FOOTNOTE: Â EPD DAILY ACTIVITY REPORT information was provided by the EPD and posted by the City-County-County Observer without opinion, bias, or editing.
USI Swim and Dive Taking Steps Forward in Year Two of the Program
Evansville, Ind.- A group of 37 freshmen made up the Screaming Eagles Swimming and Diving roster last season in the first year of the program looking to make a splash. The season brought its share of ups and downs for the Eagles as you might expect.
In year two, the program has developed more confidence and experience. Both squads placed fifth in the ultra-competitive A3 Performance Invitational in their last meet at Southern Illinois University.
The women’s squad took down Valparaiso and Eastern Illinois University. This marks the third win against Valparaiso this season and the first win in program history against conference rival Eastern Illinois University.
The men’s squad edged Valparaiso for the second time this season in the A3 Performance Invitational. USI men scored 147 more points than they did last season at the invite.
Both squads accounted for 20 school records, 140 individual season bests, and 29 lifetime bests.
“With so many season and lifetime bests, it showed that the team is doing a lot of great things in and out of the pool. I’m proud of how each meet has gotten better and better in this fashion. For us to continue the climb at this meet and fight hard all the way through the last relay on day three, it showed the resiliency and love this team has,” said head coach Cameron Kainer about his overall thoughts on the A3 Performance Invitational.
When asked about what the A3 invite meant for the team going forward, Kainer said “I thought our performance at A3 really gave us some strong motivation for the rest of the season. We had a lot of A and B Finals swims, which will prepare us for what’s to come at Summit Champs in February. I think there is continued motivation for those outside of Top 16 placings and for relay spots, but overall it showed how positively things are progressing for us.”
What’s Ahead for the Eagles
USI takes two months off to train and prepare for the second half of the season. The Eagles will host a men’s diving only event against the University of Evansville on January 13. Then, both squads will compete against Rose-Hulman University at the USI Aquatic Center on January 27.
The Eagles hit the road to take on Quincy University, Eastern Illinois University, and the University of Illinois at Chicago (diving only) to conclude the regular season. This leads up to the Summit League Championships in Minneapolis, Minnesota on February 21-24.
USI Women’s Soccer adds transfer midfielder Grafton for 2024
EVANSVILLE, Ind. – University of Southern Indiana Women’s Soccer announced the addition of sophomore midfielder Emerson Grafton to the roster for the 2024 season.
Grafton, sister of USI defender Charli Grafton (Sunriver, Oregon), is a transfer who spent her first two collegiate seasons at Idaho State University. The Camas, Washington native is the 11th signing for the Screaming Eagles and Head Coach Eric Schoenstein ahead of the 2024 campaign.
“We are excited to welcome Emerson to the USI Soccer family,” Schoenstein said. “Emerson is a crafty midfielder, who brings a great deal of toughness and Division I experience.”
From 2022 to 2023, Grafton totaled 24 starts in 35 appearances and over 2,000 minutes played. The 5’6″ attacker scored two goals with 25 shots and 14 shots on target.
Before Idaho State, Grafton was a four-time all-state selection in high school. Plus, she was all-state in cross country and a state champion in track and field.
Raptor Con Returns to Evansville this SAT & SUN
Raptor Con 2023 is bringing a full scale comic con experience to the Tri-State with our 3rd Annual Pop Culture and Geek Convention. Join us at our new home the Evansville National Guard Armory for Celebrity guest, vendors, a cosplay contest, video game contest, panels/q&a sessions, photo ops, replica movie cars, and so much more. This two day event is not something you will want to miss. Grab your tickets now online at www.TheRaptorCon.com
USI to host inaugural opera, Ruth
The University of Southern Indiana’s College of Liberal Arts, in collaboration with USI’s Dr. Philip H. Hagemann Performing Arts Department, Hagemann Rosenthal, the Pegasus Opera Company (London), the Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus and the USI Foundation, will present an inaugural USI opera, Ruth, on Friday and Saturday, January 26-27, at the USI Performance Center. Performances will begin at 7 p.m., and tickets are $20 each.
Dr. Philip Hagemann composed and wrote the libretto for Ruth, a production based on the Biblical Old Testament Historical Book of Ruth. This acclaimed opera has been staged multiple times in New York and London. The narrative revolves around a Moabite woman who, pledging herself to the Israelite people through an oath to her mother-in-law Naomi, later becomes the great-grandmother of David through her marriage to Boaz of Bethlehem.
“The beauty of the story’s construction, its use of dialogue and the sheer drama of its content, mark it as one of the classic short stories of world literature,†reads a review from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. “Based on the recollection of an historical figure, a story is developed which grips its audience with profound insight into divine and human relationships.â€
This production will be semi-staged, with Maestro Roger Kalia and Alison Buchanan working closely in collaboration with the Hagemann Performing Arts Department. The orchestra will feature professional musicians from the Evansville Philharmonic, while the chorus will consist of 12 USI students and four members of the Evansville Philharmonic Chorus. The six principal soloists will wear costumes crafted by faculty and students from the USI Theatre Department. All other roles will be fulfilled by USI students and staff.
All expenses of the opera are being underwritten by private gifts to the USI Foundation.
“The inaugural on-campus opera, Ruth, is a testament to the collaborative spirit between USI and our community,†says David Bower, President of the USI Foundation and Vice President for Development. “We are excited our generous donors are making this exceptional performance possible on the USI Performance Center stage.â€
For more information, call the USI Foundation at 812-464-1918.
USI to hold two Commencement Ceremonies to honor the Fall Class of 2023
USI to hold two Commencement Ceremonies to honor the Fall Class of 2023
Image copyright: USI Photography and Multimedia
The University of Southern Indiana will host two Fall Commencement Ceremonies on Saturday, December 16 in the Screaming Eagles Arena.
The 10 a.m. The Commencement Ceremony will recognize graduates from the College of Nursing and Health Professions; the Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education; and the School of Graduate Studies. The 1 p.m. Commencement Ceremony will recognize graduates from the College of Liberal Arts; the Romain College of Business; and the School of Graduate Studies.
Tickets will not be required for guests, and a livestream of each Ceremony will be available at USI.edu/watch-commencement.
Dr. Jill Raisor ’03, Professor of Education and 2023 Distinguished Professor Award recipient, will present the Commencement Address at 10 a.m. Ceremony. Raisor joined the USI faculty full-time in 2010 as a Teacher in Residence, and throughout her tenure has served as a Children’s Learning Center Liaison and Coordinator, Chair of Teacher Education, and now as Professor of Education. She is recognized for her tireless service to students, teaching, and scholarship, as well as her vast work in the community.
Dr. Mark Krahling, Associate Professor of Chemistry and the 2023 H. Lee Cooper Core Curriculum Teaching Award recipient, will deliver the Commencement Address at the 1 p.m. Ceremony. Krahling joined the University in 1994 and has served as Director of the University Core Curriculum and Associate Dean of the Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education, in addition to his current role as Associate Professor. He is recognized for his nearly 30 years of service as a professor, scholar, and leader in the Core Curriculum at USI.
During Fall Commencement Ceremonies, 681 students will be eligible to receive master’s degrees, post-bachelor certificates, bachelor’s degrees and associate degrees. As part of the Ceremonies, 107 students are graduating with academic honors: 14 will graduate summa cum laude, 52 magna cum laude and 41 cum laude. Of the graduates, 11 are University Honors Scholars students who have completed the Honors Program and will be recognized by the white honor cords worn with their regalia.
All planning to attend are strongly advised to review the Screaming Eagles Arena Prohibited Items and Security Policy.
Follow the Ceremonies on social media with the hashtag #USIGrad on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
FOOTNOTE: Founded in 1965, the University of Southern Indiana enrolls nearly 9,300 dual credit, undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students in more than 130 areas of study. A public higher education institution, located on a beautiful 1,400-acre campus in Evansville, Indiana, USI offers programs through the College of Liberal Arts, Romain College of Business, College of Nursing and Health Professions, Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education and School of Graduate Studies. USI is a Carnegie Foundation Community Engaged University and offers continuing education and special programs to more than 15,000 participants annually through Outreach and Engagement. USI is online at www.usi.edu.
Greetings Evansville Region Eclipse Enthusiasts!
Greetings Evansville Region Eclipse Enthusiasts!
DECEMBER 9, 2023
As we approach this year’s Thanksgiving holiday, it’s time to embrace a new tradition: sticking to safe topics around the dinner table, all while sparking excitement about a once-in-a-lifetime celestial event—the Evansville Region’s upcoming total solar eclipse! This Thanksgiving let’s pivot away from those awkward family discussions and instead focus on a topic that’s out of this world.
Your role as an eclipse stakeholder is crucial in spreading the word and ensuring that everyone is prepared and eager to witness the total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, 2024. Â So, use the following Holidays Table Talking Points to engage your loved ones, whether you’re hosting the holiday right here or gathering elsewhere.
- Plan to be Here: The Evansville Region is the place to be for the upcoming eclipse, and you want to make sure your friends and family don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience. For the smoothest pre- and post-eclipse journey, encourage out of town guests to travel to Evansville on or before Saturday, April 6 and stay through Tuesday, April 9, 2024, if they can.  Share the excitement and let them know there’s still plenty of hotel inventory available for a comfortable stay, but it’s best to call the hotels directly and ask about rates and if there’s a required length of stay.
- Eclipse, Rain, or Shine: We have a (slightly) greater-than-50% chance of clear skies at 2:02 PM on Monday, April 8, 2024, and we’re keeping our fingers crossed for good weather. Â However, even if the skies are cloudy, remind everyone that the eclipse will still be an incredible experience. The profound darkness during totality is unlike anything you’ve ever witnessed.
- Something for Everyone: The Evansville Region has something to offer people of all ages and interests, not only on Eclipse Day but throughout the entire weekend.  In fact, there are new events being announced all the time, for example, University of Evansville’s UEclipse. Friends and family from far and wide will have the opportunity to see and experience all that the area has to offer, and you’ll be surrounded by people you care about to witness this rare celestial event together.
- Prepare for Eclipse Day: All major school districts in the region have announced closures on Monday, April 8, 2024, so anticipate activities not only for your own family, but also plan for this impact in and around your workplace. Â We would advise that our local friends and neighbors avoid scheduling appointments and unnecessary travel (such as shopping and gas purchases) on April 8. Mark the day on your calendar to ensure you can fully immerse yourself in the eclipse experience!
- Get Creative with Eclipse Celebrations: Businesses should seize this opportunity to engage with customers and colleagues, creating a sense of unity and celebration. Create fun eclipse-themed merchandise or menus or plan a viewing event or watch party. Whether you prefer a personal “Meâ€clipse experience or a communal “We”clipse celebration, creative planning (and puns!) can make this event even more memorable.
- Impress with Basic Eclipse Science and Trivia: One quick scroll through this page on the American Astronomical Society website can give you the how and why on total solar eclipses, sure to impress your most discerning holiday tablemates. Or, while you eat your Thanksgiving turkey, enlighten those around you that the next total solar eclipse in Turkey (the country) will not occur until April 30, 2060.
The rarity of solar eclipses can add an extra layer of excitement to your Thanksgiving celebrations! The chance to witness a total solar eclipse from your own hometown is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and we’re fortunate to have this opportunity in the Evansville Region on Monday, April 8, 2024.  So, let’s gather our loved ones, celebrate this cosmic coincidence, and make memories that will last a lifetime! Don’t forget to share our website: 2024evansvilleeclipse.com.
Just a reminder, our next Regional Eclipse Stakeholder meeting will be Thursday, January 18 at 10 AM in the Welborn Community Room of the Fifth Third Building in Downtown Evansville.
QUICK REFERENCE TO SHARED RESOURCES:
- American Astronomical Society
- Great American Eclipse
- Time and Date
- Space Science Institute
- Solar Eclipse Activities
ORDER BULK ECLIPSE GLASSES HERE:
Happy Thanksgiving! Please reach out if you have any questions!
Alexis
CenterPoint Energy Indiana Electric files request to advance modernization investments
CenterPoint Energy Indiana Electric files request to advance modernization investments, continue the transition to a balanced generation portfolio
 The first base rate case in more than 14 years supports the continued reliability and resiliency of the system; and supports the economic growth of the southwestern Indiana region
Evansville – Dec. 5, 2023 – CenterPoint Energy’s Indiana Electric business today filed a petition with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) requesting an adjustment to base rates and charges. The regulatory filing, known as a base rate case, is the utility’s first request since 2009.
The regulatory filing requests an increase to recover incurred costs associated with completed capital projects over the past 14 years to support safe and reliable service to the company’s 150,000 customers, including:
- Transmission and distribution system upgrades to replace aging infrastructure and modernization of the energy grid;
- Automated metering technology that has reliably served customers for several years; and
- Projects needed to comply with federally mandated environmental requirements.
Additionally, the request is needed to recover costs associated with CenterPoint Energy’s transition from a majority coal generation portfolio to one led with renewables, which includes the Posey Solar facility and two new, natural gas combustion turbines expected to be in service in 2025. With a continued focus on sustainability and cost-effectiveness, these projects are part of the previously announced generation transition plan to retire 700 megawatts of the company’s aging coal operations through 2025.
“This request is based on the need to maintain a safe, resilient and reliable system to further meet the current and future energy needs of the southwestern Indiana region, said Richard Leger, Senior Vice President, Indiana Electric. “Our greatest commitment to our 150,000 customers is to maintain the level of service they have come to expect – reliably, safely and in a cost-effective manner.â€
Some key benefits southwestern Indiana electric customers have experienced as a result of the investments made since the last rate case filed in 2009 include:
- Since 2016, Indiana Electric has inspected and treated more than 80 percent of its wood pole population. Through this process, poles that have reached the end of their useful service life have been replaced, and the life of serviceable poles extended, thus ultimately reducing customer outages resulting from pole failures.
- Vegetation trimmed around nearly 7,000 miles of electric distribution lines, reducing the number of customer outages caused by vegetation contact.
- Additional distribution substations have been constructed to support regional customer and industrial growth and increased load needs. Significant investment examples include:
- Upgrades to serve the growth to the Evansville Regional Airport
- Investments to support customer growth in Warrick County
- Infrastructure enhancements to retain and grow jobs and support increased electric load near Toyota’s Gibson County manufacturing plant
- As a result of hardening the electric system by replacing aging infrastructure, while the number of storm events in the area has increased, the average outage duration associated with equipment failure has dropped by approximately 25% over the last five years.
- Smart meter technology and distribution automation investments work together to detect and restore customer outages automatically. Since 2021, our distribution automation system has allowed us to avoid nearly 4 million cumulative minutes of customer outages.
Leger said, “We have worked diligently and responsibly in the 14 years since our last base rate case to make prudent investments and minimize the impact to customers as we continue to perform our essential work. Since 2011 – the last time base rates were modified – CenterPoint Energy’s total electric bill has only increased an average of 0.5% per year, which is well below the rate of inflation.â€
The total requested increase, which directly results from the base rate case filing, of $118.8 million is expected to impact customer bills no sooner than the fourth quarter of 2024. To prevent the increase from impacting customers all at once, CenterPoint Energy has proposed a phased approach. If approved, a typical residential customer would experience an estimated increase of $10.07 (6.5%) in late 2024, an additional $5.85 (3.6%) in early 2025, and finally $12.46 (7.3%) in early 2026 due to the request in the rate case. Once all phases are implemented including the full cost of service, which includes projects that would be recovered through current billing mechanisms, the expected total monthly bill will be approximately $200, based on average residential consumption of 799-kilowatt hours.
Leger added, “We recognize the economic challenges that many of our customers continue to face, and CenterPoint Energy provides a variety of options to help customers manage their bills, including energy bill assistance, home weatherization and billing assistance programs.â€
CenterPoint Energy is asking the IURC to review its investments, consider the value customers have received, and approve the proposed recovery of these costs. The regulatory process, which will include a comprehensive review by the IURC as well as the opportunity for the public to provide input, will take several months to complete, with a decision anticipated late in 2024.
More details about the rate case can be found at CenterPointEnergy.com/SmartEnergyFuture to provide customers with information on the rate case process and elements of the filing. Other resources to assist in managing bills year-round can also be found on the site.
About CenterPoint Energy
As the only investor-owned electric and gas utility based in Texas, CenterPoint Energy, Inc. (NYSE: CNP) is an energy delivery company with electric transmission and distribution, power generation and natural gas distribution operations that serve more than 7 million metered customers in Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Ohio and Texas. As of September 30, 2023, the company owned approximately $39 billion in assets. With approximately 9,000 employees, CenterPoint Energy and its predecessor companies have been in business for more than 150 years. For more information, visit CenterPointEnergy.com.
Forward Looking Statements
This news release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this news release, the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “goal,” “intend,” “may,” “objective,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “projection,” “should,” “target,” “will” or other similar words are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions of management which are believed to be reasonable at the time made and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Actual events and results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Any statements in this news release regarding future events, such as CenterPoint Energy’s ability to execute its generation transition plans, including the timing and extent of CenterPoint Energy’s retirement of coal facilities, the anticipated timing of and impact of the base rate case on customer bills, IURC approval of CenterPoint Energy’s base rate case and phase-in plan, and any other statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements. Each forward-looking statement contained in this news release speaks only as of the date of this release. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the provided forward-looking information include risks and uncertainties relating to: (1) the impact of pandemics, including the COVID-19 pandemic; (2) financial market conditions; (3) general economic conditions; (4) the timing and impact of future regulatory and legislative decisions; (5) effects of competition; (6) weather variations; (7) changes in business plans; (8) continued disruptions to the global supply chain and increases in commodity prices; (9) legislative decisions, including tax and developments related to the environment such as global climate change, air emissions, carbon and waste water discharges; (10) CenterPoint Energy’sability to execute on its initiatives, targets and goals and operations and maintenance goals and (11) other factors, risks and uncertainties discussed in CenterPoint Energy’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2022 and CenterPoint’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2023, June 30, 2023 and September 30, 2023, and other reports CenterPoint Energy or its subsidiaries may file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
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Holiday Light Shows At Six DNR Properties
Six DNR destinations will have holiday light shows this December.
- Lieber State Recreation Area: Dec. 2–4 and Dec. 9–11 from 6 to 9 p.m.
- Mounds State Park: Dec. 1–31 on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday only from 6 to 9:30 p.m.
- Ouabache State Park: Dec. 1–31, from 6 to 9 p.m.
- Spring Mill State Park: Dec. 1–2, from 6 to 9:45 p.m.
- Starve Hollow State Recreation Area:Â Dec. 9, 5 to 10 p.m.
- Shakamak State Park: Dec. 7–10, from 7 to 9 p.m.