Just like proving your age to buy alcohol, age verification to access porn poses no constitutional problems
Just like proving your age to buy alcohol, age verification to access porn poses no constitutional problems
Attorney General Todd Rokita co-leads SCOTUS brief ending contrived controversy
The First Amendment does not prevent states from requiring online purveyors of pornography to implement reasonable age-verification measures to protect children from harm. As co-leader of a 24-state coalition, Attorney General Todd Rokita pressed this point in an amicus brief filed with the U.S. Supreme Court recently.
The court is considering a constitutional challenge to a Texas law requiring websites hosting large amounts of obscene material harmful to children to implement a reasonable age-verification system. That law is similar to an Indiana law passed by the General Assembly. It reflects that states have long had the authority to prevent minors from accessing obscene materials, including pornography.
“Not only do states have the authority to prevent pornography websites from providing children with hardcore porn, but they have a responsibility to do so,” Attorney General Rokita said. “The truth is that exposure to porn — much of which touts sexual violence — causes real harm to minors. It hurts them emotionally, intellectually, psychologically, sexually and socially. So, there are compelling reasons to prevent minors from viewing pornography. Children are a precious gift from God. As a public servant, I’ll always support parents in the mission to protect our kids.”
Many other adult industries — such as alcohol, gambling and tobacco — already employ age-verification technology.
Evansville Rescue Mission Hosts 103rd Annual Gobbler Gathering Today
Evansville Rescue Mission Hosts 103rd Annual Gobbler Gathering Today
Providing Thanksgiving Meals to Thousands in Need
The Evansville Rescue Mission (ERM) is proud to host its 103rd annual Gobbler Gathering tomorrow, a cherished tradition that provides Thanksgiving meals to local families in need. This monumental event will distribute over 2,000 Thanksgiving food baskets, ensuring that no one goes hungry during the holiday season.
The Gobbler Gathering is one of the longest-standing community outreach initiatives in the
Tri-State area, embodying the spirit of generosity and care. Each food basket includes essential items like canned goods, stuffing, and a turkey, thanks to the unwavering support of local donors, businesses, and volunteers.
“The Gobbler Gathering represents what the holidays are all about—community, compassion, and coming together to support our neighbors,” said Tracy Gorman, President/CEO. “We are honored to continue this tradition and grateful for the countless individuals and organizations who make it possible.”
We encourage the community to continue supporting this vital initiative by donating funds or non-perishable items and volunteering to help make a difference. For more information, please visit Evansville Rescue Mission’s website.
Hoosier poultry producers were generous with their communities again throughout 2024
Hoosier poultry producers were generous with their communities again throughout 2024
Gov. Eric Holcomb, Indiana State Department of Agriculture Director Don Lamb and the Indiana State Poultry Association recognized the generosity of Indiana’s poultry producers at the 77th annual Governor’s Poultry Presentation at the Indiana Statehouse. Over the past year, Indiana poultry farmers and businesses have continued their long practice of working to address food insecurity in the communities within which they operate and across the state.
Through their generosity, Indiana food banks and community organizations were able to offer 250,000 pounds of nutrient-rich duck, turkey and chicken meat to Hoosiers in need. Indiana chicken egg producers supplied food banks with one million dozen eggs, and duck producers donated upwards of 50,000 dozen eggs this year as well. Beyond the donation of poultry and eggs, poultry companies provided in excess of $120,000 in direct contributions to various not-for-profit and charitable organizations in their communities.
“Indiana poultry producers truly embody the generosity of the Hoosier spirit,” said Gov. Eric Holcomb. “The members of the Indiana State Poultry Association are committed to feeding the world and their neighbors alike. I want to thank them for their commitment to strengthening Indiana agriculture and for their bountiful donations throughout this past year.”
For decades, Indiana’s poultry producers have been working to address food insecurity in local communities by providing protein to food banks across the state. Some of the main products that were donated over the course of this year included eggs, chicken, duck and turkey.
The strength of Indiana’s poultry sector was also recognized during the ceremony as Indiana is one of the top poultry producing states in the country. According to the USDA National Agriculture Statistics Service, Indiana ranks No. 1 in duck production, No. 3 in egg production, No. 4 in turkey production and is home to high quality broiler chicken production as well.
Poultry farming and processing is a substantial economic driver for the state contributing more than $18.34 billion in total economic activity. The sector directly employs 12,792, and it supports an additional 35,719 jobs in allied industries and services across the state according to according to the U.S. Poultry and Egg Association.
ISPA President Becky Joniskan shared, “Protein is such an essential part of a healthy diet, and everyone, regardless of their situation, benefits from having nutritious poultry and egg products on their plate. Indiana’s poultry companies and the many family farms they represent recognize their responsibility to their neighbors, and they are humbled to be able to share the work of their hands with the communities and state they call home.”
The poultry products on display today were donated to Second Helpings, a hunger relief agency, in Indianapolis. This ceremony marks an annual tradition that dates back to the late 1940s. Organized by ISPA, one of the oldest poultry organizations in the nation, it was designed to celebrate the strength and generosity of Indiana’s poultry industry, as well as the annual donations made by its members, who are responsible for more than 95% of the chicken, duck, turkey and eggs produced in Indiana.
CenterPoint Energy shares safety and energy-saving tips
CenterPoint Energy shares safety and energy-saving tips
From checking smoke alarms to unplugging unused devices, the company reminds customers to keep safety and energy savings top of mind
As Thanksgiving approaches, CenterPoint Energy is sharing safety and energy-saving tips to help customers prepare for the holiday season. While this time of year is filled with gathering and gratitude, it also offers an opportunity to review safety measures and energy consumption at home.
From whipping up holiday favorites to carving out energy savings, these tips promote safe and enjoyable holiday festivities for everyone:
Natural gas safety tips
Know the signs of a gas leak: Natural gas has a distinctive rotten egg smell. If you detect this odor, leave your home immediately without using electrical switches or phones. Once you’re in a safe location, call 911 and CenterPoint Energy.
Keep appliances clear: Keep flammable items like paper towels and boxes away from open flames or stovetops to reduce fire risks.
Schedule routine maintenance: Schedule routine maintenance with a qualified professional to confirm your furnace, stove and water heater are functioning properly and operating safely.
Test your carbon monoxide (CO) and smoke alarms: Change batteries regularly. Alarms don’t last forever, so replace them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Electric safety tips
Be mindful of kitchen appliance use: Use heavy-duty extension cords If additional power is needed for appliances and never connect multiple high-energy devices to a single outlet.
Inspect holiday lighting: If decorating for the holidays, check string lights for frayed wires or broken bulbs before use. Only use lights certified for indoor or outdoor use as appropriate.
Use appliances safely: Avoid placing cords or small appliances near water sources, such as sinks or faucets, to prevent electrical shock.
Energy efficiency tips
Cook smart: Limit opening your oven door while in use and choose the burner size that best matches the size of your pan. Use smaller appliances like toaster ovens or slow cookers for side dishes to save energy.
Turn down the thermostat: The heat from your oven and the presence of guests can help keep your home warm, so consider lowering your thermostat by a few degrees.
Unplug devices: Unplug chargers and appliances that aren’t being used to cut down on idle energy consumption.
For those who may have trouble paying their heating bills this winter, CenterPoint has tips, tools and programs to help customers manage their bills and save energy. To learn more, visit CenterPointEnergy.com/PaymentAssistance.
Carver Community Organization Announces New Executive Director
Carver Community Organization Announces New Executive Director
Deiona Clayton, director of Carver Community Organization’s Early Childhood Center for 20 years, has been named the new executive director of the organization.
Clayton will begin her tenure as the first female Executive Director in January 2025 and will take over leading Carver Community Organization from David Wagner. Wagner’s legacy of 41 years of leadership — 35 as Executive Director – has provided a strong foundation for future innovation and growth, said Board President Nick Cirignano.
“We are so grateful for David’s tenure with the organization, all of the milestones that have been achieved, and families that have been served over the years,” Cirignano added.
Clayton has served in a variety of positions at Carver Community Organization for a total of 26 years. She began as an administrative assistant in 1998, becoming lead teacher later that year. In 2001 she was named the 2nd shift program leader and in 2004 began as the Early Childhood Center director.
Clayton is a graduate of Ball State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in General Studies with a concentration in elementary and special education. She also attended the University of Southern Indiana and studied Early Childhood Education.
“Dede has demonstrated expertise in her current role in curriculum development, staff supervision, and creating enriching environments that foster children’s growth and learning,” Cirignano said. “She has a proven track record in establishing strong partnerships with families, ensuring regulatory compliance, and implementing innovative teaching strategies, as well as promoting a safe, inclusive, and nurturing atmosphere where children can thrive.”
Carver is in its 80th year of service to the community. The Early Learning Center is NAEYC Level 3 accredited and was designed to reach underserved individuals in our community in its many programs which impact children, families, and seniors.
Carver programs are diverse and include:
- Childcare and early learning programs
- Second shift daycare
- K-5 Afterschool Programming
- Summer Camp
- Pathfinders Project
- Senior Services Center
- Senior Recreation Program
- Community Guidance for Families
HOW TO KEEP YOUR PIPES FROM FREEZING THIS WINTER
From The Statehouse File
As cold weather and winter approach, it’s important to protect your pipes from freezing during low temperatures, according to a press release from Indiana American Water. Frozen pipes can leave you without water in the worst of weather and cost a lot to repair. With a few simple steps, you can easily preserve both your budget and your peace of mind.
Locate and test your main water shut-off valve
Before the cold sets in, locate your main water shut-off valve and hang an ID tag on it so you can find it quickly in an emergency. In many homes, it is located near the water meter or close to where the water pipe enters the home.
To test your main water shut-off valve, slowly close it. If you have a ball valve, it generally only requires a quarter turn to close. Gate valves are generally closed by turning the handle clockwise and should turn easily. You may need to have it serviced if it does not close easily.
Once the shut-off valve is completely closed, check sinks and other water fixtures to make sure you found the main water valve and that it is working properly. If no water comes out of any faucets, CONGRATULATIONS, you found your shut-off valve! See below for more tips to help keep life flowing this winter.
Open cabinet doors
If pipes run through cabinets or vanities, open the doors to let warmer room temperatures flow in.
Protect your pipes
Wrap pipes with insulation or heat tape before cold weather sets in.
Check irrigation systems
Make sure everything is turned off and drained.
Eliminate cold drafts
Eliminate sources of cold air near water lines and fix drafts around windows and doors.
Allow water to flow
When temperatures stay below freezing, keep water moving through the pipes by allowing a small trickle of water to run.
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.
Aces take down Campbell on Sunday afternoon
Aces take down Campbell on Sunday afternoon
UE wins second game of the weekend
EVANSVILLE, Ind. – Tayshawn Comer scored a team-high 18 points to lead the University of Evansville men’s basketball team to a 66-53 victory over Campbell on Sunday afternoon at the Ford Center.
Comer led the Purple Aces with six assists and five free throw makes while grabbing six rebounds. Cam Haffner scored 16 points, going 7-for-15 from the field. Gabriel Pozzato and Tanner Cuff scored 10 points apiece. Pozzato tied for the game-high with seven boards.
“It is a good feeling to win again. I am really proud of how our defense played, to hold a team that averages over 70 points to just 53 shows the effort our guys put in,” Aces head coach David Ragland said. “We dealt with some adversity earlier in the week and to see how we responded on Friday and today is a major positive for us.”
Campbell scored the opening four points of the game before Cam Haffner got the Aces on the board with a triple. Gabriel Pozzato followed with another trey to give UE its first lead at 6-4. Converting four of their first five attempts, the Fighting Camels retook a 10-6 edge.
Evansville countered with a 9-0 run that put them back in the lead at 15-10 at the 12:35 mark. Tayshawn Comer had back-to-back field goals to open the stretch. Campbell fought back with the next seven to jump back on top before another UE run put them up by five. Another 7-0 rally was highlighted by Pozzato’s second long ball of the afternoon.
Once again, the Camels answered, retaking a 28-27 edge inside of the 3-minute mark, however, in a half that was highlighted by runs from each team, UE made its move. Trent Hundley’s triple in the final minute helped the Aces secure a 34-28 halftime lead.
After the Camels opened the second half with a 3-pointer, UE responded with eight in a row to take its first double figure lead at 42-31. Campbell got as close as seven points midway through the second half, but Evansville never let them get closer, finishing the day off with a 66-53 victory.
Leading Campbell was Jasin Sinani who posted 22 points. He was a perfect 11-of-11 from the free throw line. The Camels finished the game shooting 32.7% while the Aces finished at 45.1%. UE wrapped up the contest with a 35-29 edge on the boards.
Tanner Cuff scored just five points but was effective in every facet of the game in a career-high 36:57 of action. Along with a career-best five steals, Cuff added three assists without turning the ball over.
UE has a nine-day break before returning to action on Dec. 3 with the Missouri Valley Conference opener at Murray State.
-www.GoPurpleAces.com-