Jerome Stewart: The Word in 120 –
The Word in 120
By Jerome Stewart March 23, 2025
The Unplayable Life
In golf there is a term referred to as an “unplayable lie.” It means a situation where the ball has landed in a spot that makes it impossible to play. Think of a golf ball up against a tree.
There are circumstances in life where so many bad decisions have been made, that the individual’s life has become an “unplayable lie,” in its current state. All the way back to the book of Genesis, bad decisions end up having bad consequences. In Genesis chapter 2; Adam and Eve had life good, until they messed things up! Vss. 16 & 17 says; “And the LORD God commanded the man saying, ‘Of every tree of the garden you may freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.’”
Eve; Adam’s helper, would be guilty of disobedience to God the same as Adam. Both Adam and Eve’s life as well as the lives of all of mankind would be impacted. God has given mankind free will which allows us to make choices in life whether good or bad. Adam and Eve would have to leave the garden of Eden never ever to return. Genesis chapter 3 vs. 24 says; “So He drove out the man; and placed cherubim at the east of the garden of Eden, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to guard the way to the tree of life.”
Why? Disobedience to the commandment of God, meant a return to the garden of Eden was an impossibility! Many people who have chosen to be disobedient to the word of God, find that their life has become impossible to deal with in its current state, when it doesn’t have to be that way. Many people lack faith that God exist. We did not self create! Hebrews 11 vs. 6 says; “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for He who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
And lastly: God sent Jesus into the world because it was impossible for us to overcome the temptation of sin! So the question is this. Has your life become an “unplayable lie,” in its current state because of sinful behavior? Proverbs 12 vs. 15 says; “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but he who heeds counsel is wise.” There is always hope in Jesus Christ. Try Jesus. He will not let you down. And that’s the truth!
Proposed bill would require employers to accept applicants’ non-accredited diplomas
Proposed bill would require employers to accept applicants’ non-accredited diplomas
-
- By Erin Bruce, TheStatehouseFile.com
The types of diplomas accepted by public employers and institutions could be altered by House Bill 1348 by Rep. Timothy Wesco, R-Osceola.
The bill, which currently sits in the Senate Education and Career Development Committee, would prohibit state and local agencies and higher-education institutions from denying or treating applicants differently if their diploma were from a non-accredited, non-public school. This would also prevent the employer from providing additional testing.
“My parents made their decision to homeschool their children very early on in the modern homeschool environments, and we’re blessed to be able to go through that process,” Wesco said. He acknowledged that his diploma and transcripts were validated by his parents and said he was grateful not to have been treated differently based on the origin of his credentials. He went on to attend Bethel University in Mishawaka.
“There have been reports in our state of local units of government, particularly, I won’t name anyone, but one of the largest law enforcement local entities in our state, that have rejected applicants solely on the basis of the origin of their diploma,” he said.
Throughout the committee meeting, he alleged that the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department had denied an applicant, who was a college graduate, on the basis of his high-school diploma being unaccredited. Wesco said a state homeschool association had shared this information with him.
In an email to The Statehouse File, IMPD’s Public Information Office said: “The IMPD does not reject any applicant for a sworn officer position simply because they were home-schooled for grade/high school. In the situation that is described, … it [the high-school credential] would not be looked at because the person had graduated from an accredited university.”
IMPD also stated that the lack of applicant name made it difficult to respond to the specific case.
During the committee meeting, Sen. Andrea Hunley, D-Indianapolis, stated that the requirement to have an accredited high-school diploma falls under Indiana administrative code, and taking the test to obtain a GED through an accredited school would fulfill the requirement. The applicant could also earn a degree from an accredited college to qualify. Hunley said she reached out to the chief of police, who explained that the requirement falls under this code.
“I also just want to caution us about talking about a specific case when we don’t have both sides,” she said.
Wesco’s legislation would keep state and local governments from denying unaccredited high-school diplomas but excludes private institutions. “Parents or small school operators have full legal authority to execute any document required to provide evidence regarding their child’s high school education,” he said.
When addressing concerns from the committee, Wesco claimed there is no state test required for public or charter school students to obtain a diploma and said students can receive diplomas on a waiver basis.
Wesco said state higher education institutions in Indiana have not denied students on the basis of the origin of the diploma but alleged it has occurred in other states. He said Indiana’s institutions are considered very welcoming to students from non-accredited non-public backgrounds.
Joel Hand spoke on behalf of the Indiana Coalition for Public Education and the American Federation of Teachers of Indiana in opposition to the bill.
“What this bill really does is it creates a legal fallacy,” Hand said. His groups are concerned about giving non-verified credentials the same status as credentials obtained from institutions that meet accreditation standards.
“We are forgetting how this will impact so many students that end up dropping out of high school to be homeschooled by their parents but not have any real education taking place,” he said.
Hand emphasized that in some scenarios homeschooling can be the best option and provide legitimate education, but that many cases may leave students vulnerable.
“If homeschool students wish to have that same level of credibility with their diploma, I’m fine with that, as long as we know that they’re meeting the same standards,” he said.
Indiana homeschools are exempt from following a specific curriculum.
In support of the bill, Kylene Varner spoke on behalf of the Indiana Association of Home Educators (IAHE) and IAHE Action.
“In recent years, IAHE has worked with families facing diploma issues with police departments,” she said. She also cited government agencies, big-box retailers, higher education, cosmetology schools, and the military as entities that have caused issues for students with diplomas from homeschooling.
“I think it’s really important to say that within the non-accredited non-pub world, there’s a large degree of freedom. So, what my kids are learning in school isn’t necessarily what their peers in public school are learning,” she said. Varner said her daughter had taken algebra 1 and geometry at the same time in eighth grade, and that her other kids may approach the class requirements differently in order to best fit their needs.
Responding to Varner’s testimony, committee member Sen. Fady Qaddoura, D-Indianapolis, pointed to another proposed bill, HB 1498, which relates to school accountability.
“It’s difficult,” he said, “because I understand the homeschool community does not want any government interference to preserve freedoms and liberties. … That constraint creates an issue of how do you satisfy the trust that is needed by institutions and employers?”
Erin Bruce is a reporter for TheStatehouseFile.com, a news site powered by Franklin College journalism students.
Hoosier History Highlights
This Week in Indiana History
March 23 – March 29
Indiana Statehouse Tour Office
Guided tours of the Indiana Statehouse are offered Monday through Friday.
For more information contact us. (317) 233-5293 Estanley@idoa.in.gov
March 24, Mike Braun, Governor of Indiana, born in Jasper.
March 24, 1930 Steve McQueen, American actor called “The King of Cool” during the 1960s (The Magnificent Seven, The Great Escape), born in Beech Grove.
March 28, 1936 Bill Gaither, American Grammy Award-winning contemporary Christian music singer, musician, and hymn writer, born in Alexandria.
Indiana Quick Quiz
1. Which Indiana county is named for the man who became the 9th U.S. President?
2. In what Indiana city will you find the Boone County Courthouse?
3. Which Indiana county is named for the inventor of the steamboat?
4. Which Indiana county is named for a former governor of New York?
Answers Below
“There’s no reason to be the richest man in the cemetery. You can’t do any business from there.”
-Colonel Sanders
Submitted by: Scott Lindborg
Send your favorite Hoosier quote to: RegEdwards@idoa.in.gov
Answers
1. Harrison County (named for William Henry Harrison)
2. Lebanon
3. Fulton County (named for Robert Fulton)
4. Clinton County (named for DeWitt Clinton)
Indiana Capitol Tour Office
This email was sent by: Indiana Department of Administration
402 W Washington Street, Room W469, Indianapolis, IN, 46204 US
During Spring Break, Watch for Signs of Human Trafficking
Spring break, a time often associated with relaxation and celebration, unfortunately provides opportunities for traffickers to exploit vulnerable individuals, particularly in areas with large crowds and tourist activity.
“Human trafficking is a modern form of slavery that thrives in the shadows, and spring break destinations can become prime targets for this evil enterprise,” said Attorney General Rokita. “Whether you’re traveling to a beach, a big city, or staying close to home, we need every Hoosier to be the eyes and ears in our fight to prevent human trafficking and bring perpetrators to justice.”
Large gatherings and travel hubs, such as those common during spring break, are known to create increased demand for trafficked individuals forced into manual labor, commercial sex acts, or other exploitative services. People in certain roles—such as hotel staff, restaurant workers, transportation providers, and medical professionals—are especially likely to encounter trafficking victims and should stay alert.
Signs of human trafficking to watch for include:
- Individuals who appear fearful, submissive, or unable to speak for themselves.
- People living in cramped or poor conditions, or with their employer.
- Signs of physical abuse, malnourishment, or lack of personal freedom.
- Answers that seem scripted or rehearsed when questioned.
- Minors engaging in commercial sex acts, with or without overt signs of coercion.
“Spring break should be a time of enjoyment, not exploitation,” Attorney General Rokita added. “Traffickers prey on the vulnerable, and it’s up to all of us to stop them. If you see something suspicious, report to local law enforcement immediately.”
If you suspect someone is being trafficked, contact local law enforcement right away or call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888.
Hoosiers are also encouraged to visit the US Department of State’s Safe Traveler’s program and Travel Advisory website.
The Office of the Attorney General operates the Address Confidentiality Program, which helps protect victims of certain crimes — including those who have been trafficked — by concealing their residential address from the public and thereby their victimizers.
Retail Food Establishment Inspection Report
Click here to see the latest food inspection reports. Provided by Vanderburgh County Health Department.
MARCH BIRTHDAYS
The Reitz Home Derby Party is Back!
Saturday, May 3, 2025 | 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
After a long-awaited hiatus, the Reitz Home Derby Party is back—and better than ever! Celebrate the 151st Kentucky Derby in style at the Ellis Park Sky Lounge, where the thrill of the races meets an afternoon of Southern charm, fashion, and fun.
A Derby Day to Remember
This signature event returns with reserved seating, exciting betting opportunities, fabulous food, and lively auctions—all while supporting the historic Reitz Home Museum. Whether you’re a seasoned race fan or just here for the hats, cocktails, and camaraderie, you won’t want to miss this unforgettable Derby Day experience!
Tickets & Pricing
- Individual Ticket – $150
Includes reserved seating, admission to the event, and hors d’oeuvres.
- VIP Derby Couple’s Package – $500
Includes two reserved seats, admission for two, hors d’oeuvres,
and commemorative 151st Kentucky Derby glasses.
What’s Included:
- Reserved Seating for all guests
- Delicious Food included with admission
- Cash Bar featuring classic Derby cocktails
- Betting Opportunities throughout the event
- Silent & Live Auctions with exciting items and experiences
- Hat & Sock Contest – Show off your Derby best for a chance to win!
Dress to Impress!
The Derby is all about style—so don your biggest hat, your boldest bowtie, or your sharpest suit. Whether you’re sipping a mint julep or cheering for your favorite horse, you’ll be part of a tradition like no other.
Tickets can be purchased in the following ways:
Call the Reitz Home Museum at 812-426-1871 to reserve your seats.
Mail a check payable to the Reitz Home Museum to:
112 Chestnut Street, Evansville, IN 47713
Buy Online – Click the button below to purchase your tickets securely.
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 baseball wins first Valley series against Murray State
