NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | TABLE OF CONTENTS
SEPTEMBER 2020
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A QUICK NOTE FROM THE EDITOR 6 Feels like Groundhog Day
COUPONS
25 Save Big!
CUISINE & DINING 24 Clean Bite Life
ENTERTAINMENT
COVER STORY
8
Celebrating Three Decades of News 4U
Life has Changed, but We're Still Here!
FEATURES
18 20 22
26 In Town & Around 32 Music: Janelle Mulherin 34 Music: Top Dead Center 35 Music: Shawn Needham 36 Music: Xanderwolf 37 Film: 13 Slays Till X-Mas 38 Screen Time 39 Podcast Corner 40 True Crime Junkie 42 Look Who's Bitching! 44 N4U Missed Connections (Pandemic Edition) 45 Pandemic Punchlines 46 Fake News from the Tri-State
LOCAL HAPPENINGS
The Boy Band Night at the OCC
Relive the Thrill of NSYNC, Backstreet Boys & More!
Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra September Performances
50 VHS Animal Spotlight 51 VHS Adoption Spotlight 52 Tri-State Pet Pics 60 Mug Shots
OPINION
54 The Pros & The Cons 54 Tri-State Politics 55 Maybe I'm Just Getting Old
The 2020-2021 EPO Season Begins!
REVIEWS
Races to Run
SPORTS
Beat the Pandemic Blues by Lacing Up & Taking Off!
56 Music 58 Beer
48 The Great G.O.A.T. Debate in Men's Tennis
Established in 1991 by Publisher Brian Bennett Operations Manager Joshua Adams Managing Editor & Writer Thomas Ellis Account Representatives TJ Tanoos tj@evansvillemediagroup.com
Production Manager, Designer & Layout Artist Kelsey Halbig Bailey Rideout Contributors
Paul Bragin, Russ Finn, Johnny Fletcher, Gavin Gaddis, Paul Hollyfeld, Barold Hume, Jabez Martinez, Marisa Patwa, Lindsay Rasure
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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A QUICK NOTE FROM THE EDITOR
I
t's starting to feel a bit like Groundhog Day - another month,
guess as to how this all plays out. I probably said the exact same
another round of event cancellations and postponements
thing last month which only strengthens my G-Day analogy.
as the pandemic continues to disrupt daily life in the tri-
Kudos to me. Hey, in troubled times like these, if you can't
state. All that's missing is Bill Murray in his starring turn as TV
count on yourself then you're simply out of luck. So, basically
weatherman Phil Connors to make it all official. Full disclosure:
- in case you missed my entire point - there's not much going
I've never seen the beloved, fan favorite comedy but always
on this month entertainment-wise. However, the weather's still
reply in the affirmative whenever someone asks if I have (which
nice and warm, so get out and enjoy the great outdoors at a
happens more often than you might think); it's just easier that
safe distance from your fellow citizens and shop local whenever
way. Still, it's not all gloom and doom. Area kids are back in
possible with the appropriate mandated face covering, please.
school (of course, that's another bone of contention) and more
And when you have a free moment or two, kindly take a look
businesses are opening back up - in fits and starts, anyway.
through our September issue which might help to take your
Hopefully, there's an end in sight, but right now it's anyone's
mind off of our current predicament for a bit.
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | COVER STORY
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | COVER STORY
Celebrating
THREE DECADES OF SERVING THE COMMUNITY N4U editor Thomas Ellis takes a look back at some of his favorite issues
30 years, folks. That's almost four times as long as the
went public right around the same time as News 4U went
average marriage lasts. Pretty amazing, really, to think
public. I can't imagine editing this magazine without the
that a free entertainment magazine in a Midwestern city
aid of the World Wide Web, so kudos to the early N4U
has stuck around this long but here we are, still kicking.
troopers who put this thing together old school style.
Even in the face of a pandemic. Now more than ever, it's
Let's see, other key moments...well, two presidents have
reassuring for people to see News 4U on the racks - it's
been impeached, OJ was aquitted, 9/11 and the Iraq war
a comforting feeling, a sign that some things haven't
happened...the Cubs won the World Series, boy bands
changed despite the complete upheaval of normality
became a thing, Princess Di was killed...David Letterman
during this difficult time. I mean, where else are you going
(one of my heroes) retired...there was the 2008 financial
to get your monthly fix of mugshots? I kid. No doubt that's
collapse. And, of course, we're now living through the
a popular feature of the magazine, but our main focus
nuttiest time of all compounded by the death of George
has always been serving the community in a positive
Floyd and the subsequent protests. Whew. I hope that
way, bringing attention to both the big and small events
gives some context as to just how long this magazine has
around the tri-state - from concerts to charitable causes
been around.
and everything in between - and supporting the economy by spotlighting locally-owned bars and restaurants.
Ok, so 30 years is a long time. And I've only been employed here for the last eight. Rather than try to scour
Here's something to consider...when News 4U first came
the aforementioned internet for ancient issues of the
into existence, Nirvana had just released "Smells Like
magazine to reflect upon (actually, they're all on CDs
Teen Spirit" and the Seattle band was on the way to
somewhere in the bowels of the office), I thought I'd pick
changing the course of modern music. Crazy. That got
out some of my favorites during my tenure as editor and
me thinking about other major stuff that's happened over
offer a little commentary for good measure. Sound all
the last three decades. For instance, the freaking internet
right? Just humor me, regardless. - Thomas Ellis
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | COVER STORY
JULY 2012
Funny story...I was between jobs in the summer of 2012 and was looking
for a new gig. One warm night I tagged along with my friend Tony to check out a party in the boonies of Mount Vernon and once there we gravitated towards this guy with a Justin Bieber haircut who was ďŹ ve or six Bud Lights into a good time. Turns out it was Brian Bennett, owner of Penny Lane Coffeehouse where my buddy liked to hang out - and he had just purchased News 4U. Seemed like the perfect opportunity to let him know what I thought of the magazine - which I picked up religiously each month - and how it could be improved, primarily in terms of the writing. See, I had an English degree and that apparently made me an expert in my increasingly buzzed mind. Anyhow, to my utter surprise, rather than get annoyed by my complaints, Brian shot back, "Do you want to be the full-time writer for News 4U?" Of course I did. He told me to call him the following week to get everything set up. While still working out all the particulars, I was asked to contribute some music reviews for the July 2012 issue to get the ball rolling - so this is where it all began for me. Quite frankly, my early writing efforts for the mag were not very good. But eventually I got the hang of it and the rest, as they say, is what it is.
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | COVER STORY
NOVEMBER 2014
Technically, the October
2014 issue was my first as editor of News 4U. But my appointment to the position was unexpected and came late in the game that month which meant I only had 10 days to put the mag together. It was more a matter of survival than anything. So I really count November 2014 as my first official attempt at assembling an issue from scratch. And it turned out just fine. I particularly like the cover shot with the Ohio River in the background and a diverse collection of local peeps representing all that's good about our city. And I can't help but notice there's a blurb about Eric Church playing the Ford Center...remember when something called a "concert" took place? Aye yai yai.
SEPTEMBER 2015
Sadly, the downtown
Evansville Jazz & Wine Festival no longer exists but for many years, it took pride of place on our September covers. I particularly like this 2015 design which has a sophisticated look, deviating a bit from the N4U norm. But mostly, I picked this issue as a fave because of my interview with comedian Ralphie May (R.I.P.). What a character. Sometimes entertainers hold back or try to remain politically correct in conversation. Not Ralphie. He always shot from the hip and would gladly have kept on chatting about anything and everything if I didn't pull the plug at some point. Too bad he left us too soon but hopefully he's up there in the sky somewhere telling more inappropriate jokes.
AUGUST 2016
Pre-pandemic, the summer months
in the tri-state were always packed with events and that meant life at News 4U was busy, busy, busy. August of 2016 embodied that sitch big time. So much was going on, including the first annual Eville-Shindig (a cool car show on Franklin Street) and a host of great concerts. And Thunder from Down Under. Never thought I'd say this, but interviewing the manager of a male dance revue was a blast. (The Aussies have a great sense of humor, for sure.) In addition, I got to listen in on a Q&A with Dolly Parton and chat with country star Terri Clark - who very kindly told me that I had a real knack for interviewing. Wherever you are, TC, hats off to you!
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | COVER STORY
JANUARY 2017
Oh, man. I can still recall the meeting we had to discuss
the January 2017 cover. The boss wanted to put President Trump on the cover and I suggested dividing the color scheme down the middle with blue on the left and red on the right to symbolize the polarization of the nation. But I don't think any of us could have predicted just how nuts things would get. Safe to say we could re-run this cover today and it would be every bit as relevant, if not more so. Is that sad? Well, it's just a reflection of where the country's at, really. So much stuff bubbling under the surface for so long. Whether you're on the left or the right - or desperately trying to find some middle ground (it's a challenge, believe me) - these are stressful times and the pandemic has only raised the temperature. Everyone seems to be at their wits' end to some degree; no one's really thinking clearly. And as each passing day brings us closer to the November election, there's a sense that we're on the path to some sort of disaster - or revolution? Actually, I just envision a lot more protesting no matter who wins but hopefully nothing catastrophic. Sorry, I got off track a bit; looking back at this cover just got my wheels spinning. Moving on...
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | COVER STORY
JANUARY 2018
I gotta say, our January issues
have often been our best over the years and this one really stands out for me. Unfortunately, Kevin Hart declined our repeated requests for an interview (no surprise there) but Jim Gaffigan and Bill Engvall were all in - and couldn't have been nicer or funnier. Gaffigan, in particular, really lived up to his billing as a generally decent, albeit obscenely pale dude. Seriously, though, it was one of my all-time favorite interviews and if comedians are ever allowed to perform again, maybe he'll make an encore appearance and we'll get to reconnect. Bottom line, this was a great way for News 4U to kick off 2018 - and it still brings a smile to my face when I see the Kings of Comedy cover.
APRIL 2018
Fun fact about me: I love animals. So it's only
fitting that I include the April 2018 issue on my list of favorites. The Peeps & Paws feature was really just an extension of our ongoing support of local animal shelters (our long-running partnership with the Vanderburgh Humane Society has been especially rewarding) and monthly Tri-State Pet Pics page. Here we put a different spin on things and highlighted the beloved dogs of local business professionals, from Traci Zeller's "Jewel" to Chad Brady's "Willie" - even N4U photographer Daniel Knight got in the mix with his ultra-cute "Broco." Frankly, I would be completely content to do a magazine devoted entirely to tri-state animals. Are you with me? No? What if there were still mugshots at the back? Ugh.
MAY 2019
I look at this cover and think about the promise that the
beginning of summer always holds - or did hold until Covid-19 came along. But you have to believe that we'll get back to the good ol' days at some point; otherwise, why get out of bed? In a perfect world somewhere off in the distance, places like Marina Pointe will once again be packed to the gills (Ohio River pun) with people who just can't get enough Bud Light and live music. Not a bad combo, really. Also, I should mention that the May 2019 issue featured an interview with the one and only Bret Michaels of Poison fame. The guy has diabetes but just keeps rocking as if his life depends on it. And maybe it does.
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | COVER STORY
JANUARY 2020
I'm going to conclude this fascinating breakdown
of my favorite issues with another January offering. And it's all about Miranda. First and foremost, I absolutely love this cover (my pick for the best of the lot). You just can't look away - a great design all around by our graphic artist, Bailey Rideout. She made this pop like Rolling Stone or whatever cool mags are still around these days. Second, Ms. Lambert was such a pleasure to interview. I have found over my time at News 4U that the majority of country stars are truly down-to-earth people, unfailingly polite and easy to talk to. And honestly, I'm not much of a country music fan - though it's grown on me a bit - but I thoroughly enjoy speaking with the likes of Miranda and getting the lowdown on the Nashville scene and more. Never dull. It's a shame that everything kind of went to hell after the January 2020 issue because it felt like News 4U was on a roll, like we were on the cusp of getting our mojo back. Did it go somewhere? Maybe not, I might just be projecting. But no worries, we'll just keep plugging along and doing our part to serve the community; we'll keep on keeping on just like the rest of you. It's all we can do at this point. PEACE! - TE
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | UPCOMING EVENTS
THE
BOY BAND NIGHT
Tickets are $60 per space for general admission and $75 per space for VIP (includes a reserved space closer to the front of the lawn plus table and six chairs). All tickets are 21 & over only and are available online at owensborotickets.com.
LIVE MUSIC RETURNS TO KENTUCKY WITH A NOSTALGIC TRIP BACK TO THE DAYS OF CATCHY POP SONGS AND FUN DANCE MOVES OWENSBORO CONVENTION CENTER FRONT LAWN | SEPTEMBER 19 |
9 P.M.
This is not a test. Or a joke. Believe it or not, live music is
and dance moves when the world was a much simpler place.
back - at least for one night. The tri-state has been absolutely
The Boy Band Night covers all the biggest hits - from "The
starved for entertainment over the last six months and finally,
Right Stuff" to "Bye Bye Bye" to "What Makes You Beautiful"
there is cause for optimism courtesy of the Owensboro
and everything in between - and hits all the right notes with
Convention Center. The premier venue in Kentucky will host
flawless vocals, instrumentation and dance moves that will
one of the hottest acts going when the Boy Band Night takes
transport you through time.
over the front lawn at the OCC on September 19. And yes, all
Dedicated
Covid-19 precautions will be
(each
taken to ensure that everyone
up to six guests from your
who attends does so safely and
household) will be marked off
securely.
on the lawn with six foot aisles
to
10X10
spaces
accommodate
in between to ensure proper Based out of Chicago, the Boy
social distancing. Your safety
Band Night delivers a high
is paramount - but so is your
energy set that pays homage to all your favorite groups
enjoyment so the OCC is doing everything possible to make
from the 80s, 90s, 2000s and beyond, including New Kids
sure the Boy Band Night is an incredible night all around. In
on the Block, Boys II Men, Backstreet Boys, NSYNC, One
addition to a fantastic concert on tap, concessions and full
Direction and more. Relive the glory days of fun pop songs
bars will be on site.
The Owensboro Convention Center is located at 501 W. 2nd St. in Owensboro, KY. For more info, visit owensborocenter.com.
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | UPCOMING EVENTS
Evansville
PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA SEPTEMBER PERFORMANCES
OPENING CONCERTS OF THE 2020-2021 SEASON MARK THE DEBUT OF NEW MUSICAL DIRECTOR ROGER KALIA When the EPO takes the stage this month for the opening performances of the 2020-2021 season, there will be a new face at the helm of the area's most decorated orchestra. The retirement of long-time Musical Director Alfred Savia sparked an exciting recruitment process for his replacement that played out over the course of last season, culminating in the selection of Indian American Roger Kalia as the new conductor. Described as "a dynamic and innovative presence known for his eloquent and compelling interpretations and for bringing a fresh view to classical music," he currently also serves as Music Director of New Hampshire’s 97-year-old orchestra, among other high profile associations. Long story short, Kalia is just the right person to lead the Philharmonic into 2021 and beyond.
VISIONARIES VICTORY THEATRE
SEPTEMBER 19 / 7 P.M. (Subscribers) SEPTEMBER 20 / 2 P.M. (Subscribers) SEPTEMBER 20 / 7:30 P.M. (Single Ticket Buyers)
The Classics Series for 2020-2021 kicks off with the world premiere of a commissioned Fanfare for the Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra and the City of Evansville by Paul Dooley, one of the most prolific and performed composers in America today. The California native's work has been commissioned by the likes of the Nashville Symphony, Detroit Symphony, Singapore Symphony and many more. In addition, the debut of new EPO Musical Director Roger Kalia will include stirring interpretations of J.S. Bach's Keyboard Concerto in A major, George Walker's Lyrics for Strings and Mozart's Divertimento for Strings - all featuring special guest Sean Chen on piano.
WWII REMEMBRANCE: A VETERAN SALUTE EVANSVILLE WARTIME MUSEUM HANGAR SEPTEMBER 26 & 27
Less than a week later the Pops Series for 20202021 begins with a commemoration of the 75th anniversary of World War II, paying tribute to the brave soldiers that fought for our freedom. Selections to be performed include big band tunes from the WWII era and patriotic pieces that are guaranteed to make your heart swell with pride for this great land of ours. With Veterans Day right around the corner, this is a timely concert that will shine a light on how far we've come as a nation thanks to the service of those who came before us.
*Performance times are subject to change due to Covid-19 restrictions. Please check with the venue for details.
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | UPCOMING EVENTS
RACES TO RUN ESCAPE THE PANDEMIC BLUES BY PARTICIPATING IN ONE OR MORE OF THE TRI-STATE'S ANNUAL FOOT RACES Feeling like a caged animal after nearly six months of lockdown? They say exercise is the best medicine so consider rescuing those running shoes from the back of the closet and taking part in one of the tri-state's upcoming annual foot races. Just be sure to check the details on each event as participant limitations may be in place due to Covid-19 restrictions.
RUN VICTORIA 5K & HALF MARATHON Friedman Park / September 5
The 5th annual Run Victoria in Newburgh promises to be another fun, family-friendly day that includes a 5K and half marathon - Warrick County's first - as well as a Kids Dash. In addition, enjoy a pancake breakfast, inflatables and live music. All proceeds go toward Warrick Trails and the Warrick Parks Foundation to help fund and maintain the trails, parks, and public spaces in Warrick County.
EVANSVILLE LABOR DAY RUN 5K & 10K Goebel Soccer Complex / September 7
This popular annual run celebrates the working class. Choose from a 5K or 10K run/walk or Kids Fun Run. Proceeds benefit the Junior Achievement of Southwestern Indiana's volunteer-delivered, kindergarten-12th grade programs that foster workreadiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy skills, and use experiential learning to inspire students in our community to dream big and reach their potential.
YMCA 15K
Downtown Evansville / September 12 Great preparation for the Evansville Half Marathon in October, the YMCA 15K welcomes both runners and walkers with an emphasis on helping everyone reach their fitness goals. All proceeds from this event benefit the YMCA of Southwestern IN youth and outreach programs that serve our local community.
EVANSVILLE HALF MARATHON Downtown Evansville / October 3
Always the highlight of the summer/fall race season, the Evansville Half Marathon takes in the beauty of the Greenway, Garvin Park and other landmarks as runners wind their way around the city before returning to the riverfront for the finish. This year, due to the pandemic, runners have the option of participating in a virtual 5K or 10K as well.
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | CUISINE & DINING
CLEAN BITE LIFE Healthy Cooking with Lindsay Rasure
Tuna salad is typically full of mayonnaise, but this Clean Bite Life creation uses avocado as the base to offer a delicious dose of healthy fats and fiber. The smooth texture and mild flavor of an avocado make it a great alternative to mayonnaise. Just know that this tuna salad will have a green appearance - but don’t worry, it will taste amazing! I love eating my tuna salad with a bell pepper sliced up and any variety of Simple Mills crackers. Simple Mills products are grain free, contain minimal ingredients, and taste great! My favorite variety is the Roasted Red Pepper Pita chips. *You can check out my IGTV video on making a similar tuna salad on my Instagram account!
AVOCADO TUNA SALAD 1-2 SERVINGS
Ingredients: •
1 can of Albacore Wild Tuna – no salt added (brands: Wild
Directions: 1.
Planet or Safe Catch)
Open your can and pour the liquid and tuna into a bowl. (The liquid has the healthy omega-3’s. Don’t discard it!)
•
1 ripe avocado
2.
•
Yellow mustard or your favorite variety of mustard
Using a fork, break up the tuna into smaller pieces and combine with the liquid.
(preferably with no added dyes or sugar)
3.
Slice your avocado and add the flesh to the bowl.
•
Garlic powder
4.
Squirt in 1-2 T. of yellow or your favorite mustard.
•
Salt & pepper
5.
Add a couple dashes of garlic powder.
•
Possible mix-ins: pickles (no dyes or added sugar –
6.
Add salt and pepper to your liking.
Organic Mt. Olive is a great brand or Organic Meijer
7.
Stir everything together until you have a consistency of
brand), roasted red peppers, etc.
typical tuna salad. 8.
For more recipes or meal ideas you can follow Lindsay Rasure on Instagram: @cleanbitelife or her Facebook group: Clean Bite Life
24 | SEPTEMBER 2020
Enjoy!
NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | COUPONS
SEPT. COUPONS
NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | IN TOWN & AROUND
PRESENTED BY:
IN TOWN & AROUND MONDAY, AUGUST 31 8:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Open Mic TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 6:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ 6:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -Themed Trivia 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 6:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Trivia 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Bingo w/ Curtis KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Cornhole (w/ cash prizes register @ 6:30pm) Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -- Bar Bingo 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 6:00 PM Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- College Night w/ Brad Lemmons 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 -- Smarty Pints Trivia
26 | SEPTEMBER 2020
9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Open Mic KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4 6:00 PM Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Brian Brown & Andrew Varner 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Live Music 9:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky 10:00 PM Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Joe Stamm SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 9:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky 10:00 PM Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Joe Stamm KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Jenny's Bad Hair Day SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 2:00 PM Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Josh Merritt 3:00 PM KC's Marina Pointe -- Live Acoustic Entertainment 6:30 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke 7:00 PM
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KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Cornhole / Karaoke & DJ 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 6:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Trivia 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Trivia 8:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Open Mic TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 6:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ 6:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -Themed Trivia 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 6:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Trivia 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Bingo w/ Curtis KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Cornhole (w/ cash prizes register @ 6:30pm) Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -- Bar Bingo 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 6:00 PM Bud's Rockin' Country Bar &
Grill -- College Night w/ Brad Lemmons 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 -- Smarty Pints Trivia 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Open Mic KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Live Music 9:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky 10:00 PM Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Daniel Johnson SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 9:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky 10:00 PM Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Daniel Johnson KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Tastes Like Chicken SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 2:00 PM Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Josh Merritt 3:00 PM
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | IN TOWN & AROUND
KC's Marina Pointe -- Live Acoustic Entertainment 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
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 6:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ 6:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -Themed Trivia 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -Karaoke
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 6:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Trivia 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Trivia 8:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Open Mic
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 6:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Trivia 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Bingo w/ Curtis KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Cornhole (w/ cash prizes - register @ 6:30pm) Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -- Bar Bingo
28 | SEPTEMBER 2020
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9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ Lamasco Bar & Grill -Karaoke THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 6:00 PM Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- College Night w/ Brad Lemmons Carson's Brewery -- Open Mic 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 -- Smarty Pints Trivia 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Open Mic
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ Lamasco Bar & Grill -Karaoke FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 6:00 PM Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Brian Brown & Andrew Varner 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Live Music 9:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -Karaoke & DJ KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 7:00 PM
CONNECT & CELEBRATE 2020-2021 SEASON
WWII REMEMBRANCE: A VETERAN SALUTE Re-Imagined
ROGER KALIA, CONDUCTOR • LEGACY DANCE COMPANY
September 26 & 27
Evansville Wartime Museum Hangar
In commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II, the Orchestra performs BIG BAND TUNES FROM THE WWII ERA & PATRIOTIC FAVORITES! CONCERT SPONSORS
EPO Board of Directors Dr. & Mrs. Lee Wagmeister
www.evansvillephilharmonic.org • 812/425-5050 This project is made possible by the Indiana Arts Commission, the Arts Council of Southwestern Indiana, www.evansvillephilharmonic.org and the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency.
Carson's Brewery -- Comedy Show 9:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -Karaoke & DJ Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky Owensboro Convention Center -- The Boy Band Night 10:00 PM Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Live Music TBA KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- The Jimmies SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 2:00 PM Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Josh Merritt 3:00 PM KC's Marina Pointe -- Live Acoustic Entertainment 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
Lamasco Bar & Grill -Themed Trivia 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -Karaoke
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 6:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Trivia 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Trivia 8:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Open Mic TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 6:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ 6:30 PM
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 6:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Trivia 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Bingo w/ Curtis KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Cornhole (w/ cash prizes - register @ 6:30pm) Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -- Bar Bingo 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ Lamasco Bar & Grill -Karaoke THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 6:00 PM
• 812/425-5050
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- College Night w/ Brad Lemmons 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 -- Smarty Pints Trivia 9:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Open Mic KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ Lamasco Bar & Grill -Karaoke FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -Competing For Laughs Comedy Competition 9:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket --
Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • SEPTEMBER 2020
| 29
NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | IN TOWN & AROUND
Karaoke & DJ KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky 10:00 PM Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Andy Brasher SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 9:00 PM KC's Corner Pocket -Karaoke & DJ KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky 10:00 PM Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Timmy Dunn SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 2:00 PM Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill -- Josh Merritt 3:00 PM KC's Marina Pointe -- Live Acoustic Entertainment 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, SEPTEMBER 28 6:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Trivia 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Trivia 8:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Open Mic TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
30 | SEPTEMBER 2020
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6:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- College Night / Karaoke & DJ 6:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -Themed Trivia 9:00 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -Karaoke WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30 6:30 PM Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Trivia 7:00 PM Carson's Brewery -- Bingo w/ Curtis KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Cornhole (w/ cash prizes register @ 6:30pm) Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill -- Bar Bingo 9:00 PM KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- Karaoke & DJ Lamasco Bar & Grill -Karaoke
Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • SEPTEMBER 2020
| 31
NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | MUSIC
JANELLE MULHERIN TASTES LI KE C HI C KE N VOC A LI S T R EAD IES RE LE A S E OF DE BU T SOL O ALBU M, P RI ME D FOR BI G "B R EAKT HROU GH"
Before the pandemic wiped out the majority of
Built on a foundation of old school country and gospel
entertainment at area venues, wildly popular cover
influences, the album finds the TLC singer exploring the
band Tastes Like Chicken ruled the roost, so to speak,
depths of her soul in song.
performing to big crowds on the weekends at major hotspots like KC's Time Out Lounge. (They still do
We caught up with Mulherin and got the lowdown on
on occasion, actually - TLC are one of the few acts to
the making of, and the story behind, Breakthrough.
successfully book shows during this maddening time.) And while charismatic frontman TJ Tanoos - formerly of
Where was the album recorded?
The C.R.O.W.D. - certainly deserves much of the credit
Breakthrough was recorded in Nashville at Beaird
for the devoted following, it's vocalist Janelle Mulherin
Music Group with producer Larry Beaird and a full six-
who really lifts each performance up by way of her big
piece band. The process lasted about two weeks total.
vocals and even bigger smile. She literally radiates
I did six songs one week and seven songs the other.
with good vibes on stage and her ability to shift gears
The first session with Larry consisted of arranging each
effortlessly - say, from hitting the high notes of Journey's
of the songs to prepare for commercial use. That was
"Don't Stop Believin'" to commanding a wicked rap flow
followed by the tracking session with the full band where
- is impressive, indeed. But the former student of opera
we listened to the scratch track once and then played
is not just a cover song specialist. Mulherin has long
through it with the band once. After they played the song
been harboring a creative desire to pour her heart into
once they would go back and add different instruments
an album of original material - to channel her muse and
or instrumental sections - just address whatever part they
write from personal experience. And she's done just that
felt needed to be corrected or changed.
on Breakthrough, her appropriately-titled solo debut.
32 | SEPTEMBER 2020
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Did you write all of the material on Breakthrough? What's the overall theme? I wrote much of it myself but also got some help from a man I became friends with named Steve Nilssen who ended up writing “Breakthrough” and “When I fall in Love,” as well as co-writing some of the other songs. The theme of the album is finding light in the dark and that the most beautiful light is found in the darkest moments or places. Breakthrough was born out of a time in my life when I found what I thought to be true love. But this love turned black and created spaces of pain within my heart; these spaces began to fill with light, with hope, with love, with every lyric and experience that led me out of the dark. I began to heal once I was open and vulnerable enough to write and share these thoughts through music. What do you hope to achieve with the album? My hope is that by sharing my vulnerable parts it may help others heal from the parts that they may not feel confident enough to share - and that they will realize no matter where they are in life they are never alone and there is always beauty to be found in whatever they may think to be not beautiful. And my hope is to grow with all the people who have supported me and continue to support me through this journey. We all can grow together in love and light. Yes, despite the darkness inherent in the album, there's an uplifting message - and it sounds like you feel truly blessed to be making music and, hopefully, inspiring others to dream big. Having the ability to give back to my community and to help others grow creatively is amazing - letting people know that any dream you believe in your heart is possible and that it can happen when you believe! I wouldn’t be fulfilling my dreams without the belief of others and sometimes you need someone to believe in you before YOU believe in you. I just want to keep giving that gift to everyone I meet!
Keep an eye out for the release of Breakthrough in the near future and stay tuned for a full review in the October issue of News 4U. For more info, follow Janelle Mulherin and Tastes Like Chicken on Facebook.
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| 33
NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | MUSIC
TOP DEAD CENTER IT'S F IN ALLY T I ME : E VA NS VI LLE R OCKER S RE LE A S E P HYS I C A L VE RS IO N OF L ON G- AWA I T E D FOLLOW- U P, S TR IK E D EAL WI T H S PA C E MONKE Y RE C ORDS
Considering that the follow-up to Top Dead Center's
value the joy of holding a piece of art in your hands, this
debut was already 10 years in the making, postponing
is your opportunity to support local original music made
the physical release another few months didn't really
by a great group of guys. Rest assured you will not be
seem to matter that much. It was frustrating, though.
disappointed by the sheer energy and level of songcraft
Along with everyone else in the local arts community,
at work on tracks like "I Believe" (pure power pop
TDC - featuring guitarist/vocalist Dave Miller, guitarist
exuberance), "You Think You know Me" (intense rocker
Ross Hansen, bassist Danny Hayes
with a dark lyrical edge), "Here
and drummer Jeff Proctor - have
Beside Me" (heavy riffing in drop D),
been sidelined by the ongoing
"Soul" (surprisingly heartfelt ballad),
pandemic, unable to book shows
"Second Wind" (fretboard wizardry
and promote I Believe It's Time, an
incarnate) and the band's irresistibly
album bursting at the seams with
catchy theme song, "Top Dead
Cheap Trick-esque hooks and AC/
Center." And that's just scratching
DC-styled riffs filtered through the
the surface with 13 songs in total
band's unique take on classic rock
that show off both TDC's range and
with a dash of punk aggression.
musical skills.
So the guys waited...and waited... eventually blowing right past the
I Believe It's Time was recorded and
scheduled CD release party date
produced by the band's longtime
at Lamasco in mid-May. And, of
friend, Toby Ellis of the Crash
course, things only got worse from
Chords. He's done a remarkable job
there.
capturing TDC's full speed ahead approach as witnessed at last year's ParksFest where
But, as August approached and there was no end in sight
they totally commanded the stage over the course
to our current predicament, TDC decided that yes, it was
of 45 rocking minutes and had everyone up on their
finally time to go all in, pandemic be damned. The digital
feet, seriously digging the energetic vibe. Now it's just
version was already available on most streaming sites
another waiting game as the guys look to back up the
but now the band has struck a deal with Space Monkey
release with some promotional gigs - if and when things
Records in Evansville (1201 E. Riverside Dr.) to stock
ever get back to normal.
physical copies for purchase. For those of you who still
For more info, follow Top Dead Center on Facebook.
34 | SEPTEMBER 2020
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | MUSIC
SHAWN NEEDHAM
J A ZZ-FU NK G U ITA R G ENIU S C O NTINU ES PR O LIFIC R EC O R DING PA C E, DR O PS "ENO U G H" A ND "HEA D/ SPA C E"
Newburgh's Shawn Needham is on fire. Not literally,
opposed to addressing the complexities of personal
of course. But creatively speaking, he's burning it up,
relationships: "The world is on fire / It's time to put it out
having produced a dizzying series of jazz-funk singles
/ Before Mother Nature knocks us the f*ck out." And his
over the last several months while the rest of us were
displeasure only ramps up from there: "I'm tired of angry
snacking and watching Netflix. July saw Needham drop
/ I'm sick of hate / But 24/7 I'm f*cking irate." It's the
the Middle Eastern-flavored "Ouroborus," a fascinating
soundtrack for right now with a pandemic sending the
about-face that deviated from his typically groove-
country off the rails and divisiveness ruling the day. So
oriented, guitar and fretless bass-driven workouts. And
timely. And in a stroke of genius, Needham introduces
now he's back with two more cracking singles that, while
his young son Dorian on vocals - to repeatedly scream
adhering closely to Needham's jazz-funk playbook, each
the title at full throttle. Wonderfully symbolic. Also,
bring something new to the table. (Spoiler alert: he
every great Needham track contains a kick-ass musical
sings!)
breakdown of sorts and "Enough" is no exception. Check out the flute-enhanced digression mid-way through that really ties the whole thing together.
"HEAD/SPACE" The spoiler alert above clued you in to the big tadoo over this track. Needham sings. Not something he normally does, mind you. And damn if he doesn't have a voice ideally-suited for this funk-ified jam that sounds like it's been plucked straight from the 70s. Not only does Needham sing here, he harmonizes with himself for the better part of the song - an apparent lament about being a prisoner in his own mind: "Headspace can be a living hell / Time to break out of my shell... Headspace, the conflicts never stop / I have no choice in
"ENOUGH"
these things I do / I'm just being me so what's it to you." Shorter and more musically direct than previous singles,
"Enough" works as a sort of parallel track to Needham's
"Head/Space" may be Needham's most accessible track
"Wife" released back in May. Both employ a grimy
to date - particularly from a vocal standpoint. It's got all
mid-tempo jazz-funk groove to anchor the track while
the makings of a late-summer hit so be sure to check it
Needham narrates over the top. The difference here
out on YouTube and other streaming services.
is that he's pissed off about the state of the world as
For more info, follow Shawn Musicsharingpage Needham on Facebook. Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • SEPTEMBER 2020
| 35
NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | MUSIC
XANDERWOLF RENOWNED PHOTOGRAPHER ALEX MORGAN SHIFTS FOCUS TO LONGSIMMERING MUSIC PROJECT, DEBUTS TWO TRACKS WITH MORE TO COME Having already established himself as a truly brilliant
- with a hint of the post-grunge era while the latter re-
photographer who's captured enduring images for high
imagines R.E.M.'s "Underneath the Bunker," melding
profile bands, respected companies and newlyweds
pop-punk urgency with a Latin vibe. Add to all that an
- not to mention taken commissioned, iconic shots of/
undercurrent of rockabilly on both tracks and you've got
for the City of Evansville - Alex Morgan has shifted his
a truly interesting musical basis that perfectly supports
intense focus a bit of late, putting proper time and
Morgan's gruff vocal approach. Which will most likely
energy into another lifelong
come more to the fore
passion:
fact,
on future singles as the
infuriatingly-talented
newer songs are reportedly
workaholic is an incredible
"getting pretty heavy." Still,
drummer
Morgan intends to write and
the
music.
and
In
all-around
great musician; but while
record
he's played in various rock/
too,
acoustic
metal outfits over the years,
down versions of the heavier
with Xanderwolf, Morgan's
stuff (this, in an effort to keep
venturing into new territory
himself sane, he humorously
- "Dave Grohl style," as he
notes).
including
material, stripped-
puts it. Which is a reference to the ex-Nirvana drummer's
Guitars and vocals for the
autonomous
two singles were tracked
1995
debut
solo album released under
by
the
Foo
Tyner - who also handled
Grohl
mixing duties - and Morgan
now-legendary
Fighters
banner.
area
producer
Steve
famously wrote all the songs, played all the instruments
tapped his buddy Pete Rock to track the drums. Both
and handled all vocal duties - a blueprint that Morgan
did an amazing job as the songs literally jump out
is following for his new project, described as "kind of a
of the speakers with a sonic punch that just keeps
punk rock approach to genre fusion."
drubbing you in the gut. And speaking of gut punches, live renditions of these songs and future releases are
Currently, two singles - "A Good Night to Raise Some
a very real possibility despite Morgan's solo set-up.
Hell" and "Evil Creatures" - are up on Spotify and
He has a band ready to go if/when venues can stage
Apple music (or you can visit Morgan's YouTube page).
entertainment again. In the meantime, Morgan plans to
The former brings together elements of late 70s/
continue writing and recording with an eye on building
early 80s rock - musically, Judas Priest comes to mind
the Xanderwolf platform.
For more info, follow Alex Morgan on Facebook.
36 | SEPTEMBER 2020
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | FILM
13 SLAYS TILL X-MAS BLOOD MOON PICTURES AF TER LONG LAYOFF, OWE NS BO R O PR O DU C TIO N COMPA NY RE S U ME S FI LMI NG NEW HO R R O R AN T HOLOGY, E YE S C HRI S T MA S R ELEA SE
Last April, just as things were coming together on the set of Blood Moon Pictures' new horror anthology, 13 Slays Till X-Mas, production was halted due to Covid-19 restrictions. The innovative project - which features six minute segments shot in various styles by both regional and national filmmakers - was put on ice for the next five months but now with all necessary safety protocols in place, co-managers P.J. Starks and Erik Huskisson and the rest of the crew are back at it and eyeing a Christmas release (for obvious reasons). According to Starks, nine of the 13 segments have been filmed with a shoot at a Kentucky bar next on the production agenda. Themes include vengeful ghosts, demonic possession, serial killers, monster reindeer, killer Christmas garland, clowns and more. And considering the talent that Blood Moon has assembled for the project not to mention the company's own impressive resume which includes the critically-acclaimed Volumes of Blood anthologies, this looks to be a timely release for horror fans desperately in need of some gore and guts. The plot: Five individuals are drawn to a bar on Christmas Eve by a mysterious email. None of them really know why they're there. While trying to make sense of everything, they decide to pass the time by bringing back the old tradition of telling scary stories on Christmas. Each individual takes a turn telling two scary stories - and the person whose stories are the least scary has to pay the bar tab. As an added bonus, revered horror soundtrack composer Rocky Gray will provide all the instrumental chills and thrills for 13 Slays. Stay tuned for a full wrap-up in the coming months prior to the December release. We'll get the inside story from some of the main players and filmmakers.
For more info, follow Blood Moon Pictures on Facebook. Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • SEPTEMBER 2020
| 37
NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | ENTERTAINMENT
with Marisa Patwa SEPTEMBER NETFLIX OFFERINGS INCLUDE A DREAMY SPACE MISSION, TEENAGE GHOSTS IN A BAND AND A DERANGED NURSE WITH A VENDETTA
AWAY (9.4.20) Hilary Swank stars as a female astronaut in Away, Netflix’s latest journey into space TV shows. Her mission: make it to Mars. By doing so, she’ll also be leading an international space crew and leaving behind her husband, played by The Good Wife’s Josh Charles, and her teenage daughter played by Talitha Bateman. “The further away I get, I'm actually getting closer to being back to you,” Swank tells Bateman in the trailer, gifting her a necklace as a token before she embarks on her intergalactic space mission. A drama about a powerful female in charge of a spaceship and she’s a loving mom? Sign me up for a binge when this new series hits Netflix. JULIE AND THE PHANTOMS (9.10.20) If you love the High School Musical reboot on Disney+, then Julie and the Phantoms,, another teen musical series, is perfect for you. It’s actually a reboot itself of the original Brazilian show, which ran from 201112. This updated version follows a 15-year-old girl, played by Madison Reyes, who discovers her love for music three years after her mother died, thanks to help from the ghosts of some teen boys who have been dead for 25 years themselves. And of course, they end up forming an unstoppable band together. And speaking of HSM,, Kenny Ortega, director of the original films, also executive-produced and directed the show. So you already know those musical numbers will be epic. RATCHED (9.18.20) American Horror Story legend Saura Paulson is showing off her s c rea m queen chops once again, this time as Nurse Ratched, the iconic ruthless healthcare worker from One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. Paulson is taking the reins from Louise Fletcher, who in 1975 made the character one of the most famous villains in scary movie history. In this version, creator Evan Romansky puts Nurse Ratched under the microscope as she begins a new job at an asylum in North Carolina in the late 1940s. The series also has a great ensemble with Cynthia Nixon, Judy Davis, Sharon Stone, Finn Wittrock, Corey Stoll and Vincent D'Onofrio all in main roles. Yes, that’s right - I hadn’t even gotten to the guest appearances yet. Executive-produced by Ryan Murphy ((American Horror Story, Nip/Tuck), Nip/Tuck Ratched looks to be a sinister delight.
38 | SEPTEMBER 2020
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | 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.
THE BIG MATCH MINUTE (WEEKLY)
A deliciously painstaking look at professional wrestling featuring hosts Lilith and Diet Coke (Emily to her friends) as they spend each half-hour episode discussing a single minute of a match they find important. The first season is over halfway through covering the Firefly Funhouse segment of Wrestlemania 36 and as someone who knew next to nothing about pro wrestling before, the plot is absolutely bonkers. Full of hot takes, vulgarity, and appreciation for the subtly great cinematography and self-parodies the WWE occasionally partakes in, the BMM is not one to sleep on.
noisespace.xyz/category/podcasts/big-match-minute/
MARGARITAS & DONUTS (COMPLETE)
This six-episode romantic comedy follows the misadventures of Josephine, a pediatrician based in Nashville who has to deal with the with the tricky prospect of falling in love after 40. Where other romcoms fall short in cloyingly sweet messages or overly wacky premises, M&D presents a hilarious and genuinely loving story of two people learning to get out of their own way and connect as partners. With excellent writing from Boom’s Faith McQuinn and phenomenal acting from the entire cast, Margaritas & Donuts is set to be a short-run audio fiction I’ll return to time after time. observerpictures.com/MD.html
THE GODSHEAD INCIDENTAL (SEMI-MONTHLY)
In the city of Godshead popular advice column Maddy Monday is secretly written by 20-something Imogen, who’s not even particularly sure gods are that real. That is, until she pisses off the god of memory on her commute, inadvertently leading her into discovering a mystery, the god of doorknobs, and an endlessly charming thief. TGI is such a well-crafted audio drama it’s maddening as a creator, at times. The sound design is glorious, the writing solid, the acting never misses. It’s a polished product that knows exactly the kind of story it wants to tell. Also, there’s a ridiculous amount of pigeons. godsheadincidental.com/
STANDARD DOCKING PROCEDURE (MONTHLY)
A workplace sitcom set on a backwater space station, SDP features some of the most common problems that are made all the more difficult by virtue of living in space. From a disaster-bi traffic controller to a sarcastic artificial intelligence, Pseudopolis Station’s got some wacky folks doing their best not to break too many things (most of the time). I’ve been producing this audio drama since December of 2017 and the big finale of season one is finally looking to be ready later this month, with a new minisode having just dropped, so now’s a great time to hop aboard! dockingpod.com
Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • SEPTEMBER 2020
| 39
NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | ENTERTAINMENT
TRUE CRIME JUNKIE WITH JOHNNY FLETCHER
THE MURDER OF JONBENÉT RAMSEY There's a reason why entire TV channels and various
that a "small foreign faction" had kidnapped JonBenét,
podcasts are dedicated to documenting criminal behavior,
demanding the peculiar sum of $118,000 to ensure her
particularly murder - and especially to exploring cold
safe return. But things took an unexpected turn later in the
cases that continue to perplex law enforcement. We are,
morning; the little girl's stiff, lifeless body was discovered in
for better or worse, fascinated by the dark side of humanity
the basement - and subsequently carried back upstairs - by
and the psychology behind deviant acts. But while the
father John Ramsey after police suggested he search the
"why?" of a homicide is paramount to our understanding
house. Translation: crime scene irrevocably compromised.
of what goes on inside the mind of a killer, unmasking
Unbelievably, this case would only get more convoluted
said killer is really the thrill of it all; attempting to solve
and complicated as the days, weeks and years went by.
the puzzle and unveil a criminal's identity can become an obsession that sends us true crime junkies down rabbit
Two theories: To this day, no one knows for sure what
holes that only get deeper over time. And that's just how
happened on December 26, 1996 (it's assumed that
we like it, apparently. Which explains why the case of
JonBenét was killed sometime over night or in the early
JonBenét Ramsey is perhaps the most debated in history
morning hours). The majority opinion is that the parents
- and certainly the most popular, as strange as that may
- and possibly son Burke, as well - had a hand in her
sound. In other words, if you're
death and executed a cover-up.
looking for a murder mystery
But the Ramseys were publicly
that will absolutely twist your
exonerated by ex-DA Mary Lacy
mind into a pretzel, start here.
some years ago. The other theory is that an intruder entered the
Many of you are surely familiar
home prior to the family returning
with the killing of the six-year-
on Christmas night, wrote the
old child beauty queen that
ransom note while inside and
first grabbed headlines in the
ultimately killed JonBenét before
winter of 1996. But for those
exiting undetected. Either way,
out of the loop... The Ramseys,
considering the poor police work
an affluent family living in
and compromised crime scene
Boulder, Colorado, returned home Christmas night after
not to mention the utterly baffling ransom note, the odds
spending the holiday with friends and, according to the
of this case being solved are long, indeed. But don't let
parents, both daughter JonBenét and son Burke were put
that stop you from going down that proverbial rabbit
to bed soon after. Nothing out of the ordinary, it seemed.
hole. There are any number of books, documentaries
But just hours later, mother Patsy Ramsey would discover
and podcasts on this truly disturbing murder to keep you
a bizarre, unusually long ransom note on a back stairwell
occupied during the ongoing pandemic.
as she headed down to the kitchen around 5 a.m. It stated
40 | SEPTEMBER 2020
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Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • SEPTEMBER 2020
| 41
NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | ENTERTAINMENT
Look Who's B itching!
Local babies sound off on the state of the world...and each other JIMMY G: You know, this upcoming presidential election just might be the most important in our country's history. KATY P: True dat! The fate of our nation hangs in the balance!
JOEY K: Get real - Biden's senile and Trump's a moron. We're screwed either way!
TIMMY J: Yeah, what we really need is a strong third party candidate - this left and right crap just ain't working. One side's just as nutty as the other! JUDY D: Oh, like it really matters we won't see our terrible two's at the rate this pandemic's going! JOEY K: I can't believe you're buying into that nonsense. It's a hoax!
KATY P: You're a hoax!
JIMMY G: Hey, let's bring it down a notch. We're acting like our parents!
JUDY D: Jimmy's right. We've got to focus on the task at hand and eradicate Covid-19 before it's too late!
42 | SEPTEMBER 2020
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BOBBY B: What on earth is your mother putting in that bottle every morning? We should be much more concerned about draining the swamp! KATY P: Your diaper's a swamp!
TIMMY J: I can vouch for that, actually.
JUDY D: Wake up, Trump IS the swamp! Infants United for Biden!
BOBBY B: He doesn't even know he's running!
JIMMY G: Oh, brother. What are we doing? Come on, we're better than this!
TIMMY J: Are we? I mean, babies generally aren't that well-behaved. Kinda cranky, usually.
KATY P: You're cranky!
JUDY D: Exactly his point, Karen!
JIMMY G: Take five, folks. It's nap time.
JOEY K: Just call me "Sleepy Joe" - get it?
TIMMY J: Hilarious.
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | ENTERTAINMENT
In the cereal aisle at Buy Low on Morgan... Dave here. Saw you checking
out the generic brand cereals the other night. I totally can't tell the difference between Honey Nut Cheerios and the bargain stuff so I was thoroughly intrigued - felt like we had something really solid in common. Unfortunately, between social distancing and that giant HV mask you were wearing - and the additional plastic guard over the top - I couldn't make a move. Hope we didn't miss our opportunity to snap, crackle and pop together (generically speaking, of course)!
MISSED CONNECTIONS (PANDEMIC EDITION)
In line at the Coronavirus testing site... Hey, it's Todd - remember me? I was
behind you in the line of cars on Monday waiting to be tested for Covid-19. I noticed that you were also driving a KIA and appeared to be female from what I could see in your side mirror - a total win-win for me. I was waving maniacally, trying to get your attention but then it was your turn to get tested and when I saw that industrial-sized Q-tip go up your nose all the way to your brain, I guess I passed out. Woke up in First Aid and everything was a haze. You were gone by then, but hopefully not out of my life. Let's re-connect!
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West side Rural King... I was walking up to the cash register last weekend and you came rolling up at the same time with a cart stacked a mile-high with toilet paper. I politely requested that you save a few rolls for the rest of us and you immediately went off the deep end, repeatedly screaming "Fascist!" at me. You then proceeded to unleash a torrent of expletives and wish death upon my family and friends. It was truly shocking, but first impressions are always tough and though we didn't necessarily see eye-to-eye in that moment, I really think there was something between us that's worth exploring. How about we TP a house together?
ARC Lanes on the east side... Look-
ing for the cute guy who was bowling several pandemic-spaced lanes over last Wednesday night around 7 p.m. We locked eyes for a moment as we each prepared to pick up a spare - and then I started coughing and you freaked and made a beeline for the doors. But it was the 'Entrance Only' side so then you turned in a panic and ran the length of the building to the other side and literally flung yourself out the exit, never to be seen again. You probably thought I had the virus but it was just a scratchy throat. Seriously, let's not mess this up. Hit me up and let's get rolling!
NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | ENTERTAINMENT
PANDEMIC PUNCHLINES by Paul Bragin
Because you gotta keep things light in times of trouble At this point, all you can do is laugh. The ongoing Covid-19 nightmare has everyone on edge, so we tasked N4U contributor - and amateur comedian - Paul Bragin with the ultimate challenge: come up with some jokes about the pandemic for the September issue. Now! After much head-scratching and self-doubt (typical of all comics), he busted out six zingers for your enjoyment.
I got a cotton swab in the nose for the Coronavirus test. Some people say it's painful, but my finger has been a lot farther up there. A lot of people are using extra time at home to learn a new skill. I’m trying to learn Hebrew. It’s too hard. After three months all I can say is “There is beer” and “There is wine." If I need a hospital in Tel Aviv, I’m a goner. Because of the virus, the Major League Baseball season is only 60 games. In spite of this, the Chicago Cubs will still lose 70 games. (On a side note, I currently own two bottles of wine with a Cubs 2016 World Series logo on them.) After the pandemic is over, I’ll only date women with half of their face covered. I’ll be spending a lot of time at the mosque.“As-salamualaykum, girl. I want to take you out to dinner. I know a great halal restaurant.” I just performed in Shakespeare in the Park where my makeup made me look green and a little bit scaly. I should have kept it on after the play in an attempt to get out of work. “Hey boss, I’m fairly certain I have the virus. I’ll see you in two weeks.” How does Olive Garden To Go work in the pandemic? Do they just have someone constantly driving from the restaurant to my house with breadsticks and salad? Just have the driver blaring Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin in his car so I know he’s getting close.
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | ENTERTAINMENT
FAKE NEWS FROM THE TRI-STATE by Johnny Fletcher
The latest and greatest stories that you surely missed
Weinbach Avenue Deemed "Hopeless," Will Be Turned Into One Big, Long Garden With no end in sight to the construction taking place up and down Weinbach Avenue on Evansville's southeast side, residents living near the city's most chopped up street have had enough, deeming the situation "hopeless" and vowing to replace the notorious stretch of road with one big, long garden. "I just think it would really brighten everyone's day," neighbor Kirk Hough explains, adding that the constant thud of machinery meeting concrete has been a real downer since he moved into the area over a year ago. "It's, like, totally not cool," he says while rubbing his forehead in melodramatic fashion. When asked how residents would exit the area without the availability of a main road, Hough admitted "we haven't thought that far ahead" but insisted Weinbach Avenue's time has come. "In the future, we just want to see flowers when we look out our windows - maybe some veggies growing, too."
Area Woman Spends Entire Afternoon In Downtown Evansville Without Getting A Parking Ticket, Calls It A "Gift From God" On a whim last Wednesday, Rosemarie Keller rolled into downtown
ville only to be slapped with a $25 ticket; but I put my faith in the
Evansville for the afternoon after the conclusion of her local church's
Man Above, donned my "Jesus is Essential" face mask and prepared
virtual mass. "I don't usually go shopping post-honoring the Lord,
to shop till I dropped - or at least until the meter ran out," Keller re-
but with the pandemic hurting so many businesses, I thought I'd be
marked. But despite keeping a close eye on the clock, she appar-
a good Christian and try to help out a bit," she says, noting that her
ently got sidetracked, engaging in numerous muffled conversations
main concern was finding legal parking for more than a couple of
with fellow customers at Goldman's Pawn Shop. Then mid-purchase
hours - and preferably within reasonable walking distance of her
the realization hit her like a stack of Bibles. The surprisingly mobile
first destination. Once Keller had secured a spot, she reportedly said
senior citizen dropped some bills on the counter, grabbed her video
three Hail Marys before reluctantly exiting the car, wrought with wor-
games and huffed it back to the car - to find her windshield free and
ry over getting fined. "I've just heard so many horror stories about
clear of tickets. "It was a gift from God, pure and simple."
people attempting to support the rejuvenation of downtown Evans-
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | SPORTS
FEDERER, NADAL OR DJOKOVIC?
THE GREAT G.O.A.T. DEBATE IN MEN'S TENNIS AS PROFESSIONAL SPORTS LIMP BACK INTO EXISTENCE, THE MOST INTRIGUING STORYLINE IS THE RACE FOR RACKET SUPREMACY
With most every professional sport being scaled back -
39 and recovering from a knee injury that has sidelined him
or wiped off the 2020 schedule completely - due to the
for the rest of 2020, Federer may be at a crossroads. But his
ongoing pandemic, there's not been much for fans to cheer
desire is still strong and his game is on point. If anything,
about. And especially not to debate about. But finally, with
Federer's movement has only improved over time and
the return of grand slam tennis at this month's US Open in
his serve remains a serious weapon, even against the best
New York, one of the biggest debates in all of sports can
returners in the game.
resume: Who is the greatest of all time - Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal or Novak Djokovic? Now, it should be noted that neither Federer nor Nadal is scheduled to compete this year (the former due to injury, the latter citing Covid-19 concerns). And yet, that only adds another layer of intrigue. Because Djokovic will now be the heavy favorite to pick up his 18th Grand Slam title and slot in just behind Nadal (19) and Federer (20). Consider what we're witnessing: The three greatest men's tennis players of all-time are chasing history simultaneously. Unheard of in any other sport. ROGER FEDERER Always the fan favorite in every tournament he enters, Federer continues to compete at the highest level despite his age. Last year's Wimbledon final saw the Swiss hero - at 37-years-old - come achingly close to a ninth title on grass before Djokovic fought off two match points and prevailed in a dramatic fifth set tie-breaker. Now
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first of 12 French Opens in 2005. Yes, 12. But the Spaniard has also proven to be deadly on grass and hard courts, too, tallying another seven Grand Slams - including the 2019 US Open - on his non-preferred surfaces. Some tennis pundits attempt to discount Nadal as nothing more than a one-trick pony with massive biceps but his resume says otherwise. And now he's just one Grand Slam away from pulling even with the Swiss maestro. So, is he the G.O.A.T.? No doubt there's a case to be made for Nadal, but the last few years have seen the Spaniard on the losing end of multiple matches against both Federer and Djokovic - especially the latter. And yet, he's continued to dominate the rest of the ATP field and hauled in several more Grand Slams. Again, time will tell. NOVAK DJOKOVIC Quite possibly the most unloved champion in all of sports, Novak Djokovic - much like the late Rodney Dangerfield - gets no respect. Especially considering the Serbian's remarkable run over the last 10 years - a run that has included 16 Grand Slams (capped off by going 8-for8 in Australian Open finals back in January) and brought him squarely into the G.O.A.T. conversation. What's even more impressive is that he's routinely beaten both Federer and Nadal on the biggest stages. (Who will ever forget his savage scalping of the former at the 2019 Wimbledon?) And not only has Djokovic - like Federer and Nadal - won all four Grand Slam tournaments (Australian, French, Wimbledon, US Open) but he's done so with a clinical precision and mental toughness that defies explanation. Critics and So, is he the G.O.A.T.? Many think so; however, headto-head, both Djokovic and Nadal have the upper hand. In fact, Djokovic leads 13-6 in finals played and 11-6 in Grand Slam matches. While Federer is certainly the most beloved player in history and currently holds the most Grand Slam titles by a narrow margin, it's difficult to assign G.O.A.T. status just yet with his two biggest rivals breathing down his neck - and with time on their side. RAFAEL NADAL While Federer appears to glide effortlessly around the court, elegantly placing his forehands and onehanded backhands in just the right spots, Nadal relies on brute force to wear opponents down. The undisputed "King of Clay" has been terrorizing the ATP since he claimed his
fans alike refer to the Serbian as robotic, boring and even arrogant. Regardless, when he's in the zone, Djokovic is virtually unbeatable. So, is he the G.O.A.T.? With 17 Grand Slam titles to his credit and a head-to-head lead over both Federer and Nadal, Djokovic is on track to become the very best in the history of men's tennis - whether people like it or not. His combination of physical fitness and flexibility married with a zen-like mindset makes for a virtual terminator on the court. And he's the youngest of the Big Three at only 33. So long as Djokovic stays healthy and continues to enjoy the game, he's the best bet to be considered the G.O.A.T. of men's tennis when all is said and done.
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | COMMUNITY & FAMILY
ANIMAL
VANDERBURGH HUMANE SOCIETY
PRINCESS: Princess is a female mixed-breed.
She
weighs
NICK: Nick is an adorable orange male
43
kitten from “The Handmaid’s Tale” litter!
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treats. Her adoption fee is $110 and includes her spay, microchip, vaccines, and more!
JASMINE: Jasmine is a 2-year-old
female albino American rabbit mix. Her caregivers at VHS describe her as curious and friendly! Her adoption fee is $50 and includes her spay & microchip. Even a “cheaper” pet store bunny will never come with all that!
400 Millner Industrial Drive | 2 blocks west of Garvin Park in Evansville 812-426-2563 | Adoption Hours: Tues-Sat 12-6pm | www.vhslifesaver.org
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | COMMUNITY & FAMILY
LUCY
VHS ADOPTION SPOTLIGHT
Poseyville's Courtney Hoehn loves all animals and that's been the case ever since she was a young girl. Growing up, her parents who were divorced - each had a dog and there were outdoor cats at her mom's, too; but Hoehn isn't particular, really. "It can be a bunny, a squirrel, I don't care," she explains. When freshman year of college rolled around, her sister had just adopted a beautiful feline named Raja from the VHS but after getting pregnant for the second time decided it might be better off in someone else's care. Still living at home, Hoehn got permission from her dad to take Raja - so long as she stayed upstairs - and the two have been best buddies ever since. Fast forward a decade and with Raja not a spring chicken anymore (she recently turned 13) Hoehn decided it was time to plan for the future. "I have to prepare for when she's gone because I'm going to be broken," she says. "I wanted another companion - and one for Raja while I'm away at work." So Hoehn headed to the River Kitty Cat Café in downtown Evansville where she was tasked with "choosing from so many cute cats" - but eventually Lucy, a longtime resident with white fur and grey spots, caught her eye. "No cat belongs in a shelter, but I couldn't believe she had been there for over a year - she was way too pretty!" Hoehn gushes. She didn't adopt Lucy immediately, however; but after returning home, that gorgeous fur ball was all Hoehn could think about and the thought of someone else adopting her was simply too much. She quickly returned to the Café for another visit and made it official. But the question loomed: How would Raja react to her new companion? Not well, it turned out - at least initially. "I tried to slowly get the two of them together, but they didn't want anything to do with each other - I felt so bad about it," Hoehn laments. With no truce in sight, she had to resort to keeping the cats apart in separate rooms - especially when she was at work - but would allow them to explore a bit whenever possible. Still, after two months there wasn't much progress. Then, quite unexpectedly... "I looked over one day and they were laying on the couch three inches apart - both just sleeping. And now for the first time they are eating together. My heart is really happy." Lucy continues to feel a little more at home each day and particularly loves the outdoors; Hoehn regularly takes her on a harness and leash out on the back patio and driveway. "Probably because she was a stray she likes to be outside - she thinks she is in heaven!"
For more info, visit riverkittycatcafe.com.
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | OPINION
THE PROS & THE CONS with Barold Hume
Work vs. Unemployment What a weird time to be alive, right? Hard to imagine that we'll ever see another period quite like this in our existence. Then again, from the looks of it, we may never get out of this period. So maybe just get used to it and get on with it, eh? Easier said than done. Let's not lose sight of the fact that most everyone is struggling to cope with the pandemic in some form or another - primarily financially, of course. It's pretty shocking when you look at the unemployment numbers of late; so many workers have lost their jobs, unable to afford food and shelter without government aid. (I'm not even going to touch the subject of the second Coronavirus stimulus package that's currently being debated ad nauseam and will probably never see the light of the day thanks to partisan politics. It's truly symbolic of everything that's wrong in Washington, D.C. these days.) Crazy, really, how life can throw a curveball when you least expect it and knock you on your ass. How one minute everything seems hunky dory and then... well, it all turns ugly in an instant. Just don't be surprised if there's a rash of PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) breaking out across the country in the coming months. The nation is stressed, baby.
tri-state
politics
with Bryan Fox
Now, where was I? Oh, yes, lost jobs. Here's the thing. Sometimes it takes a pandemic to make you appreciate the security of daily employment. Sure, work can be a major bummer and it tends to get in the way of things - like having fun, seeing family and friends, keeping your marriage together. Still, that regular paycheck tends to come in handy on occasion. But let's not kid ourselves, the prospect of free time always looks glorious on paper. Boy, does it ever. Think about all of the things you could accomplish if there was no job to sap your energy and destroy every ounce of motivation that once coursed through your body. Yeah, unemployment might just be the answer to all of your woes. Then again, do you want to end up living in a box? Begging for spare change underneath the Lloyd Expressway? I assume not but quite possibly you're a trust fund kid or sell drugs on the side for extra cash and can skate by without that soul-sucking job. Not my business. Just something to consider during this year of insanity.
2019 was a wake-up call for the city's GOP. It was a year where local Democrats didn't even recruit a candidate to take on the mighty Lloyd Winnecke; a year where the run-up to the election saw some area Dems in embarrassing situations and involved in public in-fighting; a year that saw longtime 4th Ward councilwoman Connie Robinson leave the Democratic party. And yet, the unthinkable happened.
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The Dems would gain two ward seats which would result in a 7-2 council majority and newly-elected Democratic county chairwoman Edie Hardcastle was able to see her party exceed all expectations.
NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | OPINION
MAYBE I'M JUST GETTING OLD... with Johnny Fletcher
Hip Hip Hooray For the throngs of followers that find themselves glued to this page
in there just fine despite being a half-century old. Hip hip hooray, you
of the magazine each month, clinging to every last cynical word from
know?
ol' J-Fletch like a life preserver, I'm going to do a 180 and opt for a positive spin on the aging process for once. But don't worry, I'll be
Still, I don't want to jinx myself. When you're at the stage where
back to my usual grumpy self in October lest you feel disheartened
catastrophic health insurance is a must, it's best not to get too cocky
by my newfound outlook. Rest assured this rosy respite will be brief.
or it could be curtains in a flash. But just let me take a quick victory
Basically, I'd like to take this moment to shed light on a simple fact:
lap before it all goes to hell - what do you say? That reminds me... I
Two equally ancient acquaintances of mine have recently been forced
caught a few minutes of a new show on CBS the other night called
to get hip replacements. Which, of course, in the age of the pandemic,
Tough as Nails which features contestants competing in challenges
meant that they were also subjected to a delightful Covid-19 test -
at job sites that test their, well, toughness. One dude is in his 60s or
the extended Q-tip up the nose treatment and all. Both survived
something and he's K-ing some A. It's kind of inspiring if you're into
the ordeal - and the surgery - are now on the slow road to recovery,
inspirational stuff. Maybe next episode we'll find out that he also had
hobbling around a little less as time goes by. My point, you ask?
a hip replaced - or both. Whoa, talk about ratings through the roof!
Well, it got me thinking that despite some low grade, nagging health
Chances are nobody's even watching this senior citizen break all the
issues, including a strained tendon in my shoulder (documented in
rules of aging - just like it's possible no one's reading this piece - but
a previous scintillating column) and ongoing pains in both feet that
damn, it feels good to be an old gangsta sometimes.
mostly just flare up whilst I'm jogging, for the most part I'm hanging
What's more frightening for local Republicans is where they lost and who was
some of the bleeding. Whereas his absence would give Democrats an avenue
defeated. For instance, the 1st Ward has long been considered a Republican
to recruit a candidate and build some excitement for the party.
hotbed. When the Democrats held an 8-1 city council majority under the Weinzapfel administration and Winnecke's first term, that one seat came from
Also, consider the breakdown of 2019's results. While Republicans did lose,
the 1st Ward.
a majority of the results were close. In the 2nd Ward, heavy favorite Missy Mosby barely held onto her seat over Natalie Rascher. This could be a possible
Flash forward to 2019. Newcomer Ben Trockman would narrowly defeat
rematch in '23.
Republican Tim O'Brien by 185 votes. Then there's the 3rd Ward. The GOP was able to flip that seat when long-time councilman Stephen Melcher decided
As for the city council at-large seats, a total of six candidates were on the
not to run in 2015. Well, here comes 2019 and Melcher is on the ballot again,
ballot for three seats. While only one Republican finished in the top three, no
this time as a Republican. He was defeated by 58 votes.
candidate got more than 20% of the votes. So all the GOP has to do is excite perhaps just 5% of their voter base to pick up seats or even take control of the
But the saving grace for Republicans might be Winnecke. If he decides to run
council.
for an unprecedented fourth term, having him on the ballot again might stop
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | MUSIC REVIEWS
TAYLOR SWIFT Folklore Republic Records
3.5/5 This coffee shop anthem is just another stunning development in the Taylor Swift music arsenal. From country to pop to indie songwriter? This superstar can truly do it all. And with these stripped down vocals and Folklore's shining guitar work, Swifties are getting one of the most pure and authentic versions of their idol yet. But although the songs are pretty and written with that iconic wordplay I so adore, the music just doesn’t give me that same heart-pumping feeling of rocking out to “Bad Blood” or daydreaming about boys with leather jackets like “Style.” Lead single “Cardigan” just makes me want to drink some hot tea and put on a cozy, er, cardigan. But I know my earbuds are alone in this, with the record being the highest selling of 2020 thus far. “Betty” is a standout with a soft, folksy vibe that reminds me of a grandma reminiscing on her youth and fawning over the cute boy in her class who plays the harmonica in the song. My favorite? “Mad Women,” an intoxicating ode to female empowerment. - Marisa Patwa
LUKE BRYAN Born Here, Live Here, Die Here Capitol Records
4/5 While I’m not the biggest country fan, Luke Bryan’s latest album got me more than lukewarm on the genre. “Knockin Boots” is a silly, catchy hit that makes you want to dress like a cowgirl, down a shot of whisky, maybe even ride a mechanical bull. “Build Me A Daddy” is a true tear-jerker with, “Could you build me a daddy? / Strong as Superman / Make him ten feet tall with a southern drawl / And a crooked smile if you can.” “For a Boat” is one of those childhood summer songs that brings you that natural nostalgia while “Little Less Broken” is the perfect bar romance song with, “To Hell with killin' what's left of this Walker Black / 'Cause I ain't lettin' you know that I hurt this bad.” My favorite: “One Margarita.” It’s a true outdoor party song that makes you wish you were enjoying an icy cold drink right out on the Ohio. - Marisa Patwa
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ELLIE GOULDING Brightest Blue Polydor Records
4.5/5 The British pop singer’s fourth studio album is a smash hit, with some killer features from Diplo, Juice Wrld and Blackbear. “Worry About Me” is a cool song with a catchy beat and ghostly vocals that give you chills. My favorite: “How Deep Is Too Deep?” It’s lyrically gorgeous with, “You cast me in your thriller just to cut the scene out / Sowing all the seeds, just to bring me a drought / You wanna wash me off, but you want me as your tattoo.” Goulding's penetrating words are ground into your bones after just one listen. “Wine Drunk” is a cathartic bop with major Imogen Heap vibes. “Flux” is a silky smooth pop ballad while “New Heights” is a messy, raw love song. As for “Power,” it’s a funky 80’s jam to get you out of that pandemic funk and back into the swing of things. - Marisa Patwa
PSYCHEDELIC FURS Made of Rain Cooking Vinyl
4/5 Almost three decades have passed since 80's alternative fave the Psychedelic Furs released World Outside, an overlypolished affair that arrived on the heels of grunge. By that point, the band that had captivated the new wave crowd with such alluring, career-making songs as "Love My Way," "The Ghost in You" and, most notably, "Pretty in Pink," were veering off course and the tepid response to their slick sound in the era of Nirvana led to a temporary hiatus. Fast forward to 2000; founding members/brothers Richard and Tim Butler reformed the Furs and embarked on a highly successful reunion tour that has essentially never stopped. But despite periodically teasing fans with a new song in the set over the last 20 years, it somehow took this long for Made of Rain to appear (though Richard did release an excellent, chilled-out solo album in 2006). Mercifully, the nearly 30 year wait was worth it. Shrugging off any concerns of commerciality, the Furs have returned to their early 80's roots, channeling, in particular, the dark, raw feel of Talk, Talk, Talk on standout tracks like "The Boy That Invented Rock & Roll," "Don't Believe," "Come All Ye Faithful" and "No One." Elsewhere, the Butlers' gift for melody shines on "You'll Be Mine," This'll Never Be Like Love," and "Wrong Train," an ode to life going off the rails which features one of Richard's most emotive performances to date, his distinctive rasp cutting right to the bone. - Johnny Fletcher
ILLUMINATI HOTTIES FREE I.H.: This is Not the One You’ve Been Waiting For
Tiny Engines 4.5/5 As of this moment, Free I.H. is my favorite album of 2020. It’s got everything I want - vicious lyrics with sinister guitars, the catchiest melodies I’ve ever heard, and an awesome origin story. As the title suggests, Free I.H. is “not the one” fans have been waiting for. Bandleader Sarah Tudzin had already created a different follow-up to their 2018 debut Kiss Yr Frenemies, but shelved it after tensions arose with their label Tiny Engines. To exit their contract, Illuminati Hotties wrote and recorded Free I.H. to release in place of their originally planned second album. But make no mistake, this second album by the Los Angeles band is packed to the brim with catchy melodies and vicious punk that should leave any listener addicted. - Russ Finn
NOTABLE
SEPTEMBER RELEASES
THE UNITASKERS The Last Pillar of Light Self-Released
4/5 Surely one of the best debuts of the year, The Last Pillar of Light EP comes courtesy of Milwaukee's the Unitaskers, a DIY five-piece who first gave a glimpse of their sound with the 2018 single “Tide Pods,” but have now achieved a much bolder vision. Across five tracks, they manage to channel all that is good from 80s and 90s post-punk and indie rock. The EP has Dinosaur Jr.’s fuzzy hooks, Pavement’s slacker charm, Dead Milkmen’s humor and Talking Heads’ groove. It’s a serious indie rock EP that doesn’t take itself too seriously at all. Clearly, the Unitaskers know exactly what they want to create, and the result is a sometimes goofy, oftentimes sweet, and always sincere collection of great indie rock. - Russ Finn
9/4/20
LANA DEL REY / TBA THROWING MUSES / SUN RACKET TRICKY / FALL TO PIECES
9/11/20
DOVES / THE UNIVERSAL WANT THE FLAMING LIPS / AMERICAN HEAD
GEORGE CLANTON & NICK HEXUM S/T 100% Electronica
3.5/5 Maybe it’s because I’m not that into the work of George Clanton - an electronic artist from Richmond, Virginia, who is incredibly popular in the vapor wave scene - but I was completely perplexed when I saw he was releasing a collaborative album with Nick Hexum, the frontman of nu-metal/reggae band 311. I was further perplexed when I listened to the album and found that it was really good. If the world was normal, this would be the perfect summer vacation album - it’s sunny, it’s relaxing, it’s a vibe. The two artists work so well together; Nick Hexum’s carefree vocals complement George Clanton’s dreamy electronic atmospheres perfectly. I would honestly recommend this collaboration to anyone at all - you don’t need to be a fan of either artist's work to appreciate this cool thing they made together. - Russ Finn
MARILYN MANSON / WE ARE CHAOS MASTODON / MEDIUM RARITIES
9/18/20
NAPALM DEATH / THROES OF JOY IN THE JAWS OF DEFEATISM
9/25/20
BOB MOULD / BLUE HEARTS SUFJAN STEVENS / THE ASCENSION THURSTON MOORE / BY THE FIRE
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NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | BEER REVIEWS
SEPTEMBER 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. GOOSE ISLAND OKTOBERFEST
PAUL HOLLYFELD - 3.5
URBAN CHESTNUT SELTZER
SUN KING SUNLIGHT CREAM ALE
PAUL HOLLYFELD - 3.5
PAUL HOLLYFELD - 4
A substantial white head tops this copper -colored Oktoberfest beer after pouring it into a beer mug. The rich scent of malt fills the nose. The malt continues with the first sip of the beer and also contains some notes of freshly-baked rye bread. Enjoy this seasonal offering while it’s available. Pair it with sauerkraut, your favorite German sausage (it can also be great for cooking the sausage) or a soft pretzel with mustard.
PAUL BRAGIN - 2.5
PAUL BRAGIN - 4
JABEZ MARTINEZ - 4.5
JABEZ MARTINEZ - 2.5
Marzen is a typical Oktoberfest style lager. This one by Goose Island has a nice coppery color, with the expected sweet caramels on the nose. It has a slightly lighter body than some, and you’ll find it to be a bit sweeter, with hints of brown sugar. I would like to have had a little more bitterness to offset this maltforward beer, but it is still likely to be a hit amongst fans of the style.
PAUL BRAGIN - 4.5
This beer is very similar to that of the Bell’s Octoberfest that I also reviewed this month. It has the similar grains and standard flavors but I just like this one a little better. I guess it's just the flavors of the hops and spices in this beer. It seems a little more robust than the Bell’s.
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This is a big change for a brewery that specializes in German styles, and probably not going to be a go-to for a craft beer connoisseur. That doesn’t mean it doesn’t have its place. This low carb, low cal, gluten free, low ABV beverage strikes me as a great beach/boat beverage for the non-beer drinking population. Lime on the nose and a nice freshness will help quench your thirst on a hot summer day. I found it has a slight lime-rind bitterness on the finish, but it isn't overpowering.
A white head forms and quickly disappears. The scent contains a good amount of lime. The initial tasting offers some sweetness, with the lime flavor returning in the finish. The low alcohol content makes it easy to drink several. It would probably make an excellent addition to your favorite key lime pie recipe. You can also add gin or vodka for an interesting twist on a gin and tonic or vodka and tonic.
This looks like a Sprite but then again it's a seltzer. I gave it a lower rating because it tastes like seltzer water with a little lime and salt. I tried several hard seltzers over the summer but have yet to find one I like. This offering from Urban Chestnut doesn't have much going for it in my opinion, but try it for yourself and see what you think.
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In general, I tend to immediately dismiss any beers that have been enhanced after the brewing process is complete with extracts and other flavorings, and while I’m not the brewer, this beers strikes me as one of those. That being said, I actually found that I like this beer. Distinctive orange notes on the nose, a soft mouthfeel and a pleasant carbonation make this orange creamsicle beer a fun change. I recommend a vigorous pour to enhance the flavors.
A thick white head crowns this cream ale when poured in a traditional English pub glass and stays for a long time. Smelling the beer is like holding an orange Dreamsicle in your hand. The first sip of the beer seems muted, but the orange returns first in the long finish, followed by notes of vanilla. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an adult float, or add it to a cake for a boost of flavor.
JABEZ MARTINEZ - 3.5
I could smell the orange aroma as soon as I poured this beer - which gave me high hopes, but I'm a little disappointed. It has a sweet orange and vanilla flavor that's pretty good but the flavors are a little too light for me. I think they simply need to amp up the flavors and this beer would be a lot better.
NEWS4U SEPTEMBER 2020 | BEER REVIEWS
BELL'S OCTOBERFEST
PAUL HOLLYFELD - 4.5
Typical of an Octoberfest, this pours a clear, dark amber with a nice cream-colored head. Aromas of caramel abound, and it strikes the
palate with a sweet maltiness you would expect from a good Octoberfest. It is not overly sweet, however, and has a subtle bitterness to balance the malt-forward flavors. While this is not my favorite style, Bell's once again proves their brewing mastery with this Octoberfest.
behind it. Pair it with a variety of foods like steak, barbecue chicken, sharp Cheddar cheese, more classic German options like sausages and schnitzel or desserts like peach pie or German apple cake.
PAUL BRAGIN - 4
This is a clear, amber-colored beer with decent carbonation. It has a nice roasted grain flavor and a little molasses sweetness, and all of the flavors are light. It has the nice Marzen flavor and is very easy to drink. I have always been a fan of Bell’s and they put out a solid Octoberfest.
A thick white head rests on this Octoberfest beer when poured into a beer mug. The scent profile boasts a lot of malt with a hint of hop bitterness. A nice balance of malt and hops hit the tongue with some refreshing carbonation
JABEZ MARTINEZ - 4
PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY.
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