Office co-leads bipartisan task force of 51 Attorneys General
Attorney General Todd Rokita took new action this week against illegal robocallers who are trying to scam Hoosiers. He warned four voice service providers that they have been transmitting suspected illegal robocall traffic on their networks on behalf of one or more of their customers.
As a lead member of the 51-member bipartisan attorney general Anti-Robocall Multistate Litigation Task Force, Attorney General Rokita and Section Chief of Data Privacy and ID Theft, Doug Swetnam, and his team have been investigating these providers.
“These annoying and illegal calls not only terrorize Hoosiers but Americans across the nation,” Attorney General Rokita said. “I said it before and I’ll say it again, if the telecom industry won't police itself, this unprecedented task force will.”
In the warning letters, the task force informs the providers that it has shared the findings of its investigations with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which will consider appropriate next steps.
The task force sent warning letters to the following companies:
KWK Communications, Inc.: KWK Communications received at least 129 traceback notices from the industry traceback group between 2020 and 2022, which included high volumes of calls associated with IRS and Social Security Administration scams, auto warranty scams, and utilities scams. In just one month in 2022, KWK allegedly routed more than 20,000 calls with illegally spoofed telephone numbers and more than 8.7 million calls made using invalid Caller ID numbers.
Inbound Inc. Inbound received at least 63 traceback notices between 2021 and 2022, including many about calls that involved imposter scams. Inbound is also estimated to have allegedly routed more than 28.4 million DirecTV and cable discount scam robocalls in a single month in 2022. The FTC previously issued a cease-and-desist demand to Inbound over these scam calls.
AKA Management, Inc. AKA received at least 129 traceback notices between 2020 and 2022, including about calls that were government imposter scams and tech support scams. AKA is also estimated to have allegedly routed about 12.1 million Amazon and Apple imposter robocalls to consumers in a single month in 2022.
CallVox LLC: CallVox received more than 47 traceback notices between 2020 and 2022 warning of unlawful or suspicious robocalls that it helped move into and through the U.S. telephone network, including thousands of calls to people who were registered on the Do Not Call list and calls placed using illegally spoofed telephone numbers.
The letters warned that if these providers continue to transmit robocalls and violate state and federal laws, the task force may pursue further legal actions against these companies and their owners.
The Anti-Robocall Multistate Litigation Task Force of 51 bipartisan attorneys general investigates and takes legal action against those responsible for routing significant volumes of illegal robocall traffic into and across the United States.
State supporting more Hoosier families than ever before with On My Way Pre-K, CCDF
The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration’s Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning (OECOSL) is re-implementing a waitlist for new Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) and On My Way Pre-K (OMWPK) voucher applicants due to significant growth in both programs.
At this time, the waitlist will impact new child care voucher applicants. Vouchers support low-income families who make less than 150% of the federal poverty level (FPL), which is about $45,000 for a family of four, and have a service need including employment, seeking employment or enrollment in an education or training program.
OECOSL will continue to re-enroll children already receiving vouchers as long as funding permits. The office will reassess the waitlist at the start of the next federal fiscal year in October.
The re-implementation of a waitlist for the first time since 2018 is due, in part, to efforts to improve access, affordability and quality of child care programs. Those efforts have included:
- The Indiana General Assembly increased CCDF and OMWPK eligibility to 150% of the FPL, up from 127%, which made more families eligible to participate in a voucher program.
- The state provided $35 million in Child Care Expansion and Employer-Sponsored Fund grants, both of which added new programs and grew existing programs, increasing access to child care programs.
- The state maximized an infusion of federal funds that started in 2018 and continued through the pandemic to invest in a high-quality child care system.
As a result, more than 30,000 additional children have participated in the voucher program in the last two years.
“The state’s continued efforts to improve access, affordability and quality of child care programs led us to supporting over 70,000 children with vouchers, allowing more families to work or go to school, and improving the state’s economy,” said Courtney Penn, Director of the Office of Early Childhood and Out-of-School Learning. “We will continue the important work of ensuring families have access to affordable, high-quality programs near their homes and workplaces.”
Gov. Eric J. Holcomb and the Indiana General Assembly have prioritized early child care and education by creating a more sustainable early childhood workforce and supporting more Hoosier families with vouchers. Both CCDF and OMWPK programs have grown substantially. OMWPK peaked last year, enrolling nearly 8,000 children, up 167% from just 3,000 children in 2019, the first year for the statewide program. CCDF has grown to more than 70,000 children this year, up 43% since 2019.
Once a new CCDF application is submitted, a child is placed on the waitlist. Priority is given to:
- On My Way Pre-K applicants
- Families who earn below 100% FPL
- Children of child care workers
All other applicants will receive vouchers on a first-come, first-served basis, as available.
Information is available to support families and providers as they navigate the transition:
- Child Care Waitlist FAQ
- Families can call 211 for their local eligibility offices and Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) specialist’s contact information, and for help identifying child care options.
- Providers can call the SPARK Help Desk at 800-299-1627 for their local eligibility office’s contact information, and to ask general programming questions.India
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By Jerry Curry, Writer and Nathaniel Smith, Editor
It seems the fact that there is a Friday the 13th this December has sparked something in Salem… Have you noticed the unusual and eerie creature on the square? It can usually be found prowling from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., but just what is it? Well, this horned, half-goat, half-demon creature is known in legends and lore as Krampus.
Occasionally appearing with a long beard, Krampus has a large tongue, long tail and wild eyes. Covered in fur and adorned with menacing teeth, this German folklore legend is said to go alongside Saint Nicholas as he rewards well-behaved children. Krampus, however, is known to beat misbehaved children with birch rods, and it is even said that he takes children away to be tortured and worse… never to be seen again.
But don’t worry, the Krampus lurking on the square has a different intent entirely. The friendly face under the costume, made by his wife Melissa, is Joshua Calvin. Joshua and Melissa (Mel) are raising money for Stephanie Pike, who is a local cancer patient. Stephanie's monthly medical bills reach heights of $16,000 after insurance, and Joshua and Mel thought this would be a great way to help out as well as drum up excitment for the upcoming Christmas season.
The Calvin's are also making and selling jewelry and candles. Please consider making a purchase or giving a donation to help ease the financial burden for Stephanie during the holidays. If you would like to contribute, contact Mel Calvin on Facebook, and come get your picture with Krampus! He will be on the square this week from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, Monday and Wednesday.
Photos by Mel Calvin.
The Square in Salem was bustling with activity this past Saturday, December 7 for the Christmas Magic in Salem event. From 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., Salem residents and visitors alike were greeted with food, crafts, vendors and more.
The Corydon Dulcimer Society and choirs from Westview Christian Church and the county elementary schools were present to provide music during the festivities, and Santa and Mrs. Claus were there as well for photos and stories. You could even go on a horse and wagon ride courtesy of the Grinch! This event was a fantastic way to get the community in the Christmas spirit and a great time for the whole family.
You can find photos and video from Christmas Magic in Salem below!
Corydon Dulcimer Society Performing in the Salem Apothecary:
East Washington music teacher Allison Hein directing the EWES Choir
Mrs. Claus preparing to tell Christmas stories in the Apothecary.
Hunter's Ridge Winery.
Shephards Bluff Dairy Goats soap.
Photos and video by Nathaniel Smith.
By Jerry Curry, Staff Writer
Washington County Sheriff’s Department reports that another “Shop with a Cop’ is in the books! The event, hosted by local law enforcement officers, was Saturday, Dec. 7, at Walmart in Salem.
Special thanks to all the donors who made donations, Walmart, McDonalds, New Hope United Methodist Church, Salem School Corporation and the many volunteers who helped the children shop for clothing and toys.
Walmart ordered in extra items to make sure they had a good supply.
By Nathaniel Smith, Editor
The county-wide Operation Christmas Child shoebox collection has officially been sent off to deliver Christmas joy around the world! First Baptist Church of Salem led the charge by being our area’s designated drop-off location.
A total of 2,033 shoeboxes were donated from 24 churches, 5 organizations and 17 individuals throughout our community. With the help of Hank Weeden and Salem Lions Football players, the total collection was packed and loaded into a truck donated by Sternberg Truck & Van Rental.
Operation Christmas Child is a wonderful ministry led by Franklin Graham and the Samaritan’s Purse organization. Each year, millions of Christmas shoeboxes are sent all over the world with the goal of giving children in far away places a wonderful Christmas experience, and to teach them about Jesus Christ. Many of these children have never heard of Jesus or Christmas before. Last year, more than 11.3 million shoeboxes full of toys and exciting treats were sent across the world in the hope of bringing children love and joy, and the goal for 2024 is even more ambitious. Samaritan's Purse hopes to have enough shoeboxes this year to reach 12 million children.
The overwhelming support that was poured into this ministry shows the level of grace and generosity that can be found in Washington County. 2,033 more children will get to experience the joy of Christmas this year thanks to the love shown throughout our community.
“Thank you, Washington County, for going above and beyond the goal that was set before us. Thank you, everyone, for sharing your time, talents, gifts and prayers in packing each and every box," said Kate Henderson of First Baptist Church. "May God bless each Operation Christmas Child through Samaritan's Purse.”
OCC drop-off coordinators Cathy Kalb, Jonathan Smith, and Dawn Smith.
Cora Cole dropping off shoeboxes from Salem Community Church.
Truck provided by Sternberg Truck & Van Rental.
Photos by Nathaniel Smith.
By Becky Killian, Staff Writer
Officials heard about an incentive that could lead to more broadband service in underserved and unserved areas of the county. The discussion happened during the Tuesday, Dec. 3, meeting of the Washington County Board of Commissioners.
Representatives from Mainstream Media said they have already invested $5 million to install broadband in the county. To help continue their investment, they asked commissioners to consider declaring portions of the county as an Infrastructure Development Zone. If implemented, any provider that provides broadband within that zone will be exempt from personal property tax on the fiber and equipment that is installed in the ground.
The area proposed for the zone is in the west and southwest portions of the county, including Hardinsburg and Palmyra.
Commissioner Todd Ewen said the county currently has about 75 percent broadband coverage thanks to tax abatements county officials approved for broadband providers like Jackson Connect and Orange County Telemedia.
Ewen advised the Mainstream Media representatives to approach the County Council about the request to establish the Infrastructure Development Zone.
One of the favorite annual Christmas traditions is viewing the movie "The Polar Express" at The Depot Railroad Museum. The movie will be presented at The Depot, located at 206 S. College Ave, Salem, on Friday, Dec. 13.
Doors will open at 6 p.m., and the film will start at 7 p.m. There will be popcorn, sweet treats, Christmas activities, and more for everyone to enjoy before the film starts. Everyone attending is urged to wear their favorite Christmas pajamas!
Admission is FREE although donations are greatly appreciated!
For further information or answers to any questions, please contact Kaylee Seabold at (812) 883-6495.
The Washington County 4-H Junior Leaders are hosting their annual Cheese Ball Fundraiser to help cover the costs of trips and activities for the upcoming year. This is a great opportunity to support the future leaders of our community while stocking up on a tasty snack for your holiday table.
Cheese Balls are just $8 each and come in three flavors: Plain, Parsley, and Pecan. Each cheese ball also contains chipped beef and spices.
Place your order by Tuesday, Dec. 10, and pick them up on Thursday, Dec. 19, from 5 - 7 p.m. at the Washington County Extension Office, located at 806 Martinsburg Rd, Suite 104, Salem.
To order, call the Extension Office at 812-883-4601.
A portion of the sales will be used to support Washington County 4-H Jr. Leaders activities and programs. No endorsement of the product by 4-H is implied or intended.
Purdue University is an equal access/equal opportunity/affirmative action institution.
By Morgan Humphrey, SHS Student Writer
Salem Community Schools is one of many Indiana schools implementing regulations for teachers to help students with anxiety through social-emotional learning programs. In terms of bringing these regulations to Salem, there are certain guidelines that are being followed.
“Salem is currently implementing approved programming from the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE),” said Superintendent Jill Mires, adding that the second step is a program Salem purchased using Title IV funds which focuses on the development of coping skills and emotional awareness.
“This program also has lessons that focus on bully awareness and drug education,” she said.
Salem is planning professional development for all grade levels on the Zones of Regulation, which is approved by the IDOE. Teachers, students and families will learn about these zones.
“There are four types of zones, these zones will help students better understand and manage their emotions, energy, and responses,” she said. “It divides feelings and states of alertness into four color-coded zones, each representing a different type of emotion and level of energy.”
The zones are:
Blue Zone- This zone includes feelings like sadness, tiredness, or boredom, and times when we are feeling low.
Green Zone- This is the ‘ready to learn’ zone, where students feel calm, focused, and in control. It's an ideal zone for learning and positive interactions.
Yellow Zone- In this zone, students can feel excitement, frustration or worry. Students might need strategies to stay balanced.
Red Zone- This zone is for anger, panic, or elation. This zone is for students to take a step back, calm down and regain control.
When asked if teachers have to go through a certain training, Mires said, “Indiana has developed Social-Emotional Learning Competencies, similar to the standards we might hear teachers discuss for math and English. These competencies encourage practices in self-management, emotional regulation, and relationship skills, which teachers can integrate into classroom activities.”
Teachers can collaborate with school counselors or mental health professionals for support.
“These new regulations can benefit both teachers and students by helping them recognize our feelings and learn coping mechanisms to move between zones as needed,” she said. “This can help students and teachers build friendships, and improve overall well-being.”
The Christmas season is here, and The Salvation Army of Southern Indiana needs assistance to make Christmas brighter for children in our community. The Salvation Army Angel Tree Program has 400 Angels that still need to be adopted for the Christmas season.
This is an urgent need - all angel gifts and donations must be returned to either The Salvation Army of New Albany, 2300 Green Valley Rd, New Albany, by December 6 or Green Tree Mall, 757 E Lewis and Clark Pkwy, Clarksville, by December 8.
"We are grateful for the support of our community to help make Christmas a memorable and meaningful day in the lives of so many children," said Captain Strand of The Salvation Army. "We have seen the generosity of people in Southern Indiana and know together we can bring a smile to the faces of these children this holiday season."
Angel Tree donors provide gifts of new, unwrapped winter clothing for children residing in Southern Indiana. Donors can adopt Angels by visiting the Angel Tree at Green Tree Mall Center Court, visiting www.sanewalbany.org, or calling The Salvation Army at (812) 944-1018.
The need for Christmas assistance is even greater than usual. You can help by adopting an Angel or making a donation toward the Angel Tree.
The second annual Christmas Magic In Salem will be Saturday, December 7, 1—7 p.m., at the Salem Public Square and Purlee Plaza. Everyone will be sure to catch the holiday spirit with a day filled with shopping in Historic Downtown Salem, treat bags and hot chocolate for children, visiting with Santa and Mrs. Claus, music, wagon rides and much more.
The event is sponsored by the Washington County Tourism organization and the City of Salem. Organizers include Nina Motsinger, Bonita Purlee, Susan Lloyd and Justin Green, mayor of Salem.
Businesses around the square will be open, and many will offer specials, entertainment or treats. Several restaurants are in short walking distance of all the festivities.
New this year is the addition of numerous vendors that will be set up in two different locations.
At #52 Public Square, located in the middle of the southwest side of the square, will be the following vendors: Pampered Chef, Scentsy, 821 Woodworks, RAD Candle Co., Dandee’s Faces, Becca’s Can Do Creations, Rugs by Mary Jane Hamilton, Creatively Unique, Shepherd’s Bluff, Wood Zinser Crafts, Hunter Ridge Winery and Bracelets Key Chains.
Vendors will also be located at Purlee Plaza, the parking area at the corner of Market and High streets, right across from Salem City Hall. Those vendors include Alexander Custom Creations, Grays Bake House, Flower Power Bakery, Roots & Wings by KH and Christmas Ornaments by Tina.
The public is invited—get in the holiday spirit, enjoy fun and fellowship and get a jump on your gift shopping!
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