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Upholding Honor & Justice

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damour-1The Honorable Judge Richard G. D’Amour

By Scottie Thomas

 

Originally from Woodbury, New Jersey, the Honorable Judge Richard G. D’Amour moved to Terre Haute, Indiana with his family.  He earned his undergraduate degree from Notre Dame and his law degree from Indiana University in Indianapolis.  It was not until 1981 when D’Amour moved to Evansville.  He has been married for 38 years to his wife, Holly.  They have no kids but an adorable dog, Enzo, named after Ferrari.  D’Amour.

 

The Honorable Judge D’Amour was elected Superior Court Judge in 2010 and his term will run for six years.  A magistrate is a judicial officer appointed to serve by the elected judges.  His term will conclude at 2016 for Vanderburgh County.  Unlike judges in most of the 92 counties, Vanderburgh County, one of two counties, has their judges run on a non-partisan basis.

 

Some of the philanthropy D’Amour participates in: the Evansville Museum, Green River Kiwanis Club, The Salvation Army’s Soup Kitchen and his Church, which is St. Mary’s Catholic Church.  He and his wife sing in the choir and are very active with their church.  From time to time, D’Amour also enjoys going to a cigar lounge, ‘Cigar!Cigar!’

 

One of the defining moments for Judge D’Amour is after spending twenty-four years as a lawyer; he helped establish the Alternate Dispute Resolution Fund (ADR Fund).  It is a program that helps low-income litigants in family law disputes obtain mediation services at little or no cost to them. It is funded by an additional $20 added to the filing fee for divorce actions.

 

There was one case that stood out to D’Amour.  He shared it was about a man who allegedly murdered his step-daughter, age seven.  With the help of another colleague, they were able to prosecute, leading to a verdict of ‘guilty.’  Years later, the family of the victim still expresses their gratitude and appreciates to D’Amour for his efforts and work in the case.

 

If Judge D’Amour was not doing practicing law, or serving as an Honorable Judge, he would be heavily involved in the church, serving as Deacon.  ‘Faith is very important to me,’ said the Honorable Judge Richard G. D’Amour.

EVSC Administration Employee Receives October Cause for Applause Award

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EVSC

               Marietta Morgan, EVSC data specialist, has been named the recipient of the October Cause for Applause employee recognition award.

Earlier this school year a bus driver had inquired as to if the corporation had any Spanish materials she could use to better communicate with the Hispanic students that ride her bus. Director of Professional Development for Classified Staff Heather Wilson, went to Marietta and asked her for input as Marietta, whose native language is Spanish, works with the English Learner services in the schools.

Marietta created and led a Spanish class for bus drivers that taught them the basics of the language and provided the English to Spanish translation of words and phrases they might use in their position. As the teacher of the classes, Marietta was able to touch on the Spanish culture and some of the differences between the countries who speak Spanish. According to Wilson, who nominated her for the award, Marietta was “warm, open and made the class feel at ease.”

Wilson also commented that teaching Spanish classes to bus drivers is definitely not in Marietta’s job responsibilities, but she volunteered because she knew it would make an impact on our students and employees.

Anyone can nominate an employee of the EVSC for the award. Deadline for nominations is the third Friday of each month. Go to http://www.evscschools.com/community/nominate-evsc-employees-exemplary-work for the nomination form. Paper forms are available at the schools for those without access to the Internet.

IS IT TRUE October 3, 2013

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Mole #3 Nostradamus of Local Politics
Mole #3 Nostradamus of Local Politics

IS IT TRUE October 3, 2013

IS IT TRUE the timeline for the new downtown convention hotel is looking very much like a ground breaking for real should happen in the spring of 2014 assuming the loan for HCW happens as hoped, the Evansville based investors really follow through, and the permits are issued in a timely manner to proceed?…given that the headline number for the construction phase of the project is 18 months the grand opening will occur in the fall of 2015 exactly 4 years after the opening of the Ford Center and over 7 years since our former mayor announced that if we build and arena a hotel will come for free?…we should know by the ground breaking whether or not downtown Evansville will be chosen as the location for the IU Medical School?…Mr. Bob Warren should be feeling the heat soon to start marketing the Centre with its new hotel for those bunches of 2016 conventions we have been hearing about?…the marketing materials should be very interesting to see?…perhaps that long list of attractions that Evansville already has will dominate his materials if they have not fallen into disrepair?…we do seem to recall that Mesker Amphitheatre was on his list of local jewels just 2 years ago?

IS IT TRUE the CCO reiterates that not a darn thing should be proposed for construction or bonding until that is settled including the storage place for the Ford Center that somehow eluded the minds of the architects for the Ford Center?…the amount of storage required for a multi-purpose 10,000 seat arena should be a multiple choice test question in a freshman architecture class but the team that designed the Ford Center must have gotten an F in that class?…it is another one of those unplanned unintended oversights that seems to be a way of life in downtown Evansville?

IS IT TRUE the City County Observer is pleased to announced that after the Courier Press started charging $10 a month for digital access and comment privileges that our traffic has gone up by roughly 150% over the same period last month?…during last week we set records for day traffic, week traffic, and closed out September with a record month since we first started counting?…it is gratifying to see some of the regular posters from the CP have come over to the CCO to fill their need to dialog about what is going on in Evansville?…for the most part Evansville is right now a good model for cooperation and compromise to reach an acceptable solution that the elected officials from both parties in Washington DC could take a few lessons from?…if you think Washington is looking like spoiled children now wait two weeks until the debt ceiling is reached and the check writing has to stop?…if both sides continue with the ways of the last two days you can bet they will all be getting an earful from their constituents at that time?

IS IT TRUE one of the odd conundrums of the ObamaCare debate is the fact that the guy it is named after (President Obama) has taken steps to make sure that he and his family along with the White House staff, Congress, and the Congressional staff are all exempted for the program that bears his name?…this should be fodder for comedians with comparisons like “what would it say about Ford products if Henry Ford had put it in his corporate bylaws that his family, his board, and his management team should not drive Fords”, or “the Mason family cannot use Mason jars”, or even “what if the descendants of the Dukes and Vanderbilts were encouraged to avoid the universities that bear their names”?…when a prominent person is not interested in a product or service that bears their name, it should make you quite skeptical about the value of that product or service?

IS IT TRUE in what is one of the most insulting closures of a national monument, our federal government that paid no money at all for the construction of the World War II monument has closed it due to the government shutdown?…this monument is not manned, has not gift shop or tour guide, and was paid for entirely by donations from those whose loved ones served and died in World War II?…there is no excuse for this monument being closed whether the government is open or not?…we wonder what account paid for the labor of the parks service employees who were putting up temporary fencing to keep people out yesterday?…the selection of no cost or low cost things for closure just to try to elicit emotional reactions for political purposes is despicable?…it is a good thing that the LST is in private hands or we may have had some federal employees flown in to gate it up too?…this practice and this choice is disgusting?

October – The Month of Pink

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Pinky_20101029072616_640_480  October – The Month of Pink


This October marks the 29th annual National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM). Founded in 1985 by the American Cancer Society and Imperial Chemical Industries, NBCAM is the top campaign designed to raise awareness about the reality of breast cancer.

By the end of 2013, about 232,200 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women. Most of us know someone – a family member, friend, co-worker or acquaintance – who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. It is a leading cause of cancer death in women, exceeded only by lung cancer.

There is good news though! There are currently more than 2.8 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S. To keep this number on the rise, many different public service organizations, professional medical associations and government agencies are working together to continue to promote awareness of the disease and raising funds for continuing medical research. 

There are many ways for you to make a difference during the month of October and all year round.

Early Detection

Catching breast cancer, or any kind of cancer, early on can greatly improve the chances of a full recovery. For women in their 20s and 30s, it is recommended that you have a clinical breast exam every three years. In your 40s, start getting yearly  mammograms and clinical breast exams. Men are not exempt from this conversation as they can also get breast cancer. It is rare, but make sure you let your doctor know if you find any unusual lumps on your chest. 

Donate to the Cause

Many organizations and campaigns focus heavily on raising funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer. NBCAM.org , Pink for October, Susan G. Komen , the NFL’s A Crucial Catch campaign and the  American Cancer Society all have information about how you can help spread the word or donate your time and/or money to the cause. 

Support Survivors

The 2.8 million breast cancer survivors out there still need our love and support. Make sure to ask how they are doing and if you can do anything to help. Organize a group of friends to send cards and deliver homemade meals, or just stop by and lend a listening ear. 

Please join me this October in the fight against breast cancer. Together, we can make a difference.

A New Wave at Marina Pointe

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photo-6

BeerTropolis is the Center of River Front Entertainment

Scottie Thomas

Beertropolis is a fresh, new establishment but in a similar building or lot to people.  Located off Marina Pointe, this trendy, tropical and country-friendly hangout is off the Riverfront in Evansville, Indiana.  Owner and Manager Blake Fulton wants to attract the mature crowd who want to chill, have some drinks, listen to good music and just hang out.

The name ‘Beertropolis’ was created by Tim Ash, a man of many talents in the music and song writing industry.  Similar to that of ‘Margaritaville,’ this jingle kick-started the new place at Marina Pointe for business.  Wanting to lose some of the past stigma about college night clubs, Beertropolis is a break from that atmosphere.

The historical LST from the second World War is harbored just a short walk from Beertropolis.  Decorated with the vessel’s history and story, Beertropolis is working on writing their own history and story.  This Monday, September 23nd, 2013 at 12:30 p.m., the LST will be going down the Ohio River back to dock with Mayor Lloyd Winnecke on board and there will be a live military band.

Their signature item is their burgers.  The traditional cheeseburger is available with your classic condiments and dressings.  Or you may venture away from the norm and try their delicious Bacon Cheeseburger with Pepper Jack Cheese, along with a basket of French fries or onion rings.

With $2 pints of draft beer every day and a Chill Chamber that keeps your aluminum bottles or cans at a temperature of 22 degrees (Fahrenheit).  Open and operating since July 4th of this year, Beertropolis will be host to Keith Vincent on Friday, September 19, 2013 and Rick Hillborne on Saturday, September 20, 2013, both at 8 p.m.

With lots of space and seating, Beertropolis is the perfect place for your birthday parties, wedding receptions and any other celebration or special occasion.  It is barefoot friendly to welcome the boating life individual or any adult with a taste for some good music, some great grub and a chilled beer.  Be sure to check out Beertropolis.

Fulton has two kids, as does his girlfriend, Tabitha, of about a year and a half.  He is divorced and is also a city firefighter of thirteen years.  Fulton has experience in the food and hospitality industry. He also used to be a part-owner of Joey’s Bar & Grill on Franklin Street.  Looking to make Beertropolis the center of entertainment on the Riverfront and a proud partner in the community, Fulton is on board for the new wave on the Ohio River.

VANDERBURGH COUNTY FELONY CHARGES

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nick herman Below is a list of felony cases that were filed by the Vanderburgh County Prosecutor’s Office on Tuesday, October 01, 2013.

 

Binnie Bryant Jr                      Battery Resulting in Bodily Injury to a Pregnant Woman-Class C Felony

                                                         Criminal Confinement-Class C Felony

                                                        Battery Resulting in Bodily Injury-Class A Misdemeanor

Antonio Patterson                       Theft-Class D Felony

Thomas Payne                              Operating a Vehicle as an Habitual Traffic Violator-Class D Felony

Karen Goodwin                             Possession of Methamphetamine-Class D Felony

                                                          Possession of Paraphernalia-Class A Misdemeanor

John Rybolt                                 Operating a Motor Vehicle after Forfeiture of License for Life-

Class C Felony

The Ultimate 70’s And 80’s Dance Club Is Here … BOOGIE NIGHTS!

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tropicanaTropicana Evansville announces the Grand Opening of the ultimate 70’s and 80’s dance club, Boogie Nights in The District at Tropicana on Saturday, October 5th.

 

The new dance club is filled with all your favorite 70’s and 80’s icons. From custom-painted graffiti-covered walls, to posters of television, movie and pop icons, to the period furniture, brand owner Dave Pena says every weekend at Boogie Nights is like a step back in the 70’s and 80’s. The centerpiece, however, is the lighted, multi-colored dance floor crowned with a sensational mirrored ball.

“Everything you remember, the first time MTV went on the air, the first kiss you had, listening to REO Speedwagon,” says Pena, “It’s all here!”

The dance club will feature fun 70’s and 80’s characters like Mr. Boogie, Roller Girl, Mirror Man, The Boogie Beaver, Hoola-Hoop Girl, and traveling celebrity impersonators. The Grand Opening will include performances by Boogie Nights’ world-famous Prince impersonator.

 

The evening’s featured guest is 80’s pop sensation, Tiffany! She will be performing her hits, “I Think We’re Alone Now”, “Could’ve Been”, “All This Time”, and more! Tiffany is available for telephone interviews on Wednesday, October 2, from 9AM to 11AM(CST). Call Dave Pena at 917-690-8144 to schedule an appointment.

 

An invitation-only VIP Party will kick-off the evening at 8PM (CST). Doors open to the general public at 9PM (CST). Boogie Nights will be open each Friday and Saturday night at 9PM.

 

Boogie Nights joins forces with Blush Ultralounge, RiRa Irish Pub & Restaurant and The Sports Book Bar & Grill to formThe District After Dark, a concentration of high-energy nighttime venues offering fun for visitors of all ages.

 

Trooper Bartram Memorial Ride, Saturday, Oct. 5, 2013 Benefiting Helping Hands For FREEDOM

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user29396-1380653383-media1_738379_144_192_PrsMe_Trooper Bartram Memorial Ride, Saturday, Oct. 5, 2013
Benefiting Helping Hands For FREEDOM

Join us for an Observation Ride\Poker Run on the back roads of Morgan County to help benefit Helping Hands for Freedom.
Please contract Kim Van 352-586-4553 with any questions
This ride is to raise money for the Helping Hands for Freedom and to commemorate Senior Trooper James Patrick Bartram

Senior Trooper James Patrick Bartram
Hometown: Mooresville, Indiana
Appointed: December 19, 1987
District: Putnamville
March 14, 1961 – March 31, 1998
On March 31, 1998, Senior Trooper James Patrick Bartram was enroute eastbound on State Road 144 in Morgan County, when he observed a violator. As he was pursuing the speeding vehicle, Senior Trooper Bartram attempted to avoid a car that pulled into his path and slid into an oncoming pickup truck. Senior Trooper Bartram, along with the driver and passenger of the other vehicle, lost their lives in the crash.

Ride Starts: (registration noon-1:30PM)
(last car/bike out 1:30PM)
Indianapolis Southside Harley Davidson
4930 Southport Crossing Place
Indianapolis, IN 46237
Ride Ends: (last car/bike in 4:00PM)
American Legion
500 Memorial Drive
Edinburg Indiana 46124
Day of the Ride Single $20.00 Double $30.00
Pre-REGISTRATION Single Rider $15.00 Double: $25.00
Mail Check to HHFF (Helping Hands for FREEDOM)
6233 Brookville Road Indianapolis, Indiana 46219
There will be lots of prizes, Pig roast and a Band at the end of the ride.
Thanks to our sponsors:

Pre-registration: send this form in with your check before 9/30/13. Name:______________________________________________
Address:_______________________________
Phone:______________________________________________
Children not allowed inside of the American Legion—Adults Only

Contact Information:
Rich Myers
PIO
317-899-8577
rmyers@isp.in.gov

For full details, view this message on the web.

Officer suspended following internal investigation, additional punishment to be considered by Police Merit Commission

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EPD PATCH 2012On September 18th 2013, the Evansville Police Department Internal Affairs initiated an investigation into allegations that an on-duty officer violated multiple department rules and regulations. The allegations stemmed from the officers interaction with a female at a local business.

The Internal Affairs investigation has been completed. The findings of the investigation have resulted in recommendations from Chief Billy Bolin to the Police Merit Commission. The recommendations include the officer involved in the complaint be suspended without pay for 21 days. The suspension begins immediately. Chief Bolin has also recommended the Police Merit Commission consider dismissal of the officer.

Upon receiving the Chief’s recommendations, the Merit Commission will hear the case at an upcoming meeting. The Merit Commission can affirm the recommendations or change them to a lesser action.

For full details, view this message on the web.