Mayor Terry Announces Spring Block-by-Block Cleanup Events

01/31/2025

Evansville Mayor Stephanie Terry will host three Block-by-Block Neighborhood Cleanup programs this spring, beginning Friday, March 21 in the CHAIN neighborhood.

After launching the Block-by-Block program with two events in 2024, Mayor Terry plans to build on the program in 2025, hosting eight events between March and October of this year. Today’s announcement comprises the spring portion of the program, and includes the following events and locations:

Friday, March 21, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., CHAIN Neighborhood
Friday, April 25, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., Lamasco Neighborhood
Saturday, May 31, 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m., Tepe Park Neighborhood

The Block-by-Block Neighborhood Cleanup program brings together city employees and community volunteers to pick up trash, mow lawns, trim trees, and other aspects of neighborhood cleanup. The CHAIN Neighborhood event also will include demolishing a blighted structure.

The program is part of Mayor Terry’s emphasis on Neighborhood Revitalization, which also includes programs like Fight Blight, and programs funded by the Affordable Housing Trust Fund.

“We launched Block-by-Block last year with the goal of helping to beautify our neighborhoods, and to strengthen our connections in the community,” Mayor Terry said. “We’re identifying the neighborhoods with the greatest need, using data from departments like the Building Commission and the Evansville Police Department, and we’re working to make government and the services we can offer as a city accessible to them.”

Community members interested in volunteering in any of the Block-by-Block Neighborhood Cleanups, please visit fill out the volunteer form on the City website at www.evansvillegov.org/block.

Summer and Fall dates for Block-by-Block will be announced at a later date.

USI Softball projected 2nd in OVC

01/31/2025

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USI Softball projected 2nd in OVC

Newman named to 2025 OVC Softball Players to Watch List

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – University of Southern Indiana Softball is projected to place second in the Ohio Valley Conference in a vote submitted by the league’s head coaches and communication directors.

The 10-team OVC will feature a schedule with each team playing each other in one three-game series for a 27-game conference schedule from March 8 through May 4. The conference’s season concludes with the OVC Softball Championship Tournament in Peoria, Illinois May 7-10.

Reigning OVC tournament champion Southeast Missouri State University was predicted first in the OVC preseason poll with 152 points and nine first-place votes. Southern Indiana, coming off a 25-win season and fourth-place finish in the OVC last year, came in second with 140 points and six first-place votes. Reigning OVC regular-season champion Eastern Illinois University was selected third with 139 points and five first-place votes.

Tennessee State University was picked fourth with 107 points. Tennessee Tech University was slotted fifth with 82 ahead of Lindenwood University in sixth with 80 points. The University of Tennessee at Martin earned 74 points for a projected seventh-place finish ahead of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in eighth with 73 points. Morehead State University (30) and Western Illinois University (23) rounded out the preseason poll.

As part of the Ohio Valley Conference’s preseason announcement, senior pitcher Josie Newman (Indianapolis, Indiana) represented USI on the 2025 OVC Softball Preseason Players to Watch List. Newman heads into her senior campaign as the reigning OVC Pitcher of the Year and as a back-to-back All-OVC First Team selection.

Last season, Newman led the USI pitching staff with a 22-10 record and a 1.77 ERA in 2024. The right-hander set new career marks with 22 wins, 230 innings pitched, 230 strikeouts, and 30 complete games. The 230 innings of work were five innings shy of USI’s single-season record. Newman started 32 games in 33 appearances, tossed five shutouts, and held the opposition to a .194 batting average.

Across the OVC, Newman ranked first in wins, innings, and strikeouts as well as ranking top three in ERA. Newman struck out 10 or more batters in 11 games. The Indianapolis, Indiana native was a two-time OVC Pitcher of the Week.

Newman was also strong at the plate in 2024, hitting .344 with a home runs and 11 RBIs. Newman scored seven runs and totaled 31 hits. Throughout the season, Newman had nine multi-hit games and two multi-RBI outings.

Southern Indiana opens the 2025 season February 6-8 at the University of Hawaii Paradise Classic. USI will play three round-robin games against Saint Louis University, Santa Clara University, and the University of Hawaii before playing two seeded bracket games. Southern Indiana will begin conference play at home March 8-9 against Western Illinois from USI Softball Field.

2025 OVC Softball Predicted Order of Finish
1. Southeast Missouri (9) – 152
2. Southern Indiana (6) – 140
3. Eastern Illinois (5) – 139
4. Tennessee State – 107
5. Tennessee Tech -82
6. Lindenwood – 80
7. UT Martin – 74
8. SIUE – 73
9. Morehead State – 30
10. Western Illinois – 23

2025 OVC Softball Players to Watch
Briana Gonzalez, Eastern Illinois
Irelynn West, Lindenwood
Darlene Montoya, Morehead State
Aubrie Shore, Southeast Missouri
Josie Newman, Southern Indiana
Lauryn Yslava, SIUE
Anayah Baker-Rowell, Tennessee State
Sydney Kirby, Tennessee Tech
Kennedy Brown, UT Martin
Rylee Boone, Western Illinois

USI to host series of events to honor Black History Month

01/31/2025

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USI to host series of events to honor Black History Month

The University of Southern Indiana is hosting a variety of events and activities in February to honor Black History Month. Events include:

Family Reunion Karaoke
Wednesday, February 5, University Center East – Fireside Lounge

As part of Homecoming festivities, the Multicultural Center invites the campus community to an unforgettable evening of music, laughter and fun at Family Reunion Karaoke Night. Whether a seasoned performer or a first-time singer, this is the perfect chance to shine on stage and belt out tunes.

USI Basketball vs. Little Rock – Black History Month Celebration
Thursday, February 6, Liberty Arena, Home of the Screaming Eagles

USI Athletics will be hosting a Black History Month Celebration at the USI Women’s and Men’s Basketball games at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., respectively, on Thursday, February 6 in Liberty Arena. USI Athletics will be acknowledging NPHC organizations, the USI Multicultural Center, as well as Evansville Mayor Stephanie Terry during the game.

True Black History Museum
Tuesday, February 11, University Center East 2217-2218

The True Black History Museum is a traveling museum that teaches Black history using rare and authentic artifacts. It is committed to preserving the history of African Americans and teaching individuals about the many great contributions that African Americans have made throughout history.

The exhibit takes visitors on a journey through the African American experience. Artifacts in the collection range from the many great African civilizations, the slave trade, slavery, the Civil War, Reconstruction, Jim Crow, the Civil Rights/Black Power movement and the modern day. The collection celebrates and highlights the contributions of African Americans in the arts, sciences, sports, entertainment, education and politics.

The public is able to view the True Black History Museum at no charge.

Black History Roundtable
Thursday, February 13, Traditions Lounge, University Center East

Join the Multicultural Center for an enlightening and empowering Black History Roundtable Discussion as it celebrates the rich heritage, culture and contributions of the Black community. This event aims to foster meaningful conversations, share diverse perspectives and inspire collective action. Participants will be able to gain a deeper understanding of Black history and its ongoing impact.

Taste of Film
Monday, February 17, University Center West – Carter Hall

The Black Student Union and the Activities Programming Board will host their annual “Taste of Film” event where students can immerse themselves in a cultural experience that tantalizes both the eyes and taste buds. Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy a film while indulging in dishes inspired by the culture depicted on the screen.

Black Student Union Gala
Friday, February 28, Location TBA

The Black Student Union (BSU) will host its annual Gala open to the campus community. The theme for this year’s event is Harlem Nights. This elegant evening will transport participants to the vibrant 1920s and 1930s, celebrating the rich cultural heritage and artistic achievements of the era.

The USI Multicultural Center will also highlight Black History Month on its social media channels, shining the spotlight on significant Black figures, as well as trivia questions. Posts will be on the Multicultural Center’s Facebook and Instagram.

For questions regarding Black History Month events, contact Deonte Turnley, Program Advisor for the USI Multicultural Center, at doturnley@usi.edu or 812-465-7188. A full list of events and details can be found on the USI Multicultural Center’s webpage.

Vincennes University Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree ranks among Indiana’s top programs

01/31/2025

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VINCENNES, Ind., January 30, 2025 – The Vincennes University RN to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree has received acclaim for its excellence, with Nurse.org ranking it among the top three nursing programs in Indiana.

VU College of Health Sciences and Human Performance Dean Michelle Cummins said, “The VU RN to BSN program is recognized as one of the very best in the state due to the hard work, passion, and commitment shown daily by VU students, faculty, and staff.”

Ranked No. 3 in Indiana, VU’s RN-to-BSN online program helps registered nurses gain the skills and knowledge needed for leadership and management roles. VU continues to establish itself as a leader in nursing education by offering registered nurses the ability to earn a bachelor’s degree 100 percent online, making it a perfect choice for students who need flexible schedules.

RNs studying at VU can continue working while striving to achieve a bachelor’s degree. They have the option of completing the RN-to-BSN degree online in as little as 16 months or extend their length of study for up to five years.

There is an increasing demand for nurses with a bachelor’s degree. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of registered nurses holding a BSN is expected to grow by 6 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average growth for all occupations. The median salary for a nurse in Indiana is $92,565.

VU’s RN-to-BSN program continues to stand out as one of the best in the nation. The program earned a pair of prestigious rankings from Forbes Advisor last year.

Forbes Advisor ranked VU among the Best RN-to-BSN Online Programs in 2024 and one of the Best Affordable RN-to-BSN Online Programs of 2024.

“We are committed to ensuring that VU Nursing graduates are fully prepared for their careers, and these recognitions highlight the University’s commitment to providing high-quality, affordable education and support for nursing students,” Cummins said.

VU also offers a degree that helps licensed practical nurses elevate their careers. The LPN to BSN Completion is a hybrid bachelor’s degree program that allows students to live and work where job opportunities are due to the flexibility of the hybrid learning schedule.

Gribbins Specialty Group Awards $15,000 to Youth First

01/31/2025

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Donation to Provide Mental Health Support and Substance Misuse Prevention for Youth

Gribbins Specialty Group has awarded $15,000 to Youth First, Inc. to invest in the health and well-being of youth and families. The award will provide mental health support and substance misuse prevention through student support services and prevention programs in area schools.

Megan Knoll, Gribbins Specialty Group’s Vice President of Operations, states: “In addition to the importance of mental health support for students in our area schools, Youth First is dedicated to providing important messaging for parents and caregivers to have crucial conversations with their children. Through our team’s support of Youth First, we are helping create stronger young people who will someday become part of our workforce and community.”

Youth First partners with 125 schools across 14 Indiana counties to embed prevention programs and over 100 skilled mental health professionals (primarily master’s level social workers) in school buildings, where they provide caring mental health support for students and prevention coaching for parents and teachers. Youth First Mental Health Professionals build caring relationships, foster readiness for positive change, and boost resiliency, along with other valuable life skills.

Research shows these protective factors are the keys to effective prevention of negative outcomes for young people. The organization’s positive work and strategies are driving growth, with more schools seeking Youth First’s help to address the growing need for mental health support for students.

Join Us For Preschool Storytime

01/31/2025

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Event Details:

Date: Tuesdays, starting February 4, 2025

Time: 2 PM

Location: Children’s Department (lower level)

Let your little ones’ imaginations soar during Preschool Storytime at Willard Public Library every Tuesday at 2 PM beginning next Tuesday, February 4, 2025.

This weekly event is designed especially for preschool-aged children. Each session features:
Interactive Storytime: Delightful tales read aloud to spark curiosity and wonder.
Play & Activities: Time to explore toys, games, and activities in a safe and welcoming space.

Parents and caregivers can connect with one another while enjoying this fun-filled time alongside their children. Older siblings are welcome too—our Children’s Department has plenty to keep them entertained!

No registration is required—just drop in and join the fun!

Willard Public Library encourages patrons and visitors to donate graciously to ensure the continuation of events like this for years to come. The WPL’s Foundation is a non-profit organization registered as a 501(c)(3). >> https://www.willardlib.org/donate

EPD DAILY ACTIVITY REPORT

01/31/2025

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EPD DAILY ACTIVITY REPORT

FOOTNOTE: EPD DAILY ACTIVITY REPORT information was provided by the EPD and posted by the City-County-County Observer without opinion, bias, or editing.

Slow start sinks Aces women’s basketball against UIC.

01/30/2025

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Slow start sinks Aces women’s basketball against UIC.

The Purple Aces had an offensive season-low in the first half.

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – In their annual Pride game, the University of Evansville struggled with the UIC Flames’ physical play in a 74-43 loss.

The Purple Aces offense took a half to get going on Thursday night, falling behind UIC early. UE could not find a second-half comeback to challenge the Flames despite sophomore forward Maggie Hartwig (Sauk City, Wis. / Sauk Prairie HS) scoring 11 points in the third quarter. Hartwig led Evansville with 14 points while freshman point guard Avery Kelley (Evansville, Ind. / Memorial HS) continued her double-figure scoring streak in her first career start with 10 points.

Both offensive struggled early as neither scored for the first two and a half minutes. It would be UIC that broke the scoreless spell with the first 11 points of the night. The Aces’ first points came over six minutes into the game on a three by freshman guard Logan Luebbers Palmer (Union, Ky. / Randall K. Cooper HS). UE would not score again until the final second as guard Júlia Palomo (La Seu d’Urgell, Spain) made a three-point play at the line for a 15-6 game.

Evansville had a quicker start to the second quarter with four points in the first three minutes. But the Aces only added two points in the final six minutes of the first half for a season-low 12 points. UE headed into halftime down 21 points as the Flames carried a 33-12 lead.

Hartwig came alive in the third quarter for Evansville with eight straight points to begin the second half. The Aces followed up Hartwig’s hot start with three straight triples midway through the quarter to get within 18. UIC responded with a 10-point run keeping the Aces scoreless for almost four minutes. Freshman guard Camryn Runner (Cicero, Ind. / Hamilton Heights HS) ended the cold spell with a layup in the final 30 seconds of the third to make it a 57-29 game.

UE began the fourth quarter with back-to-back jumpers. It became a back-and-forth game of small runs that did not change the deficit for Evansville. Neither team made a basket for over the final three minutes of the game as the Aces fell to UIC 74-43.

Hartwig and Kelley were the only two UE players in double figures while Runner led the team on defense with eight rebounds. Palomo had a team high in both assists and steals with three of each.

Evansville continues its homestand with its National Girls and Women in Sports game. On Saturday, February 1 the Aces will host the Valparaiso Beacons for a 5 p.m. tip at Meeks Family Fieldhouse.

-www.gopurpleaces.com-

USI comes home three-game homestand

01/30/2025

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USI comes home three-game homestand

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – University of Southern Indiana Men’s Basketball returns to the friendly surroundings of Liberty Arena for a three-game homestand, starting Saturday when Tennessee Tech University comes to Evansville. Tipoff Saturday is slated for 3:30 p.m.

The USI Screaming Eagles (9-12, 4-7 OVC) were 1-2 on their latest road swing, including a heartbreaking 66-65 loss to Morehead State University to start this week’s action. USI junior guard Jayland Randall led three players in double-digits at Morehead State with 16 points, while sophomore forward Stephen Olowoniyi and graduate forward Jack Mielke followed with 13 points and 12 points, respectively.

For the season, Randall leads the team with 14.6 points per contest, while junior guard Damoni Harrison follows with 14.1 per game. Olowoniyi rounds out the double-figure scorers with 13.6 points per game and a team-best 6.5 rebounds per contest.

The Golden Eagles of TTU (10-11, 5-5 OVC), who visit Morehead State Thursday before coming to USI, snapped a four-game losing streak last Saturday with an 89-85 overtime win at the University of Tennessee at Martin. TTU is 6-4 in the previous 10 games, including a five-game winning streak.

USI lost on the road, 68-64, in the first meeting of this season with TTU. Olowoniyi led USI with a double-double, 26 points and 13 rebounds, while Harrison added 20 points.

The homestand will continue next week for Homecoming Week when the Screaming Eagles host the University of Arkansas at Little Rock January 6 and Southeast Missouri State University January 8 (Homecoming game). Game time for both contests is 7:30 p.m.

All of the USI Basketball action can be seen live on ESPN+. The game can also be heard on ESPN 97.7FM (http://listentotheref.com) and 95.7FM The Spin (http://957thespin.com).

Tickets for all USI home dates are on sale now at USIScreamingEagles.com.

Otters announce front office additions for 2025 season

01/30/2025

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Otters announce front office additions for 2025 season

EVANSVILLE, Ind. – The Evansville Otters are pleased to announce the hiring of Kelsi Rabin, Tyler Guttu and Kian Askari to the full-time staff.

Kelsi Raben, a native of Evansville, IN, grew up attending Otters games and is thrilled to have the opportunity to give back to her community through her role as Director of Marketing and Community Relations.

Before joining the Otters, Kelsi spent time working in manufacturing, where she honed her skills in marketing and communications. A recent graduate of Purdue University’s Krannert School of Management, Kelsi earned a Bachelor of Science in Management with a major in Marketing and a minor in Human Resources. She also obtained a Liberal Arts Cornerstone Certificate in Management and Organization.

When she’s not at the ballpark, Kelsi enjoys volunteering with local organizations, spending time with friends and family, and cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals.

“Growing up at Bosse Field, I fell in love with the sense of community that Otters games bring to Evansville,” Raben said. “I’m excited to help create those same unforgettable experiences for others while giving back to the city I’ve always called home.”

Tyler Guttu joins the Otters with multiple years of professional baseball experience under his belt as the new Ticket Manager & Account Executive. Originally from Eastlake, OH, Guttu graduated from Kent State University in 2023 with a bachelors degree in Sports Administration.

In 2023, Guttu joined the Cleveland Guardians’ High-A affiliate, the Lake County Captains, as an intern. After his time with Lake County, he became an Assistant Ticket Manager with the Asheville Tourists, the High-A affiliate of the Houston Astros in 2024.

“I am excited to join the Otters and ready to get the season started,” Guttu said.

Finally, Kian Askari joins the Otters’ staff as the new Head Groundskeeper. Askari grew up in Southern California before heading to Idaho for college. He played four years of college baseball at Boise State before graduating in 2023, then turned his focus to the groundskeeping side of the game.

Kian spent three seasons (2021-23) as an Assistant Groundskeeper for the Pioneer League’s Boise Hawks, gaining hands-on experience in field management and turf care. In 2024, he took the next step in his career with the Texas Rangers’ Triple-A Round Rock Express, where he continued refining his expertise in professional field maintenance.

When he’s not at the ballpark, Kian enjoys golfing, watching Boise State football, and following NASCAR.

“I am looking forward to the upcoming season and can’t wait for baseball to be back,” Askari said.

The Evansville Otters are excited to welcome fans back to Bosse Field in 2025 for the 30th season of Otters baseball! More information on the upcoming season schedule is available here.

Season ticket and group ticket packages are on sale now. Call (812) 435-8686 for more information. Individual game tickets will go on sale in the coming months.

The Evansville Otters are the 2006 and 2016 Frontier League champions.

The Otters play all home games at historic Bosse Field, located at 23 Don Mattingly Way in Evansville, Ind. Stay up to date with the Evansville Otters by visiting evansvilleotters.com, or follow the Otters on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.