News4U May 2026 by News 4U Magazine

& UPCOMING EVENTS

Check

brian@news4uevv.com

Managing

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

Contributors

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

A QUICK NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about standards.

Not in a big, philosophical way. Just in the everyday sense. What actually feels like a good use of time and what is worth showing up for. Things that hold up without needing a sales pitch.

It’s easy to fill a calendar but it's much harder to find things that feel like they deserve to be there. That’s the lens we used for this issue.

The cover story on The Foundry Room sets the tone. I went in expecting good and left knowing it’s better than that. It’s thoughtful, consistent, and done right. No shortcuts. But this issue doesn’t stop there.

May is layered. It’s stepping outside and noticing what’s blooming again, finding a reason to reset your routine, planning something simple but meaningful for Mother’s

Day, or catching a film or exhibit that actually sticks with you after. You’ll find where to see some of the best blooms around, low-effort beauty tips that make a difference, recipes that feel worth making, honest takes on what’s new in movies, and a look at art that’s doing more than just filling a wall.

Different categories, but holds the same standard.

If it’s here, it’s because it holds up. Not because it’s trendy, but because it’s good.

Amy Bradford

TRI-STATE

LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE

EVANSVILLE:

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

facebook.com/TenEightCafe

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

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

May 1st - Tony Henning, 6:00pm May 8th – Brandon McCarty, 6:00pm May 9th – Evan Sturgeon, 6:00pm

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Bally’s Evansville – 421 Lounge

421 NW Riverside Dr., Evansville, IN (812) 433-4000

facebook.com/ballysevansville

Live music & bands on weekends from 8:00pm – 12 midnight

May 1st – Legends, 8:00pm

May 2nd – Legends, 8:00pm

May 8th – Bobby Clark Band, 8:00pm May 9th - Bobby Clark Band, 8:00pm May 15th – Headliner Band, 8:00pm May 16th - Headliner Band, 8:00pm

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 6:00pm – 9:00pm & Fri & Sat 6 –10:00pm Bob Green & EJ Simmons

Watch their Facebook page and website for updates!

Bokeh Lounge

1007 Parrett St., Evansville, IN (812) 909-0388

facebook.com/BokehLounge

Karaoke with DJ Nathan on Sunday and Monday Nights @ 6:00pm The Oxford Comma Trivia every Tuesday @ 7:00pm

May 1st - Dj AP, 8:00pm

May 2nd - Dance Floor Killa’s, 8:00pm

May 3rd - Sunday Jazz with Zenergy, 2:30pm

May 6th - Nick Hamilton 6:00pm

May 7th- Open Mic with Mikey D, 6:00pm

May 8th - Ryan Rigdon and the Mojo Hands, 8:00pm

May 9th – Xanderwolf, 8:00pm

May 10th - Sunday Jazz with The Sidemen, 2:30pm

May 13th- Nick Hamilton, 5:00pm – 7:00pm & Celebration for Roy Carter w/ River Basin Blues Society, 7:00pm

May 15th - Nina Snoogans and the Low Land Ramblers, 8:00pm

May 16th - The Pits, 8:00pm

May 17th - Sunday Jazz with Keith Farny Jazz, 2:30pm

May 19th - Bokeh Poetry Night, 7:00pm

May 20th - Nick Hamilton, 6:00pm

May 21st - Blues and Jazz Open Mic with Logan Dyer, 6:00pm

May 22nd - Funk Band Johnny the Return of Cherokee, 8:00pm

May 23rd - All White Attire Brunch Party with Dj Chidi 12 noon – 3:00pm & Year of October, 8:00pm

May 24th - Sunday Jazz with Out of the Blue, 2:30pm

May 27th - Nick Hamilton, 6:00pm

May 28th - Daroke w/ Dj Nathan Celebrating Jason Burtons B-day! 7:00pm

May 29th - Anthony Beastmode, 8:00pm

May 30th - Punk Goes Pop with Throw Back Thursday, 8:00pm

May 31st - Sunday Jazz with Bokeh Big Band, 2:30pm

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Buds Rockin’ Country Bar & Grill

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

facebook.com/BudsOnFranklin

Tuesdays – Boscoe France Blues, 7:009:00pm Fridays – college night with DJ Weekends – live music / bands, DJ’s Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Damsel Brew Pub

209 North Wabash Ave., Evansville, IN. (812) 909-1956

facebook.com/damselbrewpub

Live music weekends and sometimes Sundays Trivia every Wednesday, 7:00pm May 2nd – Rust, Chained, Power Play & More, 6:30pm Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Lyle's

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

There’s never a cover charge!

Every Tuesday - Michelle Shelton, 7:00pm9:00pm

Every Friday - Karaoke with Mark Simpson, 7:00pm - 11:00pm

Every Saturday - varying live bands, 8:00pm – 11:00pm

Every Sunday – open Mic night, 7:00pm May 5th - Michelle Shelton, 7:00pm - 9:00pm May 12th - Michelle Shelton, 7:00pm - 9:00pm May 19th - Michelle Shelton, 7:00pm - 9:00pm May 26th - Michelle Shelton, 7:00pm - 9:00pm Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Mojos Boneyard

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

facebook.com/mojosboneyard

Every Thursday is Blues Night - Check Evenbrite for music.

Every Thurs Blues @ 6:00pm Danny & the Jons (all shows start at 7:00pm) May 15th – Albert Castiglia, 7:00pm May 23rd – Aragon, 7:00pm Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Mo’s House

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

facebook.com/moshouse812

First Sunday of the Month: Open Mic Night, 6:00pm – 9:00pm

Second Saturday of the Month: Loops and Rhythm, 6:00pm – 9:00pm Third Sunday of the Month: Spotlight Night, featuring different traveling artists, 6pm – 9pm 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, 8:00pm – 11:00-pm Singo every Wednesday, 6:00pm

May 1st - Karaoke, 8:00pm – 11:00pm

May 2nd – Strolling Tones, 7:00pm – 10:00pm

May 8th – Honey Vines, 7:00pm – 10:00pm

May 9th - Akacia, 7:00pm – 10:00pm

May 15th – Lindsey Williams, 7:00pm –10:00pm

May 16th. - Ricochet, 7:00pm – 10:00pm

May 22nd – Dueling Guitars, 7:00pm –10:00pm

May 23rd - Nutshell, 7:00pm – 10:00pm

May 29th – Michelle Shelton, 7:00pm –10:00pm

May 30th – Retro Shcock, 7:00pm – 10:00pm Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Ray Leo’s at Lamasco

1331 W. Franklin St., Evansville, IN (812) 437-0171

facebook.com/rayleosatlamasco

Live music, DJ’s, karaoke etc. all week long May 1st – E’ville Rock City, 7:00pm May 2nd – Grayson Jenkins, 7:30pm –purchase tickets on their FB page! Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Six Strings on Franklin

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

facebook.com/sixstringsonfranklin

Live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday with special national and regional touring acts. See BandIsInTown.com for tickets to most all the live music events. Performers usually starting at 5:30pm and/ or 8:30pm Watch their Facebook page for updates!

The Foundry Room

601 Walnut St., Evansville, IN. (930) 212-1101

facebook.com/thefoundryroomevansville

Live Music most weekend nights, starting at 6pm

May 2nd – Monty Skelton, 6:00pm - 8:00pm May 15th – Monty Skelton, 6:00pm - 8:00pm May 29th – Monty Skelton, 6:00pm - 8:00pm Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Warehouse 410

410 Carpenter St., Evansville, IN. (812) 568-1467

facebook.com/warehouse410evv

Live music throughout the month. Select events require ticket purchased in advance*denotes ticketed event

May 9th - Legends of Rock 80's Arena Tribute Band *

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

MORE LIVE MUSIC SPOTS

WATCH THEIR FACEBOOK FOR SCHEDULES OF EVENTS!

Arcademie

Dontae’s Highland Pizza Parlor

Entwined Wine & Cocktail Bar

Evansville Eagles Aerie 427

EVPL / Arts Council events

Farm 57 (seasonal)

Frankie’s Restaurant & Bar

Gerst Haus (late night weekends)

Hilltop Inn

Hornet’s Nest Industry Bar

Jacobs Pub

KC’s Time Out Lounge

Main Street Food & Beverage Hall

Marina Pointe (seasonal)

O’Brian’s Evansville

Patsy Hartigan’s Irish Pub

Playa Azul Mexican

Reitz Home Museum (seasonal)

Smitty’s Italian Steakhouse

Spankey’s Una Café

The Dive Barge (seasonal)

The Frontier Restaurant & Bar

The Main Event

The Phoenix Room at Madeleine’s The Rooftop Tiki on Main

Your Brother’s Bookstore

American Legion Auxiliary, Kapperman Unit #44

Bastoni Italian Restaurant

Café Arazu (seasonal) Crickets Havens Bar

Marida Kurdish & Turkish Cuisine

Newburgh Tavern

RJ’s Restaurant & Bar (Boonville) NEWBURGH

& Cork (Henderson, KY)

EVANSVILLE

Cap

HENDERSON

MAY CONCERT & EVENT GUIDE

CROWDER WITH SPECIAL GUESTS SEPH SCHLUETER AND PATRICK MAYBERRY

VICTORY THEATRE/ MAY 2

Doors open at 6:00 pm with the show starting at 7:00 pm as Crowder brings his spring tour to the Victory Theatre for a night that feels as much like an experience as it does a concert. Known for his signature blend of grit and joy, Crowder delivers crowd favorites like “Good God Almighty” and “Grave Robber,” all while leaning into the energy of the room with his unmistakable “let’s get swampy” style. He’s joined by special guests Seph Schlueter, whose warm, honest sound shines in songs like “Counting My Blessings,” and Patrick Mayberry, adding a hopeful edge with tracks like “Lead On Good Shepherd.” Set inside one of Evansville’s most story-filled venues, this lineup promises a memorable night worth grabbing tickets for early.

BALLET INDIANA PRESENTS: CINDERELLA

VICTORY THEATRE/ MAY 9

Ballet Indiana brings a timeless classic to the stage with Prokofiev’s Cinderella on May 9 at the Victory Theatre. This elegant production pairs sweeping orchestral music with graceful choreography to tell the beloved story of transformation, resilience, and a little bit of magic. From the whimsical charm of the fairy godmother to the grandeur of the royal ball, Cinderella offers a visually stunning and emotionally rich evening perfect for both longtime ballet lovers and first-time audiences.

EVANSVILLE PHILHAMONIC YOUTH ORCHESTRA SPRING CONCERT

VICTORY THEATRE/ MAY 16

The Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra Youth Orchestra takes the stage for its Spring Concert on May 16 at 7:00 pm at the Victory Theatre, showcasing the next generation of local musical talent. This inspiring evening highlights the dedication and skill of young musicians from across the region as they perform a dynamic program of orchestral works. Whether you’re a supporter of the arts or simply looking for a meaningful night out, this concert offers a chance to experience the passion and promise of Evansville’s rising stars.

CELEBRATING ROY CARTER

BOKEH LOUNGE/ MAY 20

Celebrate the life and music of a local legend at Celebrating Roy Carter on Wednesday, May 20 from 7–11 pm at the Bokeh Lounge, located in the Haynie’s Corner Arts District. This special evening invites friends, fellow musicians, and the community to come together in remembrance through an open jam session honoring Roy Carter’s legacy. With a backline provided, those who knew and played with Roy are encouraged to take the stage, while guests can soak in the intimate atmosphere and shared appreciation for a life deeply rooted in Evansville’s music scene.

BRIT FLOYD: THE MOON, THE WALL, AND BEYOND

VICTORY THEATRE/ MAY 26

Experience the ultimate tribute to one of rock’s most legendary bands as Brit Floyd brings The Moon, The Wall, and Beyond tour to the stage. Widely recognized as the world’s premier Pink Floyd experience, the show delivers note-for-note renditions of iconic tracks from The Dark Side of the Moon and The Wall, including “Time,” “Money,” “Comfortably Numb,” and “Another Brick in the Wall, Part 2,” along with fan favorites spanning Wish You Were Here, Animals, and more. Led by longtime musical director Damian Darlington and bassist/ vocalist Ian Cattell, the ensemble combines world-class musicianship with immersive visuals and production that rivals the original. With a global reputation built on over 1,500 performances, Brit Floyd delivers a concert experience that’s as close as it gets to the real thing.

MAY CONCERT & EVENT GUIDE

PBR: CHALLENGE SERIES

FORD CENTER/ MAY 30

Get ready for a high-adrenaline night as the Professional Bull Riders Challenge Series returns to the Ford Center on May 30 for the 5th Annual Evansville PBR, presented by Rally Point Events. This year’s event promises to be the biggest yet, featuring top-tier bull riding with some of the sport’s best athletes, plus crowd favorites like mini bull riding, bullfighting, and plenty of comedic moments. Fans can also expect high-energy trick riding from NFR entertainer Dusty Dickerson Crane and her team, along with a few surprises still to come. Beyond the action, the event continues to give back, with proceeds supporting local Tri-State organizations, making it a night of excitement with real community impact.

FLATLAND CAVALRY: WORK OF THE HEART TOUR

OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA/ JUNE 12

Texas country favorites Flatland Cavalry bring their Work of the Heart Tour to the Old National Events Plaza on June 12, delivering a night rooted in storytelling, grit, and wide-open sound. Known for blending Red Dirt country with folk and Americana influences, the band has built a loyal following with songs that feel both personal and expansive. Expect a setlist filled with fan favorites and newer tracks that showcase their signature mix of heartfelt lyrics and driving rhythms—perfect for a laid-back summer night with a little edge.

“WEIRD AL” YANKOVIC: BIGGER AND WEIRDER 2026 TOUR

FORD CENTER/ JUNE 16

Comedy and music collide as Weird Al Yankovic brings the Bigger & Weirder 2026 Tour to the Ford Center on June 16. Known as the best-selling comedy recording artist of all time, the five-time Grammy winner returns with a full-production, multimedia show featuring his iconic parodies alongside fan favorites never before performed live. Backed by his longtime band and an expanded lineup of additional musicians, Yankovic delivers a larger-than-life concert experience packed with hits like “Amish Paradise,” “Eat It,” “Like a Surgeon,” and “White & Nerdy.” With decades of global touring and a reputation for wildly entertaining performances, this is a night of music and comedy that doesn’t take itself too seriously—in the best way possible.

JOURNEY- FINAL FRONTIER TOUR 2026

FORD CENTER/ JUNE 17

Rock history takes its final bow as Journey brings the Final Frontier Tour 2026 to the Ford Center on June 17. Doors open at 6:30 pm with the show beginning at 7:30 pm for what promises to be a powerful, full-scale farewell from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame legends. Featuring a brand-new stage production, the band delivers a career-spanning setlist packed with iconic hits like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Faithfully,” and “Any Way You Want It,” alongside deeper cuts in a celebration of the music and fans that defined their fivedecade run. Led by founding guitarist Neal Schon and longtime members including Jonathan Cain and Arnel Pineda, this special evening marks a true final chapter—one that fans won’t want to miss. Limited VIP packages offering premium seating and exclusive merchandise are also available for those looking to make the night even more memorable.

Summer Auto Prep & Maintenance Keep Your Car Cool This Summer

with Brian Buxton

Summer weather means road trips to visit family, driving to concerts, vacations, and even a second job that requires reliable transportation. Keeping your car maintained and prepared for the heat and humidity of the coming months can help keep you on the road instead of suffering with no A/C, or worse yet, broken down.

Here’s a breakdown on what to have inspected and serviced to keep your vehicle in top operating condition!

Service your A/C:

Have your air conditioning system inspected to ensure it's working efficiently and effectively. A mechanic can pressure test the components to check for leaks, and freon can be cleaned and refilled to ensure peak a/c performance. A well operating a/c system should blow 40º air at the vents.

Tire Maintenance & Alignment:

Check the tires for gashes or bulges in the sidewall, and cracks, nails or other foreign objects in tread.

Check the tread for depth to ensure it is within recommended measurements. Low tire tread can cause poor traction and loss of control of the car in wet conditions, longer stopping distances and reduced handling. Your tires have wear bars to show remaining tread depth – they should be replaced if your tread is equal to the wear bars. You can also insert a quarter into the tread upside down - if you can see the top of Washingtons head you’re at 4/32 tread depth, which means it’s time to shop for tires.

Tire pressures should be checked when cold for a proper reading every 1-2 weeks. Under or overinflated tires will lower your fuel economy and increase the risk of a blowout. Recommended tire pressure can be found

on a sticker on the back of your fuel door or driver door jamb, and in your owner’s manual. Be sure to check the tire pressure in your spare! Every 10º over 70 your tires will gain 1lb of pressure. Every 10º below 70 your tires will lose 1lb. of pressure.

A 4-wheel alignment should be performed once per year. Rough roads, potholes and curbs (!) can throw off your vehicles alignment and cause poor fuel economy, accelerated tire wear, pulling and poor handling. A vehicles tires have a usable life span of 6-7 years or 3060k miles (depending on the vehicle), so be aware of their age and wear.

Have your tires rotated and balanced every 6-8,000 miles to extend their longevity and even wear.

Brakes and Suspension:

Your brake pads, rotors and sensors should be checked for thickness and proper working order. Pay attention to squeaks, grinding and shimmying when braking.

Your ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, steering rack and shocks / struts should be inspected for leaks and play or looseness. Depending on use, brake rotors will have a lifespan of 45-60K miles while pads will usually require replacement every 30k miles.

Oil Service, Belts / Hoses and Fluid Level Inspections:

Check / Change Engine Oil: Ensure your engine oil is fresh and topped off at the correct level. An oil change should be performed once a year or every 5-10,000 miles, depending on the vehicle and driving conditions.

Check Coolant, Brake and Power Steering Fluid: Make sure your vehicles fluid levels are topped off and the fluid isn’t dirty or discolored. Coolant should be replaced every

4-5 years or 60k miles. Brake fluid should be replaced every 3-5 years or 30k miles. Power steering fluid should be changed every 5 years or 60k miles.

Check Windshield Washer Fluid and Wipers: Top off your windshield washer fluid to be prepared for bugs and road grime. Your windshield wipers should be replaced each year to ensure maximum performance.

Inspect Belts and Hoses: Check for any cracks or damage to the belts and hoses in your engine compartment. They delivery essential fluids to your engine and power the accessories such as the alternator, a/c compressor, power steering pump and power brakes. The failure of a belt or hose will leave you stranded.

Check your headlights, brake lights, license plate lights, turn signals and other lighting. Not only could a burned-out light cause an accident, but you could also receive a ticket. Have your battery tested for charge level and health. Clean and tighten your battery terminals and connections. A failed battery means the vehicle won’t start!

Inspect / replace your engine and cabin air filters at least once per year. Clean filters ensure maximum performance from your engine and a clean fresh smelling interior free of dust, allergens and odors.

Check the age of the fuel filter. Diesel truck owners usually change their fuel filters at every other oil change. Light vehicle owners should change theirs every 2-3 years.

Pack an Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like a flashlight (make sure the batteries are new), phone charger, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, and water. Make sure your spare tire, jack, lug wrench etc. are all in place and secure.

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 3 great prizes to 3 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. Lily's Mediterranean Express: find their gyro emoji and enter to win a $10 gift card to the restaurant!

Start searching and good luck!

Downtown Evansville has been building and expanding over the past few years – a medical school, renovated historical buildings, and a steady layering of restaurants, places and spaces are giving local residents and travelers a reason to make it a destination, to stay longer while they’re there, and to come back more often.

The Foundry Room fits into that in a way that feels like a natural progression.

Now open inside the DoubleTree by Hilton, it brings a style of dining that is common in larger cities but still a relatively new idea for our city. A full-service restaurant inside a hotel that is not just there for the travelers and visitors to our city.

Inspired by the City

The idea behind The Foundry Room starts with Evansville itself. The name, the design, even the tone of the menu all pull from the city’s industrial and historical background. There is a clear focus on craft and process, without feeling stuffy or over done.

The menu centers around elevated Southern cuisine named after streets, areas and buildings in our city. Dishes people recognize, prepared with purpose, attention and better quality ingredients. Partnerships with Fischer Farms bring a level of quality that is present throughout the menu.

The Willard Library Fried Chicken has already become a signature dish. It connects to one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, but it also delivers flavors, textures and obvious purposefulness in the preparation and presentation.

For the workers and the travelers. Everyone's welcome. We're keeping the door open for the next one who wanders in.

The Quarry bar follows that same approach. The cocktails are thoughtful without being overworked. Balanced, clean, and meant to sit alongside the food instead of overpowering it.

Live music has also started to find its place here, elevating this from a dinner to a complete experience. For a schedule of live music, be sure to follow The Foundry Room on Facebook.

Rethinking the Hotel Restaurant

For a long time, hotel restaurants were seen as convenient for travelers, but not necessarily somewhere you planned to go if you lived in Evansville. That is changing. In larger cities, some of the best restaurants are found inside hotels. Places where locals go regularly, without thinking twice about where they are located, or being a guest of the hotel. After many years, The Foundry Room brings that idea back to Evansville.

Its location inside the DoubleTree puts it right in the center of the convention district, connected by a skywalk to both the Ford

Center and Old National Events Plaza, and surrounded by downtown activity. It benefits from that traffic, but it is not dependent on it. This is a place you can choose for date nights, business dinners or family gettogethers. A reason to meet someone for a drink on a Tuesday. It fits into all of that.

More Than Just Dinner

Being inside a full-service hotel adds another layer to the experience.

The Quarry Bar offers a more relaxed stop before or after dinner. The outdoor pool and patio area features fire pits and plenty of seating choices, giving the space a different feel once the sun goes down. It is quieter than you would expect for being downtown.

The 241 room hotel itself is also fully equipped with amenities. With over 12,000 square feet of meeting spaces and a business center, a fitness center, and pet-friendly accommodations all add to the appeal. It makes it easy to turn a dinner into a longer stay, or to host people coming from out of town.

A Sign of Where Things Are Going

The Foundry Room officially opened with a ribbon cutting that brought together past and present city leaders and project partners. Those moments are important, but

what matters more is what happens after.

What The Foundry Room represents is a level of confidence in downtown Evansville. A belief that there is room for something elevated, but still approachable– a place that feels special without feeling exclusive.

It does not try to be everything. It just does what it set out to do, and does it well.

Planning a Visit

The Foundry Room is open for breakfast and dinner, with a menu that works for both quick stops and longer evenings. Reservations are available, and the space is designed to handle a mix of planned visits and walkins. The full menu is also available for the convenience and privacy of room service.

Whether it becomes your favorite regular spot or a place to make your trip from out of town easier, it adds something meaningful to the downtown mix.

For Live Music Schedule visit their Facebook page: facebook.com/thefoundryroomevansville

For reservations, the events calendar and daily specials visit their website: thefoundryroomevansville.com/eventsdowntown-evansville

601 Walnut St, Evansville, IN 47708 (930) 212-1101

EVANSVILLE of A TASTE

THE FOUNDRY ROOM

In any major city some of the best restaurants can be found in hotels. You’ll find a variety of choices, from great steakhouses, authentic Italian, Sushi or even Indian cuisine. Historically there has been hotel dining offered in Evansville, although it’s been over 20 years since that’s been a reality. In the early 1900’s the McCurdy Hotel (operated as the Van Orman hotel) operated an upscale restaurant from June 17th, 1917 until it closed on March 16th 1969. The Marriott on Highway 41 North housed a restaurant from 1988 until closing in the mid 1990’s. The Riverhouse had an excellent restaurant with a view of the Ohio – I enjoyed dinner there on Valentines Day 1994, the last night it was open.

The Executive Inn downtown also had a very popular restaurant until its closure in 2001 (the hotel closed November 2009). And who can forget the original Acropolis in the Ramada Inn on Fares Ave? It opened in 1999, closing at the end of 2002 in preparation for their move to the former Darryl’s on Green River Road.

The April 2nd opening of The Foundry Room in the downtown Evansville Doubletree by Hilton continues a unique tradition that will be a new experience for many area diners. This latest dining destination is the only in-hotel full service restaurant in the city, and offers an Evansville themed menu of steaks, chops and elevated Southern cuisine. Evansville residents looking for a great experience will be drawn to the hotel by the ambiance, the service and the menu. Lunch service will begin in the near future and the full menu will be available for room service.

Diners can enjoy standouts such as Bourbon Salmon, Short Ribs, Signature Fried Chicken, the Foundry Smash Burger, peach-bourbon glazed chops and amazing quality steaks from Fischer Farms Natural Foods. Located in Saint Anthony, Indiana, Fischer Farms specializes in sustainable and ethically raised natural meats incl. dry-aged beef, pork and poultry. Everything they raise is free from hormones, antibiotics. MSG, nitrates, nitrites and phosphates. Their beef is dryaged 14 days for unmatched flavor and tenderness. Learn more at ffnatural.com/

I was present for the April 1st ribbon cutting / opening preview and sampled a variety of menu items and cocktails. During opening remarks there were samples of their Lamasco Landing Catfish Bites, their signature Willard Library Fried Chicken, the Foundry Smash Burger and the fried Cracklin-dusted Mac and Cheese balls. Provided to guests were the Crescent - made with elderflower liqueur, champagne and lemon (a light and refreshing champagne cocktail and a perfect summer patio drink), and The Foundry - a slightly spicy Jeffersons Ocean old fashioned made with demerara, angostura & chili bitters, and a cinnamon stick - served smoked). Both were well balanced and quite tasty. Although I would choose a rye for my Old Fashioned the bitters and cinnamon stick added a warm, fiery and woody complexity to the drink.

The catfish was tender and moist with a very light cornmeal breading that allowed the flavor of the fish to come forward. It was served with a creamy and tangy remoulade. The double buttermilk dipped fried chicken will

be a favorite - it was tender and juicy with a flavorful breading that was well seasoned (not overly salty) and didn't overpower the bite. The burger was dressed with cheddar cheese and bacon jam and was also excellent. Layers of sweet and savory flavors complimented by the sharp earthy cheddar.

Although the restaurant wasn't officially open to the public, the GM was kind enough to allow us to order some items off the menu. We chose the Indiana Vegetable soup (seasonal vegetables in an herb broth with lemon); the Riverfront Wedge (a wedge of iceberg lettuce, crumbled bacon, tomatoes, sliced red onion and a delicious tangy house-made bleu cheese dressing); and a mid-rare 14 day dry aged Ribeye, served with rosemary garlic butter, fondant potatoes and a crispy parmesan tuile (similar to a chip or crisp). A very nice bottle of Acolytes California Pinot Noir was brought to the table with our steak.

The soup had larger chunks of diced potatoes with carrots, celery, onion, pan seared corn and tomatoes in a flavorful broth. The wedge was fresh and crisp, and the house made bleu cheese was one of the best I've had. It was perfectly creamy, fresh, tangy and savory. The steak was an amazing choice - tender, juicy, and so flavorful. You can taste the difference in grade and marbling, and how the dry aging process changes the protein. There were several desserts served, but only one on their regular menu - the Canal District Bourbon Bread Pudding (warm brioche pudding soaked in Indiana bourbon cream, served with candied

pecans and vanilla ice cream) was easily the best dessert we tried.

The staff was very friendly, and professional and the kitchen kept the courses coming out smoothly and in a timely manner. The new space is upscale yet comfortable, and the booths offer both comfort and privacy. This will be a great spot for a date night, business meeting or a night out with friends and family.

The restaurant hours of operation are Mon–Thurs: 6am-10am & 5pm -10pm, Fri: 6am-10am & 5pm -11pm, Sat: 7am11am & 5pm-11pm, and Sun: 7am-11am & 5pm-10pm. Parking is in the hotel parking garage. Contact the restaurant at the number below, or on Facebook @ thefoundryroomevansville

601 Walnut St, Evansville, IN (812) 423-5002 & (930) 212-1101 thefoundryroomevansville.com

About DoubleTree by Hilton Evansville:

The DoubleTree by Hilton Evansville opened in February 2017 and serves as the centerpiece of downtown Evansville’s convention district. The full-service hotel features 241 guest rooms, over 12,000 square feet of meeting space, a sky bridge connection to the Ford Center & Old National Events Plaza, an outdoor pool and courtyard, exercise room, business center and the Quarry Bar.

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

Now Go, Explore, and Eat, Evansville!

ANYTHING ON WHEELS

WITH TOM LEGGETT

FROM TROPICAL DREAMS TO LOCAL STREETS:

THE STORY OF PARADISE PIZZA AND KOOL SHACK

In the realm of food trucks, passion often drives success, and for Adam and Mindy Wathen, that passion has grown into a small family of businesses that keeps Evansville area customers coming back for more. What started as a playful idea has transformed into two popular food trucks and even an ice cream shop.

Adam always knew he wanted to run his own business. “I love jobs where success is directly tied to how much effort you put into them,” he

explains. That mindset eventually turned into reality in 2020 when Mindy jokingly sent him a listing for a shaved ice truck called Kool Shack. What started as a lighthearted suggestion quickly turned into a real opportunity. Adam purchased the truck, and the couple launched their first mobile venture.

Six years later, the Wathens have expanded their operation with Paradise Pizza, which debuted in 2023, and Rivertown Ice Cream, a brick and mortar store, giving them multiple ways to serve their growing fan base.

While Kool Shack kept its original name from the previous owner, the name Paradise Pizza reflects something deeply personal for the couple, their love of travel. Adam and Mindy try to visit a tropical island at least once a year, and the back of their pizza truck proudly displays photos from their adventures. The theme brings a little vacation vibe to every event they attend.

as Adam puts it, his “number one employee.” Working alongside family has been one of the most meaningful parts of the journey.

Despite Adam’s modest culinary background working in restaurants during high school, he has built a menu that resonates with customers. At Kool Shack, Banana Pudding ice cream has become a standout favorite. Meanwhile, the pizza truck’s Chicken Bacon Ranch pizza continues to be one of the most popular items on the menu.

Running a food truck, however, isn’t without challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is finding the right events that allow a truck to be profitable. Unlike traditional restaurants, food trucks often operate at varying locations and schedules, which means planning is critical. Adam notes that careful preparation is essential to avoid food

Customers can usually find the trucks by checking their weekly schedule on Facebook, and Paradise Pizza also appears on Street Food Finder. Social media has proven to be their most effective way to keep fans updated on locations and events.

For Adam, success isn’t measured only in profits. It’s the moment when someone takes a bite and says it’s the best pizza they’ve ever had.

And if there’s one piece of advice he’d give someone thinking about starting a food truck? Be prepared to work hard.

“Success is directly tied to effort,” Adam says. “It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.”

See you down the road!

WHAT'S ON THE

grill

WITH JIM JOHNSON

MOTHER’S DAY DINNER, DONE RIGHT

other’s Day is a chance to slow down and gather around the table. This menu keeps things approachable while still delivering big flavor—a beautifully grilled chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, and a bright key lime pie to finish.

GRILLED SPATCHCOCK CHICKEN

Spatchcocking allows for faster, even cooking and perfectly crisp skin.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (4–5 lbs)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp kosher salt, 1 tsp pepper

• 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp thyme, 1 tsp rosemary

• Zest + juice of 1 lemon

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Remove backbone, flatten chicken.

2. Mix oil, lemon, garlic, and spices; rub all over. Marinate 1 hour (or overnight).

3. Grill at 375–400°F over indirect heat, skin-side up, 35–45 minutes.

4. Finish over direct heat 5–10 minutes to crisp.

5. Cook to 165°F. Rest 10 minutes before carving.

CREAMY MASHED POTATOES

Chicken broth adds depth and richness without heaviness.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs potatoes, peeled & chopped

• 4 tbsp butter

• ½ cup warm chicken broth

• ½ cup warm milk or cream

• 3 garlic cloves (optional)

• Salt, pepper, sour cream (optional), chives

Instructions:

6. Boil potatoes (add garlic last 5 min) until tender.

7. Drain and let steam dry.

8. Mash with butter, then add broth and milk.

9. Season and finish with chives.

KEY LIME PIE

Light, tangy, and the perfect contrast to a rich meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups graham crumbs, ⅓ cup sugar, 6 tbsp melted butter

• 4 egg yolks

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• ½ cup key lime juice + 1 tbsp zest

• 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tbsp powdered sugar, ½ tsp vanilla

Instructions:

1. Crust: Mix crumbs, sugar, butter. Press into pie dish. Bake 350°F for 8–10 min. Cool.

2. Filling: Whisk yolks, add condensed milk, then lime juice and zest.

3. Bake: Pour into crust. Bake 12–15 min until just set. Chill 3 hours.

4. Top: Whip cream with sugar and vanilla; spread before serving. Arrange sliced strawberries in the baked pie crust.

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 Americanstyle 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.

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:

MARCH:

Jimmy John's at 8680 High Pointe Dr., Newburgh, IN (Mar. 3rd)

Wendy's at 400 N Burkhardt Rd, Evansville, IN (Mar. 15th)

APRIL:

Sunrise Café Family Restaurant at 2121 N. Green River Rd., Evansville, IN (Apr. 1st)

Kung Fu Chicken at 325 S. Green River Rd., Evansville, IN (Apr. 15th)

Milano Italian Cuisine at 500 Main St., Evansville, IN (Apr. 24th)

Senor Burrito Mexican Grill at 606 North Main St., Evansville, IN – (April 29th)

RECENTLY OPENED:

MARCH:

The Cobblestone Creamery at 900 N. Main. St., Evansville, IN (March 6th)

I Love Pho and Sandwiches at 3245 Mount Moriah Ave., Owensboro, KY (March 7th)

Casa Fiesta Sports Bar & Grille at 1602 Vann Ave., Evansville, IN (March 10th)

The Bullpen at Casey's Dugout at 2828 Lincoln Ave., Evansville, IN (March 17th)

APRIL:

The Foundry Room at the DoubleTree Hilton at 601 Walnut St., Evansville, IN (Apr. 2nd)

RAVA’S Café at 900 N. Main. St., Evansville, IN (early Apr. 2026)

Madeleine's Fusion at 423 SE 2nd St., Evansville, IN (early Apr. 2026)

The Clover Club at 203 Main St. (under Patsy Hartigans) (late Apr. 2026)

MAY:

Madeleine's Fusion at 423 SE 2nd St., Evansville, IN (mid-May)

COMING SOON:

EVANSVILLE, IN

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

7Brew Coffee at 1250 N. Green River Rd. - 2026 (pending)

Aman Food Market at 900 E. Riverside Dr. - 2026 (pending)

Boba Tea at 1223 Hirschland Rd. - Spring 2026

Casa Mia Italian Restaurant at 119 SE 4th St., Evansville, IN - 2026 (pending)

Casey’s Deli at 2900 Lincoln Ave. - mid April 2026

Criollos Venezuelan Breakfast at 581 N. Green River Rd. - 2026 (pending)

Currito at Promenade off Burkhardt Rd. - 2026 (pending)

Dogtown Grill (formerly Tavern) at 6201 Old Henderson Rd. - 2026 (pending)

Dutch Bros. Coffee at 3416 N. First Ave. - 2026 (pending)

Fire Pot Korean BBQ & Hot Pot at 501 N. Green River Rd. - 2026 (pending)

Kan Pai All-You-Can-Eat Sushi at 581 N. Green River Rd. - May/June 2026 (pending)

Little Caesars Pizza at 901 St. Joe Ave. - 2026 (pending)

Mercado Latino Fresh Market & Grocery at 2020 Center Dr. - mid 2026

BACK TO THE

basics

Coates

Magen Coates is the owner of M’eggs Farms and Hatchery in southern Indiana, where she raises poultry and educates others about backyard chickens. She is an avid gardener and passionate about practical homesteading.

manages access to food, water and other valuable resources, should they be scarce someday. Letting your chickens decide who is the first chain of command is crucial to their flock. You should only intervene if the behavior becomes dire.

If you’re new to chickens, make sure to take them off their starter grower at 15-16 weeks of age. At this stage in their life, their nutritional requirements change drastically! Hens need more calcium and dialed in protein to produce strong eggshells, and the roosters in your flock need more protein and way less calcium than hens. It’s important to find balance to keep everyone healthy! Be sure to offer your hens free choice oyster shells around your run, as even with the best quality feeds they still can become calcium deficient, and this can lead to egg binding, poor egg quality and weak laying contractions.

If this is your first lay season, you should start seeing a

big bump in egg production this time of year. With the added daylight, and warmer weather, hens typically start laying more frequently. This time of year is both exciting, and overwhelming, especially when you’re trying so hard to offer the best care for your flock. Just remember,

Magen

chickens are resilient, and learning as you go is part of the process!

The same reassurance applies to the garden. May seems to be the time when people feel like they’re either all in, or running behind. For me, I’m usually running behind, but I’ll catch up some day! But seriously, the truth is, there’s still plenty of time to plant and grow, don’t let it stress you out, enjoy the dirt on your hands, the sun on your face, and the promise of tasty vegetables, and sweet-smelling flowers.

Out in the garden things are really taking off. Warm season crops, like peppers, squash, and tomatoes, can finally go in the ground after the threat of frost is over. Tomatoes thrive on deep planting and strong support early on, while peppers prefer steady warmth and consistent watering. Squash wants to spread, and if you let it, it will find its way into everything.

If space is an issue in your garden, you may consider using cattle panels to create a trellis, or even a tunnel for them to grow up and over! It’s an awesome way to save space, and it’s pretty neat walking through to pick your vining vegetables. However you decide to set up your garden, just be sure to stay up on the weeding, it makes a huge difference as the season progresses.

If you keep a garden and a flock, this is the perfect time to let them work together. Duck water, while messy, can actually be a valuable resource. The nutrient-rich water left behind from them using it, contains nitrogen and organic matter that can benefit your soil. When used to water garden beds, or poured into your compost piles, it acts as a mild fertilizer, helping

support plant growth. It’s best used diluted or rotated between areas to avoid over saturating the soil, but the benefits are amazing.

Marigolds are another homestead essential that can benefit your gardens and your flocks by offering pest control in your garden beds, and your nesting boxes. Not to mention they’re so nice to look at! I like to pinch the flower heads off after they’ve dried and died to use. This promotes reblooming, I get to save some seeds to replant, and my chickens enjoy them in their coop!

If flowers are more your speed, now’s the time to put those bulbs in the ground too. If you want beautiful cutting flowers this summer, gladiolus is the perfect addition to your garden. They come in a variety of colors, they spread densely but controlled, and the blooms are breathtaking. They are hands down my favorite flower. They look exotic and exciting, all with an old farm house feel.

May is when hard work starts yielding progress. The work becomes more consistent, the days get longer, and everything starts moving faster by the day. It’s a month that requires attention, but it also rewards it. What you put into it now decides the tone for this season, and before you know it, you’ll start seeing the results of it in your gardens, your flocks, and your daily routine.

May is when hard work starts yielding progress.

By the time May hits, there’s a shift. The weather breaks, summer starts calling, and suddenly the calendar fills up fast. School events, tournaments, recitals, field trips. All good things, but they come with a price tag.

At the same time, many families are trying to carve out space for a summer getaway. That push and pull is real. You want to give your kids experiences they’ll remember, but you also have to keep one eye on the numbers.

It’s easy to feel stretched in this season. There’s pressure to show up for everything, do everything, and make it all special. The truth is, most families are navigating the exact same tension. Talking about it more openly can actually take some of the weight off. It also opens the door to smarter, more realistic choices.

One of the simplest ways to ease that pressure is to get intentional early. If a vacation is on your radar, treat it like any other goal. Set a number. Break it down into smaller weekly amounts. Automate what you can so it’s not a constant decision. Even small adjustments, like cutting back on takeout or impulse

DOLLARS & SENSE:

MAY MONEY MOVES: BALANCING FAMILY FUN AND REAL LIFE COSTS

spending for a couple of months, can create breathing room.

Bringing your kids into that process can also shift the dynamic in a positive way. When they understand that saving is part of getting to do something fun, it gives them a sense of ownership instead of just expectation.

At the same time, this stretch of the year doesn’t have to revolve around spending. Some of the best moments are the simplest ones. A night in the backyard with a fire and s’mores. A free community event. A low-key game night at home. Those are the things kids tend to remember anyway.

That doesn’t mean ignoring the real costs tied to the end of the school year. It just means managing them with a little more intention. Look ahead at the calendar so nothing sneaks up on you. Coordinate group gifts when you can. Ask about discounts. And keep communication open with your kids so they understand why some choices get made.

There’s a lot happening in May, and it can feel like a lot to carry. But it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. With a bit of planning and a willingness to keep things simple, you can enjoy the season without it getting ahead of you.

At the end of the day, it’s not about how much you spend. It’s about how present you are in the moments that matter.

KEEP

1. Set a vacation target

Know your number and work backward week by week.

2. Automate savings

Take the decision out of it. Move money before you can spend it.

3. Trim temporarily

Cut a few non-essentials for a short window to free up cash.

4. Plan ahead for events

Look at school and sports calendars early to avoid surprises.

5. Think group over individual

Split gifts or expenses with other families when possible.

6. Prioritize connection over cost

Free or low-cost time together often means more than big spending.

WITH RACHEL BUDDE / THE BUDGET BLUEPRINT

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

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.

Indiana Golden Gloves 2026

Hey y’all, welcome back to QuickFit. It’s showtime.

We finally made it to the goal I’ve been chasing for the last year and a half… the 2026 Indiana Golden Gloves.

This wasn’t a straight path. When I first walked into the gym, I didn’t even know how to throw a proper punch. Now I’m teaching my kids and others how to move in the ring. I still remember telling my coach, Danny “The Champ” Thomas, that I wanted to be a Golden Gloves champion. He looked at me and said, “Train with me, and you’ll be a champ. It’s going to take work, but I’ll get you there.”

From that day on, it was 3–4 days a week. No excuses. Training, sparring, studying, learning.

My first time sparring? I got rocked. Bad. I went home thinking, “Man, that hurt.” But I came back. And then I came back again.

Somewhere along the way, it clicked. I wasn’t doing this to look tough. I just loved it. I felt alive. Focused. At peace. For the first time in a long time, I felt at home in my own mind.

Boxing will do that. It’s just you in there. No excuses. No one to blame. No one to carry you.

That mindset started changing everything. I walked away from the negative crowd. Drugs and alcohol became a thing of the past. I even dropped habits I thought I’d never quit. Between prayer, discipline, and my coach constantly reminding me that your mind is your strongest weapon, I locked in.

Through injuries, setbacks, and even welcoming a newborn into the world, I kept that one goal in front of me: I’m going to win the Golden Gloves.

Around February, it was time to sign up.

That part wasn’t easy either. I had to scrape together money for registration, complete my physical, pass the USA Boxing requirements, and get everything submitted. When I finally signed up, I entered the Jr. Open 198+ novice division… not realizing that also meant super heavyweight.

My coach looked at it and said, “You know you could be fighting someone 300 pounds, right?”

Yeah… that got my attention.

But he just smiled and said, “You’ll be alright.”

The next day, I get a message: “Check your status.”

I pull it up and see it:

Thomas Blane — Unopposed Champion.

I thought it was a mistake. Called to confirm. And sure enough, they told me:

Out of the entire state of Indiana, I was the only one who signed up in that division.

Which means… I’m the 2026 Indiana Golden Gloves Champion.

No fight. No bell. Just like that.

Now look, I wanted the fight. I really did. But I’m not going to complain about how it happened.

Because for two years, I paid my dues. Concussions, eye damage, busted lips, shoulder pain, wrist pain, muscle tears… all of it. All that work didn’t disappear just because I didn’t step in the ring that night.

A win is a win.

I showed up. I stayed ready. I did the work.

And sometimes, God handles the rest. I said I was going to win. And somehow, some way… it happened.

So yeah—however it came—

The Champ is here.

** 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

by Brittany Nelson

Devastatingly Clarifying

Healing… Let’s talk about it.

What they don’t tell you about healing is that sometimes it feels like breaking. Healing opens your eyes to truths you’ve never seen before. Really though—you have seen them, but you refused to let yourself believe they were true. You assumed you were imagining it. Surely you were just too sensitive, wearing your heart on your sleeve. You were dramatic. You made everything a bigger deal than it was. You were “too much” for feeling too much.

Then one day, you wake up to a different reality. You start questioning what you once blamed on yourself. You stop making it a you problem just because you are the way you are. There’s power in that, and it’s called clarity.

But clarity comes with an awful double hit: relief and grief.

Relief, because finally it starts making sense. Grief, because what suddenly makes sense is painful. It’s “oh thank God, I’m not actually crazy, this is real,” followed immediately by,

“oh... this is real, and it sucks.” Both can be true. In fact, both are true. That’s the crappy part of healing and finally seeing through the fog inside of it.

Once you see it, you can’t unsee it. Forget trying to pretend anymore. Where it gets muddy is that you’ll still find yourself trying to do exactly that—until the truth becomes so loud it’s impossible to ignore. You stop saying, “I’m fine,” because you realize just how not fine you were—and just how long you weren’t. You don’t get to call it “just me being too sensitive” anymore once you can clearly see the pattern. “I’m fine” was a lie you didn’t have to convince anyone else to believe. Just yourself.

And that’s what makes it feel good and horrible at the same time. It feels better because you’re no longer neglecting yourself just to keep other people comfortable. It feels worse because you realize that’s exactly what you were doing while you sat in the discomfort.

People talk about self-awareness like it’s all empowering and freeing and shiny. All the good things. That’s actually laughable once you find yourself in the middle of it. What it really is, at least at first, is devastatingly clarifying.

You’re no longer abandoning yourself. You’re naming what’s real. You stop twisting yourself into knots trying to make sense out of nonsense. That is progress.

But it is also pain. And both exist at the exact same time, which is what makes healing such a wild ride.

Because the truth is just sad sometimes. The losses are real. And some of what you can see now should have never been normal or acceptable in the first place. Of course that’s heartbreaking.

So what now?

The light has been turned on, and you’re finally seeing just how messy the room is. Now you have to deal with that too. And you will. Look at what you’ve already overcome just to get here. The light is what allows you to see, and no, that isn’t always comforting in the beginning. Sometimes it’s just the first painfully honest step toward the right kind of change.

You’re not doing it wrong because the truth feels bad. Sometimes the truth feels bad because it’s simply the truth. Your truth.

Check out more of Brittany’s work at https://substack.com/@sparkplugletters

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.

CreativeCurrents

by Zach Vaughn

"My primary focus has been to incorporate original art into public spaces within the community and be an advocate for the importance of art in the healing process for our health care systems,” says Chris Jackson, local Art Consultant. Chris was born in Evansville and raised on the East side. She developed a love and curiosity for art at a young age. A visit to the Claude Monet gallery in St, Louis as a young adult transformed her life, leading her to a lifelong passion and dedication to promoting original art in our community.

Chris began her career studying and working in interior design, where she was focused on incorporating original art into residential homes. Due to a lack of resources and connections to artists, Chris pivoted into working for the Evansville Museum. She began running the museum shop and overseeing the retail division. During her time at the museum, she was able to work with local artists and get firsthand experience growing her expertise in the art space working side by side with the curators and leaders of the exhibitions. She developed a database of local artists across the regional area in all mediums of art and would assist developers in aligning with artists that would be able to connect their vision to enhancing local spaces within the development process. Chris utilized her experience and expertise from running the retail side of the museum

into becoming a sought-after Art Consultant across the region. As an Art Consultant, Chris worked with local companies like Vectren (CenterPoint) and Old National bank, as well as health care spaces such as Deaconess Gateway, Riley Children’s hospital, local clinics, and Hospice centers in assisting in the placement of art within patient rooms and common areas.

During these projects, Chris promoted the research that supports the necessity of Art for healing and well-being. She explained that studies prove art connects a patient’s brain to their biology, impacting lower blood pressure, reductions in anxiety, decreases in the length of hospital stays, and boosts in staff morale among health care workers. Using the power of her education and exposure, Chris was able to fulfill her passion in making art more accessible to the community and allow it to support the well-being of the individuals that need healing the most.

Chris’s passion and mission has been to support the transformation and development of our city’s commitment to Art and support the local artists in the area to be represented and known for their talents and craft. She has dedicated her career to expanding her knowledge and expertise in the art world and believes artists should be celebrated and compensated for their expertise and commitment to their craft. Chris believes the power of original art is transformative and we all deserve access to the story it tells.

Chris Jackson

Snap Local

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

BY LINDSAY SCOTT

Beautiful Blooms

Asa teacher, May is one of my favorite months of the year. State testing is over, the sun is shining, more often than not, and we can venture outside for learning experiences that are both educational, and beautiful. I cannot pretend that I’m not just as ready for summer break as my students are; but I absolutely love the last few weeks of lessons in bloom. My school (Caze Elementary) is so lucky to have a beautiful courtyard that is tended by Evansville’s Master Gardeners. Being in nature, surrounded by such a wide variety of colors and floral scents really has me feeling that main character energy. Let’s be serious, though. The true protagonists are the flowers themselves. They’re showing off with soft pinks, bright yellows, and bursts of color you catch out of the corner of your eye. Although Caze courtyard is not open to the public, read on to discover where you can surround yourself with some “Secret Garden” vibes.

Master Gardener Display Gardens

If you want an Evansville Secret Garden, that’s what you’ll get here. Just off the Lloyd Expressway behind that State Hospital Grounds, this blooming bounty is one of those places that people easily pass without realizing what they’re

missing. Once you step inside, it opens up into a collection of multiple thoughtfully designed spaces; not just one garden. Each unique space is maintained entirely by local volunteers. The garden is divided into themed areas like a rose garden, herb garden, and pollinator-friendly blooms filled with plants that draw in butterflies and bees. There are shaded sections that feel cool and tucked away, alongside contrasting brighter beds that lean into bold textures and colors. If you’re looking for a whimsical wonderland of unique flowers that each tell their own spring story, this should be your first stop.

Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden

It makes sense for our minds to immediately go to exotic animals when we think of Mesker, but this time of year, the botanic garden part of its name is doing some real show-stopping. Curvy, hilly paths wind through bursts of daffodils, flowering red buds, and blooming dogwoods. There are color bursts around every corner; not just one big display, but a series of surprises winding throughout the park. Between exhibits, the flowers here remind you that feeling alive isn’t just about animal life. The plants are showing off, too. May 2 and 3, you can even buy plants at the Zoo during the annual Bloomin’ Zoo Plant Sale from 9-4 each day.

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

Hartman Arboretum

Mesker is curated, and the Master Gardeners Display is whimsical, but Hartman feels more like nature doing its own thing. Wildflowers begin to take shape, trees are budding, and the space opens you up to something that feels very natural and unstructured. There’s definitely a softness to this place. It is certainly less polished and more organic, which makes it perfect for a slow walk or unplanned stop. The gardens have paths of gravel, mulch, and just grass through a variety of gorgeous flowering plants. It smells like you’re in a fairy tale. This garden is only open to the public on Thursday mornings, or you can schedule private visits. It is located off of Big Cynthiana Road just north of Diamond Avenue (6001A Spirit Trail, Evansville, IN). Parking is on the grass, and it is not wheelchair accessible, but you can contact them to request golf cart tours.

You can plan the outfit, pick the shoes, and hope for good lighting, but this time of year, the flowers are going to outshine you anyway. That’s kind of the point. Sometimes it’s enough to just show up and let the blooms do what they do best; just let them be the main character.

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. Highlyrespected with an impeccable track record, the firm's aggressive representation of its clients continues to benefit the community in myriad ways.

Choosing a Safe First Car for Your Teen

Handing your child the keys to their first vehicle is one of those milestone moments that blends pride with a fair amount of anxiety. As a parent (and from a legal perspective) it’s not just about getting from point A to point B. It’s about safety, liability, and making a decision that protects your child both on the road and in the eyes of the law.

Safety First: What Really Matters

When selecting a first car, safety should outweigh style, speed, or status. Teen drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents due to inexperience, so the vehicle itself becomes an important layer of protection.

Look for vehicles equipped with:

• Advanced airbag systems (front, side, and curtain airbags)

• Electronic stability control

• Anti-lock braking systems (ABS)

• Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking

• Blind-spot monitoring and lane departure alerts

These features are no longer limited to luxury vehicles—many affordable models now include them as standard.

Size and Structure: Bigger Isn’t Always Better, But It Helps

While compact cars may be appealing for their cost and fuel efficiency, slightly larger vehicles like midsize sedans or small SUVs often provide better crash protection. That said, avoid oversized trucks or high-

horsepower vehicles, which can be harder for new drivers to control and may increase the risk of serious accidents.

Avoid the “Cool Factor” Trap

Sports cars and high-performance vehicles might be exciting, but they come with increased risks. From a legal standpoint, faster cars can contribute to more severe accidents— and potentially greater liability. Insurance premiums also tend to skyrocket with these types of vehicles, especially for young drivers.

Used vs. New: A Practical Balance

A reliable used car is often the best choice for a first vehicle. New drivers are more likely to experience minor accidents or “fender benders,” and a used car can help soften the financial blow. However, be cautious: older vehicles may lack modern safety features. Aim for a vehicle that has a strong safety rating.

Check the Safety Ratings

Before making a purchase, review crash-test ratings from reputable sources. These ratings provide objective insight into how a vehicle performs in various accident scenarios. A five-star safety rating or “Top Safety Pick” designation is a good benchmark.

Legal and Insurance Considerations

As a parent, you are often legally and financially responsible for your teen’s driving until the teen reaches 18 years of age. Indeed, someone must sign a financial responsibility affidavit with the BMV. This means:

• You may be liable for damages if your child causes an accident

• Insurance coverage needs to be sufficient—minimum policies are rarely enough

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.

• The type of car you choose can directly impact your insurance premiums

It’s worth speaking with your insurance provider before purchasing a vehicle to understand how different models affect your rates and coverage needs.

Set Expectations Early

Finally, the safest car in the world won’t replace good judgment. Establish clear rules about texting and driving, curfews, passengers, and general road behavior. Many families now use driving apps or vehicle tracking systems to reinforce safe habits.

The Bottom Line

Choosing your child’s first car is about more than transportation—it’s about risk management. Prioritize safety features, avoid unnecessary power, and think through the legal and financial implications. A thoughtful choice now can provide peace of mind every time your teen pulls out of the driveway.

If you have questions about liability, insurance coverage, or protecting your family legally, consulting with an attorney can help ensure you’re making the best possible decision.

— Ask a Lawyer

If you have a legal question you would like addressed in a future column of Ask the Lawyer, feel free to submit it to the magazine. Email: info@news4uevv.com

Well, neighbors, we survived it… The great freeze of January, the Fools Spring that came and went from week to week through March and April, and as ALL Evansville natives know, we dodged enough potholes to qualify for a commercial driver's license.

Now, Evansville is about to do what it does best: turn into a giant, lukewarm bowl of oatmeal.

Summer is coming, and while we’re all dreaming of lake days and overpriced ice cream, our homes are currently bracing for impact. If you don’t want your living room to feel like a terrarium or your CenterPoint bill to look like a phone number, it’s time to get to work.

Here are five must-do items to prep your Midwestern fortress for the heat.

1. The Great De-Gunking of the AC

In the Midwest, an air conditioner isn't just an appliance; it’s a family member. Before the first 90-degree day hits, go outside and visit your condenser unit. It has likely spent the spring collecting "cottonwood snow," which is nature’s way of suffocating machinery. Gently hose off those fins. If you don't, your AC will work twice as hard to produce half the cool air, and you’ll spend July lying on the kitchen tile just to cool down. Also, don’t forget to change your furnace filter, not only does it help your AC run smoother, it also helps keep those pesky allergens at bay as well!

REAL ESTATE RADAR

WITH PINNACLE REALTY GROUP & PINNACLE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Sweat, Screens, and Sprinklers

PRESENTED BY PINNACLE REALTY GROUP

2. Evict the Multi-Legged Squatters

Right now, there is a meeting of the Summertime Spider and Ant communities happening under your home right now. They are discussing their summer expansion plans into your pantry. Now is the time to create a perimeter. Whether you’re a fan of the heavy-duty stuff or prefer the "essential oil and a stern talking-to" method, seal those cracks. Check your window screens for holes, too. A mosquito can smell a tear in a screen from three counties away, and they’ve been lifting weights all winter just to carry your toddlers away into the night.

3. Reverse the Wind Turbines (The Ceiling Fans)

This is the most "low effort, high reward" task on the list. Most people forget that little toggle switch on the side of the fan. In the winter, it should spin clockwise to push warm air down. But for summer? You want that baby spinning counter-clockwise. This creates a "wind chill" effect. It doesn't actually lower the room temperature, but it makes you feel like you’re being fanned by a gentle Greek god instead of trapped in a humid basement. Just remember to dust the blades first, or you’ll trigger a localized dust-storm that will coat your entire life in gray fuzz.

4. Audit Your Outdoor Oasis

Your deck has spent six months looking like a scene from a post-apocalyptic movie. It’s time to scrub the moss off the patio furniture and check the grill. If you have a gas grill, check the hoses for leaks with some soapy water. If you use charcoal, make sure your bag of briquettes didn't turn into a soggy brick of gray mush during the spring rains. Pro tip: ensure your "dad chair"

is positioned correctly to catch the breeze but also allows you to keep a judgmental eye on how the neighbor is mowing his lawn. It’s a delicate balance.

5. The Gutter Gloom

You may have just done this in the fall, but spring in the Evansville area brings "helicopter seeds" that love nothing more than turning your gutters into a highaltitude community garden. If you leave them there, the first summer thunderstorm will result in a majestic waterfall pouring directly into your foundation. Grab the ladder, find your courage, and scoop out the muck. It’s gross, it’s slimy, and you’ll probably find a tennis ball from 2019, but your crawl space or basement will thank you when the next monsoon arrives.

There you have it. Spend a Saturday doing these five things, and you’ll be ready to sit back, relax, and enjoy the hot, humid, and sweaty nights of Southern Indiana.

Office Contact:

Pinnacle Realty Group 812-304-4600 pinnacle.realestate.com

COMEDY & CURIOSITIES

WITH DANNY BROWNING

THE NIGHT THE LIGHTS WENT OUT ON GREEN RIVER ROAD

There's a stretch of Green River Road that used to mean something to me. Something sacred. Something that smelled like fried food, cheap beer, and the desperate ambition of a twentysomething kid who was absolutely convinced he was about to be famous.

That was the Evansville Funny Bone. And I miss it like a missing tooth.

For those who weren't lucky enough to experience it, the Funny Bone was a fullservice comedy club. Wednesday through Sunday, every week, without fail. Real comedians. Real crowds. Real hecklers who thought they were funnier than the guy holding the microphone. They were not. I know because I was the guy holding the microphone.

I was the house MC, which sounds glamorous until I explain what that actually means. It means I did fifteen minutes of not-so-great material in front of a crowd that hadn't ordered their food yet, introduced someone more famous than me, and then sat in the back trying to look cool while that person absolutely destroyed the room. I did this hundreds of times. I loved every single second of it. The best part, at the end of every week, I got a paycheck for $150.

Before every show, there was a ritual. Mancino's pizza sandwich with a cold Coors Light. If you know, you know. If you don't know, I genuinely feel sorry for you and question your judgment. There was no better preshow meal than slamming down a Mancino's grinder in the greenroom, in my mid-twenties, while mentally running my set. I was basically a professional athlete. The carb loading was essential.

The comedians I met at that club. Good Lawd. Names you've seen on Netflix. Names you've heard on the Bob and Tom Show. Faces you've spotted on late-night television. They all came through Evansville, and I was the guy who shook their hand, handed them a bottle of water, and said, "crowd's great tonight," regardless of whether the crowd was great. That's also part of the job. It also became my job to hang with them after the shows in Evansville’s bar scene, but that is a different story for another time.

What I didn't know then was that I was getting an education no comedy school

could teach. How to read a room. How to recover. How to follow someone genuinely brilliant and not completely fall apart. How to eat a Mancino's in under four minutes.

The Funny Bone is gone now. The building is still there, doing something far less important with its square footage.

But Green River Road still holds something for me. A version of myself that was hungry and nervous and completely in love with this ridiculous job. I truly wouldn’t be a working comic today without that place.

Some nights, I can still smell the pizza sandwich.

Danny Browning is a Nationally Touring Comedian and Owner of Laughing Dad

Entertainment

THERE WAS NO BETTER PRE-SHOW MEAL THAN SLAMMING DOWN

A MANCINO'S GRINDER IN THE GREENROOM, IN MY MID-TWENTIES, WHILE MENTALLY RUNNING MY SET.

TRUE CRIME JUNKIE

AMELIA ADKINS

A LIFE INTERRUPTED: THE CASE OF ATHENA STRAND WITH

IIn late November 2022, a quiet stretch of Wise County, Texas became the center of a case that would grip the country and leave a permanent imprint on the community it touched. Athena Strand was seven years old. By all accounts, she was bright, expressive, and deeply loved. Her disappearance—and what followed—turned an ordinary afternoon into something unthinkable.

Athena was reported missing on November 30 from her father’s home in Paradise, Texas. Early details suggested she had been upset after a disagreement with her stepmother and left the house. Within hours, law enforcement, volunteers, and neighbors began searching. Rural roads, open fields, and nearby properties were combed with urgency. The kind of urgency that comes when everyone understands what’s at stake.

For a time, hope carried the search.

But investigators were already uncovering something far darker.

Two days later, authorities arrested Tanner Horner, a contract delivery driver for FedEx who had been in the area that day. What initially appeared to be a missing child case quickly shifted into a criminal investigation that would reveal a disturbing series of events. According to prosecutors, Horner abducted Athena shortly after making a delivery to her home. Investigators later stated she was killed within an hour.

What has emerged since—and what is now being laid out in court—is even more unsettling.

As this article goes to print, Horner is standing trial, where jurors are not deciding guilt, but punishment: life in prison without parole or the death penalty. He previously admitted to the killing, but the courtroom has become the place where the full weight of the evidence is being revealed.

Among the most disturbing pieces presented by prosecutors is audio recovered from inside Horner’s delivery truck—audio they say captured the murder itself. Even for seasoned investigators, it’s the kind of evidence that is difficult to process. For Athena’s family, it represents a level of detail no parent should ever have to confront.

Prosecutors have also introduced evidence suggesting this may not have been a purely spontaneous act. According to testimony, Horner may have spent time canvassing neighborhoods along his delivery routes, taking note of homes and routines. Even more chilling are claims that he intentionally covered the frontfacing camera on his vehicle while making certain deliveries—specifically at homes where children were present.

If believed, it paints a picture not just of opportunity, but of intent.

The defense, as expected, has pushed back on claims of premeditation, framing the crime differently in an effort to spare Horner from the death penalty. But for many following the case, the details laid out by prosecutors have been difficult to ignore.

Beyond the courtroom, the ripple effects of this case have been widereaching. It has forced uncomfortable conversations about safety in everyday moments—about the trust we place in routine interactions, and how quickly those assumptions can be shattered.

It has also raised broader questions about contract labor systems and

oversight, particularly in industries like delivery services where workers move in and out of neighborhoods daily, largely unseen and unexamined.

But at the center of all of this is still a child.

Athena’s family has spoken publicly about who she was beyond the headlines. A little girl who loved fiercely. Who had a personality that filled a room. Who deserved the chance to grow up, to become more than a name tied to tragedy.

By the time this issue reaches readers, a verdict on Horner’s fate will likely have been delivered. Whether the jury chooses life imprisonment or the death penalty, it will mark the legal end of a process that began with a search and unfolded into something far heavier.

But justice, in cases like this, is never clean. It doesn’t restore what was taken. It doesn’t quiet the questions or soften the weight of what happened.

It simply draws a line.

And even then, the story doesn’t really end.

Because for those who knew Athena Strand, and for those who followed her story, it’s not just about how her life ended. It’s about the life she should have had.

“JUSTICE CAN DRAW A LINE, BUT IT DOESN’T GIVE BACK WHAT WAS TAKEN.”

Have a tip or case you want us to cover? Contact News4U Magazine: amy@news4uevv.com

There’s a version of beauty that exists in quiet moments. Soft lighting, clean counters, time to get ready without rushing. That version is nice. It’s just not the season a lot of us are in. Many of us have fast paced lives with early alarm clocks, physical or demanding jobs, and families to get out the door in the morning. Not to mention what I like to call “second shift” here in my own home. The second shift is when the day job is done, and now the kids need to be picked up from school and shuttled

THE BUZZ ON

WITH AMY BRADFORD

beauty

BEAUTY BETWEEN GAMES, PRACTICES, AND REAL LIFE

to their various activities, games, and practices. I swear there are days where I look in the mirror once…maybe.

Right now for me, life looks more like packed schedules, folding chairs on the sidelines, and a car that doubles as a locker room. If you’re in the middle of raising athletes, you know the rhythm. Early mornings, long weekends, and a constant rotation of practices, games, and everything in between.

You’re in the sun more than you’re not. You’re moving, carrying things, watching, coaching from the sidelines whether you mean to or not. It’s a full, loud, fast-paced kind of life.

Somewhere in all of that, there’s still you.

And that’s really what this comes down to. Not keeping up with trends or building a perfect routine, but finding small ways to stay connected to yourself in the middle of a full life. That involves the simplification of your usual routine.

There was a time when I thought more effort meant better results. More products, more steps, more time in front of the mirror. The amount of time I used to spend on beauty appointments or makeup applications…I just honestly could not fathom doing that now. That isn’t me knocking those who do, but things have changed for me. I have changed. Now, I’ve realized the

opposite is usually true. The routine that actually works is the one you can repeat consistently, even on the busiest days.

I’m not doing a long routine before heading out the door. I rely on a few things that work every time. A good tinted sunscreen is one of them. Something like Supergoop! is easy to throw on and go, and their Glow Screen gives that dewy, pulled-together look without needing anything else on top. It’s quick, it protects your skin, and it holds up outside through heat, sweat, and long days.

Mascara, always. It’s the one thing that makes me feel awake even when I’m not.

Hair that doesn’t need to be perfect, just intentional.

Because hair, especially in the sun all day, is its own battle. Between the heat, wind, and constant up and down movement, it doesn’t stay “done” for long anyway. A quick spray of Sun Bum SPF on the scalp and a little anti-frizz sun protection oil through the ends goes a long way. It protects what you have instead of fighting it. After that, a braid or a good hat usually does the rest.

It’s less about getting ready and more about staying ready.

The sideline has its own version of beauty, too. And despite what Instagram or Pinterest says, sideline beauty isn’t

as polished as they make it look. Sure there is always that one soccer mom goddess who looks like she just stepped out of a magazine, and we all respect it, but the rest of us can make do with the basics. It’s sunscreen reapplied between games while you’re half-watching warmups. Lip balm passed back and forth between bags. Hair ties that somehow always end up on your wrist.

For lips, I keep it simple. A shea butter lip treatment with SPF. Hydrating, protective, and easy. No mirror needed, no second thought.

And for the days when you’re running on empty, there are a few things that help you look more awake than you feel. The OLEHENRIKSEN Banana Bright + Vitamin CC eye stick has been one of those swaps for me. It’s hydrating, has caffeine, and uses vitamin C to help with puffiness and dark circles. The coverage is minimal, which I actually prefer. It doesn’t look like makeup, and it doesn’t crease or smear once you’re out in the heat. It sits somewhere between skincare and makeup, and lately it’s replaced my usual under-eye concealer altogether.

That shift toward lighter, more functional products has made a bigger

difference than anything else. Things that can handle real life, not just a controlled environment.

There’s also something that happens when you stop chasing the idea of being fully put together all the time. You start paying attention to what actually makes you feel like yourself.

It might be five minutes before you leave the house where you do just enough to feel grounded. It might be taking care of your skin at night, even when you’re tired, because it signals that the day is done. It might be choosing products that support your skin instead of constantly trying to correct it.

It’s a quieter approach, but it sticks.

This season of life isn’t slow. It’s not always pretty in the traditional sense either. There are rushed mornings, messy hair, and days where everything feels a little off. But, taking care of yourself in small, consistent ways is just as important as reminding your athlete to remember their cleats. Keep yourself on your own radar and don’t lose who you are in the middle of everything you’re carrying. Because beauty, especially in this season, isn’t about perfection.

It’s about effort that fits your life.

REAL-LIFE BEAUTY, FIELD-TESTED

SPF + SKIN

Supergoop! Glow Screen Light coverage, dewy finish, and real sun protection. Easy to throw on and go.

UNDER-EYE REFRESH

OLEHENRIKSEN Banana Bright + Vitamin CC Eye Stick Hydrating with caffeine and vitamin C. Brightens without looking like makeup and holds up in heat.

LIPS

Shea butter lip treatment with SPF Simple, hydrating, and protective for long hours in the sun.

HAIR PROTECTION

Sun Bum SPF Scalp Spray Sun Bum Anti-Frizz Sun Protection Oil

Protects your scalp and keeps strands manageable without overstyling.

GO-TO FINISH

A loose braid or a good hat Because sometimes that’s the whole look.

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

TESSIE: Meet Tessie! Tessie is a spunky 6-yearold pit bull mix, and this girl certainly does not act her age. She’s all about chasing after her favorite stuffed toys and showing the other pups who’s boss! Tessie is treat-motivated and enjoys conquering new challenges, so if you’ve got some fun obstacles in your yard or a few tasty snacks to share, she’s all in! She also loves to play with other dogs, just as long as they know she’s the queen of the playground! Tessie is looking for her forever home, and you can adopt her today for just $200.

CLARKE: Meet Clarke, a 9-month-old brown tabby! This little guy is a bit shy at first, but given time (and maybe a crunchy treat or two), you'll discover a whole new side of him. Who knew a timid heart could hold such a wild spirit? Clarke is a curious kitty who loves to explore his surroundings. If there’s a new sight, sound, or smell, he leaves no stone unturned! Don’t let this sweet boy’s shyness fool you—he’s just waiting for the right person to show him the ropes. For just $100, you can adopt Clarke today!

MORTICIA: Meet Morticia! This 6-year-old Pit Bull is a bundle of joy, ready to steal your heart and fill your days with laughter. With her playful spirit and silly antics, Morticia is always up for a game of tug or a romp with her doggy pals. Don't let her small stature fool you—this girl has a BIG personality! She’s the ultimate cuddle buddy who adores belly rubs and showering her human friends with affection. Morticia is waiting for her forever home, and her adoption fee is just $200!

VACCINE

PET OF THE MONTH Meet Coulda

Coulda is a 1.5-yearold Pitbull mix who is still waiting for her forever home. She has been in our care for over 100 days, and heartbreakingly, she has not received a single adoption application.

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Coulda is a sweet, affectionate, and playful girl who loves the simple things — especially head rubs and forehead kisses. While she can be a little wary of strangers at first, she has grown so much in learning how to trust, and once she does, her loving and loyal personality truly shines.

Unfortunately, like many dogs who spend extended time in a shelter environment, Coulda is beginning to show signs of stress. She paces, jumps in her kennel, and has even had to wear a cone after licking and biting at her skin due to anxiety. She has also lost some weight during her stay.

E NEED YOU!

But that is not who she truly is.

WE NEED YOU!

When we bring Coulda into the office to spend time away from the kennel, we see the real her — a calm, quiet, incredibly sweet dog who just wants to be close to people. In a home environment, we truly believe she will decompress and blossom into the loving companion we know she is.

e for us to engage the community g our next step to fulﬁll our mission ift can help us expand our no-kill ity. With the legacy gift as a catalyst he opportunity to provide a resource will serve animals and families for ns to come. Donations can be made n, over the phone, or on our website ur goal is to raise $1 25 million Find out more here!

is time for us to engage the community aking 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 provide a resource that will serve animals and famil erations to come Donations can erson, over the p

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PHOTO CREDIT: MARIAH MCCLAIN PHOTOGRAPHY

LAST WORD FEATURES: PROJECT HAIL MARY

BY JARED RASIC

GRADE: B+

Ihad an epiphany while watching “Project Hail Mary.” Ryan Gosling could have played Marty in “Marty Supreme,” but Timothée Chalamet could never have played Ryland Grace in “Project Hail Mary.” There’s an effortless charisma to what Gosling does here that feels like a future Best Actor nomination, without question. It’s a movie star performance reminiscent of the kind we got with Tom Hanks in “Castaway” and Sam Rockwell in “Moon,” but with the slapstick physicality of Buster Keaton or Charlie Chaplin. It’s a performance Gosling will be remembered for a hundred years from now.

He plays Grace, a molecular biologist whose infamous academic papers forced him into a career as a middle school science teacher. Told non-chronologically, the story follows Grace from his recruitment by the European Space Agency to his awakening from a coma aboard the Hail Mary with temporary amnesia. There, he discovers he is the sole survivor of a desperate suicide mission to save earth from a rapidly dimming sun and an imminent ice age.

While the trailers for “Project Hail Mary” haven’t been very shy about giving away quite a bit of the plot, it’s still a blast watching as the film switches back and forth between Gosling on earth as he feverishly works out a way to save the planet and then jumps to him in space, wondering how and why he ended up there when he has absolutely zero training as an astronaut and even less inclination to be a hero.

This isn’t much of a spoiler since it’s central to the film’s marketing, but Grace eventually meets a faceless, stone-appearing, spiderlike alien he dubs Rocky, who is also trying to save “his” planet. While the film delivers an exciting space odyssey with massive stakes and stunning effects, its greatest success is as warm-hearted ' competency --- deeply investing the audience in the friendship between Grace and Rocky.

What makes the film such an optimistic piece of sci-fi speculation isn’t necessarily

the budding friendship between human and alien, but rather that Grace is the ideal human being for first contact. Though initially frightened, Grace’s love of science and knowledge turns that fear into profound excitement. He immediately begins working with Rocky to save their respective civilizations. It’s easy to imagine a version of this story (especially in our current political climate regarding science) where the astronaut freaks out at the sight of Rocky and shoots him like a bug in “Starship Troopers.”

Directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller wear their cinematic influences on their sleeves with “Project Hail Mary,” at times aesthetically and tonally resembling sci-fi classics like “Interstellar,” “The Martian,” “Ad Astra,” “E.T.,” and “2001: A Space Odyssey,” without necessarily feeling beholden to any of them. I’m not science or mathematically minded enough to know whether the film is accurate with its astrophysics, but as a

blockbuster sci-fi movie, it’s transportive and charming and I am shocked at Lord and Miller’s ability to make me care so deeply about an alien without anything recognizable as a face.

The film isn’t perfect, as the nonchronological storytelling sometimes takes away from the tension and flow of the narrative. As we get deeper into the film’s 156-minutes, every time we flash back to Baby Goose science-ing on earth, I just wanted to get back to him and Rocky bro-ing out on the Hail Mary. Also, as lovely and immersive as I found several moments of Daniel Pemberton’s otherworldly score, it also felt so omnipresent to wonder if Lord and Miller didn’t trust audiences enough to let them sit in the silence of space with our heroes for a minute.

I haven’t read Andy Weir’s “Project Hail Mary” (despite enjoying “The Martian”), but my more literate companions called it

“faithful to a fault.” That tracks: you really do feel the entire two-and-a-half-hour runtime and the film has more endings than “Return of the King,” which seems more literary than cinematic.

Still, in a sold-out IMAX auditorium with flawless projection and face-melting sound, I was once again reminded of the joys of watching movies on the big screen with an audience full of strangers.

“Project Hail Mary” is one of those giant, crowd-pleasing event movies that justifies the existence of movie theaters by being so gorgeously lensed that it demands audiences see it on the biggest screen possible. The film’s gentle and goodnatured humanism feels like a balm in our current moment. Let’s see if its brand of open-minded curiosity actually catches on.

"PROJECT HAIL MARY" DIR. PHIL LORD AND CHRISTOPHER MILLER GRADE: B+

"

“PROJECT HAIL MARY” IS ONE OF THOSE...MOVIES THAT JUSTIFIES THE EXISTENCE OF MOVIE THEATERS BY BEING SO GORGEOUSLY LENSED THAT IT DEMANDS AUDIENCES SEE IT ON THE BIGGEST SCREEN POSSIBLE.

MAY MUSIC REVIEWS

CHARLIE PUTH

Whatever's Clever! Atlantic Records

Charlie Puth is disentangling himself from his pop-star rise, circling back to his songwriting roots. Long described as a musical genius, Puth has always put the beat first, letting the lyrics follow. That formula has produced countless bangers — “See You Again,” “Marvin Gaye,” “How Long,” “Attention,” and “We Don’t Talk Anymore.” But those sugar-soaked chart-toppers were more like the outer layer, the candy shell. What’s at the center is finally starting to show. His fourth studio album feels more grounded in truth, reflecting on both his rise to stardom and his transition into first-time fatherhood. This time around, he enlists an unexpected lineup of collaborators — jazzy icons like Kenny G, Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald, and Jeff Goldblum — a surprisingly sweet departure from his usual pop pairings with Meghan Trainor, Jungkook, Selena Gomez, and Wiz Khalifa. As the musical equation shifts, so does the result. The bubblegum polish is still there, but it’s layered with a more classic rock-pop sound, infused with ‘80s and ‘90s grooves. Standouts include “Sideways,” “Beat Yourself Up,” and “Home.” My favorite: the Phil Collins–esque “Changes,” which sounds like it could’ve been left on the Tarzan album’s cutting room floor. Puth’s metamorphosis might be his smartest move yet. -Marisa Patwa

RAYE

This Music May Contain Hope Human Be Sources

Raye has managed to accomplish something not many artists can brag about: creating two immediate Tik Tok trends with number one hits “Where Is My Husband!” and “Click Clack Symphony.” (I’ve proudly succumbed to both). She inspired a whole generation to declare their search for the perfect hubby amongst a sea of duds, but her biggest flex is her collab with Academy-Award winning film composer Hans Zimmerman. They are the duo we didn’t know we needed but so desperately deserve. The stiletto sharp confidence of Raye’s vocal panache cut with Zimmerman’s grandiose score encouraged Gen Z and Millennials alike to put their spikiest heels on and proudly proclaim their zest for life. At a robust 17 tracks (coincidentally my favorite number), Raye could have easily saved some of this explosive material for an inevitable third album. Her prolific musical numbers just perpetuate her prowess as a true artist who can’t help but let these gorgeous songs spill out of her. She’s funny, melancholic, sassy, sweet, serious, introspective and a true living icon. Her music does not just contain hope, it inspires it.

-Marisa Patwa

CHECK OUT THESE HONEST REVIEWS

SWAE LEE

Same Difference

Swae Lee is finally getting his sunflowers with his first solo studio album. Always a collaborator or guest feature, it’s taken over ten years of making rap and hip-hop hits for him to step out on his own — it was worth the wait. Swae Lee still rallies up the troops with French Montana, Rich the Kid, Post Malone and Jhene Aiko, just with his artistry stamped at the forefront. Swae Lee has this easy breezy way of flexing between sad boy songs to club hits. He doesn’t take himself too seriously rhyming "flammable" with “cannibal,” but then gives his full heart in the ethereal “Mural,” and melodic trap beat, “Take My Heart.” Other standouts include” “Violet,” “Sneakier,” and “Suitcase.” His lackadaisical lyrics paired with his glittering runs make for an easily digestible sweet treat of earworms. Swae Lee is a dual-natured artist, having the voice of an angel with the poetry of a Fboy who only cares about the big three: cars, money and hunnies. He’s the same, but different. - Marisa Patwa

BLUES WITH BRAGIN

BOB CORRITORE AND FRIENDS

Ernestine Blues

VizzTone Records

Bob Corritore and Friends return with their album Ernestine Blues. The album kicks off with “How’d You Learn to Shake It Like That”. Corritore’s masterful harmonica playing sets the tone for the whole album as Tony Coleman sings about his woman. “Tell Me Darling” sees Carla Denise sing about wanting to be in love. Pat Thomas on vocals and acoustic guitar highlights “Big Fat Mama”. Sugaray Rayford offers a soulful vocal on “Blind Man Cry” about the saddest things he saw in life. “Ernestine” boasts tight drumming from Wes Starr as Tia Carroll sings about the worry of another woman stealing her man.

“Trouble No More” is a toe tapper with Willie Buck on vocals. Johnny Rawls sings about returning to his favorite region after traveling the world in “I Love the South”. “Going Fishing” features Jimi Primetime Smith taking a turn at vocals and guitar. “Troubles on Your Mind” features sultry vocals from Denise and jazzy piano from Ben Levin. “She Might Need Me” features Oscar Wilson from The Cash Box Kings as he sings a soulful ballad about not wanting to travel in case he runs into a former lover. Wilson returns on “Down in Mississippi” as Anthony Geraci masterfully plays the piano. The album ends with “Shoes” as Teeny Tucker sings about owning footwear for every occasion.

For more information, visit www.bobcorritore.com.

SCREEN TIME

WITH MARISA PATWA

May’s “Screen Time” brings a lineup that moves from sharp drama to simmering suspense to unfiltered documentary insight.

DEEP WATER

It’s the year of shark movies. Fresh off the heels of Netflix releasing Thrash, Deep Water is hoping to catapult off its success and keep those deep diving fans ravenous for more razor sharp teeth baddies. Thrash let sharks loose in South Carolina under the guide of a category 5 hurricane, having the aquatic monsters terrorize those stranded during the disaster. Deep Water brings our heroes to the sharks when passengers from an international flight en route to Shanghai, China make an emergency landing in sharkinfested waters. Aaron Eckhart and Ben Kingsley star as the co-pilots who must lead their passengers and crew to safety amidst the ravenous sea creatures. Deep Water begs the question, is it worth surviving a deadly plane crash only to have to fight off sharks in the deep blue sea?

IN THEATERS 5/1

THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2

When the Devil Wears Prada first splashed onto movie theater screens in 2006, it encouraged an entire generation of millennials into high-fashion corporate jobs. They simply wanted to live out their Anne Hathaway as Andy Sachs dreams in The Big Apple. Inspired by the inner-trappings of Anna Wintour’s dominance over luxury magazine Vogue, the fictional Runway, is just as luxurious. 20 years later and Meryl Streep’s icy Miranda Priestly still leads with an iron fist, but is struggling amidst a digital era and decline in ad sales. Looks like Emily Blunt’s Emily Charelston finally got to go to Paris. She’s now a professional rival of Miranda, with Andy brought in to help her former nemesis-in-chief get Runway back on top. The cherry on top of having these iconic characters resurrected two decades after the movie became a box-office hit and cultural phenomenon is them all sharing the screen together again.

IN THEATERS 5/2

BILLIE EILISH - HIT ME HARD AND SOFT: THE TOUR

When Oscar-award winning director James Cameron asks you if he can film your global tour and turn it into a musical documentary, how can you say no? Initially, Billie Eilish was reluctant – who would care? The millions who’ve tuned into similar pop star concert documentaries aka Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato, Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, Beyoncé and so on and so forth say many different things. Thankfully Cameron took a break from the green screen depths of his alien Avatar franchise to come back down to earth to capture our moody, indie pop icon. Of course Jimmy C still had to pull up with the 3-D technology. Because why not? His gift for cinematography are sure to make this concert movie a visual stunner, with Billie Eilish enhancing the film with her heavenly vocals and authentic stage presence. Who better for the “Ocean Eyes” singer to collaborate with on this film than the captain of The Titanic himself?

IN THEATERS 5/8

BOURBON & SPIRIT REVIEW

CAZCABEL

Cinco de Mayo is more than just an excuse to throw a party—it's a vibrant celebration of Mexican heritage, pride, and resilience. And what better way to honor the occasion than with a glass (or two) of tequila? This year, I dove into the world of Cazcabel Tequila, a brand that’s been quietly building a loyal following thanks to its bold character and unique flavor profiles.

CAZCABEL TEQUILA: EARTHY, SMOOTH, AND SURPRISINGLY VERSATILE

Cazcabel is a brand that offers a range of tequilas, from the traditional Blanco to the more adventurous Honey and Coffee infusions. Whether you're a purist or someone who likes a twist, Cazcabel has something in its lineup for you.

Cazcabel Blanco is clean and crisp, with a slight peppery edge and a smooth agave-forward flavor. It’s a solid sipping tequila, but it really shines in cocktails where you want the tequila to be noticed, not masked.

CAZCABEL MARGARITA

If you're planning a Cinco de Mayo celebration (or just need an excuse to mix up a killer drink), try this Cazcabel Margarita recipe.

Ingredients

• 50ml Cazcabel Blanco (or Reposado for a deeper flavor)

• 25ml fresh lime juice

• 20ml triple sec (or Cointreau)

• 10ml agave syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

• Salt for rimming the glass

• Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rim a glass with lime juice and dip in salt. Set aside.

2. In a shaker, add tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and agave syrup.

3. Fill with ice and shake well for 15-20 seconds.

4. Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice.

5. Garnish with a lime wedge and toast to good vibes.

¡Salud! Whether you're dancing in the streets or sipping quietly at home, Cazcabel brings a taste of Mexico worth raising your glass to.

Cazcabel Reposado spends time in American oak barrels, giving it a mellow, woody character that blends beautifully with the earthiness of the agave. It’s warm, slightly spicy, and perfect for those who like a little complexity in their pour.

The Cazcabel Honey is where things get interesting. It’s infused with natural honey, which softens the edges and adds a rich, almost dessert-like note to the tequila. Think of it as the drinkable equivalent of agave nectar with a little kick—it’s dangerously easy to sip straight over ice.

Lastly, Cazcabel Coffee is for those who want their tequila with a bold punch of roasted coffee flavor. Ideal as a digestif, it’s rich, aromatic, and makes a killer twist on an espresso martini.

Overall, Cazcabel has found a sweet spot between tradition and innovation. Their range caters to both tequila aficionados and casual drinkers looking to experiment with flavors that go beyond the ordinary.

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.

NARRAGANSETT LAGER

JABEZ MARTINEZ – 4

This is a slightly hazy amber colored beer. I could smell the citrus right away and the sweet hops. It was pretty hoppy in flavor but didn't coat your tongue like other IPAs do. It did have a 7.5 % ABV. It was also a little malty and pretty easy to drink.

PAUL BRAGIN – 4.5

A thick white head tops this India pale ale and never totally disappears. A strong hop scent fills the nose. The hop flavors remain while drinking the beer and stay on the tongue in the long finish. Pair it with a variety of foods like spicy foods such as curries and Thai dishes with shellfish. You can also pair it with an array of cheeses like pepper Jack, gorgonzola, Limburger or a sharp Cheddar.

JABEZ MARTINEZ - 3

This is a light clear amber colored beer. There is nothing real flashy with this beer but then again what can be flashy with a lager. If you are looking for a nice light summertime beer, this would be a good fit. It is very similar to a bud light. Very light in flavor but then again I just reviewed the previous IPA.

PAUL BRAGIN - 4

A thick white head crowns this golden lager and evaporates slowly. A combination of malt and hops controls the scent profile. A burst of carbonation hits the tongue with the first sip, followed by more of the malt and hop balance. Pair it with a dish like Mahi-Mahi with spinach, mushrooms and chow mein noodles, or pair it with more classic choices such as standard ball park fare like hamburgers, hot dogs and French fries

MAY BEER REVIEWS PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY

PAUL HOLLYFELD– 4.5

This IPA pours a slightly hazy, burnt orange hue. It has citrus on the nose, primarily orange. The citrus is much more subtle on the palette, with a distinct bitterness on the finish. If you enjoy the bitterness of an IPA, you’ll like this one. If you shy away from the traditional IPA bitterness, then you’ll likely not be a fan.

PAUL HOLLYFELD - 4.25

This pours a crystal clear golden as any good lager should, with a thin white head. Fresh beer scent on the nose. Light and crisp on the palette, with good carbonation and a nice clean finish. With very little bitterness, this is a highly session-able beer. 4.25/5

CIGAR CITY BREWING JAI ALAI

News4U May 2026

TABLE of contents

& UPCOMING EVENTS

A QUICK NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

Amy Bradford

TRI-STATE

LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE

EVANSVILLE:

MORE LIVE MUSIC SPOTS

WATCH THEIR FACEBOOK FOR SCHEDULES OF EVENTS!

MAY CONCERT & EVENT GUIDE

CROWDER WITH SPECIAL GUESTS SEPH SCHLUETER AND PATRICK MAYBERRY

BALLET INDIANA PRESENTS: CINDERELLA

EVANSVILLE PHILHAMONIC YOUTH ORCHESTRA SPRING CONCERT

CELEBRATING ROY CARTER

BRIT FLOYD: THE MOON, THE WALL, AND BEYOND

MAY CONCERT & EVENT GUIDE

PBR: CHALLENGE SERIES

FLATLAND CAVALRY: WORK OF THE HEART TOUR

“WEIRD AL” YANKOVIC: BIGGER AND WEIRDER 2026 TOUR

JOURNEY- FINAL FRONTIER TOUR 2026

Summer Auto Prep & Maintenance Keep Your Car Cool This Summer

HOW ABOUT A GAME OF “I SPY”?

Inspired by the City

Rethinking the Hotel Restaurant

More Than Just Dinner

A Sign of Where Things Are Going

Planning a Visit

EVANSVILLE of A TASTE

THE FOUNDRY ROOM

ANYTHING ON WHEELS

WITH TOM LEGGETT

FROM TROPICAL DREAMS TO LOCAL STREETS:

THE STORY OF PARADISE PIZZA AND KOOL SHACK

WHAT'S ON THE

grill

MOTHER’S DAY DINNER, DONE RIGHT

GRILLED SPATCHCOCK CHICKEN

CREAMY MASHED POTATOES

Restaurant

411

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

BACK TO THE

basics

Coates

DOLLARS & SENSE:

MAY MONEY MOVES: BALANCING FAMILY FUN AND REAL LIFE COSTS

QUICK FIT

QUICK FIT

WITH THOMAS BLANE

What is Quick Fit?

Indiana Golden Gloves 2026

Devastatingly Clarifying

CreativeCurrents

Snap Local

Snap Local

Beautiful Blooms

Hartman Arboretum

Ask an

Attorney

WITH LANE SIESKY / SIESKY LAW FIRM, PC

Choosing a Safe First Car for Your Teen

Legal and Insurance Considerations

Set Expectations Early

The Bottom Line

REAL ESTATE RADAR

Sweat, Screens, and Sprinklers

PRESENTED BY PINNACLE REALTY GROUP

COMEDY & CURIOSITIES

THE NIGHT THE LIGHTS WENT OUT ON GREEN RIVER ROAD

THERE WAS NO BETTER PRE-SHOW MEAL THAN SLAMMING DOWN

TRUE CRIME JUNKIE

A LIFE INTERRUPTED: THE CASE OF ATHENA STRAND WITH

THE BUZZ ON

beauty

BEAUTY BETWEEN GAMES, PRACTICES, AND REAL LIFE

REAL-LIFE BEAUTY, FIELD-TESTED

SPF + SKIN

UNDER-EYE REFRESH

LIPS