Lotus Announces Details of 2021 Festival
The Lotus Education & Arts Foundation recently announced the details of the 28th annual Lotus World Music & Arts Festival that will bring diverse voices from around the globe to Bloomington from Thursday, September 23 – Sunday, September 26. This special edition of the Lotus Festival is designed to be accessible to all during a time of continued uncertainty and concern for the health and safety of our global community. Lotus invites attendees to safely enjoy multicultural music, art, food, dance, workshops, and more. Visit the performance schedule here: Lotus World Music and Arts Festival – Lotus (lotusfest.org)
Federal appeals court sides with Attorney General Todd Rokita on Indiana’s continued enforcement of abortion laws
A federal appeals court has ruled that Indiana may continue enforcing several abortion laws being contested by an abortion provider in the case Whole Woman’s Health v. Rokita. By ruling as it did, the appeals court rejected a district court’s ruling permanently prohibiting enforcement of those laws pending the outcome of the appeal. Attorney General Todd Rokita said, “The appellate court’s decision in our favor at this juncture signifies the overall strength of our legal position. We would expect our commonsense laws to be upheld as the appeal continues. Protecting the culture of life is the top priority of my office, and we will continue fighting for every life alongside our legislative partners.”
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit granted Attorney General Rokita’s stay request on all points, including enabling Indiana to continue enforcing requirements 1) that only physicians may perform chemical abortions, 2) that only hospitals or ambulatory surgical centers may provide second-trimester abortions, 3) that patients receive in-person counseling before undergoing abortions, 4) that patients receive in-person physical examinations before undergoing abortions and 5) that medical staff provide abortion services in person rather than via telemedicine.
Applications being accepted for the Indiana State Police Academy
The Indiana State Police is accepting additional applications for the 82nd Recruit Academy. Individuals who are interested in beginning a rewarding career as an Indiana State Trooper must apply online at www.IndianaTrooper.com. This website will provide a detailed synopsis of the application process as well as information on additional career opportunities with the Indiana State Police. Applications must be submitted electronically by 11:59 pm (EST) on Wednesday, September 29, 2021. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted for the 82nd Recruit Academy.
The starting salary for an Indiana State Police Department Recruit is $1,615.39 bi-weekly during the academy training. At the completion of academy training, the starting salary is $48,000.00 a year. Recruits of the 81st Recruit Academy are offered an excellent health care plan, which includes medical, dental, vision and pharmacy coverage for both current and retired employees, along with their families, until reaching age 65. The Indiana State Police pension program provides a lifetime pension after 25 years of service. Additionally, the Indiana State Police Department provides comprehensive disability coverage and a life insurance program. Student loan forgiveness programs are being offered at this time through the following: https://studentaid.ed.gov/sa/repay-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service
This Week in Hoosier History
1862 – Near Frederick, Maryland, Sergeant John Bloss and Corporal Barton Mitchell of the 27th Indiana Civil War regiment found three cigars wrapped in paper. Further investigation revealed that the document was Special Order 191, containing valuable battle plans from Confederate General Robert E. Lee. The Indiana soldiers sent the paper through channels to Union General George B. McClellan who immediately saw its strategic value in the upcoming battles at South Mountain and Antietam.