Indiana State News

Back-to-School Campaign reaches out to Indiana's Uninsured

kpaul.mallasch — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 06:45:27 -0700

INDIANA STATEHOUSE - The 7th annual Covering Kids & Families of Indiana Back to School campaign to connect low-income children, adults and families with low cost and free health care coverage will be launching soon. Partners will speak about resources available for Indiana's 131,000 uninsured children and 600,000 uninsured adults and announce the formation of the new Indiana School Health Network at a conference at the Indiana Statehouse.

The following individuals will attend the Statehouse news conference :

Dr. Tony Bennett, Superintendent of Public Instruction, Indiana Department of Education
Loren Robertson, Indiana Deputy State Health Commissioner
Pat Casanova., Director, Office of Medicaid Policy and Planning, Indiana Family and Social Services Administration
Dr. Sarah Stelzner, Pediatrician, Co-President, American Academy of Pediatrics-Indiana Chapter
Toni Estep, Board Vice Chair, Covering Kids & Families of Indiana, Inc. and CEO for Open Door/BMH Health Center in Muncie, Indiana
Personal testimonials on having health coverage through Hoosier Healthwise and/or the Healthy Indiana Plan
Other supporters may attend

The news conference will take place Thursday, July 30, 2009 at 1:00 p.m.

Covering Kids and Families of Madison County:

Covering Kids and Families of Madison County is a coordinated outreach to boost the number of qualified residents who are enrolled in public health insurance plans, which include HIP and Hoosier Healthwise. The coalition offers enrollment services, increased awareness of and guidelines for available health care programs, monitoring of the local health care environment and policies and procedures that affect coverage and access for children and families, and recommending of policy positions and strategies that promote health coverage and improved access to health care. United Way of Madison County is the lead agency for this coalition, which is funded partially through enrollment reimbursement and also by contributions from Community Hospital Anderson, BehaviorCorp/The Center for Mental Health, Madison County Community Health Center and Saint John's Health System.

The New Chrysler Group Will Honor "Lemon Law" Obligations

kpaul.mallasch — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:45:08 -0700

Bankruptcy Court approves agreement with State Attorneys General

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Indiana Attorney General Greg Zoeller announced today that Fiat and the new “Chrysler Group, LLC” have agreed to honor the “Lemon Law” rights of Chrysler buyers when the new company takes control of the U.S. auto maker.

State “Lemon Laws” provide consumers with rights and procedures to obtain a refund or a replacement vehicle if a new vehicle develops a significant problem that can’t be repaired after a certain number of repair attempts.

“I commend Fiat and the Chrysler Group, LLC partners for reaching a formal consumer protection Lemon Law agreement,” Zoeller said. “While we always hope the numbers of those who are required to take advantage of the Lemon Law are low, this marks a significant ‘win’ for Hoosiers and for consumers across the country.”

The agreement reached Tuesday was negotiated by state attorneys general and was reached with the new Chrysler Group, LLC, which will be owned by Fiat, the UAW, the U.S., and Canada. Specifically, the agreement orders that Chrysler Group, LLC will “…recognize, honor and pay liabilities under Lemon Laws for additional repairs, refunds, partial refunds (monetary damages) or replacement of a defective vehicle.”

Zoeller said the states will be watching the GM bankruptcy carefully for similar issues.

Indiana’s Lemon Laws

Lemon Law rights, known as The Motor Vehicle Protection Act in Indiana, vary from state to state, but they generally apply for several years or up to certain mileage limits for new vehicles purchased or leased by consumers.

What to do if you buy a lemon?

1. Report the problem within 18 months of purchase or before 18,000 miles, whichever comes first.

2. Take your vehicle to an authorized dealer for repair.

3. Allow a dealer a reasonable number of attempts to repair, meaning your vehicle is subject to at least four repair attempts OR is out of service due to repairs for at least 30 business days and the problem still exists.

4. Request a copy of the written repair order every time you take your car to the dealer for repair or examination.

5. Read your owner’s manual or vehicle warranty carefully.

· Is written notice to the manufacturer required? If so, you must send written notice of your problem, along with copies of all repair orders to the manufacturer at the address identified in the owner’s manual or vehicle warranty.

· Has the manufacturer adopted an informal dispute procedure that has been certified by the Attorney General? If so, you must follow the procedure before you can file a lawsuit under the Lemon Law.

· If notice is NOT required and the manufacturer does not have an informal dispute procedure, you may file a lawsuit without notifying the manufacturer of your claim.

6. The manufacturer has 30 days to accept return of your vehicle and, at your option, replace the vehicle or refund your money.

7. If the manufacturer does not resolve your claim, you must file a lawsuit within two years from the date you first reported the problem to the dealer. If you win the lawsuit, you can recover all your costs and attorney fees.

For more information on Indiana’s Lemon Laws go to www.IndianaConsumer.com.

Kelvin Fuller Returned to Westville Prison

kpaul.mallasch — Wed, 20 May 2009 03:34:06 -0700

WESTVILLE, IN - Kelvin Fuller, age 42 of Anderson, Indiana returned this past weekend to the custody of the Indiana Department of Correction. Fuller escaped from the medium security section of the Westville Correctional Facility on August 1, 2007. He was apprehended near Butte, Montana one week later on August 8, 2007 still driving a vehicle he purportedly had taken in Indiana.

Fuller was originally convicted out of Hancock, Marion and Madison Counties for several crimes including multiple counts of Robbery and Battery, as well as Criminal Confinement, Burglary, Arson, and Escape from Lawful Confinement. He was first sent to the Department of Correction on January 3, 1992, and his projected release date from incarceration prior to his escape had been March 2, 2012.

Between his escape and re-capture, Fuller reportedly committed several additional crimes in Indiana and other states while heading west. He has since been sentenced on some of those out-of-state charges. He is being returned to the Indiana Department of Correction to finish the balance of his original sentences, as well as to face additional pending charges related to his escape in Indiana.

Fuller was convicted on December 15, 2008 by the United States District Court of a bank robbery committed in Wyoming during the escape. He received a sentence of 188 months (15 years and 8 months) for that crime to be served consecutive to the remaining time still left on his original sentences in Indiana.

On November 11, 2007, while awaiting trial on the bank robbery charge in Wyoming, Fuller was transported to the local hospital for medical treatment. While being treated, he took a nurse hostage, cut her with a home-made weapon, and then tried to get the gun from the U.S. Marshall who intervened. He was subsequently convicted on April 13, 2009 of Aggravated Assault and Battery in the Laramie County, Wyoming Circuit Court for that offense and sentenced to 9-10 years consecutive to the federal sentence of 188 months.

Fuller is now being held in the maximum security section at Westville. Anytime a maximum security is outside their cell, they are shackled and handcuffed and under the hands-on control of multiple staff. “Based on Fuller’s behavior even under the authority of the United States Marshall, we are taking every precaution to insure the safety of the public as well as our own staff” according to Superintendent William Wilson.

Department of Correction Commissioner Edwin G. Buss stated “At this point, the Department of Correction’s duty is to insure that Kelvin Fuller is made available to the appropriate authorities within Indiana so his alleged crimes can be properly heard within the criminal justice system.”

Tim Lanane: Week in Review at the Indiana General Assembly

kpaul.mallasch — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 15:21:54 -0800

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - Cold temperatures and a foot of snow did not deter the fast-paced atmosphere surrounding the General Assembly this week. Committee agendas were long and much testimony has already been presented on a myriad of issues facing our state. Many bills have advanced out of committee and to the floor of the House and Senate for further consideration. This brief summary highlights some of this week’s Statehouse activities.

Indiana Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Children’s Home

Lawmakers heard from members of the Indiana American Legion and other veteran groups who rallied in the Statehouse this week in efforts to prevent the closing of the Indiana Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Children’s Home in Knightstown, Indiana. The home has provided care to thousands of destitute children of veterans since it opened in 1865. It’s now home to at-risk children with preference in admission given to those of veterans. Children from the home, along with alumni, spoke on behalf of saving the residential school and seeing its funding returned to the State Department of Health’s budget. The school is currently home to 114 at-risk students in Grades 5-12, but has the capacity to hold up to 1,000. The cost of education per student is $249.88 per day. When factored on a 188-day classroom calendar, the cost jumps to $485.13 per day.

Energy Study Symposium

Many legislators participated in a day-long Energy Study Symposium held Wednesday in the Senate Chamber. Topics discussed ranged from nuclear power production to green job creation. Despite the varying topics, the speakers all held a consistent theme – Indiana needs change. Lawmakers were asked to help the state move away from its dependence on coal while moving toward renewable energy sources. Wind, solar and nuclear power were all discussed as alternative methods to provide Hoosiers with a cleaner energy supply. Consumers were also called upon to do their part by conserving energy. Suggested steps included replacing incandescent bulbs and ensuring that homes are properly insulated.

Senate floor action

The Senate approved several bills this week including Senate Bill (SB) 21, a proposal to toughen penalties for theft of valuable metals. Amid growing concerns regarding the theft of materials from public utilities and other critical infrastructure sites, the legislation would expand current law to include any metal that is commonly resold by removing the provision that exempts valuable metal transactions under $100 from reporting requirements. SB 21 would also require dealers to photograph the person from whom the dealer purchases valuable metal and the metal itself at the time of an acquisition. SB 41 provides that an attempted sex offense may be used to establish that a person is a repeat sex offender. SB 225 would require the owner of commercial or residential real property containing a rental unit to notify the tenants if a judgment of foreclosure is entered concerning the property, and would permit a tenant to terminate a rental agreement. SB 228 would require the operator of a school bus or special purpose bus to visually inspect each seat within the bus at the end of each trip during which students are transported to determine that no students remain on the bus. These bills now advance to the House of Representatives for its consideration.

Senate committee action

The Senate Committee on Homeland Security, Transportation & Veteran Affairs approved several bills this week including Senate Bill 16 which would require more experience behind the wheel of a motor vehicle for teenagers seeking a driver’s license. Testimony revealed that the number of auto accidents involving teenage drivers is four times higher than those involving experienced drivers. A few of the bill’s provisions include raising the minimum age for the issuance of a learner’s permit, setting requirements for practice driving before a probationary operator’s license could be issued, and prohibiting a driver under the age of 18 from operating a motor vehicle while using a cell phone. Lanane is co-author of this measure.

Another bill advanced by the committee, Senate Bill 196, includes a Class C infraction for a person who uses a handheld device while operating a motor vehicle as a public passenger chauffeur, such as cab and bus drivers. The same penalty would apply to drivers that have a video monitor, portable computer, or other similar device capable of providing a visual display that can be seen by the driver. Public safety vehicles would be exempt. A Class C infraction carries a $500 maximum fine.

Committee members also approved Senate Bill 391 to allow the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) to provide for the renewal of most driver licenses online or by mail. This was the most common request from Hoosiers who responded to BMV surveys last year. The legislation stipulates qualifications required including drivers whose license is not suspended or expired, drivers younger than 75, the most recent renewal was done in person, no written exam is required to renew, no name or address change to report, and a valid digital image of the driver is on record.

The Senate Elections Committee received testimony this week on legislation which includes several recommendations advanced by the Kernan-Shepard Commission on the reorganization of local government. Senate Bill 452 calls for moving municipal elections to even-numbered years, moving school board elections, where applicable, to the general election cycle, expanding the existing vote center pilot program to an option for all counties, and turning the elected position of city clerk or clerk-treasurer into a position appointed by the mayor. Under the proposal, clerks or clerk-treasurers elected in 2007 would serve until January 1, 2012.

Upcoming deadlines

February 19 Deadline for committee reports for bills in house of origin

February 25 Last day for House and Senate bills to pass their respective chambers

April 9 Deadline for committee reports for bills in second house

April 15 Last day House and Senate can approve bills sent over by the opposite chamber

April 29 Session adjourns

To stay informed about legislation moving through the state legislature or to track legislation, log on to www.in.gov/legislative. This site provides complete bill information as well as committee hearing dates and agendas. From this site, you can also watch and listen to House and Senate floor debate while the chambers are in session as well as some committee hearings.

In addition, citizens can stay current on legislation scheduled for action through a free online program available at www.BillWatch.in.gov. Track up to ten bills at a time and receive e-mail notifications only when action is taken on those bills.

Visit my Senate web site at www.in.gov/s25 and subscribe to receive periodic e-mails from me about the major issues being debated this session.

Personal contact with constituents has a direct impact on the legislation we consider and what ultimately becomes law. Feel free to contact me with your comments and concerns regarding pending legislation or if I can provide any assistance.

Mailing address: Statehouse, 200 W. Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN 46204

Telephone: 1-800-382-9467, ext. 2-9534

Email address: s25@iga.in.gov

Bank Robbery in Owen County leaves Spencer Police, Indiana State Police asking for Your Help

kpaul.mallasch — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 23:12:19 -0800

Spencer – (Owen County) The Spencer Police Department and the Indiana State Police are investigating a bank robbery that occurred on today’s date at 1:50 pm. The suspect entered the Peoples Bank located at 304 East Morgan Street, displayed a handgun, gave the teller a bag and demanded cash. No injuries were reported. The suspect left the bank headed south on East Street.

The suspect is being described as a white male in his 50’s. He was seen wearing a tan baseball hat, tan jacket, a button down tan or gray shirt and blue jeans. The suspect was wearing glasses at the time of the robbery.

The Spencer Police Department is asking anyone with information on the identity of the suspect to please contact them at (812) 829-3932, the Owen County Sheriff’s Department at (812)829-4874 or the Indiana State Police at (812) 332-4411.

New Federal Unemployment Extension Available Monday

kpaul.mallasch — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:12:10 -0800

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - Hoosiers who have previously exhausted their unemployment benefits and remain unemployed may file for the new federal unemployment extension beginning Monday. The federal government enacted the up to 20 week extension of benefits on November 6.

Any Hoosier who has previously exhausted either of the first two federal extensions of unemployment or state extended benefits and remains unemployed may be eligible to receive this new federal extension. Hoosiers currently collecting unemployment will be directed to this new extension automatically.

Hoosiers who have previously exhausted their unemployment can file for this extension as follows:

Beginning Monday, November 23, 2009 - reopen unemployment claim through Uplink, Indiana's online benefits system
Beginning Tuesday, November 24, 2009 - return to Uplink to complete two weekly vouchers, covering the time since the extension became law on November 6, 2009
Beginning Wednesday, November 25, 2009 - deposits for eligible vouchers will be posted to individual debit cards
Each subsequent week - file your weekly voucher online similar to other unemployment programs

Uplink and answers to "Frequently Asked Questions" about this extension can be accessed through www.in.gov/dwd. Hoosiers without internet access can also apply online through their local WorkOne Center.

The Department of Workforce Development estimates that approximately 50,000 Hoosiers may qualify for this extension between now and the end of the year.

New Federal Extension Prompts Next-Day Payment Guarantee of 5:00 p.m.

Due to the increased number of claims generated by this federal extension, next-day deposits on eligible claims without unresolved issues can no longer be guaranteed by 10:00 a.m. Deposits are now guaranteed by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time the next business day.

"DWD hopes this change of a few hours does not cause any hardship for our claimants, but this extension is arriving at Indiana's peak period of unemployment filings due to traditional holiday factory shutdowns and the end of seasonal construction," said Marc Lotter, Communications Director at the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.

Claimants can sign up to receive a free phone or e-mail notification once their weekly deposit has been posted to their account. Claimants can sign up for notification by calling 888-393-5866 or visiting www.eppicard.com.

Indiana State Police Arrest Three Henry County Community Corrections Employees on Several Felony Charges

kpaul.mallasch — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:12:30 -0800

NEW CASTLE, IN - Indiana State Police Detective Brent Gulinson of the White Collar Crime Unit arrested three Henry County residents on today’s date on several felony charges. In May of this year the Henry County Commissioners requested the Indiana State Police investigate three employees of the Henry County Community Corrections for alleged misconduct.

On today’s date, at approximately 3:45 p.m., the three suspects turned themselves into Detective Gulinson at the Henry County Jail in New Castle. The three men were processed at the Henry County Jail and each posted a $1,000 cash bond and were released.

Arrested and Charged:

1. Doug Sheets, 57, Centerville, Director of the Henry County Community Corrections.

Charged with one Count of Corrupt Business Influence a Class C Felony, Two Counts of Official Misconduct a Class D Felony and Two Counts of Ghost Employment a Class D Felony.

2. Matthew Patterson, 38, New Castle, Field Officer Henry County Community Corrections.

Charged with one Count of Corrupt Business influence a Class C Felony, one count of Official Misconduct a Class D Felony, and three counts of Ghost Employment a Class D Felony.

3. Jim Heffernan, 39, New Castle, Home Detention Manager Henry County Community Corrections.

Charged with one count of Corrupt Business influence a Class C Felony, one count of Official Misconduct a Class D Felony and three counts of Ghost Employment a Class D Felony.

Indiana Wins Grant to Transform US Autoworkers and the Auto Industry

kpaul.mallasch — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 12:12:05 -0800

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - The US Department of Labor today awarded the Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD) a $4 million grant to help transition US autoworkers to the careers of tomorrow and transform the auto industry.

Indiana will lead a tri-state partnership including the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth and the Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services to conduct this research and build a roadmap to success for both individual workers and the auto companies.

"The Midwest has bore the brunt of the upheaval in the domestic automobile industry," said Teresa Voors, Commissioner of the Indiana Department of Workforce Development. "This tri-state partnership will help the automakers and autoworkers in our states arm themselves with the best practices and skills needed to flourish."

The study will focus on four specific areas:

Auto Industry Transformation: Characterize the structural transformation from the "old" auto industry to a "new" more efficient auto industry and identify new skill and training requirements.
Supply Chain Transformation: Identify the auto parts supply chain impacts of an auto industry structural transformation.
Alternative Career Pathways: Identify alternative career path opportunities for dislocated auto and auto parts workers for jobs in demand with an emphasis on jobs in the green economy.
Skill Gap Analysis: Identify current and projected skill gaps of the auto and auto parts workforce and required training needed to compete for jobs in demand and green job opportunities.

DWD and its partners will kickoff this project next month. The team expects to produce a final report and present its findings and recommendations in 2011.

State Police Make Drug Money Seizure

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 18:12:07 -0800

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - An alert Indiana State Police Motor Carrier Inspector (MCI) discovered a large sum of drug money being transported in a commercial vehicle. The MCI, who is assigned to the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division (CVED) of the Indiana State Police, was working along I-70 in Wayne County.

At 1:15pm on Tuesday, November 17, 2009, MCI Anthony Alexander stopped a commercial vehicle traveling west on I-70 near the 134 mile marker to perform a standard truck inspection. While interviewing the driver to complete the inspection, MCI Alexander became suspicious with some of the answers being given. Employing the training he has received, MCI Alexander contacted Connersville post for a K-9 unit.

Trooper Shane Stevens and his K-9 partner, Jax, arrived at the scene. Jax alerted on the driver’s side of the tractor during his walk around. A more thorough search was conducted by the units at the scene. During this search a small amount of narcotics was discovered along with a duffel bag containing a large sum of money.

The driver was placed out of service and lodged in the Wayne County jail on drug possession charges. The investigation has been turned over to the Indiana State Police Drug Enforcement Section.

This is the second large seizure from a commercial motor vehicle MCI Alexander has been involved with. Last month he conducted an inspection which led to the seizure of over $250,000.

ndiana Secretary of State Todd Rokita Comments on Indiana House Republicans’ Redistricting Proposals

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:12:27 -0800

INDIANA STATEHOUSE - Indiana Secretary of State Todd Rokita issued the following statement today regarding the Indiana House Republicans’ legislative platform including redistricting reforms:

“I find it very promising that we now have representatives in both chambers expressing their commitments to redistricting reform. This tells me that they are hearing the message from Hoosiers that partisan redistricting is no longer acceptable. Representative Bosma and his caucus continue to be leaders in pushing for redistricting reform, and selfless leadership is what it will take.

"I find the House Republicans’ call for transparency and a minimal use of political data promising, however, the legally unnecessary and overly-tight restrictions on population deviation is what we have now and is one of the leading excuses partisans make for drawing odd, arbitrarily shaped districts that really end up benefitting themselves, not the people.

I look forward to this discussion in both chambers of our General Assembly in the New Year so that new criteria that put people before politics will be in place for redistricting in 2011.”

Rep. Lutz Announces The Taxpayer Protection Plan:

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:12:34 -0800

Growing Jobs, Helping Hoosiers

STATEHOUSE - Rep. Jack Lutz (R-Anderson), along with his House Republican colleagues, today unveiled a 2010 legislative agenda with a focus on three key areas: protecting taxpayers’ pocketbooks, growing and protecting jobs and enacting meaningful government reform. The 2010 legislative session is set to begin Jan. 5.

“When Hoosiers are in need, the call for help falls on the shoulders of their public officials,” said Rep. Lutz. “House District 35 has been hit hard with rising unemployment rates, so it is my intent to work on legislation that will provide businesses with incentives to expand and/or develop in Indiana. Government can’t create jobs, but we can help create an environment that is conducive to accelerate job creation.”

The Taxpayer Protection Plan: Growing Jobs, Helping Hoosiers calls for permanent property tax caps along with growing and protecting Hoosier jobs. Rep. Lutz hopes that the plan will serve as the foundation for providing fiscal protection to every Hoosier taxpayer.

Rep. Lutz supports three main goals that do not rely upon taxpayers as an unlimited resource for taxes and also protect their pocketbooks: (1) pass permanent property tax caps now; (2) no new tax increases; (3) live within our means.

The plan also includes four initiatives to protect and grow jobs:

■ Calling upon the Department of Workforce Development to delay sending 2010 tax bills to employers.

■ Supporting the delay of the unemployment insurance tax increase. House Republicans did not support the bill from last session because it would punish employers with one of the largest tax increases in state history during an unprecedented economic downturn.

■ Supporting a review of all available job incentives so that Indiana can pool the current incentive funding to allow the Indiana Economic Development Corporation to use the incentives to increase Hoosier employment.

■ Allowing new businesses to phase in their income tax within three years of starting a new business. This incentive will put Indiana ahead of many states around the country.

The final portion of the Taxpayer Protection Plan will ensure the legislative process at all levels is open and transparent to Hoosier taxpayers. The plan provides increased lobbyist and legislator disclosures, creating an independent redistricting commission and encouraging efficiencies for local governments.

2009 Fourth Quarter Competitive Grants Awarded

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:12:30 -0800

MUNCIE, IN - The Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County, Inc. has announced that 11 grants totaling $116,335 have been awarded to local nonprofit agencies and groups in the Foundation’s fourth competitive grant cycle of 2009.

The grants are awarded in five areas of interest: arts and culture, human services, economic development, education, and community betterment.

Fourth quarter grant recipients include:

Animal Rescue Fund (ARF) received $1,000 (from the Mutual Federal Foundation Fund) to defray the cost of a spay and neuter program for low-income pet owners.

Boys and Girls Club of Muncie received $3,483 (from the Youth as Resources Fund) to defray the cost of a 10 station computer lab in the organization’s learning center.

Buley Community Center received $35,000 to provide transitional funding as the organization reorganizes to provide educational, recreational, nutrition, and a variety or other programs to kids and families in Delaware County.

East Central Indiana Therapeutic Riding, Inc. received $750 (from the Stefan and Joan Anderson Fund) to defray the cost of a driving cart for miniature horses to be used in a program for children with physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities.

Masterworks Chorale received $3,154 (from the Endowment for the Arts Fund) to defray the cost of the 2009 Christmas Concert.

Motivate our Minds received $15,000 to defray the cost of scholarships for students to participate in the organization’s individualized education enrichment program.

Muncie Community Schools received $5,948 to defray the cost of the 2009 Community Christmas Sing.

Project Leadership Delaware County received $11,000 (from the Morris Youth Fund) to defray the cost of an initiative to recruit Delaware County students into the Twenty-first Century Scholars program and mentor them to insure graduation from high school and post-secondary education.

Project Stepping Stone of Muncie received $5,000 (from the Jeanne and John Smith Fund) to defray the cost of transitional housing for local families in need.

Second Harvest Food Bank of East Central Indiana received $11,000 to defray the cost of a program that provides at-risk children with a take-home backpack of easy to prepare food for the weekends when other resources are not available.

YWCA of Muncie received $25,000 to provide transitional funding to meet increased demand for services.

The Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County, Inc., established in 1985, is a publicly supported philanthropic institution governed by a volunteer board of local citizens. The Foundation manages contributions donated by individuals, businesses and corporations as a permanent community endowment. Distributions from these funds are given back to the community in the form of grants to nonprofit organizations and agencies. To date, over $30 million has been awarded to improve the lives of the residents of Muncie and Delaware County.

The next application deadline is January 8, 2010.

Grant guidelines and applications, as well as post-grant reports, are available online at www.cfmdin.org. Requests of $25,000 or more are preferred in the first grant cycle of the year. First time applicants should contact the Foundation before submitting an application.

Attorney General Zoeller announces settlement with VONAGE

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 13:12:07 -0800

Company will refund consumers and modify its cancellation and retention practices

INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana Attorney General Greg Zoeller today announced VONAGE Holdings Corp. has agreed to pay restitution to eligible consumers in 32 states. New Jersey-based VONAGE, is also required to make significant changes to the company’s marketing practices and is required to honor consumer cancellation requests. VONAGE provides “Voice over Internet Protocol” or “VOIP” internet-based phone services.

The settlement establishes a broad restitution plan requiring VONAGE to make refunds to eligible consumers who filed complaints regarding unauthorized charges over a six year period from January 2004 and extending to March 16, 2010, which have not been resolved. Complaints about VONAGE’s billing practices submitted to the Indiana Attorney General’s office before March 16, 2010 will be reviewed to determine restitution eligibility.

“I am pleased this agreement achieves our goals of improving protections for consumers. Hoosiers who may have outstanding matters with Vonage should know they have up to four months to submit complaints to my office,” Zoeller said. “The changes VONAGE will be making to their cancellation process and marketing practices are significant and I anticipate the benefits will be lasting.”

Today’s settlement addresses complaints in which consumers reported having difficulty or being unable to cancel their VONAGE service. VONAGE formerly paid incentives to customer service representatives for retaining customers and preventing cancellation. As a result, consumers reported that cancellation was extremely difficult and sometimes impossible. The agreement with the attorneys general puts strict limitations on this practice and requires recording and verification of these telephone calls. Since January 2004, 68 consumer complaints involving VONAGE have been received by the Indiana Attorney General’s office.

The settlement also addresses a number of other marketing practices, which have led to consumer confusion about the cost associated with VONAGE equipment and service. Specifically, VONAGE will be revising its disclosures regarding the offer of “free” services, money back guarantees and trial periods.

The amount of restitution VONAGE will pay to Indiana residents will depend on the number of eligible claims submitted.

Visit www.IndianaConsumer.com or call 1-800-382-5516 to file a complaint with the Indiana Attorney General’s office.

Semi Tractor Trailer Loses Axle with Eight Tires on Interstate 69

kpaul.mallasch — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 16:12:21 -0800

PENDLETON, IN - At approximately 10:08 a.m. on Sunday, November 15,2009, Indiana State Police Master Trooper Al Willis responded to a report of a personal injury crash on Interstate 69 near the Pendleton exit at the 20 mile marker. According to Master Trooper Willis a 2009 International Tractor Trailer driven by Jeffery L. Taylor, 43, Auburn Hills, Michigan was northbound on Interstate 69 when an axle with eight tires dropped off the trailer.

Melissa N. Levi, 30, Indianapolis, was northbound in a 2007 GMC Envoy when she swerved to miss the axle and tires in the roadway and was struck from behind by a 2005 Freightliner driven by Robert L Jones, Jr. 47, Westland, Michigan. This impact then pushed Levi’s vehicle into a 2007 Jeep Liberty driven by Pamela Marcoff, 54, Indianapolis. The Jeep Liberty continued on and struck the axle and eight tires that had dropped off and landed in the middle of Interstate 69.

The injured were all in the vehicle driven by Melissa N. Levi and were transported to St. John’s Hospital in Anderson. Front seat passenger Deborah Levi, 54, Indianapolis was injured along with a six year old and a teenage passenger in the rear seat. The condition of the four injured is not known at this time.

Indiana State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Officers were on the scene and are presently inspecting the 2009 International Tractor Trailer to determine what caused the axle and eight tires to fall off. The trailer was loaded with heavy paper rolls and will have to be off loaded at the scene. As of 4:30 p.m. Interstate 69 has one lane open. All of Interstate 69 was closed for 40 minutes. All lanes of Interstate 69 should be reopened by 5:30 p.m.

Master Trooper Willis was assisted at the scene by the Indiana State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Officers. Also assisting was Trooper David Poynter, Trooper Scott Keegan, Madison County Sheriff’s Department, Pendleton PD, and Madison County Emergency Management.

Motorcyclist Injured in Crash with Deer

kpaul.mallasch — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 18:12:04 -0800

PERU, IN - This morning, at approximately 9:00 a.m., officers from the Indiana State Police and Peru Police Department responded to a motorcycle crash on U.S. 24 near U.S. 31, which injured a West Lafayette, IN, man.

Preliminary investigation by Senior Trooper Joe Swisher revealed that a 2010 Harley Davidson Road King motorcycle, driven by Richard W. Spencer, 42, West Lafayette, IN, was traveling eastbound on U.S. 24 near U.S. 31. A deer ran from the north side of the road, onto U.S. 24, and was struck by the Harley Davidson. Spencer was ejected from the motorcycle. He was unconscious when officers arrived at the crash. He regained consciousness a short time later and was flown from the scene by Samaritan Helicopter, to Parkview Hospital, with unknown injuries.

“Spencer was wearing a helmet and protective clothing,” stated Senior Trooper Swisher. “Those items helped protect him from further injuries and quite possibly saved his life.”

Today is the opening day for shotgun deer hunting season and farmers are finishing up the fall harvest. This causes deer to be on the move and crossing roadways more frequently. Motorists should be alert for deer running onto roadways. Deer usually travel in packs. If a motorist sees one deer cross the roadway, they should expect more deer to follow. If your vehicle strikes a deer, do not touch it. A frightened or wounded deer can cause serious bodily injury.

Motorists should report a crash involving a motor vehicle and deer as they would any other crash.

Senior Trooper Swisher was assisted by the Peru Fire Department and Dukes Hospital EMS.

Governor names Child Services Ombudsman

kpaul.mallasch — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:12:12 -0800

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Governor Mitch Daniels has named an Indianapolis woman with more than 25 years of child welfare, social work and family counseling experience as the state’s first Department of Child Services Ombudsman.

Susan Hoppe will begin the role on December 14. She is a child welfare professional who has spent her career as a caseworker, manager and counselor on child and family issues such as custody evaluations, child abuse and neglect and family advocacy.

Daniels lauded Hoppe’s long career of commitment to child welfare, saying “Huge improvements and national honors are nice, but we can never do enough to protect our little ones from the selfishness or even brutality of irresponsible parents.”

Most recently, Hoppe has spent the last nine years as a social worker with Marion County Circuit and Superior Courts, providing evaluation services to families involved in contested custody cases. She also has served as the court’s appointee to the Marion County child protection team.

Previously, Hoppe had several roles with increasing responsibility with the Marion County Office of Family and Children in several positions, including direct services, supervision and management. From 1994 to 2000 she managed a staff of 50 employees who investigated reports of child abuse and neglect and provided services to children. Hoppe assisted with the creation of the Marion County Child Advocacy Center, and was instrumental in initiating the 24/7 coverage of Child Protective Services workers.

Earlier in her career, she was a policy consultant with the Family and Social Services Administration at the time that agency was responsible for child services programs. Hoppe promulgated the regulation that requires training for foster parents.

Hoppe earned her undergraduate degree from Northern Illinois University and her master’s degree from Butler University.

The Department of Child Services Ombudsman was created during the 2009 legislative session and is charged with being an independent evaluator in the safety and welfare of Hoosier children.

Hoppe’s salary will be $90,000.

Former Covington School District Superintendent Arrested

kpaul.mallasch — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 12:01:35 -0800

COVINGTON, IN – On Friday, November 13, 2009 officers from the Indiana State Police arrested Nathan E. Evans, former Superintendent of the Covington Community School Corporation on seventeen criminal counts. The arrest follows a lengthy investigation by the Indiana State Police and the Indiana State Board of Accounts that started in February of 2009. The investigation began as a result of a routine audit by the State Board of Accounts when discrepancies in school accounts were found.

The completed investigation was turned over to the Fountain County Prosecutor’s Office for review. As a result of the investigation, seventeen counts were filed in the Fountain County Circuit Court. The charges included two counts of Forgery; a class C Felony, fourteen counts of Theft; a class D Felony, and one count of Perjury; a class D Felony.

Investigating officer, Detective Tom Minnicus, of the Lafayette Post said, “Investigations like this take a long time to complete because of their complexity and the large amount of documents to reconcile and review. In the end, the time is worth it to protect the public funds and hopefully prevent this sort of event for happening again.”

Nathan Evans was incarcerated in the Fountain County Jail following his arrest. He was released when bond was posted. An initial court appearance is set for December 15, 2009 in the Fountain Circuit Court in Covington.

Four People Arrested on Meth Charges

kpaul.mallasch — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 13:12:09 -0800

PERU, IN - Last night, a two week long drug investigation by Indiana State Trooper Josh Maller has resulted in the arrest of four individuals on eight felony charges related to a methamphetamine lab, which was allegedly located at 280 West Canal Street, Peru, IN.

During the course of the investigation, Trooper Maller developed probable cause and obtained a search warrant for a residence at 280 West Canal Street, Peru, IN. Late last night, officers from the Indiana State Police and Peru Police Department executed the warrant. They allegedly found items associated with the manufacturing of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Jeremy Goshert, 32, Peru, IN, Justin Goshert, 29, Wabash, IN, Ryan Dyson, 18, Peru, IN, and Karen Woods, 22, Peru, IN, were taken into custody and incarcerated in the Miami County Jail. Jeremy Goshert has a bond of $50,000. Justin Goshert and Woods have a bond of $13,000. Dyson’s bond was set at $8,000.

Jeremy M. Goshert, Peru, IN

- Manufacturing methamphetamine within 1000feet of a city park, class A felony

- Maintaining a common nuisance, class D felony

- Possession of precursors, class D felony,

Ryan S. Dyson, Peru, IN

- Possession of precursors, class D felony

- Possession of drug paraphernalia, class A misdemeanor

Justin E. Goshert, Wabash, IN

- Possession of over 10 grams of pseudoephedrine, class C felony

- Possession of drug lab, class D felony

Karen M. Woods, Peru, IN

- Possession of a drug lab, class D felony

- Possession of precursors, class D felony

Assisting in the investigation were Miami County Prosecutor Eric Huneryager, the Peru Police Department, ISP First Sergeant Bob Land, Trooper T.J. Zeiser, and Trooper Cicely Gasvoda.

Woman Arrested for Stealing from Cub Scouts

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:12:14 -0800

An Ambia, IN resident was charged in Carroll County with theft from the Cub Scout Troop in Delphi, IN after the new treasurer reported missing funds from the Cub Scout Troop’s account.

First Sergeant Tom McKee of the Indiana State Police Criminal Investigations Division was asked to investigate the theft of approximately $3,000.00 USC which was taken while Jane Alison Popejoy, 38 years old, was Cubmaster/Treasurer of Pack 3165.

Popejoy turned herself in to Carroll County Sheriff’s Department on Monday the 9th of November and was released after posting bond. Popejoy has been charged with theft, a class D felony. First Sergeant McKee stated the charges were filed last week as a result of a seven month investigation.

Peru Man Arrested on Numerous Charges after Short Vehicle Pursuit

kpaul.mallasch — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 14:12:06 -0800

PERU, IN - Saturday morning, at approximately 1:00 a.m., Indiana State Trooper Mike Lorona was on routine patrol when he noticed a 1989 Lincoln passenger car at the intersection of Ellis Road and Business 31 without its headlights turned on. As Trooper Lorona was driving behind the Lincoln, its driver disregarded a stop sign at the intersection of Ellis Road and Wallick Road. Trooper Lorona activated his emergency lights in an attempt to stop the Lincoln. The Lincoln turned westbound on County Road 300 South and sped up, refusing to stop. Approximately 10 seconds later, the Lincoln failed to negotiate a curve and traveled off of the north side of the road striking a utility pole. The driver, later identified as Hector Blanco, 34, Peru, IN, fled on foot.

Approximately an hour later, Miami County Sheriff’s Sergeant Gary Glassburn located Blanco walking near the entrance of the Woodland Hills Trailer Court. As Glassburn attempted to take Blanco into custody, he resisted, and a struggle ensued. Glassburn, with assistance from a trailer court resident, was able to get Blanco handcuffed and take him into custody. Blanco was treated at Dukes Memorial Hospital for lacerations and an eye injury suffered in the crash. Sergeant Glassburn was also treated for an injury sustained during the struggle. He was treated and released. He has since returned to duty.

Officers allegedly found approximately three grams of cocaine near Blanco’s vehicle. Further investigation revealed that Blanco was allegedly over the .08 blood alcohol concentration limit in which a driver is considered intoxicated in Indiana. He was also purportedly driving after his license was revoked for life after having been deemed a habitual traffic violator. Blanco is incarcerated in the Miami County Jail with a bond of $37,000. He faces felony charges for possession of cocaine over three grams, battery on a law enforcement officer causing injury, resisting law enforcement with a vehicle, and driving after his license was revoked for being deemed a habitual traffic violator for life. He also faces a misdemeanor charge for operating a vehicle while intoxicated.

“Sergeant Glassburn’s professional police work in locating Blanco and the trailer court resident’s willingness to get involved and assist Sergeant Glassburn in arresting a resisting felon are to be commended,” stated Trooper Lorona. “Outstanding cooperation between law enforcement agencies resulted in a dangerous man being incarcerated before he could cause needless harm to an innocent victim.”

Trooper Lorona was assisted in this investigation by ISP Sergeant Jason Page, Trooper T.J. Zeiser, Master Trooper Gary Shenefield, Trooper Ezariah Bricknell, Miami County Reserve Deputy Brian Meacham, and Duke’s Hospital EMS..

Governor Daniels directs flags to be lowered to half-staff

kpaul.mallasch — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:12:07 -0800

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Governor Mitch Daniels has directed that flags throughout the state and at the State House be flown at half-staff to honor the victims of the tragedy at Fort Hood, Texas.

This is in accordance with a proclamation issued earlier today by President Barack Obama. Flags are to remain at half-staff until sunset on November 10.

Congress Passes 20-Week Extension of Unemployment Benefits

kpaul.mallasch — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:12:14 -0800

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - The federal government today enacted another extension of unemployment benefits. The legislation will provide up to 20 weeks of additional benefits to the unemployed in Indiana. This extension will result in eligible Hoosiers being able to claim up to 99 weeks of unemployment benefits.

The Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD) is waiting to receive the specific rules governing this extension, including eligibility requirements, from the U.S. Department of Labor. However, DWD anticipates providing these benefits to eligible Hoosiers beginning the week of November 23, 2009.

"Indiana was among the first states in the nation last spring to implement the federal government's $25 increase in weekly benefits and DWD expects being among the first in the nation to begin providing this extension," said Teresa Voors, Commissioner of the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.

Hoosiers who have previously exhausted their unemployment benefits, but remain unemployed, will be able to apply for this extension beginning November 23, 2009 through Uplink, the state's online unemployment benefits system. Updated information will also be posted at www.in.gov/dwd.

St. Vincent Employee Honored

kpaul.mallasch — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:12:07 -0800

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - Jan Clifton, an athletic trainer at the St. Vincent Sports Performance Center, was honored with the 2009 Indiana Athletic Trainers Association Distinguished Service Award on November 1st at the IATA fall meeting. Jan has over twenty years of experience in the field of sports medicine and athletic training and has been a staunch supporter of her profession.

She has provided healthcare at multiple venues and events including: USA Diving Trials, USA Track and Field Championships, NCAA Final Four Basketball Tournaments, Visa National Gymnastics Championships, the LPGA Solheim Cup, and the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, to name a few.

Her commitment to helping her fellow man, and man's best friend, reach beyond the field and court. She holds and annual food drive which collects over 1500 pounds of food each year for the local food pantries. She collects over 300 pounds of pop tabs annually for the Ronald McDonald House in Indianapolis.

She is also an annual volunteer for the Humane Societies "Mutt Strut" and after Hurricane Katrina she organized an athletic training supplies mission to LSU in which she drove a truck and trailer full of donated supplies to Louisiana to help those affected by the devastation.

Jan's service and volunteering over the years make her an exceptional recipient of this award.

University of Indianapolis Employee Honored

kpaul.mallasch — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:12:06 -0800

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - Ned Shannon was named the 2009 Indiana Athletic Trainer of the Year for the College and University setting by the Indiana Athletic Trainers Association during their fall meeting on November 1st. Ned currently serves as the Head Athletic Trainer and Clinical Instructor at the University of Indianapolis, a position he has held since 1993.

Ned holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from IUPUI and a Master of Science degree from Butler University in Education. Ned has served in many athletic training roles including: medical coverage for the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, the Goodwill Games, World Police and Fire Games, NCAA Men's and Women's Swimming and Diving Championships, Pan Am Games, US Track and Field Trials and others.

His leadership within the field of athletic training is indisputable. His mentoring of students and future professionals, his expansion of the athletic training program at the University of Indianapolis and his service as a former President of the IATA are examples of only a few situations.

During the nomination process it was said of Ned that "What is very impressive about Ned is his never ending passion for athletic training. Ned truly loves what he does and imparts this enthusiasm for our profession to our students."

INDOT Announces Traffic Stoppages for State Road 57 in Gibson and Warrick Counties

kpaul.mallasch — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 21:12:14 -0800

Minimal delays are expected

EVANSVILLE, Ind. - The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) announces that on Wednesday, November 4, traffic on State Road 57 / I-69, will be stopped temporarily.

Overhead sign structures will be installed over the new south bound lanes of S.R. 57 / I-69. Traffic will be stopped to allow a crane to set and secure sign masts. Flag persons will be used to control traffic while this takes place. Three (3) sign structures are scheduled to be set on Wednesday, between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. local time. Stoppages will last approximately 15 minutes for each structure to be installed.

This project is a part of Governor Mitch Daniels' Major Moves highway program. Major Moves fully funds a decade of critical highway projects in Indiana. Major Moves capitalizes on Indiana's strategic location at the Crossroads of America by building a superior road infrastructure. This innovative plan will bring jobs to the Hoosier State and leave a legacy for Indiana to be a global leader in distribution and logistics.

The work schedule is subject to change in the event of inclement weather. INDOT reminds motorists to use caution and consider worker safety when driving through a highway construction zone. For the latest news and information about INDOT, please visit www.in.gov/indot.