SEN. BRAUN LEADS INDIANA DELGATION LETTER TO COUNTER EPA’S PROPOSED BAN ON FORMALDEHYDE
WASHINGTON—Sen. Braun led members of the Indiana delegation in sending a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) on the impact the newly released draft risk evaluation for formaldehyde would have on critical industries in Indiana. The EPA’s proposal would establish a de facto ban on formaldehyde manufacturing, which disproportionately affects the production and accessibility of epi-pens, metered dose inhalers, seatbelts, electric toothbrushes, crop protection products, wood furniture, and funeral home services and departs from the international consensus on formaldehyde. More Hoosiers are employed in manufacturing than any other industry.
The lawmakers wrote:
“We write to you today regarding the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) newly released draft risk evaluation for formaldehyde under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). As you may know, formaldehyde is a “building block” chemical that has diverse applications throughout the Hoosier State in agriculture, automotive manufacturing, building and construction, consumer goods, and healthcare…
We believe that Congress and the Administration should encourage, not hinder, the expansion of America’s critical manufacturing sectors, and we understand that regulatory certainty is critical to assisting this imperative.”
Senator Braun’s letter to the EPA was cosigned by members of the Indiana delegation including Sen. Todd Young, Rep. Mrvan, Rep. Baird, Rep. Spartz, Rep. Pence, Rep. Banks, Rep. Bucshon, Rep. Yakym, and Rep. Houchin.
AGENDA FOR APRIL 1, 2024 EVANSVILLE CITY COUNCIL MEETING
APRIL 1, 2024
5:30 P.M.
AGENDA
| I. | INTRODUCTION |
04-01-2024 Agenda Attachment:
| II. | APPROVAL OF MEETING MEMORANDUM |
03-18-2024 Memo Attachment:
| III. | REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS |
| IV. | SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY |
| V. | CONSENT AGENDA: FIRST READING OF ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS |
A. ORDINANCE F-2024-04 An Ordinance of the Common Council of the City of Evansville Authorizing Transfers of Appropriations, Additional Appropriations and Repeal and Re-Appropriation of Funds for Various City Funds Sponsor(s): Burton Discussion Led By: Finance Chair Burton Discussion Date: 4/22/2024 Notify: Robert Gunter, Controller F-2024-04 Attachment:
| VI. | COMMITTEE REPORTS |
| VII. | REGULAR AGENDA: SECOND READING OF ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS |
| VIII. | RESOLUTION DOCKET |
| IX. | MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS |
A. THE NEXT MEETING of the Common Council will be Monday, April 22, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.
B. ADDITIONAL MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS
| X. | COMMITTEE REPORTS |
| XI. | ADJOURNMENT |
EPA invites applications to serve on advisory council for Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority Serving Institutions
WASHINGTON – March 29, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it will be seeking applications to serve on the newly established Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority Serving Institutions Advisory Council (HBCU-MSI AC). The HBCU-MSI Advisory Council will provide independent advice and recommendations to Administrator Michael S. Regan and future Administrators on how Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) can help identify any barriers to equal employment opportunity, nurture the next generation of environmental leaders, and ensure that these vital institutions of higher learning have the resources and support to thrive for generations to come.
“We are embarking on a transformative journey by establishing the first ever HBCU-MSI Advisory Council, a major step forward in our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion at EPA. By harnessing the unique insights and energy of students and faculty from HBCUs and MSIs, we are ensuring the future of environmental leadership is diverse and dynamic,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “This council will be instrumental in shaping our policies and priorities, keeping the voices of the next generation at the heart of our mission to protect the environment and public health. It’s a critical move towards building a workforce that truly reflects the diversity of America, and I am excited for the innovative solutions and fresh perspectives that will emerge from this collaboration.”
Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) are institutions of higher education and include Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs), and Asian American and Pacific Islander Serving Institutions (AAPISIs). This federal advisory committee is part of EPA’s comprehensive effort to advance equity in economic and educational opportunities for all Americans while protecting public health and the environment.
On June 21, 2021, President Biden signed Executive Order 14035 to advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) in the Federal workforce. This Executive Order reaffirmed that the United States is at its strongest when our nation’s public servants reflect the full diversity of the American people. The HBCU-MSI AC furthers the work being done at EPA and across the administration to ensure all persons receive equal treatment under the law and that our federal workforce draws upon all parts of society because our greatest accomplishments are achieved when diverse perspectives are brought to bear to overcome our greatest challenges.
EPA is soliciting applications to fill 15-20 vacancies on the HBCU-MSI AC from a variety of sectors including, but not limited to, representatives from business and industry, academia, non-governmental organizations, and local, county, and Tribal governments that have experience working at or in partnership with HBCUs and/or MSIs. Selected applicants will be appointed by the Administrator to serve a 2-year term and contribute to a balance of perspectives, backgrounds, and experience of the council.
Applications to the HBCU-MSI AC are due by Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. ET. To apply for appointment, the below information is required:
- Contact information
- Resume OR CV
- Statement of interest
Visit the EPA HBCU-MSI Advisory Council webpage for more information on the council and how to apply. EPA will host two virtual webinars to provide more information about this call for applications. These webinars will be a space for the public to ask their questions live to EPA staff.
Evansville-Vanderburgh County Convention & Visitors Commission Finance Committee Meeting Notice
Evansville, IN –March 27, 2024 – Meetings of the Evansville-Vanderburgh County Convention &
Visitors Commission, Evansville Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc., Evansville Visitors Centers Inc., Evansville Events, Inc., Evansville-Vanderburgh County Convention & Visitors Commission Building Corporation, and Evansville-Vanderburgh Convention & Visitors Commission Sports Complex Operations Corporation (collectively “Commission”) will hold a Finance Committee meeting on Monday, April 1, 2024 at 11:00 am. The meeting will be held in Suite 410 of the Fifth Third Bank Building, 20 NW 3rd Street, Evansville, IN.
Attorney General Todd Rokita doubles-down on major robocaller after company violates permanent ban
Attorney General Todd Rokita, along with seven other attorneys general, today asked the court to take aggressive action against John Caldwell Spiller II, after Spiller violated permanent robocall and telemarketing bans issued in March 2023.
“Robocalls are not only annoying, but they are also harmful to Hoosiers’ finances,” Attorney General Rokita said. “When robocallers act, innocent victims are at risk even if they simply pick up the phone. Once these deceitful callers know a number is tied to a legitimate person they will continue to target them with one goal in mind – taking their hard-earned money.”
Attorney General Rokita obtained judgments shutting down a massive robocall operation involving Spiller and other defendants last year.
As part of the judgment, Spiller was banned from making robocalls or engaging in telemarketing. Despite this permanent injunction, Spiller continued to harass people by making deceptive and abusive robocalls and by helping others make these calls.
Spiller used aliases and falsified business records filed in various states and with the Federal Communications Commission to continue doing this illegal business. Further, since the attorneys general sued him and his co-defendants, Spiller has set up at least three new businesses through which he engaged in telemarketing and facilitated robocalls.
Because he violated these bans on robocalling and telemarketing, Attorney General Rokita and the 7-state coalition are asking the court to ban Spiller from engaging in all telephone-related services, to dissolve his existing telephone service companies, and pay $122,339,320.
Attorney General Rokita has made it a major mission to protect Hoosiers from robocalls since he took office in 2021.
The Indiana Attorney General’s Office is joined in filing this motion by the Attorneys General of Arkansas, Michigan, Missouri, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, and Texas.
TAYLORVILLE – A TRIBUTE TO TAYLOR SWIFT AT OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA THIS JUNE
TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW!
Evansville, IN – March 29, 2024 – Old National Events Plaza is calling all Swifties to Taylorville – A Tribute to Taylor Swift on June 23, 2024! Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com and The Plaza box office.
This dynamic tribute band is bringing unmatched musical talent to the stage, taking fans on a journey through Taylor’s iconic career. The show comes alive with stunning video wall production, adding a visual display that complements each song perfectly.
Taylorville – A Tribute to Taylor Swift lets fans of all ages pay homage to pop-sensation, Taylor Swift, in all their glittering glory. Swift fans, unite, and come prepared for an afternoon full of your favorite songs and dancing like you’re‘22,’ because this party is never going out of ‘Style!’
Ticket Information:
What: Taylorville – A Tribute to Taylor Swift
When: Sunday, June 23, 2024, at 1:00 PM
Where: Old National Events Plaza | 715 Locust Street | Evansville, IN 47708
Tickets: Tickets start at $20.00 plus applicable fees and tax.
Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com and the Old National Events Plaza Box Office.
Indiana State Police Regional Dispatch Center (Fort Wayne) Hiring Shift Supervisor
(Fort Wayne, IN)- The Indiana State Police is accepting applications for a Shift Supervisor at the Region II Dispatch Center which is located at the Fort Wayne Post 5811 Ellison Road, Fort Wayne. The Region II Dispatch Center covers the Fort Wayne Post (11) county region, as well as the Peru Post (7) county region.
A Regional Dispatch Center Shift Supervisor’s primary responsibility is to provide shift supervision to Regional Dispatchers to ensure efficient and accurate telecommunications operation relating to operational and personnel functions at the Regional Dispatch Center, including the oversight and use of a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, Records Management System (RMS), Automatic Vehicle Locator (AVL), Geographical Information System (GIS) and other Regional Dispatch Center resources.
Duties include direct supervision of Regional Dispatch Center communications operational personnel, operational functions, and assignments. The Dispatch Shift Supervisor will evaluate, train and schedule dispatchers as well as need to understand and anticipate dispatchers’ work needs and be able to take appropriate actions. You will participate in the selection of new Regional Dispatchers as required and work with the Regional Dispatch Center Manager to maintain efficient operation of the radio room and act as Assistant District Coordinator of Indiana Data and Communications System (IDACS). Responsibilities include assisting with covering all shifts during illness, vacations, and other shortages.
Pay starts at $53,222.00 per year but may be adjusted based on education, experience, and training. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement plans, and accrued time off.
For more information and to apply, go to joinispfamily.com. The application deadline is Sunday April 14, 2024. Questions about this position can be directed to Regional Dispatch Center II Manager Brad Deane at (260)432-8661 (option 8).
Vincennes University to host 4th annual Blazers Give Day on April 4
The Vincennes University community will come together for the fourth annual Blazers Give Day on Thursday, April 4, 2024.
The 24-hour day of giving celebrates the Trailblazer spirit and gives VU supporters an opportunity to make a difference that carries forward each and every day.
Executive Director of VU Foundation and Senior Director of Advancement Kristi Deetz is available for interviews. Other members of the Foundation will be available for interviews as well.
Giving information can be found at vinu.edu/blazersgive
The campaign lasts 24 hours. It begins Thursday, April 4, 2024, at 12 a.m. ET and ends at 11:59 p.m. ET.
Vincennes University to host 4th Annual Blazers Give Day: A 24-hour giving event
VINCENNES, Ind., March 28, 2024 – Vincennes University is gearing up for its fourth annual Blazers Give Day, a 24-hour giving event on Thursday, April 4, celebrating the vibrant spirit of the Trailblazer community.
The yearly event unites VU alumni, parents, faculty, staff, students, and friends from all over the world with the confidence of collectively making a lasting impact that carries forward every day.
The “One Day That Makes A Difference Every Day at midnight (EDT) on April 4 and runs until 11:59 p.m. (EDT).
In 2023, more than 120 new donors joined Blazers Give Day, and there’s hope to exceed that goal in 2024.
Throughout the day, the Vincennes University Foundation will host Facebook Live events and engage in additional social media activities to rally support and raise awareness for the giving event. Supporters are invited to sign up to be a Blazers Give Ambassador, helping to promote the event by sharing content on social media and encouraging others to follow using the hashtag #BLAZERSGIVE.
The Blazers Give Fund, an unrestricted fund, allows the University to allocate resources where they are needed most. Last year, the Foundation supported an additional $190,000 in housing scholarships thanks to Blazers Give Day. With the continued support of VU alumni, friends, and partners, the Foundation aims to increase its scholarship awards, which have already reached $1.2 million this academic year. The Foundation also has funds for faculty development, academic programs, student services, athletics, and capital projects.
According to Executive Director of VU Foundation and Senior Director of Institutional Advancement Kristi Deetz, “Blazers Give Day is a time to celebrate the many ways the Trailblazer community comes together in a spirit of giving. Our alumni, friends, partners, and colleagues give their time, share their talents, and provide financial support so students can pursue their goals and dreams as well as experience academic excellence in their chosen majors. Together, we make Vincennes University stronger every day.”
In addition to individual contributions, several local businesses will support Blazers Give Day with various initiatives. Texas Roadhouse will kick off the event with a Dine and Donate on the evening of April 3. On April 4, businesses including, Pea-Fections, GlennO’s Corner Cafe, Kelso’s 19th Hole, Cafe Moonlight, Frank’s, Impressed Coffee, Jenna’s Bakehouse, St. Benedict’s Brew Works, Zip and Sip, and Byron Bobe’s Pizza House will participate in fundraising efforts. Old Chicago Pizza + Taproom will hold a dine-to-donate event and host an alumni gathering from 5-8:30 p.m. (EDT).
Blazers Give Day is the perfect opportunity to make a lasting impact. Join VU now and take active steps to contribute in various ways and help the University make a difference every day.