NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | TABLE OF CONTENTS
COVER STORY
12 20 40 & Under Class of 2019 Meet the Tri-State's Most Influential People
ENTERTAINMENT
10 Winter Jam 2020 at the Ford Center Part 1 of an Interview with Headliner Crowder
24 In Town & Around 36 Music: Evvolve 37 Music: Top Dead Center 38 Music: Corey Evitts 40 Stories from the Stage 41 Film: Project Pigasus 42 Screen Time 43 Podcast Corner
11 Cimorelli at the Preston Arts Center Pop Perfect Sister Act Headed to Henderson
LOCAL HAPPENINGS
FEATURES
8 The Harlem Globetrotters at the Ford Center An Interview with Hoops Green
A QUICK NOTE FROM THE EDITOR 6 Getting a Jump on December
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT 46 KK's Hair Today 47 Tri-State Security Products
COUPONS 23 Save Big!
CUISINE & DINING
20 What's Cookin': Zap's Tavern
44 Community & Family 48 VHS Spotlight 50 Tri-State Pet Pics 60 Mug Shots
OPINION
52 The Write Stuff 52 Tri-State Politics 53 Maybe I'm Just Getting Old
REVIEWS 54 Film 56 Music 58 Beer
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. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. Distribution of the magazine does not necessarily constitute endorsement of products, services or opinions within. Advertisers are responsible for content of their ads.
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|5
A QUICK NOTE FROM THE EDITOR
S
eeing as I totally dropped the proverbial ball last month
Peppermint Pops at the Victory Theatre (12/7-8) - along with
and completely forgot to write this wildly popular column
the all-female pop band Cimorelli at the Preston Arts Center
until our graphic designer kindly reminded me to do so with
in Henderson (12/14). But you should have all kinds of time to
just hours to go before upload, I thought I'd get a jump on it
duke it out with your fellow shoppers at area retail stores and
for December and avoid any further embarrassment. So here
consider New Year's resolutions that you'll never keep. Yes, the
I sit, pondering the upcoming holiday season on a dreary, wet
holiday spirit is alive and well here at News 4U...sorry, it's just
November day in the tri-state. Unlike previous years, there's not
this dang daylight savings time that's got me down as I glance
a whole lot going on entertainment-wise during the final 31
out the office window at 4:20 p.m. to find darkness already
days of 2019 beyond community celebrations (but you'll have
descending. No worries, I'll get with the program soon enough
plenty to choose from so be sure to take a look through our
and jump on the Xmas bandwagon and all. Just takes a little
Community & Family section after you tear through the first half
convincing. But enough about that - check out all the good
of the magazine and devour our annual 20 40 & Under cover
stuff inside the December issue of News 4U and have a Merry
story). To be fair, some familiar marquis events are back - i.e.
Christmas and Happy New Year!
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | UPCOMING EVENTS
HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS F OURTH Y EAR GLOBE T ROT T E R HOOP S GREEN ( R ELU C TA NTLY ) TA LK S U K 'S L OSS TO TH E AC E S , T HE P ROGRE S S OF FE M A LE ATHLETES A ND M O R E F OR D CEN TER | JA NU A RY 16 | 7 P. M. Every January, the Harlem Globetrotters roll into town to light up the Ford
It was definitely my biggest challenge coming into it because when I was
Center with a sea of beaming, awe-struck faces both young and old. In
playing overseas, it's all competitive - go score, defend and win. With the
fact, the Ambassadors of Goodwill have been spreading joy around the
Globetrotters I had to learn to flip that switch - trying to score and play
world for nearly 100 years, entertaining crowds with an infectious mix of
defense but also entertain and keep the crowd involved and engaged.
basketball wizardry and humor - all while championing character and Where do you think we are in terms of female athletes being
sportsmanship.
appreciated and respected? Now entering her fourth season as a Globetrotter, Hoops Green is
I definitely think that we've made progress over the years, but we still have
the 15th female to make the team since its inception. The Lexington,
a ways to go. But people are still surprised that there are women on the
KY, native was a standout at the University of Texas-El Paso where she
Globetrotters - the team has been around for 95 years and I'm the 15th
ranks third on the school's list for all-time wins and totaled 650 points.
woman to make it. That's not a lot. I say this all the time: women, as far as
In addition to being an inspiration for young women around the world,
skill level, can compete with the best of the men. Not trying to be cocky or
Green enjoys giving back to the
anything, but I think I can dribble
community, often volunteering
just as good as any guy. And I think
at soup kitchens and homeless
women can shoot the ball just as
shelters.
good, but it's just that men are typically stronger, quicker, faster -
Seeing
from
you know, genetics and anatomy.
Lexington, I imagine that you're
as
you're
So women probably can't play in
still reeling from the UE victory
the NBA but I think in terms of skill
over the Wildcats the other
level, we can compete.
night. I don't even want to talk about
Every
time
I
interview
a
that.
Globetrotter, I always inquire about the possibility of scoring a tryout with the squad. Since I'm
It seemed about as likely as the Washington Generals defeating the Globetrotters.
turning 50 soon, I figure my time may be running out. Keep in mind I
[Laughs] I would say so. Yeah, that [the UE-UK game] was pretty crazy. I
just ran a half marathon, so I can definitely run for an hour and a half
watched the game, and even with, like, three minutes left in the game,
straight. What do you think?
I was like, 'it's fine.' At no point in the game was I worried and then the
I mean, you would definitely be the oldest Globetrotter on the team
buzzer went off and I was like, 'did that really just happen?'
[laughs]. We may not even have to use you in the games - you could just be like a distraction or a decoy. You could do, like, laps in the stands and
You had a phenomenal career at UTEP and played professionally
interact with the audience.
overseas after graduation. But being a supremely talented basketball player is only half of what makes someone a good candidate for the
For tickets and more info, visit fordcenter.com. The Ford Center is located
Globetrotters; you also have to be an entertainer.
at 1 SE MLK Jr. Blvd. in downtown Evansville.
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | UPCOMING EVENTS
WINTER JAM 2020 FOR D CEN TER | JA NU A RY 30 | 7 P. M.
Part 1 of an interview with headliner Crowder
Year after year, Winter Jam brings together the biggest names in
wide platform. Suddenly they're at Winter Jam with all these people
Christian music, drawing thousands of fans to arenas all across the
in a room and then they're playing this song and everybody's light-
Midwest and beyond. Featuring such incredibly diverse acts as
ing up and you can see them go, 'oh my word, people are into this.'
headliner Crowder, international chart-toppers Hillsong Young &
It's super fun to watch that transaction.
Free, hip hop artist Andy Mineo and the Dove Award-winning Building 249 as well as the founders of this hugely popular annual event,
Your collaboration with Mandisa on "Let It Rain" was a bit like
NewSong, the 2020 tour is absolutely packed with talent. All that
mountain man meets soulful African American woman - seem-
entertainment for just 15 bucks.
ingly polar opposites, but it worked a charm. Man, I wish we had that quote for the release of the song [laughs].
After fronting the David Crowder Band for over 15 years and peak-
That's absolutely amazing. Man, when the song first started coming
ing with 2012's critically-acclaimed Give Us Rest (which reached
to light she was the first person mentioned. The guy that I was doing
number two on the Billboard charts), David Crowder went solo, de-
that song with, Ed Cash...we had a track that we were working with
buting with Neon Steeple in 2014. A run of hit singles followed, in-
and it was just begging for someone with soul. The content of the
cluding "I Am," "Come As You Are," "All My Hope" and "Let It Rain (Is
song fit from a distance what I know to be Mandisa. Her personal
There Anybody?)," the latter a collaboration with former American
journey she's been super open with and allowed us all in to come
Idol contestant Mandisa off 2018's I Know A Ghost. Simply known as
along with her. And the content of the song felt like, man, she can
Crowder these days, the Texas native continues to challenge his fans
sing this and it's going to be true. When we got her vocal back, me
with a wide range of material that touches on rock, blues, gospel,
and my wife were headed home in the car and I said I needed to
soul and more. In short, you never know quite what you're going to
listen to the first run-through with Mandisa and when we got done
get when this gregarious multi-instrumentalist takes the stage.
listening, I looked over at my wife and she was in tears. Listen, I've been making music for over 20 years, and I ain't never seen her cry
You've toured with Winter Jam several times. What makes the
for anything I've done. I was like, 'is that about the song or is there an
festival so special for you?
eyelash in your eye? What's happening?' And she was just like, 'oh
It's so deep with people from many different genres and there's no
my goodness, Mandisa should just sing all of your songs [laughs].'
way you can walk away and go, 'man, nobody played anything I like.' This is probably my fourth or fifth Winter Jam to be on and one of the best things is watching people that showed up and didn't know anything about so-and-so and then so-and-so starts playing and you can see them go, 'that's my favorite' and then that's their favorite band for life. Same on the other side - that artist that doesn't have a
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*Stay tuned for part 2 in next month's News 4U. For tickets and more info, visit fordcenter.com. The Ford Center is located at 1 SE MLK Jr. Blvd. in downtown Evansville.
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | UPCOMING EVENTS
CIMORELLI SE N S AT ION AL SISTER A C T: YOU T U BE S TA RS C O M ING TO H E ND ER SON F OR P OP P E RFE C T P E RFORMA NC E P R E S T O N ARTS CEN TE R | DE C E MBE R 14 | 7: 3 0 P.M . Redefining the definition of a sister act, the six Cimorelli siblings - Christina, Katherine, Lisa, Amy, Lauren and Danielle - formed their hugely popular vocal group over 10 years ago, quickly gaining mass attention on YouTube via inventive, primarily a cappella covers of such stars as Demi Lovato, Taio Cruz and Jessie J. To date, the talented California clan has racked up a billion plus views on the streaming site. And while the sisters have continued to release contemporary covers, including acoustic versions of the Jonas Brothers' "Sucker" and "Treat You Better" by Shawn Mendes, their focus has turned to original music in the form of four full length albums - beginning with 2016's Up At Night, Alive (which debuted on the Top Country Albums chart) through last year's I Love You or Whatever. Now ranging in age from 29 to 19, the Cimorelli sisters have honed their pop instincts to perfection, as heard on I Love You's lead single, "Superstar," which gives a big nod to Katy Perry style production. The group's songs have become more musical over the years, relying less on layers of vocal harmonies and more on modern recording techniques - an evolution that has allowed for a fuller sound. Consequently, this more mature approach to songwriting and production has made Cimorelli a force to be reckoned with in the pop world. Don't miss this highly anticipated performance on December 14! For tickets and more info, visit haaa.org. The Preston Arts Center is located at 2660 S. Green St. in Henderson, KY.
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | COVER STORY
D E KA R B A K E R
OCCUPATION: Musician INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Music Baker is a drummer/singer-songwriter born and raised in Evansville, IN. Growing up under the influence of an extremely musical, yet competitive family, he quickly fell in love with the drums. At age 1, pot and pan drum sets, ink pens that would splatter and many more household items lost their true functioning ability due to his need for drums. On his 2nd birthday, he was blessed with a drum set of his own. From Lodge Elementary Christmas musicals as a first grader to cruise ships, tours, and local open mic nights (every Thursday at Bokeh Lounge 9:30-12:30 w/ On Tap Project), Baker has worked hard and is still following and living his dream. FUN FACT: Baker loves basketball and tacos as much as he loves to perform and make music! NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: To make more time for students and young people in mentorship and lessons. Plus, finish his debut solo album.
JOSH DETALENTE
OCCUPATION: Vice President, Benny’s Flooring INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Business As VP of Benny’s Flooring Design Center and Comfort Investments, DeTalente is a man that wears many hats in the business world. When he’s not working he enjoys spending time with his wife Taylor and their four girls. He’s a member of the Tri-State Pros network, One Life Church, coaches travel soccer and is active in Tres Dias and Chrysalis. FUN FACT: DeTalente loves UE and IU basketball. NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: Spend more time vacationing with the family.
M AC K E N Z I E B L AC K
ALEXIS TURNER
OCCUPATION: Owner/Creator, Wicked Pour INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Art, Business Turner started her business somewhat accidentally, practicing on canvas before she pour painted her kitchen table. People began to ask to purchase her work, so she opened an Etsy. In less than six months she was scouted to be in an art show in Louisville and made countless pieces of art, including resin creations, custom furniture, jewelry, candles and much more. You can find Turner on Facebook or Instagram at Wicked Pour. FUN FACT: Turner named the business after her stage name as an exotic dancer and is also majoring in Psychology. NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: To grow the business big enough to rent a space outside her home to create and sell art.
OCCUPATION: Corporate Sales, Dunn Hospitality Group INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Business, Community After graduating from the University of Alabama, Black was excited to move back to Evansville to be closer to family and friends. She represents the third generation of the family business that has developed 12 hotels in Evansville alone, exhibiting a true passion for hospitality and for giving back to the community. Black is involved with several boards, including the Evansville Convention & Visitors Bureau where she serves as Vice President and the Salvation Army as an Advisory Board Member. She is active in Rotaract and Big Brothers Big Sisters and a big supporter of the E is for Everyone campaign. She is married to Ryan Black whom she has known since age 6 and looks forward to starting and raising their family in the town she grew up in and loves so much. FUN FACT: An avid Alabama football fan, she witnessed 3 National Championships in her 4 years at UA. NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: To reduce her shopping addiction at Amazon.
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | COVER STORY
CHELSEY ST E WA RT
OCCUPATION: Owner, Chelsey Fit Factory INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Business, Sports Stewart is 28 years old, engaged and just had a beautiful little girl! She’s been working since she was 14 but had a hard time finding her passion until she was contacted by an old friend who wanted help with losing weight. They started out training at her home gym and eventually other people began requesting her services. Stewart then moved into a commercial building and to date has helped and trained over 100 women to look and feel their best. Her passion is helping people be the best version of themselves both mentally and physically. FUN FACT: She’s really shy and still has aspirations to run the 100-metre dash at the Olympics. NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: To help people stick with their New Year's resolutions; also to be more patient and loving to herself.
ALEX GALE
OCCUPATION: Owner/ Roaster, Black Lodge Coffee Roasters, LLC INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Business, Social Gale has had the opportunity to head up some of the most heart-warming community events and is currently lending a helping hand in creating local coffee competitions and barista training sessions in the tri-state. He's competed with some of the most talented baristas in the world in various national coffee competitions. His 17 years of experience in coffee has come full circle as the new roaster, owner and operator of Black Lodge Coffee Roasters in New Harmony. FUN FACT: Gale went to school for HVAC before realizing his true passion was coffee. NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: To be certified through SCAA.
S A R A H K LU E M P E R
OCCUPATION: Corporate Relations Officer, United Way of Southwestern Indiana INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Community, Social In addition to her position with the United Way, Kluemper is active with several organizations, including TEDXEvansville and Leadership Everyone. When Kluemper went through the Leadership Everyone retreat four years ago, it changed her life. She had grown up being ashamed of where she came from and the hard things she had gone through and didn’t want anyone to know because it made her feel inferior. However, at that retreat, she learned that her story makes her who she is - and where she is now - an even bigger deal. Kluemper took that story to the TEDXEvansville stage in 2017 and still uses it every day in her work. Moving people forward motivates her and she’s always looking at how she can make someone’s job, business, community or life better. FUN FACT: A karaoke connoisseur, Kluemper cherishes the night she performed Mr. Big's “To Be With You” in a Chicago bar while everyone sang along. NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: To get her 13-year-old to see how cool she really is.
O L I V I A TAY LO R
OCCUPATION: Student & Dancer INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Dance, Art Taylor is a freshman at Castle High School with a gift for dance. She took her first dance class at age 2 and has been dancing all across the country at dance competitions and conventions, earning multiple regional and national awards and scholarships. At age 12, Taylor was invited to join the American Dance Company, a group of elite dancers from across the U.S. For the past two years, she has traveled to Poland to represent the U.S. in jazz, contemporary and modern genres at the IDO World Dance Championships. She has earned several medals for the U.S. as a soloist and ensemble dancer. Taylor will return to Poland with Team USA once again this December. In addition to being a member of Thrive Dance Company, Team USA and the Castle Chargerettes, Taylor maintains a 4.0 in school and also models. FUN FACT: Taylor is an excellent math student. “Numbers come easy to me and it just makes sense. I think analyzing a poem or short story is much harder than a math equation.” NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION: To eat healthier. Azzip Pizza is pretty much all she ever wants to eat!
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OFFICER PHILIP SMITH
OCCUPATION: Special Projects Coordinator, Evansville Police Department INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Social, Community Smith has been an EPD police officer since 2013. He’s married to a beautiful wife, Jackie, and has two children, Jasmyn and Bryson. He serves on the board of Leadership Everyone and Big Brothers Big Sisters and is also a founding member of the Cops Connecting With Kids program. In addition, Smith is on the public relations committee for the Mickey's Kingdom playground and has partnered with Young & Established to bring the Dustbowl basketball tournament back to Evansville. He enjoys being on the Mayor's Latino Advisory Council and coaching Stockwell Elementary girls basketball. FUN FACT: Smith works with his hero - and brother - Officer Ray Smith. NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: To be an even better husband, dad, officer and member of this great community.
PAT R I C K P R E STO N
OCCUPATION: Musician INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Music Preston is a multifaceted recording engineer who earned his B.S. in Music Production from Full Sail University. He realized that having schooling behind your passion can make it burn brighter. This was the inspiration behind his scholarship concert. Preston was first introduced to music by his father Willie which is also why giving music technology classes to children is so important to him. Patrick's the gift that keeps giving. FUN FACT: Preston actually went to college on a basketball scholarship. NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: To work with mainstream artists and continue to impact the community.
PAU L O M A N
OCCUPATION: Professional Disc Golfer INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Sports As Indiana’s highest rated Professional Disc Golfer, Oman has gained an extensive amount of knowledge and experience traveling around the country playing in over 250 sanctioned Disc Golf tournaments during the last 12 years. He works with local non profit Ace Eagle Disc Golf Club as well as Innova Champion Discs to share his passion for the game through leading numerous clinics and mentoring disc golfers across the nation. FUN FACT: Oman loves to chase down craft beers and pinball arcades while he’s on the road. NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: To jump into every clear body of water he sees.
JA N E L L E MULHERIN
OCCUPATION: Singer/ Songwriter INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Music Mulherin, a vocalist with Tastes Like Chicken, one of the tri-state's most popular cover bands, is influenced by Christian music, Country, Rock & Roll and the soul of R&B. - all of which she's putting into her debut solo album, Breakthrough, which will be recorded in Nashville come the new year (a shout-out to Steve Nilssen who co-wrote a few of the songs). The album's message is all about love, loss of love, the hope we find in the pain of a loss, and the "breakthrough" that propels us into what’s meant to be. Mulherin studied classical vocal performance at UE and has sung in operas such as Hansel & Gretel and Suor Angelica as well as performed music in Latin, German, French, and Italian. FUN FACT: Mulherin loves to pray and to rap - poetically flow! NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: To go to church more.
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | COVER STORY
CO U G A R M A RT I N
OCCUPATION: Vice President, Martin Brothers Construction Vice President, Martin Brothers Storage President, Electric Bikes of Southern Indiana INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Business, Community Martin is a third generation contractor who started working with his father on his 13th birthday - and still enjoys working together with him to this very day. He graduated from Vincennes University with a Construction Management Degree. Besides his new storage business, Martin started Southern Indiana’s first electric bike business selling QuietKat electric bikes. He's the head coach of Castle North Middle School Archery Team and is excited to be able to give back to a program in which he participated. FUN FACT: Martin won the state archery tournament twice when he was in high school. NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: Grow the businesses and hunt more than last year.
C H R I STY L I V E LY
OCCUPATION: Owner, Christy Lively Photography INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Art, Business Lively found a way to culminate her passion for art and photography, together with an eye for detail and a unique sense of style, into a beautiful portfolio capturing essential moments in people's lives. This year presented some monumental triumphs, including meeting Anne Geddes (a great inspiration), completing workshops with industry leaders and achieving certifications from the Academy of Newborn Photography. Lively feels honored to stand here amidst all these pillars of achievement. FUN FACT: Lively won the title of "most feared" and "hardest hitter" in her Roller Derby days. NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: To simply set goals and crush em’.
Z AC H E VA N S
L AU R E N STA S E R
OCCUPATION: Co-Owner, Staser Creative INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Art, Business Staser has always loved drawing letters and is literally living her dream as co-owner of Staser Creative. She also assists her husband Robbie with event photography in and around town. Staser has won an astonishing 17 awards for her design work. She has a 3-year-old son, River, and enjoys being a part of the Courthouse Creative Cooperative. Staser is also a member of the Haunted Historic Evansville team and recently launched a podcast, The Witness, with members of Courthouse Creative Co-op. FUN FACT: Her son River gives her a checklist every morning to make sure that she doesn’t forget anything. (Mommy got phone? Keys? Backpack? Coffee?) NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: To finish illustrating the children’s book she's been working on as a passion project with her mom.
OCCUPATION: Community Director, Arts Council of Southwestern Indiana Co-Director, ParksFest Music Festival Member of Corduroy Orbison Band INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Music, Community In a divisive time, the great uniter is music - and music is what Evans dedicates himself to bring to the community. He created and oversees the Arts Council's On The Roof concert series (which puts bands on the art gallery's roof in Downtown Evansville), runs ParksFest Music Festival to bring professional live music to the people of Evansville, and performs in popular rock band Corduroy Orbison at community events, bars, and venues across the region. FUN FACT: Despite a height of 6'7", Evans does not have a better grasp on the weather than anyone else of average stature. NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: To learn to play the fiddle.
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | COVER STORY
BEN TROCKMAN
OCCUPATION: Diversity & Inclusion Outreach Specialist, ONB INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Community, Social, Political A graduate of USI, Trockman joined Old National Bank in 2014, and has been challenged to assist ONB to become a leader in disability employment and inclusion through education and awareness. He also manages the bank's Achieve Ability professional mentoring program. Trockman serves on the Easter Seals Southwestern Indiana board, the Alumni Council of USI, the Indiana ABLE Authority board, and has been a passionate supporter of Habitat for Humanity of Evansville. He was also recently voted in as the new City Councilman for the 1st Ward in Evansville. FUN FACT: At age 13, Trockman was on an East Pony League all-star team that was one victory, one run away from going to the Little League World Series. NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: To balance his schedule and plan a vacation.
WHITNEY & TY S O N M A RT I N
OCCUPATION: Owners/ Operators, Orangetheory Fitness INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Business, Social, Sports Whitney, a former finance professional, and Tyson, a former high school teacher, followed their passion for fitness and serving others and opened the doors of Orangetheory Fitness in January of 2017. Since that time, over 250,000 workouts have been completed within their studio by their Evansville members. With a dedicated team of coaches and staff, world class workouts are delivered 364 days a year that are available for all fitness levels. The couple is most proud of the welcoming sense of community, and the second “Orange” family that has been created by their amazing team and members. FUN FACT: The Martins met in college, where they were both scholarship athletes. In addition to raising their two children (7 & 4), they also own/operate a second Orangetheory Fitness studio in Bowling Green, KY. NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: To help anyone who walks into their studio become a happier, healthier person.
G E L I N A M A S CO E
OCCUPATION: Realtor, F.C. Tucker Emge Realtors INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Business, Community, Social Mascoe approaches her real estate career with F.C. Tucker Emge Realtors the same way she tackles her non profit work: “Whether it’s providing a free education, or it’s finding my clients the perfect home, it's about taking a human approach!” Born in La Gonave, Mascoe became an American citizen in 2007. She founded Lumiere D’Education Foundation, a charitable organization that provides free education to over 147 children in Haiti. She's also a medical lab technician, a member of Kentuckiana Women in leadership Toastmasters club and a Junior League member. Mascoe resides in Evansville with her incredible husband and their two children. FUN FACT: Mascoe loves Marvel movies and dressing up for Halloween. NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: To travel to at least three countries by the end of 2020.
J O S H UA P I E T R O W S K I
OCCUPATION: Owner, Doc's Sports Bar Brewer, Haynie's Corner Brewing Company INFLUENCER CATEGORY: Business In addition to owning Doc's Sports Bar, Pietrowski brews the core series of beers at Haynie's Corner Brewing Company in the neighborhood where he resides. He spent five years at Turoni’s learning to brew and run a business alongside many friends who now own local businesses. Nicknamed "Big Cat," Pietrowski is a graduate of Central and USI, a member of the Evansville Athletic Club, the local Owl’s Nest and Germania Maennerchor, and is a Son of the American Legion. He's one of Evansville’s biggest sports fans. He can usually be found at a local game, at a tavern or brewery, in his garage in downtown Evansville, or at Doc’s, eating hot wings and taking in a game. FUN FACT: Big Cat has been a part of the crowds that broke Guinness world attendance records for football, hockey, and soccer games. NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION: To get better at being grateful for what he already has and to spend more time counting his blessings rather than worrying about having a bunch of crap he doesn't need.
18 | DECEMBER 2019
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | CUISINE & DINING
What's cookin' The
formerly
juicy and thick (by tenderloin standards) patty is hand-breaded,
known as Weinzapfel’s
venue
and both it and the crisp waffle fries accompanying it are nicely
Tavern has long been
seasoned, making for a great meal.
a fixture of the St.
Philips
area.
After
The Boneless Buffalo Wings are a staple of my Zap’s visits
taking ownership of
(especially for only 75¢ on Wednesday nights!). However, after
it earlier this year,
trying two other flavors, I may have to rethink which one is my go-
Blake Billman has
to sauce. The Buffalo is the perfect mix of tangy and spicy, with just
managed to keep
enough heat to enhance the flavor while staying mild enough for
the spirit of the beloved
anybody, but the Sweet Asian Heat is very nicely balanced without
watering hole while upping the
the tanginess. I’m normally not a fan of barbecue sauce wings, but
kitchen game.
I was really impressed by theirs. The flavor and texture bear more
I started with some lighter fare. The Grilled Chicken Salad consists
of shredded cheese, bacon bits, iceberg lettuce, and sliced hardboiled eggs covered with a thick layer of delicious grilled chicken, while the Club Sandwich features lettuce, tomato, and mayo atop
in common with Korean BBQ than what you’d find at most wing joints, and I mean that in as complimentary a way as possible.
Last but certainly not least was The Kitchen Sink Pizza, and as
its name implies, it’s the supreme to end all supremes. Ham,
a thick stack of sliced turkey, ham, cheddar cheese, and bacon, all
sausage, mushrooms, onions, green peppers, banana peppers,
nestled between two lightly grilled and buttered pieces of toast.
and pepperoni sit on a thin-yet-tender crust. With a seemingly
ideal middle ground between cracker crust and hand-tossed, it’s
If you’re in the mood for a quick sandwich, Zap’s has you covered.
a pie I feel confident all pizza lovers can agree on.
The Zap's Burger is delicious and fresh from Old-Fashioned
Butcher Shoppe, as is all the meat they serve. And while most
Whether you can remember when it was still a general store or have
Indiana tenderloins are beaten into as thin and flat a shape as
never taken the short drive out to St. Philips, Zap’s is a great place to
possible, they buck that trend with their Breaded Tenderloin. A
relive fond memories or make new ones. - Jonathan Gluff
For more info, visit zapstavern.com.
3 7 2 5 S T. P HI LLI P S ROA D
20 | DECEMBER 2019
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MO U NT V ER NO N, INDIA NA
/
8 1 2 -9 8 5 -2 1 2 1
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | COUPONS
DECEMBER COUPONS
Code 516
SAVE $4 *516* SantaClausLandofLights.com Expires Dec. 29, 2019 Not Valid with any other offer Valid for one vehicle only
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | IN TOWN & AROUND
PRESENTED BY:
IN TOWN & AROUND WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27 6:00 PM Amy's on Franklin -- Alex Hellenberg Bokeh Lounge -- Nick Hamilton 6:30 PM Carson's Brewery -- Bingo w/ Curtis Lamasco Bar & Grill -- General Knowledge Trivia 7:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Cornhole (w/ cash prizes register @ 6:30pm) Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -Bar Bingo 7:30 PM Old National Events Plaza -- Alice Cooper "Ol' Black Eyes is Back" Tour 8:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -Pre-Thanksgiving Bash w/ entertainment, food, fun & drinks Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -Drunksgiving Eve w/ Chugboat Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Karaoke & DJ KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Thanksgiving Eve Party w/ Tastes Like Chicken Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
Circus 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: Fabulous Rodenberg Boys 6:00 PM Amy's on Franklin -- Andrew Fulton 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Black Friday Bash & Sale Ford Center -- 86th Hadi Shrine Circus 8:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- DJ & Karaoke Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -Acoustic w/ Austin Sprinkles 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Black Friday Blowout w/ Ryan Taylor J's Sports Bar & Grill -- DJ & Karaoke KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -DJ & Karaoke Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Lyle's Sports Zone -- Rhino Jones 10:00 PM Bud's Bar & Grill -- Insulated Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Aaron Kamm & The One Drops w/ Crate 2Crate Soundsystem
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28 5:00 PM Ford Center -- 86th Hadi Shrine Circus 8:00 PM Bud's Bar & Grill -- DJ & Karaoke KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -DJ & Karaoke
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30 9:30 AM Ford Center -- 86th Hadi Shrine Circus 2:00 PM Ford Center -- 86th Hadi Shrine Circus Lamasco Bar & Grill -- River Basin Blues Blast feat. Tailfin Cadillacs, King Bee & The Stingers & Blues 4U 6:00 PM Amy's on Franklin -- Logan Dyer 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Live Music
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29 9:30 AM Ford Center -- 86th Hadi Shrine Circus 2:00 PM Ford Center -- 86th Hadi Shrine
24 | DECEMBER 2019
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Ford Center -- 86th Hadi Shrine Circus 8:00 PM Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -Cameron Tabor Band 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- The Valcoes Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Akacia J's Sports Bar & Grill -- DJ & Karaoke KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Lyle's Sports Zone -- American Way 10:00 PM Bud's Bar & Grill -- Insulated KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Tastes Like Chicken Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Top Dead Center SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1 2:00 PM Bud's Bar & Grill -- Josh Merritt 2:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz w/ BG3 3:00 PM Deerhead Sidewalk Cafe -- Troy "Sweet T" Miller Ford Center -- 86th Hadi Shrine Circus 7:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Cocktails & Carols KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Cornhole / Karaoke & DJ 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke 9:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke MONDAY, DECEMBER 2 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Free Trivia w/ Prizes 8:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke
9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Open Mic TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3 5:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- The Irish Sessions 6:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Carson's First Art Showing KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -College Night / Karaoke & DJ 6:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Themed Trivia 7:30 PM Old National Events Plaza -Straight No Chaser: The Open Bar Tour 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke WEDNESDAY, December 4 6:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Nick Hamilton Ford Center -- UE Men's Basketball 6:30 PM Carson's Brewery -- Bingo w/ Curtis Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Trivia 7:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Cornhole (w/ cash prizes register @ 6:30pm) Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -Bar Bingo Victory Theatre -- Collingsworth Family Christmas Tour 8:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Karaoke Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Karaoke & DJ Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5 6:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Boscoe
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | IN TOWN & AROUND
France w/ Tommy Stillwell Bud's Bar & Grill -- College Night w/ Brad Lemmons (no cover) KC's Corner Pocket -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ 7:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Texas Hold 'Em Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -The Office Seasons 6/7/8/9 Trivia 8:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Live Jams Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Karaoke & DJ Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke 9:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Open Mic w/ OTP FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: The Next Step 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Live Music 7:15 PM Ford Center -- Evansville Thunderbolts 8:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- DJ & Karaoke Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -Mitch Dupree & Ed Sein w/Sarah Werner 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- The Insiders Tribute to Tom Petty w/ Mike Mitchell Opening J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -DJ & Karaoke Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Lyle's Sports Zone -- Junkyard Stereo 10:00 PM Bud's Bar & Grill -- Ben Nation Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Evvolve Presents: NotLo wsg Mad Pritch
26 | DECEMBER 2019
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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 10:00 AM Old National Events Plaza -- Nick Jr. Live! 1:00 PM Ford Center -- UE Men's Basketball 2:00 PM Old National Events Plaza -- Nick Jr. Live! 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: JC Stone 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Live Music Victory Theatre -- EPO presents Peppermint Pops 8:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Retro Shock Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -Live Music 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Jason Lee McKinney Band J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Lyle's Sports Zone -- Akacia 10:00 PM Bud's Bar & Grill -- Ben Nation KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Blue Collar Lamasco Bar & Grill -- JEB SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8 12:00 PM Old National Events Plaza -- Nick Jr. Live! 2:00 PM Bud's Bar & Grill -- Josh Merritt Victory Theatre -- EPO presents Peppermint Pops 2:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz w/ The Sidemen 3:00 PM Deerhead Sidewalk Cafe -- Troy "Sweet T" Miller 4:00 PM
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | IN TOWN & AROUND
Old National Events Plaza -- Nick Jr. Live! 6:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Comedy Open Mic 7:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- John Lennon Night followed by karaoke KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Cornhole / Karaoke & DJ 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke MONDAY, DECEMBER 9 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Free Trivia w/ Prizes 8:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Open Mic TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10 5:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- The Irish Sessions 6:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -College Night / Karaoke & DJ Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -Evansville Thunderbolts Coaches Show 6:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Themed Trivia 7:30 PM J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Open Mic Comedy Night feat. Stupid Mike (sign-up @ 7pm) Old National Events Plaza -- A Magical Cirque Christmas 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11 6:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Nick Hamilton 6:30 PM Carson's Brewery -- Bingo w/ Curtis Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Trivia 7:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Cornhole (w/ cash prizes - register @ 6:30pm) Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -- Bar
Bingo 8:00 PM Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Karaoke & DJ Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12 6:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Boscoe France w/ Tommy Stillwell Bud's Bar & Grill -- College Night w/ Brad Lemmons (no cover) KC's Corner Pocket -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ 7:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Texas Hold 'Em Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -- Star Wars Trivia Old National Events Plaza -Moscow Ballet's Great Russian Nutcracker 8:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Live Jams Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Karaoke & DJ Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke 9:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Open Mic w/ OTP FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: Dog Town Three 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Live Music Old National Events Plaza -- The Children's Nutcracker 7:15 PM Ford Center -- Evansville Thunderbolts 8:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- DJ & Karaoke Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -Brandon Baggett Rated R Comedy Magic Show 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- On the Ones w/ Wade Baker
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | IN TOWN & AROUND
J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -DJ & Karaoke Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Lyle's Sports Zone -- Smoke Rings 10:00 PM Bud's Bar & Grill -- Jay Taylor Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Evvolve presents: RYNS w/ Beanie & Spec. SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14 9:00 AM Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -Breakfast w/Santa Old National Events Plaza -- Elf Academy 11:00 AM Bokeh Lounge -- Drag Me to Brunch Christmas Brunch! 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: Sassafras Acoustic String Band 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Live Music Victory Theatre -- Evansville Ballet Theatre presents The Nutcracker 7:15 PM Ford Center -- Evansville Thunderbolts 8:00 PM Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -American Way 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Morgan Donahue & The Left of Center Players Cricket's (Newburgh) -- National Dust J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Lyle's Sports Zone -- Decent 10:00 PM
28 | DECEMBER 2019
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Bud's Bar & Grill -- Jay Taylor KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Top This Band Lamasco Bar & Grill -- The Cold Stares wsg Corduroy Orbison SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15 2:00 PM Bud's Bar & Grill -- Josh Merritt Victory Theatre -- Evansville Ballet Theatre presents The Nutcracker 2:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz w/ Keith Farney Collective 3:00 PM Deerhead Sidewalk Cafe -- Troy "Sweet T" Miller 6:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke 7:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Cornhole / Karaoke & DJ 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke MONDAY, DECEMBER 16 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Free Trivia w/ Prizes 8:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Open Mic TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17 6:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Bokeh Poetry Night KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -College Night / Karaoke & DJ Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -- Evansville Thunderbolts Coaches Show 6:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Themed Trivia 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18 6:30 PM Carson's Brewery -- Bingo w/ Curtis
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | IN TOWN & AROUND
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Trivia 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Movie at the Brewery KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Cornhole (w/ cash prizes register @ 6:30pm) Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -Bar Bingo Championship 8:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Karaoke Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Karaoke & DJ Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19 6:00 PM Bud's Bar & Grill -- College Night w/ Brad Lemmons (no cover) KC's Corner Pocket -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ 7:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Texas Hold 'Em Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -Christmas Movie Trivia 8:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Live Jams Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Karaoke & DJ Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke 9:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Open Mic w/ OTP FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: Rodenberg Boys 6:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Yoga in the Brewery 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Live Music 7:15 PM Ford Center -- Evansville Thunderbolts 8:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- DJ & Karaoke
30 | DECEMBER 2019
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Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -- Haywire 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Static Mojo J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -DJ & Karaoke Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Lyle's Sports Zone -- National Dust 10:00 PM Bud's Bar & Grill -- Adairs Run Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jon Wayne & The Pain SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: Red Sadie 6:00 PM Ford Center -- UE Men's Basketball 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Live Music Carson's Brewery -- Pajama Party at the Brewery 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Black Cat Recording Showcase Cricket's (Newburgh) -- 2 Miles Back J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Lyle's Sports Zone -- Dirt Roads & Denim 10:00 PM Bud's Bar & Grill -- Adairs Run KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- LDNL Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Factor Primo SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22 2:00 PM Bud's Bar & Grill -- Josh Merritt 2:30 PM
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | IN TOWN & AROUND
Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz w/ Bokeh Big Band Holiday Jazz 3:00 PM Deerhead Sidewalk Cafe -- Troy "Sweet T" Miller 5:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Sunday Funday w/ Cynthia Murray & Kenna Elpers 6:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke 7:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Cornhole / Karaoke & DJ 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke MONDAY, DECEMBER 23 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Free Trivia w/ Prizes 7:30 PM Old National Events Plaza -- The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Musical 8:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Open Mic TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24 5:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Christmas In PJ's Party w/ Xmas drink specials until midnight 6:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -College Night / Karaoke & DJ 6:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Themed Trivia 8:00 PM J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Christmas Eve Bash & Ugly Sweater Party 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Karaoke & DJ THURSDAY, DECEMBER 26
6:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Boscoe France w/ Tommy Stillwell Bud's Bar & Grill -- College Night w/ Brad Lemmons (no cover) KC's Corner Pocket -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Libs Fam Jam 7:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Texas Hold 'Em Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -Trivia Championship 8:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Live Jams Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Karaoke & DJ Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke 9:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Open Mic w/ OTP
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2019 7:30 PM • PRESTON ARTS CENTER
SPECIAL HOLIDAY SHOW!
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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: 2 Miles Back 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Live Music 8:00 PM Cricket's (Newburgh) -- DJ & Karaoke Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -Bombshell 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Black Friday Blow Out: DJ Wilz, Gonzo, Kelo Kaddafi Saeed & the Band J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -DJ & Karaoke Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Lyle's Sports Zone -- Andy Brasher 10:00 PM Bud's Bar & Grill -- Matt Rogers Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Naughty or Nice w/ DJ McNaughty
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | IN TOWN & AROUND
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 28 5:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Jive After 5: Hudsy 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Live Music 8:00 PM Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -Top Dead Center 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Tapestry: The Rock Opera (tix on sale @ Event Brite) Cricket's (Newburgh) -- Glastone J's Sports Bar & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Lyle's Sports Zone -- Guilty Pleasures 10:00 PM Bud's Bar & Grill -- Matt Rogers KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Jenny's Bad Hair Day Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Torn Confidence Album Release SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29 2:00 PM Bud's Bar & Grill -- Josh Merritt 2:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz w/ Wade & Jamie 3:00 PM Deerhead Sidewalk Cafe -- Troy "Sweet T" Miller 6:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke 7:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -Cornhole / Karaoke & DJ 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke MONDAY, DECEMBER 30 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Free Trivia w/ Prizes 8:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke
34 | DECEMBER 2019
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9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Open Mic TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31 6:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -College Night / Karaoke & DJ 6:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Themed Trivia 7:15 PM Ford Center -- Evansville Thunderbolts 8:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- New Year's Eve Party w/ The Pits Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -New Year's Eve w/ Summer & The Sumthings 9:00 PM Bud's Bar & Grill -- New Year's Eve Bash w/ Tailgate Revival Cricket's (Newburgh) -- New Year's Eve w/ National Dust J's Sports Bar & Grill -- New Year's Eve Bash w/ DJ & Karaoke (no cover) KC's Time Out Lounge -- New Year's Eve Party w/ Radio Tokyo Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke Lyle's Sports Zone -- Karaoke & Dance Party Owensboro Convention Center -- New Year's Eve Party 2019 w/ DJ Shay TJ's Stockyard Inn -- New Year's Eve Show w/ 3 All Original Bands 10:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- LayLow and McNaughty NYE takeover
Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • DECEMBER 2019
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | MUSIC
EVVOLVE LOCAL DJ COLLECTIVE DRAFTING IN TALENT FROM MAJOR CITIES FOR LAMASCO RESIDENCY Evvolve founder Mitch Gilles picked up more than just a
eventually settling on Evvolve - which seemed to sum everything
telecommunications degree at Indiana University where he
up in one word.
graduated in 2017. Along the way, the Newburgh native also learned how to DJ, scoring regular bookings at student hangouts
Officially, the inaugural Evvolve event took place at Backstage
like the now-defunct Dunnkirk bar and other popular stops on the
during the first weekend of 2019 but again, Lamasco proved
Kirkwood Avenue strip. There wasn't much money to be made,
to be the most loyal venue, offering Gilles and his collective the
but he focused instead on improving his skills - which he put to
opportunity to experiment and build a following. While the early
good use on weekends when
shows featured strictly local
friends invited him back home
DJs, Evvolve nights have, well,
to provide the soundtrack for
evolved. "After seven events
birthday and house parties.
we decided to bring in some Indianapolis people to be
Post-graduation,
Gilles
the main act and fill out the
moved back to the area,
bill with local support," Gilles
settling in with his girlfriend
explains. "That went really
on Evansville's west side. It
well, so we've continued to
was a significant change of
bring in more DJs from out of
scenery as the budding DJ began to frequent Lamasco Bar & Grill
town - including from Charlotte, Atlanta, Nashville and Chicago."
on Franklin Street, becoming a familiar face on open mic night. "I hadn't been asked to do anything since coming back to town
Branching out even further, the upcoming Evvolve event on
- so I started performing at the bar and a crowd would show up,"
December 6 will feature NotLรถ, a Russian female DJ from Denver
GIlles explains. "Lamasco took notice." Indeed, his DJ style - self-
who's expected to draw a big crowd. But she'll really have to bring
described as a hybrid between dubstep and trap music, effectively
it to eclipse the recent show by the nationally-known WreckNo
- caught the ear of not just Lamasco but KC Chesser as well. Owner
which Gilles notes was the high point thus far. No matter, it's all
of Evansville's biggest nightlife venues, he invited Gilles to tag
about the experience. In truth, Evvolve sometimes spends more
team the beer garden entertainment with DJ Jon J at the 2017 Fall
money putting on an event than it makes, but that's just fine by
Festival, a very fortuitous gig. "Kevin Zirkelbach from Backstage saw
Gilles. "The compensation comes from getting our name out there
me and asked me to come play his bar," Gilles says. "I played once
- when someone like WreckNo leaves and says, 'that was amazing,
a month for three or four months and the shows were successful."
Evansville is awesome.'"
Still, it was Lamasco that held the key to Gilles' evolution as a DJ.
UPCOMING SHOWS @ LAMASCO: 12/6 Evvolve presents NotLรถ wsg Mad Pritch 12/13 Evvolve presents RYNS wsg Beanie, Spec & LAYLOW
Initially, he was booked solo under his stage name LAYLOW but wary of the shows becoming too predictable, he hit upon an interesting idea. "If we were going to do this on a regular basis, then maybe we should bring in other DJs with different styles kind of curate it to see who brings in the most people," he says.
For more info, follow Evvolve on Facebook or visit
"I've been playing with that idea ever since." Needing to brand
evvolveevansville.com.
the events in some way, Gilles brainstormed with his fellow DJs,
36 | DECEMBER 2019
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | MUSIC
TOP DEAD CENTER IT'S ABOUT TIME: TRI-STATE ROCKERS READYING FIRST NEW ALBUM IN 10 YEARS, LOOKING TO GIG A BIT MORE For local bands, there's always a danger of saturating the
air guitar and people started dancing," Hayes recalls. "It was in-
market; playing too often or at the same venues can decrease
your-face rock and roll - everyone was moving, and I was loving
the demand for the product, so
it." Or, as Proctor succinctly states,
to speak. Well, it's safe to say that
"We didn't see anybody get up and
Top Dead Center do not have
leave."
such a problem. If anything, this high-energy Evansville band - now
While some of the songs performed
into its third decade - needs to gig
that afternoon came from TDC's
more, because their brand of classic
2009 debut, It's About Time, the
rock mixed with elements of hard
guys also slipped in several cuts
rock, progressive rock and punk is
from the long overdue follow up
quite unlike any other. That may go
scheduled for release by year's end (fingers crossed). Titled I Believe
a long way to explain why TDC's shows are few and far between. Finding an audience - and more
It's Time - a nod to both the previous album and the group
importantly, a place to play - in the tri-state when your sound is
consensus that opening track "I Believe" is a bona fide single - it
outside the norm can be challenging. But rest assured this is a
was recorded with longtime musical confidant Toby Ellis over the
band that deserves more of the spotlight.
course of a year beginning in February 2018. They finished up right around the time TDC participated in the Hairball auditions
At the center of Top Dead Center,
at Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill, ripping
guitarist and lead vocalist Dave Miller has
through three barn burners, including
been both the rock of, and the creative
"Hell Yeah" written specifically for the
force behind, this powerful quartet since
competition. True, victory was not theirs
its inception back in 1998. And while
that night, but the guys certainly won over
members have come and gone over the
a bunch of new fans with their no holds
years, his musical vision has remained
barred approach. Hansen sums it up as
steadfast. "I've never been a cover band
such: "Even though we've been around
kind of guy," he notes, adding that TDC
for two decades, maybe we're a breath of
have enough original material to fill a
fresh air now."
three hour show. It's also telling that Miller begins every performance with the
You can catch TDC at Lamasco Bar & Grill
same greeting: "We're Top Dead Center
on November 30 and Kevin's Backstage
and this is what we do." And what they
Bar & Grill on December 28 (which may or
do, they do well, indeed. Anyone who
may not serve as the record release party).
attended ParksFest back in October can
And hopefully several more times in 2020
attest to that. Scheduled to take the stage
if all goes well.
following a couple of low-key folk musicians, TDC came out with guns blazing, blitzing through a 45 minute, all-original set
*Stay tuned for a review of I Believe It's Time in the January issue
highlighted by the fretboard wizardry of guitarist Ross Hansen
of News 4U.
(by Miller's side since 2003) and the band's pulverizing rhythm section featuring bassist Danny Hayes and drummer Jeff Proctor. "It was a great day because the kids were coming up and playing
For more info, follow Top Dead Center on Facebook.
Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • DECEMBER 2019
| 37
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | MUSIC
COREY EVITTS TRI-STATE'S HARDEST WORKING MUSICIAN COMPLETES MARATHON REGIONAL TOUR, PLOTS 12 HOUR PERFORMANCE FOR 2020 There's a good reason why Corey Evitts is an avid runner and
"The bulk of the crowd was under 30, so I was really gearing up to
closely monitors his diet and water intake. Simply put, he's got to
play songs from 1995 and up," Evitts explains. "But then an older
be in optimal shape to keep
gentleman came up and
up with his hugely ambitious
I would play something patriotic."
performance schedule which
More than happy to oblige, he busted
not only sees the Paducah-
out some Lee Greenwood and the
based musician cover a lot of
vibe completely changed. "Usually
territory - from Illinois all the
younger
way down to Alabama - but
but they were all getting into it,"
play week in and week out
Evitts recalls. "So I kept playing
with little respite. And that's no
similar stuff like "Chicken Fried"
exaggeration. Case in point,
and everyone was singing along - it
Evitts recently completed a
happened on a dime. Everybody
marathon regional tour - 156
became everybody's friend. That was
shows in 150 days - during
probably my favorite moment of the
which
tour, because I thought, 'man, we
eclipsed
his the
trusty
minivan
300,000
mile
people
aren't
asked if
patriotic,
are capable of this again, everybody
mark. He's logged a lot of miles
getting along.'"
on the road, in other words. The other standout moment from the But Evitts absolutely loves the
tour involved Evitts playing at three
lifestyle. Over the last several
separate venues in one night - 10
years, he's
some
consecutive hours without stopping.
great relationships with bars,
built
up
Yes, he continued strumming his
restaurants and wineries all over
guitar
the region (including places like
transported to the next destination
Bar Louie and Carson's Brewery
and
singing
while
being
and it was all streamed live on
in Evansville) and truly enjoys the camaraderie with the people who
Facebook for verification. Now Evitts is looking to surpass that
come out to see him pluck songs from his repertoire of over 1000
performance in 2020 by playing for 12 hours straight in one spot
for upwards of four hours. Equally adept on guitar and keyboard,
without taking a break. He's already got the date planned - August
he's able to cover virtually every genre of music and tailor every
29 - and is busy learning even more new songs and incorporating
show to the tastes of each crowd.
new elements into his set, including the harmonica. Stay tuned for more details!
And that was never more apparent than when Evitts pulled into Marion, IL - a regular stop on his tours since 2015 - back in September.
For show dates and more info, follow Corey Evitts Music on
Not only was it a busy Wednesday night thanks to the bar's weekly
Facebook.
wings special, but it also happened to be the anniversary of 9/11.
38 | DECEMBER 2019
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Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • DECEMBER 2019
| 39
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | MUSIC
stories FROM THE STAGE An ongoing series featuring tri-state musicians
FEATURING TAILGATE REVIVAL
SALUTE MUSIC FEST / SEPTEMBER 7, 2019
music stars Randy Houser, Darryl Worley, Craig Campbell,
Few tri-state bands have met with such immediate success
Jason Michael Carrol, Clayton Anderson and Marty Brown,
as Tailgate Revival. Fulfilling a country music void that
the event was conceived as a benefit for veterans with the
somehow existed despite a huge appreciation for the
money raised staying right here in the tri-state. So when
genre locally, this talented group of boot-scootin' guys
Tailgate Revival got the call to join the bill, there was no
quickly became in-demand after forming a few years ago,
hesitation - they were in. For Billman, in particular, a self-
packing bars by playing everything from Garth Brooks to
professed country music fanatic, this show remains a
modern day hits courtesy of Jason Aldean, Luke Bryan and
highlight of his time with the band so far (though surely
others. Most impressively, they
not as amazing as watching
made it happen with a novice
his first child be born back in
frontman in the form of Blake
March).
Billman.
Of
course,
you'd
never guess this was his first
As he tells it, the top four
singing gig considering how
performers
he commands the stage with
all rank among his favorites.
such confidence - though it
By
Billman's
certainly helps to be supported
he's
seen
by some of the area's finest
Campbell
musicians, including guitarists
combined 23 times. In other
Brad Lemmons and Curt Leek,
words, he spent the entire
Salute
Fest
calculations,
Houser, Worley, and
Carrol
a
day at the festival freaking out
bassist Jared Majors-Manley and drummer Bryce Taylor.
at
about hanging with his heroes (including knocking back whiskey with Carrol), but nothing quite topped what took
What makes Tailgate Revival truly special, however, is the
place around noon. "Brad and Kurt were sitting down in
band's commitment to giving back to the community.
this VIP area eating lunch, so I sat down next to them and
Whenever possible, the guys make their shows a charitable
told them I'd been hanging out with Jason Michael Carrol
cause, having raised upwards of $10,000 to date for
for the past hour," Billman recalls. "And they just kind of
various tri-state organizations. Above all, they are major
looked at me real weird and Brad kind of gave me a nod.
backers of the military, always looking to help those who
I then realized I had sat down right next to Darryl Worley.
have selflessly served our country. In fact, Billman reports
Out loud I was kind of like, 'holy sh*t!' and everyone started
that Tailgate Revival have provided nine veterans with a
laughing." A truly cool guy, Worley kindly regaled Billman
soldier dog via Soldier Dogs for Independence and put
with stories from his USO tours and more, spending over
seven WWII and Korean War veterans on an Honor Flight
an hour drinking and talking with the TR frontman - an
to visit and reflect at their memorials in Washington, D.C.
unforgettable afternoon he won't soon forget.
All of which made the band's appearance at the inaugural
For show dates and more info, follow Tailgate Revival on
Salute Fest back in September a no-brainer. Held at the Vanderburgh County 4H Fairgrounds and featuring country
40 | DECEMBER 2019
• www.evansvillemediagroup.com
Facebook.
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | FILM
PROJECT PIGASUS BL OOMIN GTON -B ASE D FI LM P RODU C T I ON C OM PA NY HOL D I NG AN N UAL S C RE E NWRI T I NG C ONT E S T FO R HOOS I ER H IGH SCH O OL S T U DE NT S Teenaged writers of Indiana, take note. If you've got the creative bug, there's a great opportunity afoot courtesy of Pigasus Pictures, the Bloomington-based film production company behind such high profile movies as The Good Catholic, Ms. White Light and The Miseducation of Bindu. For the fourth year running, Pigasus is holding a screenwriting contest for Hoosier high school students with the winner receiving the thrill of having their submission brought to life on camera - a fully produced film, professionally shot. Screenplay submissions for the contest must be 12 pages in length and include a one page description of the film idea plus a short intro video posted to projectpigasus.org. The deadline for submissions is January 5, 2020. Past winners include Kira Daniels (Madison, IN) Whitney Roberts and Cynthia Foulke (Fishers, IN) and, most recently, Marjorie Abrell (Spencer, IN). With so much talent in our community, there's every reason to believe that the next Project Pigasus winner could come from an Evansville high school so it's time to get typing - even if you've never written a screenplay before. "We want to tell real stories about the real experiences of young people growing up in Indiana, so keep it simple and just write what you know," Zachary Spicer, CEO of Pigasus, says. Production of the winning screenplay will take place over three days near the end of the 2019-2020 school year. The finished film will be screened in Indiana theaters, submitted to film festivals across the country and be made available for online streaming. Again, the deadline for submissions is January 5, 2020. All Indiana high school students are invited to compete. For more info, visit projectpigasus.org.
Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • DECEMBER 2019
| 41
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | ENTERTAINMENT
with Marisa Patwa FROM SPACE TRAVEL TO THE VICTORIAN AGE: THIS SEASON'S HOLIDAY MOVIE PICKS HAVE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE Sick of sipping hot cocoa under the blankets at home or tired from ice skating at Swonder all day? Head to your nearest Showplace Cinemas or movie theater of choice and check out some of the great films coming out this holiday season, including Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, Cats and Little Women. The latest Star Wars film closes out the newest trilogy of films, which started in 2015 with Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens, and transformed Daisy Ridley and John Boyega into mega stars. Personally, I can’t wait to see the electricity between fiery foes Rey and Kylo Ren, played by the dashingly dark Adam Driver. This latest film sadly won’t include Carrie Fisher, aka the iconic Princess Leia, who tragically passed away in 2016 before the release of Star Wars: Episode VIII - The Last Jedi in 2017. This movie is set to be released on December 20. Did anyone else get nightmares over the Cats trailer when it was released this past July and truly broke the internet? I say this jokingly because although I’m not the biggest musical theater fan, something about the creepy way the special effects crew morphed celebrities like Taylor Swift, Idris Elba, Jennifer Hudson and James Corden into human-like cat fantasy creatures, made me instantly want to see this masterpiece in theaters. The trailer was so bad, but the movie is going to be so good. This film also comes out on December 20. And for those in the tri-state who have a tradition of going to the movie theater on Christmas Day, Little Women might be the perfect film for the whole family. Although I’m not the biggest fan of remakes and don’t necessarily see the need for a new Little Women when we had such a great version in 1994 with Winona Ryder, Kirsten Dunst, Claire Danes, Susan Sarandon and Christian Bale, I must say that director Greta Gerwig has assembled an incredible cast to tell the story of four sisters growing up after the Civil War, including Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, Meryl Streep and Timothée Chalamet (for the ladies out there). It’s the perfect modern-day, millennial cast, even though it’s still a period piece. Perhaps younger kids will watch this film for the terrific actors in it and then go home to their parents’ book collection and read Louisa May Alcott’s 1860’s classic novel, of which the films are based on. Little Women comes out Christmas Day. From the intergalactic space battles of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, to the musical silliness of Cats and the classic girls-growing-up story of Little Women, there is a film that will touch even the meanest Grinch this holiday season.
42 | DECEMBER 2019
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | ENTERTAINMENT
with Gavin Gaddis Welcome to the Podcast Corner, your source for some of the best and most inventive podcasts around. Each month I'm offering up four bite-sized reviews, so read on and then listen in! Want more podcast recommendations? You can find long-form reviews, musings on happenings in the podcasting world, and links to podcasts I produce at my website: thepodreport.com or follow me on Twitter @ThePodReport.
BLANK CHECK WITH GRIFFIN & DAVID (WEEKLY)
Blank Check is a podcast about filmographies that's broken up into a miniseries focusing on the films of a director who had massive, early success which allowed for “blank check” passion project movies. Hosted by actor Griffin Newman (who has an encyclopedic knowledge of film) and David Sims (film writer for The Atlantic), Blank Check has covered such greats as Steven Spielberg, Tim Burton, and Nancy Meyers. I’ve recommended this podcast before but the most recently completed miniseries about Hayao Miyazaki is a perfect hopping-on point. Fair warning: tangents are common and embraced, with episodes regularly clocking in longer than the films they discuss. audioboom.
com/channel/Blank-Check
SLEEP WITH ME (TWICE WEEKLY)
Host Drew Ackerman, a sufferer of insomnia, knows the value of good sleep. With this knowledge and a comforting drone of a voice, he has created a podcast designed to help listeners fade to sleep. Ackerman rotates between one-off stories of mundane chores with fantastical twists, recapping episodes of popular movies and television, and installments of episodic serial fiction. As of this writing, he’s near the end of a fiction series about two actors restoring math concepts to a math-less world. Sleep with Me’s blend of Ackerman’s hilarious comedic sensibilities and intentionally boring content make any attempt to fall asleep a wonderful experience. sleepwithmepodcast.com
GREATER BOSTON (ON HIATUS)
This audio drama starts with the death of Leon Stamatis, a man so obsessed with predictability and routine he begins to organize the life of his wayward friend from beyond the grave. And that’s just one of the many plot lines, including a railroad-obsessed professor declaring himself the mayor of the Red Line subway and working to establish it as an independent borough of Boston. Greater Boston is a difficult show to slot into any one genre, but each episode gleefully tackles the spaghetti of intertwining narratives from different characters in a way that keeps one coming back for multiple listen-throughs. greaterbostonshow.com/about/
SHEDUNNIT (BIWEEKLY)
Shedunnit is a podcast about the mysteries behind classic detective fiction. Host Caroline Crampton dives deep into the fascinating lives of some of the most prolific mystery writers and the events that inspired their mysteries, all without spoiling the mystery of a single story. Crampton’s ability to summon an entertaining and informative topic out of something as seemingly mundane as “a lot of mysteries written in England take place on trains” makes every episode a treasure. Shedunnit is a dangerous podcast to get into for any mystery fan, as listeners will find their to-read list growing exponentially with each episode. shedunnitshow.com
Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • DECEMBER 2019
| 43
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | COMMUNITY & FAMILY
DECEMBER COMMUNITY & FAMILY Get involved and have some fun with these great community activities around the Tri-State. DEC 1: LIGHTS OF LOVE TREE LIGHTING CELEBRATION
DEC 4: COLLINGSWORTH FAMILY CHRISTMAS TOUR
Join Ronald McDonald House Charities
Since their first engagement together
DEC 6-8 & 13-15: A GOOD OLD FASHIONED REDNECK COUNTRY CHRISTMAS
for an evening full of holiday family fun.
as musicians for a church camp in
What if the three wise men weren’t really
Enjoy music, crafts, cookie decorating,
Petersburg, Michigan, in August, 1986,
all that wise? What if they were just three
carriage rides and, of course, Santa
the ministry God has given Phil and Kim
ordinary guys, avoiding conflicts at
and Mrs. Claus. Please bring your own
has expanded and flourished into a full-
home, who happened upon the greatest
camera for photos with Santa. For more
time livelihood that involves their entire
story ever told? Find out during the
info, visit rmhcohiovalley.org.
family. For tickets and more info, visit
Evansville Civic Theatre's performance
Ronald McDonald House Gateway: 3540
victorytheatre.com.
of "A Good Old Fashioned Redneck
Washington Ave., Evansville, IN / 4pm
Victory Theatre: 600 Main St., Evansville,
Country Christmas." For tickets and
IN / 7pm
more info, visit evansvillecivictheatre.
DEC 1-JAN 1: RITZY'S FANTASY OF LIGHTS
org. Evansville Civic Theatre: 717 N. Fulton
The 26th annual winter light show
DEC 6-7: CHRISTMAS IN BOONVILLAGE 2019
benefits local children and adults with
Boonville, Indiana, comes alive with
disabilities at Easterseals and features a
events to celebrate the holiday season.
mile of sparkling lights with more than
Free activities for families and children,
DEC 7: A DOWNTOWN CHRISTMAS 2019
60 elaborate fantasyland scenes. For
the lighting of the square and Johnson
Celebrate the holiday season on Main
more info, visit easterseals.com.
Park, pony rides, caroling, a live nativity,
Street with music, a snow machine, pony
Garvin Park: N. Heidelbach Ave.,
visits with Santa, a festival of trees, and
rides, photo booth, Christmas crafts, hot
Evansville, IN
the city Christmas parade are to set to
cocoa, letters to Santa and caroling. For
occur over the weekend.
more info, visit downtownevansville.
Historic Downtown Square: 135 S.
com.
Second St., Boonville, IN
Main Street, Downtown Evansville /
DEC 3: STRAIGHT NO CHASER: THE OPEN BAR TOUR
11am-4pm
SNC - one of the world's foremost male a cappella groups - has emerged as a phenomenon with a massive fanbase,
DEC 6-7: CHRISTMAS AT GERMANIA
numerous
Enjoy
national
TV
appearances
Ave., Evansville, IN
an
evening
of
exceptional
DEC 7-8: EPO PRESENTS PEPPERMINT POPS
and proven success with CD releases.
dinner theater and traditional German
Back
For
tickets
and
info,
visit
popular
demand
-
and
Christmas music to celebrate the city's
backed by the Evansville Philharmonic
oldnationaleventsplaza.com.
German heritage. For more info, follow
Orchestsra - Tony Desare gets you in
Old National Events Plaza: 715 Locust
Germania Maennerchor on Facebook.
the holiday spirit with his fresh take on
St., Evansville, IN / 7:30pm
Germania Maennerchor: 916 N. Fulton
old-school class. Desare is an acclaimed
Ave., Evansville, IN
singer, pianist and songwriter who has
44 | DECEMBER 2019
more
by
• www.evansvillemediagroup.com
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | COMMUNITY & FAMILY
performed everywhere from jazz clubs
Christmas. Adopt a dog, cat, or rabbit
Tchaikovsky's
to Carnegie Hall! He sings your favorite
from the Vanderburgh Humane Society for
weave a magical tale as Clara dreams
Christmas classics. For tickets and more
a reduced adoption fee and free gift. For
of
info, visit evansvillephilharmonic.org.
more info, visit vhslifesaver.org.
Sweets. For tickets and more info, visit
Victory Theatre: 600 Main St., Evansville,
Vanderburgh Humane Society: 400
evansvillephilharmonic.org.
IN / 12/7 (7pm); 12/8 (2pm)
Millner Industrial Dr., Evansville, IN
Victory Theatre: 600 Main St., Evansville,
DEC 7 & 14: PET PICTURES WITH SANTA
DEC 14: CIMORELLI
Have your pet's photo taken with Santa
gained popularity on YouTube singing
DEC 20: HANDEL'S MESSIAH 2019
Claus. Proceeds benefit It Takes A Village
cover music. Now composing and writing
Come to Trinity UMC to enjoy Handel's
No-Kill Rescue and homeless animals. For
their own songs, Cimorelli is made up of
Messiah by candlelight. Advance tickets
more info, visit itvrescue.org.
six sisters and has over 1.5 billion YouTube
cost $23 or $25 at the door. For tickets and
Daisy’s Pet Playground: 1309B N. Green
views and 2.5 million Facebook fans. For
more info, visit evansvillephilharmonic.
River Rd., Evansville, IN
tickets and more info, visit haaa.org.
org.
Preston Arts Center: 2660 S. Green St.,
Trinity United Methodist Church: 216 SE
DEC 10: A MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS
Henderson, KY / 7:30pm
3rd St., Evansville, IN / 7pm
Experience the magic of Christmas with
DEC 14: BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
dazzling performers and breathtaking
Join First Presbyterian Church for a
DEC 22: SWONDER ICE ARENA PRESENTS SKATE WITH SANTA
cirque artists from all corners of the world,
pancake, sausage and egg breakfast and
Come make memories with family and
accompanied by your favorite holiday
take a picture with the big man himself.
friends at Swonder Ice Arena's 10th
music performed live. Get into the spirit
Proceeds help with scholarships for the
Annual Skate with Santa. Guests can take
of the season with this merry treat that’s
choir school camp fund. For more info,
their own photos with Santa throughout
perfect for the entire family. For tickets and
visit firstpresevansville.com.
the event. Every child receives a free
more info, visit oldnationaleventsplaza.
First Presbyterian Church: 609 SE 2nd St.,
cookie from the magical man himself. For
com.
Evansville, IN / 8:30am
more info, call 812-479-0989.
her
enchanting
adventures
in
the
notes Land
of
IN / 7pm This all-female group from California first
Old National Events Plaza: 715 Locust St., Evansville, IN / 7:30pm
Swonder Ice Arena: 209 N. Boeke Rd., Evansville, IN / 4-6pm
DEC 14: ELF ACADEMY At Elf Academy, you'll discover all the
DEC 12: MOSCOW BALLET'S GREAT RUSSIAN NUTCRACKER
magical secrets of being a North Pole elf. During your training, you'll make toys
DEC 23: THE ELF ON THE SHELF - A CHRISTMAS MUSICAL
Step into a simpler time filled with sweet
at Santa's workshop, slide down Magic
Featuring an original story and score,
dreams and Christmas magic. Experience
Mountain, have a snowball fight, get your
dazzling
world-class artists, over 200 dazzling
photo with Santa & Mrs. Claus, bust a
wondrous moments that make even the
costumes, stunning sets, towering puppets
move at a dance party and get your official
most cynical believe, this momentous
and soaring birds. Don’t miss your chance
elf badge! For tickets and more info, visit
celebration of the season leaves spirits
to ring in the holidays with this acclaimed
oldnationaleventsplaza.com.
high and captivates all with the splendor
Christmas extravaganza. For tickets and
Old National Events Plaza: 715 Locust St.,
of Christmas. For tickets and more info,
more info, visit oldnationaleventsplaza.
Evansville, IN / 9am
visit oldnationaleventsplaza.com.
Evansville, IN / 7pm
DEC 13-14: VHS HOLIDAY ADOPTION EVENT Every pet deserves a loving home for
and
costumes,
and
Old National Events Plaza: 715 Locust St.,
com. Old National Events Plaza: 715 Locust St.,
sets
DEC 14-15: EVANSVILLE BALLET THEATRE PRESENTS TCHAIKOVSKY'S THE NUTCRACKER
Evansville, IN / 7:30pm
Featuring live orchestral music by the Evansville
Philharmonic
Orchestra,
Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • DECEMBER 2019
| 45
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
KK'S HAIR TODAY THE DEFINITION OF RESILIENT: DESPITE SETBACKS, NORTH SIDE SALON OWNER PERSEVERES AND PROSPERS They say that nothing worth having comes easy, and Kelly
hair - I'm new but I'm really good.'"
Koressel-Henning, owner of KK's Hair Today on Evansville's north side, can surely attest to that. A banker for most of her
Koressel-Henning was so good, in fact, that when academy
adult life, she long harbored the dream of becoming a stylist
owner Roger Hayden came to speak at her graduation in
and owning her own salon but motherhood beckoned and
2011, he lavished praise on her. "He said that in 35 years
money became a priority - which made what happened in
he'd never seen anyone do what I'd done when I was in
November 2008 particularly devastating. "I had continued
school," she recalls. All total, she left Roger's with 65 clients
to pursue my banking career and moved up the ranks - and
- who all followed Koressel-Henning to both of the local
then the economy crashed," Koressel-Henning recalls. "I
salons where she was employed as a stylist over the last
lost my job and then in January [of 2009] my husband asked
eight years or so. "Client retention is my specialty," she
for a divorce."
proudly states.
With no steady income, she was tasked with taking odd jobs
Now she's put that care and attention into her very own
to keep afloat - everything
salon. Four
from babysitting to walking
Koressel-Henning
dogs - but still kept thinking
realized her lifelong dream,
about beauty school, even
opening KK's Hair Today
after being kicked out of
on Evansville's north side -
her home and spending
and wasted no time putting
the night in her car. Rather
together a dynamic team of
than go into an emotional
stylists and barbers (whom
tailspin,
however,
Koressel-Henning
became
months
ago, finally
more
she absolutely loves), hiring 11 of the city's best with plans
determined than ever, "couch-surfing" with compassionate
to bring a few more in to fill out the 14 booths. Having now
friends while preparing to make the most important call of
reached the 200 client mark, Koressel-Henning is as busy
her life. "I contacted Roger's Academy of Hair Design on a
as ever but has no plans to slow down; she's got her eye
Thursday and started the following Tuesday," she notes. It
on making KK's a one-stop shop with makeup, massage,
would be several months before a student loan for living
nail service and more - but most importantly, fostering
expenses came through, finally putting an end to her
an educational environment with classes offered for the
nomadic existence - by which time she had hustled her way
community. "I am not only interested in growing my own
to being booked solid on the floor at Roger's. "They told me
business - I want to see everyone else grow theirs and be at
at the beauty school that most hairdressers take 3-5 years
their highest potential," she says.
to really make it, and I was like, 'mama don't have that kind of time' - so I was not shy," Koressel-Henning says. "I would
For more info, follow KK's Hair Today on Facebook.
go places and give people my card and say, 'let me do your
737 North Park Dr. | Evansville, Indiana | 812-760-6109
46 | DECEMBER 2019
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
TRI-STATE SECURITY PRODUCTS
L-R: M arvin & Tracy L ewis, A ndrea Santars iero & David Chess or
ONLINE COMPANY PARTNERING WITH FELTS LOCK & ALARM TO PROVIDE NON LETHAL SECURITY PRODUCTS TO THE TRI-STATE Keeping the tri-state safe has long been the goal of Marvin and
To help keep the community safe over the holiday season,
Tracy Lewis, owners of Tri-State Security Products (TSSP), an
TSSP will be offering a Stun Gun/Pepper Spray Package for
online company that offers over 500 items for your protection,
just $25 at Felts. And while you're there, be sure to check out
including stun guns, pepper sprays and tasers. Until recently,
all the great products available at this complete Residential
TSSP serviced the community's security needs strictly online at
& Commercial security solutions provider, including locks,
tristatesecurityproducts.com but now the Lewises have formed
alarms, CCTV and safes - not to mention the very popular
a mutually beneficial partnership with Felts Lock & Alarm - a
doorbell monitoring systems that allow you to keep watch
longstanding, locally-owned business - to offer their popular
over your home at all times and ward off those pesky porch
products at the Felts brick and mortar store on Evansville's east
pirates. Felts Marketing Mgr. Andrea Santarsiero is thrilled to
side (4000 E. Indiana St.). It's a whole new era for safety, giving
be able to offer both sides of the security equation at the store;
people who need protection immediately - or who simply
in fact, it was her idea to partner with TSSP. "We offer different
don't feel comfortable shopping online - the opportunity to
products but it's the same concept: keeping people safe," she
stop in at Felts and buy the products right off the shelf.
says.
Combined, Felts and TSSP claim over a century of dedication
Keep in mind that TSSP's most popular product, the Lip Stick
to keeping the tri-state safe. And with the holiday season
Stun Gun, makes for a great stocking stuffer this holiday
fast-approaching and a rise in local crime, the timing of this
season - and be sure to visit tristatesecurityproducts.com to
partnership could not be better. As Marvin Lewis notes, "we're
take a look at all of the non lethal security products on offer
catching up with other cities in terms of violence. There's an
to help keep you and your family safe this holiday season and
uptick in burglaries and assaults, shootings and stabbings."
beyond.
He also points out that with daylight savings time now in effect, the darker days afford criminals more opportunities to
For
strike, especially with so many people out shopping, easily
feltsonline.com.
more
info,
visit
tristatesecurityproducts.com
and
distracted by their tasks at hand and subsequently vulnerable to predators.
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | COMMUNITY & FAMILY
SUCCESS STORIES & FUTURE VANDERBURGH HUMANE SOCIETY
PLEASE CONSIDER DONATING TO THE VHS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON It takes a huge amount of money to care for the large number of animals that the VHS houses and to keep their lifesaving mission pushing forward. Every little bit helps and the best way you can support the shelter is to make a monetary donation.
Each month we’ll be checking in with the VHS for the latest good news and to help find furever homes for some of their more unique/older residents.
To donate in person, visit the shelter's main lobby Tuesday-Saturday, 9am-6pm. To mail in a donation, send in a check or money order made payable to VHS: Vanderburgh Humane Society
QUINN: Quinn is a front-declawed female brown tabby cat. She is laid-back and makes no fuss about living with other cats. She is doing great at River Kitty Cat Café, where she’s currently living! Quinn has also lived successfully with children in her previous home. Her adoption fee is $60 and she’ll go home spayed, vaccinated, and microchipped for that price. River Kitty is open Tuesday-Sunday, so make a reservation online and go visit her!
CHARLIE: Charlie is a gorgeous male yellow Lab mix. He is 1 ½ years old. He’s an energetic boy who does well with other dogs! He was surrendered in August for his family not having enough time; adopted; and then returned for being a young, exuberant dog. Puppies are cute until they grow up into big dogs, of course! His adoption fee is $110 and includes his neuter, microchip, vaccines, and more. Contact Vanderburgh Humane at (812) 426-2563 for adoption details!
P.O. Box 6711 Evansville, IN 47719
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from the VHS! SPUTNIK: Sputnik is a little female rat! She’s only about two months old. She and her many siblings (all given space-related names) came in from a family that got overwhelmed with too many rats. Ratties make great pets, and they are very social & smart! They are especially good starter pets for kids. Their lifespan is 2-3 years, which is another good reason you can choose a rat for your kiddos to see how they handle the responsibility of a shorter-term pet (unlike a rabbit or guinea pig.) Sputnik and her siblings’ adoption fees are only $5 each! (Cage & supplies not included.)
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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Come make some memories with family and friends at Swonder Ice Arena’s 10th Annual Skate with Santa. The Holiday Skating Session will be from 4:00-6:00pm. Guests can take their own photos with Santa throughout the event. Every child receives a free cookie from the magical man himself. The event will also feature an auction and holiday refreshments. For more information call (812)479-0989
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | OPINION
THE WRITE STUFF with Jonathan Gluff
Living In a Millennial World (Or "Here Comes the Boom[er]") Making fun of so-called “Boomers” is a long-running past-time of various internet subcultures that has suddenly boiled over to the mainstream consciousness with the explosion of the “OK Boomer” meme. While ostensibly meant only to deride the generation known as “Baby Boomers,” the phrase has come to be used toward anyone displaying an inability to see another’s perspective or to consider anyone’s feelings but their own, and almost always meant as at least somewhat tongue-in-cheek. To quote a statement I’ve seen various forms of in more than one online discussion, “Boomer is a state of mind.” Incidentally, this has lead to a great influx of actual Baby Boomers getting very angry at the statement. (The irony that many of those whining the loudest have called Millennials “snowflakes” countless times is apparently lost on them.) With senior VP of the AARP, Myrna Blyth, addressing the cultural phenomenon by saying "OK, Millennials. But we're the people [who] actually have the money" (a statement for which the AARP has since apologized) and conservative New York radio show host Bob Lonsberry comparing it to a particular racial epithet, it’s clear that it’s touching more than a few nerves. But besides the hilarity of generational trolling, it really does reflect
on a seemingly never-ending cycle in our society: Every generation complains about every other generation besides their own. Older generations will inevitably say the younger ones are lazy. Younger generations will say the older is out of touch or has set them up to fail in one way or another. And like so many other societal issues, both are somewhat correct yet also somewhat wrong. People complaining about “participation trophies”: Who gave them out? The very generations now complaining about them. Who condescendingly (but often correctly) mocks “safe spaces”? The same ones complaining when someone kneels during the sporting events. Who complains about Millennials not working hard enough? The same ones whose generation helped ruin the economy, fed the military-industrial complex, and busted unions. Of course, that’s not to say Millennials/Gen Z are blameless. Social media “slacktivism” often replaces actual action to bring change, posting simply for “Likes” sometimes supersedes actual human interaction, and yeah - maybe we can sometimes be guilty of feeling a little too sorry for ourselves. So before you hit send on that “10-4, Dinosaur” snarky comment, maybe pull your post up by the bootstraps and be a little more positive.
TRI-STATE
POLITICS with Bryan Fox
BIG WIN ON ELECTION NIGHT FOR DEMS
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How could this happen? Local Dems had nothing going for them in this election. There was no mayoral candidate to contest Winnecke, the GOP spent more money in its quest to take over the city council, and there was infighting occurring within the Democratic party (call it the October surprise) with former chair Scott Danks spending his own money on campaign mailers attacking the only two Democratic incumbents, Missy Mosby and Jonathan Weaver. Yet, the Dems were able to win and win convincingly; when the next session begins in January they
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | OPINION
MAYBE I'M JUST GETTING OLD... with Johnny Fletcher
THE GIFTS OF CHRISTMAS PAST Like most kids, growing up I used to bug my parents to get me particular things for Christmas - usually pointless stuff that would hold my attention for a few months before being consigned to the back of my bedroom closet. I can distinctly recall asking for a Charlie McCarthy doll one year because I'd become fascinated by a then-popular ventriloquist whose name escapes me. Charlie still sits in a rocking chair inside said bedroom closet to this day, staring straight ahead with a wry, creepy smile. For decades he's waited, hoping against hope that I will rescue him from my parents' home and together we'll take the entertainment world by storm, relegating Jeff Dunham and, uh, all those other really popular ventriloquists out there to the dustbin of history. Clearly, it could still happen; however, currently I am busy writing this monthly column. Then there was the year that I begged, cajoled and pleaded with my parents to help me become a synth pop idol à la the crop of new wave stars on MTV. At the time, the Yamaha DX7 was quickly becoming the keyboard of choice for many, including my heroes Depeche Mode, who used it quite a bit on their 1984-85 tour. Well, they had one on stage, anyway, when I saw them in Carbondale, IL. And that clinched
will have a 7-2 majority. The party chalked up a huge win for new county chairman Edie Hardcastle which surely has the GOP scratching their heads. Chances are it will be Winnecke's final term, and he was probably hoping to have it easy getting his initiatives passed. Not so fast, say the city voters. To add insult to injury, the GOP couldn't even win the seat in the ruby red First Ward which saw Democrat Ben Trockman emerge victorious over Tim O'Brien by 185 votes. The Dems were also able to hold their seats in
it. I was certain that procuring a DX7 would alter my very existence and make all the misery of acne and other high school woes worth the daily struggle. But there was a slight catch. You see, the DX7 was not exactly cheap. And my parents were hardly excited about the prospect of spending several thousand dollars on a pipe dream. So we struck a compromise: Yamaha's much less expensive DX21. Possibly one of the thinnest-sounding keyboards ever produced with an inexplicable number of useless brass and organ patches that truly grated on the ears, it could still sound decent with enough reverb and other effects piled on - but even then I couldn't conjure any real magic. Perhaps it had more to do with my inability to play particularly well or write good songs, but no matter. The unexpected - and truly fascinating - twist here is that I have continued to use the DX21 for various music projects over the years - even employing the occasional organ sound. I've even considered bringing Charlie McCarthy out of retirement to front that synth pop band I always dreamed of now that I'm too old for the limelight. He, on the other hand, is ageless.
the Second Ward and At-Large while picking up an At-Large seat as well - not to mention the Third Ward which saw Stephen Melcher, a Democrat-turned-Republican, lose the seat he previously held as a Dem. The Second and Third Wards were both decided by less than 100 votes combined but a win is a win. The only bright spot for the GOP was Fifth Ward councilman Justin Elpers, an incumbent, holding his seat, winning by almost 500 votes in this swing ward. Perhaps that was the GOP's problem:
not enough incumbents with Elpers being the only one on the ballot. With 2023 looking to be an open seat for the mayor's race, this year's election spells great news for the Dems moving forward. After a fairly disastrous election cycle in 2015, many thought the Dems were leaving the city. Voters in this election proved otherwise and moving forward the local GOP will need to regroup if they want to stop the bleeding and get voters excited in 2023 to vote Republican.
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | FILM & TV REVIEWS
FILM & TV REVIEWS BOJACK HORSEMAN NETFLIX
BoJack Horseman is a great show about a strange world full of both humans and anthropomorphic animals. With Will Arnett as the titular horse who’s a washed-up ‘90s sitcom star, it’s improved each season. However, the sixth season has the same problem as the original - a dull first half. There are few laugh-out-loud moments and even fewer fast-paced, witty backand-forths between characters than previous seasons. It’s mostly a rehash of previous storylines, setting up the series finale, but little else; the new relationships developed by Diane and Mr. Peanut Butter seem fruitless, while BoJack, Todd, and Princess Carolyn float along aimlessly. Here’s hoping Part 2 (due January 31, 2020) is a little more engaging.- Jonathan Gluff
LETTERKENNY HULU
If you haven’t seen Letterkenny yet, I can best describe it as Trailer Park Boys crossed with It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia. Centered around a group of four Canadian rednecks (a brother and sister along with two of their friends, just like Sunny) working on their family farm, it’s fastpaced, funny, and endlessly quotable. One minor quibble with this season: While the initial concept of the group starting their own local-access call-in show is hilarious, it gets drawn out a few episodes too many. Luckily, they recover in time to deliver three solid episodes to round out the season, barely avoiding jumping the shark. Here’s hoping season 8 gives us more to laugh aboot again. - Jonathan Gluff
WATCHMEN HBO
HBO’s new series based on the classic Alan Moore/Dave Gibbons graphic novel of the same name takes place 34 years later in our present day of 2019. Fans only familiar with the movie may be in for a few surprises as the show strictly follows the canon of the books, not Zak Snyder’s 2009 slow-mo schlockfest. Despite the usual lack of endorsement from Moore, showrunner Damon Lindelof of Lost fame delivers a show that both remains faithful to the source material and has a message that resonates with current issues just like the original did. With top-notch writing, acting, and directing, it’s enough to please even the staunchest OG Watchmen fan (myself included). ” - Jonathan Gluff
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | MUSIC REVIEWS
BIG THIEF Two Hands 4AD Big Thief are having a big year. Not only is Two Hands their second album of the year - it’s their second great album of the year. Though it doesn’t quite reach the heights of its sister album U.F.O.F., Two Hands offers a collection of ten folk rock songs that are nearly as good. As always, singer/songwriter Adrianne Lenker’s lyrics are exceptional - truly one of the best lyricists of our time. On Two Hands, Big Thief accentuate Lenker’s songwriting with their rawest album yet. Highlights, like lead single “Not” or standout track “Shoulders,” combine the beauty of Big Thief’s signature sound with an added element of ugliness in scratchy vocals and dirty guitar solos. While not Big Thief’s masterpiece, Two Hands is a wonderful album by a band with a remarkable track record. - Russ Finn
CATE LE BON & BRADFORD COX Myths 004 Mexican Summer Every year, record label Mexican Summer holds the Marfa Myths festival in Marfa, Texas. During the run of each festival, the label takes two artists (one from Mexican Summer and one outsider) to create a unique release as part of their Myths EP series. The fourth installment features Welsh singer/songwriter Cate le Bon collaborating with Deerhunter frontman Bradford Cox to create an experimental EP full of weirdness and humor. This short collection has no singular sound to it as le Bon and Cox play off each other’s artistic sensibilities to create brief instrumental interludes, bizarre songs about firefighters, and the hilarious closing track, “What Is She Wearing.” If you are a fan of either artist’s work, this is a must-listen EP that shows how much fun can be had when two serious musicians let loose and collaborate together. - Russ Finn
LINGUA IGNOTA Caligula Profound Lore Records Lingua Ignota is the moniker for multiinstrumentalist Kristin Hayter’s experimental music project. Combining elements of metal, opera, classical, and countless other intricacies, Lingua Ignota’s third album, Caligula, is one of this year’s most original releases. The album has a persistent dark mood that carries you into the pits of hell, where Lingua Ignota cultivates a demonic, avant-garde atmosphere. Themes of domestic violence and revenge fantasies are everpresent in Hayter’s feminist lyrics, which are paired well with her shifting contrasts of minimalist instrumentation and maximalist walls of harsh noise. Calling Caligula a metal album would be a disservice to the originality of Lingua Ignota’s overall sound; however, the project will probably be most enjoyed by fans of extreme metal genres. - Russ Finn
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THE DESERT SESSIONS Vol. 11 & 12 Man's Ruin Records This collaborative collective of Queens of the Stone Age mastermind Josh Homme returns after 16 years. True to form, the album is full of big-name guests and experimentation. Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top sings the lead vocal on opener “Move Together,” a slow burn that surges into a stomping march. He lends guitar to it and the trippy “Noses In Roses Forever.” British comedian Matt Berry plays organ on the tongue-in-cheek “Chic Tweets,” k.d. lang’s haunting vocal carries “If You Run,” and Jake Shears of Scissor Sisters leads the punky rave-up “Crucifire” and “Something You Can’t See” (which would be a bonafide pop hit in a just world). A solid collection of tracks despite a few missteps. - Jonathan Gluff
THE JANGLE SHEEP Shepherd the Strange Self-Released Evansville's premier jam band is back with the follow-up to 2017's Leave Me Satisfied which proved these guys have serious, serious chops. Guitarists Mike Cassidy and Travis Horton continue their fretboard assault on Shepherd the Strange, albeit with a more weed-influenced feel. While the band's previous release featured elements of rock - even venturing into near punk rock at times - this latest batch errs more on the side of funky, late night ganja musical explorations. In fact, lead single "Thomas Jefferson," a mashup of Red Hot Chili Peppers and Bob Marley, seems to address that very topic. One thing remains the same here - the insanely good rhythm section featuring bassist Jake Bethel and drummer Sean Adams. Together, they keep every track on course, driving songs like "F(unk)," and "Mind Games" forward with ferocious intensity while laying back in the pocket for the spacey vibes of "Innuendo" and "Electric Lie." But really, it's vocalist Horton who steers the ship, sounding more confident than ever on the aforementioned "F(unk)" and the Strokesesque "Brainbird," switching effortlessly from rapid-fire wordplay to melodic crooning. Shepherd the Strange is available on all major streaming sites. Johnny Fletcher
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | MUSIC REVIEWS
Blues with Bragin REBEKAH MELDRUM Rebekah Meldrum Self-Released Rebekah Meldrum bursts onto the scene with her self-titled debut. “Set Your Soul Free” starts things off with some heavy guitar from Paul Holdman and fine harmonica courtesy of Tad Robinson. The depth in Meldrum’s voice fits well with the lyrics about finding purpose in life during hard times and enjoying the journey. Meldrum discusses her love of alcoholic beverages on “Whiskey and Wine.” Holdman’s guitar in the middle of the song serves as the perfect complement to drinking in an intimate music venue. “Far Away” discusses the perennial theme of wanting to travel somewhere else. Patrick Long takes over on the harmonica and provides a nice balance.
R.E.M. Monster (25th Anniversary) Warner Records After years of teetering on the brink of mainstream success, college music darlings R.E.M. blew the doors down with the one-two punch of 1991's Out of Time and 1992's Automatic for the People - both acousticbased, downbeat offerings that truly cut the cord, leaving the band's jangly guitar beginnings behind for a more nuanced, mature musical approach. While this unexpected evolution translated to big sales and a run of chart hits including "Losing My Religion" and "Everybody Hurts," it didn't translate to live performances. But after a couple years off the road, R.E.M. were itching to get back out and prove something - specifically, that they could still rock. And thus, Monster was born. Determined to create a collection of songs that would fill arenas with a big sound and give singer Michael Stipe a reason to move with more than a little swagger, the band went all out glam, building the new material around Peter Buck's heavily distorted guitar riffs that oozed tremolo. And it worked - for the most part. Opening track and lead single "What's the Frequency, Kenneth?" announced the album with melodic authority and tracks like "Crush with Eyeliner," "Star 69" and "Bang and Blame" certainly lived up to Monster's billing as a swampy - even sexy - sort of affair. Ultimately, though, the concept came across as a bit forced; several songs outstayed their welcome while others were near re-treads of previous singles ("Strange Currencies," in particular). Still, it's a release worthy of re-examination. This 25th anniversary edition features a new mix that resurrects Stipe's vocals buried in the original recording underneath layers of ringing guitar. Doesn't make Monster any better, but for those who really get into the enigmatic frontman's lyrics, it's a plus. - Johnny Fletcher
David Murray’s bass on “Ain’t Thinking Bout You” provides a funky beat. “Gypsy” talks about a free-spirited woman and allows all of the musicians to showcase their talents. Meldrum and Holdrum wrote the ballad “I’m Here” in memory of family and friends who committed suicide and the song offers a helping hand and a note of encouragement to people considering suicide. As an added bonus, the musicians will donate a portion of the song’s proceeds to suicide prevention. - Paul Bragin
THE BROOKLYN PIZZAIOLOS Right Outta Da Oven Self-Released This Kickstarter-funded EP detailing a passion for the "za" opens up with “Grab a Slice,” a song where La Rita Gaskins talks about the power of pizza to improve bad situations, help clear your head and provide peace during stressful times. Arthur Neilson’s guitar in the second half of the song is masterfully played. “Brooklyn Pizza Blues” features Gaskins singing over Neilson’s guitar and Kenny Aaronson’s heavy bass about her love of pizza from Brooklyn and how even though she moved away, her heart remains in a Brooklyn pizza parlor. Despite eating pizza in other cities, Brooklyn pizza still rises to the top of her list. The song “Inner Pigeon” features soulful guitar from Neilson and the organ playing from Rob Clores provides a great background for the song. “Grab a Slice NYC” features Maria Muldaur on vocals singing the first verse instead of Gaskins. Listen to this short album at your local pizza parlor with your favorite pie, friends, some beer or wine and your favorite Italian desserts like tiramisu, gelato and cannoli. - Paul Bragin
A Case of the blues is on Saturday from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on 91.5-FM WUEV, online at wuev.org and on the TuneIn radio app. Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • DECEMBER 2019
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | 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. YAZOO HEFEWEIZEN
GOOSE ISLAND CHRISTMAS IPA
JONATHAN GLUFF - 4.25
While Goose Island’s Christmas IPA has been a yearly staple of their lineup for nearly 20 years, this year is the first they’ve offered it in a can. Aside from that, it’s the same malty goodness I’ve come to expect from this annual offering: Rich, smooth, and creamy with a touch of chocolate, but not terribly hoppy. It’ll keep you warm during the cold Midwestern winters (the 7.5% ABV helps a little with that, too).
PAUL BRAGIN - 4.5
A thick off white head tops this dark brown IPA and evaporates slowly. A blend of hops and spices control the scent profile. The first sip of the beer gives some balance with malt flavors along with hops and spices in the long finish. This is a great beer to have on hand during the Christmas season. Drink it while sitting by a roaring fire and pair it with your favorite meal during the holidays.
JABEZ MARTINEZ - 4.5
This beer pours a rich brown color. It has the extra hops flavor but is very easy to drink. I can taste the cinnamon, clove and other spices. While this beer has an ABV of 7.5%, the alcohol “flavor” is well hidden; usually, there's a little warming effect. This is a great Christmas beer.
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JONATHAN GLUFF - 4
Hefeweizens are usually pretty consistent, and Yazoo’s take on the classic weissbier is no exception. Despite the strong scent of banana on the nose, the taste is surprisingly robust. With wheat on the front of the palate followed by a touch of cloves on the back, it makes for a refreshing blend of flavors. It’s completed by a crisp, clean finish that ties up the taste nicely. Enough flavor for craft beer fans but smooth enough for anyone else, too.
PAUL BRAGIN - 3.75
A white head crowns this beer when poured in a wheat beer glass, but it lasts only a short time. The nose boasts a generous amount of wheat and yeast. The first taste contains a significant amount of carbonation and gives the beer a nice lightness. Wheat beer aficionados will want to have some of this on hand, especially during the hot summer months. It will pair well with a variety of foods, especially salads or omelets.
JABEZ MARTINEZ - 5
The beer pours a hazy straw color with a good head. It has a great yeasty flavor with cloves, bread and the sweet hops added in. It's very easy to drink and a great session beer. This might be one of my favorite beers (currently). I'm a huge wheat beer fan and this is one of the best.
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TRITON RAIL SPLITTER IPA
JONATHAN GLUFF - 3.5
The Rail Splitter IPA is described by Triton as their “flagship beer,” and given that most of the rest of their lineup is hopheavy, it should be no surprise that this one is as well. This is up there with the hoppiest you can find. There is a slight hint of a flowery citrus taste and a touch of maltiness on the finish, but that’s buried under a strong bitterness. Only for the most seasoned IPA lovers.
PAUL BRAGIN - 4.5
A thick white head rests on this golden beer and takes its time to disappear. A burst of citrus and pine from the hops fills the nose. Bitter hop flavors continue with the initial tasting of the beer and remain in the finish. People who enjoy IPAs will want to try this. Pair this Indiana beer with a variety of spicy cuisines like Mexican food or a variety of Asian cuisines such as Chinese or Thai food.
JABEZ MARTINEZ - 4
This beer has the heavy hops flavor. I can taste some pine, a little caramel and some citrus. It does have a nice citrus aroma and the ABV of 7% is a plus. Overall, it's a little better than average but I prefer the Goose Island Christmas beer.
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2019 | BEER REVIEWS
OSKAR BLUES ONE-Y IPA
IPA likely isn’t going to change your mind. However, if you happen to be in the crosssection of hopheads and fitness fanatics, this is a rare low-calorie option for anyone who wants a flavor a tad more complex than more mainstream options.
JONATHAN GLUFF - 3.5
This latest offering from Oskar Blues takes its name from the fact that it boasts only 100 calories. However, I’ll be upfront: This is fairly hoppy, so if that isn’t your thing, this
PAUL BRAGIN - 4.25
A thick white head forms on this cloudy IPA and lingers for a long time. A good blend of pine and citrus notes dominate the scent. Bitter hops and citrus like orange and lemon zest hit the tongue while drinking the beer
and stay in the long finish. The lower alcohol content makes this a great session beer for people who are fans of IPAs. Pair it with your favorite grilled dish, spicy tacos or pork belly.
JABEZ MARTINEZ - 3.5
This beer pours a hazy straw color. For a low calorie beer, it's not too bad; I'm surprised by how flavorful this beer is. It's also got a low ABV of 4% which makes it a good session beer. The only drawback is the aftertaste that I didn't care for, but give One-y a try and see what you think.
PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY.
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