets. The Racers tightened the contest in the middle of the opening quarter, but the Screaming Eagles hit a pair of three-pointers in the last two minutes to help push USI ahead 22-14 at the end of the first period.

A minute and a half into the second period, Murray State pulled back to within one possession, 24-22, thanks to two made threes. Southern Indiana took back a two-possession lead in the middle of the second off two triples from junior guard Ali Saunders and sophomore guard Sophia Loden. Once again, the Racers responded. However, sophomore guard Triniti Ralston connected on a couple of shots from the field and drained a trifecta of free throws within the last four minutes of the first half to help give USI a 41-37 advantage going into halftime.

Southern Indiana extended its lead to six, 45-39, by the seven-minute mark of the third quarter following some hard-fought defensive rebounds and steals. After some scrappy back-and-forth play, the Eagles went on an 11-0 run over four minutes in the middle of the third frame. Graduate forward Madi Webb returned to the court Tuesday for USI and scored five of the 11 points during the big run, including a three-point play. The Screaming Eagles led by 16, 56-40, by the end of the run. The Racers had a little spurt late in the third, but Webb reclaimed the momentum for Southern Indiana with a buzzer-beating, banked-in trey to conclude the period. USI was up 59-44 heading to the fourth quarter after outscoring the Racers 18-7 in the third.

The Screaming Eagles kept its double-digit advantage in the early portion of the fourth stanza. USI reached its largest lead of the contest, 67-48, at the 6:20 mark when Saunders cashed in a three-point play. Southern Indiana’s defensive energy and active hands creating deflections continued to create problems for Murray State. Buchanan scored on back-to-back possessions for USI near the halfway point of the fourth, including an open-court layup after a made basket by the Racers. With time winding down, Murray State had to hurry and take some chances. The Racers hit a couple of threes inside the last two minutes to help bring the deficit down to single digits, but the Eagles converted their free throws down the stretch to lock up the road win.

Southern Indiana shot for 41 percent (28-69) in the game and 39 percent (7-18) from beyond the arc. At the foul line, USI was 19-26 for 73 percent. USI’s defense forced Murray State into 26 turnovers, 17 on steals, compared to only 11 for the Eagles. USI tallied 29 points off turnovers and 19 fast-break points.

Six Screaming Eagles scored in double figures on Tuesday, including all five starters. The last time USI had six players score 10-plus was against the University of Indianapolis in January 2022. On Tuesday, Ralston posted a team-high 17 points and six assists while corralling seven rebounds. Senior guard Vanessa Shafford dropped 14 points. Saunders and Buchanan each recorded 12 points. Webb and graduate forward Meredith Raley registered 11 points. Raley nearly had a double-double with nine boards.

Murray State was 27-69 for 39 percent shooting overall and 11-39 for 28 percent from downtown. The Racers were 10-17 for 59 percent at the free-throw line. Murray State won the battle on the glass 53-38 with 17 offensive rebounds leading to 23 second-chance points. The Racers had three players in double digits with sophomore guard Haven Ford notching a game-high 22 points.

Southern Indiana returns to Liberty Arena, home of the Screaming Eagles, for the start of three straight home games Friday at 6 p.m. against Indiana University Southeast. The game can be seen with a subscription to ESPN+ and heard on The Spin 95.7 FM. Additional coverage can be found at usiscreamingeagles.com.

Five double figure scorers lead No. 21 Trailblazers past D-II No. 20 Henry Ford

11/12/2024

Five double figure scorers lead No. 21 Trailblazers past D-II No. 20 Henry Ford

VINCENNES, Ind. – The Vincennes University Trailblazer men’s basketball team slid down three spots earlier today in the first NJCAA Division I National Rankings for the 2024-25 regular season, checking in at No. 21.

The Trailblazers got another opportunity to add another good win to their resume Tuesday night as Vincennes hosted NJCAA Division II No. 20 ranked Henry Ford College.

Vincennes overcame a slow start and held off a late push by the Hawks to secure an 88-77 victory over Henry Ford inside the Physical Education Complex.

VU got off to a slow start Tuesday evening, with Henry Ford firing out of the gates with a 7-0 scoring run and a 6-0 scoring run to take an early 25-16 advantage.

Vincennes would answer back however, outscoring the Hawks 13-2 to regain the lead at 29-27 with five minutes to play in the first half.

The Trailblazers would grow this lead before halftime, scoring the final four points of the opening half to take a 38-32 lead into the locker room break.

Vincennes looked to take their game up another level early in the second half, getting the home crowd behind them by opening the second half by outscoring Henry Ford 21-6 to take a 59-38 lead.

Henry Ford would rally back and cut the VU lead back down to 11 and late in the second half cut the deficit back to single digits at 77-69.

But the Trailblazers were able to get key shots down the stretch and seal the game at the free throw line as Vincennes came away with the 88-77 victory over Henry Ford College.

“The win itself is good and Henry Ford is a good ball club,” VU Hall of Fame Head Coach Todd Franklin said. “Henry Ford is explosive the way that they play and they are tough because they are going to spread you out and attack it. But I’m not pleased tonight. Tonight, I felt like, was a step backwards. I thought we made a step forward this past weekend. I thought we were better and growing and tonight I didn’t see us doing the things that we talk about.”

“It was just mistake after mistake out there from us not doing what we said,” Franklin added. “Here’s what we tell you and how to do it and we’re doing something else. That can’t be the case. I’ve got to do a better job. I don’t know if I haven’t been clear enough. I try to be clear but maybe I haven’t been clear enough. Maybe I’ve been a little too sweet, I don’t know. It’s pretty simple and basic things that we are talking about that weren’t done tonight and when they weren’t done the way we want them to, we weren’t successful.”

“Anytime we make any attempt to do what we are supposed to, we’re successful,” Franklin said. “It’s really crazy that you go through this. But we’ve gone through this long enough that we’re not going to be perfect, there’s a million things that our guys are not going to know and we’re developing. That’s fine. And we might not even do it well when we’re doing what we’re supposed to. We hope we do but we have to make the attempt to do it the way that we say. And when we don’t, that’s not okay.”

“Maybe these guys are new and they are not used to being coached and coach says here’s what I want and you do it,” Franklin added. “I’m not sure. But that’s going to change, I can tell you that. So I’m a little bothered by that right now. But it’s a good win in terms of beating Henry Ford and you can see that we have some guys that can do some things. The problem is, we waste too much time doing things that we’re not supposed to be doing instead of putting two hours of basketball together where we are all fighting like heck to do the right thing. If we did that then we’d be alright. But we’ll see if we can’t get that turned around right now.”

VU offensively was led by sophomore Michael Cooper (Minneapolis, Minn.) who just missed out on another double-double, finishing his night with 20 points and nine rebounds.

Freshman Dayton Williams (Louisville, Ky.) got the Trailblazer offense going early with 12 of his 19 points coming in the second half, as he finished out a double-double with 10 rebounds and six assists.

Sophomore and 2024 NJCAA All-American Lebron Thomas (Bishopville, S.C.) helped close out the victory at the free throw line, connecting on 10 of 14 from the foul line to finish his night with 18 points, six rebounds and five assists.

Freshman Jalen Calloway (Chicago, Ill.) closed out his game with 15 points and seven rebounds, including hitting two of three shots from three-point range.

Freshman Kenaz Ochogwu (E. Providence, R.I.) was the fifth VU scorer in double figures Tuesday night, finishing the game with 10 points and five rebounds.

“I think Dayton Williams gave us a good effort,” Franklin said. “He’s been giving us a good effort all the time. He’s young and learning and he’s still able to be a good player while he’s young and learning. So that’s fine and we can live with that.”

“I thought Kenaz gives us good minutes,” Franklin added. “He’s raw but he’s become our best center. I don’t think there’s any question right now. It’s not that guys get taken out and don’t play as much, it’s not personal, you’ve got to play better. He’s playing better and some of the guys that are going to lose their time, they are not trying to do what we tell them. They are doing something else. So I don’t understand. You’re not having a whole lot of success the other way and now he’s playing better. It’s not complicated and he’s emerging. He’s raw, he’s talented and he’s a good kid. You’re trying to form him on the fly here but he’s helping us, there’s no question.”

“Jalen Calloway is kind of the same way,” Franklin said. “Same way, different position. Learning, raw, we’ve had to throw him out there to the wolves because he’s our best option. If you look over there, he’s our best player right now at that spot. We start to play good when he starts to play good and we wane when he doesn’t. Because it’s so key when he’s giving us something and that was a spot in the jamborees where we didn’t really get much. When he gets going and locked in and doing what we want, then he’s pretty good and we’re pretty good.”

“Those guys are learning and we’ve got to get them across the board,” Franklin added. “But I thought, they are not going to be perfect, it’s going to be up and down all around, but I thought those kids did a pretty good job.”

“I thought Christian Andrews had times when he’s playing well” Franklin said. “But then he starts letting those guys back him down and get right by the rim. There’s really not much that I can do about it. They’ve got the floor spread and they are going to go at you. He’ll learn if he wants to survive, he’ll learn to sit down and fight earlier and dig them off and dig them away because he can’t just back up until they get around the rim. But he’s a competitor. He’ll figure it out. But he did good things in stretches tonight. I thought at the end of the first half, we had him in there and that was a good run for us. Then there was a run in the second half that was pretty good when he was out there until they just started going at him. He’s going to learn to handle presses better. He’s got to learn that because of his size, he has to learn how to be crafty about what he’s doing when they get up and your vision gets taken away. Those are adjustments that he will have to make but he’s a freshmen, so we’re learning on the fly.”

“Michael is kind of an up and down kind of thing,” Franklin added. “He’s been defensive rebounding for us all year. He did again tonight and has been very key with that. He can hit shots, so he can open the floor up at the four and if he can get on the block where his left shoulder is baseline, he sets it up and turns back, he’s pretty good. But we’ve got to get him in those spots. Defensively he’s really got to work at a continuation. He’s got to be live because he’s not the quickest guy and he’s really going to have to work at it. He can’t relax. We’re constantly pushing these guys because we are on the fly right now. It was like when we were starting to put them away and his guy hit two threes in a row. He’s just late.”

“I kind of know this because I’ve been here and I’ve won a lot,” Franklin said. “You know you can see it and you’re begging for it from the sidelines and we’ve got to get less of that. Because they’ve got to start getting in tune with what we’re seeing and what we’re doing. That’s when we’ll get good. We get a little soft on finishes. We’re young and this is a tough game. You’ve got to grit your teeth and bend those elbows. You’ve got to protect with your body and go up with force and through. You’ve got to keep those eyes concentrated all the way through the action. We wane with that and that little bit in the second half where they started to come back on us, it was that. We didn’t want to work hard enough at moving our feet at one end and at the other we were just getting a little sloppy. The press didn’t really bother us, we could get whatever we wanted but we’d get sloppy. Some of that’s new, it’s not always young. But we try to tell them how to do this and now they’ve got to hear me because we can eliminate most of those and they can turn into positives.”

“Lebron ends up with 18 points,” Franklin added. “He’s got to protect the ball better. He’s got to get in here until he starts making his shots. Everything now is dive and sticking my head in at the basket. He’s got to have more trust in his pull up jump shot and we’ve got to get him where he’s seeing the floor better. There are things where the play is there and he’s trying the other play. So he’s probably pressing a little bit right now. But he’s got to stop this ball. We’ve got to do it the way that we teach it. If we do it the way that we teach it with the intensity level, we’ve been pretty alright over the years. Amari Allen had a good night but he wouldn’t have had that good of a night if we were attempting to do what we say. He might make some plays but he would not have had that night and that’s where the frustration is. You’ve got to make that competitive attempt to do what we are telling them. But that’s early in the year. That’s just the way that it goes. But I was disappointed in that some tonight because we did move forward and we’re finding some people. But the total buy in to the way that we teach and what we teach has got to get there and it’s got to be there under fire when the game is going on and that’s where you find real discipline and we’ve got to find real discipline and toughness. We’ve got good guys but they’ve got to become tough, disciplined guys if we are going to have the success that we all want to. Hopefully in the next two or three days we realize that and I’ll try to help them realize that.”

The Trailblazers will look to keep this early season momentum going when VU returns to the P.E. Complex floor Saturday, Nov. 16 when Vincennes hosts Malcolm X College from Chicago, Ill. at 3 p.m. eastern on Hurricane Relief Night at the Physical Education Complex.

Fans can get free admission into the VU men’s and women’s doubleheader Saturday, Nov. 16 with a donation of paper towels or toilet paper. Donations will go to support those still in need from the effects of Hurricane Helene.

“I haven’t watched Malcolm X a lot,” Franklin said. “I know they are having a good year. I know they beat Olney and they have put up a large amount of points. I know their coach does a really good job with them. We’ve played them the last couple of years and I think he does a good job. They are probably going to be 4-0 or 5-0 when they come in here Saturday, knowing that they have notched a good win over Olney, so they will be excited.”

“They’ve got a couple of good players that are going to put up some points,” Franklin added. “They will be a problem and it will be like it is for all of these teams. It will be a Super Bowl game and they will be in here ready to go. We’re going to have to deal with a little bit of an odd afternoon tip time and hopefully the fans get out here for a 3 p.m. game.”

“Hopefully in these next three days, our guy’s lock in,” Franklin said. “We’re not overloading them. It’s just doing what we want the way that we want it. There’s a process and it’s always been very organized and it was there tonight. There’s a way that we do things and I want to see Saturday, them acting like they know that way and that they are all about that way and they are going to win or lose intently trying to do it that way. That’s what Saturday will be about.”

“Malcolm X will be a good opponent,” Franklin added. “Then Kankakee right after that. Then Moberly right after that. Henry Ford was dangerous tonight. We’re having to learn on the fly and you get thrown out here against real opponents and you see what happens. Tonight, I don’t know if our focus wasn’t right. We’ve had a hard time with back-to-back games. It’s not really physical, it’s more mental and the toughness of knowing that I’ve got to continue doing this right thing intently over and over again. For us it’s been a little bit of a battle. But we expect that. It’s just time now. It’s not time to be great. It’s not time to be perfect. But it’s time to see total buy-in to intently doing what we preach and teach. It is what it is and it’s time for me to get a little hard edged with it. That’s where it is and it’s time to find out who wants to buy in.”

VINCENNES BOX SCORE

VINCENNES (88): Bryan Akanmu 1-6 0-0 2, Michael Cooper 7-12 5-6 20, Jalen Calloway 5-9 3-4 15, Lebron Thomas 4-14 10-14 18, Dayton Williams 8-15 1-3 19, Christian Andrews 1-4 0-0 2, Taveon Smith 0-1 0-0 0, Travelle Bryson 1-1 0-0 2, Kenaz Ochogwu 5-6 0-0 10, Hussein Elmaraghy 0-1 0-0 0, Team 32-69 19-27 88.

Henry Ford – 32 45 – 77

VU (4-1) – 38 50 – 88

Three-point goals: VU 5 (Calloway 2, Williams 2, Cooper). Rebounds: VU 47 (Williams 10). Assists: VU 24 (Williams 6, Andrews 6). Steals: VU 2 (Williams, Andrews). Blocked Shots: VU 4 (Cooper, Williams, Andrews, Bryson). Turnovers: VU 15. Personal Fouls: VU 17. Fouled out: None.

UE men’s soccer earns three All-MVC honors

11/12/2024

UE men’s soccer earns three All-MVC honors

Two Purple Aces earn their first postseason recognition

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – The University of Evansville men’s soccer team has had three players recognized by the Missouri Valley Conference for their play in the 2024 season.

Senior forward Nacho Diaz Barragan (Almeria, Spain) earned his second All-MVC honor being named to the All-Conference Second Team on Tuesday morning. While redshirt freshman midfielder Jacopo Fedrizzi (Giulia, Spain) and freshman goalkeeper Michal Mroz (Elk Grove, Ill. / Elk Grove HS) earned their first All-MVC recognition. Fedrizzi was named to the All-MVC Second Team while Mroz mad the All-MVC Freshman Team. Postseason awards are voted on by conference head coaches.

Diaz Barragan led UE on the stat sheet at the end of the 2024 regular season with six goals, two assists and 18 points. The forward was one of only two players in the MVC to score a brace in three games or more with the other player being the MVC Player of the Year Jesus Barea. In conference play Diaz Barragan had three goals, and one assists while leading Evansville in shots and shots on goal with 11 shots and nine landing on net.

Diaz Barragan ended the year fourth in the Valley in goals and shots on goal per game while being second in shot accuracy. At 54.8% shot accuracy, Diaz Barragan is ranked 29th among Division I players. In 2022 Diaz Barragan was recognized by MVC head coaches as the conference Freshman of the Year and a member of the All-MVC First Team.

Fedrizzi came alive for the Aces during conference action, scoring seven of his 12 points during MVC play. The redshirt freshman had two goals and three assists against Valley teams while taking seven shots with three on goal. For the season Fedrizzi was second on the roster in points with four goals and four assists that included a two-game goal scoring streak.

Freshman goalkeeper Michal Mroz had Evansville’s best season in goal by a freshman keeper since 2016. Mroz ended the regular season with eight victories and four shutouts while facing 228 shots. In MVC action the freshman had four wins with two shutouts while saving 40 shots on goal for a 74.1% save percentage. Mroz ended the season leading the Valley in saves with 68 saves which was good for 16th in the nation. The freshman keeper was also first in the Valley with MVC Goalkeeper of the Year Colin Welsh in minutes played at 1,637:33 minutes. The two keepers ranked 10th in the nation in goalie minutes played.

Missouri State’s Jesus Barea earned MVC Player of the Year for the second time in his career while also being named the Forward of the Year. Drake’s Eskil Gjerde and Missouri State’s Tyler Caton were voted Co-Midfielders of the Year.

MVC Defensive Player of the Year is Bowling Green’s Kyle Cusimano while Western Michigan’s Colin Welsh was named the Goalkeeper of the Year. Drake’s Preston Kipnusu became the first Bulldog to be named the MVC Freshman of the Year.

-www.gopurpleaces.com-

Vanderburgh County Arrest Warrants

11/12/2024

Vanderburgh County Arrest Warrants

Vanderburgh County Recent Booking Records

11/12/2024

Booked Last 24 Hours-Public

This Week at USI – November 11, 2024

11/12/2024

Monday through Friday, November 11-15

USI celebrates International Education Week

The Center for International Programs celebrates International Education Week through globally-themed events Monday-Friday, November 11-15.

Noon Tuesday, November 12

USI Anthropology Speaker Series to present Dr. Richard Lunniss

USI’s Anthropology Speaker Series will present a lecture and Q&A by Dr. Richard Lunniss at noon Tuesday, November 12 in Rice Library Room 0017. This event is open to the public at no charge.

7:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, November 16

Registration open for November USI Open House

USI will host an Open House for prospective students from 7:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, November 16 to provide interested students and families an opportunity to explore campus and learn about what the University has to offer.

Saturday, November 16
20th annual USI Norwegian Foot March happening November 16

The 20th annual Norwegian Foot March, an intense mental and physical challenge, will take participants 18.6 miles (30 km) through the rolling hills of Evansville’s west side. Carrying a 25-pound rucksack, participants will begin and end on the USI campus, working to make it back to the finish line generally in under four and a half hours depending on age and gender.

SAVE THE DATE

December 5

USI to host annual Lighting a Tradition event December 5

Alumni Engagement and Volunteer USI and the Activities Programming Board will host the annual University of Southern Indiana Lighting a Tradition holiday celebration from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, December 5 in the Performance Center Dunn Lobby and University Center East. Full of family-friendly festivities, the event is open to the public at no charge.

December 5-8

USI 53rd annual Madrigal Feaste returns December 5-8

The USI Chamber Choir will host the 53rd annual Madrigal Feaste Thursday through Sunday, December 5-8, in Carter Hall, located in University Center West on the USI campus. Performances will begin at 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, December 5-7, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m., and the Sunday, December 8 matinee performance will begin at 1 p.m. with doors opening at 12:30 p.m.

2024 SIAC ALL CONFERENCE VOLLEYBALL TEAM

11/12/2024

2024 SIAC ALL CONFERENCE VOLLEYBALL TEAM

FIRST TEAM

PLAYER GRADE SCHOOL

Emma Bruggenschmidt 11 Castle

Addisen Gallentine 12 Castle

Maya Joska 12 Castle

Lacy Marx 12 Mater Dei

Carlee Rogers 12 Jasper

Ryan Scheu 12 Memorial

Iana Tecson 11 North

SECOND TEAM

PLAYER GRADE SCHOOL

Kendall Agler 12 Memorial

Nora Breitwieser 10 Jasper

Reegan Buck 12 Memorial

Brooke Herdes 12 Mater Dei

Camden Hiatt 12 North

Ava McNair 11 Harrison

Kendra Wilke 12 North

PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Maya Joska, Castle

COACHES OF THE YEAR

Dan Watson, Castle

Ashley Kaczmarski, North

Finding Common Purpose Through Common Sense

11/12/2024

Finding Common Purpose Through Common Sense

By Joe Wallace 11/12/2024

In a political landscape that feels increasingly dominated by extremism on both ends of the spectrum, many Americans find themselves asking, “Where is the middle ground?” Our two-party system, traditionally balancing views from both sides, now seems a battleground where the loudest and most polarizing voices often prevail. This leaves a substantial portion of Americans, who don’t resonate with far-left or far-right ideologies, marginalized and without adequate representation. Imagine, then, a three-party scenario: one that allows for true representation across the spectrum—Progressives, Tea Party Survivalists, and a broad, inclusive Common Sense Party.

This hypothetical realignment could bring about a rejuvenated democratic process, offering a pragmatic alternative to the binary political landscape. Let’s take a closer look at what each of these parties might represent and how the demographics could play out.

The Progressive Party: Championing Radical Reform

A Progressive Party would appeal to those at the furthest left of the current Democratic Party, advocating for systemic changes that align more closely with socialist and even collectivist ideas. Policies would focus on wealth redistribution, expanded social programs, and a strong role for the government in addressing economic and social inequities. This party would likely attract activists, academics, and the younger, more ideologically driven members of society who believe that rapid reform is essential for addressing systemic issues such as climate change, social justice, and economic inequality.

While the Progressive Party’s policies may resonate strongly in urban centers and among certain demographics, it would likely appeal to roughly 15-20% of the American population. This segment is vocal and committed but limited in its demographic reach, as its policy proposals tend to alienate moderates and those with more conservative values.

The Tea Party Survivalists: Embracing Hard-Right Conservatism

At the opposite end of the spectrum, we have what might be called the Tea Party Survivalists. This party would cater to individuals who embrace a blend of libertarian and authoritarian philosophies, advocating for a “survival of the fittest” mindset. This faction would prioritize individual freedoms, minimal government intervention, and a focus on nationalistic, sometimes isolationist, policies. They would reject what they see as government overreach and view international engagement with suspicion, preferring a “fortress America” approach to security and economy.

Appealing to about 10-15% of the population, this party would resonate most strongly with rural voters, deeply conservative regions, and those who feel the current Republican Party has not gone far enough in challenging federal authority. It would attract those frustrated with cultural changes they see as threatening traditional values, as well as those who fear the economic and social impacts of immigration and globalism.

The Common Sense Party: A Pragmatic Approach for the Majority

Finally, the Common Sense Party could represent the silent majority who find themselves politically homeless in the current system. This party would encompass moderate Democrats uncomfortable with far-left Progressivism, centrists, Libertarians with a social conscience, and Republicans turned off by authoritarianism. Essentially, it would attract individuals who desire balanced, thoughtful governance that values both personal freedoms and social responsibility.

The Common Sense Party’s ideology would center around pragmatic solutions: market-driven but socially inclusive economic policies, sensible immigration reform, climate policies that consider economic impacts, and a foreign policy that balances American interests with global cooperation. It would appeal to the vast middle ground that believes in incremental rather than revolutionary change.

In terms of demographics, the Common Sense Party could encompass a large portion of the American electorate—approximately 65-75%. This includes suburban voters, working-class families, professionals, and business owners who feel alienated by the radical rhetoric of both major parties’ extreme factions. These are people who value stability, compromise, and functionality over ideological purity.

Demographic Impact and Political Dynamics

Under this three-party system, the political landscape would transform dramatically. Here’s how the numbers could realistically shake out:

Progressive Party (15-20%): Concentrated in metropolitan areas and among younger voters, the Progressives would remain a minority party but could wield influence through coalition-building with the Common Sense Party on specific issues, such as climate action and social equity.

Tea Party Survivalists (10-15%): This faction would have strongholds in the South, Midwest, and rural America, acting as a counterbalance to Progressive influences and maintaining a powerful voice on issues like gun rights, state sovereignty, and anti-regulation stances.

Common Sense Party (65-75%): The majority of Americans would align with the Common Sense Party, bringing a blend of liberal, conservative, and centrist perspectives. This coalition would likely dominate the House and Senate, creating a new governing class that values balanced solutions and cross-party collaboration.

Potential Outcomes of a Three-Party System

One of the most significant shifts in a three-party system would be the increased need for compromise and coalition-building. Neither the Progressive Party nor the Tea Party Survivalists would command enough power to push through their agendas unilaterally. This dynamic would prevent either extreme from dominating policy-making, forcing both to negotiate with the Common Sense Party for influence.

The legislative gridlock that plagues today’s Congress might ease as the Common Sense Party—representing the largest segment—would prioritize practical policies over ideological standoffs. This new center-ground coalition would be more likely to pass bipartisan legislation on issues such as infrastructure, healthcare reform, and economic growth initiatives, addressing everyday concerns rather than waging ideological battles.

Additionally, with three distinct voices in the political arena, voters would enjoy a more accurate representation of their beliefs and values. Voter turnout might increase as individuals feel more empowered and represented by parties that genuinely reflect their views, rather than voting for the “lesser evil” in a two-party system.

A Path Forward

This hypothetical three-party system offers a way forward for a democracy currently strained by polarized extremes. By providing a platform for the true diversity of American perspectives, it could foster a political climate where pragmatic solutions, rather than ideological purity, guide decision-making.

The vast majority of Americans want a government that functions, that represents their values, and that can address issues without descending into political grandstanding. A Common Sense Party could offer that middle ground, acting as a bulwark against extremism while promoting policies that serve the broadest interests of the American people.

In a nation as diverse and complex as the United States, no system will be perfect. But by imagining a three-party scenario, we open up the possibility of a political future driven by collaboration, common sense, and the pursuit of shared goals. In doing so, we could finally find a common purpose that transcends the divides currently threatening to pull our democracy apart.

Electoral College Dynamics in a Three-Party Race

In a three-party presidential race, the Electoral College map would likely transform, with the Common Sense Party emerging as the dominant force due to its broad appeal across the majority of states. Here’s how the breakdown might look:

Widespread Appeal for Common Sense: Given that the Common Sense Party would represent a moderate, pragmatic majority, it would have a strong hold over states that traditionally swing between Democrat and Republican leanings. States like Florida, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Arizona—often critical in tight races—would likely lean Common Sense, as voters tired of polarized politics gravitate toward a more centrist platform.

Isolated Strongholds for Progressives and Tea Party Survivalists: The Progressive Party, with its focus on far-left policies, might maintain strongholds in areas that lean heavily Democratic and embrace more radical change, such as the District of Columbia, California’s urban centers, and perhaps a few East Coast states like Massachusetts or Vermont. Meanwhile, the Tea Party Survivalists would hold onto deeply conservative and rural areas, possibly sweeping through parts of Wyoming, Idaho, and Oklahoma. However, these strongholds would be limited and scattered, lacking the broad, nationwide support needed to secure significant Electoral College votes.

Electoral College Outcome: With Common Sense likely winning broad majorities across much of the country, it would take a commanding lead in the Electoral College. Traditional swing states would shift toward Common Sense due to its unifying platform, and states with mixed urban and rural populations would likely reject extremes on both sides, favoring the balanced, centrist policies of Common Sense. The final map might resemble a near-clean sweep for the Common Sense candidate, with only a few states or districts—such as the District of Columbia on the left and Wyoming on the right—remaining aligned with the extreme factions.

This three-party structure could, paradoxically, make the Electoral College a clearer, more decisive tool in choosing a president, as the Common Sense Party consolidates the middle ground across the country, leaving only isolated pockets of resistance for Progressives and Tea Party Survivalists. The result would be a stronger mandate for governance based on common interests, driving the country toward more balanced and collaborative policy-making.

ROKITA REVIEW

11/12/2024

Attorney General Todd Rokita keynotes Greene County Right to Life event

Liberty in Action

As Indiana’s Attorney General, fighting for your liberty is my top priority. Below are some highlights of our work!

◊ Reviewing Rokita

◊ Upholding The Law, Stopping Illegal Immigration

◊ ◊ Protecting Consumers, Stopping Fraudsters

◊ Returning Unclaimed Property To Hardworking Hoosiers

◊ Protecting Vulnerable Patients

◊ Winning More Settlement Money, Holding Pharmaceuticals Accountable

◊ Warning Consumers About Product Recalls

How can we help you? Contact our Office for additional information, resources and more.

REVIEWING ROKITA

“Todd is a gem for Indiana and is keeping the corruption at bay! Keep up the great work, AG Todd Rokita.” -Conner

“Thank you for fighting for Hoosier parents and protecting our children.” -Damien

“Thank you for your efforts with the SOS on trying to keep integrity of our elections and ensuring only US Citizens vote.” -Eric

“Thank you, Attorney General Todd Rokita, for saving Hoosiers money!” -Krystal

“Thank you, AG Todd Rokita, for hitting hard against this violent convict’s taxpayer-funded sex change after judge’s approval! STOP THIS WITH ALL YOUR MIGHT TODD!” -Faith

“Wonderful news about your sanctuary city letters! Thank you, Attorney General Todd Rokita, for always protecting our citizens.” -Edith

“Excellent work again, AG. Thank you for protecting election integrity.” -Matt

“Thank you, Todd! Stay vigilant! NO NON-CITIZENS VOTE!!” -Kenny

“You’re doing great work, Todd!” -Susan

“Thank you for your diligent attention to this matter (re: 10/16 Sanctuary City press release) and many others you are pursuing. I am proud to have you as my state AG.” -Eric

AROUND INDIANA

with Attorney General Todd Rokita

October 31: AG Todd Rokita and office wish a happy Diwali to all who celebrate

Attorney General Rokita and office extended our very best to all those celebrating Diwali.

We were grateful to join a recent celebration of this Hindu festival of lights, where participants celebrated traditions tied to the spiritual victory of light over darkness. The common desire to see good triumph over evil binds us all together, and we hope our Hindu friends specifically will find fresh reasons for hope and joy during this time.

October 31: AG Todd Rokita celebrates Halloween in Fort Wayne

Attorney General Rokita was in Fort Wayne celebrating Halloween, costume and all, and reminded folks to search for unclaimed treats at indianaunclaimed.com. He said not to let your hard-earned money go to waste – search your name, your family, or your business today!

October 25: AG Todd Rokita’s team attends South Bend Naturalization ceremony

Attorney General Rokita congratulated the graduates of the South Bend Naturalization ceremony. 49 individuals representing 19 different countries graduated this ceremony and our office is proud to welcome them to our great country.

October 25: AG Todd Rokita’s team gives scam presentation at LifeSpan Resources meeting

Our office strives to help every Hoosier and Hoosier business keep their hard-earned money in their pockets and out of scammers hands.

Consumers who believe they have been defrauded should immediately report the details to the company they used to make the payment and the Office of the Indiana Attorney General.

Hoosiers can report scams to the Office of the Indiana Attorney General at indianaconsumer.com or by calling 317-232-6330.

October 24: AG Todd Rokita’s team attends Evansville Trotter House event

Our office works hard everyday to protect the lives of God’s most precious gift – our children. We were happy to attend the Trotter House event, which partnered with American Association of Pro-Life Obstetricians and Gynecologists to give women important information.

Thank you to Diana Moers, who was a Deputy Attorney General in our office, for all the work that she does and continues to do as Prosecutor and for life!

October 19: AG Todd Rokita keynotes Greene County Right to Life Banquet

Attorney General Rokita was thankful to join so many pro-life Hoosiers at the Right to Life Banquet of Greene County. He said that even as we celebrate a historic year for life, we know we must continue our efforts to save the lives of precious unborn babies, and support the mother and the father.

NEWS ABOUT THE OFFICE

Amid health and safety concerns, Attorney General Todd Rokita investigates potential labor trafficking networks in local communities

AG Rokita sends civil investigative demands (CIDs) to officials, employers and non-profits in Evansville, Logansport and Seymour

As residents and elected officeholders continue reporting concerns about the largescale influx of illegal aliens and “legal migrants” into their cities and towns, Attorney General Todd Rokita is launching investigations into this growing issue in Evansville, Logansport and Seymour.

The entities receiving CIDs are the Cass County Health Department, Logansport Community School Corp., Berry Global Group Inc., Tent Partnership for Refugees, God is Good, and Jackson County Industrial Development Corp.

“Illegal immigration caused by “border czar” Kamala Harris’ perversion and misapplication of federal law has made every state a border state and imposed unsustainable costs on Logansport and other cities across the nation,” Attorney General Rokita said. “It has also created serious sex and labor trafficking risks in all communities. I’m creatively trying to use every tool in the law to stop the Left’s intentional destruction of Indiana.”

Attorney General Rokita is investigating coordinated efforts among international and local nonprofit “refugee resettlement” organizations and employers to bring large numbers of migrants to Indiana communities.

The rapid growth of alien populations in certain communities has caused overcrowding in housing facilities as multiple families and sometimes dozens of individuals reportedly share space in structures intended to be single-family dwellings. It also has raised concerns about potential labor trafficking.

Attorney General Rokita’s office is conducting these investigations pursuant to its authority under Indiana’s Deceptive Consumer Sales Act and indecent nuisance statute.

“The influx of these illegal aliens, which are coming from over 150 different countries, have strained our schools and the children of taxpayers are suffering as a result. It has caused unneeded stress on law enforcement, local hospitals and healthcare facilities, and our housing and labor markets,” Attorney General Rokita said. It also raises serious questions about how these individuals’ arrival in Indiana is being facilitated.

###

In lawsuit, Attorney General Todd Rokita alleges that home-improvement contractor is scamming Hoosiers

Attorney General Todd Rokita has filed a lawsuit alleging that an Indianapolis home improvement contractor is scamming Hoosiers by taking money from consumers as deposits, starting work, then abandoning projects without issuing refunds — leaving consumers with partially finished conditions they must pay someone else to fix.

The lawsuit alleges that Hank Eversole – doing business as All Services Construction and Nationwide Construction – has violated Indiana law through such misconduct.

“Hoosiers looking to make repairs or improvements to their homes shouldn’t have to worry about being shafted by unscrupulous contractors,” Attorney General Rokita said. “We will continue working to hold accountable any contractor trying to take advantage of hardworking homeowners in this manner.”

This lawsuit alleges that Hank Eversole violated the Indiana Deceptive Consumer Sales Act and the Indiana Home Improvement Act. Attorney General Rokita is seeking injunctive relief, consumer restitution, penalties, costs and other relief.

This is not the first time this year Attorney General Rokita has filed a lawsuit to protect consumers against contractors who take money and then fail to complete projects.

Earlier this year, Attorney General Rokita filed suit against Exact Loss Consulting, Storm Solutions Pros, and Adam Greer alleging that they entered into home improvement contracts with consumers for storm-related damage to their homes and then failed to complete the work as contracted and failed to comply with consumers’ requests for refunds.

Attorney General Rokita also obtained a judgment against another set of companies doing business as Quest Exteriors that repeatedly entered into contracts to perform concrete and other exterior work on Hoosiers’ homes and failed to complete the work.

To prevent the headache of being scammed by a contractor, Attorney General Rokita offers the following tips to avoid falling victim to a home repair scam:

Ask your family, friends and co-workers for contractors they have used who have done good work.

Before signing a contract or making a payment, contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division and the Better Business Bureau for complaint information on contractors you are considering.

Get multiple bids from local contractors.

Avoid contractors who spontaneously show up at your door offering a “bargain” price for painting, driveway sealing, roof repairs, etc.

Never pay for the entire project before the work begins.

Don’t make the final payment to the contractor until you know all suppliers of materials and all subcontractors have been paid.

If you ever suspect a scam of any type, file a complaint at indianaconsumer.com or call Attorney General Todd Rokita’s office at 1-800-382-5516.

The lawsuit against Hank Eversole is attached.

###

HEversole Complaint.pdf

Tricks are fun, but unclaimed treats are to die for!

Attorney General Todd Rokita and Sammy Terry team up again for Halloween to reunite Hoosiers with unclaimed property

This Halloween season, Indiana icon Sammy Terry — the longest-running TV horror host in the world — is again partnering with the Attorney General’s Office to remind Hoosiers to search for unclaimed treats at IndianaUnclaimed.gov.

“Despite his scary reputation, Sammy is helping hardworking Hoosiers dig up treats, not tricks, this Halloween,” Attorney General Todd Rokita said. “What’s yours is yours, and it belongs with you rather than with goblins, gremlins or the government.”

Under Attorney General Rokita’s leadership, the office’s Unclaimed Property Division returned a record-breaking $81 million to hardworking Hoosiers in 2023. Hundreds of millions remain to be claimed.

Sammy Terry is featured in a digital advertising campaign calling all Hoosiers around the state to text SAMMY to 46220 and search your name for unclaimed property.

“Go, my minions, to Indianaunclaimed.gov and hunt for any unclaimed pleasant nightmares just waiting to be claimed by you,” Sammy Terry said. “Indiana Unclaimed returns well over $1 million every week to Hoosiers across the state. It’s easy, quick and free to search!”

Unclaimed property is any financial asset with no activity by its owner for an extended period of time. This can include unclaimed wages or commissions, money orders, safety deposit box contents, savings and checking accounts, refunds and overpayments.

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 state.

Please contact the Attorney General’s Unclaimed Property Division at 1-866-462-5246 or updmail@atg.in.gov with any questions.

Click here to view one of these ads.

###

Attorney General Todd Rokita secures suspension of Indy doctor’s medical license following unlawful prescribing and other violations

Attorney General Todd Rokita has secured a suspension of the medical license of an Indianapolis doctor charged with 114 counts of violating laws regulating his medical practice and controlled substance prescribing.

“Hoosier patients have the right to expect their doctors to put their safety and well-being at the top of the priority list,” Attorney General Rokita said. “When a physician performing surgery demonstrates reckless disregard for basic standards of care, he or she must be held accountable.”

On Oct. 24, the Medical Licensing Board suspended Dr. Scott Mimms’ license for a minimum of two years. Attorney General Rokita’s office filed an administrative complaint against Dr. Mimms with the board on April 24, 2024.

The Indiana Medical Licensing Board found that Dr. Mimms failed to exercise reasonable care and diligence; unlawfully prescribed Schedule II controlled substances for weight loss; and administered anesthesia in a facility without the proper accreditation to do so and without any additional providers trained in anesthesia present at the time of the surgeries.

Attorney General Rokita’s office investigates complaints against licensed professionals and entities across the state. They received the first consumer complaint against Dr. Mimms in August of 2022 — and 34 additional complaints thereafter.

Hoosiers can file a consumer complaint with the Attorney General’s office here.

Attorney General Rokita expressed gratitude for the diligent work on this matter by Investigators Delaney Walter and Cassie McDaniel and Deputy Attorneys General Carah Rochester and Amy Osborne.

A copy of the administrative complaint is attached.

###

2024 MLB 0002-compressed.pdf

Attorney General Todd Rokita delivers another blow to Big Pharma, announces $49.1 million national settlement to resolve price-fixing allegations involving generic drugs

If you bought certain generic prescription drugs in the US from 2010 to 2018, you could be eligible for money

Attorney General Todd Rokita, as part of a coalition of 46 states and four territories, has secured $49.1 million in settlements to resolve allegations that two companies engaged in widespread, long-running conspiracies to artificially inflate and manipulate prices, reduce competition, and unreasonably restrain trade with regard to numerous generic prescription drugs.

The two companies represent only a fraction of those implicated in such alleged misconduct. Indiana and other states are pressing forward with lawsuits against the remaining companies not participating in the settlements.

“Hoosiers deserve to know that the prices they pay for generic drugs arise from free and fair competition among pharmaceutical companies,” Attorney General Rokita said. “The fight is not over, and we continue to allege that company executives in this case colluded and conspired to keep prices high at their respective companies. We are holding them accountable for their egregious misconduct.”

As part of settlement agreements, the two companies have agreed to cooperate in ongoing multistate litigations against 30 corporate defendants and 25 individual executives. Both companies have further agreed to a series of internal reforms to ensure fair competition and compliance with antitrust laws.

A $10 million settlement with Heritage Pharmaceuticals is being filed Oct. 31 in the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut in Hartford. A settlement with Apotex for $39.1 million will be finalized and filed in the U.S. District Court in the near future.  The State of Connecticut has led the multistate litigation efforts.

Indiana residents’ ultimate share of the money will be determined by how many request refunds. If you purchased a generic prescription drug manufactured by Heritage or Apotex between 2010 and 2018, you may be eligible for compensation. Call 1-866-290-0182 (toll-free), email  info@AGGenericDrugs.com or visit www.AGGenericDrugs.com to see if you are eligible.

A coalition of nearly all states and territories filed three antitrust complaints, starting first in 2016.

The first complaint included Heritage and 17 other corporate defendants, two individual defendants, and 15 generic drugs. Two former executives from Heritage Pharmaceuticals, Jeffery Glazer and Jason Malek, have since entered into settlement agreements and are cooperating.

The second complaint was filed in 2019 against Teva Pharmaceuticals and 19 of the nation’s largest generic drug manufacturers. The complaint names 16 individual senior executive defendants.

The third complaint, to be tried first, focuses on 80 topical generic drugs that account for billions of dollars of sales in the United States and names 26 corporate defendants and 10 individual defendants.

Six additional pharmaceutical executives have entered into settlement agreements with the states and have been cooperating to support the states’ claims in all three cases.

###

Attorney General Todd Rokita secures revocation of licensure against Evansville addiction counselor who illegally sold drugs to patients

Attorney General Todd Rokita has ensured an Evansville addiction counselor who illegally dealt drugs to his patients will no longer be licensed in Indiana to provide counseling.

Following an administrative complaint by Attorney General Rokita’s office, the Indiana Behavioral Health and Human Services Licensing Board voted to revoke professional licensing held by Michael Hagedorn.

“Here we have a licensee who used his vulnerable patients for his own financial gain by feeding rather than treating their drug habits,” Attorney General Rokita said. “There is no world in which such a person deserves to work in the mental health and addiction field and thankfully they never will be able to again. We will continue standing up for vulnerable Hoosiers.”

Hagedorn is serving 16 years through the Indiana Department of Correction following convictions for dealing in methamphetamine and dealing in a narcotic drug. His sentence also involves a six-year enhancement for being a habitual criminal.

“Beyond the debt he is paying to society through the criminal justice system, this individual must also be kept far away from credentials that would enable him again to abuse patients from a position of trust,” Attorney General Rokita said.

The administrative complaint against Hagedorn is attached.

###

AC_2023BHSB0005.pdf

Don’t get tricked by flawed products this fall

Attorney General Todd Rokita warns consumers about products recalled in October

Attorney General Todd Rokita is alerting Hoosiers to important consumer protection concerns for products recalled in October. His office is encouraging consumers to take advantage of opportunities available to them to return, fix, dispose, return or replace a purchased recalled item that could be harmful to their families.

“Halloween may be over, but recalled products are still scary for your family,” Attorney General Rokita said. “Don’t get tricked into using a flawed product that could put your family in danger. Stop using recalled items immediately and pursue resolution from the manufacturer.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, click here to see the consumer products were recalled in October.

If you believe you recently purchased a recalled product, stop using it, and check its recall notice (linked above for all products). Then follow the notice’s instructions, including where to return the product, how to get the product fixed, how to dispose of the product, how to receive a refund for the product, or what steps must be taken to receive a replacement product.

To view recalls issued prior to October visit the Consumer Protection Safety Commission website.

University of Evansville Named Top 2024 Veteran-Friendly School by U.S. Veterans Magazine

11/12/2024

University of Evansville Named Top 2024 Veteran-Friendly School by U.S. Veterans Magazine

NOVEMBER 12, 2024

EVANSVILLE, IND. The University of Evansville (UE) has been recognized as a top veteran-friendly school for 2024 by U.S. Veterans Magazine, a leading publication that promotes the accomplishments and contributions of veterans in higher education and across various industries.

A team of individuals from across UE’s campus, including Cherie Leonhardt, Manager of Transfer Admission, has worked for years to create an environment that supports student veterans.

“We have something pretty special going on here at the University of Evansville,” she shared.

The university supports veterans through a variety of programs, including the Post-9/11 GI Bill Yellow Ribbon Program. UE waives any tuition not covered by the Department of Veterans Affairs, ensuring that veterans and qualifying dependents receive a quality education without financial barriers.

“We’re proud to offer a supportive environment where veterans can thrive,” said Leonhardt. “UE is a great place for student veterans, our size and close-knit community allow veterans to connect easily with faculty and peers, making the transition back to academic life smoother and more personalized.”

UE also offers a student veteran lounge, which fosters camaraderie and creates an inclusive environment where veterans can relax and connect with others between classes.

For more information on the University of Evansville’s veteran programs and support services, please click here.

To read the U.S. Veterans Magazine article about the University of Evansville click here.

About Veteran-Friendly

Each year, U.S. Veterans Magazine conducts select evaluations of the nation’s employers, law enforcement agencies, veteran outreach programs, and schools. These evaluations identify the most veteran-friendly organizations in terms of outreach and accessibility to veterans, military families, and transitioning service members. These non-biased studies are a valuable resource for the publication’s readers, job seekers, business owners, students, transitioning veterans, and consumers.

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.

1...227228229...7,171 Page 228 of 7,171