NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | TABLE OF CONTENTS COVER & COVER STORY PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESTY OF DANIEL KNIGHT STUDIO
DECEMBER
TABLEof
contents
COVER STORY
08
A QUICK NOTE FROM THE EDITOR
6 The final Lead-up to the Big Holiday CUISINE & DINING 26 Clean Bite Life 27 Coupons
20 40 & Under
Meet the Tri-state's most Influential People in Business, Food, Sports & more
ENTERTAINMENT 28 In Town & Around 34 Music: JustBrandon
FETURE
24
B PHOTOGRAPHY
36 Music: Josh Merritt 37 Music: Moskviin
An Interview with Pentatonix
Beatboxer Kevin Olusola on the a cappella Group's Xmas Tour & more
38 Music: Rock & Metal Profs 39 Music: Blast from the Past
42 Screen Time
Contributors
44 True Crime Junkie
34
LOCAL HAPPENINGS 46 VHS Animal Spotlight 48 Tri-State Pet Pics 49 News 4U Pet of the Month
News 4U is published monthly and is
58 Ask an Attorney
distributed throughout the tri-state.
60 Mug Shots
subscriptions, distribution or guides &
OPINION &
COMMENTARY 50 As I Type This... 51 Maybe I'm Just Getting Old 52 Ask Freddie Anything
54 Music 56 Beer
47
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Matt Alschbach, Freddie Bourne, Paul Bragin, Johnny Fletcher, Paul Hollyfeld, Barold Hume, Dr. Court Lewis, Jabez Martinez, Laurie Miller, Marisa Patwa, Lindsay Rasure, Karah Wilson
47 VHS Adoption Spotlight
REVIEWS
37
tj@evansvillemediagroup.com
the Six 43 Show Us...
24
Publisher Brian Bennett Operations Manager Joshua Adams Managing Editor & Writer Thomas Ellis Account Representative TJ Tanoos Production Manager, Designer & Layout Artist Kelsey Halbig
40 Book Review: Daisy Jones &
08
Established in 1991 by
For information about advertising, 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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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | EDITOR'S NOTE
A QUICK NOTE FROM THE EDITOR
H
allå, tri-state. Just a quick
out ahead after all the gifts have been
the usual, we've selected the best of the
shout-out to all my Swedish
ripped open in a fevered frenzy. Here's
best in all areas - from business to food &
brothers and sisters out there.
the cold reality: you gotta spend some
drink and everything in between. Check
To the rest of you, don't feel left out;
to get some. Ideally, the money you part
out this year's crop of winners beginning
your time will come. So here we are in
with for presents to loved ones is less
on pg. 8 and then, if you've got the time
the final lead-up to the Big Holiday - the
than the amount received; it's a numbers
and the energy during this crazy holiday
one featuring the plus-sized bearded
game, plain and simple. Easy to make
rush, keep on reading to get caught up
guy with the jovial laugh. Admittedly,
out like a bandit when you're young - but
to speed on all the latest happenings in
I'm not a fan; I lean more towards the
things get much more complicated later
the tri-state. Merry Christmas and Happy
bah-humbug side of things for a litany
in life. As Spandau Ballet sang back in
Holidays!
of reasons, but it will all be over soon,
1983, "this much is true." You know what
so why rain on everyone else's parade?
else is true? A lot of things, sure. But
Seriously, I do hope you're enjoying
the thing I'm talking about is that the
the festivities with family and friends -
annual News 4U 20 40 & Under feature is
and preparing to cash-in on Christmas
back to shine a spotlight on some of the
morning. Nothing quite like coming
community's most influential people. Per
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- Tommy Ellis
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2022 | ENTERTAINMENT
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | COVER STORY
20 I 40
Meet the tri-state's most influential people in business, food & drink, sports and more n case you haven't noticed, there's a ridiculous amount of talent out there in the tri-state. Across the board, we've got a wealth of wonderful people living amongst us doing great
things in all arenas - business, food & drink, sports and more. And particularly when it comes to charity. That's what truly makes our little corner of Indiana special - the dedication that local professionals have to help those in need. It's one thing to be successful and innovative in your chosen field, but the true measure
& UNDER
2023
of a person is how they treat the less fortunate. So, it's with great pleasure that we introduce you to this year's group of influencers. We're confident you'll be duly impressed, so settle in and get ready to meet all 20 winners chosen from hundreds of nominations. Perhaps they'll even inspire you to do great things in your life, too.
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(PART 2)
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | COVER STORY
GRETCHEN ROSS Local TV anchor/reporter Gretchen Ross is an Emmy-nominated journalist with over a decade of experience, a seasoned storyteller focusing on crime, local government and schools. As part of the Eyewitness News team, she brings viewers the news they need to start their day - always with a smile and positive attitude. But as much as Gretchen thrives on keeping the tri-state informed, she's equally passionate about volunteering in the community, often partnering with numerous organizations and nonprofits, particularly those that are art-based. Her goal? To preach the gospel of art in the community. And she leads by example. Gretchen is the co-founder of Evansville Shakespeare Players, a troupe that produces two high-quality performances twice a year, including an annual free outdoor summer show. In addition, she currently serves as a board member of STAGEtwo Productions in Evansville, focusing on marketing, fundraising and outreach. Gretchen also serves as a board member of the Ohio Valley Art League in Henderson promoting visual arts, as well as on the Newburgh Art Commission. Other areas of interest and community involvement include the Junior League of Evansville, Evansville Rotary at Night, Rotary District 6580, Habitat Young Professionals of Evansville, Historic Newburgh Inc. and Warrick Parks Foundation.
LAWRENCE TAYLOR A Financial Advisor with Edward Jones in Newburgh, Lawrence Taylor is squarely focused on meeting client needs, no matter their financial situation. It's a professional service he takes great pride in, but more importantly, he's a community servant, dedicated to bettering the tri-state. Lawrence has served on various boards for a host of tri-state organizations, including Youth First, Southwestern Indiana Workforce Development and Parenting Time Center. Currently, he serves on the board of Leadership Everyone as President and WNIN as Secretary. Lawrence also serves on the board of Southern Indiana Mentoring Academy. In addition, he was named Volunteer of the Year by United Way of Southern Indiana and has taught various financial literacy classes through churches and organizations such as the YMCA Caldwell Center. Lawrence has been married to his high school sweetheart Micha for 14 years. They have three beautiful children: Silas, Nash and Olive.
JON KERN Evansville's Jon Kern has long been the go-to professional for all things audio and production in the tri-state area - but he fell into the role by accident. A drummer by trade, Jon honed his production skills at Bokeh Lounge in downtown Evansville when Jessica Nuffer took over as GM in 2018. Five years later, he's run shows in nearly every live venue in town - and, remarkably, nearly all 50 states. Jon is currently an audio technician for Grammynominated country singer Jerrod Niemann’s ongoing tour. Past tours include Foreigner with Cage Willis, Larkin Poe with The Cold Stares, and Top 40 Billboard artists Jocelyn & Chris. Still, Jon remains heavily involved in the local music scene, having run sound for hundreds of acts, always helping them to sound their best. He's the production manager at Chaser’s Bar & Grill and Brasher’s Lil’ Nashville in Owensboro. In addition, Jon serves as a production manager for area music festivals, including For the Sake of the Song in Evansville and Sandy Lee Songfest in Henderson, and has previously worked with ParksFest and Haynie’s Corner First Friday. He owns Kern Audio Solutions LLC and also co-operates AVL Events Services with Allen Tate.
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BRANDON ARTIS Head Football Coach at Central High school, Brandon Artis works as a Behavior Specialist for the EVSC. Now in his fifth year with the corporation, he's previously been on the staff at Dexter, Evans and Cedar Hall elementary schools, as well as North Jr. High School. Prior to his involvement with the EVSC, Brandon worked for the Warrick County School Corporation in the ABS program which serves children with autism. In addition, he was the Work Study Coordinator responsible for helping students find employment for school credit. Before moving back to Evansville, Brandon attended Indiana State University and worked at Gibault Children's Services where he found his calling. In fact, considering his childhood growing up in St. Louis, he could very well have been a kid at Gibault in need of help - but fortunately, he was blessed with great parents who "instilled things in me that a lot of kids that look like me don't have." Working there made him realize that environmental factors matter. Brandon then made it his mission to be the person that he needed growing up for every kid he encounters. As his father always told him, "you don't coach program...you coach life."
BRIAN MCDANIEL After graduating from Central High School, Brian McDaniel enlisted in the U.S Army and has now served for over 19 years. After leaving the active-duty military, he bought Nolan's Liquor in Henderson in 2012. Since then, his team has rebranded and remodeled that location and now runs a total of five Beverage Barn liquor stores in Henderson, Earlington and Morganfield in Kentucky. In addition, they're currently in the construction phase of Cap & Cork, a gourmet restaurant located on the river across from Audubon Park in downtown Henderson. Expected to open in February of 2024, it promises to boast the biggest bourbon selection in the tri-state. But Brian is far more than just a successful businessman, taking pride in giving back to the community through his involvement with charitable events and donations to various organizations, including Boys & Girls Club, United Way, Defending Heroes, Lions Club, Rotary Club, Healing Reins, Infinite Hope and Habitat for Humanity. For the latter, he helped to raise $1 million with a bourbon fundraiser.
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | COVER STORY
KRISTAL DELLAY Kristal Dellay, School Support Strategist for the EVSC, is an experienced, highly-motivated, positive leader who has been using her various strengths since 2005 to support schools in the Support Network. From serving as a classroom teacher at McGary, to Assistant Principal at Evans, to now, a district administrator, she's worked collaboratively with teachers and school leaders across a multitude of schools, connecting with them in order to increase student achievement and build success. Kristal firmly believes that all students should be afforded the same opportunities regardless of any barriers. Working in partnership with the schools allows her to do just that. Early in Kristal's career, she was selected to be a part of two different leadership cohorts: the Learning Leadership Cadre and the IU/EVSC Administration Cohort. Both of these experiences, as well as her work in various Title I buildings, have given her a wealth of knowledge and experience to prepare her to do work now at this level. She works with school teams to develop school improvement plans, research best-practices and professional development, and analyze data to promote a culture of learning. Daily, Kristal strives to be the best possible example for others and a positive light in the communities in which she serves.
BRANDON MCCLISH Brandon McClish is the Executive Director of Evansville Regional Sports Commission, bringing high-level sporting events - including OVC basketball, NCAA events, Conference swim meets, baseball and tennis - to the city, and in turn, creating a major economic impact. Outside of work, he and his family stay busy with community involvement. Brandon is a member of the West Side Nut Club, heading various committees and volunteering countless hours to the Fall Festival. He also recently joined the capital fundraising campaign for Granted and the organization's House of Hope project. In addition, he serves as the liaison for EREP for the Young Professionals Alliance. Most significantly, Brandon's passionate about youth sports. He's a coach for the West Side Youth Basketball league, Golfmoor rec and Golfmoor Elite teams and was recently voted in as President of the Golfmoor Baseball League. You'll also find him supporting collegiate sports, including both UE and USI athletics.
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | COVER STORY
CAMERON ELLISON Following in his family's charitable footsteps, 23-year-old Cameron Ellison is committed to bringing positive change to Evansville, working with nonprofit organizations to better the community. The Reitz Memorial High School graduate's efforts are currently focused on the city's north side where he serves as the Treasurer for the Jacobsville Area Community Corporation and Vice President of the North Side Business Association. But that's just part of Cameron's story. In his days at Memorial, where Cameron was both highly involved in sports and received academic honors, he was named a finalist for the Don Mattingly Youth First Service Award. Post-high school, he spent two years at Western Kentucky University before returning to Evansville with the goal of taking over full ownership of the family business, Hickory Pit Stop BBQ, by 2026. Cameron's determined to make the most of the opportunities he's been given in life, intent on being an impactful community member by helping to turn Evansville into a top Midwest tourist destination, into a city not known for its crime issues but rather for its rich history in sports. Few people are more qualified to do the latter. In fact, Cameron just spent his 12th and final summer with the Evansville Otters, having received the Clubhouse Manager of the Year award in 2022.
JAMIE ELLIOTT A native of Newburgh, Jamie Elliott is the co-owner, social media maven, and beer-centric event creator at Myriad Brewing Company, a microbrewery established in 2018 in downtown Evansville. After five years of craft beer fun, Myriad has expanded to a second spacious taproom in Newburgh that is open to all ages (and doggos, of course). Jamie's mission is to bring people together to make the best memories. She loves collaborating with local food trucks, nonprofits, bakeries, coffee shops, artists, and entertainers to create awesome events, fundraisers, beer & food pairings, and community celebrations. When Jamie's not at the brewery, you'll find her chasing her twin 3-year-olds, or writing blogs for local and national brands. At the end of the day, her heart lies at Myriad, and she often falls asleep dreaming of the next kooky taproom event. ("Have you ever paired craft beer with cupcakes, pie, doughnuts, or cookies? Don't knock it til' you try it!")
ROBERT LOPEZ Robert Lopez first got interested in community involvement as a junior at Bosse High School when Erin Lewis from the University of Evansville approached his IB bio class to offer students the opportunity to participate in the High School Changemaker Challenge pitch competition for innovative ideas; he simply couldn't resist. Less than a week later, Robert and one of his best friends, Caroline Haynie, were meeting with the Project Manager at EWSU, Mike Labitzke. Turned out he was eager to see a new, innovative park project in downtown Evansville where the historic Holy Trinity Catholic Church once stood. While Robert and Caroline knew nothing about parks or sewer engineering, they were determined to make an impact on the city they grew up in. With only two weeks to prepare, they competed and walked away with third place; the following year they competed again and earned second. Since then, thanks to Toyota's financial backing, Toyota Trinity Stormwater Park is becoming a reality. Not only does the city gain a valuable service by holding 40 million gallons of stormwater overflow annually, but the top side has been designed with community input from all across the tri-state. While Caroline left the project in 2019 to attend college, Robert has been fortunate to have an amazing team at UE to help carry the project to the finish line after almost six years of work.
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | COVER STORY
DANA POOL Evansville native Dana Pool has worked in human resources for over 11 years. In 2020, she earned a SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management-Certified Professional) certification. Dana has served on the board of the EvansvilleArea Human Resource Association for five years, currently as Treasurer. As a member of the board of the Warrick Humane Society, she chairs the organization's Human Resource Committee and also co-chairs their new committee created to manage the fundraising and building of a brand-new shelter. In addition, she generously volunteers at different WHS events. In November 2022, Dana started her own small business, B-Team Tumblers, as a creative outlet. She makes custom epoxy drinking tumblers with a portion of all proceeds donated to WHS. Dana named the business after her fur babies - two Boston Terriers and two Beagle mixes: her B-Team! B-Team Tumblers goes to different events in the area and can also be found in two boutiques in Warrick County, proudly. Dana was recently able to merge her love for animals and passion for human resources when she accepted an HR Business Partner position with Best Friends Animal Society. In her personal life, she has been married to her wonderful husband for 10 years. The couple looks after their aforementioned four fur babies and has also added a farm cat named Bob, 17 chickens and a hive full of bees to the family and they continue to foster puppies for the WHS whenever needed.
BRADEN LUPFER Owner of Studio Vibe Dance Co. in Evansville, Braden Lupfer has spent the past 25 years living for dance and performance art. His passion for both, as well as the existence of a substantial dance community in the area, ultimately motivated him to open the business which now boasts five years of growth and counting. Through it all, Braden's mission for Studio Vibe has stayed true: to not only teach the importance of dance and the joy that it inspires but also support people of all ages, races, genders and social classes. He believes that every person can benefit from dancing and nothing makes him happier than promoting the inclusiveness of the Vibe Tribe - or giving back. Each year, Studio Vibe supports various charities and events that Evansville has to offer. These include: Arc of Evansville's "The Really Big Show," Over The Edge 4 Granted, West Side Nut Club Fall Festival, Fiesta Evansville, Evansville Latin Dance and Montessori Academy's Día de los Muertos. Braden's overarching goal is to spread love and positivity throughout the community and change lives in the process.
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ADELYN "ADDIE" ROEDEL Adelyn Roedel is an all-star student at Reitz High School where she's involved in student council, varsity cheer and Chickfil-A Leader Academy; she also student-leads her previous middle school's Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) huddle and attends her high school's FCA huddle. Through student council, Addie has worked to build a better community. Recently, she organized Sunrise School Spirit, a big event to help raise money and collect cans for the Tri-State Food Bank. Through Reitz Cheer, Addie has learned many valuable lessons, especially hard work, something that's helped her to grow and thrive in all areas of life. In addition, cheering has helped to build Addie's character and confidence. This is her first year participating in the Chick-fil-A Leader Academy. Through this group she's learned what it takes to be a leader and how we need confident leaders to change the world. It's inspired her to dream big and face the challenges ahead straight on. Through her involvement with student-leading FCA, Addie's learned many skills, including the art of speechgiving. Conversely, through her high school FCA huddles, she's learned how to listen, an invaluable skill. Outside of school, Addie works at Milk & Sugar Scoop Shoppe and Hometown Nutrition, both in Evansville. She stays continually busy, determined to be a positive influence on the community, hoping to change the world one day.
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | COVER STORY
TREVOR BAKER On a mission to instigate positive change in the community, Evansville's Trevor Baker joined forces with Austin Woodruff in 2018, and together, they acquired an existing supplement store brand in town. In 2020, the two motivated business partners successfully rebranded it as Active Nutrition and Supplements (ANS). Trevor and Austin firmly believe that as business owners in Evansville and the surrounding region, it's their responsibility to contribute to the creation of healthier communities, making a commitment to uphold "People and Community" as one of their core values. Currently, ANS operates full retail stores in Evansville, Vincennes, Jasper, Terre Haute and Owensboro. Additionally, they have ANS Express locations, small pro shops within gyms, located all over the tri-state. After rebranding in 2020, ANS provided crucial financial support to help Joe Sale establish Warrior Powerlifting, a program led by veterans that aids individuals in returning to the gym and offers them a support system. In addition, every day, ANS extends its support to the community's first responders, ensuring their access to high-quality supplements by offering an in-store discount. ANS has also been instrumental in producing and organizing the Indiana Muscle & Expo and partnered with Makenzie Hart, a dedicated athlete at ANS since its inception, to create the Evansville FitFest, a two-week event designed to showcase everything Evansville has to offer, providing participants with the chance to win prizes and cash incentives for visiting fitness centers in our city. Ultimately, Trevor is committed to making Evansville a healthier place to live, driven to use the platform he's been given to help community members feel good both mentally and physically.
LAUREN MONTGOMERY Evansville native Lauren Montgomery has been employed at SS&C Technologies, Inc., for over a decade as an Investor Services Manager. Along with her team, she's responsible for handling 60+ hedge funds located across many countries with billions of dollars of assets. But she's also spearheaded charity work at SS&C, helping to form the Events Planning Committee and, subsequently, chairing its Charity Committee. Out in the community, Lauren has organized Red Cross blood drives, raised over $1000 seven years in a row for Toys for Tots, hosted Back to School drives for the DreamCenter, and helped with canned food drives. In 2020, she received the USI Alumni Phenomenal Women Award. Lauren currently serves on the Evansville Police Foundation Board and as the Treasurer of the Fraternal Order of Police Auxiliary. She has received Auxiliary Member of the Year Award three times and serves on the National Auxiliary Scholarship Committee. In addition, Lauren has been a member of the FOP Associates for 10 years, serving as Vice-President, Trustee, and Chaplain. In 2017, the Southern Indiana Police Canine Association was formed which is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides food and medical care to retired K9's. Lauren has been influential in raising money for the organization. Along with other members of the community, she helped start the Youth Resources Scooter Scramble, which provides scholarships for at-risk young adults to attend TeenPower Camp. Lauren currently lives in St. Philips with her husband, three children, and EPD K9 Doc.
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | COVER STORY
JESHA SUMBRY Jesha Sumbry has a lot of plates spinning these days. He's the founder of the shoe and clothing brand Yung Angel Collection; owner of Quality Carpet Service; owner of Citi Vending; a DJ for WEOA 98.5 FM; and a party promoter. But above all, Jesha is a good-hearted person with a deep commitment to giving back to the community, particularly intent on helping to shape young minds. Not only is he involved with the Southern Indiana Mentoring Academy, Jesha has organized local toy drives and free skate/swim events for kids. In addition, many boys and girls in the area have him to thank for the sneakers on their feet. Annually, Jesha gives over 300 pairs of shoes to young people in need - except for this year when he took time off to go back to school. Proudly, he graduated from the entrepreneurship program at Ivy Tech and now looks to inspire others to do the same. After all, Jesha was blessed with mentors growing up and also watched his mother serve as a role model in the community. As he notes, "it's always a blessing to be a blessing."
MATT KARGES Matt Karges has been an officer with the Evansville Police Department for over a decade now and is the co-founder of Evansville's Finest LLC, a top-notch security firm employing Indiana Law Enforcement Academy graduate police officers to keep the community safe. After eight years serving on patrol and as a field training officer (twice awarded Officer of the Month), he was assigned the role of Parks Liaison, often handing out ice cream vouchers to kids when he witnessed them doing good deeds. Once promoted to sergeant, Matt noticed a gap in protection for victims of domestic violence. He enlisted the help of State Representative Wendy McNamara and together they worked to amend the law, increasing penalties against subjects who violate protection orders and re-assault their victims. It was the second law they successfully passed in Indiana which earned them a Leadership Everyone award in 2022. Matt also partnered with Assistant Chief Phil Smart to start the department's breast cancer awareness campaign to raise money for resources in the community, and is currently responsible for all EPD grants and funding for ballistic shields and vests for officer safety. Privately, he serves on the Evansville Parks Foundation board and German Township Booster Club and even coaches youth sports. But Matt’s most proud of his lovely wife and children who support him through everything. He’s scheduled to be promoted to lieutenant in January 2024.
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MEGAN HOFFHERR Megan Hoffherr has worked as a 4-H Youth Development Extension Educator with Purdue Extension for over 10 years, empowering thousands of young people and helping them learn life skills they will use now and in the future. In her role, Megan supports over 150 outstanding volunteers as the team provides education to nearly 700 4-H members in the Vanderburgh 4-H program. She loves to teach youth in 4-H, schools, and out-of-school programs about STEM, mindfulness, social emotional learning, college and career readiness, livestock education, community service, and leadership. One of Megan's favorite programs that she co-leads is called Cooking Around the World, a 6-week virtual cooking class focused on teaching kitchen skills, safety, and cultural awareness to young people across Indiana. In an effort to help adults understand and identify mental health challenges in youth, she became certified to teach Youth Mental Health First Aid and has taught over 100 military professionals from across the world how to help youth with mental health challenges. In addition, Megan's currently working with colleagues to offer an Entrepreneur Academy in 2024 to youth in grades 6-12 to help them start a business and learn how to succeed as an entrepreneur. Outside of work, Megan's greatest joy is being a parent to her children, Bennett, Evan, and Adelyn, alongside her husband.
TIANA BROWN In 2022, at the age of just 25, Tiana Brown became the founder and co-owner of Renew Spa Wellness + Skincare, a full-service spa located in Evansville. Previous to this momentous entrepreneurial achievement, she opened her own spa suite in 2019 where she built her business Tiana B Esthetics with an eye on running a fully-staffed operation one day. Now Tiana's living her dream, overseeing eight employees at Renew with a bright future ahead. But the road to success hasn't always been smooth. When Tiana was 19-years-old, she became pregnant with her first child. Some might have considered that a setback, however, her daughter's arrival only increased Tiana's drive to succeed. Now she strives to encourage other small business owners in the community to overcome obstacles, take a leap of faith and follow their dreams. To that end, she recently started a Female Small Business Owners of Evansville group, offering mentorship to other businesswomen. In Tiana's free time, she loves to volunteer at her church, serving as the children’s ministry director at Evansville Cathedral of Praise. She also supports Hope Dot Com, a local nonprofit ministry that works directly with the area's homeless. Above all, her favorite title is wife and mom to her husband and children.
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | COVER STORY
VICTORIA FORD Victoria Ford is the Client Services Director and Events Coordinator for the Go Mobile Clinic serving women in southwest Indiana. In truth, she never knew she wanted to work at a pregnancy resource clinic or a nonprofit organization but has now found her true calling, fully embracing the opportunity to benefit the community each and every day. With the Go Mobile Clinic, Victoria covers six counties in southwest Indiana, helping women and families facing unplanned/unexpected pregnancies. Some days her job consists of just listening and talking through emotions with a client, while other days she simply prays and cries with them. Victoria also assists clients with applying for WIC, food stamps and Medicaid, as well as finding an OB/GYN or other physicians. Ultimately, it's about getting them the resources they need to be the most successful parent they can be. Victoria is currently on track to earn her life-affirming specialist designation and complete her bachelor’s degree in social work. Going forward, she intends to add counseling to the list of services she's privileged to provide. It may have taken her longer than expected to figure out her path in life, but everything has led Victoria to this wonderful place in life where she's thriving as a special needs momma and loving wife with advocacy in her blood.
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | FEATURE
AN INTERVIEW WITH
PENTATONIX BEATBOXER KEVIN OLUSOLA ON THE GROUP'S
IMPRESSIVE LONGEVITY, ADDING INSTRUMENTATION INTO THE PENTATONIX MIX, CREATING THE CHRISTMAS TOUR SETLIST AND MORE
I
t's been over a decade since Pentatonix crooned their way to victory on season three of NBC's The Sing-Off, wowing judges and viewers alike with stunning a cappella arrangements of popular songs from various
genres and periods in music - everything from Katy Perry's "E.T." to Marvin Gaye's "Let's Get It On." 12 studio albums, three Christmas compilations and three Grammys later, the wildly-talented quintet continues to break new ground with their vocal creativity; members Mitch Grassi (tenor lead), Scott Hoying (baritone lead), Kristin Maldonado (soprano lead), Kevin Olusola (vocal percussion, beatboxing, cello) and Matt Sallee (vocal bass) keep
offerings. It's the focus of the group's current trek across the country, appropriately dubbed "The Most Wonderful Tour of the Year." We caught up with Olusola - who spent much of his childhood nearby in Owensboro - ahead of the group's highlyanticipated show at the Ford Center on November 30. I recall watching Pentatonix on season three of The Sing-Off
and thinking two things: this group is insanely good and yet, I don't see how an a cappella group can achieve sustained success in the music industry. How did you pull it off?
I really appreciate your honesty because I think there were a lot of people that thought the same thing. It's very much unheard of that an a cappella group would even get to this echelon of the music industry. But I think that there were a lot of things that were kind of helping us at the time. One, I think that the way we arranged [songs]...for sure we did things differently than a cappella groups before us. I think the second thing is using, kind of, the technology of the time. You know, we had YouTube at our fingertips - it was a perfect medium for what we do because it's an area where you need to see a cappella, right? It's visual/audio. And that's how I think the magic of a
pushing the a cappella envelope, always eager to explore and experiment.
cappella is heard and felt. And then there's so many things
Just released, The Greatest Christmas Hits captures Pentatonix at their
may go to church and you're singing these choir hymns and
holiday-themed best, featuring 23 festive classics and eight brand new
24 | DECEMBER 2023 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com
tied with Christmas and a cappella. Think about how much you you're singing spiritually with a group. I think we brought out
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | FEATURE
that magic but in our own way. And it really resonated with people all around the world. Your beatboxing is such a prominent part of the Pentatonix sound. Can you explain how you create the "rim shot" effect that's heard on so many of the group's songs?
It's really using, kind of, the backsides of my tongue and the upper roof of my mouth and creating suction. Once I create that suction, I kind of let that suction go very, very quickly. So if you're not releasing it quickly, it's going to sound like this [demonstrates sound] - but if you release it very quickly then it's [demonstrates sound]. So that just takes a lot of practice and there's a lot of YouTube tutorials. In the beatbox community you call it a k-snare. Has anything changed in the way that you record songs today as opposed to 12 years ago at the start of Pentatonix's career?
I'll say the thing that has changed is that now we're a lot more open, creatively, to instrumentation. And I think you're going to see that at the show, right? Because I think one of the things we learned this year, especially...we did The Masked Singer and it was an amazing show. Obviously, we were masked so you don't know who it is singing. But because we were masked we said, you know, why don't we go crazy with it? Let's try something completely different, outside of our comfort zone. And we tried to do the songs with instrumentation - and it was amazing to hear how people really, really enjoyed the different instrumentation for what we did. And I think that opened us up and unlocked something that made us realize we can still continue to keep our iconic harmonies at the forefront of what we do but now elevate those iconic harmonies with instrumentation that's appropriate for what we are doing vocally. The group recently joked on The Jennifer Hudson Show that there are virtually no Christmas songs left for Pentatonix to cover - you've sung them all. So how did you put together the setlist for the current tour? My friend, that was so tough. It was one of the toughest things for us
to figure out. But we kind of just figured out, kind of like the album we just did, The Greatest Christmas Hits, what are the songs that are truly the ones that people resonate with the most? And from that standpoint, now that we know what those are, what are the songs that we actually love singing that will make for a great arc of the show? You know, there are some songs that we know we can't do, necessarily, because they're too long - so there are a lot of mashups as well that I think help us get as many songs [as possible] in there but still make an enjoyable arc for the audience. But it took a lot of planning - I'm calling you from rehearsal. It's an ongoing process. But we're going to get there and when we step onstage at the Ford Center, it's going to be fun. For more info, visit ptxofficial.com.
Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • DECEMBER 2023
| 25
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | CUISINE & DINING
CLEAN BITE Healthy Cooking with Lindsay Rasure Who knew sourdough in brownies could be such a wonderful thing?
DISCARD SOURDOUGH BROWNIES INGREDIENTS: •
baking almost weekly with it ever since. I first started with sandwich loaves, so I could quit buying the expensive organic loaves from the local grocery markets. Now I’m baking
2 LARGE EGGS
•
1 EGG YOLK
•
1 C. COCONUT SUGAR
•
½ C. SOURDOUGH STARTER DISCARD
•
½ C. REGULAR COCOA POWDER
•
1 C. ALL-PURPOSE FLOUR
•
2 TSP. PURE VANILLA EXTRACT
•
½ TSP. SALT
DIRECTIONS: 1.
PREHEAT OVEN TO 350 DEGREES. GREASE A SQUARE BAKING PAN WITH BUTTER OR LINE WITH PARCHMENT PAPER.
2.
MELT THE BUTTER IN A SMALL SAUCEPAN OVER LOW HEAT. ADD THE CHOCOLATE CHIPS, VANILLA EXTRACT AND COCOA POWDER. STIR THE INGREDIENTS UNTIL THE CHOCOLATE CHIPS HAVE MELTED AND THE MIXTURE
muffins, and even sourdough cakes.
IS SMOOTH. REMOVE THE SAUCEPAN FROM THE BURNER AND SET IT ASIDE TO
This brownie recipe is perfect when
COOL DOWN. 3.
IN A LARGE MIXING BOWL, BEAT THE EGGS AND COCONUT SUGAR WITH AN ELECTRIC MIXER FOR 7-10 MINUTES. (MIXING THIS LONG WILL CREATE THE NICE
previous bakes. They are thick, rich, and decadent. My kind of brownie!
12 OZ. SEMI SWEET CHOCOLATE
•
CHIPS
cinnamon rolls, waffles, English
you have a little starter left over from
8 T. SALTED BUTTER (KERRYGOLD IS THE BEST!)
•
I received my sourdough starter a couple of years ago, and I’ve been
life
SHINY CRACKLY TOP THAT BROWNIES SHOULD HAVE.) 4.
ADD THE SOURDOUGH DISCARD AND CHOCOLATE MIXTURE TO THE BOWL AND BEAT ON LOW UNTIL COMBINED.
5.
ADD THE FLOUR AND SALT AND STIR WITH A SPATULA UNTIL JUST COMBINED. (THE BATTER WILL BE VERY THICK.)
6.
POUR THE BATTER INTO THE BAKING DISH AND SMOOTH THE TOP. BAKE FOR 35-40 MINUTES.
7.
TO CHECK IF THE BROWNIES ARE DONE, INSERT A TOOTHPICK AND SEE IF IT COMES OUT CLEAN.
8.
LET THE SOURDOUGH BROWNIES COOL COMPLETELY BEFORE SLICING.
9.
BROWNIES ARE BEST STORED IN A TIGHT LID CONTAINER. (PRO TIP: WRAP AND FREEZE SQUARES INDIVIDUALLY SO WHEN A CRAVING HITS YOU HAVE SOMETHING AT THE READY!)
*Brownie recipe is adapted from: Little Spoon Farm FOR MORE RECIPES OR MEAL IDEAS YOU CAN FOLLOW LINDSAY RASURE ON INSTAGRAM: @CLEANBITELIFE OR HER FACEBOOK GROUP: CLEAN BITE LIFE
26 | DECEMBER 2023 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com
COUPONS!
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | COUPONS
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| 27
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | IN TOWN & AROUND
PRESENTED BY:
IN TOWN & AROUND FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1
8:00 PM
5:30 PM
Bokeh Lounge -- JEB
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 5
6:00 PM
Bokeh Lounge -- Lindsey Williams
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Salsa & Latin
6:00 PM
Bokeh Lounge -- John Lennon
7:00 PM
Night
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
Night w/ DJ Dan Gunn
Ford Center -- Evansville
9:00 PM
College Night / Karaoke & DJ
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
Thunderbolts Hockey
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
9:00 PM
-- Trey Hughes
7:30 PM
-- Boscoe France & Rusty
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
8:00 PM
Old National Events Plaza -- Ann
KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ
Wilson & Tripsitter
Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 6
8:30 PM
8:00 PM
10:00 PM
6:00 PM
Hornet's Nest -- Karaoke
Bokeh Lounge -- DJ AP
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
Bokeh Lounge -- Nick Hamilton
9:00 PM
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- 2 Miles Back
Super Bee
6:30 PM
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
-- DJ Brian Dawe
8:30 PM
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- TBA
Hornet's Nest -- Karaoke
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3
Cornhole
KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ
9:00 PM
2:00 PM
7:00 PM
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- DJ
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill --
Victory Theatre -- Evansville
Ford Center -- Skillet & Theory of
Dance Party
Brad Lemmons & Josh Merritt
Philharmonic Orchestra presents:
a Deadman: "Rock Resurrection"
Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky
KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ
Peppermint Pops
Tour
O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Karaoke
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- DJ
2:30 PM
9:00 PM
Dance Party
Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz w/
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9
Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky
Honey Roy
Karaoke & DJ
6:00 PM
O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Karaoke
6:00 PM
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke w/ Suzie
-- Elliott Sublett
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2
Q
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7
7:00 PM
1:00 PM
8:00 PM
6:00 PM
Ford Center -- Evansville
Ford Center -- UE Men's Basketball
Old National Events Plaza -- Bob
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill --
Thunderbolts Hockey
7:00 PM
Dylan "Rough & Rowdy Ways" Tour
College Night w/ Trey Hughes
Hornet's Nest -- Themed Xmas
Ford Center -- Evansville
9:00 PM
KC's Corner Pocket -- College
Party
Thunderbolts Hockey
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
Night / Karaoke & DJ
Victory Theatre -- Ballet Indiana
Hornet's Nest -- Themed Xmas
Karaoke & DJ
7:00 PM
Presents: The Nutcracker
Party
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
7:30 PM
-- Beer Pong
Hornet's Nest -- Sarah Werner
Victory Theatre -- Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra presents:
MONDAY, DECEMBER 4
Hornet's Nest -- Trivia
8:00 PM
Peppermint Pops
6:00 PM
9:00 PM
Bokeh Lounge -- The BackBeats
7:30 PM
Bokeh Lounge -- S.I.N. Night
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Onesie
Old National Events Plaza -- This
Karaoke w/ Phillip
Karaoke & DJ
Karaoke Christmas Party
is Jesus: A Christmas Worship
9:00 PM
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Brandon
Concert
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Open Mic
28 | DECEMBER 2023 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com
Sciotto w/ Aaron Norris
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| 29
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | IN TOWN & AROUND
9:00 PM
9:00 PM
Bokeh Lounge -- Drag Me to the
5:30 PM
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
Weekend w/ DJ Chidi
Old National Events Plaza --
8:30 PM
Straight No Chaser "The Sleighin'
-- DJ Brian Dawe KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13
Hornet's Nest -- Karaoke
It Tour"
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
6:00 PM
9:00 PM
6:00 PM
Bourbon Roots
Bokeh Lounge -- Nick Hamilton
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke w/ Suzie
Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky
6:30 PM
-- DJ Cue Dance
Q
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ
9:00 PM
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10
Cornhole
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- DJ
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
12:00 PM
9:00 PM
Dance Party
Karaoke & DJ
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Final
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
Bathrobes & Brunch
Karaoke & DJ
Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky
2:00 PM
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Karaoke
Presents: The Nutcracker
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16
Bokeh Lounge -- S.I.N. Night
2:30 PM
6:00 PM
6:00 PM
Karaoke w/ Phillip
Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz w/
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill --
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
7:00 PM
the Sidemen
College Night w/ Brad Lemmons
-- Nick Gregory
Ford Center -- UE Men's Basketball
4:30 PM
KC's Corner Pocket -- College
7:00 PM
7:30 PM
Old National Events Plaza --
Night / Karaoke & DJ
Ford Center -- Evansville
Old National Events Plaza --
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer:
7:00 PM
Thunderbolts Hockey
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas
The Musical
Bokeh Lounge -- Lindsey Williams
Hornet's Nest -- Themed Xmas
9:00 PM
6:00 PM
Songwriters Night
Party
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Open Mic
Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke w/ Suzie
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
7:30 PM
Q
-- Beer Pong
Hornet's Nest -- The Refugees
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19
9:00 PM
Hornet's Nest -- Trivia
8:00 PM
6:00 PM
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
9:00 PM
Bokeh Lounge -- The Cold Stares
Bokeh Lounge -- Nick Hamilton
Karaoke & DJ
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
9:00 PM
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
Karaoke & DJ
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
College Night / Karaoke & DJ
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
-- DJ Cue Dance
9:00 PM
KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
MONDAY, DECEMBER 18 6:00 PM
Victory Theatre -- Ballet Indiana
MONDAY, DECEMBER 11 6:00 PM
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
Bokeh Lounge -- S.I.N. Night
6:00 PM
Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20
Karaoke w/ Phillip
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
10:00 PM
6:30 PM
9:00 PM
-- Ridge Runners Unplugged
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Open Mic
7:00 PM
Ridge Runners
Cornhole
Ford Center -- Evansville
Old National Events Plaza -- Chevy
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12
Thunderbolts Hockey
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17
Chase Live
6:00 PM
Old National Events Plaza -- Shane
2:30 PM
7:00 PM
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
Gillis Live
Bokeh Lounge -- Sunday Jazz:
Ford Center -- UE Men's Basketball
College Night / Karaoke & DJ
8:00 PM
Bokeh Big Band Christmas Show
9:00 PM
30 | DECEMBER 2023 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com
Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • DECEMBER 2023
| 31
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | IN TOWN & AROUND
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
5:30 PM
Cornhole
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
Karaoke & DJ
Bokeh Lounge -- Ugly Sweater
9:00 PM
-- Dan Hall
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
Party w/ Michelle Shelton
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
8:00 PM
6:00 PM
Karaoke & DJ
Bokeh Lounge -- Corduroy
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
Orbison
6:00 PM
-- Trey Hughes
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill --
7:00 PM
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 28
9:00 PM
College Night w/ Josh Merritt
Hornet's Nest -- Themed Xmas
6:00 PM
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
Bokeh Lounge -- Blues & Jazz
Party
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill --
-- DJ NYU Dance Party
Open Mic w/ Logan Dyer & Roy
8:00 PM
College Night w/ Trey Hughes
KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ
Carter
Bokeh Lounge -- Epic
KC's Corner Pocket -- College
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
KC's Corner Pocket -- College
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Ho Ho Ho
Night / Karaoke & DJ
80's Night w/ DJ Jones Capone
Night / Karaoke & DJ
Naughty Christmas Karaoke Party
7:00 PM
Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky
7:00 PM
O'Brian's Sports Bar -- SHE wsg
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
TBA & Ugly Sweater Contest
-- Beer Pong
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31
-- Beer Pong
9:00 PM
Hornet's Nest -- Trivia
6:00 PM
Hornet's Nest -- Trivia
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
9:00 PM
Bokeh Lounge -- Karaoke w/ Suzie
9:00 PM
-- DJ Brian Dawe
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
Q
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ
Karaoke & DJ
7:00 PM
Karaoke & DJ
Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
Ford Center -- Evansville
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
10:00 PM
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- TBA
Thunderbolts Hockey
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29
8:00 PM
Yellow Banks
6:00 PM
Bokeh Lounge -- New Year's Eve
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
Black Tie Event w/ the Pits
6:00 PM Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24
-- Dan Hall
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- New Year's
-- Trey Hughes
HAPPY CHRISTMAS EVE!!!
8:00 PM
Eve Bash
Bokeh Lounge -- That's What She
O'Brian's Sports Bar -- New Year's
8:00 PM Bokeh Lounge -- The Ridge
MONDAY, DECEMBER 25
Said!
Eve Bash w/ Karaoke & DJ
Runners
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- TBA
8:30 PM
8:30 PM
Hornet's Nest -- NYE Karaoke
8:30 PM Hornet's Nest -- Karaoke
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 26
Hornet's Nest -- Karaoke
9:00 PM
9:00 PM
6:00 PM
9:00 PM
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill --
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill
New Year's Eve Bash w/ DJ NYU
-- DJ Brian Dawe
College Night / Karaoke & DJ
-- DJ Jon J
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill
KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ
9:00 PM
KC's Corner Pocket -- Karaoke & DJ
-- New Year's Eve Bash w/ That's
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- DJ
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill -- DJ
What She Said!
Dance Party
Dance Party
Lamasco Bar & Grill -- Karaoke
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27
Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky
Leroy's Tavern -- Karaoke w/ Sparky
6:00 PM
O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Karaoke
O'Brian's Sports Bar -- Karaoke
Bokeh Lounge -- Nick Hamilton
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23
6:30 PM
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30
KC's Time Out Lounge & Grill --
6:00 PM
32 | DECEMBER 2023 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com
Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • DECEMBER 2023
| 33
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | MUSIC
JUSTBRANDON CHANCE ENCOUNTER LEADS TO RECORD DEAL AND BIG MOVE FOR EVANSVILLE COUNTRY RAP ARTIST
I
t's amazing how an unexpected
about the industry
interaction can alter the course of one's
that I'd actually give
life - and nobody knows that better than
it one good push
Brandon Gabriel, a 30-year-old country rap
before I turned 30,"
artist from Evansville. Well, formerly from
he explains. For
Evansville. Just recently, he packed up the
starters, Gabriel
family and headed for the Lone Star State,
rebranded himself,
ready to begin an entirely new and exciting
opting for the
chapter in his music career after a chance
one-word moniker
encounter led to a record deal and the
JustBrandon; next,
promise of good things to come. But let's
he deleted all of
backtrack a bit. Gabriel, for the better part
his pre-2018 music
of two decades, had been trying to make
from streaming
headway as a local hip-hop artist. His dad was
platforms. Most
an area DJ which helped open some doors
significantly,
along the way, but ultimately, he's brutally
Gabriel embraced
honest about the lack of progress achieved:
his lifelong love of country music, merging
"I spent close to 20 years doing things wrong
elements of the genre with the hip-hop flavor
- no one really knows how the music industry
he'd always been known for. Bullseye. The
works until they're thrown into it," Gabriel
change in musical direction paid off almost
says.
immediately with "Busch Light Papi," two videos for which caught fire on TikTok and
But things started to turn around about a year
Instagram, racking up 400,000 views. Pretty
ago as Gabriel made a fateful decision with a
cool. But it turned out the best was yet to
milestone birthday on the horizon. "I decided
come.
for the first time after spending awhile trying to take in as much knowledge as I could
Gabriel, in addition to being a talented musical artist, also excels as a videographer. A few months back he got a last-minute call to assist on the set of country star Coffey Anderson's new music video on location in Henderson, literally jumping at the opportunity. Duly impressed by Gabriel's drive and professionalism, the Texas native pulled him aside after the shoot. "He asked me a couple of questions and said that my answers were similar to how he would have responded, that he doesn't meet a lot of people like himself - then he asked for my
34 | DECEMBER 2023 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com
number," Gabriel recalls. Soon Gabriel was invited to do more filming for Anderson, including at the Grand Ole Opry. "During this time we would talk about music - he said he loved what I was doing and mentioned the idea of me coming to Dallas, initially as a videographer, but he kept talking about my music, too," Gabriel notes. "Then he asked what I thought about signing to his label." As someone who's always valued his independence, Gabriel had to do some soulsearching, but friends and family convinced him to take the plunge. "They all said do it - what's the worst that can happen?," he says. So just a few weeks ago, Gabriel made the big move on the heels of releasing his latest single, "Wildboys and Cowgirls." He and Anderson hope to cultivate a true creative partnership and help each other move up the industry ladder, so stay tuned for updates! For more info, follow JustBrandon on Instagram: @ohthatsjustbrandon
Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • DECEMBER 2023
| 35
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | MUSIC
TRI-STATE COUNTRY SINGER RETURNS WITH "GIVE IT TO ME," PROMISES MORE NEW MUSIC TO FOLLOW
I
f you do much bar-hopping in town or attend area music festivals, it's hard to miss Josh Merritt. The Owensboro-based country singer is a regular on the scene, performing most weekends at popular
venues like Bud's Rockin' Country Bar & Grill in Evansville and Stoner's Grill in Boonville where he routinely packs them in thanks to a catalog of choice covers and heartfelt originals from 2020's Reynolds Station. Merritt's debut album garnered much attention from the press, including a coveted write-up in American Songwriter - quite a springboard, but wholly deserving considering the depth and thoughtfulness of the songs which focused primarily on his often painful childhood. Now Merritt is set to unveil "Give It to Me," a supremely catchy new single out December 1 that leaves behind the introspection of Reynolds Station, moving in a more upbeat direction without sacrificing any grit - or twang. Backed by a mix of acoustic and electric guitars and a generous helping of Hammond organ (a clear nod to the Allman Brothers), Merritt's signature baritone is in full effect, recalling the golden age of 90's country as he pulls no punches with a love interest: "Give it to me, oh won't you tell me what you're thinkin' bout/ Give it to me, like how you're feelin' inside/ Give it to me, and if we can, then we can talk about it/ Nowhere to run to and nowhere to hide." Merritt looks to follow up "Give It to Me" with his sophomore full-length release in the New Year. Stay tuned for an official announcement and be sure to check out the new single on major streaming platforms. For more info, visit joshmerritt. com and follow Josh Merritt on Facebook.
36 | DECEMBER 2023 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | MUSIC
MOSKVIIN POST-PUNK FROM PRINCETON: ONE-MAN BAND RELEASES DEBUT ALBUM DEDICATED TO "LOW SOULS
M
AS HIGH AS SKIES" ulti-instrumentalist Tyler Nash had a vision for a dark, foreboding collection of songs as a means of catharsis after a difficult year. The resulting album, Vast Dissociation,
began to take shape back in January with the Princeton-based songwriter on a mission to "combine influences from sounds of old 80's post punk/goth rock, darkwave/coldwave/neofolk, ambient, and occasional electronic emissions"; yet, over time, the solo project christened Moskviin took on its own feel, coalescing into an aural experiment difficult to pin down - but totally up the alley of fans of Bauhaus, early Cure, Fields of the Nephilim and Siouxsie and the Banshees, as well as horror movie soundtrack and ambient music buffs. Recorded at Tomb House Studio and released, suitably, on Halloween, Vast Dissociation opens with "Future," a funereal synth instrumental straight out of a John Carpenter film. It's a wonderfully creepy moodsetter, leading perfectly into the drum-heavy, intensely spidery "Claws of Mind" which builds to a wash of phased guitar distortion and prickly soloing. "Burden," featuring even bigger beats and more fuzz, edges into the metal realm with a chugging riff reminiscent of Rammstein, setting the stage for the droning "Captured in Dreams" which, after a near-acoustic, Middle Eastern-influenced introduction, finds Nash intoning mantra-like lyrics through a haze of reverb over an increasingly chaotic soundscape. After putting the listener in a near-hypnotic state, he reverses course for maximum effect, inserting album highlight "What is Left After the Mind is Gone" as the penultimate track - a total throwback to the heyday of post-punk and goth and sublimely catchy, no less. Vast Dissociation closes with the brief "Exit Years," a disembodied, hallucinatory comedown that leaves you appropriately unsettled and strangely satisfied. Listen to Vast Dissociation at moskviinorder.bandcamp. com.
Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • DECEMBER 2023
| 37
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | MUSIC
THE ROCK & METAL PROFS W I T H M AT T A L S C H BAC H & D R . CO U RT L E W I S
ROCK AND METAL MUSIC THAT EDUCATES AND ENTERTAINS
A
ll too often in the 80s and 90s
events, politicians and
I heard detractors say that the
human nature.
rock/metal genre was loud and
abrasive, with unintelligible lyrics (the
My measured skepticism
latter is sometimes true). Critics claimed
and need to understand
that all of the songs were about sex, drugs,
current events with
alcohol and partying. It is true that some
nuance and complexity
rock and metal acts leaned too heavily
can be traced back to my
on party anthems, thinly-veiled sexual
teenage years listening
innuendos, and songs about fast cars,
to Megadeth sing about
living fast and dying young. However, the
nuclear brinksmanship and
vast majority of the rock and metal bands
mankind’s inexplicable
we know and love tackled more serious
desire to destroy that
and cerebral topics like war, philosophy,
which we created. This
literature, good and evil, politics, and
might sound fatalistic,
the very character of humankind. Bands
but many of Megadeth
like Rush, Metallica, Iron Maiden, Dream
founder Dave Mustaine's
Theater, Rage Against the Machine and
lyrics from 1990's "Rust in Peace...Polaris"
System of a Down wrote about a wide
were spot-on: “High priest of holocaust,
range of topics, including corruption,
fire from the sea/ Nuclear winter spreading
exploitation, the space race, the Biblical
disease/ The day of final conflict all will
exodus, colonialism, genocide and a host
pay the price/ The third world war rapes
of real-life issues that guaranteed those
peace, takes life/ Back to the start, talk of
songs wouldn’t be radio-hits. The bands
the part/ When the Earth was cold as ice/
didn’t care! They wanted to educate and
Total dismay as the sun passed away/ And
inform their fans. Heck, the first time I
the days were black as night.” Disturbing
learned about Ayn Rand’s book Atlas
I know, but Mustaine perfectly articulated
Shrugged was after listening to Rush’s
the cost of modern warfare. These words
album 2112. One of the reasons I became
didn’t scare me as much as they motivated
a college professor and historian was
me to learn more about why the U.S. is the
because music played such an important
most powerful military and nuclear entity
role in shaping my understanding of world
on earth. I sought out information about
38 | DECEMBER 2023 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com
PICTURED LEFT TO RIGHT: MATT ALSCHBACH AND DR. COURT LEWIS
the USSR and why we were so at odds with that nation during the Cold War. I ask you, what other genre of music can convince a teen to study foreign policy and the geo-political realities of the Cold War? I don’t blame non-fans of rock and metal when they make snap judgments about the music - most people prefer happy songs that make them feel good or forget about the madness of our world; I get that. That’s why we need Mötley Crüe and ZZ Top! Metal music can be great fun, but it can also educate, motivate, inspire and entertain. - Matt Alschbach
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | MUSIC
BLAST FROM THE PAST 50 YEARS OF DOOM: ROCK & METAL PROF MATT ALSCHBACH CELEBRATES THE ANNIVERSARY OF A STONE COLD CLASSIC ALBUM
B L AC K S A B B AT H / S A B B AT H B LO O DY S A B B AT H ( 1 9 7 3 )
W
hen it came time for Black
just the right
Sabbath to record their fifth
balance of
studio album in 1973, the band
otherworldly
was already in the throes of alcoholism
acoustics and sinister ambiance needed to
and drug addiction. We’ve all heard the
create such a dark, heavy album.
stories - the band’s battles with alcohol and chemical dependency are legendary. Given
Produced by the band, Sabbath Bloody
how much time the gents spent inebriated,
Sabbath has some of the best analog
coked-out, nodding off, or sleeping in the
production you’ll ever hear from the 1970s.
studio, you'd expect that the resultant album
It is balanced from start to finish, and every
would be a disaster. Instead, what we got
band member shines. Frontman Ozzy
was a beautiful masterpiece and arguably,
Osbourne's vocals are crisp and show his
the band’s greatest album. Sabbath Bloody
early range; Butler’s lyrics are brilliant and
Sabbath has no hits. Instead, it features a
thoughtful; Ward’s percussion work is jazzy
band taking chances, stretching artistically,
and interesting; and Iommi, well, he is the
and doing something they’d not attempted
riff master. But what really sets SBS apart
prior. Guitarist Tony Iommi, bassist Geezer
from every other Ozzy-era album is the
Butler and drummer Bill Ward wrote much
experimentation. The band brought in sitars,
of the music at Clearwell Castle in the
bagpipes, a Moog synthesizer, Revox tape
Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire, England.
machines and a string section. The result
According to Iommi, they would rehearse
is a rich and gloriously diverse album that
in the castle’s dank dungeons, producing
towers above everything else in the band’s
"
impressive catalog. Closing track “Spiral Architect” takes the listener on an inspiring sojourn that one cannot help but listen to again and again; “A National Acrobat” features signature Iommi riffs - it is the perfect amalgam of acid rock, pop, metal, and poetry; and “Looking for Today” is the closest thing to an upbeat pop song, and frankly, I’m surprised it didn’t get airplay. Maybe it was the soliloquy of flutes during the chorus that put off radio DJs? The title track is a traditional Black Sabbath song, and the one casual fans remember the most. It was an instant classic and a staple of the live show. And let’s not forget that incredible album cover art from Drew Struzan. The artwork perfectly captures the essence of Black Sabbath. Be sure to check out the flipside if you see it in the store; the back cover is just as great as the front!
The result is a rich and gloriously diverse album that towers above everything else in the band’s impressive catalog. Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • DECEMBER 2023
| 39
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | BOOK REVIEW
L
DAISY JONES & THE SIX by Taylor Jenkins Reid
ast month I reviewed a novella by Taylor Jenkins Reid and I’m back again this month with another TJR review - probably her most notable book - with Daisy Jones & the Six. I was
nervous to read this book because having read a Colleen Hoover book (another popular BookTok author), my expectations of TikTok reviews were wavering, but I am glad I pushed my hesitations aside and read this book. My day job is a journalist so immediately the interview format interested me, and having not read a book in this style before, I wasn’t sure if it was something I would like. I think the interview take on the book made it feel real despite it being about a fictional band. The format made it easier to picture the situations in my head and feel more connected to the characters. The narration and storyline of the book was reminiscent of Fleetwood Mac, which I would argue was the inspiration for the book. The chemistry between Daisy and Billy was frustrating and undeniable with roadblocks in the way (mostly the fact Billy was married). Daisy and Billy are also just frustrating in and of themselves as characters, but I think that’s what makes them likable to me. I like fixer-upper characters. But I also think the secondary characters in the book made the storyline better than it would have been had it just been Daisy and Billy. They added more relation to the narrative and acted as a catalyst for progressing the story. Also, this book was better than the television series. - Karah Wilson
40 | DECEMBER 2023 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com
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| 41
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | ENTERTAINMENT
SCREEN TIME WITH MARISA PAT WA
i
December film releases feature intriguing updates of iconic stories and a scintillating rom-com
WONKA
ANYONE BUT YOU
THE COLOR PURPLE
perfectly-casted young Willy Wonka in
chemistry between sexy starlet Sydney
getting an update this Christmas. For die-
our candy-coated dreams. In this prequel,
Sweeney (Euphoria) and golden boy
hard fans of The Color Purple, this version is
he works fastidiously to create a delicious
Glen Powell (Top Gun: Maverick) in this
based on the popular stage musical. Both,
chocolate empire in a world of naysayers
scintillating rom-com. And just in time for
of course, are sourced from Alice Walker’s
and disbelievers. Wonka himself is a
mistletoe season. Written by Will Gluck
best-selling 1982 novel, which details the
triple-threat in his own right as a “magician,
(Easy A and Friends With Benefits) this film
hardships of young black women trying to
inventor and chocolate maker,” inspiring
is based off of Shakespeare’s classic Much
survive racism and abuse during the early
wonder and excitement everywhere he
Ado About Nothing. Here, Sweeney and
1900s. American Idol’s Fantasia Barrino is
goes. He is the perfect person to battle
Powell are diving deep into the enemies-
the perfect actress to take on the lead role
against the so-called chocolate cartel in
turning-into-lovers trope against the
of headstrong Celie Johnson and bring such
England and make his mark on the sugary
beautiful backdrop of Australia. They are old
a beloved character to life. The star-studded
sweet world. Hugh Grant, somewhat
college classmates and polar opposites who
cast also includes Taraji Henson, Danielle
questionably, makes a cameo as Wonka’s
pretend to be a couple for a destination
Brooks, Corey Hawkins, H.E.R., Ciara and
first captured orange Oompa-Loompa,
wedding - what could go wrong? Cue
Halle Bailey. There are harsh themes in this
while Keegan-Michael Key makes a splash as
the feisty arguments, longing glances
film and although the portrayal of abuse
an inquisitive officer. Other supporting cast
and playful banter. Will the two find every
is always difficult to watch, it's the strength
members include Rowan Atkinson as Father
reason not to get along or will they wind up
and triumph of these young women that's
Julius and Sally Hawkins as Willy's mother.
together in the end? In one snippet, Powell
so empowering. Ghanaian director Blitz
With chocolate that makes you fly and a
puts his aviation skills to use by jumping
Bazawule has created a colorful masterpiece
dashing look in Wonka's eye that shows no
off of a helicopter. We’ll see if this "perfect"
that is truly the perfect gift. With all the red
sign he’ll stop creating new treats or fighting
couple's love soars when the film is released
and green during the holidays, we need a
for his place, this film is set to be a perfectly
via Sony Pictures. IN THEATERS 12/22
little purple. IN THEATERS 12/25
Timothée Chalamet is cooking up the most
whimsical delight. IN THEATERS 12/15
It’s all anyone is talking about - the steamy
42 | DECEMBER 2023 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com
Steven Spielberg's iconic 1985 film is
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| 43
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | ENTERTAINMENT
TRUE CRIME JUNKIE WITH JOHNNY FLETCHER
MURDER-FOR-HIRE: THE CASE OF FRANK HOWARD
A
s the drama surrounding the upcoming trial of Richard Allen, suspected killer in the Delphi murders case, continues, let's take a look
back at the saga of Frank Howard, convicted in 2014 of a murder-for-hire plot against his wife, Nancy. It's the ultimate example, perhaps, of the way in which family members often blindly back an accused loved one, even in the face of mounting evidence. Or a mountain of evidence, more accurately. It's understandable; no one wants to believe that someone near and dear to them is, in reality, a cold-hearted criminal. Still, when Dateline aired an episode about this case in 2017, many viewers, including myself, were simply dumbfounded by the loyalty of Howard's children whom he lied to over and over again. Not to mention that Frank attempted to kill their mother. Which brings up the most ridiculous element of all: for a period of time, Nancy, after barely surviving an orchestrated ambush during which she was shot in the face (and lost sight in one of her eyes as a result), maintained that her committed husband couldn't possibly be responsible, regardless of the proof. But
as chief financial officer. Not long after, tragedy struck back in Texas. When Nancy returned home from a church event, she was accosted by an intruder in the garage and, as noted earlier, shot in the face. Frank was in Reno, Nevada, cavorting with Suzanne when the crime occurred - he reportedly wept uncontrollably when given the news. But as investigators would soon discover, it was all just an act. Seems he'd been giving cash to East Texas gangsters for years in hopes that they'd take Nancy out. In truth, this group of hillbilly thugs hadn't planned on killing anyone - but the money was just too easy: $2
eventually, unlike her children, she would see the light.
million in all, as they continued to string Frank along.
So, what drove Frank to such extremes? You guessed it -
carried out the plot.
another woman. Back in 2009, Howard was a successful businessman in Texas with three kids and a loving wife in Nancy. It was around this time that he began traveling for work more often and over the weekend of July 25, met dental hygienist Suzanne Leontieff in Lake Tahoe. She was married, too, but separated. Soon the pair began scheduling get-togethers in various cities, developing a secret relationship in the process; Frank even put her on the payroll of the company for which he was employed
44 | DECEMBER 2023 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com
Ultimately, the drug-addicted stepson of the ringleader
At Frank's trial, his children testified on his behalf, dismissing any and all evidence against their father. They even chose to sit apart from Nancy, who served as a witness for the prosecution. No matter the division, the jury took just two hours to reach a guilty verdict. And as a final blow, at the sentencing hearing it came to light that Frank had embezzled $30 million from his former boss, money used to finance his affair and pay the East Texas crew to off his wife.
"
SEEMS HE'D BEEN GIVING CASH TO EAST TEXAS GANGSTERS FOR YEARS IN HOPES THAT THEY'D TAKE NANCY OUT.
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| 45
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | COMMUNITY & FAMILY
V A N D E R B U R G H
H U M A N E
S O C I E T Y
i
EACH MONTH WE’LL BE CHECKING IN WITH THE VHS FOR THE LATEST GOOD NEWS AND TO HELP FIND FUREVER HOMES FOR SOME OF THEIR MORE UNIQUE AND OLDER RESIDENTS
THINKING ABOUT ADOPTION? HERE'S HOW YOU CAN REACH US!
ONYX: Is it possible to be both strikingly handsome AND a
giant goofball? Just ask Onyx! This 3-year-old beefcake is both good-looking and a lovable, drooling silly man. He knows “sit” and is working really hard on not getting too excited when you ask him to do it. Unaware of his size, Onyx WILL bulldoze over small children and headbutt adults with a kiss. For this reason, he would do best with big kids and an active home to help get that energy out. Interested in this good boy? Apply online at vhslifesaver.org! As always, his adoption fee includes his neuter, microchip and up-to-date vaccinations.
400 MILLNER INDUSTRIAL DRIVE 2 BLOCKS WEST OF GARVIN PARK IN EVANSVILLE
BUFFY & CORDELIA: Meet Buffy and
Cordelia, a bonded pair of two-year-old sisters. They first arrived as owner surrenders in 2021. They were practically babies at the time and very timid. Despite coming out of their shells along the way, they waited a whopping 457
(812) 426-2563
days to be adopted! Due to circumstances beyond their control, they were returned to the shelter several months later. They’re now in foster care, patiently waiting…again. Their adoption fee is a 2-for-1, making it a great opportunity to give two amazing cats another lease on life! Interested in meeting them? Apply online at vhslifesaver.org
ADOPTION HOURS TUES-SAT FROM NOON- 6PM
CARAMEL & CHOCOLATE: Meet Caramel and
Chocolate, a two-year-old bonded pair of rabbits up for adoption at the VHS. These sweeties create a harmonious balance of personalities, with Caramel (brown and white) being more outgoing and Chocolate more shy. You’ll notice when you meet these girls that Caramel is always the first to scope the scene and assure Chocolate everything is cool. Their adoption fee together is normally $80 and includes their spay and microchip.
46 | DECEMBER 2023 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com
VHSLIFESAVER.ORG
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | COMMUNITY & FAMILY
PATCH CAME RUNNING OVER TO ME RIGHT
AWAY AND WAS TRYING TO GET IN MY LAP - 30 SECONDS LATER HE
GAVE ME A BIG OL' KISS
ON THE LIPS AND DIDN'T WANT TO LEAVE ME.
and brought him over to the shelter where a meet & greet with Buchanan was
PATCH
VHS ADOPTION SPOTLIGHT
S
afe to say Greg Buchanan's
retirement has gone to the dogs. A lifelong resident of Mount
Carmel who worked his fingers to the bone for decades, he's now enjoying some peace and quiet on a multi-acre piece of land - but he's hardly alone. No, Buchanan is spending his twilight years surrounded by furry friends, including two Yorkies, a Border Collie and the most recent addition to the family, a senior Pekinese named Patch. How he came to adopt the latter is quite the story. After losing Muffin, another Yorkie, over a year ago, Buchanan began thinking about bringing another small dog into the fold. One night, he happened to be on Facebook and the VHS was asking people
for their opinions on why adoptions were down of late - so Buchanan gave his take on the matter, noting that he'd previously rescued two dogs from the shelter. "They asked if I'd thought about adopting another - and that they might have a good dog for me if I was interested, one that hadn't even been entered into the system yet," he says.
arranged. "Patch came running over to me right away and was trying to get in my lap - 30 seconds later he gave me a big ol' kiss on the lips and didn't want to leave me," Buchanan recalls. "That was it - he was such a sweet dog." Through the Pets for Seniors program, Patch was soon on his way to Mount Carmel, free of charge. Most importantly, Buchanan made sure to get his new buddy a health screening at the vet and was given tips on how to improve Patch's mobility, including administering daily spine massages. Happily, under Buchanan's care, Patch has made remarkable progress. "He's walking better, getting up a lot easier and even running - he's come so far," Buchanan says proudly. As a result, Patch is feeling like a puppy again and getting along just fine with the other dogs in the home. And while he doesn't care to play with toys, Patch is very inquisitive; he loves to be outside, exploring Buchanan's big yard. Most of all, he looks forward to his daily home-cooked
That dog turned out to be Patch, a 13-year-old cutie that was picked up by Animal Control after being discovered wandering the streets of Evansville alone. Initially, the poor little guy's prospects didn't look good - he seemed to have
meal and to sleeping on the couch. "It's like he's always been here - he's having a blast," Buchanan says.
difficulty walking, almost as if he'd been hit by a car. But the VHS saw potential
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| 47
48 | DECEMBER 2023 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com
Photo Credit: Nat Phelps
Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • DECEMBER 2023
| 49
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | OPINION & COMMENTARY
AS I TYPE THIS... with Barold Hume
176 YEARS LATER...
N
o shortage of interesting
whole is suffering, DJT is now
storylines in politics at the
the frontrunner for president.
moment, particularly here at
But maybe that's not so strange,
home. Because Evansville, quite belatedly,
after all.
elected its first female mayor on November 7 - and it only took the better part of two
Quite simply, it seems that the majority
centuries to make it happen. Sure, with
of Americans, on a state level, feel that
two of the three candidates being women,
the (far) right has pushed its morality policies
the odds were good that the boys club
too far and are pushing back. Nationally
stronghold would finally be broken; still,
speaking, voters appear more concerned
crazier things have happened. But not only
with the economy and don't trust President
did Stephanie Terry emerge victorious,
Biden to right the ship. Despite positive
becoming the city's first black mayor to
signs in the areas of job growth and the GDP,
boot, her fellow Democrats scored big as
inflation remains fairly high, continuing to
well, securing a clean sweep of contested
impact food costs and the price at the pump.
city council seats. Evansville's blue wave,
Is Trump the man to turn things around?
it turned out, washed across much of the
Maybe. Though the possibility of jail time
nation as well, with Republicans, more
still lingers. Which would leave conservatives
often than not, finding themselves holding
with, currently, four alternatives: Chris
the short end of the stick, even in the all-
Christie, Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, and
important swing states. Which, if you've
Vivek Ramaswamy. Based on the third
been paying any attention to the 2024
Republican debate held on November 8,
battle for the White House, are currently
Haley looks like the strongest contender at
bleeding red, according to recent polling.
this point - yet she remains miles away from
There's a strange dichotomy at work here.
Trump, who, naturally, steered clear of the
While Trump-backed Republicans - such as
this latest showdown. One thing's for sure, I
Kentucky AG Daniel Cameron - continue
didn't expect to hear the phrase "you're just
to lose across the board and the party as a
scum" uttered during the proceedings, but
Ramaswamy has a knack for getting under the skin of virtually everyone he encounters thanks to his edgy demeanor and overconfidence. Can't really blame the former South Carolina governor for snapping, especially in defense of her daughter. Had to smile, even, when Haley instructed Ramaswamy to "leave my daughter out of your voice!" - a line which, of course, echoed Will Smith's threat against comedian Chris Rock at the Oscars. It was a wild scene, man. If nothing else, Haley proved that she can hold her own. And speaking of wild, imagine if Trump flounders, gets convicted, etc., and she leapfrogs her way to the White House to become the first female president, a mere 235 years later...
NATIONALLY SPEAKING, VOTERS APPEAR MORE CONCERNED WITH THE ECONOMY AND DON'T TRUST PRESIDENT BIDEN TO RIGHT THE SHIP.
50 | DECEMBER 2023 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | OPINION & COMMENTARY
MAYBE I'M JUST GETTING OLD... with Johnny Fletcher
JUST DANCE: DRUGS THAT MAKE YOU GET YOUR GROOVE ON
I
briefly considered writing something of
around. No argument on my end. Fast-forward
and to occasionally catch-up on current events.
worth for this final column of 2023 - you
to a couple weeks ago as I slid into my Forte
And I've been noticing of late that about 75%
know, something with substance. After
on an unusually warm November afternoon,
of the commercials on this particular channel
all, who knows if I'll be back in the New Year.
bound for that well-earned freebie 36 months
are ads for drug companies pushing pills with
Typically, this is the time when businesses clean
in the making. That's when I noticed, to my
three-syllable names that combat everything
house and shake things up; old guys like me
horror, that the all-important punch card was
from diabetes and weight loss to depression
are often the first to go. So I thought it might
no longer on the keychain - oh, the ignominy.
and eczema. Fair enough. But what's rather
be nice to leave you all with a meaningful
For 26,279 hours, it was right there, dangling
odd is that the great majority of these meds
message, maybe something philosophical,
everywhere I drove. Like a loyal friend. Then
appear to make people want to dance. And
even. But that's not what you want. No, let's just
suddenly, poof. Gone. Kiss that coveted free oil
then dance some more. No joke, whether it's
be honest here: you crave my pointless stories
change goodbye. Tragic, I know. And yet, unlike
Jardiance, Ozempic, Skyrizi, you name it - they
that go nowhere; you're hooked on my entirely
most J-Fletch stories, there's a happy ending.
all inspire dancing, it seems. For the love of god
vacuous observations on daily life. It's basically
After much frantic searching, I located the
why is every actor in these promos smiling and
a Pavlovian response at this stage of the game
frayed punch card underneath my KIA, braced
laughing like a lunatic and really grooving it up?
- purely instinctual and primal. In other words,
against the back tire as the heavy winds tried in
Salsa dancing, jazzercising, bopping up and
you're helpless. Without further ado, then,
vain to dislodge it into oblivion.
down with a tambourine - and for those on a
here's a real gem for you... A few years back I
date, slow dancing. Ask yourself: when was the
got an oil change at the local KIA dealership
I'll give you a moment to recover from that
last time you went dancing??? Eons ago, likely.
and the kind folks in the service department
absolute roller coaster ride of an anecdote...
But according to these drug companies, that's
gave me a punch card to affix to my keychain.
and now I'll leave with you with this recent, truly
what people equate with happiness. I guess
With each subsequent oil change, I would
fascinating observation: Most mornings I turn
Lady Gaga was really onto something.
punch my way to a free one on the fifth go-
on a TV news program for background noise
FAIR ENOUGH. BUT WHAT'S RATHER ODD IS THAT THE GREAT MAJORITY OF THESE MEDS APPEAR TO MAKE PEOPLE WANT TO DANCE. AND THEN DANCE SOME MORE.
Call for Advertising Information (812) 426-6398 • DECEMBER 2023
| 51
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | OPINION & COMMENTARY
Freddie Ask anything Musician. Writer. Man about town. Freddie Bourne has his finger on the pulse of the tri-state, and he's here's to tackle your questions about life, love and other stuff. No matter the subject, he's got a take on it - whether you want to hear it or not. Photo Credit: Blaine Mathew Media
COULDN'T HELP BUT NOTICE THAT YOU
my head against a brick wall. Now, what pisses
I'VE HEARD THAT THIS MAY BE
WERE PASSED OVER ONCE AGAIN THIS
me off is how a song from the greatest band of
THE FINAL EDITION OF "ASK
YEAR FOR NEWS 4U'S "20 40 & UNDER"
all-time debuts out of the top 100 on Billboard
FREDDIE ANYTHING". YOU'VE
FEATURE. WHAT GIVES?
and then jumps to only No. 7 - yet Miss Swift
GIVEN US ALL SO MUCH - HOW
Kicks just keeps doing her thing and demolishing
CAN WE EVER REPAY YOU?
Dear Brandon McCarty, I know, buddy. Year after year. Some people think it’s because of who I associate with, while some say it’s because no one knows who I am. But let's be honest here. We all know why it hasn’t happened for me. And I have to finally come to terms with it. I’m just too good-looking.
the charts with songs that will probably be rerecorded again in 10 years.
Dear Fake Reader, You can start by paying News4U
My only suggestion would have been to add a
about $1.4 million so I can get in
random smooth sax solo. But still, I enjoyed it.
on the "20 40 & Under" feature next year. I was just informed it wasn’t
I RECENTLY READ BRITNEY SPEARS'
because I was too good-looking.
NEW MEMOIR AND WHILE SHE SPILLED THE TEA ON JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE, YOUR
It’s because I suck.
NAME WAS CONSPICUOUSLY ABSENT AS A BIG MUSIC GUY, WHAT DO YOU MAKE OF THE "NEW" BEATLES SONG "NOW AND THEN"?
FROM HER REFLECTIONS ON PAST RELATIONSHIPS. HOW MUCH CASH DID YOU HAVE TO PART WITH TO KEEP HER QUIET?
Dear John Lennon from the grave,
Dear JT,
Let me tell you something, John. That roll is
I can’t disclose the amount publicly, but
freaking fire. It’s a wonderful conclusion to the
it was the cash I was going to use to pay
Beatles; such a fitting conclusion and I'm so
to be part of News 4U's "20 40 & Under"
happy that something good came out of AI
feature.
technology that doesn’t make me want to smash
But since you asked, about $1.4 million.
52 | DECEMBER 2023 • www.evansvillemediagroup.com
GOT A QUESTION FOR FREDDIE? EMAIL TOMMY AT
TOMMY@EVANSVILLEMEDIAGROUP.COM
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| 53
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | MUSIC REVIEWS
DECEMBER MUSIC REVIEWS DRAKE For All The Dogs OVO Sound/Republic Records
Offset has had an off year with his nephew
puppy love with his eighth studio
Takeoff dying in a horrible shooting. Now,
album. “Slime You Out” featuring SZA
the rapper is taking his pain and infusing
is an absolute standout. Their vocals to satiate us R&B music fans. But SZA is not the only feature. 21 Savage, J. Cole, Yeat, Teezo Touchdown, Lil Yachty, Bad Bunny, PartyNextDoor and Chief Keef all lend their talents to the Canadian rap god's latest full-length. Drake's lyrical subject matter ranges from bragging about his riches to dwelling on how misunderstood he is - and we love a man who can tackle many topics. For him, it's both musical and emotional. My favorite: "8am in Charlotte" - full of soulful beats, accompanied by a sweet music video featuring his son and upcoming rapper Adonis. Drake's words are like straight poetry: “The money speaking for itself, I call it fortune-tell/ Fire top from a b**** that work at corporate sales/ Chinchilla ushanka, we skiin' out in Courchevel/ Breakin' news, they tried to kill him, but the boy prevails.” He gives me chin-chills. - Marisa Patwa
HOTTEST NEW ALBUMS IN MUSIC REVIEWS OF SOME OF THE HOTTEST NEW ALBUMS IN MUSIC! OFFSET
Set it Off Motown
Sad boy Drake is bringing all the
blend together like honey butter and it’s truly a beautiful pairing
CHECK OUT THESE CHECK OUT HONEST REVIEWS SOME OF THE THESEOF HONEST
it into his art with his second studio album. It's bedazzled with guests from Don Toliver, Travis Scott, Future, Latto, Mango Food, Chlöe, Young Nudy, and, of course, his queen and wife, Cardi B. Offset is on a healing journey but he's also on an ambitious one to truly solidify himself as a solo performer. Migos was his launching point but this is his time to take off. “Say My Grace” is a deliciously fun collab with Travis Scott about appreciating their many blessings featuring impactful lyrics: “Made room on my plate, I just said my grace and then I ate/ Got a particular taste/ I just stuffed my pockets and my face/ Okay let’s have a debate/ We talkin’ ‘bout poppin,’ I promise I’m feelin’ a way (Who?)/ I took the bodies up out of my closet/ I buried ‘em deep and they still in the way.” “Freaky” is just the husband-and-wife track we needed from the tumultuous two - we got to stan a saucy and playful back and forth between Offset and Cardi B. We’re also gifted with her feature on “Jealousy.” Check out the music video to watch Cardi B and Taraji P. Henson talk major men goss. Offset is officially a bonafide solo artist. - Marisa Patwa
TROY SIVAN Something to Give Each Other EMI Music Australia/Capitol Records
DIRTY HONEY Can’t Find the Brakes Dirt Records Sometimes you just want a rock & roll
Troy Sivan is hitting big with his first
record that lights a fire under your
studio album in five years. Lead-single
caboose. That is precisely what Dirty
“Rush” is a thrilling, electronic ride with an automatically addictive dance beat. One of the most musically interesting songs is “In My Room” featuring Spanish songwriter and guitarist Guitarricadelafuente, who is a true gift. His strums match Troy's energy in a mind-bendingly beautiful way. It's delightful to see Sivan go from being a popular tween YouTuber to a true gamechanger in electro-pop music. His guest-starring turn on HBO’s failed and controversial show The Idol was just a glimpse into his talent and what he has to offer us. Sivan is also a wonderful role model for the queer generation and he truly shines whether it's on screen or on stage. I'm happy he took time off to truly figure out what kind of artist he wants to be and what music he wants to make because his authenticity and genuine love for art glares at us like a guiding light. - Marisa Patwa
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Honey’s new record Can’t Find the Brakes provides. 11 tracks, mostly three and four-minute burners, full of grit, attitude and bombast. The four-piece Los Angeles outfit’s sophomore effort is a big improvement on their debut, which was recorded over Zoom during the pandemic. Not exactly conducive to creating the chemistry bands need to gel. The new record evokes images of the Black Crowes, Aerosmith and the Allman Brothers, but with a swagger all their own. Vocalist Marc LaBelle’s voice is quintessential rock & roll, and guitarist John Notto’s blues-based attack echoes shades of Angus Young, Slash and Jimmy Page. All in all, a very cool album from up-and-comers. Check out “Won’t Take Me Alive,” “Ride On,” “Satisfied” and the closer, “Rebel Son.” - Matt Alschbach
NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | MUSIC REVIEWS
DOLLY PARTON Rockstar Butterfly/Big Machine Records When country music legend Dolly Parton was nominated for the Rock & Hall of Fame in 2022, she initially balked at the idea of being inducted. To her mind, the seemingly ageless 77-year-old, a singer-songwriter
BLUES WITH BRAGIN
from humble beginnings in East Tennessee, simply didn't deserve to
EMMA WILSON Memphis Calling Emma Wilson Music
be included amongst the ranks of rock's greatest performers. But eventually she had a change of heart, vowing to record a covers album with some of the genre's biggest names - everyone from Paul McCartney and Heart's Ann Wilson to Sting and Rob Halford of Judas Priest - to earn her spot. Parton clearly wasn't kidding around with this ambitious project. Indeed, several incredible collaborations hit streaming platforms following the announcement, including "Let It Be" and "Magic Man" with the aforementioned McCartney and Wilson, respectively, as well as the metal-
British R&B singer
tinged "Bygones," a blistering Parton co-write featuring Halford, plus Nikki Six and John Five of Mötley Crüe. She also generated much excitement thanks to the release of an emotional take on Queen's "We are the Champions/We Will Rock You." And now that Rockstar - packed to the gills with 30 barnburners - is finally out, we can officially crown Parton the Queen of Rock. Really, there's no one else who could have pulled this off in such an effortless fashion. The whole album is a joy but I'd be remiss not to mention, in particular, "Heartbreaker" (feat. Pat Benatar) - two of music's greatest female singers joined together in song for one truly powerful, chills-inducing performance. - Johnny Fletcher
Emma
Wilson
returns with her sophomore effort Memphis Calling. The album opens with “A Small World,” a song co-written by Wilson and Gary Burr. The horn section adds a nice touch to Wilson’s passionate vocals. “Water” features more great horn work from Kirk Smothers and Marc Franklin to complement Leroy Hodges on the bass. Tight drumming from Steve Potts on
OMD Bauhaus Staircase White Noise Records
“Watching You Leave” fits the song very well. “I Still Love You,” a Willie Mitchell
Despite scoring four straight top 10 singles in the UK from 1980-82, Orchestral Manouevres in the Dark - better known as OMD stateside - failed to make much of a mark in the U.S. until four years later when the storied synth-pop group appeared on the soundtrack of the John Hughes-directed Pretty in Pink starring Molly Ringwald. "If You Leave," the song that plays over the film's climactic scene, reached the top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, bursting the dam in America. But just as the band tasted mainstream success, founding members Andy McCluskey and Paul Humphreys drifted apart, both creatively and personally. The former continued on solo using the OMD name, but it would be another two decades before the two longtime friends would officially reunite in 2007, kicking off a second career that's still going strong over 15 years later. Now, after a lengthy break in the action thanks to the pandemic, McCluskey and Humphreys are back with their first album since 2017's highly-acclaimed Punishment of Luxury which saw the band edging ever closer to the clinical electronic sound of German synth pioneers Kraftwerk. (For better or worse, depending on which phase of OMD you cherish most.) Perhaps the band's final musical statement based on recent comments, Bauhaus Staircase - a classic McCluskey reference to his love of the early 1900's German art movement - is completely computerized, with little of the raw, organic feel of early recordings, and almost no bass or guitar work to speak of, just washes of keyboards and much sequencing. Yet, McCluskey's warm, emotional vocals remain intact, offering an invaluable counterpoint to the electronic soundscape on the noir-ish ballad "Veruschka," the urgent title track and environmental disaster soundtrack "Anthropocene." Old school fans will no doubt be drawn to the upbeat, instantly addictive "Kleptocracy," which, despite its rare political diatribe, comes on like an updated version of one of OMD's most beloved songs, 1980's "Enola Gay." If this is truly the end, it's not a bad way to go. - Johnny Fletcher
tune, maintains both a modern feel and contains some elements that seem like a blast from the past. “What Kind of Love” starts off with a great horn section that continues throughout the song, while guest vocals from Don Bryant partner well with Wilson’s smooth voice. Phenomenal guitar work from Joe Restivo stands out on “I’ll See You in the Morning,” while Wilson offers a passionate vocal performance. “Drug,” a song co-written by Wilson and producer Scott Bomar, allows Hodges to showcase his funky bass playing skills as Wilson sings about preferring the company of her lover to psychedelic alternatives. Some slight reworking of classic lyrics gives a twist to the Willie Dixon standard “Hoochie Coochie Mama,” a song that Muddy Waters brought to prominence. A cover of “Since I Fell For You” closes the album with sultry vocals from Wilson. For more info, visit emmawilson.net. - Paul Bragin
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | BEER REVIEWS
DECEMBER BEER REVIEWS
This month’s beers are available depending on supply & demand at all 10 Liquor Locker locations. Visit our website at www.Liquor-Locker.com. BRECKENRIDGE VANILLA PORTER
PAUL HOLLYFELD - 4.5
BLOOMINGTON BREWING CO. CLOWN CONVENTION IPA
SIERRA NEVADA TORPEDO EXTRA IPA
PAUL HOLLYFELD - 4
PAUL HOLLYFELD - 3.75
A decent head crowns this dark porter, but it disappears somewhat rapidly. A combination of roasted malt and sweet vanilla dominates the scent profile. The roasted malt stays with the first sip of the beer, followed by significant vanilla flavor in the long finish. Stock this beer during the festive holiday season. Pair it with your favorite chocolate and vanilla desserts or add a scoop of chocolate or vanilla ice cream to create an adult float.
PAUL BRAGIN - 4.25
PAUL BRAGIN - 4.25
JABEZ MARTINEZ - 5
JABEZ MARTINEZ - 4.5
Pours nearly black, with a thin caramel head. Subtle notes of vanilla on the nose, along with sweet malt. Drier on the palate than you might expect, with hints of chocolate and a nice vanilla finish. When I’m looking for a darker beer that’s not too heavy, this is always a favorite. Very drinkable with a 4.7% ABV.
PAUL BRAGIN - 4.5
This is a dark-colored beer which is common for porters. I can smell the vanilla right away. This is actually one of my favorite beers. I love the coffee, chocolate and vanilla flavors. This beer is easy to drink and full of character. I regularly purchase this beer in town and it's priced a lot lowered than similar beers. Perfect for the winter season.
This Hazy IPA pours a hazy orange with a thin white head. Lots of tropical fruit on the nose, that continues onto the palate. Passion fruit dominates at first, finishing with a hint of strawberry. Not much bitterness, and slightly on the sweeter side, this is a very flavorful beer to say the least. I would almost consider this a dessert beer.
A thick white head tops this unfiltered and hazy New England style IPA and never totally evaporates. A generous amount of tropical fruit scents fills the nose. Similarly, sour and tropical fruit notes hit the tongue first and remain during the long finish before bitter hops flavors come to the forefront. People who enjoy IPAs need to drink this. Pair it with beef, chicken or a variety of salty snacks.
I'm a big fan of this brewery but I had my reservations with this offering; still, I'm impressed. This is a cloudy, orange-colored beer and I can smell the hops right away. It has a light strawberry taste and other light fruit flavors - pretty easy to drink for an IPA. Don’t let the name fool you, this is a good beer.
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This beer pours a clear orange-brown hue with an ample caramel-colored head. A bit of citrus on the nose, along with a distinct essence of pine. On the palate is a distinct IPA bitterness, with earthy herbal and pine flavors. It has a nice mouthfeel and an old-school IPA lover will appreciate the flavorful bitterness and 7.2% ABV.
A thick off-white head forms on this IPA and never completely dissipates, even after a couple of minutes. The scent contains a significant hop presence. Likewise, pine flavors from the hops coat the palate and stay in the very long finish. Hopheads will definitely want to try this beer. Pair it with a wide variety of foods like spicy curry dishes, Thai cuisine or a variety of cheeses like Monterrey Jack, Gorgonzola, Limburger or Cheddar.
JABEZ MARTINEZ - 4.5
This beer pours a hazy amber color. Any beer from Sierra Nevada is always solid. It claims to be an "extra" IPA but the hops flavor doesn't hit you over the head. It's actually easy to drink but you can definitely tell it's an IPA with an ABV of 7.2%. Once again, Sierra Nevada puts out another good product.
OMISSION ULTIMATE GOLDEN ALE
PAUL HOLLYFELD - 4
As the name implies, this beer pours a clear golden hue and comes with very little head. I found a touch of citrus on the nose. On the palate, it is light, not too malty, with a barely perceptible bitterness. Nice carbonation and is very crisp and clean. This would go down fast and easy on a hot summer day and is forgiving on the midsection with only three carbs and 99 calories.
PAUL BRAGIN - 4
A decent white head rests on this hazy golden ale and evaporates somewhat quickly. A good balance of malt and hops controls the nose, along with a
burst of carbonation. The malt and hop balance remains with the initial tasting of the beer. This seems like a good beer to keep in your rotation, especially during the summer months. Pair it with foods like Italian or Middle Eastern cuisines or Camembert and Fontina cheeses.
JABEZ MARTINEZ - 4
This is a clear, amber-colored beer that's crisp and easy to drink. It has a light citrus flavor but not much more than that. Still, it's nicely-balanced with a light ABV of 4.2% so it won’t sneak up on you. Also, it only has 99 calories and three carbs. So, being a lighter beer, I rather enjoy it.
PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY.
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NEWS4U DECEMBER 2023 | LOCAL HAPPENINGS
Ask an Attorney
WITH LANE SIESKY / SIESKY LAW FIRM, PC
Focusing on personal injury, civil litigation, whistleblower claims and workers' compensation law, Siesky Law Firm strives to provide excellent legal services while remaining client and community centered. The Evansville-based trio of top attorneys - including Lane Siesky, Daniel Gearhart and Douglas Briody - boasts years of invaluable experience inside and outside the courtroom. Highly-respected with an impeccable track record, the firm's aggressive representation of its clients continues to benefit the community in myriad ways.
Q: These are economically-challenging times for many people. If someone is in need of legal counseling or representation but needs financial help to receive said services, what options are available?
A:
This is a great question. Unfortunately, legal questions are not always as easy for lawyers to answer as what a non-lawyer may think. This is true for several reasons. First, as time has passed most lawyer’s practices have increasingly become more focused on an area of law instead of having a “general” practice. Sometimes it is easier for people to think of doctors in understanding this narrower focus. For instance, you would not go to see the same doctor for a heart condition as you would for a foot issue. Law is the same way. At Siesky Law Firm, we focus on personal injury law. Accordingly, we take continuing legal education on topics that concern injury law. We also keep up with changes in the law that impact injury law. We do not, however, take
continuing legal education for criminal law and we do not keep up with changes in criminal law. So, when our law firm receives a call with a legal question about an area of law that we do not practice within, such as a criminal law question, we likely will not know the answer. Second, to assist someone with a legal question it is best practice to do a conflict check to make sure there is no conflict before attempting to answer the question. Third, if an attorney does provide legal advice, the attorney’s law firm should document the legal question posed and advice given. For these reasons and others, attorneys and law firms normally do not answer random legal questions. As a result, it can be difficult for people that need help with a legal question but do not have the money to hire a lawyer. Fortunately, lawyers are very
charitable and there are programs wherein folks may ask questions. A good starting place is the Evansville Bar Association (EBA). The EBA was established in 1911 and today has approximately 550 attorneys and paralegals as members. The website for the EBA is: evvbar.org On the EBA’s website is a section entitled, “Public”. If you click on Public, there is a dropdown menu. From the drop-down select, “Do You Have a Legal Question?”. On this page of the website are several resources including information about the Talk to a Lawyer Hotline, a link to the Indiana Free Legal Answers website and links to other helpful websites. I hope this information helps.
Disclaimer: The above information provided by Siesky Law Firm, PC, is not legal advice and should not be taken as legal advice. Application of the law is highly fact sensitive and readers should consult with an attorney on legal matters.
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