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Gov. Holcomb’s 2024 Next Level Agenda receives overwhelming support from Indiana General Assembly

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Key agenda initiatives will strengthen critical areas such as child care, education and community development for Hoosiers

INDIANAPOLIS- Governor Eric J. Holcomb today commends the Indiana General Assembly for prioritizing his key agenda items that will build on the momentum of a successful 2023 budget session.

“I laid out a significant agenda that will strengthen fundamental programs, resources and services that impact the everyday lives of Hoosiers,” Gov. Holcomb said. “I’m pleased that leadership and members of the General Assembly responded to my 2024 Next Level Agenda with such broad support. The legislative successes provide a game plan to ensure that progress continues for affordable and accessible child care, improved literacy rates and increased access to post-secondary degree programs to better prepare Hoosiers for jobs of the future.”

The Indiana General Assembly approved all crucial components of Gov. Holcomb’s 2024 Next Level Agenda.

Child care

SEA 2 will provide Hoosiers more access to quality child care by:

  • Expanding eligibility for the state’s On My Way Pre-K Program and state-administered Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) vouchers for the employees of licensed child care entities, providing free or reduced cost child care to members of this critical workforce who earn up to 85 percent of the state’s median income.
  • Reducing the minimum caregiver age for infant and toddler rooms from 21 to 18, with appropriate requirements for child safety.
  • Lowering the minimum supervised caregiver age for school-age classrooms from 18 to 16 with appropriate oversight and requirements for child safety.
  • Allowing qualified individuals working in other fields, such as K-12 teachers, to register as ‘substitute educators’ to expand the pool of early childhood educators.
  • Authorizing a statewide employee compensation study to inform ongoing efforts to improve salaries for early childhood educators.
  • Enabling more K-12 public schools to qualify as eligible providers for the On My Way Pre-K Program.

K-12

SEA 1 supports Gov. Holcomb’s commitment for 3rd grade students to reach 95% reading proficiency by 2027 by:

  • Mandating schools to identify struggling readers earlier, such as administering IREAD in second grade.
  • Requiring that summer school reading programs are offered to students not on track for reading proficiency.
  • Requiring non-passing students annually retake IREAD through sixth grade to ensure ongoing literacy supports.
  • Strengthening retention to ensure significantly fewer third graders who cannot read advance to fourth grade.

HEA 1243 prepares secondary students for the workforce by:

  • Requiring a computer science course for high school graduation beginning in 2029 to better equip Hoosier students with the necessary digital skills to enter the mid-21st century workforce.

Higher Education

SEA 8 promises to provide more degree opportunities by:

  • Encouraging state universities to offer and develop more structured three-year bachelor’s degree programs.
  • Studying the advisability of public four-year campuses awarding certain earned associate degrees to eligible current and former students.
  • Establishing a statewide ‘Reverse Transfer Program’ that identifies former community college students who transferred to a state university who are eligible for an earned associate degree.

Community Development

SEA 190 offers communities more support in recovery efforts after a disaster by:

  • Streamlining how the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) can be used to ensure more expenses associated with disasters are eligible.
  • Allowing a portion of the SDRF to be awarded for disaster mitigation programs to assist in protecting against future damage.
  • Simplifying the public assistance grant formula for easier access when needed.
  • Increasing the maximum potential award for individual assistance from $10,000 to $25,000.
  • Incentivizing counties to prepare hazard mitigation plans by increasing the amount the county can receive in a disaster.

Good Government

SEA 70 seeks to better public safety efforts for communities by:

  • Creating a task force charged with reviewing bail reform efforts by analyzing data to determine the impact on public safety, including violent crime and recidivism rates.

Additionally, Gov. Holcomb will focus his work toward connecting Hoosiers with the right jobs for future mobility by continuing work on the following agenda items: 

Economic and Workforce Development

  • Maintaining the“One Stop to Start” workforce hub that offers real-time support and one-on-one navigation that connects Hoosiers and employers to workforce, education and training programs that meet their needs.
  • Promoting the state’s workforce education and training programs, including Next Level Jobs and other resources.

For more details click HERE for Bill Watch 2024.

PEOPLE ARE GETTING PAID BY E-REP TO MOVE TO EVANSVILLE INDIANA

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PEOPLE ARE GETTING PAID BY E-REP TO MOVE TO EVANSVILLE INDIANA

published by CNN

MARCH 11, 2024

Indiana has been one of the most ambitious states when it comes to enticing a new wave of workers with financial relocation packages and perks. Dozens of cities and regions have an incentive package in place, according to MakeMyMove, and as of 2023, some 340 households have relocated to Indiana through the platform.

Hopeful Hoosiers have plenty to choose from for their new home. A package valued at $15,000 in Noblesville, a suburb of Indianapolis, includes a $5,000 relocation grant, a season of free golf at two courses, and coffee with the mayor. In Evansville, meanwhile, qualified applicants can take advantage of a $7,200 incentive that includes $5,000 in cash, museum passes and a one-year membership to the oldest urban old-growth forest in the US

Did you know that Evansville will pay people to move here? An article on CNN says that Evansville is one of two Indiana cities offering incentives to get people to relocate. The value of the relocation incentives is $7,200 and includes the following:
$5,000 cash
A two-year membership to Cowork Evansville coworking space
Day Passes to the Children’s Museum of Evansville
Passes to the Evansville Museum of Arts, History and Science
Tickets for 2 to the Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra
One Year Membership to Wesselman Woods, the largest urban old-growth forest in the US + an exclusive tour with the Executive Director
What’s the catch?
Are employed full-time and able to relocate while retaining their current position, or
Are self-employed and able to relocate while retaining their current clients/portfolio
Earn at least $60,000 annually
Are 18 years or older
Currently reside outside of Indiana
Must relocate primary residence to Vanderburgh County within 6 months
For more details on Move to the Evansville Region, visit: https://www.makemymove.com/get-paid/evansville-indiana
The other Indiana city mentioned in the article is Noblesville. They offer a package valued at $15,000, which includes a $5,000 relocation grant, a season of free golf at two courses, coffee with the mayor and more.

Darkness Solar Eclipse Watch Party!

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Get ready to witness an astronomical marvel at the Pages of Darkness Solar Eclipse Watch Party, hosted by Willard Public Library in collaboration with the Jacobsville Neighborhood. Mark your calendars for April 8th, from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, and join us for an unforgettable cosmic celebration!

Event Details:

Date: Monday, April 8, 2024

Time: 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Location: Willard Park and Willard Library

Here’s what’s in store for you:

  • Astrology of Paranormal Energy During an Eclipse: Delve into the mysterious side of eclipses and uncover the celestial energies that surround this captivating phenomenon.
  • All-Day Eclipse Related Entertainment: Enjoy eclipse-themed movies on the big screen at the Browning Gallery and explore the library’s offerings.
  • Food Trucks & Fun: Treat your taste buds to delicious bites from local food trucks while engaging in outdoor games and activities suitable for all ages.
  • Support Local Businesses: Discover the treasures offered by Jacobsville’s local businesses, ranging from handmade crafts to unique finds.
  • Eclipse Swag: Commemorate this celestial event with limited-edition eclipse t-shirts, glasses, and other cool merchandise available for purchase.
  • Eclipse Viewing Party: Gather with fellow sky enthusiasts as we marvel at the solar eclipse together. Be sure to bring your favorite chair or blanket for maximum comfort.

Reserved parking spots are available for $10 each, with all proceeds supporting Willard Public Library’s community initiatives. Reserve your spot in advance here, or find parking on a first-come, first-served basis in the park and across First Avenue.

This event is open to the public and free for all attendees. Bring your friends and family along for an afternoon of celestial wonder!

Learn more about the Jacobsville Neighborhood here.

Don’t miss out on this celestial extravaganza! We look forward to seeing you there.

 

University of Evansville’s BSU to Host Panel on Infant Mortality Disparities

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u of E

Titled “The Intersectionality and Disparities of Infant Mortality,” the event aims to shine a spotlight on the multifaceted challenges surrounding infant mortality and ignite positive change within the community. Specifically, the discussion will delve into the intersections of socioeconomic status, race, access to healthcare, and systemic disparities that contribute to this issue.

The event will start with a networking hour from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Eykamp Hall in the Ridgway University Center. Attendees can enjoy a light breakfast while connecting and collaborating.

The centerpiece of the event will be a panel discussion starting at 10:00 a.m., featuring the following experts:

  • Thomas Stratton, MD, FAAFP, Chair, Health Committee, NAACP Evansville Branch
  • Lynn Herr, RN, BSN, CPN, Director, Clinical & Outreach Division for the Vanderburgh County Health Department
  • LaRissa Madison, MSN-Ed, RN, IBCLC, RLC, Deaconess Health – The Women’s Hospital
  • Trinisia Brooks, EdD, Evansville-Vanderburgh School Corporation

The panelists will bring their diverse perspectives and expertise, offering insights into the root causes of infant mortality disparities and potential solutions.

The University of Evansville is a private, comprehensive university located in the southwestern region of Indiana. Established in 1854, UE is recognized across the globe for its rich tradition of innovative, academic excellence and vibrant campus community of changemakers.

Home of the Purple Aces, UE 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.

 

Celebrate WPL’s 139th Birthday with Historic Library Tour

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Step into the captivating world of our library’s history! On March 23rd, from 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM, we invite you to join us for a day of history tours as we celebrate the legacy of our beloved library leading up to its 139th birthday!

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, March 23, 2024

Times: 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM and 3:30 PM

Location: Willard Public Library

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of our library’s past as you explore the nooks and crannies of our storied halls. From the intriguing journey from past to present to the discovery of the treasures that make our library truly special, each tour promises an adventure through time.

Tours will be held at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:30 PM to accommodate your schedule. To ensure your spot, we encourage you to reserve your tour time in advance through the links below:

11 AM Tour: Link

1 PM Tour: Link

3:30 PM Tour: Link

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to journey through time and celebrate the remarkable history of our library! We look forward to welcoming you on March 23rd for an unforgettable experience.

 

BOARD OF PARK COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING

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BOARD OF PARK COMMISSIONERS

REGULAR MEETING

ROOM 301 CIVIC CENTER COMPLEX

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 12, 2024

12:00 NOON

  AGENDA

1.      CALL TO ORDER

2.      MEETING MEMORANDUM   N/A

3.      CONSENT AGENDA

         N/A              

4.     OLD BUSINESS 

         N/A

5.      NEW BUSINESS   

         a. Request Re: Open bids for RFP-508-002-24 for Helfrich Golf Course Concessionaire

             Order.- Crook

         b. Request Re: Open bids for RFP-508-001-24 for bathroom and shelter yearly cleaning 

             contract. -Fankhouser

         c. Request Re: Approve and Execute Extension of the mowing contract with Smith’s

             Lawnworks.- Fankhouser

         d. Request Re: Any Other Business the Board Wishes to Consider and Public Comment.

6.      REPORTS  

         N/A          

7.      ACCEPTANCE OF PAYROLL AND VENDOR CLAIMS

 

8.      ADJOURN

GIAQUINTA RECAPS INDIANA’S 2024 LEGISLATIVE SESSION

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INDIANAPOLIS – Upon the Indiana House of Representatives’ motion to adjourn sine die, House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne) provided the following recap on the 2024 legislative session.

GiaQuinta highlighted the positive legislative achievements by House Democrats, including:

“I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: House Democrats are pragmatic problem solvers,” GiaQuinta said. “I am incredibly proud of the work our caucus did this session to work across the aisle and try, try again until results were delivered for Hoosiers. Being a pragmatic problem solver means not letting the perfect be the enemy of the good – a principle we acted upon again and again this session.”

GiaQuinta also pointed to the instances in which House Democrats served as critical bulwarks against legislation that would harm Hoosier communities.

“From Reps. Harris, Gore, Hamilton and Johnson’s calm and civil work to save mass transit projects in Indianapolis and statewide to Rep. Bauer’s effort to make sure that dangerous PFAS language did not sneakily pass both chambers in the 11th hour of the legislative session, House Democrats took a strategic and disciplined approach to stopping bad legislation from becoming law. In these instances, we ensured that reason prevailed and Hoosier communities can remain connected and safe from dangerous chemicals.”

Still, though, GiaQuinta mourned the losses this session for local control, regular Hoosiers and governmental transparency.

  • Local control lost out when it came to:
    • Voiding Gary’s gun lawsuit and limiting future lawsuits against the gun industry and
    • Limiting local governments’ ability to regulate the puppy mill industry.
  • Regular Hoosiers lost when it came to:
    • Leaving families with medically complex children high and dry when it came to continuing Indiana’s attendant care program;
    • More rollbacks of wetlands protections for special interests;
    • Less oversight of the under-the-microscope gaming industry;
    • Taking away workplace protections from children working in hazardous farm labor conditions; and
    • Unnecessary overreach and censorship of Indiana’s excellent public universities.
  • Government transparency lost when it came to:
    • Rep. DeLaney’s amendment to require an explanation of how the $1 billion shortfall happened being removed from Senate Bill 256 and
    • Limiting the scope of the public access counselor.

“Hoosiers sent House Democrats to the General Assembly to make their lives better, and I’m sorry we couldn’t stop this legislation to limit local control, hurt regular Hoosiers and decrease governmental transparency from becoming law,” GiaQuinta concluded. “You deserve state government that works for you, and it’s a shame that Statehouse Republicans put special interests and backroom deals before your wellbeing. I promise that House Democrats will continue fighting for Hoosiers during this interim and into the 2025 legislative session.”

EPD DAILY ACTIVITY REPORT

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EPD

 

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.

Missouri Man Arrested after Driving 130 mph and Crashing into another Vehicle

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Posey County – Saturday night, March 9, at approximately 7:05 p.m., Trooper Backes was operating stationary radar on I-64 near the 9 mile-marker when he clocked a 2015 Infiniti traveling east at 95 mph. Trooper Backes attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver accelerated and continued east at a high rate of speed.  Moments after the initial radar clock, Trooper Vennekotter utilized his radar unit and clocked the vehicle at 130 mph.  The vehicle exited I-64 at the Poseyville exit, drove left of center on SR 165 at the exit ramp, and struck a 1997 Ford F250 pickup truck that was traveling north. The driver of the pickup truck had to be extricated by Poseyville Volunteer Fire Department. The driver of the pickup truck was identified as a 52-year-old male from Owensville. He was transported to Deaconess Midtown Hospital. The driver of the 2015 Infiniti was identified as Amir Tuzlakovic, 21, of St. Louis, MO. Tuzlakovic was arrested and taken to the Posey County Jail where he is currently being held on bond.

Arrested and Charges:

  • Amir Tuzlakovic, 21, St. Louis, MO
  1. Resisting Law Enforcement with a Vehicle and causing Serious Bodily Injury, Level 5 Felony
  2. Criminal Recklessness with a Vehicle, Level 6 Felony
  3. Reckless Driving causing Injury, Class A Misdemeanor

Arresting Officer: Trooper D. Backes, Indiana State Police

All criminal defendants are to be presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Brugnoli, Pesavento Named To MVC Scholar-Athlete Team

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EVANSVILLE, Ind.—The University of Evansville women’s swimming and diving team had two members named to the Missouri Valley Conference Scholar-Athlete Team on Wednesday, as junior Sveva Brugnoli (Rome, Italy) and sophomore Mia Pesavento (Enola, Pa./Cumberland Valley) earned the honors for their work in the classroom and at the 2024 MVC Swimming & Diving Championships.

The MVC Scholar-Athlete teams are selected based off performance at the MVC Championships, with individuals carrying a 3.5 GPA or above earning Scholar-Athlete Team honors by being a member of the MVC All-Conference Team.  Individuals with a 3.7 GPA who place in the top 16 in an individual event also earn MVC Scholar-Athlete Team honors.  Those individuals who owns GPAs of 3.9 or above and participate in the championships (even non-scorers) also earn MVC Scholar-Athlete team status.  Brugnoli carries a 3.77 GPA in Exercise Science at UE, while Pesavento owns a 3.88 GPA in Actuarial Science at Evansville.

In all, 66 competitors from the 2024 MVC Swimming & Diving Championships were named to the MVC’s Scholar-Athlete Team.

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