News4U March 2024

Managing

Paul

A QUICK NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

Three weeks to go, tri-state. Sorry for the lack of a proper greeting, but I want to get straight to the point: winter is nearly history, at least for now. But let me back up and take credit for a prediction I made in last month's show-stopping intro. At the time of writing the February issue editor's note, we were in the midst of a very unpleasant January cold snap - perhaps you recall? Numerous days of single digit temps, below zero wind chills and the like. Does that jog your memory? Anyhow, I made a rather obvious observation about the roller coaster-esque nature of Midwest winters, surmising that it would likely be 65 degrees the next time I sat down to type out an awe-inspiring

paragraph. Care to guess how close I came to being correct? How does 100% grab you? I'm rarely one to toot my own horn, but when you're right, you're right - 65 degrees on the nose. Chances are we'll be back down in the winter dregs soon, but at least the finish line is in sight. And hopefully I'll get that coveted participation ribbon when I cross it. Speaking of participating, of being active in the community (that's the best transition I could come up with)... Our cover stars for March are the "New Faces of 911," EFD Chief Tony Knight and EPD Chief Philip Smith. Both were recently appointed to head their respective departments and with the annual Guns & Hoses charity boxing event on the horizon, it seemed like the

perfect time to get acquainted. Intrigued? Then simply turn to pg. 9 and you can read all about these two upstanding community members and their plans for protecting the city of Evansville. In addition, we've got interviews with ZZ Top's Billy Gibbons and Lynyrd Skynyrd ahead of their "Sharp Dressed Simple Man" Tour in April at the Ford Center, plus a story on the 10th anniversary of Beaver Dam Amphitheater and lots more. Also, if you happen to be one of the magazine's many Irish readers, Happy St. Patrick's Day!

- Tommy Ellis

NEW EVANSVILLE'S FACES 911 OF

A CHANGING OF THE GUARD: GET TO KNOW THE CITY'S NEW FIRE CHIEF AND POLICE CHIEF

With a new mayor at the helm in Stephanie Terry, the City of Evansville has also welcomed a new Fire Chief and Police Chief - both incredibly important positions regarding the safety of our community. So it seems only right to learn more about the two highly-respected men who will be overseeing their respective departments under Terry's administration. To that end, we checked in with EFD Chief Tony Knight and EPD Chief Philip Smith to discuss both their backgrounds and how they plan to keep Evansville safe throughout 2024.

GET TO KNOW

TONY KNIGHT:

EVANSVILLE'S NEW FIRE CHIEF

ALL IN THE FAMILY

Born and raised on Evansville's west side, Knight's interest in becoming a firefighter was stoked early on thanks to his dad's volunteer position with a small fire department out in Posey County. His mom worked full-time, so on the days that his dad was home and in charge of the household, all the kids would pile in the car if he was called out on a run and watch from a safe distance. In addition, Knight would tag along during the weeks when it was dad's turn to check on the station. "Being up close and personal with the fire trucks and the fire equipment on such a regular basis was such a thrill," he recalls. "I think that's what really bit me." His dad would go on to pursue public safety as a career, becoming an EMT for an Evansville ambulance service, eventually securing a position as a paramedic while still volunteering with the fire department.

THE BIG DECISION

Just prior to entering his teen years, Knight already had his future mapped out, quite certain of the path ahead. "At age 12, I can clearly remember that that was when I decided that this [becoming a firefighter] is what I wanted to do," he says. "I'm going to do this for a living when I'm old enough - to the point that when I would go to the fire station with my dad at that age I would bring books home with me and start reading fire magazines, learning about the trade as a young teenager. Then when I became 18 - you have to be that age in the state of Indiana to be a volunteer firefighter or a firefighter at all - I joined that Posey County volunteer department as well, alongside my dad."

A CASE OF GOOD TIMING

In Evansville, you have to be 21 to be a career firefighter - and at the time that Knight was finishing high school back in the early 90's, you also had to be 21 to work for an ambulance service. However, in a case of good timing, after being put through EMT school by the volunteer fire department, the local ambulance service was bought out by Mercy, a national company. "They would hire you at 18," Knight explains. "So as soon as I graduated high school in June of '93 and graduated EMT school in December of the same year, I landed my first job working for them. So I've been doing this [public safety] in some capacity since the age of 19 - almost 30 years now."

CLIMBING UP THE LADDER

While working as an EMT and continuing his service as a volunteer firefighter, Knight attended paramedic school and began working for the company that we now know as American Medical Response. He quickly moved up the ranks. "In that career, I was promoted to Field Training Officer and ultimately up to Operation Supervisor - I supervised the night shift crews," he says. "And all the time I'm testing for the Evansville Fire Department - and then I get a call to come work for them at age 28. I left my career as paramedic behind and became a career firefighter."

RISING TO THE TOP

As a valued member of the EFD, Knight worked his way up to District Chief - the highest rank he aspired to reach. While unsure why, he never envisioned himself making it to the very top, to the position of Fire Chief. "Maybe it's because of the time involved and how long it usually takes you to get through the ranks," Knight offers. "About two years ago is when I reached the District Chief level - and it just so happened that right at that same time I was getting married to my current wife who has never been around someone who would be gone for 24 hrs at a time. My goal when I got promoted was to be done with the shift work - I wanted to go to a Mon-Fri schedule which worked really well for

a new marriage. But getting in that office and seeing the administrative side of the department, I really started to get the urge to move up farther - this wasn't where I needed to stop." Indeed, Knight would be named Evansville's new Fire Chief in early 2024.

OBJECTIVES AS THE NEW FIRE CHIEF

Honor the mission: "By this, I mean serving the public, serving anybody that calls 911, regardless of what it's for - and we get all kinds of calls; EFD responds to fires, obviously, to having a medical emergency. If you smell a strange smell in the air, we come out. There are literally thousands of missions that fall on our responsibility. We always want to make sure that our people are equipped, trained and able to handle any mission, regardless of its nature."

Supporting our people: "This is all about making sure we hire good employees and train them to be good firefighters, and have good policies that are written specific to the EFD, not copied and pasted from another department. We need good training, good leadership and believe it or not, good discipline. Discipline isn't always negative - the very definition is to correct behavior. That doesn't always mean giving time off or a reprimand. Sometimes it's just talking it through."

Managing the culture: "There are a lot of different things that come with that, including being transparent with the men and women of the EFD. It has happened before that decisions were made without any input from the people that those decisions affect - that's wrong. The Fire Chief has to follow federal, state and local laws, yet sometimes decisions may be made that they don't want to make but have to do it. Still, most day-today things are open for input.

INVOLVEMENT WITH THE GUNS & HOSES CHARITY BOXING EVENT

While he's never fought in the annual fundraiser, Knight was scheduled to get in the ring with his brother some years ago, but it didn't happen. For the 2024 edition of the event, however, his 23-year-old son, a new firefighter in Owensboro, will be making his debut fighting for the Hoses.

PREDICTION FOR GUNS & HOSES XVI:

"[New Police Chief] Philip Smith and I have a mutual respect for each other and will work well together, I'm sure." A diplomatic response.

GET TO KNOW

PHILIP SMITH:

EVANSVILLE'S NEW POLICE CHIEF

AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY TO EVANSVILLE

Originally from Clarksville, Tennessee, Smith attended Lane College there with his cousin, an Indiana native. But after the pair's freshman year, the latter wanted to move back home to Indianapolis. Smith suggested finding a middle ground, convincing his cousin to decamp to Evansville instead where USI offered low tuition. "Then, when I went to orientation after summer break," Smith recalls, "he wasn't there. I called my cousin and he said that he'd decided to go to IUPUI. So that's how I ended up here [in Evansville]." Smith's parents would also make the move to southern Indiana, supporting their son as he graduated with a radio & TV/ broadcasting degree from USI.

A RIDE-ALONG CHANGES EVERYTHING

Post-college, Smith landed a job with the EVSC doing after-school programs and also worked for a few years at AIS ( Academy for Innovative Studies) where, as fate would have it, off-duty officers were employed. In conversation one day, an officer asked Smith if he'd ever considered law enforcement. On a whim - and keeping in mind that his salary was provided by a grant that might expire soon - he agreed to go on a ride-along, just to get a feel for life as a cop. "After that I was sold," Smith says. "Prior to that, all I knew about police officers was what I saw on television - high speed chases and locking folks up. Never had an interest in that, but when I went on the ride-along, what I saw was that they just get out and talk to people. Person-to-person interaction. Also, I was a young father of two looking for something consistent." It was a done deal. Smith, much to the delight of his parents, became the first police officer

in his family on either side. His brother would soon follow in his footsteps.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM 11 YEARS OF SERVICE

Going through the Police Academy: "The coolest thing ever. I made life-long friends learning about the job and learned I could overcome challenges. Then being named Class President of the graduating Academy class."

Getting out on the street as a cop: "I worked the street for four years and then started doing Cops Connecting with Kids. Then my Chief found out about my background in radio & TV/ broadcasting. He asked me to join the Public Information office, crafting the department's message for social media, press conferences and interviews. I did that for about four years."

Being named Assistant Chief of Police : "I was getting ready to do an interview with 44 News when the Chief called me and said he had just been talking to the mayor and they'd made a decision on Assistant Chief. ! thought he was calling to tell me to put together a press release. But it was me they wanted. I thought he was joking, but he said to go home and put my Class A uniform on - that's when I knew it was serious. I held the position of Assistant Chief for about three years."

Being named the new Police Chief: "I knew there was a chance, an opportunity to throw my hat in the ring after serving as Assistant Chief. Over the last three years, I've learned about the budget, how the department works, the role of the chief administrator and having to work with not only officers under his command but citizens, elected officials. I had a front row seat to all of that and it worked out."

OBJECTIVES AS THE NEW POLICE CHIEF

Curb group violence: "Group violence in our city over the last few years has been an issue. We want to coalesce with community partners and try to find alternatives for people that are

involved in group violence. We just want to make the city safe, parks safe, so families can go back outside and feel comfortable. I want to be able to look my officers in the face and say, 'Do you feel comfortable enough for your spouse and children to walk alone in our parks and play?' If they do, then we've done our job."

Be community-oriented: "Our officers need to be community-oriented enough to get out of their cars and know people on a first name basis on the beats that they serve. I want the Andy Griffith approach to policing. That takes partnership. It takes, unfortunately, locking folks up, addressing crime head-on - but it also takes people getting out of the car and saying "hello," putting in extra hours, popping in to community events and introducing yourself, even when off-duty."

Employ a team approach: "If I was to be doing this job by myself it would be overwhelming. But I've got an outstanding staff. The Evansville Police Department is the third largest agency in the state of Indiana. That means I've got a lot of people to bounce ideas off of and vice-versa. If I was trying to do a "me" approach, I'm the "Big Cheese," that would be a problem. I'm a police officer just like the rest of them and I like to listen, to learn, to be a part of the group."

INVOLVEMENT WITH THE GUNS & HOSES CHARITY BOXING EVENT

"I fought in 2015 - won my fight but we lost as a team. I would trade my win for a team victory in a heartbeat. Now I'm a board member of 911 Gives Hope and I'm kind of like a promoter - I'm in charge of the tickets on the Guns side. I'm Don King now!"

PREDICTION FOR GUNS & HOSES XVI:

"Have you ever seen Rocky 3? The one thing they asked Clubber Lang [played by Mr. T] was 'What's your prediction?' and he said, "Pain!" [Laughs] No, I'm hoping that 1) everybody is safe because the next day these guys are going right back out on the streets to protect and serve - they're just taking this one night to raise money for those less fortunate than them in the community and 2) I really hope the Guns tie things up. I'm hoping as long as I'm chief that the Guns win every time. [New Fire Chief] Tony Knight might not say that; I'm saying it!"

GUNS AND HOSES XVI

Are you ready for some rock 'em, sock 'em fun, folks? Because it's that time of year again. Time to pack the Ford Center and hoot and howl as tri-state first responders faceoff in the boxing ring for charity. Every year, the Guns (members of area police departments) battle the Hoses (members of area fire departments) for bragging rights, but most importantly, to raise money for countless community organizations (including Big Brothers Big Sisters, Evansville ARC, Granted, SMILE on Down Syndrome and so many more) that provide services for children and adults with disabilities. It's a total win-win - we get to watch brave first responders duke it out from

the comfort of our Ford Center seats, and in turn, the proceeds from the event do a world of good for those in need. As any past or present Guns & Hoses participant will tell you, it's worth getting punched in the face a few times knowing that their pain is the community's gain. In fact, to date, that gain is nearly $2 million and counting. That's a lot of clams, a lot of dough, a lot of cheddar. You get the idea.

By the way, are you familiar with the term "rubber match"? If you're a sports enthusiast then you'll get the reference. For those out of the loop, it's the equivalent of the World Series being tied at 3-3 - the seventh

"NOT ONLY HAS GUNS & HOSES MADE A BIG DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF LOCAL CHILDREN AND ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES, IT'S BROUGHT THE COMMUNITY CLOSER TOGETHER, PLAIN AND SIMPLE.

game is the aforementioned rubber match to break the tie. Well, last year, Guns & Hoses had its very own rubber match with the series tied at 7-7, so the stakes were even higher than usual. Whichever department came out on top would not only claim the coveted championship belt but bragging rights as well - for 12 whole months. Spoiler alert - in case you missed it - the Hoses, with a solid lineup of bruisers, ultimately battled the Guns into submission in front of 9,000 screaming fans to edge ahead 8-7 in this ongoing rivalry. A friendly rivalry, mind you. Because regardless of the outcome, the camaraderie and respect is clear. Not only has Guns & Hoses made a big difference in the lives of local children and adults with disabilities, it's brought the community closer together, plain and simple.

A little history for those unfamiliar with the event... Guns & Hoses was inspired by former EPD Detective Patrick Phernetton's daughter "Mickey" and her struggle with Prader-Willi syndrome, a disease that causes a constant state of hunger. If left unattended, people like Mickey can literally eat themselves

Phernetton made it his goal to raise

enough money for the construction of a group home where those who suffer from the affliction could live and prosper in a safe environment. And boy did the community rally around the cause; Guns & Hoses has simply gotten bigger and better every year with more and more organizations benefitting from the financial haul. FYI, all signs point to the 16th edition being the biggest draw yet, with EFD Chief Tony Knight and EPD Chief Philip Smith - both newly appointed - going head-to-head for the first time (not in the ring, just supervising). If all goes well, this added bit of drama will translate to piles of cash. Rest assured that every dollar stays local - event organizer 911 Gives Hope makes certain that 100% of the funds go to tri-state causes.

So don't miss the charity event of the year - get your tickets for Guns & Hoses XVI and support all the great organizations that benefit from the battle in the ring between area first responders!

For tickets and more info, visit fordcenter.com and 911giveshope.sportngin.com. The Ford Center is located at 1 SE MLK Blvd. in downtown Evansville.

ZZ Top's Billy Gibbons and Lynyrd Skynyrd's

Ricky Medlocke talk to News 4U

Maybe it's the beard, but ZZ Top's Billy Gibbons never seems to age. Hard to believe it's been over 50 years since the legendary guitarist's Texas trio first grabbed the music world's attention back in 1971 with the release of the appropriately-titled ZZ Top's First Album , a landmark debut that laid the groundwork for the Top's irresistible blend of boogie blues, hard rock and southern rock. Sadly, longtime bassist Dusty Hill passed away in 2021, but his spirit lives on in the songs - culturally defining hits like "La Grange," "Tush," "Gimme All Your Lovin'," "Sharp Dressed Man," "Legs," "Sleeping Bag" and so many more. All with a common thread, smartly incorporating a sly sense of humor into the mix while never skimping on the powerful, driving riffs that keep them motoring right along.

For the "Sharp Dressed Simple Man" Tour, ZZ Top will be joined by another revered band that's thrived for five-plus decades now, a band that pretty much created the southern rock genre via timeless classics such as "Free Bird," "Sweet Home Alabama," "Simple Man," "Tuesday's Gone," "Gimme Three Steps" and "What's Your Name." We could only be talking about Lynyrd Skynyrd, of course. Hailing from Jacksonville, Florida, Skynyrd's early success came at a terrible cost when, in 1977, a plane crash took the lives of frontman Ronnie Van Zant, guitarist Steve Gaines and backup vocalist Cassie Gaines. But after a period of grieving, the band played on, recruiting Van Zant's little brother Johnny to take over lead vocals and drafting in

Blackfoot's Rickey Medlocke on guitar. And while sole surviving original member Gary Rossington left this earth a year ago this month, Skynyrd continues to keep the music that's touched so many fans alive with inspiring performances from coast to coast.

ZZ Top's sound and influence can be heard in songs across generations of bands. One prime example, Van Halen's "Hot for Teacher," was released, not-socoincidentally, the year after Eliminator ruled the charts in 1983. To my ears, it's Eddie's sped-up take on "La Grange" and other ZZ Top classics. Thoughts?

BILLY GIBBONS: ZZ Top remained strident fans of Van Halen once we caught track with 'em. Eddie became a stalwart practitioner of the “twohand tapping” technique that calls for both hands on the fret board as am I. What’s that they say about “great minds”?

How do you account for the pronounced gap between the cultural and chart impact of "Sharp Dressed Man"? The argument could be made that few other songs in pop/rock have been more culturally impactful over time despite failing to reach the top 40. BG: The title phrase kind of entered common parlance following the recording of the song. It’s been propelled into the general consciousness and become codified. Looking and being sharp is its own continuing reward.

- whose main influence was Kraftwerk - were doing at the start of the decade. Prior to the new wave revolution, had you been aware of, or been following, the forefathers of that movement such as the aforementioned Kraftwerk, Tangerine Dream, etc., or were you primarily inspired by the ensuing synthpop bands? (Side note: In a recent interview, OMD's Andy McCluskey recounted the time he bumped into you in an elevator in the mid-90's, remarking how cool it was to see you and Dusty years after performing on the BBC's Old Grey Whistle Test show together.)

BG: Yes, we were delighted to meet Andy back then. We certainly became aware of Kraftwerk, OMD, and the

ZZ Top's 80's evolution in sound was reportedly a product of hearing what synth-based bands like Liverpool's OMD

outrageous sounds from within the vanguard of electronica... even getting down to holding close a fascination and ultimately a working relationship with Depeche Mode. Martin Gore and Dave Gahan’s alliance within their outfit drew us out to the stratosphere. We, along with the staff at Ardent Recording in Memphis were totally intrigued following the recording of Eliminator

2012's La Futura managed to recapture the band's raw boogie-blues sound from the early 70's while still keeping in tune with today's studio technology. Was it difficult to bridge that gap - or did you have a clear vision of how that could work right from the get-go?

BG: Our ZZ Top studio chops came naturally in step with the never-ending

road show. We sounded like ourselves. Producers like Dave Sardy, Joe Hardy, and, of course, our stoic pal, Rick Rubin, constantly encouraged us to be “the best ZZ Top possible” and we thought, “How hard could that be?” A definite throwback and challenge to the time/ space continuum.

Are you able to step back and objectively analyze why ZZ Top's music has connected with so many people for so many years - or is it best not to overthink the band's success and simply keep moving forward?

BG: We just keep doing what we like doing - the reward is the appreciation of the generations of fans who have remained so loyal to us. So that’s some kind of introspective analysis which

might explain a few things.

Finally, for men like myself who are incapable of growing anything more than an embarrassing bit of stubble on our faces, what words of comfort can you share?

BG: If, like the “little engine that could,” you believe in your ability, just keep saying “I think I can, I think I can.” Worked for us all this time.

Do you still remember the call you received in 1996 to join Lynyrd Skynyrd?

RICKY MEDLOCKE: I've still got the cassette tape here somewhere at the house from the answering machine. I

was over at my studio with my manager and I decided to go check my messages at the house. There was only one message - and it was, 'Hey Rickey, this is your brother Gary [Rossington]. I want you to learn "I Ain't the One," "Saturday Night Special," "That Smell" and "Free Bird." I want you to play all of Allen's [guitar] parts - that's what I want you to learn. And I'm going to come down to Fort Myers and audition you and if you pass the audition, I'll give you $1.50 and a Snickers bar.' That was the exact message. That was at the beginning of March in '96 and I set about learning all the songs that they might play in the show and come the very beginning of May, I was out on stage doing my first show with them.

Speaking of being out on stage...you really have a presence as a guitar player, reacting to fans and getting everyone involved in the show.

RM: You know something? I've been beat up over the years by people saying that I'm too over-the-top with Skynyrd but for every bad comment, there's a hundred good comments. What I do is try to make sure that everybody coming in to see that show enjoys themselves. The whole thing with me on stage is that it all comes natural to me. It's not one of these things where I've stood in front of the mirror and rehearsed.

You must have played the legendary "Free Bird" solo thousands of times by now. Do you try to bring something new to it each time?

RM: I'm getting ready to tell you something that a lot of people don't believe, but the easiest song for me

to learn was "Free Bird." And I'll tell you why: because I recognized the licks and then all I had to do was put them in sequenceand once you got them in sequence, it came to you. Every night when I play the song, it does take on a whole new character. There might be some little part in there that the audience doesn't hear but is a little different. And I try to do it a little different. That's just me closing my eyes and letting go. I hope the day comes when I cross over and I see Allen...I hope to get a handshake from him. I think he was one of the world's most underrated guitar players. That's what I believe.

What's your take on why Lynyrd Skynyrd has seemingly transcended genres and is beloved by such a wide range of people to this very day?

RM: Ronnie was a poet for every person in all walks of life. He could say it in words and people could understand it because it was for the everyday person. It doesn't matter if it's a hip-hop guy or a pop gal, a heavy metal shreddereverybody can get next to those tunes,

can find something in those songs that they can relate to. And isn't it funnythey were only able to do it for four short years. In four short years, they created something that has lasted a lifetime. You know what, man? I was a part of it in the early years - I played drums for them. And coming from my inside perspective, people have no idea the time spent and the work ethic that the band hadit was amazing. It's the music that has transcended over time and will be here a lot longer after I'm gone, that's for sure.

For tickets and more info, visit fordcenter. com. The Ford Center is located at 1 SE MLK Jr. Blvd. in downtown Evansville.

WHAT I DO IS TRY TO MAKE SURE THAT EVERYBODY COMING IN TO SEE THAT SHOW ENJOYS THEMSELVES. THE WHOLE THING WITH ME ON STAGE IS THAT IT ALL COMES NATURAL TO ME.

EVANSVILLE PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA PRESENTS

“SIMPLY SWINGIN'”

VICTORY THEATRE / MARCH 17 / 2 P.M.

PENULTIMATE POPS CONCERT OF THE 2023-24 EPO SEASON PROMISES COOL VEGAS ATMOSPHERE

And then there were two. Pops concerts, that is. After another winning season of dynamic performances, the Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra is just about ready to call it a wrap until the fall. But don't head for the exit just yet, because conductor Roger Kalia and his players have a couple more aces left up their sleeves, including this month's penultimate Pops concert, "Simply Swingin'," featuring Las Vegas and Atlantic City entertainment fixture Steve Lippia leading the EPO through standards made famous by Tony Bennett, Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Bobby Darin, Vic Damone, Sammy Davis, Jr. and Billy Joel.

A truly gifted vocalist versed in interpreting the "Popular American Songbook," Lippia knows how to bring this

country's greatest songs to life better than just about any performer - songs such as "Beyond the Sea," "Mack the Knife," "Send in the Clowns," "On the Street Where You Live," "It Was a Very Good Year," "I’ve Got You Under My Skin," "I’ve Got the World On a String" and “I left My Heart In San Francisco." He moves from classic to classic with ease, almost effortlessly, and particularly shines when revisiting Sinatra's beloved catalog. Because not only does Lippia possess impressive vocal chops, he's got the stage presence to match, making him one of the few singers around today who can put the whole package together and do justice to such revered compositions written by the likes of Cole Porter, Sammy Cahn, Jimmy Van Heusen, Rogers & Hart, Harold Arlen and Steven Sondheim.

(*FYI, if you happen to be in the Vincennes area on Saturday, March 16, you can catch Lippia and the EPO at the Red Skelton Performing Arts Center. Show starts at 7 p.m.)

Looking ahead... The Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra will bring down the curtain on the 2023-24 Pops concert season with an April 6 performance of "Louis Armstrong & Friends" featuring vocalists Carmen Bradford and Byron Stripling. Get your tickets soon for the EPO's grand Pops finale!

For tickets and more info, visit evansvillephilharmonic.org or call 812-4255050. The Victory is located at 600 Main St. in downtown Evansville.

LIPPIA KNOWS HOW TO BRING THIS COUNTRY'S GREATEST SONGS TO LIFE BETTER THAN JUST ABOUT ANY PERFORMER. “

A DECADE DAM AT THE

KENTUCKY'S BEAVER DAM AMPHITHEATER CELEBRATING 10 YEARS OF INCREDIBLE LIVE MUSIC

It was kind of a crazy idea at the time. Building a deluxe amphitheater inside the park of a tiny western Kentucky town home to barely 3000 people? On paper it seemed like a stretch. But innovation often takes bravery - and, most importantly, dedication and teamwork. The Beaver Dam Amphitheater project, conceived over 10 years ago, had the latter, especially, in spades. Now the venue, seemingly against the odds, is ramping up for yet another

successful season of high-profile concerts, celebrating a decade at the Dam that's seen some of music's biggest stars, across genres, perform in front of fans from all over the country and beyond.

To set the stage, so to speak, for how it all came together, let's first go back to 2013. Beaver Dam Mayor Paul Sandifer, with assistance from City Commissioner Kevin Davis, had a vision for a historic - if

unlikely - venue. "As the story goes, they looked up at a hillside there in the park and saw the possibilities when no one else did," Heath Eric (whose company The Eric Group would take over booking and production in 2017) explains. Plans were then announced for the project via a special concert in the park featuring country star John Michael Montgomery, Parrots of the Caribbean and Insulated rocking out on a temporary stage. As hoped, the show - and

the big reveal - were both a hit with the locals and construction began on Beaver Dam Amphitheater. Cut to one year later, October 4, 2014, to be exact, and the city celebrated the venue's inaugural event, booking Lonestar and Joe Diffie - two of country music's biggest draws at the time. Not bad for an opening act.

But the Dam was only getting started. Thanks to the hard work of folks like Tourism Director Jason Tierney and Chairman Darren Risinger, the hits just kept coming over the next few years. Need examples? Well, there was Merle Haggard, for one, who needs no introduction. Then the likes of the Newsboys and Third Dayboth huge on the contemporary Christian scene. Also, Jason Crabb, Ricky Skaggs, Chris Janson, Oakridge Boys, Diamond Rio, Confederate Railroad, Tracy Lawrence, Charlie Daniels Band and Martina McBride. As Eric notes, "Those foundational blocks are truly instrumental in the success that we're seeing today. The nation is littered with communities that mean well and want to dive into the word of rock & roll. It generally doesn't end well, but Beaver Dam did it right."

Beaver Dam did it right by providing a unique, exceptional concert experience for both the fans and the performers. Not only is the venue absolutely beautiful with top-notch sound and amenities, the bands are treated with the utmost respect and made to enjoy every minute of their stay in a quaint Kentucky town. It's an extremely professional way of doing business that Eric and his wife/business partner Molly were determined to mimic when they took over the reins in 2017. Just prior, it was the Erics who suggested that the Dam try to reel in folk legend John Prine. A phone call was made and the rest, as they say, is

history, culminating in one of the venue's most treasured concerts to date. "It was one of the greatest nights of our career and for the city," Eric reflects. "After we booked Prine, he released Tree of Forgiveness which went to the top of the charts. And the opener was Tyler Childers, an up-andcomer from eastern Kentucky. We saw all the potential of that venue when you have 5000 people from all over the U.S. - and from Australia, from Korea, from Mexicosinging all the words up on that hill."

Post-Prine, the Dam has been host to a series of remarkable performances. Eric's most memorable moments include Sheryl Crow/Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit, the Beach Boys, ZZ Top, a sold-out Hank Williams Jr. show, Old Crow Medicine Show and The Temptations. He's also very proud of the annual Rock the Dam concert series which features hair metal acts from the 80's. For the 10th anniversary season, the venue has booked Tesla, Winger, Firehouse and Paradise Kitty on July 20 - a bill that's already out-sold last year's Rock the Dam.

And FYI, the 2024 concert season will be kicking off in style with a recordsetting performance by country-folk artist Oliver Anthony. The "Rich Men North of Richmond" singer's May 4 show sold-out in a matter of hours, proving the venue's reputation as an elite

tour stop. "There were so many venues trying to book him and we got him at Beaver Dam," Eric says with a big smile. "It's a big win for the whole team."

UPCOMING SHOWS

5/17 Zach Williams wsg David Leonard

5/25 Blackberry Smoke

5/31 Roots & Boots Tour w/ Aaron Tippin, Sammy Kershaw & Collin Raye wsg Deana Carter

6/15 2nd Annual Disco at the Dam feat. Sister Sledge & Boogie Wonder Band

7/6 Pop 2000 Tour feat. Chris Kirkpatrick of NSYNC, O-Town, BBMak, Ryan Cabrera & LFO

7/13 Big & Rich / Gretchen Wilson

For tickets, more show dates and more info, visit beaverdamtourism.com.

NOT ONLY IS THE VENUE ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL WITH TOP-NOTCH SOUND AND AMENITIES, THE BANDS ARE TREATED WITH THE UTMOST RESPECT AND MADE TO ENJOY EVERY MINUTE OF THEIR STAY IN A QUAINT KENTUCKY TOWN.

IS IT POSSIBLE...?: POPULAR HISTORY CHANNEL SERIES TAKING SHOW ON THE ROAD

It's the pressing question that millions of TV fans around the world want answered every time they tune into another gripping hour of Ancient Aliens on the History Channel: Is it possible...? The hit series, which first aired in 2009, has been bending our minds for 15 years now with speculation that aliens have not only visited our planet many times throughout history but helped to develop civilization by constructing massive structures like the Egyptian pyramids, Stonehenge and other famous sites. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. Always looking for extraterrestrial explanations, hosts Giorgio A. Tsoukalos, David Childress, William Henry and Nick Pope, along with frequent guests like Erich von Daniken, surmise that mankind's ancestors are actually visitors from hundreds of light years away - from the Pleiades star cluster. If true, such a theory would upend all we know about the origin of life on Earth.

With all that in mind, surely you must have questions. If so, you're in luck, because the Ancient Aliens team is headed our way for a 90-minute live presentation with a Q&A for good measure. Finally, it's your turn to ask: Is it possible...? Get ready for some spirited debate between the AA hosts and audience, as provocative theories are discussed and dissected - and especially prepare for all kinds of fun. There's a reason Ancient Aliens has been so popular for so long; few shows can twist your mind into a delicious pretzel quite like this one!

For tickets and more info, visit victorytheatre.com. The Victory is located at 600 Main St. in downtown Evansville.

VICTORY THEATRE / MARCH 28 / 7:30 P.M.

Healthy Cooking with Lindsay Rasure

Now that springtime is so close, I love adding fruit variety items into my rotation of things I make weekly. My family loves oatmeal bakes, because they can easily be paired with a couple of sausage links to make a quick breakfast. This oatmeal bake comes together so quickly, and I love the use of frozen fruit. I highly recommend Wyman’s wild frozen blueberries. They make a huge difference in the taste department. My kids ask for bowls of them to eat at a time, and the result is happy blueberry faces!

FOR MORE RECIPES OR MEAL IDEAS YOU CAN FOLLOW LINDSAY

RASURE ON INSTAGRAM: @

CLEANBITELIFE OR HER FACEBOOK

GROUP: CLEAN BITE LIFE

CLEAN BITE

BLUEBERRY BANANA OATMEAL BAKE

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 C. MASHED BANANA (ABOUT 2 LARGE BANANAS)

• 2 EGGS

• 1/3 C. HONEY

• 1 C. OF MILK (ANY VARIETY)

• 2 T. AVOCADO OIL (SUB MELTED COCONUT OIL OR BUTTER)

DIRECTIONS:

• 1 TSP. VANILLA

• 2 ½ C. OLD FASHIONED ROLLED OATS

• 1 TSP. BAKING POWDER

• ¾ TSP. CINNAMON

• ¼ TSP. SALT

• 1 C. FROZEN BLUEBERRIES

• ANY VARIETY OF NUT BUTTER FOR TOPPING (IF DESIRED)

1. PREHEAT OVEN TO 350 DEGREES F. SPRAY A 9X9 PAN WITH NONSTICK COOKING SPRAY.

2. IN A LARGE BOWL MIX TOGETHER THE MASHED BANANA, EGGS, HONEY, MILK, AVOCADO OIL, AND VANILLA UNTIL COMBINED.

3. NEXT ADD IN ROLLED OATS, BAKING POWDER, CINNAMON, AND SALT UNTIL WELL COMBINED.

4. FINALLY GENTLY FOLD IN THE FROZEN BLUEBERRIES.

5. POUR MIXTURE INTO PAN AND BAKE 35-40 MINUTES UNTIL EDGES START TO BECOME SLIGHTLY GOLDEN BROWN AND THE MIDDLE IS SET.

6. SERVE WARM WITH ANY VARIETY OF NUT BUTTER DRIZZLED ON TOP!

PRESENTED BY:

IN TOWN & AROUND

FRIDAY, MARCH 1

8:00 AM

Old National Events Plaza -- Pigtails & Cowlicks Spring

Consignment Sale

6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Trey Hughes

7:00 PM

Ford Center -- Evansville Thunderbolts Hockey

7:30 PM

Victory Theatre -- Hairball: A Bombastic Celebration of Arena Rock

8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- DJ Dan Gunn

8:30 PM

Hornet's Nest -- Karaoke

9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Jon J Dance Party

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- DJ Dance Party

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky

O'Brian's Sports Bar -Karaoke

SATURDAY, MARCH 2

8:00 AM

Old National Events Plaza -- Pigtails & Cowlicks Spring

Consignment Sale

10:00 AM

Old National Events Plaza -Evansville Horror Con

6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Trey Hughes

7:00 PM

Ford Center -- Evansville

Thunderbolts Hockey

Victory Theatre -- John Waite: 40 Years of "Missing You"

7:30 PM

Hornet's Nest -- Rodney Watts

Acoustic

8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- The BackBeats

9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Jon J Dance Party

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky

10:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Whiskey Throttle

SUNDAY, MARCH 3

10:00 AM

Old National Events Plaza -Evansville Horror Con

2:30 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Keith Farny Jazz Collective

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke w/ Suzie Q

7:00 PM

O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Karaoke

9:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ

MONDAY, MARCH 4

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- S.I.N. Night

Karaoke w/ Phillip

6:30 PM

Owensboro Convention Center -- National American Miss Pageant Prep

TUESDAY, MARCH 5

6:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ

7:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Boscoe France

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 6

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Nick Hamilton

6:30 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Cornhole

7:30 PM

Damsel Brew Pub -- Comedy Open Mic

9:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ

THURSDAY, MARCH 7

6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Paul Wiemeier

7:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Beer Pong

Hornet's Nest -- Trivia

Old National Events Plaza -World Ballet Series: Swan Lake

9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Jon J After Party

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ

FRIDAY, MARCH 8

12:00 PM

Owensboro Convention Center -- Owensboro Home Expo

6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Josh Merritt

8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Stackin' Eights

8:30 PM

Hornet's Nest -- Karaoke

9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Jon J After Party

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- DJ Dance Party

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky

O'Brian's Sports Bar -Karaoke

SATURDAY, MARCH 9

10:00 AM

Old National Events Plaza -Girls Day Out Evansville

12:00 PM

Owensboro Convention Center -- Owensboro Home Expo

6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Dan Hall

8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Gypsy Soul

9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Jon J After Party

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky

10:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- 70 on Sunday

SUNDAY, MARCH 10

12:00 PM

Owensboro Convention Center -- Owensboro Home Expo

2:30 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz w/ The Sidemen

3:00 PM

Ford Center -- Evansville

Thunderbolts Hockey

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke w/ Suzie Q

7:00 PM

Victory Theatre -- Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit

9:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ

MONDAY, MARCH 11

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- S.I.N. Night

Karaoke w/ Phillip

TUESDAY, MARCH 12

6:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ

7:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Boscoe France

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 13

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Nick Hamilton

6:30 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Cornhole

7:30 PM

Damsel Brew Pub -- Comedy Open Mic

9:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ

THURSDAY, MARCH 14

6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Jake Holder & Friends

7:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Lindsey Williams Songwriters Night

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Beer Pong

Ford Center -- Disney On Ice presents: Frozen & Encanto Hornet's Nest -- Trivia

9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Jon J After Party

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ

FRIDAY, MARCH 15

Old National Events Plaza -Eville Con 2024

7:00 PM

Ford Center -- Disney On Ice presents: Frozen & Encanto 8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Year of October

Owensboro Convention Center -- Shamrock Bash w/ Scythian

8:30 PM

Hornet's Nest -- Karaoke

9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Cliffy D

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- DJ Dance Party

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky

O'Brian's Sports Bar -Karaoke

SATURDAY, MARCH 16

Old National Events Plaza -Eville Con 2024

10:00 AM

Old National Events Plaza -Midwest Tropical Plant Expo

11:00 AM

Ford Center -- Disney On Ice presents: Frozen & Encanto

12:00 PM

Owensboro Sportscenter -Kenny Woods Gun Show

3:00 PM

Ford Center -- Disney On Ice presents: Frozen & Encanto

6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Jake Holder & Friends

7:00 PM

Ford Center -- Disney On Ice presents: Frozen & Encanto 8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- The Pits

9:00 PM

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky

9:30 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Hank Ruff followed by DJs Cliffy D & Brian Dawe

SUNDAY, MARCH 17

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!

Old National Events Plaza -Eville Con 2024

11:00 AM

Ford Center -- Disney On Ice presents: Frozen & Encanto

12:00 PM

Owensboro Sportscenter -Kenny Woods Gun Show

2:00 PM

Victory Theatre -- Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra presents: "Simply Swingin'" 2:30 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz w/ Bokeh Big Band

3:00 PM

Ford Center -- Disney On Ice presents: Frozen & Encanto

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke w/ Suzie Q

7:00 PM

O'Brian's Sports Bar -- St. Patrick's Day Bash w/ DJ

9:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ

10:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- That's What She Said!

MONDAY, MARCH 18

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- S.I.N. Night Karaoke w/ Phillip

TUESDAY, MARCH 19

6:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ

7:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Poetry Night

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Boscoe France

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20

5:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Nick

Hamilton

6:30 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Cornhole

7:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Big Al & The Heavyweights

7:30 PM

Damsel Brew Pub -- Comedy Open Mic

9:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ

THURSDAY, MARCH 21

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Blues & Jazz

Open Mic w/ Logan Dyer

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Trey Hughes

7:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Beer Pong

Ford Center -- Jeff Dunham

"Still Not Canceled" Tour

Hornet's Nest -- Trivia

9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Jon J After Party

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ

FRIDAY, MARCH 22

6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Ridge Runners Duo

7:00 PM

Ford Center -- Evansville

Thunderbolts Hockey

8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Star 69 w/ DJ ZAEDO

8:30 PM

Hornet's Nest -- Karaoke

9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Jon J Dance Party

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- DJ Dance Party

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky

O'Brian's Sports Bar -Karaoke

SATURDAY, MARCH 23

6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Boscoe & Rusty

7:00 PM

Ford Center -- Evansville Thunderbolts Hockey

8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- The Cold Stares

9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Jon J Dance Party

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky

10:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Bourbon Roots

SUNDAY, MARCH 24

2:30 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday

Jazz: Side by Side w/ Barbara Santora

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke w/ Suzie Q

9:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ

MONDAY, MARCH 25

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- S.I.N. Night

Karaoke w/ Phillip

6:00 PM

TUESDAY, MARCH 26

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ

7:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Artist of the Month Tony Henning

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Boscoe France

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Nick Hamilton

6:30 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Cornhole

7:30 PM

Damsel Brew Pub -- Comedy Open Mic

9:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ

THURSDAY, MARCH 28

6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Josh Merritt

7:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Beer Pong Hornet's Nest -- Trivia

7:30 PM

Victory Theatre -- Ancient Aliens Live

8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Funk Night w/ DJ Chidi

9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Jon J After Party

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ

FRIDAY, MARCH 29

6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Boscoe & Rusty

8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- King Bee & The Stingers

8:30 PM

Hornet's Nest -- Karaoke

9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Cue Dance Party

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- DJ Dance Party

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky

O'Brian's Sports Bar -Karaoke

SATURDAY, MARCH 30

6:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Trey Hughes

8:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Latin Night w/ DJ Chidi

Victory Theatre -- Gary Owen "Crossing Over" Tour

9:00 PM

Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- DJ Cue Dance Party

Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky

10:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Ridge Runners

SUNDAY, MARCH 31

6:00 PM

Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke w/ Suzie Q

7:00 PM

O'Brian's Sports Bar -Karaoke

9:00 PM

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ

FORTHRIGHT

NEARING A DECADE OF SHREDDING, EVANSVILLE METAL BAND SOLDIERS

ON, DECLARES "WAR OF ATTRITION"

Having released two of the tri-state metal scene's best and most thought-provoking albums over the last six years - 2018's Kaleidoscopic Manslaughter and 2022's AntiorthodoxForthright appeared to be on track to create their magnum opus next time around, considering the band's impressive creative trajectory. But after a change in the lineup - and a re-think about the best way to stay relevant in these challenging times for musicians - core members Nick Bulger (vocals/guitar) and Eddie Goebel II (drums) decided to switch up Forthright's way of operating after nearly a decade of shredding. "Antiorthodox took four years to make - we were happy with the outcome, but I know Eddie and I were on the same page to not do full-length albums from now on," Bulger explains. "It's exhausting and you don't get a lot of out it locally." Adds Goebel, "It's easy to put these lofty ambitions on it, but then you release this album you put all this work into...and then, sh*t, I don't know what I was expecting."

No doubt many other area bands have experienced the same let-down - but that certainly doesn't take away from the accomplishment of producing a work of exceptional quality. And it definitely hasn't deterred Forthright from soldiering on; quite the contrary. In fact, with the addition of two new fantastic players - guitarist Cade Crider and bassist Christian Miller - and a shift in recording strategy, the band is "just now hitting our stride with stuff we want to do," according to Bulger. That includes the recent release of "War of Attrition," one of Forthright's heaviest, rawest songs to date. Written by Bulger, it's a chaotic adventure, complete with unexpected tempo changes, an absolute fury of distorted guitars, unhinged vocals and massive drums. Quite simply, it's a statement of

intent, announcing the next stage in the band's journey. "The whole idea behind the song is the myth of Sisyphus where the guy is pushing the boulder up the hill for eternity," Bulger notes. Which sounds about right. This band refuses to quit; they're in it for the long haul.

What makes "War of Attrition" stand out even more is the production by Kenton Smith of Dark Image Recordings. It's huge, drawing comparisons to Forthright influences such as Gojira and Mastodon. The band has never sounded better, in other words. Or looked better on screen. To complement the single release, they commissioned a video directed by Nickolas Erickson - a grainy black & white affair that mirrors the frenetic nature of the track and features all four members in full-flight (check it out on YouTube pronto). Still, nothing can take the place of seeing Forthright live, especially with the expanded lineup. Crider, a freshman at Murray State whom Bulger describes as "insanely talented," has upped the intensity of the band's guitar attack, while Miller's in-demand bass-playing skills (he also rocks out in Cohen and Overstep) provide the sort of big bottom-end previously missing from Forthright performances. Both newbies are clearly jazzed to be a part of the action. "Life since I've joined Forthright has been an absolute blast," Crider says. "Nothing is more fun as a musician than playing music you love with a bunch of cool guys who love it as much as you do.

Nick is a fantastic songwriter; Eddie has insane drumming chops and is ready for anything that Nick and I throw his way; and Christian is the Mary Poppins of the band and eerily has any cord or piece of gear you might've forgotten to bring."

Miller's Johnny-on-the-spot ways should come in handy for the band on March 9 when Forthright appears on a metal bill at Warehouse 410 in downtown Evansville - and for future studio recordings. With the pressure of crafting a full-length album no longer weighing them down, the band plans to put a shorter collection of songs together for release this summer, with the possibility of dropping a single or two in the lead-up. "It's important to release more frequent content that keeps people engaged - it's the nature of the beast right now," Miller says. "EPs and singles allow us to get the work that we're doing out there so people don't keep asking if we're still a band."

"War of Attrition" is available on major streaming platforms. For more info, follow Forthright on Facebook.

KAYLAH GOINES

Photo Credit: Caitlyn Moline Photography

TRI-STATE R&B SINGER DROPS LIBERATING DEBUT SINGLE "FEEL AGAIN," LOOKS TO EVOLVE SOUND ACROSS GENRES

"Iwent through a period of isolation while I was transforming myself, questioning the meaning of life - what am I meant to do?," Kaylah Goines recalls asking herself in the lead-up to the creation of "Feel Again," her exceptionally soulful debut single out now on the Indianapolis-based Serenity label. The Castle High School graduate and mother of two faced a lot of self-doubt over the last few years, hesitant to come out from the shadows and show her true talent - but she's all business these days, newly-empowered and ready to shine. Considering her family background, it's about time. After all, when Kaylah was a small child, her mother met and married one of the tri-state's most recognizable vocalists, Mark Goines of Gonzo's Toybox fame. His influence and encouragement helped to spur Kaylah's love of singing and interest in a wide range of bands, including heavy hitters like System of a Down and Skindred, while her mom - who managed Gonzo's Toybox and other area acts - passed on a love of country and pop. Kaylah, meanwhile, latched onto the likes of Beyoncé and, perhaps her biggest musical hero of all, Paramore's Hayley Williams.

Despite keeping a relatively low profile artistically while she got her life together post-high school, Kaylah stayed in touch with the tri-state hip-hop community, featuring on numerous rap singles - a comfortable

arrangement for a busy mom in charge of providing for her kids. "It was easy for me because the concept was already laid out, the melody was laid out and the beat was chosen," she says. But as the years went by, there was a gnawing, a need to express herself in a solo environment. Finally, after much soulsearching, Kaylah made the decision to "go for it," reaching out to Serenity in 2022 and making plans to write and record an introductory R&B track to fulfill her "responsibility as an artist to put my work out there and to connect with people." And that she did. "Feel Again" - which Kaylah describes as "just the beginning" of her musical journey - debuted online in January, garnering instant praise for its sultry groove and liberating message. She then followed up its release with an impromptu performance at Mo's House in downtown

Evansville, getting rave reviews for her impassioned live vocals.

But while "Feel Again" speaks to Kaylah's indelible R&B spirit, she's eager to expand her sound, looking to incorporate both rap and alternative music into the mix. In conversation, she keeps returning to her fascination with Hayley Williams and Paramore - "Just wait till I get my hands on a band," she announces emphatically, imagining her future sound as "Linkin Park meets Kehlani and SZA." Regardless of which direction she takes things, Kaylah is hyper-focused and ready to create. "Music is in my soul - it needs to be expressed...and it shall."

"Feel Again" is available on major streaming platforms. For more info, follow Kaylah Goines on Facebook.

"BUT AS THE YEARS WENT BY, THERE WAS A GNAWING, A NEED TO EXPRESS HERSELF IN A SOLO ENVIRONMENT."

MURDERACHI

YOUTH IN REVOLT: HENDERSON-BASED METAL BAND RELEASES DEBUT EP, COLD BLOODED

They may be (mostly) too young to smoke or drink, but the tristate's up-and-coming metal band definitely ain't too young to rock. And just to make things even more interesting, all four members of the Henderson-based Murderachi attend church on a semiregular basis - a place where they've honed their musical skills over the years, while simultaneously devoting hours listening to, and dissecting the songs of, Metallica, Pantera and Slayer. Which just goes to show that separate worlds can co-exist just fineno matter what society thinks.

Twin brothers Landan and Logan Rideout - guitarist/vocalist and drummer for Murderachi, respectively - are the core of the band. Despite being only 17, the two have been plenty active in the tri-state music scene, including as a part of Severe, a heavy group that would show up and play Sepultura covers at area house parties and birthday celebrations. That is until attendees, often kids, would run screaming. Mission accomplished. Eventually, the Rideout boys re-focused and connected with guitarist Brody Napier, a 21-year-old transplant from eastern Kentucky who came from a hardcore punk background but wanted nothing

more than to join a metal band. Not only did he vibe with the Rideouts musically, he contributed the instantly recognizable name of the new outfit, offering up Murderachi - derived from a misheard Slayer lyric in "Mandatory Suicide" - in place of Octane. They were off and running.

After playing well-received shows at the Denton Shelter and The Elm in Henderson, Murderachi hopped on the bill for Fight Fest at Evansville's Lamasco Bar & Grill in late 2023, performing a killer set of originals with a smattering of classic metal covers. Soon after they'd draft in Riley Thompson on bass and record their debut EP - three times over. Indeed, third time was the charm for Cold Blooded, a total DIY effort that showcases the band's burgeoning songwriting chops, including the bulldozing title track which recalls the best of early Megadeth. Elsewhere, "Silver" plays like a melding of Ozzy Osbourne's "Mr. Crowley" and Pantera, while "Empalagar"a term that denotes something so sweet it makes you feel sick - has a swing feel at times with Logan laying down

WHILE THE MUSIC OF MURDERACHI COVERS CLASSIC METAL TERRITORY, LYRICALLY, LANDAN LOOKS TO HEROES LIKE JIM MORRISON OF THE DOORS AND, SOMEWHAT SURPRISINGLY, BOB DYLAN.

a relaxed groove in between the metal breakdowns. Then there's the band's earliest original, "Sleep When I Die," which is just full-on thrash at its best. That leaves the namesake track, "Murderachi," a brief, jazzy instrumental intended to show that these guys can do much more than just shred.

While the music of Murderachi covers classic metal territory, lyrically, Landan looks to heroes like Jim Morrison of the Doors and, somewhat surprisingly, Bob Dylan. Admittedly, he's still finding his way wordwise, but vocally he's got a commanding, fierce delivery that belies his youth. This band has tons of promise so be sure to check out the new EP and catch them at The Elm in Henderson on March 2.

For more info, follow Murderachi on Facebook. Cold Blooded is available on major streaming platforms.

SHE

TRI-STATE ROCKERS COME OUT FIRING IN 2024 WITH 90'S/EARLY 2000'S-INFLUENCED "CROWN"

Earlier this year, News 4U profiled one of the area's most accomplished new bands in SHE, an Evansville-based rock group featuring two former members of the Everyday Losers out of Washington, Indiana. After securing a dynamic lead guitarist in Veejay Burris and powerful drummer in Dylan Woodall, vocalist/guitarist Damian Baker and bassist Danny Norton set about building a local fanbase via electric shows at venues like Lamasco Bar & Grill and O'Brian's Sports Bar, while also making regional headway as an opener for 90's/early 2000's-era acts like Saliva and Cold. Ultimately, the goal was to record a selection of original material for release in 2024 and take SHE to the next level.

True to their word, the guys have done just that with the release of "Crown" which hit streaming services last month. Recorded with Steve Tyner at Black Cat Recording, the band's debut single is a complete rush and an exhilarating throwback, capturing everything that was great about the aforementioned Saliva and Cold, but also the likes of Collective Soul, Stone Temple Pilots and Chevelle, just to name a few of SHE's many influences. Thrillingly, "Crown" comes out firing with an opening/ repeating guitar riff that would make Ed Roland proud, before Baker enters with some seriously solid, emotive vocals - and a warning that "Heavy is the head that wears the crown." Throughout, the band is tighter than a drum and Tyner's production lends the track a heavy yet radiofriendly feel, crafting a song that's made to be played on 103GBF.

"Crown" is available on major streaming services. For more info, follow SHE at shebandofficial.com / Facebook: shebandofficial / Instagram: @ shebandofficial / YouTube: youtube.com@shebandofficial

PHOTO CREDIT: JEFF PURDUE

CREATING A KILLER

NEARING COMPLETION OF THE HIGHLY-ANTICIPATED NEW FEARS EVE, OWENSBORO FILM

PRODUCER P.J. STARKS TALKS CRAFTING A SLASHER CHARACTER TO REMEMBER

T"he hype is real, folks. For the last year, the tri-state film community has been abuzz over the latest project from Blood Moon Pictures out of Owensboro, the production company known for such high-profile releases as the Volumes of Blood anthologies and 13 Slays Till X-mas . Excitement really started to build last summer when the first full trailer for New Fears Eve appeared online, introducing horror fans everywhere to the deranged agenda of The Doctor, a scalpel-wielding lunatic on a murderous rampage. Not only did the brief preview impress cinematically speaking, but the acting, writing, humor and gripping score (composed by Frank Dormani) all stood out - so much so that film distributors were soon calling Starks and co-producer Eric Huskisson to discuss potential deals, including a possible theatrical run. Mum's the word on all that for now, but with New Fears Eve - made with the company's biggest budget to date - nearing completion, Blood Moon is planning for a local premiere in the next few months while considering festivals and conventions to enter heading into summer.

We caught up with Starks just as the film was in the final phase of color grading and sound design to discuss the creation of The Doctor (played by Jesse

MacDonald), the sort of crazed killer that every great horror film needs to succeed.

Tell me about the concept behind the character of The Doctor - did you pull from your influences and experiences as a horror filmmaker?

You never know if what you're creating is going to be the next Jason [Vorhees from Friday the 13th ] or Michael [Myers from Halloween ] or what Art the Clown has become [from the Terrifier films]he's become the next slasher villain. You need some originality to the character; as a horror fan, you're always pulling from a database of things that have influenced you. Me personally, I prefer a silent killer, like Michael Myers or Harry Warden from My Bloody Valentine - a killer that's all business. You can always create personality if you have the right person in the role. Thankfully, we got lucky with that with Jesse MacDonald.

What inspired the look of the character?

The look and the inspiration for The Doctor actually came out of the pandemic. For one, I wanted a masked killer - and there were tons of pics and memes of plague doctors during the pandemic. It occurred to me that no one has done a plague doctor as a mass-killer in a film. I wanted him to have some kind of medical background - his gimmick is

ME PERSONALLY, I PREFER A SILENT KILLER, LIKE MICHAEL MYERS OR HARRY WARDEN FROM MY BLOODY VALENTINE - A KILLER THAT'S ALL BUSINESS.

that he kills predominantly with medical devices, his main weapon being a scalpel versus a machete or an ax. It won't surprise you that I'm all into true crime and serial killers - and Jack the Ripper, while he was never caught and there's no photographs of him, he had an iconic, turn-of-the-century look with a cowl and top hat. So I thought how cool it would be to combine the two - create a hybrid of a plague doctor with Jack the Ripper.

In terms of creating the actual costume, how did it come together?

We got with a local wardrobe person who could help put the costume together and worked with a mask maker out of Louisville. We gave him the concept and then six months later we met up with him at Scare Fest and he showed us a prototype which we loved. We were in the rehearsal phase with the main cast when we brought Jesse in - it was pretty cool to see him with the costume on for the first time. Even cooler than what I imagined in my head. We wanted a turn-of-the-century upscale look and originally planned for white gloves and a tie, but ultimately we went with a black shirt, no tie, red vest and red gloves which really filmed well. Red is the color of danger, after all. For the mask, we wanted a homemade look with strips of leather and for the eyebrows to furrow. Plus, there's a red outline around the black eyes and a sinister beak. It's an angry look that really pops on screen.

For more info, follow Blood Moon Pictures on Facebook.

SCREEN TIME

iSPACEMAN

Adam Sandler is jetting into space as Czech astronaut Jakub Procházka. This Netflix adaptation of Jaroslav Kalfař’s novel Spaceman of Bohemia finds our favorite funnyman collecting mysterious purple dust forming between Earth and Venus. He’s on an eightmonth mission away from his wife - played stunningly by Carey Mulligan - and the deeper he delves into the universe, the looser his marital knot slips. This dark science fiction film is reminiscent of Aaron Paul and Josh Harnett’s eerie outer space Black Mirror episode in the latest season. The duo played doomed astronauts dealing with the cruelty of being light-years away from their families, all while being seduced by the mysterious and romantic complexity of the planets and stars. Spaceman takes it a step further by confronting the alien mythos, introducing us to giant terrestrial spider Hanuš, voiced equally cutely and creepily by Paul Dano. Is the creature a figment of the astronaut’s psychologically drained brain or a true monster sent to study man?

NETFLIX 3/1

RICKY STANICKY

Fresh off his head-turning role as 1980s wrestler Kevin Von Erich in The Iron Claw, Zac Effron is lightening up with this Peter Farrelly-directed comedy. He’s one member of a ridiculous male trio who have used their invisible friend “Ricky Stanicky” to remove themselves from the realities of life. Jermaine Fowler and Andrew Santino round out the group. Any misbehaviors or wild schemes they wanted kept to themselves? They blamed it on needing to visit their cancer-ridden childhood friend. But when a single excursion with their invisible bestie ends with one of them missing the birth of their child, they are forced to either admit that Ricky isn't real or hire an actor to play him. Naturally, they choose the latter. At first, coaxing washed-up actor Rod (John Cena) to help seems innocent enough. But the lie is too intoxicating for the fake Ricky Stanicky, who prefers being the man he was paid to be, rather than the man he is.

PRIME VIDEO 3/7

DAMSEL

Our favorite telekinetic teen, Millie Bobby Brown, is sparkling as Princess Elodie, an innocent young woman who believes her fairytale dreams are coming true when she marries a handsome prince, played by Maid’s Nick Robinson. Only, it’s all a rusethe newly minted royal is thrown into a dark cave where a fire-breathing dragon has lain for centuries, snacking on the corpses of regal beauties. It’s a mortal sacrifice to repay the royal family's ancient debt. Angela Bassett is moving from the kingdom of Wakanda to play the princess's stepmother, Lady Bayford, while Robin Wright is the evil Queen Isabelle, sending the young girl to her death. The precious princess is not ready to die just yet, using her skills and wit to make her own weapons and conjure a method of escape against the ravenous beast, even climbing an ice wall of daggers and shredding her royal gown to run faster. She may be in distress, but she’s her own savior.

NETFLIX 3/8

March film releases feature an Adam Sandler space voyage, Peter Farrelly-directed comedy and a princess in distress

WITH MARISA PATWA

TRUE CRIME JUNKIE

WITH JOHNNY FLETCHER

JENNIFER CRUMBLEY: SCHOOL SHOOTER MOM FOUND GUILTY

Before discussing the recent landmark case involving Jennifer Crumbley, let's first get up to speed on the latest developments regarding two of true crime's most notorious killerswell, one that's been convicted and one still awaiting trial. Regarding the former, at the tail-end of January, Alex Murdaugh's request for a new trial, based on inappropriate comments made to the jury by court clerk Rebecca Hill, was denied. No doubt Murdaugh and his lawyers will appeal this decision to a higher court but for now, the double murderer will remain behind bars. Then there's the ongoing pre-trial saga of Bryan Kohberger, accused of the 2022 killing of four college students in Idaho. His defense team's attempt to get the indictment dismissed (for a host of reasons, including prosecutorial misconduct) ultimately failed, as the motion was denied by the judge on January 24, 2024. Proving that the wheels of justice grind slowly, it's been reported that Kohberger's trial may not take place until sometime next year - stay tuned.

All that withstanding, the biggest news in true crime is the recent conviction of Jennifer Crumbley, the first parent to ever be held accountable for a school shooting conducted by a child. On February 6, 2024, the Michigan mother was found guilty of four counts of involuntary manslaughter in connection with the 2021 Oxford High School shooting by her then 15-year-old son Ethan which left four students dead and seven others injured, including a teacher. What made this case particularly disturbing was the sheer number of red flags seemingly ignored by Jennifer and Ethan's father, James, including serious mental health issues displayed by their son leading up to the incident. Prior to the shootings, Ethan, in addition to suffering hallucinations,

drew graphic depictions of death with the phrases "Help me," "Blood everywhere" and "My life is useless." Inexplicably, Jennifer and James not only seemed to brush off their child's obvious mental health crisis (later it was reported that Ethan had considered calling 911 out of desperation but worried that his parents would get upset) but purchased Ethan a gun - for target practice, they maintained.

And it only got worse from there. On the day of the shooting, Ethan's parents were called in to the school when the counselor became aware of the aforementioned graphic drawing. There was concern on the counselor's part that Ethan was building up to suicide; however, Jennifer and James elected not to take their son home and made no effort to check his backpack which contained that "target practice" gun. Soon after, Ethan began mowing down his fellow students in the hallway with the intent of becoming "the biggest school shooter in Michigan history." At trial, Jennifer insisted she had no idea her son would do something so horrible - and, perhaps most shocking of all, upon reflection noted that she wouldn't have done anything differently. Now Jennifer will have plenty of time to reconsider such a damning statement in prison. Ethan's father James is set to go on trial next month.

"WHAT MADE THIS CASE PARTICULARLY DISTURBING WAS THE SHEER NUMBER OF RED FLAGS SEEMINGLY IGNORED BY JENNIFER AND ETHAN'S FATHER.

VANDERBURGH HUMANE SOCIETY

EACH MONTH WE’LL BE CHECKING IN WITH THE VHS FOR THE LATEST GOOD NEWS AND TO HELP FIND FUREVER HOMES FOR SOME OF THEIR MORE UNIQUE AND OLDER RESIDENTS

DANICA: A few things about Danica: 1) She is a certified goofball. 2) Tennis ball is life. 3) Her Big Dog Buddy volunteers have worked really hard on making her the awesome dog she is today! Danica is smart, strong and loyal. She would love to be adopted by someone who loves, appreciates and nurtures those qualities in her! Come meet this beautiful three-yearold girl and see why she is a favorite around here! Her $150 adoption fee includes her spay, microchip and up-to-date vaccinations.

THINKING ABOUT ADOPTION? HERE'S HOW YOU CAN REACH US!

400 MILLNER INDUSTRIAL DRIVE

2 BLOCKS WEST OF GARVIN PARK IN EVANSVILLE

MARS: Looking for a cat whose love and affection for you is out of this world? Meet threeyear-old Mars! You don’t need a high-powered telescope to see that he is a lap cat and ultimate loafer. He would love to be the only cat in your life, but is open to the possibility of living with a dog. This mild-mannered boy is currently staying in one of our office’s at the VHS, so be sure to ask for him at our front counter! His $100 adoption fee includes his neuter, microchip and up-to-date vaccines.

(812)

FRANKLIN: First time rabbit owners, we’ve got just the bunny for you! Meet two-yearold Franklin, an extra fluffy boy who has been described as cuddly, active and social! He doesn’t mind being held, making him very kid-friendly. He’s litterbox trained, too! So whether you are an experienced rabbit owner, or brand new to the bun game, Franklin is an excellent choice! His $50 adoption fee includes his neuter and microchip.

VHSLIFESAVER.ORG

IN ADDITION, HE'S MISSING ONE OF HIS BACK LEGS. BUT THAT DIDN'T FAZE TOBIN AT ALL.

overlooked due to his issues, so when the shelter prepared to move him from the holding area and mark him available for adoption, she contacted a friend who agreed to foster the sweet fellow until Sarah could take him home. A few weeks later, she did just that.

NEMO

VHS ADOPTION SPOTLIGHT

Born and raised in Evansville, Sarah Tobin's love for animals began at an early age, around five or six-years-old. By the time she reached the end of her grade school days, in fact, she had already started volunteering at PC Pound Puppies in Mt. Vernon and continued on until her mid teens. That was about the time Sarah adopted a cat from the VHS - Tobin's first pet totally in her care - who's now nine-years-old and recently got a new roommate in the form of Nemo, a three-year-old American Bully also adopted from the shelter. According to Sarah, the two have become fast furry friends - no "fighting like cats and dogs" at the

Tobin household.

A current member of the Intakes Team at the VHS, Sarah was one of Nemo's primary caretakers when he first arrived at the shelter, instantly bonding with the special needs pup. There's speculation that this loveable boy is partially deaf as he displays difficulty distinguishing where sounds are coming from. In addition, he's missing one of his back legs. But that didn't faze Tobin at all. "People think that it causes him problems in life, but it doesn't," she says. "He's perfectly fine getting around." Tobin's concern was that Nemo would be

Now Nemo is living the good life with Tobin - and the cat, of course. According to Sarah, the transition has been pretty smooth, a situation made easier considering the time she spent with him both at the shelter and during visits at the foster's home. Oh, and guess what Nemo's favorite thing to do is? "He loves to run next to my bike," Tobin says, proving that he's plenty mobile and happy as can be. Nemo has even formed a tight bond with her co-worker's dogs, Sadie and Blue, the latter of which News 4U profiled a ways back. Safe to say the only way is up for this special needs pup!

AS I TYPE THIS...

with Barold Hume

Don't know about the rest of you, but I'm suffering from politics fatigue at the moment, so I think I'll skip the usual rundown on the race for the White House this month. Considering, as I type this, nothing much has changed. Former South Carolina governor Nikki Haley is running on fumes (she'll likely have dropped out by the time this column goes to print) as Trump continues to win every primary despite mounting legal issues. (DJT was recently ordered to pay $83 million for sexually assaulting columnist E. Jean Carroll. Most people just shrugged and moved on with their day.) Meanwhile, President Biden's approval rating remains quite low. No matter that the economy is actually humming along in many ways and we appear to have avoided a dreaded recession. Nope, no one really cares much about that. Many voters only see ongoing increases in food and gas prices - that's the tangible stuff. And they see lots of people crossing the border illegally. And they don't like it. What's crazy is that there hasn't been any sort of meaningful immigration policy enacted since the heyday of hair metal - 1986, to be exact. Bon Jovi's "Livin' on a Prayer" was top

dog on the radio at the time; that's how long it's been, for the love of Pete. And there's not much cause for hope. Case in point, a recent bi-partisan proposal to improve border security was shot down in the Senate - mostly for political reasons. Therein lies the rub; it always goes back to the division between the parties, and ultimately to the self-preservation of elected officials.

Well, I said I was going to forgo the political talk, but here I am still blathering on. Which reminds me that former Fox News host Tucker Carlson recently sat down with Vladimir Putin for an extensive interview - for reasons that remain unclear. Sure, a number of Americans aren't thrilled about us bankrolling Ukraine in its fight against Russia, but most can agree that Putin is an awful human being, right? Did we need a fawning, two-hour sit-down with the guy? Hey, I could be out of touch; maybe there's an appetite for this sort of thing. All I know is that he's a total snake, but to each his own. Carlson is certainly desperate for relevance at this point - and he got his name in the headlines for a few days so

mission accomplished. Good on ya, as the Aussies say. Last but not least...as I type this, the S**** B*** (BIG football game) is ramping up. Hard not to comment on the Taylor Swift "psy-op" suspicion - this idea that the world's biggest pop star is working for the Democratic party, that she intends to publicly endorse Biden after the final snap as she and boyfriend Travis Kelce celebrate a fixed win by the Chiefs. Because then all the Swifties - who blindly follow her every move - will vote blue and turn the election. Makes perfect sense. If it happens, I'll be the first to apologize for my sarcasm in next month's column.

SURE, A NUMBER OF AMERICANS AREN'T THRILLED ABOUT US BANKROLLING UKRAINE IN ITS FIGHT AGAINST RUSSIA, BUT MOST CAN AGREE THAT PUTIN IS AN AWFUL HUMAN BEING, RIGHT?

"CANCEL ANYTIME"

Last month I told a harrowingly tale about ol' J-Fletch being mercilessly hounded by an earworm - specifically, the chorus of Lionel Richie's "Dancin' on the Ceiling." Many of you, concerned for my wellbeing, wrote in with words of comfort and requested a follow-up on my condition. Very kind. (I also received, full disclosure, several AI-generated messages wishing death upon me for various reasons. Why are computers so angry these days? We'll explore that topic in a future column.) I can share that while I have recovered, there's been an alarming twist in the story. So, after finally ridding my brain of the aforementioned earworm, I was browsing Netflix and came upon a newly-released documentary titled The Greatest Night in Pop which covers the recording of "We are the World," the 1985 charity single released to raise money for African famine relief. All the biggest stars of the day, with a few notable exceptions (Prince!), contributed to the track, including

MAYBE I'M JUST GETTING OLD...

with Johnny Fletcher

co-writer Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Paul Simon, Bruce Springsteen, Tina Turner, Diana Ross, Billy Joel, Bob Dylan and...wait for it... co-writer Lionel Richie. Mother ****! Just when I'd banished his song from between my ears, it all came flooding back again. Only temporarily, though. By the time I finished watching the documentary, the chorus of "We are the World" had replaced it. The irony being, of course, that Lionel, with Michael's assistance, wrote the hook. There's no escape.

Seems with all my talk about brain damage, I've left precious little space for the main course. Your loss. Anyhow, have you tried to cancel your cable service of late? Dedicated readers of this column will know that I've been a longtime cable guy, too set in my ways to cut the cord - or too lazy to do anything about it, more likely. (Are you still with me? Not much further to go - hang in there.) But when the New Year arrived, I decided it was finally time

to leave TV behind and spend my days being more productive. That was the idea, anyway. Which meant I'd have to face my biggest fear: calling to cancel my service. Now, according to the friendly vibe of this particular company, it should have been a piece of cake; in fact, "cancel anytime" is their generous mantra. But I've been around the block a few times - I know how the game works. To sum the delightful experience up, it took three days and no fewer than 10 calls (during which I spoke to nearly 20 different customer service reps) to achieve my goal. No doubt their strategy was to simply wear me down, assuming I'd eventually throw in the towel and just accept my fate - and, more importantly, continue to pay my steadily rising bill. Not bloody likely. In short, now begins my post-TV life. The upside is that I'll no longer be subjected to endless drug commercials; the downside is that you'll no longer get to read about my displeasure with viewing endless drug commercials. Let's just call it even.

anythingJohnnyAsk

Old. Grumpy. Of questionable intelligence. Johnny Fletcher has got it all going on. A longtime contributor to News 4U, he's revered by the editor for consistently turning in the correct number of words assigned for various articles. Now Johnny's ready to answer your burning questions, respond to hot takes and more. Any topic, no matter how ridiculous. Let the games begin...

WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING IF YOU WEREN'T WRITING FOR NEWS 4U?

- JASON B.

Much like a beauty pageant contestant, I'd most likely be trying to solve world hunger or working towards world peace in some way. Pretty sure I could do both - wouldn't be that hard, really. But my talents are best put to use at News 4U. The community clearly needs me and I have vowed to never let the people of this great city down, determined to provide writings of nearpassable quality every month. For free.

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE WHOLE LEAP YEAR THING?

- KATHY W.

Are you asking me about adding a day to the calendar every four years or the 2010 rom-com starring Amy Adams? I'll pause for belly laughs. Ok, not my best material, but it never hurts to bomb now and thenbuilds character. To answer your question, I could live without leap year. If it meant

an extra day of summer then I'd be totally on board, but who needs 24 more hours of cold weather? My brittle bones don't, that's for sure.

ARE YOU GOING TO CELEBRATE ST. PATRICK'S DAY? - JAKE Z.

I'm not Irish or anything, but give me a holiday centered around drinking suds and I'm in. Even better if you're buying. However, I draw the line at wearing something green. Not my best color, so quit bugging me about it or I won't let you buy me all those beers. Hey, hey, no need to get upset - was only kidding. Buy me a whole keg for all I care.

ACTOR MARK WAHLBERG IS FAMOUS FOR HIS GRUELING 4 A.M. WORKOUTS. HOW EARLY DO YOU GET UP TO PUMP IRON? - BELINDA K.

Comedy at its finest, Belinda. Take that show on the road.

HAVE YOU BEEN KEEPING UP YOUR NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS SO FAR?

- JERRY G.

The simple answer is yes. The more complex answer is that I resolved to lie whenever someone asked me about it. At least until spring - by that time pretty much everyone will have given up on life changes for 2024. It's the American way.

MARCH MUSIC REVIEWS

ZARA LARSSON

Venus Sommer House/Epic Records

Swedish pop-singer Zara Larsson is changing chemical matter with her digital disco tracks. Her fourth studio album is a gorgeous display of insatiable house beats and emotionally dripping melodies. Standouts include “Can’t Tame Her,” “Love Who You Love,” “End of Time,” and my personal favorite, “On My Love” with David Guetta. The EDM ballad is a soulful tribute to her sister, accompanied by a cinematically gorgeous music video. Elsewhere, “Ammunition” is a silky dream; “The Healing” is stunningly stripped down; and “Soundtrack" is an ethereal fantasy. It’s electric Euro-pop mixed with maniac pixie girl dreams at its finest. Zara combines her club-dance music skills with a creative flair that is unmatched. She’s modern yet futuristic and effortlessly cool with a penchant for delivering chart-topping DJ hits. At only 26-years-old, she has set the bar high and continues to raise it with each studio release.

-

Marisa Patwa

USHER Coming Home Mega/Gamma

Usher is giving every Millennial a double treat as we melt out of winter into spring. His ninth studio album release coupled with his dance-defying Super Bowl LVIII Half-Time Show performance was the surprise pickme-up we needed. The fly king of R&B dance and hip-hop that ignited a flame in multiple generations of club-goers continues to deliver. Coming Home is a homecoming of sorts, but Usher's also bringing in some new blood: 21 Savage, Latto, Summer Walker, H.E.R., Jungkook, Pheelz, Burna Boy and The-Dream. The title track - and lead single - is a mix of sexy soul, R&B sunshine grooves and electro-pop. It’s a sexy delight with Burna Boy adding a tropical flair to the mix. “Cold Blooded,” featuring The-Dream, has a chilling techno beat floating atop a melancholic choir. It’s angelic anguish. Other standouts include “A-Town Girl,” “Kissing Strangers,” “I Love U” and “Room in a Room.” This collection of songs is ushering us into a heightened level of respect for the artist who's been puppet-mastering our club dances for the last 20 plus years.

- Marisa Patwa

CHECK OUT THESE HONEST REVIEWS OF SOME OF THE HOTTEST NEW ALBUMS IN MUSIC

JENNIFER LOPEZ

This is Me... Now Nuyorican Productions/BMG

Jenny from the Block is hitting us with her ninth studio album as an act of selfhealing. Her rekindled romance as onehalf of Bennifer sparked many of these romantic songs and her glow shows. As her heart has repaired and blossomed, so too has her music. Lead single “Can’t Get Enough” is a banger, sampling Alton Ellis’ 1967 song, “I’m Still in Love With You.” It’s catchy and sweet, with Latto jumping in with some boujee bars. Other standouts include “Mad in Love,” “To Be Yours” and “Midnight Trip to Vegas.” “Dear Ben Part II'' is a hauntingly beautiful follow-up to a song she wrote 22 years ago about their tumultuous, tantalizing relationship. She’s being as honest with her feelings as she can about her old love found anew and it’s beautiful to see how happy she is. J.Lo is at peace and when a woman is in harmony, she delivers magic. -

Marisa Patwa

GHOST FUNK ORCHESTRA A Trip to the Moon (preview) Colemine Records

I asked my friend, Eric Luecking, a music reviewer and broadcaster of many years, to recommend something fresh for me to check out. He did not disappoint. This two-track pre-release had me immediately on their pre-order list. The seven-and-a-half-minute jazz, blues, big-band, and 50s film noir tease has me anxiously awaiting the whole album's release. With tracks tied together by actual recorded transmissions from the Apollo moon missions, the concept is about a woman stranded on Earth by her astronaut mate, not knowing if he is alive or dead. The sound quality is wonderfully rich, full of lo-fi delays, overdrive, drippy spring reverbs, and wooly female vocals. Upon each successive listen, I notice more mesmerizing instrumental elements and panning choices that make this so exciting to hear. Imagine Vulfpeck as a big band, and you may get in the ballpark of this listening experience. Fingers crossed for a Dolby-Atmos version. -

Lindsey Williams

SLEATER-KINNEY

Little Rope Loma Vista

It's just a fact that bands, like a good friend, sometimes disappoint you. There's an inevitable ebb and flow to every music career - the hope is simply that the low points never get too low and don't last too long. Which brings us to indie-rock stalwarts Sleater-Kinney and their 11th album, Little Rope . Reduced to a duo after parting ways with drummer Janet Weiss in 2019, remaining members Carrie Brownstein (of Portlandia fame in case you're out of the loop) and Corin Tucker struggled to conjure up anything of interest on 2021's Path of Wellness - a by-the-numbers effort which lacked enthusiasm and good songs, mostly. Truth be told, the final Weiss-involved release, 2019's The Center Won't Hold , produced by art rocker St. Vincent, was an ill-advised attempt to turn Sleater-Kinney into pop stars. Do the math, then, since the group's last solid collection of indie-rock tunes, 2015's No Cities to Love , and you've got a near decade-long musical rut. Thankfully, at long last, the clouds are beginning to part. Little Rope finds Brownstein and Tucker working out the kinks of the aforementioned releases, rediscovering themselves on bold, exciting excursions like "Hell" and "Needlessly Wild" and creating signature buoyant grooves, as heard on Brownstein's "Don't Feel Right." It all leads up to Tucker's grand send-off, "Untidy Creature," the sort of hair-raising track that put Sleater-Kinney on the map back in the day but disappeared over time. Don't call it a comeback, but Little Rope - despite, yes, some ebbs and flows in qualityis an emphatic step in the right direction, pointing to an even more assured follow-up.

- Johnny Fletcher

PEARL JAM "Dark Matter" Monkeywrench/Republic Records

Still waiting around for your favorite 90's band to return to the classic sound of Ten and Vs. ? Maybe next time. Well, doubtful, because Eddie Vedder and the boys don't seem terribly concerned about recreating the past; no, Pearl Jam simply make music for the love of it, always intent on breaking new ground - something that's abundantly clear on the lead single of the band's upcoming 12th studio album, Dark Matter , due out in late April. Indeed, "Dark Matter" the song delivers on the prerelease buzz which promised the heaviest PJ track to date, featuring Led Zeppelin-like guitar riffing (not to mention a wild Mike McCready solo to close out the 3:30 run time) and the biggest drums ever heard on a Pearl Jam record. Spot-on. But the star of the show, as always, is Vedder himself. Here, he sounds near-frantic, almost gasping for air as the song careens towards its dramatic conclusion, creating sparks of electricity and a real urgency to "Dark Matter." While 2020's Gigaton dipped into post-punk and the avant-garde at times, it appears the band is intent on steamrolling their way through 2024. No complaints on this end. - Johnny Fletcher

BLUES WITH BRAGIN

HITMAN BLUES BAND

Hey, Can You Guys Play... Nerus Records

Released at the tail-end of last summer, this collection of timeless cover songs by New York's Hitman Blues Band just keeps hitting the spot. The album kicks off with a version of the Willie Dixon classic “Hoochie Coochie Man.” Russell “Hitman” Alexander’s guitar on the song seems reminiscent of classic George Thorogood. Bob Dylan’s “The Times They Are A-Changin’” offers a more rock-influenced version of the classic folk song. Kris Kristofferson’s “Sunday Morning Coming Down” features solid drumming from Guy LaFountaine to match Alexander’s guitar. Robert Johnson’s “Come On In My Kitchen” offers a stripped-down but powerful performance from Alexander before letting loose in the second half.

Blind Willie McTell’s “John the Revelator” features an alto sax solo from Mikey Vitale and a keyboard solo from Mike Katzman to go along with Alexander’s funky bass. “Good Morning Judge,” a Louis Todd Innis song, offers toe-tapping guitar playing from Alexander as he sings about getting in trouble with the law. LaFountaine gives another great percussion performance on “Nobody’s Fault But Mine.”

“Who Put the Benzedrine in Mrs. Murphy’s Ovaltine,” written by Harry “The Hipster” Gibson, gives Alexander a chance to show off his jazz guitar prowess. The album closes with a cover of John Lee Hooker’s classic “Boom Boom” played in the traditional style during a live concert as all of the band shines. For more info, visit hitmanbluesband.com

- Paul Bragin

MARCH BEER REVIEWS

This month’s beers are available depending on supply & demand at all 10 Liquor Locker locations. Visit our website at www.Liquor-Locker.com.

PAUL HOLLYFELD - 4

This fruited ale pours pink and bubbly, with very little head but a sparkling effervescence. On the palate it is tart and fresh, with notes of tart sour cherry and cranberry. Though a bit overpowered, this “ale” also contains peach and apple juices, as well as some elderberry to give it a nice rose color.

PAUL BRAGIN - 3.5

A thin pink head crowns this pink-colored ale but dissipates very rapidly. Fruity notes hit the nose while smelling the beer. A combination of sweet and sour fruit flavors hit the tongue and wrestle back and forth in the long finish. This beer seems well-suited for hot summer months as a refreshing treat. Pair it with foods like apple pie or drink it with breakfast for a fun start to the morning.

JABEZ MARTINEZ - 3.5

This beverage has a nice pink color. It has an ABV of 6.2% but I'd say it's more like a wine cooler than a beer with a nice fruity flavor. I can taste the apple, peach and cranberry - all very pleasant and smooth going down. The finish is a little sour but still somewhat refreshing.

PAUL HOLLYFELD - 4

This is a pretty simple review. Do you like iced tea? If so, and you want something with a little kick, have a Hoop Tea. While not quite sweet tea, per se, I would say this is close to a “Half and Half” iced tea. A little sweet for me, because I’m not a sweet tea fan, but otherwise… it’s tea.

PAUL BRAGIN - 4

No head forms on this alcoholic iced tea due to a lack of carbonation. The scent is heavy on the tea. Likewise, sipping the beverage gives the familiar taste of sweet tea. Drink this during the sweltering months of summer for iced tea with a kick. Bring this to a picnic and pair it with classic foods like hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, potato salad or add lemonade for a John Daly adult beverage.

JABEZ MARTINEZ - 3.5

While I'm not a big fan of iced tea, I was very curious to try this spiked version. And you know what? It's pretty good. The addition of alcohol changes the overall flavor in a good way - Hoop Tea goes down smooth with little aftertaste. Anyone who enjoys iced tea should give this a whirl.

PAUL HOLLYFELD - 4.5

Pouring a golden yellow with a nice thick head, this Voodoo Ranger offering will appeal to the IPA drinker. Citrus and pine on the nose, with a slightly heavier/sweeter body typical with an Imperial IPA. With low bitterness and complex flavors, it could easily become your favorite high-octane (9% ABV) choice.

PAUL BRAGIN - 4.25

A thick white head tops this IPA and never totally disappears. A generous burst of hops dominates the scent profile. The hop flavors continue while drinking the beer and spread across the tongue during the very long finish. People who enjoy hoppy beers need to try this. Pair it with a variety of foods such as barbecue, grilled meats, fish like salmon, or peppery cheeses like Monterrey and pepper jack.

JABEZ MARTINEZ - 5

This is my favorite IPA. This beer pours a golden color with decent carbonation. I really like the citrus hops and it's easy to drink. It has an ABV of 9%, though, so be on alert. The flavor is very smooth and the hops are not as heavy as you would think. Once again, New Belgium makes a great beer.

HOOP TEA SPIKED ICED TEA

RHINEGEIST BUBBLES

NEW BELGIUM VOODOO RANGER IMPERIAL IPA

QUAFF ON! SIX FOOT STRAWBERRY BLONDE

PAUL HOLLYFELD - 4

This ale pours a light peachy pink hue with not much head. On the nose is a hint of fruit. The strawberry is more prominent on the palate, but not overpowering, and especially present on the finish. Very light, with no bitterness, this is one that goes down very easy.

PAUL BRAGIN - 4

A thin head forms on this blonde ale but evaporates almost immediately. A hint of strawberries comes through the nose. The strawberry flavors remain with the first sip of the beer, with malt notes and more strawberry

flavor playing on the tongue during the long finish. This beer will offer great refreshment in the hot summer months. Pair it with burgers, Buffalo wings, or spicy cuisines like Mexican food, Asian food or pizza.

JABEZ MARTINEZ - 4.5

This is a clear, pink-colored beer that's a little lacking in carbonation. It has a light strawberry flavor and, to be honest, I was expecting it to be sour but was pleasantly surprised. I like a good blonde beer and this one is very good; the strawberry flavor gives it a nice twist.

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY.

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Attorney WITH LANE SIESKY / SIESKY LAW FIRM, PC

Focusing on personal injury, civil litigation, whistleblower claims and workers' compensation law, Siesky Law Firm strives to provide excellent legal services while remaining client and community centered. The Evansville-based trio of top attorneys - including Lane Siesky, Daniel Gearhart and Douglas Briody - boasts years of invaluable experience inside and outside the courtroom. Highly-respected with an impeccable track record, the firm's aggressive representation of its clients continues to benefit the community in myriad ways.

Q:Over the last few years, the use of Fentanyl has become extremely prevalent. Does your firm handle a lot of cases involving illicit drug use?

:AThe misuse of Fentanyl, other prescription drugs and illicit drug use is at the heart of so many crimes and tragic accidents. I have friends that are prosecuting attorneys and over the years we have discussed the high percentage of crimes committed that are directly or indirectly related to illegal drug use. Indeed, some drug-related crimes are committed when a user is high and other crimes are committed to get money to buy more drugs.

In terms of injury cases, by far the most common cases we see that involve drugs and alcohol are car collisions. I don’t think this fact would surprise the public. However, there are aspects of these DUI cases that might surprise some. For instance, we often see DUI car collisions that happen during the day - not late at night. Further, sometimes

the “intoxicated” driver may have a blood alcohol content (BAC) that is below the legal limit. How can this be? Well, an individual may be on a drug (prescription or otherwise) and then consumes alcohol. The amount of alcohol consumed, alone, is not enough to intoxicate the individual but when you consider the effects of combining the drug and the alcohol there is a multiplier effect. In other words, the combination of the drug and alcohol renders the individual intoxicated.

Whenever drugs or alcohol consumption is at issue in a car collision, the injured victim should consult an experienced personal injury lawyer immediately. In addition to a claim against the at-fault driver, the injured victim could have what is known as a DRAM shop claim. A DRAM shop claim is a civil liability statute that renders a bar or

other establishment liable for the harmful acts of its intoxicated customers when the establishment acts negligently in serving the intoxicated customer alcohol, and the customer then causes harm. Time is of the essence in documenting a DRAM shop claim as the injured victim’s lawyer must investigate and learn where the intoxicated driver was served alcohol and then write letters to preserve and obtain video surveillance and other evidence of the intoxicated driver being served the alcohol.

Hopefully, you will never be the victim of a drunk driving collision. They often result in horrific and catastrophic injuries and damages.