Government

INDOT Approves Funding for Purchase of Land

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 01:46:00 -0800

Transportation Enhancement grant to acquire property in Metamora

SEYMOUR, IN - The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) awarded Franklin County $689,600 in Local Public Agency (LPA) funding. These funds will be used to purchase 33 acres of property in the Town of Metamora. The property will be used for the development of a visitor's center, museum and interpretive center at the Whitewater Valley Regional Interpretive Park.

Franklin County officials made their case for the federal matching funds before an award panel at the INDOT Seymour District offices on September 24th. The panel's decision to choose Franklin County's project was recently confirmed by a selection committee in Indianapolis.

Franklin County was one of nine applications received in which over $5 million was requested. The total amount of federal funds available for Seymour District is $1,340,000.

Source: Indiana Department of Transportation

Firm to More than Double its Indianapolis Workforce

kpaul.mallasch — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 16:45:28 -0800

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - National debt recovery agency Premiere Credit of North America announced plans today to expand its national headquarters here, more than doubling its 250-person workforce.

The firm, which specializes in recovering unpaid government debt, plans to invest more than $4 million to expand its eastside headquarters and to locate a second operations center at a yet-to-be-announced site in Indianapolis.

"Even in tough economic times, Indiana continues to be a smart place for companies like Premiere Credit to grow. Our low cost of doing business, unmatched infrastructure and aggressive pursuit of new jobs is helping us stand out against our competition," said Governor Mitch Daniels.

Founded in 1999, Premiere Credit will begin hiring collection staff, skip tracers, team leaders and managers immediately. The company expects the project to result in the creation of more than 300 new jobs over the next several years. Recruiting for the new positions will begin immediately online at http://www.mypremierejobs.com/ and will provide outreach to military veterans as part of its recruiting efforts.

"Premiere considers itself a best-in-class provider of debt recovery services and needed to find a best-in-class community to grow," said David Hoeft, co-founder and chief executive officer of Premiere Credit of North America. "After an exhaustive search of more than 100 sites across the country, we found that community was right here in Indiana. Our past success with workforce and operational issues locally, as well as the support we received from Governor Daniels and Mayor Greg Ballard's administration, tipped an extremely difficult decision in Indianapolis' favor."

Recognized for its growth by Inc. Magazine and the Indiana Companies to Watch program, Premiere Credit of North America manages the collection of more than 700,000 accounts on behalf of clients across the nation, with values exceeding $1 billion.

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation offered Premiere Credit of North America up to $2.5 million in performance-based tax credits and up to $200,000 in training grants based on the company's job creation plans. The city of Indianapolis and Indianapolis Economic Development, Inc. will support property tax abatement for the company before the Metropolitan Development Commission.

"Premiere Credit is a good corporate citizen in Indianapolis, and I am pleased they have chosen to grow within our community," said Mayor Greg Ballard. "As they looked at their options, it was clear that they could locate their expansion in any number of other communities. Attracting jobs to Indianapolis is my priority, so we worked hard to make sure this expansion could occur here."

The news of Premiere Credit of North America expanding in Indiana comes only days after national economic development magazine Site Selection named Indiana's business climate the fifth best in the nation. The accolade is the latest in a series of awards garnered by the Hoosier state that includes national news giant CNBC calling the state "the most improved state for business" and Chief Executive magazine naming Indiana a "best place for business".

Seventeen State Parks to Close for Deer Reductions

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 03:46:00 -0800

Similar temporary closings set for Dec. 1-2

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - Selected Indiana State Parks will temporarily close to the general public for controlled deer reductions twice in the coming weeks. The reductions will take place Nov. 17-18, and Dec. 1-2. The participating parks will close the evening before (Nov. 16 and 30) each of the reductions and re-open the morning after (Nov. 19 and Dec. 3).

The parks that will be closed for both sessions include Brown County, Chain O'Lakes, Charlestown, Harmonie, Indiana Dunes, Lincoln, McCormick's Creek, Ouabache, Pokagon, Shades, Spring Mill, Summit Lake, Tippecanoe River, Turkey Run, Whitewater Memorial, Fort Harrison and Clifty Falls.

DNR biologists evaluate which parks require a reduction each year based on the recovery of vegetation that deer eat and previous hunter success at each park. The state parks are home to more than 32 state-endangered plants. The reductions help maintain browsing by deer to a level that helps ecosystems and associated vegetation recover.

"Though the parks have had much success since the first reduction in 1993, a high no-show rate of individuals drawn and over-selective hunting remain a challenge for the program," said Mike Mycroft, natural resource coordinator for the DNR Division of State Parks and Reservoirs.

All participants for the deer reductions have already been drawn from a pool of eligible applicants. Only individuals drawn last September may participate; there are no standby drawings. Details regarding 2009 state park deer reductions will be available in the 2009-10 Indiana Hunting and Trapping Guide, which will be available next summer.

Source: Indiana DNR

Indianapolis-based Allison Transmission, Inc. receives IDEM grant

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 03:45:58 -0800

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - Allison Transmission, Inc. has received a Pollution Prevention (P2) grant from the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) for a project to eliminate the use of cyanide by installing a new metal plating process.

"Allison Transmission is pleased to receive this grant from IDEM," said Dave Parish, Vice President of Operations. "This grant shows both support and acknowledgement by the state to companies, like Allison Transmission, that are actively working to reduce hazardous waste. The replacement of the cyanide-based process with a non-cyanide alternative is consistent with our environmentally-friendly direction and practices."

Parish has already set additional goals for the company. "Allison Transmission's next milestone is to achieve a zero landfill status at all of the Indianapolis sites," he said.

IDEM Commissioner Thomas Easterly congratulated the company on receiving the grant. "When voluntary business actions result in improved operational practices, there will be a winning outcome every time," said Commissioner Easterly. "Allison Transmission is to be commended for their innovation and for their achievements in engaging in environmentally-friendly business operations."

The P2 grant program is administered by IDEM's Office of Pollution Prevention and Technical Assistance. The P2 program is designed to help Hoosiers prevent pollution, conserve water and energy, and reduce waste with measurable results. P2 grants are available to businesses, local governments and schools. Grants require a 50 percent match, and reduced match amounts are available for minority/women business enterprises, small businesses, members of Indiana's Environmental Stewardship Program and the Indiana CLEAN Community Challenge program.

The pre-application deadline for the next round of P2 grants is January 16, 2009. Pre-applications and more information are available by calling (800) 988-7901 or by visiting www.idem.IN.gov/5224.htm.

Source: IEDC

State Health Officials Seek Public Input On Preventing Sexual Violence

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 03:45:55 -0800

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - According to the 2007 State Victimization Survey, 18 percent of Indiana women surveyed reported having experienced some type of sexual assault in her lifetime, and 13 percent reported having been raped. State health officials say only 12.3 percent of women who were raped reported the crime to the authorities, making sexual violence a "silent epidemic" in the state. That is why the Indiana State Department of Health is hosting 10 district forums to start a dialogue about sexual violence and get community input on how to prevent it.

The Office of Women's Health at the Indiana State Department of Health recently received a grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to address sexual violence as a public health issue.

"Sexual violence has been shown to cause or contribute to many physical and mental health problems," says Abby Kelly-Smith, director of the Rape Prevention and Education Program at the Indiana State Department of Health. "Not only can sexual violence result in physical injuries and disabilities, sexually transmitted infections, chronic pain, and gastrointestinal disorders, sexual assault has also been linked to eating disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress syndrome, and even suicide.

"In addition, both victims of sexual violence and the people who commit the crimes are more likely to have substance abuse problems and/or engage in risky sexual activity," says Kelly-Smith.

The Office of Women's Health has partnered with the Sexual Violence Primary Prevention Council to develop a state Sexual Violence Prevention Plan. The Family and Social Services Administration and the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute both have representatives serving on the Council. The information learned at the 10 district sexual violence prevention forums will be used to help write that plan.

"These district forums will provide an important opportunity to hear from Indiana citizens about sexual violence," says Kelly-Smith. "The State Department of Health and the Sexual Violence Primary Prevention Council want input from the local communities on the possible causes of sexual violence as well as suggestions on strategies for preventing it."

Following is the schedule for the first nine sexual violence prevention forums (all times local). The time and location of the District 1 forum is still being organized:

Wednesday, Nov. 12, 1:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m. (registration at 12:30 p.m.)
Medical Society Building, 709 Clay St., 3^rd floor
Fort Wayne (District 3)
Thursday, Nov. 13, 9:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. (registration at 8:30 a.m.)
Elkhart County Health Department, 608 Oakland Ave.
Elkhart (District 2)
Thursday, Nov. 20, 1:00 p.m.-3:30 p.m. (registration at 12:30 p.m.)
Bloomington Adult Community Center, 349 S. Walnut St.
Bloomington (District 8)
Friday, Nov. 21, 9:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. (registration at 8:30 a.m.)
Ivy Tech, 500 Industrial Dr.
Lawrenceburg (District 9)
Monday, Nov. 24, 7:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m. (registration at 6:30 p.m.)
Putnam County Hospital, 1542 S. Bloomington St.
Greencastle (District 7)
Tuesday, Nov. 25, 1:00 p.m-3:30 p.m. (registration at 12:30 p.m.)
Evansville Central Library, 200 SE Martin Luther King Jr. Dr.
Evansville (District 10)
Tuesday, Dec. 2, 9:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. (registration at 8:30 a.m.)
Tippecanoe County Extension Office, 3150 Sagamore Parkway South
Lafayette (District 4)
Wednesday, Dec. 3, 1:00 p.m-3:30 p.m. (registration at 12:30 p.m.)
Kennedy Library, 1700 W. McGalliard Rd.
Muncie (District 6)
Thursday, Dec. 4, 9:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. (registration at 8:30 a.m.)
Hendricks County Government Center, 355 S. Washington St.
Danville (District 5)

Source: Indiana State Department of Health

IDEM to bring 5-Star Child Care program to 2008 Indiana Lead-Safe & Healthy Homes Conference

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 4 Nov 2008 13:47:16 -0800

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - Staff from the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) will be available to answer questions about the agency's Five Star Environmental Recognition for Child Care Facilities program during the 2008 Indiana Lead-Safe and Healthy Homes Conference Nov. 5 and Nov. 6. The event will be held at the Indianapolis Marten House Hotel and Lilly Conference Center, 1801 W. 86th Street, Indianapolis.

The program recognizes child care facilities that go above and beyond requirements and demonstrate environmental stewardship. Facilities earn one, three or five stars based on their voluntary measures. IDEM assists facilities in implementing the plans and conducts site visits before granting facilities membership.

"IDEM devised a way providers could be recognized because we believe children deserve a safe place to learn and play," said IDEM Commissioner Thomas Easterly. "There are over 100,000 children attending day care in more than 4,000 facilities throughout the state so anything we could do to involve the facilities was a worthwhile endeavor."

An added benefit of becoming an IDEM Five Star facility is the availability of grants. Money is available which can help reduce the cost of installing items made of recycled materials, such as playground equipment, picnic tables, carpet, fences, benches and more. The state will fund up to $5,000 (subject to eligibility). A 25 percent cash match is required. Members are eligible to receive grant funding under this grant once every two years.

Additional information about IDEM's Five Star Child Care program or grant opportunities can be obtained by calling Karen Teliha, Community Environmental Health & Education coordinator, at (800) 988-7901 or by visiting www.idem.IN.gov/4180.htm.

Who: The Indiana Department of Environmental Management

What: 2008 Indiana Lead-Safe and Healthy Homes Conference

Where: Indianapolis Marten House Hotel and Lilly Conference Center, 1801 W. 86th Street, Indianapolis

When: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wed., Nov. 5; 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 6

Two More Emission Testing Sites Offer BMV Services

kpaul.mallasch — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 12:45:57 -0700

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - Clean Air Car Check emission testing sites in Crown Point and Valparaiso are now officering drive-thru vehicle registration services through a partnership with the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).

Ron Stiver, BMV Commissioner, and officials from Envirotest, the contractor for the State's emission testing program, announced the partnership and pilot program at the Griffith testing site in September. Since starting the program, over 1,000 customers have used the one-stop emission testing and vehicle registration service at Griffith. Brian Kieffer, General Manager of Envirotest Systems, reports that customers have enthusiastically welcomed the time-saving convenience.

The Crown Point and Valparaiso sites are now offering the same drive-thru testing and registration renewal services. The testing site staff will attach license plates and stickers at the customer's request.

Stiver added that the partnership with Envirotest is the newest part of the BMV Customer Choices program that provides BMV customers alternative ways to transact BMV business. Other partnership include 269 auto dealerships, six AAA Hoosier Motor Club offices, five Old National Bank branches and the BMV2YOU mobile license branch. The enhanced BMV Web site and the new myBMV portal make any computer a virtual license branch.

The three Clean Air Car Check emission testing sites currently offering drive-thru registration renewal services are located at:

Crown Point
755 North Industrial Boulevard

Valparaiso
2503 Beech Street

Griffith
232 South Ivanhoe Court

The Clean Air Car Check stations in Gary, Hammond, Hobart and Portage are scheduled to add registration renewal services before the end of the year. For more information about BMV services at the emission testing sites, customers can call the Clean Air Car Check customer service hotline at 1-888-240-1684.

Source: Indiana BMV

Indiana National Guard dedicates new facility

kpaul.mallasch — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 01:45:41 -0700

By William E. Henry
Indiana Army National Guard

GARY, IN - A ceremony was held here at the Indiana National Guard’s new Limited Army Aviation Support Facility dedicating its completion Friday, October 24, 2008. Indiana’s Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. R. Martin Umbarger, Gov. Mitch Daniels, U.S. Senator Evan Bayh, Indiana Congressman Pete Visclosky and Gary’s mayor, Rudy Clay, were among the many distinguished guests to attend the event.

All speakers spoke about how the facility will be an asset to the state's emergency mission and adding protection to the surrounding region.

"This facility was well completed, it is mission enhancing. It'll be a major part of the capabilities now of America's finest National Guard. It is a testament to the patriotism of Hoosiers and to our commitment to each other," said Daniels.

The 56,000-square-foot $18.7 million facility will employ 22 full-time workers with three UH-60 Blackhawks and two OH-58 Kiowa helicopters. The helicopters will be ready to respond to immediate emergencies in the area rather than call in one from Shelbyville, an hour flight away.

Bayh spoke about how it took teamwork to make the facility a reality.

“America is not divided into red states and blue states, as we can see by our nation’s emblem; we are united as fifty red, white and blue states,” said Bayh.

Visclosky agreed with Bayh and praised the service and selflessness of all the Indiana National Guardsmen.

“The Guard has helped people in the state of Indiana in 70 of our 92 counties this year alone and again we need to be grateful for that,” said Visclosky.

Maj. Gen. Umbarger attributed the success of the Indiana National Guard to how Indiana has exceeded its recruiting goals for the fourth year in a row and the patriotism of the residents of the state.

“It seems only yesterday when we were together for the groundbreaking ceremony. But here we are on the rainy but happy autumn day, cutting the ribbon on one of the finest military facilities, state of the art, second to none, in the nation,” said Maj. Gen. Umbarger.

The Gary Limited Army Aviation Support Facility dedication takes place with
congressman Rep. Pete Visclosky, Mayor Rudy Clay, U.S. Sen. Evan Bayh,
Indiana Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. R. Martin Umbarger, Gov. Mitch Daniels
and Emmy Huffman from Sen. Richard Lugar's office all cutting the ribbon
Friday, October 24, 2008. The 56,000-square-foot $18.7 million facility will
employ 22 full-time workers with three UH-60 Blackhawks and two OH-58 Kiowa
helicopters. Photo by Spc. William E. Henry, Indiana Army National Guard

Rokita Releases Report on Indiana's Preparedness for Upcoming Election

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 21:46:26 -0700

54-page document details state's voter outreach and collaboration with local election officials

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - Secretary of State Todd Rokita, Indiana's Chief Election Officer, has published a 54-page report on his office's pre-election activity in preparation for the 2008 General Election. The report is available on the Secretary of State's Web page at www.in.gov/sos.

Highlights of the report include:

Extraordinary voter interest - with more than 817,000 new or updated voter registrations in 2008
Updated figures on the number of voters who have already voted in this year's election
Details of Secretary Rokita's 50+ county statewide pre-election tour
Information about his trip overseas to inspect the absentee ballot process and meet with troops and military voting representatives
Outreach to hundreds of thousands of new voters, students and poll workers
Unprecedented bipartisan collaboration with local election officials in all 92 Indiana counties
Nearly $500,000 in grants to Indiana counties for polling place accessibility improvements

"As we reach the final week of our preparations for this monumental election, I am encouraged and confident," said Secretary Rokita. "The enthusiasm I'm witnessing as I travel around the state is only matched by the level of preparation by our local election officials. Indiana is poised to deliver in one of its finest hours through the execution of a fair and accurate election."

Secretary Rokita's office will periodically update the 2008 General Election Readiness Briefing through Election Day.
Source: Indiana Secretary of State

Steel Tank Manufacturer to Expand Its Northern Indiana Operations

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 17:45:35 -0700

KNOX, IN - Steel tank manufacturer Sabre Manufacturing announced today it will expand its operations here, creating nearly 50 new jobs and expanding training opportunities for current employees.The company, which manufactures industrial tanks and containers for the environmental, oil and gas industries, will invest in equipment and facilities upgrades at its northwest Indiana manufacturing facility in response to increased demand for its storage tanks used in the oil exploration industry.

"Sabre Manufacturing is a home-grown Indiana company that continues to invest in Indiana and create jobs for hard-working Hoosiers," said Governor Mitch Daniels.

The tank manufacturer employs more than 100 associates in Knox and will begin hiring additional manufacturing associates and welders immediately. Employees will undergo training in lean manufacturing, blueprint reading and participate in National Association of Corrosion Engineers training with the help of a $101,500 grant from the state's Skills Enhancement Fund.

"Recent increases in domestic oil exploration and alternative fuel development are driving demand for our products," said Jason Ries, plant manager of Sabre Manufacturing. "This grant will help us properly train and certify our welding staff and make our processes more efficient, ultimately helping to grow our business."

Founded in 2005 in Knox, Sabre Manufacturing originated with six employees. Today, the company operates three production shifts serving customers throughout the United States and Canada.

Sabre Manufacturing's expansion in Indiana comes only months after global economic development firm Development Counselors International ranked Indiana tenth in a survey of the nation's best states for doing business. The accolade, which follows CNBC naming Indiana the "most improved state for business in 2008", marks the first time in history the state finished in the top 10 of the annual survey of states.

Source: Indiana Economic Development Corporation

Spring Mill State Park gets crafty in November

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 17:45:34 -0700

During three weekends in November, Spring Mill State Park will offer unique and exciting craft programs designed to bring out the creativity in everyone.

The crafting fun begins on Saturday, Nov. 8, with Autumn Craft Day. Visitors can make six different autumn-themed crafts. Supplies are limited to the first 35 visitors to purchase a $10 ticket. Tickets will be sold in the Pioneer Village Gristmill beginning at 11 a.m. that day. Also the same day, Spring Mill Inn will host its annual craft show, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

On Nov. 22 and 23, Saturday and Sunday, visitors to the park can select individual crafts to make in the Pioneer Village. The "Pioneer Craft Sampler" will offer a variety of choices, priced from $1 to $5 per craft.

Holiday crafts take center stage the following Friday and Saturday, Nov. 28 and 29. A different set of six crafts will be offered each day for $10 per person. Participation is limited to the first 25 people to purchase tickets on Friday, and to the first 35 to purchase tickets on Saturday. Tickets will be sold in the Pioneer Village Gristmill beginning at 11 a.m. each day.

Park admission during these events is $5 per vehicle for in-state residents and $7 per vehicle for out-of-state residents.

For more information on this and other upcoming events, contact park program coordinator Coletta Prewitt, (812) 849-4129, cprewitt@dnr.IN.gov.

Source: Indiana DNR

Baiting Deer Still Illegal in Indiana

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 11:45:37 -0700

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - With deer firearm hunting season just around the corner (Nov. 15-30), the DNR Division of Law Enforcement's conservation officers remind hunters that they will be watching for violators of the fair chase law, specifically as it applies to baiting.

Despite heavy commercial promotion on some hunting television shows, extensive sales of such products at some sporting goods stores, and evidence of the use of some of these products on some DNR properties, baiting for the purposes of hunting deer remains illegal. "Bait" is best described as anything a deer (or other wildlife) might ingest or lick.

"It has been a long standing practice for our officers to enforce the hunting over bait rule," said Lt. Mark Farmer, public information officer for DNR Law Enforcement. "Gaining an advantage over your quarry by the use of a food or mineral product is illegal."

It is legal to place food products or mineral blocks in the wild, but hunting near them is illegal.

"If a person had put out a feeder or other bait during the summer months to attract wildlife to his property, it must be totally removed 10 days prior to the opening of the hunting season before a hunter could legally hunt in that area," Farmer said.

Odor differs from bait. Deer lures in the form of scents are legal to use when hunting.

"Basically, if you place corn, apples, salt or mineral blocks or anything that isn't grown in the area and hunt there, it's illegal," Farmer said. "Hunting from an apple tree is legal, but placing apples under your tree stand would place you in conflict with current Indiana Law."

Violators apprehended while hunting over bait will face a Class C Misdemeanor charge, and upon conviction could face criminal penalties of up to $500 fine, 60 days incarceration and possible loss of hunting equipment upon conviction.

Source: Indiana DNR

The Cyber Threat Today: Major Attacks on the Rise

kpaul.mallasch — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 11:56:24 -0700

Crooks and spies using the Internet to commit crimes against U.S. businesses and to attack government networks are getting more sophisticated, and the increasing number of such crimes not only impacts the economy but threatens national security.

That’s the message Shawn Henry, recently appointed head of our Cyber Division, delivered to a group of reporters on Wednesday, revealing that we have thousands of open cases into cyber crimes and organized cyber attacks and detailing our strategy to protect the nation’s networks.

One case in point: We joined our international partners yesterday in announcing a major takedown of a transnational criminal network that was buying and selling stolen financial information through an online forum known as “Dark Market.”

“The business of the United States is done on the Internet,” said Henry, a veteran cyber crime investigator. And the information that flows electronically 24/7 is increasingly the target of not only identity thieves and scammers, but organized crime groups, terrorists, and overseas governments.

“There are a number of countries who have an interest in stealing information from the United States,” Henry said, explaining that as many as two dozen nations have taken an “aggressive interest” in penetrating our networks. In the past year, he added, “the malicious activity has become much more prevalent.”

Shawn Henry, Assistant Director of the FBI's Cyber Division.

Malicious activity could come in the form of attacks that deny access to websites, that compromise sensitive information, or that introduce “botnets” that spread viruses and covertly co-opt computers to carry out data theft.

“There are a number of countries who have an interest in stealing information from the United States,” Henry said, explaining that as many as two dozen nations have taken an “aggressive interest” in penetrating our networks.

New groups of hackers—virtual gangs—are a growing threat as well, banding together to pool their expertise and carry out coordinated cyber attacks. Henry pointed out that in years gone by, if a gang wanted to rob a bank, it needed crooks with various skills—safe cracker, get-away driver, look-out, etc. That’s essentially what we’re seeing in the cyber world today, only these virtual gang members have never met in the physical world. “There are organized groups that are very successful,” Henry said.

The 3 Ps. To address the rising threat, the Cyber Division has a threefold strategic plan—“Prioritize, Proactive, Partnerships.”

By prioritizing our efforts, we can go after the most critical threats. Being proactive means adopting the same time-tested investigative techniques that have been so successful in our physical crime investigations—the use of informants, electronic surveillance, and placement of undercover agents to penetrate and dismantle virtual criminal operations.

The third “P”—partnerships—means building even stronger relationships with law enforcement agencies worldwide. He said we’ve worked with such countries as Great Britain, Canada, Russia, and Turkey to swap best practices and techniques. We’ve also sent agents to Romania to work with law enforcement there, leading to nearly 100 arrests in cyber crime cases representing “tens of millions of dollars” in losses, Henry said.

And the Internet Crime Complaint Center, or IC3—a partnership between the FBI and the National White Collar Crime Center—continues to assist state and local law enforcement in fighting cyber crime. Since its establishment in 2000, IC3 has received more than a million complaints. In the last couple of years, there’s been an “uptick” in the number of reports, according to Henry. Lately, they’re coming in at the rate of nearly 20,000 per month.

Resources:
- More about IC3
- FBI stories about cyber crime

Source: FBI

INShape Indiana Focuses on School Wellness

kpaul.mallasch — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 03:45:38 -0700

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - Educators, public health advocates, and members of the business community were in attendance at the fourth annual INShape Indiana Health Summit Wednesday October 15, 2008 at Indiana University in Bloomington. "Healthy Schools, Healthy Indiana," this year's theme, focused on improving the health of Indiana's students and school employees.

Governor Mitch Daniels made opening remarks at the Summit. He was joined by State Health Commissioner Judy Monroe, M.D.; Karen Hanson, Provost & Executive Vice President for Indiana University, Bloomington; Robert M. Goodman, Ph.D., Dean of the Indiana University School of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation; and Indiana Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Suellen Reed (via video presentation).

"Schools are another place we can reach people wholesale, which makes the theme of today's summit so appropriate," said Gov. Daniels. "This summit can be one of the most productive things we do if we find things that work on a broad scale. The success we've had so far is satisfying in its way, but we want to see those needles which are barely tilting towards the positive go in a great and bold direction."

Featured national speakers were Gene R. Carter, executive director for the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, and Howell Wechsler, director of the Division of Adolescent & School Health at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Following opening remarks, the Summit's presentations included:

· "The Learning Compact Redefined: A Call to Action;"
· "National Means and Resources to Improve Indiana School Health Programs;"
· "Improving the Health of Indiana School Teachers, Administrators and Employees;"
· "How to Build a Health Promoting School: Two Indiana School Districts;"
· "Various Resources to Help Build Health Promoting Schools;"
· "Healthy Kids Make Healthy Results: Solutions & Tools for the Greater Community;" and
· "Can We Improve the Health and Education of Indiana School Students?"

"Healthy children learn better and healthy school employees are more productive," said Dr. Monroe. "However, schools cannot do it alone. They need the support of their communities, including parents, health care providers, community organizations, and businesses.

"My first call to action is for parents, businesses, faith-based organizations, health care providers, and other community organizations to contact the Coordinated School Health Advisory Council for your local school corporation and find out what you can do to promote school wellness, both for students and school employees," said Dr. Monroe.

According to the 2007 Youth Risk Behaviors Survey, high school students in Indiana showed an increase in the percentage of students who were physically active and a decrease in the amount of television being watched. However, the same health survey showed a greater percentage of Indiana's high school students are overweight than the national average. The same was true for the percentage who reported having used tobacco.

"We have seen some positive changes in the habits of young people in our state recently, but clearly there is still work to be done," said Dr. Reed. "Physical activity in adolescents has consistently been related to higher levels of self-esteem and lower levels of anxiety and stress - each of which has been associated with better academic performance. Healthy students are healthy learners."

The 2008 INShape Indiana Health Summit at Indiana University was sponsored by platinum sponsor UnitedHealthcare. UnitedHealthcare (www.unitedhealthcare.com) provides a full spectrum of consumer-oriented health benefit plans and services to individuals, public sector employers and businesses of all sizes, including more than half of the Fortune 100 companies.

"We did not become a country of overweight Americans overnight," said Dr. Jeffrey Beardmore, medical director, UnitedHealthcare of Indiana. "It is crucial that we teach our children the right way to be as healthy as possible, and to do it for the right reasons. If they learn and adopt healthy habits early in life they are set up for healthier adulthood."

The Summit was also supported by gold sponsors Clarian Health and Kroger, silver sponsor IU Department of Kinesiology, and bronze sponsors Cook Medical and WFIU (103.7 FM).

"Indiana University Bloomington is delighted to host the 2008 INShape Indiana Health Summit," said Karen Hanson, provost & executive vice president, Indiana University Bloomington. "We're honored to welcome representatives of Indiana's state government and leading experts on health and education from around the nation. We hope the summit will mark the beginning of an ongoing partnership - between school systems, educators, students, parents, and communities - to promote the healthy habits that help young Hoosiers to be successful in school and life."

INShape Indiana also held summits in 2005, 2006, and 2007 focusing on disease prevention and improving health in Indiana.

Source: Indiana State Department of Health

Fall Harvest Celebration at J. Edward Roush Lake

kpaul.mallasch — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 21:45:51 -0700

HUNTINGTON COUNTY, IN - Autumn fun will be available on Oct. 25 for all ages at J. Edward Roush Lake, at the Little Turtle Recreation Area's main shelter house from 5 to 7:30 p.m.
Several games and activities kick off the evening. A pumpkin decorating contest will be held from 5 to 6:30 p.m.; pumpkins will be provided, but bring your own carving tools. Contest judging will be at 6:45 p.m. and prizes will be awarded at 7:15 p.m.
Enjoy friends and fellowship at the hot dog roast from 6 to 8 p.m. Hot dogs and drink provided.
Have some fun with an assortment of games and activities to be provided from 5 to 7 p.m. Candy will be awarded. Games and activities to be held include a bean bag toss, football throw, basketball shoot, ring the pumpkin, face painting, pumpkin painting, and name that bird and nut game.
Try your hand at breaking piñatas from 6:30 to 7 p.m. The "trunk-or-treat" time is from 7 to 7:30 p.m. at the Little Turtle Recreation Area's main shelter house. Don't forget to wear your costume to collect candy.
All children must be with a responsible adult. No child care is provided. Be sure to bring your family and friends to join the fun!
Admission is $3 for adults and children 2 and older.
All activities take place in Huntington County just off of S.R. 5, south of Huntington and the Roush Lake Dam in the Little Turtle Recreation Area. Call (260) 468-2165 for more information.
Source: Indiana DNR

Black Male State Conference Begins with a Focus on Education

kpaul.mallasch — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 14:45:50 -0700

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - Today the Family and Social Services Administration's (FSSA) Indiana Commission on the Social Status of Black Males (ICSSBM) began its 14th Annual Black Male State Conference. The two-day event at the new Indianapolis central library started this morning with a new theme to focus on the "Total Education of the Black Male".

"We are very excited about this year's statewide conference here in Indianapolis. The conference will consist of several workshops that deal with the development of the African-American males across the state and abroad," said ICSSBM Chairman Tony Kirkland. "We want everyone to be involved and engaged in our conference."

Today's keynote address was presented by Emmy-winning actor Louis Gossett, Jr. Gossett's Broadway theatre credits include A Raisin in the Sun, Golden Boy, and Chicago. Gossett also earned an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in An Officer and a Gentleman. The format for this year's conference has changed slightly enabling the ICSSBM to focus solely on adults on the first day and turn to the African-American youth on the second day.

"The Indiana Commission on the Social Status of Black Males plays a vital role in improving the quality of life for African-American Hoosiers," said ICSSBM Executive Director James Garrett, Jr. "This conference is a chance to come together and focus on education as a means to strengthen family and community."

The conference will continue through Friday, with single-day registration available on-site. Friday's session will feature keynote speaker, IUPUI basketball coach Ron Hunter. Hunter continues to emphasize the need for him and his players to be actively involved in the community and will speak on his experiences.

For additional information on the conference, contact James E. Garrett Jr. at 317 233-1744 or via email at James.Garrett@fssa.in.gov or Steven Ingram at 317-233-8849 or via email at Steven.Ingram@fssa.in.gov. For more information on ICSSBM, go to: www.in.gov/icssbm.

Source: Family and Social Services Administration

INDOT Prepares for Winter Weather at Frankfort Subdistrict

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 04:45:44 -0700

Annual snow and ice inspections prepare plows for winter's worst

FRANKFORT, IN - At a time when most Hoosiers try to put thoughts of winter weather out of their minds, Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) crews are preparing for the possibility of snow and ice storms.

INDOT inspectors will travel to INDOT's Frankfort Subdistrict on Tuesday, October 14 at 9:00 a.m. to perform an annual inspection of subdistrict snow and ice equipment. The Frankfort Subdistrict maintains the state roads in Clinton, Boone and Tippecanoe counties. It has 32 snow trucks that can be dispatched 24 hours a day to pre-treat roads, lay down salt compounds and plow snow. Similar inspections are taking place this month at INDOT offices across the state.

During the inspections, INDOT equipment experts will have full bumper-to-bumper access to the large trucks. They will be checking for mechanical defects such as steering, engine and brake problems. Any problems identified during the inspection will be repaired by INDOT mechanics. By using preventative measures such as snow and ice inspections, INDOT is able to prepare for winter, long before it arrives in the Hoosier State. The inspections result in improved winter safety for both INDOT drivers and Indiana motorists.

During the winter season, INDOT's focus is preventing snow and ice before it accumulates on roadways. When storms threaten, INDOT officials in Frankfort and other subdistrict offices will continuously monitor weather conditions and forecasts. INDOT will also use Roadway Weather Information Systems, which monitor ground and pavement temperatures. These devices help INDOT focus on the portions of roadway where crews are most needed to address road conditions before they deteriorate.

This year, INDOT will rely heavily on the use of salt brine to pre-treat the road when the threat of freezing rain, sleet and ice looms. Unlike traditional salt granules, the salt and water solution can be applied before a storm hits and will not be swept aside by traffic. INDOT will use salt brine on many heavily traveled state roads and all interstate highways this winter.

Source: Indiana Department of Transportation

Indiana Secretary of State Reports on Statewide Voter File and Process for Verifying Voter Registrations

kpaul.mallasch — Thu, 9 Oct 2008 15:45:26 -0700

Secretary Rokita Calls for Election Officials to Remain Committed to Ensuring Election Integrity by Utilizing Available Methods of Verifying Voter Registrations

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - Indiana Secretary of State Todd Rokita issued the following statement today regarding the use of Social Security Numbers as an appropriate and viable way to verify voter registration forms in Indiana:

"Giving Indiana voters and taxpayers the chance to participate in the fairest and most accurate election possible is my number one priority as chief election officer. I'm being made aware of instances of voter registration fraud by ACORN and others, from all corners of the state and across the country. I take these very seriously.

Using all available appropriate technology is our best way to combat voter fraud that we know exists in this state and across the country. This is not the time to start foregoing or circumventing the process we have had in place for years that ensures accuracy in our election. We built a statewide voter registration system well within the perimeters of state and federal law.

In Indiana, the implementation of the Help America Vote Act involves the verification of new and updated voter registrations through a number of methods to ensure voters are who they say they are and that they are eligible to vote. These include verification through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, the Social Security Administration, the Department of Health and the Department of Correction.

Simply put, we have a lot of people in Indiana who have wanted to participate in this year's election and primary. We've had over 740,000 new and updated voter registrations already approved, and I welcome each one of these voters, and we have a lot of work to do still to process the remaining registrations so valid, eligible voters can vote. The number of inquiries to the Social Security Administration database is not out of line with the number of registrations."

Secretary Rokita made his comments while on a 45+ county tour of Indiana in advance of the election where he is personally assessing and assuring a fair and accurate election process for Hoosiers. Today he met with the Carroll County Clerk and held an election readiness forum for election officials and poll workers in Lebanon.

Source: Indiana Secretary of State

Indiana’s Hospitals Commit to Improve Six Public Health Measures

kpaul.mallasch — Thu, 9 Oct 2008 13:45:50 -0700

Statewide wellness effort designed to elevate state’s health status ranking

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Indiana’s hospitals – known for treating illness – are now joining forces to focus on wellness. The hospitals have targeted six public health measures for statewide improvement. The selected measures include: obesity (rank 31st); smoking (rank 50th); adult diabetes (rank 38th); childhood immunizations (rank 43rd); prenatal care in the first trimester (rank 33rd); and self-reported poor mental health (rank 46th).

“It’s time to stop acting like we can’t do anything about rising health care costs,” said Douglas Leonard, president of the Indiana Hospital Association. “Hospitals want to align efforts, narrow the focus, and use our existing resources to elevate Indiana’s health status.”

Indiana ranks low on many key health metrics. Indiana ranks 43rd overall on Wellpoint’s State Health Index and 38th on the Commonwealth Fund Sate Scorecard on Health System Performance. A study released this year by Trust for America’s Health shows that for every $1 invested in prevention, the return is about $6.

State Health Commissioner Judy Monroe, M.D., is advising the association on the effort. A group of physicians, nurses, hospital administrators, and other health professionals identified public health measures appropriate for the project. The measures selected were considered most urgent for Indiana. An IHA Health Status Improvement Task Force will develop and implement a work plan. The first meeting is set for December.

“I applaud the Indiana Hospital Association and its members for starting this important initiative,” said Dr. Monroe. “Some of the best medical care in the nation is provided at our state’s hospitals, and I am confident, if they apply the same level of hard work and commitment to addressing these public health measures, we will see a positive change in the health of Hoosiers.”

Hospital strategies will include: targeting hospital employees for improvement first; utilizing partnerships with others engaged in health improvement; aligning hospital initiatives with existing county or state initiatives, such as INShape Indiana; standardizing community needs assessments; standardizing measurement strategies; utilizing existing resources and expertise within hospitals; and making it easy for hospitals to participate.

“Wellness initiatives have an impact that is broader than improving personal health and wellbeing. They impact medical expenditures, improve economic development, lower absenteeism, and increase productivity,” said William Corley, president/CEO, Community Health Network, Indianapolis.

According to Corley, who played a key role in launching the initiative, the cost savings that his organization might see with diabetes prevention is dramatic. A pre-diabetic employee who becomes diabetic may add $10,000 a year to health care costs, even if the diabetes is controlled. Employees with uncontrolled diabetes will add $40,000 or more per year to costs.

“At the end of the day, you don’t just do it for the cost savings,” said Corley. “You do it because you care about your employees.”

The rankings provided are from the Wellpoint State Health Index of 23 key public health metrics, which are either 2004 or 2005 data depending on the measure. The Indiana Hospital Association is the professional trade association for 167 Indiana hospitals. The IHA provides data, education, advocacy, financial, and communications services.

Source: Indiana Hospital Association

Reed Encourages Hoosiers to Learn about State’s Energy Sources

kpaul.mallasch — Thu, 9 Oct 2008 13:45:48 -0700

Learn Green, Live Green focus for October: Indiana’s Energy

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - According to the Energy Information Administration, Indiana ranks 8th in the nation in total energy usage. Because of this, and other alarming energy statistics, the Indiana Department of Education is encouraging Hoosiers to learn more about Indiana’s energy throughout October as part of the ongoing Learn Green, Live Green initiative.

“Learning about Indiana’s energy can help Hoosiers better conserve these resources and save ourselves money in the process,” said Superintendent of Public Instruction Dr. Suellen Reed.

Alternative energy sources

Though Indiana ranks high for fossil fuel consumption, the state is an emerging leader in the production of alternative fuels. As one of the nation’s top corn-producing states (fifth in the nation), Indiana’s potential as an ethanol producer is growing. Combined production of Indiana ethanol plants currently operating and those under construction will exceed 1 billion gallons of ethanol annually, using approximately 390 million bushels of corn. Moreover, Indiana is the fourth largest soybean state with four biodiesel plants currently in operation.

Indiana also possesses viable wind resources scattered across the northern half of the state. Earl Park, located in Benton County, is home to Indiana’s first working wind farm which provides renewable energy that reduces total greenhouse gas emissions. To learn more about Indiana’s alternative energy sources, go online to www.doe.in.gov/green.

Randolph Eastern school makes conservation a priority

Union City Community High School is committed to teaching students about alternative energy sources through hands-on activities. Currently, the school, which is part of Randolph Eastern School Corporation, has a solar and wind electric system made up of eight solar panels and a 90-foot wind turbine.

Although the system currently produces less than one percent of the school’s electricity, it offers big opportunities for project-based learning activities that span multiple subject areas. Students are able to work with the system directly through monitoring data, predicting energy output and studying how carbon-free electricity helps cut down on harmful emissions. Students and staff agree that these lessons are proving effective.

“I didn’t know a whole lot about alternative energy until I took the environmental education course,” said Ali Gelhaus, senior. “Now, I love learning about it. It makes me feel good to know our school is doing something to help the environment.”

To learn more about the solar and wind system at Union City Community High School and what other schools across the state are doing to “go green,” visit www.doe.in.gov/green and click on the Spotlights link.

Keep up the ‘green’ work

Although this month’s focus is Indiana’s Energy, Hoosiers should take a look at all the other Learn Green, Live Green initiatives such as recycling, reducing waste, using renewable resources, choosing more environmentally friendly transportation and learning more about beneficial organisms. For more information on our past initiatives, visit www.doe.in.gov/green and click through the different months on each of the tabs or go to the Recycle Bin.

Learn Green, Live Green

Learn Green, Live Green is a year-long initiative, launched in January 2008, that is designed to help educators, students, parents and community members discover practical, cost-effective ways to model environmentally-responsible behavior both inside and outside of the classroom. The Learn Green, Live Green concept fits naturally with Indiana’s academic standards, local school curricula and student learning goals at each grade level. Local participation is completely voluntary.

Each month in 2008, the Indiana Department of Education spotlights a different aspect of the issue through an interactive Web site, www.doe.in.gov/green, while offering a variety of related resources for schools and communities.

Source: Indiana DOE

Farm Bureau Convention to take place in Evansville

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 7 Oct 2008 07:45:44 -0700

EVANSVILLE, IN - Indiana Farm Bureau is taking its annual convention to Evansville while the new Indiana Convention Center is under construction.

“With the construction, we have the opportunity to take the convention to another area of the state temporarily,” said Kim Vail, director of organizational development for IFB. “Evansville has remarkable facilities to host our convention this year.”

The convention will run Dec. 4-6, 2008. Most convention activities will take place at The Centre in downtown Evansville, with a few at the nearby Executive Inn.

Keynote speakers include economist Jeff Thredgold on Thursday, Dec. 4 and farm broadcaster Orion Samuelson on Saturday, Dec. 6. Award-winning entertainer Sandi Patty will perform her Christmas program the evening of Dec. 5.

Several new activities have been added to the convention, including bus tours of Angel Mounds and Newburgh, New Harmony and the Port of Indiana at Mt. Vernon.

Breakout sessions will be held throughout the convention. Topics include the I-69 extension, farmland assessment, choosing the right HVAC system for your home, a review of the 2008 election and using new media, among others.

The convention moves to Fort Wayne in 2009.

More information on the convention is available on the IFB website,www.infarmbureau.org or by calling 1-800-FARM BUR (327-6287).

Source: Indiana Farm Bureau

IDEM, OED talk about Hoosiers Care Program at McDonald's Event

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 7 Oct 2008 07:45:42 -0700

BEECH GROVE, IN - Food, fun, and a positive environmental and safety message highlighted a family day at the newly reopened McDonald’s at 2230 S. Sherman Dr. in Beech Grove, Ind. on Saturday. The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) and the Indiana Office of Energy and Defense Development (OED) presented information to patrons, along with an animal rescue organization and other businesses. Local insurance provider Ingle Harris, III and Farmer’s Insurance Group fingerprinted children to provide parents with a security record.

IDEM and OED spoke with attendees about the Hoosiers Care program, a state initiative that encourages Hoosiers to take simple steps to protect the environment and conserve energy. Among those steps are turning down the water heater, not idling in drive-through lines, and for children, unplugging gaming systems when not in use. Area residents that were willing to sign the Hoosiers Care pledge were given a compact fluorescent bulb to begin their energy conservation.

“Children are future caretakers of our environment,” said Thomas Easterly, IDEM commissioner. “It is vital that we, as current environmental stewards, demonstrate the positive steps that children can begin to integrate into their everyday lives as they grow.”

Source: Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM)

Attorney General Steve Carter, 32 States Reach Landmark $62 Million Settlement with Indiana-based Eli Lilly

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 7 Oct 2008 07:45:37 -0700

Eli Lilly pays $1.6 million to Indiana in largest multi-state consumer protection-based pharmaceutical action

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - Attorney General Steve Carter announced today that Indiana, along with 31 other states and DC, reached a record $62 million dollar action with Indiana-based Eli Lilly and Company arising from alleged improper marketing of the antipsychotic drug Zyprexa. It is the largest ever multi-state consumer protection-based pharmaceutical action.

The Attorneys General alleged that Eli Lilly may have marketed its antidepressant drug Zyprexa for off-label uses and may have failed to adequately disclose the drug’s potential side effects to health care providers. Following a nearly two-year investigation, Eli Lilly has agreed to change how it markets Zyprexa and to cease promoting its “off-label” uses, which are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

“The agreement provides Hoosiers assurance that their doctors are and will be fully informed about the potential medical impact of Zyprexa,” said Carter. “We are pleased that Eli Lilly has agreed to take measures to ensure that doctors and consumers in Indiana and throughout the nation will be provided with accurate, objective and balanced information.”

The Office of the Indiana Attorney General will receive $1,602,874 from the consumer protection-based pharmaceutical action. Money from the action will be used for consumer protection and other lawful purposes that have not been determined at this time.

In 2001, Eli Lilly began an aggressive marketing campaign called “Viva Zyprexa!” As part of that campaign, the company allegedly marketed Zyprexa for a number of off-label uses including pediatric use, for use at high dosage levels, for the treatment of symptoms rather than diagnosed conditions and in the elderly for the treatment and/or chemical restraint of patients suffering from dementia. While a physician is allowed to prescribe drugs for off-label uses, the law prohibits pharmaceutical manufacturers from marketing their products for off-label uses.

The agreement mandates that for a six year time period extending beyond the patent term for Zyprexa, Eli Lilly will:

Promotional Activities

· Not make any false, misleading or deceptive claims regarding Zyprexa;

· Not promote Zyprexa using selected symptoms of the FDA-approved diagnoses unless certain disclosures are made regarding the approved diagnoses;

Dissemination of Medical Information

· Require its medical staff, rather than its marketing staff, to have ultimate responsibility for developing and approving the medical content for all medical letters and medical references regarding Zyprexa, including those that may describe off-label information. This information shall not be distributed unless certain criteria are met;

· Provide specific, accurate, objective and scientifically balanced responses to unsolicited requests for off-label information from a health care provider regarding Zyprexa;

· Require its medical staff to be responsible for the identification, selection, approval and dissemination of article reprints containing more than an incidental reference to off-label information regarding Zyprexa, and that such information not be referred to or used in a promotional manner;

Continuing Medical Education (CME) and Grants

· Disclose information about grants, including continued medical education on its Web site (www.lillygrantoffice.com), for at least two years and maintain the information for five years;

· Not use grants to promote Zyprexa, or condition CME funding on Eli Lilly’s approval of speakers or program content;

· Contractually require continuing medical education providers to disclose Eli Lilly’s financial support of their programs and any financial relationship with faculty and speakers;

Payments to Consultants and Speakers

· Provide each signatory Attorney General a list of health care provider promotional speakers and consultants who were paid more than $100 for promotional speaking and/or consulting by Eli Lilly;

Product Samples

· Only provide product samples of Zyprexa to a health care provider whose clinical practice is consistent with the product’s current labeling; and

Clinical Research

· Register clinical trials and submit results as required by federal law; register Zyprexa Eli-Lilly sponsored Phase II, III and IV clinical trials beginning after July 1, 2005; and post on a publicly accessible Web site all Eli-Lilly sponsored Phase II, III and IV clinical trials completed after July 1, 2004.

Participants in the action include: Alabama, Arizona, California, Delaware, D.C., Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin

Source: Office of the Indiana Attorney General

IDEM Boosts Recycling Efforts with PEP Grants

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 7 Oct 2008 03:45:38 -0700

Twenty-two solid waste management districts receive grants to enhance recycling education

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) awarded 22 Indiana solid waste management districts (SWMDs) public education and promotion (PEP) grants to educate students, teachers, citizens, communities, and businesses about source reduction and recycling programs.

“Education is an important key to encourage more Hoosiers to recycle,” said IDEM Commissioner Thomas Easterly. “If we could encourage each Hoosier to recycle, even in a small way, then the collective impact would be significant. If we all work together to do our part we can make Indiana’s environment better for current and future generations.”

County SWMDs that received PEP grants are: Allen; Bartholomew; Clay-Owen-Vigo; Dearborn; Decatur; Fountain; Hamilton; Huntington; Knox; Lake; Marshall; Monroe; Northeast serving DeKalb, LaGrange, Noble and Steuben Counties; Perry; Rush; St. Joseph; Spencer; Sullivan; Three Rivers serving Henry County; Tipton; West Central serving Montgomery, Park and Putnam Counties; and Wildcat Creek serving Clinton and Tippecanoe Counties.

IDEM awards the PEP grants each year to eligible SWMDs which work with local schools, businesses, communities, and environmental and service organizations to develop education and promotion programs. PEP grants help fund projects aimed at creating environmental awareness, such as advertising and printed materials for recycling and household hazardous waste programs; Web site development; technical assistance for local business; library resource materials for schools; training materials for schools; and expenses for local "buy recycled" campaigns.

Source: Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM)

The PEP grant program is one of several grant programs IDEM manages to aid cities, towns, counties, SWMDs, schools and non-profits with source reduction, recycling and household hazardous waste programs. A local match of funds is required to demonstrate local commitment to the program. For more information, visit http://www.IN.gov/idem/4103.htm .

Grant money comes from the Indiana Solid Waste Management Fund, an account generated by a per-ton fee on solid waste disposed at Indiana landfills. The fund supports source reduction, reuse, recycling and composting to prevent solid waste from permanent disposal.

Gates Says Meetings to Focus on Afghanistan, Russia, Transformation

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 19:40:02 -0700

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

ABOARD A MILITARY AIRCRAFT – While the alliance's transformation is the scheduled topic of discussion at a NATO defense ministerial conference this week in Budapest, Hungary, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said today that Afghanistan and Russia also will be high on the agenda.

In Budapest, Gates told reporters traveling with him, the principal issue is getting Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer's recommendations institutionalizing NATO's transformation. Gates said he wants to strengthen the hand of the secretary general in leading the alliance and managing changes in th NATO headquarters structure. Building on discussions they had in London on Sept. 18, he said, the alliance's defense ministers will determine whether there NATO's footprint should change in terms of headquarters around Europe.

NATO's efforts in Afghanistan and the continued need for more forces in the country also will be high on the agenda in Budapest, Gates said. "I want everyone to understand that the increases in U.S. forces are not seen as replacements for NATO contributions, but are reinforcements," he said. "We not only want those who have made the contributions to continue them, but continue to look for opportunities to increase non-U.S. NATO forces there."

The United States is by far the largest manpower donor to the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force, providing more than 20,000 of the 50,700 total troops in Afghanistan from 41 nations.

The United Kingdom has 8,330 servicemembers in Afghanistan. Germany has 3,310, France has 2,750, Canada has 2,500, Italy has 2,350 and the Netherlands has 1,770.

Poland has 1,130 troops in Afghanistan, Australia has 1,080, Denmark has 750, Romania has 725, Belgium has 420 and Latvia, Slovakia and Slovenia each has 70. A total of 26 other nations have troops in the country.

The highest manpower priority at this point, the secretary said, is for trainers.

"Our objective is to expand the size of the Afghan army significantly, and necessarily key to that is people to train them," he said. "It's important for us, and it should be important for the allies."

Gates said that countries that do not have significant troop commitments in Afghanistan – and not just NATO nations – should consider contributing to the cost of expanding the size of the Afghan army.

Gates said NATO faces significant challenges in Afghanistan, but "there certainly is no reason to be defeatist or to underestimate the opportunities to be successful in the long run."

He said the basics of a counterinsurgency campaign will work in Afghanistan the same way they did in Iraq. What is important, he said, is detaching members of the opposition – those Afghans who now support the insurgents – from the terrorists. Gates said the strategy is "detaching those who are reconcilable and are willing to be part of the future of the country from those who are irreconcilable and who have to be dealt with militarily."

Gates also is traveling to Macedonia this week to attend a southeastern Europe defense ministers conference.

Russia's military action in Georgia will be an important topic in Macedonia, Gates said. Gates said he is pleased that the Russians finally appear to be fulfilling the commitment they made to French President Nikolas Sarkozy in mid-August to withdraw its forces from Georgia.

"We need to figure out the right path in terms of the reality that we have to do business with Russia on important issues, but at the same time to convey the message that it really can't be business as usual after what happened in Georgia," Gates said.

Gates said he believes that the alliance's relationships and activities need to be considered on a case-by-case basis. "I think making broad pronouncements about suspending this or suspending that … is probably not the best way to deal with this," he said.

Source: US Department of Defense