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Thursday,
July 3, 2008
Teen Accidentally Shot
(West Harrison, IN) - A teen is hospitalized after she accidentally shot herself in West Harrison on Wednesday afternoon.
According to police, 17-year-old Brandi Colgate was cleaning a .22-caliber handgun when it went off, shooting her in the lower abdomen.
AirCare responded to the home on Barber Road near the Indiana-Ohio state line.
The incident remains under investigation, but Colgate is expected to recover.
Car Flips, Driver Critical
(Miami Township, OH) - An unidentified man is in critical condition after a terrible crash late last night on Buffalo Ridge Road in Miami Township-Hamilton County.
Police say the driver in his 20’s may have been speeding and possibly even hill-hopping when he lost control of his car near Wesselman Road and flipped it several times.
He was thrown at least one-hundred feet away after being ejected.
He was not buckled up.
Emergency crews called in a helicopter with heat-vision to scan around the heavily-wooded area and find any other crash victims, but none were located.
The crash is still under investigation.
Fireworks Store Sells To Nine-Year-Old
(Greendale, IN) - A local fireworks stand is catching some heat for selling some small fireworks to a nine-year-old girl.
Reports say the girl told a cashier at Party At Trav’s Fireworks on U.S. 50 in Greendale that her mother was in the store and that she said it was okay.
The store is now checking Ids for all customers to make sure they are 18-years-old or older.
The Indiana State Fire Marshal has been called to investigate.
Fireworks Continue To Be Dangerous Part Of Fourth Of July Activities
(Indianapolis, IN) – If you head to any of the dozen or so fireworks stands located along U.S. 50 in Lawrenceburg and Greendale or West Harrison, be sure you’re smart when lighting them off.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 6,400 Americans spent part of their Fourth of July holiday in the emergency room.
This is despite warnings to consumers on the dangers of fireworks, the number of injuries every year has remained relatively steady.
The long-term effects of these injuries can be severe.
The American Society of Ocular Trauma reports that an average of 400 Americans annually lose vision permanently in one or both eyes due to firework injuries.
In Indiana, 38 percent of all firework injuries in 2007 were eye injuries.
Two-thirds of firework related injuries occurred during the four-week period surrounding the Fourth of July.
According to the Indiana State Department of Health, what's even more tragic is that 48 percent of all reported firework related injuries in Indiana involve children and adolescents.
The National Fire Protection Association found that fireworks referred to as "safe and sane" actually cause more injuries than illegal fireworks and fireworks used on private property account to 83 percent of Indiana's reported injuries.
Malfunctioning fireworks accounted for 23 percent of Indiana's injuries last year.
For a free copy of the Safe Summer Celebrations brochure or other fireworks safety information, including the Prevent Blindness Indiana fireworks Position Statement, visit www.pbeye.org.
Lawrenceburg Chevrolet Owner Closes Montgomery Dealership
(Montgomery, OH) – Montgomery Ford joins a growing list of Ford dealers in the Cincinnati area who are shutting down.
The owner of Montogmery Ford, Mark Williams, recently purchased the former Ande Chevrolet in Lawrenceburg. That dealer is now known as Lawrenceburg Chevrolet Pontiac Buick GMC.
In June Ford's sales dropped 27.9% and in May the F-150 Pickup lost its position as the number one seller in the United States to the Honda Civic.
New Magistrate For Dearborn-Ohio Court
(Lawrenceburg, IN) – Dearborn-Ohio County Circuit Court Judge James D. Humphrey announced Wednesday that Kim Schmaltz, Dillsboro, has been selected to serve in the newly created magistrate position for Ohio and Dearborn Counties beginning January 1, 2009.
The Indiana legislature recently passed a law, which changed the structure of the court system for Ohio and Switzerland Counties. At Switzerland County’s request, the will be receiving their own circuit court.
As a result, the Switzerland-Ohio Superior Court will no longer exist beginning January 1.
Judge Humphrey indicates that he plans to have the magistrate sit in Ohio County on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays while holding court in Dearborn County on Wednesdays.
The magistrate will be hearing a variety of cases including criminal cases, domestic relations, civil lawsuits, small claims, and protective orders.
The selection process for the magistrate has included interviews conducted by a group consisting of four elected officials from Ohio County as well as an additional elected official from Ohio County.
Schmaltz, 47, graduated from Northern Kentucky University’s Chase College of Law in 1999 and has been engaged in a private law practice in Dillsboro since 2001.
Somebody Jamming Police Radios With Music
(Erlanger, KY) - Police and firemen in Erlanger are hearing something other than dispatchers over their two-way radios.
Periodically for the last month, police say somebody has been jamming the signal with country music.
They assure residents that it’s not affecting their emergency response efforts.
The FCC is trying to find the source.
Lawsuits Filed Against Madison Regatta
(Madison, IN) – The 2008 Madison Regatta runs this Fourth of July weekend, but the festival has a cloud continuing to loom over its head.
Nearly two years after a car careened through a throng of speedboat racing fans along the Ohio River, victims have filed negligence lawsuits against the organizers of the regatta.
A lawsuit filed by 58-year-old Priscilla "Jean" Johnson, Madison, seeks damages for injuries, pain and lost income due to the crash.
She was critically injured in the July 2nd, 2006, crash.
Twenty-eight-year-old Jennifer Willette, Madison Heights, Michigan, has filed a similar suit. Her left arm and leg were amputated after the crash.
The Madison Regatta and the American Boat Racing Association did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Eighteen-year-old Michael Bowen pleaded guilty to charges in the crash.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Scrap Dealer Helps Nab Man Stealing Carts
(Miamitown, OH) - A man is charged with receiving stolen property after police say he stole shopping carts from a local store and cashed them in as scrap.
William Mayborg would allegedly take the carts from the Kroger store in Cleves and try to trade them in at Miamitown Auto Parts.
Mayborg received about $1,000 before the store’s owner says they became suspicious and called police.
Kroger says the roughly 250 carts they lost were worth $37,000. They did not specify if all the carts were stolen by only Mayborg or from the Cleves store.
Pot, Pills Found During Traffic Stop
(Boone County, KY) - A large amount of drugs were found during a traffic stop in Boone County on Tuesday.
Officers pulled over a car on I-75 near the rest stop when they suspected one of the people riding in it was wanted on a warrant.
A search of the car yielded six pounds of pot and about 1,200 prescription pills.
In-laws Max Burd and Deborah Burd have bonded out of jail, but they still face charges.
Long Thompson Calls For Gas Sales Tax Suspension
(Indianapolis, IN) - Indiana gubernatorial candidate Jill Long Thompson is calling on her opponent to suspend the state's sales tax on gasoline.
Long Thompson estimates that drivers would save a total of $122 million between July 3rd and Labor Day, if Governor Daniels made an emergency declaration.
She called during the Democratic primary for a suspension of the gas sales tax when the pump price hits $2.75 a gallon.
Long Thompson did not specify how the revenue would be replaced, but said that her bigger concern is "how many families are falling behind" because of high gas prices.
Daniels had indicated he was open to the idea, but his latest television commercial downplays the possibility.
Meanwhile, gas prices continue to be on an up-tick as the Fourth of July travel weekend approaches.
Locally, www.cincygasprices.com says the tri-state average is $4.08 a gallon.
A year ago, gas was averaging $2.85 a gallon.
AAA says a lot of people will opt to stay home this Independence Day because of high fuel prices.
HVL Board Dispute Settled
(Hidden Valley, IN) - A big fuss over elections with Hidden Valley Lake’s utility board has been settled.
An election held last week failed to bring in enough votes for a quorum, rendering it meaningless.
Robert Hamilton had requested an injunction claiming he was unfairly held from running for the VRUC, but a judge ruled the $9.60 he owed on his utilities violated the VRUC election bylaws.
Hamilton’s nomination had a second error, too. One of the people who nominated him had failed to put her lot number on the nomination papers.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
One Dead In Northern Kentucky Accident
(Kenton County, KY) - Police in Kenton County are at the scene of a fatal accident on Interstate 275.
A semi tractor trailer and a pickup truck collided near the Turkeyfoot exit ramp in Erlanger just after 6:00 a.m.
The driver of the pickup died at the scene.
The accident remains under investigation.
House Burns In Whitewater Township
(Whitewater Township, OH) - Crews were called to Whitewater Township on the report of a fire early this morning.
It started in a garage and spread to a home on Morgan Road near Interstate 275.
There were no reports of any injuries and no word yet on what sparked the blaze.
Damage estimates have not been released.
Woman Hurt In Brookville Lake Boating Accident
(Brookville, IN) - A 20-year-old Pendleton, Indiana woman is in stable condition after being run over by a boat on Brookville Reservoir.
Ashley Hilton and Shea Eckert were tubing on Sunday when a 34-foot SeaRay approached them.
The Department of Natural Resources reports that Eckert was able to swim out of the way, but Hilton was hit by the craft.
She was first taken to a hospital in Oxford, Ohio and then air lifted to Dayton.
Hilton suffered lower back injuries.
John Seale, Brookville, who was operating the boat, tested negative for alcohol.
Seale told officers that he did not see the tubes.
The Franklin County prosecutor's office will decide whether to file charges.
Local Couple Sentenced For Bank Scam
(Covington, KY) - A Lawrenceburg couple has been sentenced in U.S. District Court for their role in a big time bank fraud scam.
John and Linda Van Winkle will each serve at least 85-percent of their two years sentences under federal guidelines.
The Van Winkles had pled guilty to conspiring with others to defraud the First National Bank of Northern Kentucky out of 2.5-million-dollars.
According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, the Van Winkles made false statement on loan applications and conspired with Thomas to get loans in family members’ names from March 2000 through July 2002, according to court records.
One of the co-conspirators was the bank president, Richard Thomas. He’s scheduled to be sentenced later this month.
Dozens Of New State Laws In Effect Today
(Indianapolis, IN) - Ninety-five new state laws go into effect in Indiana today. Here are some of the more important ones according to State Senator Johnny Nugent’s office:
Consumer Protections
Pre-paid Funerals: HEA 1026 helps protect investments of Hoosiers with prepaid funeral policies by making it a Class C felony to fraudulently disburse funds from a funeral trust account. Class C felonies are punishable by up to 8 years of imprisonment and a $10,000 fine.
Mortgage Lending: HEA 1359 extends protection to potential homeowners by establishing a mortgage fraud hotline for consumers to call, subjecting those involved in the loan process to federal criminal background checks and allowing the state to use a multi-state automated licensing system to track the actions of loan brokers who operate throughout the United States.
Education
Teacher Shortages: SEA 22 addresses the shortage of teachers in areas like math and science by allowing the Indiana Department of Education to grant initial teaching licenses to qualified Hoosier professionals with related post-graduate degrees and some teaching experience.
Experience, Savings: SEA 51 encourages retired teachers to return to the classroom in as few as 30 days, tapping valuable experience, filling critical positions and saving limited resources, because neither the district nor teacher must make pension contributions.
Online Learning: HEA 1246 creates a study of virtual online learning for K-12 schools to provide greater educational opportunities to students throughout Indiana.
Free Tuition for Purple Heart Recipients: HEA 1249 allows post Sept. 11 military veterans decorated with the Purple Heart to pursue a bachelor’s or associate’s degree at state universities tuition free.
Environment
Our Great Lakes: SEA 45 adopts the Great Lakes Water Resources Compact to regulate use of the lakes. The compact prohibits most new and increased diversions of water from the lakes, while preserving existing agreements.
E85 Availability: SEA 360 gives retailers and local governments grants to invest in E85 pumps without spending state tax dollars. Greater access to E85 – a fuel blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline – promotes its use.
Government
Vote Centers: HEA 1071 allows certain counties to continue piloting centralized voting locations at grocery stores, government and shopping centers. In 2007, vote centers streamlined election management, reduced costs and increased voter turnout.
911 Services: HEA 1204 increases 911 efficiency saves tax dollars and helps communities invest in the latest technology. The bill consolidates 911 dispatch centers, allowing two per county by 2015.
Highway Right-of-Ways: SEA 31 strengthens communication between INDOT and Hoosier landowners to save taxpayers and property owners unnecessary expenses. Advance notice of highway construction avoids developments that must later be purchased at market value.
Floodway Reconstruction: SEA 104 aligns state and federal regulations in order to allow many Hoosier homeowners to rebuild after a flood if the home is raised two feet above 100-year flood levels.
Health Care
Lead Poisoning Prevention: SEA 143 prohibits Indiana retail stores from selling products with unsafe levels of lead paint and authorizes a committee to study ways to prevent lead poisoning in day care centers. Because of Indiana’s many older homes, the law also addresses repair and remodeling practices through the Indiana Lead Safe Housing Advisory Council – including a training program for contractors to work on these homes.
Online Medical Consumers: SEA 302 safeguards online medical consumers from unlicensed pharmacies selling unsafe products. To help Hoosier consumers ensure Internet-based pharmacies are valid and products are safe, licenses and reviews of accredited pharmacies will be displayed on their Web sites.
Priority Medicaid Waivers: HEA 1266 develops priority Medicaid waivers for developmentally disabled Hoosiers in emergency situations to receive immediate assistance. Individuals encountering the death of a primary caregiver, seeking emergency placement or facing abuse or neglect will be given priority in order to receive support in their home or community.
Spinal Cord and Brain Injuries: HEA 1318 repeals the $10 motorcycle registration charge and implements a 30-cent fee on all motor vehicle registrations to continue funding spinal cord and brain injury research. This worthwhile healthcare investment could raise over $1.6 million annually, create jobs and qualify Indiana for additional research dollars.
Public Safety
Domestic Violence: SEA 27 creates a “cooling-off period” in domestic violence cases by requiring suspects be held in custody for eight hours after the time of arrest and prohibits them from being released on bail during that time.
Sexually Violent Crimes: HEA 1276 requires a court hearing within 48 hours of the arrest of someone charged with a sexually violent crime to discuss the alleged perpetrator’s prior criminal history and determine if it is safe to release the defendant on bail. This legislation was passed in response to the murder of an Indiana girl last year by a convicted sex offender out on bail.
Motorist Duties: HEA 1052 requires passengers involved in auto accidents rendering the driver helpless to notify officers or provide reasonable assistance. Passengers over 18 and those with their learner’s permit will face Class C misdemeanors if they fail to help at the accident scene.
Hoosiers with Autism: HEA 1171 requires autism training for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel. Training would help responders identify signs of autism and effectively treat those individuals in high stress situations.
Pool Safety: HEA 1259 mandates manufacturers use ladders that are removable or can be locked to help prevent children from entering unattended pools. In 2006, 16 Indiana deaths occurred as a result of children swimming in unsupervised above-ground pools.
Hoosier Renters: SEA 26 requires landlords to install and maintain operational smoke detectors in all rental properties in Indiana. Property owners who fail to comply can be found guilty of a Class B infraction with a fine of up to $1,000.
Tornado Warning Systems: SEA 334 requires the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to establish uniform standards for severe weather sirens and study which areas across the state need additional sirens.
Theft of Copper, other Valuable Metals: SEA 343 requires the Sentencing Policy Committee to study issues related to the theft of copper and other valuable metals. The committee will study ways to heighten awareness among metal dealers because of the recent increase in thefts of valuable metals from homes and construction sites.
Impaired Drivers: HEA 1052 mandates that impaired drivers leaving the scene of an accident after causing serious bodily injury or death face a Class B felony with a possible 6 to 20-year jail term and $10,000 fine.
Jet Blows Tire During Landing At CVG
(Hebron, KY) - There were no injuries last night when a tire blew on a Delta jet.
The Boeing 737 had just landed at the Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Airport and was taxiing to the terminal.
Passengers were taken off the plane on the tarmac.
ISP Steps Up Holiday Patrols
(Versailles, IN) - Many people are already hitting the road for the Fourth of July weekend.
As with every big travel weekend, Indiana State Police say they will be stepping up patrols looking for speeders and drunk drivers.
Troopers will be participating in state and national grant-funded enforcement programs like Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort) and SWDUIEP (Statewide Driving Under the Influence Enforcement Project).
These programs allow for troopers to work overtime in addition to those troopers regularly scheduled.
Last year there were 13 people who lost their lives on Hoosier Highways during the Fourth of July holiday period.
In addition to the extra patrols by troopers, Indiana State Police Motor Carrier Inspectors and troopers assigned to ISP’s Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division have been authorized extra overtime hours during the holiday period.
This enforcement program called Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program (MCSAP) targets those commercial vehicles that are unsafe and those commercial vehicle drivers operating their vehicles in an unsafe manner.
DCH Gives Out Scholarships
(Lawrenceburg, IN) - Dearborn County Hospital is the latest entity to hand out generous scholarships.
Thirteen local grads will each get $500 in Dearborn County Hospital Foundation High School Senior Scholarships to help them pursue a career in the health care field.
The winners are as follows:
-Amanda Batta of Sunman, a graduate of East Central High School who will major in Nursing at Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science,
-Ashley Cochran of Rising Sun, a graduate of Rising Sun High School who is enrolled in the Nursing program at the University of Indianapolis,
-Megan Ertel of Sunman, a graduate of Oldenburg Academy who will major in Nursing at the University of Southern Indiana,
-Kara Hudson of Rising Sun, a graduate of Switzerland County High School who plans to major in Pre-Medicine at Franklin College,
-Jamie Kraus of Guilford, a graduate of East Central High School who is enrolled in the Nursing program at Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science,
-Elizabeth Lacy of Lawrenceburg, a graduate of Lawrenceburg High School who is enrolled in the Medical Technology program at Ball State University,
-Andrea Miller of Versailles, a graduate of South Ripley High School who will major in Nursing at Ivy Tech Community College,
-Toni Perdue of Batesville, a graduate of Batesville High School who is enrolled in the Pre-Radiography program at Indiana University,
-Amy Rosenberger of Brookville, a graduate of Franklin County High School who will major in Nursing at Indiana State University,
-Jillian Thatcher of Lawrenceburg, a graduate of East Central High School who plans to major in Nursing at Indiana University,
-April Thieman of Bennington, a graduate of Switzerland County High School who is enrolled in the Radiologic Technology program at Northern Kentucky University,
-Laura Wagner of Aurora, a graduate of South Dearborn High School who will major in Nursing at the College of Mount St. Joseph,
-Abigail Wells of Aurora, a graduate of South Dearborn High School who will study Nursing at IUPUI.
For more information about the DCH Foundation High School Senior Scholarship Program, please call the Community Relations Department at (812) 537-8190 or (800) 676-5572, ext. 8190.
Monday, June 30 , 2008
Aurora Gas Station Held Up
(Aurora, IN) - A local gas station is held up at knife-point.
Saturday evening, a robber entered the Kennett River City Marathon on Judiciary Street in Aurora and demanded money.
He made off with the money in a blue older model, full-size van with a ladder on the rear going towards Rising Sun on State Road 56.
The Dearborn County Special Crimes Unit is looking for a white male 25 to 35-years-old, described as approximately 6’0” to 6’1” and 200 lbs., wearing a black baseball hat with a Maltese cross, black sunglasses, white t-shirt, blue jeans, with brown curly hair above the collar.
The Dearborn County Sheriff’s Department is assisting in the investigation.
Anyone with information about the offense is asked to call the Special Crimes Unit at (812) 537-3571 or the Aurora Police Department at (812) 926-1101.
Little Girl Run Over In Driveway
(Florence, KY) - A Northern Kentucky toddler is recovering after being run over by the family car.
Koji Yarnaguchi was backing out of his driveway on Donner Drive in Florence Friday evening when he hit his 16-month-old daughter, Tiffanny.
She remains hospitalized, but her condition has not been released.
L’burg Community Center Celebrates First Anniversary
(Lawrenceburg, IN) - The $3 million Lawrenceburg Community Center celebrates its first anniversary this week.
The facility on Walnut Street provides the public with athletic facilities, a computer lab, and more. It is free of charge.
Events will be going on all week.
From Monday, June 30 through Thursday, July 3 open house will be held at the community center.
There will be food, games, entertainment, a silent auction, craft show, talent show, and local non-profit groups participating.
Daniels Presents Check For New Franklin Co. Trail
(Brookville, IN) - Governor Mitch Daniels presented a $300,000 check to community leaders in Franklin County on Saturday.
The money will be used to build a new trail along the Whitewater Canal from Metamora to Brookville.
The effort is part of the Hoosiers on the Move statewide trail improvement plan.
After the check presentation, the governor participated in the Brookville bicentennial parade by walking with elementary school students.
Unemployment Spikes In SEI, Statewide
(Indianapolis, IN) - Unemployment is up in our area, but Indiana remains a bright spot in a slumping midwestern job market.
The latest monthly statistics show Indiana's unemployment rate continues to be significantly lower than neighboring states and remains below the United States average, according to the monthly employment report released today by the Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD).
In May, Indiana's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 5.3 percent, while the national average was 5.5 percent. The unemployment rate in Michigan is 8.5 percent - the highest of the surrounding states. Michigan was followed by Illinois at 6.4 percent; Ohio at 6.3 percent; and Kentucky at 6.2 percent.
"New business initiatives, such as life sciences, are diversifying the state's economy and lessening the severity caused by the current global economic slowdown," said Teresa Voors, DWD commissioner.
Here are the most current unemployment numbers locally:
-Dearborn County – 5.2 percent in May 2008, 4.4 in April 2008, 4.4 in May 2007
-Franklin County – 5.9 percent in May 2008, 5.5 in April 2008, 5.1 in May 2007
-Ohio County – 5.5 percent in May 2008, 4.3 in April 2008, 4.4 in May 2007
-Ripley County – 5.3 percent in May 2008, 5.0 in April 2008, 3.8 in May 2007
-Switzerland County – 4.3-percent in May 2008, 4.0 in April 2008, 3.2 in May 2007
147% Increase In Drug Overdose Deaths
(Indianapolis, IN) - Overdose deaths are on the rise in Indiana, and most of the victims are young people.
Overdose deaths increase 147 percent from 1999 to 2004 according to a new study by Indiana University called "Fatal Drug Overdoses: A Growing Concern in Indiana."
The national rate increased only 57-percent during that time.
Researchers say prescription pill parties among teens are viewed as the most serious part of the problem.
The Indianapolis Star quotes one of the report authors saying that misuse of prescription drugs is the fourth-most serious substance abuse problem in Indiana and is likely to overtake marijuana in the next five years to become third behind alcohol and tobacco.
IU's report suggests recruiting physicians and pharmacists to help find solutions.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Mother, Son Busted For Growing Pot
(Burlington, KY) - A mother and son are in custody today, charged with growing marijuana in their home.
Police in Boone County arrested 56-year-old Barbara Baker and her son, 36-year-old John Montgomery early Thursday morning.
An officer had smelled the odor when he was near the home on North Dancer Drive the evening before on an unrelated matter. Investigators then got a search warrant.
Police seized more than 60 plants growing in the home.
Johnson and Baker are each facing charges of cultivation of marijuana, trafficking marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Investigation Continues After Teen Thrown Beneath Semi
(Brookville, IN) - Charges have yet to be filed after a Brookville teen was pushed beneath a moving semi.
Fifteen-year-old David Anderson was severely injured when the back wheel of the trailer crushed him.
Anderson was reportedly in a fight with a 17-year-old boy when he was pushed into the street during last weekend’s concert celebrating Brookville’s bicentennial.
Traffic was being rerouted around the Night Ranger concert along Ninth Street and Main Street.
Anderson is still recovering in the hospital, a process that could take months. He must undergo more surgeries for a broken pelvis, broken ribs, and a punctured lung.
Hill’s New Legislation Targets Oil Speculators
(Washington, D.C.) – Southeast Indiana Congressman Baron Hill is fighting the notion from his opponents in the general election that he’s doing nothing to combat high gas prices.
Republican Mike Sodrel and Libertarian Eric Shansberg have criticized Hill and even challenged him to debates on the issue.
The following is a press release sent from Hill’s office regarding the House Resolution 6372:
Congressman Baron Hill has introduced legislation to reestablish effective oversight of the U.S. commodity futures markets in order to stabilize markets and lower gasoline prices for American consumers.
The bill, H.R. 6372, was introduced late Wednesday night and is currently pending before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture.
“Many economists have estimated that excessive speculation is adding between $20 to $50 to the price of a barrel of oil,” Hill said. “We need to close loopholes and help reestablish oversight of the commodities markets to ensure that gas prices truly reflect the laws of supply and demand.”
The Bush Administration and Congress in 2000 deregulated energy commodity trading and created new loopholes that have fostered excessive speculation in U.S. futures markets. H.R. 6372 closes these harmful loopholes and strengthens oversight of the commodity trading markets.
First, H.R. 6372 closes what is commonly referred to as the “Enron Loophole” by reestablishing the Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s (CFTC) jurisdiction over energy commodities futures. H.R. 6372 would simply return to the standards that were in place prior to 2000 and require the CFTC to regulate energy commodities as agricultural commodities are currently regulated.
Secondly, the bill closes what has been termed the “Foreign Board of Trade Loophole.” This loophole currently allows electronic exchanges that are trading U.S.-delivered energy commodities to be regulated by foreign entities. As a result, the reporting data gathered from these transactions is often insufficient and leaves American consumers inadequately protected from fraud and manipulation.
The third target of H.R. 6372 is the “Swaps Loophole.” The swap dealer exemption allows banks to hedge their investors’ positions without facing any position limits. And, this has largely allowed unlimited speculation in U.S. commodity markets. H.R. 6372 would direct the CFTC to conduct a study to implement appropriate position limits.
“When I go back home to Southern Indiana I hear about gas prices from just about everyone,” Hill said. “This Congress has got to do something to provide immediately relief, and enacting this bill would do just that. Speculators are reaping in huge profits on the backs of American consumers, and this needs to stop.”
McMillin Will Face Bischoff For State Rep
(Brrokville, IN) - Voters will have a choice for the 68th District Indiana State Representative this fall.
Republican Jud McMillin announced his candidacy on Thursday.
McMillin is an attorney in Franklin County.
He’ll face incumbent Democrat Bob Bischoff in the general election in November for the right to represent southeast Indiana in Indianapolis.
Bischoff ran uncontested in both the May primary and the 2006 general election.
McMillin graduated from Franklin County High School, where he excelled as both a student and an athlete. After graduation, he went to the University of Cincinnati and earned his law degree from University of Mississippi. When McMillin is not working to help local folks at his family law practice, Mullin, McMillin and Rynchener, he continues to play a role in local high school sports, coaching a baseball and football teams.
“My main objective will be to focus on creating a government that works for the people, rather than a government that the people work for,” said McMillin. “I want to work to bring better paying jobs closer to the people of our area to help the unemployed and the underemployed and reduce the distance people have to travel to get to a decent job.”
Pilot Makes Emergency Landing In Ohio River
(Carrollton, KY) - A close call when a plane had to make an emergency landing in the Ohio River earlier this week.
Glen A. Moorman, Union, Kentucky piloted the plane which reportedly experienced an unknown problem forcing the pilot to land in the river.
Reports say Moorman could not find anywhere else safe enough to make the landing.
The plane landed upright in the river, which allowed the pilot and two passengers, Arthur Bell and Justine D. Bell, both of Madison, Indiana, to exit the plane prior to the aircraft being submerged. No injuries were reported for Moorman or Arthur Bell, but a minor injury was reported for Justine Bell.
Kentucky State Police compiled the initial investigative report which was submitted the Transportation Cabinet Department of Aviation for further investigation.
Living, Late Milanians To Be Honored July 4th
(Milan, IN) - A couple that has been in Milan their whole lives have been chosen as the co-grand marshals for the town’s Fourth of July celebration.
Barter and Betty Dobson grew up and raised their families in the town.
Barter is a 1946 Milan High School graduate who worked at the Milan State Bank for 37 years while serving as an original charter member of the Milan Lions Club.
Betty graduated in 1948 and stayed at Milan Community Schools as a bookkeeper for 39 years.
They will head up the town’s Independence Day Parade, which ends at the Milan Community Park.
Then, the park will be dedicated and renamed in honor of longtime public servant Darin Baker. Event organizers say Baker, a Milan icon, touched many lives.
The town board passed the ordinance to rename the park in his honor earlier this year.
Teen Accidentally Shot
(West Harrison, IN) - A teen is hospitalized after she accidentally shot herself in West Harrison on Wednesday afternoon.
According to police, 17-year-old Brandi Colgate was cleaning a .22-caliber handgun when it went off, shooting her in the lower abdomen.
AirCare responded to the home on Barber Road near the Indiana-Ohio state line.
The incident remains under investigation, but Colgate is expected to recover.
Car Flips, Driver Critical
(Miami Township, OH) - An unidentified man is in critical condition after a terrible crash late last night on Buffalo Ridge Road in Miami Township-Hamilton County.
Police say the driver in his 20’s may have been speeding and possibly even hill-hopping when he lost control of his car near Wesselman Road and flipped it several times.
He was thrown at least one-hundred feet away after being ejected.
He was not buckled up.
Emergency crews called in a helicopter with heat-vision to scan around the heavily-wooded area and find any other crash victims, but none were located.
The crash is still under investigation.
Fireworks Store Sells To Nine-Year-Old
(Greendale, IN) - A local fireworks stand is catching some heat for selling some small fireworks to a nine-year-old girl.
Reports say the girl told a cashier at Party At Trav’s Fireworks on U.S. 50 in Greendale that her mother was in the store and that she said it was okay.
The store is now checking Ids for all customers to make sure they are 18-years-old or older.
The Indiana State Fire Marshal has been called to investigate.
Fireworks Continue To Be Dangerous Part Of Fourth Of July Activities
(Indianapolis, IN) – If you head to any of the dozen or so fireworks stands located along U.S. 50 in Lawrenceburg and Greendale or West Harrison, be sure you’re smart when lighting them off.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 6,400 Americans spent part of their Fourth of July holiday in the emergency room.
This is despite warnings to consumers on the dangers of fireworks, the number of injuries every year has remained relatively steady.
The long-term effects of these injuries can be severe.
The American Society of Ocular Trauma reports that an average of 400 Americans annually lose vision permanently in one or both eyes due to firework injuries.
In Indiana, 38 percent of all firework injuries in 2007 were eye injuries.
Two-thirds of firework related injuries occurred during the four-week period surrounding the Fourth of July.
According to the Indiana State Department of Health, what's even more tragic is that 48 percent of all reported firework related injuries in Indiana involve children and adolescents.
The National Fire Protection Association found that fireworks referred to as "safe and sane" actually cause more injuries than illegal fireworks and fireworks used on private property account to 83 percent of Indiana's reported injuries.
Malfunctioning fireworks accounted for 23 percent of Indiana's injuries last year.
For a free copy of the Safe Summer Celebrations brochure or other fireworks safety information, including the Prevent Blindness Indiana fireworks Position Statement, visit www.pbeye.org.
Lawrenceburg Chevrolet Owner Closes Montgomery Dealership
(Montgomery, OH) – Montgomery Ford joins a growing list of Ford dealers in the Cincinnati area who are shutting down.
The owner of Montogmery Ford, Mark Williams, recently purchased the former Ande Chevrolet in Lawrenceburg. That dealer is now known as Lawrenceburg Chevrolet Pontiac Buick GMC.
In June Ford's sales dropped 27.9% and in May the F-150 Pickup lost its position as the number one seller in the United States to the Honda Civic.
New Magistrate For Dearborn-Ohio Court
(Lawrenceburg, IN) – Dearborn-Ohio County Circuit Court Judge James D. Humphrey announced Wednesday that Kim Schmaltz, Dillsboro, has been selected to serve in the newly created magistrate position for Ohio and Dearborn Counties beginning January 1, 2009.
The Indiana legislature recently passed a law, which changed the structure of the court system for Ohio and Switzerland Counties. At Switzerland County’s request, the will be receiving their own circuit court.
As a result, the Switzerland-Ohio Superior Court will no longer exist beginning January 1.
Judge Humphrey indicates that he plans to have the magistrate sit in Ohio County on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays while holding court in Dearborn County on Wednesdays.
The magistrate will be hearing a variety of cases including criminal cases, domestic relations, civil lawsuits, small claims, and protective orders.
The selection process for the magistrate has included interviews conducted by a group consisting of four elected officials from Ohio County as well as an additional elected official from Ohio County.
Schmaltz, 47, graduated from Northern Kentucky University’s Chase College of Law in 1999 and has been engaged in a private law practice in Dillsboro since 2001.
Somebody Jamming Police Radios With Music
(Erlanger, KY) - Police and firemen in Erlanger are hearing something other than dispatchers over their two-way radios.
Periodically for the last month, police say somebody has been jamming the signal with country music.
They assure residents that it’s not affecting their emergency response efforts.
The FCC is trying to find the source.
Lawsuits Filed Against Madison Regatta
(Madison, IN) – The 2008 Madison Regatta runs this Fourth of July weekend, but the festival has a cloud continuing to loom over its head.
Nearly two years after a car careened through a throng of speedboat racing fans along the Ohio River, victims have filed negligence lawsuits against the organizers of the regatta.
A lawsuit filed by 58-year-old Priscilla "Jean" Johnson, Madison, seeks damages for injuries, pain and lost income due to the crash.
She was critically injured in the July 2nd, 2006, crash.
Twenty-eight-year-old Jennifer Willette, Madison Heights, Michigan, has filed a similar suit. Her left arm and leg were amputated after the crash.
The Madison Regatta and the American Boat Racing Association did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Eighteen-year-old Michael Bowen pleaded guilty to charges in the crash.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Scrap Dealer Helps Nab Man Stealing Carts
(Miamitown, OH) - A man is charged with receiving stolen property after police say he stole shopping carts from a local store and cashed them in as scrap.
William Mayborg would allegedly take the carts from the Kroger store in Cleves and try to trade them in at Miamitown Auto Parts.
Mayborg received about $1,000 before the store’s owner says they became suspicious and called police.
Kroger says the roughly 250 carts they lost were worth $37,000. They did not specify if all the carts were stolen by only Mayborg or from the Cleves store.
Pot, Pills Found During Traffic Stop
(Boone County, KY) - A large amount of drugs were found during a traffic stop in Boone County on Tuesday.
Officers pulled over a car on I-75 near the rest stop when they suspected one of the people riding in it was wanted on a warrant.
A search of the car yielded six pounds of pot and about 1,200 prescription pills.
In-laws Max Burd and Deborah Burd have bonded out of jail, but they still face charges.
Long Thompson Calls For Gas Sales Tax Suspension
(Indianapolis, IN) - Indiana gubernatorial candidate Jill Long Thompson is calling on her opponent to suspend the state's sales tax on gasoline.
Long Thompson estimates that drivers would save a total of $122 million between July 3rd and Labor Day, if Governor Daniels made an emergency declaration.
She called during the Democratic primary for a suspension of the gas sales tax when the pump price hits $2.75 a gallon.
Long Thompson did not specify how the revenue would be replaced, but said that her bigger concern is "how many families are falling behind" because of high gas prices.
Daniels had indicated he was open to the idea, but his latest television commercial downplays the possibility.
Meanwhile, gas prices continue to be on an up-tick as the Fourth of July travel weekend approaches.
Locally, www.cincygasprices.com says the tri-state average is $4.08 a gallon.
A year ago, gas was averaging $2.85 a gallon.
AAA says a lot of people will opt to stay home this Independence Day because of high fuel prices.
HVL Board Dispute Settled
(Hidden Valley, IN) - A big fuss over elections with Hidden Valley Lake’s utility board has been settled.
An election held last week failed to bring in enough votes for a quorum, rendering it meaningless.
Robert Hamilton had requested an injunction claiming he was unfairly held from running for the VRUC, but a judge ruled the $9.60 he owed on his utilities violated the VRUC election bylaws.
Hamilton’s nomination had a second error, too. One of the people who nominated him had failed to put her lot number on the nomination papers.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
One Dead In Northern Kentucky Accident
(Kenton County, KY) - Police in Kenton County are at the scene of a fatal accident on Interstate 275.
A semi tractor trailer and a pickup truck collided near the Turkeyfoot exit ramp in Erlanger just after 6:00 a.m.
The driver of the pickup died at the scene.
The accident remains under investigation.
House Burns In Whitewater Township
(Whitewater Township, OH) - Crews were called to Whitewater Township on the report of a fire early this morning.
It started in a garage and spread to a home on Morgan Road near Interstate 275.
There were no reports of any injuries and no word yet on what sparked the blaze.
Damage estimates have not been released.
Woman Hurt In Brookville Lake Boating Accident
(Brookville, IN) - A 20-year-old Pendleton, Indiana woman is in stable condition after being run over by a boat on Brookville Reservoir.
Ashley Hilton and Shea Eckert were tubing on Sunday when a 34-foot SeaRay approached them.
The Department of Natural Resources reports that Eckert was able to swim out of the way, but Hilton was hit by the craft.
She was first taken to a hospital in Oxford, Ohio and then air lifted to Dayton.
Hilton suffered lower back injuries.
John Seale, Brookville, who was operating the boat, tested negative for alcohol.
Seale told officers that he did not see the tubes.
The Franklin County prosecutor's office will decide whether to file charges.
Local Couple Sentenced For Bank Scam
(Covington, KY) - A Lawrenceburg couple has been sentenced in U.S. District Court for their role in a big time bank fraud scam.
John and Linda Van Winkle will each serve at least 85-percent of their two years sentences under federal guidelines.
The Van Winkles had pled guilty to conspiring with others to defraud the First National Bank of Northern Kentucky out of 2.5-million-dollars.
According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, the Van Winkles made false statement on loan applications and conspired with Thomas to get loans in family members’ names from March 2000 through July 2002, according to court records.
One of the co-conspirators was the bank president, Richard Thomas. He’s scheduled to be sentenced later this month.
Dozens Of New State Laws In Effect Today
(Indianapolis, IN) - Ninety-five new state laws go into effect in Indiana today. Here are some of the more important ones according to State Senator Johnny Nugent’s office:
Consumer Protections
Pre-paid Funerals: HEA 1026 helps protect investments of Hoosiers with prepaid funeral policies by making it a Class C felony to fraudulently disburse funds from a funeral trust account. Class C felonies are punishable by up to 8 years of imprisonment and a $10,000 fine.
Mortgage Lending: HEA 1359 extends protection to potential homeowners by establishing a mortgage fraud hotline for consumers to call, subjecting those involved in the loan process to federal criminal background checks and allowing the state to use a multi-state automated licensing system to track the actions of loan brokers who operate throughout the United States.
Education
Teacher Shortages: SEA 22 addresses the shortage of teachers in areas like math and science by allowing the Indiana Department of Education to grant initial teaching licenses to qualified Hoosier professionals with related post-graduate degrees and some teaching experience.
Experience, Savings: SEA 51 encourages retired teachers to return to the classroom in as few as 30 days, tapping valuable experience, filling critical positions and saving limited resources, because neither the district nor teacher must make pension contributions.
Online Learning: HEA 1246 creates a study of virtual online learning for K-12 schools to provide greater educational opportunities to students throughout Indiana.
Free Tuition for Purple Heart Recipients: HEA 1249 allows post Sept. 11 military veterans decorated with the Purple Heart to pursue a bachelor’s or associate’s degree at state universities tuition free.
Environment
Our Great Lakes: SEA 45 adopts the Great Lakes Water Resources Compact to regulate use of the lakes. The compact prohibits most new and increased diversions of water from the lakes, while preserving existing agreements.
E85 Availability: SEA 360 gives retailers and local governments grants to invest in E85 pumps without spending state tax dollars. Greater access to E85 – a fuel blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline – promotes its use.
Government
Vote Centers: HEA 1071 allows certain counties to continue piloting centralized voting locations at grocery stores, government and shopping centers. In 2007, vote centers streamlined election management, reduced costs and increased voter turnout.
911 Services: HEA 1204 increases 911 efficiency saves tax dollars and helps communities invest in the latest technology. The bill consolidates 911 dispatch centers, allowing two per county by 2015.
Highway Right-of-Ways: SEA 31 strengthens communication between INDOT and Hoosier landowners to save taxpayers and property owners unnecessary expenses. Advance notice of highway construction avoids developments that must later be purchased at market value.
Floodway Reconstruction: SEA 104 aligns state and federal regulations in order to allow many Hoosier homeowners to rebuild after a flood if the home is raised two feet above 100-year flood levels.
Health Care
Lead Poisoning Prevention: SEA 143 prohibits Indiana retail stores from selling products with unsafe levels of lead paint and authorizes a committee to study ways to prevent lead poisoning in day care centers. Because of Indiana’s many older homes, the law also addresses repair and remodeling practices through the Indiana Lead Safe Housing Advisory Council – including a training program for contractors to work on these homes.
Online Medical Consumers: SEA 302 safeguards online medical consumers from unlicensed pharmacies selling unsafe products. To help Hoosier consumers ensure Internet-based pharmacies are valid and products are safe, licenses and reviews of accredited pharmacies will be displayed on their Web sites.
Priority Medicaid Waivers: HEA 1266 develops priority Medicaid waivers for developmentally disabled Hoosiers in emergency situations to receive immediate assistance. Individuals encountering the death of a primary caregiver, seeking emergency placement or facing abuse or neglect will be given priority in order to receive support in their home or community.
Spinal Cord and Brain Injuries: HEA 1318 repeals the $10 motorcycle registration charge and implements a 30-cent fee on all motor vehicle registrations to continue funding spinal cord and brain injury research. This worthwhile healthcare investment could raise over $1.6 million annually, create jobs and qualify Indiana for additional research dollars.
Public Safety
Domestic Violence: SEA 27 creates a “cooling-off period” in domestic violence cases by requiring suspects be held in custody for eight hours after the time of arrest and prohibits them from being released on bail during that time.
Sexually Violent Crimes: HEA 1276 requires a court hearing within 48 hours of the arrest of someone charged with a sexually violent crime to discuss the alleged perpetrator’s prior criminal history and determine if it is safe to release the defendant on bail. This legislation was passed in response to the murder of an Indiana girl last year by a convicted sex offender out on bail.
Motorist Duties: HEA 1052 requires passengers involved in auto accidents rendering the driver helpless to notify officers or provide reasonable assistance. Passengers over 18 and those with their learner’s permit will face Class C misdemeanors if they fail to help at the accident scene.
Hoosiers with Autism: HEA 1171 requires autism training for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel. Training would help responders identify signs of autism and effectively treat those individuals in high stress situations.
Pool Safety: HEA 1259 mandates manufacturers use ladders that are removable or can be locked to help prevent children from entering unattended pools. In 2006, 16 Indiana deaths occurred as a result of children swimming in unsupervised above-ground pools.
Hoosier Renters: SEA 26 requires landlords to install and maintain operational smoke detectors in all rental properties in Indiana. Property owners who fail to comply can be found guilty of a Class B infraction with a fine of up to $1,000.
Tornado Warning Systems: SEA 334 requires the Indiana Department of Homeland Security to establish uniform standards for severe weather sirens and study which areas across the state need additional sirens.
Theft of Copper, other Valuable Metals: SEA 343 requires the Sentencing Policy Committee to study issues related to the theft of copper and other valuable metals. The committee will study ways to heighten awareness among metal dealers because of the recent increase in thefts of valuable metals from homes and construction sites.
Impaired Drivers: HEA 1052 mandates that impaired drivers leaving the scene of an accident after causing serious bodily injury or death face a Class B felony with a possible 6 to 20-year jail term and $10,000 fine.
Jet Blows Tire During Landing At CVG
(Hebron, KY) - There were no injuries last night when a tire blew on a Delta jet.
The Boeing 737 had just landed at the Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Airport and was taxiing to the terminal.
Passengers were taken off the plane on the tarmac.
ISP Steps Up Holiday Patrols
(Versailles, IN) - Many people are already hitting the road for the Fourth of July weekend.
As with every big travel weekend, Indiana State Police say they will be stepping up patrols looking for speeders and drunk drivers.
Troopers will be participating in state and national grant-funded enforcement programs like Operation C.A.R.E. (Combined Accident Reduction Effort) and SWDUIEP (Statewide Driving Under the Influence Enforcement Project).
These programs allow for troopers to work overtime in addition to those troopers regularly scheduled.
Last year there were 13 people who lost their lives on Hoosier Highways during the Fourth of July holiday period.
In addition to the extra patrols by troopers, Indiana State Police Motor Carrier Inspectors and troopers assigned to ISP’s Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division have been authorized extra overtime hours during the holiday period.
This enforcement program called Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program (MCSAP) targets those commercial vehicles that are unsafe and those commercial vehicle drivers operating their vehicles in an unsafe manner.
DCH Gives Out Scholarships
(Lawrenceburg, IN) - Dearborn County Hospital is the latest entity to hand out generous scholarships.
Thirteen local grads will each get $500 in Dearborn County Hospital Foundation High School Senior Scholarships to help them pursue a career in the health care field.
The winners are as follows:
-Amanda Batta of Sunman, a graduate of East Central High School who will major in Nursing at Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science,
-Ashley Cochran of Rising Sun, a graduate of Rising Sun High School who is enrolled in the Nursing program at the University of Indianapolis,
-Megan Ertel of Sunman, a graduate of Oldenburg Academy who will major in Nursing at the University of Southern Indiana,
-Kara Hudson of Rising Sun, a graduate of Switzerland County High School who plans to major in Pre-Medicine at Franklin College,
-Jamie Kraus of Guilford, a graduate of East Central High School who is enrolled in the Nursing program at Good Samaritan College of Nursing and Health Science,
-Elizabeth Lacy of Lawrenceburg, a graduate of Lawrenceburg High School who is enrolled in the Medical Technology program at Ball State University,
-Andrea Miller of Versailles, a graduate of South Ripley High School who will major in Nursing at Ivy Tech Community College,
-Toni Perdue of Batesville, a graduate of Batesville High School who is enrolled in the Pre-Radiography program at Indiana University,
-Amy Rosenberger of Brookville, a graduate of Franklin County High School who will major in Nursing at Indiana State University,
-Jillian Thatcher of Lawrenceburg, a graduate of East Central High School who plans to major in Nursing at Indiana University,
-April Thieman of Bennington, a graduate of Switzerland County High School who is enrolled in the Radiologic Technology program at Northern Kentucky University,
-Laura Wagner of Aurora, a graduate of South Dearborn High School who will major in Nursing at the College of Mount St. Joseph,
-Abigail Wells of Aurora, a graduate of South Dearborn High School who will study Nursing at IUPUI.
For more information about the DCH Foundation High School Senior Scholarship Program, please call the Community Relations Department at (812) 537-8190 or (800) 676-5572, ext. 8190.
Monday, June 30 , 2008
Aurora Gas Station Held Up
(Aurora, IN) - A local gas station is held up at knife-point.
Saturday evening, a robber entered the Kennett River City Marathon on Judiciary Street in Aurora and demanded money.
He made off with the money in a blue older model, full-size van with a ladder on the rear going towards Rising Sun on State Road 56.
The Dearborn County Special Crimes Unit is looking for a white male 25 to 35-years-old, described as approximately 6’0” to 6’1” and 200 lbs., wearing a black baseball hat with a Maltese cross, black sunglasses, white t-shirt, blue jeans, with brown curly hair above the collar.
The Dearborn County Sheriff’s Department is assisting in the investigation.
Anyone with information about the offense is asked to call the Special Crimes Unit at (812) 537-3571 or the Aurora Police Department at (812) 926-1101.
Little Girl Run Over In Driveway
(Florence, KY) - A Northern Kentucky toddler is recovering after being run over by the family car.
Koji Yarnaguchi was backing out of his driveway on Donner Drive in Florence Friday evening when he hit his 16-month-old daughter, Tiffanny.
She remains hospitalized, but her condition has not been released.
L’burg Community Center Celebrates First Anniversary
(Lawrenceburg, IN) - The $3 million Lawrenceburg Community Center celebrates its first anniversary this week.
The facility on Walnut Street provides the public with athletic facilities, a computer lab, and more. It is free of charge.
Events will be going on all week.
From Monday, June 30 through Thursday, July 3 open house will be held at the community center.
There will be food, games, entertainment, a silent auction, craft show, talent show, and local non-profit groups participating.
Daniels Presents Check For New Franklin Co. Trail
(Brookville, IN) - Governor Mitch Daniels presented a $300,000 check to community leaders in Franklin County on Saturday.
The money will be used to build a new trail along the Whitewater Canal from Metamora to Brookville.
The effort is part of the Hoosiers on the Move statewide trail improvement plan.
After the check presentation, the governor participated in the Brookville bicentennial parade by walking with elementary school students.
Unemployment Spikes In SEI, Statewide
(Indianapolis, IN) - Unemployment is up in our area, but Indiana remains a bright spot in a slumping midwestern job market.
The latest monthly statistics show Indiana's unemployment rate continues to be significantly lower than neighboring states and remains below the United States average, according to the monthly employment report released today by the Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD).
In May, Indiana's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 5.3 percent, while the national average was 5.5 percent. The unemployment rate in Michigan is 8.5 percent - the highest of the surrounding states. Michigan was followed by Illinois at 6.4 percent; Ohio at 6.3 percent; and Kentucky at 6.2 percent.
"New business initiatives, such as life sciences, are diversifying the state's economy and lessening the severity caused by the current global economic slowdown," said Teresa Voors, DWD commissioner.
Here are the most current unemployment numbers locally:
-Dearborn County – 5.2 percent in May 2008, 4.4 in April 2008, 4.4 in May 2007
-Franklin County – 5.9 percent in May 2008, 5.5 in April 2008, 5.1 in May 2007
-Ohio County – 5.5 percent in May 2008, 4.3 in April 2008, 4.4 in May 2007
-Ripley County – 5.3 percent in May 2008, 5.0 in April 2008, 3.8 in May 2007
-Switzerland County – 4.3-percent in May 2008, 4.0 in April 2008, 3.2 in May 2007
147% Increase In Drug Overdose Deaths
(Indianapolis, IN) - Overdose deaths are on the rise in Indiana, and most of the victims are young people.
Overdose deaths increase 147 percent from 1999 to 2004 according to a new study by Indiana University called "Fatal Drug Overdoses: A Growing Concern in Indiana."
The national rate increased only 57-percent during that time.
Researchers say prescription pill parties among teens are viewed as the most serious part of the problem.
The Indianapolis Star quotes one of the report authors saying that misuse of prescription drugs is the fourth-most serious substance abuse problem in Indiana and is likely to overtake marijuana in the next five years to become third behind alcohol and tobacco.
IU's report suggests recruiting physicians and pharmacists to help find solutions.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Mother, Son Busted For Growing Pot
(Burlington, KY) - A mother and son are in custody today, charged with growing marijuana in their home.
Police in Boone County arrested 56-year-old Barbara Baker and her son, 36-year-old John Montgomery early Thursday morning.
An officer had smelled the odor when he was near the home on North Dancer Drive the evening before on an unrelated matter. Investigators then got a search warrant.
Police seized more than 60 plants growing in the home.
Johnson and Baker are each facing charges of cultivation of marijuana, trafficking marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Investigation Continues After Teen Thrown Beneath Semi
(Brookville, IN) - Charges have yet to be filed after a Brookville teen was pushed beneath a moving semi.
Fifteen-year-old David Anderson was severely injured when the back wheel of the trailer crushed him.
Anderson was reportedly in a fight with a 17-year-old boy when he was pushed into the street during last weekend’s concert celebrating Brookville’s bicentennial.
Traffic was being rerouted around the Night Ranger concert along Ninth Street and Main Street.
Anderson is still recovering in the hospital, a process that could take months. He must undergo more surgeries for a broken pelvis, broken ribs, and a punctured lung.
Hill’s New Legislation Targets Oil Speculators
(Washington, D.C.) – Southeast Indiana Congressman Baron Hill is fighting the notion from his opponents in the general election that he’s doing nothing to combat high gas prices.
Republican Mike Sodrel and Libertarian Eric Shansberg have criticized Hill and even challenged him to debates on the issue.
The following is a press release sent from Hill’s office regarding the House Resolution 6372:
Congressman Baron Hill has introduced legislation to reestablish effective oversight of the U.S. commodity futures markets in order to stabilize markets and lower gasoline prices for American consumers.
The bill, H.R. 6372, was introduced late Wednesday night and is currently pending before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Agriculture.
“Many economists have estimated that excessive speculation is adding between $20 to $50 to the price of a barrel of oil,” Hill said. “We need to close loopholes and help reestablish oversight of the commodities markets to ensure that gas prices truly reflect the laws of supply and demand.”
The Bush Administration and Congress in 2000 deregulated energy commodity trading and created new loopholes that have fostered excessive speculation in U.S. futures markets. H.R. 6372 closes these harmful loopholes and strengthens oversight of the commodity trading markets.
First, H.R. 6372 closes what is commonly referred to as the “Enron Loophole” by reestablishing the Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s (CFTC) jurisdiction over energy commodities futures. H.R. 6372 would simply return to the standards that were in place prior to 2000 and require the CFTC to regulate energy commodities as agricultural commodities are currently regulated.
Secondly, the bill closes what has been termed the “Foreign Board of Trade Loophole.” This loophole currently allows electronic exchanges that are trading U.S.-delivered energy commodities to be regulated by foreign entities. As a result, the reporting data gathered from these transactions is often insufficient and leaves American consumers inadequately protected from fraud and manipulation.
The third target of H.R. 6372 is the “Swaps Loophole.” The swap dealer exemption allows banks to hedge their investors’ positions without facing any position limits. And, this has largely allowed unlimited speculation in U.S. commodity markets. H.R. 6372 would direct the CFTC to conduct a study to implement appropriate position limits.
“When I go back home to Southern Indiana I hear about gas prices from just about everyone,” Hill said. “This Congress has got to do something to provide immediately relief, and enacting this bill would do just that. Speculators are reaping in huge profits on the backs of American consumers, and this needs to stop.”
McMillin Will Face Bischoff For State Rep
(Brrokville, IN) - Voters will have a choice for the 68th District Indiana State Representative this fall.
Republican Jud McMillin announced his candidacy on Thursday.
McMillin is an attorney in Franklin County.
He’ll face incumbent Democrat Bob Bischoff in the general election in November for the right to represent southeast Indiana in Indianapolis.
Bischoff ran uncontested in both the May primary and the 2006 general election.
McMillin graduated from Franklin County High School, where he excelled as both a student and an athlete. After graduation, he went to the University of Cincinnati and earned his law degree from University of Mississippi. When McMillin is not working to help local folks at his family law practice, Mullin, McMillin and Rynchener, he continues to play a role in local high school sports, coaching a baseball and football teams.
“My main objective will be to focus on creating a government that works for the people, rather than a government that the people work for,” said McMillin. “I want to work to bring better paying jobs closer to the people of our area to help the unemployed and the underemployed and reduce the distance people have to travel to get to a decent job.”
Pilot Makes Emergency Landing In Ohio River
(Carrollton, KY) - A close call when a plane had to make an emergency landing in the Ohio River earlier this week.
Glen A. Moorman, Union, Kentucky piloted the plane which reportedly experienced an unknown problem forcing the pilot to land in the river.
Reports say Moorman could not find anywhere else safe enough to make the landing.
The plane landed upright in the river, which allowed the pilot and two passengers, Arthur Bell and Justine D. Bell, both of Madison, Indiana, to exit the plane prior to the aircraft being submerged. No injuries were reported for Moorman or Arthur Bell, but a minor injury was reported for Justine Bell.
Kentucky State Police compiled the initial investigative report which was submitted the Transportation Cabinet Department of Aviation for further investigation.
Living, Late Milanians To Be Honored July 4th
(Milan, IN) - A couple that has been in Milan their whole lives have been chosen as the co-grand marshals for the town’s Fourth of July celebration.
Barter and Betty Dobson grew up and raised their families in the town.
Barter is a 1946 Milan High School graduate who worked at the Milan State Bank for 37 years while serving as an original charter member of the Milan Lions Club.
Betty graduated in 1948 and stayed at Milan Community Schools as a bookkeeper for 39 years.
They will head up the town’s Independence Day Parade, which ends at the Milan Community Park.
Then, the park will be dedicated and renamed in honor of longtime public servant Darin Baker. Event organizers say Baker, a Milan icon, touched many lives.
The town board passed the ordinance to rename the park in his honor earlier this year.
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