News4U December 2017 by News 4U Magazine

DECEMBER

2017

TABLE

FEATURES 6 Jon Taffer of Bar Rescue An Interview with the Spike TV Star 12 Seether at the Victory Theatre An Interview with Drummer John Humphrey 16 Harlem Globetrotters 2018 World Tour An Interview with "El Gato" Meléndez 20 Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra A Look Ahead to the Second Half of the Season 22 Tropicana Evansville's New Land-Based Casino From the Go-Ahead to the Grand Opening 40 Are You Naughty or Nice? Take Our Quiz and Find Out!

A QUICK NOTE FROM THE EDITOR 4 Ho, Ho, Holy Cow

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 25 Varsity Liquors

COUPONS 37 Save Big!

57 60 61 62 64 65 78

CONTENTS

West Terrace Elementary Art Show Community & Family Ritzy's Fantasy of Lights VHS Spotlight Tri-State Pet Pics Fur-Ever Home Tropical Ale Mug Shots

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LOCAL OPINION 66 67 67 68 69

The Write Stuff Maybe I'm Just Getting Old... Tri-State Politics Social Media Soapbox Patwa's Perspective

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PREVIEWS & REVIEWS

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Showplace Cinemas Film Music Beer Wine

RELIGION 66 Ask the Pastor

CUISINE & DINING 24 What's Cookin': The Deli 26 Tasting the Tri-State 28 Restaurant Guide

ENTERTAINMENT 42 52 54 56

In Town & Around River City PowerSports Show Music: DJ Jones Capone Arts & Activities

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Paul Bragin, Kevin Fleming, Johnny Fletcher, Bryan Fox, Gavin Gaddis, Jonathan Gluff, Daniel Knight, Jabez Martinez, Marisa Patwa, Hailey Reynolds, John Thurgood, Walter the Wine Guy

News 4U is published monthly and is distributed throughout the tri-state. For information about advertising, subscriptions, distribution or guides & lists, call (812) 426-6398 or write us at 125 N Weinbach Ave, Ste 510 Evansville, IN 47711. News 4U is published by EMG Publishing.

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | EDITOR'S CORNER

A QUICK NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

o, ho, holy cow: It's Christmas time in the tri-state again. Yes, the BIG holiday is almost here and New Year's Eve isn't far behind. If all goes well - i.e., Kim Jong-un keeps his fat little finger off the button - we'll head into 2018 intact, ready for a winter full of fun. And cold weather. Yup, you guessed it, here's the part where I complain about the plunging temps, snow, etc. Call me Debbie Downer, but man, I could live without it. Get some new material, you say? Fair point, seeing as I almost certainly said the same thing last year and the year before that and so on. So, let's just agree to disagree and move on, shall we? Good. Now, where was

I before I so rudely interrupted the flow of this short editorial... Ah, yes, it's Christmas time and the tri-state is hustling and bustling. No time to contemplate life's big questions, right? Like, why are we here on Earth? What does it all mean? Who shot J.R.? Still, we hope you'll take just a moment to answer the biggest question of all: Are you naughty or nice? To find out, head straight to pg. 40. Then be sure to check out the rest of our December issue for a wide range of interviews and interesting info. Highlights include chats with Jon Taffer, star of Spike TV's Bar Rescue, and Harlem Globetrotter "El Gato" MelĂŠndez, plus the 411 on an exciting

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collaboration between ITV animal rescue and Carson's Brewery. In addition, we take a look behind the scenes of Tasting the Tri-State, everyone's favorite local cooking show. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! - TE

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | SPECIAL FEATURE

See this feature and other great articles, food guides, menus and recipes in our upcoming issue of What's Cookin'!

Jonof Bar Taffer Rescue AN INTERVIEW WITH

The star of Spike's flagship reality TV show dishes on his intimidating nature, branding, bar food and more

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He's the most intimidating - and entertaining - reality TV star going these days. But most importantly, Jon Taffer is a generous man who truly enjoys sharing his countless years of experience in the food

and beverage industry with those who need it most, helping to bring failing businesses back from the brink - in four short days, mind you. Therein lies the premise of Bar Rescue, the hugely popular series

that premiered on Spike in the summer of 2011, quickly becoming the cable channel's flagship show with an addictive mixture of high stakes and high drama. For five unforgettable seasons, Taffer and his crew of experts (including wife Nicole and daughter "Sam") have traveled the country in search

of worst case scenarios, completely overhauling mismanaged operations and renovating outdated buildings on their own dime - all while being under the gun and up against a seemingly endless

parade of stubborn bar owners and clueless employees. But as millions of viewers know, the revered industry consultant takes no crap. In fact, Gordon Ramsay seems gentle by comparison. It all makes for one of the most gripping - and often heartwarming - shows on television.

affer recently finished shooting the 150th episode of Bar Rescue, an achievement he's rightly proud of. After a brief holiday hiatus, production will ramp back up on season six with new shows scheduled to air in 2018. Much is made of your intimidating presence on the show. Would you be as effective without such an imposing physical stature and your frequent bursts of anger? The answer is actually deep - because I don't do that for me, I do it for them. Let me explain what I mean. They [business owners] call Bar Rescue - and I have them say this on television - they've lost houses and they're in debt hundreds of thousands of dollars. And they say right to the camera, 'I have enough money to make it a few more weeks.' Or a couple more months. So, I'm their last hope. Put the TV cameras aside for a moment - I'm the last chance they've got. And if this fails - or if they fail - they're going to lose their house or their kids or their daughter's not going to go to college. There is a serious reason why I'm there. When I look in those people's faces and say, 'I'm going to leave you in a better place,' that means a lot to me personally. That's why I'm still doing this after 150 [episodes]. I'm not doing it for the check anymore. I'm doing it for the hug, to be honest with you. So, think about this: I'm there for four days - and I'm going to do about 60 days work; design the bar, build the bar, train the staff, create the recipes, everything. And I'll tell you what happens behind the scenes in a moment. If I fail, they fail. There's a clock ticking in my head every

second, and it puts me under a huge amount of pressure. But the pressure is how do I come through for this guy in four days? How do I do this? So when he is the obstacle, I can't let that happen. See what I mean? So, I will fight him, because in my mind, I'm fighting for him - not against him. That's a really important distinction. I wouldn't act that way for my interest - that would make me an asshole. I'm doing it for his interest, and that gives me a license to go pretty damn far. I don't win on this - he does. I make not a dime - I get paid either way (laughs). Why do so many people without business experience seem to gravitate towards bar ownership? Well, people hang out in bars and they create an assumption. They look at a glass filled with scotch and soda and they say to themselves, 'Holy sh*t - this thing costs like 70 cents to make and they're selling it for six dollars. This is the most profitable thing I've ever seen.' So they jump into the bar business thinking that all you do is make money. But they don't consider the labor costs, the utilities, the insurance, the garbage pick-up, the legal fees, taxes. At the end of the day, if a bar does reasonably well and reasonably well to me is not what it does in sales but what it does per foot. To me, any bar that is "successful" should do about $220 per foot. The fact of the matter is that if a 10,000 square foot bar does a million dollars and a 2,000 square foot bar does half a million, that 2,000 square foot bar is doing much better. If it's a thousand foot bar, I'm suggesting that it's got

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to do $222,000 in sales. That said, if it's 5,000 square feet, it's got to do a million bucks. And that's just reasonable performance. I've owned bars personally that have done $880 per square foot in sales. A bar's going to profit typically 8-12%. The only way it does more is if the owner is behind the bar; staff is eliminated; there's no food. The minute a bar owner has to bring a manager in, hire staff and open a kitchen, making money is far from guaranteed. The other thing I tell everyone is that if you like drinking, don't get in the bar business. If you were into drugs, I wouldn't tell you to be a pharmacist, either. You will often rename a bar when you do a "rescue." And occasionally the owner will change it right back after you leave. There's that famous question: What's in a name? Brands do matter, but here's how I make that choice: I look at baggage. When I rescue a bar, here's where people make a mistake. They think it's about the people that are there. It's not. It's about the people that aren't. So the customers that are there are going to come whether I change the name or not. Because they're going to be curious to see what I did; they have a relationship with the building. The issue is who's not there. I'm talking about the people that have driven by the building and chosen not to come in. Those are the people that I'm focused on - and that's where people blow it. So with that said, I have to assess the baggage on the brand. When I do my homework, if the brand has a negative connotation - not with those who are there,

don't have hoods. So you can put in a TurboChef and cook a lot more than you can with fryers. The other thing I want to say is that there are a lot of prepared products today that are really good. I mean you can buy things in plastic bags that are frozen but are complete 5-star quality. There are chicken wings and then there are chicken wings. Get really good sauces for it, make sure the oil is clean - I mean it takes 10 minutes to learn how to cook a chicken Courtesy of Spike.com wing properly. If you won't do that, then don't sell it at all. Restaurant owners enjoy the kitchen; bar owners do not. So but with those who aren't - then I have to if you don't enjoy it and you're never going change it. So when you think for a moment to go in it, then it's going to suck. that I would take the new name and blast it on national television - and 77 million As a food and beverage expert, do you find people watched season five, almost a third that you're hyper-critical when you dine of the television universe in the United out? States. The show will also air on literally No, I don't have any problem disconnecting thousands of television channels on all five at all unless they really screw up. I'm continents - it's in Spanish and Italian, it's a appreciative of the most casual of concepts. big hit in Norway right now. If I put a new I've been in places that serve lobster on sign up, 10 weeks from when I leave that paper plates - but it's a great place for show is going to air on national television what it is. You know, I've gone to the finest and millions of people are going to watch. restaurants in the world - in the Eiffel Tower, There's not a marketing executive in the for example. An experience can be wonderful country that would say that changing that at any level and any point. I'm not one who [name] back before the airing of the show is is very critical of things - I don't let myself go anything less than moronic. But I don't get there when I'm out. I just try to ignore it. Now angry; I don't take it personally. You know, if something is wrong that hits my table then sometimes I chuckle, honestly. More often I won't. But I'm pretty forgiving when I go out, than not, I know what's going to happen especially now that I'm well known. when I walk out the door. Bar food is often not the highest quality. What's your take on the best approach to that aspect of the business? Here's my suggestion: link up with a local restaurant that's really well known - a sandwich shop or great pizza place. Have them drop off food three or four times a night. For example, I'll work with the local Domino's guy - I'll put a glass pizza case in the bar and he'll drop off six pizzas an hour. We sell slices. The quality is controllable; it's branded. And when somebody wants a slice of pizza, I've got a slice of pizza that's good. Food operations also need to be really, really creative. I work in kitchens all the time that

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Finally, considering all that you've been through on Bar Rescue, do you recommend getting in the bar business? If somebody is going to ask me, then they shouldn't do it. And what I mean by that is that I know what I'm talking about - I'm a great person to ask - but you've got to want it. It's something you want to do whether it's hard or easy, whether it's expensive or not. Even if Taffer says 'no' to me, I'm going to do it. If you don't feel that way about anything, you shouldn't do it. For more info, visit spike.com/shows/barrescue

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | UPCOMING EVENTS

SEETHER POISON THE PARISH 2017 TOUR VICTORY THEATRE | DECEMBER 19 | 7:30PM

Drummer John Humphrey on the band's many sides, "Careless Whisper," South Africa and more

years on from Disclaimer, Seether's debut release, the South African rock band remains one of the top acts in the world, propelled by a deft fusion of melody and distortion that's produced a career's worth of signature hits like "Fake It," "Fine Again" and "Remedy." The trio's sound - which comes off at times like a common law marriage of Nirvana and Tool - and often dark lyrical content continue to connect with, and speak to, multiple generations of fans. Moreover, frontman Shaun Morgan still possesses one of the strongest and most versatile voices in music, flexible enough to howl with conviction or croon convincingly - as he did on the band's surprisingly sincere 2009 cover of Wham's "Careless Whisper." Released last May, Poison the Parish is Seether's heaviest album to date, thanks

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in large part to co-founding bassist Dale Stewart and longtime drummer John Humphrey who make for a monster rhythm section - particularly on the unrelenting lead single, "Let You Down." The self-produced recording is yet another fascinating chapter in the band's story, assuring that honest, full-on rock and roll still has a place in an ever-evolving music industry. Humphrey kindly spoke with News 4U ahead of the show at the Victory. Poison the Parish seems to mirror the chaotic state of society at the moment. Did you have the title and concept already in mind when you entered the studio? You know, Shaun had two or three ideas - I can't remember what the other ones were - but I remember me and Dale chiming in and going, 'that's a great title.' It actually came towards the end of the album - you know, the songs are coming together and you get a feel of the cohesiveness. And we knew we wanted this to be a heavier album than we have done for a few years. So there was a theme that ran through all of

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it. And then the artwork came together - Shaun commissioned the artist to do it and everything just clicked. The videos for the first two singles - "Let You Down" and "Betray and Degrade"seem to sum up the two sides of Seether. The former is extremely dark while the latter is all bright colors and full of humor. Was it a conscious decision to do something so strikingly different? Absolutely. We have total confidence and faith in our director Nathan Cox - he goes back with us to "Same Damn Life" and he did both "Let You Down" and "Betray and Degrade." I think those two videos are very much... you can find common themes with those in other videos. Seether has always had the humor - the self-deprecating humor or just the humorous side of the band, i.e., videos like "Fake It" or "Country Song." We're just not one thing - I don't like it when bands are just that one sort of dimension. I think we're human beings and we have many sides, many emotions. We're funny - we have fun and do enjoy what we do, but we're also serious about what we do and obviously the lyrical content of the band with Shaun is very serious. I always say it's sort of an open diary for him - I think he works out a lot of things personally through his lyrics. I think people know that, and I think people know when you're being honest. That's something Seether has

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | UPCOMING EVENTS

always tried to do. Which might help to explain how the band was able to pull off such a convincing cover of Wham's "Careless Whisper" back in 2009. I think it surprised the band as much as it surprised everybody else. We were approached by our label at the time and iTunes to do a "Valentine's Day" song. So I'm thinking Journey or whatever, but we ended up giving Wham a go. We just kind of got this idea and Shaun suggested a heavy riff and we did it on a day off in New York City at Electric Lady Studios, which is a historic studio - you know, you're in this room where Jimi Hendrix recorded and so many great albums have been made. I remember we listened back to the first take and it was just really working. I'm not trying to break my arm patting myself on the back, but it turned out really good. Not bad for a cover song. Did you hear from George Michael before he passed away? No, it's unfortunate. It would have been my dream to play that song and have him walk out. Despite being with the band for over 14 years, you're still technically the "new guy" considering that Shaun and Dale formed the band in South Africa in 1999. What's your perspective on their enduring musical relationship? It's an amazing story, man. I mean, they were in their early 20s - they leave their families, friends, everything they know behind to relocate to the United States for a record deal and a chance to have a band and make a go of it. And they knew - and their families knew - that they had to go the States in order for that to happen. I think because of the fact that they had to go through that together, there's a connection and a bond there that will always be strong. And I'm 14 years still the new guy (laughs). What sort of reception does the band receive in South Africa? I always say it's one of the perks of being in this band that we get to go back to South Africa every few years. It's sort of like The Beatles have landed - we're the biggest hard rock band to ever come out of that country. Shaun and Dale's families are all back there - it's a beautiful country. It blows me away to go back there - the crowds, the shows and just the pride that the country feels for the band. For me, it's sort of an outside experience considering where I'm from [Oklahoma], but it's a beautiful thing. Many of Seether's albums have charted in the top 10 or top 20, including the last five. Is that sort of success important at this point in the band's career? Man, that's a great question. Obviously, it's a great feeling to put out music and have people respond to it - and to have it be relevant and for people to care and for radio to embrace it. So, I don't take it for granted; I feel very fortunate. But we are very unique in that we've been here a long time; we can still put out a new album and have people give a sh*t. To be honest, it blows me away. I'd love to be able to sit here and tell you that it was all part of the master plan, but in this business you never know. For tickets and more info, visit victorytheatre.com. The Victory is located at 600 Main St. in downtown Evansville.

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | UPCOMING EVENTS

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS FORD C EN T E R | J A NU A RY 11 | 7PM

Cat's game: "El Gato" Meléndez talks Hurricane Maria, learning curves, March Madness and more

very January, the Harlem Globetrotters roll into town to light up the Ford Center with a sea of beaming, awe-struck faces both young and old. In fact, the Ambassadors of Goodwill have been spreading joy around the world for over 90 years, entertaining crowds with an infectious mix of humor and basketball wizardry - all while championing character and sportsmanship. Now in his fourth season with the team, Orlando "El Gato" (The Cat) Meléndez is the first - and only - Puerto Rican-born Globetrotter. The former UNC power forward made it to the Final Four Championship twice before heading to Europe to compete professionally and then back to the island for a two-year stint with the national team. Eventually, he was offered a tryout with the Globetrotters and, well, "here I am," he says. Meléndez called from McAllen, TX - where he was visiting kids in the pediatric unit at a local hospital - to speak with News 4U ahead of the big game at the Ford Center in January.

Orlando "El Gato" (The Cat) Meléndez

then I was still in Puerto Rico for two and a half to three weeks after the hurricane. I did as much as I could do without communication. I was cleaning up trees, cleaning up the streets with a bunch of people from my neighborhood. And I went and helped out my family down south. Sadly, I lost my grandma about two weeks ago due to after-hurricane issues with healthcare and no power. It's been rough, but I helped as much as I could with the physical work. Everybody was making fun of me because I had a serious tan - I was working all day long in the sun. Everyone was like, 'Man, what were you doing - hanging out at the beach all the time?' (laughs). But we're coming along very, very slowly. It's been about 50 days now and there's still no power in a lot of places.

Can you describe what it means to be the first Puerto Rican-born player on the Globetrotters?

Man, it's so hard to describe - so many feelings involved with that. When your family extends to the level that it extends by being a Hispanic I was there - I was there for both [Hurricane] player with such an iconic brand... For Irma and Maria. Two weeks after Irma - the instance, I was in San Antonio and somebody Saturday before Maria - that's when my power saw me on TV - I was going to a restaurant to came back to my house from Irma and then have some lunch and this gentleman came we got hit by Maria on that Wednesday. And in and said, 'Hey, you're "El Gato" - you're the first Puerto Rican. Man, you have to come to my house and have "now I realize that I'm making a crazy some food.' He said, impact on the Hispanic community on the 'My house is your island. That hits me really deep inside. house - any time you And it makes me really love and value come to San Antonio

First off, did you have friends or family in Puerto Rico when Hurricane Maria hit?

what I do even more."

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December 2017 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com

you can stay with me and my family and have some good home cooking.' Literally, my family has extended to that level. And now I realize that I'm making a crazy impact on the Hispanic community on the island. That hits me really deep inside. And it makes me really love and value what I do even more.

What sort of learning curve did you experience and how long did it take to feel comfortable as a member of the squad?

The hardest part was at the beginning when you come from playing competitive [basketball]. When you come from playing 43-45 minutes of intense basketball and then have to learn to turn that off. Sports, overall, is about momentum - who's hot at the moment. But with the Globetrotters, if you were hot two minutes ago and then you have to stop because XYZ is going on, you have to be able to pick back up on the hot spot. And that's probably the hardest thing to do as an athlete - no matter what sport. Also, learning the tricks and when to be part of the show, when not to be part of the show, timing... it was very difficult the first two years. It takes that long to get to this level. After that, you start bringing in your personality. Me, as a Hispanic player, I would start bringing my Hispanic heritage into it add something extra, like a Ricky Ricardo flow, Continued on Page 18

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | UPCOMING EVENTS

stuff like that. People like it. Now I'm being more of an ambassador, doing outreach programs - visiting hospitals and schools, which I love. And I think it opens up more chances to be a Globetrotter longer and to do other things after the Globetrotters.

Last year, we spoke with Ace Jackson, one of several female Globetrotters. Was it an adjustment for you to play on a team with women?

Well, at North Carolina I got the chance to play with an amazing talent on the women's team - Nikki Teasley. I remember her because she could play ball with the best. I remember her and Rasheed Wallace going against each other in pick-up games. We're talking about Rasheed Wallace - 6'10", big dude. It was amazing to see her going at us with that intensity and from that point on, I started seeing more and more talent in women's basketball. And now to have these amazing women playing with us - that sense of unity. It shows that anybody can do it if they put the work in.

March Madness is one of the greatest spectacles in sport. Can you give us a sense of what it was like to compete at the Final Four Championship?

Man, I still get goosebumps thinking about it. Just the road to get there, the things you have to go through, the traveling, the focus, the practice, the excitement... you're not just representing your school, you're representing the state of North Carolina. To go through the process of getting to the tournament and winning every game - getting that feeling of getting so close to the Final Four. And then, 'Oh my god, we made it!' And then you're practicing in front of 60,000 people - that many people just to watch you practice. All the attention... I wish every kid that plays sports would have the chance to be in the Final Four - not just as a fan but as a player.

Finally, what's new with the Globetrotters this year?

Mostly, the additions that we have are real personalities. Like Mani Love - he's 4'5". And these personalities are going to make the Globetrotters' game even better. I think that compared to other years, we're going to bring back memories of the personalities that everybody used to love like Meadowlark [Lemon], "Curly" [Neal], "Geese" Ausbie and Lou Dunbar. I think people are going to enjoy the show even more.

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

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | UPCOMING EVENTS

Evansville philharmonic orchestra

Mary Bowden

@ Victory Theatre

A look ahead to the second half of the 2017-2018 "season of wonder"

aestro Savia and the EPO have just about reached the midpoint of another fantastic season filled with diversity and dynamic performances. But before we look ahead to the shows scheduled in the coming year, there's still one more Pops Series event to go in 2017 - the beloved Peppermint Pops concert presented by Fifth Third Private Bank on December 2 and 3.

Misha & Cipa Dichter

This family tradition is the perfect way to get everyone in the Christmas spirit! Hear all of your holiday favorites sung by tenor Tim King with accompaniment by the Orchestra and a little help from the Evansville Philharmonic Chorus, Evansville Children's Choir and dancers from Evansville Ballet and Legacy Dance Company. Now let's take a look at what's on the horizon for the EPO in 2018. January 20: First up is Mozart & the Jungle, a Classics Series performance featuring legendary pianist Misha Dichter and his wife Cipa. Dubbed the "greatest couple since Fred and Ginger" by the Boulder Daily Camera, they'll perform Mozart pieces ranging from his early Overture to Il Ré Pastore to his more mature masterwork, the "Haffner" Symphony No. 35. February 10-11: The Pops Series gets off to a smashing start with Sinatra & Beyond, featuring singer, songwriter and pianist Tony DeSare. Perfectly-timed to put you and yours in a romantic mood for Valentine's Day, this swingin' concert will cover hits like "Night & Day," "Moon River," "My Way," "Luck Be a Lady," "One for My Baby" and more.

Tony DeSare

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February 24: The Classics Series continues with Bach, Beethoven & Brahms, featuring Mary Elizabeth Bowden (trumpet), Robert Anemone (violin), Elizabeth Robertson (oboe)

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and Leanne Hampton (flute). March 17: The EPO will celebrate St. Patrick's Day in style with a performance by 16-year-old violinist - and Itzhak Perlman protégé - Nathan Meltzer, featuring film music from Titanic, Braveheart, Far Away and much more. An evening guaranteed to get you in the Celtic spirit. April 7-8: The Pops Series concludes with a blockbuster performance. The Movie Music of John Williams will feature some of the best soundtracks from over the past five decades, including Jaws, Star Wars, Superman, E.T., Jurassic Park, Harry Potter, Schindler's List and Catch Me If You Can. April 28: The final Classic Series concert of the season will feature a live performance of Carmina Burana by German composer Carl Orff. One of the most popular pieces in music history, the emotionally-charged cantata makes for a stunning production. The EPO will be joined on stage by the Evansville Philharmonic Chorus, Evansville Children's Choir, soprano Lauren Snouffer, tenor Luther Lewis III and baritone José Rubio. For tickets and more info, visit victorytheatre. com or evansvillephilharmonic.org or call 812-425-5050. The Victory is located at 600 Main St. in downtown Evansville.

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | SPECIAL FEATURE

NEW LAND-BASED CASINO From the Go-Ahead to the Grand Opening

n exciting new era in local entertainment arrived on October 20, 2017. That's when Tropicana Evansville unveiled its muchanticipated land-based casino complete with a sleek nightclub (421) and two new top-notch restaurants to boot (The Tap House & The Deli). The ship - or riverboat, in this case - has sailed, all right. To put it another way, forget everything you thought you knew about gaming in downtown Evansville. Determined to make Tropicana the "Disney World of Evansville," GM John Chaszar was in the trenches on this massive project from day one. He kindly sat down with News 4U to walk us through it all, from the go-ahead to the grand opening - an eye-opening experience, to say the least. Indeed, the prospect of planning, designing and constructing a building of such stature in such a short space

of time boggles the mind. To help explain how they pulled it off, here's a breakdown of how it all went down. The Go-Ahead Land-based legislation began in 2014. At the time, Indiana was one of the remaining hold-outs; the majority of states had already given land-based casinos the green light. Finally, in the spring of 2015, governor Mike Pence - despite his personal opposition to the expansion of gambling in the state - backed the legislation, clearing the way for Tropicana to move forward with its plan to dry off and set up shop between the Tropicana and Le Merigot hotels. With the aging riverboat up for replacement, the timing couldn't have been better. Still, there was the small matter of convincing the board that investing more money in a new land-based casino made financial sense - that it would ultimately yield a higher rate of return. Mission accomplished; it was full steam ahead.

The Design To get the proverbial ball rolling, Tropicana tapped a couple of architectural/design firms for ideas. Those ideas were evaluated and properties that the firms had previously worked on were visited. In the end, SOSH Architects from Atlantic City won out for two simple reasons: 1) There was confidence that the project could be completed within Tropicana's budget and constraints and 2)

"Based on that impressive presentation, the concept and customer flow of the room really started to come together with additional suggestions from Tropicana helping to shape the vision for a more modern, inclusive approach."

Photos by Rajiv KC

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December 2017 â&#x20AC;˘ www.evansvillemediagroup.com

SOSH is the same design group currently working on the Atlantic City Tropicana property. Hafer, a downtown Evansville architectural firm, was then engaged and the designing of the overall facility commenced. In the end, about 70% of the input actually came from the senior leadership of the Tropicana property. The Concept With the architectural design of the building well in hand, Tropicana again looked to SOSH to create a striking, all-encompassing entertainment haven inside. The firm drew up plans and then invited the senior leaders to their office for a virtual reality tour of the proposed casino. Very cool. Based on that impressive presentation, the concept and customer flow of the room really started to come together with additional suggestions from Tropicana helping to shape the vision for a more modern, inclusive approach. In other words, the idea was to create an entertainment experience rather than simply a gaming experience. To that end, 421 - "the nicest lounge in the company" - was placed just off the gaming floor along with two top-notch restaurants, the Tap House and The Deli. Where the riverboat tended to divide up friends and family with its disjointed design, the new casino promotes togetherness with an ease of movement from one area to the other. The Construction Ground was broken on the project in July of 2016. Going the unconventional route, Tropicana never hired a general contractor; they also chose to implement six day work weeks and extend each work day by two hours - a strategy that added to the overall cost, but also succeeded in cutting six weeks off the construction time. Not surprisingly, a shortage of labor caused the biggest issue. Regardless, the project remained ahead of schedule thanks to a hard push by everyone involved and a grand opening date was set for October 20, 2017. The Grand Opening The big day finally arrived. By all accounts, all the hard work paid off; it was a nearly flawless execution with the staff rising to the occasion at every step. But that doesn't mean it was a cakewalk, of course. GM John Chaszar: "The closest I can relate it to is having a baby. It's like it's finally here; you're overjoyed, relieved, excited - all these things. And then the baby comes home and it's crying and you have to change the diapers; it's got colic; it's got an ear infection. Still, you love it no matter what, though." Hey, don't ever say the Tropicana people lack a sense of humor. Chaszar and others have been monitoring social media since the grand opening, gauging feedback and making adjustments as needed, i.e., bringing back the self-service soda machines and continuing to work on air quality.

A Closer Look with GM John Chaszar 421

"During the day you can go in and sit and play video poker. At night, bands come on from 7-10:30 p.m. We decided to move forward with live entertainment every single day, because that's been a tradition at Tropicana. However, it used to be that bands played till 1 a.m. in Hoosiers Lounge and then everybody went home. But the unique thing we do now on Fridays and Saturdays is that the bands go till 10:30 p.m. and then we flip the room - a DJ takes over from 11-2 a.m. You gotta love it when a plan comes together; you essentially see one crowd leave and then a brand new crowd comes in - that was our goal, to try and give Evansville an experience that doesn't exist. There's no nightclub here like 421."

The Tap House

"Millennials want to try cool, unique things. So the Tap House has great craft beers which are very desirable among the younger generation. But we still want to accommodate the core customers who want a really good restaurant and want to drink good beer in a great atmosphere. I think we've been able to bring both of those ideas together very successfully."

The Deli

"A New York style deli - that was the direction I gave to my team. I want people bragging about our sandwiches. I want people to come here, grab sandwiches for lunch and go back to the office. The Deli has really taken off - it does more sales than the Tap House sometimes." See our review of The Deli on the following page. *Tropicana is currently in need of about 100 employees. If you're drug-free and motivated to work, please consider applying. For more info, visit tropevansville.com. Tropicana Evansville is located at 421 NW Riverside Dr. in downtown Evansville.

NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | WHAT'S COOKIN'

THE DELI

TROPICANA EVANSVILLE

421 NW RIVERSIDE DRIVE | EVANSVILLE, IN | 812-433-4000

The opening of the new land-based casino brings with it the welcome addition of new restaurants. One such eatery is downtown Evansville’s only 24-hour restaurant, The Deli. Serving a variety of both cold and hot sandwiches as well as an array of snacks, drinks, and coffee, they’re conveniently located just inside the casino. I recently had the distinct pleasure of sitting down with Chef Chuck Subra to sample some of their many offerings. My first sampling was their Deluxe Ham & Cheese. It seems simple enough - multiple layers of ham interspersed with white cheddar and American cheeses, but it’s cooked to just the right temperature to allow the cheeses to melt while leaving the ham juicy and tender. The second submission was an age-old favorite, The Reuben. Lots of places brag about their take on this delicatessen staple, but few can back it up; The Deli falls into that elite group. All too often, these fall victim to too much sauerkraut or drowning in Thousand Island. Thankfully,

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both of these components are represented in perfect proportion to the corned beef and the beautiful marble rye. Next, I was presented with their take on another traditional ‘wich: Roast Beef. But this is anything but “traditional.” The Paninipressed wheat berry bread provides the canvas, while the Vidalia onion jam and smoked gouda finish the masterpiece. In addition to the hot sandwiches available every day from 10 a.m. until 2 a.m. - they also feature a selection of “grab 'n go” sandwiches. I tried their Tropicana Club, featuring lettuce, tomato, avocado, and applewood smoked bacon complementing perfectly cooked turkey breast. These sandwiches, along with their selection of coffee and energy drinks, are a great option for grabbing something quick before work or on a short lunch break. They also feature Zapp’s chips, a brand from Chef Subra’s native Louisiana. One bag of their Voodoo or Sweet Pimento

December 2017 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com

PHOTO BY RAJIV KC

Cream Cheese chips may have you blasphemously doubting whether Grippo’s really is the best chip around. The Deli's ease of access can’t be overlooked, either. Sitting just inside the main entrance from the casino’s parking garage, it couldn't be much easier to quickly get in and out. And being accessible from said garage means you won't even need an umbrella on a rainy day. Whether you’re fueling up after trying your luck in the casino, need a bite before work, craving something late at night, or just looking for someplace new, swing by The Deli and see what they’ve got to offer. - Jonathan Gluff

For more info, visit tropevansville.com

NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR'S From Varsity Liquor

appy Holidays! My name is Keena Thomas, your store manager here at Varsity Liquors. My staff and I are excited to help you all this holiday season. With gift buying causing so much stress, Varsity Liquors likes to make shopping for your holiday parties and those hard to find gifts a bit easier. Our store provides a huge variety of wine, spirits, and beer. Unsure what to get that special someone? Don’t worry, we also offer gift cards and you can pick the amount you desire. But make sure you look around while you’re here because we have plenty of gift sets, holiday ciders & eggnogs, and champagne for your New Year's toast! Check out some staff picks for this holiday season and mark your calendars for our New Year's Eve Celebration on Friday, December 29th from 5-8PM. Need holiday suggestions? Just stop in and look at our impressive inventory and ask one of our friendly staff members for their assistance. Holiday Bourbon Pick by Joe Mutschler

Holiday Beer Pick by Nathan Cavender

With Christmas and New Year's being the perfect time to celebrate with family and friends, we want to remind everyone that we are closed on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve this year, due to no liquor sales in Indiana on Holiday Wine Pick by Sunday. So pick up those last Keena Thomas minute gifts and champagne purchases the Saturday before. We will be open until 10PM! We wish you a Happy Holidays! Cheers, Keena Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • December 2017

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | CUISINE & DINING

TASTING THE TRI-STATE with Laurie Manor Delizioso!: Popular food show continues to explore and support the area's favorite eateries

fun and informative show dedicated to documenting the area's best restaurants, Tasting the Tri-State has built a loyal following over the last five years in its weekend time slots on CBS and Fox 44 (just try to get that jingle out of your head, btw - it's impossible). Host Laurie Manor, owner of ICR Advertising, Inc., is seriously passionate about food, a devotion nearly on par with her husband's love for golf. We're talking about Joe Blair, for those of you in the dark - the beloved radio & TV personality who steers the ship on Tasting the Tri-State's sister program, Golfing the

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Tri-State. Perhaps you know him best for his amusing impersonation of "the most interesting man in the world" in local commercial spots; or maybe you simply recognize his iconic voice. At any rate, he's a natural in front of both a microphone and a camera. So it only made sense to combine Blair's vast experience in the entertainment field with his interest in showcasing the area's many beautiful golf courses - the fact that he'd get to play nine holes with a club professional every week was a nice perk. Premiering in 2012, Golfing the Tri-State, like most everything

December 2017 â&#x20AC;˘ www.evansvillemediagroup.com

Blair gets involved in, was a success. And long story short, that success led to another great idea. "It was the beginning of the eat local/ buy local movement," Manor explains, looking back on the origin of Tasting the Tri-State. "So we hopped on that to give these restaurants the kudos and accolades they deserved. Who are the local chefs making our food?" That's just one of the questions that the Food Network mega fan answers each week. As host, Manor has an easy rapport with her occasionally nervous

"It all began with the Pie Pan, a north side tradition for nearly 40 years. I'm so glad we did that as our first restaurant."

subjects, expertly probing the tri-state's sharpest culinary minds for information about their food, their business and more. You'd never guess that she's technically still new to all of this. "I am not an on-air trained personality," she freely admits. "But we just didn't have the funds to pay for a known talent - and we also didn't have an idea of how someone like that could possibly go [to the restaurants] when we needed them to be there." So Manor just dove right in, never mind inexperience. Sure, there was a learning curve and a few edits are inevitably needed for each episode to shine, but her sheer exuberance always wins out - as it has right from the very start back in 2013. It all began with the Pie Pan, a north side tradition for nearly 40 years. "I'm so glad we did that as our first restaurant," Manor says with a big smile. Many other tri-state favorites have followed over the years, including the Log Inn, a season three highlight that she cites as a turning point for her comfort in the kitchen. "The whole Elpers family made me feel like I belonged right there - it was a blast," she says. It's also a lot of work. Tasting the Tri-State films 18 episodes per year, a process that starts in October and continues through to Thanksgiving, then picks back up again in the new year after all of the holiday decorations are stored away. Filming wraps up in April and then the behind the scenes magic happens as each show is polished and perfected at ICR, ultimately airing five months later. Again, it's a slog sometimes, but after four seasons, the crew has the

format down to a science - which includes shooting things out of sequence. The finished product, however, is seamless as Manor chats amiably with the chefs in the kitchen, observes their techniques and then transitions to the tasting table for further discussion about the highlighted dishes. Additionally, separate interview snippets are interspersed throughout each episode, moments that often reveal interesting backstories about the restaurant and the staff.

As is typical, the latest season of Tasting the Tri-State has featured a wide range of restaurants, including Raffi's Oasis Cafe (Evansville's east side), Carriage Inn (Haubstadt, IN), Little Italy (Evansville's north side) and Dave's Sticky Pig (Madisonville, KY). In case you're keeping score, that's a lot of different types of food - Mediterranean, Homestyle, Italian and BBQ - in a lot of different places. And to top it off, just as in past seasons, the new episodes have all ended with a "Just Desserts" segment that's filmed offsite at the Faith Bible Church kitchen where delicious baked goods are created to tempt your sweet tooth. Getting hungry? Week in and week out, Tasting the Tri-State proves that we have some of the most amazing restaurants in the Midwest, bar none - something that Manor believes wholeheartedly and sums up in one simple sentence: "In my opinion, local food is the best food." *Attention viewers: go to tastingthetristate. com and sign up for the Tasting Club for a chance to win free food and various prize packs! Catch Tasting the Tri-state Saturday at 6:30 a.m. on CBS and Sunday at 6 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. on FOX and 10:30 a.m. on CBS.

Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 â&#x20AC;˘ December 2017

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | RESTAURANT GUIDE

NEWS4U

RESTAURANT GUIDE Whether you're looking for a new place to eat or rediscovering an old favorite, check out our comprehensive restaurant guide for local favorites all around the tri-state!

AMISH Stoll’s Country Inn 19820 Castle Creek Dr 812-867-7730

BARBECUE Bandana’s Bar-B-Q 6636 Logan Dr 812-401-9922 Carne Asada 1454 E Division St 812-459-5556 Gatrick's BBQ & Fine Dishes 535 Lincoln Ave 812-901-4666 Hawg ‘N’ Sauce 6580 Leonard Rd N Mt Vernon, IN 812-838-5339 Hickory Pit Stop 1521 N Main St 812-422-6919 J & B Bar-B-Q & Catering 48 S Holloway St Henderson, KY 270-830-0033 Marx Barbeque 3119 W Maryland St 812-425-1616 Memphis & Main BBQ 4946 State Route 261

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Newburgh, IN 812-858-0111 Mission BBQ 1530 N Green River Rd 812-213-0200 MoonLite Bar-B-Q Inn 2840 W Parrish Ave Owensboro, KY 270-684-8143 Nisbet Inn 6701 Nisbet Rd Haubstadt, IN 812-963-9305 Old Hickory BBQ 338 Washington Ave Owensboro, KY 270-926-9000 Ole South Bar-B-Q 3523 Hwy 54 E Owensboro, KY 270-926-6464 Peak Bros. BBQ 6353 US-60 Waverly, KY 270-389-0267 Shyler's BBQ 5416 E Indiana St 812-476-4599 Thomason’s Barbecue 701 Atkinson St Henderson, KY 270-826-0654 Tom's Market

December 2017 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com

1048 Clay St Henderson, KY 270-827-5338

108 2nd St Henderson, KY 270-212-2133

Wolf’s Bar-B-Q 6600 N First Ave 812-424-8891

Chilly Willy’s 3039 Claremont Ave 812-423-0726

Bars/Pubs/ taverns

Cricket’s 518 W Main St Newburgh, IN 812-858-2782

711 Tavern 711 E Virginia St 812-422-0904 Allegra Lounge (Holiday Inn Airport) 7101 US-41 812-867-7999 backstage Bar & Grill 524 Main St 812-424-5020 Bar Louie 7700 Eagle Crest Blvd 812-476-7069 Boiler Room Bar 1100 Walnut St, Ste 10 Owensboro, KY 270-684-4999 Bokeh Lounge 1007 Parrett St 812-909-0388 Carson's Brewery 2404 Lynch Rd 812-759-8229 CKB Commonwealth Kitchen & Bar

Dapper Pig 1112 Parrett St 812-401-3333 Darmstadt Inn 13130 Darmstadt Rd 812-867-7300 Dave’s Sports Den 701 N Weinbach Ave 812-479-8887 Deerhead Sidewalk Cafe 222 E Columbia St 812-425-2515 Doc’s Nightclub 1305 Stringtown Rd 812-401-1201 Enigma Bar & Grill 4044 Professional Ln Newburgh, IN 812-490-0600 Fester's Sports Bar & Grill 10301 Old Hwy 62 W Mt Vernon, IN 812-985-7333

Fool Moon Grill & Bar 5625 Pearl Dr 812-467-7486 Franklin Street Tavern 2126 W Franklin St 812-459-5210 Gerst Haus 2100 W Franklin St 812-424-1420 Hagedorn’s Tavern 2037 W Franklin St 812-423-0794 Highland Inn 6620 N 1st Ave 812-402-2544 Hornville Tavern 2607 W Baseline Rd 812-963-0967 J's Sports Bar & Grill 1602 S Vann Ave 812-401-2266 KC’s Corner Pocket Bar & Grill 1819 N Fulton Ave 812-428-2255 KC's Marina Pointe 1801 Waterworks Rd 812- 422-0400 KC’s Time Out Lounge & Grill (Washington Square Mall)

1121 Washington Square 812-437-9920 Kipplee’s 2350 Division St 812-476-1936 Knob Hill Tavern 1016 SR-662 Newburgh, IN 812-853-9550 Koodie-Hoo’s Grill & Bar 231 W 2nd St Mt. Vernon, IN 812-838-5202 Lamasco Bar & Grill 1331 W Franklin St 812-437-0171 Legends 1050 S Weinbach Ave 812-476-7444 Legends Sports Bar & Grill 4431 Springhill Dr, Ste E Owensboro, KY 270-240-5360

O'Brian's Sports Bar & Grill 1801 N Green River Rd 812-401-4630 Old Chicago 6550 E Lloyd Expy 812-401-1400 On Deck Riverside Bar & Grill 100 2nd St Henderson, KY 270-826-2424 Peephole Bar & Grill 201 Main St 812-423-5171 Piston's Bar & Grill 2131 W Franklin St 812-401-1699 Rick’s 718 Bar & Grill 718 3rd Ave 812-423-0872 Rick's Sports Bar 1531 S Green River Rd 812-477-4088

Leroy’s Tavern 2659 Mt. Vernon Ave 812-464-8300

Ri Ra Irish Pub 701 NW Riverside Dr 812-426-0000

Lucky Joe’s Bar & Grill (Ellis Park) 3300 US-41 Henderson, KY 812-425-1456

Roca Bar North 12301 Hwy 41 N 812-868-8898

Lyle’s Sports Zone Pizza & Pub 1404 E Morgan Ave 812-425-7729 Mo's House 1114 SE Parrett St 812-423-8221 Nisbit Inn 6701 Nisbit Rd Haubstadt, IN 812-963-9305

Roca Bar South 1618 S Kentucky Ave 812-422-7782 Rookie’s Sports Bar & Grill 117 2nd St Henderson, KY 270-826-1106 St Phillips Inn 11200 Upper Mt Vernon Rd 812-985-5558 Shorty's Bar

1209 Baker Ave 812-401-1560 Someplace Else 930 Main St 812-424-3202 Sportsman’s Grille & Billiards 2315 W Franklin St 812-422-0801 Stockwell Inn 4001 E Eichel Ave 812-476-2384 Taylor's Tavern 2509 W Parrish Ave Owensboro, KY 270-683-5577 Tiki Time Bar & Grill 840 LST Dr 812-425-1912 Tin Man Brewing Co. 1430 W Franklin St 812-618-3227 TJ’s Stockyard Inn 1217 Baker Ave 812-402-9273 Turoni's Forget-Me-Not Inn 4 N Weinbach Ave 812-477-7500 Turoni's Pizzery & Brewery 408 N Main St 812-424-9871 Yellow Tavern 521 Church St New Harmony, IN 812-682-3303

BREWERIES/ WINERIES Carson’s Brewery 2404 Lynch Rd 812-759-8229 Evansville Brewhouse

Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • December 2017

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | RESTAURANT GUIDE

56 Adams Ave 812-909-2668 Mystique Winery 13000 Gore Road Lynnville, IN 47619 812-922-5612 Tin Man Brewing Co. 1430 W Franklin St 812-618-3227 Turoni’s Brewery 408 N Main St 812-424-9871 Winzerwald Winery 26300 N Indian Lake Rd Bristow, IN 812-357-7000

CAFÉs/Delis 6th St Twilight Deli 10 NW 6th St 812-421-0606 Acropolis Express Tea Room at the YWCA 118 Vine St 812-42-GREEK Arazu on Main 415 Main St 812-401-1768 Bits & Bytes 216 NW Fourth St 812-423-5713 CafÉ111 111 S Green River Rd 812-401-8111 CafÉArazu 17 W Jennings St Newburgh, IN 812-842-2200 Cleo’s Bakery & Brown Bag Lunches 9 W Jennings St Newburgh, IN 812-853-0500 Daily’s Annex

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Bakery & CafÉ 701 N Main St 812-423-0320 The Deli (Tropicana Evansville) 421 NW Riverside Drive 812-433-4000 Donut Bank Bakery & Coffee Shop (East) 5 N Green River Rd 812-479-0511 1950 Washington Ave 812-477-2711 1200 Lincoln Ave 812-402-4111 (North) 2128 N First Ave 812-426-2311 1031 E Diamond Ave 812-426-0011 (West) 210 N St. Joseph Ave 812-426-1011 (Newburgh) 3988 SR 261 812-858-9911 Emge’s Deli & Ice Cream 206 Main St 812-422-3026 Firehouse Subs 1031 N Green River Rd 812-477-2141 Flying Saucer CafÉ (Evansville Airport) 7801 Bussing Dr 812-423-1113 Granola Jar 1033 E Mt Pleasant Rd 812-437-1899 Great Harvest Bread Co. 423 Metro Ave 812-476-4999 HoneyBaked Ham (East) 1446 N Green River Rd

December 2017 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com

812-471-2940 (Downtown) 318 Main St 812-492-4967 Jason’s Deli 934 N Green River Rd 812-417-9905 Jeanne’s Gelato 2003 Lincoln Ave 812-479-8272 Jimmy John’s (East) 2320 N Green River Rd 812-402-5747 701 N Burkhardt Rd 812-401-5400 (North) 130 N St Joseph Ave 812-402-9944 (Newburgh) 8680 High Point Dr, Ste A 812-490-7111 Just Rennie’s CafÉ 100 SE 4th St 812-490-8098 Kite & Key CafÉ 2301 W Franklin St 812-401-0275 Lic's Deli & Ice Cream (East) 4501 Lincoln Ave 812-477-3131 (Downtown) 11 NW 5th St 812-422-2618 (North) 800 E Diamond Ave 812-424-4862 (South) 2001 Washington Ave 812-473-0569 (West) 2311 W Virginia Ave 812-423-4173 McAlister’s Deli (East) 2220 N Green River Rd 812-618-2050

(West) 5301 Pearl Dr, Ste 100 812-228-4222 Panera Bread 220 N Burkhardt Rd 812-476-7477 Penn Station East Coast Subs (East) 600 N Weinbach Ave, Ste 720 812-453-3824 137 N Burkhardt Rd 812-479-7366 (North) 4827 David Lant Dr 812-402-7366 (West) 5310 Pearl Dr, Ste A 812-434-7366 (Henderson) 1111 Barrett Rd 270-826-7361 (Owensboro) 3625 Frederica St 270-683-1515 3023 Highland Pointe Dr 270-852-8888 Penny Lane Coffeehouse 600 SE 2nd St 812-421-8741 PG Cafe 1418 W Franklin St 812-402-4445 Planters Coffeehouse 130 N Main St Henderson, KY 270-830-0927 Salad World (East) 3311 N Green River Rd 812-471-5083 (Downtown) 200 Main St 812-422-0777 (North) 601 E Boonville New Harmony Rd

812-867-2741 (Newburgh) 4222 Bell Rd 812-490-6070 Schlotzsky’s 301 N Green River Rd 812-471-4011 Spudz –N– Stuff (East) 815 S Green River Rd 812-401-7783 (North) 601 E Boonville New Harmony Rd 812-867-7783 3904 N First Ave 812-228-1068 (Henderson) 2630 US-41 270-212-1777 (Newburgh) 4222 Bell Road 812-490-6070 (Owensboro) 3500 Villa Point Dr 270-804-4747 Zoup! Fresh Soup Company (East) 6240 E Virginia St 812-477-2664 (North) 4660 N First Ave 812-423-1800

CASUAL THEME Allegra Lounge (Holiday Inn Airport) 7101 US-41 812-867-7999 Another Broken Egg Cafe 701 W 1st St Owensboro, KY 270-691-8960 Applebee’s (East) 5100 E Morgan Ave 812-471-0942 (West)

5727 Pearl Dr 812-426-2006 (Henderson) 1950 US-41 270-826-9427 Backstage Bar & Grill 524 Main St 812-424-5020 Bar Louie 7700 Eagle Crest Blvd 812-476-7069 Beans & Baristas (Eastland Mall) 800 N Green River Rd 812-475-8566

Bokeh Lounge 1007 Parrett St 812-909-0388 Bonefish Grill 6401 E Lloyd Expy 812-401-3474 Bru Burger Bar 222 Sycamore St 812-302-3005 Buck’s Tavern 1015 N Fulton Ave 812-429-0055 Cambridge Golf Course 1034 Beacon Hill Dr 812-868-4653

Beef O’Brady’s 8177 Bell Oaks Dr Newburgh, IN 812-490-9464

Cheddar’s 2100 N Green River Rd 812-491-9976

Bob’s Lounge 907 N Fares Ave 812-425-4929

Chili’s 600 N Green River Rd 812-475-1510 CKB Commonwealth

Kitchen & Bar 108 2nd St Henderson, KY 270-212-2133 Dapper Pig 1112 Parrett St 812-401-3333 Doc’s Nightclub 1305 Stringtown Rd 812-401-1201 Double D’s 1206 E Main St Boonville, IN 812-897-8813 Hadi Shrine 6 Walnut St 812-423-4285 KC’s Corner Pocket Bar & Grill 1819 N Fulton Ave 812-428-2255 KC's Marina Pointe 1801 Waterworks Rd

812- 422-0400 KC’s Time Out Lounge & Grill (Washington Square Mall) 1121 Washington Square 812-437-9920 Kitchen Buffet The (Tropicana Evansville) 421 NW Riverside Dr 812-433-4000 ext. 6059 Koodie-Hoo’s Grill & Bar 231 W 2nd St Mt. Vernon, IN 812-838-5202 Legends Sports Bar & Grill 4431 Springhill Dr, Ste E Owensboro, KY 270-240-5360 Lucky Joe’s Bar & Grill (Ellis Park) 3300 US-41

Henderson, KY 812-425-1456 Major Munch 101 NW First St 812-437-2363 Mellow Mushroom 101 W 2nd St Owensboro, KY 270-684-7800 O’Brian’s Sports Bar & Grill 1801 N Green River Rd 812-401-4630 Red Robin Gourmet Burgers 6636 E Lloyd Expy 812-473-4100 Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory (Inside Cold Stone Creamery) 6401 E Lloyd Expy

Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • December 2017

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | RESTAURANT GUIDE

812-437-2653

812-602-1400

Royal Suite 4706 E Morgan Ave 812-402-5122

Canton Inn Restaurant 947 North Park Dr 812-428-6611

Show-Me’s 1700 Morgan Center Dr 812-401-7469 Tap House (Tropicana Evansville) 421 NW Riverside Drive 812-433-4000 TGI Fridays (Eastland Mall) 800 N Green River Rd 812-491-8443 Treehouse Grill & Pub 1550 Mesker Park Dr. 812-401-0835 Walton's International Comfort Food 956 Parrett St 812-467-4255 Wayback Burgers (East) 115 Cross Pointe Blvd 812-475-9272 (North) 624 E Diamond Ave 812-422-4999 Zaxby's 1021 N Burkhardt Rd 812-602-5515 Zoup Fresh Soup Co. (East) 6240 E Virginia St 812-477-2664 (North) 4660 N First Ave 812-423-1800

CHINESE Big Bang Mongolian Grill 2013 N Green River Rd

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Charlie’s Mongolian BBQ 315 E Diamond Ave 812-423-9897 China King 590 E Diamond Ave 812-423-1896 China Village 8423 Bell Oaks Dr Newburgh, IN 812-858-8238 Chopstick House Restaurant 5412 E Indiana St 812-473-5551 Crazy Buffet 701 N Burkhardt Rd 812-437-8833 Golden Buddha 3221 Taylor Ave 812-473-4855 5066 SR-261 Newburgh, IN 812-853-2680

1111 Barrett Blvd Henderson, KY 270-826-3001 MA T 888 China Bistro 5636 Vogel Rd 812-475-2888 Shing-Lee Chinese Restaurant 215 Main St 812-464-2769 Taste of China 4579 University Dr 812-422-1260 Two Brothers 3806 N First Ave 812-423-6188 Wok ‘N’ Roll 311 S Green River Rd 812-474-0181 Yen Ching Chinese Restaurant 406 S Green River Rd 812-474-0181

DESSERTS/ FROZEN TREATS

Gracie’s Chinese Cuisine 12500 US-41, Ste 8 812-868-8888

Coldstone Creamery (East) 6401 E Lloyd Expy 812-437-2653 (West) 5435 Pearl Dr, Ste 5 812-461-0100

Grand Buffet Mongolian Grill 1356 N Green River Rd 812-476-6666

Emge’s Deli & Ice Cream 206 Main St 812-422-3026

Jimmy Jeng’s Szechwan Chinese Restaurant 669 N Green River Rd 812-479-7600

Gayla Cake 422 N Main St 812-454-9791

Lincoln Garden 2001 Lincoln Ave 812-471-8881 Mandarin House

December 2017 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com

Jeanne’s Gelato 2003 Lincoln Ave 812-479-8272 Just Rennie's Cookie Company

102 SE 4th St 812-401-8098 Lic's Deli & Ice Cream (East) 4501 Lincoln Ave 812-477-3131 (Downtown) 11 NW 5th St 812-422-2618 (North) 800 E Diamond Ave 812-424-4862 (South) 2001 Washington Ave 812-473-0569 (West) 2311 W Virginia Ave 812-423-4173 Orange Leaf Yogurt 701 N Burkhardt Rd 812-401-5215 Pie Pan 905 North Park Dr 812-425-2261 Piece of Cake 210 Main St 812-424-2253 Sweet Betty’s Bakery 5600 E Virginia St, Ste E 812-402-3889 Sweet CeCe’s 5625 Pearl Dr 812-401-5232

FAMILY/ HOMESTYLE Acropolis 501 N Green River Rd 812-475-9320 Bob Evans (East) 1125 N Green River Rd 812-473-9022 (Princeton) 2825 W Broadway St 812-386-1228

Burger Bank 1617 S Weinbach Ave 812-475-2265 Carousel Restaurant 5115 Monroe Ave 812-479-6388 Carriage Inn 103 E Gibson St Haubstadt, IN 812-768-6131 Cleavers Restaurant 5501 E Indiana St 812-473-0001 Comfort by Cross-Eyed Cricket 230 Main St 812-909-3742 Cracker Barrel 8215 Eagle Lake Dr 812-479-8788 Cross-Eyed Cricket 2101 W Lloyd Expy 812-422-6464 Culver’s 1734 Hirschland Rd 812-437-3333 Denny’s Classic Diner 5212 Weston Rd 812-424-4472 19501 Elpers Rd Newburgh, IN 812-867-7156 Denny’s Restaurant (East) 351 N Green River Rd 812-473-1063 (North) 3901 US-41 812-423-9459 Ellis Park Clubhouse 3300 US-41 Henderson, KY 812-425-1456

Five Guys Burgers 5402 E Indiana St 812-401-1773

Gatti Town 316 N Green River Rd 812-473-3800 Get and Go Casseroles 6840 Logan Dr, Ste A 812-475-8830 Golden Corral 130 N Cross Pointe Blvd 812-473-1095 1320 N Green St Henderson, KY 270-869-9310 Highland Inn 6620 N First Ave 812-402-2544 Hilltop Inn 1100 Harmony Way 812-422-1757 Hornville Tavern 2607 W Baseline Rd 812-963-0967 IHOP 601 N Burkhardt Rd 812-471-0510 Ivy Room (SWIRCA) 16 W Virginia St 812-464-7800 Koodie-Hoo’s 231 W 2nd St Mt. Vernon, IN 812-838-5202 Korner Inn 15 W Main St Elberfeld, IN 812-983-4200 Libby & Mom’s Café 2 Richardt Ave

812-437-3040 Log Inn 12491 S 200 E Haubstadt, IN 812-867-3216 Merry-Go-Round Restaurant 2101 N Fares Ave 812-423-6388 New Frontier Restaurant & Bar 12945 IN-57 812-867-6786 O’Charley’s (East) 7301 E Indiana St 812-479-6632 (West) 5125 Pearl Dr 812-424-3348 Old Mill 5031 New Harmony Rd 812-963-6000 Pie Pan 905 North Park Dr 812-425-2261 Popeyes 3300 N First Ave 812-423-4291 Rafferty’s 1400 N Green River Rd 812-471-0024 Red Fez (Hadi Shrine Building) 6 Walnut St 812-423-4285 Red Wagon 6950 Frontage Rd Poseyville, IN 812-874-2210 Rockhouse at Wolf’s 31 N Green St Henderson, KY 270-212-1400

Rose Hill Café 8133 Rose Hill Dr Newburgh, IN 812-853-8443 Smitty’s Italian Steakhouse 2109 W Franklin St 812-423-6280 St. Joe Inn 9515 St Wendel Rd 812-963-9310 Stoll’s Country Inn 19820 Castle Creek Dr 812-867-7330 Zesto (West) 102 W Franklin St 812-424-1416 (Downtown) 920 E Riverside Dr 812-423-5961

FINE DINING Cavanaugh’s (Tropicana Evansville) 421 NW Riverside Dr 812-433-4333 CKB Commonwealth Kitchen & Bar 108 N 2nd St Henderson, KY 270-212-2133 Cork ‘N Cleaver 650 S Hebron Ave 812-479-6974 Edgewater Grille 1 E Water St Newburgh, IN 812-858-2443 Madeleine’s Fusion Restaurant 423 SE 2nd St 812-491-8611 Red Geranium Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • December 2017

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | RESTAURANT GUIDE

Resort) 520 N St New Harmony, IN 812-682-4431

GERMAN Gerst Haus 2100 W Franklin St 812-424-1420

GREEK Acropolis 501 N Green River Rd 812-475-9320

INDIAN Taj Mahal Indian Cuisine 900 Tutor Ln 812-476-5000

IRISH Ri Ra Irish Pub 701 NW Riverside Dr 812-426-0000

ITALIAN/ MEDITERRANEAN Angelo’s 305 Main St 812-428-6666 8000 Bell Oaks Dr Newburgh, IN 812-853-8364 Biaggi’s 6401 E Lloyd Expy, Ste 3 812-421-0800 Café Arazu 17 W Jennings St Newburgh, IN 812-842-2200 DiLegge’s 607 N Main St 812-428-3004 Famous Bistro 102 W 2nd St Owensboro, KY 270-686-8202

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House of Como 2700 S Kentucky Ave 812-422-0572 Little Italy 4430 N First Ave 812-401-0588 Manna Mediterranean Grill 2913 Lincoln Ave 812-473-7005 Milano Italian Cuisine 500 Main St 812-484-2222

7221 E Indiana St 812-437-5824

720 N Sonntag Ave 812-421-1986

Tokyo Japan 3000 N Green River Rd 812-401-1020

El Patron Mexican Restaurant 943 North Park Dr 812-402-6500

Tokyo Teppanyaki 2222 US-41 Henderson, KY 270-869-1968 Zuki Japanese Grill 1448 N Green River Rd 812-477-9854

KOREAN

Olive Garden 1100 N Green River Rd 812-473-2903

Gangnam Korean Cuisine 518 Main St 812-550-1171 3332 Villa Pt #102 Owensboro, KY 270-240-2976

Sauced Italian Restaurant 1113 Parrett St 812- 402-2230

Jaya’s Authentic Foods 119 SE 4th St 812-422-6667

Smitty’s Italian Steakhouse 2109 W Franklin St 812-423-6280

LIGHTER FARE

Oasis Cafe 5702 E Virginia St (812) 602-3660

JAPANESE Fuji Yama 915 North Park Dr 812-962-4440

Sara’s Harmony Way 500 Church St New Harmony, IN 812-682-3611

MEXICAN

Ginmiya Asian Diner 4827 Davis Lant Dr 812-471-8100

Cancun Mexican Restaurant 341 S Green St Henderson, KY 270-826-0067

Iwataya Japanese Restaurant 8401 N Kentucky Ave, Ste J 812-868-0830

Chavas Mexican Grill 4202 N First Ave 812-401-1977

Kanpai Sushi & Asian Bistro 4593 Washington Ave 812-471-7076

Chipotle Mexican Grill 499 N Green River Rd, Ste A 812-471-4973

Roppongi Japanese Steak & Sushi

El Charro Mexican Restaurant

December 2017 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com

El Rio Mexican Cuisine 1919 N Green River Rd 812-471-1400 Fiesta Acapulco 8480 High Pointe Dr Newburgh, IN 812-858-7777 Hacienda Mexican Restaurant (East) 990 S Green River Rd 812-474-1635 (North) 711 N First Ave 812-423-6355 (West) 5440 Pearl Dr 812-422-2055 Herradura 4610 Bellemeade Ave 812-402-0355 Hot Head Burritos 5625 Pearl Dr 812-437-5010 Jalisco Mexican Restaurant 4044 Professional Ln Newburgh, IN 812-490-2814 La Campirana 724 N Burkhardt Rd 812-550-1585 Los Bravos (East) 6226 E Waterford Blvd 812-474-9078 (North) 3534 N First Ave 812-424-4101 (West) 4630 W Lloyd Expy

812-464-3163 (Boonville) 3311 Liberty Blvd 812-897-3442 Los Portales Mexican Grill 3339 N Green River Rd 812-475-0566 Moe’s Southwest Grill 6401 E Lloyd Expy 812-491-6637 Nachos Grill 821-B S Green River Rd 812-471-9481 QDOBA Mexican Eats 922 N Burkhardt Rd, Ste 101 812-401-0800 Riviera Mexican Grill 10604 SR-662 Newburgh, IN 812-490-9936 Salsarita's Fresh Mexican Grill 3910 E Morgan Ave 812-437-2572 3500 Villa Point Owensboro, KY 270-686-7505 Taco Tierra 420 S Green River Rd 812-402-8226 Tequila's Mexican Restaurant 408 Southwind Plz Mt. Vernon, IN 812-838-2392

PIZZA/ SANDWICHES Angelo's 305 Main St 812-428-6666 8000 Bell Oaks Dr Newburgh, IN

812-853-8364 Archie & Clyde’s 8309 Bell Oaks Dr Newburgh, IN 812-490-7778 Azzip Pizza (East) 2121 N Green River Rd 812-401-0490 (West) 5225 Pearl Dr 812-401-3572 (Newburgh) 8680 High Pointe Dr 812-518-3810 Big M’s Pizzeria 1313 N First Ave 812-434-6909 Boston’s Gourmet Pizza 3911 Venetian Dr Newburgh, IN 47630 812-853-3400 Carolyn's

Country Pizzaria 6800 NS Rd 161 Tennyson, IN 812-567-4444 Cicis Pizza 101-B N Green River Rd 812-477-2424 Dave’s Sports Den 701 N Weinbach Ave 812-479-8887 Deerhead Sidewalk Cafe 222 E Columbia St 812-425-2515 The Deli (Tropicana Evansville) 421 NW Riverside Drive 812-433-4000 Domino's Pizza (East) 600 N Weinbach Ave 812-473-1011 (North) 1940 N Green River Rd

812-471-8585 (South) 1300 S Green River Rd 812-477-5544 2101 S Weinbach Ave 812-473-3383 (West) 421 N St Joseph Ave 812-424-7333 Fat Boy's Pizza 10722 Hwy 662 Newburgh, IN 812-518-3061 Fetta Specialty Pizza & Spirits 118 St Ann St Owensboro, KY 270-926-0005 Firedome Pizza & Wings 2046 US-41 Henderson, KY 270-831-1977 Franklin Street Pizza Factory

2033 W Franklin St 812-602-3028 Gardo’s Italian Oven 13220 Darmstadt Rd 812-868-8071 GattiTown 316 N Green River Rd 812-473-3800 Harmes Una Pizza 967 S Kentucky Ave 812-426-2600 Heady’s Pizza 4120 N First Ave 812-437-4343 Highland Pizza Shop 6669 Kratzville Rd 812-402-8900 Kipplee’s 2350 E Division St 812-476-1936 Little Caesars Pizza (North)

2411 Stringtown Rd 812-401-8555 (South) 2007 Washington Ave 812-471-5755 (West) 130 N St Joseph Ave 812-401-9555 Lyle's Sportszone Pizza & Pub 1404 E Morgan Ave 812-425-7729 Maloney's Pizza & Wings 3030 Highland Pointe Dr Owensboro, KY 270-684-8080 Mama Roma’s (East) 2008 E Morgan Ave 812-422-1212 (South) 3115 Covert Ave 812-477-6262 Mellow Mushroom

Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • December 2017

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | RESTAURANT GUIDE

101 W 2nd St Owensboro, KY 270-684-7800 Old Chicago 6550 E Lloyd Expy 812-401-1400 Pangea Kitchen 111 S Green River Rd, Ste E 812-401-2404 Papa John’s (East) 303 N Weinbach Ave 812-477-7700 5436 E Indiana St 812-473-5200 (North) 4204 N First Ave 812-425-2345 12414 Hwy 41 North 812-867-7272 (West) 4814 W Lloyd Expy 812-423-7272 (Newburgh) 3955 Haley Dr 812-858-7272 Parkway Pizza 3911 Broadway Ave 812-423-3339 Pizza Chef 423 W Main St Boonville, IN 812-897-1600 4938 SR-261 Newburgh, IN 812-853-3338 Pizza Depot 2801 E BoonvilleNew Harmony Rd 812-867-9131 Pizza King (East) 1033 S Weinbach Ave 812-476-4941 (West) 220 N St Joseph Ave 812-424-7976 (Newburgh)

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7777 SR-66 812-853-3368 Pizza Revolution 812-430-5945 Roca Bar North 12301 Hwy 41 N 812-868-8898 Roca Bar South 1618 S Kentucky Ave 812-422-7782 Rockhouse at Wolf’s 31 N Green St Henderson, KY 270-212-1400 Rounders Pizza 510 W Mill Rd 812-424-4960 Rounders Too 12731 N Green River Rd 812-867-7172 Sam’s Pizzeria 2011 W Delaware St 812-423-3160 Sandy’s Pizza 609 S Main St Ft Branch, IN 812-759-3972 Schaum's Pizzeria 240 S Green River Rd 812-402-4733 Slice The 2011 Lincoln Ave 812-402-8518 Spankey’s Una Pizza 4404 W Lloyd Expy 812-402-6776 Susan Bobe’s Pizza 101 W Broadway St Princeton, IN 812-385-2554 Talk of the Town Pizza 1200 Edgar St

December 2017 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com

812-402-8696

270-240-4556

812-421-0908

Turoni’s Forget-Me-Not Inn 4 N Weinbach Ave 812-477-7500

Madeleine’s Fusion Restaurant 423 SE 2nd St 812-491-8611

Longhorn Steakhouse 320 N Green River Rd 812-473-2400

Turoni’s Pizzery & Brewery 408 N Main St 812-424-9871

NW Chophouse & Wine Bar 7799 IN-66 Newburgh, IN 812-853-9500

Madeleine’s Fusion Restaurant 423 SE 2nd St 812-491-8611

Turoni’s Pizza 8011 Bell Oaks Dr Newburgh, IN 812-490-5555

Red Lobster 4605 Bellemeade Ave 812-477-9227

NW Chophouse & Wine Bar 7799 IN-66, Newburgh, IN 812-853-9500

Twisted Tomato Pizza Co 2333 St George Rd 812-401-2323

Tin Fish 300 W Jennings St Newburgh, IN 812-490-7000

Outback Steakhouse 7201 E Indiana St 812-474-0005

PRIVATE DINING

STEAKHOUSES

Ballroom at Sauced The 1119 Parrett St 812-402-2230

Cavanaugh’s (Tropicana Evansville) 421 NW Riverside Dr 812-433-4333

Edgewater La Veranda Banquet Room 1 E Water St Newburgh, IN 812-858-2443 Ivy Room (SWIRCA) 16 W Virginia St 812-464-7800

Cork ‘N Cleaver 650 S Hebron Ave 812-479-6974 Double D’s 1206 E Main St Boonville, IN 812-897-8813

Just Rennie’s 100 SE 4th St 812-401-8098

Haub Steakhouse 101 E Haub St Haubstadt, IN 812-768-6462

Old Post Office 100 NW 2nd St 812-253-2102

Hornet’s Nest 11845 Petersburg Rd 812-867-2386

SeaFOOD

House of Como 2700 S Kentucky Ave 812-422-0572

Bonefish Grill 6401 E Lloyd Expy 812-401-3474 Lure Seafood & Grille 401 W 2nd St Owensboro, KY

Logan’s Roadhouse (East) 1 N Burkhardt Rd 812-471-8403 (West) 5645 Pearl Dr

Smitty’s Italian Steakhouse 2109 W Franklin St 812-423-6280 Texas Roadhouse 7900 Eagle Crest Blvd 812-477-7427 Western Rib-Eye & Ribs 1401 N Boeke Rd 812-476-5405

THAI Pangea Kitchen 111 S Green River Rd, Ste E 812-401-2404 Thai Papaya Cuisine 1434 Tutor Ln 812-477-8424

VIETNAMESE Vietnamese Cuisine 4602 Vogel Rd 812-479-8818

NEWS4U DECEMBER2017 | COUPONS

Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 â&#x20AC;¢ December 2017

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December 2017 â&#x20AC;˘ www.evansvillemediagroup.com

Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 â&#x20AC;˘ December 2017

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December 2017 â&#x20AC;˘ www.evansvillemediagroup.com

Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 â&#x20AC;˘ December 2017

| 41

NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | IN TOWN & AROUND

IN TOWN & AROUND Thursday, November 30 7:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -- Texas Hold 'Em Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke Someplace Else -- Comedy Open Mic hosted by Kimberly Lynn 8:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Live Jams 9:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke/ College Night KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Karaoke & DJ Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke

Friday, December 1 11:00 AM Old National Events Plaza -Evansville Christmas Show 5:00 PM Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Jim Staley Traditional Irish Music 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: Fabulous Rodenberg Boys 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Mike Mitchell Old National Events Plaza -K-LOVE Christmas Tour Tropicana Evansville (421) -- Tayler Lynch & The Insane Outlaws 7:15 PM Ford Center -- Evansville Thunderbolts Hockey 7:30 PM Someplace Else -- Comedy night with Keith McGill 8:00 PM Legends (Evansville) -- Ben Dahlquist Pat Coslett's Simplicity Furniture -- Comedian Todd Yohn 8:30 PM Lyle's Sports Zone -- RJ Rigdon 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Jenny's Bad Hair Day Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Karaoke J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke / DJ T Rob KC's Corner Pocket -- Live DJ & Karaoke Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Marigold Bar -- Karaoke

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Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Kyle Paisley 10:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -January Noise Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Peridoni O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Josh Merritt 11:00 PM Tropicana Evansville (421) -- DJ Evido 11:30 PM Someplace Else -- Trey Alize & Monroe Fitzgerald

Saturday, December 2 10:00 AM Old National Events Plaza -Evansville Christmas Show 1:00 PM Ford Center -- UE Men's Basketball 2:00 PM Victory Theatre -- Bunny Bread Candy Cane Express 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: Opal Fly 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- David Weddle Tropicana Evansville (421) -- Tayler Lynch & The Insane Outlaws Victory Theatre -- Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra: Peppermint Pops 7:15 PM Ford Center -- Evansville Thunderbolts Hockey 7:30 PM Old National Events Plaza -Straight No Chaser 8:00 PM Legends (Evansville) -- Karaoke w/ DJ Bruce Pat Coslett's Simplicity Furniture -- Comedian Todd Yohn 8:30 PM Lyle's Sports Zone -- Calabash 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Bombshell J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke / DJ T Rob KC's Corner Pocket -- Live DJ & Karaoke Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/

December 2017 â&#x20AC;¢ www.evansvillemediagroup.com

Sparky Marigold Bar -- Karaoke Pistons Bar & Grill -- Love Junkies Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Josh Merritt 9:30 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Valcoes 10:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -January Noise Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Mister F O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Live Music TBA 11:00 PM Tropicana Evansville (421) -- DJ Evido 11:30 PM Someplace Else -- Trey Alize & Monroe Fitzgerald Sunday, December 3 10:00 AM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Michael Rhymes on Piano 11:00 AM Old National Events Plaza -Evansville Christmas Show 2:00 PM Victory Theatre -- Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra: Peppermint Pops 2:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz 7:00 PM Tropicana Evansville (421) -Andrew & Tyler 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Karaoke & Cornhole Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke 9:30 PM Someplace Else -- Social Drag Sunday! Monday, December 4 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Trivia Franklin Street Tavern -- Pub Poll Tropicana Evansville (421) -Andrew & Tyler 8:00 PM Marigold Bar -- Karaoke 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Open Mic Tuesday, December 5 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5:

Brock Stahl 7:00 PM Maloney's Pizza (Owensboro) -- Karaoke Tropicana Evansville (421) -Andrew & Tyler 8:00 PM Marigold Bar -- Karaoke Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Pub Quiz 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke Wednesday, December 6 KC's Corner Pocket -- Free Pool 6:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Live Trivia 7:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Cornhole Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke Maloney's Pizza (Owensboro) -Bar Trivia Marigold Bar -- Stillwell w/ Big John Tropicana Evansville (421) -Andrew & Tyler 8:00 PM J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke 9:00 PM J's Sports Bar & Grill -- DJ T Rob KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke Thursday, December 7 7:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -- Texas Hold 'Em KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Texas Hold 'Em Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke Someplace Else -- Comedy Open Mic hosted by Kimberly Lynn Tropicana Evansville (421) -Andrew & Tyler 7:30 PM Old National Events Plaza -Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 8:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Live Jams Marigold Bar -- Karaoke 9:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -- Live DJ & Karaoke KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill

Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 â&#x20AC;˘ December 2017

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | IN TOWN & AROUND

-- Karaoke Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke Friday, December 8 5:00 PM Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Jim Staley Traditional Irish Music 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: 2 Miles Back 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Jed Guillaume Tropicana Evansville (421) -- Light Up The Moon 7:15 PM Ford Center -- Evansville Thunderbolts Hockey 8:00 PM Legends (Evansville) -- Karaoke w/ DJ Bruce 8:30 PM Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- John Lennon Night Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Karaoke J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke / DJ T Rob KC's Corner Pocket -- Live DJ & Karaoke Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Marigold Bar -- Karaoke Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Lindsey Williams 10:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Nocturnal Lamasco Bar & Grill -- The Trip and Derick Howard O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Live Music TBA 11:00 PM Tropicana Evansville (421) -- DJ Jones Capone Saturday, December 9 11:00 AM Someplace Else -- Drag me to Brunch (menu provided by Crazy Daisy’s food truck) 1:00 PM Ford Center -- UE Men's Basketball 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: JC Stone 6:00 PM Old National Events Plaza -- Faith Music Christmas 7:00 PM

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December 2017 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com

Carson's Brewery -- D.K. Wells Gethsemane Church -- Christmas Concert feat. River Brass Tropicana Evansville (421) -- Light Up The Moon Victory Theatre -- Evansville Ballet presents Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker" 8:00 PM Legends (Evansville) -- Karaoke w/ DJ Bruce 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- The Pits J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke / DJ T Rob KC's Corner Pocket -- Live DJ & Karaoke Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Marigold Bar -- Karaoke Pistons Bar & Grill -- Reverend Jack Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Andy Brasher 9:30 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Live Music TBA 10:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Nocturnal Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Gentlemen & Scholars Lyle's Sports Zone -- Elza Tyrone O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Lindsey Williams 11:00 PM Tropicana Evansville (421) -- DJ Jones Capone 11:30 PM Someplace Else -- Tassandra Crush & Titanium Steele Yo Weave Sunday, December 10 10:00 AM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Michael Rhymes on Piano 2:00 PM Victory Theatre -- Evansville Ballet presents Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker" 2:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz 7:00 PM Old National Events Plaza -Michael Carbonaro Live! Tropicana Evansville (421) -- The Z Duo 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Karaoke & Cornhole Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke

Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 â&#x20AC;˘ December 2017

| 45

NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | IN TOWN & AROUND

9:30 PM Someplace Else -- Social Drag Sunday! Monday, December 11 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Trivia Franklin Street Tavern -- Pub Poll Tropicana Evansville (421) -- The Z Duo 8:00 PM Marigold Bar -- Karaoke 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Open Mic Tuesday, December 12 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: Morgan Donahue 7:00 PM Maloney's Pizza (Owensboro) -Karaoke Tropicana Evansville (421) -- The Z Duo 8:00 PM Marigold Bar -- Karaoke Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Pub Quiz 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Karaoke Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke Wednesday, December 13 KC's Corner Pocket -- Free Pool 6:30 PM Kanpai Sushi & Asian Bistro -Cynthia Murray Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Live Trivia 7:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Cornhole Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke Maloney's Pizza (Owensboro) -Bar Trivia Marigold Bar -- Stillwell w/ Big John Tropicana Evansville (421) -- The Z Duo 8:00 PM J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke 9:00 PM J's Sports Bar & Grill -- DJ T Rob KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Karaoke Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke Thursday, December 14 6:00 PM Franklin Street Tavern -- Ugly Christmas Sweater Party

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December 2017 â&#x20AC;¢ www.evansvillemediagroup.com

7:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -- Texas Hold 'Em KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Texas Hold 'Em Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke Old National Events Plaza -Moscow Ballet's Great Russian Nutcracker Someplace Else -- Comedy Open Mic hosted by Kimberly Lynn Tropicana Evansville (421) -- The Z Duo 8:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Live Jams Marigold Bar -- Karaoke 9:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -- Live DJ & Karaoke KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Karaoke Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke 10:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Backup Planet Friday, December 15 5:00 PM Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Jim Staley Traditional Irish Music 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: Fabulous Rodenberg Boys 6:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Happy Bday Tami & Yoga 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Monte Skelton Trinity United Methodist Church -Handel's Messiah by Candlelight Tropicana Evansville (421) -- Back to Avalon - Heart Tribute 8:00 PM Legends (Evansville) -- Michelle Shelton 8:30 PM Lyle's Sports Zone -- 2 Miles Back 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Gino Speight Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Karaoke J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke / DJ T Rob KC's Corner Pocket -- Live DJ & Karaoke Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Marigold Bar -- Karaoke Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Lindsey Williams 10:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --

NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | IN TOWN & AROUND

Bombshell the Rock Show Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Hyryder (Grateful Dead tribute) O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Live Music TBA 11:00 PM Tropicana Evansville (421) -- DJ Mayo 11:30 PM Someplace Else -- All Around Entertainer Pageant feat. Amaya Sexton Saturday, December 16 3:00 PM Ford Center -- UE Men's Basketball 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: The Love Junkies 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Angel Rhodes Tropicana Evansville (421) -- Back to Avalon - Heart Tribute 8:00 PM Legends (Evansville) -- Karaoke w/ DJ Bruce 8:30 PM Lyle's Sports Zone -- Muddy Gutt 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Mud Pit Poets J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke / DJ T Rob KC's Corner Pocket -- Live DJ & Karaoke Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Marigold Bar -- Karaoke Pistons Bar & Grill -- Nocturnal Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Sugar Lime Blue 9:30 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Akacia 10:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Saved by the 90s Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jon Wayne & The Pain O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Dr. Moody 11:00 PM Tropicana Evansville (421) -- DJ Mayo 11:30 PM Someplace Else -- Amaya Sexton Sunday, December 17 10:00 AM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Michael Rhymes on Piano 2:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz 3:00 PM

Ford Center -- UE Men's Basketball 7:00 PM Tropicana Evansville (421) -Likewise 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Karaoke & Cornhole Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke 9:30 PM Someplace Else -- Social Drag Sunday! Monday, December 18 6:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- BRC 46 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Trivia Franklin Street Tavern -- Pub Poll Tropicana Evansville (421) -Likewise 8:00 PM Marigold Bar -- Karaoke 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Open Mic Tuesday, December 19 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: Lindsey Williams 7:00 PM Maloney's Pizza (Owensboro) -Karaoke Tropicana Evansville (421) -Likewise 7:30 PM Victory Theatre -- Seether: Poison the Parish 2017 Tour 8:00 PM Marigold Bar -- Karaoke Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Pub Quiz 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Karaoke Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke Wednesday, December 20 KC's Corner Pocket -- Free Pool 6:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Live Trivia 7:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Cornhole Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke Maloney's Pizza (Owensboro) -Bar Trivia Marigold Bar -- Stillwell w/ Big John Tropicana Evansville (421) -Likewise 8:00 PM

Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 â&#x20AC;¢ December 2017

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | IN TOWN & AROUND

J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke 9:00 PM J's Sports Bar & Grill -- DJ T Rob KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke Thursday, December 21 7:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -- Texas Hold 'Em KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Texas Hold 'Em Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke Someplace Else -- Comedy Open Mic hosted by Kimberly Lynn Tropicana Evansville (421) -Likewise 8:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Live Jams Marigold Bar -- Karaoke 9:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -- Live DJ & Karaoke KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke 10:00 PM Someplace Else -- Thirsty Thursday Drag Show Friday, December 22 5:00 PM Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Jim Staley Traditional Irish Music 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: Dog Town Three 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Curt N Rod Tropicana Evansville (421) -Hoodat B - Creedence Clearwater Revival Tribute 7:15 PM Ford Center -- Evansville Thunderbolts Hockey 8:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Charmed Christmas Party: Rhyme Taylor, Gretchin Irons, The Jangle Sheep & more! Legends (Evansville) -- Dueling Guitars 8:30 PM Lyle's Sports Zone -- Iron Monkee 9:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Karaoke J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke / DJ T Rob KC's Corner Pocket -- Live DJ & Karaoke

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Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Marigold Bar -- Karaoke Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Lindsey Williams 10:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Jenny's Bad Hair Day O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Live Music TBA 11:00 PM Tropicana Evansville (421) -- DJ Tim Chance 11:30 PM Someplace Else -- Brandi Taylor Andrews & Christian St. James Saturday, December 23 1:00 PM Ford Center -- UE Men's Basketball 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: Nick & Dennis 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Kyle Paisley Tropicana Evansville (421) -Hoodat B - Creedence Clearwater Revival Tribute 7:15 PM Ford Center -- Evansville Thunderbolts Hockey 8:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Ugly Sweater/ Onesie Party Legends (Evansville) -- Karaoke w/ DJ Bruce 8:30 PM Lyle's Sports Zone -- Akacia 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Opal Fly & KAPOW J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke / DJ T Rob KC's Corner Pocket -- Live DJ & Karaoke Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Marigold Bar -- Karaoke Pistons Bar & Grill -- Torpedo Vegas Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Angel Rhodes 9:30 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- 2 Miles Back 10:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Pfreak Show Lamasco Bar & Grill -- JEB O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Smoke Wagon 11:00 PM

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Tropicana Evansville (421) -- DJ Tim Chance 11:30 PM Someplace Else -- Brandi Taylor Andrews & Christian St. James Sunday, December 24 10:00 AM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Michael Rhymes on Piano 2:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz 7:00 PM Tropicana Evansville (421) -Andrew & Tyler 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Karaoke & Cornhole Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke 9:30 PM Someplace Else -- Social Drag Sunday! Monday, December 25 7:00 PM Tropicana Evansville (421) -Andrew & Tyler 8:00 PM Marigold Bar -- Karaoke Tuesday, December 26 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: David Weddle 7:00 PM Maloney's Pizza (Owensboro) -- Karaoke Tropicana Evansville (421) -Andrew & Tyler 8:00 PM Marigold Bar -- Karaoke Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Pub Quiz 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke Wednesday, December 27 Carson's Brewery -- Nick Burch Birthday KC's Corner Pocket -- Free Pool 6:30 PM Kanpai Sushi & Asian Bistro -Soul in the Pocket Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Live Trivia 7:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Cornhole Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke Maloney's Pizza (Owensboro) -- Bar Trivia

Marigold Bar -- Stillwell w/ Big John Tropicana Evansville (421) -Andrew & Tyler 8:00 PM J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke 9:00 PM J's Sports Bar & Grill -- DJ T Rob KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke Thursday, December 28 7:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -- Texas Hold 'Em KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Texas Hold 'Em Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke Someplace Else -- Comedy Open Mic hosted by Kimberly Lynn Tropicana Evansville (421) -Andrew & Tyler 8:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Live Jams Marigold Bar -- Karaoke 9:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -- Live DJ & Karaoke KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke Friday, December 29 5:00 PM Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Jim Staley Traditional Irish Music 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: Fabulous Rodenberg Boys 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Angel Rhodes Tropicana Evansville (421) -- Pink Cadillac 8:00 PM Legends (Evansville) -- Karaoke w/ DJ Bruce 8:30 PM Lyle's Sports Zone -- Smoke Rings 9:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Karaoke J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke / DJ T Rob KC's Corner Pocket -- Live DJ & Karaoke Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Marigold Bar -- Karaoke Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Lindsey Williams 10:00 PM

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | IN TOWN & AROUND

KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Live Music TBA Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Boscoe France Band O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Michelle Shelton 11:00 PM Tropicana Evansville (421) -- DJ JJ 11:30 PM Someplace Else -- Patience Eau Claire & Neon Grande Licious Saturday, December 30 Carson's Brewery -- Curt N Rod 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: 3 For The Road 7:00 PM Tropicana Evansville (421) -- Pink Cadillac 8:00 PM Legends (Evansville) -- Karaoke w/ DJ Bruce 8:30 PM Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Salsa Dancing J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke / DJ T Rob Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Marigold Bar -- Karaoke Pistons Bar & Grill -- Bombshell Ri Ra Irish Pub -- Angel Rhodes 10:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -- Jenny's Bad Hair Day KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Gas Station Disco Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Soulunique O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Muddy Gutt 11:00 PM Tropicana Evansville (421) -- DJ JJ 11:30 PM Someplace Else -- Patience Eau Claire / Neon Grande Licious / Lorenzo Luckardo / Chelsey Stephens Sunday, December 31 10:00 AM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Michael Rhymes on Piano 2:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz 7:15 PM Ford Center -- Evansville Thunderbolts Hockey 8:00 PM

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December 2017 â&#x20AC;¢ www.evansvillemediagroup.com

Legends (Evansville) -- NYE w/ DJ Bruce Tropicana Evansville (421) -- NYE Celebration w/ The Blues Other Brothers & Pink Cadillac 8:30 PM Lyle's Sports Zone -- NYE Bash w/ Karaoke & Dancing 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- NYE Party w/ Jenny's Bad Hair Day Franklin Street Tavern -- NYE Bash Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke Pistons Bar & Grill -- NYE w/ Tastes Like Chicken & Tailgate Revival Ri Ra Irish Pub -- NYE Masquerade Ball w/ Corduroy Orbison downstairs and DJ Flex Upstairs 9:30 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- NYE Party w/ Deadly Serious Party 10:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -- No Cover NYE w/ Junkyard Stereo KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -NYE Party w/ Radio Tokyo Lamasco Bar & Grill -- NYE PARTY w/ Old Salt Union O'Brian's Sports Bar -- NYE w/ Brooks & Williams Roadside Acoustic DJ & Elixir Show feat. Lindsey Williams and the epic return of DJ Magic Mark Brooks 11:00 PM Someplace Else -- NYE Bash w/ Sadye Michaels / Lorenzo Luckardo / Esther Seals / Chelsey Stephens

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | UPCOMING EVENTS

RIVER CITY POWERSPORTS SHOW OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER | JANUARY 13 & 14

Destination weekend: Family-friendly motorcycle show returning to western Kentucky

ast January, the River City PowerSports Show made its premier in the western Kentucky area, expanding the reach of an event that has been going strong for five exciting years. The tour makes annual stops at various biker hotspots throughout the region and beyond and now Owensboro has joined that very special club - for good, it seems. Indeed, the success of last year's show was a boon for both the city and the venue itself. In fact, the Convention Center was perfectly suited for a motorcycle-themed event that features not only some of the most incredible bikes you'll ever see but also live music, great food and a bikini contest. And that's just scratching the surface of what all will be on offer over the course of two fantastic days when the River City PowerSports

Show returns on January 13 and 14. Once again, organizers are expecting fans to make the trek to Owensboro from many of the surrounding bigger cities like Chicago, Kansas City, Charlotte, Nashville, Louisville, Indianapolis and Cincinnati. And just like last year, the following Monday is Martin Luther King Day - a day off for many workers - which makes the River City PowerSports Show a great destination weekend. Out-of-towners, especially, will benefit from the event's schedule with ample opportunity to get to and from the event with little hassle. As noted above, this fast-paced, two-day motorcycle show will be jam-packed with entertainment. Highlights include: • Bike Show (grand prize $500 and magazine cover shoot for Road Hawk Magazine) • Pinup Baggers Fashion Show • Over 60 vendors selling parts, tires, helmets, LED lights, motorcycle insurance and more • Live Music featuring Geneva , Meet Me Halfway There and Rockin' Rod Bennett • Bulleit Bourbon Bar • Bikini Contest (first prize $100 and a feature as Miss PowerSports 2017 on the event's website and USABikerParties.com) Don't miss the second annual River City PowerSports Show in Owensboro. Come out and be a part of what has quickly become a Kentucky tradition - everyone is welcome!

For more info, visit rivercitypowersportsshow.com. Advanced tickets only $12. Kids under 12 get in free. The OCC is located at 501 W. 2nd St. / 270-687-8800.

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December 2017 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | MUSIC

DJ JONES CAPONE

The best of both worlds: Local mix master aims to integrate old school hip-hop with today's sound

gainst all odds, the first song that really rocked DJ Jones Capone's world was the 1976 adult contemporary hit "I'd Really Love to See You Tonight" by England Dan & John Ford Coley. Granted, he was only eight at the time - some years away from his eventual love affair with hip-hop. But even at such an early age, the mix-master-to-be had an ear for all types of music, regardless of genre, thanks in large part to the

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influence of his family. "My cousins lived in Newburgh and they were really into the funk thing - Bootsy Collins, James Brown, "Atomic Dog,"" he says. "My mom is a Newburgh original - Sprinklesburgh. She was really a Hee Haw kind of person - Dolly Parton. My dad was more into the Temptations and things like that. My older brother had the most influence on me. He would listen to everything from Prince to Daryl Hall & John Oates." Capone also latched onto the heaviness of English metal gods Iron Maiden ("I've never heard a more cohesive band in my life") via a good friend and then connected the dots to stadium acts like AC/DC and Led Zeppelin.

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Call it an education outside the classroom, an invaluable foundation. Prior to high school, Capone spent hours upon hours dreaming of a life behind the decks, surrounded by piles of records, firing up imaginary dance floors with an irresistible playlist. It was all he wanted to do; but it also seemed out of reach coming from a poor background as a preacher's kid. However, when freshman year at Castle arrived, salvation came with it. "My foster mom - the only mom I ever knew - went out to Sears, her favorite place to shop, and bought me my first set of Technics 100 turntables," Capone explains, seemingly transported back to that fateful day. "I'll never forget it. I mean, it could have been a gold bar to me." Just one year later, the budding DJ had already put 60 gigs behind him. Before graduating, he added a Radio Shack mixer to his arsenal along with a boombox and an endless supply of cassette singles purchased at Records, Tapes & Tickets in Washington Square Mall. "That was my set-up; that's how it

all started," Capone says. He booked high school dances and corporate parties, mainly, all through word of mouth in those pre-internet days. Then in 1988, he scored a pair of Technics 1200s from a guy at the old Funky's nightclub and started on the path to bigger things. Capone studied radio & TV at Ball State University and DJed throughout his time there under the name Overlord CT (short for "Captain Tick" for all you breakdancers out there). In fact, he would not christen himself "Jones Capone" until 1997 when the initial fun of 80s rap and hip-hop fully gave way to a harder-edged sound first introduced by the likes of N.WA. years earlier. But regardless of his handle, Capone was now fully caught up in the integration of various styles of music to create a singular approach to DJing. He honed his skills in Myrtle Beach, of all places, turning a spring break adventure into an extended residency at Xanadu, a popular South Carolina hangout. Upon his return to the Midwest, the music scene had changed drastically; a mafia-inspired name seemed to fit the times and signal a new beginning. Not long after, sometime around 2001, the first big break came courtesy of legendary rapper Snoop Dogg. "I hit him up on the internet when it was just really starting up - emailed him and he said that he wanted me to DJ for him at Roberts Stadium," Capone says. "That's when it all took off -

everything blew up and snowballed." Many more high profile gigs followed - and continue to follow - including Trillville, 2 Live Crew, Ying Yang Twins, Petey Pablo, Yo Gotti, Gucci Mane, Waka Flocka - a virtual who's who of classic and contemporary rap and hip-hop. In addition, he landed several local radio slots at stations like 98.5 FM WEOA (The Pump), 106.1 KISS FM and his current home, 91.5 WUEV. "There's always growth," Capone notes. And he's got even more on his plate these days, touring with well-known hick-hop acts Franklin Embry and Twang and Round, not to mention producing his own music. "As a musician, I'm still more or less scratching the surface - really trying to find a certain sound," Capone explains. "I'm trying to

Bokeh Lounge in the Haynie's Corner Arts Disctrict for a long stretch, but is looking to transition to a nightly gig at the new Tropicana Evansville land-based casino. Yes, he still brings that old pair of Technics 1200s with him wherever he goes; however, he gave in some time back and made the switch to digital, now using Serato DJ, a music software program championed by many of his hip-hop heroes, particularly DJ Jazzy Jeff, who Capone cites as the "best of all time." No more lugging hundreds of albums around - it's all mp3s for the most part. But the technology still allows for scratching on a specially designed record. Again, the best of both worlds. Even with all of his accomplishments and exciting projects on the horizon, Capone is reticent to take too much credit for the position he finds himself in. He's humble enough to realize that as a certain former presidential candidate never tired of proclaiming - it takes a village to get where you want to go in this life. "I've really had a good team - it's really about the people that you surround yourself with. My brother has always been there for me; I've had the same girlfriend for over a decade - now my wife. She's been my booking agent for a long time. It really takes away the hassle of having to answer the phone and deal with the business side of things."

"Prior to high school, Capone spent hours upon hours dreaming of a life behind the Decks, surrounded by piles of records, firing up imaginary dance floors with an irresistible playlist." bridge the gap between the 80s style [of hip-hop] and what is going on today. Musically, it's hard to do." The ultimate goal is to put a band together to create a live feel yet incorporate sounds based on samples from an old school Yamaha SY85 digital workstation that he tracked down a couple of years ago. The best of both worlds, in other words. Capone was also the house DJ at

For more info, follow DJ Jones Capone on Facebook.

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | ARTS & ACTIVITIES

DECEMBER ARTS & ACTIVITIES

Join the fun with all of these great music and art activities around the Tri-State. Dec 1-3: Evansville Christmas Show

The Evansville Christmas Show will feature over 200 High Quality Vendor Booths from across the region selling 1000's of Christmas crafts & gift items! This show will feature items such as handmade Christmas crafts, ornaments & decorations, handcrafted jewelry, toys & games, electronics, and much more! Plus, bring the kids for free pictures with Santa in a souvenir frame all weekend! For more info, visit oldnationaleventsplaza. com Old National Events Plaza: 715 Locust St., Evansville, IN

Dec 2: Bunny Bread Candy Cane Express

The Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra continues the popular one hour holiday matinee featuring soloist Tim King, Evansville Philharmonic Chorus, Evansville Children's Choir, Evansville Ballet and Legacy Dance Company performing your favorite Christmas music. For tickets and more info, visit victorytheatre.com or evansvillephilharmonic.org Victory Theatre: 600 Main St., Evansville, IN / 2pm

Dec 2: Straight No Chaser "Speakeasy Tour"

SNC have emerged as a phenomenon with a massive fanbase, numerous national TV appearances and proven success with CD releases. This male a cappella group is the real deal, the captivating sound of ten unadulterated human voices coming together to make extraordinary music that is moving people in a fundamental sense... and with a sense of humor. For tickets and more info, visit

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oldnationaleventsplaza.com Old National Events Plaza: 715 Locust St., Evansville, IN / 7:30pm

Dec 2: Owensboro Dance Theatre presents "The Nutcracker"

"The Nutcracker" will feature three professional dancers, showcasing their expertise, grace, and athleticism. This timeless production fills the stage with movement and imagination, generating enthusiasm for all who watch. For tickets and more info, visit riverparkcenter.org or call 270-687-2770. RiverPark Center: 101 Daviess St., Owensboro, KY / 7pm

Dec 2-3: Fifth Third Private Bank presents: Peppermint Pops

Tenor Tim King will sing your holiday favorites accompanied by the Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra. Also performing will be the Evansville Philharmonic Chorus, Evansville Children's Choir and dancers from Evansville Ballet and Legacy Dance Company. For tickets and more info, visit victorytheatre.com or evansvillephilharmonic.org Victory Theatre: 600 Main St., Evansville, IN / 7pm (12/2); 2pm (12/3)

Dec 3: A Christmas Carol

This celebrated Charles Jones adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol from Nebraska Theatre Caravan is rich with thrilling ensemble music, alive with color and movement and is created to tell this great and enduring tale in a manner that people of all ages will enjoy. For tickets and more info, visit riverparkcenter.org or call 270-687-

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OWNER: LEXIE MEDINA

2770. RiverPark Center: 101 Daviess St., Owensboro, KY / 4pm

Dec 5-6: Beatles Yellow Submarine Animator Ron Campbell Exhibit & Talk

Ron Campbell, director of the legendary Saturday morning Beatles Cartoon series that aired on ABC from 1965 until 1969 and animator on the Beatles film, Yellow Submarine, will make a rare personal appearance at Gamut Gallery. For more info, visit Gamut Gallery on Facebook. Gamut Gallery: 111 S. Green River Rd., Evansville, IN / 4-8pm

Dec 7: Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer

Come see all of your favorite characters from the special including Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius, the Misfit Toys and, of course, Rudolph, as they come to life in "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical." For tickets and more info, visit oldnationaleventsplaza.com Old National Events Plaza: 715 Locust St., Evansville, IN / 7:30pm

Dec 9: Owensboro Symphony presents: Holiday Pops

Enjoy familiar holiday favorites. The Owensboro Symphony Chorus, Kentucky Wesleyan Chorale, Owensboro Symphony Youth Orchestra, and children’s choruses will join the Symphony for this Christmas tradition. For tickets and more info, visit riverparkcenter.org or call 270-687-2770. RiverPark Center: 101 Daviess St., Owensboro, KY / 7pm

Dec 9: Christmas Concert featuring River Brass

River Brass follows the tradition of British brass bands in instrumentation and literature. Its members are post-high school players from southwestern Indiana, western Kentucky, and southern Illinois. Members range in age from the late teens to the eighties. This diverse group is brought

NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | ARTS & ACTIVITIES

together by their common interest in making and sharing high quality brass music. For more info, visit gcforme.org or call 812-4221902. Gethsemane Church: 1001 N. Main St., Evansville, IN / 7pm (doors open at 6pm)

Dec 9: Faith Music Christmas 2017

93.1 FM presents Faith Music Christmas 2017, a family-friendly concert featuring the voices of Bruce Frye, Maria Komisky, pianist David Chamberlain, the Boeke Road Baptist Church Choir, and more. For tickets and more info, visit oldnationaleventsplaza.com or faithmusicradio.com Old National Events Plaza: 715 Locust St., Evansville, IN / 6pm

Dec 9-10: Evansville Ballet presents Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker"

Enjoy this Christmas classic performed by the Evansville Ballet Theatre and the Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra. For tickets and more info, visit victorytheatre. com or evansvillephilharmonic.org Victory Theatre: 600 Main St., Evansville, IN / 7pm (12/9); 2pm (12/10)

Dec 10: Michael Carbonaro Live!

From his hit television series The Carbonaro Effect on truTV, magician Michael Carbonaro brings his signature blend of bizarre antics, audience interaction, hilarious video clips, and mind-blowing magic, live on stage! For tickets and more info, visit oldnationaleventsplaza.com Old National Events Plaza: 715 Locust St., Evansville, IN / 7pm

Dec 12: Blick Art Materials Free Workshop

Come join the fun and interact with other artists at this free Blick Art Materials workshop. The focus will be Pan Pastels: Winter Landscape. For more info, call 812476-9551. Blick Art Materials: 1364 N. Green River Rd., Evansville, IN / 5:30-7:30pm

Dec 12 & 19: The Old Dam Community Band Holiday Concert

Get in the Christmas spirit with the Old Dam Community Band as they play a variety of holiday tunes from classics and pop medleys to everything in between. For more info, visit olddamband.com Newburgh Central Library: 4111 Lakeshore Dr., Newburgh, IN / 7pm

Dec 14: Moscow Ballet's Great Russian Nutcracker

All ages are invited to celebrate Christmas with the Moscow Ballet company of almost 40 ballerinas and dancers on its 25th anniversary tour. For tickets and more info, visit oldnationaleventsplaza.com Old National Events Plaza: 715 Locust St., Evansville, IN / 7pm

Dec 15-16: Handel's Messiah by Candlelight

Come to Trinity UMC to enjoy Handel's Messiah by Candlelight. Advance tickets cost $23 or $25 at the door. For more info, visit trinityevansville.org Trinity United Methodist Church: 216 SE 3rd St., Evansville, IN / 7pm

Dec 19: Seether - Poison the Parish 2017 Tour

Seetherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s existence itself is an act of rebellion, weaponized to cut through the noise with truth telling clarity and undeniable authenticity. Even as no-talent hacks and cartoon social media living mannequins seek to dominate the discourse, Seether takes a stand against those who Poison the Parish. With special guests Shaman's Harvest and The Dead Deads. For tickets and more info, visit victorytheatre.com Victory Theatre: 600 Main St., Evansville, IN / 7:30pm

WEST TERRACE ELEMENTARY ART SHOW FUNDRAISER PENNY LANE COFFEEHOUSE JANUARY 1-31

West Terrace Special Education teacher Jennifer Bennett and her students are organizing a winter-themed art show at Penny Lane Coffeehouse to raise much-needed funds for their classroom. Throughout the month of January, customers will be asked to bid a minimum of $1 for each piece of student artwork and may bid as many times as they want on as many paintings as they like. At the end of the month there will be a random drawing to determine the winners. Any money raised will be used to finance field trips and outings for the students activities that will help them develop life skills, such as communicating wants and needs, good manners and how to interact with other people in a safe environment. The month-long art show will also give parents the opportunity to celebrate their special needs children and make special memories with them. Students, families and community members are also invited to attend an Art Reception at Penny Lane on January 17 from 5:307:30pm. View the artwork and meet the special artists! Donations are needed to help the students create their masterpieces, including: 28 canvases, acrylic paints, glitter, salt, glue and other art supplies. Contact Jennifer Bennett at 812-568-8322 or email Jennifer. Bennett@evsck12.com

Family Night!

Penny Lane Coffeehouse is located at 600 SE 2nd St. in downtown Evansville.

Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 â&#x20AC;˘ December 2017

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | FASHION ADVICE

With Hailey Reynolds Season of giving: How to save the most amount of money but not skimp on the gifts

he state silhouette trend is huge nowadays, especially for someone who has a lot of hometown pride. Here is how to make these super cool and affordable state sweatshirts. If you saw my last post, this trend is huge in both loungewear and in spiritwear for your favorite team. • Find a solid sweater shirt, t-shirt, or hoodie and your favorite colored flannel or fabric.

December Beauty Tip: Dry season is upon us and that means dry, cracked skin. One way to keep this from happening? Keep a cosmetic bag with face lotion, coconut oil, and lip balm in your purse or backpack. When you go to the bathroom, use these products to keep your skin happy and healthy throughout these harsh winter days. Need a little color but don’t want to damage your skin in the tanning bed? Use Jergens Natural Glow lotion for some added color that is also safe!

• Print out the shape of the state you wish to work with • Adhere the shape to the fabric you wish to print it on with push pins or safety pins • Cut along the edge of the shape • Position the cut piece of fabric to where you want on the sweatshirt, hoodie or t-shirt • Leaving half an inch of room along the edge of the shape, stitch the fabric to the garment • Enjoy!

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December 2017 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com

Follow Hailey online at haileyreynolds45.wixsite.com/ thebohemianprepster.

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | COMMUNITY & FAMILY

DECEMBER COMMUNITY & FAMILY

Get involved and have some fun with these great community activities around the Tri-State.

Dec 1-2: Christmas in Germania

Enjoy an evening of exceptional dinner theater and traditional German Christmas music. For more info, follow Germania Maennerchor on Facebook. Germania Mannerchor: 916 N. Fulton Ave., Evansville, IN

more info, visit oldnationaleventsplaza. com or evansvillechristmasshow.com Old National Events Plaza: 715 Locust St., Evansville, IN

Dec 2: The Rotary Santa Run 2017 The Rotary Santa Run combines Christmas spirit with a 5K walk/run and one-mile family stroll. Each participant receives a five-piece Santa outfit to wear during the event. The Rotary Santa Run is the main fundraiser for the Rotary Foundation of Evansville and this year will benefit The Changemaker Challenge. For more info, visit evansvillerotary.com

Luncheon

Celebrate the holiday season and support the YWCA while enjoying a delicious lunch and a holiday gift boutique showcasing local merchants. For more info, visit ywcaevansville.org or call 812-422-1191. Evansville Country Club: 3810 Stringtown Rd., Evansville, IN / 10:30am

Buffalo Trace Council, Eykamp Scout Center: 3501 E. Lloyd Exp, Evansville, IN / 9am

Dec 1-3: 911 Gives Hope for the Holidays Toy Drive

For nine years, 911 Gives Hope, Townsquare Media, and Henderson Chevrolet Buick GMC have partnered to create 911 Gives Hope for the Holidays to ensure a little more sparkle is added to those children spending the holiday in one of the five local hospitals and childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s facilities.

Dec 2 & 9: It Takes a Village Pet Photos with Santa

Have your photo taken with Santa Claus for $15. Proceeds benefit It Takes A Village Canine Rescue and homeless animals. For more info, visit itvrescue. org or call 812-909-1306. It Takes A Village: 1417 N. Stockwell Rd., Evansville, IN / 12-5pm

Walmart: 401 N. Burkhardt Rd., Evansville, IN

Dec 1-3: Evansville Christmas Show

The Evansville Christmas Show will feature 220 booths of Christmas crafts, gift items, and bargains under one roof. With vendors from across the region and thousands of unique items, there's something for everyone on your list. Kids also get free pictures with Santa all three days and free balloon twisting Saturday and Sunday. For times and

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Dec 5: Victorian Christmas Decorate a Christmas tree with ornaments from the Civil War and Victorian era, and learn the history of our customs. Guests may participate in stringing popcorn, cranberries, and other fruits, and the tree will be on display on the second floor through December. There will be refreshments and Christmas carols. Reservations are requested but not required. For more info, call 812-425-4309. Willard Library: 21 N. First Ave., Evansville, IN / 6pm

Dec 6: SWIRCA Holiday Party

Dec 5: 7th Annual Tastes & Treasures Holiday

December 2017 â&#x20AC;˘ www.evansvillemediagroup.com

Guests will enjoy refreshments, games, and festive music. Santa and Frosty the Snowman also will stop by for a guest appearance. For more info, visit swirca. org or call 812-464-7800. SWIRCA & More: 16 W. Virginia St., Evansville, IN

NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | COMMUNITY & FAMILY

Dec 7: Housewives in the City Holiday Bash

Mark your calendar for this Party Of The Year. It’s Housewives in the City of Evansville Holiday Bash 2017 sponsored by Bella Vi Spa & Aesthetics and in partnership with Ellis Park Racing & Casino to bring to you a fun night out of sipping, socializing and shopping LOTS of local businesses just in time for the holidays! All women - and men - are welcome to attend the FREE networking socials but please register your ticket via Eventbrite. Ellis Park, Gardenia Room: 3300 Hwy 41, Henderson, KY / 5pm

Dec 9: Aurora's Gingerbread House Fundraiser

This fundraiser is a one-day event to support the organization's mission to house the homeless. The public is invited to watch the culinary challenge and vote for their favorite by donating dollars and cents. Guests will also enjoy exciting holiday entertainment, a fabulous silent auction, pictures with Santa & Mrs. Claus, and a fun-filled kid's gingerbread workshop. For more info, visit auroraevansville.org St. Vincent Manor: 800 St. Mary's Dr., Evansville, IN / 9:30am-5pm

RITZY'S FANTASY OF LIGHTS

Annual West Side Nut Club Santa Land

Snack on cookies, sip hot chocolate, and get a photo with Santa at the West Side Nut Club's 19th Annual Santa Land on Franklin Street. For more info, visit West Side Nut Club on Facebook. West Franklin St., Evansville, IN /3-6pm

Dec 15-16: VHS Empty the Shelter Adopt-A-Thon

The goal is simple: 20 hours, 200 animals, 200 homes. Adopt a pet and help empty the shelter so every homeless animal can spend Christmas under the tree in their forever home. Reduced or waived adoption fees will be available all weekend (restrictions apply). There are no holds on animals. For more info, email a.coburn@ vhslifesaver.org or call 812-426-2563. Vanderburgh Humane Society: 400 Millner Industrial Dr., Evansville, IN

Dec 21: AAF Jingle Mingle

It’s the annual networking luncheon filled with holiday spirit and fun. Visit, talk, and laugh with colleagues as they celebrate the holiday season. Lunch is included so come enjoy a buffet of deliciousness. For more info, visit aafevv. com or call 812-423-3843. Tropicana Evansville: 421 NW Riverside Dr., Evansville, IN / 12pm

GARVIN PARK | NOW THRU NEW YEAR'S DAY (JAN 1)

Ritzy’s Fantasy of Lights - a beloved holiday tradition that raises therapy funds for Easterseals - will again brighten Evansville’s Garvin Park this holiday season! The 24th annual drivethrough display features 62 elaborate scenes. Many are animated to give the illusion of movement. More displays will be transformed with LED lights this year, so the event will shine brighter than ever! Major sponsors: Ritzy’s, IBEW Local 16, NECA, Teamsters Local 215, Electrical JATC, WEHT Local/Local 7 WTVW, Evansville Courier & Press, Lamar Advertising, 104.1FM-WIKY, HOT 96, 93.5 DUKE FM and WABX. Hours: Sun-Thurs 5-9 p.m. and Fri-Sat 5-10 p.m. Tickets are available at the gate OR in advance from any Ritzy’s in Evansville. Admission per vehicle remains at the same affordable price: Up to 6 people $7; 7-14 people $10; 15 or more people $25. Visitors may choose a horse-drawn carriage ride (weather permitting) for $30, which includes admission; no reservations are needed.

Dec 9: Dickens Christmas on Franklin

Enjoy the Christmas experience of Franklin Street with shopping, Christmas carols, performances in the park, a winter bazaar, and more. The Winter Farmers Market is returning with winter produce, food vendors, and art and specialty craft vendors. There will be horse-drawn carriage rides and everyone is welcome to join in and carol on Franklin Street. For more info, visit Franklin Street Events Association on Facebook. West Franklin St., Evansville, IN

Dec 9-10 & 16-17: 19th

Family Night! EVERY TUESDAY 5PM-Close

$1.38 KID SCOOP * PLUS TAX

$1.72 REGULAR SCOOP * PLUS TAX

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | COMMUNITY & FAMILY

SUCCESS STORIES & FUTURE FRIENDS VANDERBURGH HUMANE SOCIETY

VHS Empty the Shelter AdoptA-Thon December 15 & 16! RALPH: Ralph is the VHS’ longest resident, and it may just be a good ol’ fashioned case of black dog blues. Sometimes the solid black larger breeds get overlooked for the smaller, floofier, schmoozier variety. And that’s just silly because Ralph is great. He arrived at the shelter on July 26th. And when we say arrived, we mean he literally showed up at the front door. “I’ll let myself in, thank you. Where is my butler?” He’s a smart and very active guy who will need daily walks and tough toys to keep him happy! He’s estimated to be about 2 years old and weighs 57 lbs. Ralph’s adoption fee is only $100, already neutered & ready to go home today. And we’re betting when you pick him up, he’ll just put himself in the car. BETTY: Betty’s one of those girls that’s just not going to give her heart away on the first date. She wants you to take the time to get to know her. She lives in the Cageless Cat Lounge, which means she’s friendly with other cats and people. But when you reach for her, she may shy away at first. It takes some warming up. Since that room is often full of chatty people and lots of activity, Betty will likely blossom in a home environment. It’s just going to take somebody giving her that chance! She’s a beautiful torbie color with orange, white, black, and gold all mixed in. Betty also has FIV, but it’s only transmitted from cat to cat through deep bite wounds. She can still live just fine with other FIV-negative cats (just like she has been for weeks!) She’s only a year old and her adoption fee is $30. Come meet her!

ADOPTION SPOTLIGHT Rachel McDonald & Lake

UE freshman Rachel McDonald (an electrical engineering major, btw) has had a dog for nearly the duration of her life, a 17-year-old Terrier named Terri; she also had a cat up until about 18 months ago. After seeing bunnies for sale at a country fair in Corydon, KY, a few years back, McDonald decided that she had to have one. However, her parents were in no hurry to bring another animal home. But after the cat ran away, mom and dad made a proposal: get a job and you can get a rabbit. So this summer, McDonald secured a f/t position at a local daycare in Henderson and saved enough money to do just that. She visited the VHS but also searched Craigslist online and at places like Rural King. "But I ended up going back to the VHS, because they showed me how to properly hold a rabbit and really educated me about them," McDonald says. "They treat the animals right and show you how to take care of them - I felt confident getting a rabbit there." The second time was the charm - a lop eared little fellow named "Andy" (since renamed "Lake") caught her eye. McDonald says he's the "sweetest animal ever," loves to cuddle and even gets along ok with Terri. Even mom and dad are smitten. Another successful adoption!

GOBLIN: This little bunny is Goblin and he’s an American rabbit. He has a bit of a sad beginning, since his family just up & moved one day and left him behind in their house. But thankfully, he doesn’t let that affect his mood. He’s a sweet rabbit who enjoys being handled. In fact, he recently met more than 60 elementary school kids from Delaware during an education program and he did great! Bunnies can live for 8-10+ years and Goblin is only 1, so he’s got a long life ahead. And those pet store bunnies? Well, they don’t come spayed or neutered with fancy microchips like Goblin does. He’s only $40. You really can’t beat that. He’d love to be home for Christmas! (And hey, an insider tip… rabbits love veggies so if you take one home, you can probably get away with “disposing of” your Brussels sprouts without having to eat them!)

400 Millner Industrial Drive | 2 blocks west of Garvin Park in Evansville 812-426-2563 | Adoption Hours: Tues-Sat 12-6pm | www.vhslifesaver.org

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | LOCAL HAPPENINGS

IT TAKES A VILLAGE Canine Rescue & CARSON'S BREWERY PRESENT:

FUR-EVER HOME TROPICAL ALE Win-win: Local animal shelter and popular brewery team up to raise money for homeless dogs

mall business owner Brian Buxton (Buxton Motorsports) is all about supporting the community and local causes, particularly animal rescues like It Takes A Village (1417 N. Stockwell Rd.) In fact, he got so involved in volunteering for the shelter over the last couple of years that he wound up on ITV's Board of Directors, quickly becoming a valuable asset to the team via his marketing and fundraising skills. Buxton's mindset in that regard is simple: think outside the box. "We needed to come up with things to not only brand ITV and give the shelter more exposure - but also things where staff members aren't out busting their backs to make some money," he says, referring to the time and effort required to pull off most fundraising events. Initial ideas included ITV license plates and debit cards - even specially branded cans of Coke and Pepsi. Calls were made to potential financial partners and that's when Buxton found the perfect match. Timing is everything. Carson's Brewery owner Jason Carson had just come from a meeting that touched on the importance of championing charitable causes when

Buxton rang; the two got to talking about ITV's fundraising proposals and a deal was struck. "He suggested we do a beer, since they had just recently branded Git-RDone, a Larry the Cable Guy Cream Ale," Buxton recalls. But what style of beer would best represent the shelter? Well, it turns out that one of Carson's most popular drafts is Passion Ale, a tasty, fruit-based beverage. It served as the inspiration for what would eventually become ITV's Fur-Ever Home Tropical Ale, described as a "traditional Blonde ale, but with a twist. It has the traditional soft malty aroma and flavor, but has passion fruit, pineapple and dulce added for the slightest hint of sweetness." Naturally, there were a number of hoops to jump through first, red tape, etc., but in the meantime, Buxton got on the horn and lined up a number of bars and restaurants willing to stock and serve this new ITV-branded beer, including Cavanaugh's/Tropicana Evansville, Edgewater Grille, KC's Time Out Lounge, Piston's and Stockwell Inn just to name a few. Plus, Working Distributors is on board

which should help put Fur-Ever Home Tropical Ale on shelves all over town. "We want everybody involved to make money - a win-win," Buxton explains. Reportedly, the beer should be available now in Carson's Tap Room and in cans by the first or second week of December (4-pack/$8.99). The plan is to offer it locally for 3-6 months and "see what happens." If sales are good, Buxton hopes to expand regionally - and maybe even do a holiday beer, a winter lager or summer shandy. FYI, Buxton is just getting started on the branding tip. He's looking to create ITV clothing for both humans and dogs, hats, dog bowls, etc. - whatever a pet owner might need to take care of their new furry friend. And it's all in an effort to take the animal rescue to "the next level." You can help by purchasing a glass or can of Fur-Ever Home Tropical Ale the next time you're out and about! For more info, visit itvrescue.org or carsonsbrewery.com

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | RELIGION

NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | LOCAL OPINION

ASK THE PASTOR

THE WRITE STUFF

with Kevin Fleming of First Presbyterian Church

ADVICE FOR THE HOLIDAYS I’m breaking with the usual “Q&A” format this column follows to offer some advice as the holiday season approaches. The month of December brings Christmas, Hanukah, and other holidays. These are happy times with family and friends. We anticipate them and prepare for them. And when they come - and when they go - we may be left with feelings of frustration, disappointment, and regret. We hype the holidays so much that sometimes we can’t make the holidays live up to the expectation. For some of us, the holidays will be the first time we are without someone significant in our lives. A death, divorce, separation, or any of the other realities of life will threaten to put a significant damper on our holidays. Here are three tips: Don’t let the holidays get out of hand. Keep things simple. It’s not about expensive gifts. It’s not about threatening your financial future. Simplify where possible. Keep your expectations simple. What will make the holidays meaningful to you? Identify that and pursue that and you’ll be much happier. Don’t obsess about who is not there. Focus on who IS there. Leave your regrets outside your celebrations and enjoy the people that surround you. And have a wonderful holiday season! First Presbyterian Church is located at 609 SE 2nd St. / 812-423-6297.

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with Jonathan Gluff Christmas, Inc. (Or_Season's Beatings_)

I’

ve heard a lot of people talking about how it seems like it’s getting darker earlier than ever before this year, and I’m not going to disagree that it does always seem to take a bit to get used to the “fall back” part of daylight savings. But another thing I’m hearing people complain about this time of year is how quickly many stores are beginning to play retail music. Ah yes, the dreaded “Christmas Creep,” as it’s apparently now known. While we could prove whether it’s actually getting darker earlier each year or not, the facts don’t lie about how much earlier Christmas decorations and music show up each year. The Tampa Bay Times reported that at least one retailer started playing Christmas music on October 22nd. We have to ask ourselves: Why? Should we really skip over two holidays and start planning the third? It raises other questions as well, most notably about the increasing commercialization of the holiday. Case in point: ABC has been cutting scenes from “A Charlie Brown Christmas” - a story about the commercialization of Christmas - to fit in more ads. Let that one sink in a minute. If you’re ever looking for a great definition of true

December 2017 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com

irony, there you have it. I’ll be the first to admit that I’ve been a bit of a bah-humbugging Scrooge most years. However, I attribute this mainly to working in a retail environment and having to listen to it nonstop for several hours at a time. However, my bitterness has been validated: A psychologist in Britain, Linda Blair, told a British news outlet this week that being subjected to too much Christmas music can lead to increased stress and anxiety. She went on to say that retail workers, specifically those who work in malls, are especially susceptible to the negative effects. Having been subjected to the waking nightmare that is hearing Taylor Swift’s cover of “Last Christmas” 10 times in a 4-hour period, I have to agree. All jokes aside, it truly is a sad thing to see the spirit of Christmas so greatly reduced to marketing schemes. Crassly cashing in on religious traditions is nothing short of shameful, regardless of whether you believe it or not. Unfortunately, it seems to be getting worse each year, making it into some sort of sad holiday tradition. But it’s one tradition I can’t wait to see broken.

NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | LOCAL OPINION

NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | POLITICS

MAYBE I'M JUST with Johnny Fletcher GETTING OLD...

with Johnny Fletcher

ConspiraSki Theory

recent spate of mass murders has the online community abuzz, particularly on Reddit where conspiracy theorists go to challenge the mainstream media narrative. There, you can find, for example, all manner of differing views as to what actually happened in Las Vegas. The idea that multi-millionaire Stephen Paddock acted alone in the senseless killing of over 50 concert goers just doesn't fly with these people. Was he involved in a complex FBI operation gone wrong? Was he even the gunman? Or maybe the Saudis are behind it? After all, they reportedly own the upper floors of the Mandalay Bay Hotel where the massacre unfolded. And on and on. Of course, conspiracy theorists are still hotly debating the events that took place on December 12, 2012 at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, CT - or "Sandy Hoax" as it's referred to by the nonbelievers. Indeed, there is a consensus online - at least on certain sites - that the killing of 20 school children and six adults by 20-year-old recluse Adam Lanza never happened. Rather, it was a governmentdirected farce designed to sway the American public in favor of gun control. The parents were all actors, the kids just pawns in a twisted, high-stakes game of extreme partisanship. Is it possible? Then there's the mother of all conspiracy theories, 9/11. Holy hell, best not to go down that rabbit hole. You'll be sucked in

with the force of a F5 tornado, blown away by the sheer volume of Reddit threads and YouTube videos dedicated to debunking the hijacker storyline. Whether you buy into any of these conspiracy theories or not is your business; certainly, they can make for thought-provoking discussions. And let's be honest, it's getting more and more difficult to trust the powers that be. Yes, sometimes it really does seem like the system is rigged. Exhibit A: Recently, I happened to walk by a soft drink endcap at a local grocery store and was met with a wholly unexplainable sight - a 12 pack of Ski for $5.19. That's right, $5.19. Crunch the numbers and we're talking $10.38 for a case. Granted, this regional favorite is basically Liquid Gold. You know it, I know it. Hypothetically, RC Cola could charge both an arm and a leg for their flagship soda and get away with it. Still, something isn't right here, folks; something's not quite adding up. Is inflation to blame? Not likely. Miscommunication regarding the price? Doubtful. Or - and this is a stretch - was it simply a misprint? No, I'm afraid this all goes much deeper, and I vow to get to the bottom one way or another. Then again, maybe I'll just fork over the extra buck; that seems more likely. Takes too much energy to question things these days.

TRI-STATE POLITICS with Bryan Fox

What is Wayne Parke thinking? The Chairman of the Vanderburgh County Republican Party is wreaking havoc for no reason. Last month, Wayne Parke squabbled with First Ward City Councilman Dan McGinn over how McGinn voted on certain measures, including a tax increase and his opposition to gerrymandering. The infighting prompted McGinn to leave the Republican Party and resign his position as Precinct Committeeman. Parke also suggested that he resign as City Councilman since voters "thought they were getting a Republican" when he ran for office. This isn't the first time Parke has feuded with an elected official. He also asked for Vanderburgh County Commissioner Cheryl Musgrave to resign over her handling of the termination of the Burdette Park manager, stating, "I do not believe you are performing your County Commissioner responsibilities in the best interest of the Vanderburgh County citizens." Not sure why Parke is trying to stir the pot over petty issues. Over the years, many prominent Republicans have done un-Republican like things. Remember George H.W. Bush gave the nation the highest tax increase in its history after his "read my lips" speech. Ronald Reagan even supported the Brady Bill which allowed for stricter gun control laws. Speaking of Reagan, Parke seems to have forgotten the 11th commandment he invoked which says, "Thou shall not speak ill of any fellow Republican." Maybe it's Parke himself who should resign. The views expressed in the article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of News4U.

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | LOCAL OPINION

PATWA'S PERSPECTIVE Super Bowl Scandal Sports and music fans alike had strong reactions when it was announced recently that Justin Timberlake will be headlining the Super Bowl LII halftime show this February. Fans are stating that Timberlake should not be allowed to perform after the infamous 2004 scandal when he “accidentally” ripped off a piece of Janet Jackson’s outfit to reveal one of her boobs. I, for one, believe that Timberlake should be given a second chance; but even more so, I believe Jackson should. According to an article by Yohana Desta for Vanity Fair, the incident “sparked a national outcry, with Jackson receiving a disproportionate amount of the backlash.” Desta writes that around 500,000 people made complaints to the Federal Communications Commission when the wardrobe malfunction happened and that in response, “Viacom, furious that MTV would no longer be entrusted with future lucrative halftime shows, immediately blacklisted Jackson’s music from its channels and radio stations. Though she publicly apologized, she was also blacklisted on other stations.” Meanwhile, Timberlake’s career has only soared while Jackson has become a popstar of the past. Let's be honest, the way that our society reacted to the 2004 incident was sexist. I don’t even care if Timberlake doing that was a publicity stunt or if it was an accident. The fact of the matter is that Jackson specifically did nothing wrong as a black female performer and should not have been punished because a white male revealed a part of her chest regardless of how or why it happened. One of the most common things I’ve heard and read about Timberlake performing at the show is, “They better not have Janet perform too.” Screw that! If anything, move Timberlake aside and let’s have Jackson headline and have a redemption show of her own. Yes, she is a woman and she has boobs - and almost 14 years ago, millions of people saw one of them while she was on TV. Get over it and enjoy the game. - Marisa Patwa

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | MOVIE PREVIEWS

SHOWPLACE CINEMAS DECEMBER MOVIE PREVIEWS Star Wars: The Last Jedi (PG-13)

RELEASE DATE: DECEMBER 15TH Starring: Adam Driver, Daisy Ridley, Domhnall Gleeson, Mark Hamill, Oscar Isaac

In Lucasfilm's Star Wars: The Last Jedi, the Skywalker saga continues as the heroes of The Force Awakens join the galactic legends in an epic adventure that unlocks age-old mysteries of the Force and shocking revelations of the past. Rey develops her newly discovered abilities with the guidance of Luke Skywalker, who is unsettled by the strength of her powers. Meanwhile, the Resistance prepares to do battle

Ferdinand (PG)

RELEASE DATE: DECEMBER 15TH Starring: Anthony Anderson, Gabriel Iglesias, Gina Rodriguez, John Cena, Kate McKinnon, Paul Feig, Tom Kane A giant but gentle bull must find a way to break free from his captors and return home to his family.

The Greatest Showman (PG)

RELEASE DATE: DECEMBER 20TH Starring: Hugh Jackman, Michelle Williams, Zac Efron

Inspired by the imagination of P. T. Barnum, The Greatest Showman is an original musical that celebrates the birth of show business & tells of a visionary who rose from nothing to create a spectacle that became a worldwide sensation.

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Pitch Perfect 3 (PG-13)

RELEASE DATE: DECEMBER 22ND Starring: Alexis Knapp, Anna Camp, Anna Kendrick, Brittany Snow, Hailee Steinfeld, John Lithgow, John Michael Higgins, Rebel Wilson

Get ready to have a Merry Pitchmas. Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson and Brittany Snow headline the returning cast of Pitch Perfect 3, the follow-up to summer 2015’s blockbuster hit that took the honor of highest-grossing live-action moviemusical opening of all time. After the highs of winning the world championships, the Bellas find themselves split apart and discovering there aren't job prospects for making music with your mouth. But when they get the chance to reunite for an overseas USO tour, this group of awesome nerds will come together to make some music, and some questionable decisions, one last time.

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (PG-13)

RELEASE DATE: DECEMBER 22ND Starring: Bobby Cannavale, Dwayne Johnson, Jack Black, Karen Gillan, Kevin Hart, Nick Jonas Four high school kids discover an old video game console and are drawn into the game's jungle setting, literally becoming the adult avatars they chose. What they discover is that you don't just play Jumanji - you must survive it. To beat the game and return to the real world, they'll have to go on the most dangerous adventure of their lives, discover what Alan Parrish left 20 years ago, and change the way they think about themselves - or they'll be stuck in the game forever.

NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | FILM REVIEWS

CHAPPiE (R) DVD/BLU-RAY SONY PICTURES At its core, CHAPPiE is an AI movie. It follows a robot with artificial intelligence through an arc of self-discovery, where it learns to think for itself and identifies its status in the world around it. As with all other iterations of this plot, it tracks all the pain and setback that comes with such a brilliant breakthrough. This storyline alone is tried and true. A few examples: Bicentennial Man, Blade Runner, Terminator 2 and, of course, A.I. The difference between all of those movies and CHAPPiE, however, is not one co-stars Ninja and Yo-Landi Visser from the South African hip hop group Die Antwoord, whose acting style can be summed up in two words: aggressive and natural. Their characters' setups are a little nebulous, but we are led to believe that Ninja and YoLandi, along with their partner America, are a small gang, living in an abandoned warehouse, who do business with a larger cartel-like gang, but are not 100% affiliated with that gang. The point is that they need money, and they need to convince CHAPPiE to help them. Because he is a sentient being, this proves to be more complicated than they expected. Dev Patel, Hugh Jackman and Sigourney Weaver co-star in this romp, but it is hard to picture this film without Ninja and Yo-Landi at its core. - John Thurgood

1922 (NR)

Showplace Cinemas East 1801 Morgan Center Drive Evansville, IN 47715 Showplace Cinema North 4200 N. 3rd Ave. Evansville, IN 47710 Showplace Cinemas South 950 Hebron Ave. Evansville, IN 47714 Showplace Cinemas Newburgh 8099 Bell Oaks Drive Newburgh, IN 47630 Showplace Cinemas Princeton 2691 W. Broadway St. Princeton, IN 47670 Showplace Cinemas Henderson 406 Walker Drive Henderson, KY 42420 Showplace Cinemas Harrisburg 701 N. Commercial St. Harrisburg, IL 62946

FOR MOVIE INFO CALL 812-422-3456 www.showplacecinemas.com

NETFLIX

Netflix is on a roll with these Stephen King adaptations. They recently premiered an adaptation of 1922, and it is as suspenseful and beautiful as we've come to expect from a Netflix feature. As the title suggests, the film takes place in 1922, and follows a farmer and his wife as they grow apart and struggle over the future of their farm. Their son is torn between the two, and to make matters more complicated he is in love with the rich, neighbor farmer's daughter. The story is told through an epistolary format, which adds a creepiness to the narrative voice that gives each event a layer of unreliability. The effect blends supernatural elements into parts of the narrator's memory, especially the parts that become difficult for him to tell. Instead of looking away from these hard to tell moments, we're given a glimpse into the unknown, a nightmarish subconscious that is oddly grotesque and horrifyingly familiar. Thomas Jane, known for his role as Punisher (and maybe not so known for his role as Homeless Man on Arrested Development), carries this movie through each twist and turn. His gravelly voice sets an eerie tone to a plot that is full of the kind of suspense that keeps you guessing. 1922 is a movie that pulls at our fears until we feel an uneasy compassion for a character whom we might otherwise choose to ignore. - John Thurgood

DECEMBER MOVIES 12/1 The Shape of Water 12/8 I, Tonya Just Getting Started The Disaster Artist 12/15 Ferdinand Gotti Star Wars: The Last Jedi 12/20 The Greatest

Showman 12/22 Agatha Christie's Crooked House All the Money in the World Father Figures Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle The Post 12/25 Molly's Game

Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 â&#x20AC;˘ December 2017

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BLUES WITH BRAGIN MIKE ZITO Make Blues Not War Ruf Records

“Highway Mama” kicks off the latest album by St. Louis-born blues guitarist Mike Zito. Like many of the tracks on Make Blues Not War, it features some truly blistering fretwork. “Wasted Time” follows, a song co-written by Zito and drummer/producer Tom Hambridge that combines elements from traditional blues as well as Chicago blues and Southern rock. The title track, another Zito/Hambridge collaboration, features some excellent slide guitar work and a guest appearance by Jason Ricci on harmonica. Lyrically, it contains an earnest plea to resolve domestic disputes by listening to music instead of fighting. A cover of Luther Allison’s “Bad News Is Coming” showcases Zito’s ability to play a slower Texas blues style reminiscent of the late Stevie Ray Vaughan; Tommy MacDonald’s bass locks down the groove and Kevin McKendree shines on the B3 organ and Wurlitzer piano. McKendree also plays an important role in “One More Train” with Ricci back on harmonica. Elsewhere, the Hambridge tune “Girl Back Home” sounds like a classic Delta blues song updated for the 21st century and “Chip Off The Block” features a guest appearance from Mike’s son Zach Zito on guitar. - Paul Bragin

Popa Chubby Two Dogs Verycords The follow-up to 2016's The Catfish, Two Dogs finds New York blues-rock guitarist Popa Chubby in fine form. Second track “Rescue Me” begins with a steady guitar riff and the guitar solo in the middle of the song provides an outlet to display Chubby’s virtuosity. The piano work from Dave Keyes in the song provides a subtle but nice balance. “Preexisting Conditions” looks at the pitfalls of aging and the breakdown of the body that comes with it. In spite of the nature of the lyrics, the song remains tongue-in-cheek and contains a healthy dose of humor. “Two Dogs” maintains a Jimi Hendrix-like guitar sound, with Chubby also playing a funky bass line. Sam Bryant’s light drumming on the song holds everything together nicely. “Wound Up Getting High,” an acoustic ballad that shifts from the previous electric guitar-based tracks, deals with drug use after seeing the state of the modern world. It also boasts elements of classic country music. Instrumental track “Cayophus Dupree” maintains a relaxed vibe through the drum and bass tracks. The mellow feel still allows Chubby’s excellent guitar work to shine brightly. Another instrumental, “Chubby’s Boogie,” magnificently spotlights every musician. - Paul Bragin A Case of the Blues airs every Saturday from 11am-6pm on 91.5 FM WUEV and online at wuev.org.

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | MUSIC REVIEWS

HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD V MDDN/BMG Once again Hollywood Undead emerges from the club concert scene to drop an album. V plays to the band’s strengths with its first two tracks. Strong beats, fast lyrics, and lots of easilyrepeated lyrics designed to get a crowd excited and invested in the experience. The perfect pump-up jams for a boring commute. Unfortunately, the band’s talent runs out here. A chronic issue since their debut in 2007 plagues this album throughout: the band’s voices sound like celebrity musicians. "We Own the Night" could pass for an early Linkin Park track. "Nobody’s Watching" could be a Justin Timberlake song. Of course, Hollywood Undead is little more than a higher-rent version of Insane Clown Posse, using rap rock to sing about the issues of five well-off white guys from L.A. While there is sign of growth beyond their origins of flinging homophobic slurs and obsessing over women’s butts, there’s no substance to back up their attempts to grow beyond their club roots. One isn’t worse off for having listened to V but they’re not necessarily better for it, either. It's a rap rock album that uses neither rap nor rock to say anything powerful. - Gavin Gaddis

P!NK Beautiful Trauma RCA Once again I find myself wondering why the newest P!nk album isn’t shooting up the charts. On paper it’s the biggest album release from a female artist since Lemonade and has sold multiple platinum, but its current review aggregate scores hover around above-average at best. A damned shame. Beautiful Trauma delivers some of the better breakup songs in recent memory, stuff that lesser country-turned-pop-star acts have used to push decidedly mediocre songs into instant fame whilst a genuinely powerful and emotional album is quietly bought and adored by existing fans. P!nk isn’t the sexless, pouty pop star pumping out the umpteenth song about some random dude breaking up with her. True, breakups and emotional trauma have been a through line in her work, but it’s a running trend for a legitimate reason. She’s a passionate person with real emotions and motivations. The title track compares bad relationships to drug addictions; "Revenge" highlights that very real part of a passionate breakup where emotions run wild and cause one to think crazy thoughts. In a time when every other famous guy is turning out to be a secret scumbag, it’s worth remembering P!nk has always been 110% unapologetically herself. - Gavin Gaddis

NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | MUSIC REVIEWS

LIAM GALLAGHER As You Were Warner Bros. If there’s one thing to applaud Liam Gallagher for doing with his first solo album, it’s his commitment to what he knows works. This album feels distinctly out of sync with the rest of the world with its entirely analog instrument recordings and raw vocals. If one wants more Oasis songs, it’s likely As You Were is the closest thing we’re ever going to get. Gallagher’s solo songs still capture that same 1960s Britpop through the grungy lens of the 1990s Oasis delivered two decades ago (just before they ruined every other college party by releasing "Wonderwall"). In an odd way As You Were delivers what one thinks they want but secretly fear in a solo album: more of the same. Beyoncé elevated beyond Destiny’s Child. Harry Styles is moving in his own direction now. Meanwhile Liam Gallagher is a rock ‘n roll mosquito trapped in amber, forever frozen in a single moment in time. There’s nothing inherently bad about the album but at the same time there’s nothing separating it from being an album of discarded Oasis B-sides. If you liked Oasis, this album will scratch an itch not touched in years. - Gavin Gaddis

NINJA SEX PARTY Under the Covers Vol. 2 Self-Released At its core, Ninja Sex Party is an act intertwined with 80s rock, and once more they’ve dropped an album covering classic songs of the era. When this album is good, it’s amazing. Their cover of "Rocket Man" brings a fun twist to the original by adding a Spanish guitar backing track by fellow YouTube music act Super Guitar Bros. Ninja Sex Party’s mission seems to be to both do justice to the original songs and bring a fresh new take that still feels authentically 80s in execution. Unfortunately, this comes with some inherent problems of NSP being a band consisting of one vocalist and a silent keyboard player. Singer Dan Avidan’s silky higher register voice must work overtime to cover any song normally sung in a deeper register. Something like "You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)" loses a lot going from unapologetically rough vocals and synths to a more polished, perfectly-pitched 21st century pass. At its worst, the album gives one the feeling of being at a coffee shop open mic wishing they were simply listening to the original song. Luckily, these songs are greatly outnumbered by choices that play to NSP’s strengths. - Gavin Gaddis

THROWBACKS: A fresh look at old albums

THE UNICORNS Who Will Cut Our Hair When We're Gone (2003) Alien8 Recordings If everything is about death, The Unicorns' opus Who Will Cut Our Hair When We're Gone laughs at our preoccupation with the inevitable, and reminds us that life isn't just about death, it's about becoming famous, too. Nearly every song on this album is about death in one way or another - but it's funny! Because they are unicorns. And because “Death” in this album doesn't come from an internal struggle between nihilism and ideology, but instead from a much simpler source. It is do or die. Create or cremate. The forces at work are strictly guided by ability and determination. As each song progresses, it becomes clear that there is a certain amount of optimist that will always get a laugh when facing adversity. The Unicorns manage to push that concept to its extreme, and it works. Recorded in 2003, the album blurs the delicacies of fin de siecle, Y2K global cynicism and the never-ending quagmire of the American military industrial complex by focusing our attention away from all that helplessness and destruction. Instead we learn about the mythology of a brand new reality, a narrative of mythical creatures that rise from the depths of mediocrity to self-actualization. In the song “I Was Born (A Unicorn),” the lyrics, “We're The Unicorns, and we're people, too,” casually nod to the absurdity of individuality, but champion its fearlessness within the same breath. These songs are absurd. These songs are brazen. Above all else, these songs are a kick in the teeth to any narrative that espouses otherwise. Written (and performed) as an almost-children's act gone rogue, the arc of these songs follows the rise and fall of the fictional characters, The Unicorns. The interesting thing about this album - in a cruel take on life imitating art and vice versa - is that “the rise and fall” of the actual band The Unicorns takes place over the making and touring of this album. This could be conceptual art at its best, or a simple coincidence, but the fact remains, Who Will Cut Our Hair When We're Gone is a mainstay on the shortlist of most theatrical indie lo-fi albums ever made. - John Thurgood

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | BEER REVIEWS

DECEMBER 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. Golden Road Ride On IPA

DANIEL KNIGHT - 3.5

Here’s another brew from Golden Road. We had one last month. It pours a hazy medium yellow with a two finger off-white head that fades and laces the glass all of the way to the finish line. The nose is low key but pleasant with floral/citrus hops and pale malts. The taste mimics the aroma with a moderate hoppiness and herbal notes on a malt backbone. The mouthfeel of this brew is medium and as IPAs go, it’s right there in the middle of that spectrum as well. Give it a shot.

PAUL BRAGIN - 4

A substantial white head crowns this hazy India Pale Ale. A generous amount of hops used fills the nose when smelling the beer, with a slight edge to pine scents over citrus. The hop presence remains when drinking the beer, first with citrus notes, followed by pine in the finish. People who enjoy hoppy IPAs will want to drink this beer. It could also serve as an introduction to new IPA drinkers. Pair it with spicy Mexican food.

JABEZ MARTINEZ - 4

This is a cloudy straw-colored beer. I can smell the hops, but I like this one a little more than Mosaic Hero. It's a little lighter on the hops and that gives it a better flavor and mouthfeel for me. Even through the amped-up hops I can taste a little malty flavor.

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Uinta Lime Pilsner

DANIEL KNIGHT - 3

Lime Pilsner pours up very pale light yellow, slightly hazy and with an airy, white one finger head. The aroma is very lime followed by a light malt note. Pretty nice, actually. The taste is very light with more lime and a faint touch of those malts again. The mouthfeel is a bit too light in my opinion. That is, I’m not tasting the pilsner. This will be an appealing beer to people who desire a light, refreshing alcoholic beverage that doesn’t taste like beer. Don’t mistake my statement. I enjoyed it and believe that it’s a genuine, very light pilsner with a lot of fresh lime juice added.

PAUL BRAGIN - 3

Falls City Streetlamp Porter

DANIEL KNIGHT - 4

From Louisville, KY, Falls City Beer calls this one a pre-prohibition style porter. It pours up almost black with a generous light brown two finger head that sticks around a while and laces its way to the bottom of the glass. The aroma is of dark roasted malts and molasses. The taste follows its nose with a tasty well balanced classic porter flavor. The mouthfeel is medium and good and drinkability is excellent. I really enjoyed this one and recommend that you give it a try if you’re into this genre.

PAUL BRAGIN - 4.25

A thick white head rests on this beer after pouring it into a pilsner glass. The scent of lime used in brewing the beer starts moderately and quickly builds to a stronger presence. The first tasting of the beer highlights traditional lager flavors, with the lime continuing in the long finish. This beer could see a rise in popularity during the summer. Pair it with key lime pie or your favorite dessert featuring limes.

A thick and slowly evaporating tan head rests on this black porter when poured into a traditional English pub glass. A good amount of roasted malt notes control the nose. Sweetness from the malt first hits the tongue during the tasting, with roasted flavors returning in the finish. People who like stouts and porters will want to seek out this year round offering. Pair it with stew, barbecue, dark chocolate or vanilla ice cream.

JABEZ MARTINEZ - 4.5

This is a hazy yellow beer with good carbonation. I usually don’t like lime-flavored beers but this one's the exception. I assume it's because I can taste the beer behind the lime. I can tell it's a pilsner and it's very easy to drink. Some lime beers just remind me of a cleaning solution and become hard to drink. This one has a nice balance in which the lime complements the beer rather than over-running it.

December 2017 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com

This is a dark rich beer with a thick chocolate head. I'm a little surprised that Falls City brews it. They did a great job. It has a rich coffee and chocolate flavor and it's very easy to drink. It has just enough of the sweetness of the malts without being too overbearing. I'm glad Falls City brought something like this to the table and I hope to sample their other beers.

NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | BEER REVIEWS

Revolution Brewing Mosaic Hero

head and plenty of lacing. The nose is big with a pungent and earthy mosaic hops extravaganza where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll notice citrus, especially grapefruit, balancing lightly toasted malts and herbs, I believe. A taste takes you to where your nose has been, plus. The hops and malts balance with other mysterious ingredients and a finetuned brewing process to land a truly excellent finished product that I imagine will please most every IPA fan.

DANIEL KNIGHT - 4.25

Revolution Brewing is a Chicago brewer. Mosaic Hero is an excellent example of how well they do things. It pours up a slightly hazy pretty copper color with an ample off-white

PAUL BRAGIN - 4

A thick off-white head tops this copper colored India Pale Ale. The hop presence in the scent contains strong pine notes. Tasting the beer gives a slight hop bitterness that builds and

continues in the very long finish. Oats added during the brewing process give the beer a smooth mouthfeel. This limited edition release is a must try for IPA lovers. The 7.5% ABV sneaks up quickly. Pair it with spicy cuisines.

JABEZ MARTINEZ - 3.5

This is a slightly hazy amber-colored beer with good carbonation. It's your average IPA with an abundance of hops and a slight pine flavor. but I did notice its 7.5% ABV. Most of the IPAs I review taste the same to me and this one is no different, just the overbearing flavor of hops. Pretty hard to review, but it's a little better than ok as IPAs go.

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY.

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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2017 | WINE REVIEWS

Walter the Wine Guy FROM LIQUOR LOCKER

It's that time of year again: Wines that can help you get you through the holiday season

ell, it’s that time to just hemorrhage money that we really do not have, for things we cannot afford, all in the name of “Christmas”! With that in mind, I think it’s time to tell you what you may need to get through this season - and not so much about the gifts you need for others. At the end of the day, you need to find a way to avoid arguing with people close to you and not want to send the kids to Grandma’s house. They will get there soon enough.

Option 1. You are broke and need to wind down.

Get a bottle of 19 Crimes Red Blend, a half pint of pineapple vodka, and a can of 7Up. Fill a pitcher with ice, pour in the wine and vodka. Stir to blend, add the can of 7Up. If you have a crowd, scale it up; if you want to make it more festive, add some slices of lemon and lime. This is a quick Sangria style drink that you can sip while you are trying to do that “some assembly required” thing that seemed to be a good idea at the time.

19 CRIMES RED BLEND Use this for a quick Sangria style drink that you can sip while you are trying to do that “some assembly required” thing that seemed to be a good idea at the time. 76 |

Option 2. Want a glass of wine, but want a bigger bang.

I suggest a bottle of Cooper & Thief Bourbon Barrel Aged Red. It's really smooth, fruity, and has a slightly higher alcohol level. It imparts a slight bourbon finish with a little spiciness. In all honesty, I really like this wine. It's quite strong, but it doesn't taste it, so be careful and stay away from heavy equipment when drinking this wine. If you still have that bowl of candy from Halloween, it's very enjoyable with some dark chocolate.

COOPER & THIEF BOURBON BARREL AGED RED It's really smooth, fruity, and has a slightly higher alcohol level.

Option 3. My honey wants a sweet wine.

For those of you who are regular readers of this column, you may know I don't write about sweet wines, normally, but when I am in the stores I do get a lot of requests for sweet wines. So, if I am pressed, I would recommend Serena

December 2017 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com

Walt is Liquor Locker's Resident Wine Guru Sweet Red. It's from Italy and is made from a blend of Brachetto and Moscato grapes. The flavors imparted from this wine are sweet cherry, with a slight bit of tartness. It's a wonderful wine that can be enjoyed as an aperitif, or with a bowl of chocolate covered cherries.

SERENA SWEET RED The flavors imparted from this wine are sweet cherry, with a slight bit of tartness.

Option 4. I need a bottle of wine for my boss.

This can be hard, because you want to impress, but you don’t want to go broke in the process! For under 30 bucks, you can buy a bottle of Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon. It's VERY well made, with a slight dusty tannin, nice amount of fruit, and a nice bit of spice on the finish. If your boss is a white wine drinker, try Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay. It's well balanced, nice drinking, with a buttery, yet crisp flavor profile. Aged in French oak barrels to bring a slight vanilla note that makes this an easy drinking Chardonnay, again, under 30 bucks!

Robert Mondavi Cabernet Sauvignon Has nice bit of spice on the finish. Mer Soleil Reserve Chardonnay It's well balanced, nice drinking, with a buttery, yet crisp flavor profile. Option 5. I’ve been good and I want a bottle for myself. This is easy. I would recommend a bottle of Robert Mondavi Pinot Noir. It's a nice bottle of wine! Concentrated flavors of black raspberry, dried cherry, with a slight hint of oak. This wine drinks smooth, tastes great and works well with food, but if you want to sit by the fire and admire your efforts, this is the wine for that, too! It’s under 30 bucks and a lot of wine for the price.

Robert Mondavi Pinot Noir This wine drinks smooth, tastes great and works well with food, but if you want to sit by the fire and admire your efforts, this is the wine for that, too!

Well, we made it to the end of another year. I sincerely hope 2017 was good to you. I know that there may have been a few of you who lost loved ones, and I am truly sorry for your loss, but please know that they are the sum of the wonderful memories you have of them and as long as you have those nice thoughts, they will always be with you. Some of you got new jobs, or are in between jobs. To all of you, no matter who you are, please know that I hope my ramblings have been a help to your wine knowledge and that reading this column, at the very least, has made the minutes you spent worthwhile. Until next year, I hope you get all you ever wanted for Christmas, but most of all, be safe and warm.

Walt Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • December 2017

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