Don Mattingly planned to just coach for the Philadelphia Phillies this season. That lasted 28 games. Now the club’s interim manager, he’s working under his General Manager son, Preston, and hoping to right the pro baseball team’s ship.
Italianate, Tudor, Colonial, Georgian — no matter the style, local homes have been designed and built with love. This year’s installment of the popular feature includes a modern Victorian, brick beauties, Southern-inspired architecture, and an older home that received a respectful refresh.
Needing a fresh start, Kay L. Cox sought the comfort of home — specifically, her former residence in Posey County. With her husband, Wade McNeill, she transformed a 54-acre North Side property into a splendid recreation of her dream home.
10 In Every Issue
From the Editor Past and Present Tense … Conversations with readers
… Meet this issue’s contributors Where in the world is Evansville Living? … Subscriber Janet Craig reads the magazine to reconnect with her hometown … Mary Ellen Ziliak’s new book recalls the legacy of “Father Jerry”
21 The Bend
Trot across the globe with marathon runner Martha Klueh Evansville Duplicate Bridge Club deals its hand on the longest day of the year
… Visit the grave of Sitting Bull’s nephew at Saint Joseph Cemetery
… Artist Aaron Soulberry’s story comes full circle … The Honey Vines share a journey of love and music … Meet young equestrian Letty McMillan … River City Gooners bond over Arsenal soccer
… Experience America’s 250th birthday celebrations in Colonial Virginia … Set your schedule with our events calendar
55 Dwell
Rick Vaal’s Jasper garage is an auto lover’s dream … A field of color awaits at The Zinnia Meadow
Check out a $2.7 million lakefront home for sale … Plus, don’t miss the Home of the Issue
117 Savor
Caterer Denise Rapp whips up beautiful food via The Moveable Feast… Local strawberries are the main ingredient in these unique food products … Three items to order, if you know ABSeafood’s fresh catches from the Gulf Coast make waves … At Cafe Arazu, the al fresco setting and “new American” fare are a great match … L&K Hometown Cafe spins The Carousel’s tradition … Order from Rockin’ Chicken’s menu of global flavors … Wrap it up with our directory of area restaurants, eateries, and bars
144 Final Detail
Drakkar Noir and nylon: Anthony Head recalls dancing at the under21 Victory nightclub
Sponsored
AT HOME
Home and garden experts share top trends, concepts, and innovations 136 WNIN
Explore WNIN’s upcoming program highlights, guide listings, and stationwide happenings for June and July
Coming Soon
VISIT HENDERSON, KENTUCKY
Explore
Sally Becker, Brodie Curtsinger, Gordon Engelhardt, Anthony Head, Katie Henrichs, Jolie Hunter, Janet Keller, Amanda Krause, Zach Straw, Karon Warren Corey and Casey Wilkinson, Alli Wuertz May | June 2026
Editor & Publisher
Kristen K. Tucker
President, Tucker Publishing Group, Inc.
Todd A. Tucker
Editorial
Jodi Keen
Managing Editor
John Martin Senior Writer
Maggie Valenti Staff Writer
Design Laura Mathis Creative Director
Chanda Ramsey Art Director
Sarah Morgason Senior Graphic Designer
Advertising
Jessica Hoffman Senior Account Executive
Jackson Tucker Account Executive
Adeina Mars Sales and Marketing Coordinator
Digital
Maxwell Tucker Digital Operations Manager
Distribution
Gregg Martin Distribution Manager
Contributors
SUBSCRIPTIONS
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CALENDAR ITEMS, COMMUNITY UPDATES, AND DINING GUIDE
Email events@evansvilleliving.com information no later than eight weeks prior to the magazine cover date. Details may be edited or deleted for space.
ADVERTISING
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MISSION STATEMENT
The staff of Evansville Living strives to inform, instruct, amuse, and entertain our readers, helping them get the most out of living in Evansville and the surrounding area. With each issue, we provide a targeted audience of active, well-educated consumers for our advertisers. We look to positively chronicle the many unique aspects of living in Evansville and the Tri-State to benefit our community.
Last month, our family traveled to Des Moines, Iowa, for the celebration of life service for Nelson Douglas Midgorden, my mother’s younger brother. He died at age 88 after sustaining a hip fracture playing pickleball. The first and only time I played pickleball was 11 years ago with my Uncle Doug and Aunt Maddie when my elder son, Max, and I visited them at their winter home in a 55+ Del Webb community in Mesa, Arizona. I had yet to hear of the craze that would envelope the nation.
At the service held at their church, longtime and new friends described my uncle as a man of few words at times, an observer with a twinkle in his eye and a wry smile and wit (characteristics Maddie associated with his Norwegian heritage). Many friends remembered his active lifestyle: running, golfing, bicycling, hiking — and playing pickleball. About 10 years ago, Doug gave me his memoirs of his childhood, a 14-page document titled, “Growing up in Ioway,” dated 1997. I suspect he found the title funny, a nod to country folks perhaps who mispronounced “Iowa.” At his celebration of life, I read a few excerpts.
He grew up in small-town Iowa and remembered life not as a sequence of milestones, but in moments: the smell of gasoline and exhaust from the garage where his first-generation American, half-Norwegian father worked as a Chevrolet auto mechanic; visits by train to his grandparents’ apartment near Soldier Field in Chicago (where he also ate ice cream on a stick); and an amusing road trip to Southern Indiana:
“Our car was old and unreliable, so one of Daddy’s friends loaned us their car. It was a ’39 Chevy. I think we made the trip because someone was dying. We met a lot of nice people, most of whom I never saw again. On the way to Indiana, Mother gave me a permanent. [This would be my grandmother; he is referring to a permanent wave chemical hair treatment.] I don’t mean in a motel — I mean while driving down the highway. We stopped on the shoulder of the road to rinse it out. To someone who didn’t know Mother, this might sound odd. I didn’t think much about it.”
And then, just as matter-of-factly, enters my father, Jack Reeder: “Mary started dating a guy named Jack Reeder from Indiana. She brought him by our apartment one day. He was tall and skinny and had a flat top like all the other guys.”
Doug closes his memoirs, in part: “I never lived anywhere that I couldn’t walk to open fields and pastures within five minutes. I sometimes dream about living in a small town or in the country, but it probably wouldn’t be the same now. I’m not a little boy growing up in Ioway anymore.”
On the long drive home from Des Moines, Todd and I made an unplanned detour to the small Iowa town where my family lived before we moved to Evansville, where my father grew up. I knew the town was small; I never realized it had only about 875 residents during our two years there or that it remains just as tiny. I also didn’t know that it was a mining town; my parents were schoolteachers. In my memory, the town loomed larger: a big, old white frame house near the square, a place that felt full of life. As we drove through Melcher-Dallas, it was clear time has not been especially kind. The town could use some investment and TLC. We did find our old house — it’s painted dark now. And still standing, just as I remembered, were the bandstand in the square and the water tower proudly bearing the town’s name.
I’m very happy to share company and family news.When Todd and I founded Tucker Publishing Group, Inc., in 1999, our son Maxwell had just turned one; Jackson arrived in 2001. In many ways, this business is all they’ve ever known, though we weren’t sure if either would choose to be involved.
Now, they have. Max, who received an MBA from Butler University in 2022, serves as digital operations manager. He is based in Indianapolis and makes monthly visits to the office. Jackson completed his MBA at the University of Louisville this spring and has joined us as an advertising account manager. He and his fiancée Katherine are building their future in Evansville, with a wedding planned for this fall.
TMT? Too many Tuckers? Welcome, Max and Jackson!
As always, I look forward to hearing from you!
Kristen K. Tucker
kristenktucker letters@evansvilleliving.com
Kristen’s Uncle Doug’s high school graduation photo
Melcher-Dallas, Iowa, town square
Seeing the Eight12 Run Club featured in Evansville Living is a powerful reminder that community always matters.
– JarDan Ramon, founder of Eight12 Run Club, via Facebook
MARCH/APRIL ISSUE
Como’s New Glow
One of the things I love most about Evansville is how much pride people take in the places that matter to them. This story about House of Como’s updated sign is a great example of that — a local landmark that’s been part of our community for decades getting a fresh look while still honoring its history.
– Ben Trockman, 1st Ward City Councilman, via Facebook
Room for Reading
If you tell me you want me to design a library for you, you’re going to see me light up! … It’s always a pleasure partnering with Evansville Living and having interiors photographed by Zach Straw.
– Jennifer Scales, owner of Y Factor Studio, via Facebook
Evansville Living published a piece on home libraries, and our cozy room made the cut. Thank you for the beautiful treatment.
– Joshua Clayborn via Facebook
Shaping the Spotlight
Everyone who knows Sharla Cowden is one lucky duck! … Great job, Managing Editor Jodi Keen, in capturing the essence of Sharla! She’s a gem, and the comment about UE being “a magical place” is 100 percent accurate.
– Lucy Himstedt, Evansville
Garden Glory
The article and pictures look great! My mother especially loved it and said she will forever cherish it! That alone makes my day! Thank you so much!
– Susan Lattner, Evansville
From Earth to Table
We were honored to be featured. Thank you for taking the time to learn about what we do and for sharing us with your readers.
– Woods & Stems via Facebook
Baking Connections
It’s such an honor to share the story behind the bread house and the sourdough we love baking for this community.
– Convivium Micro Bakery & Homestead via Facebook
JANUARY/FEBRUARY ISSUE
A Taste Of Yesterday
I encourage everyone to support your local family owned candy shop, like Charlie’s Candy Shop (in Vincennes). They provide a connection to real chocolate made with skill, love, and an appreciation for true couverture chocolate. Believe me, there is a difference.
– Ken Robinson, co-owner of Bourbon Bonbons, Lexington, Kentucky
Karon Warren
“America’s 250th is a big occasion throughout the country this year, but you couldn’t pick a better spot for a deep dive into its history than Williamsburg.”
She calls Georgia home, but Karon Warren loves traveling the world. Her story on how historic Williamsburg, Virginia, is marking America’s milestone begins on page 28.
Janet Keller
“Reconnecting with childhood friend Rick Vaal brought back many fun memories. He’s a great example of how retirement years can be the most satisfying of all.”
Janet Keller grew up in Jasper, Indiana, and now lives in Newburgh. Put yourself in the driver’s seat with her piece on collector Rick Vaal on page 55.
Katie Henrichs
“So much care goes into designing a home. I hope to bring that same intention to crafting visual stories that capture and reflect each homeowner’s unique vision.”
Kansas City, Missouri, resident Katie Henrichs has a passion for editorial layout. Find her work in the feature on Kay Cox and Wade McNeill’s home starting on page 58.
How do you design a 250th celebration show that feels different from a typical 4th of July?
At Big Kabooms Fireworks, we have a line of fireworks that only do one effect. Most fireworks shoot a bunch of shots in the air and then end with a finale of crackles or breaks. The Pro Level cakes do not have a grand finale ending — the whole cake has one effect. They allow you to create a totally different fireworks display with fireworks effects.
How do you build a large-scale show for the Evansville Otters?
Every show we do for the Evansville Otters is different. Sometimes we hand fire everything. Sometimes we electronically fire everything or use a mix of both. We try to cover the outfield area with an array of effects and fireworks. We choose fireworks from our inventory that go with each theme for the night. For example, the Christmas in July show is a lot of red, green, and gold with effects mixed in.
What fireworks trends are you seeing for 2026 — bigger shows, new effects, or quieter options?
The big trend this year is “Go Big or Go Home” because it’s our 250th anniversary. Most families and neighborhoods are putting their money together for one big show. We carry a full line of low-noise fireworks for those who want their celebration to be a little quieter.
540 State Road 261, Boonville, IN (across from Quail Crossing)
Open Saturday & Sunday until Memorial Day, then open daily
3540 Hogue Road By appointment only Open daily starting June 12 812-760-6324 bigkaboomsfireworks.com
Some of our favorites
• Go Getters – Shoots comet-like streamers through the air
• Falling Leaves – Falls and twinkles straight down
• Fish – Squiggles going in all directions
• Nishiki – Huge gold willows that twinkle and hang close to the ground
Tips for your show
• Make your show 30 minutes or less
• Light fireworks one after another, without any pauses
• Build up to the grand finale (the grand finale should be 15-25% of your fireworks budget)
Around the World and Back
While visiting home in December after a year of global travel, former Evansville residents Penelope and Darrell Pennington picked up a copy of the July/August 2024 issue featuring a story on the decision to sell their home and possessions and travel abroad for three years.
We Salute You!
Connor Day of Newburgh — and the March/April issue — marked the end of his freshman year at The Citadel, the Military College of South Carolina. Joining Day were grandparents Richard and Donna Day of Frankfort, Indiana; brother Keegan, father Joe, and mother Kelli Day, all of Newburgh; and grandparents Jeri and Bob Kenning of Evansville.
SUBSCRIBER OF THE ISSUE
JANET CRAIG
RETIRED AFTER A CAREER
teaching art, Janet Craig remains an artist at heart, and she admires the design and photography found in each issue of Evansville Living
That’s been the case since she began subscribing in 2000, the year Evansville Living launched. Craig grew up in the River City and moved back in 1995 after living in Chicago and Peoria, Illinois, for nearly 20 years. “I just wasn’t feeling connected,” she recalls. “I thought (reading Evansville Living) would be a good opportunity to find out what was going on in the community and get in the spirit.”
In the Mountains
Rachel, Roger, Dee, and Diane Angermeier of Evansville took the March/April issue on a March trip to Parrot Mountain and Gardens in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. They visited The Island in Pigeon Forge and Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Gatlinburg.
On the High Seas
Evansville residents Sharon and Edward Brent Anderson completed a Mediterranean cruise in February and March. The January/February issue was with them when they visited the Cathedral of Seville, the world’s largest Gothic cathedral, while in Spain.
Those memories were rekindled in March when Publisher & Editor Kristen K. Tucker gave a presentation to the Evansville Retired Teachers Association, of which Craig is president-elect. Craig says Tucker’s talk was well-received and a reminder of how Evansville Living continues to be a valuable local information source for many readers, herself included. And, recalling her artist roots, the magazine’s visual elements are “top-notch,” Craig adds. “It’s very eye-appealing.”
– John Martin
bigkaboomsfireworks.com
Official fireworks store of the Evansville Otters
• Huge selection of red, white & blue fireworks
• Over 70 different reloadable canister shells
• Large selection of pro-level firework cakes
• Lots of cool fireworks for kids
• We carry low noise fireworks
We actually shoot what we sell! we specialize in designing fireworks shows!
Live it up. Underground.
You may think you know Kentucky, but you’ll discover surprises at every turn. Explore exhilarating above- and below-ground experiences. Come and play where the future is bright and the adventures are never-ending. Y’all interested? Plan your trip to our new Kentucky home today.
Devotion Without Borders
In-law of ‘Father Jerry’ Ziliak pays tribute to his legacy
By John Martin
For nearly 50 years, the Rev. Jerome Ziliak was a missionary in central India. He helped villagers sustain life through innovative agriculture, and his knowledge led to the creation of schools and clinics. Now, a family member has captured his service in a new book.
Mary Ellen Ziliak is married to Roger, a nephew of “Father Jerry,” and has penned “Touching the Untouchables,” a biography of the Haubstadt, Indiana, native, who died in 2012 at age 92. The Archway Publishing book profiles a man who combined brilliance and compassion: He built a natural gas plant fueled by cow manure, and his research farm produced seed and bumper corn crops suitable for the Indian climate.
Mary Ellen recalls that Father Jerry loved showing slide shows on his infrequent visits. “The first time he went to
India in 1948, his first return home was 1958, and it would be every 5-6 years after that,” she says. “When he came home, it would last a year, and he would travel and do fundraising.”
“A Red Balloon to India,” a piece by Caroline Nellis in July/ August 2000 Evansville Living, introduced readers to Father Jerry’s missionary work. Nellis and Mary Ellen want to preserve his story — sainthood is being pursued through the Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago. They’ve also worked with Saint Benedict Cathedral School to establish a sister site in India.
“His central theme was, all living things are connected — plants, trees, animals, humans,” Mary Ellen says. “It was very
simple and straightforward. He lived that way: Be respectful of everything and everyone around you.” archwaypublishing.com
2026
INDIANA STATE GAMES
The Indiana State Games local 501(c)(3) nonprofit annually hosts events for persons age 50+ to compete in a choice of 25 sporting events by gender, sport, and five-year age increments: 50-54, 55-59, and so on up to 100+. Participants compete recreationally and competitively for Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals.
• Indiana State Senior Games in Evansville & Newburgh (June 3 - 20, 2026)
• Start training for your choice of 25 sporting events
• Support our local non-profit as a participating athlete, be a volunteer, be a spectator, provide a donation, or sponsor us
• Interested in registering, volunteering, or sponsorship opportunities? Contact Holly Schneider with questions: 812-2979568, indianastategames@gmail.com, indianastategames.org
The Bend
POINT OF VIEW
NO FINISH LINE
Martha Klueh’s accomplishments in running almost don’t seem real. She’s finished marathons in every state, and she’s one of around 600 people in the 7 Continents Marathon Club — that’s right, she has raced on each continent. The part-time dental hygienist, mother of three, and grandmother of five recovered from a broken femur suffered in a 2010 bicycle accident and at 67, she says there’s still more pavement to pound.
The Bend
POINT
OF VIEW
Running With Heart
Martha Klueh’s long-distance feats are something to behold
By John Martin
When did you begin running?
I started in high school, when I was a freshman at Harrison. I ran a few miles here and there through my adulthood, and then in 2004, the YMCA began the half marathon. I met some wonderful friends, and we decided after the half in 2006 that we wanted to keep training. We signed up to run the Nashville Marathon in 2007. We kind of got hooked. … We thought, wow, it would be really cool to run the Boston Marathon!
This became a huge part of your life, and then you got injured.
I was on a Sunday afternoon bike ride with a group of running friends. One biker turned around right in front of me, and I did not get clipped out in time. I T-boned their bike and went down. I not only broke my femur but also broke off the large and lesser trochanter. There is a plate and four pins in my femur attached to a screw into my hip. I am reinforced and part bionic now. … The break was so bad that I was immediately fitted with a unit that I wore twice a day to stimulate the lay down of new bone. I went to ProRehab, where they used a stem unit to stimulate my muscles in my leg. I learned to walk again at the three-month mark and began swimming with a master’s group. … Stubbornness and determination and a lot of hard work got me back to running at the seven-and-a-halfmonth mark.
Your accident actually inspired your big running goals.
The doctor told me that I wouldn’t run another marathon, so I was out to prove
GOING THE DISTANCE
that the mind can do anything it sets itself up to. Just to be stubborn and determined, I ran 55 more marathons and an Ironman in Texas. Don’t let anyone tell you something can’t be done! I finished (marathons) in all 50 states in 2020: 47 with friends, two by myself and one with my daughter. I decided to finish the Abbott World Marathon Majors — that’s a series of the six largest, most prestigious races in the world: Boston, New York, Chicago, London, Berlin, and Tokyo. Then, I was only two marathons away from having seven continents, so then it was Australia and Antarctica.
What’s a cool medal you’ve earned?
The most hilarious marathon medal is the one from Little Rock. It is literally as big as your head and extremely heavy.
Describe some memorable races.
I ran across London Bridge and Tower Bridge and (past) so many other London landmarks, then finished at Buckingham Palace. I have run under the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin and the streets of Tokyo. I ran along the beach in Rio de Janeiro and around Table Mountain in Africa. Running across the Harbor Bridge in Australia and alongside the Opera House is a moment to remember.
I have run the beautiful Mount Desert Island in Maine in the fall and through vineyards in California, and down a volcano in Hawaii. The last marathon in Antarctica was the icing on the cake. If you want to go to Antarctica, stay home. (It’s) glaciers and snow and mountains. No penguins. Just freezing cold. Minus 37 degrees Celsius.
Martha Klueh consumes a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with a banana on race days and “always coffee before morning runs,” she says. Quality, comfortable shoes and wicking socks are vital, too — “they should feel good from the minute you put them on,” Klueh says — as well as footwear that fits. To train, Klueh says she and her friends run “all over the city.” The Evansville State Hospital grounds are one spot.“I like the West Side for hills but do a lot of my running on the East Side,” she says. She also cross-trains vigorously: “I run 3-4 days and swim three days a week with a master’s group at Deaconess Aquatic Center, attend Orangetheory, and ride my Peloton.”
What has running taught you?
You have to have friends to get through the long runs, undoubtedly. My husband (Michael) passed away six years ago, and my running friends helped take care of me. They’ve been my life since then — them, and my family. And I think it’s always good to make yourself do something hard. Give yourself a goal. Because if you can do hard things, then when other bad things hit you in life, it makes it easier. It makes you more resilient and stronger mentally and physically.
What’s next?
Traveling the world. I have a bucket list of places I want to go. I also have three friends who have joined me in hiking the national parks the last three years. We are heading to Grand Teton and Yellowstone this summer. It will be hard to top our hikes in Glacier last summer — (it was) one of the most beautiful places I have been.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
What a Deal
Bridge club raises funds to fight Alzheimer’s disease during the year’s longest day
By Jodi Keen
Each summer solstice, members of the Evansville Duplicate Bridge Club show their best hand.
A social club for people who love playing the card game, EDBC also uses its gatherings to benefit community groups. An idea was sparked by the American Contract Bridge League’s Longest Day of the Year event, a fundraiser each June for the Alzheimer’s Association. EDBC began staging a one-day Longest Day fundraiser in June 2012 and raked in $1,638 for charity.
“People get excited about it, they really do,” says Pat Probst, an EDBC member since 2009. Her favorite Longest Day fundraiser was a sunrise-to-sunset event that started at 5:30 a.m. “We came in our pajamas — slippers, robes, hair curlers. It was so much fun seeing everyone in their PJs.”
After setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic, EDBC’s Longest Day campaign is gaining steam: The club raised more than
$15,000 in 2025 and topped $23,000 the year before. Club President Stephen Brouillette says they aim to raise $10,000 at this year’s event June 18.
“The room is packed,” Probst says. “Everybody shows up and is willing to open their pocketbook because it’s for a good cause.” It costs $7 to play, but Brouillette adds that attendees don’t have to be club members to play. They don’t even have to handle cards to make a difference: Longest Day donations are welcome from the public via the club’s fundraiser website.
At the end of The Longest Day, Probst says, the mission is most important: “If we win, we win, but we’re just happy to be there.”
In a pre-1900 section of the quiet, rolling hills of St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery lies a grave with a surprising connection to a national figure.
Finton “Beargrowl” Montochna was a Montana native and nephew of the famous Hunkpapa Lakota leader Sitting Bull, who unified Sioux forces against the U.S. militia in the 1870s in the Battles of the Rosebud and Little Bighorn. Born in the mid-1860s, Montochna — whose surname has been recorded locally with up to four different spellings — traveled to the Midwest 20 years later to study English and German at Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in Spencer County. On New Year’s Day 1886, he fell ill with tuberculosis (then called consumption) and was hospitalized at St. Mary’s, where he died Jan. 19 at age 22. His uncle died four years later during a confrontation with Indian agency police in North Dakota.
Instead of returning to Montana for burial, Montochna’s body was interred locally, as was common at that time. His fellow students erected the white stone monument that marks his grave in Section 6 of St. Joseph Cemetery; present-day visitors also hang dreamcatchers in his honor.
BY
PHOTO
SARAH MORGASON
The Bend
ART TALK
Full Circle
With UE exhibit, collage artist Aaron Soulberry realizes his gallery dreams
By Amanda Krause
Aaron Soulberry was 13 years old when the University of Evansville dedicated the new Melvin Peterson Gallery at the corner of Lincoln and Weinbach avenues in 2010. He grew up in the surrounding East Side neighborhood and regularly walked past the building, remembering it as a former strip shopping center with a bookstore where he would buy trading cards. When it transitioned into an art gallery, it planted a quiet belief that another path was possible for him.
For a time, the New Tech Institute graduate tried more familiar career routes — working third shift at a factory and taking exactly one day of college classes at Ivy Tech Community College — but none felt like the right fit. “This is Evansville; we’re in a blue-collar city. You’re kind of taught to have your fun hobbies, but eventually you’re going to have to grow up and work a trade, go to college, be a business person. And my imagination was just … (My) creativity was just too big for that,” Soulberry says. His journals were filled with drawings and dreams, and he kept coming back to the feeling that he was meant for a different path. He spent hours at Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library, exploring mediums and constructing different styles of art pieces in a studio space that the library offers free of charge.
More than 15 years later, Soulberry returned to the corner of Lincoln and Weinbach avenues — this time, as the artist he once quietly imagined himself to be. As this year’s University of Evansville Artist in Residence, his February exhibition, “A New Shade of Soul,” used bold colors and a layered collage style to reflect on dreaming big, persisting, and the responsibility to share creative energy with others.
Soulberry regularly invites others to participate in his work, especially young artists. He encourages them to see their own imaginations and dreams as valuable
and achievable. For him, art is a form of civic engagement — something to be built, shared, and experienced together rather than viewed from a distance.
Anne McKim, former Executive Director of the Arts Council of Southwestern Indiana, says this spirit of inclusion is the foundation of Soulberry’s craft. “Aaron’s work has always centered on the belief that
everyone is creative, and everyone can take part in the creative process,” she notes. “The University of Evansville turning that old bookstore into a gallery and inspiring him to imagine becoming an artist is exactly what he now does for others.”
Shelbyville, Indiana, native Amanda Krause is the Dean of the Ridgway College of Arts & Sciences at the University of Evansville.
SWEET SOUNDS
The Honey Vines’ love of music runs deep
By John Martin
Every time they take the stage, The Honey Vines perform “Closer to Fine,” the Indigo Girls’ classic 1989 anthem about a search for meaning and truth. It was the first song the pair duetted on, at an open mic night in 2012 at the then-named Lamasco Bar & Grill, and it kickstarted a journey of love and music that the life partners have traveled together since.
Melanie Bozsa and Andrea Wirth bring their own harmonies, warmth, and interpretation to that song, as well as a big bag of other covers from a variety of artists. They have more than two dozen originals, as well. Two of them, “Honest Conversations” and “More Than That,” are available on iTunes, Spotify, and Amazon Music, and more are on YouTube.
Playing at area restaurants and bars, wineries, and festivals — Haynie’s Corner Arts District’s annual Front Porch Fest is one favorite — The Honey Vines have built a fan base while also inspiring students at the Evansville Music Academy, where they teach guitar, piano, and songwriting. Before that, they owned and operated their own private music studio in Newburgh. Bozsa also taught in the Evansville-Vanderbrugh and Warrick County school corporations.
“We do love opening the stage. It’s good for other people to see that somebody can just pop up.”
Andrea Wirth
They are known to invite their students — aspiring musicians of all ages — to jam along with them. “We do love opening the stage,” says Wirth, who hails from Oakland City, Indiana. “It’s good for other people to see that somebody can just pop up. And then maybe they think, ‘That might be something I’d like to do too.’”
The Honey Vines recall that they were once students themselves: Inspired by the acoustic riff that opens Eric Clapton’s “Tears in Heaven,” Newburgh native Bozsa decided at age 15 to learn guitar and picked up a $99 Fender acoustic at East
music shop
The duo has come a long way since: Evansville Living readers named them Best Local Band in 2021 and 2022. They perform around 150 shows a year; two memorable gigs were opening for The Lone Bellow at Spencer County, Indiana’s Lincoln Amphitheatre in 2022 and a 2018 performance at Sarasota, Florida’s Pride festival.
But Bozsa and Wirth are just as happy to sing in more intimate settings, and they keep a busy schedule criss-crossing the region — follow their social media pages to keep up. Along the way, they are padding their list of original songs, “just letting it organically happen,” Bozsa explains. Each Honey Vines performance wraps up with a tune of their own called “Thank You, Goodnight,” a bonding experience for the musicians and their audience. “It’s awesome to see people out there mouthing the words,” Wirth says.
thehoneyvines.com; ema.mymusicstaff.com
Melanie Bozsa and Andrea Wirth
Side
Moore Guitars.
The Bend
WONE TO WATCH
Taking the Reins
Passion and perseverance fuel Letty McMillan’s horse riding success
By Maggie Valenti
hen Tammy Adams says a love of horses “is just born into some girls,” she’s talking about her granddaughter, Letty McMillan. As the owner of Santiago Stables, Tammy got Letty on horses before she could walk. Now, Letty is an 11-year-old fifth-grader at Poseyville’s North Elementary School and has found success competing on Hackney ponies.
“It’s been a fun year,” says Letty’s mother, Alissa McMillan. “We just jumped in headfirst, and we’re living in her coattails.”
Letty is following a path similar to that of her grandmother, aunts, and cousins. Her aunt Remi competed on a roadster called Drumbeat (nicknamed “Jake”), the same horse Letty rides today. Despite being 19
she’s here with me. She knows the responsibilities,” says Tammy, who trained her daughters and granddaughters — including Letty’s younger sister, Sage — in the same discipline. “It fills my heart with happiness.”
In August, Letty and Jake qualified for the 2025 World’s Championship Horse Show in the Junior Exhibitor class of the Roadster Pony Under Saddle division. The pair competed against 16 other horse-andrider combinations, and although they did not win a ribbon at the contest in Louisville, Kentucky, Letty found the experience thrilling. “She can say she showed as one of the top 17 riders in the world in this division,” Alissa says. This March, Letty took home first place in the Hackney pleasure
division is roadster pony under saddle. “I like having a controlled pony but also the freedom to go as fast as you can.”
Her dedication to the sport also earned her the American Hackney Horse Society’s 2025 Spirit of Youth Medallion national award, which she accepted in January at a reception in Las Vegas, Nevada. Meanwhile, Letty keeps straight As in school, competes on her school’s volleyball team, and serves on the student council and safety patrol team.
“Her journey has definitely been the highlight of our lives. She’s very driven and works very hard,” Alissa says. “I love watching her come home with a smile, no matter what. We wouldn’t change it for the world.”
KNOW YOUR SHOW
Hackney Pony: a breed developed in Great Britain that is known for its high-stepping trot.
Roadster Pony Under Saddle: a class in which hackney ponies must demonstrate three distinct gaits: jog-trot, road gait, and “at speed.” Hackney ponies and riders are judged on presentation, speed, quality, and manners.
Pleasure Pony Under Saddle: an English-style class in which hackney ponies and riders must demonstrate a smooth, relaxed ride at a walk and a trot.
IT RUNS IN THE FAMILY Riding and showing is something that has been passed down in the Adams family for three generations. Letty McMillan and her sister, Sage, represent the youngest generation of horseback riders in their family at Santiago Stables. Letty is seen here aboard Heartland Weatherman after winning champion at the Bridlespur Society Horse Show in Lake St. Louis, Missouri.
Red Runs Deep
River City Gooners bond over their love of Arsenal football
By John Martin
For local fans of football — the global variety that most Americans call “soccer” — Patsy Hartigan’s Irish Pub is the place to be for big matches. The River City Gooners, who root for the tradition-rich Arsenal Football Club in North London, England, come out in force when the Gunners kick off. (The “Gunners” nickname dates to 1886 and honors the Royal Arsenal munitions factory where the team’s founders worked). Even when Arsenal loses, there’s bonding over pints of Guinness beer and what the late Brazilian legend Pelé called “the beautiful game.”
The Gooners were born at the nowclosed Doc’s Sports Bar (which was helmed by Patsy Hartigan’s co-owner Joshua Pietrowski). Andy Zellers, whose Arsenal fandom dates to his U.S. Navy service in Japan in the 1990s, watched matches at Doc’s or private homes with three or four friends. Their gatherings grew as the COVID-19 pandemic eased and sports fans were eager for action to resume.
“Soccer in England was one of the first sports to come back during COVID, and so it was really a good opportunity to kind of try to find a group of people that were likeminded Arsenal fans,” says Zellers, who is Director of Financial Aid at Owensboro, Kentucky’s Brescia University. Today, the club has more than 50 Facebook members.
Local “Gooners” — a diminutive for Arsenal fans — reflect Evansville’s worldly population. John Gammon spent his formative years in the United Kingdom and got his first red jersey at age 9. On a trip to the U.K. a couple of years ago, he did the “Legends” tour of Emirates Stadium, where Arsenal plays its home matches. The tour guide that day was Charlie George, a former Arsenal star who scored the club’s winning goal in the 1971 FA Cup Final vs. Liverpool.
“I’ve probably been an Arsenal fan for longer than any of these other people have been alive,” the broker and owner of Evansville’s Gammon Realty said as the Gunners and Manchester City squared off April 19 in a match shown at Patsy Hartigan’s; it was one of the year’s most important Premier League contests.
Debbie Ngeny, whose family arrived from Kenya 17 years ago, discovered the local club via Facebook and says she loves following Arsenal with fellow football fans. “They made me feel at home,” the hospice nurse says.
Arsenal fans are across the U.S., and some River City Gooners have hit the road to connect with others in Indianapolis; Nashville, Tennessee; Louisville, Kentucky; and Saint Louis, Missouri. Zellers says the Gooners likely will get together this
summer when the World Cup is contested in North American cities. At least one club member has tickets to attend a match in Dallas, Texas.
“I think most of us will probably plan on watching it, either here (at Patsy Hartigan’s) or wherever we are,” Zellers says. “Summer’s kind of busy, with travel, with kids, and whatnot. But I’ll try to be down here for as many matches as we can.”
facebook.com/groups/rivercitygooners
LOCAL ARSENAL FOOTBALL CLUB FANS known as the River City Gooners gathered April 19 at Patsy Hartigan’s Irish Pub to view a showdown of the Premier League’s top two squads, the other being Manchester City F.C. The bar was lined with red Gunners jerseys, as well as a few Man City rooters in powder blue as the latter beat Arsenal, 2-1.
Debbie Ngeny
Elizabeth Beck, Erik Beck, and Joe Helfrich
Celebrate America’s 250th
Shaped by history, Williamsburg, Virginia hosts patriotic events year round
AsBy Karon Warren TRAVEL JOURNAL
the U.S. turns 250 years old this summer, celebrations are taking place across the country. Nowhere is this more evident than in Williamsburg, Virginia, given its position at the heart of American history.
“Williamsburg isn’t just part of American history, it helped shape it,” says Selena Coles, public relations specialist for Visit Williamsburg. “As the capital of Virginia from 1699 to 1780, Williamsburg was a political and cultural hub where revolutionary ideas took root. It’s where leaders debated independence, where pivotal moments unfolded, and where Virginia moved toward breaking from British rule. Today, it sits at the heart of Virginia’s ‘Historic Triangle’ (Jamestown, Williamsburg, and
Yorktown), telling the full story, from the first English settlement to the final victory of the American Revolution.”
Throughout the year, visitors can stop in at several historic sites that played a role in America’s birth. This includes Colonial Williamsburg, a more than 300-acre living history museum with restored buildings, trades, and reenactors; Jamestown Settlement, where America’s first permanent English colony began; and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, which offers immersive storytelling of the Revolutionary War.
A great start is “The Flame of Revolution: 5th VA Convention” May 15-16 at Colonial Williamsburg. This live theatrical performance revisits the Fifth Virginia Convention during which
Colonial Williamsburg on July 4
Yorktown Victory Celebration
Jamestown Settlement
the issue of declaring independence was debated. During Memorial Day weekend, join a discussion about loyalty, liberty, and the collapse of British authority during “Talk of the Town 1774.” On Memorial Day, the schedule starts with a commemoration honoring the men and women of the U.S. military who sacrificed their lives in defending their country.
July 4’s Celebration at Colonial Williamsburg is a highlight of the year. “This is the centerpiece event of the entire 250th celebration,” Coles says. “Visitors can expect historic reenactments and readings of founding documents [as well as] performances, concerts, and costumed interpreters. Fireworks and even modern
drone shows light up historic streets, and there will be immersive experiences along Duke of Gloucester Street, the same place where Revolution-era decisions happened.”
At the Yorktown Victory Celebration Oct. 17-18, mark America’s momentous 1781 Revolutionary War victory at Yorktown with artillery firings, exhibits, and interpretive programs. Learn about military life and tactics as well as see a day in the life of a Revolution-era farming family.
“Williamsburg offers access to some of the most important historic sites in America,” Coles says. “Together, these sites let visitors walk through the entire origin story of the United States.”
“Williamsburg offers access to some of the most important historic sites in America.”
Selena Coles, public relations specialist for Visit Williamsburg
Given its rich history as a cornerstone in the birth and development of the U.S., Virginia offers many historic cities beyond the Historic Triangle with notable America 250 celebrations. June 12-14, “Sails on the Potomac” highlights Alexandria’s role in helping construct the foundation of the Revolution via a collection of tall ships, exhibits, live music, and more events.
Opening in July at Mount Vernon, “George Washington: A Revolutionary Life” examines the path of the man who became our country’s first president through artifacts, exhibits, and immersive displays.
In Charlottesville through July 31, visitors can take part in “Jefferson Remembers the Declaration,” a guided theatrical experience at Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello that examines the Declaration of Independence, its creation, and how it shaped the formation of a new nation.
Considering a visit to Williamsburg for America’s 250th?
Start planning now and allow plenty of time to explore. “This is a big year for Williamsburg, so planning ahead is key,” Coles says. “Williamsburg will draw a lot of people, especially July 4. To get the most out of your visit, we would advise visitors to book tickets and lodging early, arrive early for major events (especially fireworks and reenactments), and mix big events with quieter experiences (like museum visits or walking tours).”
visitwilliamsburg.com • va250.org
Colonial Williamsburg Governor’s Palace
Shopping in Merchant’s Square
The Bend
Scene
Tour of Old Vanderburgh County Jail, Courthouse, and Coliseum
▪ MAY 21
History buffs Joe Kiefer and Larry Bristow lead this free walking tour examining three historic Downtown properties.
Veterans Memorial Coliseum, vchshistory.org
Wine Down to the Weekend
▪ MAY 21 AND 28; JUNE 4, 11, AND 18
Relax on the lawn of a French Second Empire mansion with beverages and porch performances by regional musicians.
Reitz Home Museum, reitzhome.com
Evansville Otters: Eras Night
▪ MAY 22
Unleash your inner Swiftie and “Shake It Off” as the Frontier League baseball team hosts the Windy City Thunderbolts. Bosse Field, evansvilleotters.com
African Safari
▪ THROUGH MAY 22
View Larry and Karen Hampton’s wildlife photography in this exhibition.
Henderson County Public Library
Dick and Sheila Beaven Gallery, ohiovalley.art
Movies at the Museum: Rocky
▪ MAY 23
Experience the classic boxing film shown on the Koch Immersive Theater & Planetarium’s 40-foot hemispherical projection with a 10,000-watt digital surround sound system.
Evansville Museum of Arts, History & Science, emuseum.org
Usonian Open House
▪ MAY 23
Tour a 552-square-foot Usonian prototype home designed by Frank Lloyd Wright protege William Wesley Peters on the University of Evansville’s campus. Peters-Margedant House, petersmargedanthouse.com
Franklin Street Bazaar
▪ SATURDAYS MAY 30-AUG. 29
Find local food growers, arts and craft vendors, food trucks, yoga, and live entertainment each Saturday morning.
Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library West lawn, facebook.com/ FranklinStreetBazaar
Strawberry Social
▪ MAY 31
Indulge in signature items like strawberry shortcakes and Derr’s Sodas, plus a raffle, kids’ activities, live music, food trucks, and a vendor mart.
Newburgh riverfront, historicnewburgh.org
Nerd Nite
▪ MAY 28
Nerds, unite! This show follows the format of the global Nerd Nite community in which audience members give short, entertaining talks on topics of their choice. Arcademie, evansville.nerdnite.com
Antiques,
Arts, & Automobiles
▪ MAY 30
Market On Main
▪ WEDNESDAYS JUNE 3-SEPT. 30
Peruse public collections of primitive furnishings, stoneware, folk art, architectural pieces, early furniture, textiles, quilts, pewter items, and local art, plus a pre-1976 car show.
Newburgh Elementary School and Newburgh Museum, newburghmuseum.com
ShrinersFest
▪ MAY 29-30
This annual bash features food and craft vendors, three sets of live music each day, car and bike shows, a Jeep show-and-shine, and half-pot ticket sales. Riverside Drive, shrinersfest.org
PBR: Challenger Series
▪ MAY 30
Strap in for a top-tier Professional Bull Riders showcase at this touring event, with athletic feats, comedic moments, and special surprises. Proceeds support a range of local organizations. Ford Center, evansvillepbr.com
Shop local farmers, bakers, makers, and artisan products. Special events include July’s Power of Produce, with fruit- and vegetable-themed activities offered by rotating community partners. Ford Center Plaza, urbanseeds.org
Indiana State Games
▪ JUNE 3-20
Adults over age 50 compete in recreational sports such as archery, basketball, bowling, cycling, golf, line dance, pickleball, and swimming, for the chance to qualify for the 2027 National Senior Games. indianastategames.org
Good Shepherd Summer Social
▪ JUNE 4-6
Kick off Catholic parishes’ season of socials at this annual event featuring a silent action, rides, games, and food choices including well-known fried chicken and pork chop dinners.
Good Shepherd Catholic Church, gsparish.org
Wine Down to the Weekend
First Fridays
▪ JUNE 5
Food and entertainment mix at these gatherings in the city’s lively arts district.
Haynie’s Corner Arts District, facebook.com/ HayniesCornerArtsDistrict
1st Fridays Cruise-In
▪ JUNE 5
Join Pacemakers Car Club members for this classic car celebration that includes music, awards, door prizes, and more the first Friday of each month through September. North Main Street, facebook.com/ PacemakersCarClub
River City Pride Parade & Festival
▪ JUNE 6
Kick off Pride Month with this celebration of inclusivity and equality. In addition to the noon parade, the day and evening includes drag shows, live music, food trucks, and more than 100 local vendor booths. Main Street, rivercityprideindiana.org
Tepe Park Market
▪ JUNE 6
Shop for local food and beverage products and artwork at this free community event the first Saturday of the month (except July 4) through October.
Bedford Collab, facebook.com/ bedfordcollab
Road
Knights Cruise-In
▪ JUNE 7
Enter your cool car for a chance to win dash plaques, custom trophies, and more at this vehicle show the first Sunday of each month through October.
East Side Arby’s, evansvilleroadknights.com
Music in the Park
▪ JUNE 11
Country-rock band Haywire kicks off Evansville Parks Foundation’s free bi-monthly concert series set in green spaces across the city. Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library West Branch, evansvilleparksfoundation.org
Titanic: The Musical
▪ JUNE 11-14
Regional students present the emotional storytelling behind the famous maritime tragedy at EVSC Foundation’s annual musical. University of Evansville’s Shanklin Theatre, evscfoundation.org
International Market
▪ JUNE 12
Sample authentic cuisine from around the globe and enjoy shopping, music, and dance performances at this celebration of the city’s multiculturalism. Main Street, downtownevansville.com
West Side Nut Club
Cruise-In
▪ JUNE 13
This annual car show features all makes and models of cars, trucks, and bikes, plus a half-pot raffle. West Franklin Street, nutclub.org
Aladdin
▪ June 13
Missoula Children’s Theatre’s free touring show stages an adaptation of Aladdin’s tale featuring local elementary and middle school students in the cast.
McGary Middle School, evscfoundation.org
Zoo Brew
▪ JUNE 13
Go wild at this adults-only event featuring wine and craft beer tastings, live music, and food trucks. Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden, meskerparkzoo.com
Golden Raintree Antique Show and Vintage Market
▪ JUNE 13-14
Dealers selling antique and vintage jewelry, furniture, textiles, quilts, art, stoneware, glassware and more will be on hand for this well-attended event.
Main Street and Ribeyre Center, New Harmony, Indiana, visitnewharmony.com
Art
in the Garden
▪ JUNE 14
Admire art displays while touring SWIMGA’s 1.2-acre curated garden, which includes an iris walk, Japanese garden, native plants, berry patch, and pollinators garden. Southwestern Indiana Master Gardener Association’s Display Garden, swimga.org
W.C. Handy Blues & Barbecue Festival
▪ JUNE 17-20
This free summer staple is still singin’ the blues after 35 years, honoring the life and legacy of William Christopher Handy. This year’s musical lineup includes sets by Evansville natives The Cold Stares, as well as Grammy-nominated, New York City-based blues performer Shemekia Copeland. Downtown Henderson, Kentucky, handyblues.org
Sommerfest
▪ JUNE 18-20
Self-billed as “Southern Indiana’s Finest Bierstube,” this annual bash offers rides, food, nightly entertainment, a 5K run, and parade. Haubstadt Park, Haubstadt, Indiana, haubstadtsommerfest.com
Juneteenth Celebration
▪ JUNE 19
Hosted by Evansville Cultural Experience, festivities include food, crafts, art, and merchandise sales. Bayard Park, facebook.com/ EvansvilleCulturalExperience
Salute to the Negro Leagues
▪ JUNE 19
Otters baseball players don Negro League jerseys for this annual tribute game. Bosse Field, evansvilleotters.com
Time Travel Ball
▪ JUNE 20
Dress as your favorite American era or icon at this adults-only fundraiser themed around the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Friedman Park Event Center, newburghmuseum.com
SWAT Fest Community Car Show
▪ JUNE 20
Browse cool cars, trucks, and law enforcement vehicles at this free community event.
Old National Bank parking garage, evansvillepolicefoundation.org
Firefly Festival
▪ JUNE 26-27
Show your love for Say’s Firefly, the state insect first described in New Harmony in 1826 by naturalist Thomas Say. Enjoy firefly viewing tours, flow dance parties, period theater, and historic presentations. New Harmony, Indiana, visitnewharmony.com
Independence Day
Celebrations
▪ JULY 3
Themed floats lead the procession into a day of entertainment including a jubilee, food trucks, live music, games, and fireworks.
Downtown Newburgh, newburghmuseum.com
Fireworks on the Ohio
▪ JULY 4
The riverfront is the place to be for this free show marking America’s 250 birthday. Riverside Drive, downtownevansville.com
W. C. Handy Blues & Barbecue Festival
Sommerfest
Congratulations!
Maria Bajaras
Sam Pfender
Parth Patel
Dharbi Byrne-Bodart
Vrinda Sheel Castle HS
Callie Tyler FJ Reitz HS
Jacob Chambliss Castle HS
Middendorf
Madelyn
A Family Reunion
Don Mattingly joins forces with son Preston in leading Philadelphia baseball
BY GORDON ENGELHARDT
Don Mattingly has been here before, helping revitalize a talented but struggling fran chise. When he managed the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2013 and ’14, they were 9 1/2 and 10 games, respectively, out of first place in June. They went on to win the National League West Division title both seasons. Déjà vu, anyone?
With aspirations of advancing to the World Series for the first time since 2022, the Philadelphia Phillies sputtered out of the gate this season with a dismal 9-19 record, and Manager Rob Thomson was fired April 28.
Enter Mattingly. Hired prior to the 2026 season as the Phillies’ bench coach, the 1979 Reitz Memorial High School graduate was named interim manager the same day Thomson was let go. Mattingly already had entered the season in a unique situation by working for his son, Preston, who serves as the club’s general manager. They are believed to be the first father-son manager-general manager combination in Major League Baseball history.
Don may be Preston’s father, but he is well aware Preston is his boss. “It is different for me and would be different for anybody,” Don, who spent the past three seasons as the Toronto Blue Jays’ bench coach, told Evansville Living in January. “The way the game has changed has made it easier. Ten or 15 years ago, it wouldn’t have happened.”
“When you peel back the layers for myself and Dad and the Phillies organization, we share a big goal, which is the World Series,” Preston said in a January interview. “I think it’s a great fit.”
But, the Phillies’ dream of another promising run went up in smoke, at least at the start of the season. When Thomson — who Don knew from when they were members of Joe Torre’s Yankees coaching staff — was dismissed in April, the Phillies trailed the firstplace Atlanta Braves by 10 1/2 games in the NL East. According to Baseball Reference’s Kenny Jackelen, Don is the MLB’s lone manager to bring his team from 9 1/2 games out or worse to finish first two years in succession.
Elevating Don may have seemed an unusual choice, at least on the
surface: After more than four decades in professional baseball, he had remarked that he didn’t have the energy to manage again. He turned 65 on April 20 but has the full confidence of Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski, who in January Don called “an outstanding baseball guy.” In turn, he had a simple explanation for changing his mind about managing: because Dombrowski asked.
Don will serve as the Phillies’ interim manager through the 2026 season. He says major league front offices have become much more hands-on in day-to-day operations in recent years, creating a comfort zone that wasn’t there before. “I always felt the guys could trust me,” Don says. Preston agrees that Phillies players don’t have to worry about their now-interim manager running upstairs to the front office with clubhouse information, even if the general manager is his own son. “Normally, the front office goes hands-on,” Preston says. “I’m not that concerned.”
Both Mattinglys are in Philadelphia for one reason. “Players are here to win,” Don told reporters April 28 after getting promoted. “Preston’s here to win. Dave’s here to win. I’m sure ownership is here to win, and the fans want to win. It all comes back to what? Better baseball.”
Despite Don’s knack for turning teams around, it won’t be easy. The Phillies’ disastrous start marked their worst 28-game opening since 2002. Dombrowski courted former Boston Red Sox Manager Alex Cora about the possibility of succeeding Thomson, but Cora — barely a day after being cut loose by Boston — declined. Dombrowski then turned to Don.
After the elder Mattingly was announced as the Phillies’ new bench coach in January, Dombrowski told reporters that he wasn’t concerned
DaveDombrowskiandP
Don Mati n gl y
about anything coming from the clubhouse up to the front office that shouldn’t. “I think you also have to be cognizant of the people that you’re talking about and the credibility that they have,” Dombrowski said. “When you start talking about Don and Preston, you’re talking about two people that have immense credibility, and so there’s nothing that’s going to come down there. Confidentiality is still confidentiality.”
Preston’s
Journey to GM
Was it drive, determination, or talent that catapulted Preston to general manager? “All of the above,” Don says.
Dealing with the pressure of being the esteemed retired Yankee’s son, Preston was a first-round draft choice of the Dodgers, the 31st overall selection, out of Central High School in 2006. He stalled at the Class A level, ending his minor league career with a .232 batting average. Undaunted, Preston switched to basketball, where at age 26 he played Division I ball for Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas.
Returning to baseball, he worked his way up in management, originally spending five
years scouting for the Padres of San Diego, California before joining the Phillies in 2021. He was named Philadelphia’s GM in 2024. “His journey led him here,” Don says, noting that Preston’s visits to the Yankees locker room when his father was a player helped him become comfortable in major league surroundings. “He started at San Diego at the very bottom. He’s come a long way.”
Preston, 38, says his passion and experience helped him grow. “If things don’t go your way, you get back up and dust yourself off,” he says. He came into the top job when analytics are considered more important than what a scout, coach, or manager may see with their own eyes. Preston embraces modern technology, blending that with his gut feeling. “They are pieces to the puzzle,” he says. “We rely on evaluations and instincts. If you don’t (use technology), you fall behind. You want to use as many tools as you can.”
Preston, the second-oldest of Don’s four sons, would like nothing more than to help guide Philadelphia back to the World Series, with his father at the helm. “We have a great organization,” he told Evansville Living in January. “Hopefully it will happen this year.”
Finally, a Trip to the World Series
With his wife, Lori, and their 11-year-old son, Louie, cheering him on, Don finally participated in his first career trip to the World Series in fall 2025 after what MLB.com writer Sweeny Murti counted as 5,231 games as a player, coach, and manager. Despite the Blue Jays’ eventual loss in seven games to the Dodgers — a team Don served as coach from 2008-10 before becoming their manager — he calls the experience unforgettable.
“It was awesome. It was quite a ride,” Don says. “We had a good group of guys, and nothing was easy along the way. They played the same way they had played during the regular season and didn’t want to lose.” Although the Dodgers are a juggernaut, Don says they were beatable. “We outplayed them, honestly,” he says. “The ball didn’t bounce in our favor.”
Don led the Dodgers to three successive NL West Division championships as manager but never advanced to the Series. He guided L.A. to the NLCS in 2013, when they lost to the Saint Louis Cardinals. In his final year as a player, Don’s two-run double gave the Yankees a 4-2 lead over the Mariners in the sixth inning of decisive Game 5 of the 1995
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American League Division Series. But Seattle rallied to post a 6-5 victory in 11 innings. Ironically, “Donnie Baseball” hit the final home run of his storied career — a go-ahead solo homer in Game 2 — off fellow Evansville native Andy Benes and finished the series with a .417 batting average. Achingly, the Yankees won the World Series the next season.
Don posted a .307 batting average for the Yankees from 1982-95, was a six-time AL AllStar and a nine-time Gold Glover winner, an AL record for a first baseman. He won the 1984 AL batting title and was the 1985 AL Most Valuable Player. Schneider, the now 45-year-old Blue Jays manager, recalls tacking his future bench coach’s iconic “Hit Man” poster on his bedroom wall as a kid.
Once his playing career was over, Don was Joe Torre’s bench coach in 2004 as the Yanks held a seemingly commanding 3-0 series advantage over the Boston Red Sox in the ALCS, only to lose four in a row. He coached the Yankees from 2004-07 and the Dodgers from 2008-2010 before landing the job as the Dodgers’ manager from 2011-2015. While managing the Miami Marlins from 2016-2022, he earned NL Manager of the Year honors in
2020 as the Marlins earned their first playoff berth since winning the 2003 Fall Classic. Don and Miami parted ways after the 2022 season.
New York retired his No. 23 jersey, making him the lone Yankee with his number retired without having won a World Series with the team. Now, he hopes to check that box with the Phillies.
A Baseball Lifer’s New Chapter
After his contract expired with the Blue Jays in fall 2025, Don thought his days in the dugout might be over. “I knew that was it in Toronto,” says Don, who lives in Evansville each off-season. “I thought it was time to come home, but (Louie) seemed to be having such a good time after going to the World Series that he didn’t want it to be done.”
But Don really didn’t want to manage again. “It is a lot because you don’t really have an offseason,” he told Evansville Living before spring training for the 2026 season. “You have to meet with the media twice a day and deal with the front office and free agency and contracts. I don’t want to say I didn’t have the energy to manage again. It was probably more about drive, if I wanted
to do that much. I’m more of a teacher.” But his next words eventually proved prophetic: “I’ll help any way I can.”
As for changing the trajectory of the Phillies’ season, Don’s words during his first Phillies media availability as manager were simple: “You’ve got to turn the page.” The Phillies responded by shutting out the San Francisco Giants that night and winning five of the next six games under their new manager.
Preston, Don, Louie, and Lori Matingly
THANK YOU DONORS!
United Way of Southwestern Indiana gratefully recognizes our Leadership Donors whose generous contributions to the 2025 campaign made our vital community work possible. These gifts of $1,000 or more are invested into Vanderburgh, Warrick, and Spencer Counties, funds that meaningfully advance solutions to our communities’ most pressing challenges.
Alexis de Tocqueville Society
This society represents the highest level of philanthropic leadership in our community. Members demonstrate extraordinary commitment through annual gifts of $10,000 or more, setting a powerful example for generosity and civic responsibility. Their leadership inspires others and provides the resources needed to build a community where every person can thrive.
Ordre d’Egalité
($50,000+)
Alan and Sharon Braun
Cecil A. and Mabel Lene Hamman Foundation
Cindy and Bob Koch
Ordre de Liberté
($25,000-$49,999)
M. Susan Hardwick
Kevin and Margaret Koch
Jim and Mary Kay Muehlbauer
Jim and Tricia Ryan
Jim and Becky Sandgren
Ordre de Marquette
($20,000-$24,999)
Scott J. Evernham
Ordre de LaSalle
($15,000-$19,999)
Gene and Linda Aimone
James and Amy Porter
John and Diane Schroeder
Chris and Niki Traylor
Membres de la Société
($10,000-$14,999)
Martha Ahlers
Tim and Sue Brauer
Tim Burke
Carl and Kay Chapman
David Childs
Steve and Stacey Church
Stephanie and Alan Clark
Greg and Joyce Donaldson
Heidi M. Dunniway, MD
Ken and Carrie Ellsperman
Kyle Fields
Jared and Cindy Florence
Gary and Paula Gerling
Josh and Katy Gilberg
Dan and Laura Hoefling
Bob and Lisa Jones
Wayne and Beth Kinney
David and Sharlet Koch
David and Marsha Lambert
Mark and Lynn Lingafelter
Tom Magan
Amy and Chuck Mangold
Shawn and Joan McCoy
Eric and Sara Miller
Peter and Carrie Mogavero
Glen and Ann Muehlbauer
Brad and Lynn Muehlbauer
D. Patrick O’Daniel
Bob and Susan Parsons
Taylor and Jenny Payne
Ronald and Connie Romain
Dr. Bradley and Allison Scheu
George and Teresa Stanley
Dr. Terry and Kathy Talley
Bill and Patricia Theby
Nancy Traylor
Brian and Kendra Vanzo
Ken and Cheryl Wathen
Linda E. White
Keel Club
Just as the keel of a ship provides structural strength and support for its framework, Keel Club members provide a solid foundation for United Way’s initiatives. Through their annual gift of $1,000 or more, these benevolent donors ensure our programs remain accessible to underserved and marginalized communities.
Admiral
($5,000-$9,999)
Mike and Jayne Allerellie
Curt and Kelley Begle
Timothy and Sharon Bray
Alexander and Theresa Chang
The Eykamp Family
Bob and Phyllis Fenneman
Raghav Gupta, MD, FCCP
John and Julie Lamb
Daniel Lee
Edgar and Roberta Mulzer Foundation
Doug and Lora Petitt
Dr. Thomas Stratton
Joseph T. Theby IV
Commodore
($2,500-$4,999)
Joshua and Amy Barron
Matthew and Amanda Bohleber
Charles and Barbara Compton
Drs. Jack Deppe and Shari Barrett
Michael DiRienzo
Tina and Chris Farrington
Matt and Kristen Folz
Jeff and Amy Gorman
James and Leslee Gribbins
Chandler and Jingle Igleheart Hagey
Jeff and Tricia Hollander Henning Family
C. Mark and Joyce Hubbard
Brant and Stephanie Kennedy
Daniel Knadler
Marti Lancaster
Richard and Ashley Leger
Mr. and Mrs. Jim McMurray
Pam and Kenny McNeil
Kelly Reisinger
Mark and Tricia Samila
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Smythe
Jeff and Laurie Wilmes Steve Witting
Captain
($1,500-$2,499)
Scott Ambrose
Tony Aylsworth
Josh and Jordan Beach
Matthew S. Beasley
Jeffrey Berger
Kathy and Stephen Briscoe
Robert and Jennifer Bromm
Amy and Kevin Canterbury
Allison and Brian Comstock
Dan Cusic
Dan and Erin Diehl
Julie Dingman
Ty Eblen
Monica and Patrick Edwards
Amy English
Jake R Fulcher
Jody and Tom Giles
Mike and Susan Head
Margaret Hendricks
Tania Herke
Brent Hill and Janet Wandling
Cheryl A. Hillenbrand
Ashley and Cameron Hollen
Dean Holmes
Jon and Lisa Hubers
Joann Hunter
Gary and Linda Husky
Seth Johannemann
Most Beautiful Homes
Homes form a picturesque backdrop of local life, and while facades can be beautiful, it’s the stories inside that make homes shine. Ahead, learn what makes eight residences — from an 1880s Italianate villa to charming Southern-inspired custom builds — feel like home for the people who live there.
STORIES BY EVANSVILLE LIVING STAFF, WITH JOLIE HUNTER • PHOTOS BY ZACH STRAW
WHY IT STANDS OUT: Moving from Atlanta, Georgia, to Evansville in 2023, George Evans and Marcus Johns were drawn to what Johns calls “a classy, timeless style” with decorative molding, louvered doors, and three fireplaces. But they felt updates were needed. Outside, they painted the red brick cream, keeping the home bright but avoiding the starkness of pure white. Adding warmth is the mahogany front door with glass inserts. Colonial Classics Landscape & Nursery installed a new front landscape with dogwoods, hostas, hydrangeas, petunias, and liriopes, plus rows of boxwood along the walkway. Owensboro, Kentucky’s NiteLiters, Inc., delivered exterior lighting, illuminating the outside’s fresh, new look. Inside, Evans and Johns partnered with Signature Homes by Tony Arvin to remodel the kitchen and several bathrooms. There’s ample space for Evans’ impressive Christmas village collection, and the garage fits his three classic vehicles. The couple and their two corgis enjoy hosting a party during the holidays, inviting friends and neighbors over for dinner, and breathing new life into the 65-year-old residence. “This home has a timeless, almost genteel presence,” Johns says. “We think she is quietly delighted with her refresh.”
Most Beautiful Homes
East Chandler Avenue
LOCATION: East Side: Lincolnshire Historic District
WHY IT STANDS OUT: Growing up just south of Lincolnshire, Michael Pruitt noticed this stunning Tudor Revival while walking to classes at Saint Benedict Cathedral School and Reitz Memorial High School. “It was one of my favorite houses,” he recalls. Michael and his wife, Betsy, snatched it up for themselves 14 years ago, and “we have loved every chapter of living here,” Betsy says. “When we moved in, our kids” — the Pruitts have four — “were at Saint Ben’s and Memorial, and now, they still come home, with their significant others and children. We have added an extra bedroom, making sure it’s always a place to land.” Its large chimney in front is a unique feature; it pokes out of a roof with an imposing vertical slope. Michael cites the house’s “great front porch and side porch off my office.” Speaking of porches, the Pruitts are big fans of the Lincolnshire Front Porch Fest staged on surrounding streets each autumn because it spotlights the neighborhood’s mix of French, English Tudor, Colonial, and cottage design styles. The Pruitts credit PMG Landscaping and Matt’s Turf and More for boosting their property’s curb appeal. The house, Michael says, is “beautiful, quirky, and has some scars — kind of like us.”
York Road
LOCATION: East Side: St. Michael’s Court
DESIGNER AND BUILDER: Rick Doss Homes, Inc.
YEAR BUILT: 1989
STYLE: Georgian Colonial
SIGNIFICANT STATS: Approximately 9,000 square feet, 5 bedrooms, 6 full and 2 half bathrooms
WHY IT STANDS OUT: Kathy Berry fell in love with Southern architecture during trips to the East Coast. When the time came for her and her late husband, John, to build a home to raise their three sons, she knew where to turn for inspiration. “I took pictures of the homes in Savannah and Charleston and tore pictures from magazines to get ideas,” she says. Homebuilder Rick Doss designed an elegant residence with molding, formal elements, five fireplaces, and a large kitchen with a wood-burning fireplace that the Berrys always wanted. Hand-molded oversized red brick is laid in a Flemish bond (a whole brick, then a half brick) on the symmetrical facade. Four dormers cover arched windows decorating the roof of the three-story brick home. Holly trees, boxwood, burning bushes, azaleas, and hydrangeas line the elevated brick front walkway — and inspire the floral artwork Kathy, a devoted gardener, creates to benefit The Women’s Hospital’s Garden of Peace. She now shares the home with her husband, Jeff. “The inside is very Southern, but we’ve been told it’s such a warm, comfortable house,” Kathy says. “That just really pleases me because that’s my aim.”
Washington Avenue
LOCATION: East Side
BUILDER: Unknown
YEAR BUILT: 1949
STYLE: French Country
SIGNIFICANT STATS:
8,000 square feet, 6 bedrooms, 4 full and 2 half bathrooms
WHY IT STANDS OUT: The statuesque home just east of Ascension St. Vincent’s hospital campus is a standout, and Phyllis Stilwell Johnson certainly noticed it — she drove by frequently, admired its grandeur, and bought it about a dozen years ago with her husband, Dr. David Johnson, who passed away in March 2025. Their first goal? Restoring the original yellow hue. “It had changed over time to more of a sand color,” Stilwell Johnson says. “I remembered the beauty of the house (when it was) new.” Deciding the exterior needed more than a paint job, the family also worked hard on landscaping, planting azaleas, fire bushes, and lilacs to go with tulip trees. “I call it ‘the forest,’” Stilwell Johnson says. She decorates the large front porch for holidays. “I enjoy that it has the second, smaller porch area that I can use when I go in and out to the bush and growth area,” she says. The original small home on the site was part of Hebron Meadows subdivision; late commercial realty developer Robert Woodward Jr. and his family tore down most of that structure and added the existing home soon after buying the double lot in 1999. Stilwell Johnson says it continues to serve her family well: Three children and eight grandchildren often come calling. “It’s very open and user-friendly, and that’s why I’m staying,” she says.
Most Beautiful Homes
Victoria Green Boulevard
LOCATION: East Side: Sutherland subdivision
BUILDER: John Pickens
YEAR BUILT: 2007
STYLE: Southern Victorian
SIGNIFICANT STATS: 2,532 square feet, 3 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms
WHY IT STANDS OUT: When Sandy Feagley first saw a commercial for a new development called Sutherland, she often drove through to admire its Southern splendor. But it took her son, Brian, moving into the neighborhood and a nudge from her granddaughter, Kiah, for Sandy and her husband, Stephen, to relocate from Newburgh in 2020. “Living close to my son and my daughter-in-law is a blessing,” Sandy says. She was drawn to the neighborhood by “the architecture and how beautifully the homes were kept.” Sandy’s favorite place to relax is the sunroom, but she also enjoys the walled-in lot’s privacy, plus a surrounding sense of community. “People walking always stop to say something when we open the gates of our back patio,” she says. Heart pine floors are original, as are the crown molding, wraparound front porch, and boxwood installed for original owner Richard Campbell. Stephen enjoys the small patios and easy-to-maintain outdoor spaces dotted with hydrangeas, mountain laurel, Japanese maples, colorful nandina, variegated liriope, ornamental grasses, coral bells, and an azalea. He also takes care of the small koi pond installed by Colonial Classics Landscape & Nursery. When passing by, walk alongside the home to catch a glimpse of its impressive hostas.
Southeast Second Street
LOCATION: Riverside
Historic District
DESIGNER: Josse Vrydagh
YEAR BUILT: 1871
STYLE: Italianate
SIGNIFICANT STATS: About
5,000 square feet, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
WHY IT STANDS OUT: Chapters of River City history are packed in the house near First Presbyterian Church where David and Chris Brown have lived since 1998. During World War II, it was a boarding house for workers who built landing ship-tanks at Evansville Shipyard. Completed in 1871 for lawyer, judge, and civic leader Asa Iglehart and his family, the house still casts a dignified presence today. The muted sage green paint, added by the Browns shortly after they moved in, “complements the cream/white trim,” Chris says. Landscaping handled by the couple pops with red, pink, and white azaleas and an iron bench and birdbath. Passersby often take notice and stop for pictures or even videos: “We love that people enjoy our yard and feel extremely flattered that they would choose to use it as a backdrop,” Chris says. She and David are empty nesters with kids and grandkids who visit, and they plan to stay put in their statuesque 19th century home along with their Bernadoodle, Bradley. “Any home requires maintenance and expenses, and so does this,” Chris says. “But I feel like it’s worth it. I feel very happy here.”
Canterbury Drive
LOCATION: East Side: St. Michael’s Court
BUILDER: Paul Rundus
Construction
ARCHITECT: Dan Engelbrecht, Hafer
YEAR BUILT: 1986
STYLE: Williamsburg-inspired
SIGNIFICANT STATS: 6,114
square feet, 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms
WHY IT STANDS OUT: Dennis and Margaret Haire were comfortable in their 1937 French Normandy home in Lincolnshire, but a desire to grow their family made them consider relocating. An open lot on the hilltop on Canterbury Drive — “Our grandkids call it Fort Canterbury,” Dennis says — let them build to their specifications and have a panoramic view of the neighborhood. Wanting to keep the charm of an older home, the Haires were drawn to Williamsburg, Virginia, architecture. “We’ve always liked the aesthetics of Colonial homes,” Margaret says. “We designed for our family, but also wanted the layout to flow nicely.” The couple relied on bricks, pecan hardwood, and virgin heart pine beams and columns from an 1855 Henderson, Kentucky, cotton mill. Cast iron stars from the mill add a decorative touch. With the antique brick and divided light windows (in which narrow muntins break up the glass panes), it “looks old but has a lot of modern elements,” Dennis says. Margaret frequents the garden room, which has a 13-foot ceiling, a large half-circle window, and double-glassed six-foot door. One of Dennis’ favorite spots is the antique pecan-floored library, where the Haires house their books, specifically those related to Evansville and Civil War history. “It’s a calming room,” Dennis says. “There’s always something to read.”
WHY IT STANDS OUT: This home is the new kid on a very old block. After setbacks renovating a traditional Victorian, as written about in the September/October 2022 issue, Cindy and Steve Basinski changed tack and built a new Victorian dream home. Four years after moving into Newburgh’s historic Downtown, they’re still in heaven. “It has a fresh feel to it,” Cindy says. The statuesque exterior with its fish-scale roof, copper-topped bay window, and gingerbread trim has become a popular backdrop for prom and wedding parties, who pose in front of the white-painted Western red cedar, red brick stairs, custom high-gloss red mahogany double front doors, and manicured landscaping. “I love that we’re part of people’s memories,” Cindy says. “It’s nice to have people appreciate your home in that way.” After living on a secluded lot on Newburgh Road, the Basinskis enjoy being in the middle of the action. “Lots of people come by and say, ‘You did a really good job renovating this house!’ That’s perfect; we wanted it to seem like it was here all the time,” Cindy says. “We accomplished what we set out to do.”
Walk into Pat Coslett’s Simplicity Furniture store, and it’s clear that this place is more than just a furniture store. Instead, visitors often are greeted by the sound of a guitar being strummed. The scent of fresh-baked chess pies wafts around the store, as do endless peals of laughter. Pat likes to describe Simplicity Furniture as “the only furniture store in the world where it’s not about the furniture. It’s difficult to explain, really — please see for yourself!” This philosophy extends from the front door into the showrooms.
At the heart of it all stand Dan and Chuck Grady: brothers, salesmen, and blind by inheritance, not by limitation. Born into a family of eight children, Chuck and Dan have been part of Simplicity for nearly 15 years. Hereditary blindness affects the men in their family and progresses with age. It’s part of their story, but it’s not what defines them. Upon entering Simplic ity, customers notice how welcoming the pair are and feel right at home talking with them.
“Building relationships with the people who walk in is the best part,” the Gradys say. “It’s hard to come in and mope around here.”
Chuck and Dan are more than just salesmen. Music has always been part of their lives, and before joining Simplicity, the brothers performed together for years as the Grady Brothers. They still play instruments lingering throughout the store. That sense of connection permeates everything they do, from helping customers choose furniture, to creating a space that feels welcoming to everyone. There’s not much these two brothers can’t do!
Dan Grady
Chuck Grady
Dwell
SPACES
AUTO-LOVER’S DREAM
Rick Vaal’s Jasper, Indiana, garage gleams with more than polished metal. It’s packed with decades of stories, from childhood visits to gas stations to a life spent collecting, building, and remembering. Every detail, from neon signs to classic cars, reflects a man who turned passion into something unforgettable.
More Than Cars
A Jasper auto collector’s garage becomes a personal museum
By Janet Keller
When Rick Vaal was a child, he had an unusual talent: He could identify the make of a car simply by listening to its motor. “A Chevy. A Ford. A Pontiac,” he would say, as vehicles from several blocks away suddenly came into view. His buddies were duly impressed.
A native of Jasper, Indiana, Vaal grew up in the 1960s in a farming family that had a passion for cars. Some of his fondest memories involve visiting the local Sinclair gas station on Friday nights, accompanying his uncles who were sprucing up their cars for Saturday night dates. Vaal eventually ran a business creating and selling vehicle cleaners, polishes, and waxes. At the same time, he started an impressive collection of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and tractors. His crown jewel is the very first car he owned, a 1966 Chevrolet Impala.
After 30 years, Vaal sold the business in 2020 but soon got restless; it’s a joke in his family that he can’t sit still. He spent a month in retirement before starting a car restoration company with his adult son, Eric, and his son-in-law, Logan. Sadly, Eric died in an automobile collision about a year later, which changed the direction of Vaal’s life completely.
“I started thinking about my parents, siblings, and long-term friends who live in Jasper,” he says. “I decided to move back to Indiana to share time with the ones I care about.” Although he has a summer house in Florida, Jasper is now his main residence.
The challenge for Vaal was that he still had 20-plus vehicles in Florida, and he needed somewhere to store them in Jasper. A built-from scratch facility would meet his needs, but a dull storage space was not what he had in mind. “I wanted everywhere you looked to be different,” Vaal says. The garage also would showcase his other collections, such as Coca-Cola memorabilia, old gas station signs, M&M-themed items, Radio Flyer wagons, and miniature diecast cars and trucks. “I’m a toy-aholic,” Vaal laughs.
About two years ago, work began on the 7,700-square-foot building on the south side of Jasper. The exterior nods to his childhood with a Sinclair gas station theme, featuring old-style gas pumps and nostalgic signage. Inside, a quick glance around reveals a Corvette wheel glass table, a vintage Pizza Hut sign, a ’57 Chevy couch, a handmade banister made of crank and cam shafts, and hundreds of distinctive features. The centerpiece is a wall-sized reproduction of a historic Mail Pouch Tobacco barn ad.
Construction continues on My Sixty 6 Garage — named for Vaal’s first car. He reconnected with old Jasper friends and classmates, several of whom have lent their talents on various aspects of the project. Many tease him about his self-described tendency to “accidentally” purchase items at vendor malls or estate sales.
When asked if he’d ever open the building as a museum, Vaal shakes his head no. “I’m retired now, and I like to come and go on my own schedule,” he says, although he’s happy to talk with anyone who stops by when he’s on site. He jokes that it’s free to come in, but it costs $20 to leave, a line that always gets a laugh from visitors.
Vaal’s good nature has helped him take on this massive project in spite of the events that brought him to this point. “I’m not glad of the circumstances, but I’m glad I’m back in Southern Indiana,” he says. “Sometimes, ‘accidents’ can be happy.”
Flowers and Fun
Ellie Ziliak’s love of agriculture grows into a business, The Zinnia Meadow
By Sally Becker
riving slowly to scan the fields and farms along Volkman Road, Bonnie MacArthur comments, “That’s it.” The avid gardener has spied The Zinnia Meadow, an eye-popping palette of color in beds along the road. It sits on the 10-acre homestead Ellie Ziliak shares with her husband, Austin, not far from his family’s farm. Three years ago, Ellie started tilling rows of zinnias and sold customers the opportunity to snip and pay. “I stopped at a U-pick while visiting my grandparents in Wabash and thought, ‘I can do this,’” she says.
So, she did. Open July-October, her garden grew. Customers returned and spread the word. The field of blooms multiplied as Ellie sprinkled variety among the rows of zinnias with bursts of cosmos and stalks of sunflowers. “The more flowers, the less moving,” she says, smiling.
Farming is in her family’s legacy. She studied agribusiness management, farm management, and crop science at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, to continue the tradition of growing corn and soybeans in her north central Indiana hometown of Wabash. In class at Purdue, she met Austin, and love bloomed. After graduation in May 2022 and marriage the following year, Ellie’s plans were rerouted south to her husband’s family’s farmland in Vanderburgh County, where Ellie works as a real estate agent for CENTURY 21 Scheetz.
Ellie is considering adding other seasonal flowers — perhaps tulips, she says — and even expanding her garden’s variety of flowers via a greenhouse. But baby comes first: Ellie and Austin welcomed their first child last fall.
Find The Zinnia Meadow on Facebook. Read an extended version of this story at evansvilleliving.com.
ON THE MARKET
RESORT LIVING AT HOME
A
revamped pool is one highlight of this west county stunner
By John Martin
With a front lake, forest-like setting, and upscale amenities, this west county listing off Big Cynthiana Road has the look and feel of a “resort-style home with property,” listing agent Julie Bosma says.
The current owner redid much of the home since moving in eight years ago, Bosma says. One revamped feature is the saltwater pool surrounded by lounge and bar seating, an outdoor kitchen, a custom mahogany pergola, and LED lighting.
Indoor amenities include an eat-in chef’s kitchen and a living room fireplace and views of the 9.52-acre grounds. Downstairs are a recreation room, bedroom, and two full bathrooms.
“There’s a basketball court in the pole barn, an awesome screened-in porch … there’s so many things,” Bosma says. “It’s just an awesome house.”
5800 Temper Trail Court
Year Built: 1999
Vital Stats: 8,037 square feet, four bedrooms, six bathrooms
Listing Price: $2.7 million
Listing Agent: Julie Bosma, ERA First Advantage Realty, Inc.
HOME AGAIN
Kay Cox and Wade McNeill rebuild her dream home
BY MAGGIE VALENTI • PHOTOS BY ZACH STRAW
For Kay L. Cox, the move from Mount Vernon, Indiana, to Evansville following a divorce presented the opportunity to build her dream house twice. She briefly resided Downtown, then in 2017 settled on 54-acres on Darmstadt Road. The North Side property once belonged to baseball legend Don Mattingly and included a 35-stall horse barn, storage barn, small house — which later was torn down — an outdoor riding arena, and paddocks. Cox mapped out her design plan with Greg Mullen, vice president and principal designer of H.G. McCullough Designers, Inc. She felt it was like building on perfection — a Southeastern, coastal-style home with high ceilings, large windows,
and interior archways built to remind Cox of the South Carolina vacations she’s loved.
“We had looked for property for a little while and just really hadn’t found anything. And this came on the market, so we went to look at it, and I said, ‘This is beautiful. … It is perfect for this house that we want to rebuild,’” Cox says. She brought in designer Madonna Niemeier of Gallagher Niemeier Interiors, who also worked on her Mount Vernon home. The pair relied on more than two decades of experience and friendship. “Kay loved that home,” Niemeier says of Cox’s previous residence. “She made a few changes to this one; it’s a little bigger and more updated.”
FROM FIELDS TO DREAMS The work of 13 companies and contractors turned a field with two barns and a small house into Kay Cox and Wade McNeill’s new home. To bring their vision fully to life, McNeill bought two horses, Rusty (who has since passed away) and Freckles, from Bart Hahn. “Wade got those horses for me for Christmas,” Cox says.
Two and a half years were spent completing the 11,024-squarefoot structure. During that time, work went into incorporating Cox’s vision of eye-catching artwork, antiques, and china, along with stylish furniture, into her new space. Cox put a lot of thought into the drapes for each room, which defined the color schemes, having the fabrics sourced from Italy and Germany. Cox, her husband Wade McNeill — a Kentucky native and former Director of Slot Operations at Tropicana Evansville — their 12-year-old Yorkiepoo, Harley, and a 30-year-old former 4-H horse, Freckles, moved in by late 2019; the four-car garage with a furnished apartment was completed in 2020.
“I’ve worked with Kay for so many years. There’re no ‘ifs.’ She has a certain look that she loves, and she knows what she wants. We were searching for that elegant southern look, but still comfortable,” Niemeier says.
A 15,000-pound fountain stands at the end of the driveway, offering a taste of grander elements that await inside. Stained hickory
wood flooring covers the first floor, and introducing each room are cross-section archways, nine in total, relying on hundreds of wooden pieces. The cream-colored foyer has 19-foot ceilings perfect for displaying an eight-foot-tall painting of 1973 Triple Crown winner Secretariat by Atlanta, Georgia-based artist Michael Dines. An award won by racehorse Man o’ War is flanked by Murano glass lamps atop a desk. Off the foyer is the dining room, which evokes coastal living with a massive 18-foot-by-8-foot landscape painting also by Dines. “When we went to Atlanta to meet (Dines) and see his work in person, that set the foundation for the tone and color of the house,” Niemeier says. “The painting reflects so much of the South and South Carolina that I absolutely just love,” Cox adds.
Beyond the foyer is the sea foam blue formal living room with a fireplace and, above it, a painting of a scene from Kiawah Island, South Carolina; Cox calls it “one of my favorite things in the house.” She handpicked all the antiques and knickknacks
LEVELS OF STYLE From rugs to ceilings, nothing was left to chance when designing Cox’s and McNeill’s home.
“Each room has its own color, but it all ties in,” Cox says. The dining room stands out, with a dark gray and white tray ceiling from which a Schonbeck chandelier hangs over a dark wood Karges table, accompanied by a painting on the far wall that depicts a wooded South Carolina field on an overcast day. The same artist, Michael Dines of Atlanta, Georgia, also was commissioned to paint 1973 Triple Crown winner Secretariat which hangs in the foyer.
SOUTHERN ELEGANCE Having frequently vacationed in South Carolina, Cox wanted to evoke that Southern charm in her and McNeill’s residence. Among the artwork in the home, Cox’s favorite piece is the painting of Kiawah Island by Charleston-based artist Karen Hewitt Hagan.
displayed — “all my little treasures,” Cox calls them — which came from her mother, Jenni Nix, as well as American & European Antiques boutique owner Kenny Drew and Eddie Erickson, owner of now-closed E. Erickson Design & Antiques.
The kitchen is a foodie’s dream with a 12-foot island, warming drawer, and ice machine. An adjacent pantry includes a collection of blue china under arches crafted by Wood Specialties by Fehrenbacher. “I love her butler’s pantry. It’s a beautiful, small area of the kitchen, but very functional,” Niemeier says. “When we started to design the spaces, we had our eye on the kitchen first to set the tone of elegance, and we followed through with the rest of the rooms.”
Now married for a decade, Cox and McNeill spend most of their time in the
living room, relaxing on comfortable furniture while watching sports; of course, Harley has his own spot on the couch. At night, they retreat to the primary suite with a horseshoe-shaped walk-in closet that includes 270-degree mirrors and a bathroom. The primary bedroom ties gray-blue walls with coral decor, a matching sitting area, and custom bedding. The remaining three bedrooms upstairs are replicas of her daughters’ rooms — Celeste, Alexa, and Grace — from the Mount Vernon house, and are ready to welcome the sisters as well as Cox’s son, Seth, when they visit. Above the garage is an apartment with a kitchen area, living room, and two bedrooms, plus a full gym.
Back outside, a small, 60-year-old lake received a dash of elegance with a waterfall. When Cox wanted to add a pool house — a
space for entertaining and comfort — in 2021, the landscapers again got to work. Aching Acres Landscaping won a 2024 Green Excellence Award from the Indiana Nursery and Landscape Association for a Residential Landscape Design Build Over $50,000 for the pool, hardscape, and planting design. To create a garden around the property, landscapers added boxwood hedges, hydrangeas, roses, abelia, deciduous holly, azaleas, coneflower, allium, and liriope, as well as
IN BLOOM The property’s lawn — most of which is maintained by Landscapes by Dallas Foster — comes alive in the spring and summer. McNeill is responsible for mowing the front lawn, while Cox has a garden at the back where she grows her favorite flower, peonies. “I have 80 peony plants,” she says. “I cut them in the spring and take them to my friends.”
crape myrtle, dogwoods, paperbark maples, columnar elms, and magnolias. Cox also brought in large champion’s cup planters from Louisville, Kentucky, that serve as a focal point for the gardens. The pool is popular with her six grandchildren, as is the outdoor sitting area with a grill and television.
The 2,804-square-foot pool house was designed by Mullen at H.G. McCullough Designers and completed in 2023. Cox designed the interior herself with help from Kip Farmer, owner of Kip Farmer Design, with artwork, layout and design of the cabinetry, lighting, furniture, and wallpaper. The goal was to reflect the elegance of the main house with a more relaxed, updated vibe and open concept plan.
“I love working with Kay because she has such a strong sense of style herself,” says Farmer, who wanted the space to feel grand but not intimidating. There is a 35-foot cream-colored ceiling
A FRESH LOOK Cox wanted the pool house to look distinct from the main house, with a more modern design and endless layout. The 35-foot ceiling is topped by a small cupola, and the kitchen, living room, and dining room flow together in an open concept.
topped by a cupola and anchored by crown molding throughout the multipurpose dining room, living room, and kitchen that often are used for family gatherings and holidays. Cox chose luxury vinyl tile flooring so the kids can come straight inside from swimming and warm up by the fireplace. Fehrenbacher Cabinets sourced the cabinets and quartz backsplash with hints of blue for the kitchen, and Cox found more accessories with Kim Coslett at Stella’s Finishing Touches, including a driftwood coffee table for the living area.
FUN AND GAMES The pool house isn’t limited to hosting family gatherings; it’s also a place for Cox and McNeill to relax with their family and have fun. Cox’s six grandchildren can challenge her to Skee Ball or foosball, or join McNeill for a game on his golf simulator. A full bar keeps the adults entertained, as well.
Freckles and Kay
“Entering the pool house, you get this ‘wow’ moment, but it’s still very approachable,” Farmer says. The pool house also includes a washer, dryer, and full bathroom, but the fun begins down the hall with a full bar and Skee-Ball arcade game surrounded by palm tree wallpaper, which Farmer calls a “bold play of pattern.” In the next room sits a Full Swing Golf simulator that McNeill often uses during the off-season; it includes extra games for the grandkids, who can also head to the other end of the property and shoot some hoops on a basketball court inside the old storage barn.
The second time around, Cox found delight in recreating her dream home. “It’s great to take something you love and rebuild it, but get to tweak it,” she says. “It’s been a lot of fun designing this house.”
Design and Construction Vendors
Accessories, pool house: Kim Coslett, Stella’s Finishing Touches
Cabinetry: Fehrenbacher Cabinets, Inc.
Construction: Becher Brothers Construction, now part of GBE Construction Group, Inc.
Designer: Greg Mullen, H.G. McCullough Designers, Inc.
Drywall: Bart Hahn, Hahn Brothers Drywall
Fountain: sourced from Robinson Iron in Alexander City, Alabama
Furniture: Karges Furniture; Jonathan Charles; Leather Craft
Interior Design, main house: Madonna Niemeier, Gallagher Niemeier Interiors
Interior Design, pool house: Kip Farmer, Kip Farmer Design
Landscaping: Aching Acres Landscaping
Landscaping Maintenance: Landscapes by Dallas Foster, Inc.
Outdoor stonework: Wayne Glaser, Glaser Masonry
Outdoor concrete: Bill Egli Concrete Construction Co.
Rugs: The Rug Merchant
Bathroom tile work: Vertical Tile, Inc.
Woodwork: Wood Specialties by Fehrenbacher
Wood staining: the late Mike DeWitt, Mike’s Hardwood Floors, LLC
The Best Just Got Better.
ANTIQUES
Wade McNeill taking a practice swing on his golf simulator located in the pool house
5 BEDS | 4 FULL, 1 HALF BATHS 7,175 TOTAL SQFT.
restaurant, bar, and nine-hole golf course on approximately 97.5 acres. Restaurant and bar seat up to 225 guests with 3 dining areas plus a
Set on 16.82+/- acres, this private retreat offers a custom-built home with over 7,100 square feet designed for comfortable living and entertaining. Outdoor features include a pool, patio with pergola, and screened porch. The acreage offers space for recreation, horses, and a 40x64 detached building for storage or hobbies. Inside, the kitchen opens to large gathering areas with abundant natural light. The main-level primary suite includes a spa-like bath and two walk-in closets, plus an additional ensuite bedroom. Upstairs offers bedrooms, baths, and bonus spaces. The finished lower level features a bar, rec room, family room, and golf simulator. — $1,200,000
4
AT HOME
Building & Real Estate Interior Design
Outdoor Living Service & Supply
F.C. Tucker Emge
812-402-0200 FCTuckerEmge.com
Real Estate in Southwest Indiana and Northwest Kentucky Keeps Moving!
As the spring and summer home-buying season picks up, interest rates and housing inventory remain top of mind for both buyers and sellers While mortgage rates continue to fluctuate, the experienced agents at F C Tucker Emge are helping clients focus on what matters most — making informed, confident decisions
“We’re encouraging buyers to control what they can,” says Gretchen Muchnick, co-owner of F C Tucker Emge “Work on boosting your credit score, shop around for the best lending options, and be ready to lock in a rate when the opportunity presents itself Real estate is still moving, and it’s still a smart investment ”
Even in a shifting rate environment, many buyers realize that homeownership offers long-term benefits that renting simply can’t match “Interest rates are beginning to normalize,” Muchnick adds “We encourage buyers to focus on the bigger picture — homeownership brings stability, pride, and financial security over time ”
A s the largest full-service real estate company in Southwestern Indiana and Northern Kentucky, F .C Tucker Emge is proud to be the trusted name buyers and sellers turn to With more than 180 professional, highly trained REALTORS®, our team provides expert guidance through every step of the process .
From market analysis and pricing strategy to negotiation and closing, our agents emphasize strong communication, in-depth local knowledge, and the smart use of technology to ensure a seamless experience . No one knows this market better — or works harder — for their clients .
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring your options, the professionals at F .C Tucker Emge are ready to help you move with confidence
Because no matter the market, Home Happens Here.
ERA First Advantage Realty, Inc.
8711 W. Hwy. 66, Newburgh, IN 812-858-2400 erafirst.com
As the days grow longer, now is the perfect time to sell. Buyers are out in full force, families are ready to move before school starts, and there’s a buzz in the air that brings steady interest and strong offers. With curb appeal at its peak, summer doesn’t just offer opportunity — it creates it.
How would you describe today’s home building and real estate market?
The market is currently being shaped by several key factors, including consistent demand and changing inventory levels, resulting in a fast-moving and competitive environment .
What are you seeing when it comes to housing inventory right now?
The current inventory of residential listings across the Tri-State area — including Vanderburgh, Warrick, Spencer, Gibson, and Posey counties in Indiana — remains steady, with a strong number of homes under contract and consistent sales activity over the past 30 days
Tell us about the trends you are seeing across the housing market. We’re seeing home prices hold steady, with some gradual appreciation depending on the property and location
How long are homes typically staying on the market?
In the first quarter across the Tri-State area, homes spent an average of about 52 days on the market .
Is it worth waiting for prices to drop before buying?
Mortgage rates and home prices can fluctuate, causing the housing market to change quickly Waiting for the “perfect” time might never come, and missing the opportunity to buy at favorable rates can be costly Additionally, waiting can lead to increased competition when rates drop, which could potentially drive up prices due to the increased demand
Describe how current interest rates are impacting clients. Mortgage rates are far lower than the historically high levels in the 1980s Current
interest rates impact buyers by affecting both buying power and affordability Lower interest rates generally lead to increased demand with more competition, which can increase property values .
What sets ERA First Advantage Realty apart in this market?
ERA First Advantage Realty is one of the leading real estate agencies in the region,
supported by more than 140 real estate agents serving clients across the Tri-State area In a fast-moving market that can shift from one month to the next, experience isn’t just helpful, it’s essential ERA agents bring deep market insight, strong negotiation skills, and an extensive network of connections to every transaction, ensuring clients have the guidance and confidence they need for a smooth, successful experience
Popham Construction
812-479-5850 pophamconstruction.com
Built on a foundation of craftsmanship and trust, Popham Construction brings a steady hand to every project they take on. From thoughtful renovations to full-scale builds, their work balances function, durability, and clean design that actually holds up to real life. With a focus on clear communication and doing things the right way the first time, they help homeowners turn ideas into spaces that feel intentional, livable, and built to last.
In what ways do you approach construction projects to ensure lasting value for homeowners?
We approach most every project with long-term value in mind It’s important for homeowners to understand the value, or in some cases the lack of value, behind certain upgrades Not every project delivers a strong return, and part of our role is helping clients make informed decisions that align with both their lifestyle and future resale goals We take the time to walk through options, explain trade-offs, and focus on improvements that will hold up over time That includes choosing quality materials, thoughtful layouts, and solutions that won’t feel outdated in a few years A successful project should make sense not just today, but well into the future .
When planning a project, how do you ensure design and functionality work together seamlessly?
We work alongside experienced designers, architects, and engineers from start to fin ish From the initial concept through final construction, each phase has the potential to impact the overall vision It is our responsibility to make sure that vision also works for the client’s daily routine We think beyond appearance and consider how a space will actually be used on a regular basis Traffic flow, storage, lighting, and accessibility all play a role in how functional a space feels A design might look great on paper, but if it does not support the way someone lives in their home, it falls short Our goal is to deliver spaces that feel natural, comfortable, and practical while still meeting the client’s aesthetic expectations
Which home features tend to deliver the strongest value in today’s market?
Bathroom and kitchen remodels continue to offer the strongest return on investment . These are the most heavily used spaces in a home and often the first areas buyers evaluate . Updates in these spaces can significantly improve both day-to-day living and longterm resale value . As technology continues to evolve, we are also seeing more homeowners
interested in integrating smart features into these areas This can include lighting, appliances, and energy-efficient systems that improve convenience and efficiency At the same time, it is important not to overdo it . The best projects find the right balance between modern features and long-term usability .
What distinguishes a truly high-quality construction project from an average one?
Every remodeling project comes with unknowns, no matter how much planning
goes into it . What sets a quality project apart is the ability to respond to those challenges effectively We pride ourselves on staying adaptable and maintaining clear communication throughout the entire process . Attention to detail, consistent oversight, and strong problem-solving all play a role in the final result A project is not defined only by how it looks when it is finished, but by how smoothly it was executed along the way . When clients feel informed, supported, and confident from start to finish, that is when we know the project has been done right
Picture this: You’ve found a place you love — or the one you’re already in is ready for that dream kitchen. Either way, the decisions can feel big. That’s where our Retail Loan Advisors step in. We bring steady guidance to major milestones — whether it’s your first set of keys or the renovation that finally makes your home fit your life.
For first-time buyers, we start with what matters most: helping you build a strong credit profile, understanding your monthly payment comfort zone, and matching you with a mortgage program that fits now and sets you up for later We walk you through the application, look for potential roadblocks in credit or income early, and focus on clarity — so there are fewer surprises and more confidence
If you’re already a homeowner, odds are you’re seeing what we’re seeing: more families choosing to stay and improve rather than move Many are using their home’s equity to add space or fully remodel . The key is planning well We always recommend you get a complete written quote for any project — and build in a cushion Costs rise, plans evolve, and nothing derails momentum like running out of funds when you’re halfway there . Our process keeps it simple We gather the essential documentation upfront to map out your credit scores, debt-to-income, and timeline . We talk through projected monthly payments so you feel comfortable with the numbers on day one And we stay with you from first conversation to closing, and beyond Speaking of beyond: as a local bank that retains servicing, your relationship doesn’t end at closing We’re here if you have a question about escrow, want to switch insurance, confirm taxes were paid, or even check if there’s a better program to refinance into later After a purchase, we’ll remind you to verify your homestead exemptions and invite you to reach out with any question, big or small . It’s the advantage of being able to walk into a branch and talk to your loan officer — the person you know — rather than an 800 number .
At the end of the day, what we build, manage, and advise truly changes how people live — more space for a growing family, a safer layout for aging in place, a purchase that sets the foundation for decades . We’re here to make the complex feel manageable, with a local team that treats your goals like our own .
Ready to talk through your plan?
Let’s build a smart, comfortable path forward — together.
Funding Your Dreams. Buying a home or tapping into its value can be a smart way to fund your goals. Mortgages and home equity loans are key tools that can help make your dream a reality — whether it’s buying a house, renovations, or something bigger. Here’s what you need to know to get started.
Working with a trusted mortgage loan expert will help you confidently take your next step toward buying, building, or refinancing your home . From conventional fixed rate loans to low or no-down payment loan options, a seasoned mortgage professional will listen to your budget needs, then help you compare down payment and rate options
“You may hear about what seem to be great mortgage deals . When you sit down and talk through the details, many times there are better options,” says Nick Kleaving, mortgage loan originator with German American Bank “Sitting down face to face with a lender can really make all of the difference in which mortgage loan you choose,” adds Jill Kruse, also a German American Bank mortgage loan originator .
If remodeling is on your mind, loans such as German American Bank’s Smartest Home Equity Line of Credit can help people secure the equity in their home to finance home projects The HELOC is an easy-to-use, flexible, and affordable option that features interest-only monthly payments and no annual fee .
The HELOC is revolving, so participants can use the funds, pay the line of credit down to a zero balance, and reuse the funds again No additional approval is required to reuse the funds .
“ The HELOC has helped my clients with various home projects, including roof replacement, addition of solar panels, new door and window installation, kitchen and home remodels, HVAC system updates, and even complete landscape improvement projects,” says Nick Casciotta, financial center manager with German American Bank
The HELOC also offers a variety of benefits. The interest payments may be tax deductible, which could save the borrowers money (Consult a tax adviser ) HELOCs offer low interest rates – generally lower than conventional consumer loans . For the most hassle-free payment option, set up automatic payments from checking or savings accounts by initiating a monthly transfer within online or mobile banking,
or by visiting a local banking office Most HELOCs offer an early payment option to save on interest costs
After the home improvement project is completed, the remaining funds can be used for large purchases, vacations, debt consolidation, taxes, college tuition, or as an emergency fund, making HELOCs a smart choice for many budgets .
Estimate the amount of funds available with HELOC by taking the market value of the home times 90% Using this amount, then subtract the balance due on the mortgage loan . This will give the potential available credit line Here’s a tip: Many financial institutions have online calculators that make it easy to estimate the equity available in a home .
Jill Kruse
NMLS #439392
Nick Casciotta
NMLS #1286948
Nick Kleaving
NMLS #1743131
From complete remodels to repairs after a natural disaster, All Custom Construction is the contractor to call.
New Home Construction
• Design
• Blueprints
• Estimating
• Quality Building
Building a new home is a collaborative effort. By working closely with you, we can transform your vision into a reality, creating a home that you and your family will cherish for years to come.
Remodeling
• Additions
• Bathrooms
• Kitchens
• Plumbing
• Major Home Repairs
• Garage
• Landscaping
From design to construction, we will work closely with you to ensure that your project is completed on time and on budget.
All Custom Construction
812-602-7182 allcustomconstruction.pro
At All Custom Construction, building a home means creating something that lasts. Every project is approached with a deep understanding of how homes function over time, blending craftsmanship with purposeful design. From structural strength to energy efficiency, each decision is made with long-term performance in mind. The result is a fully custom home that reflects the homeowner’s vision while delivering comfort, durability, and lasting value. It is a process grounded in transparency, precision, and care — designed to produce not just a finished product, but a home that feels right from the moment it’s lived in.
Built for What You Don’t See
A well-built home starts beneath the surface With a background in rebuilding homes after damage, this team brings a deeper understanding of how homes perform over time — not just how they look on day one . That experience influences every phase of construction, from the earliest design decisions to the final build Reinforced foundations and fully sealed building envelopes create structures that are not only durable but also built for long-term performance The result is a home that requires less maintenance, reduces unexpected repair costs, and holds its value over time Even without technical knowledge, homeowners can feel the difference in a space that’s been built with care and intention
Energy efficiency is a major priority throughout the process Foam insulation and full-home sealing techniques help protect against outside elements, keeping interiors more consistent and comfortable year-round Fresh air intake systems are integrated to maintain clean, balanced airflow without sacrificing efficiency . These building methods often lead to a noticeable reduction in monthly utility costs, especially when compared to older or traditionally built homes Beyond comfort and savings, it’s about creating a home that performs reliably, supports healthier living, and stands up to everyday wear over time
Designed for the Way You Live
Every project is fully custom, designed around the homeowner rather than a standard template The focus stays rooted in four key principles: quality, design, functionality, and efficiency . These elements guide each decision, ensuring the final result is not only visually appealing but also practical and built to last From the initial consultation, clients are given clear, honest insight into feasibility, budget, and overall scope, making it easier to move forward with confidence . Transparency continues throughout the entire process . Detailed estimates
and real-time cost tracking help prevent surprises, while open communication keeps homeowners informed and involved at every stage . The team works closely with each client to refine layouts, maximize space, and ensure the design supports how the home will actually be used day to day . Functionality plays a critical role in every project . In some cases, spaces are
physically mocked up before construction begins, allowing homeowners to experience the layout and make adjustments before anything is finalized . It’s a thoughtful, hands-on approach that ensures the finished space works as well in real life as it does on paper . Every detail is considered with purpose, reinforcing a simple philosophy: you only get one chance to build it right
Deliver Your Vision Through Structured Building
HETTENBACH CONSTRUCTION provides new residential construction, commercial construction, home renovations, kitchen remodeling, bathroom remodeling, room additions, garage construction, outdoor living construction, general contracting, and structural home additions for homeowners and businesses in the greater Evansville area. When you’re ready to build something new or expand what you already have, you need a partner who understands the region and the process from start to finish.
You’ll know what to expect at each stage, with planning support that helps you understand scope, timeline, and how decisions impact outcomes. The work unfolds in phases you can track, so there are no surprises along the way.
HETTENBACH CONSTRUCTION manages full renovation projects and new builds with the same level of attention, ensuring every detail aligns with your original intent. Whether it’s a kitchen upgrade or a complete structural addition, the goal is delivering what was promised.
Your home’s next chapter starts with a conversation.
Reach Out Today!
Hettenbach Construction
9088 Heim Road, Chandler, IN 812-629-3942 hettenbachconstruction.net
Building a home is one of life’s biggest investments, and choosing the right builder can make all the difference. For Hettenbach Construction, every project begins with trust, communication, and thoughtful planning. Known throughout the Evansville area for its craftsmanship and honesty, the company helps clients turn dream homes into reality.
A Thoughtful Approach to Homebuilding
Hettenbach Construction believes one of the most important parts of the homebuilding journey is balancing a client’s wishlist with their budget, and that process begins from the very first meeting Each project starts with an in-depth conversation about must-have features, design preferences, and financial expectations By discussing square footage, style, and budget upfront, the team helps clients make informed decisions and stay aligned throughout the building process
One recent project perfectly reflects the type of homes Hettenbach enjoys building most — a 2,000-square-foot, four-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath open-concept ranch set on scenic country acreage
Complete with large porches overlooking rural views, the home blends comfort, practicality, and curb appeal Even more impressive, the build was completed in just six months, highlighting the company’s efficiency and craftsmanship .
Specializing in homes 3,000 square feet and below, Hettenbach focuses on creating highly personalized homes that prioritize functionality and thoughtful design Rather than simply building larger homes, the company takes pride in tailoring spaces to fit each homeowner’s lifestyle For the team, functionality is at the core of every design decision, with the belief that while aesthetics may catch the eye, livability is what truly makes a house feel like home
Built on Trust and Vision
Honesty and communication remain central to Hettenbach Construction’s approach . From the first consultation to the final walkthrough, the team prides itself on being transparent and maintaining open communication with clients every step of the way They understand their reputation is tied to every project they complete, making trust a top priority throughout the process
A s homeowner preferences continue to evolve, Hettenbach has seen growing demand for larger open-concept layouts,
flexible gathering spaces, and outdoor entertainment areas Energy efficiency also remains top of mind, with the company emphasizing the importance of quality windows and doors, properly sized HVAC systems, and strong insulation to improve comfort and reduce longterm costs
Beyond custom homes, Hettenbach Construction also handles additions and renovations, including garages, sunrooms, kitchen remodels, and second-story expansions For the team, the most rewarding part of every project is seeing the excitement on a homeowner’s face when they step into their finished space for the first time — a moment that continues to fuel their passion for building homes with integrity, pride, and purpose .
H.G. McCullough Designers
How do you start the design process?
First step: The initial meeting with the clients, designer, and/or contractor to establish design objectives The second meeting would include a presentation of the conceptual sketch, typically including a main-level floor plan (if applicable, second-level floor plan) and a front exterior elevation based on the objectives meeting . The contractor will price out the estimated construction cost only after the clients approve the conceptual sketch The designer is commissioned to finish the drawings once the client approves the budget . This helps avoid sticker shock when the final bill gets presented . For more detailed information on preparing for a new home design or remodel, please visit our website at hgmccullough com and refer to our Design Packets: New Home or Remodel
What makes your design firm unique?
Our designers handle all phases of custom architectural design — from conceptual layout to space planning, structural engineering, and
finish details required for sound construction and client satisfaction Detailed planning eliminates guesswork by contractors in critical decisions like bearing loads and other important structural details Getting things right the first time expedites the construction process by reducing the risk of costly errors
Share the home design trends you’re seeing emerge.
In the Tri-State, we are seeing more remodels (both additions and alterations), and for new home design, both “rightsizing” and “downsizing” square footage living space Projects in the Indianapolis area and northern Indiana are “going bigger” and designing more lake homes and vacation cottages .
Bosse Title Company
Bosse Title Company is a family-owned business that serves as a reliable real estate title company for the Tri-State. Offering real estate closing services throughout Indiana and Kentucky, we make sure your property is truly yours and work to protect you from any ownership issues. Contact us today, and you’ll see why we’re an excellent choice for real estate agencies throughout the area.
What services do you offer?
We offer real estate closing services and issue title insurance for residential, commercial, and industrial real estate transactions While we primarily serve the surrounding counties, we can work in all of Indiana and Kentucky
Is owning financially smarter than renting?
Assuming homeownership is for you, it’s financially smarter to own than rent . If someone is waiting on the sidelines for rates to drop to buy a house, there’s an adage that says to “marry the house but date the rate” — meaning when rates fall even lower, you can always refinance
Explain your team’s experience and expertise.
Bosse Title has been in business for more than 30 years We’ve handled thousands of real estate transactions .
Why would someone want to use your services?
We’re locally owned and operated . We’re conveniently located, and if you can’t come to us, we can come to you
How has your company changed since its beginning?
When we first started, there was no fax machine, internet, or email Running a business today without any of these basic business tools would be impossible As technology advanced, so did we
Local
Bosse Title Company is a family-owned & operated title company that’s served the greater Evansville, IN area for the last three generations.
We’re committed to staying versatile & flexible to meet your needs at any stage of homeownership.
We know that convenience is all about making life easier for you. That’s why you can get started on your title without ever leaving your home by placing an order directly from our website.
Habitat for Humanity of Evansville
560 E. Diamond Ave. 812-423-5623 evansvillehabitat.org
For more than four decades, Habitat for Humanity of Evansville has helped families build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership. With a bold new plan to double our home production and a new indoor building facility, there’s never been a better time to get involved — whether by volunteering, donating, or sharing the mission.
What is the most recent development for Habitat for Humanity of Evansville?
In June 2025, Habitat for Humanity of Evansville opened its new Habitat Volunteer Center, expanding opportunities for community members to serve year-round This indoor space allows volunteers to build wall panels, take part in hands-on training, and participate in corporate and group volunteer days The Volunteer Center helps us build homes more efficiently while bringing people together to strengthen families and neighborhoods across Evansville .
Tell us about the impact of Habitat for Humanity’s homeownership program.
A Habitat home is more than just four walls — it’s a launch pad for success Studies show that children in Habitat homes experience higher
graduation rates, improved reading and math scores, and fewer behavioral challenges . Adults report better jobs and stronger financial management skills . When a family builds and buys a Habitat home, they’re building a brighter future .
How can I support the cause?
Put your time, talent, and resources to work for your neighbors When you make a financial gift to Habitat for Humanity of Evansville, you are helping make affordable homeownership possible for hardworking local families . Indiana taxpayers can make their gift go even further through the Affordable Homeownership Tax Credit Donations may qualify for a 50% Indiana state tax credit Learn more at evansvillehabitat.org/ways-to-give/tax-credit-giving or call us at 812-423-5623.
At Adam Green Architect, we design homes that are a true reflection of the people who live in them — shaped by your values, your lifestyle, and the moments that matter most. We believe a home should feel both deeply personal and effortlessly functional. Our process is thoughtful and collaborative, guiding you step by step through a creative exploration of ideas. We listen carefully, refine intentionally, and design with purpose — ensuring every detail supports the way you want to live, gather, and grow.
What can I expect when contacting Adam Green Architect about services?
When you reach out to our office, the process begins with a conversation . Each project is unique, so we take time to understand how you live, what inspires you, and what you envision for your home — both functionally and emotionally We then visit your site to study its unique qualities — light, landscape, views, and context . These elements, combined with your goals will begin to shape the design direction . From there, we develop initial concepts and explore ideas with you through sketches, floor plans, 3D renderings, and more discussion . This is a collaborative phase where your feedback guides the evolution of the design Once a clear direction 4519 Covert
is established, we refine the design in more detail — organizing spaces, selecting materials, and carefully shaping the character of the home Every decision is made with intention, balancing beauty, performance, and long-term value As the design progresses, we prepare detailed drawings and coordinate with consultants and builders to ensure the project can be executed at the highest level of quality During construction, we often remain involved to help guide the process, answer questions, and ensure the design is carried out as our clients intended The result is a home that is deeply personal, thoughtfully crafted, and designed to endure — reflecting both your vision and the unique qualities of its place .
104 N. Main St., Owensville, IN
812-724-3501
holdersfurniture.net
Our top priority is customer satisfaction. We’ll work with you closely throughout the furniture-buying process to make sure you go home with a piece that you’ll love for years to come.
We carry products from popular brands like Mohawk, La-Z-Boy, Flexsteel, American Heartland, Catnapper, Jackson Furniture, and many more!
Picking out high-quality furniture can help you create a living space that’s uniquely yours. Whether you reside in Owensville, IN or any community in the greater Evansville, IN area, it’s worth the drive to Holder’s Furniture for affordable quality on top furniture brands for your entire home and the latest trends in floor covering.
Joseph and Emily Lamey
Holder’s Furniture
104 N. Main St., Owensville, IN 812-724-3501 holdersfurniture.net
For decades, Holder’s Furniture has helped shape homes with pieces that balance comfort, quality, and timeless style. Known for its wide selection and personalized service, the team brings a thoughtful approach to every space — helping clients find furniture and accents that feel both functional and distinctly their own. It’s about creating rooms that live well and last.
How do you make a house feel like home?
For us, a house starts feeling like a home when it reflects real life happening inside it — not just a place that looks nice It’s the rug and furniture that are stain-resistant, so you can enjoy family night with pizza and popcorn worry-free! It’s the small things like lamps that dim the light and set the mood or the blankets that have been used one hundred times . Just living in your furniture and making memories that will last a lifetime
Which pieces have the biggest impact on a living space?
A sofa and loveseat combo, or sectional! These pieces are the anchor of the room and set the tone for comfort and style . A deep, cozy sectional encourages people to stay awhile, while a structured sofa makes the room feel more formal It is usually the first thing your eye lands on, so scale, color, and placement matter more than anything else
What are customers most interested in at the moment?
Customers are asking for mattresses and dining room tables the most right now Families are growing, and everyone wants to sit down at a family meal for the holidays or Sunday afternoon dinner at grandma’s house Everyone seems to be upgrading to king-size beds or moving their younger children into full-size bed sets and mattresses It is so fun for us to be a small part of growing families here in the Tri-State
Talk about one simple way to refresh a room.
One simple way to refresh a room is to change out your rug! A rug is bigger than people would think It visually pulls everything together and defines the seating area When you switch to a different style or color in a rug, it can make all the difference in your space A rug is a perfect, low-cost way to freshen up a room in a big way!
What should homeowners look for when choosing furniture or flooring?
Choosing furniture and flooring is not just about what looks good in our showroom It is about how it lives in your space . The best choice balances style and durability Homeowners should look for longevity when choosing furniture and flooring Pick out products that will stand the test of time . Flooring is your foundation, so think about your lifestyle and where you have the most traffic, if there are kids or pets, and where the most spills will occur
Explore options to keep flooring consistent throughout the main areas of your home so it feels larger and more cohesive Choose a palette of flooring that flows with the other colors of your home and does not show every speck of dust . Furniture needs to fit your everyday life, not just aesthetics Find something that will wear beautifully and pick materials and leathers that have performance fabrics on them so you are worry-free and able to focus on making memories It is smarter to go neutral on major furniture and then add colors and patterns on things like accent chairs and pillows that are easier to swap out later .
Give A Dog A Bone
Give a Dog a Bone is a health food store for cats and dogs. Our primary focus has always been nutrition, so we put great care into curating foods that our customers can feel good about feeding to the animals in their care.
What products do you offer that can make a pet feel more comfortable in a new home?
We really have almost everything a cat or dog might need Creating a space that’s truly theirs can be helpful, which can be accomplished with a cozy bed, a new cat scratcher or climber, or even something as simple as a new, high-value treat . For anxious pets that may need extra support, we carry a selection of natural and safe calming treats and remedies that can help ease their stress
Do you have any accessories or products that are a must-have for new dog owners?
The absolute basics are healthy foods that they like and tolerate well, as well as some training treats and a bowl or feeding
platter . Next would be some enrichment . Long-lasting chews are great for burning energy and mental stimulation Other good forms of enrichment are treat-dispensing puzzles and toys . Stimulating and engaging their mind is just as important for them as it is for us
Do you offer any specific pet cleaning products (carpet cleaners, shampoos, etc.)?
Yes, all the above We have a great selection of shampoos, conditioners, hair detangler sprays, and more for the average pet and pets with sensitive skin or hot spots We also carry safe household cleaners that remove a urine smell and reduce pet markings in the house .
Quincy Zikmund holding Newt and Elizabeth Zikmund holding Otis
The Rug Merchant
1019 Lincoln Ave. 812-423-2338 therugmerchantevansville.com
The Rug Merchant is the perfect match, catering to all kinds of clients and their needs.
Describe your inventory and styles of rugs available.
When Terry Lewis opened The Rug Merchant, his goal was to offer something for everyone . Fifty-six years later, we still have one of the largest inventories of in stock rugs in the Midwest! At any time, we have around 2,000 hand knotted, machine woven, tufted, or antique rugs in stock in traditional, contemporary, and transitional styles . Every one of our rugs carries a tag with the price, material, and country of origin We don’t haggle over prices or offer different prices to different people
What do you think is most important in working with clients?
Everyone has a different “why” when it comes to buying a rug Also, what may seem like not very much money to one person is an astronomical amount to
someone else That’s why our focus is on finding the right rug for each client . With thousands of in-store rugs, we’re able to stay within almost anyone’s budget
Are there certain types of rugs that are more suitable for different lifestyles?
Every day we hear, “I don’t want to spend a lot of money, because I have dogs/kids/ cats/messy friends .” We totally understand those situations . If the reason is that right now you have other priorities for spending, no problem We can stay within almost any budget to find your perfect rug If clients are afraid of ruining a “good” rug with kids and pets, they are exactly the ones who should spend a little more and get a quality rug that can stand up to whatever life throws at it, be cleaned time after time, and always look like new afterward
Terry Lewis, Emily Brown, and Lynne Lewis
Town Square Furnishings, Inc.
3799 SR 62, Boonville, IN 812-897-1358 lotsofcomfort.com
For 44 years, Town Square Furnishings has been the Tri-State’s trusted destination for comfort, quality, and value. As a locally owned, full-line La-Z-Boy dealer, the store combines industry-leading comfort with American craftsmanship and personalized service — helping families create homes designed for everyday living and lasting relaxation.
For more than four decades, Town Square Furnishings has remained a cornerstone of comfort and style in the TriState Now celebrating 44 years in business, Town Square Furnishings continues to deliver what customers value most — comfort you can feel, quality you can trust, and value that lasts .
At the center of that commitment is La-Z-Boy, one of the most recognized names in home comfort As a full-line La-Z-Boy dealer, Town Square Furnishings offers far more than just recliners . Customers can explore a complete selection of sofas, sectionals, chairs, and motion furniture — all designed with the same legendary comfort that made La-Z-Boy a household name . With hundreds of fabric and leather options, customizable configurations, and power upgrades available, each piece can be tailored to fit both your space and your lifestyle .
What truly sets La-Z-Boy apart is the combination of innovation and durability
From power reclining with adjustable headrests and lumbar support to performance fabrics built for everyday life, these pieces are designed to handle real homes — families, pets, and all At Town Square Furnishings, customers are encouraged to sit, relax, and experience the difference firsthand, ensuring they find the perfect fit for their comfort needs
B eyond La-Z-Boy, Town Square Furnishings continues its focus on quality across every category Premium sleep options from Beautyrest and Serta provide advanced support and comfort for a better night’s rest The showroom also features Made in USA bedroom collections that emphasize craftsmanship and long-lasting construction . For a more personalized touch, Amish-built, semi-custom bedroom and dining furniture allows customers to select finishes, sizes, and styles tailored specifically to their home
Value at Town Square Furnishings goes beyond competitive pricing It’s about delivering a complete, worry-free experience . Free delivery ensures that every purchase arrives safely and professionally set up, while free haul-off makes upgrading your
home simple and convenient These services are just part of the store’s commitment to making the buying process as smooth as possible .
Equally important is the support customers receive after the sale With a dedicated in-store service department, Town Square Furnishings stands behind every product they sell — especially their extensive La-Z-Boy lineup Whether it’s adjustments, repairs, or long-term care, customers can feel confident knowing their investment is protected
After 44 years, one thing remains unchanged: Town Square Furnishing’s dedication to helping families create comfortable, beautiful homes With industry-leading brands like La-Z-Boy, a focus on American craftsmanship, and a commitment to true customer service, it’s easy to see why generations of customers continue to trust Town Square Furnishings .
Pella Windows & Doors
When you choose Pella Windows & Doors, you’re getting the experience of local professionals who are committed to your satisfaction. Pella windows and doors are intentionally designed to make life brighter.
What is the process Pella takes new clients through?
First, by understanding the needs of our clients — identifying the best quality products for their project — and following up Whether visiting your home or our showroom, a Pella expert will:
• Review designs, plans, and elevations
• Present material and color options
• Measure window and/or door openings
• Explain the installation process
• Prepare a quote
Why do homeowners continue to choose Pella?
As one of the most recognizable window and door manufacturers in the market, Pella has a reputation for high-quality products with excellent workmanship
Which window and door trends are defining homes right now?
We are seeing black and bold windows, which are taller and wider with broader expanses of glass .
How does Pella support its products long-term?
We offer a Limited Lifetime Warranty with a local service department that backs up our product .
Tell us what the most client-requested features and styles are right now.
Through the Pella Windows & Doors Design Works program, we can show clients asking for actual images of their home with various exterior colors, window styles, and grille patterns .
How does collaboration with builders and remodelers impact the outcome of a project?
We pride ourselves on attention to detail for all projects along with clear communication between the builder, designer, and homeowner
Cabinets & Counters
7387 S.R. 66 812-858-3300
Great countertops do more than complete a room — they define how it functions day to day. Thoughtful design, quality materials, and precise installation come together to create spaces that feel both seamless and intentional. Whether updating a kitchen or refining a bath, the right choices bring lasting style, durability, and a sense of ease to everyday living.
What services do you specialize in?
We template, fabricate, and install granite, quartz, quartzite, marble, and dolomite countertops .
Tell us about what your inventory looks like.
We have a large inventory of different types of natural stone slabs, quartz slabs, and remnant pieces for smaller projects . Does it change year-round? Absolutely – we receive new slabs every week . S ome of the slabs we pull in are pieces that customers have hand-selected at one of our distributors, or slabs we are ordering in for customers Other slabs are ones we simply pull in for stock material We are always on the lookout for new and exciting countertop materials!
Is any project too big or too small?
Not at all! We provide countertops for entire homes as well as small furniture pieces .
Why is being a family-owned business important?
One of the most important things customers should know is that when you work with a family-owned business, you are getting a group of people who truly care and are passionate about what they do and the product they create
How should new clients take the first step?
A good first place to start is to gather samples of your cabinet color, flooring, backsplash, paint, etc . and stop in to take a look at our slabs and samples We have a wide selection available that is sure to satisfy everyone’s style!
template, fabricate, and install.
Square Yard Carpet
Which flooring options and services do you provide for residential and commercial spaces?
We carry a wide range of floor coverings, from hard surfaces like engineered and solid hardwoods, luxury vinyl plank, luxury vinyl tile, ceramic tile, and laminate, to a multitude of carpets including nylon, poly, and wool yarn systems in styles such as solids, saxonies, patterns, and barber poles . We’re also a full-service residential and commercial flooring store that installs all the products we sell, plus removes and disposes of existing flooring . Our installation services include custom showers, kitchen backsplashes, and custom-size area rugs for those hard-to-fit spaces
Which flooring brands and collections are available in your showroom?
You can shop well-known brands such as Shaw, Anderson Tuftex, Mohawk, Pergo, Coretec, Stanton, Engineered Floors, Bruce, Armstrong, and Mannington, plus boutique collections from some of our designer lines
Describe Square Yard Carpet’s origin in 1979.
Owner Rick Clements began installing flooring in the mid-1970s before becoming a manufacturer’s representative for Armstrong . Rick and his wife, Sally, opened Square Yard Carpet in October 1979 Rick installed, measured, and figured what they sold, while Sally helped
customers with selections and ran daily operations . Their daughters joined the business after college Square Yard Carpet expanded to the Adams Street location in 1997, where Rick still can be found in the office every day .
What is the in-store experience like when selecting flooring for your home?
Our knowledgeable staff greets customers and takes them through the process of selecting the best flooring options for their specific spaces Once we pinpoint the right products, styles, and colors for their needs, the customer is welcome to take our samples home to get a better feel for the overall visual in their living space Our in-store virtual room visualizer also compares different products in your space or preloaded room scenes
Capers Emporium
602 Main St., New Harmony, IN 812-682-6112 prettyfood.com
What home goods can be found at Capers Emporium?
We believe the heart of the home is found in the moments you create there Whether you’re setting a beautiful table or preparing a simple meal, you’ll find thoughtfully curated pieces to elevate the experience From dishes, flatware, placemats, and napkins to distinctive serving pieces, our collection helps you entertain with ease and style . Candleholders and candles set the mood — whether for a quiet evening for two or a lively gathering with friends — while our well-stocked grilling section brings inspiration outdoors . And for those looking to expand their culinary repertoire, cooking classes offer skillbuilding and connection .
Describe the trends are you noticing among your shoppers. Today’s shoppers are busier than ever, making time-saving solutions valuable . We
offer kitchen tools designed to streamline prep and cleanup — and we love demonstrating how to use them . Our gourmet mixes make it easy to create flavorful meals, snacks, soups, dips, cheeseballs, and even drinks in minutes .
We’re also seeing a renewed focus on mindful living at home Customers want
to reduce food waste, avoid “forever chemicals,” and choose earth-friendly alternatives B eeswax-infused wraps, glass storage containers, and non-plastic utensils make it easier to care for both your home and the environment .
Are
all your products kitchen-related?
Not at all Capers Emporium is about creating comfort and joy throughout the home Cozy pajamas, robes, and slippers invite relaxation, while spa-inspired self-care items bring a sense of retreat to everyday life . Our décor — from blown glass accents to whimsical finds — adds personality to any space . You’ll also discover books, journals, toys, musical instruments, and creative kits for all ages . Our glass fusion studio produces handmade pieces ranging from night lights to garden stakes, and we offer two-hour classes where you can learn a new skill and create something uniquely your own .
An unparalleled shopping experience awaits you at Capers Emporium with a wide variety of items from socks to soup mixes. You’ll find puzzles and toys, pajamas and pillows, kitchen gadgets and gourmet treats, and so much more.
602 MAIN STREET • NEW HARMONY, IN 812-682-6112 • PRETTYFOOD.COM
Bower Kitchen & Bath
Which trends are shaping home design, remodeling, and property improvements right now?
For decades, homes were built without considering the limited mobility that comes with age, injuries, or health concerns
Historically accessible bathrooms have an institutional look that makes clients feel like they are in a hospital or nursing home
At Bower Kitchen and Bath, we use our 30+ years of experience and network of resources to turn bathrooms with limited functionality into bathrooms that work for everyday life, without sacrificing design
Before jumping into a renovation or major home project, what key factors should homeowners think through?
Most projects aren’t as simple as they seem
Updating one thing can cause a cascading effect of work and homeowners can quickly get in over their head, or worse, do something that needs to be redone in less than a year
Homeowners should also consider how a home will function for them in the future Stepping into a tub/shower combo unit may not seem difficult, but imagine doing it in 15+ years
Homeowners should also consider the time DIY projects can take, and the quality of work they will get from doing it themselves Our crews remodel bathrooms and kitchens every day We not only do quality work, but we do it fast What might take a homeowner weeks or months to finish, we do in days, and you know it’s done correctly and will last for decades .
How does your company’s approach set your home projects apart from others in the market?
Functionality and appearance don’t have to conflict At Bower Kitchen and Bath, we start with functionality to ensure the space works for you Then we work with you to make it look great
We also understand that kitchen and bathroom upgrades are major investments, and the cost of these projects is usually a deciding factor We provide a quote for all the work before the project begins . We have compiled a catalog of products that maximize functionality, appearance, and cost . We’re happy to take your design and provide a full quote to deliver it, but we also can help you select the materials and products that return the highest value . Remodels cost money, so let’s make sure you’re spending it on things that matter to you .
Award World Trophies and Gifts
700 N. Weinbach Ave., Ste. 103 812-425-4571 awardworldtrophies.com
When the moment matters, how you remember it should too, whether it’s a championship win, a career milestone, or a small victory that meant everything, the right award turns achievement into something tangible. Award World Trophies brings those moments to life with custom pieces designed to reflect the significance behind every accomplishment.
What can Award World offer realtors who want to give their clients a closing gift or a family member wanting to congratulate someone on their new home?
We can engrave a photo of their new home onto a cutting board or personalize one of our leather serving trays with their monogram A decanter set or a nice bottle of bourbon or wine would also make a thoughtful touch .
Can you create special family keepsakes or special displays?
Many people don’t realize we engrave customer-provided items every day — from small brass plates and wood pieces to ball gloves and even archery arrows We also specialize in remembrance plates for urns and memorial cast plaques for benches, trees, and even university bell towers
How long does it take your staff to produce a custom engraving?
Need it fast? That’s our specialty We’re known as the quickest in the tri-state, with a typical turnaround of 5–7 business days In a pinch, we can often make same-day or next-day orders happen . For larger corporate projects, we suggest planning for up to 10 days
Are there other products you offer that you’d like for customers to know about?
We can engrave amazing gifts for bridal parties, the happy couple, or saying thank you to family members . If you can dream it, we can work with you to make your dream come true
Leslie Lawrence, Owner
SugarBakers Home Fashions
What truly sets SugarBakers apart is its unique combination of retail and design services under one roof Unlike traditional design firms, the showroom welcomes both the casually curious and the fully committed client Walk-in guests can explore beautifully styled vignettes, discover distinctive home décor, and gather inspiration in a space that feels both elevated and inviting . For those seeking a more tailored experience, the 1100 Tutor Lane
For more than 45 years, SugarBakers Home Fashions has been a destination where inspired design meets approachable luxury . What began as a small paint and wallpaper shop in Henderson, Kentucky, has evolved into a 10,000-squarefoot retail showroom and full-service design studio — an immersive space designed to spark creativity at every turn As a locally owned, women-owned business, SugarBakers blends heritage with a fresh, forwardthinking approach to interiors
in-house design team offers full-service interior design, guiding clients from initial concept to final installation with expertise and intention .
At the heart of SugarBakers is a deep commitment to creating interiors that reflect the personality and lifestyle of each homeowner This is not just a goal — it’s the foundation of every project No two spaces are alike, because no two clients are alike By understanding how each client lives, entertains, and unwinds, the team thoughtfully curates spaces that feel personal, functional, and effortlessly beautiful
This seamless blend of retail and design creates a rare and dynamic experience — one where clients can interact with products firsthand, visualize possibilities, and make confident decisions . Rooted in decades of expertise and driven by a passion for beautiful living, SugarBakers continues to redefine the design experience — where inspiration lives, creativity thrives, and every client feels truly at home .
Budget Blinds
812-270-9993
Tyler opened Budget Blinds of the greater Evansville area 19 years ago, and has been blessed with many great customers, builders, and designers . Prior to opening his own window covering business, Tyler spent 15 years in the prepress industry, where he was the production manager and color coordinator between the pre-press department and the printer . His prior background and experience working with Disney, American Media, and Harcourt Brace, among others, have given Tyler years of experience in color and coordination . Tyler and Budget Blinds offer products from the top brands in window coverings, like Hunter Douglas, Norman Window Fashions, Lafayette, Graber, Lutron, and more! They have solutions for every window, door, arch, indoors, or outdoors . Budget Blinds also offers its exclusive 5-year No Questions Asked Warranty!
How do customers view your products?
We offer a free in-home consultation in which you can view products, colors, and options in the comfort and lighting of your own home We bring the showroom to you!
Describe the benefits of being backed by North America’s leading custom window coverings provider.
With more than 1,000 franchises, Budget Blinds sells more window coverings than any box store or online retailer That gives us power with pricing and warranties, such as our exclusive 5-year No Questions Asked Warranty We also offer exclusive products, materials, and colors through our manufacturers
What does your team find most rewarding about its work?
We love working with customers, assisting them with their vision, and being that finishing touch in their new home or remodel At the same time, we make sure that what they purchase not only is beautiful in their home but also functions how they need it to for privacy, safety, energy efficiency, and security
Through a wide variety of services, including landscape design and installation, stone patios and paths, water features, low-voltage lighting, landscape bed maintenance, irrigation and seasonal displays, Landscapes by Dallas Foster brings each client’s dream space to life in a beautiful, natural work of art. We look forward to sharing our love of landscaping with you.
Portraits in Nature
Landscapes by Dallas Foster’s exquisite, customized designs have allowed us to become a premier landscape company in the Tri-State. With each design, our goal is to cultivate a peaceful, inviting getaway for our clients. We recognize that each client’s situation is unique and requires a special approach and perspective. Based on that approach we evaluate each project, whether it is a natural, formal, or contemporary design, to focus on the desire of the client to create a “Portrait in Nature.”
Our desire is to take the time to get to know you and your dream for your space in order to foster the ultimate reflection of your personality through nature. We build more than just landscapes. We create outdoor living areas that spark your emotions no matter what season. Your landscape is an extension of your home, and we treat it as such. We pay special attention to your favorite colors, plants, seasons, and hobbies. The ultimate result is that your personal outdoor space becomes a reflection of you and radiates natural and seamless beauty. We purposely create destinations within your landscape. So that you will have places to go, places to see, to sit, to enjoy, to relax, and to spend some time, just you and nature.
Our dedicated, hands-on approach is evident from Landscapes by Dallas Foster’s office personnel, crew members, managers, and designers. Our experienced designers work closely with each client throughout the proposal and design process to ensure a smooth blend of our client’s wishes and budget along with the designer’s artistry and vision. Together with our talented staff we create beautiful three dimensional works of art that our clients will enjoy for years to come.
It is never too early to start planning your next landscape project. We would be honored to have the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your vision and desires for your property. Together we can make those visions reality.
Colonial Classics Landscape & Nursery
3633 Epworth Road, Newburgh, IN 812-853-6622
colonialnewburgh.com
Colonial Classics Landscape and Nursery, Inc., is a complete nursery, a full-service residential and commercial landscaper, and pool installer. The business was started in 1958 by Jim McCarty Sr., who ventured into a relatively new field of retail garden centers. In 2005, we moved to our current location in Newburgh and began specializing in Landscape Design and Build, Garden Center Retail, Landscape Maintenance, Nursery, and Pool Installation. In January 2025, Colonial Classics, Inc., became Colonial Classics Ops, LLC. New owners Andrew and Jesse Diekhoff aim to continue the legacy of helping customers beautify their environment by providing the best value of goods and services. With new ownership, Colonial is sure to go through several changes, like adding an irrigation department, all while staying true to its roots.
At Colonial Classics Landscape & Nursery, what can customers expect from working with your team?
Colonial clients can continue to have a one-stop shopping experience for their landscape needs. In addition to handpicking which plants to plug into their landscaping, customers can receive tips for pruning their shrubs, services to fertilize their lawn, assistance planting trees, installation of a swimming pool or outdoor lighting, and expert designers drafting 3-D conceptual presentations of swaths of colorful blooms or the perfect patio.
Our team offers a turnkey approach to your outdoor living needs. Our process is tailored specifically to meet each client’s project size, function, and desired aesthetic. A consultation with one of our talented and experienced landscape designers is the first step in discovering what Colonial’s landscape department can offer.
Are you offering any new services?
We are building a team to specialize in irrigation. We want to offer more maintenance services and keep growing, so we’re building qualified teams that specialize in irrigation.
What’s your best advice for caring for new plants?
The first six weeks are the most critical. Pay more attention to supplemental watering in those early days, and then taper back as time goes by. New plants need enough water so soil around and below the root ball is consistently damp, but not waterlogged. You should not need to water your plant daily, but continue to monitor your watering through the first year, especially during the heat and drought of the summer.
We are considering having a fiberglass pool installed. What do we need to be thinking about in advance?
Consider proper placement, elevation, and surroundings when purchasing a pool. Colonial’s design staff can make this process simple. We proudly install industry-leading Thursday Pools — the quality and versatility of these fiberglass pools go hand in hand with our focus on creating complete outdoor living spaces for our customers.
Landscape install, maintenance, and retail center team
Elpers Stoneworks
2500 St. Joseph Ave. 812-480-3748
Elpers Stoneworks is a family-owned and operated business established in 2003, providing all your hardscape needs. Elpers Stoneworks sources its natural stone from its own rock quarry in Smithland, Kentucky, enabling the business to keep prices down for customers. Come visit their showroom today!
What does Elpers Stoneworks offer at the showroom?
We are now an AgRevolution Town & Country Dealer, proudly featuring Massey Ferguson equipment — from 23HP Garden Compacts to 100HP Utility Tractors. In addition to premium Dynasty Spas and Traeger grills, Elpers offers expert landscaping solutions and materials, as well as personalized advice on the best compact and utility tractors to maintain your property. Come discover the perfect tools to enhance your home and land!
What are some of the best applications for natural stone in landscaping?
Walkways and Pathways: Natural stone creates durable and visually appealing paths. The textures can also provide good traction.
Retaining Walls: Large, sturdy stones are excellent for building strong and natural-looking retaining walls to manage elevation changes.
Steps and Staircases: Natural stone steps add a touch of rustic charm and durability to sloped areas.
Fire Pits and Outdoor Fireplaces: Stone is heat-resistant and durable, making it ideal for stunning focal points.
Seating Areas: Flat stones or assembled rock benches offer integrated seating options within a garden or patio.
Elpers Stoneworks now carries Dynasty Spas. What do customers like about the product?
Dynasty Spas stand out for their quality, innovative features, extensive warranties, and structural integrity. They offer a variety of models, including those with larger seating configurations, customizable seating, and advanced jet placement, making them suitable for families and gatherings. Dynasty also emphasizes factory service and customer support, ensuring a positive ownership experience.
AgRevolution Town & Country Dealer, proudly featuring Massey Ferguson equipment
Storm Guard
Storm Guard has been a trusted name in the roofing and construction field in Evansville for over 10 years. Our team of experts specializes in exterior projects, including roofing, siding, windows, gutters, and emergency tarping services.
What is the Storm Guard “Way?”
The Storm Guard “Way” is the spirit running through the core of our entire organization. Simply stated, our clients’ peace of mind is paramount. We always strive to please our clients, providing them with the utmost in quality and construction expertise.
What
are your services?
Storm Guard is a trusted leader in the roofing and storm damage repair industry. We specialize in providing comprehensive services for both residential and commercial properties. Our offerings include roof inspections, roof repairs, replacement, storm damage restoration, and insurance claims assistance. Whether it’s dealing with hail, wind, or any other severe weather conditions, our goal is to restore homes and
businesses to their original state — quickly, efficiently, and with the highest quality of craftsmanship.
Why should someone choose Storm Guard?
We handle it all! You don’t have to meet with your insurance provider to determine if the repairs will be covered. We do it for you! If your storm damage is not covered, our team of professionals will provide you with a reasonable quote to get your property back to like-new condition in a timely manner.
Can you tell us about your experience and expertise in exterior restoration services?
Storm Guard specializes in this area. There’s no damage we haven’t seen, which makes us experts in the art of restoration.
Matt and Chris Gilliam, Owners
Premium paints engineered for lasting color, smooth coverage, and trusted performance. Elevate every space with rich pigments and finishes that hold up beautifully over time.
Heritage-inspired paints crafted with depth, nuance, and unmistakable character. Thoughtfully curated colors that transform spaces with a refined, timeless, and distinctly British feel.
High-performance sealants built for durability, flexibility, and long-term protection. Ideal for demanding applications where strength, reliability, and a clean finish truly matter.
EXCLUSIVELY AT HAUBSTADT PAINT & FLOORING
Luxury vinyl flooring designed for durability and style. Realistic wood and stone looks with easy maintenance, available exclusively at our Haubstadt store location.
Paint Distributors
201 N. Royal Ave., Evansville, IN 812-471-7070 paintevv.com
404 IN-68, Haubstadt, IN 812-768-6983 haubstadtpaintandflooring.com
Paint Distributors, a long-standing Evansville business known for its trusted service and quality Benjamin Moore paints, continues under new ownership. Jeremy and Tara Overton, owners of Haubstadt Paint & Flooring, are building on that foundation — preserving what customers value while investing in the future to better serve the community.
Serving the community for more than 30 years
Brian McCain built Paint Distributors’ reputation for quality, relationships, and local ownership with a straightforward approach customers could trust. Tammy McCain has been a staple at Paint Distributors for more than 30 years. Customers appreciate her attention to detail and know they can trust her — many returning years later, knowing she can match their colors from her index card records. “Knowing Tammy was planning on staying on after the sale gave us the confidence to move forward,” says Jeremy Overton.
Abby Burton, whom Overton describes as a talented artist with an eye for color, is quickly learning under Tammy while taking on increasing operational responsibilities.
Eli Kramer helped guide the store through its transition, implementing systems that improve day-to-day operations for both customers and contractors. Today, he is focused on serving professionals, building relationships, and growing the business while staying true to what has made it work.
The focus isn’t on changing what works — it’s on building on it. New product lines, including Farrow & Ball paints coming this summer, give customers even more high-quality options.
“Our Allpro buying group allows us to stay competitive with the big box stores while delivering the kind of service and attention to detail people expect from a locally owned business,” Overton says.
The Overton family’s roots run deep in Southwestern Indiana. Tara’s grandfather, Scotty Hipp, started Scotty’s Lawn & Garden in the 1960s, and she grew up working in the garden center after her family took over the business in the 1980s. That early experience shaped her appreciation for hard work, customer relationships, and being part of a local business people can rely on.
Jeremy, a graduate of North Posey High School (’96) and Wabash College (’00), has owned and operated an Ameriprise Financial advisory practice for more than 25 years. He has also served on the Gibson County
Council for 20 years. Tara is a graduate of Gibson Southern High School (‘98) and the University of Evansville (‘02). In addition to her involvement with the family’s businesses, she serves on the board of directors for WNIN and Historic New Harmony. Their daughter, Sunny, is a student at Evansville’s Montessori Academy and is already interested in learning more about the business, though she’s mostly focused on convincing her parents to get a puppy for the store. Together, Tara and Jeremy bring a strong connection to the community and a long-term perspective to everything they do.
That balance of tradition and forward movement shows up in the day-to-day experience customers have when they walk
through the door. Whether it’s a homeowner starting a renovation, a contractor needing reliable product availability, or someone simply trying to get the right shade of white (arguably the hardest decision of all), the team takes a consultative approach rather than a transactional one. It’s not about pushing product — it’s about getting it right.
A s the business continues to evolve, that mindset remains constant. By combining decades of institutional knowledge with new systems, expanded product offerings, and a commitment to personalized service, Paint Distributors is positioned to serve both longtime customers and a new generation tackling projects of their own.
CenterPoint Energy
800-227-1376 centerpointenergy.com
Energy efficiency isn’t just good for the planet — it’s a smart move for your household. By reducing energy waste, you can directly lower your monthly usage while increasing your home’s comfort and value. Small changes in your everyday habits and home systems can lead to significant savings over time, making energy efficiency one of the most accessible ways to improve your budget.
Smart control at your fingertips.
The foundation of a modern home is control. With the introduction of smart outlets and advanced controls, managing your home’s energy footprint is now as simple as a tap on your smartphone. These devices act like “cruise control” for your appliances, automatically cutting power to electronics left running. By setting custom schedules and timers, you gain control over your environment, whether you are in the living room or away on vacation.
Managing humidity and air quality is a critical part of home maintenance. For a limited time, CenterPoint Energy is helping you prioritize your family’s health: any dehumidifier purchased from our Energy Efficiency Store includes a free air purifier.
This “Double the Comfort” approach allows you to remove excess moisture while cleaning the air you breathe — a simple step toward a healthier home.
Creating a smarter, healthier, and more efficient home.
CenterPoint Energy offers programs to help boost your home’s energy efficiency:
• Shop our online store: Find a wide range of discounted energy-saving products.
• Smart cycle program: Enroll now and receive a one-time $75 bill credit, plus ongoing monthly savings.
• Free home energy assessment: Get a p ersonalized assessment and on-thespot upgrades at no cost to you.
Explore more long-term solutions for improved energy efficiency by scanning the QR code or visiting: CenterPointEnergy.com/SmartSavings.
Turpen’s Painting Co.
Why choose Turpen’s Painting for your home project?
When it comes to enhancing the beauty and value of your home through painting, opting for professionals can make all the difference. Here’s why hiring expert painters is the best choice:
Quality Assurance
• Expert Techniques: Our professional painters possess the skills and knowledge to deliver a flawless finish that DIY methods often can’t match. Our crews have spent many hours acquiring the necessary skills to prep and apply each product and service we offer.
• High-Quality Materials: We use top grade paints and tools, ensuring durability and a vibrant look that lasts.
Time Efficiency
• Faster Completion: With a team of experienced painters, projects are
completed in a timely manner, minimizing disruption to your daily life and freeing up more time for family and friends.
• Project Management: Professionals handle scheduling and logistics, allowing you to focus on other priorities.
Collaboration with Builders and Contractors
• Seamless Integration: We have established relationships with numerous home builders and general
contractors, which ensures a smooth workflow.
• Coordinated Efforts: Our team collaborates closely with your construction teams to align timelines and expectations, reducing p otential delays.
Cost-Effectiveness
• Avoiding Mistakes: Hiring professionals mitigates the risk of costly mistakes that can occur with DIY painting.
• Long-Term Savings: Quality work leads to fewer touch-ups and repaints, saving you money in the long run.
Choosing a professional painting service not only enhances your structure’s aesthetics, it ensures a hassle-free experience and protects your home or business for years to come. Trust us to bring your vision to life with expertise and efficiency, making your renovation project a breeze!
Heavrin Plumbing
812-781-2325 heavrinplumbing.com
Heavrin Plumbing
taking pride in earning trust through proactive communication, consistent workmanship, and a
How does Heavrin Plumbing deliver services that go beyond the ordinary?
At Heavrin Plumbing, going above and beyond isn’t just a slogan. It’s how we do business. Sure, we fix leaks and unclog drains, but what sets us apart is how we treat people. We show up on time, communicate clearly, and approach each project with dedication and an eye for detail. Our team brings cutting-edge technology, industry-leading skills, honesty, integrity, and heart to every job, whether it’s a quick repair or a large project. For us, it’s not just about plumbing. It’s about being there when you need us most.
What sets Heavrin Plumbing apart from others in the industry?
We truly care about the people we serve. We’re not just in it to make a quick buck; we’re here to build lasting relationships. We show up when we say we will and take time to explain plumbing issues and repair options. We make repairs with precision, with no shortcuts or compromises, and we stand behind every project and repair. Our phones are answered by a licensed plumber instead of a call center or a virtual receptionist as you might find with larger companies.
and
McMahon Exterminating
What services or specialties are central to your work in the home and real estate space?
At McMahon Exterminating, Inc., we focus on protecting homes at every stage, whether it’s new construction, remodeling, or a real estate transaction. Two of our core services are termite prevention and control, plus Wood-Destroying Insect (WDI) inspections. We work with builders and contractors to provide termite treatments for new construction and existing homes, and we support remodeling projects where structural changes can expose or attract pests.
Our WDI inspections play a key role in real estate transactions and are essential for real estate agents, but they are just as important for homeowners planning a remodeling project. An inspection is key to identifying termites, carpenter ants, and other wood-destroying insects before work begins, helping prevent unexpected damage and costly setbacks. Additionally, we offer ongoing pest control services designed to keep both new and existing homes protected year-round.
How do you ensure quality, craftsmanship, or long-term value in the work you provide?
As a family-owned company with over 55 years of experience, we understand the importance of protecting your home and outdoor spaces. Our team provides thorough inspections, proven treatments,
and reliable service tailored to your home’s specific needs. We don’t just treat problems we build protective barriers, whether it’s keeping your home termite-free or helping you reclaim your yard with effective mosquito control, all to create a comfortable, pest-free environment inside and out.
What do you hope readers remember most about your company when they begin planning their next home project?
We want people to remember that the best pest control is preventative. Your home is one of the biggest investments a family will make, and our role is to help protect it before problems ever begin. As we celebrate 55 years of serving the fine folks in our community, that responsibility means more to us than ever. At McMahon Exterminating, Inc., we take pride in treating our customers like neighbors because they are. Our goal is to be a trusted, dependable partner for homeowners, builders, and real estate professionals, delivering quality service and long-term protection that families can count on for years to come.
SMART Local 20
What values are most important to Sheet Metal Workers Local 20 and SMART contractors?
Dependability, attention to detail, a good work ethic, and craftsmanship are the values that are most important to Local 20 and SMART Contractors.
How can HVAC specialized contractors aid homeowners with their heating and air services?
They aid homeowners by providing honest, accurate quotes and service without just changing parts and running up a bill. Also, they listen to the customer and can devise different ways to reach a customer’s goals at a reasonable cost.
What are the benefits of hiring a Union Sheet Metal Worker?
When you hire a union contractor for your sheet metal project, you choose quality, reliability, and expertise. Our union
members undergo rigorous training and adhere to strict industry standards. They are committed to delivering exceptional service and ensuring the long-term performance of your heating and cooling system.
Quality Craftsmanship: Our union sheet metal workers are highly skilled and trained in the latest techniques and technologies. This ensures that every project is completed with precision and excellence.
Reliability: Union workers are known for their professionalism and dependability. You can trust that your project will be completed on time and to your satisfaction.
Safety: Safety is a top priority in the sheet metal industry. Our union members follow stringent safety protocols to protect themselves and your property.
Continued Education: Union members participate in ongoing education and training programs to stay up to date with industry advancements and best practices. This commitment to continuous improvement means you get the best possible service for your heating and cooling system needs.
Savor
MEALS TO REMEMBER
Catering was something Denise Rapp initially swore off, intimidated by the amount of work and preparation — and all the ways it can go wrong. But seeing the results of her time and effort, presenting food that feeds the eye and the stomach, convinced her to make the leap.
LOCAL FOODIE
Beauty and Taste
Denise Rapp’s food is appetizing to the eyes
By Maggie Valenti
Known for her catering business in New Harmony, Indiana, Denise Rapp’s culinary journey began almost 200 miles northeast in Indianapolis. “I’ve worked in food service so long, it helped me cultivate a niche for catering beautiful food,” says the Monrovia, Indiana, native. “I was training for bigger and better things and didn’t even know it.”
In her late teens and early twenties, she says she “bopped around” between Circle City restaurants, from McDonald’s to The Coachman Restaurant. She credits the former New Orleans House, a seafood buffet that prioritized artful presentation of space and food, with her professional
2016, transforming part of her home into a kitchen and event space. A large island accommodates up to eight participants for her cooking classes, while wooden tables seat private dinners of 25 people. Guests are surrounded by antique dishware, knick-knacks, and artwork.
growth. “I have worked in a variety of restaurants and honed in on fine dining as my passion,” Rapp says.
In 2004, she and her then-husband moved to New Harmony to raise their children, Thomas and Ella, closer to family. Rapp worked in the front of house at the Red Geranium Restaurant at New Harmony Inn Resort, cooked for Charles Ford Retirement Communities of New Harmony, then managed Sara’s Harmony Way (now Sara’s Wine Bar).
Rapp realized she wanted to leave restaurant management behind and focus on creating food that looks as inviting as it tastes. Rapp began Moveable Feast in
Her recipes are passed down from her mother, Linda Hughett, or ones she developed over time. “No matter what I’m making, true success is a balance between taste and presentation … classic and well-crafted dishes, fresh vegetables, and beautiful salads,” Rapp says. She uses garnishes to make food pop, from tiny butterfly sprinkles on vanilla icing to blackberries or tomatoes atop croissants. Popular dishes include a sausage and cheddar quiche, or, for a gluten-free option, spinach and Swiss. Rapp also offers carryout orders on Tuesdays, when she regularly fills bellies with traditional home-cooked meals — think pork Manhattan smothered with mashed potatoes and gravy and served with buttered peas, alongside a slice of German chocolate cake for dessert. “I truly want to create unique experiences guests will be talking about long after the event,” she says.
She is joined in the kitchen by Carolyn Brown, a former hairdresser of 45 years who catered Hadi Shrine events in Saint Louis, Missouri. After Brown and her husband, Terri, moved to New Harmony in 2021, she met Rapp at a rummage sale, and the two bonded over food. Their relationship blossomed into a working friendship. “We live close, and it’s easy for me to help. Plus, Denise’s kitchen is wonderful and easy to work in,” Brown says. “We love spending time together and working together.”
Order from Denise Rapp’s Moveable Feast on Facebook.
LOCAL FOODIE
Carolyn Brown and Denise Rapp
Pick of the Patch
Strawberries star in spring market products
By Jodi Keen
Regional farms are waking up after their winter sleep, and strawberries are among the first fruits coming off the line. While many produce stands and markets offer freshpicked berries for purchase, some also put their strawberry crop to use in the kitchen. Consider adding these berry-filled products to your shopping basket before this growing season ends in early June.
Bread and Pies
Mayse Farm Market
6400 N. Saint Joseph Ave.
How does a slice of warm strawberry walnut bread sound? This family-owned farm fires up its bakery in May when fresh strawberries come in from the field. Don’t stop with the bread, though: Mayse also produces berry-filled cheesecake fudge, pies, and 32-ounce bottles of strawberry cider.
Hot Sauce
Linnewebers Sauce Company available online via Local Source Made from chiles grown at the company’s Vincennes, Indiana, farm, with berries from Memering’s Berry Patch, the Strawberry Kombucha Vinegar Fermented Sauce 1.7-ounce bottle adds a sweet
tang to Chris Linneweber’s line of otherwise fiery sauces and seasonings.
Jam
The Tenbarge Farm Stand
431 S. West St., Haubstadt, Indiana
This produce stand’s jam is well known, but the Tenbarge family doesn’t sleep on that success. They’ve stuffed their strawberry jam with peach, giving the sweet treat extra flavor.
Popsicles
Lollys Pops, available at Reimann’s Farm Market, 13940 Darmstadt Road, Darmstadt, Indiana
You’re likely to catch Lollys’ fruit-filled frozen treats at summer festivals via its food truck, but Reimann’s Farm Market in Darmstadt also regularly keeps them in stock. Berry-centric flavors come in variations like cream, lemonade, and mango, plus classic strawberry.
For more information on where to purchase locally grown strawberries, including U-pick sites, visit evansvilleliving.com.
WHAT’S THE SECRET?
Be an insider and order items not on the menu
By Maggie Valenti
Available-by-request menu items are becoming a popular way for restaurants to engage loyal customers. A few businesses in the River City honor those requests — you just need to know what to ask for.
Tyrone’s Chicken, House of Como
He’s been a chef at this long-loved Mediterranean-and-more restaurant since 2011, and last year, Tyrone Patton developed this poultry dish after experimenting with some hot spices and seasonings, giving it a kick. Pair Tyrone’s Chicken with the Arabian salad, one of Como’s best-known dishes.
Rami Malek Macchiato, Honey Moon Coffee Co.
This coffee — served hot or iced — was developed in 2019 after the 2003 University of Evansville alum’s Academy Award win for Best Actor for his portrayal of Queen lead singer Freddie Mercury in “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Local movie fans were treated to a sweet combination of popcorn syrup, milk, espresso, and caramel drizzle. Seven years after Malek’s big win, his namesake macchiato has kept a permanent, albeit lower-profile, spot on the drinks roster at Honey Moon’s now four locations.
Authentic Chinese Menu, Szechwan Restaurant
Not satisfied with just one or two off-menu items? This East Side eatery offers diners a separate list of 39 items — bonus points for those who can read the Chinese script on the back. Designed for those seeking a more traditional Chinese meal, it features dishes not typically found at American-Chinese restaurants, such as Chengdu shrimp, sautéed or hot-braised pork intestine, kung pao squid or squid in black bean sauce, and ma po tofu.
The Tenbarge Farm Stand
MATTHEW 28:6
GOOD EATS
From Dock to Dish
ABSeafood makes waves bringing coastal fare to the Midwest
By John Martin
Now more than a decade old, ABSeafood continues to catch on. Based in Elizabethtown, Kentucky, the company’s tentacles stretch to Alabama’s Gulf Coast, where fresh and frozen seafood items are shipped throughout the South and lower Midwest, including Evansville and surrounding Tri-State communities.
Co-owner Barry Collier is a fisherman and native of the coastal region, while his wife is from Bardstown, Kentucky. “People wanted seafood whenever we came up to visit, and it turned into a business,” Collier says. “We built a wholesale route leading to (Kentucky), which we don’t do anymore. And when we got there, we opened a store.”
“People wanted seafood whenever we came up to visit, and it turned into a business.”
Barry Collier, co-owner
The restaurant, Gulf Coast Connection, remains in business in Elizabethtown. While the Colliers reside in the Mobile, Alabama, area, co-owner Ryne Vincent — a Gulf Coast native now living in Kentucky — handles many of ABSeafood’s deliveries. It was Vincent who pulled a white utility trailer into The Hills Church at 5025 Constellation Ave. on a spring Saturday morning, ready to unload delicacies for a line of seafood lovers.
If it swims in the Gulf, chances are ABSeafood can bring it to you. “We sell fresh cooked and live crawfish, fresh shrimp and oysters, and various fish and alligator meat,” Collier says, with soups and dips rounding out the menu. Lent is a popular season, but business doesn’t stop there: ABSeafood makes catches and deliveries all year long. Its schedule and specials are posted regularly
to Facebook, where customers place orders by commenting on upcoming delivery dates.
Evansville is a name you’ll see often on those listings. The company started coming here in 2017, two years after its launch. “It used to be every other Saturday, and people were having to guess when we were coming,” Collier says. “So, we’ve made a point to come every weekend so people can plan their parties around it. … We’ve got a good loyal customer base there.”
Newburgh resident Laura Stoltz is among those loyalists. She makes flavor-packed gumbo using andouille sausage and shrimp, and at Mardi Gras, she paired it with a king cake order. She also cooks jambalaya and triggerfish chowder with ABSeafood deliveries. “I love the freshness of their seafood,” Stoltz says. “It brings the variety and options we enjoy while on vacation to us here at home.” facebook.com/gulfcoastconnection
Ryne Vincent
Under An Open Sky
Cafe Arazu’s eclectic menu and atmosphere make legions of fans
By John Martin
For al fresco dining experiences, it’s tough to top the wraparound patio at Cafe Arazu, where guests are enveloped by Newburgh’s quaint Downtown setting on West Jennings Street, lush gardens, a fountain’s gentle flow, and the Ohio River nearby. Fresh, authentic Mediterranean food and drinks have been the main draw, but the inviting outdoor space makes you want to stay awhile.
Owner Cathy Webb wants visitors to feel like her family, whether they sit outside or in the dimly lit, cozy interior. Webb took pride in being an approachable, nurturing educator during her first career as a Warrick County public school teacher. Since she and her partners bought Cafe Arazu nearly four years ago, she’s run the business in a similar manner.
“I love talking to people,” Webb says. “People say it is the way the staff feels at Cafe Arazu that makes them feel welcome and at home. I know a lot of people who walk in the door. I’ve lived here for 65 years.”
Webb was new to restaurant management upon taking over Arazu in July 2022, but she’s the first to admit that lots of help eased the transition.
Her son-in law, Andrew West, was hired in 2017 by former owner Penny Nejad to handle marketing; West now is part of the ownership team. It was West plus Webb’s son, Matthew Towler, who
approached her with the idea of investing in Cafe Arazu when Nejad wanted to retire.
Chef Partner David Holmes, who developed the menu when Cafe Arazu opened in 2010 (“I arrived with the furniture,” he jokes), stayed on with the new ownership group. Nejad also remains involved, tending to the landscaping.
The Persian roots of Nejad’s husband, Ben, continue to influence Arazu’s menu via dishes like falafel and gyros, but Holmes describes the restaurant’s fare as “new American,” with nods to multiple nations. “I actually consider it
truly American food because it’s cuisine that’s come to our country, and then we’ve done our thing with it.”
A prime example is the Korean kalbe ribeye, a savory slab that tastes as good as it looks. “We serve it with … we refer to it as sticky rice — short-grain Asian rice similar to what you would use for sushi — and the marinade is Korean,” Holmes says. “The treatment is all authentic. It’s just applied to a popular American steak.” The ribeye is topped with caramelized onions and pickled daikon radish, with garlic sautéed green beans joining the rice.
For more than a decade, customers have dined at Cafe Arazu for entrees such as Polynesian chicken and bistro steak medallions. “It’s on the verge of being adventurous, because it’s not just your simple steak and potatoes,” Holmes says of the latter. “But it’s a solid go-to. It’s one of the few items that’s been on the menu since Day One. For a very, very short time we tried to take it off, but it came right back.” Persian influences remain in the lamb chops and beef and chicken kebabs. Salmon lovers have two flavor-packed choices: a Thai style, and the Old World mustard-crusted variety.
Holmes recommends a salad with fruit, goat cheese, and flaky, pecan-crusted chicken. It started as a special, and “we’ll probably move it to our main menu,” he says. The “J Street” Newburgher, with its thick, blended patty, also draws raves — pair it with the Greek potatoes or Asian napa slaw.
Another big seller has been a Buddha-style bowl with chicken shawarma and Cafe Arazu’s original hummus. “Traditionally, a Buddha bowl is vegetarian and comes from an old story where Buddha would walk through a village with an empty bowl,” West explains. “As he went, people would add small amounts of their own food to his bowl. Little by little, his bowl would become full. So, it was a community meal. That’s kind of what it represents to us.”
The Cuban cigars (egg rolls filled with beef and sour cream, with a yellow mustard drizzle) came about by accident. “We’ve always been big on cross-utilizing our products and using everything that we could,” Holmes says. “When we trim our beef and boil it down for broth, the scraps are what we use to make our Cuban cigars. … We ran our Cuban beef sandwiches one day, and we had some left over … so we put it in an egg roll. We thought we’d be clever.”
Longtime Arazu fans know to leave room for dessert. The carrot cake is a secret recipe belonging to the Nejads. “It is all made from scratch, in-house daily, twice a day sometimes,” Holmes says. How beloved is it? “There are several folks whose reservation hinges on whether or not we are out of carrot cake,” he adds.
Many Cafe Arazu ingredients are supplied by CRS OneSource of Owensboro, Kentucky, and West points out the March addition of a Sunday brunch — the breakfast bowl with Irish bacon is one item to try.
Cocktail specials are changed up seasonally. In summer, Cafe Arazu offers a strawberry martini and strawberry mojito,
but “we can make just about anything a customer would want,” says front of house manager Debbie Karczewski, another original team member. Cafe Arazu has several bourbons and puts its own spin on the old fashioned, splashing in an apricot liqueur. Alcohol-free drinks include hot teas; one is blended by Newburgh’s Mulberry Jean’s Accents. Cafe Arazu’s sister location in Downtown Evansville had a four-year-plus run before closing in 2021 after struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Newburgh spot, though, continues to thrive. In addition to the food and al fresco option, diners love its historic building that, according to the Newburgh Museum, dates to 1878 and originally was used as an ice house.
Cafe Arazu prioritizes giving customers value for their upscale meals — many entrees are under $20 — as well as a quality atmosphere. “People are very finicky about where they’re spending their money,” Holmes says. “If we can turn dinner into an experience, then we can kill two birds with one stone.”
Webb credits her family members — including husband Dennis — for assisting with Cafe Arazu in various capacities. Her grandchildren Evelyn, Eloise, Kingston, and Emi lend a hand when they visit the restaurant, too. “It’s been an adventure,” she says. “We just happened to come into an opportunity that was already well-established, and we’ve continued it and had lots of help doing that.” visitarazu.com
Korean kalbe ribeye
Strawberry mojito
Cathy Webb and Marissa, Eloise, and Evelyn West
Dine
Fine Dining
Cavanaugh’s on the River
Located on the second floor of Bally’s Riverfront Event Center, this premier dining experience specializes in steak and seafood on its three-course menu, which includes prime rib, pork chop, blackened neptune, verlasso salmon, and king crab legs. Live entertainment Wednesday-Sunday at Cavanaugh’s Piano Bar. Reservations recommended. 421 N.W. Riverside Drive (inside Bally’s Evansville)
NANDO Wood-Fired Steak & Seafood
A new menu of steaks and seafood, including oysters, sea bass, halibut, wagyu, ribeye, and burgers plus duck breast, gnocchi a la rosa, and french onion soup. 415 Main St.
Upscale Dining
Belly of the Wolf
This newer scratch restaurant inside Schymik’s Kitchen offers a wine-driven menu of smoked salmon, Iberico pork loin, shareplate ribeyes, steak frites, Curacao creme brulee, and more. 1112 Parrett St.
Biaggi’s Ristorante Italiano
Monthly chef specials and homemade dishes fill out the lunch and dinner menus. Try bacon-wrapped dates, seafood scampi, french onion soup, braised short rib or butternut squash ravioli, eggplant parmesan, dijon salmon, and grilled mahi mahi. 6401 E. Lloyd Expressway Ste. 3
i Cap & Cork
Find a menu heavy on steak and seafood, with several handheld choices, a lengthy cocktail menu, and a cigar and bourbon bar. 104 N. Water St., Henderson, KY
The Collective Entrees like seafood stuffed mushrooms, barbecue pork sliders, crispy skin salmon,
chicken cordon bleu, and porterhouse steak are complemented by curated wines, original cocktails, and a whiskey selection. 21+.
230 Main St. (above COMFORT by the Cross-Eyed Cricket)
Copper House
Dishes range from white bean hummus and steak and grits to apricot salmon, plus cocktails and wine enjoyed from the restaurant, bar, and Garden Room overlooking the kitchen. 1430 W. Franklin St.
Cork ’N Cleaver
With its menu etched on literal cleavers, this longstanding restaurant is known for steaks, seafood, burgers, and sandwiches, an extensive salad bar (complete with anchovies), and mud pie for dessert.
650 S. Hebron Ave.
Cosmos Bistro
This French-inspired menu, concise with a broad variety of options, offers a la carte dishes that change seasonally.
101 S.E. First St.
Entwined Wine & Cocktail Bar
The wine and cocktail bar has an intimate setting and offers a rotating selection of small plates including charcuterie and cheese plates, salads, flatbreads, and desserts. 303 Main St.
i Farmer and Frenchman Winery
French and Italian cuisines live in harmony on this menu offering seasonal small bites, focaccia, vol au vent, braised beef pasta, beet and burrata salad, beef bourguignon, and roasted butternut squash. An extensive wine menu is available. 12522 U.S. 41 S., Robards, KY
The Foundry Room
Nod at local traditions while tucking into elevated American cuisine like Lamasco Landing Catfish Bites, Reitz Hill Blackened
Catfish, Haynie’s Corner Smoked Wings, and Willard Library Fried Chicken.
601 Walnut St. (inside DoubleTree by Hilton)
i Haub Steakhouse
Housed in a 125-year-old former grain warehouse, find hand-cut meats, including trimmed steaks and fresh seafood, alongside desserts and signature cocktails.
101 E. Haub St., Haubstadt
Casual
Bar Louie
The Midwest gastrobar chain offers bar bites like fried pickles and bone-in wings before entrees including Monterey chicken, citrus grilled salmon, beer-battered fish and chips, shrimp and grits, flatbreads, and craft burgers and scratch-built sandwiches. Catering available. 7700 Eagle Crest Blvd.
Bonefish Grill
A local favorite for seafood, find hand-cut and wood-grilled specialties like Chilean sea bass, parmesan-crusted rainbow trout, and bourbon-glazed salmon. For those who prefer land-based meats, try chicken, pork, steak, or linguine dishes.
6401 E. Lloyd Expressway
BRU Burger Bar
Inside the city’s historic former Greyhound bus terminal, dine on endless takes on the burger — dress it up with bourbon sauce, Provencal cheese, double bacon, chipotle barbecue sauce, a Mexicali spice mix, and mushrooms and Swiss cheese. A wide range of sandwiches, milkshakes, and signature cocktails also are served.
222 Sycamore St.
Bubba’s 33
This family restaurant/sports bar fusion was started by Kent “Bubba” Taylor, the founder of Texas Roadhouse, in 2013, and came to Evansville in 2022. Enjoy dishes
like the Bacon Burger and Meaty Meat pizza, plus garlic knots, pastas, salads, and sandwiches. One N. Burkhardt Road
i Carriage Inn
Housed in what originally was a 19th-century livery renting horses and carriages, this Southern family-style restaurant serves hand-breaded fried chicken, chicken livers and gizzards, grilled salmon, and catfish filets, plus sandwiches and burgers.
103 E. Gibson St., Haubstadt
Catfish Willy’s Seafood & Comfort Cuisine
This eclectic menu includes a Grippos cheeseburger, meatloaf, coconut shrimp, crab stuffed whitefish, fried frog legs, a seafood ramen boil, loaded gator fries, freshshucked loaded or raw oysters, deep fried crab cakes, and a create-your-own seafood steampot, all served with the help of robots. 5720 E. Virginia St.
Chef Lo on the Go
Find a range of classic smashburgers — including pineapple bacon, surf and turf, and brunch variations — plus a shrimp po’boy, fajita tacos, ribeye cheesesteak sandwich, and a variety of loaded fries. 900 Main St. (inside Main Street Food & Beverage)
COMFORT by the Cross-Eyed Cricket
Dine in a historic former hotel on one of the city’s most varied menus. Country entrees include meatloaf, roast beef, and chicken and dumplings, or select from loaded salads, thick sandwiches, fish and fowl dishes, and steaks. Belgian waffles, skillets, omelets, and more breakfast items are served all day. 230 Main St.
The Foundry Room
Cross-Eyed Cricket Family Restaurant
The precursor to COMFORT set the table for homestyle cooking available all day. Breakfast specials include bread pudding French toast, deep fried fruit-covered funnel cake, and garlic butter ribeye steak ‘n eggs. For lunch or dinner, try the Cricket Melt — two beef patties with lettuce, tomato, sauteed onions, and bacon on Texas toast.
2101 W. Lloyd Expressway
Diamonds Diner
An American family restaurant attached to a silo serving farm omelets, French toast, waffles, pancakes, crepes, burgers, sandwiches, wraps, and homestyle cooking.
315 E. Diamond Ave.
Drake’s
The Lexington, Kentucky-based chain specializes in burgers, steaks, sushi, and a good time. The bar has 20 craft beers on tap to wash down a variety of sushi rolls and burgers, plus chicken asada tacos, fried fish, salads, chili, smashburgers, steak, and sandwiches. 1222 Hirschland Road
The Frontier Restaurant and Bar Feast on chicken wings, a “porterhouse” pork chop, and roasted prime rib, plus seafood, pasta, burgers, and sandwiches at the former cinder block saloon. 12945 IN-57
G.D. Ritzy’s
Exuding a diner feel with a 1950s playlist, on the menu are chili, “the world’s best” peanut butter and jelly sandwich, and the wellknown shoe string fries alongside burgers, hotdogs, salads, and soft-serve ice cream. Three locations in Evansville
i Hometown Roots
Explore cuisine with Southern roots by way of pork cakes, a classic Kentucky Hot Brown, Mississippi Cajun catfish, and sweet sorghum banana pudding served in a mason jar. Catering available. 136 Second St., Henderson, KY
HT’s Ice Cream & Grill
Inside the former 2nd Street Treats, this relaxed eatery specializes in smashburgers and ice cream and offers sandwiches, milkshakes and malts, banana splits, sundaes, and more. 221 Second St. Ste. A, Henderson, KY
The Hornet’s Nest Steakhouse (Best Brunch)
Formerly a tavern, hotel, and dance hall, now the restaurant offers everything from a hot brown and beef Manhattan to Cajun chicken tortellini, French dip and Philly sandwiches, lollipop pork chop, pecan bourbon chicken, and more in a relaxed setting. From the bar, enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine, beer, bourbon, and whiskey. 11845 Petersburg Road
Jacobs Pub
This new venture incorporates many original DiLegge’s Restaurant dishes. Start with a fungi ripieni granchio or insalata DiLegge, then dig into Gina’s fried chicken, DiLegge’s baked ziti, a chicken parmesan grinder, German bologna sandwich, double Chicago hot dog, bistecca e gamberetti, clams and linguine, scampi, or build-your-own pasta. 607 N. Main St.
Journey Fish & Chicken
Food with a Chicago flare, try Windy City twists on honey barbecue wings, chicken tenders, catfish steak, and Italian beef. 825 S. Green River Road
Juicy Seafood
Specials include boiled black and green mussels, squid, crayfish, and snow crab, plus New England clam chowder, hushpuppies, raw or steamed oysters, king crab legs, seafood fried rice, and pasta on the Cajun-inspired menu. 865 N. Green River Road
Kate’s Cafe
A place to gather — “where taste and flavor meet” — serving pancakes, crepes, French toast, omelets, sushi, pasta, steak, and more. 5625 Pearl Drive, Ste. G
i The Korner Inn
The northern Warrick County bar is open from breakfast to dinner, including nightly specials on fried chicken, catfish fiddlers, and smoked pork chops. 15 W. Main St., Elberfeld
i The Log Inn
The Elpers family’s definition of homestyle cooking includes fried chicken legs and wings, rolls, ham, roast beef, mashed potatoes, homemade coleslaw, corn, green beans, and freshly baked pies and cakes. Erected in 1825 as a stagecoach stop and trading post, this resting point is recognized as the oldest restaurant in Indiana.
12491 S. 200 E., Haubstadt
Major Munch
Order from a menu of savory burgers and patty melts, catfish sandwich, Philly cheesesteaks, po’boys, three types of crispy chicken sandwiches, and tenderloins.
101 N.W. First St.
Metro Diner
This chain offers comfort food like pancakes, burgers, ribs, fish and chips, and chicken pot pie in a retro setting.
945 N. Burkhardt Road
Mister B’s
Choose from fare like battered mushrooms, nacho baskets, seasoned and loaded waffle fries, loaded potato soup, reubens, strombolis, buffalo mac and cheese, baked ziti, and specialty pizzas. After your meal, stop at Club 18, an indoor golf simulator club next door to the Evansville location.
1340 Hirschland Road; 2611 U.S. 41, Henderson, KY
The New Old Mill Family-style dinners have been made from scratch here since 1936. In a dining room sporting Old World decor, share plates of breaded cauliflower, shrimp egg rolls, Texas-cut prime rib, baby back ribs, shrimp Maui, filet of sole almandine, baked scrod, chicken ala Kiev, lasagna, weiner schnitzel, and Old Mill tenderloin and fish filet sandwiches. 5031 New Harmony Road
Pangea Kitchen
This East Side restaurant combines Thai and Italian dishes to create its eclectic menu of Neapolitan and Detroit-style pizzas, housemade pasta, pad ke moa, kao soi, pad ka poa and rice, torta milanesa, and a rotating taco special. Gelato and Italian pastries are available for dessert.
111 S. Green River Road
FRESH TAKES
NOW OPEN
Casa Fiesta Sports Bar & Grill, 1602 Vann Ave., opened March 9 in the former J’s Sports Bar & Grill and offers lunch specials, a la carte, and specialties like chimichangas, huevos rancheros, and Mexican tortas. The Cobblestone Creamery is serving “Moo-shakes,” “udderly” classic soft-serve scoops, cereal milkshakes, and cobbler bowls at Main Street Food & Beverage, 900 Main St. DoubleTree by Hilton, 601 Walnut St., held a grand opening April 2 for The Foundry Room, an upscale restaurant offering bourbon salmon, short ribs, smash burgers, fried chicken, peach-bourbon glazed pork chops, and filets and ribeyes from Fischer Farms. 09 Mochi, an Asian-inspired dessert joint at 1223 Hirschland Road, Ste. 101, opened April 11 and serves flavored teas, matcha, slushies, Vietnamese coffees, Korean corndogs, honeycomb cake, and mochi doughnuts, waffles, and balls. The Clover Club, a gin cocktail bar beneath Patsy Hartigan’s Irish Pub, 203 Main St., opened April 15. Sunrise Cafe, 8401 N. Kentucky Ave., has opened a second site at 864 S. Green River Road.
A LA CARTE
Sazón y Fuego, 866 Ruffian Lane, Newburgh, has refreshed its menu with chicken enchiladas, steak cachapas, Argentinian asado, whole branzino, choripan, Berkshire pork, prime ribeye, and Peruvian chicken thighs. The new owners of Bowlify Superfoods’ Newburgh location, 8390 High Pointe Drive, Ste. 301, have rebranded it as First Fruits Bowls & More and continue to offer acai bowls, breakfast sandwiches, and fresh fruit smoothies. Pappa Bear’s Catering owners Brent and Kathy Weatherwax have purchased Nisbet Inn, 6701 Nisbet Road, and are adding catering to historic tavern’s dining options. Audrey Christie has sold Stockwell Inn, 4001 E. Eichel Ave., to Brian Brown.
DEARLY DEPARTED
Milano’s, 500 Main St., closed in late April.
Sunrise Cafe
The Cobblestone Creamery
Hometown Heart
At L&K, The Carousel’s tradition spins on
Siblings Kenny and Lindsey Ward know the restaurant world — their father, Kenny Sr., after all, owned East Side eatery The Carousel. With that decades-old business now closed, Kenny Jr. and Lindsey are putting their own stamp on homestyle dining at L&K Hometown Cafe, which opened in November at 920 Main St.
A hearty breakfast choice is The Curtis Combo (a nod to the nearby Curtis Building) with eggs, bacon or sausage, hash browns, a fluffy pancake, and a biscuit and gravy. Another popular pick is an omelette aptly named The Kitchen Sink, a four-egg heap with meats, cheeses, and vegetables, plus crumbled biscuit and gravy.
At lunch, “we sell a lot of the bacon smash burgers,” Kenny says. Send an alarm for Code 10-86 (Reckless Dining): three grilled patties and three types of cheese, plus bacon and dressings on a brioche bun. Diners also love the E-ville cheesesteak and pepperoni chicken Parmesan sandwiches.
L&K has rekindled memories for diners, including Hope Fussner; the Evansville resident recalls eating at The Carousel as a kid. “It’s great to have a meal that tastes home-cooked and great people serving it,” she says. “Every time I’ve been (to L&K), they’ve made me feel like a regular.”
— John Martin
i Sidewalk Café
This local favorite lunch spot features sandwiches like grilled pimento cheese and hot ham and cheese, and daily specials, plus soups, salads, and desserts. Catering available. 228 Second St., Henderson, KY
Sunrise Café Family Restaurant
Select from several spins on pancakes, waffles, French toast, and omelettes, plus hearty lunches like catfish, chicken strips, and chopped sirloin. 8401 N. Kentucky Ave.; 864 S. Green River Road
That Place
This spot is all about homemade food, including pita pizzas, pickle pockets, paninis, burgers, and biscuits and gravy. 2630 U.S. 41, Ste. B Henderson, KY
Diners
The Diner by Mele’s
Offering a wide mix of American and Mexican cuisine, order the funnel cake, chicken and waffles, tilapia mango, enchiladas, tacos, taquitos, fajitas, chicken on the beach, Mexican chicken, or cheesecake chimichanga. 550 N. Green River Road
Frankie’s Restaurant
Discover both Mexican and Midwestern comfort food, including chilaquiles, churro waffles, tres leches pancakes, cajeta French toast, fried catfish, and Wisconsin cheese curds and fried pickles. The bar serves cocktails, wines, and beer plus weekly drink specials. 6840 Logan Drive
Kenny’s Family Diner
Pip’s Pub
Did the silvery diner exterior catch your eye as you exited Interstate 64? Weary travelers and local diners alike stop by for classic and creative twists on pub cuisine, including catfish bites, fried pickles, Bavarian pretzel sticks, and the mac and smash attack burger, Philly cheesesteak, pork tenderloin sandwich, and a citrus chicken rice bowl. 19501 Elpers Road
Prime Time Bar & Grill
The prime rib is a house specialty, but there’s plenty more here: burgers, rice bowls, and crunchy potato chips to snack on while waiting for an order. Choose from about 45 bourbons and 25 beers on tap. 8177 Bell Oaks Drive, Newburgh; 12301 U.S. 41 N.
Random Fill-Ups
The food truck’s brick-and-mortar shop sells brisket sandwiches, pulled pork sandwiches, chicken wings, and more. 900 Main St.
Ray Leo’s at Lamasco
Partake in ribs, sandwiches, hot dogs, and focaccia from Parella Petit, plus live entertainment. 1331 W. Franklin St.
Rockin Chicken Indi
Sample a variety of marinated meats like grilled chicken, jumbo wings, skirt steak, pulled pork, and rack rib, plus street and soft tacos and burritos with housemade sauces and sides. 2519 N. First Ave.
The Rooster’s Den
Passed-down family recipes are the backbone of this menu, which offers biscuits and gravy, a loaded haystack, Rowdy Rooster, French toast, pancakes, breaded pork tenderloin, Hawaiian chicken salad, and chicken strip basket. A soup and salad bar is available at lunch. 38988 Haley Drive, Newburgh
Samuel’s
You’ll know this Downtown eatery by its red exterior. Inside, and on the outside patio, diners enjoy smashburgers, truffle fries, and cocktails. 21+. 113 S.E. Fourth St.
The Rooftop
Whether inside or with a view on the elevated outdoor patio, dine on an expansive menu with breakfast choices as well as a Rooftop smashburger, Richie’s Fried Chicken, build-your-own-pizza, buffalo chicken mac, chicken on the beach, and a brisket mac and cheese taco. 112 N.W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
The Tin Fish
Fill up on calamari, crab cakes, mahi-mahi, swordfish, trout, and filets like orange roughy, catfish, tilapia, and walleye are offered alongside New England clam chowder, tacos, burritos, and sandwiches. The two-story, pink salt-walled seafood eatery includes an 18-seat bar. 707 State St., Newburgh
Wild Eggs
This egg-citing menu focuses on breakfast items with a stacked avocado toast, housemade cinnamon roll, Mexico City Chilaquiles, potato head or Carolina casseroles, and a dish called The Mad Platter. 1223 Hirschland Road, Ste. 105
Cafés
10-8 Café Bar & Grill
The menu inside the North Side shooting range and entertainment center winks at the law enforcement life, offering live rounds (pizza), burglers (burgers), new recruits (kids’ menu), mutual aid (sides), and sandwiches like the dayshifter BLT and the billy club. 4209 U.S. 41 N. (inside Lawman Tactical Guntry Club)
i GiGi’s
Family-style breakfast and dinner menus at this family-owned restaurant, serving sandwiches, plates of pulled pork, ribs, chicken, burgers, and desserts, including pies and cakes. 48 S. Holloway St., Henderson, KY
Kite & Key Café
Breakfast and lunch options include omelets, breakfast burritos, eggs benedict, French toast, crepes, avocado toast, skillets, sandwiches, burgers, wraps, quesadillas, soups, and salads. Try the cinnamon roll bread pudding, and stop in the coffee bar. 2301 W. Franklin St.
Open for breakfast and lunch, find pancakes, French toast, and omelets alongside wraps, sandwiches, salads, burgers, homestyle dishes, and more. 2 Richardt Ave.
Merry Go Round Restaurant
Open since June 1946, the menu at this octagon-shaped building includes a choice of steak, smoked porch chop, grilled pork tenderloin, pork cutlet, and chicken plus eggs as well as omelets. Sandwiches make up a huge chunk of the menu, plus salads, seafood, steaks, pasta, soups, and chili. 2101 N. Fares Ave.
Nellie’s
Popular breakfast items include chicken and waffles, French toast, chicken fajita burrito, breakfast skillets, and omelets. For dinner, try the liver and onions, ribeye sandwich, pot roast, shrimp creole or tacos, and smothered pork chops. A North Side sister restaurant offering bar seating joined the family in 2024. 6600 N. First Ave.; 8566 Ruffian Lane, Newburgh
Walk-ups & Drive-ins
Big Top Drive-In
Since 1948, this is the spot for old-fashioned burgers, crinkle-cut fries, and soft serve ice cream and shakes. Also find tenderloin, Grippos chicken, and rib sandwiches, soup and grilled cheese, frozen hot chocolate, sundaes, Twinkle Kote cones, and more. 1213 W. Maryland St.
Find L&K Hometown Cafe on Facebook
Burger Bank
The yellow, red, and white building is easy to spot. If you’re not into the sliced-thin patties served on fluffy buns with classic toppings, order the tenderloins, melts, Philly cheese steaks, burgers, soups, sandwiches, shakes, floats, and soft-serve ice cream. 1617 S. Weinbach Ave.
i The Dariette
This old-school burger joint offers lunch and dinner for a sitdown, drive-up, or drive-thru meal. Order tater kegs to start, then choose from cheeseburgers, pork tenderloin, Nashville hot chicken, fish, chili dogs, and buffalo chicken strips. For dessert, try extreme milkshakes and sundaes. 711 Atkinson St., Henderson, KY
JD Caribbean Restaurant
This South Side eatery is known for Caribbean and Haitian fare such as fried goat, jute leaves, chayote, goat stew, plantains, and fried fish. 1010 S. Kentucky Ave.
i Taylor’s Grill on Wheels
Memphis-style smoked meats are the top attraction alongside brisket, rib tips, smoked loin chops, pulled pork, smoked or barbecue pulled chicken breast, mac and cheese, baked beans, nachos, potato salad, and baked potatoes. Catering available. 130 N. Water St,. Henderson, KY
Zesto Drive-In
The family-owned sites continue the 1950s tradition of pounded-thin burgers, crinkle fries, and soft-serve ice cream. The West Side menu expands with bacon, egg and cheeses, biscuits and sausage gravy, breakfast tacos, and sandwiches like breaded tenderloin and cheeseburgers. 102 W. Franklin St.; 920 E. Riverside Drive
Pizzerias
Archie & Clyde’s Restaurant & Bar
Grab a drink and appetizer before a meal of homemade chili, gyros, pulled pork barbecue sandwich, breaded or grilled tenderloin sandwich, and a variety of pizzas. 8309 Bell Oaks Drive, Newburgh
Azzip Pizza
It’s “pizza” backward, but the mix-and-match style of pie is anything but. Personal-sized pizzas (8 or 11 inches) are prepared to order. Specialties include the West Sider (barbecue pork, Grippos, and Ski extract), the Italian Stallion, and Potato Head, as well as the seasonal March Crabness. Three locations in Evansville and one in Newburgh
Casey’s Dugout
The baseball-inspired restaurant serves cleverly monikered pies like The “Graham” Slam, Field of Greens, and “The Hitman” and Donnie MEATball, both named after Evansville native and former New York Yankees star Don Mattingly. Come for the pies, stay for the swath of sports memorabilia decorating every available surface. 2900 Lincoln Ave.
DiMaggio’s Italian Pizza
This local location of the Mount Vernon-based shop offers pizza, breadsticks, pastas, calzones, strombolis, and more. 3848 N. First Ave.
Dontae’s Highland Pizza Parlor
Sink your teeth into hoagie-style sandwiches and specialty pizzas. For pies, try the Cow & Pig, Funky Chicken, or King Fajita, or The Farva, Hines’ own spin on Evansville’s favorite strombolis. 6669 Kratzville Road
Kipplee’s
Thin-crust pizzas, sandwiches, and strombolis have been the top draw at this East Side establishment for more than 30 years. 2350 E. Division St.
Lombardi’s New York Pizza and Wings
New York City-style pizza carves its way into the Midwest with a variety of flavors and toppings, sold by the slice or whole. A meaty variety is the New Porker. 3311 N. Green River Road
Cluck and Roll
Rockin’ Chicken fuses South American flavors into meat dishes
Grilled, worldly flavors and a classic rock ‘n’ roll vibe await at Rockin’ Chicken, open daily in a former Long John Silver’s at 2519 N. First Ave. that was bought and transformed two years ago by entrepreneur Steve Waddle.
A Florida transplant who spent some of his formative years in Peru, Waddle developed his menu with Peruvian chicken as a foundation. It evolved to include Argentinian-style sirloin steak and baby back ribs with Cuban roots. Get any of those on a platter for dine-in or carry-out, or dive into a sampler with all three. Platters come with two sides and a roll.
“Everything’s homemade, including all of our sauces and all of our sides,” Waddle says, and that includes fried plantains, mac and cheese, potato salad, and black beans with rice.
Waddle puts his own spin on the Cuban sandwich, another big seller. “We smoke our own pulled pork in house,” he says, “and add ham, Swiss, pickles, mayo, and mustard. And we serve it with Argentinian fries, tossed in parsley, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan.”
He describes Rockin’ Chicken as “fast casual” but with a greater emphasis on customer service. “That’s where we have to thrive,” he says.
— John Martin rockinchickenindi.com
Lyle’s Sportszone Pizza & Pub
Part restaurant, part dive bar, you’ll find pizza, strombolis — including Lyle’s original loaded stromboli — burgers, and sandwiches, plus live entertainment. 1404 E. Morgan Ave.
Pangea Pizzeria
Offerings include Neo-Neapolitan pizza plus breadsticks, wings, cookies, and house made gelato and sorbet. Diners also can order from the menu of neighboring restaurant 2nd Language. 401 N.W. Second St., Ste. A
Petersburg Pizza
Dig into pies, strombolis, sandwich baskets, wings, salads, and more at this eatery operating out of The Farm Golf Course. 6901 Petersburg Road
Pizza King
The local version of this Hoosier chain has a variety of appetizers and thin-crust pizzas, but it’s best known for its strombolis. The original boasts sausage and onion, or order
a strom with a twist, like Texas barbecue and ham and cheese. Two locations in Evansville and one in Newburgh
Roca Bar and Pizza
Serving pizza since 1953, Roca Bar lays claim to being “Evansville’s Original Pizza.” Try specialty pies like Round the World, bacon cheeseburger, quesadilla, Mega Meat, and Roca Fredo, or order flatbreads, sandwiches, and pasta. 4600 Washington Ave.
Rounders Pizza and Rounders Too Specialty pizzas include the Nameless Special, a pie with the tomato sauce on top, and the Bavarian, served with mustard, plus strombolis and sandwiches. 510 W. Mill Road; 12731 N. Green River Road
The Slice
Steps away from the University of Evansville campus, this neighborhood gathering place sells pies by the slice in popular choices such as the potato, ranch, and spinach. 2011 Lincoln Ave.
Steve’s Una Pizza
Have a classic una-style experience at this 50–plus-year-old walk-up favorite. Choose from thin-crust pies, wings, strombolis, and sandwiches. 1005 S. St. James Blvd.
Turoni’s Pizzery and Brewery (Best Pizza)
Famed for its cracker-thin crusts since 1963, this restaurant also launched Evansville’s first microbrewery in 1996. Pizza, strombolis, and sandwiches, paired with a frosty pint of Honey Blonde Ale, await. Two locations in Evansville and one in Newburgh
Twisted Tomato Pizza Co.
Serving pizza on made-from-scratch pizza dough, pizza dippers, popper toast, pepperonicinis, oven-baked sandwiches including chicken alfredo carbonara and sloppy joe, and a variety of pastas. 2333 St. George Road
Barbecue
Bad Randy’s Hot Chicken & BBQ Lounge
Test your spice tolerance with eight different levels of heat for fried chicken, plus crab linguine, baby back ribs, steak frites, hog fries, smoked chicken wings, tacos, and more. 1418 W. Franklin St.
i ChefWhat BBQ & More
Fresh lunch specials are made to order daily, including burritos, pulled pork sandwich and quesadilla, smoked mac and cheese, and a smoked bologna and cheese sandwich. Catering available. 422 Seventh St., Henderson, KY
Hickory Pit Stop
This local staple since 1957 cooks its meats over a hickory wood fire. Dinners include half-chicken, pork, mutton, ham, and baby back ribs with potato salad, baked beans, slaw, and fries. From the grill, try a fried bologna sandwich or double cheeseburger. Buffet-style catering available. 1521 N. Main St.
Spankey’s Una Café
The brand expanded in 2023 with this eatery in Haynie’s Corner Arts District. Find una-style pizza alongside cheese bread, bread sticks, wings, pretzel bites, salads, strombolis, sandwiches, desserts, and more. 15 Jefferson Ave.
Spankey’s Una Pizza
This restaurant’s first iteration grew from its una-style origins and into a popular sitdown restaurant on the West Side offering specialty pizzas — on that trademark cracker-thin crust — and build-your-own pies, plus sandwiches and specialty salads. Try the Strom Pizza or the Westsider, two options with a nod to Evansvillians’ appetites. 440 W. Lloyd Expressway
The Sportsden Bar & Grill
Dress up una-style pizzas with an array of toppings or order the Grand Slam and other specialty pies. Brat burgers, ribeye, German fried bologna, strombolis, and other sandwiches round out the menu. 701 N. Weinbach Ave., Ste. 110
i Homer’s Barbecue
Find trademarks like smoked wings, brisket, and St. Louis-style ribs as well as specialties like chicken lollipops, briskitos, and barbecue nachos, and cheddar jalapeño sausage. Catering available. 128 Second St., Henderson, KY
Mission BBQ (Best Barbecue)
Readers named this national chain their favorite barbecue joint in the 2017, 2022, and 2023 Best of Evansville awards for its barbecue meats — and for deploying its armored catering vehicle to feed first responders during emergencies. Large Pick-Up Packs and catering available. 1530 N. Green River Road
i Thomason’s Barbecue
Since the 1960s, the family-owned business has used hickory wood to smoke barbecue pork, mutton, ribs, chicken, ham, beef, baby back ribs, and turkey. Classic sides include potato salad, slaw, and barbecue beans. Catering available. 701 Atkinson St., Henderson, KY
HOT DISH
PHOTO BY JOHN MARTIN
Asian 09 Mochi
Indulge your sweet tooth with Japanese rice cakes, flavored teas, matcha, slushies, coffee, and honeycomb cakes. 1223 Hirschland Road, Ste. 101
2nd Language
Take your taste buds on a global adventure via Japanese karaage, Asian Buffalo Bao Bun, lumpia Shanghai, chimichurri steak, Korean cucumber salad, donburi rice bowls, and at least nine choices of ramen. 401 N.W. Second St.
Big Bang Mongolian Grill
Bowls piled high with custom combinations of vegetable, meat, and noodle stir fry are the signature here. 2013 N. Green River Road
Canton Inn
The North Park Shopping Center is home to this well-known spot offering Cantoneseand American-style appetizers, soups, poultry, beef, pork, seafood dishes, and daily lunch and dinner buffets. 947 North Park Drive
Chopstick House Restaurant
The longtime eatery in Village Commons serves Cantonese meals, including specialties such as Treasure Duck, a boneless delicacy steamed for hours in spicy sauce and topped with vegetables. 5412 E. Indiana St.
Crazy Buffet
Find fresh Chinese fare like seafood, sushi, and nigiri for a dine-in experience or order from the to-go buffet. 701 N. Burkhardt Road
Domo Japanese Hibachi Grill, Sushi, and Ramen
Get ready to roll with a lengthy list of sushi choices, plus Japanese dishes, ramen, bento boxes and more. 215 N. Green River Road
Fuji Yama
For 20 years, this North Side sushi and hibachi spot has served soups, salads, noodles, rice, sushi, hand rolls, chicken, beef, and shrimp dishes. 915 North Park Drive
Gangnam Korean
Named for the Gangnam District in Seoul, South Korea, select from rice dishes like bibimbap and dupbap, noodle options such as Korean Ramyun, and entrees including chicken and beef bulgogi, all served as K-Pop music plays in the background. 518 Main St.
Jumak
Order from traditional Korean dishes such as bibimbap, yachae twigim, and bulgogi. 5720 E. Virginia St.
Kanpai
This East Side eatery has a long list of sushi choices — such as the Zig Zag, filled with cucumber and avocado and, topped with soft shell crab, scallion, and spicy mayonnaise — lunch bento boxes, and more. 4593 Washington Ave.
Ma.T.888 China Bistro
(Best Asian Restaurant - tie)
Pick from high-quality modern Cantonese and Chinese fusion cuisine choices, including house specialties such as lemongrass fish, Peking duck, and chicken lettuce wraps. 5636 Vogel Road
Noodle House
This family-owned spot has made fans with its Wok fried rice, lo mein, mei fun, ramen, pho, and more. Bao buns are made in-house. 8922 High Pointe Drive, Newburgh
Osaka Japanese Hibachi and Sushi Hibachi-style and Indonesian cuisine is the main attraction, plus a sushi bar, poke bowls, hot plates, bento boxes, and Japanese curry. 5435 Pearl Drive; 4222 Bell Road, Ste. 7, Newburgh
Poke River
This Hawaiian fusion restaurant serves up poke and sushi in dishes like bowls, burritos, and salads. 6240 E. Virginia St.
Roppongi Japanese Steak & Sushi
Follow up one of the lively hibachi shows with entrees like the Roppongi special, featuring lobster tail, shrimp, scallops, and New York strip. 7221 E. Indiana St.
Sakura
Find Japanese cuisine such as sashimi, fried rice, tempura, as well as Chinese dishes. Sushi choices include a trio of specialty rolls: the Rainbow, Volcano, and Mango Tuna. 4833 Highway 261, Newburgh
Szechwan Restaurant
The extensive Sichuan menu offers Szechuan dumplings, Kung Pao Chicken, Ma Po Tofu, and crispy Peking Duck. 669 N. Green River Road (in Eastland Place)
Thai Bistro and Bar
Spice up your life with the bistro’s authentic Thai cuisine including Pad Thai, curry, papaya salad, crab rangoons, satay, and more. 5416 E. Indiana St.
Vietnamese Cuisine
This staple of Southeastern Asian cuisine offers ribeye noodle soup, a chargrilled pork sandwich, grape leaf-wrapped meats, hot pots, rice noodle dishes, and more. 4602 Vogel Road
Yang’s Shabu Shabu
The Japanese style of quickly cooking thin-sliced meat in a simmering broth is applied to lo mein, chow udon, chow mei, and more. Complete your meal with one of a dozen bubble tea flavors. 4700 Vogel Road
Yen Ching (Best Asian Restaurant - tie)
A longtime East Side favorite, this establishment is known for Mandarin, Szechwan, and Peking cuisine, served among classic Asian decor sporting red and gold touches reminiscent of Old Beijing’s summer palace. Catering available. 406 S. Green River Road
Zuki Japanese Hibachi Grill & Sushi Lounge
Both locations offer a high-end hibachi grill, gourmet sushi, and Japanese dishes in an upscale setting. 1448 N. Green River Road; 222 Main St.
German
Gerst Haus
This West Side staple nods to the surrounding neighborhood’s heritage with authentic dishes from schnitzels to stroganoff, as well as several American favorites, served in a Bavarian beer hall-style environment. As Evansville Living readers have noted, Gerst also offers some of the city’s best draft beer choices. 2100 W. Franklin St.
Haitian
Guilou Lounge & Grill
Authentic Haitian cuisine including gratin (Haitian pasta), soup joumou (pumpkin), tassot cabrit (fried goat meat), and moru (salted codfish). 750 S. Kentucky Ave.
Indian
Bites of India
Select Indian and Indo-Chinese entrees such as garlic naan, butter chicken, galouti kebab, tawa fish, okra masala, goat rezala, goat sukka, andhra fish fry, malabar fish curry, and a variety of briyanis and traditional soups. 1434 Tutor Lane
Flavors of India
Inside Swagat Indian Market is this restaurant cooking up egg biryani, naan, fried papad, and more. 105 N. Green River Road
Taj Mahal
Order buffet style or from a menu of tandoori chicken, paneer tikka, panjabi curry, kadai paneer, and more. 900 Tutor Lane
Kabob Xpress
A go-to spot for a quick meal with a Middle Eastern flare, select from stuffed grape leaves, shawarma, falafel, fresh salads, sandwiches, gyro plates, and many kabob plate options. 3305 N. Green River Road
Lily’s Mediterranean Express
Choose from salads, falafel, bruschetta, hummus, rice bowls, wings, sandwiches, wraps, beef kabob, chicken dinger, and pizzas. 4120 N. First Ave.
Little Italy (Best Italian Restaurant)
Mix Italian and Mediterranean with fried zucchini, parmesan fried green tomato, minestrone soup, cream of potato soup, spinach ravioli, rigatoni carbonara, chicken kebab, shrimp bisque, pizzas, and Italian cream lemon cake. 4430 N. First Ave.
Manna Mediterranean Grill
Specialties include stuffed grape leaves, gyros, kebabs, beef and lamp gyros, chicken shawarma and creamy garlic sauce, baba gannoug, tabbouleh salad, harissa, and baklava. 2913 Lincoln Ave.
Marida Mediterranean Restaurant
Chuy’s Tex-Mex
Looking for “big as yo’ face” burritos? Find them here, alongside tacos, tortilla soup, enchiladas, and entrees like green chile relleno and fried chicken, chuychanga, chicken flautas, and more. 7301 E. Indiana St.
El Charro Mexican Restaurant
Mariachi band performances occasionally punctuate the dining experience at this West Side eatery, where the menu includes chicken on the beach, fiesta California, papa grande loaded baked potatoes, and Pollo Indiana, a top seller sporting chicken breast and chorizo doused in cheese sauce. 720 N. Sonntag Ave.
i El Sabor de la Abuela
Recipes from grandma’s kitchen to the menu include mojarra frita, coctel de camaron, soups and stews, taco salad, chicken fajitas, carne asada, chimichangas, chicken on the beach, fajita Texans, and street tacos. 108 Second St., Henderson, KY
Fiesta Acapulco
Yak & Yeti
Himalayan and Indian family recipes converge in tandoori lamb chops, momo dumplings, and several kinds of curry — choose from 10 spice levels. 815 S. Green River Road
Irish
Patsy Hartigan’s Irish Pub
Taste cuisine of the Emerald Isle, including fish and chips, Reuben sandwiches, bangers and mash, and shepherd’s pie, plus a weekend Irish breakfast. Chase them with a pint of Guinness or a new house brew.
203 Main St.
Italian/Mediterranean
Angelo’s
The lunch crowd stands in line for pizza by the slice. A full complement of Italian starters, entrees, and desserts (including silk pie) is offered. 305 Main St.
Bastoni
Little Angelo’s has transformed — named after the Ace of Batoni from traditional Italian card games or footballer Alessandro Batoni — with a menu of baked ziti, penne ala vodka, lasagna, and pizza, plus chicken, steak, and seafood dishes. 8000 Bell Oaks Drive, Newburgh
Café Arazu
A worldly mix of meals awaits, such as gyros, Tuscan grilled beef sala, Moroccan red lentil soup, and hummus and falafel platters. 17 W. Jennings St., Newburgh
House of Como (Place with the Best Steak)
The South Side staple offers a menu of Arabian dishes like shish kabobs, yebra malfoof, seneya betiajia, and kibi seneya, plus seafood, steaks, and Italian specialties. Reservations required. Payment is in cash or check. 2700 S. Kentucky Ave.
Enjoy Turkish and Kurdish cuisine like kebabs, gyro wraps, kuzu pirzola, alinazik, sac tava, and haydari, plus steak, seafood, pasta, and vegetarian specialties, plus brunch. 1 E. Water St., Newburgh
Shah’s Halal Food
This national chain restaurant serves Mediterranean-influenced platters over rice with a choice of meat, a variety of salads, chicken sandwiches, gyros, and sides like pita and pakora chips, plus baklava for dessert.
222 S. Red Bank Road, Unit L
Smitty’s Italian Steakhouse (Best Outdoor Dining)
Filling choices abound, from New York strip, bone-in filet, and porterhouse steaks to pasta like baked lasagna, manicotti, and fettucini alfredo, and seafood such as garlic shrimp, whitefish piccata, and pan fried grouper. Seasonal patio dining available. 2109 W. Franklin St.
Latin American
i Burrito Express Mexican Grill
Drive through, pick up, or eat in at this Mexican-inspired restaurant serving quesabirria tacos, asada fries, burrito chicken, street tacos, pollo playa, burrito steak, and more. 2539 U.S. 41 N. Ste. A, Henderson, KY
Casa Armonia
A menu from south of the border in this former Utopian town, serving quesadillas, fajitas, burritos, enchiladas, chimichangas, and street tacos, nachos, and more. 500 Church St., New Harmony
Casa Fiesta Mexican Restaurant
Traditional Mexican entrees, family specials, and more are served among a menu of shrimp on the beach, huevos rancheros, burrito Evansville, quesadilla Indiana, fajita on the beach, huevos con chorizo, flautas Mexicanas, and nachos al pastor. For those who come hungry (or don’t mind sharing), try the twofoot Monster Burrito. 1003 E. Diamond Ave.; 1919 N. Green River Road
One of many Mexican specialties here is the Burritos Acapulco – chicken and beef burritos topped with cheese sauce, lettuce, guacamole, sour cream, and pico de gallo. 8480 High Pointe Drive, Newburgh
Gollita Peruvian Cuisine
Feast on minestrone, tamales, papa a la huancaína, arroz con pollo, and more — all featuring sauces and marinades made in-house. 4313 E. Morgan Ave.
Hacienda
This Tex-Mex chain is known for its wet burrito, fajitas like garlic mushroom, chicken, steak, or shrimp, plus chimichangas, Mexican pizza, chicken strip dinner, quesabirria, and ranch dressing, which some diners buy by the tub to take home. Four Evansville locations
Helados Ice Cream, Snacks & Antojitos
Order Latin American-fused papas, conchas, tortas, ceviche, tostadas, elotes, ramen, and more, plus an extensive dessert menu featuring loaded milkshakes, crepes, banana splits, flan, ice cream dishes, iced drinks, and Mexican shaved ice. 779 S. Green River Road
La Campirana (Best Latin American Restaurant)
Freshness and authenticity are hallmarks of “La Camp,” which serves Mexican and Latin American staples like tacos, gorditas, quesadillas, burritos, sopes orden, ensalada Mexicana, tortas, birrias, carnitas, flautas, enchiladas, alambres, and more. 724 N. Burkhardt Road; 900 Main St. (inside Main Street Food & Beverage)
La Mexicana Restaurant
The family-owned establishment offers chori-pollo, jalapeño chicken, molacajette a la mexicana, burrito gagante, carne asada, fillet tilapia lemon pepper, enchiladas paisano, and pollo vallarta plus street tacos tostadas, and tortas, plus aguas frescas. 920 Main St.
La Plaza
This food truck also has a sit-in restaurant that serves street tacos, tortas, quesadillas, mulitas, burritos, street corn (on a stick or in a cup), birria, and more. 420 S. Green River Road
Bites of India
Los Bravos
Traditional Mexican dishes and drinks are served, including quesadilla Bravo with grilled shrimp and chorizo, Baja tacos with cod or shrimp, and chipotle pasta. Three Evansville locations
Noche Cantina & Cocina
Authentic Mexican flavors permeate this menu of fried truffle yuka fries, grilled elote salad, deep-fried tres leches, tacos, and more. Dine on the second-level patio on nice days. 2215 W. Franklin St.
Playa Azul Mariscos Estilo Sinaloa
Sinaloan-style (from the Mexican state Sinaloa) seafood such as camarones a la diabla, filete ranchero, mojarrra frita, and camarones ranchero mix with specialty cocktails, karaoke, and live music. 270 N. Green River Road
Sazón y Fuego
This high-end menu is inspired by cuisine from Central and South Americas, with dishes cooked on a charcoal grill. Select from pollo con mole, ropa vieja, picanha, and more, plus craft cocktails. 8666 Ruffian Lane, Newburgh
Señor Burrito Mex/Grill
Operating out of a small building, formerly Waylon’s Diner on Main, diners can order everything from cheesecake and cheese dip to Chicken on the Beach and the Señor Burrito with grilled chicken, steak, chorizo, shrimp, onions, and bell peppers with cheese sauce. 606 N. Main St.
i Tacoholics
Mexican food lovers can discover a filling mix of fajitas, chimichangas, and plenty of tacos. 122 First St., Henderson, KY
Taqueria y Pupuseria Miranda
This spot specializes in authentic Salvadorian pupusas and street tacos with a variety of fillings, Plus, create-your-own burritos and quesadillas. 2008 Washington Ave.
Sports Bars
Bally Bet Sportsbook & Bar
Dig into smash burgers, fish and chips, Asian glazed shrimp, braised short ribs, and a wide selection of beer and cocktails. Catch sports action on several big screens and an LED video wall, and bet on games at the Sportsbook’s counter and kiosks. 421 N.W. Riverside Drive (inside Bally’s Evansville)
Birdies
Feast on smash burgers, pizzas, catfish, tacos, nachos, sandwiches, and more from The Rooftop next door while playing simulated golf, dodgeball, basketball, hockey, and more sports or throwing an axe down the lane. 120 N.W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Bullseyes Sports Bar
Inside the former Sidetrack Bar location, find dart tournaments alongside a diverse beer selection and nightly dinner plates like pulled pork and sloppy joe sandwiches, beef hot dogs, and more. 664 E. Illinois St.
Casa Fiesta Sport Bar & Grill
Family-owned with authentic Mexican favorites, including daily lunch specials, with plenty of TVs for sports viewing.
1602 Vann Ave.
Franklin Street Tavern
Pub grub like basco sticks, pretzels, nachos, bratwurst, popcorn, 14-inch pizzas, and more are available while you relax on the patio or catch a game on the TVs indoors.
2126 Franklin St.
Marina Pointe and Nightclub
This seasonal hotspot along the Ohio River is open May-October and is defined by live music and its open air bar and grill. Try beer battered onion rings, fried shrimp, crispy marina chicken wings, pointe burger, fried fish sandwich, wagyu dog, and smoked chicken salad. 1801 Waterworks Road
Mojo’s BoneYard Sports Bar & Grille
Bar food including chicken wings doused with housemade sauces, square steam burgers, thin-crust pizzas, the Sloppy Mo sandwich, Philly cheesesteak, chili, salads, and strombolis, plus drinks and a robust live music schedule await. Only those aged 21 and over are allowed. 4920 Bellemeade Ave.
Neighbors
Build-your-own smashburgers are a main attraction here, as well as barbecue pork nachos, fried okra, brussel sprouts, pizza burger, breakfast burger, peanut butter bacon burger, chicken parmesan sandwich,
fish sandwich, bratwurst sandwich, German fried bologna, and the smashburger wrap. 4222 Bell Road, Ste. 1, Newburgh
Newburgh Tavern
Munch on nachos, chip bags, 10-inch pizzas, a wagyu hot dog, quesadillas, chicken strips and nuggets, and more while enjoying karaoke, music, and sports viewing. 707 State St. Ste. E, Newburgh
O’Brian’s Sports Bar & Grill
Come for billiards, darts, and 22 big TVs, and stay for the Irish brews, full bar, and menu of potato skins, and bacon barbecue cheddar burger, breaded tenderloin sandwich, and more. 1801 N. Green River Road
Prime Sports
Feel at home with billiard tables, lots of TVs, and drinks. Culinary offerings come via a greaseless kitchen offering smoked wings, pretzel bites, pizza bombs, pigs in a blanket, strombolis, pizza, salad, cactus chili, chicken parmesan sandwich, toasted hot dog, baked penne with beef, and a variety of pizzas. 4944 Old State Route 261, Newburgh
i Rookies
This family-owned business serves a sportsthemed menu. “Pre-game” with Fred’s fried green tomatoes and chicken buffalo eggrolls and greens like the Arabian salad before the “main event” steaks and “knockouts” like honey glazed pork chop, chicken stir fry, tortellini diablo, and chicken teriyaki. 117 S. Second St., Henderson, KY
Tiki on Main
American and Mexican fare are popular at this dive bar before and after Ford Center events. Pick from pork rinds, blackened shrimp, fried pickle chips, patty melts, rock’n shrimp tacos, street tacos, hot dogs, and sandwiches like hot dogs, battered swai sandwich, and grilled cheese and chili. Also find steak kabobs, tiki nachos, stuffed burritos, pollo playa, and a fajita plate. 524 Main St.
Tavern and Pub Food
Bokeh Lounge
Stuffed with as much food as live entertainment, the Haynie’s Corner Arts District restaurant offers Bokeh Nachos, churros, the Bokeh Burger, pepper jack cheese balls, pot stickers served hot honey, a candied bacon burger, tacos, fish and chips, personal pizzas, and Sunday brunch, as well as signature cocktails. 1007 Parrett St.
Bud’s Rockin’ Country Bar and Grill
This lively West Side country music hotspot and restaurant honors the Bud’s Harley Davidson dealership that used to be under roof and specializes in four-cheese macaroni, Saint Louis-style ribs, country fried steak, jerk chicken bowl, barbecue sundae, and cedar-roasted atlantic salmon. 2124 W. Franklin St.
Crickets
Curb your hunger with wings by the pound, “mile-high” taco fries, Cricket’s roll ups, breaded cauliflower, breaded corn nuggets, chili, thin-crust pizza, sandwiches, and oven-baked hoagies. 518 W. Main St., Newburgh
Darmstadt Inn
This small municipality in northern Vanderburgh County is known for serving sandwiches, plate lunches, steaks, fried chicken, seafood, and more in a cozy setting. 13130 Darmstadt Road
Deerhead Sidewalk Cafe & Bar
Ostensibly the first place in Evansville to offer “double-decker pizza,” menu offerings include boneless wings, strombolis, Texas red chili, vegetable beef soup, and sandwiches like souvlakia, Polish sausage, and a black bean veggie burger. Enjoy your meal indoors or on the patios. 222 E. Columbia St.
Highland Inn
With daily specials and a big menu, this North Side spot has something for all appetites. Entrees include fried chicken, beef brisket, grilled pork steaks, and fried catfish filets. 6620 N. First Ave.
The Hilltop Inn
Fried pork brains, big ol’ tenderloins, and fried bologna are among the sandwich choices at this historic dining room on the West Side with a rustic facade and seasonal outdoor seating. Patrons also love the salad bar and seafood entrees. 1100 Harmony Way
Horstketter’s Tavern
This traditional tavern has seven decades of history under its belt. Enjoy wings, sandwiches, and food-themed nights like the annual Meatball Challenge. 5809 Stringtown Road
J.W. Hornville Tavern
Fried chicken, German bologna, tenderloins, pulled pork, chili, sandwiches, burgers, appetizers, and more.
2607 W. Baseline Road
K.C.’s Time Out Lounge & Grill
The long-established spot in Washington Square Mall has a robust live entertainment calendar, billiards, and a bar menu of salads, sandwiches, and pizza. 1121 Washington Square
Knob Hill Tavern
Best-known for its fried catfish fiddler (proudly displayed on its neon sign), The Knob offers other fish dishes plus fried chicken and an array of sandwiches. There’s plenty of history between these walls: The Knob has been around since 1943. 1016 Highway 662 W., Newburgh
Leroy’s Tavern
Feast on pizza, sandwiches, and Free Soup Saturdays during colder months of the year, plus karaoke and theme-night activities. 2659 Mount Vernon Ave.
i Metzger’s Tavern
This Henderson tradition opened in 1869, with today’s version offering traditional tavern pretzel bites with beer cheese, deep fried mushrooms and pickles, soups (try the bean soup or chili), and sandwiches like shaved steak, fried bologna, spicy pork sausage, and pimento cheese. Also open for breakfast. 1000 Powell St., Henderson, KY
i Nisbet Inn
Established in 1912, Nisbet Inn holds Indiana’s second-oldest liquor license. Visit for the sandwiches, soups, desserts, and barbecue, as well as the “World’s Coldest Beer.” 6701 Nisbet Station Road, Haubstadt
Peephole Bar & Grill
This neighborhood-style bar in the heart of Downtown has plenty of local devotees. It’s known for its cheeseburgers, onion rings, fries, and the splitter (a fried hot dog). Don’t miss Beck’s chili, named for the late Harold Beck — proprietor of the former East Side tavern Harold’s Bar. 201 Main St.
Sportsman’s Grille & Billiards
This spot on the busy West Franklin corridor features bar food choices to go with a relaxed atmosphere of billiards, sports on TV, and good times. Try the 16-ounce porterhouse, available on weekends, or the two-fisted bacon burger. 2315 W. Franklin St.
St. Joe Inn
Historic charm and modern comfort await at this tavern, whose history stretches back to 1836. Pick from soups, salads, sandwiches, plate lunch specials, fiddlers, steaks, and fried chicken dinners. 9515 Saint Wendel Road
St. Phillip’s Inn
Enjoy karaoke and tavern-style offerings out of an 1890s-era building. Choose from plate lunch specials, nightly specials, or a simple ham and cheese sandwich plus burgers, pizza, strombolis, fiddlers, and fried chicken. 11200 Upper Mount Vernon Road
Stockwell Inn
Stockwell Inn offers plate lunches, homemade soup, salads, sandwiches, steak, pork chops, and brain sandwiches. Check out the homestyle daily specials and themed menus for holidays like Fat Tuesday. 4001 E. Eichel Ave.
Zaps Tavern
Home of what is claimed as the original tavern burger, you’ll find a menu laden with catfish, fried chicken, sweet corn nuggets, build-your-own pizza, strombolis, zing shrimp wrap, breakfast burger, patty melt, and a half-pound burger. 3725 St. Philip Road
Delis
Chicken Salad Chick
There’s more than just chicken salad here. Also find salad, soups, and sweet treats made from scratch with fresh ingredients. 1414 Hirschland Road
The Deli at Bally’s Evansville
Grab-and-go menus of breakfast items and coffee, sandwiches, soups, pizza, and burgers, plus a late-night menu until 2:30 a.m. on weekends. 421 N.W. Riverside Drive (inside Bally’s Evansville)
The Deli at Old National Bank Downtown workers — including Evansville Living employees — line up to grab fried fish, homemade soups, paninis, and daily specials. One Main St. (inside Old National Bank headquarters)
Fly By Faith Café
Stop in this eatery on Ascension St. Vincent’s East Side campus for breakfast items like biscuits and gravy, egg casseroles, smoothies, and lattes, or dine on a California wrap, chicken-loaded baked potato, or smoked pulled pork for lunch. 801 St. Mary’s Drive
The Granola Jar Café & Bakery
What started with a breakfast menu has grown to include sandwiches and deli-style salads, including house-made balsamic chicken salad. Basil pesto tortellini, jalapeño macaroni, curried bulgur, broccoli slaw, soups, and desserts round out the menu. Catering available. 1022 E. Mount Pleasant Road
Just Rennie’s Cafe & Cookie Co. (Best Caterer)
Run by Marla and Doug Rennie, who started in the catering business with a Tuscan-inspired event space. They quickly expanded to a storefront offering fresh deli salads, sandwiches, pasta, coffee, and baked goods, including their beloved mound-of-dough cookies. 100 S.E. Fourth St.
North Main Annex Gourmet Catering & Deli
Chef Narda Feather operates this catering business and deli that changes its menu items daily based on the freshest ingredients. Try breakfast food, salads, soups, entrees, and fresh-baked desserts until 2 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays. 701 N. Main St.
Old Tyme Deli & Meat Shop
Daily hot plate lunches like lasagna, beef and noodles, and spaghetti are available on weekdays. 307 N. First Ave.
Coffee, Tea, and Drinks
Agape Boba Tea & Sweet Heaven
Need a place to study on the West Side? Find fruit smoothies, bowls, teas, ice cream, BingSu (Korean snow ice), and milkshakes at this cozy spot. 5301 Pearl Drive
Beans & Baristas
Full coffee bar, gourmet coffees and teas, Italian sodas, and pastry treats. Retail gourmet coffee beans, teas, and unique gifts. 800 N. Green River Road (inside Eastland Mall)
Dove & Twig Cafe
Operating out of Bethel Church, find coffee and sweet treats like apple bread, biscottis, Danishes, muffins, cookies, pies, and more. 4400 Lincoln Ave.
First Fruits Bowls & More
Serving acai bowls, avocado toasts, breakfast sandwiches, and fresh fruit smoothies. 8390 High Pointe Drive, Ste. 301
Honey Moon Coffee Co. (Best Local Coffee Shop)
The original shop near the University of Evansville campus has expanded into four locations plus a roastery. Offerings include its signature latte with honey and lavender, Hong Kong-style bubble waffles, fruit smoothies, and breakfast sandwiches. Three locations in Evansville and one in Newburgh
Mission Grounds Coffee
The Evansville Rescue Mission runs this coffeehouse next to its thrift store offering signature espresso-based drinks, teas, and bakery items. 1107 Washington Square
PRIVATE VENUE
• Reserve today for Parties and special events
• All Ages Welcome
• Outdoor covered seating
1024 HWY 662, NEWBURGH, IND. knobhillhouse.com
Mr. Bubble Tea
Sip on bubble milk teas in strawberry, matcha green tea, chocolate, pineapple and taro (fruity) flavors. Also on the menu also are yogurts, smoothies, shaved ice, and fruit teas. 503 N. Green River Road
Penny Lane Coffeehouse
A Riverside Historic District staple for more than 20 years with a McCutchanville location opened in 2024, specialty lattes include Instant Karma, White Rabbit, Voodoo Child, Raspberry Beret, Tiny Dancer, White Wedding, and Purple Haze. There are also teas, smoothies, and sandwiches for breakfast and lunch. 600 S.E. Second St.; 601 E. Boonville New Harmony Road
River City Coffee and Goods
Shop for local, handmade gifts and Evansville-inspired items while drinking brews, espressos, teas, or a hot chocolate. Specialties include a Fruity Pebbles Latte, Horchata Latte, and, in a nod to the Evansville are code, the 812 Latte. There also are seasonal muffins, cookies, blondies, and ham and cheese scones. 223 Main St.
River Kitty Cat Café
Play with adoptable cats and kittens while you enjoy espresso-based coffee drinks, specialty teas, and wine. This outreach of the Vanderburgh Humane Society also features desserts from Julie’s Just Desserts. 226 Main St.
i Roast Coffee Bar
Find craft espresso drinks and bagels from Frothy Monkey. Summer sips include Kentucky Summer, Strawberry Shortcake Matcha, and the Anna Banana. 136 Second St., Suite 100, Henderson, KY
Scooter’s Coffee
The national drive-thru chain has expanded to three locations in the Evansville area. Coffee flavors include Caramelicious, Candy Bar, Mocha, and Turtle. Also try iced teas, smoothies, and breakfast items. Three Evansville locations.
Ice Cream
The Cobblestone Creamery
Serving “udderly” classic scoops, monthly special flavors, “Moo-shakes,” and loaded sundaes with fresh waffle cones. 900 Main St. (inside Main Street Food & Beverage)
Lic’s Deli & Ice Cream
Try a scoop of the brand’s old-fashioned milkshakes, floats, chocolate-covered Choco Cremes, sundaes, dessert pies, and soft-serve ice cream in 20+ flavors. Breakfast, coffee, and deli items also are available. Four locations in Evansville and one in Newburgh
812-205-7039 knobhillhouse@gmail.com
Milk & Sugar Scoop Shoppe
Take a bite of edible cookie dough, add a scoop of custom-flavored ice cream on a warm Belgian waffle, or sip on a gourmet soda. 2027 W. Franklin St.
Rivertown Ice Cream and Grill
To its fans, its annual opening in March signals the arrival of warmer weather. Choose from dipped cones, banana splits, sundaes, shakes, malts, ice cream nachos, and food from the grill, including cheeseburgers, hamburgers, hot and corn dogs, tenderloins, tenders, and more through October. 521 State St., Newburgh
Bakeries
Be Happy Pie Company
These made-from-scratch sweet pies come in 26 flavors, including the signature “Be Happy” cherry. Add to your order with scones, cookies, brownies, muffins, and cheesecakes. Food truck available. 2818 Mount Vernon Ave., Ste. B; 6635 E. Virginia St., Ste. C
Bea Sweet Treats
The mother-daughter venture has drawn fans with its custom cakes, breakfast cinnamon rolls, cookies, cupcakes, and more. 4111 Merchant Drive, Newburgh
Cleo’s Bakery & Brown Bag Lunches
This homestyle bakery is a favorite stop when strolling in Downtown Newburgh. Family
JUNE/JULY 2026
President’s Message
As the last locally owned and operated broadcast media outlet in the Tri-State, WNIN is an essential community partner that is actively engaged in our region, creating content and providing services that respond to local needs while connecting our community with the larger world through PBS and NPR. No other organization in our area works to educate children and citizens of all ages, partner with local public service officials to help keep people informed, and strengthen our democracy by giving our citizens the grounding they need in the history, culture and civic affairs of our communities.
As a trusted and independent source of public learning and debate, WNIN’s work is essential in preparing our area for the challenges and
OF DIRECTORS
Susan Hardwick
Immediate Past Chair
Richard Kuhn
Chair
Nancy Hodge Vice Chair
Lawrence Taylor
Secretary
Steve Bridges
Treasurer
Tim Black
President
Noah Alatza
J. Beau Dial
Stephanie Koch
Whitney Lubbers
A.J. Manion, Past Chair
Kim McWilliams
Tara Overton
Amy Porter
Ian Prinz, Student
Stacey Shourd
Thomas Silliman
Lindsay Snyder
Daniela Vidal
Gene Warren
Hope White, Student
Jordan Whitledge
Matthew Wright
opportunities of the future. We are a trusted local partner committed to improving and enriching the lives of the citizens we serve. We do this work through our powerful broadcasting platforms, in person, and on digital and social media outlets. These missions take us far beyond television screens and radio dials and would not be possible without the generous local support of our community.
Since 1968, WNIN Tri-State Public Media, Inc. has been committed to making the Tri-State area a better place to live and work by providing programming that promotes ideas, learning, arts and culture, health, community involvement and citizenship. In 1974 PBS arrived via WNIN-TV followed by NPR in 1982. At WNIN, we work each day to put media to good use for the benefit of everyone in our region. WNIN connects individuals and institutions so that our citizens will live better lives, businesses can grow and local institutions can fulfill their missions. WNIN is connected globally and focused locally.
WNIN brings award-winning NPR and PBS programming to the Tri-State. NPR programs such as Morning Edition, the most listened-to radio program in the country, and PBS programs such as PBS NewsHour, one of the most trusted news programs on television, keep our audience informed and connected with national and world news.
As a public service, we profit by improving the community on which we depend for support. We succeed to the extent that our children learn, our viewers become engaged in matters that concern them, and those within our communities join together in a common cause. WNIN-FM sheds light on local issues and on the unique characteristics of the Tri-State community with daily, local news coverage and such programs at Two Main Street with David James and The Song Show. WNIN-TV programs like Newsmakers
and Shively & Shoulders invite viewers to become more informed about local issues and to engage with local politics and government. We maintain ties between citizens, other nonprofits and local businesses with our community events, such as Kids Fest, a free event where children experience the educational fun of PBS Kids in our own back yard. We support and promote the arts through our annual homage to local music at Jazz Fest.
WNIN is also working to reach our audiences wherever they may choose to consume content. WNIN’s YouTube channel is increasing it’s reach. Meanwhile, the station’s social media channels are being followed by increasing numbers of users. As streaming increases WNIN is spending time and resources to promote and connect users to PBS Passport and NPR Plus. Check out all the digital options at WNIN.org.
WNIN provides essential services to families, connects residents to their local government, and provides support to community partners that are committed to advancement of the public good. WNIN works to preserve our local art, history, environment and culture. With the generous support of its community, WNIN can not only continue its current work in the Tri-State, but improve its current offerings and expand its reach to include more underserved audiences.
It is critical that we continue to receive your financial support for WNIN to be able to continue providing to the community the local news and content you’ve come to expect. Look for the donation banner at www.wnin.org and show your support for the good work we continue to do every day. You may also make a gift by calling us at 812-423-2973. Please consider an additional gift and/or an increased annual gift. You might also consider becoming a sustaining supporter of the station or increasing your monthly gift. Thank you when you do!
Sincerely,
Tim Black, President and CEO
WNIN Jazz Fest Returns for 2026
An Evening of Music, Community, and
Downtown Evansville will once again be filled with the lively sounds of jazz this summer as WNIN Jazz Fest returns for 2026. This free community celebration brings together great music, local food, and family-friendly fun for an unforgettable night along the riverfront. Whether you’re a dedicated jazz fan or simply looking for a relaxing evening out with friends and family, Jazz Fest is the perfect way to enjoy a summer night in Evansville.
This year’s festival features an exciting lineup of talented regional musicians along with additional jazz performers throughout the evening. From smooth saxophone melodies to energetic brass and rhythmic grooves, there will be something for every music lover to enjoy.
Bring your lawn chair, gather your friends and family, and settle in for a night of outstanding live music in a relaxed outdoor setting.
Summer Fun!
WNIN JAZZ FEST 2026 AT A GLANCE
WHAT: A free, family-friendly festival featuring live jazz performances, food trucks, and a 21+ beverage zone.
WHEN: Saturday, July 18
WHERE: Outside WNIN Studios, Two Main St., Downtown Evansville
TIME: 4-10 p.m. (Gates open at 3 p.m.)
The event will take place rain or shine. Guests are encouraged to bring umbrellas or ponchos if needed. In the case of severe weather, updates regarding postponement or cancellation will be shared.
FOOD, DRINKS, AND FAMILY FUN
Jazz Fest offers more than great music — it’s a full community experience. Guests can enjoy a variety of local food trucks serving delicious food and refreshing drinks throughout the evening. A designated 21+ beverage zone offers adult beverages available for purchase while you enjoy the music. Admission to the event is free, but be sure to bring a valid ID.
“We’re thrilled to bring WNIN Jazz Fest back for its third year,” says Karen Robinson, WNIN Director of Events and Theater. “It’s wonderful to see our community come together to celebrate live
music and support local talent. That’s what makes this event so special.”
GET IN THE JAZZ SPIRIT EARLY
Can’t wait until July? Tune in to WNIN 88.3 FM to enjoy jazz programming leading up to the festival. Listen to “After Glow and Night Lights” on Saturdays at 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. for an evening of classic and contemporary jazz.
GET INVOLVED
For more information about the festival, sponsorship opportunities, or volunteering, contact: Karen Robinson
krobinson@wnin.org
812-423-2973 ext. 136
Don’t miss Evansville’s biggest celebration of jazz! Bring your friends, your family, and your love of music as we make WNIN Jazz Fest 2026 the best one yet.
WNIN Content & Service Report
Each year, WNIN summarizes its work in The Local Content and Service Report, formerly required by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). With the recent closure of CPB, the report is no longer required, but it’s still a useful tool in showcasing the programs and services that WNIN provided in the previous fiscal year, how they contribute to the station’s mission and pillars of service, and the impact they had on the Tri-State community.
“It’s enlightening to compile all that work into one place — and to see how far we’ve come in that time!” says WNIN Director of Digital Mariah Winne, who creates these reports. “The 2025 report was especially exciting to create because this was the year that we lost both federal and state funding. Even in the face of uncertainty, it’s energizing to see how the people behind WNIN are driven to deliver top-tier local news, programming, events, and more to our community.”
WNIN’s local services had a deep impact on the health, government, business, education, arts, culture, and community in our Tri-State area. WNIN continues to produce consistent, locally focused programming, from traditional news and interview shows to podcasts, documentaries, and YouTube features available on a variety of different platforms. Last year, WNIN provided more than 2,000 hours of educational children’s programming, connected with 3,500-plus children at our Kids Fest, and partnered with at least 130 organizations as part of our partnership to make a positive impact on our community.
The 2025 Local Content and Service Report includes stories like Tim Jagielo’s coverage of Evansville Area Jeepers’ “Operation Snowflake,” the inaugural WNIN Murder Mystery Dinner, and more.
PDF versions of WNIN’s Local Content and Service Reports can be found on wnin.org/about.
Spotlight
DOWNTON ABBEY
Airs at 9 p.m. May 17
Watch this iconic series from the beginning!
AMERICAN MASTERS: W.E.B. DU BOIS: REBEL WITH A CAUSE
Airs at 8 p.m. May 19
This documentary explores the life and legacy of notable Black scholar and civil rights pioneer W.E.B. Du Bois. Born just five years after the Emancipation Proclamation, Du Bois lived a life marked by cultural influence, passing away in Ghana on the eve of the 1963 March on Washington.
SPECIAL MEMORIAL DAY PROGRAMMING
Airs at 7 p.m. May 24
AMERICAN EXPERIENCE: SEABISCUIT
Airs at 8 p.m. May 26
Seabiscuit was one of the most remarkable thoroughbred racehorses in history. In the 1930s, when Americans longed to escape the grim realities of Depression-era life, four men turned Seabiscuit into a national hero.
SECRETS OF THE DEAD: CHINA’S BRONZE KINGDOM (PREMIERE)
Airs at 9 p.m. May 27
The chance discovery of a jade artifact has led to the unearthing of an ancient city hidden in the mountains of Sichuan. With more than 10,000 items found so far, is this the capital of the ancient Shu kingdom?
SPECIAL PLEDGE PROGRAMMING
Airs May 30-June 7; check wnin.org for times
Catching airings of “Barbra Streisand: Timeless,” “Rick Steves: Best of Paris,” “All New Rock, Pop & Doo Wop” and a program on Henry David Thoreau.
Double your donation — matching funds available!
PATIENCE: SEASON 2 PREMIERE
Airs at 7 p.m. June 14
Criminal archivist Patience Evans’ world changes when her unique talent is spotted by DI Bea Metcalf.
With themes of family, forgiveness, faith, and introspection, the final season of “Grantchester” promises self-discovery, hope, and transformation.
BECOMING KATHARINE GRAHAM
Airs at 8 p.m. June 16
After a family tragedy, Kay Graham evolved from a “doormat wife” into a legendary newspaper publisher of The Washington Post. As President Richard Nixon’s nemesis during the Watergate scandal, she fought for truth, broke barriers in a sexist world, and won a Pulitzer Prize, inspiring generations with her courage and resilience.
THE KIMBERLEY: AUSTRALIA’S WILD WEST (PREMIERE)
Airs at 9 p.m. June 17
In Australia’s remote northwest, discover a land that defies time. “The Kimberley” spans more than 400,000 square kilometers of remote tropical wilderness: turquoise coastlines, towering gorges, sandy deserts, and sprawling savanna.
AMERICAN EXPERIENCE: GEORGE H.W. BUSH: PARTS 1 AND 2
Airs at 8 p.m. June 19 and June 26
Look back at the life and career of the 41st U.S. president, from his service in World War II and his early career in Texas to his days in the Oval Office, first as vice president to Ronald Reagan, then as the leader who presided over the first Gulf War.
DECLARATIONS: BLACK AMERICANS AND THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR
Airs at 9 p.m. June 29
This documentary follows the stories of enslaved and eventually freed Black Americans who believed, exercised, and fought for these tenets of democracy for themselves, their families, and their community.
SPECIAL FOURTH OF JULY PROGRAMMING
Airs 7 p.m. July 4
RESOLVE TO SOLVE WITH MILES O’BRIEN (PREMIERE)
Airs July 8
ONCE UPON A TIME IN SPACE (PREMIERE)
Airs July 14
DAYTIME TV SCHEDULE
MONDAY - FRIDAY
5 a.m. Arthur
5:30 a.m. Odd Squad
6 a.m. Wild Kratts
6:30 a.m. Weather Hunters
7 a.m. Lyla in the Loop
7:30 a.m. Carl the Collector
8 a.m. Daniel Tiger
8:30 a.m. Phoebe & Jay
9 a.m. Sesame Street
9:30 a.m. Work It Out Wombats
10 a.m. Donkey Hodie
10:30 a.m. Rosie’s Rules
11 a.m. Elinor Wonders Why
11:30 a.m. Alma’s Way Noon Molly of Denali
12:30 p.m. Xavier Riddle
1 p.m. Baking with Julia
1:30 p.m. This Old House
2 p.m. Specials (3 hours)
5 p.m. BBC News The Context
5:30 p.m. BBC News America SATURDAY & SUNDAY
5 a.m. Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood
5:30 a.m. Arthur
6 a.m. Wild Kratts
6:30 a.m. Weather Hunters
7 a.m. Lyla in the Loop
7:30 a.m. Carl the Collector
88.3 FM SCHEDULE
TODAY, EXPLAINED
Airs at 6:30 p.m. Monday-Friday on WNIN 88.3 FM
“Today, Explained” is Vox’s award-winning daily news explainer show. Every weekday, hosts Noel King and Sean Rameswaram take on one essential news story that defines our moment and bring listeners the context they need to understand it. Through on-the-ground reporting and discussions with journalists, academics, policymakers and more, the “Today, Explained” team helps us understand every story and why it matters. “Today, Explained” looks beyond its own newsroom to find the best sources and guests to tell each story. Sometimes that’s a Vox journalist with expertise on the topic, but often it’s a journalist from another news organization, a local public radio reporter, or people on the ground living the story themselves. The show won the 2021 Webby Award for Best News & Politics Podcast and the Podcast Academy’s Ambies Award for Best News Podcast. The show has been featured in The Atlantic, Vulture, Reader’s Digest and more.
A MOMENT OF SCIENCE
Airs at 5:18 p.m. Monday-Friday on WNIN 88.3 FM
We‘ve all hit our “funny bone” — why does it feel like that? What do bicycles, footballs, and space shuttles have in common? Can you really learn while you are asleep? Why do some birds hop, and others walk? These and literally thousands of other questions about the world we live in are answered in “A Moment of Science.” If you are even a little bit interested in the world around you, these two-minute radio programs are just for you — and you don‘t need to know anything about science! These vignettes remove some of the mystery from science, but not the wonder. “A Moment of Science” makes you think “Wow, that‘s neat!” and go tell somebody else about it. Since 1988, WFIU has produced “A Moment of Science” at Indiana University, Bloomington, in cooperation with IU‘s scientific community and scientists around the world.
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TV 14....................................132
The Last Dance
How The Victory once triumphed as an under-21 club
By Anthony Head
Inlate 1983, The Victory Young Adult Nightclub opened at Sixth and Main streets as a booze-free hangout for teens. If you weren’t around then, trust me when I say it opened in the nick of time.
Michael Jackson introduced most of the planet to the moonwalk on television earlier that year, proving as monumental to Generation X as the moon landing was to our parents. I was 15 then, and every teen I knew was moonwalking everywhere — in our bedrooms and kitchens, on crowded sidewalks, at Triplets games at Bosse Field, through school hallways and restaurants, occasionally at church — until someone had the bright idea to open the old disco and corral all us backward-sliding dorks into one safe space.
The Victory was billed as the “TriState’s largest disco” in 1980, but then the owners introduced a mechanical bull (which is never the solution you think it is). Adults eventually stopped showing up, so the owners took out the booze and the bull and let the kids have the rest of it.
Which meant that more than 5,000 neon, black, and strobe lights, plus spinning mirror balls, a world-class sound system, and a 32-by-40-foot dance floor calibrated to “Saturday Night Fever”-level illumination were all ours. Owners threw in a $3 cover charge to make us feel really grown up, and newspapers listed The Victory in the “Nightlife” sections alongside the Village Saloon, Funky’s II, and the Executive Inn.
On weekend nights, I’d spend 40 minutes trying to put in my contact lenses. Then, I’d apply copious amounts of hairspray and Drakkar Noir cologne — all the while moonwalking in the bathroom — before Mom dropped me off Downtown to join up to 2,000 other highly flammable, parachute-panted high school students.
The Victory was our “American Bandstand,” our “Soul Train.” With NBC’s “Friday Night Videos” and MTV as our guide, we youngsters knew that we were
the future. We were hungry like the wolf. We wore our sunglasses at night. Maybe the adults had all turned square, but music was embroidered into our existence and we were never, ever going to stop dancing.
Even when Michael Jackson’s hair caught fire while filming that Pepsi commercial, we kept dancing. After Hoosiers basketball coach Bob Knight threw a chair across Assembly Hall, we danced. “We Are the World” was released, and somehow we danced. New Coke was introduced to the country, and so was Dan Quayle. The Berlin Wall fell, as did the stock market — and still we danced.
In February 1985, the cameras started rolling on Friday nights for an MTV-style show called “Party Tyme,” which aired on WEHT Channel 25 at 1:30 Sunday mornings. We danced until midnight Sunday and got home in time to watch ourselves dancing on TV from Friday night.
For one brief, shining moment, The Victory spun as the hormone-raging center of our Flashdancing, Footloosing universe. We had the music, the lights, and the aromas of perfume and sweat-soaked nylon, and we thought the music would never stop.
In 1988, The Victory’s property manager said it was the longest-running under-21 club in the country. I had moved to Bloomington for college by then and was far away when, in June 1991, The Victory flipped back to an adult nightclub, but I’m sure I felt something, some odd pang of loss that I couldn’t explain, probably in my feet.
I’m truly sad for all those young adults who came after us with nothing but the internet to entertain themselves. Today, the Victory Theatre is an events space and home to the Evansville Philharmonic. I’m sure nobody there is tempted to bring back a mechanical bull, which is wise, but I have two more solid words of advice: more moonwalking.
Writer Anthony Head’s essays about his hometown have covered topics including the Great Metric Flop of ‘75 and reminiscing about his first concert.
