News4U November 2025

TABLE of contents

Check out the events coming to Evansville

Forgot something? Check out this list of store hours in the Tri-State.

When

INTERVIEW: Jeff Bes, Head Coach of the Thunderbolts

From

—

Established in Nov. 1991

Publisher and Operations Manager Brian Buxton brian@news4uevv.com

Managing Editor & Writer Amy Bradford amy@news4uevv.com

Account Representative and Graphic Designer Amy Bradford amy@news4uevv.com

Production Manager, Designer & Layout Artist Olyvia Symon olyvia@news4uevv.com

Graphic Designer, Social Media & Client Management Maddy Williams maddy.news4u@gmail.com

Contributors

Amelia Adkins, Rachel Budde, Amy Bradford, Paul Bragin, Jason Brown, Danny Browning, Brian Buxton, Magen Coates, Jeremiah Galey, Paul Hollyfeld, Jim Johnson, Tom Leggett, Jabez Martinez, Landon Miller, Brittany Nelson, Marisa Patwa, Christopher Rowe, Lindsay Scott, Lane Siesky, Zach Vaughn, Lindsey Williams

A

November is a funny month. It’s the bridge between the festive, cozy onset of autumn and the full-blown holiday rush. It always seems to sneak up on me. One minute I’m still in the routine of school drop-offs and the next minute I’m pulling sweaters out of the closet, juggling schedules, and wondering how the year went by so fast. The weather shifts, routines change, and somehow everything feels like it’s speeding up and slowing down at the same time. Maybe that’s why this month has always felt like a checkpoint to me. A good time to look back at what worked, what didn’t, and what still matters most as the year winds down. It’s also the best time of year…my oversized sweatshirts finally make sense to the fashion minded. As each year speeds past, I watch my stylishness go with it.

It’s easy to get lost in the noise of the season, but I think our community has a unique way of keeping its feet on the ground. We know how to work hard, gather often, and make the most of what’s in front of us. That’s what this issue aims to reflect — not just what’s going on, but who’s behind it and why it matters.

So, as you flip through these pages, I hope you take a moment to appreciate the faces, stories, and creativity that keep our community moving forward. And maybe let this month be your reminder to slow down long enough to notice how far you’ve come.

See you next month,

Amy Bradford

TRI-STATE

LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE

Check out News 4U’s Live Music Schedule for the latest performances happening in the Evansville area! Whether you're planning a night out with friends or just want to catch some live entertainment, we've got you covered. Stay updated and never miss a great show! Follow these venues on social media for updated event times, changes, or more information.

EVANSVILLE:

10-8 Café Bar & Grill at Lawman Tactical 4209 US 41 North, Evansville, IN • (812) 413-0129

facebook.com/TenEightCafe

Karaoke every Thursday evenings, 5:00pm–8:00pm

Live music on the patio (weather permitting), Fri & Sat, 6:30pm–9:30pm

November 1 – Nick Smith, 6:30pm–9:30pm November 6 – Karaoke with DJ Ian, 5:00pm November 7 – Bobby Clark, 6:00pm November 8 – Kyle Mercer, 6:00pm November 13 – Karaoke with DJ Ian, 5:00pm November 20 – Karaoke with DJ Ian, 5:00pm Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Bally’s Evansville – 421 Lounge 421 NW Riverside Dr., Evansville, IN • (812) 433-4000 facebook.com/ballysevansville casinos.ballys.com/evansville/421-lounge.htm Live music & bands on weekends. November 1 – Dreamstreet, 8:00pm–12:00am November 7 – Savannah Jack, 8:00pm–12:00am November 8 – 8:00pm–12:00am

November 14 – Boombox 80’s, 8:00pm–12:00am November 15 – Boombox 80’s, 8:00pm–12:00am

November 21 – Five Below, 8:00pm–12:00am

November 22 – Five Below, 8:00pm–12:00am

November 28 – Stretta, 8:00pm–12:00am November 29 – Stretta, 8:00pm–12:00am Watch their Facebook page & website for updates!

Bally’s Evansville – Piano Bar at Cavanaughs

421 NW Riverside Dr., Evansville, IN • (812) 433-4000 facebook.com/ballysevansville casinos.ballys.com/evansville/cavanaughson-the-river.htm

Live music at the piano bar: Wed & Thurs 6:00–9:00pm / Fri & Sat 6:00–10:00pm

Nov 1 – Bob Green

Nov 5 – Bob Ballard

Nov 6 – EJ Simmons

Nov 7 – Bob Ballard

Nov 8 – Bob Ballard

Nov 12 – Bob Ballard

Nov 13 – EJ Simmons

Nov 14 – Bob Green

Nov 15 – Bob Green

Nov 19 – Bob Ballard

Nov 20 – EJ Simmons

Nov 21 – Bob Green

Nov 22 – Bob Green

Nov 26 – Bob Ballard

Nov 27 – EJ Simmons

Nov 28 – Bob Green

Nov 29 – Bob Green

Bokeh Lounge

1007 Parrett St., Evansville, IN • (812) 909-0388 facebook.com/BokehLounge/ Karaoke with Nathan Sun & Mon @ 6:00pm • The Oxford Comma Trivia Tue @ 7:00pm

Nov 1 – Holiday Photo Shoot (Derek Saint Johnson), 4–7pm • JEB, 8:00pm • Fall Back with Jack Daniels (back patio), 7:00pm

Nov 2 – Sunday Jazz with the Sidemen, 2:30pm

Nov 5 – Nick Hamilton, 6:00pm

Nov 7 – DJ AP, 8:00pm

Nov 8 – Latin Night with DJ AP, 8:00pm

Nov 9 – Sunday Jazz with Tom Drury Quartet, 2:30pm

Nov 12 – Nick Hamilton, 6:00pm

Nov 14 – The Why Store, 8:00pm

Nov 15 – The Back Beats, 8:00pm

Nov 16 – Sunday Jazz with Jon Lutz and the Sleepwalkers, 2:30pm

Nov 18 – Bokeh Poetry Night, 7:00pm

Nov 19 – Nick Hamilton, 6:00pm

Nov 20 – Jazz and Blues Open Mic, 6:00pm

Nov 21 – The Ridge Runners, 8:00pm

Nov 23 – Sunday Jazz with Keith Farny Jazz Collective, 2:30pm

Nov 26 – Nick Hamilton, 5:00–8:00pm • DJ

Chidi 90’s–2000 Dance party, 8:00pm

Nov 28 – Drift, 8:00pm

Nov 29 – The Pits, 8:00pm

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Buds Rockin' Country Bar & Grill

2124 W Franklin St., Evansville, IN • (812) 401-1730

www.facebook.com/BudsOnFranklin

Tues – Boscoe France Blues, 7:00–9:00pm • Fri – College Night w/ DJ • Weekends – live music/DJs

Watch their Facebook page for updates! Crickets

518 W Main St, Newburgh, IN • (812) 858-2782

www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100050950195484

Live bands & karaoke: Wed 8:00–11:00pm • Fri 9:00pm–1:00am • Sat 9:00pm–1:00am Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Dontae's Highland Pizza Parlor

6669 Kratzville Rd., Evansville, IN • (812) 777-0016

www.facebook.com/dontaeshighlandpizza Live music on weekends on occasion – The Honey Vines play often.

Nov 1 – The Honey Vines, 6:00pm Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Hornet's Nest Restaurant & Bar 11845 Petersburg Rd., Evansville, IN • (812) 867-2386

www.facebook.com/HornetsNestRestaurant

Karaoke & live music with DJ Ian every Friday at 8:00pm

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Lyles Sports Zone

1404 E. Morgan Ave., Evansville, IN • (812) 425-7729

There’s never a cover charge! Tue – Michelle Shelton, 7:00–9:00pm • Thu –Thomas Hicks Casey, 6:00–8:00pm Fri – Karaoke with Mark Simpson, 7:00–11:00pm • Sat – varying live bands, 8:00–11:00pm • Sun –Open Mic, 7:00pm Nov 1 – Acacia, 8:00pm • Nov 2 – Open Mic, 7:00pm • Nov 4 – Michelle Shelton, 7:00pm • Nov 5 – Rigdon & Jines, 6:00pm • Nov 7 –Karaoke, 7:00pm • Nov 8 – Bobby Clark Band, 8:00pm • Nov 9 – Open Mic, 7:00pm • Nov 11

– Michelle Shelton, 7:00pm • Nov 12 – DJ Zaedo opening for Aspen 97 and the Chugs, 6:00pm • Nov 14 – Karaoke, 7:00pm • Nov 15 – The Smoke Rings, 8:00pm • Nov 16 – Open Mic, 7:00pm • Nov 18 – Michelle Shelton, 7:00pm

• Nov 21 – Karaoke, 7:00pm • Nov 22 – The Hellcats, 8:00pm • Nov 23 – Open Mic, 7:00pm

• Nov 25 – Michelle Shelton, 7:00pm • Nov 26

– Drunksgiving w/ Bobby Clark Band, 7:00pm • Nov 28 – Karaoke, 7:00pm • Nov 29 – Nutshell, 8:00pm • Nov 30 – Open Mic, 7:00pm Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Mo's House

1114 Parrett St., Evansville, IN • (812) 401-3800

www.facebook.com/moshouse812

1st Sun: Open Mic Night, 6:00–9:00pm • 2nd Sat: Loops & Rhythm, 6:00–9:00pm • 3rd Sun: Spotlight Night, 6:00–9:00pm Nov 7 – Hank Bilal live, 8:00pm Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Mojos Boneyard

4920 Bellemeade Ave, Evansville, IN (812) 475-8593

facebook.com/mojosboneyard

Every Thurs Blues @ 6:00pm Danny & the Jons (all shows 7:00pm unless noted) Nov 5 – Lachy Doley, 7:00pm • Nov 6 – Danny and the Jons, 7:00pm • Nov 8 –Eric Johanson, 7:00pm • Nov 13 – Shawn Kellerman, 7:00pm • Nov 20 – Danny and the Jons, 7:00pm • Nov 21 – Lance Lopez Band, 7:00pm • Nov 27 – Danny and the Jons, 7:00pm • Nov 29 – Duke Tumatoe, 7:00pm Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Playa Azul Mariscos Estilo Sinaloa

270 N. Green River Rd., Evansville, IN • (812) 568-1189

https://www.facebook.com/ playaazulevansville

Karaoke, Mariachi & Spanish bands during week & weekends from ~8–9pm to as late as 11pm–12am.

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Primetime North 12301 Hwy 41 North, Evansville, IN • (812) 202-7920 facebook.com/ptnorth41

Live Music in the Bar 7:00–10:00pm • Karaoke 8:00–11:00pm • Singo Wed 6:00pm Nov 1 – Bubba Wiggles, 7:00–10:00pm • Nov 7 – Karaoke, 8:00–11:00pm • Nov 8 – Dueling Guitars, 7:00–10:00pm • Nov 14 – The Honey Vines, 7:00–10:00pm • Nov 15 – Ben Dahlquist, 7:00–10:00pm • Nov 21 –Maggie Hollis, 7:00–10:00pm • Nov 22 – Tony Henning, 7:00–10:00pm • Nov 26 – Aged to Perfection, 7:00–10:00pm • Nov 29 – Mari & Tracey Unplugged, 7:00–10:00pm Dec 5 – Christmas Karaoke • Dec 6 – Dueling Guitars • Dec 12 – Cameron Smith • Dec 13 – Jed Guilliame • Dec 19 – The Honey Vines • Dec 20 – Maggie Hollis • Dec 26 – Ben Dahlquist, 7:00–10:00pm • Dec 27 – Bubba Wiggles, 7:00–10:00pm

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

RJ's Restaurant and Bar

1206 E. Main St, Boonville, IN • (812) 897-8813 https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100068499966785

Live music on Saturdays, 7:00pm–9:00pm

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Six Strings on Franklin

2131 West Franklin St., Evansville, IN. • (812) 401-1699

www.facebook.com/sixstringsonfranklin

Live music every Thu, Fri, Sat; ticketing via BandIsInTown. Performers usually 5:30pm and/ or 8:30pm.

Nov 1 – Matthew Lunsford & Beau Tatum • Nov 6 – Michelle Shelton Music • Nov 7 – Scott Mason • Nov 8 – Gavin Vollman & That’s What She Said • Nov 13 – Kayla Yeh • Nov 14 – Band Sold Separately & Fueled by Emo • Nov 15 –Michelle Shelton Music & Late Night Drivers • Nov 20 – Michelle Shelton Music • Nov 21 – Cynthia Murray • Nov 22 – Nick Hamilton & Garrett Biggs Music • Nov 26 – Sam Hahn • Nov 28 – Tyler Garrett • Nov 29 – Gavin Vollman & Jonathan Len

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Spankey’s Una Cafe

15 Jefferson Ave, Evansville, IN • (812) 303-2810

https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61554730096948

Live Music every last Saturday of the month. Watch their Facebook page for updates!

The Elm

120 N Elm St, Henderson, KY • (270) 748-0005 www.facebook.com/TheElm42420

Live music & concerts regularly.

Every Wednesday – Songwriters’ Night, 7:00pm • Every Thursday – Country Line Dancing lessons, 7:00pm

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

The Frontier Restaurant and Bar 12945 IN-57, Daylight, IN • (812) 867-6786 https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61554296428521

Karaoke Xtravaganza / Markus Porter every Fri & Sat nights, 9:00pm

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

MORE LIVE MUSIC SPOTS

WATCH THEIR FACEBOOK FOR SCHEDULES OF EVENTS!

Arcademie

Arts Council of SW Indiana rooftop Café Arazu

Cap & Cork

Damsels

Entwined Wine & Cocktail Bar

Farm 57

Fidel’s Bourbon Bar

Frankie’s Restaurant & Bar

Havens Bar

Hilltop Inn

Hush on Main

Industry Bar

Jacobs Pub / DiLegge’s

KC’s Time Out Lounge

Main Street Food & Beverage Food Hall

Marida Kurdish and Turkish Cuisine

Marina Pointe

Newburgh Tavern

Ray Leo’s at Lamasco

Reitz Home Museum

Smitty’s Italian Steakhouse

Stoner’s Grill

The Dive Barge

Tiki on Main

The Main Event

217 Main St., downtown Evansville, IN • (812) 598-7971 • www.217mainevent.com

Live music every Friday, 8:30pm–11:30pm

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

The Rooftop

112 NW MLK Jr. Blvd, Evansville, IN • (812) 550-1599

facebook.com/therooftopfoodanddrinks Fri & Sat – bands, DJs & Karaoke on upper & lower patios, 6:30pm–9:30pm

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Your Brothers Bookstore

504 Main St., Evansville, IN • (812) 303-8230 www.facebook.com/ybbookstore

Live music every Saturday, 7:00pm • $10 cover

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

NOVEMBER CONCERT & EVENT GUIDE

THE FAB FOUR: THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES

VICTORY THEATRE / NOVEMBER 5

If you want to experience the most authentic Beatles tribute ever, don’t miss The Fab Four – The Ultimate Tribute. The Emmy Awardwinning group returns in 2025 with an all-new show celebrating The Beatles’ second film, HELP!, featuring songs from the movie’s soundtrack along with the band’s greatest hits from every era. Renowned for their remarkable attention to detail, The Fab Four delivers uncanny, note-for-note live renditions of beloved classics like “Help!,” “Yesterday,” “A Day in the Life,” “Twist and Shout,” “Here Comes the Sun,” and “Hey Jude.” Their energy, precision, and stage presence create an experience so authentic, you’ll feel as though you’re watching the real Beatles live on stage.

THE MARSHALL TUCKER BAND

OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA / NOVEMBER 6

With a career spanning over five decades, The Marshall Tucker Band has become a cornerstone of Southern rock, blending blues, country, and jazz into their unmistakable sound. Fans can expect an electrifying setlist filled with timeless hits like “Can’t You See,” “Heard It in a Love Song,” and “Fire on the Mountain.”

THERESA CAPUTO LIVE! THE EXPERIENCE

OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA / NOVEMBER 7

For over a decade, Theresa Caputo, the world-renowned Long Island Medium and star of Lifetime’s Raising Spirits, has captivated audiences with her extraordinary gift of connecting with those who have passed on. In Theresa Caputo Live: The Experience, she shares personal stories, heartfelt messages, and moments of healing that remind audiences their loved ones are still with them—just in a different way. Having touched more than 1.5 million people worldwide, Caputo continues to inspire hope, comfort, and belief in the power of spiritual connection. This unforgettable event is one you won’t want to miss.

EVANSVILLE PHILHARMONIC: BRAHMS REQUIEM

VICTORY THEATRE / NOVEMBER 8

Doors open to the public for ticket purchases two hours prior to the event at 5:00 p.m., with entry to the performance beginning at 6:00 p.m. This powerful program takes audiences on a journey through music’s ability to confront, heal, and unite. The evening begins with Kenji Bunch’s Supermaximum, a visceral and urgent work that channels modern societal tensions through raw emotion and rhythmic intensity. In contrast, Brahms’ A German Requiem offers solace rather than fear—a profound balm for the soul. Featuring the Evansville Philharmonic Chorus and soloists Laura SantamariaMendez and Michael Dean, this monumental work draws from both sacred and secular texts to reflect on loss, remembrance, and the promise of peace. Rather than linger in sorrow, Brahms guides listeners toward harmony between grief and hope.

WARREN ZEIDERS: RELAPSE, LIES & BETRAYALS TOUR

FORD CENTER / NOVEMBER 8

Country music powerhouse Warren Zeiders is hitting the road with his 27-date 2025 Relapse, Lies & Betrayal Tour, kicking off September 11 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Known for his raw vocals and explosive stage energy, Zeiders continues his unstoppable rise following the sold-out success of his Pretty Little Poison Tour, which drew over 150,000 fans across North America. At just 25, Zeiders has already surpassed 3.6 billion global streams, earned multiple Billboard chart placements, and won a CMT Award. With nearly every date expected to sell out, fans won’t want to miss this tour’s electric mix of grit, heart, and country soul. Tickets go on sale Friday, March 21 at 10 a.m. local time at warrenzeiders.com

QUEENSRYCHE:VOLUME AND VENGEANCE TOUR

VICTORY THEATRE / NOVEMBER 9

Queensrÿche stands among the elite of rock, mentioned in the same breath as the legendary bands that inspired them and the peers who rose alongside them. Over the decades, they’ve built a loyal global following, touring the world with rock titans such as Iron Maiden, Guns N’ Roses, Metallica, Judas Priest, and Def Leppard. Known for their electrifying live performances, Queensrÿche continues to deliver shows that blend the fire and hunger of their early years with the precision and artistry of seasoned veterans. With eleven gold and platinum albums and numerous Top 10 hard rock anthems to their name, the band shows no signs of slowing down—in fact, they’re in the midst of a stunning creative resurgence. Don’t miss the Volume & Vengeance Tour live at Victory Theatre! Tickets are available at the Ford Center Ticket Office and at the Victory Theatre Ticket Office on the day of the show.

TOBYMAC

OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA / NOVEMBER 9

This fall, TOBYMAC is trading arenas for something more personal -- just 8 cities, 8 nights, and 1 unforgettable experience. Heaven on My Mind: Start to Finish LIVE brings the full album to life, played in order the way it was written: raw, honest, and all heart. It’s a rare chance to hear the story behind the songs in a setting that feels more like a conversation than a concert. Plus, TOBYMAC will still be playing all the hits you know and love. Seats are limited so grab your tickets before they’re gone!

THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN

VICTORY THEATRE / NOVEMBER 14

Experience the unforgettable sights and sounds of Motown with The Magic of Motown—a high-energy tribute that celebrates one of the most iconic eras in music history. Featuring pitch-perfect harmonies, dynamic choreography, and dazzling costumes, this show captures the soul, style, and spirit of the Motown sound. Audiences will be taken on a journey through timeless hits from The Temptations, The Jackson Five, Diana Ross & The Supremes, The Four Tops, Aretha Franklin, Smokey Robinson, and many more. It’s a night of rhythm, nostalgia, and pure musical magic you won’t want to miss.

NEEDTOBREATHE

VICTORY THEATRE / NOVEMBER 18

GRAMMY-nominated rock band NEEDTOBREATHE, known for “delivering a passion through their music that leaves fans feeling like they’ve just climbed down from a mountain” (Forbes), brings The Barely Elegant Acoustic Tour 2025 to 18 U.S. cities this fall. With a two-decade career defined by anthemic Southern rock and powerful live performances praised by The New York Times and Rolling Stone, the band continues to captivate audiences with their electric energy and heartfelt sound. Special guest Bre Kennedy, a rising star in the New Nashville scene, joins the tour with her soulful, raspy vocals and Americana-inspired storytelling. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets and details are available at www.needtobreathe.com

EVANSVILLE PHILHARMONIC YOUTH ORCHESTRA FALL CONCERT

VICTORY THEATRE / NOVEMBER 23

Celebrate the next generation of orchestral talent at the Evansville Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Fall Concert on Sunday, November 23 at 4:00 p.m. at the Victory Theatre. Enjoy a spirited program showcasing dedicated young musicians from across the region in an inspiring afternoon of symphonic sound—perfect for families, students, and music lovers alike. Mark your calendar and come cheer on these rising stars!

CIRQUE MUSICA HOLIDAY WONDERLAND

VICTORY THEATRE / NOVEMBER 25

Experience the magic of the season as Cirque Musica: Holiday Wonderland brings its all-new production to the Victory Theatre on November 25! This dazzling show combines breathtaking acrobatics, soaring aerial performances, and world-class circus artistry with your favorite holiday music. Filled with wonder, excitement, and heartwarming spirit, it’s an unforgettable holiday experience the whole family will love.

91ST ANNUAL HADI SHRINE CIRCUS

FORD CENTER / NOVEMBER 27-30

Since 1933, the Hadi Shrine Circus has been a jewel of the Tri-State. With thousands of performers and millions of attendees spanning generations, its legacy is second to none. Experience The Last Great American Circus with the Hadi Shrine!

WHICH GROCERY STORES ARE OPEN ON

THANKSGIVING?

Stopping by a grocery store on Thanksgiving Day may not be a quick and simple affair. If you don’t do your research, you might find yourself pulling up to a deserted parking lot or have doors locked on you, having just missed the cutoff closing time.

Rather than driving all over town looking for an open store to sell you the item no one remembered until the turkey went into the oven, here is a list to help you prepare for any last-minute Thanksgiving Day needs.

Here are the stores that will be open on Thanksgiving Day, and those that are committed to remaining closed.

1. ALDI

Thanksgiving hours: Closed

Recently ALDI introduced Thanksgiving Price Rewind, a promotion offering lower pricing specifically around typical holiday dinner groceries. Aldi plans to roll out price reductions of up to 50% on more than 70 seasonal staples ahead of Thanksgiving and the remainder of the holiday season, according to an announcement. Aldi ran a similar discount for last year’s Thanksgiving holiday to aid shoppers struggling with inflation, and the grocer aims to do the same this year as prices remain high. Because the chain is closed on Thanksgiving, you’ll have to take advantage of the deals before or after the holiday itself.

2. B&C Discount Outlet in Eastgate

Shopping Center

Henderson, KY 42420

Thanksgiving hours: 8:00pm Thurs - 8:00pm Friday (24 hours of Shopping)

3. Buehler’s IGA

Thanksgiving hours: Closed

4. Costco

Thanksgiving hours: Closed

5. Crossroads IGA / Shell gas station

Thanksgiving hours: 8:00 am - 6:00 pm

(Double check with your local location)

6. CVS

Thanksgiving hours: 24 hours / day (Double check with your local location)

7. Dollar General

Thanksgiving hours: 7:00 am - 10:00 pm

8. Dollar Tree

Thanksgiving hours: 8:00 am - 10:00 pm

9. Family Dollar

Thanksgiving hours: 9:0 0am - 10:00 pm

10. Fresh Thyme Market

Thanksgiving hours: 7:00 am to 2:00 pm

11. Gordon Food Services

Thanksgiving hours: Closed

12. Grocery Outlet - N. Fulton Ave.

Thanksgiving hours: Closed

13. McKim’s IGA in Mount Vernon

Thanksgiving hours: 6:00 am - 1:00 pm

14. Meijer

Thanksgiving hours: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm

15. Ruler Foods

Thanksgiving hours: Closed

16. Sams Club

Thanksgiving hours: Closed

17. Save U More Market in Boonville

Thanksgiving hours: 7:00 am - 11:00 am

18. Schnucks

Thanksgiving hours: Closed

19. Simpson’s Supermarket (Covert Ave)

Thanksgiving hours: TBA (manager did not know)

20. Sureway Henderson

Thanksgiving hours: 7:00 am - 2:00 pm

21. Target

Thanksgiving hours: Closed

22. The Fresh Market

Thanksgiving hours: 7:00 am to 3:00 pm

23. Walgreens

Thanksgiving hours: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

24. Walmart

Thanksgiving hours: Closed

25. Wesselman's Supermarket

Thanksgiving hours: Closed

Even at those stores committed to remaining open on Thanksgiving, some hours and policies may vary by location. To be certain that you’ll be able to shop from your local grocery store, just give your nearest location a call. Don’t trust the website or check Instagram or Google’s listed hours - make the call and talk to an employee to be absolutely sure!

Wishing all our followers a Happy Thanksgiving!

After his 2013 album “Set You Free” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart, Gary Allan should have had it easy. And by all appearances, he would. The album’s first single “Every Storm (Runs Out of Rain)” sold 2 million copies, topped the country charts.

That song was followed by two more country hits, “Pieces” and “It Ain’t the Whiskey.”

By 2015, Allan was back on country radio with “Hangover Tonight.” During interviews, he talked about a new single and a just-finished album, tentatively titled “The Hard Way.” His label, MCA, however, wasn’t hearing a single and had him cut more songs. Eventually Allan convinced MCA to release the latest version of the album, by then retitled “Ruthless” -- a full eight years after “Set You Free.”

Allan took time out to talk about the “Ruthless” saga, whitewashed country music and quarantining on a yacht.

Q: You’ve been on the road touring since releasing “Ruthless.” How different would you say the “Ruthless” album is from what would have been “The Hard Way”?

Gary Allan: Oh, I would say only four songs made it from that. I’d finished it, and the record label said they didn’t hear a single.

GARY ALLAN INTERVIEW LAST WORD FEATURES

BY BILL FORMAN

And yeah, now all you can do is say, “OK, I’ll go find more songs.” So that happened to me twice. And after a five-year or six-year period, I finally had to go in and talk to the label and say, “Look, I don’t think we’re doing ourselves any good — or doing me any good right now — just by constantly pushing this down the road. Because all it looks like is that I’m not recording music and I’m starving my fans, so we have to put something out whether you guys like it or not. And that’s this “Ruthless” album.”

Q: You mentioned in a recent “Rolling Stone” interview that you’ve been listening a lot to Gram Parsons’ “Return of the Grievous Angel,” which has that great verse about The King [Elvis Presley] wanting to put down his amphetamine crown, unbuckle the Bible Belt, and head out on the road with “the truckers and kickers and cowboy angels” to find a good saloon in every town. Which sounds like the image a lot of us have of country music back in days past — without the amphetamines, of course. Do you miss that — or miss what was left of it when you started out?

Allan: I do. I think that was the glory of country music. And I think it’s been slowly whitewashed in every sense. To me, country music was about Monday through Friday. And pop was about the weekends. And now it

seems like it’s just all about the weekends and, you know, pickup trucks and beer.

Q: Back during the height of the pandemic, you were down in the Dominican Republic and refused to come back until there was a COVID vaccine. Why was that? It seems like there would have been the same risk everywhere.

Allan: We were on a boat, so no. It was me and my fiancée, and one of my best friends and his wife.

Q: So what’s that like?

Allan: You know, it was a bucket-list thing for me. I have a buddy that bought a really nice yacht, and he was trying to get me to go down there from the beginning of the pandemic, and I was a little afraid to fly. But when I did go down, it was awesome. I mean, at first I thought, “Wow, this is a lot of sitting around in isolation.” But by the end of it, I had sunk into a routine and thought, “You know what? I could do nothing for the rest of my life and be happy.”

Q: Is that true?

Allan: I do think it was true by the end. [Laughs.] But it feels good to get back out here working again.

Each month, two or three times, I pack up my gear and head out to perform at Homeplace of Henderson Assisted Living. I had some trepidation at first. Am I right for them? Will they be more bothered than comforted? But these days, after several months, they have each in their own way let me know that these shows aren’t just about filling an hour with some golden oldies and easy listening versions of my own favorites. Music, I’ve learned, can reach corners of the mind no pill or therapy can touch.

From my side of the microphone, it happens in real time. Residents who may ask me my name each time perk up and say, “Oh yes. I remember now.” Some who rely on walkers will get up and dance. One of the sweetest ladies—who happens to share the name Bobbi Jo with my fiancé—is always engaged, inquisitive, and smiling. She says it doesn’t matter what I play. It’s just soothing. It’s taken me years to fully understand what music can mean outside of my own obsession. I see these folks light up, get a little shimmy in their seats, and close their eyes and go places, especially when it’s something familiar like Elvis. They love their King of Rock-n-roll!!

LINDSEY

on the scene

BY LINDSEY JAMES WILLIAMS

We Beings of Sound Mind: How Music Nourishes the Aging Brain

Science answers the question that Don McLean once sang about. “Can music save your mortal soul?” Well, it certainly strengthens the aging mind, keeping that spark of life intact. Researchers at Johns Hopkins found that listening to or playing music engages nearly every area of the brain — especially regions involved in memory, attention, and emotion. A 2023 study in PLOS Biology showed that older adults with lifelong musical habits maintained more “youth-like” brain connectivity when processing sound, meaning their brains stayed more efficient as they aged. And in one clinical trial, seniors who took up a new instrument for just ten weeks improved their memory and processing speed.

“I have been in senior care for 15 years. I have come to recognize that music sparks emotion. Our residents thrive on the sound of music in the air. It’s essential; it jogs memories and encourages singing, dancing, and laughing.” -Jessica Beaven, Owner and Executive Director, Homeplace of Henderson.

Music floods the brain with dopamine, the same chemical that makes us doomscroll,

shop online and even rage on social media. It also reduces cortisol, a stress hormone that can worsen memory and cognitive decline. Singing in a group even increases oxytocin, the “connection” hormone, which helps with mood and social bonding. You probably remember that 80s anti-drug campaign, “This is your brain on drugs. Any questions?”. Well, these are the ones you want. And free!

You don’t need a lab coat to know it works. That light of recognition when a melody sparks an old memory, a whole room bonding over good —and especially, bad—karaoke. It’s your brain giving you the natural drugs of joy and wellness.

I encourage you to take an older loved one — or even a neighbor — to a performance. If going out isn’t possible, maybe stream a live concert together or simply ask them what songs shaped their youth; you might be surprised by the stories that surface. I know I’ve got some doozies! Music doesn’t just make us remember who we were; it reminds us who we still are.

And as always, thank you for continuing to support the live music scene and the independent artists of the world.

Plates, Passes, and the Power of Community Local Love behind North Girls Soccer

Brittany Nelson is a warm and witty-sometimes sarcastic-mom who shows up with snacks and support. Brittany believes the most powerful kind of philanthropy starts with kindness and care. She has a passion for advocacy and pours her heart into words, striving to let others know they matter. She writes to connect, to encourage, and to make others feel seen.

The 2025 girls' soccer season at North High School began with promise: for the first time in years, the program had the numbers to support both a Varsity and Junior Varsity team. But only a few weeks into the season, a new challenge emerged. Opponent shortages across the region meant several scheduled JV games were canceled—not due to weather, but because opposing schools didn't have enough players.

While Varsity continued with a full slate of matches, many JV players were left without the very thing they'd trained for: playing time. And while coaches worked hard to find alternate matchups and create opportunities for growth, the imbalance was disheartening.

But that's not where this story ends. This is a story about a community that showed up. To keep morale strong and bridge the gap between JV and Varsity, coaches

emphasized connection both on and off the field. One practice was devoted entirely to peer affirmations, with teammates using crayons and paper to write uplifting notes to one another. The real magic, though, came when food entered the equation.

Local restaurants stepped in to provide team meals. Jason's Deli, Hacienda, Qdoba, Chick-Fil-A, and even Buffalo Wild Wings each contributed meals that fueled bodies and lifted spirits. It may sound simple, but to a group of hardworking teenage girls, these dinners felt like a gift. A gesture that said: "We see you. We believe in you. You matter."

The meals didn't just fill plates, they fed camaraderie. They brought togetherness and formed solidarity. JV and Varsity practice together, but team meals allowed them to bond as friends, not just teammates, and that matters most of all.

As Varsity heads into sectionals and JV has wrapped up their season, the spirit of "As One",a mantra echoed by Head Coach Heeger, feels more alive than ever. This is what community support looks like. It's not always banners or big speeches.

Sometimes, it's a boxed lunch or a taco bar served with a side of belief and extra encouragement for dessert. What's next on the menu to feed thirty-seven deserving girls? A sure favorite, boneless wings. And if you think a group of teenage girls can't put away food like their male counterparts, think again. Their appetites and their drive are just as fierce.

So to every local business that stepped up, thank you. You didn't just feed a team. You fed their confidence, their joy, and their chance to rise.

HOW ABOUT A GAME OF “I SPY”?

Which of you have the sharpest eyes!? The staff at News4U has partnered with 3 great local businesses to give away three great prizes to three of you!! And how might you win, you may ask? Just find the emojis that are hidden somewhere in the magazine to be entered into a drawing for each prize! Once you find the emoji, email us a pic of that emoji to prize@news4uevv.com, and your name will be put into a drawing for the corresponding prize. You can only enter one time per emoji, but you can win more than one prize if your name is drawn. Winners will pick up their prizes at the businesses listed!

1. Kipplee's: find their stromboli emoji and enter to win a $25 gift card to the restaurant!

2. Deerhead Tavern: find their pizza emoji and enter to win a $25 gift card to the restaurant!

3. Prime Time: find their burger emoji and enter to win a $25 gift card to the restaurant!

Start searching and good luck!

From its humble beginnings in Plymouth to the tables of families today, Thanksgiving continues to remind us of gratitude, connection, and community.

Every November, families across America gather around tables filled with turkey, stuffing, and pie to celebrate one of the nation’s most beloved traditions, Thanksgiving. More than a meal, it’s a day rooted in gratitude, reflection, and togetherness—a time to pause and appreciate the blessings of the year while remembering the complex history behind it.

How It Began

Thanksgiving traces back to 1620, when English settlers known as the Pilgrims arrived in North America aboard the Mayflower. After a brutal winter that claimed nearly half their group, the survivors received lifesaving help from the Wampanoag people, who taught them how to plant corn and fish in local waters. Later that year, after their first successful harvest, the Pilgrims and Wampanoag shared a three-day feast, often remembered as the “First Thanksgiving.”

While the gathering symbolized gratitude and cooperation, it also took place during a time of growing tension and eventual conflict between settlers and Native Americans. For many Indigenous people, Thanksgiving is now observed as a National Day of Mourning, honoring Native history and resilience in the face of loss.

From Tradition to National Holiday

For centuries, communities held harvest festivals and local days of thanks, but Thanksgiving didn’t become a national holiday until the 19th century. Writer and editor Sarah Josepha Hale, best known for penning “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” spent years urging leaders to create a unifying day of gratitude.

The Meaning of THANKSGIVING:

Gratitude, History, and Togetherness

WITH CRISTINA MAUK

Her campaign caught the attention of President Abraham Lincoln, who in 1863 declared the last Thursday of November a national day of “Thanksgiving and Praise.” In 1941, Congress officially set the holiday on the fourth Thursday of November, creating the annual celebration we know today.

A Feast of Food and Fellowship

At the heart of Thanksgiving is the meal itself. Roast turkey often takes center stage, surrounded by mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, and rolls. Pumpkin, pecan, and apple pies bring a sweet finish to the feast.

Beyond the food, the day is about connection. Families and friends gather to share gratitude, laughter, and stories. Some take turns expressing what they’re thankful for before the meal begins, a small ritual that captures the holiday’s spirit.

Parades and football games also mark the day. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, with its massive balloons and marching bands, has entertained viewers since 1924. Meanwhile, NFL games featuring the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys have become a tradition watched by millions.

Giving and Growing

Thanksgiving is also about generosity. Across the country, volunteers serve meals, collect donations, and support food drives to help neighbors in need. Schools teach lessons about gratitude while encouraging students to understand both Pilgrim and Native American perspectives.

Modern celebrations continue to evolve. Friendsgiving gatherings, outdoor adventures, and travel plans are now common. Black Friday and Cyber Monday launch the shopping season, while Giving Tuesday reminds us to pay our gratitude forward through acts of kindness.

Simple Ways to Celebrate Gratitude

This Year

• Write down three things you’re thankful for and share them at dinner.

• Volunteer or donate to a local food pantry.

• Invite a neighbor or friend who might be spending the holiday alone.

• Take a post-dinner walk and reflect on the year’s highlights.

• Support Native-led organizations in honor of the holiday’s full history.

At its core, Thanksgiving remains a time to slow down and reflect on what truly matters: gratitude, kindness, and connection. Whether celebrated with family, friends, or neighbors, the spirit of Thanksgiving endures, reminding us that appreciation and generosity never go out of season.

“Thanksgiving isn’t just about the food on the table, but the hearts gathered around it.”

DR. IRINA’S JOURNEY AND THE ART OF ANTI-AGING

When Dr. Irina first arrived in the United States in 1999, she had just $100 in her pocket and a dream that couldn’t be contained. Her first stop was Kansas City, Missouri — a new city, a new life, and a long road ahead. She took whatever work she could find, eventually landing a janitorial job that helped her pay her way through school.

Those early years weren’t easy. She vividly remembers a few nights when she slept in the janitor’s closet, too exhausted and out of options to go anywhere else. But she also remembers the fire inside her that refused to fade. “I always believed that if I worked hard and stayed focused, I could build something meaningful,” she says. That belief became the foundation of what is now one of the Tri-State’s most admired wellness destinations: the Anti-Aging Wellness Center of Excellence.

Building a Life of Purpose and Beauty

Today, Dr. Irina’s story is one of perseverance, education, and passion. Her vision can be summed up in one line that she often repeats: “Beautifying everyone and everything around her.” It’s more than a business motto, it’s the way she lives her life. Whether she’s mentoring her team, welcoming a nervous first-time client, or developing new ways to bring out someone’s natural radiance, she brings that same philosophy to everything she does.

She also believes in action. Her favorite piece of advice is one that has guided her journey from day one: “Figure out what you wanna do and do it.”

That mindset led her to earn not one, but two master’s degrees specializing in the science of anti-aging. Her academic background, combined with years of hands-on experience, allows her to offer an approach that blends medical knowledge with artistry.

The Science of Confidence

At the Anti-Aging Wellness Center of Excellence, Dr. Irina’s mission is to help clients slow down the visible signs of aging while feeling confident and cared for in the process. Her expertise extends well beyond injectables, she studies the science behind how the body and skin age, using that knowledge to design customized treatments that enhance natural beauty.

“Anyone can offer Botox,” she explains, “but not everyone understands how to use science to truly slow down aging.”

The results speak for themselves. From Botox and fillers to advanced skin rejuvenation and wellness treatments, the center’s services are designed to help clients look refreshed, not “redone.” The experience is personal, professional, and deeply satisfying — something reflected in their 162 five-star Google reviews, each

one a testament to the trust she’s earned. One client shared, “I’ve received Botox and filler on two separate occasions, and both times the staff was welcoming, gentle, and incredibly knowledgeable. I love seeing not only my results but the joy others experience when they leave feeling more like themselves.”

A Team That Feels Like Family

For the past eight years, Dr. Irina has worked alongside Amber Frizzelle, the center’s CEO, who has become both a professional partner and a trusted friend. Amber has been part of the Anti-Aging team for five years and is currently pursuing her degree to become a nurse practitioner.

Together, the two women have built a space that’s more than a medspa, it’s a place of transformation and confidence. They’ve created an atmosphere where clients feel seen, valued, and empowered. “It’s a team built on trust,” Amber says. “We care about our clients as people, not just as appointments.”

Expanding Care for the Community

Looking ahead, Dr. Irina is preparing for her next big step: expanding services to include family medicine that will be available to all insurance plans. It’s an exciting move that reflects her belief in accessible, comprehensive care for every member of the community.

“Health and beauty are deeply connected,” she says. “When people feel good, they look good. My goal is to make that kind of care available to everyone, not just those seeking cosmetic treatment.”

This expansion will mark another milestone in her remarkable journey, one that began with $100, a broom, and a dream.

Living the American Dream

More than two decades after those early Kansas City nights, Dr. Irina’s story remains a powerful reminder of what’s possible through perseverance and purpose. She built her life from the ground up (literally) and continues to share her success with others through compassion, expertise, and an unwavering belief in the beauty of transformation.

For her, the American Dream isn’t about wealth or status; it’s about fulfillment. “I love what I do,” she says “Helping people look and feel their best, that’s my dream come true”.

To learn more about Dr. Irina and the services offered at the Anti-Aging Wellness Center of Excellence, visit aacemedspa.com.

THEY’VE CREATED AN ATMOSPHERE WHERE CLIENTS FEEL SEEN, VALUED, AND EMPOWERED. "

EVANSVILLE of A TASTE

MONTHLY FOOD REVIEW WITH BRIAN BUXTON

2ND LANGUAGE

This month’s Taste of Evansville is 2nd Language, which features a variety of traditional Ramen choices, as well as dishes that highlight Southeast Asian flavors. Diners will find a curated menu of rice bowls, Japanese steamed buns, Asian comfort foods, and signature house-made desserts and cocktails.

2nd Language is in historic downtown Evansville and is a sister restaurant to Pangea Kitchen at 111 S. Green River Road, Saźon y Fuego at 8666 Ruffian Lane in Newburgh, and Pangea Pizzeria (in the same shared building), at 401 NW 2nd St., in the former Nabisco building. All 4 are under the Pangea Holdings family of restaurants, owned by local restaurateur Randy Hobson. 2nd Language opened on Dec. 1st, 2020, and was the second restaurant to be opened by Hobson.

When you enter the building, you can feel that as much time and care were put into the building, décor and how you experience the food they serve as is put into the food itself. The restaurant features a beautiful bar and original elements of the 1900era building, such as original 1895 wood floors and exposed brick. Even in the newly constructed areas, historical pieces such as 120+ year old doors from the Audubon School building in Henderson, KY have been incorporated into the design.

The restaurant is housed in a building with an extensive Evansville history. Originally constructed in 1894 for the Marsh-Scantlin Bakery, it was renamed the National Biscuit

Company in 1900. The name “2nd Language” reflects Hobson’s belief that food brings people together and builds connections across cultures. Hobson first experienced a love of food as a 10-yearold cooking at home. His passion for ethnic cuisine, and love for experiencing different cultures through their dishes and traditions grew during a 25-year career traveling the world for Berry Plastics. As an adult, a 1992 visit to Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix, AZ hooked him on the appreciation for the authenticity and correct preparation of the foods he was experiencing. Hobson’s travels and appreciation for Japanese culture inspired the restaurant’s focus on Ramen and pan-Asian flavors. Although the menu is very specifically curated, it’s more about comfort foods that are authentic, approachable, and deeply rooted in their respective countries of origin than about expensive or exclusive dishes. Hobson relates “Our mission remains rooted in expanding the city’s food culture by providing authentic, globally inspired dishes in a space that honors both its historic roots and its modern, creative spirit.” Just as with Pangea and Saźon y Fuego, 2nd Language is always on the forefront of the local dining scene.

All the staff involved in Hobsons restaurants are passionate about food, and it is reflected in every aspect. From the attention to service, the cocktail program and the dedication to providing a flawless experience to their customers, there are no shortcuts taken in any aspect

of the operation. During my visit to sample some offerings from their newly revamped menu, GM Austin Cole and Chef Jeremy Gunn came to the table to serve and explain the various dishes we had ordered. Everything was perfectly cooked, elegantly plated and filled with layers of sweet, savory, and umami. We sampled:

• Lumpia Gulay (fried Filipino spring rolls filled with green beans, garlic, carrots, onion, cabbage, bean sprouts and green onion - served with Thai chili sauce)

• Beak-Kimchi (Napa cabbage, Aji Amarillo sauce, coconut cream, corn and cilantro)

• Bulgogi Wraps (Romaine lettuce, a spicy Korean dipping sauce (Ssamjang), pickled red onions and beef (or your choice of mushroom)

• Mentaiko Bucatini (house made Bucatini noodles, spiced pollock roe, Olsen tamago and shredded nori)

• Curry Katsu (Fried pork loin, Japanese curry, yukari pickles, calrose rice and furikake)

• Filipino Menudo Ramen (rich Tonkotsu broth, sofrito tare, pork shoulder, potatoes, roasted tomatoes, corn, half a soft egg, bean sprouts and green onion)

• Almond Apple Milhojas (a Hungarian tarte made of thin layers of puff pastry, similar to phyllo, and filled with layers of apple and almonds)

I wish we weren’t limited to space in the magazine so I could get into the deeper explanations of each dish, but each was better than the next and I’d certainly order any of them again. Each visit gives you a deeper appreciation for the lengths the staff goes through to deliver the shared vision of the restaurant to each patron. Other dishes you shouldn’t miss include any of the Ramen choices, seared tuna (Tiradito), Japanese fried chicken (Karaage), the Bao buns, any of the Donburi rice bowls, and the Honey milk toast for dessert (Japanese milk bread with a miso butterscotch and honey drizzle)! The menu does offer vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. If you imbibe, don’t miss out on their fantastic cocktail program, which I would rate as one of the 4 best in the area. Their selection of bourbon, rum, mezcal, tequila, cognac / brandy and cordials are focused and thoughtful with excellent choices at all prices points.

Their hours of operation are Tue–Thurs: 11am-9pm, Fri. & Sat: 11am–10pm, closed Sun & Mon. There is a large gravel lot across the street as well as some street parking. You can contact the restaurant by calling the number below, or on Facebook @taste2ndlanguage.

401 Northwest 2nd Street, Suite A, in downtown Evansville, IN | (812) 401-2500 tastepangea.com/2nd-language

My food and dining page can be found at facebook.com/FFKSEvansville

Now Go, Explore, and Eat, Evansville!

ANYTHING ON WHEELS

WITH TOM LEGGETT

SMOKIN ROUX:

GUMBO, GRIT, AND A DREAM ON WHEELS

When you step up to the Smokin Roux food truck, you’re not just ordering a meal, you’re tasting the culmination of one chef’s lifelong culinary journey. For owner and chef Dale Dossett, this adventure began long before he launched his truck in April 2025. From fine dining in California to the food truck scene in Indiana, Dossett has turned his passion for cooking into a venture that brings bold, soulful flavors to the street.

A graduate of the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu, Dossett cut his teeth in kitchens ranging from casual bar and grills to the high stakes pace of casino dining, where he prepped meals for 2,500 employees and served 400 guests per shift.

Eventually, he found himself working his way up in a Michelin starred restaurant in California’s wine country. But the grind took its toll. “I got burned out,” he recalls. Stepping back from professional kitchens, Dossett cooked only for friends and family until years of encouragement

finally pushed him to start his own food truck. From the moment he bought his trailer to opening day, the turnaround was just two weeks.

Balancing a full-time job with running Smokin Roux has been no small feat. Dossett often puts in 50 hours at work before spending late nights cleaning, prepping, and loading his trailer for the next day’s events.

Despite the exhaustion, his passion shines through. His signature gumbo and inventive pork belly corn dog have already won over customers, with one seasoned gumbo maker even declaring him welcome at any cookout. For Dossett, those reactions define success: “Happy faces when they try my food.”

Running a food truck brings its share of logistical headaches, multiple stops for gas, propane, and specialty ingredients, not to mention long hours in sweltering conditions. Still, Dossett is committed to sourcing locally when possible and hopes to partner with a local baker for fresh rolls. Some ingredients, however, are brought up from Louisiana to keep his dishes authentic.

When it comes to building a following, Dossett leans on Facebook to share schedules and secure bookings. Yet he credits much of his growth to word of

mouth and, most importantly, the food itself. “Great food,” he says simply, is the best marketing strategy. His front of the house team handles most of the customer engagement while he focuses on the kitchen, though he always tries to connect when he can.

As he pushes full throttle toward his October wedding, Dossett admits balance is elusive. But his advice to aspiring food truck owners is clear: “Be different. Don’t do the same truck that there are many of.”

With Smokin Roux, he’s doing just that, serving up distinctive dishes with heart, hustle, and the kind of flavor that lingers long after the last bite.

Find him on Facebook: Smokin Roux

See you down the road!

"...SERVING UP DISTINCTIVE DISHES WITH HEART, HUSTLE, AND THE KIND OF FLAVOR THAT LINGERS LONG AFTER THE LAST BITE."

WHAT'S ON THE

grill

WITH JIM JOHNSON

GRILLED THANKSGIVING FEAST

Thanksgiving is all about family, gratitude—and incredible food. But who says the feast has to come from the oven? This year, take it outside. Grilling your Thanksgiving meal adds smoky depth, frees up the kitchen, and gives the day a fun, festive twist. Let’s fire up the grill and make a Thanksgiving dinner to remember— no oven required.

SMOKED TURKEY BREAST

Ingredients:

• 1 bone-in, skin-on turkey breast (5–7 lbs)

• 2 tbsp kosher salt

• 1 tbsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp paprika

• 2 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

• Wood chips (apple, cherry, or hickory)

Preparation:

1. Dry Brine (Optional): Rub turkey with salt and refrigerate uncovered overnight. This draws out moisture and boosts flavor.

2. Season: Mix spices with oil or butter to form a paste. Rub over and under the skin.

3. Preheat Grill: Set for indirect heat at 250–275°F. Add soaked wood chips for smoke.

4. Smoke: Place turkey on the cool side, skin up. Smoke 2½–3½ hours, until internal temp reaches 160°F. Rest until 165°F.

5. Optional Glaze: In the last 30 minutes, brush with a mix of equal parts maple syrup and butter plus a pinch of cayenne for shine and sweetness.

GRILLED CINNAMON APPLES

Ingredients

• 4 firm apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith)

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• ¼ tsp nutmeg

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans

Preparation:

1. Core and slice apples ½-inch thick; leave skins on.

2. Mix sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and butter.

3. Heat grill to medium (350–400°F). Oil grates or use a grill basket.

4. Toss slices in cinnamon butter and grill 3–5 minutes per side until tender with grill marks.

5. Top with nuts or drizzle with honey. Serve warm.

GRILLED POTATOES

Ingredients

• 2 lbs baby potatoes (red, yellow, or mixed)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp rosemary or thyme

Preparation:

1. Boil in salted water 10 minutes, then drain.

2. Lightly smash and toss with oil and seasonings.

3. Preheat grill to medium-high (400°F). Use a grill basket or well-oiled grates.

4. Grill 4–5 minutes per side until crispy and golden.

5. Garnish with herbs and flaky salt.

CHARRED GREEN VEGETABLES

Ingredients

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp pepper

• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar or lemon juice

Preparation:

1. Toss sprouts with oil, salt, and pepper.

2. Grill over medium-high heat on skewers or in a basket for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally.

3. Drizzle with balsamic or lemon juice before serving.

If you’d like more ideas or special requests, reach out to News 4U and Jim will include them in next month’s column.

Jim Johnson has won 78 Grand Championships on the BBQ circuit and is a founding member of the Kansas City BBQ Society (International Outreach Team). In addition, Jim has taught American-style BBQ in over 40 countries worldwide.

He's also cooked at U.S. embassies and often feeds the troops at military bases. Just recently, Jim served 2500 BBQ plates for the Minnesota Air National Guard and for the Scott Air Force Base. As if all that wasn't enough, he helps to feed numerous non-profits in the Evansville area.

Have you ever considered raising a garden or keeping a few chickens for eggs? Felt the squeeze at the checkout and asked yourself, “Can I make or grow this on my own?”

For many people, the call to be more selfreliant has rung with remarkable intensity. With the rising costs of food and the deep desire to reconnect with the earth and our families, it’s no wonder so many are turning back the clock. In an age where the world is literally at your fingertips, there’s something romantic about getting back to the basics and sharing these skills with one another.

Homesteading is a lifestyle that offers an abundance of rewards as well as challenges to those who choose to roll up their sleeves and give it a try. Far more meaningful than the potential for profit is the feeling of self-accomplishment, reviving forgotten knowledge and long-lost life skills, and sharing them with others.

The challenges can be tough, but seeing the fruits of your labor and sharing them with your family and community makes this labor of love just that.

BACK TO THE

basics

Magen Coates

My name is Magen, I am 38, married to an amazing man, and have 6 wonderful children. I am passionate about teaching others how to raise healthy, thriving poultry. I am an avid gardener who enjoys canning homemade jams, jellies, and salsa, and sharing what I grow with my local community. For me, it’s all about living simply, working with my hands, and passing those skills on to one another.

For me personally, I felt drained by the electronic world we live in. I was searching for something more sustaining—something to share with my children. After tons of research and planning, we started with 14 chickens. Watching them grow and learning as we went was so rewarding for the kids and me. Since then, I’ve become an educator on poultry rearing.

Those first 14 chickens eventually grew into M’eggs Farms. Today, we have 64 chickens, a garden, fruit trees, and make salsas, jams, fresh-baked breads, and more.

When beginning your own homesteading journey, knowing where to start can often be the hardest part.

Research, seek advice, and embrace trial and error—these are the cornerstones of success. If you’re considering raising animals, chickens are a great place to start! They are an excellent introduction to livestock for beginners—hands-on and fun for all ages.

They do require more care than most would think, but nothing beats the excitement of collecting that first egg!

Chickens come in a variety of breeds and lay eggs in an array of colors—from striking greens and blues to deep brick reds, browns, and the traditional white.

Some breeds are best for meat production, others for egg-laying, and some are bred for both. Be sure to research the different varieties—and remember, “chicken math” is real. Five can quickly turn into fifty!

If growing your own food sounds appealing, start by deciding what you want to raise. Sketch your dream garden on grid paper, and place your plants systematically for maximum results. Research which fruits and vegetables pair well together—companion planting offers countless natural benefits.

All in all, homesteading is about doing what you enjoy—discovering what works for you, exploring new passions, and testing your own perseverance.

To be fruitful in those endeavors takes patience and time.

Restaurant

WITH BRIAN BUXTON

411

KEEPING YOU UP-TO-DATE ON THE COMINGS AND GOINGS OF AREA DINING ESTABLISHMENTS

The restaurant business is a rough road, and success is far from guaranteed in a business with many challenges and very narrow margins for profit. A study by Ohio State University found that 60% of new restaurants didn't make it past the first year, and 80% closed within five years. It's not a venture for the weak.

Here's a list of local spots we've recently lost, others that have recently opened, and some to look forward to in the coming weeks.

RECENTLY CLOSED:

AUGUST:

Zacks Diner at 202 E. Locust St., Ft. Branch, IN (Aug. 18th)

SEPTEMBER:

Don Juan Authentic Mexican Grill at 4011 IN-261, Newburgh, IN (Sept. 2nd)

Bob Evans at 1125 N Green River Rd., Evansville, IN (Sept. 8th)

Lonestar BarBQ at 2403 Washington Ave., Evansville, IN (Sept. 27th)

That Place at 2630 US-41 North, Henderson, KY (Sept. 30th)

OCTOBER:

Lizzies Diner at 1420 Breckenridge St., Owensboro, KY (Oct. 3rd)

The Zone by Mary Scotts at 434 Plaza Dr., Mt. Vernon, IN (Oct. 7th)

Salsaritas Newburgh at 4077 IN-261, Newburgh, IN (Oct. 16th)

RECENTLY OPENED:

SEPTEMBER:

Exotic Snack Guys at 800 N. Green River Rd., Evansville, IN

Posh Sweet Treat Creations at 401 SE 6th St., (Welborn Plaza), Evansville, IN

7 Brew Coffee at 4930 S. Frederica St., Owensboro, KY

Junebugs Farmstand at 9219 Baumgart Rd., Evansville, IN

Gigi's at 48 South Holloway St., Henderson, KY

Agape Boba Tea & Sweet Heaven at 5310 Pearl Dr., Evansville, IN

Kates Café at 5625 Pearl Dr., Evansville, IN

Diamond's Diner at 315 E. Diamond Ave., Evansville, IN

Bastoni at 8000 Bell Oaks Dr, Newburgh, IN

OCTOBER:

The Wine Vault (moving) at 423 Metro Ave.Evansville, IN

Wonder Whip at 2600 Frederica St., Owensboro, KY

Bodine's Newsstand at 900 Main St., Evansville, IN

The Main Event at 217 Main St., Evansville, IN

DiMaggio's Italian Pizza at 3848 N First Ave., Evansville, IN

Red Swing Coffee at 1420 Breckenridge St., Owensboro, KY

Dutch Bros. Coffee Co. at 2421 Menards Dr., Evansville, IN

Metro Diner at 945 N. Burkhardt Rd., Evansville, IN

COMING SOON:

EVANSVILLE, IN

7Brew Coffee at 4301 N. First Ave. (2026?)

Aman Food Market at 900 E. Riverside Dr.

Best Coast Tacos at TBA St. Joe Ave.

Blaze Pizza at Menards Dr. (Fall 2025)

Boba Tea at 1223 Hirschland Rd. (Winter 2025)

Carniveria Mi Valle Butcher Shop & Market at 5614 E. Virginia

Coffee812 at downtown area

Criollos Venezuelan Breakfast at 581 N. Green River Rd.

Currito at the Promenade off Burkhardt Rd.

Dogtown Grill (formerly Tavern) at 6201 Old Henderson Rd.

Fire Pot Korean BBQ & Hot Pot at 501 N. Green River Rd.

Hornville Tavern at 2607 W. Baseline Rd.

Kan Pai Sushi at 581 N. Green River Rd.

Little Caesars at 901 St. Joe Ave.

Little Caesars at 2101 N. Green River Rd. (2026, pending)

Mexican Restaurant & Grocery at 2020 Center Dr.

Raising Canes at the Promenade off Burkhardt Rd.

Ray Leo's at Lamasco at 1331 W. Franklin St.

Rockin' Pizza at 967 S. Kentucky Ave.

Sandwich Shop (?) at 3159 Broadway Ave.

Scooters Coffee at 805 S. Green River Rd.

Taco Bell at 3251 N. Green River Rd.

The Foundry Room at the DoubleTree Hilton at 601 Walnut St. (Jan-2026)

Wild Eggs at Siegnel Plaza in the Promenade

NEWBURGH, IN

7Brew Coffee at 4011 Old State Route 261

Bastoni at 8000 Bell Oaks Dr.

Steak & Take at 4960 State Route 261

Jimmy John's at 3922 Orchard Lane

HENDERSON, KY

7 Brew Coffee At 2005 US-41 (fall 2025)

Rhythm River Distillery at 405 North Main St.

OWENSBORO, KY

1885 Cocktail Bar at 2601 W. Parrish Ave. (Summer 2025)

Currito at Calumet Trace in Gateway Commons

Dutch Bros. Coffee Co. At 3750 Frederica St. (Summer 2025)

I Love Pho and Sandwiches at 3245 Mount Moriah Ave. (2025)

Kroger at Gateway Commons (2026)

Publix at Hayden Rd. and Wendell Ford Expressway (2026)

Publix at Parish Ave. & Carter Rd. (2027)

SPONSORED BY

QUICK FIT

QUICK FIT

WITH THOMAS BLANE

What is Quick Fit?

Simply put, Quick Fit is all about exploring different gyms, restaurants, and sports nutrition stores, showcasing what they have to offer, and hopefully sparking your interest in trying something new.

I want you all to see things through my lens as I share my experiences at various places. There are so many cool things to do in Evansville and the surrounding Tri-State area, and my goal is to experience as much as possible and share it with you. My hope is that by stepping out of my comfort zone, I can inspire you to do the same.

The Quick Fit: A Step Onto the Mat

Some stories write themselves, and this one might just be one for the ages. I hadn’t taken on a challenge this exciting—ever.

It all started during a regular boxing session at Rock’em Sock’em on Taylor Avenue in Evansville. The workout was solid, the sparring was good, and the usual crew was there. Toward the end of my session, a man walked into the gym and greeted Champ Danny T like an old friend. The two caught up, swapping stories about training, life, and the grind of getting back in shape.

While they talked, I overheard Danny mention he was working with a few fighters he hoped to take to the Golden Gloves next year. Hearing that fired me up. I’ve been training hard, and the idea of stepping

into that kind of competition stirred something in me. The Champ’s confidence is contagious, he’s always pushing me to try new things, new gyms, new techniques.

That’s when the visitor mentioned The Academy. He told me about their classes and suggested I check it out that same night. It was the last day of their free trial week, and something in me said, “Why not?” Even though I had no clue what I was getting into, I was already in.

Later that evening, I found myself pulling into the Rural King complex on Morgan Avenue. The old Comic Quest was gone, and my nostalgic side took a moment to grieve before I walked up to the doors of The Academy. Inside, a calm energy replaced the noise of the outside world.

Behind the counter stood Professor Bruce Shepherd—owner, head instructor, and 5th-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under the IBJJF. With more than 30 years of experience training, competing, and teaching across the world, Bruce has built a reputation for technical excellence and genuine mentorship. He handed me a crisp white gi, gave a quick tour, and told me to get ready.

The locker room buzzed with small talk about families, jobs, and the day’s challenges. It felt like everyone there belonged to something bigger than just a workout. I tied my belt (after a few failed attempts), stepped onto the mat, and quickly picked up on the culture of respect…bows, mat sweeps, and quiet focus.

Class started right at six. We were paired rookies versus veterans to learn side control. My partner didn’t take it easy on me, and honestly, I respected that. Every move was a lesson in control and awareness. Every mistake ended with a hold, a lock, or a choke that reminded me how much precision this art demands.

By the end of the hour, I was drenched, exhausted, and hooked. There’s a discipline

to jiu-jitsu that goes beyond strength, it’s about patience, humility, and learning to think under pressure.

After class, I spoke with Bruce about the kids’ program. Turns out, they train an hour before the adults, which made me think this might be something my daughter could grow into too. Before I left, Bruce gathered the group for a class photo, a gesture that summed up the sense of community I felt the moment I stepped in.

That night, I walked out of The Academy with sore arms, a humbled ego, and a new respect for a sport I’d barely scratched the surface of.

So yeah—I did some jiu-jitsu. And I’ll definitely be doing it again.

The Jiu-Jitsu Academy

2254 East Morgan Ave, Evansville, IN 47711 812-401-1111 info@jiujitsuconcepts.com

** Thomas “T.J.” Blane is a trainer in Evansville, IN. He is a self-proclaimed humble goof ball who just likes to help people reach their fitness potential. His first goal as a trainer is to help you build confidence in your abilities. Blane is equipped with the tools to build a workout plan adaptable to the needs of clients. He additionally has expertise with issues such as hyper-mobile joints, heart conditions, and more. Follow T.J. for tips and inspiration at Facebook and Instagram @trainwithblane

THUNDERBOLTS HEAD COACH JEFF BES

THUNDERBOLTS CHARGE INTO THE NEW SEASON AS REIGNING CHAMPIONS

After years of hard-fought battles, the Evansville Thunderbolts reached the pinnacle of success last spring, capturing the SPHL Championship and etching their names in franchise history. But for Head Coach Jeff Bes, the focus now shifts from celebration to continuation—a new season, new challenges, and the familiar fire that drives champions to do it all over again.

From Hunters to Hunted

When asked what it feels like to return to the ice as reigning champions, Bes’ tone carries both pride and perspective. “Obviously winning the championship last year has impacted our returning players, but we need to focus on this year and the goals ahead,” he says. The excitement of last season’s success lingers, but the veteran coach understands that the title also brings new pressure. “Certainly, the experience and winning the championship and hoisting the cup over our heads was fantastic;

however, now we’re going to have a target on our back so to speak because you are now the hunted and you’re not the hunter.”

That shift, from chasing the top to defending it, demands a different kind of discipline. The team’s off-season was shorter than usual, the expectations higher, and the community energy electric. Evansville fans, who have long stood behind their Thunderbolts, are now rallying behind a team with championship pedigree.

Building the Foundation for Greatness

When it comes to what made last year’s championship possible, Bes doesn’t credit sweeping roster changes or dramatic overhauls. Instead, he highlights the strength of consistency and commitment. “I wouldn’t say there were too many specific changes,” he explains. “We didn’t have a lot of movement as per previous seasons. I think last season we stuck with our guys. We worked with them throughout the course of the season.”

That stability, combined with a culture of trust, became the backbone of the Thunderbolts’ success. Through injuries, call-ups, and setbacks, the team grew tighter, not weaker. “By the end of the season though, our guys were really focusing on what we needed to do, buying into the program and the systems that we needed to do to be successful, and it showed,” says Bes. “We hit the plateau and the peak at the perfect time, and it was a great experience for us to do. We had the belief that, yes, when we work hard and do the right things, you will be rewarded.”

In many ways, that belief became the Thunderbolts’ trademark. They weren’t the flashiest team in the league, but they were one of the most united. Every shift, every blocked shot, every battle along the boards was part of something larger—a collective pursuit that culminated in a historic win.

Group photo after the game winning goal

Photo credit: Hailey Hardin

A Team Effort, Every Night

Bes is quick to emphasize that last year’s triumph wasn’t about a single standout player. While individual performances shone throughout the playoffs, the magic was in the group’s total buy-in. “Every single player impacted the championship last season on each and every night,” he insists. “I believe our guys had such a belief in each other and working for each other and doing whatever it took that, everyone stood out, and everyone did what was needed to do to be successful, and that’s how you win.”

That team-first mentality defined the Thunderbolts’ identity, and it’s what Bes hopes to preserve moving forward. “Any given night someone is going to step up, and that’s what happened. It was a great feeling, a great energy and that was something these guys had. It was belief.”

The Next Chapter

As the 2025 season unfolds, the Thunderbolts are not just defending a title, they’re reinforcing a legacy. The roster is a blend of returning veterans and eager newcomers, all buying into the culture that Bes and his staff have built. The Ford Center ice, once a stage for hopefuls, is now the home of champions, and that energy radiates through every practice and game.

Still, Bes knows that repeating success in professional hockey is one of the toughest tasks there is. Every opponent now circles the Evansville Thunderbolts on their calendar.

Every game feels like a test of resilience, preparation, and pride. But in true Evansville fashion, this team thrives on challenge.

Fans who packed the stands last season will find plenty to cheer for again—hard-nosed hockey, blue-collar effort, and a team that plays with the same heart and grit that defines their city. The Thunderbolts may be the hunted now, but with the lessons of last season and the leadership of Jeff Bes behind the bench, they’re more than ready to defend their crown.

Captain Matt Hobbs and SPHL

Commissioner Doug Price with the President's Cup

Photo credit: Hailey Hardin

Handshake line after the series win against the Knoxville Ice Bears

Photo credit: Hailey Hardin

Aidan Litke scoring the Game Winning Goal against Ice Bears goaltender Stephen Mundinger

Photo credit: Hailey Hardin

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.

Your Digital Footprint on Trial — How Social Media Can Impact Your Legal Case

In the age of smartphones and social media, much of our daily life happens online, from sharing vacation photos to venting frustrations or celebrating milestones. What many people don’t realize is that these posts, likes, and even deleted comments can become evidence in a courtroom. As a lawyer, I’ve seen firsthand how a person’s digital life can help or harm their legal case. I feel so strongly about this topic that I have spoken voluntarily to high school and college students to educate them and warn them about how what they post now may come back to haunt them years later.

Your Online Life Is Discoverable

When you’re involved in a lawsuit — whether it’s a personal injury claim, a divorce, or an employment dispute — both sides are entitled to gather evidence through a process called “discovery.” That includes social media posts, private messages, and even location data. If something you post

contradicts your claims or credibility, it can be used against you.

For example, a person who claims to be unable to work due to an injury might post a photo of themselves hiking or golfing. Even if the image was taken before the injury or posted by someone else, it may still raise questions and damage credibility.

“Private” Doesn’t Mean Protected

Many people believe that setting their accounts to “private” shields their content from scrutiny. Unfortunately, that’s not always true. Courts have ruled that relevant social media content can be obtained even from private accounts if it may serve as evidence. Once a case begins, deleting or altering posts can be seen as destroying evidence — a serious legal mistake.

What Lawyers and Investigators Look For

Attorneys, insurance companies, and investigators routinely examine digital footprints. They look for inconsistencies between online activity and claims made in written discovery, deposition and court. Even seemingly harmless posts — attending a

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. *This is an advertisement.

concert, smiling in a photo, or “checking in” at a restaurant — can be interpreted as evidence about your physical or emotional state.

How to Protect Yourself

• Pause Before You Post: Assume anything you share could one day appear on a courtroom screen.

• Don’t Delete Old Content: Consult your attorney before removing or changing posts after a dispute arises.

• Limit Oversharing: Avoid discussing your case or opponents online, even indirectly.

• Review Privacy Settings: While not foolproof, tighter controls help limit public visibility.

• Tell Your Lawyer Everything: It’s better for your attorney to know what’s out there than to be surprised later.

Your digital life is part of your legal life. In today’s world, your phone, your photos, and your posts can speak louder than your words in court. The best approach is simple: post mindfully, stay honest, and remember — once something is online, it’s part of your story, whether you intended it to be or not.

As temperatures drop and the holiday season approaches, the local real estate market begins to shift gears. November is a time when some buyers and sellers take a seasonal pause, but for investors and homeowners with rental properties, this is when smart property management really shines.

Across the Tri-State, Pinnacle Realty Group continues to be a trusted name not only for buying and selling homes but also for managing them. Property management is often the unsung hero of real estate investment, it’s what keeps your asset profitable, your tenants happy, and your time your own.

Why Property Management Matters

Managing a rental property involves far more than collecting rent checks. From advertising vacancies and screening tenants to handling maintenance requests and inspections, the process can become overwhelming for property owners. With a professional property management team, those responsibilities are handled seamlessly.

Pinnacle Realty Group’s property management division offers a fullservice approach designed to protect your investment. The team manages everything from marketing your property and coordinating showings to completing background checks, drafting leases, and enforcing policies. They also provide routine and emergency maintenance coordination, an essential service during winter months when pipes can freeze, roofs can leak, and HVAC systems are pushed to their limits.

REAL ESTATE RADAR

Smart Property Management in a Changing Market

PRESENTED BY PINNACLE REALTY GROUP

A well-managed property benefits everyone involved. For owners, it ensures consistent income, lower vacancy rates, and fewer costly repairs due to proactive maintenance. For tenants, it means a reliable point of contact, quick responses to concerns, and well-maintained living spaces they’re proud to call home.

This professional oversight builds trust on both sides, creating a better rental experience and reducing turnover. Especially in colder months when moving becomes less appealing, a strong tenant relationship can make the difference between steady income and a long vacancy.

A Local Team with Local Knowledge

Unlike national firms that manage properties from afar, Pinnacle Realty Group’s team lives and works right here in the Evansville area. That local expertise matters—whether it’s setting the right rental rate, understanding market demand, or maintaining connections with trusted local contractors.

“Property management is about relationships,” says the Pinnacle team. “It’s about communication, consistency, and community. We’re proud to help owners protect their investments while ensuring that tenants feel at home.”

So, whether you’re a seasoned investor expanding your portfolio or a homeowner temporarily renting out your property, November is the perfect time to get your management strategy in place before winter sets in.

5 PRO TIPS FOR PROPERTY OWNERS THIS FALL

1. Inspect and Winterize Early: Schedule roof and gutter checks before the first freeze to prevent costly leaks and drainage issues.

2. Don’t Skip Preventative Maintenance: A $100 furnace tune-up now can prevent a $1,000 repair later.

3. Prioritize Communication: Tenants are more likely to renew when they feel heard and valued— keep the lines open.

4. Review Your Lease Terms: Update clauses on maintenance, snow removal, and emergency contacts before year-end.

5. Partner with Professionals:

A trusted property management team like Pinnacle’s can help protect your investment and your peace of mind through every season.

Snap Local

Snap Local

Exploring Evansville’s most Instagrammable spots, one snap at a time.

BY LINDSAY SCOTT

October is always the month that really opens the door for autumn activities in the community of Evansville, Indiana. Our city kicked off the month with the 22nd Annual Evansville Half Marathon, which happened the first weekend. Pumpkins and autumn decor start popping up on local porches, apartment balconies, and stoops, long before the leaves actually begin to lose their green color. Spooky Season candy and decorations drenched every shelf of any retail shop you entered. The buzz around the “Munchie Map” was the hot topic of the city for weeks, leading up to the West Side Nut Club’s Fall Festival, which was officially named the top Fall Festival in the United States by USA Today. Finally, Trick and/or Trunk or Treating events happened across the tristate, and, just like that, the month that was packed full of local festivities and all things fall, has ended and we are ready to fully transition into the busy, bustling holiday season…or are we?

Fret not, lovers of warm, colorful tones, crunchy leaves, apple cider, and pumpkin flavored goodies; Evansville’s Fall Season is just getting started! The midwest leaf-color changes peak at various times throughout the fall. The colors and time of the season vary depending on rain

amounts and temperature, but in the more recent years, Evansville’s peak fall weather and colors have been during the joyous month of November! White many are prepping for the winter season, the trees are ablaze with beautiful hues of red, orange, and yellow. If you’re wondering where to see peak fall leaves colors in and around Evansville this month, your search just got much easier.

There are multiple local parks with beautiful trees, such as Wesselman Woods and Nature Preserve, Garvin Park, which is connected to the Evansville Riverfront via the Greenway Passage, Howell Wetlands and Nature Preserve, and just across the bridge in Henderson, you'll find Audubon Park and Nature Preserve. All of these are great choices; but my number one hidden gem for fall foliage (and an absolute favorite local trail any time of year), is the USI-Burdette Pedestrian, Bike, and Nature Trail. Not only does the three-mile paved trail allow for gorgeous views, it’s also relatively easy to navigate, compared to other non-paved options. Whether you’re an avid jogger, riding a bike, or just strolling with the family, this trail is easily accessible and free, making it a breeze to enjoy the diverse colors and natural beauty during the month of November. If you like hills, I suggest parking at Discovery Lodge

˄ Lindsay Scott is a teacher for EVSC who was born and raised in Evansville, and loves sharing appreciation for her hometown city.

on the Burdette Park end of the trail. You will start at the top of a curvy, semi-steep path, and work your way down to cross over to another incline (about ½ a mile of uphill pathway) to reach a mixture of fields and wooded areas before you reach the USI soccer fields.

If you’re into a less rigorous adventure, parking is available for free on USI’s campus in the baseball field parking lot, or the Broadway Recreational Complex. The USI campus side of the trail also offers multiple unpaved side-trails to explore, (although more hilly and unpaved) if you’re up for an extra adventure, or two. Another option is parking at the USI soccer fields, which is practically halfway between both sides. No matter which way you choose, you are bound to see trees and fields exploding with bright foliage, natural beauty, and oftentimes, deer and wild turkeys. No matter your age or physical ability, the USI-Burdette Trail makes autumn foliage accessible to all.

November in Evansville always brings two big things: Thanksgiving feasts and the start of holiday shopping season. Between the grocery lists, gift lists, and endless sales, it’s easy to watch your wallet shrink faster than your turkey leftovers. But with a little planning and a few smart moves, you can enjoy the season without the financial stress.

Planning a Budget-Friendly Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is all about family, gratitude, and food — lots of food. But a beautiful spread doesn’t have to drain your bank account. Start by writing out your menu early. Knowing exactly what you’ll cook (and what you already have on hand) helps prevent those last-minute “grab everything” grocery trips that can blow your budget.

Try mixing in a few cost-saving habits this year, like visiting local farmers’ markets for fresh, affordable produce or buying store-brand ingredients. Many Evansville grocery stores also run turkey and side dish specials in the weeks leading up to the holiday, so keep an eye out for those flyers. And remember, potluck-style Thanksgiving dinners are back in style. Ask guests to bring a dish — people love showing off their recipes, and it lightens the load (and cost) for everyone.

DOLLARS & SENSE:

NAVIGATING NOVEMBER: SMART BUDGETING FOR THANKSGIVING AND HOLIDAY SHOPPING

WITH RACHEL BUDDE / THE BUDGET BLUEPRINT

Getting Ahead on Holiday Shopping

Once the dishes are done, it’s time for Black Friday, the unofficial kickoff to the giftbuying marathon. Before you dive in, set a spending limit that fits your overall budget. Decide how much you can actually spend on gifts, cards, and wrapping supplies, and stick to it.

Make a list of everyone you plan to buy for, then assign a dollar amount to each person. It might sound rigid, but it’s a game-changer when the sales start flying. You’ll know where your money’s going — and when to stop.

Shop Smart (and Local!)

Black Friday and Cyber Monday can be goldmines for deals if you plan ahead. Browse ads online before the big day, jot down your must-haves, and compare prices between stores. Don’t forget that many retailers now roll out early online deals… no need to brave the 5 a.m. chaos if you can shop from your couch in pajamas.

Better yet, think local. Evansville’s holiday markets and pop-up shops are full of unique finds and handmade goods that often cost less than big-box gifts — plus, your money stays in the community. It’s a win-win.

Think Beyond Stuff

Finally, remember that not every great gift comes with a price tag. Homemade gifts like baked goods, handmade ornaments, or framed photos can be just as meaningful (and easier on your wallet). Or skip the “things” altogether and gift experiences: a family game night, movie tickets, or a homecooked dinner together.

This season, a little planning goes a long way. With a clear budget, a few smart shopping strategies, and some creative thinking, you can enjoy both Thanksgiving and the holidays without the post-season financial hangover.

WITH A LITTLE PLANNING AND A FEW SMART MOVES, YOU CAN ENJOY THE SEASON WITHOUT THE FINANCIAL STRESS.

Rachel Budde is a Dave Ramsey certified financial coach and runs The Budget Blueprint, a credit repair business, in Evansville, IN.

COMEDY & CURIOSITIES

WITH DANNY BROWNING

Branson kicked my ass.

As a seasoned road comic and world traveler, I thought I'd seen it all. I mean, I've dealt with hecklers in the worst dive bars, survived fundraisers in gymnasiums with the acoustics of hell itself, and once had to perform next to a mechanical bull mid-ride. But nothing prepared me for Branson, Missouri.

Driving through Missouri is the absolute worst. I don’t know what’s in the water, but I experienced an influx of interstate drivers going below the speed limit in the fast lane. I’m confident if they knew that they were inconveniencing me they would promptly move over. Once I got to Branson, it was worse. It’s not an exaggeration to say I hit a 30 minute traffic jam two minutes from my hotel. I could literally see people enjoying free continental breakfast, while I sit there breathing in the exhaust of the Ram truck in front of me.

Once I arrived at the hotel, I discovered it was a waterpark hotel! Which means, I shared the hallway with no less than 4000 children, 500 wet towels, and 50 empty

pizza boxes. The whole floor reeked of fresh garlic and dirty feet. Also, there’s nothing more peaceful than hearing young children racing down the hallway screaming “CANNONBALL!” when they’re not even anywhere near the pool.

The good news of all of this is I was fortunate enough to be headlining at a new comedy club called the Branson Comedy Factory. The bad news, my competition was comedy legend Yakov Smirnoff and a group that calls themselves the “Bald Knobbers.” As luck would have it, all of our shows were full of people ready to laugh. However, none of them told me that I was funnier than the knobber guys.

The absolute best thing about Branson is the food. I bought fudge from a man who was dressed like Elvis. Where else in the world does that happen? He also offered to sell me some tickets to a biblical laser light show called “Let There Be Lights.”

The buffets are also legendary. I had freshly made French toast four days in a row. What’s worse, I knew it wasn’t good for me and I didn’t even care. Extra syrup?

Yes, please. They even had a buffet at the car repair shop. I got my tires rotated with two helpings of scrambled eggs. It felt so normal. That’s how Branson gets you.

By the end of the trip, I realized that Branson is where guys like me go to learn humility. I came in confident but left with a suitcase full of damp socks and breakfast regret. I have a deeper respect for Yakov, the Knobbers, and any other performers who successfully survive in Branson while keeping at least some of their dignity intact.

Now, pass the syrup.

TRUE CRIME JUNKIE

THE YOGURT SHOP MURDERS WITH AMELIA ADKINS

On a chilly December night in 1991, Austin, Texas, lost its sense of safety. Four teenage girls — Amy Ayers, 13; Eliza Thomas, 17; and sisters Jennifer and Sarah Harbison, 17 and 15 — were closing up at a small frozen yogurt shop when someone entered or remained after hours. By morning, the shop would be burned to the ground, and the city would be haunted by the horror discovered inside.

Firefighters who responded to the late-night blaze expected a routine call. What they found instead became one of the most infamous crime scenes in Texas history. Inside the charred remains of I Can’t Believe It’s Yogurt, the four girls were found bound with their own clothing, and shot execution-style. The building had been set on fire in an apparent effort to erase all traces of the crime.

Only fragments of evidence survived the flames. A single spent .380 shell casing lodged in a floor drain became one of the few tangible clues left behind. Decades of water damage, fire residue, and time erased nearly everything else investigators could have used to find the killer. In the years that followed, the case became a tangle of false confessions, public frustration, and courtroom reversals. Four young men were once arrested and convicted in the 1990s, but their confessions were inconsistent and unsupported by physical evidence. As DNA testing advanced, each of them was eventually cleared. By 2009, all charges were dropped, and the case went cold again.

Three decades later, renewed attention and improved technology gave investigators a second chance. Cold case detective Daniel Jackson revisited the evidence in 2022 and resubmitted the .380 casing to a national ballistic database. This time, a connection appeared — a cold case in Kentucky involving a similar weapon. The link led to other unsolved crimes across the country, including a 1990

sexual assault and murder in South Carolina, a 1997 rape in Tennessee, and a 1998 shooting in Missouri.

The same DNA appeared in all of them. It belonged to a man named Robert Eugene Brashers.

Brashers was a violent offender with a long criminal history that stretched back to the 1980s, possibly even classified as a serial killer. After serving prison time for a shooting in Florida, he traveled the country under various aliases, committing sexual assaults and murders with a disturbingly consistent method. His victims were often bound with their own clothing, attacked alone, and left behind in scenes that mirrored what had happened in the Austin yogurt shop.

In 1999, Brashers ended his own life after an armed standoff with police in Missouri. Years later, investigators exhumed his body in Arkansas, confirming through genetic testing that he was linked to multiple unsolved crimes across several states.

When Austin authorities reexamined the yogurt shop evidence using advanced Y-STR DNA testing, Brashers’ profile was found in the samples collected from the scene — including under the fingernails of the youngest victim, Amy Ayers. The match, considered statistically irrefutable, ended more than three decades of uncertainty.

After thirty-four years, the mystery that gripped Austin finally had a name. The discovery did not erase the tragedy, but it delivered what the families had waited for most: the truth.

THE CASE STRETCHED ACROSS FOUR STATES, MULTIPLE POLICE DEPARTMENTS, AND THREE DECADES OF EVOLVING FORENSIC SCIENCE. IN THE END, A SINGLE FINGERNAIL AND ONE SPENT SHELL CASING REVEALED THE TRUTH AUSTIN HAD BEEN WAITING FOR SINCE 1991.

THE BUZZ ON

WITH AMY BRADFORD

beauty

DIY FACE MASKS

Straight from Your Kitchen

As the crispness of autumn settles in, our wardrobes aren’t the only things that need a seasonal shift. Just as we trade sandals for boots and iced lattes for something spiced and warm, our skin calls for a similar transition, one that nourishes, soothes, and restores after a summer of sun, sweat, and sunscreen. In the last issue, I wrote about transitioning into fall makeup shades, but healthy skin is the key to that makeup looking flawless. Post-summer skin can use a little TLC, especially as the air becomes dry and cold.

Fall is, by nature, a season of replenishment. And what better way to honor that than by returning to the heart of the home, the kitchen, for a little beauty alchemy? Inside those pantry shelves and produce drawers are some of skincare’s most underrated heroes: pumpkin, honey, oats, cinnamon, yogurt, and even apple cider vinegar. These natural ingredients work together to exfoliate, hydrate, and restore your skin’s glow, all without a single complicated label or hefty price tag.

So, light a candle that smells like cinnamon and cedar, pull your hair into a bun, and lean into these cozy DIY fall face masks that are as indulgent as they are effective.

1. The Pumpkin + Honey Glow Mask (For brightness and cell renewal)

Pumpkin is the season’s superstar, and not just on your porch or in your pie. It’s rich in enzymes, alpha hydroxy acids, and antioxidants that gently dissolve dull skin cells while boosting radiance. Honey, a natural humectant, draws moisture into the skin, while a touch of yogurt adds mild exfoliation and soothing probiotics.

You’ll Need:

• 2 tablespoons pure pumpkin purée (not pie filling)

• 1 tablespoon raw honey

• 1 teaspoon plain yogurt (optional)

How to Use:

Blend the ingredients until creamy, then apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin. Let it rest for 10–15 minutes. The scent alone feels like a warm October afternoon. Rinse with warm water and enjoy skin that feels soft, looks luminous, and carries that subtle “just back from vacation” glow.

Pro Tip: Warm the pumpkin puree slightly before mixing. The gentle heat opens pores and helps nutrients penetrate more deeply.

2. The Apple Cider Vinegar Clarifying Mask

(For balance and texture)

When your skin feels congested or uneven after summer, apple cider vinegar can be your saving grace. Known for its natural acidity and antibacterial properties, it gently dissolves buildup, tightens pores, and helps restore balance to the skin’s microbiome. Paired with soothing oatmeal and honey, this mask cleanses without stripping.

You’ll Need:

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 2 tablespoons ground oatmeal

• 1 tablespoon honey

How to Use:

Combine the ingredients until a soft paste forms. Apply evenly across your face and let it sit for 10 minutes. As you rinse, use circular motions so the oatmeal can lightly exfoliate. You’ll notice smoother texture, calmer redness, and a refreshed tone that feels “reset.”

Note: If your skin leans sensitive, dilute the vinegar with a few drops of water before blending.

3. The Cinnamon Spice Brightening Mask

(For circulation and clarity)

Cinnamon boosts blood flow, encouraging oxygenation for that lit-from-within look, while nutmeg helps exfoliate and fade discoloration. Together, they deliver a subtle, flushed glow that feels like it came from a brisk walk through the pumpkin patch.

You’ll Need:

• 1 tablespoon honey

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

How to Use:

Stir into a smooth blend and apply carefully, avoiding sensitive areas. Leave on for five to seven minutes. You’ll feel a gentle tingling, which means circulation is at work. Rinse thoroughly, then apply moisturizer. Skin looks brighter, smoother, and full of life.

Caution: Cinnamon is potent. Always patch test first and don’t exceed the recommended time.

4. The Oat & Yogurt Comfort Mask (For hydration and calm)

Dry, irritated skin meets its match with this ultra-soothing blend. Oats are rich in beta-glucans, known for reducing redness and inflammation, while yogurt’s lactic acid gently sloughs away dull cells. Honey ties it all together with deep hydration and antibacterial protection, perfect for skin that’s been braving chilly wind or indoor heating.

You’ll Need:

• 2 tablespoons finely ground oats

• 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt

• 1 teaspoon honey

How to Use:

Mix into a creamy paste and apply generously to the face and neck. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes while you sip tea or scroll through fall décor ideas. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. Your skin will feel comforted, soft, and renewed, like it just spent a weekend in a mountain cabin.

The Beauty of Slow Rituals In a world of instant gratification and overnight shipping, there’s something healing about slowing down. These masks are not just recipes, they’re rituals. Each one invites you to pause, mix, smell, and feel the textures as they transform. You’re not just tending to your skin, you’re reconnecting with yourself. Whether you apply one after a long workday, during a quiet Sunday morning, this kind of care brings a deeper glow.

For those who love to keep things local, visit the Evansville Farmers Market for ingredients like raw honey, organic pumpkins, and fresh oats. Supporting local makers adds another layer of meaning to your self-care, beauty that feeds both your skin and your community.

Final Tips for Fall Skin Success

• Patch test first. Even natural ingredients can cause irritation.

• Don’t overdo it. Use these masks one or two times per week, depending on your skin type.

• Follow up with moisturizer. Always seal in hydration after rinsing.

• Set the scene. A flickering candle, a cozy blanket, and a favorite playlist elevate the experience.

VANDERBURGH HUMANE SOCIETY

EACH MONTH WE’LL BE CHECKING IN WITH THE VHS FOR THE LATEST GOOD NEWS AND TO HELP FIND FUREVER HOMES FOR SOME OF THEIR MORE UNIQUE AND OLDER RESIDENTS 400

PEACHES: Meet Peaches, a sweet 6-year-old shepherd mix! This girl is all about fun in the sun with her friends and splashing around in the pool. When she’s not busy making waves, you can find her rolling around in the grass or snuggling up with her favorite humans. Peaches loves to romp around with other dogs, so if you have a playful pooch at home, they'll be the best of friends in no time! Her adoption fee is just $200, and she’s ready to bring joy and excitement into your life. If you're looking for a pet who knows how to make a splash, Peaches is your pup!

JACK: Meet Jack, the tiny but mighty 5-monthold kitten who’s ready to steal your heart (and your cat toys)! This little lion may be a bit bashful, but just toss a toy his way, and watch him transform into a pint-sized powerhouse! Whether he's chasing his tail or a fuzzy mouse, Jack's got the moves to keep you entertained for hours. His fondness for treats is only rivaled by his enthusiasm for cat wands; he’s like a dog with a bone! For just $100, you can take home this playful little dynamo and give Jack the loving home he deserves.

BINGO: Meet Bingo, a spirited 2-year-old brown tabby! With her playful antics and silly personality, this diva is the life of the party, ready to bring a whirlwind of joy and laughter into your home. Bingo is always on the lookout for her next adventure—whether it’s zooming around the house or discovering new nooks to explore. If you’re looking for a pet who marches to the beat of her own drum, Bingo is the perfect match for you! You can bring Bingo home today for just $100.

PET OF THE MONTH

NEBULA : Our Pet of the Month is Nebula, a beautiful German Shepherd mix who has spent a heartbreaking 141 days waiting for her forever family so far.

WE NEED YOU!

n our lives They us when we are sad umane Society has h care for over 40 n, their advocates, o they can gain tion and find their o caring for dogs unty residents with involved, including:

Nebula arrived at Warrick Humane Society as a 4-month-old puppy and has grown up in our care since. Despite spending her entire young life inside a shelter kennel, she continues to greet everyone she meets with a wagging tail, a goofy grin, and a heart full of hope.

It is time for us to engage the community in taking our next step to fulfill our

Your gift can help us expand our no-kill community With the legacy gift as a catalyst, we have the opportunity to provide a resource that will serve animals and families for generations to come. Donations can be made in person, over the phone, or on our website. Our goal is to raise $1.25 million.

ming h

DNebula is playful, intelligent, and full of personality. She loves people, gets along wonderfully with kids of all ages, and has made many dog friends here at the shelter. When she stayed with an emergency foster during the recent chemical fire, she showed just how great of a companion she can be — she was mostly house trained, crate trained, leash trained, and even rode well in the car. She knows basic commands like “sit” and “come,” loves toys, and can’t resist splashing in any water she finds!

WE NEED YOU!

Find out more here!

Nebula deserves a home where she can finally run, play, and curl up on the couch at the end of the day — a home to call her own.

or condition We n building repairs, to help more the community o take bold steps in resources so we ficient non-profit services are an ut our building is a nd impact Due to a lf-reflection, we feel new shelter to carry

She is up to date on all vaccines, deworming, prevention, is microchipped and spayed. Her adoption fee is 20% off! Those interested can fill out an adoption application in person or on our website, warrickhumanesociety.org/adoption, and can visit her anytime during our open hours which are Wed-Thu 12-7 and Fri-Sun 12-4.

It is time for us to engage the community in taking our next step to fulfill our mission. Your gift can help us expand our no-kill community With the legacy gift as a catalyst, we have the opportunity to provide a resource that will serve animals and families for generations to come Donations can be made in person, over the phone, or on our website. Our goal is to raise $1 25 million Find

t is time for us to engage the community taking our next step to fulfill our mission Your gift can help us expand our no-kill mmunity With the legacy gift as a catalyst, have the opportunity to provi that will serve animals and fa nerations to come Donations person, over

PHOTO CREDIT: MARIAH MCCLAIN PHOTOGRAPHY

Did You Know?

Our area has a cat overpopulation crisis, and we need your help to fix it!

Hundreds of stray and feral cats sadly exist outdoors. They face endless cycles pregnancy, infection, disease, and attacks by animals and humans.

For 18 years with only a few volunteers, Feline Fix has paid for thousands of

cats to be spayed, neutered, vaccinated, and for additional veterinary healthcare.

Feline Fix is not a shelter, but we’ve found homes for 300 kitties this year.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and The Humane Society of the U.S. endorse Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) as the only proven humane and effective method to manage the community cat over-population crisis.

We rely on monetary support from Cat Lovers like You to fix the source of the over-population of cats and their suffering.

Because of your gift, you will improve the lives of cats ~ Thank you!

We are a 501(c) organization, EIN 26-2203590.

The Mission of Feline Fix is to reduce the number of homeless cats and shelter euthanasia while promoting the health and welfare of all cats through the practice of TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return).

Message us on Facebook: facebook.com/fixthemplease/ www.felinefix.org • 812-746-8498 • P.O. Box 2072 • Evansville, IN 47728

November

November

December

December

December

December

by Zach Vaugh

CreativeCurrents

Hello, my name is Zach Vaughn. I was born, raised, and have lived all my life in Evansville, Indiana. I was raised by a single mother, Mary, and grew up with my brother, Anthony, with the support of my loving grandparents, Melita and Leo. My life and upbringing were blessed in many ways, and I was lucky to have the support around me that I did. However, there were trials, tribulations, and trauma throughout my experience as well. I have carried pain with me throughout my life that I did not always have the best tools to cope with. After going through a divorce, painting became a source of hope, inspiration, and a way for me to translate the depth of what I was experiencing internally.

I was always drawn to creative outlets: music, tattoos, self-expression, and art. However, I did not find my way to painting until times in my life felt their darkest. I bought my first canvas and set of paints in 2022. From there, painting and I formed a relationship that allowed me to believe in myself again and gave me the freedom to express myself without rules or limitations. I was not any good at first, but I became obsessed with the process of learning colors, textures, and brushstrokes. I experimented and explored. I began putting some of my work out on social media platforms and was shocked that the response I was getting was so much encouragement and excitement. It became a new way for me to relate to the people I knew and to connect in a way that felt more meaningful than previous interactions.

I continued to paint, even though I had no idea where it would take me. However, others seemed to believe in what I was doing, and I began to understand why I was doing it. In the past year, my art has helped connect me to our community in a way I never would have imagined. I was asked to have my work hang in the Evansville Regional Airport lobby, along with other local artists. I have sold paintings to individuals in our community who now have my work hanging in their homes. I was also commissioned to do a piece that hangs on the patio of Jim and Christine Keck’s home, to be enjoyed by those who visit Haynie’s Corner.

I create my best art in times of isolation. I tap into the pain I have carried and the emotions I am not always able to express and translate them into bold, colorful images that move me. I keep painting until I like what I see and it feels like I have transmitted the heaviness I feel into something bright, powerful, and positive. I do my best work when there is enthusiasm around the idea, the colors, and the space it will be held in. I love creating unique and curated pieces for buyers who want to have a role in the process. The collaboration and relationship that are formed with the buyer take each piece to a new level. Painting has transformed my life, given me hope, and connected me to people and my community in a meaningful way.

PARALLELS IN LIFE

WITH JEREMIAH GALEY

Hello, friends. My name is Jeremiah Galey. I’m a nearly two-decade veteran of the local food and hospitality industry. I own (along with my beautiful wife, Kimmy) and operate Bad Randy’s Hot Chicken & BBQ Lounge. This column is the mumblings and bumblings of introspection and parallels in life.

When I left my first good job, I was taking a massive leap. I’d been there almost ten years, and it was comfortable. I was no longer being challenged regularly, but man it was a sweet gig. We are creatures of habit, after all. Of course, I ended up making that leap, a move that ultimately tested my perseverance and determination.

A while later, after my next job didn’t pan out, I went back to my old stomping grounds. My position was already filled, expectedly, but I just needed a break after busting big time. My new spot went belly up, and it felt like I was crawling back to an ex I left. I didn’t find what I needed.

“Life is about chapters closing and things coming to an end and things pivoting on an axis that will never pivot back.” Everything comes to an end, without exception, and not everything needs to be revisited.

My first job had run its course, and there was no going back. The following eight to ten weeks were filled with nonstop stress and anxiety and feeling like maybe I wasn’t good enough to do what I needed. But, I leaned on my support system and took a job I didn’t really want because I knew it would lead me to a job I REALLY wanted. It took me a year, but I got there. And I’ll be damned if I didn’t learned all kinds of new skills at that temporary job like baking and really balancing a budget. And holy unexpected emergency surgery, that insurance was SOLID.

The path forward is filled with challenges and mini-goals and all types of land mines. And even though closing a chapter in life is absolutely terrifying, half the fun is the trip.

Driving across the country can be just as fulfilling as the place you’re headed. So buckle up, and do your best to enjoy the ride. After all, we only get one.

even though closing a chapter in life is absolutely terrifying, half the fun is the trip.

SCREEN TIME

WITH MARISA PATWA

November brings a mix of suspense, spectacle, and musical nostalgia with Running Man, Now You See Me, Now You Don’t, and Wicked: For Good.

THE RUNNING MAN

Glenn Powell is truly coming into his own as an action-movie heartthrob. In The Running Man, he stars as a desperate father forced into a brutal game of survival to save his sick daughter. With clear echoes of Squid Games and The Hunger Games, the highoctane thriller centers on a dystopian TV show where contestants are hunted by elite assassins, all for the entertainment of the masses. The prize? One billion dollars. The challenge? Stay alive for 30 days. James Brolin plays the show's ruthless producer fiddling with the players' lives like puppets, while Colman Domingo adds twisted charisma as the show’s flamboyant host in a demented cross between Caesar Flickerman and a late-night ringmaster. As Powell’s every move is broadcast to a bloodthirsty global audience, public support starts to shift in his favor, just as it once did for Katniss Everdeen. Based on Stephen King's bestselling novel, The Running Man begs the question: what are we willing to sacrifice in the face of our humanity?

IN THEATERS 11/7

NOW YOU SEE ME: NOW YOU DON'T

Presto, they’re back! Mystery, misdirection, and a little magical mischief. The Four Horsemen return for their most daring illusion yet. The street-smart sleight-of-hand artists turned global spectacle-makers are upping the ante in their third act, and this time, the magic circle just got bigger. Newcomers Ariana Greenblatt, Justice Smith, and Dominic Sessa are pulling rabbits out of brand-new hats, joining original conjurors Woody Harrelson, Isla Fisher, Jesse Eisenberg, and Dave Franco for a highstakes heist that’s anything but smoke and mirrors. Their target? The Heart Diamond, a glittering gem set to be auctioned off to the highest (and most dangerous) bidder by a villainous elite family with more secrets than a magician’s sleeve. But before they can abracadabra their way to victory, they will have to stop squabbling, sharpen their sleights, and escape both the law and each other’s egos. One thing’s for sure: the real magic is in the misdirection... and this time, you’ll want to keep your eyes wide open.

IN THEATERS 11/7

WICKED: FOR GOOD

Green and pink merge again as Wicked finishes its magical story with Part 2 this November. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande both secured Oscar nominations for their spellbinding work as frenemies-turned-besties Elphaba and Glinda in last year’s Oz spectacle and their performances are sure to be just as dazzling in the second installment. Director Jon Chu returns to complete the fairy tale with just as much vibrato, vision, and theatrical flair, this time leaning into the story’s darker, deeper currents. When we last saw the misunderstood Wicked Witch of the West, the Ozians had turned against her, forcing Glinda into a painful choice at the heart of Emerald City. Meanwhile, Dorothy and her gang of magical misfits follow the yellow brick road straight into a deadly mission from the Wizard himself: kill the witch and bring back her broomstick as proof. But Elphaba is not going down without a fight. Armed with her loyal gang of flying monkeys and fierce magic sharpened by pain and purpose, she must face the fate written for her or rewrite it altogether.

IN THEATERS 11/21

SPONSORED BY

LAST WORD FEATURES: ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER

BY JARED RASIC

GRADE: A+

Let me get the hype out of the way right from the jump so it doesn’t seem like I’m gushing over this movie for too many paragraphs in a row: “One Battle After Another” isn’t simply just an instant classic (which it is). Neither is it just another great Paul Thomas Anderson movie in a career filled with two or three of the actual greatest films ever made. What “One Battle After Another” actually achieves is something even more singular: it’s a film released at a perfect time and with so much on its mind as to feel like an equal parts manifesto, state of the union address and canary in a coal mine.

But since Paul Thomas Anderson is a master filmmaker incapable of making art that doesn’t leave a lasting imprint on our cultural zeitgeist, he didn’t just conjure a scolding rebuke of policy or a bitter takedown of the racism inherent in our current administration; he instead made a film completely drunk on the possibility of cinema and the importance of the medium. Every frame, every performance, every line of dialogue exists in “One Battle After Another” not just to make a statement, but to be a wildly entertaining rollercoaster

capturing lightning in a bottle and then setting it free for us to dance beneath.

Equal parts “Dr. Strangelove,” “The Battle of Algiers” and “Paper Moon,” the film follows Leonardo DiCaprio as “Ghetto” Pat Calhoun, an explosives expert and member of the French 75, a revolutionary group that we meet rescuing immigrants from a detention center in southern California. He falls in love with Perfidia Beverly Hills (played by the incendiary Teyana Taylor) and has a daughter, Charlene. On the run from the United States government (personified by Sean Penn’s profoundly disturbed Col. Steven Lockjaw, Pat just wants to keep his little girl safe while being true to his own subversive spirit.

I don’t want to share any more of the story because watching the deliciously unpredictable tale unspool across a breezy three hours is too mesmerizing to risk

spoiling. That’s one of the things I keep coming back to with “One Battle After Another.” Yes, it’s timely and important and all of those adjectives critics use to mark the significance of a film, but it’s also ridiculously funny and twitchily intense -an unreservedly entertaining ride that pulls the audience along through its twists and turns in such a propulsive way as to feel just as revolutionary as the French 75.

Beneath the expertly calibrated performances by DiCaprio, Penn and Benicio del Toro (who might be having more fun here than I’ve ever seen him have) and beneath the brilliant madcap satire designed to stir the hearts and minds of its viewers, what Anderson really achieves with this film is to say, unequivocally, that the most American thing a person can do is to be a revolutionary. Not necessarily by the strictest definition of the terms, but by living life in a way that fosters

connection, beauty, and love. As much as “One Battle After Another” rallies against injustice, racism and a police state, it pushes its viewers toward just being better humans, toward helping strangers, being better parents and more engaged members of our community, all while leading with love instead of fear.

Aside from Anderson’s stunning script and direction, we’re also blessed with career-best compositional work by Radiohead’s Jonny Greenwood, understated and lush cinematography by Michael Bauman and star-making performances from Taylor and Chase Infiniti, among so many other amazing elements. Every detail is executed flawlessly in a way that most movies don’t even come close to achieving, making “One Battle After Another” feel momentous even as you’re watching it, but without crystallizing as to why until after it’s over. It’s perfect. An actual, perfect film. One of the very few.

What’s also slyly and brilliantly subversive is that “One Battle After Another” isn’t just set in Trump’s America. By letting the technology look somewhat dated in the service of a story that feels immediate, “One Battle

After Another” becomes unstuck in time. It’s a rallying cry for the past, the present and the future that won’t feel like an artifact when people marvel at its prescience a hundred years from now. Anderson isn’t telling people to wake up right now; he’s telling the entire world to pay attention to the collective mistakes of our past so we’re not chalking off the outline of the ruins in our future.

“One Battle After Another” will be taught in film classes decades from now when instructors want to illuminate the inherent power of cinema in the hands of a visionary. I hope the shaggy odyssey of this story helps empower generations of Americans to push back against the dehumanizing othering being weaponized into turning a country of immigrants into something far less utopian than dystopian. Whatever the eventual legacy of this movie is decades from now, it’s unlikely there will be a more entertaining or important film in 2025. Movies like this are why I champion cinema as an art form and have dedicated a big part of my life to writing about them. It’s a mirror and a window. What do you see?

“ONE BATTLE AFTER ANOTHER”

DIR. PAUL THOMAS ANDERSON

GRADE: A+

ANDERSON ISN’T TELLING PEOPLE TO WAKE UP RIGHT NOW; HE’S TELLING THE ENTIRE WORLD TO PAY ATTENTION TO THE COLLECTIVE MISTAKES OF OUR PAST SO WE’RE NOT CHALKING OFF THE OUTLINE OF THE RUINS IN OUR FUTURE. "

NOVEMBER

MUSIC REVIEWS

DOJA CAT Vie Kemosabe Records

Miss Doja Cat is dipping into the disco with her retro-80s pop and hip-hop blended fifth studio album. “Jealous Type,” an airy, catchy track is already a radio favorite and Tik-Tok trend with her addictive chorus, “Baby, I'm jealous / Of the pictures that you like / Baby, I'm jealous / Of the girls with lighter eyes / Baby, I'm jealous (ooh) / And I know that it ain't right / But I'm jealous, jealous / The jealous kind.” The lyrics may be short and sweet but her exaggerated delivery makes it insatiable. “Gorgeous” is a sparkling ode to 1980s glam, dripping in neon nostalgia and model-off-duty attitude. The accompanying music video glows with vintage fashion fantasy, all high cheekbones and strobe lights. Then there’s “Couples Therapy,” where Doja channels pure Prince with a slinky, purple-hued groove that echoes the moody brilliance of “When Doves Cry.” It’s her own twist of femme power, with a disco backdrop. Doja Cat tipped us off about her chameleon-like musical quality with the iconic “Rules” music video five years ago and we should have listened because her shapeshifting is pure perfection. - Marisa Patwa

TAYLOR SWIFT

Life of a Showgirl Republic Records

Swifties are split on her 12th studio album, but the popstar wouldn’t have it any other way. The newly engaged billionaire loves public discourse, prompting us to remember that art is subjective and she doesn’t care if you love or hate it. Taylor is in her “Lover Girl” era, crafting a tracklist that feels like a glitter-soaked diary torn straight from the heart. In lead track, “Life of a Showgirl,” Taylor enlists burgeoning popstar Sabrina Carpenter, harmonizing beautifully on the toll a worldwide tour tacks on their souls. While suggestive and cheeky, upbeat “Wood” (sorry Mrs. Kelce!) is clearly written about her fiancé. Standouts include: ethereal, breathy banger “Opalite,” and tear-jerking “Eldest Daughter”. Taylor has never had the most show stopping voice, but her poetic lyrics and music production have elevated her to icon status over the last 15 years. I may always be a 1989 girl at heart, but when it comes to superstar status, Taylor will always win that part. - Marisa Patwa

CHECK OUT THESE

CARDI B

Am I the Drama? Atlantic Records

It’s wild to think Am I The Drama? is only Cardi B’s second studio album. She’s been on the musical ether for almost 10 years now, churning out hit single after hit single and rocking the rap and hip-hop worlds with her witty words, punchy delivery and all-around swagger. The queen of rap came to collect with album two, featuring a jam-packed 23 tracks. And she’s not rolling solo: the guest list reads like a who’s who of modern pop and R&B royalty. Lizzo, Megan Thee Stallion, Janet Jackson, Kehlani, Latto and Tyla, all lend their voices, vibes, and sparkle to Cardi’s sonic universe. The “Bodega Baddie,” hypes you up with bossbabe banger “Pretty & Petty,” leaves you feeling swaggy with pop-beat “Safe,” and gets you steppin’ with electro-beat “Pick It Up.” But it’s not all flex and fire. Beneath the diamonds and diss tracks, Am I The Drama? also pulls back the curtain. Cardi softens the bravado in moments of unexpected introspection, opening up about public heartbreak, private growth, and what it means to evolve under the spotlight. If she is the

BLUES WITH BRAGIN

BUDDY GUY

Ain't Done With the Blues Silvertone Records

Legendary guitarist Buddy Guy returns with his new album Ain’t Done With the Blues. “Been There Done That” sees Guy singing about his storied career. Your toes will tap on “Blues Chase the Blues Away” as Guy sings about blues music lifting your spirits. “Where U At” is a funky tune with a guest appearance from Christone “Kingfish” Ingram. Guy sings about his woman leaving on “Blues on Top”. “I Got Sumpin For You” is another song that will make you want to dance. Rock legend Joe Walsh plays slide guitar on “How Blues Is That” as Guy sings about difficulties throughout his career as a musician.

Joe Bonamassa plays guitar on “Dry Stick”, a song about planning for a rainy day. “It Keeps Me Young” features a guest appearance from Peter Frampton. Piano leads the way on “Love On a Budget”. “Jesus Loves the Sinner” features The Blind Boys From Alabama. Guy laments about money and politics on “Upside Down”. “I Don’t Forget” recalls the plight of African-Americans throughout American history. A funky bass line permeates “Trick Bag”. Tal Wilkenfield joins Guy on bass for “Swamp Poker”, a song about a Louisiana card game. “Send Me Some Loving” is a song popularized by Little Richard. The album ends with an acoustic version of the classic “Talk to Your Daughter”.

For more information, visit www.buddyguy.net.

NOVEMBER BEER REVIEWS

JABEZ MARTINEZ - 4

PAUL BRAGIN -

4

PAUL HOLLYFELD - 4

SAMUEL ADAMS

HARVEST HELLES

SAMUEL ADAMS

FLANNEL FEST

This beer poured a nice amber color, a shade darker than your regular Miller Lite/Bud. It had a light hops flavor and was very easy to drink. It was crisp and a very solid lager. It says it is a tailgate /bonfire beer and couldn't agree more. Nothing really flashy but a good solid session beer while hanging out.

A thick white head forms on this golden lager and disappears very slowly. The scent contains a decent amount of malt notes. The first sip of the beer hits the tongue with a burst of carbonation, followed by sweet malt flavors in the long finish. This beer seems perfect for drinking on a slightly cooler day in autumn. Pair it with lighter dishes like grilled chicken or German foods like bratwurst or soft pretzels.

This lager pours a clear yellow with a considerable white head. Florally on the nose with hints of citrus. It is light and crisp on the palette, very well balanced and finishes clean with very little bitterness. Very easy drinking, and at 5.4% ABV you’ll find yourself returning for another.

JABEZ MARTINEZ - 4.5

This beer poured a nice amber color. It has a nice sweet caramel flavor and didn’t have that bite some dunkels have. This could also be another session beer by the bonfire or tailgate. The hops were very sweet and extremely easy to drink. The ABV was 5.8%, so they shouldn’t sneak up on you. Another solid Sam Adams.

PAUL BRAGIN - 3

A thick white head crowns this copper-colored beer and never totally evaporates. A generous burst of malt fills the nose. Similarly, the malty sweetness continues with the initial tasting of the beer and into the extended finish, with some hop bitterness also present. People who like hearty German style beers need to drink this seasonal offering during the chilly fall months. Pair it with your favorite hearty dishes such as roasted meats, rich stews or caramel desserts.

PAUL HOLLYFELD - 4.25

This pours a burnt orange brown with a cream colored head. Notes of caramel on the nose with caramel malts on the palette and a light finish. The Fall equivalent of a lawnmower beer. Not too bitter, not too sweet and well balanced.

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY

BOURBON & SPIRIT REVIEW

WOODFORD RESERVE DOUBLE OAKED

Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is the bourbon equivalent of a cashmere blanket—warm, layered, and full of quiet luxury. Bottled at 45.2% ABV, this Kentucky-made smallbatch whiskey is aged twice in charred oak barrels, resulting in a decadent, dessertlike spirit that still holds its signature bourbon backbone.

TASTING NOTES:

AROMA:

Rich and inviting—brown sugar, toasted oak, and dark caramel leap from the glass. Notes of vanilla bean and roasted pecans follow, with a whisper of chocolate and baking spice.

FLAVOR & PALATE:

Silky smooth and full-bodied, with waves of toffee, maple syrup, and cocoa. The double-barrel process gives it an unmistakable oak dept…smoky and sweet in perfect balance. Mid-palate, you’ll catch a trace of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a bit of orange zest that brightens the finish.

MOUTHFEEL & FINISH:

Velvety, rich, and lasting. The finish carries notes of toasted marshmallow and dark fruit, ending with a soft char that lingers beautifully without harshness.

Woodford Reserve Double Oaked is an indulgent bourbon for the cool months—a slow sipper meant to be savored, not rushed. It’s perfect for firesides, dinner parties, or any night you want to feel like time’s on your side.

COCKTAIL RECIPE:

THE MAPLE OLD FASHIONED

When the leaves turn and the nights grow long, this twist on a classic gives November its own flavor—warm, smooth, and quietly bold.

Ingredients (1 cocktail):

• 2 oz Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon

• ½ oz pure maple syrup

• 2 dashes Angostura bitters

• Orange peel (for garnish)

• Ice

Garnish Suggestions:

Add a cinnamon stick or a flamed orange peel for a seasonal twist.

Directions:

Add bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters to a mixing glass with ice. Stir until well chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over one large ice cube. Express an orange peel over the glass, rim it with the peel’s oils, and drop it in.

Landon Miller is a Kentucky native and former bartender with a passion for bourbon and spirits, bringing experience and love for his home state's rich distilling tradition to offer honest, insightful reviews for fellow enthusiasts.

nightcap

with Christopher Rowe

Aquestion I get asked from time to time is, “of all things, why did you choose to work in bars?”. A question that also can come off a little backhanded, but the answer is always, “I’ve never made this much money doing something I actually love to do”. To some it may just be beer and burgers, but to me it’s more than that. It’s about being a part of an experience. It’s the birthday celebrations, the first dates, the anniversaries or job promotions. The out of town friends, the family losses and achievements. You’re there for it all and everything in between. It’s ultimately the most human experience.

Every bar has its regulars and these same people can get under your skin. Sometimes it stops there - but others find their way into your heart. I love the people, the connections and the energy only nightlife

can create. As wild as it may seem - going home with cash in your pocket is just the cherry on top.

Bartending quickly muddles into real life and teaches you all about organizing priorities. At any given moment, you have to decide: what’s the most important thing to do right now? What can wait? What comes first? Sweating the small stuff is usually what lands you in the weeds. Stay focused on the end goal, but still remember to relax and have a laugh. After all, life can just feel like a busy night at the bar.

But to put it quite simply, if I was doing anything else right now - I don’t necessarily know if I would be happy doing it. And while it is the season to be thankful, I truly am for this.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2.5 oz. Real Pear Juice

• 1/2 oz. Maple Syrup

• 1/2 oz. Lime Juice

• Top with Ginger Beer

• Garnish with Rosemary & Pear Slices

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: In a shaker of ice, mix all ingredients except Ginger Beer until the tin is ice cold.

Step 2: Strain into an ice filled mug and top with Ginger Beer. Garnish with Rosemary & Pear Slices. Enjoy!

**Christopher Rowe, Owner of Nirvana Mobile Bar Email: nirvanamobilebar@gmail.com - Website: www.nirvanamobilebar.com